SONS OF UNION VETERANS OF THE CIVIL WAR - …camplea.org/Newsletters/2017/Jun 2017.pdfI have reflected on these encounters and believe that each of us joined the Sons of Union Veterans

SONS OF UNION VETERANS OF THE CIVIL WAR Lt. Commander Edward Lea U.S.N. – Camp Number 2

Harriet Lane ***********************************************************************************************************************************

Jun 2017 Volume 23 Number 2 ***********************************************************************************************************************************

From the Commander’s Tent Brothers,

I hope this newsletter finds each of you well and prosperous! We have had a very busy last few months with many opportunities to share our Purpose and Objects with others within our community. I have reflected on these encounters and believe that each of us joined the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War to honor the memory of the Civil War service of our

forefathers. Each of them encountered the conflict in different ways - some with pleasant memories and some with not so pleasant memories. By sharing those memories, we help to

enlighten each other and others about the real experiences of the Civil War.

None of us lived during that time and can only imagine the real hardships they encountered during the conflict. But hearing the recollections of shared stories helps us to understand a little better what actually happened back then. I encourage each of you to share the stories of your Ancestors with anyone that will listen so that the sacrifices will never be forgotten. And hopefully, others will begin to appreciate what actually occurred; which will be a lot more enlightening than what you may read in a book.

We had a very productive Department of Texas (including Louisiana) Encampment at the Cook Center on the Navarro College Campus in Corsicana, Texas. Commander-in-Chief Donald Martin was in attendance and offered greetings

and best wishes to us all. Several items of importance were acted upon, including maintaining the Department assessment at the current level and the approval of our Youth Organization resolution which will now be forwarded to National for consideration in August at the National Encampment.

The National Encampment will be August 10 through August 14 in Lansing, Michigan. If you are planning to attend, you must pre-register by July 21st. Visit the SUVCW website and click on the “2017 National Encampment

Information” link to get more information. If you are planning to attend and are not a current or past Department Officer, please register as an “Alternate” so that the proper credentials are created for you.

Finally, if you would like to give a short presentation on any topic about the Civil War or other item of interest having a Patriotic theme at one of our Monthly Camp meetings, I encourage you to contact Brother Holmes to get on the schedule. We have several openings for speakers later this Fall - and for most of next year.

In F. C. & L,

Brother William Pollard Camp Commander

Contents

1… From the Commander’s Tent 7… Ancestor Profile – Lt. Dewitt C. Anderson 1… Table of Contents 8… JROTC Award Presentations 2… Membership Muster 18… Auxiliary’s 10th Annual Presidents Tea – Dickinson, TX

4… Editor’s Message 21… Civil War Veterans Memorial Ceremony – Devine, TX 4… 2017 Camp Officers and Staff 22… Spring Creek Heritage Festival – Tomball, TX 5… Camp Calendar 23… Memorial Day – Houston, TX 5… Contact Information 25… The Positions of the Cannon Crew 5… New Camp Eagle Scout Coordinator – Bonnett 27… Civil War Medal of Honor Recipients – US Navy (pt 7) 6… New Members – T. Clay, J. Smith, R. Yeager 28… Additional Memorial Day Photo 6… Donation to the Civil War Trust 28… Quote: Benjamin Butler

SUVCW Jun 2017 Vol. 23, No. 2

2

Membership Muster

Camp Member Civil War Ancestor Service Unit

Mr. William A. Pollard – Camp Cmdr. Sgt. Jacob P. Kinney Co. E, 77th Ohio Infantry Mr. Michael L. Lance – SVC, Hist, Newsltr. Pvt. Finas Euen Lance Co F, 12th Regt IN Inf. & Co E, 59th IN Inf Mr. Michael D. Rappe - JVC Pvt. David C. Murphy Co. E, 11th Regt. Pennsylvania Infantry Mr. Gary White * ~ *** Secr/Treas Commissary Sgt. William Judson Co. D, 1st Regt. New York Mounted Rifles Pvt. Andrew Wilson White Co. L, 4th Regt. New York Heavy Artillery

Mr. Michael A. Alvarez Pvt. Samuel G. Kautz Co. I, 73rd IN Inf. & Co. H, 9th IN Inf. Mr. Robert P. Anderson 1st Sgt. Hiram Lorenzo Pierce Co. G, 106th Illinois Infantry Mr. Mark H. Andrus Pvt. Matthew Barth Co. B, 52nd Regt. Illinois Infantry Mr. John E. W. Baay II Cpl. James R. Middlebrook Co D, 17th Regt. Connecticut Infantry Mr. Stephen P. Barrett Pvt. Enoch A. Barrett Co. L, 50th Regt. New York Engineers Mr. Curtiss M. Beinhorn Pvt. John Lancaster Co. F, 50th Regt. Illinois Infantry Mr. Michael E. Bierman Pvt. Peter E. Fry Co. D, 5th Pennsylvania Cavalry Mr. Ben C. Bonnett – Eagle Scout Coord. Pvt. John Walker Daniels Co. I, 6th Regt. PA Heavy Artillery

Mr. Michael T. Boyd Pvt. Thomas Howey Co. A, 38th Regt. Illinois Infantry Mr. William C. Boyd Pvt. Lyndon Boyd Co. F, 144th Regt., Indiana Vol. Infantry Mr. Samuel R. Brasher Pvt. James Peden Co. B, 69th Regt. Indiana Infantry Mr. William C. Buell Pvt. Mathias Stonebrook Co. F, 142nd Regt., Ohio Infantry Mr. William D. Burdette – Color Bearer Pvt. Nathan R. Price Co. H, 122nd Regt. New York Vol. Infantry Mr. James L. Burns 2nd Lt. Joseph Jackson Gravely Co. A, Capt. Stockton’s Mntd MO Militia

Col. 8th Regt. Missouri Vol. Cavalry

Mr. Edward Caballero, Jr. Pvt. Dillis Dyer Critser Co. C, 17th Regt. Kentucky Infantry Mr. Jon P. Calder Pvt. Edward Dailey Co. I, 15th Regt. Massachusetts Infantry Mr. Patrick D. Calder Pvt. Edward Dailey Co. I, 15th Regt. Massachusetts Infantry Mr. William D. Campbell * Cpl. William Moore Campbell Co. I, 12th Regt. Illinois Infantry Mr. Lawrence K. Casey Jr. *** Chaplain Josiah Brown 15th Regt., Maine Infantry

Mr. C. Dale Cates ^ ** ** Mr. Mark T. Chemay Pvt. Isaiah Paxton Watts Co. H, 84th Regt. Indiana Infantry Mr. Thor E. Chester Pvt. John A. Watts Indep Co Trumbull Guards, Ohio Infantry Mr. James F. Clay III Cpl. Dred W. Tucker Co. H, 107th US Colored Troops Mr. Tommy D. Clay + Cpl. Dred W. Tucker Co. H, 107th US Colored Troops Mr. Robert D. Clements Cpl. Samuel McClain Co. C, 203rd Regt. Pennsylvania Infantry Mr. Walter G. Coffey – Webmaster Pvt. Nicholas Almire Co. E, 42nd Regt. Indiana Vol. Infantry Mr. William F. Cole *** Pvt. Jacob E. Brock 85th Regt. New York Infantry Mr. Steven G. Coons 1st Lt. Loren Glazier Cowdrey Co. G, 86th Regt. Indiana Infantry Mr. Thomas F. Coughlin * 2nd Cpl. Henry A. Sauter Co. A, 8th Battalion, DC Infantry Mr. Stephen M. Crow 1st Sgt. John Phillip Megogney Co. C, 102nd Regt. Pennsylvania Infantry Mr. Donald G. Deppe Pvt. Lewis P. Moore Co. K, 7th Regt. Illinois Infantry

Mr. Terry E. Dudley Cpl. Adam Mehling Co. K, 1st Regt. Michigan Light Artillery Mr. Charles L. Duke – Patriotic Instructor Pvt. Joseph Allen Co. D, 48th Regt. Illinois Vol. Infantry Rev. Stephen F. Duncan - Chaplain Pvt. Isaac Duncan Co. M, 4th Missouri State Militia, Cav. Mr. Thomas M. Eishen – Sign. Off, Webmstr. Pvt. Andreas Pfotenhauer Co. F, 4th Regt. Missouri Infantry Mr. Karl R. Falken – Guard, Pub. Affairs Off. Pvt. Jacob Lohrer Co. L, 5th Regt. Pennsylvania Cavalry Mr. Timothy S. Favrot Sgt. John W. Dittemore Co. I, 19th Regt. Indiana Infantry Mr. Robert T. Giffin *** Pvt. Robert Newton Button Co. D, 13th Regt. Illinois Infantry Mr. Jerry D. Gipson Pvt. Peter B. Gipson Co. B, 1st AL & TN Indepen. Vidette Cav. Mr. James S. Hackett * Cpl. Thadeus Hendrickson 4th Kentucky Mounted Infantry Mr. William F. Haenn III Sgt. William F. Grumbine Co. D, 93rd Regt. Pennsylvania Inf. Mr. Samuel F. Hampton * Pvt. Samuel Pate Hampton Co. G, 47th Regt. Missouri Infantry

