What a great time we had at Battalion Day! With the largest numbers present, we won the Battalion Flag! (This flag was presented to the Battalion by the Saints in New Mexico in gratitude for our participation in the Monument dedication in September.) After an impromptu Company meeting, the flag was then given to Col. Paul Madsen in recognition of his exemplary leadership and service. As usual, Company "A" represented the Battalion at the BSA Jamboral in Park City where over 18,000 Boy Scouts and leaders had a wonderful time. We gave out more than 300 applications for the Trail Award patch. We thank Capt. Teepies and Lt. Moss for their devoted service. Also, we are now doing an average of six Eagle Courts a month. We need more men n Class "A' uniforms!
Our October meeting featured Dick Vettersley, author of the book, "Powder Keg," a historical novel based on an event of the Johnston Army-Mormon War. What made the meeting even more memorable was Lt. Terry Wirth's reading of his poem about the Battalion, which he presented to Col. Madsen as a token of Company B's gratitude and love. The dinner--Mexican, with all its' accompanied delicacies--was in memory of where the original Battalion was on this date in October, 1846. The Ladies Auxiliary out-did themselves on this! Ltc. Bascom and wife, and Maj. Jameson were guests from the National Staff.
We have received word that Capt. Merrill will be moving from the area. We do not know who will be in command in Yuma; we will keep you posted.
Ltc. Howard Roberts, Jr. and his wife attended Battalion Day, where Ltc. Robberts received a Distinguished Service Award for his devotion to the Battalion (he attended all events in Utah!) and his leadership in Kane Company. The National Staff also expresses their gratitude for his leadership in over-seeing the funeral and burial of Col. Fred Reese, our former National Commander.
Ltc. Virgil Crum attended Battalion Day and gave a brief report on Company "A" activities. He invited the Battalion to participate in the Sesquicentennial celebration in Old Town, San Diego, January 18. (His invitation was gladly accepted!) He faces much opposition in maintaining the company, but feels assured that loyalty will win because our objectives and ideals are superior to those who would lead our members away. The National Staff plans to be there to support Co. "A' fully on their brave stand and their historic celebration. Hopefully, all members of Co. "A" will remain loyal and pull together to strengthen the company. Remember when we had three companies in San Diego? We can become that strong again.
To participate in the Battalion Sesquicemennial in San Diego, January 18, 1997, we are arranging for a bus. While some will drive or fly, we hope that enough will go to fill a bus. Right now, we need to know WHO and HOW MANY! Please let your company commander know of your intentions. Details will be given in later bulletins