Report of inspection of the Georgia volunteers and Georgia volunteers, colored

REPORT OF INSPECTION
OF THE
GEORGIA VOLUNTEERS
AKD
GEORGIA VOLUNTEERS, COLORED,
BY
First Lieutenant C. B. SATTERLEE, Third Artillery, Acting Assistant Adjutant and Inspector-General.
SEPTEJlIBER 25th, 1891, TO APRIL 5th, 1892.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA.: GEO. W. HARRISON, STATIl: PRINTER.
(Franklin Publishing House.) 1892.

REPORT.
{ STATE OF GEORGIA, ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR-GENERAL'S OFFICE, Atlanta, April 30, 1892.
'1'0 the Acl.iutant and Inspector-General, State of Georgia, Atlanta, Ga.:
SIR - I have the honor to submit the following report of my inspection of the Georgia Volunteers and the Georgia Volunteers, colored, made in compliance with General Orders No. 38, September 7, 1891, .Adjutant and InspectorGeneral's office, State of Georgia:
In accordance with the provisions of the orders referred to, my inspection 'Commenced on September 25, 1891, and progressed as rapidly as possible, 'and without interruption, save when I was ordered to special work in your office, viz., from December 9, 1891, to ,Tanuary 17, 1892, and from February 7 to 21 and from March 21 to 28, 1892. Other short delays have occurred, owing to the difficulty of cloSE'ly following any prearranged railroad schedule in reaching companies so ~idely scattered, and to the necessity of giving sufficient notice onhe day for inspection. Ample notice was required in the cases of commands stationed in country districts, to the end that the members might be duly informed. This was particularly true of the majority of the organizatiolls of the Fifth Georgia Oavalry, whose members live anywhere from fifteen to twenty-five miles from a common rendezvous. I have alluded to these delays only to account for the seemingly long time consumed in completing the work.
Under the instructions contained in the orders directing this work, the in.spection was limited to individual commands, and, therefore, with the exception noted below, no examination was made by me of the military records of regimental or battalion organizations, nor were their drills 01' systems of instructions called for or observed. Indeed, with the exception of the First Regiment, the Third and Fourth Battalions, Georgia Volunteers, and the three battalions of the Georgia Volunteers, colored, the several companies composing the larger units are so scattered that an assembly would be impracticable, and even in the cases of those commands here excepted, to have ordered a general formation would have imposed undue expense and a sacrifice of time, and for this reason would have been injudicious. In future inspections, however, examination might well be made as to the work performed bv regimental and battalion staff officer.s and their knowledge of their several duties, such as the manner of keeping books and papers of record, conducting military correspondence; in fact, methods of military administration as practiced at these headquarters. The propriety of such an examination and the necessity of a uniform system of instruction under this head will be adverted to later in this report.

4
Plan of lnspection.-In making the inspection it was deemed proper to inquire into every subject with which any company, troop or battery of the line of the army must come in contact in the ordinary routine of duty, where opportunities for instruction have been enjoyed by the troops of the State; in other words, the purely practical duties of a soldier have been sought for in the inspection of every individual command. I take occasion here to state that the cheerful manner in which each organization has labored to fulfill the conditions imposed or expected, and the results attained by some, call for no small measure of praise. The interest displaved by officers and men throughout the State in the work of inspection has "been most gratifying. It has given me such encouragement as to make an otherwise tedious duty light and agreeable. At every station visited have I found the troops not only .willing but really anxious to receive such instruction as I might be able to impart, and in no instance have I had occasion to feel that the labor demamled of them was other than acceptable.
Carrying out the foregoing ideas as to the scope and character of an inspec tion, practical work in the following features of soldier's instruction by every command visited bas been invited:
School of the Soldier, setting up exercises, squad drill under non-commissioned officers.
School of the Company, including the ceremony of inspection, the manual of arms, drill by the several officers of the command; examination of officers and gnides as to their duties.
Scho(,l of the Skirmisher, or extended order exercise. Simulated Guard Duty, and an observation of non-commissioned officers in the formation of guard details; inquiry of men as to their knowledge of sentry duty; observation of ability of non comm ii'sioned officers to march details ontQ line established by sergeant"major. In addition hereto the following matters were examined into and observed: Condition ((nd serviceability of arms and equipments; care bestowed in their preservation; methods employed in storing and accounting for them. Books and papers of military record; returns rendered by commanding officers; knowledge of military correspondence. Discipline; as maintained; exten t of instruction communicated. Knowing beforehand that the subject of rifle practice had been given but little, if any attention, and no encouragement, and that no uniform sy,stem of instruction had been prescribed, I confined my inquiries under this vitally important head, with the exception of one company, to the use and handling of the rifle and carbine, the preliminaries to target practice, such as sighting drills, aiming and position drills, the principles of gallery practice, the setting of sights and the adjustment of deflection scales. While thus dealing with the troops, I have endeavored to impress upon all the fact that I intended in no wise to criticize or embarrass them, nor by taking advantage of their limite d opportunities and the great want of recognition by the proper authorities, to hold up any shortcoming to ridicule. On the contrary, I sought to encourage and foster an interest in the profession; to point out deficiencies and indicate possible roads to improvement. And in this report where defects are noted I would have the troops feel that in recording,

