Fireside Chat

Season's Greetings!

2011-12-22T10:11:00.003-05:00

Ladies and Gentlemen of Longstreet's Corps;

I have been negligent in keeping up frequent postings and for the Corps commander, this is not acceptable. In the coming year I will endeavor to be more persistent in such postings.

This next campaign season is shaping up to be a busy one. I know many of you are working diligently on local or "home" events, adding to the events of the year. As we all can become involved in the planning process, let us not become so trapped in the tasks at hand that we fail to enjoy the camaraderie of those we share these experiences with - each other and especially, families.

In this holiday season, let us be sure to reserve time from our busy schedules to enjoy and reflect on the true meaning of this time of year. Let us remember that were it not for the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we would have no hope for the future. Take time to thank Him for His gift to us on this Christmas Day.

On behalf of the Staff of Longstreet's Corps, we wish each and every one of you the Merriest of Christmases and may the year 2012 bring many special and joyous things your way! Until we meet again, I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,
Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett
Longstreet's Corps

This Memorial Day

2011-05-29T20:29:00.002-04:00

Ladies and Gentlemen of Longstreet's Corps;

May this missive find you all in good health and good spirits! I would like to take this opportunity again to personally thank the 9th Virginia, the 24th Virginia New River Rifles, and the 44th Virginia for making the Spotsylvania event a success. Without there assistance and sacrifice, the event would not have been a good showing.

Thoughts on sacrifice is what I would like to share in this missive. As we enter this Memorial holiday weekend, let us take time to reflect and remember every one in our Nation's history who gave of themselves to put on a military uniform - be it from the Continental Army of the Revolution through the young men and women who are now serving our country, where ever they may be serving.

Without their sacrifice and call to duty, the freedoms we enjoy today would not be possible. Many within Longstreet's Corps have answered the call and served - or are currently serving in our Armed Forces. The next time you take the field, take a moment to thank them for their sacrifices.

As we Honor our service men and women this holiday weekend, let us also renew our dedication to Honoring our ancestors who wore the blue and the gray. We all get caught up in the fast pace of life and our re-enactment events are no different. We hurry to arrive at the event, hurry to get camps set, and hurry through our busy weekends. Let us all challenge ourselves to truly show to the public and the spectators at our events the sacrifices our ancestors made by answering the call to defend their country.

As we have begun the 150th Anniversary events of the American Civil War, the eyes of the world will be on us! For many, this will be the last hoorah. This may very well be our one chance to educate the world on the sacrifices made many years ago that still have a bearing on our very being today. Let us make the most of it by giving nothing less than our best efforts! Until we meet again, I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,
Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett
Longstreet's Corps

The "Off Season"

2011-03-18T21:32:00.005-04:00

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Corps;

I had not realized that it had been so long since my last communique`. I will endeavor to post a comment on a monthly basis.

Although we are currently in our "off season", the Corps Staff has been very busy working on a variety of issues on behalf of the Corps. Since the Corps meeting, the Staff (along with the artillery Staff) has been working with other organizations within the Blue-Gray Alliance to come to an acceptable compromise concerning a safety regulation known as "the three-minute rule". I am confident that a compromise has been achieved. I would like to extend a great deal of gratitude to all who worked diligently to achieve a workable agreement for the benefit of not only the Blue-Gray Alliance, but for the re-enacting community as a whole.

The Staff has been working diligently with Tim Greene and the Endview Plantation Staff in preparation for our event there in a few short weeks. As you know, we will be presenting the 150th Anniversary of the Battle of Big Bethel. Additional earthworks and redoubts have already been constructed in preparation for the event. Tony Daniels is scheduled to be the Federal commander with support from the USV and other Federal units. There is still time to register.

The cavalry Staff has been working within the cavalry community in support of General Ken Wilts as he organizes a new cavalry organization. Brigadier General Sheppard and his Staff have been working within the cavalry community to establish a working relationship with other organizations as we enter the 150th Anniversary events.

I want to thank each and every one who took the opportunity to answer the call concerning the April events in Gettysburg. The Staff received responses from a great number of units and with your cooperation were able to provide a report to the Gettysburg Anniversary Committee.

Work continues in preparation for the Spotsylvania event in May. We will soon have a walk-thru scheduled with the Federal command to fine-tune the scenarios and camping grounds. Again Tony Daniels and his Staff will command the Union side. There will be trenches, fortifications, and artillery lunettes constructed here as well. Saturday's battle will feature a Wilderness type tactical engagement in a wooded area.

You can help with the preparation of events by registering as soon as possible. The Staff depends on your commitments to prepare for sufficient camping grounds as well as the formation of battalions and the selection of battalion commanders in sufficient time for the commanders to organize their respective Staffs.

