Since 2009, the Battle of Selma Re-enactment Committee has followed the leadership of its founder, James H. Hammonds, but now in 2012 a new leader will step in.

Dr. Jack Burns, a Selma physician, was named chairman of the April 1865 Society’s Battle of Selma Re-enactment Committee after being on the board for the last three years. He has most recently held the position as battlefield chairman.

“I am excited to take on the role of chairman for the Battle of Selma committee and to plan the 2013 Battle of Selma Reenactment,” Burns said. “Though it is a lot of hard work and intense planning, events like these help boost our economy and bring the community together for a fun-filled learning experience.”

Burns’ goal is to expand the annual battle by incorporating more re-enactors, organizations and visitors to the battle.

“It is one of my goals to make the Battle of Selma the largest re-enactment in the Southeast,” Burns said. “It was once the largest re-enactment in the Southeast, as far as participation.”

Former chairman of the committee, Hammonds said he looks forward to working with Burns in his new position.

“He has the requisite background in reenacting, the experience as Site Chair and a good leadership style,” Hammonds said. “The Selma reenactment will definitely benefit from his leadership.”

The April 1865 Society, Inc. is the sponsor of the event, but the event brings about partnerships with other groups in the community. Wallace Community College, ArtsRevive, The Lions Club and the Selma Chamber of Commerce are just a few that are involved.

Each year has been a continuation of the planning efforts being made by local, state and national leaders in history and tourism to prepare for the 150th anniversary of the Battles of the American Civil War.

For the next three years, re-enactors across the United States, and some abroad, will recreate the battles of the War Between the States.

Burns is looking to get participation from re-enactment groups across the country, such as a group from Tennessee and Florida.

“I’m looking forward to helping the battle grow and trying to bring in as many people to participate as possible,” Burns said.