January 30, 1863 (+160)

Florida Brigade HQs

SUBJECT: After-Action Report of the 2023 Mt. Dora Engagement

Event host, Captain Alan Turnbull and the 37th Alabama continued their reputation of providing superb camping arrangements with plenty of facilities, wood and water. This command arrived on site Thursday and established camp in a slightly new location. Whereas in previous years the brigade occupied territory touching the extreme east of the perimeter, a growing housing development dictated a movement inward approximately 100 yards. Weather on Thursday and Friday night was cold, touching the high 30’s on Saturday night with clear skies all weekend.

Overall commander for the Confederate army was General Mike Hardy with Colonels Fred Jakobson and Clay Kearney providing field command. Soldiers in the CSA was comprised of 13 from Captain Turnbull’s 37th Alabama, 16 from Colonel Kohl’s PACS, 15 from Captain Alonzo’s 2nd Florida, and 9 from Captain Porterfield’s 8th Florida. Milton’s Light artillery under the command of Major Brian Lynch provided two guns for the engagement.

Overall Federal commander was Major Spencer Polly from the 4th Brigade, who provided 14 soldiers on Saturday and 6 on Sunday. Captain Turnbull galvanized the entire weekend and with vigor and passion, provided a challenging opponent for the Confederates.

Genie Stracuzzi’s Town was located on the battlefield and offered excellent opportunities for scenarios.

"7 Lbs of Bacon" provided music during the entire weekend. As always, their attention to period-correct authencity in sound and appearance was second to none.

Saturday’s Morning Parade was conducted at 9 AM in superb fashion by Major Dwight Dorr.

Of particular significance and with a heavy heart, it must be reported that a Memorial Service was conducted for General Bob Goodrich at 12:30 PM on Saturday. General Hardy presided and using General Goodrich’s sword, facilitated a 21-gun salute. Representatives from both armies, North and South, provided the firing. The proceeding was conducted flawlessly and as General Goodrich was watching from above, he no doubt had a smile on his face. Rest in Peace, General.

Saturday’s battle began at 2 PM with the Federal army occupying the town. Captain Alonzo’s 2nd Florida was first to attack from the east, driving the Federals into the battlefield. The Confederates attacked in echelon from left to right, with Porterfield’s 8th Florida protecting Alonzo’s left flank and Kohl’s PACS supporting Porterfield’s left flank. The battle lasted 40 minutes with much movement. After multiple changes in direction, the Federals ultimately pushed the Confederates off the field and owned the day.

Sunday’s Morning Parade was conducted at 9 AM with Major Dwight Dorr presiding.

At 10 AM, for the first time in 20 years, General Mike Hardy offered Church Service for a well-attended congregation.

At 2 PM, Sunday’s battle commenced. The entire Confederate army relaxed in the town, stacking their arms and enjoying the offerings of the townsfolk. Pickets were placed outside for protection but were not effective in alerting the army of a surprise attack by Turnbull’s Tigers. Within seconds, Turnbull’s men were firing at point blank into the stacked arms of the 2nd Florida. Alonzo acted quickly and was able to form a line of defense after taking casualties. Their stubborn defense allowed Kohl and Porterfield to exit the town and establish battlelines on the battlefield. Turnbull and the rest of Polly’s Federal army quickly pursued and a heated battle began with movement seldom seen. After the battle, which ended in the defeat of the Federals, Turnbull was heard to say, “I can honestly say we attacked every flank the Confederates offered. We could do no more.”

In conclusion, the 2023 Mt. Dora Engagement was a success. Over 400 spectators attended both days and 350 students attended on Saturday. Captain Turnbull announced the event will continue and encouraged all to attend next year. I can say with certainty, this command will be there.

This concludes my report.

Keeping History Alive,

I remain your servant,

Colonel Clay Kearney

Hardy’s Brigade and Florida Brigade