Looking Forward to 2008 ...

[Guns Garrett]

Just an idea, and hopefully not too soon to think about it - as far as "themes" go for Grand Musters.  How about a "Gathering of Heroes" or some such theme, basing the stages on the exploits of those who have recieved their nation's highest awards, such as the Medal of Honor, Victoria Cross, Légion d' Honneur, etc.?  The time span would be in compliance with that of the GAF, but I thought it would offer more a diversified venue and appeal to a broader appreciation of the GAF's "international" flavor.  There are so many actions that can be drawn from, from the American Indian campaigns, Span-Am War, Boxer Rebellion (truly an international setting), the British Wars against the Zulu, Boers and Afghans, the French with Algerians, Tunisians, and Prussians, and the Canadian rebellions in Saskatchewan.  I realize the theme of the Muster does not necessarily dictate what type of soldier a member may portray, but I feel the diversity of the various stages along with a good description of the actual action the stage is based on would provide a greater learning (and teaching) experience and a wider appreciation of those brave souls we honor in our organization. Just some of my thoughts, perhaps worthy of discussion around the fire at this year's Muster ....

[Ol Gabe]

Shabash, G.G., Shabash! (Victorian Urdu-speak, m/l, for "Glorious idea, G.G., glorious idea!"),
Your concept has merit and is very doable, especially at the Ackley, IA range if that becomes the default location for future National (or should I be so bold as to say International?) GAF Grand Musters, and I strongly feel that concept is also a feasible and doable endeavor if a concerted effort from the local sponsoring historical group/s and volunteer contributors and planners is available, and that is potentially also a strong and very healthy possibility.
Folks, E-friends and fellow GAF'ers, this may be the time to start thinking about National and International historical event marketing venue possibilities. At the Ackley, IA site there is easy Interstate (I-80, 35, 20) & air travel access (Waterloo, IA), potential on-site housing, lots of camping and camper areas w/elect. & primitive, Kayleen & Kellie's great food on-site, potential local FFL's for S&H, etc. Friends, we have barely scratched the surface on this site yet, and it is prime for development as 'THE National/International GAF' site!
Kayleen, Steve & Co., are the BEST and will want to make whatever event held there 'THE' best for each and every participant. Folks, I can't say enough about how much these two kids put into what goes on at that site and how hard they work to make it right for each and every attendee, but with a little more help, it could truly be 'THE' event to attend Nationally & Internationally!
Best regards and good thinking!
'Ol Gabe

[Silver Creek Slim]

I think that is a great idea, Guns Garrett.

Slim

[RattlesnakeJack]

Excellent idea, Guns!

I'm sure that the range of such incidents that took place in "our" time frame would be an extremely fertile source of scenario themes!

[US Scout]

Guns,

I like it.  Excellent idea!  We'll consider it the theme for next year's Grand Muster.

Scenarios to be based on MOH awarded (or equivilent) event. 

US Scout
GAF, Commanding

[Guns Garrett]

Well, even a blind hog finds an acorn, once in a while.  I'm glad you all like it

Honored to be of service, sirs.

[RattlesnakeJack]

"Give That Man a Medal!"     

[River City John]

Well heck, one of the three scenarios I wrote for this year's Muster dealt with an Nebraska action that earned a cavalryman a MOH in 1865.
I'm going to stow that away for 2008 and write a sustitute.

[US Scout]

RCJ-

That just means you're now ahead of the game for next year!  Well Done!

US Scout
Bvt Brig Gen, GAF

[Pitspitr]

I like it Guns.
I have one in mind. Let me know when its time to write the MoH stages and I'll write one for you.

[Pitspitr]

As an update.
The theme will actually be Little known and Obscure Planis Indian War Fights; however, many of the fights I'm using resulted in MoH's being awarded.