5
them, my chief desire is to suggest a correction. In this way, and in this manner only, can faults be made known. To pass them over would be slighting the work. How otherwise can improvement be attained? In this manner I believe I can be of service to the troops, in whom I have learned to feel the greatest interest through contact and association with them.
In the inception of this inspection I had determined to give each organiza'Non a rating or a relative figure of merit for its work under the several subheads enumerated, and thus report their comparative efficiency. The idea has seemingly met with the general approval of all, but upon careful consid~ration of the disadvantages under which certain worthy and deserving comIIIunds of the State are laboring and their inability to assemble oftener than ,five or six times a year, I have concluded to publish no relative standing. Whereas such a publication, based on any officer's judgment, which is always :liable to error, might, and I am strongly of the conviction would, encourage the diligent and hard working, practically inclined commands, at the present time an abstract comparison of the w'lrk done by all might tend to discourage, and lessen the interest manifested, by companies less fortunate in opportunities for assembl:', drill and instruction.
I believe, however, that in the neAt general inspection a comparative 'stan']ard of efficiency ~hould be made and published, due consideration being -given to such organizations as by reason of location and the separation of members are unable to meet at regular intervals; and to the end that all may be duly informed, the several features of instruction to be examined into 'should be clearly injicated. This would be but simple justice to those commands which have, at no less sacrifice of time and means than others, 8hown the greatest desire to do good work and by earnest endeavor and close attention to regular meeting8 have made themselves superior; and there are such 'organizations in the State.
EKLISTMENT.
Regarding the enlistment of men, the Act of the General Assembly, approved November 12, 1889, provides, "that, within ninety days from the approval of this Act, each membcJr' of the volunteer force oE this State shall enlist for the term of twel ve' months, or, in default thereof, that the name of such person be dropped from the roll."
"That each person hereafter connecting him8elf with the Volunteers of this State shall in like manner be enlisted. That soldiers discharged for the 'good of the service, or dishonorably discharged or expelled from the Volunteers of this State or from the National Guard, or Volunteers of any other State, or from the army and navy of the United States, shall not be enlisted unless 'such discharge or expulsion shall have been revoked by proper authority."
Bearing on the same subject, and with a view of placing existing orders relating thereto before the troops, the following extracts from General Orders, Nos, 9 and 10, series of 1890, Adjut:mt and Inspector General's Office, are quoted, viz.:
G. O. 9. "2. That you retain original enlistment and forward to this office .July certified copy, blanks for which are herewith enclosed, and that you re-

6

port promptly all future enlistments in your company, that they may be en-

tered on duplicate roll in this office."

.

G. O. 10. "1. In view of the fact that there is some misunderstanding. as to

who are to be enlisted under the Act of the Legislature, incorporated in General

Order No.7, from this Department, it is hereby ordered that the active mem-

bers of the volunteer forces of Georgia, to-wit, the non-commissioned officers

and privates, are those contemplated in the Act to be enlisted.

"II. It is further ordered that commanding officers shall retain original en-
listPlent papers for reference and additional enli~tn::ent~, and shall forward to

this office duly certified copies.

