Cannon to fire for living history demonstration

First Lt. Franklin Annis of the Nebraska Army National Guard said the presentation will feature the firing of a replica 1841 Napoleon six-pound cannon – a weapon used by both the North and the South during America’s deadliest war. Annis said the presentation will help observe the 150^th anniversary of the Civil War.

"This is a unique opportunity to bring history to life,” Annis said. “This is a chance not to read about these weapons in a text book or see them in a museum, but to touch one and hear one thundered to life.”

Annis said he plans to explain the process of loading, aiming and firing the cannon, which has become known by CSC football fans for placing the exclamation point on the Eagles’ scoring at Elliott Field. He said soft projectiles and reduced loads will be used to demonstrate the effects of ballistics and the operations of the cannon crew. He also will speak about the various types of cannon ammunition and their uses.

Annis said the event is targeted to all ages, and people ages 19 and up will be given the opportunity to take part in the loading and firing of the cannon.

The event will be just south of the practice field near C Hill. Attendees are encouraged to park in the lot south of Nelson Physical Activity Center, where signs will direct them to the activity.

The Nebraska Army National Guard is co-sponsoring the event. Annis said the artillery demonstration is the first of a series of military living history events to be hosted by the CSC War Eagle Club, which consists of students with military interests. The next activity is tentatively scheduled for April 2012.