Welcome to April, Gents, Confederate History and Heritage month.

"Give them the bayonet, and have the men howl like furies." That was Stonewall Jackson's orders on a number of fields, and now, if we get that order, we are ready. Wasn't that a great moment under the trees at the COI, listening to a real Rebel Yell, and practicing our own ability to "Howl like Furies." And wasn't that a great weekend! Back to basics, back to our printed scripture, Gilham's Manuel for Volunteers and Militia. I counted six copies of the good book there, a first in my experience. On Sunday, as I jogged ahead and then turned to watch you men approach, marching by the right flank, with both colors flying, I was filled with a pride that I can hardly express in words. It was the pride of a job well done, a weekend of hard work and attention to duty that now showed it's results in the tightly formed Company that I watched approach towards me on the road. This is our F Company now, and it will get even better over this upcoming season. We will find time for drill before and during each event, focusing on our weaker areas, and polishing our strengths. you can take a great deal of pride in this unit, each one of you. The negative energy types, the real wise guys (and we've had our share,) are gone now. What's left is a hard core of good men and true; true to the promise of F Company, and the idea that we are, and will continue to be, the best and sharpest unit in the field.

And now, straight ahead, the Confederate Parade down Richmond's Avenue of the Monuments. We march to honor our ancestors, and for all those who love and cherish the memory of the Old South. And we march to remember the men of the original F Company who long ago, in many reunions, marched these very streets. Join me, all who can.

Your most humble and obedient servant,

****

****

March 23, 1862

Louisa Courthouse

Men of the 21st Virginia,

I welcome you to my command. The patriot volunteer, fighting for his country and his rights, makes the most reliable soldier on earth.

Every officer and soldier who is able to do duty ought to be busily engaged in military preparation, by hard drilling, etc., in order that, through the blessing of God, we may be victorious in the battles which, in his all-wise providence, may await us. If the war is carried on with vigor, I think, under the blessing of God, it will not last long.

****

March 24, 1862

Captain,

Please share this with your volunteers. I will receive 200 able bodied men, if they will present themselves at my headquarters by the first of June, with a good horse and gun.

I wish none but those who desire to be actively engaged. My headquarters for the present is at Corinth, Miss.

(cont.)

April 2006 Regimental Dispatch Page 2

Come on boys, if you want a heap of fun, and to kill some Yankees.

The Camp of Instruction has come and gone. I must say that in my seventeen years of reenacting that this was one of the best. Yes, the weather was cause for concern and yes, it did get cold, but if you came prepared it was not that bad. In spite of the chilly temperatures it was good to put the uniform back on and get away for the weekend.

I would like to thank everyone that came and took part and helped to make the weekend such a success – Captain Ramsay and 1st Sgt. Stafford for their coordinated efforts in planning and implementing the program, Cpl. Gammon for bringing the wood, water jugs, and cooking equipment, and Private Catlett for bringing the straw.

The meals were very good, the church service was very moving, and the pay call was very amusing. And, of course, we had for some much needed drill. It was a very enjoyable time.

I especially want to thank the "Privates" that came out for the weekend. You guys are the backbone of the unit and without you there would have been no COI. Thanks for your cooperative spirit and willingness to do whatever is asked of you. You guys are the best.

I would like to apologize to those who were unable to attend because of the change in date of the event. At the time it seemed like the best thing to do. We know better now. We are considering some changes that might help improve attendance and decrease the chances of bad weather and fire restrictions. But just know that you were missed.

So the season is off and running. Next up for us is the Confederate Heritage Parade in Richmond. I hope to see everyone there.

4/8 - Richmond Parade- Turley, Catlett, M. Gammon, D. Gammon, Ramsey, Powell, Harris, Stafford, Hughes, Pate, Vice, Alexander, Dachos.

4/29-30 - Hunters Retreat- Turley, Catlett , D. Gammon, M. Gammon, Firth, Ramsey, Powell, Harris, Parzych, Stafford, Hughes, Pate, Baird, Dachos and Lawrence.

5/20-21 - New Market-Turley, Catlett, M. Gammon, D. Gammon, Firth, Ramsey, Harris, Parzych, Stafford, Hughes, Pate, Baird, Dachos and Lawrence.

6/3-4 - Cold Harbor- Turley, Catlett, M. Gammon, D. Gammon, Firth, Powell, Harris, Parzych, Ramsey, Stafford, Schirmer, Hughes, Pate, Vice, Alexander and Dachos.

