Serra Leadership Rally - Chickamauga - Orlando
This may or may not to
prove a very exciting year. It’s
probably my last in ESGR . . . . enough – I’ve had it –
time to call it to and end
Probably won’t go golfing in Tennessee again this year and will most likely pass on the Chicago Civil War Roundtable Tour of Charleston, South Carolina . . .
BOTTOM LINE: lodging is expensive
Sunday-Monday January 11-12, 2026
WEATHER:
TRAVEL: Burlington – Matty’s
Bar & Grill – Burlington
No pictures but a major
event – Tom and I had lunch with our cousins Erv Drewek and Mike Buth. We had not gotten together for over 20
years. Erv, drove 6 hours from Minnesota,
Spent Sunday night at my house and drove
back after lunch. Mike lives in Oak
Creek.
Saturday January 17, 2026
WEATHER:
TRAVEL: Burlington – St.
Leonard’s – Burlington – Mt. Pleasant
Men of Christ 2026 - Planning Meeting
I attended the
planning meeting last year. Not sure
I’ll be back from Florida to even attend this year. In a nutshell . . .
This year’s conference will feature another spectacular
speaker lineup. We’ll hear from Jim Wahlberg about hitting rock bottom,
and how the Church resurrected him—from prison to prosperity. Dr. Edward Sri,
a Catholic theologian, author, and FOCUS co-founder will challenge the way men
think about their faith. Then, hold on for a powerful yet practical message
from Dr. John Bishop. He’s the founder of Forge, a men’s ministry
committed to helping men become the fathers that “The Father” wants them to be.
Of course, we’re honored to be joined by our own Archbishop Grob who
will have completed his first year of leading his flock in Southeastern
Wisconsin. What’s more, we’ll have a very special guest this year unlike any
other in the history of Men of Christ.
Paul’s House –
stayed with Casen & Kaden went to
see Zootopia 2 – a movie I enjoyed
In Zootopia 2, rookie cops Judy Hopps (the rabbit-voiced
by Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (the fox-voiced by Jason Bateman) find
themselves on the twisting trail of a great mystery when Gary De’Snake (the
viper-voice of Academy Award® winner Ke Huy Quan) arrives in Zootopia and turns
the animal metropolis upside down. To crack the case, Judy and Nick must go
undercover to unexpected new parts of town, where their growing partnership is
tested like never before. The Oscar®-winning team of Jared Bush and Byron
Howard (directors) and Yvette Merino (producer) are the principal filmmakers. I really enjoyed this movie.
Later Casen and I
made a ‘French Toast Bake’ for breakfast in the morning.
Sunday January 18, 2026
WEATHER:
TRAVEL: Mt Pleasant -
Burlington – Milwaukee – Burlington
Picked up Kris to see “The Lehman Trilogy” a 3 hour and 40 minute play at the REP. Actually, it went very fast, I learned a lot and the cast of 3 was fantastic – direct from the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis.
The Lehman Trilogy is a Tony Award-winning play by Stefano Massini, adapted by Ben Power, that chronicles the 163-year history of the Lehman family and their financial empire, from their arrival as immigrants in 1844 to the firm's collapse in 2008, which triggered the global financial crisis. The epic, three-act play uses just three actors to portray multiple generations, telling the story of American ambition, capitalism, and the rise and fall of a dynasty
Thursday January 22,
2026
WEATHER: 9 degrees at 0700 in Burlington – FORECAST: WINTER
STROM ACROSS THE MIDWEST - EASTERN & SOUTHERN US thru Sunday
TRAVEL: Burlington – Augustine Institute – 358 miles
through Janesville, Naperville, Bloomington along I-39, then I-55 to St. Louis LV
0840 AR 1455
This may be the most promising venue and program from Serra USA that I have yet attended. The Augustine Institute – I can try to describe it – but I think you have to experience it. . . . a huge campus - no TVs or mini fridge or microwaves in the room but as large and comfortable (better) than most hotels - the layout of the buildings – all under one roof reminds me of UW Parkside. This time Serra USA outdid itself – the bar is set HIGH.
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| Summer Aerial View of Augustine Institute - the entrance is in the center. The wing shaped building is the dining hall. The 4 residence towers to the left are named after the writers of the gospels. The conference center is the far right. |
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| Archbishop Mitchell Rozanski Archbishop of St. Louis |
1700-1800 Mass – Chapel Most Reverend Mitchell T. Rozanski, Archbishop of St. Louis presided. Today was the anniversary of Roe vs. Wade and is celebrated as a Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children. The Archbishop’s homily addressed this issue and he also gave a bit of history about the Institute. He is extremely thankful for Serrans. He referenced that more young people – i.e. young couples with families are attending churches. Seems it isn’t just my observation. There is hope and that the seminary is nearing or at capacity in the college.
The Chapel apparently was originally built as a ballroom by the original owner. The Institute itself was built about 30 years ago by Boeing (McDonell-Douglass) as a training and leadership facility. The Augustine Institute, originally in Colorado, assumed ownership here in 2005.
1800-1830 Cocktails – Cash Bar An interesting and efficient way to purchase drinks. We were provided with tickets when we signed in. You fill out the ticket with your name and room number to the bartender, the cost of the beverage will be charged to your room and paid at checkout. Met some people I knew from the past, in particular Cathy Ahern, and some I didn’t . . . .
1830-1930 Dinner Mike Downey served as MC. John Halloran had a sore throat. It was a good idea to Introduce all the board members. The leadership – goal was to meet and talk to them at the meet and greet and through the weekend. Excellent food. Archbishop Rozanski again thanked Serrans and was the featured speaker.
Sat
at a table with folks I met at the Regional Conference in Buffalo, MN.
1930-2030 Informal Meet & Greet Met Wes from Ohio, an acquaintance from the Kansas City convention. He reminded me that the priest I met in Kansas City was David Kirk – a retired army colonel. Also met Dave, a District Governor from Arizona. The Rally will be in Sedona next year.
2100-2115 Augustine
Institute Evening Prayer - tired went to
bed before this.
Friday January 23, 2026
WEATHER: 15 degrees at 5 am snow-storm
forecast for the weekend 5-10” snow making travel next to impossible in Florissant,
-15 degrees wind chill; 10 degrees at 6 am
"This will be a large and potentially historic storm,
with major impacts over a very large area (more than 2 dozen states),"
AccuWeather meteorologist Bob Larson said in an email to USA TODAY.
TRAVEL: Augustine Institute
The facility is
outstanding. However, the hot water is
most likely on a temperature regulated circulating system – the shower is
comfortable – never steams – but it could be a little bit warmer for my
tastes. Likewise the HVAC – its cold
outside – but I don’t believe setting the temp to 78 is required but that’s
what it takes to be comfortable in the room.
Like at home, I’m wearing a seater and a sweatshirt.
0700-0900 Breakfast
0815-0915 Holy
Hour Reflection w/Dr. Ben Akers – Associate Professor at the Augustine
Institute, also Chief Mission Officer fo the Augustine Institute’s FORMED.org
platform.
Mark 3:13-19 – Jesus Appoints the Twelve
Akers led us on a journey using Lectio Divina – a
great way to start the conference
LECTIO “divine reading” Mark 5:1-12
the beatitudes
MEDITATIO
“programs, plans and projects have their place; but discernment of a
vocation is above all the fruit of an intimate dialogue between the Lord and
his disciples. Young people, if they
know how to pray, can be trusted to know what to do with God’s call.” Pop
Benedict XVII address the US Bishops at
Basilica of the Immaculate Conception 2008
Mind KNOW You have to say YES
Heart LOVE ‘the God who created you without you,
Hands SERVE ' the God who created you without you, will not save you without you’ St.
Augustine
Mission Commission
ORATIO
CONTEMPLATIO
ask what is the Lord asking
ACTION
“Go and make disciples of all nations” - they started with almost nothing
If were not making disciples . . . Don’t give up - -
people may not hear the message from you but someone may . . . Trust to Divine Providence
0915-0930 Break
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0930-0950 Augustine Institute Welcome – Dr. Timothy Gray
Dr.
Gray presented a history of the Augustine Institute – originally in Colorado –
this property in Florissant, MO was originally built by a French Catholic miner
– family prospered and built a Chateau on grounds which was in the top homes of
the Gilded Age - a 15,000-square-foot, 10-bedroom mansion built by the Desloge
family. It features a 4,000-square-foot ballroom built into a hillside, once
hosting lavish "country" parties, (today this is the Augustine
Institute chapel) and previously featured extensive horse farms and gardens in the US along the the Vanderbilts, Rockefeller’s,
etc. The Chateau still stands.
The
property was purchased by Boeing McDonell-Douglas and developed into a corporate
training center about 30 years ago.
Completely shut down for a year and renovated to state of the art training
center in 2019 – then COVID – it never reopened – aircraft sales declined – and
the president decided to sell quietly – somehow the Augustine Institute’s at
the right place and time, with extremely
‘low bid’ about ‘ankle deep,’ of $20
million was accepted. The Institute has
only been here for about 2 years.
0950-1015 US Welcome – Anne Roat “This rally is different it is about leaders - i.e. not a rehash of the Serra International Convention. ‘learn to lead like Christ – a person of prayer’
IDEA: at each meeting after the opening prayer SAY the Mission of Serra - then have a member restate it in their own words
IDEA: talk about St. Junipero Serra – i.e. share our patron’s story and history
IDEA: Plan –
know stats of the diocese # of priests,
seminarians, etc. there is some kind of
report on line for the US . . . S
A F Enthusiasm
IDEA: DON’T
FORGET PERMANENT DEACONS
1015-1120 Strategic Plan – Anne Roat President Serra USA & Emanuele Costa President SI “The US is setting the example” “each country has a different culture”
IDEA: Read the 12/8/25 Letter from Pope Leo
IDEA: Focus on youth for fostering vocations
IDEA: Foster a GOAL of Vocations to the Ministerial
Priesthood among parishes, schools and families
IDEA: US Council minutes are sent to Regional
Directors, who share with District Governors – to Club Presidents – share with
club members
IDEA: Dialogue with KC/MOC other parish
organizations, send a letter of intro, request 10-15 minutes at next meeting
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| Sr. Karolyn Kunes |
1245-1315 Sr. Karolyn Nunes, FSGM-Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George “Learning from the Master: A look at Jesus, the Vocation Director, His Mode and His Method” INSPIRE INVITE INQUIRE INVEST “teach young people to pray and to pray well” Dedication – the search for . . . in a world of infinite browsing i.e. ‘did you know there is a blueberry Kit-Kat? As an example just look down a cereal aisle today
1315-1345 Serra
US Vocations VP – Moira Leite Suzanne Smith Teleconferences JAN MAY SEP
IDEA: Ask Vocations Director – What
can Serra do for you?
IDEA: Put Serra Spark on your phone – show
it to the Vocation Director
IDEA: Contact the Chaplain at the Newman Center
IDEA: Advent Devotion - Lenten Devotion
IDEA: Seven
Greats
Traveling
Crucifix - families start with those
highlighted in the parish magazine
Traveling
Crucifix – within the grade school – high school
IDEA: Serra Spark features Fr. John Burns
IDEA: Give letter of intro and Seven Greats
to St. Francies LG/Wind & Water/St. Patrick/Andrew
1345-1400 Break
SURPRISE – Greg Swietz asked if I would take on the position of District Governor for Wisconsin – I said yes – Cathy Ahern is elated – I need to develop a plan
1400-1430 Fr. Tony Ritter – “Local Vocations”
IDEA: a good presentation – demographics of
seminarians – use as a program for a meeting
1430-1500 Serra US Programs VP – Gino Dimattia
Quality Programs: PRAYER INFORMATION INSPRIATION CHALLENGES members to act
IDEA: “To foster and affirm vocations to the
priesthood and vowed religious life, and through this ministry, grow in our
Catholic faith.
IDEA: Traveling Crucifix
IDEA: Adopt A Seminarian – consider having a member
send the cards
IDEA: From
the pulpit – explain – write a paragraph for the priest to say
IDEA: subscribe
to the Serra YouTube Channel – get notifications
1500-1515 Break
1515-1545 Fr. Paul Hoesing – Vocations Director Omaha “’To send forth laborers for the harvest’ – Supporting Vocations in the New Apostolic Age”
IDEA: an excellent presentation to serve as a
meeting program – good story of discipleship – say less than you think – your
suffering can make the difference
1345-1615 Serra US Membership VP – Candice Terrill
IDEA: Traveling Crucifix
IDEA: Altar Server Recognition – send an invite to
the parents of the servers
IDEA: Host Seminarian/Parent Dinner
IDEA: Deanery presentation of Serra
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| Augustine Institute - Dining Room |
1730-1815 Cocktails
with Open Bar moved to tonight ILO
Saturday due to weather
1815-2000 Banquet
Dinner move to tonight ILO of Saturday
due to weather
2100-2115 Augustine
Institute Evening Prayer did not attend
Saturday January 24,
2026
WEATHER: 4 degrees at 5 am –
light snow started around 9 am – snowed all day = maybe 4” – gentle falling –
cold but little or no wind – to me it wasn’t a snow storm
TRAVEL: Augustine Institute
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| St. John Paul II Monstrance for Vocations |
SERRA LEADERSHIP RALLY Augustine Institute, Florissant, MO
0600-0700 Adoration - Chapel
0700-0900 Breakfast
0830-0900 Rosary
– did not attend
0900-0915 Break
0915-0945 Bishop Thomas Daly – Bishop Daly left yesterday and called in ZOOM He spoke specifically to Serrans
Servant Leadership: how will what
I do impact others
Generosity Humility Peace & Joy and have a sense of humor‘deny yourself – take up you cross and follow me’ ‘good leaders don’t draw attention to themselves’
IDEA: Use the talk as a Serra program
0945-1015 Serra US Communications VP – Don Simoneaux
IDEA: put an
ad/article in the parish magazine
1015-1030 Break
1030-1100 Fr. Jorge Torres – “The State of Vocations in the United States” His assessment – there is HOPE Serve the people, always put yourself second ‘the busier the priest, the less time he has to spend with the people’
IDEA: also a good presentation for a meeting
1130-1200 Siempre
Adelante Awards
1200-1330 Lunch
1200-1235 Tour
of Chateau CANCELLED no reason given - probably weather
1330-1430 Breakout
Session #1 – PROGRAMS – Gino DiMattia
IDEA: plan meeting – ask each member to bring a
friend
IDEA: annual day of prayer for deceased Serrans,
combine with KC, etc.
IDEA: Hospitality – an early evening
dinner/gathering at a home Ask pastor to
attend
IDEA: Prayer – MAGNIFICAT with Mary ‘be
witness’ I praise you Jesus’
IDEA: CARA
Religious Vocations presentation on stats
1430-1445 Break
1445-1545 Breakout Session #2 – FINANCE – Ed Terrill IRS 990N due 4 ½ months after end of FY (May 31) <$50/yr DUES Semi Annual – FULL Member24.50/USA 24.50/SI $50 total - SPOUSE Member
1630-1730 Mass
this was supposed to be celebrated by Bishop Daly but he left yesterday due to
the weather – same readings as Sunday BOTTOM LINE: come follow me - I will be there with you
188-1830 Cocktails
– Dining Room – Cash bar
1830-1930 Buffet
Dinner – Dining Room
1930-2030 Townhall
Meeting – Dining Room
Sunday January 25, 2026
WEATHER: 9 degrees at 7 am, light snow – forecast
calls for less than an inch of snow, ceasing at 1 pm, cold and clearing. It stopped snowing and the sun broke through
around 2:30 pm
According to the National Weather Service – St. Louis, MO The heaviest snow has ended, but the snow is not over! Keep avoiding travel. Light to moderate snow will continue to accumulate on roads. In Illinois, blowing snow will cover roads and reduce visibilities today. The dangerous cold will create deadly situations for any motorists stranded without heat.
