The Election Campaign

Confederate States Nationalist Seeks the Presidency

The news came as a total surprise, an avowed Confederate States Nationalist is expected to throw his hat into the ring and run as a serious candidate for President of the United States. The word came this morning from the Hollywood Cemetery in Richmond, Virginia, where a memorial service was being held in honor of Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederate States of America. Mr. Davis died on this date in 1889 and it has been a tradition for Southerners to gather at his gravesite each year on the anniversary of his death. This morning found 500 individuals in attendance, among them were several very special guests. While they were not identified by name, they are believed to represent a mysterious billion dollar backer of what they term a 'very special candidate,' who is expected to formally make his announcement on 20 December in Columbia, South Carolina, memorializing the first State to secede from the United States on 20 December 1860. Many Southerners believe those original secession acts are currently in effect, since they were rescinded as a result of armed aggression.

Candidacy Denounced By Mass Media
Civil Rights Organization Angered!

The morning began as expected, with a Confederate Flag Rally on the South Carolina Statehouse grounds. The crowd, estimated at approximately 20,000, was larger then anticipated. There was a color guard present, accompanied by the singing of the song Dixie. Ceremonies were conducted by the local Sons of Confederate Veterans and the United Daughters of the Confederacy. After the opening prayer a speech was given by the President of the League of the South, then a series of announcements by the President of the Confederate Society of America, who spoke in behalf of a coalition called the 'Confederate Alliance.'

After a short break came the main event, the announcement of the launching of the Candidacy of Mr. George B.F. McCullum for the Presidency of the United States. Some members of the crowd were heard repeating a current rendition of the now famous quote 'George Who?' This referred to the time then nationally unknown candidate Jimmy Carter, when 'Jimmy Who?' remarks followed him in the early stages of his 1976 campaign. The world, however, will soon know this gentleman as this campaign progresses. Obviously, the scenario was well scripted, including the candidate's grand entry. His motorcade approached from the direction of North Assembly Street, where they had stopped at the Elmwood Cemetery to pay tribute to the Confederate war dead. Somewhere en route to the cemetery the candidate's sparkling white limousine was joined by an escort consisting of approximately 100 troops of the Confederate Legion. These are said to be the elite guard of the legion. The snapping and clicking of their boots and rifles boasted of their precision, as they displayed their skills as top professionals in the late morning sun.

The limousine and company approached at walking pace and was surrounded by a contingent of a dozen very attentive guards dressed in black business suites. Word has it the campaign has turned down Secret Service protection in favor of their personal special licensed guards. Their arrival at the statehouse was equally as spectacular. The Legionnaires lined both sides of the walkway, which marked the exits from the limousine and the route to the podium. The company of Legionnaires snapped and clicked their heels as they came to attention. A large number of ladies dressed very beautifully as Southern Belles, stood at the foot of the steps and served to add a sense of splendor and grace. The State of South Carolina in general and Columbia in particular, has not witnessed a spectacle such as this since the grand days of the Old South and early Confederacy. The Confederate States Nationalist Movement, assembled for the occasion, was not forewarned in detail as to the magnitude of these events, and simply stood in awe. The big question on everyone's mind was "who would fund such a campaign of this enormous magnitude?" The candidate Mr. McCullum is known to be a man of the most meager means, as he himself describes himself. Rumors indicate an unnamed billionaire is backing the entire campaign with nearly unlimited resources. Including a well equipped airliner for the duration of the campaign, called 'Confederate States One' Why has such a massive the support been revealed at this time?

The entire scene was filled with far more spectacle and splendor than ever witnessed in the history of political campaigning. Those accompanying the candidate included not only the Legionnaires and Southern Belles, but a band, drum and bugle corps, and three quartets of singers. In the midst of such grandeur, the candidate stepped out of his armored limousine into a sea of people and mass media cameras and onto the stage of history. As he approached the steps of the statehouse and made his way toward the podium on the top landing, the band struck up his favorite tune, the Confederate Battle Hymn, complete with quartet singers. Then the President of the Confederate Society of America and recognized leader of the Confederate Alliance formally introduced him to the crowd of approximately, by that time, 50,000, and to the world.

