Lava River Tactical

Comments about the ‘08 LRT

A hardy thank you and to the Capt. and the 3rd U.S. Inf. for inviting our Capt. and 1st Texas Inf. The weather actually worked with the actual event schedule.

My observation was positive and hopeful.

 We, or I, as 1st Texas Sgt., want to extend my sincere appreciation to the 3rd U.S.

Summary, all in all a tactical which tested several aspects of a reenactment groups ability in the field. I feel we succeeded in getting to know our Union Brothers in Arms as is, I feel, very important in our chosen sport.

 R.R.

1st Texas Infantry, Company L

Again, great event - looking forward to working with your guys to build a better civil war re-enacting environment in this state. All of the guys who particpated this weekend were excellent to hang out with and I think we are on our way with respect to the new organization.
J.S.

1st Texas Infantry, Company L

Gentlemen,

The Lava River Tactical was held this past weekend in the National Forest west of Flagstaff. Participating were eighteen people from five different reenacting groups. Retreating to the high pine forest was refreshing from the summer heat and the noise of the city. Afternoon and early evening showers kept dust down but did not interfere with any of the festivities. A herd of two dozen elk needed to be chased out of the camp area and curious deer checked out the camp.

Three scenarios were exercised with some fun search and destroy missions. Finding each other in the 25,000 acres open to us was tense and taxing to our stalking skills. Tactics and cooperation were king as cross fires were used to root out barricaded defenses in the rock outcroppings. Flanking maneuvers rivaling Stonewall Jackson were tried in the pine forest. Each scenario would culminate with expensing cartridges of rifles, trash talk, from behind cover and then charging overrunning the enemy with rapid firing pistols.

Meals were shared back in camp with good campfire discussions, especially Ron Fox's book on Civil War Trivia, added to the fun.

The event has grown from last year and it is hoped that more reenactors from Arizona and the outlying areas with the easy access with the crossroads of I-17 and I-40. Units from California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona and New Mexico should be able to attend without the typical long trips. The invitation is out for everyone to put this event on their schedule for next year (the third weekend in August) and to enjoy the high country, the pine forest, the smell of burnt powder and the good company.

Your humble servant,

Don Jolley, Captain
3rd US Infantry, Company A