I heard that a group of Serrans trying to get to the airport had to order another Uber because the Uber they requested went off the road.
TRAVEL: Augustine Institute – the winter storm appears to have hit hardest to the south – I cancelled the 7 hour auto trip to Huntsville, AL and the Redstone Arsenal yesterday – considering that there was heavier snow and worse yet ice on the roads south of St. Louis – knowing that the states of MO,TN, and AL do not have the means to deal with snow and ice on the roads
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| National Weather Service Map |
Augustine Institute, Florissant, MO Staying another night – hoping the South can clean and clear the roads by Monday – even with that the drive South to Oglethorpe, GA may be dicey
Breakfast
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| This is what my jeep looked like at 2 pm Don't let the sun fool you - many roads were impassable |
of what a priest could/should be – I liked him – the readings were the same as last night – Isaiah “ the people who walk in darkness” – the Gospel: John the Baptist is imprisoned – Jesus goes to Galilee – says ‘repent the Son of man is near’ - meets Simon and John ‘asks them to follow Him and be ‘fishers of men’ – later meets Andrew and James mending nets and asks them to follow Him – the priest began the homily singing “I will make you fishers of men, fishers of men, fishers of men’ – asked the congregation to join him – gave his message about repent and Jesus is with you – then ended with the same catchy tune
Lunch – with a couple from Houston, TX and a faculty member Shaun (Sean)
Spent the day documenting this blog from the last two days notes – taxes, bills – and preparation for the trip tomorrow.
1630 Holy Hour – prayed for guidance on the upcoming club calendar and a plan for District Governor
1730 Dinner – with Shaun (Sean) – a theology instructor here
who I had lunch with
Monday January 26, 2026
WEATHER: -4 degrees at 5 am, EXTREMELY COLD
TRAVEL: Augustine Institute – Chickamauga National Battlefield – Hampton Inn, Fort Oglethorpe, GA - - - left at 7 am CST – arrived Chickamauga 4:45 EST 459 miles 8 hours and 45 minutes on the road – the weather lengthened the trip by at least 1 ¾ hours.
Travel through St Louis
was still a mess – Illinois going east the Interstate was generally one lane –
southern IL worse – slow going until south of Rend Lake than into KY – OK, but
between Clarksville and Nashville not as much snow but ice on the trees – it
had to be worse yesterday – as in the past, that stretch was full of cars and
semis off the road – ice on the trees through Nashville (a crystal palace) until
you reached the Tullahoma Plateau – cold but almost no snow – no snow or ice in
Chattanooga but 23 degrees.
203 Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Battlefield 3370 La Fayette Rd, Fort Oglethorpe, GA
.jpg) |
| Chickamauga National Battlefield Visitor Center |
gateway to the Deep South. The Confederates were victorious.
Not my first visit. First visit here was with the family, when Tom & Julie were living in Georgia. Numerous visits since, including a tour with Ed Bearss and the Chicago Civil War Roundtable and a tour with Rich Borkowski's high school class year ago. This is my first visit in January. This intent was to visit only the battlefield over almost two days. Now I think I’ll pass have to do it in 1 ½ days or less. In addition the the Chickamauga Battlefield there were actions on Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge and prior to that was Rosecrans’ Tullahoma Campaign.
Hampton Inn, Ringgold, GA – typical Hampton Inn – WIFI Works – the heat is much better than at the Augustine Institute. Dinner at the Logan's Roadhouse a few miles down the road - adequate.
Tuesday January 27,
2026
WEATHER: 12 degrees at 4 am, forecast high of 39,
clear, I thought it would be in the 50’s -clear
and sunny all day – high of 40 around 4 pm
TRAVEL: Hampton Inn, Fort Oglethorpe, GA - Chickamauga National Battlefield – Hampton Inn, Fort Oglethorpe, GA - about 7 miles from the Battlefield Visitor Center – water it HOT – room is warm – bed is adequate and WIFI works
I spent a considerable amount of time preparing for this stop. Focusing on the 2 day battle of
Chickamauga – no plans to visit Lookout Mountain or Missionary Ridge. I used Matt Spruill’s “Guide to the Battle of Chickamauga” as my planned tour stops. Only the weather can stop what I planned to do.
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| Reeds Bridge over Chickamauga Creek on the Reed's Bridge Road. This is where COL Robert Minty's Cavalry Brigade fought part of the final delaying action against the northernmost advancing confederate column. Minty's delay actually began a mile east near the Jays Mill Rd. Minty's final act before being pushed down from this position was to severely damage the bridge and again cause the Confederates further delay. Chickamauga Creek itself was a formidable obstacle. |
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| Alexander's Bridge on the Alexander Bridge Road. This is the location where the second delaying action was fought on September 18, 1863. The Union unit in this area was the mounted infantry brigade of COL John T. Wilder, whose soldiers, armed with 7 shot Spencer repeating rifles, were deployed north and south of the road on the west side of the creek. This position was supported by the 18th IN Battery. There were no trees in the area in 1863 and a clear field of fire was presented to the artillery. The Confederate force approaching this position was Liddell's Division. |
STOP 1A - BRANNANS ATTACK BG John Brannan’s Division COL John McConnell COL John T. Croxton COL Ferdinand Van Deveer 82 IN 10 IN 87 IN 17 OH 74 KY 2 MN 31 OH 4 KY 9 OH 38 OH (not engaged) 10 KY 35 OH D 1st MI LA 14 OH I 4th US Arty C 1 OH LA
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| This plaque is on Jays Mill Road |
Brannan’s Division was the lead
element arriving near the Kelly House, where he was to meet Thomas and
directed to move east. Here the Union
Infantry made contact with BG Nathan Bedford Forrest’s cavalry
protecting the north flank of the Army of Tennessee as it moved into
position thought to oppose the Union north flank.
1B 74th IN This is the right flank of the initial battle position occupied by Croxton’s Bde after he was attacked by Wilson’s Bde.
1C Battery H 5th US Artillery Liddell’s Division hit the right flank of King’s Bde.
STOP 2 - LIDDELL’ ATTACK AND SCRIBNER’S RESPONSE Baldwin Monument – Leaving it’s position near Alexander’s Bridge, Liddell’s Division moved north to attack the right flank units of Baird’s Division. Part of the attacking force caused damage to King’s Bde.
SCRIBNER IS PUSHED BACK This is Scribner’s second position as he attempted to face the attack falling on his flank. A line of monuments to the units of Scribner’s Bde.
STOP 3 - VAN DEVEER SAVES THE UNION FLANK When Brannan moved his division forward from the La Fayette Road at about 7:30 am, he deployed two brigades on line. Croxton’s Bde (Stop 1B) was on the right. VanDeveer’s was on the left. Connell’s Bde was in reserve. Van Deveer made contact with the right flank and elements of Forrest’s calvary, who were soon reinforced by Ector’s Bde. Here Van Deveer fought a two-phase action, first facing south, then facing north to meet a confederate flanking attack.
STOP 4A - JACKSON ATTACKS Bragg was attempting to envelop the Union left flank, while Rosecrans was reenforcing that flank to secure his line of communication to Chattanooga. As units moved north they were committed to the southern flank of the engaged units. Therefore the battle developed in a southerly direction.
Liddell’s Division Cheatham’s Division Daniel C. Gowan John K. Jackson Edward C. Walthall Preston Smith Fowler’s AL Arty George Maney Warren LA MS Btry Marcus J Wright Otho F. Strahl Carne’s TN Btry Scogin’s GA Btry Scott’s TN Btry Smith’s MS Btry Stanford’s MS Btry
STOP 6 - THE CONFEDERATE OPPORTUNITY Monument bearing Bushrod Johnson’s profile on the Brotherton Road never found this because Brotherton Road was closed
Cruft’s Bde was pushed back to
west of Brock Field. To Cruft’s
right was COL William Grose’s Brigade on the south side of Brotherton
Road.
Along the high ground,
running south and parallel to the LaFayette Road, and at right angles to
the Brotherton Road were Beatty’s and Dick’s Brigades of Van
Cleve’s Division, which along with Grose’s Bde had been in contact
with the left portion of Cheatham’s line. Between 1 and 2 pm Cheatham’s left brigade, Wright’s was withdrawn
and replaced by the division of MG Alexander Stewart.
Stewart began a succession of
attacks first with Clayton’s Bde, followed by Brown’s Bde, and
finally Bate’s Bde. By 3:30 these had pushed Beatty’s and
Dick’s Brigades across the LaFayette Road to the high ground just south of
the Brotherton House.
Stewart’sDivision
Bushrod R. Johnson William B. Bate John C. Brown Henry D. Clayton Wesley Eldrige 17 TN 58 AL 18 TH 18 AL 1 AR Btry 23 TN 37 GA 26 TN 36 AL Dawson’s GA 25 TN 4 GA Bn 32 TN 38 AL Eufaula AL 44 TN 17 TN 45 TN E 9 GA Arty 37 TN 23 TN Bn 20 TN
Horatio P. Van Cleve’s
Division
Samuel Beatty George F. Dick Sidney M. Barnes 79 IN 44 IN 35 IN 9 KY 86 IN 8 KY 17 KY 13 OH 21 KY 19 OH 59 OH 51 OH 7 Btry IN LA 26 Btry PA LA 99 OH 3 Btry WI LA
STOP 7 - THE SHOULDER OF THE PENETRATION Poe Field M 4th US H 4th US At the north end of Poe Field, Bate’s Bde entered the field from the far wood. Bate’s left crossed the La Fayette Road and extended at an angle back through the woods on this side of the Brotherton House.
STOP 8A - STEWART’S BREAKTHROUGH The woods of the high ground to the front of the Battery B 26th PA Artillery, was occupied by Grose’s Bde and further to the right are the positions of Beatty and Dick. As Bate’s attack pushed Grose’s Bde back across the Brotherton Road and toward Poe Field, Clayton’s attack in conjunction with the right elements of Bushrod Johnson;s division drove Beatty’s and Dick’s brigades back across the road
STOP 8B - THE DEFENSE COLLAPSES Position of the 7th IN Battery firing in support of Dick’s Brigade
STOP 8C – OUTFLANKED Monuments to the 19th Battery, Indiana Artillery of COL Edward King’s Brigade & 92nd IL Mounted Infantry of COL John Wilder’s Brigade
The Confederate force
attacking this area was Johnson’s Brigade of the BG Bushrod Johnson’s Division.
STOP 9 – JOHNSON’S BREAKTHROUGH When Johnson began his attack in mid-afternoon, he initially deployed Johnson’s (Fulton’s) Brigade to the right, Gregg’s Brigade on the left and McNair’s Brigade in reserve behind Gregg’s. The LaFayette Road was crossed by Fulton’s Brigade as it conducted a flanking movement against Union troops in Brotherton Field.
Bushrod Johnson’s
Division
John Gregg (Cyrus Sugg) Evander McNair (David Coleman) 3 TN 1 AR Mtd Rifles (dismounted) 10 TN 2 AR Mtd Rifles (dismounted) 30 TN 25 AR 41 TN 41 & 31 AR & 4 AR Bn (consolidated) 50 TN 39 NC 1 TN Bn Culpepper’s SC Btry 7 TX Bledsoe’s MO Arty
STOP 10 – THE FIGHT
AROUND THE VINIARD FARM
STOP 10 A – CONFEDRATE RESERVES GO ASTRAY Vicinity of the 38th IL Monument This is the center position of the bloody fighting that took place during the afternoon of September 19, 1863. The combat in this area was characterized by attack and counterattack with musket and artillery fire being exchanged at close range. By evening Union and Confederate units in this area had fought themselves to exhaustion.
The monuments in this field can be confusing because they represent the location of Union units for brief periods while fighting was fluid throughout the area. The ground was significantly different in 1863.
During the morning hours Bushrod Johnson’s division had occupied positions to the eat. Gregg’s and Fulton’s brigades were in front with McNair’s brigade in reserve behind Gregg. MG John Bell Hood’s division was deployed on Johnson’s right (north) flank. Hood’s left brigade connecting with Johnson’s right, was Robertson’s Bde, with Benning just to the east in a supporting role.
Across the LaFayette Road, along the tree line west of the open field was COL John T. Wilder’s Brigade. Armed with seven shot Spencer repeating rifles, this brigade had been performing a covering mission to the est on September 18 and fought the delaying action at Alexander Bridge.
At mid-day BG Jefferson C. Davis’ Division of the XX Corps (US) was moved into this area. COL Hans C. Heg’s Brigade was deployed in the woods. William P. Carlin’s Brigade was generally in this field. The fighting commence as Heg’s Brigade moved east and made contact with Gregg’s Brigade.
STOP 10B – A BAD DECISION Johnson shifted his division in a northwesterly direction, leaving an opening in the Confederate line. As Benning’s and Robertson’s Brigades brigade moved south and behind Johnson’s attacking division, which by now had reached the LaFayette Road, Preston’s Division arrived in the area. Preston sent Trigg’s brigade forward to support Robertson and Benning. Preston’s division was the left most attacking unit. Although Trigg’s Bde forcefully attacked, Preston’s other two brigades were allowed to remain idle at a time when maximum combat power was needed in Viniard Field.
STOP 10C - OVERRUN Monument of the 8th IN Battery
STOP 10D – DESPARATE DEFENSE Intersection of the Viniard – Alexander Bridge Road and LaFayette Road The casualties suffered by Heg’s and Carlin’s brigades seriously reduced their effectiveness. At approximately 3 pm BG Thomas Wood’s Division was committed to battle. Wood deployed COL Charles Harker’s Brigade to the left, where elements participated in the attack north along the LaFayette Road into the flank of Johnson’s Division. COL George Buell’s Brigade was placed in position parallel to the LaFayette Road to reinforce Heg and Carlin.
STOP 10E – THE UNION LINE HOLDS Monument of the 18th IN Battery This was the left flank position of COL John T. Wilder’s Brigade. From here the guns wer able to bring killing fire into the right of Benning’s linn near the LaFayette Road.
STOP 10F – SPENCER’S PROVE THEIR WORTH Monuments of the 39th NC and 25th AR. From this position heavy flanking fire was placed on the left part of the penetration started by Johnson’s Division. Confederate reports refer specifically to this fire as a majo contributing factor in his decision to retreat to the east side of the LaFayette Road.
LEE & GORDON’s MILLS
STOP 11 Wilder Monument Tower This is the farthest pentation of Clayton’s Bde, forced back by lack of support and the arrival of Negley’s Union Division.
STOP 11A – BRECKINRIDGE BEGINS THE ATTACK The night action took place in this vicinity
STOP 11B – THE UNION LEFT HOLDS The northern point of Thomas’s defensive position where BG John H. King’s brigade refused its left continuing the Union line a short distance beyond the LaFayette Road.
The battle line generally ran south crossed the LaFayette Road and continued south, then southwest.
I had planned to spend tomorrow on the battlefield for Day 2 of the Battle of Chickamauga but the snowstorm disrupted the plan. I did follow the NPS audio tour – interesting that it didn’t cover any of the places I visited today. I guess the battle was won on Day 2.
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| NPS Chickamauga Audio Tour Map |
NPS Chickamauga Audio
Tour –
585-672-2619 or chch.stqry.app - a 7 mile auto tour with 8
stops. – I
did this in less than one hour – didn’t take any pictures – but I’ve been here
before and hoped to back back again soon for more detail
1. 1. Breckinridge’s Assault – the Confederates commanded by former US Vice President John Breckinridge assaulted and briefly penetrated the Federal line before turning their attack southward.
T2. The Battle Line – Monuments along Battle Line Road mark where US troops built early crude breastworks in the early morning hours. Once secured in their positions, they halted repeated Confederate assaults
3 .3. Mix-up in Union Command – As Federal officers called for troops to strengthen the left end of the line, Rosecrans ordered a division shift out of position. He unknowingly created a fatal gap in the line.
