PAST EVENTS:
11/14/2011 Moorpark Reenactment After Action Report
Gentlemen,
We just concluded the big finale event at Moorpark. Camp members attending, were Joe Bonee as a journalist, John Smoley as Jefferson Davis, Steve Madden as a private with his Texas Hardtacker unit. Mike Climo attended Saturday, but due to the confusion that the heavy Friday night rains created, did not set up his Hunley Display/Recruitment fly.
What started as a near total disaster with the resultant mud quagmire from the rains, by end of Saturday and all of Sunday became one the most memorable reenactments I have ever attended. The lull in action early Saturday allowed us reenactors to visit with one another in a relaxed environment, but as the day wore on the Public kept demanding to visit, and the Rotary Staff decided to discount the admission tickets and let the public come on in with the advisory about the mud etc. I am sure the Sutlers were hating life Saturday AM, but by the end of the day, and especially Sunday, traffic was brisk.
Come in they did, as Saturday moved along more and more folks began to show up, which in turn prompted the "undressed" reenactors to cooter up. I am not sure of the numbers, but Sunday appeared to be very near a "normal crowd". Towards the end of the Saturday, they managed an artillery demonstration, and skirmish for the benefit of the paying public. We also had a Meet the Presidents/Generals presentation with a large audience and later the Dinner Dance had a capacity turnout. Sunday was more of the same but the turnout was very near normal, with more demonstrations and two more skirmishes. Church services were held with a nice turnout, the Presidential Press Conference to a capacity audience.
One more item to note, the folks that showed up here (many were repeaters) were the most informed group I can recall. Their questions and comments were very deep and inciteful. I had many lengthy conversations both days. Another perk of the day, was able to get an autographed copy of Landis Potter's new tome, "Pendulum to the Past" and am looking forward to reading it. All in all it was a very satisfying experience, and one I will treasure. Thanks to one and all who were there.
Kudos to the new unit formed, the 2nd Mississippi, the Jeff Davis Legion.
For the Cause,
John Smoley
Camp 1742
First of all, let me thank everyone who came out and participated in yet another highly successful and most enjoyable Turkey Shoot. We had 30 shooters and about 10 spectators, perfect weather, great food and a wonderful time. Also, as a fund-raiser, this annual event is second to none.
As for the results of the competition, for the first time in two years neither Steve nor Deanne Smith won anything, much to everyone’s dismay because most of us who like to do a little gambling on the side had our money riding on them. In any case, a young fellow, who is only 16 years old, by the name of Eric Tinker literally blew the competition away, not only winning the turkey, but winning first place overall as well. We usually measure to see who gets closest to the X to determine who wins the turkey, but Eric put three rounds right on top of the X, with the other two rounds close by. So CONGRATULATIONS ERIC! Tied for Second Place overall were Rob Drake and Jeff Malone, with Will Tisch coming in Third Place.
Congratulations to all and thanks again for making this such a fun event. Please plan on attending next year’s Turkey Shoot which will also be held in October and will be hosted by the Sons of Union Veterans.
Warmest Regards to All,
Roy Adair
Commander Sons of Confederate Veterans Camp 302
President Jefferson Davis (aka Lt Commander John Smoley) at the 2011 UDC Convention in San Diego
Long Beach CA Civil War Re enactment
The SCV presence was strong at last weekend's Long Beach Reenactment.
President Jefferson Davis had his Western White House Parlor set up and I had the H.L. Hunley display set up and we spoke with everyone who passed by about the virtues of Dixie and the SCV. I spoke with about seven men who showed good interest in joining our Cause and I pray that they will follow through. Long Beach Camp Commander Floyd Farrar spent both days at the event taking pictures and spelling me several times.
Photos courtesy of Floyd Farrar
There were also a few other SCV members that showed up and supported the cause as well. Camp 1742 member Joe Bonee had his full Bushwacker camp set up and provided invaluable assistance to President Davis. Inland Empire Camp's Joe Wymer and his wife spent a few hours at the event as well. We also have several members who are reenactors and provide the action for the spectators. Ventiura Camp's Ted Boyias was riding his beautiful new horse "Stonewall" during the cavalry charges. Representing the Richmond Howlitzers were Mike Presswood, James Farmer and Landis Potter. I'm sure there were probably many more that I either did not have the opportunity to visit with or have forgotten to mention.