Then he began to speak:

The speech continued for over 40 minutes, frequently interrupted by cheers, whistles and rebel yells, as well as a few cords from 'Dixie' on appropriate occasions. The difference in Candidate George McCullum's speech and those of past Southern rallies, pickets, and parades was that this speech was been carried live worldwide - destined for reruns and reviews, which will make this candidate's name and cause a well known commodity in every household. The big question is; How could this man of few resources accomplish what has heretofore been deemed impossible, coming out of complete obscurity and into the forefront of worldwide prominence? The announcement, interestingly, was made on the 143rd anniversary of the secession of South Carolina; a fact which was not been lost on the assembled crowds.

Confederates Sweep Elections
CONFEDERATES RETURN TO POWER

In the most stunning comeback since the surrender of General Robert E. Lee, committed Confederate States patriots swept the elections and returned to power in the State of Oklahoma, once a territory of the CSA. Considered an underdog, polls showed the Confederate Gubernatorial Candidate trailing by 16 points going into the election...and falling.

The Governor Elect is a member of the Southern Party, previously considered to make only meager gains in his efforts to, "retake the seats of political power." Pollsters have not been so completely in error since the election of 1948, when they predicted the victory of Republican Candidate for President Thomas E. Dewey. In that election, Democrat candidate Harry S. Truman squeaked by in the late hours to become the 33rd President of the United States. The newspapers at that time had already gone to press, predicting Dewey's Victory. In a similar manner, many polls had either ignored or down played the Southern Party Candidates.

In a late night interview, the Republican Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington was asked his opinion of the Confederate electoral sweep, since on the federal level neither the Democrat nor the Republican Party will hold a majority. The Confederates have taken a critical ten percent of the seats in the middle, with more gains expected in the next biennial election, thus denying both parties a ruling majority. Both political parties will now be required to deal with Confederate States Patriots in order to elect the next Speaker. Many congressmen are already beginning to warm up to their new colleagues. The Speaker's short and to-the-point reply came with a disturbed look on his face..."Disaster, total disaster!"

Texas Governor Resigns
Legislature In Heated Debate

Governor Jeffery Miles today became the second governor in Texas history to offer his resignation. His announcement, which will be effective at noon tomorrow, came after the Texas House of Representatives passed by a vote of two to one, a bill proclaiming that the Secession of Texas from the Union on 7 March 1861 remains in effect, back to the original date. There appears to be more than sufficient numbers to override any possible veto by the governor. The reasoning, explained in the legislation itself, states that since the Articles of Secession were rescinded by force, the rescission itself is null and void. According to this legislation, the State of Texas remains a member state of the Confederacy. Along with the governor’s resignation, one State Senator and two House Members also resigned and walked off the floor of their respective chambers. These were Senator Jack Johnson and Congressmen Tom McDonald and John Johnston. The three legislators made it clear they would have no part of a second departure of Texas from the Union.

Lieutenant Governor Jay Buckner, who is scheduled to be inaugurated Governor of Texas during a Rotunda ceremony tomorrow at noon, offered his support for the candidacy of Senator William Cleburne of Tennessee, as the Second President of the Confederate States of America. Governor Jeffrey Miles, whose resignation takes effect at that time, has cancelled a scheduled meeting with delegates of the Confederate Independence Conference. The governor had hoped to persuade them not to attempt to restore the Confederacy at this time, believing the divisive issues could be worked out.

Tennessee Nullification
Tennessee Nullifies Federal Education Injunctions

In a stunning move, and with the State Legislature not in secession, Governor William Blakley of Tennessee signed an executive order nullifying all federal laws, executive orders, and adjudications involving control over education in the State. The governor stated in a press interview that according to his oath, he was required to defend the Constitution of the United States from all enemies, both foreign and domestic. That said the governor includes defending it against federal violation of its sacred trust. The governor went on; "the power to regulate education has not been enumerated to the federal authorities, and remains with the State and local jurisdictions. The good Citizens of the State of Tennessee can more then adequately provide for the educational needs of its people." The first directive under the Governor's executive order was the return of 'freedom OF religion' to the public and private school systems. The religious needs of students will be provided by the parents or guardians, acting through their local school boards. Any school board member failing to carry out his or her responsibility will be dealt with according to the full weight of State Law.

Freedom OF Religion

This freedom is not a free-for-all, nor does it presuppose the advocacy of paganism. It is the right to practice, teach and advocate faith in Almighty God and the Holy Scriptures with responsibility, both in the public arena as well as in private. 'Freedom OF religion' does not carry with it, 'Freedom FROM religion’ nor does our inalienable right grant that government shall supplant the free exercise of religious freedom with neutrality - thereby neutralizing the application and the effects of this precious freedom. It means 'government, at all levels, does not interfere.'

