A Word From the Colonel

The origin of "THE Minnesota MILITIA" paintball team"

In earlier days when this country was young, the regular army was small and spread out so when needed, civilian men could be called upon to aid in defending it. This group was called the militia. Although rag-tag and undisciplined, the militia was a valued force in America during the French and Indian war and helped turn a page in history during the American Revolution.

In Minnesota 1861, many members of the militia from all parts of Minnesota answered President Lincoln's call for troops and the 1st Minnesota Infantry Regiment was formed. This regiment fought with distinction during the battle of Bull Run and major campaigns of the army of the Potomac through the fall of 1863. The regiment is best known for the dramatic charge at the battle of Gettysburg. On July the 2nd, 1863 the regiment attracted Wilcox's Alabama Brigade as it was preparing for the final push to break the Union line. The 1st Minnesota crossed over 200 yards of open ground and charged the Confederates in spite of the fact that the odds were 5 to 1. After losing 170 men out of 300 the 1st Minnesota rallied around the flag to await counter attack, but with the damage that occurred and no reinforcements, the Confederates retreated.

Now that the history lesson is over, I formed this team with my friends; the majority of which are historical re-enactors both Scottish Military "Clann Tartan" and early American fur trade; hence the name really fits. Also because the men and women of this team are regular people with regular jobs, but not so regular talents, all share in common a love for this sport. So when the call is given, there is never a shortage of members on the field. Although some what rag-tag and relatively disciplined we pledge play as a team to promote this sport of paintball through good sportsmanship and fair play. We will take advice from those more experienced and give advice to those just getting started, but above all to play this game and make it fun.

Cory Pederson "Ronin"
Team Colonel. (Retired)