Like many Civil War buffs, I envision my dream job as a Gettysburg battlefield guide.
For the first time in seven years, the National Park Service has openings for the coveted positions conducting tours of the massive site in Pennsylvania where the Union army won a decisive victory over Robert E. Lee’s troops in the summer of 1863.
Those wishing to join the proud company of 150 licensed guides must pass a grueling four-part test known as one of the toughest in the world.
The exam begins Saturday, according to a Wall Street Journal article. Successful applicants must know an encyclopedic amount of arcane facts about the complex four-day battle as well as overall strategy and major developments.
Those taking the test undergo intensive study, the WSJ reported. Along with battle details, they must know preliminary causes and the aftermath’s significance to the Civil War’s conclusion.
I like to imagine that I could answer obscure questions about Cemetery Ridge, Little Round Top and Pickett’s Charge.
The battle lives in my memory from books and visits to the hallowed site.
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