Operation: Scorched Earth
April 2009
Report by Mad Hatter
This was the day to rebuild, repair and clean up Camp Stasa as we get ready for Field day 2009. This involved tearing down and rebuilding the target range, a yearly event, cleaning out the outhouse, and making everything nice.
Heavy rains on Thursday made the approach to the camp a muddy mess. Fortunately, a good friend of the militia raked the road to make things a little easier.
The core of the SMVM, The Lenawee Militia, Mak9 of the O.C.V., members of years past, and new friends all showed up to lend a hand and swing a hammer. In all, About 20 people pitched in to make this day a success.
The target board was torn down and rebuilt. New tables for the Bowling pin shoot were constructed. These tables will be a little taller than last year, and not quite as deep. This should make for some rather quick times as people compete for bragging rights and the grand prize of a battle-proven rifle.
Thumper gleefully sterilized the “Pit” beneath the outhouse. Much thanks to him. He seems to do it every year. I guess he really has to fight off the dozens of volunteers for this coveted job.
And, while I’m thanking people, I want to thank the Lenawee Militia whose strong showing and support has helped us out more than once. Also, Thanks to Smiley, carpenter and master of all things wood. He was able to take directions like “I want something about this tall that does like that and goes over there” and make it a reality.
Only two mishaps this day, resulting in some sore backs and red faces. First, No matter how tough your truck is, A van is seldom a good off-road vehicle. It’s even less ideal as a “Cross-Field” vehicle, especially when weighed down with many tools and lumber. No, it wasn’t my van this time. But, several people pushing, and the Honda foreman pulling, freed the stuck Ford. I really wish I had been quick enough with the camera to catch my quad with an E250 on the end of a tow-rope, but it didn’t happen.
Also, on a few occasions our controlled trash burn became uncontrolled, prompting us to assign someone to fire duty. I just need to remember to pick up a new extinguisher for my work truck Monday.
Now, the shovels, rakes and hammers get put back in the shed and the rifles come back out for a truly Militia-riffic Militia Field Day, Tax Blast, and Tea Party on April 11Th. Please come out and join us.
Guns of a different sort made an appearance today Although our regular guns were still present.
Finishing off the pin tables Too high? Too Low? or Just right?