The Insurance Committee has been hard at work in searching for the best possible coverage for the best possible price to satisfy the needs of the Corps. A special called Corps Meeting will be convened at Spotsylvania to discuss the findings.

These are but just some of the things that are being worked on at this time. There are other irons in the fire as well. There is the organizational planning under way on Gettysburg, Manassas, and Cedar Creek. There is also on-going communication with our Western comrades in the planning of the 150th Anniversary battles of the Western Theater.

As you can see, the Staff has been extremely busy during the "off season". I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank the Corps Staff, Brigadier General McCann and his Staff, and Brigadier General Sheppard and his Staff for their diligent work in making Longstreet's Corps the best!

As you take the field this season, take a moment to extend a well deserved "thanks" to the members of the Corps Staff, the Artillery Staff, and the Cavalry Staff for their "off season" work that makes your campaign season possible. I look forward to seeing you in the field at Endview and until then, I remain

Your Most Humble Servant,
Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett
Longstreet's Corps

Celebrating the 150th Anniversary Events

2010-12-19T20:50:00.003-05:00

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Corps;

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a most Joyous and Happy New Year! As we celebrate this Christmas season, let us all take a moment and offer a prayer for those serving in our Armed Forces, wherever they may be serving, that God will protect them, keeping them safe while in harm's way and bring them safely home to their families.

Exciting times lie ahead as we enter the 150th Anniversary of the American Civil War! Our first engagement will come in April as we re-live the Battle of Big Bethel at Endview Plantation. Much
progress has been achieved working with the Endview staff in again making this a prime event. Tony Daniels of the USV has graciously accepted the Federal Command for Endview and there should be plenty of Federal troops present.

May will see us return to Spotsylvania for another good event. Additional work has been done to make this a premiere event as well. Tony Daniels has also accepted Federal Command for this event through the 150th. This will provide the basis for bringing in Federal troops.

July will see us re-create the first major land battle of the War Between the States with 1st Manassas. Major General Jake Jennette with the ANV will serve as the overall Confederate Commander for this event. You may have already heard of some issues with this event. Let me tell you what I know. There are some issues that primarily affect all cavalry. A parcel of land that was to be used for cavalry camps has now been pulled by the State Park Service. This leaves very little good ground for horses - lacking shade. Negotiations are underway to try and re-obtain the land. Unfortunately, until this situation is resolved, General Jennette has been forced to limit the number of cavalry horses to fifty due to the lack of shade. He has encouraged Longstreet's Corps cavalry to register ASAP as the first fifty registered are reserved. Right now, there are plenty of spots available. Should the land issue be resolved, then more registration will be allowed.

I want you to know that the Staff has been diligently working to improve services to the Corps. We now have the beginnings of a Provost that will be able to assist with directing people to the appropriate camps. As we enter the 150th Anniversary, a greater workload will be placed on the Staff. They are diligently preparing so they are able to provide the best possible service to you, the Corps.

As part of the preparations for the 150th Anniversary events, K.C. Meadows and I will be attending the Blue/Gray Alliance convention in St. Louis the weekend prior to the Corps meeting. We will be reporting at the Corps meeting.

I look forward to seeing you at the Corps Meeting in Winchester and until then, I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,
Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett
Longstreet's Corps

Season of Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T21:05:00.003-05:00

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Corps;

Let me take a brief moment of your time to encourage each of you to enjoy a time of solitude to reflect on a season of Thanksgiving. Let us remember the joyous moments we have shared with those who have gone to their just reward. Let us be thankful for having known them. Let us be thankful for all the Good Lord has provided for us....friends and family, good health, the freedom to worship as we please, and many other things that each of us in our own heart feel grateful for. Let us also offer a prayer of Thanksgiving to those in our armed forces who place themselves in harms way so that we may enjoy the freedoms we have. I wish for all of you a rewarding and humbling Thanksgiving. I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,
Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett
Longstreet's Corps

Cedar Creek

2010-09-14T21:53:00.003-04:00

Gentlemen of the Corps;

I look forward to serving with you during the upcoming Cedar Creek campaign. As I and the Staff have been working on the battle scenarios with our Federal counterparts, one thing has become clear to me. As I have researched the accounts of the Cedar Creek campaign and the Fisher's Hill battle, our ancestors suffered some of the hardest defeats of the war.

Confederate forces under General Early retreated from Winchester following the Third Battle of Winchester. In September of 1864, Early's boys were swept off of Fisher's Hill. Then came the brief revenge of Cedar Creek!

