We were aware of Confederate activity in the area but felt there was no immediate threat. Friday evening was passed relaxing around the fires with a few rounds of malt beverage , tobacco and story telling.

Saturday morning came with a promise of another hot day but there was work to be done. After roll call the Army went to breakfast while Lt. Col. Smith met with his War Counsel to decide what to do about the Rebs in the area.

At 8:30 AM we formed two companies of infantry to make a sweep of the woods to the East of Camp. We immediately made contact with Reb pickets and were able to push them back with little resistance. After a short advance we encountered a two gun Battery. With few casualties the second company was able to capture one gun and drive the other off.

The first company , after determined resistance by the Reb pickets, were able to drive them from their rifle pits and out of the woods before them.

There was a Dress Parade at 12:30 PM at which time some members of Argus Lodge presented Lt. Col. Smith with a sword that had been owned by Col. Nash of the 19th O.V.I. while in the service of his country.

At about 13:30 hours the Battalion was formed for a recon in strength to ascertain the where abouts of the enemy. We made contact with Reb skirmishers who were covered by a Battery of Artillery to there rear . Our Artillery returned fire but neither was able to inflict much damage.

We were able to drive their main body back to their reserves that were taking cover in a deep crater . The enemy was entrenched behind a stone wall and inflicted heavy casualties on the Battalion.

We retreated to a position of safety to regroup and attend to our wounded. The next day would decide our fate.

After an evening of rain showers (as usual) and some dancing in the pavilion to some local musicians a pleasant night was passed.

Sunday rose sunny but less humid and , after our morning rations were consumed , we were able to attend Worship services with a local minister.

Shortly after Dress Parade the pickets reported that the enemy was approaching. The Battalion was formed and marched out to meet our foe.

Our Artillery, ably commanded by Capt. Bill Smith, responded to the enemy's barrage. After driving off their guns, our skirmishers rallied on our main body and we began the advance. We pushed the Rebs back to their reserves behind the same stone wall. But , this time, Lt. Col. Smith sent 4th company to bate the Rebs into coming out of their entrenchments. Capt. Jim Duvaul gamely took his company into the Lion's den to be sacrificed.

The Rebs took the bate , believing they were about to finish off the remnants of Birney's Division. But the "Meat Grinder" was up to the task at hand and ended the day victoriously.

Many thanks to the members of Argus Lodge for putting together another wonderful event. The meals were awesome, especially Saturday's chicken dinner . We also want to thank Brother Don Van Meter for all his hard work. Also , many thanks to Brother Wayne Unger for putting together a formidable Confederate force that made us work for every foot of ground .

This event will be alternating with Beaver Creek here after so I'll be eagerly looking forward to the next one.

Faithfully submitted by your humble servant, Capt. Bob Penix
who could not have done every thing necessary with out the help of 1st Lt. Grant Kirkwood

After Action Report of Adjutant - 2nd Battalion - Birney's Division - Army of the Potomac.