Florida Delegation In Tennessee

A delegation arrived in Nashville from Florida to confer with the Tennessee Governor and State Congressional Leaders. The purpose of their visit is to forge a strategy for an up-coming secession of the Florida Legislature. The delegation was met with pleasantries, but shortly went to work behind closed doors.

Houses of Worship Crowded

Churches and Synagogues Packed

Churches and Synagogues across the Southland are reported to be filled to capacity, with standing room only. Many churches which normally hold one morning service and an evening service on Sunday, have had to hold multiple services in order to reach the multitudes at their doors. The Jewish Synagogues are reporting a similar situation as the citizenry seeks any avenue to the worship of the Almighty God. This situation has been building now for several months, beginning with the elections victories of the recent past.

The Southland Looks Heavenward

"...I bring you good tiding of great joy..." We interview one worshipper standing on the steps of a local church, which was far to crowded for him to enter. The doors had been left open so those outside might at the very least hear what was happening inside. The old man of 82 years, had tears streaming down his cheeks, and crying "I have lived to see such a day. Thank our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, from whom all blessing flow."

At another church, Pastor James Wilkerson testified, that in his ministry spanning 35 years. He had never witnessed a situation such as this. He stated: "I have hardly slept in a week, but still my strength and my heart is full." At a Synagogue in Charlotte North Carolina, the Rabbi told me of his 'happy problems.' The Christian Churches, both Roman Catholic and Protestant alike are so filled, they are coming here. We want to pray to God, they said, will you let us come in and worship with you? Now, how could I tell them this Synagogue is only intended for those who worship according to the Jewish Faith. Then not let these people come into the House of God. We have never in all my years, witnessed such a thing. Let God receive the glory, now and forever."

Lastly we visited the steps of the Statehouse in Montgomery after, President Cleburne had taken his oath of office, departed and the crowd dispersed, every so slightly. Thought the area remained crowded! An old man sat on the steps, tears streaming down his cheek, with eyes lifted heavenward. We heard him pray "Lord - I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."

After his prayer was ended, it was discovered, this old man, had worked most of his adult life, to see this moment. This long awaited for time when our just and honorable cause was finally vindicated, by the divine Providence of Almighty God.

Public Service Announcement

SPECIAL HIGHWAY BULLETIN: Unless it is critical for you to be traveling northbound, it is strongly recommended that you reconsider. Since the Confederate States patriots began returning to the political arena in large numbers, an evacuation of the Southland has been underway. Many devotees of the old Yankee Empire, scalawags, and traitors to the Southern Cause have decided it is time to leave. Estimates have it that as many as 25 million evacuees are crowding the northbound lanes of all highways. Travel with caution.

We Southerners haven't had so much to smile about in many years! Looks like the Southern gravy train is over; 'those people will have to work for a living now. Amen!

Highway 95 along the Atlantic seaboard is the most crowded! Traffic jams are reported, comes reaching 20 and 30 miles outwards of most major Southern cities. This is particularly true along the northern borders of the Confederacy, historically known as the Mason-Dixon Line. Traffic on highway's 85, 75 and 77 doe not fair much better, with north bound lanes creeping at bumper to bumper speeds their entire length. The Shenandoah Parkway is said to be a sold mass of vehicles, extending clear back to the mountains.

Reports are coming in that highway 65 between Montgomery and Birmingham is locked down tight the entire length. This seems to be the result of large numbers of evacuees in those two cities. When added to traffic coming from northwest Florida, it is far more then the system was designed to handle. We can all hope they took their lunch, drinking water and remembered to fill up before they departed!

In the western States highway 83 and 25 are equally as crowded with traffic from Louisiana, Arkansas and West Texas, where masses of Yankees, Scalawags and Traitors to the Confederacy are making their way north. All attempting to evacuate our beloved homeland! Additionally, west-bound traffic out of Flagstaff and Phoenix Arizona is at an all time high. Like escapees from justice, they are fleeing to the left coast, and liberal sanctuaries in California.

My fellow Confederates, we haven't witnessed such a retreat as this, since the Battle of First Manassas. General Stonewall Jackson should have lived to see this for it is a very glorious mess and one Jefferson Davis would have loved. However be nice to our departing occupation forces, give them a mannerly and hardy Southern goodbye, wave and be sure not to allow any of them to be stranded or left behind. Help them onward toward their northern destination like a good patriot of the Confederacy. And be sure to guard our southbound lanes, least they attempt to slip back into our country!