Throughout my experiences in re-enacting, I have often read accounts of the battle we were about to re-enact. This has always put me in the frame of mind of our ancestors - what they must have felt at the time of the battle, their morale, etc. This has helped to allow me to "see the elephant" on more than one occasion. I would encourage you to place yourselves in 1864 for this event and I trust that you will come away with a more rewarding experience.

As you make plans to attend Cedar Creek, our Cavalry brothers have cordially invited all officers of all branches, all senior NCOs, and their spouses to a "pig roast" in the Cavalry camps on Saturday evening. To help defray the cost, they have requested a donation of $5. This will be an excellent opportunity to get to know our Cavalry brothers a little better.

I look forward to seeing you all at Cedar Creek and trust that you have safe travels to and from the event. Until then I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,
Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett
Longstreet's Corps

150th Anniversary Events

2010-07-25T20:46:00.002-04:00

Gentlemen of the Corps;

As we work toward Cedar Creek, planning is already underway for the 150th anniversary events, beginning with next year's 1st Manassas. Details will be coming forth soon. The Blue Gray Alliance has been working hard to ensure that the events of the 150th anniversary will be memorable. A goal of the Blue Gray Alliance is to ensure that the reenactors are treated to a worthwhile experience while educating the world on the American Civil War. For updates on what the Blue-Gray Alliance is working on, visit the website at www.150thcivilwarevents.com.

As we approach the 150th anniversary events, I would ask each unit of the Corps to show support for the Corps and the Corps Staff by attending events - particularly the events where the Corps has overall command. I know many of our Corps units host local events and I encourage you to continue to do so. After all, our goal is to educate the public on the causes and conditions of the war and the education process begins in our own communities.

But let me also challenge you that as a member of Longstreet's Corps, I feel each unit also has a responsibility and a duty to support the Corps at events. As a company commander, I always felt an obligation to support the Corps commander and the Staff at events. As we prepare for the 150th events, I would hope that I, as your Corps commander, could count on your support for these events. I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,
Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett
Longstreet's Corps

Future Endeavors

2010-05-30T22:07:00.002-04:00

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Corps;

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support of the Spotsylvania event. I am aware that there are areas in which we need to improve - Spotsylvania County is aware as well. We will be sitting down with the County in the near future to discuss those areas and to begin planning for future events.

We are in the process of operating a new website which should be up and running very shortly. The new website address is www.longstreetscorps.org and should be more user friendly. In addition to the Chief of Staff's blog and the Corps Commander's blog, there will be a blog for the Corps Adjutant and the Corps Sergeant Major.

The Gettysburg campaign is quickly upon us and promises to offer some good fighting. On Friday evening we will be engaged in the Brickyard fight which was the site of some of the fiercest fighting of the Gettysburg campaign. Saturday's fight will involve the action in the Wheatfield and Sunday's fight will portray the advance of Pettigrew's Division in Pickett's Charge. Monday has an engagement scheduled to portray the retreat from Gettysburg with rearguard action.

There are numerous ideas at work to build the Corps into a more unified organization. Like any organization who has visions of bettering themselves, it takes time and goals must be achieved one at a time. There are so many things that I and the Staff would like to do to help make the Corps the best that it can be and I trust that with your support and understanding, together we will!

This Corps has the most dedicated people who desire to truly do more than just Honor those who have gone before us. You strive to Honor them by totally giving your very best at every opportunity to understand the hardships they experienced and to relay that experience to the viewing public. It is indeed my Honor to be associated with such a dedicated group of the finest people I have had the privilege to know! Godspeed and I remain,

Your Most Humble servant,
Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett
Longstreet's Corps

Spotsylvania

2010-04-24T07:20:00.002-04:00

Gentlemen and Ladies of the Corps;

I must ask that all Southern boys rise and prepare to defend our lands from Union occupation! Soon Yankee invaders will be marching on Southern soil. We need all available able bodied men to rise to the occasion!

As a reminder, the Spotsylvania event is to be held on May 21-23, 2010. Due to the size of the ground available, the numbers are limited to 175 per side. As of today, we (Longstreet's Corps) number 83 effectives. The County of Spotsylvania is hosting the event and with our suggestion, we have limited the participants to the Corps and ANV (portraying Federals) with the aid of the USV.

Contrary to what you may have heard, the event is NOT cancelled. The event has purposely kept this low key as they are new to organizing such an event and wish to ease into this type of task. They have been extremely good to work with and they plan on being with us for quite some time. They are committed to make the Spotsylvania event a premier event through the 150th Anniversary. As we speak, the Staff and I are in attendance with Spotsylvania County to fine tune the details. There is a Bluegrass Festival the weekend of the event within walking distance of our camps for your pleasure. There is still time to register. I would like very much to be able to maximize our numbers.