5. 4. Confederate Breakthrough – Before Federal troops could fill the gap in the line, the yells of thousands of Confederates pierced the air as they poured across La Fayette Road and through the gap. The breakthrough split the US Army.
5. Viniard Field – Go back a day to September 19, when thousands of troops, one division at a time, fought back and forth across this field to control La Fayette Road. Come sunset, neither side held the road yet thousands had made the ultimate sacrifice.
6. Lightning Strikes – US Army COL John T. Wilder’s Brigade of mounted infantry halted some of the attacking Confederates . Armed with Spencer repeating rifles, the “Lightning Brigade” had the US Army’s only success on this part of the battlefield.
7. Rout of the Union Right - Confederate troops swept out of the woods and into the fields of what one commander called “a scene of unsurpassed grandeur.” The attack collapsed the Union right, forcing the defenders, including Rosecrans to flee.
8. Horseshoe Ridge and Snodgrass Hill – Throughout the afternoon Federal soldiers held the ridge, repulsing repeated Confederate assaults. As darkness fell, a final assault revealed that the remaining Federal troops had slipped away to Chattanooga. After three days of fighting the Confederate Army of Tennessee had won.
Attended an ESGR Breakfast With Leaders ZOOM. Dinner at Applebee’s.
SEPTEMBER 20, 1863
The winter snowstorm caused problems, I spent an extra day in St. Louis, never got to Redstone Arsenal and the Rocket Museum in Huntsville, AL – only spent 1 day on the Chickamauga Battlefield, I had planned on at least another half day, so I spent two nights in Ringgold, GA and cancelled my reservation at Dobbins AFB – drove 8 ½ hours to Orlando. I may revisit Chickamauga on the way back home
Wednesday January 28, 2026
WEATHER: 25 degrees at 6 am Ringgold, GA 59 degrees at 4:15 pm Orlando, FL partly cloudy/sunny Sunrise:0741 Chattanooga Sunset: 1802 Orlando, FL From National Weather Service · Central Florida FREEZE WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 AM EST THIS MORNING... ...COLD WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 AM EST THIS MORNING... ...FREEZE WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO 9 AM EST THURSDAY... ...COLD WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 2 AM TO 9 AM EST THURSDAY
TRAVEL: Hampton Inn, Fort Oglethorpe, GA – Holiday Inn Vacation Club, Orange Lake, FL 543 miles LV 0745 AR 1615 ATLANTA – I wish there was a way to avoid it
I have SIRIUS/XM and listened to Classical most of the
way – however, I tuned to listen to Marco Rubio’s testimony on Venezuela to the
Senate Foreign Relations Committee – this guy is sharp - Democratic Senators read prepared statements –
that were caustic - argumentative in their questions – trying to get him to
answer questions – out of his wheelhouse – he never backed down – always
provided more of an answer then the questioner wanted and never fell into the
traps of ‘word games’. Helped at least two hours pass by.
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| View from my patio a green on the Reserve Golf Course at Orange Lake |
Not my first visit. Know my way around pretty well. I’m in the West Village, a 2BR on Sandhill Circle Villa t 2407 – out the back door I’m on a golf course. Check-in seemed to take forever – it wasn’t busy – just inefficient. I’m here on a package deal – get to have a 1 hour ‘owner’s update’ tomorrow – hope they respect my time . . . . HIVC has not been good at that in the past. Move to River Island on Saturday.
Arrived too late to attend an ESGR ZOOM meeting on the Freedom Award.
Thursday January 29, 2026
WEATHER: 36 degrees at 5 am–forecast high of 65–sunny- Freeze Warning in Effect Sunrise:0715 Sunset: 1804 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Orange Lake Resort - Shades of Green – Orange Lake Resort
Holiday Inn Vacation Club, Orange Lake, FL 1100 HIVC Owner’s Update – scheduled for one hour at the Founder’s Club
Sales person No 1 – get to know you – talk of the weather – told him I wanted 2
questions answered: 1) How much
would HIVC pay me to buy back the time share?
2) How much would it cost to double my points from 3500 each year
to gain 7000 over two years, and get
7,000 per year every year. I did not
know that HIVC is now part of Marriot.
Question 1 Basically nothing – I think once you buy your stuck for life
– HIVC will take it back for nothing.
Sales Person No 2 – comes in tells me No 1 said I was dissatisfied with HIVC – I did not tell No 1 that, but I did say that several years ago (Scottsdale) – ‘we want all our customer’s satisfied’ – offers something that I don’t remember
Sales Person No 1- comes back goes over offer – basically offers 3000 pts, a credit of what I paid for the time share, the new club package, and about $6700. Now he answered Question #2. I said that looked promising but would have to wait 6 weeks to decide. I declined the offer. He had me sign the paper declining the offer. I get up to go – he says wait I have to arrange your Gift – already predetermined 25,000 Bonus Point for sitting through the ‘update”
Sales Person No 3 – comes in and offers a ‘Latitudes’ package – For $1,450 I get 7 nights at a choice of resorts plus $400 in resort cash good over the next 2 years AND agree to another presentation - if I upgrade the $1450 is applied to the upgrade purchase. I told him it sounded too good to be true and I bought in thinking that this is a good deal. When I got the contract it looked like they were targeting me at an upgrade for $21,990 to get 100,000 points. The $1450 was less than $100 per month. I offered to pay all up front - the price dropped to $1424. So I bit – but I don’t think I will get what I want.
If I hadn't decided to buy the package I wold have been out of there in les than one hour
LESSON LEARNED: Offer to pay all up front – less paperwork on a loan – the price will come down and there is less time wasted i.e. pressure sales. LESSON LEARNED AGAIN: Don't trust these guys - if its too good to be true, it is
TIMESHARE SALES – What a
way to make a living!
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| Shades of Green |
I went to Shades of Green and purchased the Military Salute Pass for $494 – park hopper with unlimited visits, except for the blackout dates of Easter and Christmas in 2026. This is a deal. I plan to visit at least 6 or 7 times this stay and 3-4 days this coming winter. Flexibility - no need to go to a park and stay to see everything - if I just want to see the fireworks OK - if I just want to go on one ride - OK. I'm going to like this.
Friday January 30, 2026
WEATHER: 43 degrees at 6
am–forecast high of 70 – mostly cloudy - Freeze Watch from Sat 7:00 pm until
SUN 1:00 pm EST Sunrise:0714 Sunset:
1804 Orlando, FL
A possibility of a blizzard
in North Carolina – Nashville still
recovering from last week – ice storm – trees – lost power
TRAVEL: Orange Lake Resort - Disney Springs – Orange Lake Resort
Another Government Shutdown possible – I’m disgusted with politicians – there hasn’t been compromise politics for a long, long time – only extremes – Schumer and many Democrats want to shutdown, dismantle the Department of Homeland Security – his target is specifically ICE - so even if that only is defunded, it SHUTS DOWN - FEMA, Customs & Border Protection, TSA, the Coast Guard, Secret Service – nonsense . . .
Saturday January 31,
2026
WEATHER: 54 degrees at 6
am–forecast high of 58 – mostly cloudy – 52 and 22 mph winds by 4 pm – low of
23 by tomorrow morning Sunrise:0713 Sunset: 1804 Orlando, FL
Wind Advisory, northwest winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts of 40 to 50 mph expected. For the Extreme Cold Warning, dangerously cold wind chills 9 to 15 degrees expected. For the Freeze Warning, hard freezing temperatures as low as 22 expected. A Nor’easter off the coast of the Carolina’s
Windy by 2 pm – cold and windy as the sun went down
TRAVEL: Orange Lake Resort - LV Disney Springs 1035 – AR Disney Beach Club 1050 – ILO of a 5-10 minute walk, I took a boat from the pier at the Disney Yacht Club LV 1055 with a stop at the Boardwalk to EPCOT AR 1105 – Disney Beach Club LV 1640 -Magic Kingdom AR 1700 LV 1830 – Caribbean Village - Disney Springs LV 1930 - Orange Lake Resort AR 2030
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| Bus destinations from Disney Springs |
This saves $30-35 on parking. and you get dropped off closer to the park - no waiting for a tram. It may take a little longer. IT may not be the 'best way to travel' with children - but is 'you've got the time' . . . .
There is a partial government shutdown. Schumer says ‘‘Democrats will not pass a spending bill until DHS is ‘reigned in and ends the violence’’’ - so the protests and ‘violence’ will end when they get their way and dismantle DHS? I believe it is professional agitators – organizing the protests . . . . and of course like a good salesperson they get people fired up and act
Holiday Inn Vacation Club, Orange Lake, FL – checked out my 2 BR villa in the West Village around 1030. Got to my 1 BR unit in Island View around 2000.
Room 1529B on
the 5th floor. They gave me
the key to my 1BR when I checked out of the 2BR – it still needed to be
‘changed.’ Maintenance indicates water
will b eoff in the buildings between midnight and 6 am on Sunday.
Island View – I’m in the first building 5th out of 8 floors, at the end of the north hall – facing the parking lot west, the next building north, the stairwell and hall east, a room to the south. Obviously not as large as the 2BR villa but the BR has a carpet, no dining room table but a cubby, 2 burner cooktop, washer & dryer, etc. No obvious outlet (to plug my computer into) close to the cubby and no easy way to unload in front of the door.
EPCOT (Experimental Prototype Community Of Tomorrow)
I walked the World Showcase and took in much of EPCOT
by 4 pm. The Art Show is going on – I
looked for the Stars Wars helmets print that I saw a year ago – didn’t find it.
FRANCE 1120 Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure (40 minute wait) - Join Chef Remy on a culinary adventure. Shrink and race through Gusteau's kitchen – this makes so much more sense after I saw the movie
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| JAPAN |
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| MORROCO |
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| 1230 THE AMERICAN ADVENTURE (10 minute wait) the timing was perfect I almost just walked into the theater |
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| ITALY |
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| GERMANY |
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| NORWAY – Frozen Ever After was closed for refurbishment |
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| CHINA |
MEXICO – I stepped inside the pavilion and decided to leave – too many people – lines – not even sure where they were going to – I think people just wanted to get out of the cold. I'll stop to go on the Gran Fiesta Tour with the Three Caballeros later.
explore the remarkable history of human communication from the Stone Age to the computer age
THE SEA
1400 The Sea with Nemo and Friends (5 minute wait - walked right in) – a gentle ride based on Disney and
Pixar's Finding Nemo, which
finds Nemo lost again
THE LAND 1420 Living With the Land (20 minute wait) - a slow-moving boat ride consisting of a dark
ride and greenhouse tour located within The Land, a pavilion at World
Nature at EPCOT. The focus of the ride is on agriculture especially new
technology to make agriculture more efficient, sustainable, and environmentally
friendly
1455 Journey into the Imagination with Figment (20 minute wait) - Imagination! is
a pavilion located in the World Celebration section of Epcot, a theme park at
the Walt Disney World Resort in Bay Lake, Florida. The pavilion opened with the
park in 1982, and is themed to human imagination, creativity, and the arts.
Kodak was the former title sponsor of the pavilion.
1520 The Disney/PIXAR Short Film Festival (10 minutes) – three animated shorts in 4D – this
used to be the Home of the Captain EO (Michael Jackson) film. The films have not changed in several years .
. .
·
“Get a
Horse,” a short that stars Mickey, Minnie, and friends and starts out as a
classic black and white short that turns out to have a few colorful plot twists
along the way.
· “Piper,” a Pixar short about a baby bird learning how to find her own food.
· “Feast,”
a Walt Disney Animation short about a man who adopts a dog who ultimately helps
him find love.
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| UNITED KINGDOM |
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| CANADA |
MAGIC KINGDOM
 |
| 1640 Jungle Cruise (40 minute wait) - Relaxing boat ride along 3 jungle rivers with comedic narrators & animatronic animals. |
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| 1730 Enchanted Tiki Room (6 minute wait) - Long-running tiki-themed animatronics show with flowers & colorful birds moving to music. This hasn’t changed since 1971 or before that a copy from Disneyland |
Dinner at Miller’s Pub on Irlo Bronson Parkway, just outside the HIVC property, across from the PUBLIX.
February 1, 2026
WEATHER: 25 degrees at 6 am–forecast high of 44 – sunny Sunrise:0713 Sunset: 1805 Orlando, FL
WIND ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 AM EST THIS MORNING... ...EXTREME COLD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 10 AM EST THIS MORNING... ...FREEZE WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 AM EST THIS MORNING... ...EXTREME COLD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 7 PM THIS EVENING TO 10 AM EST MONDAY... ...FREEZE WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 7 PM THIS EVENING TO 10 AM EST MONDAY
TRAVEL: Orange Lake Resort - St. Faustina Catholic Church, Claremont, FL – Orange Lake Resort
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| Saint Faustina |
Maria Faustyna Kowalska of the Blessed Sacrament, OLM was a Polish Catholic religious sister and mystic. Faustyna, popularly spelled Faustina in English, had apparitions of Jesus Christ which inspired the Catholic devotion to the Divine Mercy, therefore she is sometimes called the "secretary" of Divine Mercy.
Monday February 2, 2026
WEATHER: 31 degrees at 6 am–forecast high in the mid fifties – sunny Sunrise:0712 Sunset: 1805 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Orange Lake Resort - St. Faustina Catholic Church, Claremont, FL – Disney Springs – Riviera via bus - Caribean Village transfer station via glider – Riviera via Sky Glider - EPCOT via Sky Glider - Beach Club Resort walk – Boardwalk via bus -Disney Springs via bus - Orange Lake Resort
Mass at 8 am - St. Faustina Catholic Church – Feast of the Presentation in the Temple – Simeon got to see the Messiah before his death
GROUNDHOG DAY – Punxsutawney Phil forecasts “there is a shadow on the ground, six more weeks of winter abound”
EPCOT (Experimental Prototype Community Of Tomorrow)
It took me an hour to get to EPCOT via the buses and gliders and queues . . . Made a mistake taking the Sky Glider to Caribbean Village, I should have gotten on the Sky Glider direct to EPCOT
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| Behind the Seeds Pest Control is still necessary but chemicals are the last resort |
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| Hydroponics Growing without soil - only water and nutrients |
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| Behind the Seeds in the Spice Garden note the boat behind |
1130 Behind the Seeds
Tour –
made the reservation online $39 + tax
-
a 3 minute wait - 10 minutefilm with a call to action to protect the Earth. In a partnership with the Disney Conservation Fund, this all-new film uses in-theater effects (including wind, scents and water) to tell the story of life on our planet and why it’s vitally important to care for it.
1305 Soarin’ Around the World a 35 minute wait - The thrill as you’re raised high in the air and swept from one scenic locale to the next. See the world’s wonders—natural and manmade—like you never have before. No mountain is too high. No landscape is too far. The journey begins as the clouds part above the majestic Swiss Alps. Next, visit polar bears in icy Greenland, swoop past sailboats on Australia’s iconic Sydney Harbor and weave between elephants marching toward Mount Kilimanjaro. Glide above marvels like the Great Wall of China, the Great Pyramids of Egypt and the Taj Mahal in India. Cruise over Monument Valley, Fiji’s Lau Island and thundering Iguazu Falls in South America. Look down on the Eiffel Tower as it sparkles like a jewel in the night, surrounded by the lights of Paris.
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| Mission Space |
1435 Mission Space: Earth – walked off Mission Mars to Mission Earth – a max 10 minute wait - Take flight on a family-friendly adventure that’s sure to excite. The Green Mission offers a gentler, more family-friendly adventure for space explorers 40” and taller. It uses a motion simulator that offers light movement and doesn’t spin—so it’s less likely to cause motion sickness.
