Dawn.

They stood like five sentinels around the fire.

They knew it was coming.

The band started to play.

“First Call!”

The rest of the company stirred.

Each man knowing his duty.

Accouterments donned.

Backpacks slung.

“Company Fall In!”

The men lined up.

“Right face! Forward March!”

The companies formed into a Regiment.

Then a Battalion.

Brigade next.

Finally a Corps.

The march began.

Each man alone in his own thoughts.

Cannons were firing in the distance.

A small town came into view.

“Double Quick Lads!”

They saw the signpost as they rushed past it.

Gettysburg.