The Staff and I will be more than happy to answer any concerns that you may have. Please feel free to contact any of us. I look forward to seeing you all in Spotsylvania! Until then, I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,
Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett
Longstreet's Corps

Spring Campaign

2010-03-17T21:24:00.003-04:00

Gallant and Brave Men of the Corps;

First, I would like to apologize for my not being able to be with you in the field at Endview. I received a telegraph from the event organizers praising the Corps for your efforts! Because of your dedication the event turned a handsome profit. Captain Tim Smith and those of the Corps who made it possible are to be commended for an outstanding job well done!

Secondly, I am thrilled beyond description at the excellent turnout for the Bentonville event! I look forward to being in the field with such a Noble gathering of proud, dedicated soldiers such as the men of Longstreet's Corps! It is indeed an Honor and a privilege to be given the opportunity to lead such a determined and strong spirited band.

Lastly, as we begin this campaign season, let us resolve to remember our ancestors who made this journey before us. May we strive to constantly endeavor to bring Honor to their gallant efforts. Let our actions in the camps and on the field make them proud of our efforts. Until we meet on the field of Honor, I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,
Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett
Longstreet's Corps

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T12:45:00.002-05:00

Greetings to All!

On this Christmas Eve, I wish for each of you and your families to enjoy the most wonderful of Christmas seasons. While this is the season to enjoy the company of friends and family, it can also be the most hectic of times as we prepare for this Holiday Season. May you all take the opportunity to relax and merely enjoy the company of family and friends and remember what this time of year means to us all - the celebration of the birth of our dear Lord and Savior. please take time from your busy schedules to thank the One who gave us all the gift of eternal life with Him.

Please, join with me in remembering one of our own, Reverend Buddy Wheat, at the passing of his mother recently. Although we all know that the dreadful day is coming when we lose our parents, it is never easy. Buddy, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers at this time of sorrow.

Let us also take the time to remember our troops in the field during this Christmas season and offer up a prayer of protection and comfort wherever they may be serving. May they know how much they are appreciated and how thankful we all are that they are on guard for our freedoms.
May God bless and protect our troops! I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,
Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett
Longstreet's Corps

2009-09-20T18:12:00.003-04:00

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Corps;

As I set to share a word with you, many thoughts pass through my mind - thoughts of the past as well as thoughts of the future. Where have we been? Where are we going? What does the future hold for the Corps? And finally, where does the Corps want to go?

General Hillsman and the early founders of Longstreet's Corps set the mark for what the Corps should be and what it stands for - a family oriented community where re-enactors could experience the Civil War soldiers' life in the field while giving Honor to their ancestors and sharing those experiences with their families. General Hillsman had a way of making the common soldier want to present the best possible impression - and he did! That is what set Longstreet's Corps apart; we could talk-the-talk and walk-the-walk.

General Maupin inherited a Corps that was on the threshold of embracing the future of the re-enacting world. Greater emphasis began to be placed on the "big" events by the event organizers. This began a change in the way the re-enacting world operated. During this time, the Corps experienced some "growing pains" and was made stronger for the efforts.

We have reached another crossroads in the existence of the Corps - where do we want to go from here? Whatever we find the answer to this question to be, I believe first and foremost that we must hold to the vision of the earliest days of the Corps. Without that, we are not the Corps. I also believe that, as your Corps commander, any and all decisions concerning the Corps should be based on what is in the best interest for the Corps. Not all decisions are going to be easy or popular - I know from experience. Anybody can make decisions based on pleasing people, but that is not the basis an effective leader employs when keeping with the best interests of the whole.

Any organization is only as strong as its people who share in the vision of the organization. For the organization to flourish, its people need to support that organization and at times, put the needs of the organization above their own. I would challenge each of you in the days to come to, as I continuously challenge myself, to do our part in supporting the Corps as a whole.

Who knows what the future may hold for the Corps, but let us all work together to ensure that the Corps will be in a position to lead into the future and not follow - let us work together to ensure that the future of the Corps will be for the better of the Corps while on our watch. I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,
Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett
Longstreet's Corps

The Past and the Future

2009-06-21T22:02:00.005-04:00

Gentlemen of Longstreet's Corps,

I fear I have been too long away from my duties of keeping in touch with you. Even though the campaigns have been few in number this year, many things have kept your Corps Staff busy. Bare with me as I update you on some of the changes that have occurred and the plannings we are at work with.

Some recent changes on the Staff have seen Major Tim Fogarty fill the vacant position of Adjutant for the Artillery branch. I trust you will join with me and wish Major Fogarty well in his new duties. He has served the Infantry Staff well for many years and I trust he shall serve the Artillery well for years to come.