Mr. Kenneth H. Harrington Pvt. James Morfed Aston Co. C, 4th Regt. Tennessee Vol. Infantry Mr. Steve M. Hart Pvt. Robert Milton Hart Co. K, 7th Regt. Illinois Infantry Mr. Ronnie B. Hayward Pvt. Jeremiah Kelley Co. E, Missouri Home Guard Mr. Robert L. Heath Pvt. Hiram T. Heath Co. E, 12th Regt. New Hampshire Infantry Mr. Alan D. Hess Pvt. Joseph Hess Co. C, 101st Regt. New York Infantry Mr. Harrold K. Henck Jr. ~ * Pvt. Philip Jacob Apffel Co. A, 46th Regt. Iowa Vol. Infantry Dr. Stevenson T. Holmes * - Camp Council Pvt. Warren W. White Co. K, 44th U.S. Colored Infantry Mr. Zane F. Hooper ^ ** ** Mr. Bruce G. Hunsperger Pvt. Peter Hunsperger Co C, 9th Regt. MO State Militia Cav. Mr. Thomas A. Jackson Sgt. Isaac Newton Stubblefield 2nd Regt. Texas Cavalry Mr. Thomas I. Jackson Sgt. Isaac Newton Stubblefield 2nd Regt. Texas Cavalry Mr. Erik T. Jeffreys Pvt. Edward Jerome Taylor Co. I, 126th New York Volunteer Infantry

Mr. Wyatt A. Jeffreys Pvt. Edward Jerome Taylor Co. I, 126th New York Vol. Infantry

(Muster continued on next page)


3

Membership Muster (continued)

Camp Member Civil War Ancestor Service Unit

Mr. Judd A. Jones Pvt. John A. Watts Indepen. Co., Trumbull Guards, OH Inf. Mr. Ford H. Kinsley, Jr. Cpl. John Kinsley Co. K, 58th Regt. Pennsylvania Inf. Mr. Ernest C. Kobs IV Pvt. Robert V. Osteen Co. B/F, 2nd Regt. NC Mounted Cavalry Mr. James A. Koontz Pvt. Michael M. Bean Co. A, 2nd Regt. Arkansas Infantry Mr. David K. LaBrot * ** - Camp Council Hosp. Steward Louis Laborot Co E, 12th-Co L, 5th MO State Milit. Cav.

Pvt. Charles Edw’d ‘Austin’ Laborot Co E, 12th-Co L, 5th MO State Milit. Cav. Mr. Brian S. Lang Pvt. Isaac Samuel Lang Scotts Guard, 6th Indiana State Milit. Mr. Dale H. Leach Pvt. Sylvester Leach 23rd Regt. Ohio Volunteer Infantry Mr. John P. Lenes - Guide Pvt. Wilson Keffer Co. B, 8th Regt. West Virginia Infantry Mr. Kurt A. Letzring Pvt. Alexander McLain Co. E, 7th Regt. Michigan Cavalry Dr. Craig A. Livingston ^ ** ** Mr. Robert L. Lockwood Pvt. Chauncey A. Lockwood Co. H, 14th Regt. Wisconsin Infantry Mr. George E. Loper Pvt. Fredrick Lohmann Co. H, 6th Regt. West Virginia Infantry Mr. John R. Loper Pvt. Frederick Lohmann Co. H, 6th Regt. West Virginia Infantry Mr. Larry W. Luckett Pvt. Merrill J. Stearns Co. E, 37th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Mr. Justin W. Martin Sgt. William Asbury Keck Co. G, 145th Pennsylvania Infantry

Mr. William W. Martin Sgt. William Asbury Keck Co. G, 145th Pennsylvania Infantry Mr. Randall S. McDaniel Pvt. Fernando Cortez Nichols Co. A, 7th Regt. Indiana Infantry Mr. Faber F. McMullen III Pvt. Michael Lewis McMullen Co. M, 13th Regt. Indiana Cavalry Mr. Lloyd B. Monroe Jr. Pvt. Harrison Monroe Co. C, 2nd KS Col Inf. (83rd U.S. Col Inf.) Mr. Harrison G. Moore IV * ~ ** *** Pvt. William Moore Co. K, 63rd Regt. Ohio Vol. Infantry Mr. Gene P. Munson Pvt. Joseph Stoner Co. K, 126th Regt. Pennsylvania Inf. Mr. Melvin L. Myers Pvt. Charles Bowden Co. G, 37th US Colored Infantry Mr. Jon T. Oliver Pvt. James E. Petrie Jr. Co. A, 53rd Regt. Ohio Infantry Mr. Samuel A. Packer Pvt. Michael Henry Finnegan Co. G, 2nd Arkansas Cavalry Mr. Donald H. Patrick Jr. *** Sgt. Squire Merlin Harris 6th Missouri State Militia Cavalry Mr. James R. Perry Pvt. James R. Cook Co. C, 3rd Regt. Wisconsin Infantry Mr. Keith A. Porter Pvt. Francis Nagle Co E, 13th Regt. Missouri Vol Infantry

Mr. Herbert W. Powers Jr. Pvt. Lifee Holbrook Powers Co. D, 104th Regt. Illinois Infantry Mr. Sam J. Reed 1st Lt. Axel Hayford Reed Co. K, 2nd Regt. Minnesota Infantry Mr. Stephen C. Rogers Capt. George Augustus Knight Co. A & H, 188th Ohio Volunteer Infantry Mr. Ryan M. Rosa Pvt. James E. Rosa Co. K, 10th New York Cavalry Mr. John E. Schneider Jr. Lt. Col. Casper Carl Schneider 103rd Regt. New York Infantry Mr. Stephen D. Schulze * ** *** - Council Pvt. Henry Ludwig Schulze Co. D, 9th Regt. Illinois Volunteers Mr. Jeffrey R. Schurwon Pvt. Martin V. B. Leonard Shields' 19th Indep Batt. Ohio Light Arty. Mr. Michael D. Seeber Pvt. Lorenzo Seeber Co. C, 10th Regt. Illinois Infantry Mr. Mark S. Shackelford Pvt. Andrew Stevenson Co. A. 88th Regt. Ohio Infantry Mr. Scott D. Shuster – Dept. Secretary Pvt. John S. Darling Co. F, 171st Regt. Pennsylvania Infantry Mr. James M. Sigler Pvt. William Henry Sigler Co. M, 3rd Regt. New York Cavalry

Co. F, 5th Regt. Excelsior Brigade

Mr. James P. Smith + Pvt. Aaron Hendrickson Co. F, 55th Regt. Pennsylvania Inf. Mr. Robert E. Smith Pvt. Flemon Trent Co. H, 39th Regt. Kentucky Infantry Mr. Bartley N. Stockton William R. Reck Co. F, 74th Regt. NY Inf., Co. H, 40th NY Mr. Jerry B. Taylor Pvt. Robert A. Glover Co. H, 84th Regt. New York Infantry Mr. Chapman P. Traylor Cpl. John Anderson Laws Battery B, 1st Btn Tenn. Light Artillery Mr. Nash S. Traylor Cpl. John Anderson Laws Battery B, 1st Btn Tenn. Light Artillery Mr. Joseph M. Tucker Pvt. Joseph Henry Wells Co. I, 3rd Regt. Kentucky Cavalry Mr. Robert C. Tumey Sr. *** -- -- Mr. John A. Wade Pvt. William Elgie Woodcock Co. F, 1st Tennessee Mounted Infantry Rev. Ross E. Waggoner Capt. William Sharpe 3rd Regt. Wisconsin Cavalry Mr. John T. Walter Pvt. Andrew Walter Co. D, 58th Regt. Ohio Infantry

Mr. Samuel P. Wheeler ^ ** ** Mr. Robert E. Wickman Pvt. Hugh Alexander Hoy Co. D, Bracketts Btn, Minn. Cavalry Mr. Lee H. Wilson Pvt. Charles Wilson Co. D, 22nd Regt. New York Infantry Mr. Robert A. Yeager Sr. + Pvt. Daniel Yeager Co. B, 205th Regt. PA Vol. Infantry Mr. Patrick M. Young Pvt. William Young 30th Regt. Pennsylvania Militia Mr. Edward Cotham # Author ** **

Key: ~ Charter Member * Past Camp Cmdr. ** Past Dept. Cmdr. *** Life Member + New Member ^^ Junior Member ^ Associate Member # Honorary Member


4

Editor’s Message

Brothers:

This issue of the Harriet Lane is dedicated to the 28 Brothers who stepped forward to support the massive effort put forth by the Lt. Cmdr. Edward Lea Camp to present SUVCW certificates and medals to exemplary area Jr. ROTC

Cadets. Several of our volunteers made more than one presentation. For example, Cmdr. Pollard, in addition to organizing and managing the 2017 JROTC program, personally made 17 presentations at individual high schools – followed by Brother Falken, who made 10 presentations! Thank you for your terrific efforts, Brothers Pollard and Falken! A tip of the kepi and special thanks also goes out to the following Brothers for a job well done:

Alvarez, Michael (1) Anderson, Robert (1) Bonnett, Ben (4) Boyd, William (1) Chester, Thor (5) Coughlin, Thomas (2)

Duncan, Stephen (2)

Falken, Karl (10) Hackett, James (2) Haenn, William (3) Jackson, Thomas (4) Jeffreys, Erik (1) Kinsley, Ford (1)

Kobs, Ernest (1)

Lance, Michael (6) Lang, Brian (5) Livingston, Craig (1) Luckett, Larry (2) Myers, Melvin (1) Packer, Samuel (1)

Pollard, William (17)

Porter, Keith (2) Rappe, Michael (1) Schulze, Stephen (1) Sigler, James (1) Wade, John (3) Waggoner, Ross (1)

White, Gary (2)

A total of 112 high school and college ROTC programs within the Camp area presented SUVCW awards to their

outstanding Cadets. Of those, the Brothers listed above personally presented 82 of them! The

remaining 30 awards were presented by the ROTC instructors and officers at the individual high schools. Pages 8 through 18 show photos received by this editor depicting some of the presenting Brothers and their Cadet recipients.

