As thousands of comic book and fantasy fans were flocking to the annual Comic-Con Convention in California this month, a much smaller, but perhaps more devoted, crowd headed to Arlington, Virginia for the annual Conference of Army Historians.  Like their counterparts in California, attendees of the CAH talked shop, debated hot topics (Pontiac's War in 1763: rebellion or insurgency?), and drank large quantities of coffee.  Many of the attendees were even dressed up.  However, rather than outlandish costumes, they were wearing ACUs and ASUs (some may call the ACU outlandish, and I'm not sure that they don't have a point, but that's another topic all together).  And unlike the presentations and showmanship that came out of Comic-Con, the results of the CAH would have effect on national strategy and policy.  

      For although my tone is light-hearted, the actual bearing that the CAH has on the Army is of great significance.  It is viewed by the Army as an essential tool for the professional development of Army historians.  It is there that historians can learn how to do their jobs better, get updates on what their colleagues are doing, and hear new and innovative ideas.  I was honored to be able to present a paper there, an experience that taught me just how very much I still have to learn.  Over the course of three days, I attended a number of workshop sessions where presenters addressed the theme of the conference: Armies in persistent conflict.  We heard about the colonial experiences of France, England, and the Netherlands, from the 1700s to the 1970s.  Several workshops focused on the technical aspect of collecting history in theater during wartime, including several fantastic talks by member of recently returned Military History Detachments (MHD).  For those who managed museums, there were workshops on how to improve collections, the best way to manage staff rides, and how to optimize space in your museum.

     Perhaps the most valuable aspect of the conference, at least to me, was the ability to meet so many people who are so passionate about preserving the history of the Army.  There were attendees from the National Guard Bureau, the Army War College, American Military University, the Combat Studies Institute, and a number of other institutions.  The mixing of departments and organizations made it an environment rich in new and exciting ideas.  For my part, I found the entire experience refreshing and exciting.  It was also nice to see that perhaps I can use my degree for something.  Someday.

     There are probably many who are wondering right now why Army history matters.  Well, aside from all the valuable lessons learned (Army-speak for "let's never do that again") there lies at the heart of Army history one of the core Army values: never leave a fallen comrade.  The history of the Army is the history of every soldier ever raised their right hand to protect and defend.  From the heroes at Bunker Hill (and before, if you ask the National Guard) to those still serving, the memories of American soldiers are recorded for posterity by Army historians.  As long as the Army "goes rolling along," Army historians will continue to preserve the deeds of American soldiers, point out actions not to be repeated, and constantly serve as a force to improve the organization as a whole.  

And be a place where geeks such as myself can find enjoyment.