With Major Fogarty accepting this assignment, Captain Les Switzer, who has been serving on Staff as my Aide, will now assume the duties of Quartermaster. Captain Switzer has been working diligently since Spring at organizing the Quartermaster Department to ensure that adequate needs will be supplied in future campaigns. I would ask that when you see Captain Switzer welcome him to his new assignment and let him know of your needs through your respective Company officers.

Many of you may remember Karl Meadows who has served on Staff in the past. I am Honored that Karl has accepted the position of Aide to the Corps Commander. His service in the past has been most admirable and I do look forward to his services once more.

As I have shared with you the new alliances with the ANV organization and with Cleburne's Division from the West, a great deal of work has been accomplished with more to come. I have shared with you that my role as your Corps Commander is to look to the welfare of my men. I continue to see that as my objective. I have also shared with you that I would not seek overall Confederate command if it took me away from my task to see that the Corps was taken care of. I still intend to Honor that commitment. I must tell you now that many event organizers and localities are even now making plans for the 150th anniversary events. It seems like a long time away but, 2011 starts the 150th events.

Our comrades-in-arms in the ANV are already on board and taking the lead with 1st Manassas and Bentonville. Our western alliance in Cleburne's Division is also working on key events like Franklin and Chickamauga. Your Corps has been approached to take the lead with Spotsylvania, Gettysburg, and possibly Cedar Creek, Sayler's Creek and Appomattox.

The leadership of your Corps, the ANV, and Cleburne's Division work well together with no egos or hidden agendas. Our goal, as an Alliance, is to provide ALL re-enactors with good, quality events. Many of you will remember the once in a lifetime experiences of the 125th Anniversary events. Gentlemen, the 150th Anniversary events WILL be the once in a lifetime experience! That is why this alliance of the Corps, the ANV, and Cleburne's Division is so very important.

More than 22 years ago I joined this family of re-enactors because I believed in what you do - give Honor to our anscestors that their service and their memory not be forgotten. We must band together now to do them proud! I ask you to join with me in this endeavor to do what is best for the Corps. Your Corps Staff is hard at work, along with the ANV and Cleburne's Division, laying the groundwork to support each other during the 150th Anniversary events so that we may give you a truly personal experience while doing our utmost duty to Honor our ancestors who made many sacrifices for what they believed in.

I would hope that more of our Corps units will support the Corps Staff in the campaigns to come. I must tell you that I am somewhat disappointed that our numbers in the field have not been what I had hoped for. I know that there have been some difficulties in the past and I trust we are working to put those behind us. We all need to lend our support and efforts to the Corps as a whole. We are family and family supports each other. There are events that your Staff is obligated to attend and beginning with the next Corps meeting I will share with you what events the Staff is obligated to attend in the year to come. My fondest hope would be that your Corps Commander could know that his Gallant men would be there in support.

It is indeed an Honor to serve as your Corps Commander. I still feel that while we move forward to the future, we must keep ahold of the vision of the past. While our course has changed over the years out of necessity, our goal must still be to do our utmost to give all due Honor to our ancestors so that their memory will remain long after we are all gone. I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,
Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett
Longstreet's Corps

Reflections

2008-12-24T23:39:00.004-05:00

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Corps;

As we enter this Holiday Season, let us pause a moment to reflect on the true meaning of this time of year. For if it were not for the arrival of our Lord and Savior, none of us would enjoy true peace and happiness within our souls. Many things of this world detract from our taking time to remember and reflect upon what the Christmas Season means to each of us personally. My Christmas wish for each of you is to find the time to share a moment with your Redeemer on this, His birthday.

As I reflect back on this past year I have mixed emotions. First, whew...what a year! Trying to fulfill the expectations that you have of your Corps Commander is a tall, all-encompassing task. I feel that we have made some progress in the morale of the Corps, but we still have much work to accomplish in making the Corps the best that it can be. I look forward to working with each of you and the Staff in the coming year to take the Corps where you want it to go. I would solicit from each of your Company Commanders ideas and suggestions on how this goal can be accomplished.

I have my own thoughts and ideas on what I think will enhance our portrayal in the field and as well our own learning experiences as Confederate soldiers. I would challenge each of you as I am challenging myself to answer two important questions that I think will motivate each of us to look to the new year in a more serving way:

Why am I doing this? What purpose do I serve in being a Confederate re-enactor?
How can I do my utmost to demonstrate and educate the public on what it is we do and why we do it?

I think that if we all can give an honest assessment to these two questions, we can enhance our own dedication and enthusiasm to giving Honor to our ancestors while enjoying the hobby that we love and giving the public the best possible historical portrayal that we possibly can.