These people are obviously so determined to leave the Confederacy, scores of them have been spotted from the air hitch-hiking. Several Southern States have laws against hitch-hiking on the freeway, but have made an acceptation in this case. We Southerners haven't had so much to smile about, since the inauguration of our First President of the Confederate States! We have just lost a major dependent, and their Southern gravy train is over; 'those people' will now need to work for a living and earn their own way. Amen!

Southern Education Coming of Age!

Reports coming in indicated educational institutions are already experiencing radical changes. Greater Virginia announced they are closing the Virginia Military Institute for a period of 30 days, in order to update the curriculum. Translated, it means they are inviting the politically correct, socialist and anti-Southern bigots to leave.

The institute plans on reopening under a completely restored Old South tradition, updated to suite modern conditions. Indications are, everything, including Southern patriotic music, flags, pictures and decor, all will reflect Southern history, heritage and culture. The Superintendent of V.M.I. stated in an interview; "Our purpose henceforth is to train officers for the State and national Armed Forces of the Confederacy. As such, we will revert to being a male only institution. Since the Confederacy does not train nor employ female warriors.

We have now been informed a new branch of service will be created for females, which will be non-combative and only mildly military in nature. It will be called the 'Confederate Women’s Service Corps.' This branch of service will allow women who wish to serve, to have that honor, without overriding the male discipline of the other services, nor injecting social engineering upon the military."

A similar situation was announced by the Governor of South Carolina in when the Citadel suddenly closed its doors. The governor stated; "We will reopen, after a little house cleaning." This the governor said with a big smile on his face. His statement has left no doubt in anyone mind as to its meaning.

Public Education In Transition

Education in the Southland is changing rapidly within the Confederacy. It has been a short time since the liberation, and already 1/3rd of the public schools are slated for privatization. The remaining 2/3rds have been informed in the strongest terms, the anti-God and anti-South bigotry is over or heads will roll. They have been told, get on the bandwagon or we will close you down.

An official of the National Education Association was answered in the most direct terms when while asking about teacher rights. The State Education Commissioner of Florida stated; "If by rights you mean a continuation of historical revisionism, bible banning and prayer prohibition. The only answer we have for you comes in the form of highway directions leading north, read the sign carefully."

Special Announcement!

Due to the departure of the ‘National Education Association’ (N.E.A.) as well as our teachers of the occupation, we now have the pleasant task of filling their vacancies with our own people. If you are a Confederate States Patriot, holding an appropriate degree, in subjects such as math, science, English and history. Perhaps you have recently retired, or you are a businessman. Please help with our schools, until this situation is stabilized. Contact your local Board of Education, or with a private school in your area. It should be understood teacher credentials are not imperative in this critical situation, and your experience is desperately needed.

Businesses Change Hands

Economic Boom Looms

The end of the occupation of our southland has brought us to the forefront of an economic boom. This upturn in the economy is also being stirred by the removal of volumes of restrictive federal regulations and taxation. The rise of the Confederacy means domestic affairs will be the sole providence of the individual sovereign States.

Businesses, companies and corporations within the borders of the Confederate States, are ask to continue operating as they have been during the transition. Save for the issue of taxes which should no longer be paid to our previous occupation government, now that the Confederacy has been liberated. An announcement will be forthcoming from each individual State Government, as to the re-licensing process. This will include broadcast, cable and satellite services.

The Confederate State Government will not be involved in the business process, which will mean television, radio, cable, entertainment and like such businesses, which previously held federal licenses, will now come under State jurisdiction. Additionally, the States now having control over all domestic affairs, will also hold regulatory authority over such businesses within their own States.

The several giant mass media broadcasters fear they may loose their licenses after decades of ignoring local and State customs and morals. Most of the networks are suddenly finding themselves siding with Southern history, heritage and culture. In this new world in which we find ourselves, suddenly the apostles of political correctness can not be found, nor their anti-Southern bigotry.

Broadcasters are even now rushing to open corporate schools in order to educate staffs employees in Southern history, mannerism, dialect and accent. The Hollywood crowd, not wanting to face their own demise, has turned apologetic, after nearly a century of liberalism and vulgarity. Proposals presently on the drawing board, call for new studios in the Southland! But this may be a case of to little, to late. A new entertainment industry is already making headway in the Southland. The new industry is being headquartered at the Old Disney Productions near Orlando Florida. Now under the name Southern Productions, the new C.E.O. has stated; "There are a 1,000 and more untold stories of heroism and valor. These numerous tales are sufficient enough to thrill audiences for many decades yet to come. Southern Stories, left untold, until now. When visitors come to the Southland, they will see the South"

Transition of Power

"When time shall have softened passion and prejudice, when reason shall have stripped the mask from representation, then justice, holding evenly her scales, will require much of the past censure and praise to change places." --President Jefferson Davis

Dinner At Vicksburg

The Meridian Naval Air Station in Mississippi, now Fort Pemberton, in honor of Confederate General John C. Pemberton, is the staging ground for the return of the Confederate Armies to Vicksburg.

