Birney's Division 2nd Battalion

Just a bit of news to update you on. I received a call from Birney's Commanding Officer, General Kelley. He talked to me for some time about additional duty assignments. After some discussion, I said I would help out.

PLEASE be advised that I informed the General of my responsibilities to the 5th and that my job will be to command the company at our events. There are only a couple of the support events, and a few non-5th events, where I am being asked to perform other duties. Mostly, to continue the flow of information to the units here in the 2nd Battalion. I hope that not only myself, but the members of the 5th, will help take a leadership roll here in Ohio and Western PA on behalf of the Division.

Boys, Keep the Colors Up!
Captain Smith



To All Commanders,

Take notice that there has been a change in command of Birneys Division 2nd Battalion. Col. Benne has relinquished his command and taken a position on the Division Staff under my direct command. We would like to thank Ray for his dutiful service the past two years as the commander of 2nd Battalion and look forward to working with him in his new position on my staff. Job well done and much appreciated.

You will notice a change in the battalion structures in the Division in the next few days on the website. The Division is growing so rapidly that we need to align our units more geographically. 1st Battalion will consist of our Central Pennsylvania units and East the 2nd Battalion will cover Western Pennsylvania and Eastern Ohio respectively in an effort to better serve you all better.

I am announcing that Chris Smith of the 5th OVI will succeed Col Benne as commander of the 2nd Battalion at the rank of Lt. Colonel, Colonel Smith is from the Akron area and a 10 year veteran of reenacting, is very amiable, easy to work with and knows his drill and is a strong leader. I would appreciate you total acceptance of Colonel Smith and co operate with him fully in building a strong 2nd Battalion and helping to make the hobby enjoyable for all in the coming years.

Your Servant,
Major General Ed Kelley
Birneys Division
Commanding