This upcoming year presents opportunities to better ourselves and the Corps. I know there are some areas where I and the Staff need to attend to - and they are on my wish list, if you will. There are many things that I would like to accomplish and we must assess which tasks take precedence and work on one at a time. New challenges face us in the coming years and we must look to the future of our Corps, but let us not forget to look to the past on occasion lest we forget why the Corps was formed and what the Corps stands for! I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,

Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett

Longstreet's Corps

Looking to the Future

2008-09-28T12:25:00.003-04:00

Gentlemen of the Corps;

It has been a some time since I last addressed you through this communique, and I apologize for the absence. The preparations for our recent Gettysburg and Chicamauga campaigns have left me a little worn for the efforts. However, there is a hint of fall in the air and I seem to always get invigorated with the coming of fall.

I have had an opportunity to study the AARs from the Gettysburg campaign that some of you have supplied - some good comments were made as well as some concerns. I encourage your participation in these AARs as I assure you that they are read and I use your comments to improve our enjoyment of this hobby that we all share a passion for.

The overall issues that seemed to have been expressed the most in the Gettysburg AARs include:

SAFETY - a reinforcement of safety procedures, ie: loaded weapons at the half-cock, ensuring that the NCOs are properly training the new recruits in basic skills, reminding soldiers not to take hits or "charge" the enemy with loaded weapons, reminding the NCOs to instruct proper weapons safety procedures such as the proper way to clean, inspect, and load weapons. It is easy to become complacent with the simple tasks, but we should remember that we are constantly adding new people to our ranks and we must not take it for granted that they know what we know. Company commanders should be ensuring that their NCOs know what their respective "job descriptions" consist of.
CAMPS - overall, many were pleased with the way the camps were laid out. Keep in mind that this is not a perfect world and we cannot have the camps always as we would like them, but understand that the efforts are there to ensure that adequate space and amenities are available - the key word here is ADEQUATE. We will strive to provide the best that we possibly can at each event. One concern that was brought to my attention is the possibility of having multiple entrance and exit points from the camps to help alleviate traffic congestion. This is a concern that we will look to address in future events where the Corps is in overall command. Another concern that was shared was the amount of participants in the camps who were not in period attire throughout various times of the day and the amount of "above average carousing" after dark. As has been the practise for the most part (which I admit probably needs reinforcing) once you have set up your camp and parked the wagon, participants should place themselves in period attire form that point on to the conclusion of Sunday's battle. We all participate in this hobby for the love of the American Civil War and an opportunity to experience in a small way what our ancestors experienced. It is difficult to do in shorts and T-shirts. After a hard day of drilling and fighting we all like to kick back and revel in the day's events. However, we must remember to respect our fellow comrades and limit our activities to a respectable hour. If you read the event rules they publish a "Lights Out" time for this purpose.
REHAB STATIONS - while you were pleased with the ice and water deliveries during and immediately after the battles, suggestions were made that these rehab stations be placed a little more off the travel paths back to camps to avoid congestion on the roads. This is an excellent suggestion that we can implement.
STAGING for BATTLES - soldiers seemed to be pleased with marching from the camps to the battlefields and having little time to wait before engaging the enemy. This is something that was discussed in the planning stages and agreed upon by members of the staff.
MAIL CALLS - the soldiers seemed to enjoy the mail call that was prepared by many of the ladies of the Corps. Some concerns were expressed that some units who did not support the efforts benefited from the rewards while those that did received none of the rewards. These activities are planned by many of our ladies for the benefit of the soldiers in the ranks and in order for it to work properly all should participate.

These are the main comments garnered from the AArs that will be taken into account. Other suggestions were made as well that will also be taken into account that deal with improvement of Artillery and Staff operations. Gentlemen, I hope that we all can see areas of improvement for your Corps - not that we are in "bad shape", but if we become content with where we are then we cannot grow. We should strive to improve ourselves and our Corps in order to enhance our learning experiences.

We are about to enter into the Cedar Creek Campaign. The numbers from the Corps look like we will have a good turnout. I hope to have a breakdown of our command structure very soon along with general information which will come from our Adjutant. I know you all will give your best to the Corps! I am constantly impressed with the dedication and professionalism that each of you demonstrate - from the Privates all the way to the Officers who lead them. Your hard work has given the Corps the reputation that it has and that it deserves! God Bless the men and officers of Longstreet's Corps! I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,

Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett

Longstreet's Corps

"To Your Post"

2008-05-18T13:11:00.003-04:00

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Corps;

I have just completed a finalized report solicited from your After Action Reports (AAR) submitted from the Endview Plantation campaign. Your comments and concerns have been shared with the Corps Staff as well as the Staff at Endview in hopes of making next years event more enjoyable. Your comments and concerns are taken seriously by your commander and the Staff. As an example, due to the recent unfortunate fire incidents, the Staff has discussed these concerns and Major Nick Syropolos, as your Corps Safety Officer, has implemented a directive that no camp fires remain unattended and that an adequate supply of water be maintained near all campfires for emergency use.