Mike Climo
Hello Compatriots,
I got back last night from Montgomery. I wanted to share with y'all some notes and highlights from our events. Attached is my report of everything I took notes on and more. We had an outstanding time and it was very rewarding. I'm very proud of the California Division as you'll see in my report.
2011 National SCV Convention Notes & Summary
11/14/2011 Moorpark Reenactment After Action Report
Gentlemen,
We just concluded the big finale event at Moorpark. Camp members attending, were Joe Bonee as a journalist, John Smoley as Jefferson Davis, Steve Madden as a private with his Texas Hardtacker unit. Mike Climo attended Saturday, but due to the confusion that the heavy Friday night rains created, did not set up his Hunley Display/Recruitment fly.
What started as a near total disaster with the resultant mud quagmire from the rains, by end of Saturday and all of Sunday became one the most memorable reenactments I have ever attended. The lull in action early Saturday allowed us reenactors to visit with one another in a relaxed environment, but as the day wore on the Public kept demanding to visit, and the Rotary Staff decided to discount the admission tickets and let the public come on in with the advisory about the mud etc. I am sure the Sutlers were hating life Saturday AM, but by the end of the day, and especially Sunday, traffic was brisk.
Come in they did, as Saturday moved along more and more folks began to show up, which in turn prompted the "undressed" reenactors to cooter up. I am not sure of the numbers, but Sunday appeared to be very near a "normal crowd". Towards the end of the Saturday, they managed an artillery demonstration, and skirmish for the benefit of the paying public. We also had a Meet the Presidents/Generals presentation with a large audience and later the Dinner Dance had a capacity turnout. Sunday was more of the same but the turnout was very near normal, with more demonstrations and two more skirmishes. Church services were held with a nice turnout, the Presidential Press Conference to a capacity audience.
One more item to note, the folks that showed up here (many were repeaters) were the most informed group I can recall. Their questions and comments were very deep and inciteful. I had many lengthy conversations both days. Another perk of the day, was able to get an autographed copy of Landis Potter's new tome, "Pendulum to the Past" and am looking forward to reading it. All in all it was a very satisfying experience, and one I will treasure. Thanks to one and all who were there.
Kudos to the new unit formed, the 2nd Mississippi, the Jeff Davis Legion.
For the Cause,
John Smoley
Camp 1742
First of all, let me thank everyone who came out and participated in yet another highly successful and most enjoyable Turkey Shoot. We had 30 shooters and about 10 spectators, perfect weather, great food and a wonderful time. Also, as a fund-raiser, this annual event is second to none.
As for the results of the competition, for the first time in two years neither Steve nor Deanne Smith won anything, much to everyone’s dismay because most of us who like to do a little gambling on the side had our money riding on them. In any case, a young fellow, who is only 16 years old, by the name of Eric Tinker literally blew the competition away, not only winning the turkey, but winning first place overall as well. We usually measure to see who gets closest to the X to determine who wins the turkey, but Eric put three rounds right on top of the X, with the other two rounds close by. So CONGRATULATIONS ERIC! Tied for Second Place overall were Rob Drake and Jeff Malone, with Will Tisch coming in Third Place.
Congratulations to all and thanks again for making this such a fun event. Please plan on attending next year’s Turkey Shoot which will also be held in October and will be hosted by the Sons of Union Veterans.
Warmest Regards to All,
Roy Adair
Commander Sons of Confederate Veterans Camp 302
President Jefferson Davis (aka Lt Commander John Smoley) at the 2011 UDC Convention in San Diego
Long Beach CA Civil War Re enactment
The SCV presence was strong at last weekend's Long Beach Reenactment.