“Just a short note to thank all of you for taking time out of your Saturday to support our cadets and the NJROTC program at the Awards & Recognition ceremony over at Veterans Memorial Academy, despite not having any cake this year. Your personal example, representing your sponsoring organization, congratulations spoken to your awardee and others, and your interactions with "the general cadet population" attending, were very appreciated by all three instructors. Thank you for making Saturday a memorable occasion.”

..….Capt. Nels Swanson USN (ret), May 6, 2017, San Benito High School NJROTC, San Benito, TX (SUVCW JROTC award presented by Ford Kinsley)

In F. C. & L,

Michael L. Lance – Editor

2017 Camp Officers and Staff

William Pollard Michael Lance Michael Rappe Gary White Steve Schulze Steve Holmes Sam Hampton Commander Sr. Vice-Cmdr. Jr. Vice-Cmdr. Secr./Treas. Camp Council Camp Council Camp Council

Stephen Duncan Charles Duke Michael Lance Harrison Moore Pete Lenes Karl Falken Zane Hooper Chaplain Patriotic Instr. Historian Civil War Mem. Guide Guard Color Bearer Officer


5

2017 Camp Calendar

Date Event Location

Tue Jun 13 Monthly Meeting: 7 pm Spaghetti Warehouse Speaker: Brother Michael Lance 901 Commerce St., Houston, TX Topic: The Newburgh Raid

Sat Jun 24 23rd Department Encampment: 10 am Cook Center at Navarro College Special Guest: National C-in-C Donald L. Martin 3200 W. 7th Ave., Corsicana, TX

Tue Jul 11 Monthly Meeting: 7 pm Spaghetti Warehouse Speaker: Karl Falken 901 Commerce St., Houston, TX Topic: Awards of the Major Military Affiliated Heritage Societies

Tue Sep 12 Monthly Meeting: 7 pm Spaghetti Warehouse Speaker: Brother Gary White 901 Commerce St., Houston, TX

Fri Nov 17 Civil War Weekend: 9 am - School day – Living history displays Liendo Plantation Sat Nov 18 9 am – event continues: Sutlers, battles, plantation tours 38653 Wyatt Chapel Rd., Hempstead, TX

Sun Nov 19 9 am – event continues: Food vendors, entertainment, etc.

The Harriet Lane newsletter is published quarterly (March, June, September, and December). Please send questions,

letters, suggestions or corrections concerning the newsletter to:

Michael L. Lance 7707 Dane Hill Dr., Spring, Texas 77389 E-mail: [email protected]

Submission deadlines are: February 15th for the March issue; May 15th for the June issue; August 15th for the September issue; and November 15th for the December issue.

Camp Cmdr. William Pollard 409-938-0052 [email protected] Sr. Vice-Cmdr. Michael L. Lance 832-797-9058 [email protected] Jr. Vice-Cmdr. Michael Rappe 281-579-1650 [email protected] Secretary/Treas. Gary E. White 713-501-7823 [email protected]

SUVCW Edward Lea Camp #2 website http://www.camplea.org SUVCW Department of Texas website http://www.txsuv.org

SUVCW National website http://www.suvcw.org

Sarah Emma Edmonds Detached Tent #4 – DUVCW http://www.rootsweb.com/~txseeduv

National Auxiliary to the SUVCW http://www.asuvcw.org

New Camp Eagle Scout Coordinator

In addition to the dramatic growth of the Camp’s Jr. ROTC awards program, our efforts to recognize and reward the

young men in our communities that have achieved the status of Eagle Scout has also been increasing. Due to the need for enhanced coordination and leadership for this important program, the Camp is pleased to announce that Brother Ben Bonnett has accepted the appointment of Camp Eagle Scout Coordinator.

Brother Bonnett joined the Camp in November 2013 and has been active in many Camp activities, including: battle re-enactments, monthly Camp meetings, Department Encampments, JROTC award presentations, and other events. He will, no doubt, be a driving force for continuing the growth of our Eagle Scout recognition program.

Brother Ben Bonnett Since 1910 the Boy Scouts of America have contributed to the moral and physical character of our communities by offering opportunities where young men can experience fun and adventure while learning the skills necessary for good citizenship and leadership. One of worthy goals of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War is to reward the young men who achieve the status of Eagle Scout by presenting them with a special congratulatory letter and color

Certificate of Commendation. Through the process of attaining their Eagle Scout status, the recipients have demonstrated the admirable traits of good citizenship, patriotism, civic duty, and love & honor of our Flag.

Thank you, Brother Bonnett, for assuming the responsibilities of this important post.

….submitted by Brother Michael Lance

mailto:[email protected]



http://www.camplea.org/

http://www.txsuv.org/

http://www.suvcw.org/

http://www.rootsweb.com/~txseeduv/

http://www.asuvcw.org/


6

New Members

Introducing: Tommy Clay

Brother Tommy Clay joins the Camp based on the service of his 2nd great-grandfather, Dred W. Tucker, who served

as a Corporal with Co. H, 107th Regiment U.S. Colored Troops. Welcome Brother Clay!

Introducing: James P. Smith

Brother James Smith joins the Camp based on the service of his 3rd great-grandfather, Aaron Hendrickson, who

served as a Private with Co. F, 55th Regiment Pennsylvania Infantry. Welcome Brother Smith!

Introducing: Robert A. Yeager Sr.

My name is Robert A. Yeager, Sr. and I was born in Easton, Pennsylvania in late

March 1951. I am the oldest of three children, with a sister and brother. I am the father of five children (four girls and one boy) and have lived in Corpus Christi, Texas since 1999. My children all live in other states, so visiting during the holidays is expensive!

My 2nd gr-grandfather, Daniel Jäger (Yeager) served as a private with Co. B, 205th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. His brother, William Mahlon (my 2nd great uncle), served as a private with Company B, 167th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry as well.

German immigrants migrated to the Berks county area as early as the 1700's and represented a significant percentage of soldiers in the Civil War. I can trace my

heritage back to a Daniel Jäger, who was born in 1788 in Berks County. I am very active in genealogy work for my father and mother's ancestors.

I am also a member of the Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV) on my mother's

side. My 2nd great-uncle, Napoleon Bonapart Medlar served with Bott’s Greys, and was a gunsmith at Harper's Ferry Armory.

I grew up in my hometown of Easton (also known as the "Forks of the Delaware" by the Indians), one of the towns where a copy of the Declaration of Independence was read at the town circle on July 8, 1776, now celebrated on Heritage Day each year. There is also a Soldiers and Sailors civil war monument that was dedicated in 1900 as a tribute to all Union militia. And finally, George Taylor, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, lived

there for a few years.

I have an AA in electronics and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Management. I recently retired, having worked

at IBM, CellularOne and other "Mom and Pop" businesses. I am a life member of the NRA and the Texas Rifle association. I enjoy shooting cowboy action and wild bunch events. But my big passion is re-enacting and living History. I am a member of several local historical organizations that work with schools and participate in Texas and Civil War (both blue and grey) reenactments. I currently portray over five different historical people.

Editor: Brother Robert Yeager joins the Camp based on the service of his 2nd gr-grandfather, Daniel Yeager, who served as a Private with Co. B, 205th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. Welcome Brother Yeager!

Donation to the Civil War Trust

As recorded in the minutes of the February 2017 monthly Camp business meeting, the following motion was offered: After a discussion initiated by Brother Falken, on a motion by Brother Rappe, seconded by Brother Coughlin, the Camp approved a $100 donation to the Civil War Trust. This donation is to be combined with individual donations from anyone wishing to participate. The donation sent to the CWT no later than July 1, 2017.


7

Ancestor Profile – Lt. Dewitt C. Anderson

Lt. Dewitt Anderson - my gr-grandfather's story from the war. I have tried to piece together his story based on the letters, records, and facts that I have - as best I can.

Dewitt C. Anderson enlisted in the 60th Regiment, Illinois Vol. Infantry in February 1862 as a Private. He later served as a Quartermaster Sergeant, and in April 1865, was promoted to 1st Lieutenant. He was with the regiment during

most of 1862 before being captured. I do not know exactly where he was captured. Evidently, Dewitt and some other soldiers, not all from his regiment, were on a foraging mission of some sort. Apparently the "party" either did not have permission, or they were somewhere they were not supposed to be when they were captured by Confederates. Since Dewitt was a Quartermaster, this would be in line with him obtaining food on a foraging mission. As mentioned, I have no idea when or where he was captured or how long he was held as a POW. I also don’t know how he was exchanged or paroled, other than that he returned to his unit in September 1863. In the National Archives, I found

a "rendezvous" report stating his date of return as September 15, 1863.