The Commander of Fort Pemberton is General George Van Doran, who is said to be a descendant of the famous Confederate General Earl Van Doran of Port Gibson, Mississippi. General Van Doran stated recently that he has received requests from all over the Confederacy to take part in the upcoming March on Vicksburg. The General went on! Some of the inquiries have come to us from places like Arizona, New Mexico, and Western Counties of Virginia, which was as you know, previously called West Virginia under Yankee rule. Many of which are descendants of either civilians living in Vicksburg, or of the soldiers who defended the city during the siege.

The other half of the story comes to us from Fort Cobb, previously known as Fort Benning, located just outside of Columbus Georgia. Fort Cobb has been named after Confederate General Thomas R.R. Cobb, brother of one of Georgia's delegates to the Montgomery convention which established the Confederacy. Fort Cobb is a very busy place these days. Not only will it provide troops for the upcoming inauguration, but now the March on Vicksburg. It is expected, that very soon now, a convoy will leave the Columbia area, in route to Meridian Mississippi to join General Van Doran's growing divisions. Then onward to Vicksburg!

General Van Doran has informed us the actual march will begin at three staging areas: Grand Gulf Military Park area in the South, in the east near Edwards, Mississippi, and in the north near the Floweree Indian Mounds. "We expect approximately 60,000 troops to take part in the march," he said.

He then continued, "the newly commissioned River Gun Boats of the Mississippi and Louisiana State Armed Forces will patrol the river sector; making a landing in Vicksburg about the time we enter the city, arriving from the North, East, and South." He then looked up and said quite seriously "this day will go down in history as the day the siege, conquest and occupation of Vicksburg truly ended."

The City of Vicksburg remains the only city in the liberated Confederacy, where the Stars and Stripes remain. We questioned the recently elected Mayor John D. Rodney, himself a descendant of the famous Confederate General Phillips D. Rodney, who made one of the South's last stands along side General Nathan Bedford Forrest, in the spring of 1865 at Selma, Alabama. Why the Stars and Stripes remained over the city? Why I ask, hasn't someone just went out and removed 'those people's flag?' Mayor Rodney stated, with a smile on his face; "The Heathen Yankee Hordes put it over our city on 4 July 1863, when their armies under a couple barbarians named Ulysses S. Grant and William T. Sherman entered town. We expect it will stay there until the Confederate Armies return and remove it."

We mentioned this to General Van Doran at Fort Pemberton! The General smiled real big and replied; "It would do me proud to serve the good Mayor of Vicksburg. Perhaps he's got room in his town for 60,000 hungry gray backs, dropping in for dinner on the grounds? Later we had an opportunity to further discuss the March on Vicksburg with Mayor Rodney." We asked him about the General's kind remarks. "General George Van Doran is a fine Southern Gentleman and General. Yes sir, the general is definitely invited, and I hope he will take me up on the offer for lunch in Vicksburg; all 60,000 of them. It does look like we are fixing to have the biggest Southern Fried Chicken Dinner in the history of the South. Jefferson Davis would love it! We the citizens of Vicksburg are most certainly looking forward to having our boys in gray drop by for dinner on the grounds, Southern Style."

Mixed emotions fill my soul as I recall the turmoil accompanying the fall of the United States Government from the way it had been. My status was that of Liaison Officer attached to the U.S. Army and placed on temporary assignment - on tour of various army posts, mostly in the west, but later in the South. First, it amounted to no more than barracks gossip - rumors of a 'Confederate movement.' But progressively, divisions began to appear which gradually widened. Soon it was no longer possible to be neutral. Visions of a kind of War for Confederate Independence revisited, had become possible. Tempers did rise, however we managed to maintain all the outward signs of traditional military courtesy and decorum. But the split was coming and we knew it. Would it be war? We dared not speak of it! Confederate Battle flags, literature, and music, scarce at first, became predominant as the Confederate numbers steadily grew. None of us common soldiers gave thought to how lopsided those numbers were becoming. After all, we were from a variety of States in the North, West, and South.