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| Mexico Pavilion |
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| The Gran Fiesta Tour |
Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros – 10 minute wait -Inspired by the 1944 Disney film The Three Caballeros, your adventure comes to life against a backdrop of live-action footage, hand-drawn animation and the jaunty musical score from the movie.
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| Last year, maybe two years ago I found a print of four Star Wars storm trooper helmets. I didn't buy it and couldn't buy it on line due to a Disney licensing agreement. I found it this year |
Canada Far & Wide In 360 Circle Vision – 10 minute wait - Explore Canada in a newly updated edition of the classic, 12-minute Epcot Circle-Vision 360 presentation.
Tuesday February 3,
2026
WEATHER: 30 degrees at 5 am–forecast high of 64 – sunny Sunrise: 0711 Sunset: 1807 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Orange Lake Resort - St. Faustina Catholic Church, Claremont, FL – Orange Lake Resort
Mass at 8 am - St. Faustina Catholic Church – Feast of the St. Blaise – again blessing of throats.
Worked on ESGR and the blog.
Wednesday February 4,
2026
WEATHER: 37 degrees at 5 am–forecast high in the 70’s - sunny Sunrise: 0711 Sunset: 1808 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Orange Lake Resort - St. Faustina Catholic Church, Claremont, FL – Orange Lake Resort
Mass at 8 am - St. Faustina Catholic Church
Worked on ESGR Freedom Award submissions most of the
day. This must be the first day in - at least 8 that it was warm enough to go to
the pool and I spent all day inside -
volunteer work. Over 14 hours on ESGR and I had a full-timer
say to me that he didn’t work weekends – I wonder if he belongs to a
union. Frustrating – convoluted - extremely
frustrating process. I indicated that last year was my last year as
Awards Director – this year IS THE LAST!
I feel for whoever takes over the position of Awards Director – I wish
them more success in understanding this process.
WEATHER: 55 degrees at 6 am – rain forecast to continue until 8 am, then cloudy to partly cloudy - high of 58 Sunrise: 0711 Sunset: 1809 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Orange Lake Resort – St. Faustina – Orange Lake Resort
0800 Mass at St. Faustina Church . . .
Worked on Freedom Award submissions until 2 pm. Asked Nick, the Volunteer Support Technician,
to take the scores from FAN and put them on the spreadsheet and send to ESGR
HQ. Hopefully, this will satisfy their requirements. But I still believe it is kind of a joke –
i.e. the scores are based on what bullet you chose in FAN - so
if a service member answers YES to any question and enters no comments points
are automatically scored by FAN – I’ve seen Patriot Award writeups with more
substance than some Freedom Award submissions – it could be done by a robot
(AI).
Friday February 6, 2026
WEATHER: 38 degrees at 6 am – forecast high of 61 by 2 pm, clear and sunny Sunrise: 0710 Sunset: 1809 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Orange Lake Resort – Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Disney Springs – Beach Club Resort via bus – EPCOT – Disney Springs via bus – Orange Lake Resort. The Orange Garage was FULL – Lime Garage was CLOSED – I parked in the Grapefruit Garage. No waits on the buses – just hitting the timing right.
Holiday Inn Vacation Club, Orange Lake, FL I’ve been here 9 nights, in the
1BR at Island View for
the last 6, I’ve been very, busy – but never wore shorts – didn’t even look at
or get close to the pools – too cold and too busy with ESGR Freedom Awards –
now my ‘vacation’ begins. Checked out of
HIVC Orange Lake Resort and into . . .
Check-in went better than expected. At 1:30 pm the room wasn’t ready, but it was by 2:10. However, I decided to go and get something to eat. Stopped at Sickle’s Garage on International Drive – it wasn’t crowded – sat at the bar for 5 minutes – no service – no one even said hi – I left. Came back to HGVC – went to the bar ordered a beer after about 10 minutes I ordered a burger – 25 minutes later – still no food – the bartender checked and said it would be out in a few minutes which meant the cook hadn’t started on the order – I said ‘just cancel the order’ the bartender said the order would be on the house. The burger and fries were good – so were the two beers – and the cost was nothing – I left the bartender a $5 tip.
The 2026 Winter Olympics began today in Milan-Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. I really couldn't care less maybe, I may watch some of the events on TV. I just don’t have the interest I had in the past. There is at least a 6 or7 hour time zone difference.
1200 Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe attended by about 120 people.
EPCOT (Experimental Prototype Community Of Tomorrow)
1845 Disney on Broadway Concert Series – got there just in time - a half hour show – my ears must be off – I didn’t think the singers were in tune with the band. Closed with a song from the soon to open on Broadway “The Greatest Showman” – that’s a movie I’d watch again . . . .
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| 1930 The American Adventure – a 15 minute wait for a 30 minute show - needed to kill some time – explored the portraits of George W Bush – I bought a book of his portraits for Sarah when I visited the Bush Presidential Museum . |
Visited shops in Japan – Morocco - France
2030 France a 20 minute, 180 degree wide screen film – beautiful aerial shots – the music was worth it – Debusey, Ravel, Bizet, Saint-Saens and others – I’d see this again just for the music - stimulating
 |
| 2100 Luminous: The Symphony of Us – a 15 minute fireworks and dancing waters display – short program – meticulously choreographed, but it would have been nice to have had a seat and warmer temperatures – maybe just warmer temps. |
Saturday February 7, 2026
WEATHER: 54 degrees at 7 am
– forecast high of 70 – clear and sunny Sunrise: 0709 Sunset:
1809 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Our Lady of the Universe - HGVC
Hilton Grand Vacation Club – Seaworld, Orlando FL Comment: The 1BR here at Seaworld is larger and has a better layout than the HIVC Island View 1BR. A large table - not a cubby hole booth, a balcony with entrances from the LR & BR, a much larger kitchen area and electric outlets, larger bath and a tub is included in the BR, feels much more comfortable.
My phone doesn’t appear to want to take a charge. I fear the worst. I cleaned to port – it just doesn’t seem to want to stay connected to the charger. I tried a different outlet and charger – seems to be working – scary.
WIFI appears to have its challenges here. Unable to connect my phone to the PC – seems to depend on the time of day. Something tells me HGVC still needs to update its systems.
ESGR interfered with my day again – was going to visit Hollywood Studios – the day slipped away . . . . decided to go to Mass this evening ILO of Sunday morning
as full as Sunday but mass was said by three priests and the choir/organist were outstanding, as usual.
Sunday February 7, 2026
WEATHER: 44 degrees at 5 am – forecast – high of 69 – clear and sunny Sunrise: 0708 Sunset: 1810 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Our Lady of the Universe – Disney Springs – Riviera Resort by bus – Skyglider to Transfer Station at Caribbean Village – Skyway to Hollywood Studios – Caribbean Village by bus – Riviera by Skyglider - Disney Springs by bus –
I arrived at the Orange Garage around 0830 it was CLOSED – OPENS on Sunday at 9 AM – Got gas. The Skyglider from Hollywood to the Carbbean Village Transfer Station was shut down – so I took a bus. The Skyglider line from there to Animation/Pop Century seemed long so I went to the Riviera.
World Marriage Day the second Sunday of February
Hollywood Studios
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| The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror a 30 minute wait |
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| Rock & Roller Coaster a 50 minute wait that turned into 70 I don't ever need to go on this ride again - I was glad when it was over |
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| The Little Mermaid |
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| ' go on and, kiss the girl" |
1220 Little Mermaid – Musical Adventure – this is NEW – hadn’t seen it before – definitely one of my
favorite Disney musicals. Here the
technique is bubbles dropping from the ceiling. The story was an 18 minute mix of multimedia
and live action.
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1300 Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage a 25 minute show – somehow I always forget the music from this show but it will bring teras to my eyes
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| Villains - the mirrors tell the story |
1350 Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After – stars Disney’s iconic villains – an 18 minute mix of live action and effects. This also is NEW, I hadn’t seen it before. Here the gimmick is bubbles filled with smoke dropping from the ceiling. The magic mirror tells the story – 3 of the most ‘misunderstood’ villains – Cruella – Captain Hook – Maleficent. A lot going on – I’d see this again. Couldn’t find the Queen of Hearts – wasn’t she a villain? – ‘Off with their heads!
 |
| The Arendelle story tellers with Elsa and Anna |
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| 'Queen Elsa, make it snow again" |
1430 For the First Time In Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration – the story told by two Arendelle historians – it is funny and the music is sing-along – this does make bring tears to my eyes. It was a smaller crowd – but perhaps there is not as much sing-along as I remember in the past – the film was released in 2013.
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| Indiana Jones: Stunt Spectacular - didn't get a phot of the flames and the explosions |
1515 Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular – this was revised – no longer members form the audience – the stunts seem father away – the opening scene with the rolling ball is gone.
SUPER BOWL LX – I don’t even know who’s playing. The ALL AMERICAN half-time show celebrating FAITH, FAMILY & FREEDOM. Kid Rock, Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, and Gabby Barrett. An alternate and ‘kick sand in the face of the NFL’. I had to watch this – could care less about the game. Also Antonio & Allison, Robert Rich.
OK – so the Superbowl
was between New England and Seattle – I knew that . . . the score was SEA 9 NE 0 at half-time – I didn’t
watch the second half with any great interest - the Seahawks smashed the Patriots.
Monday February 9, 2026
WEATHER:46 degrees at 6 am
– forecast high of 77 cloudy then, sunny
and clear - Really didn’t warm up until 1 pm – cools quickly as the sun goes
down Sunrise: 0708 Sunset: 1812 Orlando, FL
Finally wore shorts
today -but it was still cool in the morning . . . .
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Our Lady of the Universe – HGVC Seaworld Left at 12:00 pm: Disney Springs – Animation Artists Resort by bus – walk to Pop Century Resort – Skyglider to Caribbean Village transfer station – Skyglider to EPCOT through Riviera Resort (DVC) – Friendship Boat to Boardwalk Resort (DVC) – Friendship boat to Yacht Club Resort (DVC) – Disney Springs by bus – Bahama Breeze – HGVC Seaworld by 5:40pm
0900 Mass at Our Lady of the Universe attended by 55-60 people
Hilton Grand Vacation Club – Seaworld housekeeping came today
Today was a day of exploring Disney Transportation and Resort Hotels . . . the pictures tell the story - all of this travel in just about 3 hours
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| Disney Springs Bus to Art of Animation Resort |
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| Art of Animation Resort |
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| Walk to Pop Century Resort almost a mirror image of the Art of Animation resort - the decoration is different |
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| Art of Animation Resort map - a bridge with a Skyglider station on a island separates this from the Pop Century Resort |
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| Skyglider from Pop Century Resort to Caribbean Village transfer station through Riviera Resort, a Disney Vacation Club, to EPCOT |
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| Pop Century Resort map |
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| EPCOT to Boardwalk via Friendship boats |
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| Lobby of the Boardwalk a Disney Vacation Club Resort |
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| Yacht Club Resort, a Disney Vacation Club |
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| Boardwalk dock to Yacht Club dock across the lake |
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| Bahama Breeze - Happy Hour |
Tuesday February 10, 2026
WEATHER: 47 degrees at 7 am partly cloudy – forecast 60’s by 11 am 70 by noon high of 78 by 4pm It was a pleasant day Sunrise: 0707 Sunset: 1812 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: HGVC Seaworld – Disney Springs - Riviera Resort via bus – Caribbean Village transfer station via Skyliner – Hollywood Studios via Skyliner –Caribbean Village Transfer Station via Skyliner – Skyliner to Riviera Resort – Disney Springs via bus – HGVC Seaworld
SURPRISE: BUS SERVICE FROM DISNEY SPRINGS DID NOT BEGIN UNTIL 9:30 AM Sunday is was available at 9 am
SURPRISE: BUS SERVICE FROM THE CARIBBEAN VILLAGE TRANSFER STATION IS INTERNAL ONLY – I.E. NO SERVICE TO DISNEY SPRINGS but you can get to the theme parks
Hollywood Studios
1020 Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway a 45 minute wait – I’ve been on this ride
several times – didn’t seem as exciting as in the past.
1210 Walt Disney Presents –
the history of Disney in a multimedia gallery;
plus there was a behind the scenes
preview for Season 2 ‘Percy Jackson
and the Olympians
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| 1120 Toy Story Mania - a 45 minute wait it seems like I've been on this in this past, but I can't remember when - like in the past not sure it was worth the wait |
Wednesday February 11, 2026
WEATHER: 53 degrees at 6 am cloudy – forecast high of 75 Sunrise: 0706 Sunset: 1813 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Disney Springs – Riviera via bus - Animal Kingdom via bus – Riviera via bus - Disney Springs via bus – HGVC Seaworld
0900 mass at Our Lady of the Universe – Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes about 75 people in church
ANIMAL KINGDOM
1100 Festival of the Lion King - a 30 minute show – hasn’t changed -
Zootopia
1200 Zootopia: Better Together – located in the Tree of Life where A Bugs Life used to be this is better except, I got lost in the sound track – couldn’t understand the story line – air blowing at you and water – no stink bug1900 ESGR Volunteer Engagement Sustainment Training (VEST) – “Networking and Building Relationships” Dan Irving, former State Chair of AZ also an Air Force Command Chief. Slides run by Tracy Jones ESGR. The time was 1800 but that must have been CST – I thought I was going to be late logging in at 1815 but I waited for 45 minutes for the meeting to begin at 1900 EST.
Did pick up some good ideas for use in SERRA
Key Principles Relationship Collaboration Over TIme Be Real and Genuine BUILD TRUST Listen without talking MUTUAL BENEFIT win-win Follow up to show commitment CONSISTENCY keep your word Add value-help other first EMPATHY
Create a 3-minute elevator speech, examples in MMS under Communications. Tracy will send examples to attendees.
Thursday February 12, 2026
WEATHER: 58 degrees at 7 am
– cloudy - high of 74 - it rained around 4 pm Sunrise: 0706 Sunset:
1814 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Our Lady of the Universe -HGVC Seaworld
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| Our Lady of the Universe Chapel |
arrival, your full cleanings are scheduled for Mondays and Fridays.” The reply was immediate.
0900 mass at Our Lady of the Universe
Spent the day updating the blog, preparing for Day 2 on the Chickamauga Battlefield
1500 ESGR Breakfast With Leaders meeting via TEAMS 1700 ESGR EXCOM meeting via ZOOM
Friday February 13,
2026
WEATHER: 52 degrees at 5 am
– clear - forecast high of 76 and
sunny Sunrise: 0706 Sunset:
1814 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Our Lady of the Universe – HGVC Seaworld
0900 mass at Our Lady of the Universe - about 60 people in the church
1725 HGVC Wine & Dine – bus pick up at HGVC Seaworld to Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, 8030 Via Bellagio Way, The dinner exceeded by expectations. There were about 30-35 people. We were greeted with a flute of champagne. I sat with a couple, originally from Boston, now living in Tampa. Appetizers included burrata with prosciutto, (excellent), sweet chili calamari even better, drinks on the house, salad, filet (done to perfection but I thought it could have been a bit more moist – should have ordered Medium Rare), roasted asparagus, potatoes au-gratin, chipotle cheddar mac and cheese, carrot cake for dessert and coffee. Back home by around 2130. An ‘old fashion’ dinner where you took your time to eat. Enjoyable!