Prior to that time, the regiment was involved in marches and

skirmishes all over Tennessee, Mississippi and Alabama. They were at the siege/battle of Corinth, Mississippi in 1862. Dewitt was probably captured in 1862 or early 1863. He was held at Libby Prison in Richmond, but was obviously paroled/exchanged

as he was able to rejoin his unit in September 1863.

I also know Dewitt was with the regiment in battles at the end of 1863 and in 1864, as there is a photo which his son, Bill Anderson, took in the 1931. The photo (upper right photo) shows

a stone railroad building at Ringgold, GA. Dewitt must have had told his son that in November 1863, during the battle against Braxton Bragg’s Confederates, they were inside that building for several days. Bill wrote the story about the building on the back of the photo (lower right photo).

This was after the battle for Chattanooga and the beginning of the campaign for Atlanta. Bill also took photos of 2 other battle sites in Georgia and states that Dewitt was there - one is

Kennesaw Mountain where the battle occurred in June 1864, and the other one shows Altoona Gap, GA, where a battle took

place on Oct. 5, 1864. This was after Atlanta was captured and a month before the regiment was with Sherman on his march to Savanah.

I found Dewitt's name on a list of the attendees at an 1895 Illinois POW Reunion in Mt. Vernon. I also have his ribbon - which was with his photo. The prison listed for him was Libby (in Richmond, VA). After a little research, it appears that mostly officers were held at Libby, and all prior to April 1865. But Dewitt was shown to hold rank of Private - and then Sergeant. There might be more information

in the archives about him, but all I can find is that he mustered-out as a 2nd Lieutenant

I also have in my possession a poster made by Felix de la Baume of Andersonville. Dewitt either

purchased or was gifted this poster - most likely at the POW reunion. De la Baum is famous for being one of the individuals who testified at the Henry Wirz war crimes trial. Wirz was ultimately charged and executed for prisoner abuse at Andersonville.

Dewitt Anderson

I also have numerous letters from the late 1870's and 1880’s to and from pension lawyers, the War Department in Washington, and various congressmen - including his brother William B.

Anderson - who served as a Colonel with the 60th Illinois Inf. and later as a congressman in the

U.S. House of Representatives. Concerning Dewitt’s capture, it appears the army called into question his status as a POW, which resulted in him having trouble getting his pension. Dewitt struggled to get his status corrected in order to obtain his pension. In one letter, he was advised to seek out affidavits from other soldiers who can back up his story of being captured on that foraging party. It appears the pension issue was settled about 1882. I can only assume this was a government snafu and not really a case of desertion as he was promoted in April 1865 – before the war's end.

Following the war, both Dewitt and William Anderson were very active in Illinois GAR veteran’s reunions with the regiment into the 1890's.

…. Submitted by Brother Robert Anderson


8

JROTC Award Presentations

Tuesday, 4 April 2017 – Baytown, Texas

At 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 4th, Robert E. Lee High School held its JROTC awards program in Baytown, Texas. Brother Karl Falken attended the function and presented a SUVCW certificate and medal to Cadet Corporal Jose Hidalgo on the grounds of the school.

Brother Karl Falken with Cadet Corporal Jose Hidalgo

Tuesday, 4 April 2017 – Spring, Texas

At 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 4th, the Spring High School began their 2017 JROTC

awards program at the school. The JROTC Director, Captain James Boyer USN (Ret.) officiated the event.

SVC Michael Lance attended to present the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War certificate and medal to Cadet Jason Borders. The parents of Cadet Borders were also in attendance. This outstanding Cadet also earned several other awards.

SVC Michael Lance with Cadet Chief Petty Officer Jason Borders

“I'm on the Armed Drill Team, PT Team, and Color Guard Team. I was the Platoon Commander for school year 2016-2017 and I'm now one of the Educational Service Officers for the school year of 2017-2018. I graduated from area 10 leadership academy during the summer of 2016. I used to play football, run track, and was the varsity basketball manager. I want to join the United States Navy and become an Explosive Ordinance Disposal Technician. Then maybe after the first

five years, tryout for the Navy Seals.” ….Cadet Chief Petty Officer: Borders, Jason

Wednesday, 19 April 2017 – Houston, Texas

Cadet Private 1st Class Noor Jahlul of the Bellaire High School Army JROTC was awarded the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War ROTC Award Wednesday evening, April 19, 2017. The award was presented by Camp Cmdr. William Pollard at their Dining Out Event at the Braeburn Country Club on Bissonet Street in

Houston, Texas.

Cadet Jahlul is a member of the Color Guard. He lowers the flag at Bellaire High School every school day and is a vital member of the Academic Bowl Team. He also worked the Battleship Texas learning project.

Brother William Pollard and Cadet Noor Jahlul The Bellaire High School Army JROTC program has been led by Lt. Colonel Dennis J. O’Driscoll (retired) for the last 15 years, but he is retiring at the end of this school

year.

….Continued on next page


9

JROTC Award Presentations (continued)

Thursday, 20 April 2017 – Benton, Louisiana

A JROTC Awards Ceremony was held Thursday afternoon, April 20th at 1:00 p.m. in the Benton High School gymnasium in Benton, Louisiana. The SUVCW JROTC Award was presented to outstanding Cadet Sawyer Watkins.

Brother Keith Porter and Cadet Sawyer Watkins Benton High School has both an Air Force JROTC unit, # LA-951, and a Sr. AFROTC.

The instructor for Benton High School Air Force JROTC is Major John Beck and he is assisted by Master Sgt. Dave Milner.

Thursday, 20 April 2017 – Prairie View, Texas

On Thursday morning, April 20, 2017, Prairie View A&M University conducted their Navy ROTC awards ceremony. Camp Cmdr. William Pollard presented the Sons of Veterans of the Civil War ROTC Award and medal to MISN 3rd Class Jeremy Rasay.

The ceremony was conducted on the beautiful Prairie View A&M University Campus in Prairie View, Texas. Cadet Rasay is currently a student of Prairie A&M University and plans on following in his father’s footsteps by commissioning into the U.S. Navy upon graduation.

Brother William Pollard and Cadet Jeremy Rasay

The Prairie View A&M University Navy ROTC is currently led by Captain Michael A. Carambas.

Friday, 20 April 2017 – Lockhart, Texas

The town of Lockhart, Texas is located due south of Austin. Major Ricardo Cisneros from the Lockhart High School Air Force JROTC sent this photo of Brother Robert Anderson presenting the SUVCW ROTC Award to Cadet Jacob Zardiackas at their

Award Ceremony on Thursday evening, April 20th at Lockhart High School.

Brother Robert Anderson with Cadet Jacob Zardiackas

Brother Robert Anderson of Austin, Texas presented the SUVCW ROTC Award to Cadet Zardiackas. The Lockhart High School Air Force JROTC program is led by

Major Ricardo Cisneros and Master Sgt. Maurice Kennerly.



10


Friday, 21 April 2017 – Round Rock, Texas

At 6:30 p.m. on Friday, April 21, 2017, Brother John Wade attended the Round Rock High School USMC JROTC Awards Program which was conducted in the school’s cafeteria. He was pleased to present the SUVCW ROTC Award and Medal to outstanding student, Cadet Jared Chapelle.

The Round Rock High School USMC JROTC program is led by Sr. JROTC Instructor Major Dr. Jackie Schiller and JROTC Instructor MSGT. Juan Martinez.

Brother John A. Wade and Cadet Jared Chapelle

Cadet Chapelle is a 10th grader and has been a remarkable member of the ROTC

Rifle Team. He is considering joining the Marine Corps and is extremely interested in mathematics. He also hopes to pursue the study of architecture.

Friday, 21 April 2017 – Victoria, Texas

On April 21, 2017, the Victoria area High Schools conducted their Air Force JROTC Awards Program at Victoria East High School. Brother Thor Chester attended to present an SUVCW Award and medal. The recipient was outstanding Cadet Nick Soto.

Brother Thor Chester and Cadet Nick Soto

The Air Force JROTC programs at the Victoria High Schools are led by Sr. JROTC

Instructor Major Craig Nordskog and JROTC Instructor MSgt John Miller. There are 2 High Schools in the Victoria ISD - Victoria East High School and Victoria West High School. The Victoria AFJROTC is a combined unit of the 2 High

Schools.

Tuesday, 25 April 2017 – San Antonio, Texas

The Brandeis High School in San Antonio held their JROTC Awards ceremonies on Tuesday, April 25, 2017. Brother Brian Lang, representing the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War presented the SUVCW JROTC certificate and badge to exemplary Cadet 1st Lt. Amanda Gonzalez.

Brother Brian Lang with Cadet Amanda Gonzalez

“Amanda is a freshman at Brandeis HS. She got involved with JROTC because she

has thought about joining the service and it would give her a good idea about what military service would feel like.