President Jefferson Davis had his Western White House Parlor set up and I had the H.L. Hunley display set up and we spoke with everyone who passed by about the virtues of Dixie and the SCV. I spoke with about seven men who showed good interest in joining our Cause and I pray that they will follow through. Long Beach Camp Commander Floyd Farrar spent both days at the event taking pictures and spelling me several times.
Photos courtesy of Floyd Farrar
There were also a few other SCV members that showed up and supported the cause as well. Camp 1742 member Joe Bonee had his full Bushwacker camp set up and provided invaluable assistance to President Davis. Inland Empire Camp's Joe Wymer and his wife spent a few hours at the event as well. We also have several members who are reenactors and provide the action for the spectators. Ventiura Camp's Ted Boyias was riding his beautiful new horse "Stonewall" during the cavalry charges. Representing the Richmond Howlitzers were Mike Presswood, James Farmer and Landis Potter. I'm sure there were probably many more that I either did not have the opportunity to visit with or have forgotten to mention.
Mike Climo
Hello Compatriots,
I got back last night from Montgomery. I wanted to share with y'all some notes and highlights from our events. Attached is my report of everything I took notes on and more. We had an outstanding time and it was very rewarding. I'm very proud of the California Division as you'll see in my report.
2011 National SCV Convention Notes & Summary
Deo Vindice,
Farrell D. Cooley
SCV CA Division Commander
Cmdr. Camp 1770
Farrell D. Cooley
SCV CA Division Commander
Cmdr. Camp 1770
Hello Commanders and Compatriots
I attended the Confederate Memorial Service yesterday at Hillside Cemetery in Redlands, California. This was sponsored by the Inland Empire Camp 1742 of Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.
Thanks to everyone in the camp for taking part in this important event. Cmdr. Smoley did an excellent job of organizing the service. Past Cmdr. Steve Madden led us on a Cemetery Walk to visit the graves of their Confederates buried there. He placed flowers and a small 1st National Flag at each grave. THESE MEN DID THEIR DUTY AND DID AN OUTSTANDING JOB!
After the service, P.Cmdr. Madden provided everyone with drinks and food. He also gave a raffle with two books for the winners.
It is events like these that make our Division so important. It is being with men of this caliber who share the same heritage that make me feel extremely PROUD. I'm grateful I had the opportunity to be there and participate in their service.
Look for a couple of pics in the next newsletter!
OUTSTANDING WORK MY BROTHERS!!!
Farrell
CA Div. Cmdr.
I attended the Confederate Memorial Service yesterday at Hillside Cemetery in Redlands, California. This was sponsored by the Inland Empire Camp 1742 of Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.
Thanks to everyone in the camp for taking part in this important event. Cmdr. Smoley did an excellent job of organizing the service. Past Cmdr. Steve Madden led us on a Cemetery Walk to visit the graves of their Confederates buried there. He placed flowers and a small 1st National Flag at each grave. THESE MEN DID THEIR DUTY AND DID AN OUTSTANDING JOB!
After the service, P.Cmdr. Madden provided everyone with drinks and food. He also gave a raffle with two books for the winners.
It is events like these that make our Division so important. It is being with men of this caliber who share the same heritage that make me feel extremely PROUD. I'm grateful I had the opportunity to be there and participate in their service.
Look for a couple of pics in the next newsletter!
OUTSTANDING WORK MY BROTHERS!!!
Farrell
CA Div. Cmdr.
President Jefferson Davis aka California Division Lt Commander and Camp 1742 Commander John Smoley
leads the Inland Empire's Confederate Memorial Service.
The Fighting Grizzlies of Camp 1742 are joined by California State Commander Farrell Cooley
California State Commander Farrell Cooley and Lt Commander John Smoley hold the Division flag
Dear Compatriots,
A short report on the Orange County SCV Camp 1770 and their participation in National Memorial Day at Santa Ana Cemetery.
Our camp once again did its duty with pride! Our organizational name was published in their program. Compatriot Scott Price and Rev. Kent Jones marched our flags in the march of flags by all the veteran groups. We also delivered a wreath to their monument in the marching of wreaths by all veteran groups.