9/23-24 - Standardsville- Turley, M.. Gammon, D. Gammon, Firth, Ramsey, Harris, Parzych, Stafford, Hughes, Pate, Ward, Dachos and Lawrence.

10/21-22 - Cedar Creek- Turley, M. Gammon, D. Gammon, Firth, Ramsey, Powell, Harris, Stafford, Hughes, Pate, Vice, Dachos and Lawrence.

11/4-5 - Ft. Branch-Turley, Catlett, M.Gammon, D. Gammon, Ramsey, Powell, Harris, Parzych, Stafford, Schirmer, Hughes, Pate, Vice and Dachos.

Well gentlemen we have just finished another COI. This year's camp focused on getting back to basics. I would like to commend you on a very productive weekend. Getting back to the school of the soldier and marching will definitely help us through out the year but don't worry, this will not be the last time we do this. I plan on honing our skills at every event. It will help us I believe at events to be that much sharper and better prepared.

The men who have preceded myself had this philosophy, and I believe that it should be continued. I want us to be the best unit on the field and with your help I know that this can be achieved!

On the 8th of April there is the Heritage Parade. We are to meet at 1:00 p.m. on DMV Drive. Remember to polish your brass and clean your uniform and leather gear. Don't forget to clean up your brogans. Also, kepi’s for headwear and no haversacks. This is our chance to shine so let's be sharp!

The last weekend of the April we have the Hunter's Retreat event in Bedford,VA. This looks to be a nice event. I believe that there will be a large turnout from the local area. I look forward to the chance to participate in the battle in the town.

I look forward to seeing y'all at the Parade and at Hunter's Retreat. I missed the members who were unable to attend the COI but look forward to seeing you at other events this year. I would like y'all to remember our brother Ken Norman who is in Iraq.

We pray for your quick and safe return to your loved ones. We are proud of Ken and all of our fighting men and women who over-seas protecting our way of life! We pray for there safe return!

May God protect them and our country!

1^st Sgt. Stafford

April 2006 Regimental Dispatch Page 3

Registration Committee

Gentlemen all -----

We have had a good turn out to the new system that we imposed for event registration . Due to your response we have taken advantage of some substantial savings and some bennies for the First Manassas event . I would like to on behalf of the Registration Committee to thank all who have had a part in this effort and more especially Jack Alexander for mailing off the information to the event coordinators . Thanks Jack ---people like you make things happen .

We have two events for the month of April . One is the Richmond Parade and the other is Hunter's Retreat . The Parade date is Saturday 4/08/06 and information for that event will come out via "E" mail or snail mail soon . The other April event is Hunter's Retreat and directions to such will be forwarded to those that will be attending at a later time .

I hope that things have happened to everyone's satisfaction and if there is anything that can be done by this Committee to make your lot better do let us know . Until a later date .

Take care ,

Registration Committee

Gentlemen,

I just wanted to drop a few lines and say that I thought "COI-06" went very well. Capt. Ramsey, Lt. Turley and 1st Sergeant Stafford my hats off to you. This years camp seemed to flow very smoothly. Drill went well and it was obvious to me that our boys had Gilhams on there minds over the off season. Thanks to corporals Gammon and Powell, you guys have been on your game. Thanks to everyone who made this COI happen.

I am still working on some book reviews and hope to have something for the Newsletter soon. If anyone can recommend any new reading, please feel free to shoot me an email. If you have any issues or concerns I am here.

Gentlemen,

I’m proud to be part of a unit that honors the memory of its original members! The present day F Company recently paid for the installation costs of a new government headstone for Pvt. William Exall, who was killed on January 3rd, 1862 in Bath in Morgan County, Virginia (now West Virginia). William Exall is buried in Richmond at Hollywood Cemetery on the bluffs above the James, not far from John Tyler and James Monroe. John Worsham described the action on January 3rd, 1862, as F Company’s "first real fight". Here is an excerpt about the engagement in his excellent book, "One of Jackson’s Foot Cavalry":

BATH AND ROMNEY

GEN. JACKSON having decided on a winter campaign, marched his army from the neighborhood of Winchester January 1, 1862, a

beautiful day, the sun shining brightly and the atmosphere bracing.

The second brigade camped near Pughtown that night, the 21st Va. Regt. in a large wood, where gathering the fresh fallen leaves into large piles, placing our oilcloths on them and laying down, covering with our blankets, we enjoyed the bed as much as any we ever slept on.

