Company B Meets and Eats

Thanks to all of the members of B/502 who attended the annual meeting this weekend at the 356th Fighter Group Restaurant in North Canton, OH. We had quite an agenda but we got through it and had time for lunch.

A few quick highlights:

1.  We welcomed new members Roy and Andrew Messing, as well as those not in attendance - Mark Holbrook, Paul and John Baltzer.

2.  Investigating reenactor liability coverage for members of the unit.

3.  Bylaws draft reviewed and changes made. Chairman Chris Smith to incorporate changes and distribute final version for approval.

4.  Elections for the 2013/14 positions were held. Chris Smith was again elected organization Chairman.  Nominations were taken and the election held. Bob Penix chose not to accept a nomination for Squad Leader. Thanks to Bob for stepping in to Pat Eddy's boots this past season. Victor Cabrera was elected to be our Squad Leader and Chris Bauer Assistant Squad Leader. Mike Oakley is next in line to fill in where needed.

5.  Equipment was discussed. Still have a large amount of ammo in .308. Some members still shooting .30-06. Based on the growth of the unit, we will very likely be up to the size of two squads this year (at least on paper). We discussed tentage to house personnel when in the field. Possibly the purchase of another pyramidal or a wall tent is in the future but we put off this issue and will address when and if needed.

6.  The new NCOs are developing a training routine to be instituted at events. We will also host at least one training day for field and tactical problems.

7.  Victor Cabrera and Mike Oakley are going to develop an Awards SOP proposal to set a standard on how members of the unit receive ribbons and promotions. A reading list of books and study materials was distributed and suggested for the winter. Members plan to share some of these books between each other to save on costs.

8.  The unit Christmas Party will be on 16 DEC at the 356th Fighter Group. Chris Smith reminded everyone to get their money in to him.

9.  A number of events were discussed for 2013. Here is the final list the unit will attend.

7-10 MAR – Operation Nordwind, Ft. Indiantown Gap, PA

18-19 MAY – Armed Forces Day Show, Findlay, OH
20-21 JUL – Ride Through History, Alliance, OH
16-17 AUG – D-Day, Conneaut, OH
12-13 OCT – Camp Tuscazoar Tactical, Dover, OH

Again, thanks to all who attended and offered their thoughts and ideas. We little imagined or planned that the unit would grow to where it is now and where it is going. Baker Company is fortunate to have a great group of talented and dedicated living historians.