"III. All future enlistments shall be returned to this office, certifierl to by

the commanding officer.

"IV. The enlistment oath shall be subscribed to before a commissioned offi-

cer of the Military Force of the State."

In my inspection the matter of enlistment was given careful investigation

in order to ascertain whether the laws and the orders issued in consequence

thereof were being duly complied with, to determine the numerical strength

of the enlisted force of the State, and to observe how carefully and accurately

and to what extent records under this head were being kept and preserved.

I have to report that in many cases not only is the intent of the general Act

lost sight of or misunderstood, but that the injunctions contained in the orders

quoted above as to the retention of original enlistment papers are ignored,

and in the majority of the organizations I fiud no uniform practice of promptly

or regularly reporting new acquisitions as they occur. The system of enlist-

ment as exemplified by cnrrent practices is seriously lacking in the charactel'

of permanency and stability -essentials to good. resllits in any organization.

The enlistment Act seems clear in its provisions and plainly requires that

active members of the authorized organizations of the State shall be enlisted;

and it is constructively, if not actually, implied that, if upon the expiration

of their terms of enlistment, they again desire to and do connect themselves

with the Volunteers they shall again enlist. I find many officers impressed

with the understanding and acting in conformity thereto, that unless furnished

withblank forms or unless positively directed, they are required to make no

enlistments or re-enlistments. This belief is very general.

Another misapprehension was unearthed in a surprisingly large number

of commands; this was the opinion entertained by their officers that enlist-

ments were made only periodically, the date for the same each year being that

on which the first recruiting, after the promulgation of the Act, was done in

their respective organizations. 'Vith such commands the practice has been

to hold over all recruits joining subsequent to any general enlistment until

the next annual date before enrolling them.. At the same time such men are

considered by officers as under obligation.

Again, in many instances I have discovered officers and men laboring under

'th!l erroneous impression that all men received after the general date enlisted

only' for the unexpired portion of the twelve months. I have also to report

.that, in several cases where the orders governing the matter are seemingly un-

derstood, I find men not promptly enlisted, and simply on account of care-

lessness on the part of the officers, or the alleged want of blanks. It is quite

7
apparent that such men do not and will not receive credit or recognition for their services. From a disciplinary standpoint surely such a practice is open to objections; and there is no valid excuse for it. As regards blanks, if a man of business had a report to render in a certain form, with no blanks at hand, he would very naturally provide himself with them, by making a request on the source of supply. !Some men appeared in ranks at my inspection who had not subscribed to the enlistment oath; and in this report they are included in figures showing enlisted strength. These men joined in good faith, and only through the carelessness of their officers or their want of appreciation, as indicated above, of the requirements of existing orders, were they not enlisted in proper form. Upon the assurance of commanding officers that such men would be duly enlisted without delay, I have felt justified in considering them in the aggregate strength of their commands. I invariably endeavored to correct these false impressions and practices; but in order to insure the proper observance in future, of regulations affecting enlistment, more precise rules should be published to each command. Orders received by officers are sel. dom preserved, and never transmitted from one commanding officer to his successor. The enlistment Act itself is not well understood, and officers newly entering the service, not being furnished with existing regulations, are scarcely blamable for these shortcomings. A man is not an enlisted man, nor should he be allowed to enter the ranks, until he has subscribed in due form to the enlistment oath.
In future inspections only such men as are duly enlisted should be considered in the strength of a command, and when a company, from neglect to require men to properly qualify, becomes rednced b~ow the minimum, allowed by law, twenty-nine, it should suffer the penalty therefor-disbandment.
The failure to make prompt returns of enlistment results frequently in never placing a man's name on record in the Adjntant-General's office. The annual returns show only the names of men actually belonging to a command at the time; such reports never show changes occurring during the year. A man may therefore enlist, and subsequently resign or be expelled (under ~he erroneous customs of some commands), but no report be made of the casualty.
I have further to report that, as regards the rendition of returns of enlistments, I find. much irregularity; but very few commanding officers make either prompt or regular reports. This omission may be attributed to heed)essness in some cases, to false ideas regarding the furnishing of blanks in others, and with some to excusable ignorance of the orders covering the subject, such officers never having seen or been furnished with them.
I fail to find proper and due care exercised in keeping original enlistment papers. Some commanding officers could show me no records, the originals having been forwarded to the Adjutant-General and no retained copies made; and some original papers have been. lost or mislaid. In such cases I was obliged to accept the figures of the officers, who, for their data, consulted the company rolls, or resorted to their memories. I made as close inquiry as possible into the status of the men, and my aggregates, while perhaps incorrect, are as nea~ the truth as practicable. To rectify the errors into which many commands have unwittingly- fallen comprehensive and well defined instructions should be communicated.