I envision the responsiblity of this Staff as one to provide the rank and file the most enjoyable experience at each event while lending a hand to make that experience do Honor to his/her ancestors. To that end, much planning and preparation has gone into the scenarios for the 145th Gettysburg. Our focus has been to not only portray specific units for these scenarios, but to also enter the field of combat much as they did in July 1863. We will try to employ multiple routes to the battlefield which will call for great coordination between commands. Each soldier must be willing to follow commands without fail. commanders must be prepared to move when the order is given. Timing is everything.

I have served for more than twenty years with the men and women of Longstreet's Corps. I know the meddle of which you are made. No task is too difficult for you to accomplish. You consistently rise to the occasion - no matter what it is. To that end, I am asking each of you, in the days ahead - prior to the Gettysburg campaign - refresh your memories as to the accounts of the actions around Willoughby Run and McPherson's Ridge on the First Day. Remember the fight of Early's and Rhodes' Divisions at Cemetary Hill on the Second Day, as well as the struggle at the Klingle Farm and the Peach Orchard by Barksdale's Mississippians, and relive the hell of Armistead, Garnett, and Kemper as they assault the Federal line in what has become infamously known as Pickett's Charge on the Third Day.

From my own experiences, I have found that as you re-read accounts prior to a recreation of the event, you enhance your opportunities to experience what your ancestors must have felt as they experienced the actions first hand. You have a deeper respect and admiration for what they did. I challenge each of you now, make this Gettysburg the best of your re-enacting experience! "Up men, up and to your post!"

Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett
Longstreet's Corps

2008-03-29T10:58:00.005-04:00

Gentlemen of the Corps;

I have just received from Colonel Zusman the anticipated numbers for the Chancellorsville event in Isle of Wight County next weekend. Quite frankly, I am a little disappointed in the numbers. This was voted as a Corps Sanctioned Event which means a good showing on behalf of the Corps. In my humble opinion, a poor showing at such an event does nothing to the enhance the image of Longstreet's Corps. We must be cognizant of the fact that what we do collectively or individually reflects on the Corps as a whole - we are one.

I would encourage you to take more seriously the voting process for events. I would hope to see a good turn out for Corps Sanctioned Events and a maximum participation for Corps Events - that is the way the process was established. We also need your assistance with getting the numbers in to Colonel Zusman as soon as practicable (when you mail you're unit registrations in, send a copy to Colonel Zusman) so we can in turn establish battalions and appropriate the necessary camping grounds. I trust that you can understand my position as you're Corps Commander and appreciate that I am looking to the deportation of the Corps as a whole. In the short time since our Corps meeting, great progress has been made to show that Longstreet's Corps is still a very viable organization and I need your support in numbers at events to solidify our position. Remember - this is your Corps, make of it what you wish it to be. I remain, Your Most Humble Servant, Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett, Longstreet's Corps

Western Theater

2008-03-27T10:38:00.003-04:00

Gentlemen of the Corps,

The Corps Adjutant, Colonel Tony Zusman has recently supplied an avenue for you to assist the Staff in deciding whether or not a trip to the West is warranted. I am not here to influence your decision - this should be the decision of the Corps. The Staff and I will support your decision. However, I believe that you should have as many of the facts at your disposal as is possible.

First, as long as we can send a minimum of 200 troops, WE WILL BE UNDER OUR OWN COMMAND. Secondly, WE WILL NOT BE REQUIRED TO GALVANIZE. Thirdly, I have recieved a personal invitation on behalf of the Corps from the event organizers requesting Longstreet's Corps. As it was stated, "During the original battle, it was Longstreet's Corps who came to the rescue of the Confederate Army, riding on a train. Well, we have a train, but we need Longstreet's Corps".

How often in your re-enacting career do you have the opportunity to ride a train to the battlefield, disembark and fall into ranks, and pitch into the fight to save the day? I would encourage you to look to the 145th Chickamauga website for more information before making your decision on whether or not to attend. I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,
Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett,
Longstreet's Corps

Looking Forward

2008-03-10T10:29:00.009-04:00

Gentlemen of the Corps;

This past weekend, the Staff and I attended several meetings regarding the 145th Gettysburg event. We have developed a good working relationship with General Allen Baldwin, the Federal commander, and his Staff, as well as the Gettysburg Anniversary Committee. A great deal of work and progress has been made to make this event a memorable one for the rank and file. The scenario details are just beginning to come together and we (and the Federal command) hope to implement some things that will enhance your enjoyment of the event. At this time, it appears that we will be having two battalions from the Corps, but it is possible that we may have three. I think you will enjoy the camping area - it is good ground.

