The 24-horse drill team at Arlington Hall had to have been thrilling to be a part of. Indeed, our Mother told stories of how “The Arlington girls” always beat “The VMI boys!” They also had the distinct privilege of performing for President Franklin Roosevelt.

This photo captures only part of the 24-horse Drill Team.

The girls had a great respect for their drill instructor, known only to us as Klemann (forgive the spelling). There was quiet whispering swirling around the circle of friends of Mom’s parents. “Did you know that Edward and Esthers’ girls are being instructed by a German?

This concern was understandable, as it was the early 1940’s. The world stage was approaching a terrible upheaval.