Her plans after high school is to either join one of the armed forces or go to college and get a business degree and become an accountant. She is also involved in fashion activities at Brandeis. Her parents are Julia & Victor M. Gonzalez.”….submitted by Brother Brian Lang



11


Thursday, 27 April 2017 – La Porte, Texas

The La Porte High School Army JROTC conducted their JROTC Awards Program at 4:30 p.m. on April 27th at the high school. The recipient of the SUVCW JROTC award was Cadet Aneaus C. Caylor. Brother Karl Falken attended the event to present the SUVCW award to that outstanding Cadet.

Brother Karl Falken with Cadet Aneaus Caylor

The La Porte High School JROTC Leaders are Unit Leader Major Crystal Armstrong and Sgt. First Class Cruse Montanez. Major Anderson was interested to know if there are any other awards provided by the SUVCW.

Thursday, 27 April 2017 – Aldine, Texas

At 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 27th, the Aldine High School held their Air Force JROTC Awards Ceremony in the school’s auditorium. Brother Michael Lance attended the event to present a SUVCW ROTC Award and medal to outstanding Cadet Leonard Hernandez. Cadet Hernandez was recognized for his leadership, patriotism, and excellence in Academics.

Brother Michael Lance with Cadet Leonardo Hernandez

Thanks again for giving the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War the opportunity

to recognize another FINE JROTC Cadet from the Aldine High School Air Force JROTC.

Thursday, 27 April 2017 – San Antonio, Texas

Brother Brian Lang presented a SUVCW JROTC award to Cadet Staff Sgt. Dustyn Ransom at John Paul Stevens High School in San Antonio on April 27, 2017.

Brother Brian Lang and Cadet Dustyn Ransom

“Cadet Ransom is a freshman at John Paul Stevens HS. He joined ROTC because he

wanted to feel what it would be like for him to serve. His parents both serve in the United State Air Force and he has moved 5 times since he was born. The military lifestyle is one that interests him. He has had the privileged to travel quite a bit with his parents including living in Germany and that experience has let him see with the Air Force has to offer.

He also plays on the junior varsity soccer team. His goal is to be accepted into the Air Force Academy earning a commission as a Combat Rescue Officer. He hopes to

be able to play soccer on the Air Force Academy Soccer team. His parents are Chief Master Sergeant Scott Ransom and Chief Master Sergeant Heather Ransom.”….submitted by Brother Lang



12


Friday, 28 April 2017 – Waller, Texas

On April 28th, the Waller High School Air Force JROTC conducted their Awards Ceremony to recognize their outstanding Cadets. Brother Ernest ‘Dusty’ Kobs attended the event. He presented the SUVCW JROTC award to deserving Cadet Joshua C. Henson.

Brother Dusty Kobs and Cadet Joshua Henson

The Waller High School Air Force JROTC program is currently led by Sr. Instructor Colonel Joseph Hayslett and Instructor Sgt. Joel Barnett.

Friday, 28 April 2017 – Eagle Pass, Texas

At 4:30 p.m. on April 27th, the C. C. Winn High School Air Force JROTC in Eagle Pass conducted their Awards Program at the high school. Brother William Haenn attended the event. He presented the SUVCW JROTC award to outstanding Cadet

1st Lt. Mauro Castillo.

Brother William Haenn presenting to Cadet Mauro Castillo

The JROTC Leader at the high school is Master Sgt. Michael Gamez.

“The awards ceremony was very special and rekindled my faith in the youth of America. My English wife was very impressed with these incredible young people.” …submitted by Brother Haenn

Saturday, 29 April 2017 – Spring, Texas

At 7 p.m. on Saturday April 29th, Klein Oak High School held their JROTC Awards Banquet and Military Ball at the Spring/Klein Multipurpose Center in Spring, Texas. Brother Michael Lance attended this formal event and presented the

SUVCW Air Force ROTC Award to outstanding Cadet Major Kira Linehan.

Brother Michael Lance with Cadet Major Kira Linehan

“Hello, my name and rank is C/Maj Linehan, and I am a member of unit TX-20006

from Klein Oak. I was the recipient of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War Award, and I would like to thank you for providing the award for our unit! There's a great amount of capable cadets in our unit, and it means the world to us that you and your people would support our unit in this way. We are very grateful to you for providing us with the opportunity to award a cadet, and would just like to say thank you! Sincerely,

Kira Linehan”



13


Wednesday, 3 May 2017 – The Woodlands, Texas

At 3 p.m. on May 3rd, the Army JROTC at The Woodlands College Park High School in The Woodlands held their annual Awards Program in their JROTC Room. Representing the SUVCW, Brother Sam Packer attended the event and presented the SUVCW JROTC award to Cadet Tjaden Stenosheck. Cadet Stenosheck was recognized for outstanding leadership, patriotism, and academics.

The Awards Program was originally planned to be an outdoor event but, due to weather concerns, it was moved indoors.

Brother Samuel Packer with Cadet Tjaden Stenosheck

The Woodlands College Park High School Army JROTC instructors are Senior Army JROTC Instructor Major Cody Stewart and Army JROTC Instructor Sgt. Major Christopher Combs.

“Thanks for the opportunity for Sam to present the award to Tjaden yesterday. It was quite an honor, and we were both SO impressed by the ROTC group at College Park!”....Wendy Packer

Thursday, 4 May 2017 – Bossier City, Louisiana

At 1 p.m. on May 4th, the Air Force JROTC at Airline High School in Bossier City, Louisiana conducted their Awards Ceremony. Brother Keith Porter of Bossier City attended the event and presented the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil JROTC Award to outstanding Cadet Brennan Teutsch.

Brother Keith Porter with Cadet Brennan Teutsch

The Airline High School Air Force JROTC program is led by Sr. Air Force Instructor

Colonel Kirk Kimmett and Air Force JROTC Instructors Sr. Master Sgt. Margo Miller and Chief Master Sgt. Scott Parson.

Friday, 5 May 2017 – Lake Jackson, Texas

On Friday May 5th, Camp Commander William Pollard presented the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War JROTC Award to Cadet Carl Kneupper of the Brazoswood High School Air Force JROTC. The awards event began at 6 p.m. at the Dow Academic Center on the beautiful campus of the Brazosport College

in Lake Jackson, Texas.

Brother William Pollard with Cadet Carl Kneupper

The Brazoswood High School Air Force JROTC program is currently led by Sr. Air Force JROTC Instructor Lt. Col. Larry Baker and Air Force JROTC Instructor Sr. Master Sgt. Larry Caesar.

“Cadet Kneupper is currently a Junior at the Brazoswood High School and stated that he looking at joining the U.S. Marine Corps upon graduation next

spring.”….Brother Pollard



14


Saturday, 5 May 2017 – The Woodlands, Texas

On May 5, Brother Craig Livingston presented the SUVCW ROTC Award to Cadet Andrew Schnell of The Woodlands High School Air Force JROTC. Their Awards Ceremony was conducted at The Woodlands High School, which is in the Conroe ISD.

Brother Craig Livingston with Cadet Andrew Schnell

The Woodlands High School Air Force JROTC program is led by Sr. Air Force JROTC Instructor Lt. Col. David McMartin and JROTC Instructors Chief

Master Sgt. Dan Ciufo and Chief Master Sgt. Rick Robinson.

Saturday, 6 May 2017 – Round Rock, Texas

Beginning at 4 p.m. on May 6, the McNeil High School Air Force JROTC held their Awards Ceremony in the cafeteria at McNeil High School in Round Rock, Texas. Brother John Wade, who lives in the Round Rock area, attended the event and presented the SUVCW ROTC Award to Cadet Helen Calderon.

Brother John Wade and Cadet Helen Calderon

The McNeil Air Force JROTC program is currently led by Sr. Air Force JROTC Instructor Lt. Col. Lavern Curry and Army JROTC Instructor Master Sgt. Joshua Wilson.

“Helen is a 10th grader, and she has been very active with the activities of the JROTC. She plans on becoming a dermatologist.” ….Brother John Wade

Saturday, 6 May 2017 – Pasadena, Texas

“On Saturday morning at 10 a.m. on May 6th, I presented the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War ROTC Award to Cadet Alan Valadez from the Deer

Park High School Army JROTC at the Burke Crenshaw Park in Pasadena, Texas. The ceremony was held in the Rotarian Pavilion at the Park.

Brother William Pollard with Cadet Alan Valadez

Cadet Valadez is currently a Junior at Deer Park High School and will join the United States Marine Corps when he graduates next spring.

The Deer Park High School Army JROTC program is currently led by Sr. Army JROTC Instructor Antonio Hernandez and Army JROTC Instructor Sgt. Major Greg Valcin.”….Brother William Pollard



15


Wednesday, 10 May 2017 – Pasadena, Texas

“Yesterday morning, May 10th at 8 a.m., I presented the SUVCW ROTC Award to Cadet Colton Moravtis. Cadet Moravtis is currently a sophomore and is in the top 25% of his class. He is a member of their nationally ranked Armed Drill Team. He is planning to pursue a career in Law Enforcement after High School graduation.

