I have seen this happen time and time again over my years. That “thing” occurs when people of like thoughts gather together and the new faces immediately appear to be as if they have known each other for years.
This event happened just like that this day. My friend Robert “Slim” Bowser and I met some individuals for lunch at Harmarville, Pennsylvania. The primary reason we were to meet stemmed from a joint interest in the Civil War especially with local regiments and such from the 1861 through 1865 period of time.
A second joint interest is with a Civil War book written by Arthur Fox. Although, most of the groups listed in his upcoming book were originally from Allegheny County, Art chose to include a chapter on the Company D, 62nd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry many of which originated from Armstrong County. This is the county Slim and I call our home. Slim is the highly interested in the story of the 62nd. He, also, has included my painting image of; “The Wheatfield-Whirlpool of Death.”
Others in attendance were Tom McMillan who is the vice president of communications for the Pittsburgh Penguins and John Haltigan another Civil war buff involved with Art’s book. The topic was Civil war and the excitement in our eyes was prominent as you might have imagined.
My father would have called such an exchange as a “Gumsuck.” he would often refer to parties my mother would attend as such. As children we would always get a chuckle of the term.
Art’s book is scheduled to be out by November of this year. I will include purchasing details upon knowledge.
To read more info on the 62nd PVI visit Slim’s blog site at: http://62ndpvi.wordpress.com/
Larry A. Smail's Blog 
Larry, it was a real pleasure finally meeting you and Slim. I was very impressed with the dedication you guys, and Tom have in regards to your ancestors at the Wheatfield in Gettysburg. I know the first time I went to the 41st PA. Reserve monument on Big Round Top, how I felt, although my g.g.grandfather had been medically discharged before Gettysburg, but somehow I could feel his spirit up on that hill. I sincerely thank you and Slim for all your support toward our book project, it is very much appreciated. As I announced today, John and I have already started our next project, the regimental history of the 139th Pennsylvania Infantry, that had three companies from Armstrong County. John and I will meet up with you again on Veteran’s Day in November. Be well.
Art Fox, Pittsburgh
Art, I was very pleased to meet you three fellows. We have that certain bond found from those who love history. Also, one can see the emotions in the eyes of fellows such as us. We feel the pain and reality of that war from those many years. Tears easily form. Please, keep me informed with the book status. I can’t wait to see the book and all those wonderful photos and words!