YM,
I was also aware of the introduction to the Military Da Dao book that discussed the origins of the Da Dao from Master Fan. However, I found in discussions with others in Shanghai and in documentary evidence, that the Qing Wu had instructors who taught the military. They further stated that there was a set connected with that instruction and that instructors at the Qingwu used this as a source in their training of the military. (Though they also say that it had to be simplified). As you say, Master Fan was not at the Qingwu, but Master Luo and WHF were. I had to consider the possiblity that there could be some influence if not direct sourcing of material from the Qing Wu to the form.
Being faced with two possible influences on the present Da Dao set, I am both investigating the Qing Wu side and am in discussions with mainland Qixing Tanglangquan folks to see if Quanpu or movement phrases from either school match what we now have in the Military Dai Dao. I believe it is the best course for objective verification of the origins for the set. Most likely both stories are to some degree accurate, but if I can verify and find source material for possible origins and development of the set I believe it would be valuable.
I appreciate your bringing the information about the introductory material to the fore, I was writing in a hurry, as I am now, got to catch a plane and simply left it out.
But while we are on the subject...
MightyB,
As you have also been informed as to the origins of the set, its history and its performance I would really like for you elaborate on the Nine Ring's inclusion in the military broadsword tradition. It would be facinating to me since, as I have said earlier, I have never heard of it being used and in fact was told flatly that it was not. Obviously my information in this area was not complete as you maintain that the Nine Ring is a part of this tradition.
Always great to learn something new.
Steve Cottrell