Rest in Peace Gerry Schultz

A friend of mine passed away the other day. Gerry Schultz was a scholar of the Battle of the Little Big Horn and of trooper Peter Thompson in particular. Gerry knew anything and everything about the guy. He would scour through books, magazines, and the internet looking for obscure mentions of Peter Thompson to add to his database of knowledge. He was an avid contributor to the many message boards and Facebook groups dedicated to the study of the Little Big Horn fight and the 7th U.S. Cavalry. That's where I first came into contact with Gerry... online.

Later, during one of our Montana Mayhem trips, we met Gerry in person. He was as friendly and welcoming in the flesh as he was online. Every trip thereafter we made a point to visit and catchup with Gerry. He was a re-enactor and portrayed Peter Thompson to the masses, not only during the big battle anniversary weekend but he would give presentations and talks throughout the year on his favorite subject. He loved sharing his passion for history and I'm sure he ignited the interest in more than a few people.

You will be terribly missed Gerry.

Gerry at his campsite, US Cavalry School, Little Big Horn Battlefield, June 2013.

Gerry with an old bugle. Little Big Horn Battlefield, June 2013. Also shown are renowned Custer re-enactor Steve Alexander and author Fred Wagner.

Gerry answering questions at the High Plains Western Heritage Center, Spearfish, South Dakota, June 2017.

Gerry Schultz, portraying trooper Peter Thompson at the High Plains Western Heritage Center, Spearfish, South Dakota, June 2017. On the stand next to Gerry is Peter Thompson's actual Medal of Honor, awarded for his actions as a water carrier at the Battle of the Little Big Horn.