To all Federal participants in Engagement at Burkittsville

I would like to take this time to touch on a few points that are of importance to everyone in the Federal force at this event:

Teamwork

We will have members of a dozen different units present, as well as individuals portraying all three combat branches of the army. For the weekend to be a success we all need to cooperate and work together. Please respect you officers and NCOs and work with them in a sprit of teamwork. The Civil War soldiers fought and marched as a team, and if we are going to recreate them and their experiences it is incumbent upon us to do the same.

Chain of Command

Please use the chain of command up and down. People is different ranks have different duties & responsibilities, and it is important to use the chain of command so people are not overly burdened. Using the chain of command is also part of recreating soldier life of the period. Remember, if you have a problem, work up or down the chain as needed.

Rations

The Federal rations for this event will be hardtack, potatoes, onions, apples, coffee, sugar, and candles. There will be no meat included. My apologies for this but it would have been a budget buster for the event. If any one whishes to purchase meant when they arrive in the area, I recommend Hemp’s Meats on Main Street in Jefferson, Maryland, just off Route 340, and only 4 miles from Burkittsville. They are open till 5:00 PM daily.

Weapons & Ammunition

All enlisted men need to have their muskets clean and in sound working order. There will be a weapons inspection at registration check in. If your weapon fails you will not be transported to the Federal camp. Please don’t put the event staff in the position to turn you away. Take care of any problems before you leave home.

All enlisted men will need to bring 60 rounds of ammunition. This is the standard combat load and you can expect to shoot most of that over the two days we will be in the field. Please support your comrades and come with a full 60 rounds, so wee can keep everyone firing throughout the weekend.

Schedule

Due to traffic control and local activities, we will be operating on fairly tight schedule during the weekend. Please help us keep on this schedule by being ready to march at the time announced to you in advance. This means having your gear packed and you canteen filled well before the assembly is sounded. This especially important on Saturday morning when we must leave camp by 9:00 AM. So please be aware of the time and be prepared to march when ordered by your officers and NCOs.

I urge everyone to check the event website www.mainecav.org/eab for updates on event activities. If you have any specific questions related to activities of the Federal forces, please feel free to contact me at jdo@npmhu.org . I look forward to seeing everyone on September 9th.

Sincerely,

James D. Owens, Bvt. Major

4th Vermont Volunteer Infantry