Scott Gilbert

and Jim Rector, members of the LaFayette McLaws Chapter, Sons of Confederate

Veterans, Fayetteville, gave a demonstration of life in the Army during

the Civil War. The eighth-graders at Flat Rock Elementary are studying

that period of history.

The "uniforms"

of the two soldiers would have pretty much been supplied by themselves,

or borrowed from someone in the Army before the war began.

Gilbert and

Rector discussed how youngsters from Fayette County would have joined

the army in 1861-1862, either as volunteers, or later as draftees. They

touched on what their first experiences at training camp would have been,

such as sickness, medical care and supplies.

The highlight

of the outdoor presentation was the formation of students into a company

of soldiers and having them go through drill maneuvers, and then a pretend

battle engagement. After some basic instruction, the two classes are separated

and put through battalion-level drill.

"The kids

really do really well with just a few minutes training," said Gilbert.

"It's amazing to see how serious they take it once they hear commands

being directed at them. They are always eager to volunteer to be the company

commanders and there is always competition for the honor of carrying the

flag during the drill."

Added Rector,

"We really appreciate the teachers inviting us to come out, and we

especially enjoy the students, and seeing them enthused about this part

of history."