Brother William Pollard with Cadet Colton Moravtis

The Sam Rayburn High School Army JROTC program is led by Sr. Army JROTC Instructor Col. Alan Mooneyham and Army JROTC Instructor 1st Sgt. Luis Gonzalez.”….submitted by Brother William Pollard

Friday, 12 May 2017 – The Woodlands, Texas

The Oak Ridge High School Air Force Junior ROTC Awards Banquet was held at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center on Friday, May 12, 2017. Brother Michael Lance attended to present the Sons

of Union Veterans of the Civil War JROTC Award to Cadet Captain Connor Ames. Cadet Ames was recognized for leadership, academics, and patriotism.

Brother Michael Lance with Cadet Connor Ames

“I'm on the Armed Drill Team, PT Team, Color Guard Team, and Platoon Commander for school year 2016-2017. I'm now one of the Educational Service Officers for the school year of 2017-2018. I graduated from area 10 leadership academy during the summer of 2016.

I used to play football, run track, and was the varsity basketball manager.

I want to join the United States Navy and become an Explosive Ordinance Disposal Technician. Then, maybe after the first five years, tryout for The Navy Seals.”….Cadet Chief Petty Officer Jason Borders

Wednesday, 17 May 2017 – The Pasadena, Texas

On Wednesday morning May 17th, the Pasadena High School USMC JROTC program conducted its Awards Ceremony at the high school. Brother Karl

Falken attended the event and presented the SUVCW ROTC Award to

outstanding Cadet Marvin Diaz.

Brother Karl Falken with Cadet Marvin Diaz

The Pasadena High School USMC JROTC program is led by Master Sgt.

Shafi McCants and Mr. Bryan Hamm.



16


Wednesday, 17 May 2017 – The Livingston, Texas

“On Wednesday morning on May 17th, I presented the SUVCW ROTC Award to Cadet Mason Dunaway of the Livingston High School Army ROTC at Livingston High School. Cadet Dunaway is currently a freshman.

Brother William Pollard with Cadet Mason Dunaway

The Livingston High School Army JROTC program is led by Sr. Army JROTC Instructor Sergeant Major Timothy McGregor and Army JROTC Instructor Sergeant Lyndye Yeagin.”….submitted by Brother William Pollard

Thursday, 18 May 2017 – Houston, Texas

Past Camp Commander Coughlin presented the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War ROTC Award to Cadet RosaAlba Valtierra of the Energize for STEM Academy USMC JROTC in Houston, Texas on Thursday morning May 18th. Cadet Valtierra is the Corps Commander for this JROTC unit.

Brother Thomas Coughlin with Cadet RosaAlba Valtierra

The Energize for STEM Academy USMC JROTC rogram is led Sr. USMC JROTC Instructor 1st Sergeant Bland. This JROTC unit has 259 highly motivated

cadets.

Wednesday, 18 May 2017 – Galveston, Texas

On Thursday afternoon on May 18th, the Ball High School Army JROTC

Program conducted their Awards Ceremony in Galveston, Texas. Brother Stephen Duncan attended the event and presented the SUVCW JROTC Award to outstanding Cadet Brendon Edwards.

Brother Stephen Duncan with Cadet Brendon Edwards

The Galveston Ball High School Army JROTC program is led by Sr. Army JROTC Instructor Major Mark Knight and Army Instructor Sgt. 1st Class

Eduardo Gonzalez.



17


Thursday, 18 May 2017 –Beaumont, Texas

“I presented the SUVCW ROTC Award yesterday, May 18th, at the West Brook High School Navy JROTC Award Program in Beaumont, Texas. The award recipient was Cadet Shelby Powell who currently is a sophomore at West Brook High School.

Brother William Pollard with Cadet Shelby Powell

The West Brook High School Navy JROTC program is led by Sr. Navy JROTC Instructor Commander Phillip Boone and Navy JROTC Instructor Sergeant Major

Kenneth Akins.”….submitted by Brother William Pollard

Friday, 19 May 2017 –San Antonio, Texas

The John F. Kennedy High School Army JROTC Awards Program was held on Friday evening, May 19th at 5 p.m. in the high school gymnasium. John F. Kennedy High School is located at 1922 S. General McMullen Dr. in San Antonio, Texas.

The Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War JROTC Award was presented to Cadet 1st Sergeant Manuel Ortiz by Brother Karl Falken.

Brother Karl Falken with Cadet Manuel Ortiz

Saturday, 20 May 2017 – Houston, Texas

“The Klein Forest High School Military Ball & Award Banquet was held at 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 20, 2017 at Northgate Country Club in far north Houston. A large number of outstanding cadets of the Klein Forest Air Force JROTC were recognized

for their achievements.

After a nearly hour-long elegant dinner, 18 National awards along with 1 local award

were presented to deserving Cadets. I attended the event and presented the SUVCW JROTC award to a high achiever, Cadet 2nd Lt. Austin Waters.

Brother Michael Lance with Cadet Austin Waters

The length of time allotted for passing out the awards was relatively and pleasantly short – due to the fact that the majority of JROTC local awards were to be presented at a later date. The female Cadets were dressed in formal evening gowns. Following the announcement of the Prince and Princess for each flight, and the crowning of the overall King and Queen, the Ball began.”…Submitted by Brother Michael Lance



18


Tuesday, 23 May 2017 – Texas City, Texas

“I presented the SUVCW ROTC Award to Cadet Sgt. Kyle Bottoms of the Texas City High School JROTC on Tuesday afternoon, May 23rd in the Texas City High School auditorium in Texas City, Texas. Cadet Bottoms is currently a Junior at the school.

Brother William Pollard with Cadet Kyle Bottoms

The Texas City High School USMC JROTC program is currently led by Sr. USMC

JROTC Instructor Major Christopher Westoff and USMC JROTC Instructor Daniels.” ….Submitted by Brother William Pollard

Thursday, 25 May 2017 – Wharton, Texas

Brother Melvin Myers presented the SUVCW ROTC Award to Cadet

Senior Airman Jacob Viktorin at the Wharton High School Air Force JROTC Awards Program. The event was held Thursday evening, May 25th at the Wharton Knights of Columbus Hall in Wharton, Texas.

Brother Melvin Myers with Cadet Jacob Viktorin

The Wharton High School Air Force JROTC is led by Sr. Air Force JROTC instructor Lt. Col. Byrl Engel and Air Force JROTC Instructor Master Sgt. Schockency.

“Wharton HS Air Force Junior ROTC had an excellent awards banquet

and I was delighted to represent the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War at the ceremony. As a native of Wharton County, and a graduate of the Wharton Training HS, it was good to be home again.” …Submitted by Brother Melvin Myers

10th Annual President’s Tea

Saturday, April 22, 2017 – Dickinson, Texas

The 10th Annual President’s Tea, hosted by the Sarah Emma Seelye Auxiliary No. 1, was held at the Queen of Angels Catholic Church Hall in Dickinson, Texas on Saturday, April 22nd. The event was, as always, very elegant, nicely decorated, and well planned. A tip of the Kepi to the ladies of the Auxiliary.

Attendees enjoyed specialty teas, light snacks, and music. Several informative speeches were given – including ‘Civil War Vignettes’ by special guest, Department of Texas (including Louisiana) Commander Charles Sprague.

Department Cmdr. Charles Sprague

The Ball High School AJROTC Color Guard of Galveston, led by Major Mark Knight (Ret.) presented, posted, and retired the Colors. They were supported by the Lt. Cmdr. Edward Lea Camp #2 SUVCW Honor Guard and a Color Guard from the John B. Hood Camp #50 SCVCW. Camp Commander William Pollard led the Pledge of Allegiance, the Pledge to the Texas Flag, and gave the Salutatory Greeting.



19

10th Annual President’s Tea (continued)

Auxiliary President, Valencia Reyes welcomed the assembly and also read from the Letters of Pvt. John E. Davis.

Auxiliary Chaplain, Betty Hampton gave the opening Invocation and the closing Benediction.

Music was supplied by bugler Dana Read, who performed several tunes, including The Star Spangled Banner and Amazing Grace – and a singing quartet of Denise Charlston on piano, Cindy Kates, Sonny Chambers, and Don Bass.

Other notable speeches were given by: Brother Stephen Duncan who spoke of ‘The Role of the Chaplain in the War’; Sister Jana Marsh ‘In the words of Julia Ward Lowe’; Norma Pollard on ‘Taste of History – Election Day Cake’; and Priest Kurtz who read the Sullivan Balou letter.

Auxiliary Sisters L-R: Pres. Valencia Reyes, Secr./Treas. Jana Marsh, Chaplain Betty Hampton, Guide Susan

Lenes, Vol. Mary Gillaspia, Vol. Christiana Reyes, Vol. Samantha Foley, and Vice-Pres. Norma Pollard. American Classic Tea and period-correct food was prepared and served by the Auxiliary Sisters. The Sisters in attendance included: Vali Reyes, Jana Marsh, Betty Hampton, Sue Lenes, Norma Pollard, Mary Gillaspia, Christiana Reyes, and Samantha Foley. Their dedication,

hard work and preparation was fully evident based on the high level of success of this 10th edition of their Annual President’s Tea!