We marched the next morning at early dawn, and at night camped at Unger's X Roads. The next day, the 3d, we met the enemy about five miles from Bath, Morgan County. The 21st Va. Regt. was marching near the rear of the column. Gen. Jackson sent an order for F Company to report to the front, and we marched by our troops, who had halted in the road. When we reached the front, we halted and

were ordered to load, which was done under fire, as the enemy were a short distance in front, on a hill behind a fence. As soon as we had loaded, we were deployed as skirmishers, and ordered forward through a wood, halting on its edge behind a fence. There we became heavily engaged with the enemy, and kept up a fire until it was too dark to see. Firing ceased, and returning to our regiment, we went into camp. This was the first real fight of the company, and the

men behaved splendidly. William Exall was killed and Lieut. James B. Payne seriously wounded.

Pvt. Exall’s wartime tombstone is almost unreadable as you can see, and the new marker will be installed right in front of the existing one. If you look closely, you can still see beneath his name:

Co F, 21st Reg’t, Va. Vol’s.

This new Tombstone was ordered on March 13th, and I’ll notify the group immediately when it’s installed. My special thanks go to the Captain and the rest of the Executive Committee for approving the funds for this endeavor.

Sounds like a great opportunity for another headstone dedication in the near future!!

*****

www.southernsoldiers.com

April 2006 Regimental Dispatch Page 4

Marc Ramsey - President & Captain

Tony Turley - Vice President & 1st Lieutenant

Tom Stafford - Secretary & 1st Sergeant

Jack Alexander- Treasurer

Greg Harris - Member at Large

Uniform Committee

Tom Stafford - Chairman

David Gammon

Dotti Schirmer, Honorary member

Recruiting Committee

Tony Turley, Chairman

Chet Parzych

Event Committee

Greg Harris, Chairman

Mike Powell

Company Quartermaster

David Gammon

Newsletter & Web Page Editor

John Parks

Eldridge Firth

1st Platoon –

1st Corporal David Gammon

Pvt. Jack Alexander

Pvt. Wes Catlett

Pvt. Matt Gammon

Pvt. Greg Harris

Pvt. Ryan Hughes

Pvt. Nathaniel Pate

Pvt. Carroll Perry

Pvt. Chris Perry

Pvt. Mike Vice

2nd Corporal Mike Powell

Pvt. Bob Baird

Pvt. Jon Dachos

Pvt. Ron Lawrence

Pvt. Ken Norman

Pvt. John Parks

Pvt. Chet Parzych

Pvt. Joe Pearson Pvt. Jim Price

Pvt. Skip Schirmer

Pvt. Keith Talbert

Pvt. Bill Ward

Virginia Division, SCV

April 8, 2006 2:00pm

Richmond, VA

Directions to the Starting Stage Area on DMV Drive:

(There is no parking on DMV drive, park on West Leigh St or Broad St)

From the North going south on I95 or from the West going east on I64-

I64 will merge onto I95s, then take exit 78 (Boulevard) and turn right onto Boulevard.

Then go .8 of mile and turn left on West Leigh St (West Leigh St will be at the bottom of a hill after you pass by the Greyhound Bus Station).

Once on West Leigh St, go about .4 of a mile and DMV Drive will be on the right.

From the South going north on I95 or from the East going west on I64-

I64 will merge onto I95n, then take exit 78 (Boulevard) and keep to the left to stay on the ramp, then turn left onto Hermitage Road, go straight, you will go through 2-3 lights, after you cross over RxR tracks, West Leigh is the next street, turn right and DMV Drive will be on your left.

Last minute reminders-

Safety First !! Stay with your Unit while marching, keeping moving once the Parade begins, do not stop unless the Units in front of you stop, and try to keep about 10 feet open between you and the Unit in from of you.

Please no T-shirts or shorts, we are honoring our ancestors, but wear comfortable shorts.

Bring your flags and banners; there will be some 12"x18" Battlefield flags available for sale at the starting stage area.

If you need assistance at the staging area, find a Marshal (they will be wearing the bright orange work vest) or go to the registration table, this includes if you need a Unit Number.

Come to the registration table to pickup your Parade ribbon.

When the procession arrives at Idlewood and Dobson Sts., Uniformed personnel will bear right on to Dobson St.

Civilian personnel keep straight and go through the gate behind the Gazebo, it will be marked.

