May 5, 1999

From the Colonels Desk,

Mansfield is now behind us and should be considered a monumental success. All of the Battalions in the Trans-Mississippi Alliance of the 1st Confederate Division were represented. The weather could not have been better. The numbers and espri de corps of the re-enactors was superb. The Battles, spirited events to say the least. And this was the first time that , at a National event, a Louisiana Battalion has taken to the field of battle under its own command. Lagniappe, we did it on Louisiana soil were Louisiana blood was shed for Her preservation.

To the Rank and File in attendance I give you my sincerest thanks for making it a very memorable event. You served Louisiana proud. You make it all happen. To the Captains, my special thanks. By your dedication you have helped start a reputation of excellence that will become synonymous with the Louisiana Battalion.

To my staff, I can not thank you enough for the effort extended to make it all come together for the troops. Your attention to detail and companionship has made my job much easier. Our new Sergeant Major, Wayne Elliot, performed his duties with all the vigor and diligence expected of his charge.

A note on the event itself... It will from this event forward become a practice of the Louisiana Battalion to post a guard mount when practicable. This went very well. My complements to the men of the 7th who performed the bulk of this duty.

Mansfield was a successful event. It is a shame that we all can not share in its memories.

Respectfully, your most obedient servant,

Col. Michael E. Kloepfer
Louisiana Battalion, Commanding
Trans-Mississippi Brigade
1st Confederate Division
North/South Alliance