I use it to try and flag down traffic that seems to be going exceedingly fast in passing the wagon train. Schwartzkoph realizes that occasionally the wagon train has to share the roads and highways with modern automobiles. But at the same time, he worries that many people are not aware that the horses can spook and cause injury to everyone involved. The outrider's job is to be aware of the wagons and watch out for accidents before they happen. With his red bandana, which has become his trademark, Schwartzkoph tries to slow down traffic as much as he can.
Outriders are important to the wagon train.
They have a wider range of mobility so they can assist with occasional problems on the trail and quickly dismount if necessary. On one occasion, one horse in a team rubbed its bridle off and the teamster lost control of the animals. The wagon train was moving alongside of a highway at the time and the team spooked. Fortunately, the outriders were able to get to the horses and stop them before any damage was done. Ill. He had recently retired from the U.S. Postal Service when an old friend, Ernie West, told him about the reenactment.