|
Loyal Train of Artillery Chapter |
|
United States Field Artillery Association History The idea for an association that would unite the gunners of the newly created Field Artillery Branch resulted from the discussions of Colonel Montgomery M. Macomb, Commander of the 6th Field Artillery, and his Adjutant, Captain William J. Snow. As these two distinguished artillerymen took their early morning rides at Fort Riley, Kansas, they spoke of an organization that would promote the Field Artillery and enhance the professionalism of Artillerymen. Fortunately, these men were not just idle dreamers; they made things happen. Early in the spring of 1907, Captain Snow set out to make the Association a reality.
His first step was to dispatch a circular letter to the 180 regular officers of the Field Artillery, seeking their reaction to his proposal, which included as its principal feature the publication of a branch journal. Although a number of respondents were concerned about financing such a magazine, most officers heartily approved the idea. Captain Snow proceeded and, after a lengthy exchange of correspondence with the War Department, obtained appropriate approval.
Early in 1909, Captain Snow joined a committee including Major John E. McMahon and Captain W.S. McNair to draft a constitution. In a slightly modified form, the constitution was introduced to the Regular Army and National Guard Field Artillery officers attending the summer "Encampment and Maneuvers" at Fort Riley, during the following months. On 7 June 1909, these 86 artillerymen became the charter members of the Association established under the provisions of a constitution that sought: The purpose of the Association is: 1. To promote the efficiency of the Field Artillery by maintaining its best traditions. 2. To cultivate with the other arms a common understanding of the powers and limitations of each. 3. To foster a feeling of interdependence among the different arms and of hearty cooperation by all. 4. To promote understanding between the regular and militia forces by a closer bond.
|
|
Loyal Train of Artillery Chapter History
The Loyal Train of Artillery Chapter of the USFAA dates back to 1984 when it was called the Officer Student Battalion (OSB) Chapter. In its earlier life the chapter was formed as a support tool to teach newly commissioned US Army and Marine 2nd Lieutenants about the history of the Field Artillery. The then Executive Officer of OSB, Kieran McMullen, and A Battery Commander, Jim Brenner, used the chapter platform to start Civil War Live Fire competitions at Ft. Sill (the home of the Field Artillery). Officer students were brought out to live fire events and were taught the hands on aspects of their ancient craft. As the chapter grew the members looked around and realized that there was a great need for consistent, safe drill practices in the artillery re-enacting community and expanded into the teaching and certification of safe artillery drill for both live and blank fire.
In 1989 the Officer Student Battalion was absorbed into the 30th FA Rgt and the active duty members of the chapter were, for the most part, absorbed into the King of Battle Chapter. The Loyal Train of Artillery Chapter was formed from active duty and civilian members of the OSB Chapter that wanted to continue to concentrate on the teachings of the heritage and traditions of the Field Artillery along with promoting safe antique ordnance handling in the re-enactment community.
The Loyal Train OF Artillery Chapter has conducted live fire competitions for 24 years with an outstanding safety record. During all that time there has not been one single accident or incident. The Loyal Train of Artillery Chapter also conducts artillery safety schools where ever and when ever requested and provides certified instructors and safety officers to reenactments throughout the southwest. The instructor certification program has been an essential part of the chapter’s efforts to make reenacting both historically accurate and safe for cannoneers, and the infantry and cavalry units that participate and interact with us.
The Loyal Train of Artillery Chapter represents the finest traditions of the Field Artillery. |