Wednesday, April 16, 2003
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Wednesday, April 16, 2003 |
Flat Rock Elem. gets Civil War lessonBy CAROLYN
CARY
Scott Gilbert and Jim Rector, members of the LaFayette McLaws Chapter, Sons of Confederate Veterans, Fayetteville, gave a demonstration of life in the Army during the Civil War. The eighth-graders at Flat Rock Elementary are studying that period of history. The "uniforms" of the two soldiers would have pretty much been supplied by themselves, or borrowed from someone in the Army before the war began. Gilbert and Rector discussed how youngsters from Fayette County would have joined the army in 1861-1862, either as volunteers, or later as draftees. They touched on what their first experiences at training camp would have been, such as sickness, medical care and supplies. The highlight of the outdoor presentation was the formation of students into a company of soldiers and having them go through drill maneuvers, and then a pretend battle engagement. After some basic instruction, the two classes are separated and put through battalion-level drill. "The kids really do really well with just a few minutes training," said Gilbert. "It's amazing to see how serious they take it once they hear commands being directed at them. They are always eager to volunteer to be the company commanders and there is always competition for the honor of carrying the flag during the drill." Added Rector, "We really appreciate the teachers inviting us to come out, and we especially enjoy the students, and seeing them enthused about this part of history."
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