AAR Annapolis, MD April 12-13,2025

[Agent711]

We gathered in Annapolis, Maryland to celebrate Patriots Day. Another sold out event, twenty-two shooters in all. Some sharing the same last name reminding us of Captain Parker's militia that stood on Lexington green in the early morning of the April 19th 1775. So many participants this weekend, we had to run relays to fit everyone on the line.

Like every 25 meter event, the Hits Count target was used to gauge participant's abilities. Instruction was provided and much of the morning was filled practicing the steps to firing every shot while our veterans focused on analyzing their shot groups and perfecting their skills.

Following a busy morning, it was time for lunch. I was happy to present the historic events that transpired that fateful morning of April 19,1775 to this group. With participants expressing a desire to hear more, we continued the presentation of the Second Strike of the match, covering Colonel Smith's light infantry and grenadier efforts to execute General Gauge's orders to "seize and distroy all artillery, ammunition, provisions " in Concord was presented. Participants learned of the American colonists marksmanship skills applied at the North Bridge and the sacrifices of such Patriots as Isaac Davis.It was time to get back on the line to continue working on our marksmanship, so shooters were left on the edge of their seats wondering what would happen next as Colonel Smith climbed the hill overlooking the countryside surrounding Concord and seeing minutemen approaching from all directions.

We then learned the best seated and standing positions. Time was well spent throughout the evening practicing these positions while continuing the journey to work on the fundamentals including natural point of aim, trigger squeeze and building the steadiest hold factors with the aid of slings alone. Our newest shooters recognized the benefit of the training and the fact that these skills will carry over to any other discipline of shooting.

With a renewed sense of pride, shooters channeled their feelings of pride to give it their all while engaging Parker's Revenge Target. Four teams of shooters competed and everyone had fun strategizing and engaging the target. I'm certain Captain Parker would be proud.

Sunday opened with a review of safety and another chance to clear the Hit Count target. We practiced the prone, seated and standing positions before attempting a practice AQT. The Third Strike was presented during lunch. We learned of General Heath's contributions and several more examples of the colonist's sacrifices to preserve our freedom were explored.

Another AQTs was conducted providing shooters additional practice honing their marksmanship skills and the opportunity to earn their Rifleman qualification. This was followed by a passionate reading of the Bloody Butchery and solemn memorial volley recognizing the Patriots who gave their lives on April 19th, 1775. Patriots Day patches were awarded and a moment of silence was observed.

After the final Hits Count target was completed, the scores were tallied. Every shooter made significant improvement over the course of the weekend. Every one of these shooters proved they know what they are about and are well on the path to Rifleman.

I want to recognize the following shooters for their accomplishments.
Daniel K. earned the coveted Immortal 400 for clearing their Hits Count Target. He also scored a 211 on his AQT, earning his Rifleman patch.

These shooters also earned their Rifleman qualification:
Cas B- 213
Loren L - 213
Pat K- 240 (requalified distinguished)
Jim T- 238

Many thanks to our Maryland volunteers who unselfishly dedicated their time to making this year's Patriots Day event the best it could be. Catch-10-22, WhyWon, Off_paper, Liberty Boy, Tredian - Great job!

Thanks to our host range, Anne Arundel Fish & Game, for continuing to support Project Appleseed!

[WhyWon]

Well done Agent711!    No need to thank me *twice*!