Saturday February 14,
2026
WEATHER: 55 degrees at 7 am
– partly cloudy – forecast high of 79 Sunrise: 0705 Sunset:
1815 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – HGVC Parc Soleil – Disney Springs – Riviera by bus – Magic Kingdom by bus – Riviera by bus – Disney Springs by bus – HGVC Seaworld
0800 HGVC sales pitch at Parc Soleil - This may have been the worst sales presentation ever been to – filled with the most BS – the sales people didn’t have name tags - the female sales person was just ‘ILK’ – actually lying to me – her compatriot ‘Ricardo’ used the approach of asking me questions that he knew the answer to – she did also - How humiliating! And they wanted me to upgrade because Hilton now offers the ‘trust’ not the ‘typical timeshare’ – sounded to me like they worked for Blue Green not Hilton - I don’t think they’ve been in this business long, ELSE they’re just LIARS . . . . telling me I had a 20 year loan – at 15% - and in the future the points won’t mean much because the contract I bought gives me certain weeks – no class – no caring - what a scam!
The Government shutdown again today. No funding for the Department of Homeland Security. The Democrats wanting to shutdown ICE are now demanding that they show their ID when making arrests - yet they are against Voter ID - for goodness sakes you;'ve got to show and ID to get a hotel room, even to get into Disney - this is just BAD POLITICS.
MAGIC KINGDOM
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| 1030 Country Bear Jamboree |
The line for Pirates of the Caribbean
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| 1100 Hall of Presidents - this was Walt Disney's idea - something tells me it will never close Unfortunately, the first time I ever heard clapping for presidential introductions Reagan, Biden and Trump. |
HGVC Seaworld – DISAPPOINTING – Housekeeping was promised FRIDAY it was a NO SHOW – I texted the desk at 0715 indicating that Housekeeping did not show on FRIDAY and indicated that any time after 0730 would be fine – I returned at 3 pm - Housekeeping - NO SHOW – I called the desk this time – ‘the housekeeper would be here shortly’ - I was tired and wanted to rest – I cancelled but did request coffee. SUNDAY at 10 AM was promised. The coffee was delivered.
I had plans to see Fantasmic at 8 pm – I left at 6 pm – the worst traffic I’ve ever seen in Orlando – ALL THE DISNEY SPRINGS GARAGES WERE FULL including the surface lot 1 ¾ hours of driving for naught – no place to park. First time I’ve ever seen I-4 moving faster than the roads that run parallel to it. Maybe is was so busy because of Valentine's Day.
Sunday February 15, 2026
WEATHER: 62 degrees at 6 am –
forecast mostly cloudy windy - high of 82 – light
rain this evening Sunrise: 0710 Sunset:
1815 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld - Our Lady of the Universe - Disney Springs – Polynesian Resort via bus – Grand Floridian Resort via monorail – Polynesian Resort via boat – Magic Kingdom via boat – Wilderness Lodge via boat - Disney Springs via bus – HGVC Seaworld
DAYTONA 500 is today - I’m not a NASCAR fan but I did enjoy going to the ‘races’ on the one-mile oval at State Fair Park and the ‘sportsman’ races at Hales Corners Speedway when I was in High School
1000 mass at Our Lady of the Universe – the choir sang
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| Grand Floridian Resort from a water taxi going to Polynesian and Magic Kingdom |
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| Polynesian Resort one of original hotels at Disney World |
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| Wilderness Lodge Lobby - Reminded me of the Lodges built by the Great Northern RR in Glacier National Park |
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| Wilderness Lodge - got here by water taxi from the Magic Kingdom |
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| Disney RR - Main Street Station in the Magic Kingdom. I expected to go around the 4 lands. It went backward - thru Tomorrowland to the Story Time Circus Station in Fantasy Land and back to Main Street. The backward ride was hosted by Stitch. The west side must be under construction. |
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| Disney Springs Raglan Road my first visit here this trip |
Monday February 16,
2026
WEATHER: 62 degrees at 6 am
– clouds and occasional sun – forecast
high of 70 Sunrise: 0702 Sunset:
1817 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Our Lady of the Universe – HGVC Seaworld
It is Monday and ‘housekeeping” showed up as promised around 3 pm, but the room was just cleaned yesterday, I declined the service WIFI extremely slow all day
0900 mass at Our Lady of the Universe about 70 people present
Read the Battle of Chickamauga: The Terrible Sound by Peter Cozzens
Chapter 5 – “We are in a ticklish place here” a quote from Chales Dana in a letter to Stanton indicating
that “The enemy are between Thomas and McCook on the south and Crittenden and
Granger on the north.” Bragg misses opportunities to defeat the Federal in
detail twice due to generals not following orders.
Chapter 6 – “Sounds of Ill Omen” a referenced quote from SGT McGee of the 72nd
IN where “all night long we could hear 1000’s of troops moving into the woods .
. . “ Minty and Widler fall back from Reed’s and Alexander’s Bridges on
September 18.
FAT
Tuesday
February 17, 2026
WEATHER: 54 degrees at 6 am
– forecast high of 74– clear to partly
cloudy – wore a sweatshirt all day and evening Sunrise: 0702 Sunset:
1818 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Our Lady of the Universe – Disney Springs – Riviera via bus – Skyglider to Caribbean Beach transfer station – Skyglider to Hollywood – Skyglider – Skyglider to Caribbean Beach transfer station – Skyglider to the Riviera – Disney Springs via bus - HGVC Seaworld.
Just missed the bus at Riviera to Disney Springs, waited 25 minutes for the nest bus – the longest wait so far.
Read the Battle of Chickamauga: The Terrible Sound by Peter Cozzens
Chapter 7 - “Withdraw If Not Already Too Late” MG William
Rosecrans words to COL Dan McCook who thought he outnumbered the rebels in
front of him and wanted to attack in order to earn a ‘star’. It develops into a fight between Nathan Bedford
Forrest’s calvary and Croxton’s and Van Deveer’s
brigades in the terrain between the Brotherton and Reed’s Bridge Roads.
Chapter 8 – “They Are Coming like A Pack Of Wolves” – Dr. Miller, surgeon for COL Scribner’s brigade indicating that his
hospital in the rear had been overrun. The
brigades of Scribner, Starkweather and King were panicked by the attack of Govan
and Walthall until stopped by Van Deveer and Connell on the Reed’s Bridge Road.
The federal divisions of Johnson and
Palmer were coming into line.
1200 mass at Our Lady of the Universe about 70 people in church
Hollywood Studios
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| 1800 Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run the wait was 60 minutes but I got into the Single Rider line and had the ride completed in 15 minutes |
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance the wait here was also 60 minutes – it was 1830 – however the ride shut down for an indeterminate time. I decided to get a beer and a pretzel at the Baseline Tap House. With a little more than hour before Fantasmic – I went to go see the The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure at 1920..
2000
Fantasmic – Here’s the story line for
the 30 minute show from the Disney App:
Mickey Mouse dreams that he is a mighty sorcerer’s apprentice with the
power to control water and magic. The
Disney Villains – including Maleficent in the form of a 40 foot tall dragon –
turn Mickey’s dream into a nightmare, but don’t underestimate Mickey’s power of
the imagination. The fantasy included
Disney characters from Moana, Frozen 2, Mulan, Aladdin, Pocahontas, Beauty
and the Beast, The little Mermaid and The Lion King. Literally a show of dancing waters . . . barges and some low level fireworks. Not as great as the first time or the second
or the third. This is a close up shot - I sat way back in the bleachers on - stage right.
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| 2040 Disney Movie Magic a 10 minute projection show Center Stage - on the façade of the Chinese Theater – scenes from, Tron, Indiana Jones, Pirates of the Caribbean. A show I’ve never seen before. |
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| 2100 Wonderful World of Animation a 12 minute show that I have never seen before – Center Stage - a projection show on the facade of the Chinese Theater displaying the incredible journey through more than 90 years of Disney and Pixar animation. Ended with a pyrotechnic display. |
Wednesday February 18,
2026 ASH WEDNESDAY
WEATHER: 66 degrees at 8 am – mostly cloudy – forecast high of 82 Sunrise: 0701 Sunset: 1818 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld -Our Lady of the Universe - HGVC Seaworld
0900 Mass at Our Lady of the Universe about 600 people present – the church was full, put not packed – it holds 800, there were additional masses at noon and 6 pm
Read the Battle of Chickamauga: The Terrible Sound by Peter Cozzens
Chapter 9 – “We Shall Soon Be In It” Thomas turns his attention to plugging the gap south
of Connell’s and Van Deveer’s brigades that are between the Reeds Bridge Road
and the McDonald House. Thomas gives the
mission to Johnson’s Division ( Baldwin, Willich, Dodge) and Palmer’s Division
(Hazen, Cruft, Grose). This action takes
place along the Brotherton Road (between the Alexander Bridge Road & La
Fayette Rds) Brock Field. The Confederate Divisions of Liddell (Govan,
Walthall) and Cheatham (Jackson, Smith, Maney, Wright, Strahl) are in the
attack. This area was closed when I
visited in January. The quote is
attributed to COL Allen Buckner of the 75th IL, a former preacher. They soldiers are fought to a standstill.
Chapter 10 – “Give Help Where It Is Needed” supposed admonition of Thomas to Reynolds. Rosecrans tossed aside any consideration for command cohesion, making this a difficult battle to follow, as he peeled off Regiments and Brigades to feed into the fight where needed. This is the continuing story of Bragg’s lost opportunities and federal opportunities . . . . as the fight continues to develop along the Brotherton Road and Brock Field. Sundown pretty much draws a close to the fighting.
1400 ESGR Ombudsman Sustainment Training – DOL VETS
Thursday February 19,
2026
WEATHER: 64 degrees at 6 am
– cloudy – forecast sunny afternoon
-high of 83 Sunrise: 0700 Sunset: 1818 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Our Lady of the Universe – HGVC Seaworld Disney Springs – Riviera via bus – Animal Kingdom via bus – Magic Kingdom via bus – Riviera via bus – Disney Springs – HGVC Seaworld
0900 mass at Our Lady of the Universe
Read the Battle of Chickamauga: The Terrible Sound by Peter Cozzens
Chapter 11 – “A Bellyful of Fighting” Wilder’s
Bde in the wood line of the west Viniard Field; Davis Division, the brigades of
Heg and Carlin, attacks through the woods east Viniard field into the woods,
later joined by Wood’s Division (Buell, Wagner, Harker). The see-saw battles on the afternoon of 18 Se9
1863 in the Viniard Fields. The
confederates of Gregg’s Bde attacking, joined by Law’s Division (Roberston, Sheffington,
Benning). The quote from SGT Joseph Polley of the 4th TX (Robertson’s
Brigade, Hood’s (Laws) Division as
straggler passed through their lines ”Them fellers an’ none of those hirelin’s you have in
Viginny – they ae Western fellers, an’ they’ll m8ghty quick give you a bellyful
of fightin”.
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| Avatar Flight of Passage |
DinoLand USA permanently
closed February 2, 2026.to make way for a new Tropical Americas. The Dinosaur ride will be replaced with attractions featuring
Encanto and Indiana Jones.
I decided to spend $17 for the Lightning Lane. Unfortunately, the times are assigned –
based
on availability – they started at 1 in the afternoon – so I changed them to all
late in the afternoon – to get them closer together.
3:00 Avatar Flight of Passage – a 65 minute wait – it seemed to go fast and once you get into the ride it’s a 20 minute experience – still may be the best experience at Disney. I had planned to ride Kali River Rapids expecting a 35 minute wait – it was 90 minutes
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| 4:25 – 5:25 Kilimanjaro Safaris Lightning Lane 5:10 another 15 minute walk, literally walked right on for a 25 mi journey – not much humor with the driver |
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| 4:30 - Finding Nemo: The Big Blue …and Beyond a 15 minute walk from Avatar for a 25 minute show and Finding Nemo |
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| 5:35 – 6:35 Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain Lightning Lane 5:45 planned this wrong - another 15 minute walk back from the Safari – didn’t expect to ride Avatar – I thought Kali River Rapids was going to be the first ride today |
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| 6:20 – 7:00 Na’vi River Journey Lightning Lane 6:20 another 15 minute walk back to Pandora – got here a little early – 6:10 had to wait a bit for the window to open |
The park closed at 7 pm – I took a bus to the Magic Kingdom
Magic Kingdom Using the Park Hopper feature of the pass I took a bus to the Magic Kingdom
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| I stood on the corner of Main Street near the west entrance |
7:45 Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away – a nighttime parade inspired by the classical Disney Main Street Electrical Parade – arrived about 7:30 – I watched from the Main Street Circle at the park entrance – not knowing that the parade started there coming from behind the post office – going around the circle and up Mian Street toward the castle. I thought I’d stay for the fireworks – it was 8:00 – I enjoyed the parade but was tired and I decided to leave. Back at HGVC by 9:30.
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| Starlight Parade Beauty & the Beast |
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| Starlight Parade Peter Pan & Wendy |
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| Starlight Parade - Mickey and friends |
Friday February 20,
2026
WEATHER: 64 degrees at 7 am
– forecast thigh of 87 Sunrise: 0700 Sunset:
1819 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld
0900 Mass at Our Lady of the Universe about 60 people present
Read the Battle of Chickamauga: The Terrible Sound by Peter Cozzens
Chapter 11 – “They Skedaddled In Fine Style” the afternoon fighting around the Brotherton Farm had much in common with the simultaneous fight at the Viniard Farm. There were an overabundance of Union generals but no one firmly in charge. Parts of the divisions of Van Cleve , Reynolds and Palmer were present being attacked by Stewart’s and Fulton’s divisions. It was a struggle of brigades vs. brigades. Regimental commander could rarely see the end of both of their lines. Still a fight for the La Fayette Road the federals were still along the Brotherton Road. There were 20 federal guns and 20 regimental flags along Brotherton Ridge by 3:45 pm. The confederates could rarely get a place to sight their cannon
Chapter 12 – “We Bury Our Dead” Brotherton Ridge is flanked on the south by COL Snowden’s 25 TN as the brigades of Fulton and Clayton cross the La Fayette Road and cause the north end of the ridgeline defense to crumble. Rout ensues. Hazen pieces together another line near the Poe house. The Confederates were everywhere but there were no reinforcements to exploit the penetration. The 20 federal guns firing across Poe Field decimate Bates’ brigade with grape and canister – those confederates are covered in dust – leading a cannoneer to say ‘We bury our dead.’ The confederates are stopped at Dyer Field by the divisions of Negley and Brannan from the north. Harker’ s federal brigade comes up the La Fayette Road from the south.
Saturday February 21,
2026
WEATHER: 63 degrees at 6 am
– clear – forecast sunny high of 87 Sunrise: 0759 Sunset:
1820 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Disney Springs – Animal Kingdom Lodge via bus – Animal Kingdom via bus – Riviera via bus – Disney Springs via bus – Bahama Breeze – HGVC Seaworld
Read the Battle of Chickamauga: The Terrible Sound by Peter Cozzens
Chapter 14 – “The Night Seemed to Quake and Tremble
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| Purchase of this Snow Leopard was the reason for the trip to Animal Kingdom |
Chapter 15 – “If Only I Could Drown Out This Terrible Sound” Night falls on the battlefield. It is cold and there is no water. “The groans from thousands . . . Oh, if I could only drown out this terrible sound” Alva Griest Co B 75 IN. There were also many acts of kindness between enemies on the battlefield that night.
Animal Kingdom
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| Outside every room at Animal Kingdom Lodge is the savannah |
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| Animal Kingdom Lodge you would not expect anything less |
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| Rafiki's Planet Watch A train ride to the Conservation Station where there was a Disney artist showing people how to draw Disney animal cartoons |
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| Birds of Flight a half hour show |
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| Artist's Concept - Tropical America - this replaces DinoLand |
Sunday February 22,
2026
WEATHER: 64 degrees at 5 am
– forecast – cloudy – high of 74 Sunrise: 0658 Sunset:
1820 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld
0800 Mass Our Lady of the Universe 1st Sunday of Lent – about 400 people present at 8 am
Read the Battle of Chickamauga: The Terrible Sound by Peter Cozzens
Chapter 16 – God Grant It May Be So Rosecrans HQ
is at the Glenn cabin – he is exhausted – overworked – health broken – ILO
aggressiveness he is passive and his orders discretionary. Longstreet arrives around 2pm – no one to
greet or guide him – Bragg decides to reorganize the army giving Polk the Right
Wing; Longstreet the Left – D.H. Hill is relegated to being a Corps Commander. Few knew Bragg wanted an attack at daylight.