Camp Commander William Pollard

Auxiliary President Valencia Reyes

Several displays were set up at the rear of the room, including a display of vintage badges of three of the Ladies Allied Orders, and a storyboard about the Auxiliary. Drawings for several nice door prizes near the end of the program had everyone closely examining their tickets! A

good time was had by all.



20


Additional Images….

Ball HS Color Guard Bugler Dana Read Sis. Norma Pollard Sis. Jana Marsh Father Kurtz

Right: Color Guard of the

John Bell

Hood Camp #50, SCVCW

Bro. Stephen Duncan Singers

Right: Auxiliary President Vali

Reyes

presents

certificate to Dept. Cmdr.

Charles Sprague.

Camp Cmdr. William

Pollard on left.

Bro. Samuel Hampton Bro. Pete Lenes

…Continued on next page


21


Dept. Cmdr. Sprague escorts Aux. Pres. Reyes Camp Cmdr. Pollard escorts Aux. VP Norma Pollard

Chaplain Betty Hampton Elegant table settings Mary Gillaspia & Samantha Foley at work

….Report respectfully submitted by Brother Michael Lance – photos by Gene Marsh and Michael Lance

Civil War Veterans Memorial Ceremony

Friday, May 13, 2017 – Devine, Texas

At 10 a.m. Saturday morning on May 13th, the Medina Greys, the Sons of Confederate Veterans Camp in Hondo, Texas conducted a Civil War Veterans Memorial Ceremony at Evergreen Cemetery in Devine, Texas. The Chaplain of their Camp, Johnny Davis, had located numerous Confederate Veterans’ graves within that Cemetery along with 6 confirmed Union Veterans’ Graves. They gathered on Saturday to memorialize all of these Veterans and had asked for attendance by the Lt. Cmdr. Edward Lea Camp #2 SUVCW at this event in order to honor the Union Veterans. The SCV Camp also asked that we participate in the musket volley salute. Union veterans buried at the cemetery

include:

Sgt. James R. Evans (12/29/1846 – 8/14/1921) - Co. M, 4th TN Cavalry

1st Lt. George W. Brown (1843 – 1923) - Co. E, 16th Regiment IL Infantry

Pvt. William Hale (10/18/1825 – 10/1/1903) - Co. D, 2nd Regiment AR Cavalry

Pvt. David Lewellan Howard (8/24/1848 – 8/13/1927) – Co. H, 4th Regiment TN Infantry

Pvt. Jefferson G. Lilly (10/14/1831 – 7/25/1921) - Co. A & F, 1st Regiment TX Cavalry

Pvt. John Madison Roberson (Robertson) (3/31/1844 – 12/10/1905) - Co. H, 3rd U.S. Vol. Infantry

Evergreen Cemetery is located on FM 463 (Colonial Pkwy) in Devine, Texas. It has an arched entrance with green walls. Brother Karl Falken and I attended the event to represent the Lt. Cmdr. Edward Lea Camp. My wife, Norma Pollard, also attended in a supporting role. I placed a 34-star Flag, led the Pledge of Allegiance, and later read aloud the names of the Union soldiers during the program. Brother Falken participated in the rifle salute.

….Submitted by Brother William Pollard


22

Spring Creek Park Heritage Festival

Saturday, May 20, 2017 – Tomball, Texas

Harris County Precinct 4 held its 2nd annual Spring Creek Park Heritage Festival in Tomball on May 20, 2017. This

free event featured music, food, crafts, and battle re-enactments. The park is located on the site of a former confederate powder mill – which was destroyed in an 1864 accidental explosion, a recently discovered and restored African-American cemetery – the largest African-American cemetery in Harris County at the time, and a Native American campground. This park is therefore loaded with history and the festival was designed to combine educational opportunities and family-friendly activities for all visitors.

Both a Confederate and a (small) Union military camp were set up adjacent to the field where two battle reenactments took place. The first battle occurred in the morning and another at 2 p.m. I attended the event hoping to participate

in the battles as a Union infantryman, but fully expecting to be drafted to man a position on a Federal cannon. Even though the Federal infantry ranks seemed to be severely shorthanded, I reluctantly set my musket aside to assist the cannon crews. There were 2 tubes on the field on the Union side, but the Federals could only muster enough men to man 1½ cannon crews. So, one big gun had to remain silent.

However, the active gun performed with a flourish, delighting the line of spectators standing along the sidelines. On several occasions, the Federal commander approached the spectators during the action, and loudly explained what

was taking place on the field. On two occasions, he selected a young person from the crowd and escorted the

youngster inside the ropes and up close to the working cannon. He carefully explained the cannon firing positions and procedures. The chosen youngsters were delighted to have the chance to assist with the pulling of the lanyard – making them instant celebrities to their friends and families watching from beyond the restraining ropes.

One possible reason for the thinner-than-expected ranks

of the Federal force may be partly because some of our Brothers were tricked into fighting with our opponents. Proof…you ask? How about the image at the left that clearly shows Brother Dusty Kobs kneeling on the end of the Confederate line. But he seems to be shooting for quail or dove, judging by his aim.

Brother Ernest ‘Dusty’ Kobs in butternut

An outstanding BBQ lunch was served to the reenactors between the battles – courtesy of Precinct #4. They also

had air-conditioned shuttle vans to transport volunteers to and from the battlefield. Everyone seemed to enjoy the

event and the hospitality of the precinct. Hopefully, the turnout of volunteers will be much greater in 2018 – so that I will be able to rejoin the front lines next time as an infantryman!

Unfortunately, as of this writing, no photographic images are available showing the Union side of the battlefield. However, reporters embedded within the Confederate lines captured several dramatic images, such as the firing of their cannons. Confederate cannon fires

Side note: during the morning battle, while working with the Federal cannon crew, I spotted a small drone hovering about 100 feet above the Union side of the battlefield. I instantly determined to retrieve my musket between battles in case our crew needed defense against an air attack. I planned to dash out onto the field between the lines and blast the mechanical monster out

of the sky! But alas, the drone did not reappear during the afternoon battle. Lucky for it!

…Report respectfully submitted by Michael Lance – photos: Houston Chronicle Online


23

Memorial Day

Monday, May 29, 2017 – Houston National Veterans Cemetery, Houston, Texas

The Lt. Cmdr. Edward Lea Camp #2 provided volunteers at the National Cemetery for both a Federal Honor Guard and a cannon crew. Both units performed with distinction and expertise. They were also in high demand for photos by and with dozens of spectators and other event participants. While the photos taken ultimately only show unnamed men clad in Union blue, the images and resulting exposure of our Order will live on in scrapbooks for years to come.

The Camp volunteers and their roles included:

Thomas Coughlin PCC William Pollard – Camp Cmdr. Gary White – Secr./Treas/PCC Cannon - position #2* Cannon – position #1 Cannon – Gunner & position #5

Karl Falken Michael Rappe JVC Stephen Schulze PCC

Cannon – Guard Cannon – position #3 Cannon – position #4

For the Parade of Remembrance ceremony, all but one of the Lea Camp volunteers fell in to march, including:

Brothers Pollard (who placed the wreath), White (Camp Colors), Schulze (U.S. Colors), Lance (musket), Falken (musket), Lockwood (musket), and Rappe (musket). Brother Coughlin maintained his post as guard by the cannons. The Lea Camp men were joined by members of Co. A, U.S. Infantry Regt., including: Curtis Lewis (commanding), Glen Camp (musket), Howard Rose (musket), Lanny Low (musket), and Matt Strommer (musket). This 12-man unit marched smartly in review and offered a dramatic double-charged rifle salute.

* See page 25 for a description of the duties of each position on the cannon. ….Continued on next page


24

Memorial Day (continued)

The Federal Honor Guard consisted of 8 members, including: Howard Rose, Curtis Lewis (commanding), Glen Camp,

Matt Strommer, and Lanny Low of Co. A, 13th U.S. Infantry – and Lt. Cmdr. Edward Lea Camp Brothers Robert Lockwood, Karl Falken, and Michael Lance. Brothers Lockwood, Falken, and Lance are members of both organizations. The role of the Honor Guard during the ceremonies included a 7-gun musket firing salute to our Veterans.

Michael Lance SVC Robert Lockwood Federal firepower! Honor Guard – Musket Honor Guard – Musket Muskets and cannon

The Memorial Day ceremony included speeches by several politicians and veterans, a fly-over by a United States Coast Guard rescue helicopter, and an impressive performance by the 10-person Houston Highlander Pipe Band (bagpipers).

William Pollard with SUVCW Cannon crews at posts* – Federal and Confederate Memorial Presentation Wreath L-R: Brothers White, Falken, Rappe, Pollard, Schulze, Coughlin

…Respectfully submitted by Michael Lance Additional photo on back page

* See next page for post duty descriptions


25

The Positions of the Cannon Crew

Several positions need to be manned to fire a Civil War era cannon. Each man has an important job do. Proper

procedures must be followed carefully to insure safety and efficiency of operation of the piece.

#1 Position – This position is responsible for wet sponging the tube to insure there are no hot embers in the gun -and then ramming home the powder charge for the next round to be fired. A good pair of heavy gauntlets and hearing protection are recommended. His post is at the front right side of the gun.

After a shot is fired, the position #1 man dips the sponge into the water bucket and then inserts the sponge into the bore - immediately after the position #2 man removes the worm.