One of our members works on the crew of the Richmond Howitzers and they provided a Confederate Cannon to pair off with the Yankee Cannon. That was a fine tribute they used at specific points within the program.
Also, another member of ours Marched with the SAR and another member was in attendance for the VFW. Please pray for past Commander Gordon Bricken who fell sick during the set ups and was taken to the hospital by his daughter for check ups.
Afterwards we visited our Confederate Monument and admired the engravings as well as our Magnolia tree which is coming along nicely.
Thanks to everyone who supported this service!
Deo Vindice,
Farrell D. Cooley
OC SCV Camp 1770 Cmdr
A short report on the Orange County SCV Camp 1770 and their participation in National Memorial Day at Santa Ana Cemetery.
Our camp once again did its duty with pride! Our organizational name was published in their program. Compatriot Scott Price and Rev. Kent Jones marched our flags in the march of flags by all the veteran groups. We also delivered a wreath to their monument in the marching of wreaths by all veteran groups.
One of our members works on the crew of the Richmond Howitzers and they provided a Confederate Cannon to pair off with the Yankee Cannon. That was a fine tribute they used at specific points within the program.
Also, another member of ours Marched with the SAR and another member was in attendance for the VFW. Please pray for past Commander Gordon Bricken who fell sick during the set ups and was taken to the hospital by his daughter for check ups.
Afterwards we visited our Confederate Monument and admired the engravings as well as our Magnolia tree which is coming along nicely.
Thanks to everyone who supported this service!
Deo Vindice,
Farrell D. Cooley
OC SCV Camp 1770 Cmdr
04/30/2011 Fresno Memorial Services
Hello Compatriots:
Just wanted y'all to know that the Tyree Harris Bell Camp 1804 of Fresno, put together a very fine Confederate Memorial Day Service yesterday. I was fortunate to be able to attend their service and say a few words. Richard Kine the Commander and Tim Desmond the Adjutant did a lot of work to make this happen. I'm very proud of these gentlemen.
One of their members, Mr. Wagner brought his field piece cannon, and Tim had his reenactment team there in uniform as the color guard and firing party. Richard talked to us about President Eisenhower's Letter to a citizen about R.E. Lee; among other things. Tim talked to us about our duty and read the Charge of Lt. Gen. Stephen D. Lee. Past Commander, Chuck Norred talked to us about our family history and keeping that spirit alive.
Jim Chance was in attendance and though is moving rather slowly, he showed his dedication to the Sons by being there. Mr. Chance is responsible for researching and finding a couple of hundred graves of CS Vets in various counties around Fresno. We also had several UDC ladies in attendance who presented flowers to Dr. Hopkin's gravesite, a veteran whom we paid honor to during the service. Adjutant, Jon Fowler from Bakersfield attended as well, and introduced his two boys to everyone. I was happy to see and speak with Jon about the SCV.
Overall, I want to send my Thanks to the men of the Fresno camp, they performed their duty with exceptional skill and professionalism.
I love the SCV and what we stand for!
Deo Vindice,
Farrell D. Cooley
California Division Commander
SCV Camp 1770, Cmdr./Adj.
Hello Compatriots:
Just wanted y'all to know that the Tyree Harris Bell Camp 1804 of Fresno, put together a very fine Confederate Memorial Day Service yesterday. I was fortunate to be able to attend their service and say a few words. Richard Kine the Commander and Tim Desmond the Adjutant did a lot of work to make this happen. I'm very proud of these gentlemen.
One of their members, Mr. Wagner brought his field piece cannon, and Tim had his reenactment team there in uniform as the color guard and firing party. Richard talked to us about President Eisenhower's Letter to a citizen about R.E. Lee; among other things. Tim talked to us about our duty and read the Charge of Lt. Gen. Stephen D. Lee. Past Commander, Chuck Norred talked to us about our family history and keeping that spirit alive.
