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Thursday, June 29, 2006
Private John Collins (Noel Stasiak)
Today I awoke with great anticipation. Today was the day we were to ride on horseback over the Lolo Pass. There was lots of preparation the night before, making lunches for the trail, coordinating vehicles, making out the itinerary and keeping the men informed as to what to expect so they could properly prepare. The camp was abuzz with activity at first light. Breakfast was had and men began assembling their equipment to be loaded in vehicles. After colors, during formation, the final word was put out by both Captains and the Sgt. Because of my 24 years in the Navy Seabees, in which I am still active as a Chief Petty Officer(Select), the process of Muster/Colors in the morning is routine, but nonetheless, is always looked forward to with enthusiasm. It is a time to hear last night’s gossip, meet new people who have come aboard and to hear the “plan of the day.” Colors, or the raising of the flag and singing “Chester,” is always a serious and solemn moment. It does – and I am sure it always will –make me stand tall and proud to be an American.
“Fall out!”
The word was given and it was time to load up and shove off. We arrived at the Lolo Pass visitor’s center at the same time the horses arrived. People and horses all began scurrying about making ready for the ceremony which would honor some of those involved in the planning and execution of Phase III. After several speakers, including Mrs. Steven Ambrose and her daughter Stephanie, the crew began mounting up. After some saddle adjusting and getting acquainted with one’s horse, the ride began. My initial feeling was one of accomplishment. After all the preparation, short term and long term (I rode my Harley Davidson motorcycle all the way from St.Louis, Missouri to be here), it was finally happening. I was involved in one of the significant reenactments of the expedition, riding through the Bitterroot Mountains and heading over the Lolo Pass.
After the initial excitement died down and the horses settled down into a single file, things got quiet and I started absorbing the sights and sounds of what it might have been like two hundred years ago – not knowing what might be around the next turn, constantly on the alert for danger, senses primed, ready for action; at the same time savoring the beauty of the forest, trying to understand the significances of the moment, trying to get into the heads and minds of the expedition members as they experience this same trail 200 years ago.
Halfway through the approximately 8 mile ride, reality began to sink in. This was not easy, for man or beast. Historically, most of the members walked their horses because they were carrying all the supplies – but I was riding. If you haven’t
ridden a horse in a while, your bottom can be rather sensitive. Fortunately, I had developed a few calluses riding across the country on my Harley, but there are other muscles used on a horse that aren’t used in everyday life. Ouch!
Most of the trail was either straight up or straight down, with lots of tree branches in your face, and dust in your nostrils. My horse was “Jessie” and I think he must have eaten beans the night before. My shipmate, Gary Ulrich, who was riding behind us, was not very appreciative.
We stopped for lunch and rested the horses in a shady spot surrounded by tall pines. The aroma of the countryside, fresh morning air, leather and horses made you glad to be alive. It was truly like all the best movies you have ever seen, - rolled up into one. Oh the joy!
Bellies full, rested and conversations over, we mounted up for the final descent to the natural hot springs at the bottom of the mountain. At this point most of us were looking forward to soothing our aching muscles in 105 degree mineral springs. Now I
know why cowboys are bowlegged. Oh the pain! In the hot springs my entire body melted into a sea of ecstasy and I became one with nature. Reluctant to get dressed, I headed for the restaurant next door. Again, belly full, hot bath, cold “Bud,” and talking with your buddies. What more could an “hombre” ask for? Relaxed and headed for camp, eyelids heavy. Thoughts of the day, mind wandering – content.
Another great day on the trail. Bunk in sight, cool night – sleep tight. Sweet dreams little boy!
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