8
The practice of enlisting all the men of a command on th9 same day in each year should be discouraged. If all thus enter, all will go out together, and the company will be left without men, and be correspondingly handicapped in any instruction it may choose to adopt.
Many fauIts in the keeping of the records' were observed, such as failure to accurately insert dates, -failure to witness signatures, nativity and occupation not recorded, description incomplete.
These, together with other irregular practices, were carefully pointed out, and I am satisfied that the next inspection will show great improvement if not full correction.
In contradistinction hereto I am pleased to report that in some commands not only are the requirements of the act and the orders well understood and observed, but officers in command. through their own resonrces, have devised excellent means for keeping and preserving records. They have adopted suitable books in which all enlistments are recorded, such books replacing the cumbersome enlistment blanks. In this connection I would invite special attention to this blank. It permits of thirty-two signatures, is very large and unwieldy, and by frequent folding and unfolding, as must be done where enlistments are numerous or where it is not possible to secure every signature on the same day, it soon becomes soiled, worn and torn. Some have I examined which are not only unsightly but beyond repair. Later in this report I shall recommend what I believe would hetter answer the purpose.
Regarding the enlistment of men in the Vo;unteers, I would remark that while no physical restrictions are imposed, save general good physical ability, and in some cases height, an applicant's moral character and standing are rigidly examined .to. Men before enlisting are balloted for and elected; in some cases three adverse ballots reject. In one command the matter of recruitment is wholly in the hands of the commanding officer. This careful scrutiny has resulted in repleting the ranks of the Volunteers from among the best young men of the State, than whom no State can boast better material.
While it may not be necessary to exact the bodily qualifications demanded of a soldier in the army, some consideration should be given to those affections which under exposure or on field duty might hecome aggravated or be likely to place a subject" off duty," thus crowding the sick report and weakening the strength and interfering with the-instruction of the command.
Further, with an eye to continued usefulness of the man, I find an excellent practice on the part of a few captains of clearly explaining to every applicant his full obligations as an enlisted man. He is informed as to the length of the term, the nature of the service, the duty which may be required of him, not alone by the State, but by the commanding officer in drills and instruction. He is given ample time to consider these matters before joining. Men who might prove indifferent members would, i! thus forewarned, be less likely t'o enter.
No officer should deceive or inveigle a man into service, nor should a company seek to fill up its ranks simply for the sake of numbers. R.er should officers look to the efficiency of their commands and their effective strength. I have heard officers speak with seeming pride of the number of men they could