Jim Chance was in attendance and though is moving rather slowly, he showed his dedication to the Sons by being there. Mr. Chance is responsible for researching and finding a couple of hundred graves of CS Vets in various counties around Fresno. We also had several UDC ladies in attendance who presented flowers to Dr. Hopkin's gravesite, a veteran whom we paid honor to during the service. Adjutant, Jon Fowler from Bakersfield attended as well, and introduced his two boys to everyone. I was happy to see and speak with Jon about the SCV.
Overall, I want to send my Thanks to the men of the Fresno camp, they performed their duty with exceptional skill and professionalism.
I love the SCV and what we stand for!
Deo Vindice,
Farrell D. Cooley
California Division Commander
SCV Camp 1770, Cmdr./Adj.
04/30/2011 Hollywood Cemetery Memorial
Fellow Citizens,
I had the pleasure of representing our Camp and Division attending the Memorial Ceremony at Hollywood Forever Cemetery this past April 30th. The UDC provided refreshments and presented the Memorial in honoring our ancestors. It was glorious sunny day. There were several short presentations discussing the Cause and the sacrifices of our patriotic ancestors. Jefferson Davis was asked to say a few words and was pleased to be a part. The roll call of the States was performed and included the names of the those buried at that cemetery. The North Carolina Color Guard did their duty in posting the colors and with their volley salute.
There are 37 known soldiers buried there along with spouses and some children, a total of over 60 UCV and UDC graves all located together. We placed flags and flowers on the graves for the service. The UDC has had to fight the last three years running to be able to have this ceremony as the PC monster is trying to stamp out all things CSA.
Margaret Alley and her compatriots have had to argue and educate the directors recently to get them to relent to allow the service Thanks to our "Women of the Confederacy" for maintaining our traditions, and kudos to Margaret and the UDC for keeping the torch lit for both the past and present.
This is today's fight, not with muskets as with our ancestors, but in winning the hearts and minds of those who want the truth. In the end, the fact that we survive is victory. Eventually the PC nonsense will implode and fade into the dustbin of history but the truth of the Cause will remain.
Truth though crushed to the earth remains truth still, and like a seed will grow again.
Deo Vindice,
John Smoley
SCV California Division
Fellow Citizens,
I had the pleasure of representing our Camp and Division attending the Memorial Ceremony at Hollywood Forever Cemetery this past April 30th. The UDC provided refreshments and presented the Memorial in honoring our ancestors. It was glorious sunny day. There were several short presentations discussing the Cause and the sacrifices of our patriotic ancestors. Jefferson Davis was asked to say a few words and was pleased to be a part. The roll call of the States was performed and included the names of the those buried at that cemetery. The North Carolina Color Guard did their duty in posting the colors and with their volley salute.
There are 37 known soldiers buried there along with spouses and some children, a total of over 60 UCV and UDC graves all located together. We placed flags and flowers on the graves for the service. The UDC has had to fight the last three years running to be able to have this ceremony as the PC monster is trying to stamp out all things CSA.
Margaret Alley and her compatriots have had to argue and educate the directors recently to get them to relent to allow the service Thanks to our "Women of the Confederacy" for maintaining our traditions, and kudos to Margaret and the UDC for keeping the torch lit for both the past and present.
This is today's fight, not with muskets as with our ancestors, but in winning the hearts and minds of those who want the truth. In the end, the fact that we survive is victory. Eventually the PC nonsense will implode and fade into the dustbin of history but the truth of the Cause will remain.
Truth though crushed to the earth remains truth still, and like a seed will grow again.
Deo Vindice,
John Smoley
SCV California Division
You are invited to view Floyd Farrar's photo albums:
CSA Memorial Day at Hollywood Forever CA Cemetery
SCV Evergreen Cemetery Los Angeles CA Grave Marker Dedication
CSA Memorial Day at Hollywood Forever CA Cemetery
SCV Evergreen Cemetery Los Angeles CA Grave Marker Dedication
03/12/2011
Minutes of the
California State Division Business Meeting
Miramar Marine Corps Air Station
San Diego, CA
Minutes
Minutes of the
California State Division Business Meeting
Miramar Marine Corps Air Station
San Diego, CA
Minutes
02/19/2011 - 02/20/2011
Knott's Berry Farm WBTS Encampment
Knott's Berry Farm WBTS Encampment
02/12/2011
Confederates March in Montgomery
Greeting Fellow Citizens,
Inauguration of President Jefferson Davis, the display of hundreds of Confederate Flags, and the march of Confederate soldiers through the streets of Montgomery, Alabama.