The Staff has been in constant contact with the event organizers for Endview and this should be a good event as always. This will be a good chance for us, as the Corps, to knock the rust off and be ready to show what has made the Corps what it is today. I look forward to our first event together and share in the work of Honoring our anscestors who have shown us the way.

I trust that you have recieved and shared the information Colonel Zusman recently dispatched concerning the Chancellorsville event. Knowing of the past endeavors of Colonel Billy Smith and the 16th Virginia with the Endview event, I have no doubts that the Chancellorsville event will be worth the trip. With the Corps voting this a Corps Sanctioned Event I know we will make a good showing.

This brings up a point I would like to share. During my fire service career I have found that accurate communication is vital to any operation. That is why I have encouraged open communication links within the Staff, the Corps, and the event organizers that I and the Staff come in contact with, as well as any other organizations. I would encourage you to contact the Staff with information that you may have concerning events and let us act in confidence with factual information. Again accurate information is vital to the success of any operation.

As you can see, the Staff and I have been busy working on behalf of the Corps. I would like to take this opportunity to "introduce" you all to the Longstreet's Corps Staff for 2008. I apologize for the tardiness of this notification, but your concerns for the size of the Staff was taken into consideration and we wanted to make for an efficient Staff. After much consideration and reviewing of duties and functions, I have decided on the following:

Chief of Staff: Colonel Greg Gallion
Assistant Adjutant General(AAG): Colonel Tony Zusman
Inspector General (IG): Colonel George Miller
Assistant Inspector General (AIG): Major Mike Grudzinski
Senior Aide-de-Camp: Colonel KC Meadows
Aide-de-Camp: 1st Lieutenant Les (JR) Switzer
Aide-de-Camp: 2nd Lieutenant Bill Brown
Quartermaster: Major Tim Fogarty
Ordnance/Safety: Major Nick Syropolos
Chief Engineer/Topographer: Major Donnie Wilson
Chief Medical Officeer: 1st Lieutenant Waverly Adcock
Sergeant Major: Johnny Glazebrook
Courier/Colorbearer: 1st Lieutenant Steve "Cuz" Dicarlo
Courier/Colorbearer: Sergeant Cindy Dicarlo
Chaplin: Reverand Buddy Wheat
Commissary: Ralph "Stinky" Vannoy

A great deal of thought and discussion went into the selection of the Staff positions. Each position has a specific set of duties, a "job description" if you will and these are documented as to what each of these duties and responsibilities are. I feel that each of these positions are vital to the operation of Corps business, both on the field and off. Most of the work that these Staff people do goes on well in advance of any event. I know from first hand experience that these people are dedicated to the ideals of making Longstreet's Corps the best that it can be and they give many hours each day to that task. I do not intend to take any credit away from the rank and file, for it is they that take these same ideals and put them into motion before an appreciative public. So, you see, that it is indeed a joint effort between the Staff and the rank and file that make Longstreet's Corps what it is! It is my distinct Honor and privilege to be associated with such a Noble and dedicated people and I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,

Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett,

Longstreet's Corps

Endview

2008-02-15T17:19:00.002-05:00

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Corps;

The Staff and I have been diligently working at getting up to speed on the many projects at hand. Good progress has been made thus far working with the Federal Staff and the Gettysburg Anniversary Committee towards the 145th event. Much more remains to be done. The planning for the Endview event is well under way.

I hope you are as eager to take the field as I am. I am looking forward to Endview and hope you are as well. I believe many eyes will be upon the Corps when we take the field at Endview. Let us resolve to show all, that the Corps is strong and eager to do her duty! Having served with you in the ranks, I know that we will pass muster. Until we meet again, I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,
Maj. Gen'l. D. H. Cornett,
Longstreet's Corps

Greetings

2008-02-03T23:06:00.000-05:00

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Corps;

It is indeed an Honor and a privilege for me to serve as your Corps commander. We are on the threshold of advancing the Corps into the next millineum. As your Corps commander, I have strong ties to the past foundation of our beloved Corps while looking to the future. We have a dedicated group of ladies and soldiers that I have served with on many campaigns and I know your meddle. There is no task too challenging and no foe that cannot be conquered. As we venture into the future, let us stand together and carry the banner of our forefathers to new heights. While advancing into the future, let us never forget the trials and tribulations of those who so nobely went before us. May God Bless the Corps! I remain,

Your Most Humble Servant,
Maj. Gen'l Dave H. Cornett,
Longstreet's Corps