Enjoy the day, this event will be one that you should remember for a long time and on behave of the Virginia Division, SCV, we sincerely thank you for taking the time from your busy schedule to celebrate Confederate History and Heritage Month.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, LOG ON TO WWW.VASCV.ORG

Or email va-rebel@comcast.net

YOUR UNIT NUMBER

116 21st VA

"THE FIRST IN AND LAST OUT"

I was the first to arrive at Camp Cochrane on Friday morning at eleven o’clock. Immediately proceeded to our designated campsite at the foot of Church Hill. Finding no one else there, I reconnoitered the area and located the company street and officer country. I promptly set up Hotel Simpson at the far end of the street as my my mess mate is Cpl. Powell. The sky appeared threatening, as I wasted no time. Around one thirty o’clock, Captain Ramsey arrived along with 1st Sgt. Stafford and Pvt. Alexander. The Officer’s wall tent was erected along with an "A" frame to be used for supplies. After

April 2006 Regimental Dispatch Page 5

a winter furlough, it’s good to be among comrades.

Cpl. Gammon, Pvts. Pate, Hughes, and Gammon strolled in and the prepared the fire pit. Once our camp was set and everyone caught up on news from home, we prepared for a cold and wet night. The campfire burned bright and warm, taking the edge off the chilly night air. We passed the night tolerably well and thankfully, there was no rain. It did stay above freezing, albeit slightly.

Reville went at six o’clock. The fire was started and a hearty breakfast ensued. The 1st Sgt. procured 16 pounds of fine bacon for the weekend and Cpl. Gammon brought several dozen eggs, which we boiled.

Present for Saturday’s training were: Capt. Ramsey, 1st Lt. Turleu, 1st Sgt. Stafford, 1st Cpl. Gammon, 2nd Cpl. Powell, and Pvts. Catlett, Gammon, Harris, Hughes, Lawrence, Pate, and Schirmer. About eight thirty o’clock the Company was formed. After orders were given each platoon was marched off by the corporals and drilled in School of the Soldier according to Gilham’s manual. We were drilled for about an hour, and then reformed into a company. Then the 1st Sgt. drilled us for about forty-five minutes. Then the Captain came out and took over.

After some verbal instructions, the Captain drilled us on School of the Company. Then we marched off to the drill field where we spent two hours marching, drilling, marching, drilling, and marching by the flank, the oblique, and drilling some more. At noon, we fell out for lunch from our haversacks. Ms. Dotty and Ms. Macalah came by wagon and dropped off company mail and other parcels brought in from Richmond. After a short visit, they returned to Henrico County.

The Company was reformed at one o’clock with an overcast sky threatening rain. It was back to more drill and marching, wheeling, obliques, loading by ten times and four times. Company volleys, by files, by ranks, load and fire kneeling, and lying down. 2nd Cpl. Powell was detached from F-Company and was sent to drill twelve members of Knibbs Battery with the finer points of infantry drill. Then, we got into skirmish drill. Deploying from the center, the right, and the left while advancing, retreating, and rallying on the reserves. Also, guarding against cavalry in comrades-in-arms. We really shook out the cobwebs.

Finally, targets were erected and the firing range went hot. Every enlisted man fired ten rounds, five each at two targets. A great time was had by all, and anticipation was on the rise as to who would be the company sharpshooter, and who would get the prestigious "Blind Bat" award. Once all gear was stowed, we returned to camp for preparation of evening meal. First Platoon, under 1st Cpl. Gammon’s watchful eye, prepared a scrumptious ground pork delight in a fine tomato base. It was hot and most delicious. There was also Mrs. Captain Ramsey’s infamous Rum Cake. A fine confection which everyone enjoyed. Once the buffet was closed, we got on with Company matters.

First up, shooting awards. Once again, Private Gammon took top honors, with 2nd Cpl. Powell a very close second. The Blind Bat award went to Private Lawrence, with Cpl. Gammon close on his heels. Mail call went up and letters distributed. 2nd Cpl. Powell read his letter, as did Capt. Ramsey. It seems that the Captain received a letter from Annabell’s Place, an establishment in Richmond, which caters to men’s needs. Laughter and lighthearted ribbing circled the campfire. What a good time it was.

As night fell, so did the temperatures. We had only a slight sprinkle for a brief time, but received reports of moderate rain a short distance away. Another quiet night in the old camp ground (except for Cpl. Powell’s mid-slumber outbursts.) Sounded like a banshee coming down the hill behind the camp. It was a fine end to a long and arduous day.

