What is it really like to General a game the likes of Oklahoma D-Day or Fulda Gap ?
What is it like ? A year ’ s worth of planning . Meetings , in person , on the phone , thousands of emails over time . It is so many things over time it all runs together . Having been a General at Oklahoma D-Day for 14 years and Fulda Gap for five years , every year has been different in one way or another . It ’ s always a changing environment . Not only do you battle the opposing forces , but you battle things like a changing economy and the environment . However , if I were to pick one word to define it , that word would be “ responsibility .” You see , when you command a game the size of Oklahoma D-Day that is a weeklong or a Fulda Gap where you have 1400 players crammed into 70 acres for 3 days you , as overall commander for one side , are responsible for your players experience while at the game . For many families that
attend these games it is their vacation , and it may be the only time they spend away from home together for the whole year . I have watched friends ’ children grow up and have children of their own . That is a BIG responsibility .
While the game promotor and field staff are responsible for the players ultimate experience , it is you , the General , that is the direct line of communication between the player and game staff . You as General can break the game . If you do not do your job , those attending they game can have a horrible experience . When you are a “ General ” in one of these games it is also up to you to pick people that will not only lead your players on the field , but also help those players throughout the year . The people you pick must be willing help the
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