Before shoving the sponge is in, he makes sure that the position #3 man has the vent hole safely covered – and then pushes the sponge in to the breech of the gun. He spins the inserted sponge 2 times to the right and 2 times to the left - and then

removes it from the bore. He then flips the rod

around to bring the rammer end to the bore.

By tapping the tube with the rammer end, he signals

that he is ready for the next charge to be loaded.

Once the charge is inserted into the end of the bore, he rams the charge home, withdraws the rammer, and moves back to his post position.

Brother Pollard rams the charge while Brother Rappe covers the vent hole and Brother Coughlin returns to his post position beside the gun.

#2 Position – This position is responsible for worming out the tube immediately after it is fired – and, after the command to “LOAD”, inserting the charge into the end of the bore. His post position is at the front left side of the gun – where he remains until the “LOAD” command is given. Heavy gauntlets and hearing protection are

recommended.

Once the “LOAD” command is given, he steps in between the wheel and the tube and inserts the worm to the back of the bore and gives it at least 2 turns.

After making sure that any foreign matter has been removed from the bore, he removes the worm and leans it against the axle.

He remains between the tube and the left wheel, facing the back of the gun while waiting for the next charge to be brought to him by the ‘powder monkey’.

When the charge arrives, he takes it, turns

to the left facing the bore, and places the charge into the end of the bore.

He then goes back to his post position where he remains until the command of “READY” is given.

Brother Coughlin simulates inserting the charge while

Brother Pollard waits to ram it home. Brother White stands behind as Gunner, while Brother Schulze prepares the lanyard and primer. Brother Rappe tends the vent.

…continued on next page


26

The Positions of the Cannon Crew (continued)

#3 Position – This position is responsible for serving the tube vent and assisting in sighting the gun. His tools include hearing protection, a vent pick, and a thumbstall. His post position is on the right rear side of the cannon.

He remains at this position until the “LOAD” command is given by the gunner.

On the “LOAD” command, he will move in and insert the vent pick into the vent hole to make sure that it is clear. Then he will cover the vent hole with his left thumb - keeping constant pressure on the vent while the

gun is being swabbed and loaded.

After the cannon is charged and the rammer is

removed, he waits for the “READY” command from the gunner. On “READY”, he will insert the vent pick into the vent, piercing the charge – and then withdraw the pick.

After the position #4 man inserts the primer into the vent hole, #3 will hold the lanyard against the bore while #4 backs away to remove the slack in the lanyard. When #4 nods to him, #3 will back off and return to his post position.

Brother Rappe inserts the vent pick into the vent hole to pierce the charge while Brother Schulze

waits to insert the primer.

#4 Position – This position is responsible for inserting the primer and then pulling the lanyard to fire the gun. His post position is at the rear left side of the gun. His equipment includes: a lanyard, primer pouch, hearing protection, and primers. He will remain at his post position until the command of “READY” is given.

Once the position #3 man has removed the pick from the vent hole after piercing the charge, #4 will insert the primer into the vent - the primer is attached to the end of the lanyard.

Once he has inserted the primer into the vent hole, and the #3 man is holding the lanyard against the side of

the bore, #4 will back away to remove the slack in the

lanyard.

Once he is ready, he will give #3 a nod to back away to his post position. Once #3 is back to his position, #4

will then raise his left arm signaling the gun is ready to be fired.

Once the command of “FIRE” is given, he will pull the

lanyard in a downward motion to fire the gun.

Brother Schulze with the lanyard

#5 Position – The man in this position obtains the powder charge from the ammunition chest. The ammunition chest is usually on a limber – which is positioned at a safe distance behind the cannon. The charge is placed into his gunner’s haversack and then delivered to the loader (#2).

On the Gunner’s order to “ADVANCE THE ROUND”, he will walk to and stand on the Gunner’s left side so that the Gunner can inspect the charge. After inspecting the charge, the Gunner will command the #5 man to go

forward to the front of the left wheel of the gun and wait for the #2 man to take the charge from the

haversack.

Once #2 has taken the charge, #5 will return to the ammunition box and retrieve another charge from the ammunition box and await further orders.

Gunner - The gunner gives all commands for the gun in action. He communicates the orders given to him - to the men on his gun. The gunner is responsible for sighting the gun and making sure all procedures are done correctly

and safely. …Article and photos by Michael Lance – Memorial Day, Houston National Cemetery – 29 May 2017

Source: http://jeffdavisartillery.org/positions.html


27

Civil War Medal of Honor Recipients – U.S. Navy (part 7)

The Medal of Honor is the USA’s highest military honor, awarded for personal acts of valor above

and beyond the call of duty. It was first awarded during the Civil War after President Lincoln signed a bill containing a provision for the medal for the Navy on December 21, 1861. It was "to be bestowed upon such petty officers, seamen, landsmen, and Marines as shall most distinguish themselves by their gallantry and other seamanlike qualities during the present war."

Left: Navy Version of the original Medal of Honor (1862)

With this issue of the Harriet Lane, in honor of Lt. Cmdr. Edward Lea USN - the namesake of our Camp, I am continuing to present a review of the recipients of the Medal of Honor who served in the U.S. Navy during the Civil War….editor

James B. Chandler – Coxswain. James B. Chandler was born October 6, 1837 in Plymouth, Massachusetts. He joined the U.S. Navy from Boston in November 1861 for 3 years and served as a coxswain on the USS Richmond.

In the April 1862 Battle of Forts Jackson and St. Philip, Richmond fought Confederate ships on the Mississippi river and passed artillery batteries at Chalmette, Louisiana - leading to the capture of New Orleans. The ship then proceeded up the river and Chandler participated in the passage of Vicksburg, Mississippi in mid-1862.

Although recovering from illness, he "rendered gallant service" through heavy fire at the Battle of Mobile Bay on August 5, 1864. For this action, he was awarded the Medal of Honor four months later. Chandler died at age 61 on July 12, 1899 and was buried in his birth city of Plymouth, Massachusetts. His official Medal of Honor citation reads:

“On board the U.S.S. Richmond during action against rebel forts and gunboats and with the ram

Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864. Cool and courageous although he had just come off the sick list, Chandler rendered gallant service throughout the prolonged action as his ship maintained accurate fire against Fort Morgan and ships of the Confederacy despite extremely heavy return fire. He participated in the actions at Forts Jackson and St. Philip, with the Chalmette batteries, at the surrender of New Orleans and in the attacks on batteries below Vicksburg.”

Louis G. Chaput – Landsman. Louis G. Chaput was born in 1845 in Montreal, Canada. He immigrated to the

United States and was living in New York when he joined the U.S. Navy. He served during the Civil War as a landsman on the USS Lackawanna. At the Battle of Mobile Bay on August 5, 1864, the Lackawanna engaged the

CSS Tennessee at close range and Chaput was severely wounded in the face and limbs by flying debris while manning an artillery gun. After receiving medical treatment, he returned to his post and continued working the gun for the remainder of the battle. For this action, he was awarded the Medal of Honor. Chaput died on April 17, 1916, at age 70 or 71. His official Medal of Honor

citation reads:

“On board the U.S.S. Lackawanna during

successful attacks against Fort Morgan, rebel gunboats and the rebel ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864. Severely wounded, Chaput remained at his gun until relieved, reported to the surgeon and returned to his gun until the action was over. He was then carried below following the action which resulted in the

capture of the prize ram Tennessee and in destruction of batteries at Fort Morgan.”

USS Lackawanna Robert T. Clifford - Master-at-Arms. Robert T. Clifford was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1835. He

enlisted into the U.S. Navy and served on the 709-ton steamer USS Shokokon during the Civil War. This heavy

gunship was manned by 112 sailors and was tasked with pursuing Confederate blockade runners and to participate in river operations. Towards the war’s end, the Shokokon acted as a minesweeper in the rivers of Northern Virginia. Clifford died July 24, 1873 at about age 38. His brief Medal of Honor citation reads simply:

“Served on board the U.S.S. Shokokon at New Topsail Inlet off Wilmington, North Carolina, 22 August 1863.”

….To be continued


28

Memorial Day – Houston National Cemetery (continued from page 24)

The conclusion of the Memorial Day ceremonies at the Houston National Cemetery was punctuated by the coordinated firing of two cannons – one manned by a Federal crew and the other manned by a Confederate crew.

Federal cannon Crew L-R: Karl Falken (Guard - with white gaiters); Gary White (Gunner and #5), Stephen Schulze (#4 – just yanked the lanyard to fire the cannon), Michael Rappe (#3 - covering both ears), William Pollard (#1 Swabber – covering one ear), and Thomas Coughlin (#2 – Loader and Worm – on far side of the cannon - obscured by smoke).

“I was always a friend of Southern rights but an enemy of Southern wrongs.” "

Benjamin Butler (b. 1818 New Hampshire – d. 1893 Washington, D.C.)

Lawyer, Businessman, State Senator, U.S. House of Representatives,

Governor of Massachusetts

Major General in the Union Army

Documents

SONS OF UNION VETERANS OF THE CIVIL WAR - …camplea.org/Newsletters/2017/Jun 2017.pdfI have reflected on these encounters and believe that each of us joined the Sons of Union Veterans