Myakka, FL - AAR September 3-4, 2022

[BaldEagle]

What a great weekend. We had a full line. SOLD OUT!! Multiple families, groups, and non-shooting parents watching, taking part in our stories, and our other pre and post activities. Out of 25 shooters, 15 of those were youth, ages 7-16. Our shooters were engaged, learning, and moving with purpose.

I was impressed we had so many youth engaged during history and asking questions. Even I when I recited the preamble of the Constitution I heard and saw others who were chorusing along with me. That shows me people are looking at and studying such doctrines and are keeping watchful eyes on our Liberty we share as Americans so our posterity we continue to share in that same Liberty. 

Late summertime in Florida didn't disappoint. Starting off each morning the humidity was so high it was as if there was active precipitation without anything falling from the sky. Papers were limp and moist, clipboards and whiteboards curling as if they were left in the rain. After the sun was fully up the humidity fell to a level where things were just moist and not wet. Then came the heat. With the heat index at one point I checked it was 105°. Hydration was the word of the day. With all the shade we could muster established it sometimes wasn't enough having a direct East / West exposure left some gaps as the sun was moving. Still our shooters persisted showing their dedication to learning marksmanship skills.

Saturday after the redcoat it was apparent we had something to offer in the way of marksmanship training. After the first AQT and the second attempt at the redcoat our shooters showed our instructors had done an impressive job of teaching and our students did an outstanding job of learning. A good portion of the group had achieved a score of marksman. Sunday the shooters doubled down. Two new Riflemen and one Re-qual. Congratulations Erik, Sean, and Jason. At the end of the day 98% of the group were shooting scores of Marksman or Sharpshooter. We had multiple knocking on the door. One with a 209! UGH! To round out the day we were able to retire a an IIT Orange Hat which was an honor to do so on the line with all wanting to participate.

To all Students and Instructors I say HUZZAH! Well done! 

It truly was a pleasure to spend time with Friends, Families, and great Patriots this weekend.