Those noble principles Southerners vaunted, such as honor, duty, homeland and family. Would we now be called upon to spill our blood? The feelings of our forefathers became all to clear. We now stood, quite literally in their shoes. Should conditions come to hostilities, honor would compel me to stand with the South and the Confederacy. Somehow, it seemed unreal, the past, present, and future was rushing at us. There would be no slowing down the pace of events. No one could imagine before hand it would come the way it did - one beautiful sunny day. There was scheduled a Change of Command in conjunction with the normal morning colors, so we all fell out and mustered.

We were soon to learn a new meaning of the term 'Change of Command.' When we were fully mustered and colors sounded, we heard the tune 'Dixie' over the loud speakers. Normally, a Private or Corporal with about two other soldiers marched out and raised the colors [flag,] and without any special fanfare. Not this time! On this occasion a Major and two Lieutenants performed those duties. Then, out it came - before Almighty God and the assembled troops. They raised the Confederate States National flag [third national.] A firm disciplined voice came over the loudspeakers afterwards. "This post is now under the Command of the Confederate States Army. Any questions you may have, shall be addressed to your Company or Brigade Commanders" Discipline temporarily broke down as cheers and whistles broke out among the troops.

Later we found out that each of us would be required to take an oath confirming our change of allegiance. We discovered that an astonishing 75 % of the soldiers gladly and willingly took the Confederate States Oath of Allegiance. Another 15% would not, but made no trouble other than refusing. About 10% simply went AWOL, probably to Canada; in this unusual situation, no one would likely be looking for them. The 15% were later shipped to the Northeast under diplomatic courtesies.

We were extremely busy for sometime afterwards. We changed decals, emblems, and signs, as well as our uniforms. We eventually went on patrol throughout the cities and towns of the South. Our assignment was to ensure the safe and orderly transfer of power from the United States to the Confederate States, with as little interference as possible in the affairs of private citizens. The duty turned out to be a pleasant assignment. Every where we went, we were cheered, waved at, and thanked. History had now indeed come full circle!

Arrives In Charleston

Over a year before the big event, I had been assigned to the newly commissioned Coast Guard Cutter Semmes, [in honor of Admiral Raphael Semmes, CSN] so named because of growing Southern Political influence and a desire on the part of bureaucrats to appease the emerging Confederate power block. No one could have foreseen how appropriately named the ship had been.

We were on a law enforcement patrol up and down the Atlantic Coast from Canadian Border to the Caribbean Islands. Our home port, oddly enough was New York City. About 80% of our crew define themselves as either Southerners or Westerners. The remainder, in all truthfulness, didn't seem to care one way or the other.

Our Commanding Officer was Captain George Dunovant - somehow related to the South Carolina brothers - General John Dunovant and General R.G. M. Dunovant - CSA of South Carolina. However, as the political winds seemed to be stirring into a ‘Full Gail’ they nevertheless subsided as we left the turmoil, got underway and headed toward the open sea.

The patrol had been routine and other than a couple of dope seizures and a fishing trawler in trouble, not much has taken place other than emergency drills that kept us occupied. As a Chief Yeoman at the time, I was often to be found on the bridge of the ship while underway. Then it started.

One clear and beautiful morning a Radioman First Class brought a message for the Captain to the bridge. The Captain read it in silence - it didn't look good to us, but none dared speak up. The Captain turned toward the Officer of the Deck, waved to another officer present to "take the con." They stepped outside on the port wing...we could hear them speaking. The Captain went below and the Officer of the Deck returned and made an announcement over the ship's intercom. "All hands not on watch report immediately to the Crew's Mess [dining hall.]"

Since I was on the bridge mainly to keep the Ship's Log and for communications purposes, the O.O.D. [Officer of the Day] ordered that I be relieved and lay below. Between our original shakedown cruise and extra duty patrols, caused by other ships in dry dock, we had our share of underway time. The Ship's Captain was a tough old bird, but was also likeable. He did seem to be keeping us extra busy on this patrol, but we had no idea what it was all about.

Once assembled, we came to attention as Captain Donovant entered the compartment. All this was somewhat unusual, as normally the Captain did not personally hold instructions. This was normally left to the Chiefs and Department Officers. The Captain finally broke the news - and the mystery. We were ordered to depart in route to Charleston South Carolina immediately. We assumed it was because the Cutter Semmes was the most technically advanced and most sea worthy ship in the fleet. It was said that the ship could easily challenge a number nine sea, although we didn't care to test that assumption.

