The theme of our Mormon Battalion Day was "The Mormon Battalion's Involvement in the Gold Rush Days in California." Only a few (50+) members attended--probably because it was the month of "Vacation," and many of you were unable to squeeze it in. So, here is a brief report on our activities:
The hike up to Ensign Peak on Saturday, 12 September, was still a challenge, despite the paved trail part of the way. Unless you have been there recently, you are unaware that several thousand dollars have been expended on beautifying the Trail Head, and establishing the monument at the top. With great exertion,
Battalion members gathered at the top at noon, together with the Fife and Bugle Corp, who played several numbers, under the direction of Sgt. Maj. Patrick Mahoney. Chaplain Edward Bitten offered a heart-felt prayer; then Ltc. Bascom gave a brief history of the Peak and the pioneer visit to the Peak by Pres. Young and some of the Twelve (which resulted in establishing the layout of Salt Lake City). Col. Fairbourn, who conducted, made some appropriate closing remarks. Some ate their lunch there. But after the descent (which was easier), lunch on the Chapel grounds was much appreciated by the rest of us.
In the program at 2:p.m., under the direction of Col. Fairbourn, the flag ceremony was conducted by Capt. Don Shurtz, Co. "B".
Then, Margaret Larson led the congregation in singing the Mormon Battalion song, before Col. Fairbourn introduced the Race Family, who retold their experiences while walking the Mormon Trail during the Sesquicentennial trek, last year.
Rosemary Fairbourn presented a program commemorating the Sesquicentennial of the Gold Discovery in California by the Mormon Battalion at Sutter's Fort. Utilizing the talents of the members of the Babcock Performing Readers, the discovery was brought alive for us by the talented readers, ending with a memorable re-telling of Mark Twain's "The Jumping Frog of Calaveras County." Ltc. Bascom gave an augmented history of Ensign Peak and of the "Banner of Liberty" which the Prophet Joseph wanted to bring with him to Utah. Margaret Larson played some of the Battalion songs as sung by the original Battalion, and told something of their history. Col. J.C. Richards, accompanied by Marian Shelby, sang a stirring rendition of "The Flag without a Stain," which was very memorable to those of us who have heard him sing it in by-gone years. It was a fitting ending to this excellent program. We commend all who participated in this memorable celebration.In the short business meeting which followed, conducted by Adjutant Glade Nelson, the slate of officers was quickly elected--being the same group as this year.
The evening banquet, held at the Chuckarama, was well attended. Under the leadership of Col. Fairbourn, special presentations and plaques were bestowed. Col. Paul Madsen, first-presenter, noted the years of dedicated service by Ltc. Howard Roberts, Jr., of Kanab Company and Utah South Commander. Ltc. Bascom represented the Battalion in honoring Col. Marvin E. Smith, National commanding officer, 1966-69, and who continues to be active in the Battalion, despite his lengthening years. Col. Fairbourn presented the third plaque to Maj. Glade Nelson, who has been the guiding force in the past two years in securing the Articles of Incorporation and formulating the Policies and Procedures pages of the Manual (which will presently be available to all company commanders, and which will give much needed direction to the Battalion). These were all very worthy recipients of this Battalion accolade.
The Battalion is especially grateful to Pres. Shirley Maynes who arranged for the program and the physical facilities. In addition to awarding gifts to her Auxiliary Staff, she awarded "thank you" gifts to the many presenters. She thinks of everything! Frankly, without her leadership and devotion to detail, there would not have been such an outstanding Mormon Battalion Day. Thanks, President!