Chapter 17 – “If They Begin It, We Will End It” Polk
wakes up at dawn, the time Bragg wanted him to begin battle. Frost is on the ground. Confusion in the
Confederate high command. Orders from
Polk never get to D.H. Hill. Bragg looks
for a scapegoat. Delays give time to the
Federals who are also in a state of confusion.
Rosecrans is up and adjusting his line.
The quote is attributed to Rosecrans.
Longstreet has an attack column five brigades deep.
Chapter 18 “The Left Must Be Held” The fight in McDonald and Kelly Field. Breckinridge’s brigades of Helm, Adams and
Stovall advance at 9:30 am. Adams and
Stovell start at the north through the McDonald Farm Helm, the
brother-in-law of Abraham Lincoln, is at the south end of the line is
KIA. Adams and Stovall cross the
La Fayette Road and defeat Beatty. They
move south and face the brigades of Stanley, Beatty, Van DeVeer and Grose in
Kelly Field. By noon they are pushed
back to regroup, for lack of follow-on reinforcements.
The US HOCKEY TEAM USA won the Gold Medal at the Olympics for the first time since 1980.
Monday February 23,
2026
WEATHER: 46 degrees at 6 am
– clear – forecast high of 54 Sunrise: 0657 Sunset:
1821Orlando, FL
COLD
WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 3 AM TO 9 AM EST MONDAY... ...FREEZE WATCH IN
EFFECT FROM LATE MONDAY NIGHT THROUGH TUESDAY MORNING - National Weather
Service
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Our Lady of the Universe – HGVC Seaworld - Disney Springs – Fort Wilderness Lodge – Magic Kingdom – Riviera – Disney Springs – HGVC Seaworld
1200 Mass at Our Lady of the Universe
Read the Battle of Chickamauga: The Terrible Sound by Peter Cozzens
Chapter 19 - “To Fire At Those Breastworks Seemed
Foolish” Cleburne’s division of Wood, Polk and Deshler find
attack Poe Field to be foolish and futile.
They faced 5 batteries and the brigades of Hazen and Cruft behind
breastworks. Stewarts division of
Johnson, Bate , Brown and Clayton also attempt the attack across Poe Field to
the north and beaten back by artillery and the brigades of King and
Connell. Deshler is KIA. Walker’s Reserve Corps of Gist, Ector,
Wilson, Liddell, and Walthall could have exploited the flanking move that Adams
and Stovall initiated but D.H. Hill misses the opportunity and feeds the
brigades piecemeal into the fight.
Chapter 20 – “Gentlemen, I Hold The Fatal Order Of The Day” Rosecrans was thoroughly committed to his left and wanted to shift the army that way. Orders are issued by the General Commanding and written/delivered by staff officers. The division of Brannon (Connell, Croxton, Van Deveer) it ordered from Kelly Field to assist Thomas. Brannon does not move. Rosecrans says ‘if Brannan goes out Wood must fille his place.’ And so the order was written. Wood’ Division (Barnes, Harker, Buell was the wood line west of the Brotherton Field. Wood could have/should have clarified the order – HQ was 600 yds away a 5 minute ride, but Wood, having a written order, moves.
Chapter 21 – “All Was A Sickening Confusion” Longstreet had 8 brigades, 11,000 soldiers lined up in column, 5 lines deep, in the woods about 600 yards east of the La Fayette Road. The width of the column was about the width of the Brotherton Field. The brigades of Gregg, Fulton and McNair were in the first line; the second line consisted of the remaining regiments of Gregg’s brigade, the third line included Perry’s brigade, the fourth was Benning’s brigade and , the fifth line consisted of the brigades of Kershaw and Humphreys. Federal artillery mainly opposed them since Wood’s division, which was in the trees on the west side of the field, was moving north.
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| Fort Wilderness |
1710 Fort Wilderness – stayed here once in a trailer – flew down - rented a car - probably the mid 80’s – over Thanksgiving - Amy was 3. After several days here we drove down to Fort Myers Beach to spend Thanksgiving with Grandma and Grandpa Bauer. They were renting a condo in Punta Casa. This place seemed extremely friendly – inviting. Perhaps, the most friendly of the Disney resorts. Took the Yellow Bus from the entrance to the Settlement and visited Crockett’s Tavern.
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| 1650 Pirates of the Caribbean a 25 minute wait - lucky for me I got on the ride. I checked later and it had eventually shut down for the night. Dead men tell no tales & Yo ho Yo ho a pirates life for me |
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| 1835 Tiana’s Bayou Adventure – 5 minute wait – it took 5 minutes to walk through the queue to the on the ride – no one was riding – it was 51 degrees out – I did get my face and hair wet - I could have put the hood on my sweatshirt up - the first three rows of my boat were empty. |
I had intended to go on the Haunted Mansion, however, it had just shut down when I got there. It was down for the rest of the evening.
1905 It’s A Small World – a 15 minute wait - “It’s a world of laughter, a world of tears. It’s a world of hope and a world of fears. There’s so much that we share, that it’s time were aware it’s a small, small world” Second verse not like the first: “There is just one moon, and one golden sun. And a smile means friendship to everyone. Though the mountains divide, and the oceans are wide. It’s a small, small world.”
1940 Ariel’s Grotto – a musical journey in a clam shell.
1950 Mad Hatter Teacups – no wait – got right on – a short ride
2000 Mickey’s Philharmagic – still a good show – Goofy’s the stage manger bumbling around the theater – you never see him – a 3D show with wind and water and sweet smells blowing in your face. Mickey’s Orchestra, but Donald puts on the Sorcerer’s hat and takes a spin through the tunes of “Be Our Guest” – “Part of My World” – Thinking of Wonderful Thoughts” – “Under the Sea”
2020 Tomorrow Land Speedway – literally no wait – first time I ever rode this at night.
2235 Carousel of Progress – introduced at the 1964 World’s Fair this ride shows the changes brought to the US since 1900. Then the 1920’s, the 1940’s. No mention of the World Wars – I think this was originally sponsored by GE. Like the Hall of Presidents, this was Walt’s idea – no matter how ‘hoaky’ – something tells me its not going to disappear soon. It’s been updated to the present walked right on and got off just before the fireworks started.
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2300 Happily Ever After- a fireworks display featuring lights, lasers and special effects – including new projections down Main Street. This is the best Disney has to offer.
Tuesday February 24,
2026
WEATHER: 41 degrees at 7 am
– sunny and clear - forecast high of 59 Sunrise: 0656 Sunset:
1822 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Our Lady of the Universe – HGVC Seaworld
Read the Battle of Chickamauga: The Terrible Sound by Peter Cozzens
Chapter 22 - “No More Show Than A Broken-Backed Cat” The
Confederate attack across the Brotherton Field continues through the Tan Yard to
the Dry Valley Road. Deas’ confederate
brigade laps Carlin’s – Martin’s federal brigade is overcome by Sugg’s – Laiboldt’s
federal brigade on the forward sloped of Lytle Hill was ordered by McCook to
attack. Laiboldt was in a good defensive position if
supported – the attack was doomed.
Patton Anderson’s confederate brigade attacks Lytle’s. Lytle is KIA.
He was a friend of and respected by many of the Confederates in
Anderson’s command. Sheridan concluded
that resistance was futile and leads a column to Missionary Ridge. McCook also retreats, as does Rosecrans. Wilder’s brigade comes the north and pours
fire into the confederate flank (Manigault’s brigade). Preston’s (Gracie, Trigg, Kelly’s confederate
division was supposed to be on Manigault’s flank. Dana forbade Wilder, insisted that Wilder withdraw at once. Wilder started toward McFarland’s Gap up the
Dry Valley Road.
STATE OF THE UNION – did not watch it – not feeling
well - tired
Wednesday February 25,
2026
WEATHER: 38 degrees at 7 am – clear
and sunny - high of 70
Sunrise: 0655 Sunset:
1822 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Our Lady of the Universe – Disney Springs – Old Key West via bus – Hollywood Studios via bus – Coronado Springs via bus – Disney Springs via bus – HGVC Seaworld
Still not tip top shape – tired – probably a fever
1200 Mass at Our Lady of the Universe – about 80 people in church – mass said by 3 priests
Read the Battle of Chickamauga: The Terrible Sound by Peter Cozzens
Chapter 23 – “The Signs Grew Rapidly Worse” Major
Mendenhall, Chief of Artillery for Van Cleve’s Division had massed 16 guns on a
long narrow ridge that marked the western limit of the Dyer Farm (3 WI Btry, 26
PA Btry, 17 IN Btry). Just north of the
ridge was a lightly wooded knoll the held the 6 guns of Btry M 1 OH Light
Artillery. After the breakthrough
Mendenhall’s position acted like a magnet for federal batteries chased out of Dyer
Field. Btry H 4 US, came to the right of
the 3rd WI and the 8 IN Bttry was right of H 4 US, finally D 1 MI
Artillery came adding to a toal of 29 cannons.
They were attacked by the brigades of Sugg, McNair, Perry and Robertson. Crittenden heads to Chattanooga. Rosecrans at noon also decides to quite the
field.
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| Old Key West Resort |
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| Old Key West map |
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| Coronado Springs Resort and Convention Center -just didn't have the feel of a place you'd call home |
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| Coronado Springs a huge complex |
Thursday February 26,
2026
WEATHER: 53 degrees at 7 am
– forecast partly cloudy high of 77 Sunrise: 0654 Sunset: 1823 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Our Lady of the Universe – HGVC Seaworld
Still tired – slight sore throat – maybe the cold and water and late night was a bit much
0900 Mass at Our Lady of the Universe – about 60 people in church
Read the Battle of Chickamauga: The Terrible Sound by Peter Cozzens
Chapter 24 – “They Can Kill US But Never Whip Us” Wood and his division run into Thomas, Wood
shows Thomas the ‘fateful order’ and asks him if he will take reposnibiity for
changing it. Thomas says ‘yes.’ Wood rides to the rear of his column along
the Glenn-Kelly Road, he faces the soldiers of Robertson’s Texas Brigade. The goal was to seize Snodgrass Hill and
destroy Thomas’ line. Wood’s
counterattack neutralized two confederate brigades and bought time for for
Brannan to put together a defense of Snodgrass hill. Hood WIA – hit in the leg. The federals are called to ‘cease fire’ and
‘put their flags up’ thinking the confederates in the filed dressed in blue are friendly. The 58 IN is routed and dooms Harker’s
brigade which retreats to Snodgrass Hill.
Chapter 25 – “Give Us A Position To Hold” Horseshoe Ridge looked more like an octopus with short tentacles – in reality there were three hills separated by ravines. Brannan(Connell, Hays) and Negley (Sirwell, Bridges IL Btry, I 4 US Arty) set up the defense while Harker was ‘buying time.’ 21 OH had 7 companies armed with five shot Colt revolving rifles. It was a patchwork line. Negley starts for Rossville with 700 mend and 22 cannon on the Dry Valley Road ‘for the safety of the artillery.’ Kershaw attempts attacks. Humphry’s (Barksdale’s) brigade is turned back – he was no Barksdale.
Friday February 27,
2026
WEATHER: 66 degrees at 7 am
– cloudy
- forecast rain with high of 80 Sunrise: 0653 Sunset: 1824 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Our Lady of the Universe – Disney Springs – Saratoga Springs/LBV Golf walked – Hollywood Studios via bus – Ports Orleans French Quarter via bus – Port Orleans Riverside via boat – Disney Springs via boat – HGVC Seaworld
Now a runny nose . . . no doubt I caught something . . . . did laundry, packed, read, rested
Read the Battle of Chickamauga: The Terrible Sound by Peter Cozzens
Chapter 26 – “Thomas Is Having A Hell Of A Fight” The attacks of Jonson and Keshaw on Horseshoe
Ridge were not coordinated, due to the presence of a senior officer to take
control The attacks begin at the Vittetoe
Road. Keshaw runs into the ‘firepower of
a division’ when facing the Colt revolving rifles of the 21 OH.
Chapter 27 – “A Few Are Holding Out Up Yonder” Longstreet and Buckner recon the lines and run into the breastworks of Kings brigade which the correctly interpreted as the right flank of Thomas’ line in Kelly Field. The reserve artillery is placed near the charred remains of the Poe House. They di not see the gap that existed in the woods between King and Harker. In essence a victory, yet Bragg refuses to see victory – he clings to his plan of rolling up the Federal left. A see saw fight continues on Horseshoe Ridge. Fatigue was taking its toll on the Confederates. Deas brigade breaks against Laiboldt, Manigault’s brigade splits in two. Johnson sends in Coleman’s brigade to support Deas. Anderson’s brigade gives in before the Colt rifles of the 21 OH. In effect Johnson’s division attack collapses.
1200 Mass at Our Lady of the Universe
TSA, the USCG and the Secret Service are not getting paid – politicians can be disgusting
Saturday February 28, 2026
WEATHER: 66 degrees at 8 am
– partly cloudy - forecast high of 71 – rain in the afternoon Sunrise: 0652 Sunset: 1824 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld
HGVC Sea World – not perfect but I still like this place. Good location – quiet for the most past – I have no great interest in the pools but they’re entertaining for the kids – DESK STAFF continues to live up to expectations: I gave them a letter to mail Feb 12, it was postmarked Feb 18. WIFI works but downloading pictures from my phone to the PC does not work during the day – only between 2300 and 0600 – I can only guess why. I attempted to use the Health Center once – the treadmill machine wanted my email and phone number before it would let me use it – NOT. I didn’t even bring my phone with me. 95% of the staff always pleasant – mostly Housekeeping and Maintenance. I’m not sure the people in suits and heels even celebrate Christmas - in the manner of Scrooge – Bah! Humbug!
TODAY THE US AND ISREAL ATTACKED IRAN DESTROYING MILITARY PRODUCTION FACILITES OF MISSILES AND NUCLEAR WEAPONS. AYOTOLLAH KHAMENEI IS DEAD. NEGOTIATIONS HAVE BEEN GOING ON FOR YEARS – MONTHS – IRAN WOULD NOT CEASE MAKING NUCLEAR WEAPONS. THEY WOULD NOT SUBMIT TO UN INSPECTIONS. A VIOLATION OF INTERNATIONAL LAW. DESCRIBED AS A “HIGH RISK – HIGH REWARD” SCENARIO. OPEATION EPIC FURY.
TODAY IS THE 35th ANNIVERSARY OF THE END OF
THE GULF WAR.
AND THE DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY ISN’T FUNDED – BUT NOBDY’S TALKING ABOUT THAT - ‘we don’t talk about Bruno’
Sunday March 1, 2026
WEATHER: Sunrise: 0650 Sunset: 1825 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Seaworld – Our Lady of the Universe - Hilton Grand Vacation Parc Soleil
1000 mass at Our Lady of the Universe the choir is always worth the visit.
Lunch at Denny’s
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| Parc Soleil the 100 Building is on the left the 200 Building is behind the palms |
1 BR. Of course, the room wasn’t ready at 12:30 pm – but amazingly, it was 15 minutes later – check-in is at 4 pm.
This is also the location of Hilton’s Main Sales Center. That one wing of the complex floats with sleaze . . . . many of those people could/would sell their mother’s and their own souls in order to close a sale. They care not a plug-nickel for you. Good actors . . . . but heartless.
I’m in the wing with sleaze (100 Building) but on the 14th floor, nice view facing south. I guess I forgot that there was a parking structure on the left. The room is larger than Seaworld, deeper, wider, slightly different layout. No problem with downloading photos from my phone here. The network connection is Hilton Honors – pretty sure the problem is that Seaworld needs an upgrade.