Watching this video will encourage your hears as you will be inspired to see the South rising again.
Confederates March in Montgomery
Greeting Fellow Citizens,
Inauguration of President Jefferson Davis, the display of hundreds of Confederate Flags, and the march of Confederate soldiers through the streets of Montgomery, Alabama.
Watching this video will encourage your hears as you will be inspired to see the South rising again.
11/13/2010 - 11/14/2010
WTBS Reenactment At Moorpark CA
The largest and grandest California WBTS event at Moorpark California was a great success for the SCV. Both days of the event was attended by Ventura Camp 2062 Commander and Adjutant Ken Koch, Ventura Camp 2062 Petty Officer Mike Vitale, Inland Empire Camp 1742 Commander John Smoley (As President Jefferson Davis), Inland Empire Camp 1742 Member Joe Bonnet and myself. Also in attendance was one of our newest members and the event’s organizer Ed Mann and Los Angeles Camp 1208 Commander Mike Presswood manning one of the Richmond Howitzers’ Canons.
WTBS Reenactment At Moorpark CA
The largest and grandest California WBTS event at Moorpark California was a great success for the SCV. Both days of the event was attended by Ventura Camp 2062 Commander and Adjutant Ken Koch, Ventura Camp 2062 Petty Officer Mike Vitale, Inland Empire Camp 1742 Commander John Smoley (As President Jefferson Davis), Inland Empire Camp 1742 Member Joe Bonnet and myself. Also in attendance was one of our newest members and the event’s organizer Ed Mann and Los Angeles Camp 1208 Commander Mike Presswood manning one of the Richmond Howitzers’ Canons.
The Ventura Camp had a terrific set up that included models of the CSS Virginia, CSS Atlanta, and the USS Monitor. These were a gift to the Camp from Chuck Norred, Commander of Camp 1804 and were a great hit with the kids of all ages that stopped by the display. I was setup next to Ken with the CSS H.L Hunley display as well as SCV membership information. President Davis was a walk on both days and had Old Abe stammering and stuttering during each of the Presidential press conferences. Joe Bonnet had a tent and small parlor set up and provided a refuge for many visitors.
We had a great spot just behind the grandstands and we were very busy on both days discussing the efforts of the Confederacy on the water as well as preaching the virtues of Dixie and the SCV. I personally handed out five applications and have a sign-up sheet with another ten potential recruits. I will be forwarding that information to the Camp Commanders. Ken also passed out several applications as well and is hoping the event will help increase the Ventura Camp’s membership. On a side note President Davis and I were interviewed by the Fuel Network (Fox Sports) who was there doing a remote of the event.
Mike Climo
Mike Climo
10/03/2010
WBTS Action at Prado Recreation Area Chino Hills CA Taken by Floyd Farrar on October 3, 2010
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kpqQooYvw2c
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MABnQVBa7OU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t69EU-ubqLc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJOWmi21p9U
WBTS Action at Prado Recreation Area Chino Hills CA Taken by Floyd Farrar on October 3, 2010
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kpqQooYvw2c
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MABnQVBa7OU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t69EU-ubqLc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJOWmi21p9U
09/04/2010 - 09/05/2010
Huntington Beach WBTS Reenactment
An after action report will be forth coming but in the meantime please enjoy the pictures from Long Beach Commander Floyd Farrar of the event:
Huntington Beach CA WTBC Re Enactment Sat Sept 4, 2010
Huntington Beach WBTS Reenactment
An after action report will be forth coming but in the meantime please enjoy the pictures from Long Beach Commander Floyd Farrar of the event:
Huntington Beach CA WTBC Re Enactment Sat Sept 4, 2010