Day three began with a heavy frost and ice in our canteens. Hot coffee and a warm fire felt good. We had bacon, eggs, bread, and apple butter for breakfast. Afterwards, the company was formed with the Colors and the Roll Call of Honor was conducted. Each man present answering "Here 1st Sgt" and going to parade rest when the name of their adopted F-Company original member’s name was called. Once completed, we marched off to Sunday services up Church Hill. As we reached the summit, I gave a prayer to open services. Then we each announced the names of our F-Company men and all ancestors who fought in the war for Southern Independence.

We sang hymns selected by the men and the Captain offered a prayer used by President Washington. I read a first-hand account about General Jackson’s flank march and his subsequent demise. It is out goal to always remember our heritage, history, and F-Company’s connection to General Jackson.

The sun shined down on us, the warmth on our backs as we felt the presence of the Spirit of Christ and of those who went before us. After services were concluded, we returned to camp. Upon our arrival in camp, we found that the paymaster was preparing to conduct muster for Roll and Pay. The Captain and 1st Lt. sat beside paymaster Schirmer with pistols on the table. I read over all the accounts. It seems Captain Ramsey owed a substantial bill to Annabell’s Place. As well, several members had to satisfy debts to the Feisty Reb Mercantile for services rendered. As each man was called, he came forward to the table. He announced his name, the Captain read from the pay ledger the

April 2006 Regimental Dispatch Page 6

amount due to the soldier, minus any debts. Once paid, the man made his mark in the book. After all services and administrative duties were achieved, we returned to training.

We moved to field crafts. 1st Sgt. Stafford talked about Federal and Confederate knapsacks. 1st Cpl. Gammon talked about shelter halves and shelter building. Pvt. Schirmer discussed fire building and selecting firesites using topography and available campgrounds. After this training period, we broke for lunch.

Promptly at one o’clock, the company was reformed and we marched off for the drill field. We were schooled on the skirmish drill. Then we covered the entire field several times moving in a skirmish line, advancing and retreating, rallying on the reserve, guarding against cavalry while firing all the way. Our Captain Ramsey is known to be a powder burner. Federals beware F-Company is on the field. We did this for about two hours and finally returning to camp to have a company meeting.

Private Harris, our Member-at-Large, brought several manuscripts from his personal library and we shared excerpts from these pages. Each book were first hand accounts of events of army life. Captain Ramsey read from John Worsham’s book, Corporal Powell and Private Harris from "Company Aytch" and Private Schirmer read about a South Carolina sharpshooter.

The Company was reformed one last time to practice for a parade in downtown Richmond in two weeks. 2nd Cpl. Powell and Pvt. Harris volunteered to be the Color Bearers. We formed up with colors and marched off. We moved up Camp Cochrane’s road almost to the gate and back again. We wheeled in the field left and right rendering honors as we marched.

I hope all F-Company men will be back from sick leave and furlough by the parade.

At approximately three fifteen o’clock on Sunday, training officially concluded. Camp was struck and F-Company returned to the year 2006. I was the first in and the last out. But, oh what a time we had.

Gentlemen of the 21st,

I am honored and consider it a privilege to be of some small service to this unit, as well as surprised by the honorary position you have bestowed upon me. My time and energy will be devoted to this unit only and I will do my utmost to make all of you proud of me.

For reasons that may seem trivial to you, they are not to me and I shall try and explain why. Years ago and after Skip had joined the company, I was introduced to the men of the 21st. Ever since, I have always been greeted with smiles, hugs, and respect. I did not ask or demand this. It was given to me by Southern gentlemen who know how to treat a lady. First impressions are lasting ones and that is one reason why the 21st captured my heart. I have always wanted to try and serve this unit in anyway I could. That is why I put together welcome packages for the new recruits. Now I have been asked to go farther with my efforts and I am very honored.

Another reason was because of the comradery and safety issues that surround this unit. One concern of both Skip and myself was safety. I was never at ease when Skip was with another unit, but when he joined the 21st, I knew I had nothing to worry about. My husband is in good hands.

God gives us one chance in life to go around and to meet people who will change our lives. He did that with me when I met the 21st VA and they captured a Southern lady’s heart. I pray that you all will always remain Southern gentlemen and hold your standards high without losing sight of yourself and those around you.

Now, maybe you all will understand why I do what I do and can’t change the way I feel. I love you all and yes I do pray for all of you.

Capt Ramsey,

Indeed, the news of your training is most efficient and propmts attention to the urgency raising an army. The political separation of Mississippi, Texas and now Virginia from the Union has developed into a conflict where war has been waged against our States.

We have our duty to support the Confederate States in defending further invasion into the core of our new nation.

Send greeting to your men. May God bless us as we undertake what is now to become an armed conflict for freedom