Monday March 2, 2026
WEATHER: 60 degrees at 7 am
– sunny – forecast – high of 75 Sunrise: 0649 Sunset: 1826 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Parc Soleil – Our Lady of the Universe - Hilton Grand Vacation Parc Soleil
0900 mass at Our Lady of the Universe about 60 people in church
Read the Battle of Chickamauga: The Terrible Sound by Peter Cozzens Chapter 28 – “I Never Saw Better Fighting” A quote attributed to MG James A. Garfield (COS) to MG W.S. Rosecrans regarding MG Thomas’s troops on Horseshoe Ridge. Negley, Sheridan, and Davis can’t quite agree on how to support Thomas if at all. They know the Federal Army is retreating. The Confederate Division of Preston (Gracie, Trigg, Kelly) is committed. There is savage fighting between the 2 AL Bn and 11 MI. About 4:30 Thomas receives an order to fall back. Ammo is running low. Thomas makes plans to do so.
Tuesday March 3, 2026
WEATHER: 62 degrees at 6 am
– cloudy – rained for three hours in
the afternoon forecast high of 78
Sunrise:
0648 Sunset: 1826 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Parc Soleil – Our Lady of the Universe – Disney Springs – All Star Sports via bus – walked to All Star Music - walked to All Star Movies – bus to Hollywood Studios – Skyglider to Caribbean Village transfer station – Skyglider to Riviera – Disney Springs via bus - Hilton Grand Vacation Parc Soleil
0900 mass at Our Lady of the Universe
Read the Battle of Chickamauga: The Terrible Sound by Peter Cozzens Chapter 29 – “Don’t Waste Any Cartridges Boys” Rosecrans was apparently ‘used up’. In the Kelly Field, Palmer and Johnson were worried all afternoon they hears the sound of battle from Snodgrass Hill. Hazen’s brigade is sent to assist. On Hill 1 Gracie gave a command to withdraw just as Beatty and Stoughton decided to counterattack. On Hill 2 COL John Kelly’s brigade was to within 15 paces of the federal works and - fires – but believes them to be friendly troops and ceases fire and the attack stalls. Trigg attacks. Thomas orders a withdrawal. The words doesn’t get to everyone.
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| All Star Music |
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| All Star Sports |
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| All Star Movies |
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| The layout and setup of All Star resorts is similar |
1150 Rise of the Resistance - the wait was 40 minutes - it was actually about 30 - during/after the ride I found out there was a Single Rider line could have saved 15 minutes - The Imperial Guards on this ride are still snotty and snobbish and arrogant - I'd call them 'scum' but I may have gotten tased . . . this ride is still more of an 'experience' than a ride - you're a rebel prisoner trying to escape from a Star Cruiser. It is a 20 minute experience from beginning to end - I fear a lot of people just don't get it - I still feel intimated as a POW
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| Rise of the Resistance in an escape pod |
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| Rise of the Resistance - Kylo Ren |
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| This is the lobby of the Riviera and this Daisy had some spunk - she really wanted to interact with the guests - and it appeared that it was much to the chagrin of the 'handler/helper' This Daisy just didn't want to quit. |
Wednesday March 4, 2026
WEATHER: 63 degrees at 6 am
– foggy – burned off by 0930 - forecast high in the 80’s Sunrise: 0647 Sunset: 1827 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Parc Soleil – Our Lady of the Universe - Hilton Grand Vacation Parc Soleil
HGVC Parc Soleil - not without its WIFI issues - slow to respond in the evenings - when I'm sure many people are using the network - but still much more responsive than Seaworld
0900 mass at Our Lady of the Universe almost 80 people in church
Read the Battle of Chickamauga: The Terrible Sound by Peter Cozzens Chapter 30 – “The Storm Broke Loose” On the Confederate Right Wing Polk renewed the assault. Finally Hill’s units attack. The federals attempt a breakout of sorts. The 10 WI ran into the Clayton’s Alabamians and surrender 143 men. The Confederate pursuit stopped at the La Fayette Road. On Horseshoe Ridge Trigg and Kelly agree to trap the Federals on Hill 3. Only Kelly is called off to see Preston. Trigg continues and captures three union regiments. On Hill 2 there is confusion and disagreement among the federals. Finally, darkness and the federals move to the rear.
Chapter 31 – “God Help Me To Bear It Alright” McCook’s brigade was the last federal unit to leave the battlefield. Defeat – leaving dead and wounded on the battlefield - this had never happened to this army in the past. Sheridan meets Thomas at Rossville Gap – Thomas says nothing about the days fight – Thomas meets Scribner – nothing is said about the day’s fight. Thomas is responsible for defending the gap. The army is is in disarray. However, Bragg does not pursue. Even Longstreet and Polk are unaware that Thomas has left the field. The Army of the Tennessee has never found itself in possesision of the battlefield. Longstreet, Hill, Polk and Forrest want to pursue the Federals. “Every hour is worth a thousand men.” (Forrest) Bragg does nothing. The federals reorganize and retreat to Chattanooga.
Chapter 32 – “Denunciations Fierce And Strong” Stanton finally sends Howards XI Corps and Slocum XII Corps west. Burnside is ordered to assist Rosecrans. Stanton decides to relieve Rosecrans but reorganizes the west so that Grant is the overall commander and lets Grant do it. Thomas is put in charge of the Army reporting to Grant. Bragg targets his officers for insubordination . . . . Polk is relieved and will not ever again serve under Bragg. Twelve generals sign a petition to remove Bragg from command. Jeff Davis does not act on the request. Bragg wants D. H. Hill removed, Longstreet is sent to Knoxville. Twenty years later D.H. Hill writes “ . . . That barren victory sealed the fate of the Southern Confederacy.”
THE END
This is the second time I've read this book and I'm looking forward to visiting Chickamauga on the way home to dive deeper into the second day of the battle. Finally, beginning to see how the Battle of Chickamauga developed - was won - and was lost
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| St. Michael the Archangel Our Lady of the Universe Pope Leo XIII wrote the Prayer to St, Michael the Archangel in 1884 The prayer was said after mass until the 1960's |
Thursday March 5, 2026
WEATHER: 66 degrees at 6 am – cloudy
– forecast partly cloudy- high of 82 humid Sunrise: 0647 Sunset:
1827 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Parc Soleil – Our Lady of the Universe – Disney Springs – Riviera via bus - Magic Kingdom via bus – Contemporary via monorail - Disney Springs via bus -Hilton Grand Vacation Parc Soleil
0900 mass at Our Lady of the Universe 60 people at mass
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| Mermaid Lagoon on Peter Pan's Flight It was a 40 minute wait |
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| Contemporary Hotel 4th Floor Monorail Station |
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| Tom Sawyer's Island is being reconstructed in Frontierland This sign was on one of the construction walls |
2200 SERRA ZOOM DISTRICT GOVERNOR TRAINING
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| As Operation Epic Fury began Secretary of War - Peter Hegseth had a Senior Leadership Brief already planned the the Leadership of the National Guard. Seems he didn't miss a beat. He Secretary Rubio and Trump - it seems the whole cabinet came together on the action. They are 'professional' leaders. I wonder what was said at this conference? |
The following is from a NGAUS email dated
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth underscored the Department of War’s top
priorities in a meeting with National Guard leaders Feb. 25 at the Herbert R.
Temple Army National Guard Readiness Center in Arlington, Virginia. They are
restoring the warrior ethos, rebuilding the military and reestablishing
deterrence.
In attendance were the adjutants general and Air Force Gen. Steven Nordhaus,
National Guard Bureau chief, Army Gen. Thomas Carden, NGB vice chief and Senior
Enlisted Advisor John Raines. The
adjutants general were in the Washington, D.C., area this week for their annual
three-day winter meeting. They met Monday and Tuesday at the National Guard
Memorial, the NGAUS headquarters, as the Adjutants General Association of the
United States.
During the Feb. 25 meeting, Hegseth outlined the Guard’s critical alignment
with the 2026 National Defense Strategy — the Pentagon’s guiding document for
implementing the core pillars of President Donald Trump’s National Security
Strategy: America first, peace through strength and common sense.
Hegseth praised the “great work being done” by the Guard in support of the NDS,
which prioritizes homeland defense first, deterring China in the Indo-Pacific
region through strength rather than confrontation, increasing burden-sharing
with allies and partners and supercharging the U.S. defense industrial
base. “This group is central to
reestablishing the United States’ deterrence,” Hegseth told the adjutants
general. “That charge fell quickly to the National Guard, which has been
instrumental in establishing 100% operational control of our southern border —
the baseline of our deterrence. The Guard fills gaps as we are layering more
effects to close them.”
Hegseth emphasized that the U.S. cannot be a sovereign country without control
of its own borders. Since January 2025, more than 18,000 Guardsmen have
supported operations on the southern border, contributing to the lowest level
of U.S.-Mexico border crossings in over 50 years. The secretary also highlighted cities like
Memphis, Tennessee, New Orleans and Washington, which, he said, have each seen
sharp reductions in violent crime, due in part to a uniformed Guard presence
working alongside law enforcement partners.
“I salute those who embraced coming alongside law enforcement agencies
to make our cities safer,” Hegseth said. “It’s just like in the aftermath of
natural disasters — the Guard adds huge value, and they make people feel safer
where they live. Their incredible professionalism goes a long way.”
During the State of the Union the evening before, Trump awarded two West
Virginia Guardsmen, Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe and Army Spc. Sarah
Beckstrom, the Purple Heart, following the attack in Washington that took
Beckstrom’s life while both were on duty as part of the D.C. Safe and Beautiful
Task Force.
The secretary reminded the generals that the Guard is vital to homeland
defense.
Army Guardsmen in Alaska, California and Colorado operate the department's only
capability to defeat intercontinental ballistic missile strikes with defensive
interceptor missiles.
In addition, 16 of the 17 Aerospace Alert Control sites are operated by Air
Guardsmen in conjunction with North American Aerospace Defense Command, to
launch fighters at any time to intercept, inspect, influence and defeat
potential airborne threats, 24/7. Guardsmen also sustain enduring missions in
counterdrug operations and cyber defense.
With 435,000 total service members, the Guard provides 20% of the U.S. joint
force at about 4% of the defense budget. Regarding force strength, the Army
Guard constitutes 40% of the Army’s operational force, fielding eight full
divisions, while the Air Guard
provides 30% of the Air Force’s operational forces across 90
wings.
Hegseth also applauded the Guard’s integral role in high-profile
missions such as Operation Midnight Hammer, which showcased exquisite
warfighting capabilities and combat experience. A former Army Guard infantry officer who
served in units across six states, he noted the unique skill sets that reside
in the Guard, where members balance civilian careers with service. He stressed the Guard also advances both the
second and third pillars of the NDS — deterring China in the Indo-Pacific
region through strength rather than confrontation and increasing burden-sharing
with allies and partners — through State Partnership Program. The SPP now encompasses partnerships with 116
nations linked to the National Guard of a state, territory or D.C. Of those, 18
are in the Indo-Pacific area of operations, and 30 are in Central and South
America, supporting counter-narcoterrorism efforts and enabling partners to
lead regionally. “Military-to-military
partnerships pay off in spades, and the SPP is a bedrock of that,” he said.
“Countries are ready to go when they see we are with them.”
He noted the ingenuity of Guard Soldiers and Airmen in leveraging skills and
experience to help shape future warfighting equipment.
“We welcome your feedback and bottom-up input from the troop-level to know we’re fielding the right systems, when and where we need them.” On the personnel side, Hegseth said one facet of restoring the warrior ethos is to reduce or eliminate unnecessary “mandatory” trainings and slideshow briefings and instead, empower commanders and noncommissioned officers to lead lethality-focused training. “We hope it makes drill weekend and annual training a little better,” he said.
Friday March 6, 2026
WEATHER: 69 degrees at 6 am
– clear – forecast – high of 85 Sunrise: 0645 Sunset: 1828 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Parc Soleil – Our Lady of the Universe - Hilton Grand Vacation Parc Soleil
WIFI very slow this morning
DAY 7 of Operation Epic Fury – Trump calls for Iran’s UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER
DAY 20 of the partial shutdown defunding the
Department of Homeland Security –
Kristi Noem is reassigned as Secretary, Democrats say a new secretary is not
needed but basically get rid of Trump, she was ‘corrupt’ – so says Hakeem
Jeffries
1200 mass at Our Lady of the Universe about 120 people in church
Saturday March 7, 2026
WEATHER: 69 degrees at 7 am
– clear – forecast high of 84 Sunrise: 0643 Sunset: 1829 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Parc Soleil – Disney Springs – Yacht Club via bus – EPCOT via Friendship Boat – Riviera via Skyway Glider – Disney Springs via bus – Our Lady of the Universe – Longhorn Steakhouse - HGVC Parc Soleil
Hilton Grand Vacation Parc Soleil
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| Dockside Margaritas -Disney Springs The margarita was refreshing, the Corona was nursed gently and this duo was a joy to listen to. The Bettys They were here two years ago |
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| EPCOT - France I went here for crepes, to see "Impressions of France" again, and to have a beignet with coffee. The crepes was cold, "Impressions" was closed for refurbishment, and I said 'to heck with beignet' |
1600 mass at Our Lady of the Universe – Third Sunday of lent – Gospel: Woman at the Well – the mass was in Spanish – about 275 in attendance close to 100 were first time attendees at Our Lady of the Universe
Sunday March 8, 2026
WEATHER: 68 degrees at 7 am – foggy
- forecast clearing by 1000 – high of 86
Sunrise:
0742 Sunset: 1929 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Hilton Grand Vacation Club Parc Soleil – Ergas Las Palmeras – Universal – Millers Ale House – Reunion Resort – Wal-Mart – Reunion Resort – Milles Ale House – Reunion Resort
DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS
REUNION RESORT - staying with Chad & Sara for a few days in a 3 BR, 3 Bath, lower level condo on one of the golf courses. They’re here for 28 days. This place is just down the road from Mystic Dunes (3 miles) and Wal-Mar (about 5 miles).
Monday March 9, 2026
WEATHER: 63 degrees at 7 am – foggy
- forecast clearing – high of 86 Sunrise: 0740 Sunset:
1931 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Reunion Resort – Disney Springs – Yacht Club via bus – walk to Swan – walk to Dolphin – walk to Boardwalk – Friendship Boat to Swan/Dolphin to Hollywood – Skyglider to Caribbean Beach Transfer Station – Skyglider to Riviera to EPCOT – Monorail to Disney Transportation Center – Monorail to Polynesian to Grand Floridian – Disney Springs via bus – Reunion Resort
EPCOT Le Creperie de Paris – breakfast/brunch - beer American Adventure Gran Fiesta Tour
Tuesday March 10, 2026
WEATHER: 63 degrees at 8 am – sunny – forecast high of 86 Sunrise: 0740 Sunset: 1931 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Reunion Resort – Pet Paradise Day Care - Disney
Springs – Riviera via bus – Skyglider to Caribbean Village to Hollywood –
Coronado Springs via bus – Disney Springs via bus – Reunion Resort
Pet Paradise Day Care, 7107 Palm Parkway, Lake Buena Vista, FL – this place is literally just down the block from Parc Soleil - a doggie day care for ‘Daisy’ – resort staff and vets for dogs – Day Camp and overnight boarding
Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After
Baseline Tap House
Star Tours – The Adventure Continues
The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure
Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway
For the Frist Time in Forever: A Musical Sing-Along
Celebration
Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular!
50’s Prime Time Café - dinner - waitress from Matoon, IL
Fantasmic!