'turn out for parade, when in trnth for an ordinary drill their reports show but .half that number; in some cases even less.
Indifferent members, and those who join an organization for the" pomp lind circumstance" and a parade in full uniform before a sweetheart or an admiriug crowd, might better assnme a capacity other than that of an enlisted man. Efficiency and number oj men Jor duty regularly, not strength Jor parade, should be the rule.
It is but just to add that, with no encouragement from the State, many 01'-ganizations would scarcely secure or maintain the minimum strength allowed ,by law were ornamental members not taken in. The practice, however, is more honored in the breach than the observance.
Period (if Enlistment.-In my opinion, based on experience with the troops of the State, the term of enlistment is too short. One year, with only the ,usual weekly drills, is not sufficient for proper training in the duties of a sol. dier. A man lllay learn the manual of arms and acquit himself creditably in the school of the company; this is only the beginning of his teaching, and -during this service he has the advantage of but one encampment. The practical information which he acquires is, therefore, very limited. Moreover, the 'twelve months term must seriously interfere with any systematic course of instruction. By the time a command has attained fair proficiency several 'men leave it and further progress receives It set-back. Constantly varying strenp;th is discourap;ing to any commander.
I believe the period should be three years, certainly not less than two. But I: before increasing the length of the term the principle that ., the laborer is
worthy of his hire" should be recognized and adequate encouragement given ito the troops. It cannot be said that they receive it now.
DISCHARGE.
'Regarding the discharge, release and transfer of enlisted men, I have ob'served even greater deficiency in proper observances. The enlistment act and the rules prescribed in pursuance thereof sufficiently define the manner of entry into the military service of the State, but they are silent as to the method of discharge or release, nor does the military code throw much light on the 'problem. No specific regulations governing discharge have been published,. :and injustice to the troops it is but fair to say that they have been groping 'without guide or direction. To the want of a pre,cribed system, and to par,donable ignorance rather than through carelessness qr lack of good intent, may 'be ascribed the many irregularities under this head enumerated below.
Under the provisions of the Code, in case no regulations are" made or ,ordered" by the proper authority of the State, the army regulations" shall ,govern as far as they are npplicable."
Examining such regulations-and very few officers are fortunate enoup;h to possess copies -.it is to be noted that an enlisted man shallnot be discharged ,before the expiration of his term, except by order of the President or Secretary .of War, by sentence of general court-martial, upon s~rgeon's certificate by "order of a depaltment commander, and by order of one of the United States .courts on a writ of habeas COrp1l.9.

10
Not directly, but only by implication, can these rules be. applied to the vol- unteer system; but they clearly indicate the general principle that once aman enlists and assumes an obligation to the State, neither the man nor the command in which he is serving can of his or its volition terminate the contract before his term expires. Only by the governor's order or the sentence of a court-martial maya discharge be effected.
Many officers and men look upon an enlistment too lightly. It is not generally regarded in it full significance or force, and my inspection has revealed very loose practices. The following remark of an officer of rank and experience in the State is fraught with no little import: "The execution of the Enlistment Act is farcical."
In the great majority of the commands visited I have discovered men being permitted to resign, being dropped or expelled-in other words, being allowed to sever their connection with the service before the expiration of their terms upon the voice or authority of the organization alone, acting as a whole.
Considered from the standpoint of discipline, these irregularities are certainly in need of correction. Discharge should be granted only on good and sufficient grounds, and never save by the proper authority. "Nothing is more subversive of discipline than an impression that a premature discharge can be easily obtained," or an obligation readily nullified.
The agreement which a man enters into upon subscribing to the enlistment oath is an expressed contract, in writ.ing, with the Stat.e. It is more, it is a moral obligation, and to be terminate:l amicably only by the consent or direct.ion of the State.
It is difficult to reconcile the various practices followed by some organizations, which have taken the mat.ter of discharge or expulsion into their own hand-, and which assume to relieve anact.ive member from his military duty by placing him on an exempt list.
It mav be said in t.his connect.ion that several commands exist bv virtue of special ~cts of incorporation, and that. by said acts ~re empowered t~ make bylaws for their own regulation which shall not be repugnant to the laws of the State. Fnder such by-laws several classes of membership are defined, as "active," " vet.eran," "country," "retired," "pay," "life," "honorary," and, agreeably to the act of the General Assembly approved Oct.ober 13,1885, a class known as "special pay members" is recognized.
By an examination of these rules I find that members who have served continnously for a certain period, variously fixed by different organizations, may be transfdrred to an exempt or veteran roll, and men who remove from the immediate bounds of their commands may be placed npon the" country" list. In some cases I discoverad these transfers to have been made.
These rules were formulated and adopted prior to the enactment of the enlistment law, 1889, and have never been alt.ered or amended to conform to its perhaps undefined but. constructively evident requirements. In default of prescribed regulations positively covering the ground, certain commands have followed the methods in vogue before such law was promulgated, expelling them and allowing them to resign.
Regulations are indispensable for uniform practices, and none are more needed than such as will precisely describe the ways and means for effecting

