This depends on what type of regiment or unit or wish to join. When I originally started out in the 71st Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, I too asked if I could be a cadet in order to train as an officer. Instead, I was informed that I would have to be a Private, move up through the ranks and then become an officer that way. I also applied to be the regimental chaplain, but this didn't go over so well. That's when I began my own group, (fairly new too). There are some reenactment groups that are looking for officers, but usually they gain these people through other groups that have been an NCO or an officer for a while, and it also can pertain to "knowing that person" as well. In other words, it's who you know sometimes. I didn't stay with that group very long. I looked into it and started my group, the 90th General Staff Corps, in which I am the Captain and I supply larger brigades with (Chaplains), (Hospital Stewards), (Musicians), and even a (Commissary Dept.). Too often many groups play favorites, unfortunately, that's just how it is in this type of hobby. I've seen it before and chances are, I and you will see it again.
The best thing to do, look into various units around your area that you can join. Also, see if you really want to be in an Infantry group, Artillery, even Cavalry. (Beware, though, usually with cavalry they look for members who have experience in equestrian (horses) training and experience. There are also a good number of other General Staff Companies that that adopted other, more specific types of units, such as; (Signal Corps, Commissary, Medical Corps, and there seem to be quite a few Drum & Fife Corps'). Like I said above, check into varying groups. Ask yourself what you really want to do or in essence, can do. Can you play an instrument? Then you may want to think about joining a group as a musician. The group I used to belong to wouldn't right out allow me to be a chaplain, even after I explained to them the research I had done. If the reenactment group commander asks you what training you have in their more "specialized" units, and you have specialized training, don't be afraid to come out and stay what you're good at. Many reenactors seem to forget that this is merely acting, it's not real. Any impression is and should be welcomed. Also, ask various groups if they allow teenagers to be officers. Some groups have a cadet program, (ages 11 to 14, or so), to train as a junior officer and then make their way right into a second lieutenant. Typically, however, those groups that did this were larger groups. They usually had a drum and fife corps, they also had a medical division, as well as a safety officer too. Other groups make you work your way up, generally, (Private to Corporal, Sergeant to First Sergeant, then to Lieutenant and finally Captain). Not all groups have just these ranks however. Some have sergeant majors and both 1st & 2nd lieutenants. Others even have major and a lt. colonel.
The best thing to do is just check around first, ask various reenactment group commanders about what they allow and don't allow. Sometimes, the baords or councils have to vote on it too. See what you really want to do. Also, if you become an officer, the uniform is generally more expensive, as is the officer's saber and the other whatnots. I spent a total of a little over $3800 on my officer's uniform and sword, and other needed gear. Right now, the way the economy is, you also have to ask yourself whether or not you can afford it as well.
I wish you the best of luck in your endeavor.
(90th General Staff Corps), Capt. Joseph Freas, Commanding Officer.
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