Wednesday March 11,
2026
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| Corpus Christi Church |
WEATHER: 67 degrees at 8 am – sunny – forecast high of 86
Sunrise: 0740 Sunset:
1931 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Reunion Resort – Corpus Christi Catholic
Church – Pet Paradise Day Care –
Reunion Resort – Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar
– Reunion Resort
0900 mass at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 1050 Celebration Ave, Kissimmee, FL - Sara accompanied me, there were about 70 people in church
Thursday March 12 2026
WEATHER: 70 degrees at 6 am – partly
cloudy – forecast high of 86 – rain in the afternoon Sunrise: 0739 Sunset:
1933 Orlando, FL
TRAVEL: Reunion Resort – Pet Paradise - Disney Springs – Riviera via bus –Animal Kingdom via bus – Disney Springs via bus – Pet Paradise - Reunion Resort The traffic on I-4 and 192 today was ‘beastly’ slow
Zootopia: Better Together
Finding Nemo Beyond the Big Blue
Dawa Bar
Nomad Lounge
Friday March 13 2026
WEATHER: 63 degrees at 7 am –
cloudy – forecast high of 79 mostly cloudy Sunrise: 0738 Sunset:
1934 Orlando, FL
DAY ONE...Today and Tonight A High Wind Warning remains in effect for gusts up to 60 mph possible Tree branches may be blown down and power outages may occur. Scattered snow showers possible north of I-94 this morning. Could see scattered slick spots develop during the morning commute.
DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Saturday through Thursday A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for the entire region Saturday evening through Monday afternoon. Significant accumulating snow, blowing snow, and wintry mix are possible. Pay close attention to the forecast if planning to travel during this timeframe.
TRAVEL: Reunion Resort – Celebration, FL - Reunion Resort – Rock & Brew – Reunion Resort
0900 mass at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, Celebration, FL -
Saturday March 14, 2026
WEATHER: 70 degrees at 6 am –
cloudy - rain until 10 am in north-central Florida - high of 78 in Georgia Sunrise: 0736 Orlando, FL Sunset: 1949 Fort
Oglethorpe, GA
TRAVEL: Reunion Resort – Chickamauga National Battlefield - Hampton Inn, 6875 Battlefield, Pkwy, Fort Oglethorpe, GA
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| National Weather Service Map Saturday evening 14 March 2026 a constantly changing picture |
I arrived at Chickamauga National Battlefield around 5 pm - I should have arrived at 3:30 pm However, there is this thing called Atlanta on the route - it easily added 1 1/2 hours to the trip
Hampton Inn, Fort Oglethorpe, GA Dejavu - same clerk checked me in - I'm in the same room that I was back in January
Gas can be 50 cents less expensive in GA. I filled up here for $3.29/.gallon, then I saw it at $3.23 at another station.
However, my tire pressure sensing system in the jeep appears to be in the ERROR MODE i.e. it's telling me my left rear tire if flat - NOT. Can't get it serviced tomorrow (Sunday) - it will be a distraction on the drive home. It was a concern but on Sunday morning the system seemed to reset itself. All OK.
203 Chickamauga and
Chattanooga National Battlefield
3370 LaFayette Rd, Fort Oglethrope, GA
.jpg) |
| 4th Indiana Battery Monument on Battlefield Road The battle line is on a crest - there is a ravine beyond the road - the trees were not as thick in 1863 |
STOP 12 – STARKWEATHER PROVIDES ENFILADING FIRE 4th IN Battery Monument – looking from this location it is easy to see the
ability of the artillery and infantry to provide enfilading fire on the force
attacking the other two brigades (Schribner’s and King’s) of the BG Absalom
Baird’s Division.
Absalom Baird’s Division Scribner Starkweather King 38 IN 24 IL 15 US 1Bn 2 OH 79 PA 16 US 1 Bn 33 OH 1 WI 18 US 1 Bn 94 OH 21 WI 18 US 2 Bn 10 WI 4 Btry IN LA 19 US 1 Bn A 1 MI LA H 5 US Arty
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| 10 WI Infantry Scribner's Brigade |
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| 21 WI Infantry Starkweather'e Bde |
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| 1 WI Infantry Starkweather'e Bde |
STOP 13 - CLEBURNE JOINS THE ATTACK Battery B 1st Ohio Artillery Monument– This is the center of the position occupied by MG John M. Palmer’s Division. Cruft was to the north, to the left of Cruft was Baldwin’s Brigade of Johnson’s Division. Grose’s Brigade was held in Kelly Feld. The confederate division of Patrick Cleburne (Wood, Polk, Deshler) was ordered to assault this position.
.jpg) |
| Cleburne attacks Palmer's Division |
John C. Palmer’s Division Charles Cruft William F. Hazen William Grose 31 IN 9 IN 84 IL 1 KY 6 KY 36 IN 2 KY 41 OH 23 KY 90 OH 124 OH 6 OH B 1 OH LA F 1 OH LA H 4 US M 4 US
 |
| Battery F 1st Ohio Light Artillery |
Monument – this is the approximate center of Hazen’s Brigade. The confederate attack commenced around 8 am upon the left of this line and swept to the right. By 10 am Hazen’s request for ammo still had not been answered. He controlled firing. Sharpshooters were hitting his officers. He believed the rebel sharpshooters to be in the trees and ordered several volleys high into the trees to end their killing spree.
STOP 15 – TURCHIN’S DEFENSE Alabama Monument – this is the approximate center of BG John B. Turchin’s Brigade (18 KY, 11 OH, 36 OH, 92 OH 19 Btry IN LA). The left here was joined by Hazen’s right. The confederate brigades of James Deshler (9 AR, 24 AR, 6 TX, 10 TX, 15 TX CAV, 17 TX CAV, 18 TX Cav, 24 TX Cav, 25 TX Cav) and S.A.M. Wood (16 AL, 33 AL, 45 AL, 18 AL BN, 32 MS, 45 MS, 15 MS BN SS) were attacking this sector of the defense.
 |
| Slocomb's Louisiana Battery La Fayette Road on the left |
STOP 17 – CONFEDRATE ATTACK INTO KELLY FIELD The regiments of Stovall (1FL, 3 FL, 4 FL, 47 GA, 60 NC) and Adams (32 AL, 13 LA, 20 LA, 16 LA, 25 LA, 19 LA, 14 LA Bn) brigades crossed the La Fayette Rd and attacked Beatty’s Federal brigade.
 |
| Adam's Brigade |
.jpg) |
| 37th GA Poe Field |
STOP 18B – ASSAULT TO THE ROAD 18th Tennessee & 45th Tennessee Monuments – these are the right regiments of Brown’s brigade (18 TN, 26 TN, 32 TN, 45 TN, 23 TN Bn).
.jpg)
STOP 18C – THE FARTHEST ADVANCE 15th Tennessee & 37th Tennessee Monuments – this was the left of Stewart’s brigade( 58 AL, 37 GA, 4 GA Bn, 15 TN, 37 TN, 20 TN)
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| Bate's Brigade - Poe Field |
STOP 18D – THE UNION DEFENSE Battery C 1st OH Artillery Monument – this was the center of the Union defensive position. Today there is brush and woods on the east side of Poe Field, however, in 1863 the woods were open.
STOP 19 – COLLAPSE ON THE UNION RIGHT FLANK Battery D 1st MI Artillery Monument - This was the center of Connell’s brigade (82 IN, 17 OH, 31 OH, 38 OH not engaged).
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Longstreet’s attack
involved elements of Johnson’s, Hood’s (Law), and Kershaw’s divisions. South of this assault column was Hindman’s
(Anderson, Deas, Manigault) division, which crossed the La Fayette Road and
attacked across the southern half of the Brotherton Farm. To the left
of Hindman and back from the La Fayette Road was Preston’s
(Gracie, Trigg, Kelly) division held in reserve for Longstreet’s Left
Wing.
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| Longstreet's Attack - plaque near the Brotherton Cabin |
The Union defensive position was along the tree line
west of Brotherton Field. There
has been continuing controversy over what happened with Wood’s division
(Buell, Harker) prior to Longstreet’s attack. A staff officer reported that there was a gap
in the line. In fact, troops there but
he could not see them. Due to the
misunderstanding, Wood’s division was told about 10:45 am to move his
division north. The order created the
very condition it was designed to fix.
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| Near the Dyer House location looking across Dyer Field Horseshoe Ridge in the tree line |
The rising ground starting just north of the farm
house increases in height to form Snodgrass and Horseshoe Ridges. These connecting ridges became the Union
defense.
STOP21B – HINDMAN JOINS THE BREAKTHROUGH In the woods on the western edge of Brotherton Field were the right of Wood’s and Davis’ (Carlin, Heg/Martin) divisions. Hindman’s (Anderson, Deas, Manigault) charge was initially opposed by Davis’ s(Carlin, Heg/Martin) division.
STOP 22 – FIGHTING FOR TIME On the Glenn-Kelly Road – Johnson (Gregg,
McNair)
reported that his division crossed the road in the area between this
location and the intersection of the Dyer and Glenn-Kelly Roads. His right brigade – McNair’s (1 AR, 2
AR, 25 AR, 4 & 31 & 4 AR, 39 NC) – moved obliquely and attacked the
union artillery on the ridge from the front.
The other two brigades – Gregg’s and Johnson’s (Fulton’s) –
attacked the position from the flank or cut it off from retreat to the Dry
Valley Road by passing in the rear of the artillery.
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| Dyer Field - each of the white monuments along the ridge represent a federal artillery battery 7th Indiana Battery, 26th Pennsylvania Battery, 3rd Wisconsin Battery, 8th Indiana Battery |
Sunday March 15 2026
WEATHER: 62 degrees at 6 am – forecast
partly cloudy – high low 70’s Sunrise: 0750 EDT Fort Oglethorpe, GA Sunset: 1902 CDT Paducah, KY
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| Weather Paducah Sunday evening - 15 March 2026 - Tornado Warnings However, no tornado damage reported - no touchdowns or sightings reported Heavy winds and rain |
TRAVEL: Hampton Inn, Fort Oglethorpe, GA – St. Gerards Catholic Church – Chickamauga National Battlefield – Hampton Inn, Paducah, KY Thunderstorm around 5 pm upon reaching Paducah – Tornado Warning from 8 pm until 8:45 pm. No confirmed sightings or a touchdown
0900 mass at St. Gerard’s – not much parking – plenty of cars
203 Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Battlefield 3370 La Fayette Rd, Fort Oglethorpe, GA
Almost finished the tour yesterday except for Horseshoe Ridge. Spent an hour going over some other parts of the battlefield in detail.
STOP 23A – WOOD’S NEW LINE 125th & 65th OH Monuments – this is an open finger of ground running northeast from Snodgrass Hill. The Snodgrass cabin was below Snodgrass Hill
When the Union lines in Brotherton Field were
broken and those in Poe Field outflanked, the defense was shifted to from almost wo separate lines
deployed at a right angle. The position
along Battle Line Road remained the same, except for the southern-most
brigade – Turchin’s which made adjustments to face southward on the
northern edge of Poe Field.
John Brannan had been defending in the area
around Poe Field with two brigades retreated northwest. Upon reaching Snodgrass Hill he began
establishing a final defensive position.
The delaying action fought by Harker’s brigade
and part of Buell’s brigade of Wood’s division, in the northern
edge of Dyer’s Field bought time for Brennan to begin establishing a
defense. After falling back from Dyer’s
Field, Harker’s brigade went into position.
The attack’s against this position were made by Humphrey’s
(13 MS, 17 MS, 18 MS, 21 MS) brigade and the right part of Kershaw’s (2
SC, 3 SC, 7 SC, 8 SC, 15 SC, 3 SC BN)brigade followed by two attacks of Gracie’s
(43 AL, Hilliard’s AL Legion, 63 TN) brigade.
STOP 23B – COMMITMENT OF THE UNION DEFENSE MG Gordon Granger’s Reserve Corps was deployed around McAfee Church – about ½ mile east of the intersection of the Rossville and La Fayette Road. Granger’s mission was to protect the left flank of the Union Army and the Rossville Gap through Missionary Ridge. Although called a corps, this force was really a two-brigade division commanded by John B Steedman and a separate brigade commanded by Daniel McCook.
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| 82 IN Monument |
location of a series of four knolls that form the east-west ridge called Snodgrass Hill. The western portion of the ground has also been called Horseshoe Ridge. The semi-circular position is outlined by monuments to 19 regiments from seven different brigade of four divisions. Other than Thomas Wood the only division commander here was John Brannan.
STOP 24B – BRANNAN’s FIGHT Van Deveer’s Brigade of Brannan’s division was positioned here
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| Carolina Monument's |
STOP24C – KERSHAW’S ASSAULT Follow the trail from the 35th OH Monument for 60 yards passing the 58th NC Monument to the small monuments to Kershaw’s Brigade and the 3rd SC.
Kershaw paused along this part of Dyer’s Field after pushing back the Union delaying forces. Humphrey’s brigade moved into position on his right. Around 1:30 pm both brigades moved forward to attack the high ground above you and the finger of open ground next to the Snodgrass cabin.
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| 84 IN Monument |
STOP 24D – GRANGER ENTERS THE FIGHT Back to the 35th OH Monument – walk 200 yards to the 84th IN Monument This ground was seized by Whittaker’s and Mitchell’s brigades of Steedman’s division. Both brigades were up the north side of the hill and gained the position just before the emergence of the Confederate force, which was approaching from the south and southwest.
STOP 24E – JOHNSON’S ASSAULT 3rd TN marker – this area was repeatedly attacked by the right units of Johnson’s (Gregg, McNair) division and the left regiments of Anderson’s (7 MS, 9 MS, 10 MS, 41 MS, 44 MS, 9 MS Bn SS) brigade
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| Btry M 1 IL Artillery Monument |
160 yards down the road are markers to the 28th
AL (Manigault’s Brigade) and 19th SC (Manigault’s
Brigade)
STOP 24H – THE BATTLE ENDS By 7 pm the MG George Thomas ordered that the forces under Brannan should be moved quietly to Rossville.
Hampton Inn, Paducah, KY - the room is outstanding – King bed, shower, bath, wet bar, sitting area, work area – if HGVC offered Studios like this I’d take it almost every time. Very comfortable.
5:51 pm CDT From National Weather Service · Last updated 51 mins ago WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 4 PM CDT MONDAY Racine, Milwaukee, Kenosha Counties
Monday March 16 2026
WEATHER: 32 degrees at 6 am
–cloudy – high of 32 - low of 20 overnight Sunrise: 0750 EDT Fort
Oglethorpe, GA Sunset: 1902
CDT Paducah, KY
TRAVEL: Hampton Inn, Fort Oglethorpe, GA – BLIZZARD WARNINGS IN WI and northern IL
Decided not to travel north today.
National Weather Service - Milwaukee Already seen 4-9 inches fallen as of 1 AM, but an additional 6–10 inches are possible for east-central WI, 4–8 inches for southwest and south-central WI, and 3-5 inches for southeastern WI. Bands of moderate to heavy snow with 1/2-1 inch per hour are moving through southern WI early this morning and will continue into the early afternoon tapering in intensity from southwest to northeast throughout the afternoon.
Hampton Inn, Paducah, KY - decided to stay another day – this time the room cost me 50,000 points – well, you can’t take it with you - excellent breakfast and friendly staff – food was good – more choices than in Fort Oglethorpe
Worked on labeling and transferring pictures. Updated the blog
6 pm mass at St. Thomas More, 5645 Blandville Rd, Paducah, KY - all plans can go awry - at 5:50 I noticed that it was time to go - a 20 minute drive - I would have missed the mass. There was no morning mass nearby.
Tuesday March 17, 2026
WEATHER: 18 degrees at 6 am –sunny - clear - in the teens along the route all day Sunrise: 0702 CDT Paducah, KY Sunset: 1901 CDT Burlington, WI
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