Archives

Brian was, in a word, spectacular.

I loved the entire simulation experience of the battles at Antietam and Gettysburg. I loved the depth of knowledge I received from Brian. I loved the simulations from using people to represent the various military units, to the marching, to the rush up the rocky hill before Little Round Top. Brian’s words and the personal experiences he shared at the cemetery were moving. The opportunity to be reflective about how I feel regarding the sacrifices so many living and dead have made on behalf of my freedoms was overwhelming. The time spent in gratitude was precious to me. What means even more, though, was that my daughters had that experience. With so much that is jaded, cynical, and denigrated it was invaluable for them to have the opportunity feel the purity of that sacrifice, the goodness of it. I am so grateful.

Brian exquisitely illuminated the most profound lessons of history to his audience. As a sage and passionate historian, Brian fomented heartfelt and deeply intellectual appreciation for the hallowed grounds we walked. His historical battlefield mentorship routinely built stronger teams among students, faculty and military units by inspiring the young, old, civilian and military alike to grow in their own individual capacity for leadership and citizenry. Simply put, a staff ride or battlefield tour with Brian is a brilliant experience.

Going on a three-day staff ride to Gettysburg under the leadership of Brian DeToy was the single best educational experience of my life…. As a history professor at both the United States Military Academy and the United States Air Force Academy, I have spent the last twelve years trying to create an atmosphere as conducive to learning as that which Brian established during those three days at Gettysburg.

Brian spoke first-hand as though he was reincarnated from 1799.

By completely immersing ourselves into the event, Brian taught me ways to engage and challenge others by using historical vignettes, anecdotes, and military tactics. Brian DeToy is a masterful teacher and presenter. He has an uncanny knack for leadership, and he can command any group’s attention.

At Gettysburg, we benefited from Brian’s deep historical expertise, his knowledge of the terrain, and his insights into many personalities that shaped this incredible battle—a battle that, indeed, shaped our country. Brian provides deep and fascinating insights at all levels: leadership, decision-making, strategic, operational, and tactical.

Brian stopped our group in the middle of Antietam Creek, adjacent to Burnsides’ Bridge, and recounted the decision-making process, leadership challenges and motivation for the forces arrayed on both sides of the span. He possesses a unique blend of insight and passion to make his lessons resonate for years. Brian DeToy captivates his participants, getting them involved in their learning in ways that would otherwise be impossible.

We ended our Civil War tour at the Gettysburg National Cemetery. This is where it all came together for me. We had walked the battlefields, had seen where brother had fought brother, had heard Brian tell us their stories, yet I still couldn’t wrap my head around the justification for so much bloodshed. Here at the cemetery, Brian shared his love for his cadets who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. And I finally understood the heart of a soldier. I am so grateful for their dedication and courage and I hope that we can continue “to take increased devotion to that cause which they here, gave the last full measure of devotion”. We each had chosen a stone from somewhere on the battlefields and at the cemetery we placed that stone on the grave of a fallen soldier and spent some quiet, sacred time honoring and thanking him for his sacrifice. Lauren carefully weaved a wreath of fallen leaves around the headstone of her unknown soldier. It was very moving to see that all the youth on the trip had taken Brian’s lessons to heart.

Brian is more than a poised, confident and enthusiastic guide; he is an educator. He is careful to tailor his presentations so that all members of the audience, whatever their age or background, will come away with a memorable experience.