The Captain went on: "you have been kept busy for a reason. The turmoil ashore has politically erupted to where the thirteen Southern States and many Western States have broken with the Union. The details you will learn of later! Suffice it to say the forty-eight continental States are now two separate nations. The simple fact of numbers being so overwhelmingly against the Government in Washington, they had no choice but to concede to the demands of the Confederate opposition and hold onto whatever they could. This ship was not one of them!"

"This ship has been reclassified the C.S.S. Semmes, and as of today, comes under the command of the Confederate States Border Patrol. Before entering the territorial waters of the Confederacy, en route to Charleston, we have been ordered to remove any visible display of the United States Flags or symbols. Since we are no longer a warship of their fleet" The crew moaned.

"Open elections are scheduled to fill the vacant seats in the Confederate States Government. We are temporarily governed by the Conference of Sovereign States, operating with an official delegation representing the member Confederate States. Are there any questions?" "Yes sir!" A hand went up. "Captain, what of our families, they're still in New York City?" "An exchange of personnel, dependents, and personal effects has been worked out. Both sides have agreed to assist in every way. The reunion with your families will take place in Charleston, and you will find quarters have been arranged. Are there any other questions?" One of the several ladies assigned to the ships complement during the ‘hay day’ of political correctness spoke up... "What about us?"

"The Confederacy seeks the assistance of our ladies. However, there shall be no female warriors whatsoever. The ladies will be given two choices - discharge or transfer to the Confederate Women's Service Corps. We are to be met once we moor in Charleston by a delegation from the Confederate States General Staff. Most of your questions will be answered at that time. Oh, one last item! Your U.S. Currency will be good, pending the issuance of Confederate State Currency, expected shortly after the inauguration of the new president."

We all seemed to be deep in our own thoughts! Our entry into Charleston Harbor some twelve hours later brought us into a whole new world. Somehow, we all felt at ease, as if Almighty God had just put history back on its proper course. Passing Fort Sumter, we couldn't help notice the Confederate States National Flag standing strong in the brisk breeze felt passing over the ship. We had flown only the Bonnie Blue Flag, as directed, until we moored in Charleston where ceremonies would be held, officially re-commissioning the ship. The Captain ordered the Bonnie Blue Flag dipped out of respect, along with an official ships 'man the rail salute' by the crew. On the bridge we all looked at each other and smiled!

The Captain also seemed pleased. After all, he's a native of South Carolina. As we moored, Captain Donovant gave a pleasant sounding, but unfamiliar command "raise the Confederate States National Flag and Navy Jack." Everybody had a puzzled look on their faces. We didn't have any such flags onboard. Did we? Then we remembered the box that had lain in the corner of the ship's bridge all through the patrol. It no doubt contained our answer...which it did; a new high quality set of Confederate flags. Had the good Captain known all along? He never said, and we may never know. We do know he was soon after promoted.

We were standing off the point to the entrance of what was Norfolk Navy Base, Virginia. There were a number of ships presently moored in our various port facilities among them was an aircraft carrier. I saw some of the names on a few of these ships; C.S.S. Nathan Forrest, C.S.S. John Bell Hood and C.S.S. Jefferson Davis. My eyes were drawn southward and slightly to the southwest, where my eyes beheld the most modern and sleek looking submarine. Only a portion of her shape could be seen above the water line, but 'awesome' is the only word which comes close to describing this ship.

Numbers of men were seen scurrying about the deck, making last minute preparations and loading cargo on board. What was particularly unusual about this submarine is that there are no high stack amid-ships, but simply a large bubble in its stead. The entire length was flat, other than its distinguishing bubble. Approximately 25 feet from the bow was a flag staff that flew the Confederate States National Flag and Navy Jack, in that order. Very shortly, the crew appeared to finish their work, as whistles could be heard sounding-off. Orders were being announced over the intercom, which was not clearly audible from my position, but sounded more like a faint sound in the distance. Dock crews soon cast off the lines and the ship was slowly maneuvered into the shipping lane by a couple of harbor tug boats.

