From Fort Larned National Historic Site
Join us April 25 from 2 to 8 p.m. at Fort Larned National Historic Site for the 2026 Mess & Muster. This year we’re celebrating military music and honoring our active-duty military and veterans.
How do you communicate commands on a battlefield without a radio? With drums and bugles of course. This year’s Fort Larned Old Guard Mess & Muster presents programs on Military music and signals, including author John Langellier discussing his book, Buffalo Soldiers, Bandsmen and Breaking Barriers. And you won’t want to miss a concert by the Fort Riley 1st Division Band. We’re also recognizing the service and sacrifice of our active-duty military members and veterans.
Registration is $10 for adults. Children 16 and under, as well as active-duty military and veterans are free. Register online on the Fort Larned Old Guard website: www.ftlarnedoldguard.com.
Schedule of Events
2 – 2:30 p.m. Registration and Self-Guided Fort Tour
Station interpretation at various locations throughout the fort provided by volunteers and staff.
2 p.m. Welcome to Fort Larned and Mess & Muster
Fort Larned Old Guard Chair and Fort Larned National Historic Site Superintendent welcome participants and recognize active-duty military members and veterans. (Quartermaster's Warehouse)
3:15 p.m. Military Signals, Drum and Bugle
Featuring Park Ranger Ben Long on the drum and Old Guard member Janet Armstead on the bugle. (Enlisted Barracks porch)
4 p.m. Fort Riley 1st Infantry Brass Band (Quartermaster's Warehouse)
5 p.m. Book Signing in the Visitor Center with Dr. John Langellier
Dr. Langellier will be signing two of his books about African American Troops, that include More Work Than Glory: Buffalo Soldiers in the United States Army, 1866-1916 and Fighting For Uncle Sam: Buffalo Soldiers in the Frontier Army.
5:30 p.m. Retreat: Traditional Army Flag Lowering Ceremony (Fort Larned Parade Ground)
6:45 p.m. Old Guard Business Meeting, Awards
7 p.m. Buffalo Soldiers: Bandsmen and Breaking Barriers
Dr. John Langellier noted author specializing in the history of the American West and the U.S. Military. Dr. Langellier holds a B.A. and M.A. from the University of San Diego in history and historical archaeology and earned his Ph.D. from Kansas State University with an emphasis on U.S. military history. He has written scores of articles and dozens of books about the American West and U.S. military history.