On March 22, the Medina Greys Camp #2254 proudly represented the Sons of Confederate Veterans at the Frio Pioneer Jail Museum’s Pioneer Day 2025 in Pearsall, Texas. Under the bright Texas sun, the camp set up a striking tent featuring the SCV logo alongside the well-known 1-800-MySouth branding. The display immediately caught the attention of visitors eager to explore Southern heritage, sparking conversations and connections throughout the day.

Frio Pioneer Days is an annual event that transforms the historic grounds of the Frio Pioneer Jail Museum and the relocated Frio Town school into a vibrant celebration of the area’s past. The festival boasts an exciting lineup of activities, including Old West reenactments, a petting zoo, cook-offs, over 60 vendor booths, and live music from the Cactus Country Band. One of the highlights is the Jack Reed Memorial Auction, where attendees can bid on unique historical memorabilia and handcrafted goods. For history lovers, families, and curious visitors alike, Pioneer Days offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the spirit of the old frontier.

The Medina Greys’ presence was unmistakable, with Confederate flags proudly displayed and tables stocked with historical literature, merchandise, and memorabilia. Their booth became a hub for guests eager to learn about the SCV, its mission, and the legacy of their Confederate ancestors. Visitors were welcomed with warm hospitality, lively discussions, and even a fresh cup of coffee, courtesy of Confederate Coffee Company, which added to the experience.

The event saw an exciting live demonstration led by Charles Thacker, commander of the Medina Greys, alongside John McCammon, Commander of the Army of Trans-Mississippi. Along with another dedicated member, they took to the field to showcase authentic rifle drill techniques, bringing the history of Confederate soldiers to life with precision and discipline. The highlight of the demonstration came when they invited young attendees to step up and take command. With bright eyes and eager anticipation, the youth had the honor of issuing the call: “Ready, Aim, FIRE!”—a moment they won’t soon forget.

For those who missed the action, a video of the rifle drill routine is available below, capturing the precision and excitement of the demonstration:

The Medina Greys Camp #2254’s participation in Pioneer Day 2025 was nothing short of a triumph. Through their dedication, they brought a deeper understanding of Southern heritage to the attendees while fostering connections with the local community. From the rifle drills to the camaraderie shared over a hot cup of coffee, their presence added a unique layer of authenticity and engagement to the festival. As always, the Sons of Confederate Veterans remain steadfast in their mission to preserve and honor the rich history of the South through education, outreach, and meaningful participation in events like these.

As the sun set on a day filled with history, laughter, and shared stories, one thing was clear—Pioneer Day 2025 was another step forward in keeping the spirit of the past alive for generations to come.