The tug boats soon went their way and the submarine moved quietly and alone as it headed toward the entrance to the channel. My eyes have seen many ships, but never one such as this. It was gray in color, as would be expected, but it just didn't seem to be painted. It looked more like some smooth stealth, or possibly the color was part of the metal itself. Whatever this ship was made of it certainly was not steel. Rather some type of advanced alloy, perhaps. From my position, the ship kept coming closer and closer, and the view became much more distinguishable. As it approached my position and passed nearly parallel to where I was standing, the flag staff began to retract, as if by automation. Interestingly, the outer door to the flag staff, once closed, didn't seem to leave any trace as to its fittings. It was as if there had never been an opening! The same condition existed with the crews hatchways; no sign of their existence could be seen.

There was a number on the bow of the ship which read 'C.S.S.-100' and further back could be seen the name of the ship, the C.S.S. Beauregard. As the submarine passed directly by me, it appeared to be of recent vintage. This might even have been her shake down cruise! The ship was absolutely spotless, and so smooth it looked as though the entire hull had been molded in one piece. It made not a sound, neither from its power plant, nor from its glide through the water. It simply whispered through the channel heading for the open sea.

My last sight of C.S.S. Beauregard was of her slipping quietly below the waves as she slowly disappeared out of sight. I had the distinct feeling this submarine was of a technology unknown to our present day world. That likely she could not be located by sonar, satellite, heat or sound. Once she slipped below the sea, the C.S.S. Beauregard did not exist, until she resurfaced and made her presence known.

Confederate States Government Returns To Richmond!

The City of Richmond has not seen the Confederate States Government since the evacuation on 2 April 1865 and the fall of Richmond. But now, after such a prolonged period under occupation, subjugation and cultural cleaning, the Confederate States Government returned to the Capital City of the Confederacy. Cheering crowds greeted the recently sworn in Confederate States Senate and House of Representatives, as several chartered airliners landed in Richmond with legislators and their families. A long motorcade passed through the city in route to the statehouse, which will be used, as it was before, as the national capital, pending other arrangements. The motorcade passed through throngs of flag waving citizens all along the route. The world has not seen such a day, since the allied troops liberated Paris France during Second World War.

Second President Inaugurated!

The Confederate States of America was not permitted an orderly transfer of political power. Instead long has passed between the first and second president of the Confederacy. President Jefferson Davis should have ended his six year term of office, upon the inauguration of the Second Confederate States President on 22 February 1868. This inauguration has been delayed due to conquest, occupation, subjugation and the Southern Holocaust.

The Grand Entry Into Richmond!

While the inauguration was underway in Montgomery Alabama, the Confederate States Congress, both the Senate and House of Representatives were gathering in Richmond and quickly organized. It did not take long since previous consultations had taken place. The Confederate Congress had decided to hold its swearing in ceremonies at Charleston South Carolina, in memory of 12 April 1861, when the struggle for Southern Independence began in earnest, with the firing on Fort Sumter. Several emergency bills awaited the new congress. These pieces of legislation having been drafted by the Conference of Sovereign States, made possible by the Confederate Independence Conference. The conference has since made its final adjournment and disbanded, having completed their mission.

Among the various bills awaiting the new congress, were the re-commissioning of the Confederate States Armed Forces and the official establishment of the Confederate States Monetary System. There is also the issue of Statehood for Arizona, New Mexico and Oklahoma, originally territories of the Confederacy. Other States have requested membership in the Confederacy, and which will certainly be high on the addenda.

Most of these first few legislative bills are at present a formality, since they were previously agreed upon, and the details worked out. Agreements have been reached, that once the President signs the Statehood legislation for these first three States, their Senators and Representatives, which are even now waiting in the wings, will immediately join the congress and be sworn into office.

Additionally, the Senate has the task of confirming the nominations for the Presidents Cabinet, the list of names have already submitted! We are told, the Confederate States Cabinet will be much smaller then its counterpart in the United States, since the individual States retain their sovereignty over domestic affairs within the Confederacy. The cabinet however will include among its members, a Secretary of State, Secretary of the Treasury, Secretary of War and a Transition Secretary, who will coordinate issues relating to the transition from an occupied nation to independence.

Meanwhile the newly inaugurated Confederate States President and his party arrived from Atlanta in a recently donated airliner, quickly dubbed "Confederate One" she was met and the party escorted to the statehouse by the Governor of Greater Virginia, and the Mayor of Richmond. The procession quickly made its way around the city and down Monument Row, as armed Confederate Soldiers stood guard all along the way, and snapped to attention at the passing of their Commander in Chief. Confederate Flags were everywhere in abundance, and there has never been such a spectacle in the Southland.

Upon his arrival, the president meet with his newly confirmed cabinet and went to work. The official inaugural parade would not take place until later in the day.