11
discharge, relea~e or expulsion and esta'llish uniformity in practic~among the several organizations in accordance with existing laws and orders.
The transfer of an active or Ilnlisted man from the enlisted roll to other lists, or relieving him from his military bond during his term, should be discountenanced and prohibited, nor sbould a man be permitted to resign. A man cannot resIgn; he may be discharged.
Bearing hereon, and with a view to better placing the subject before the troops, I would respectfully invite attention to the following regulations of a certain State, whicb, for want of others specially prescribed, might serve as a guide. Under existing laws they are applicable to the systern in this State:
"No enlisted man shall be discharged before the expiration of bis term of service except by order of the commander-in-chief, and for the following reasons:
" To accept promotion by commission. "Upon removal of residence from tbe State, or out of the bounds of the command to which be belong." to so great a distance that, in the opinion of his commanding officer, he cannot properly perform his military duty. "Upon disability, established by certificate of a medical officer. "Upon conviction of felony in a civil court. " Whenever the Commander-in-Chief shall approve the appli.cation of twothirds of the members of a company, requesting the discbarge of a soldier thereof for being habitually troublesome, or of such character as to degrade the company. "'Vhenever, in the opinion of the Commander-in-Chief, the interests of the service demand such discharge. "U pon his own application, approved by the commanding officer of his company, and by superior commanders. , To carry out the sentence of a court-martial." Casualties.-It is also to be observed that changes or alterations in the enlisted strength of a comlIland are very seldom rep~rted. A man is dropped, expelled, allowed to resign or dies, and no report is rendered to the authorities. And the irregularities do not cease here, for in many cases I find no record. kept of these casualties. Some companies record these facts on the" minutes" of their regular meetiugs. It would be, perhaps, a better plan to note them on enlistment papers under ,. Remarks", or in a consolidated form where they can be more readily examined by an inspe2ting or other officer. It is quite apparent that under tbe methods in vogue a mall may enlist, serve for a period, be dropped from the roll of the company, and the Adjutant-General never be the wiser. These anomalies would, perhaps, not arise were regulations in the hands of officers, whom I have found always ready, upon snggestion, to carry out proper methods; and they certainly would not occur was the question of pay and clothing and future perquisites a factor for consideration. Each man would then have a direct personal interest in the keeping of the records, their accuracy and the reports made of the same. He would be concerned as to the date of his discharge, whether upon expiration of his term or for other cause.. But records of service, whether under payor otherwise, should be complete-

12

cand accurate, and all data affecting service should lodge in the proper an-

thority. These records are a most important part of the history of an

organization.

Transfer of Enlisted Men. -Concerning the transfer of men from one command

to another, I have discovered several failures to comply with the provisions of General Orders No.8, 1890, Adjutant~General's office, which, for the purpose

of further publication, I include in this report, to-wit:

"2. That when a member of the volunteer force of this State, duly enlisted

'in one company, under the Act approved November 12th, 1889, desires to con-

nect himself with some other company in this State, that the commanding

officer of the company from which he so desires to be transferred, cause a

:proper entry to be made upon the book of his company, showing the record

,of enlisted men, and furnish the sohlier with a certificate as follows:

.

......

'

, having paid his dues and surrendered all property

belonging to the State; is honorably discharged from the company and entitled

to enter some other company in this State fOf the unexpired term of his en-

listment; provided, however, that the obligation of such soldier to the original

-company shall continue during the term of his enlistment until he shall

actually connect himself with such new company, and the commanding officer

-of such former company be notified to that effect; and provided further, that

when such former original company shall constitute a portion of a battalion,

ihe battalion commander shall be first notified of the transfer and approve the

same."

Men remove permanently from the station of one command to another, and

'are dropped from the rolls without first connecting themselves with a new

-org[\nization.

'

Tran.'ifer of Records.-In one instance I learned of a transff>r under proper

,authority, but found that no record of the man's enlistment or services had

b~en transmitted. In all cases of transfer descriptive lists should be fnrnished

the new commanding officer, giving for each man all the facts and data set

flrth in his enlistment papers'. The reasons herefor are self-evident.

Likewise, when a man is appointed to a regimental or hattalion non-commis-

sioned staff, his complete record should go with him. This I do not find to

have been done. Not having examined the records kept by Adjutants I

-cannot say whether descriptive lists of t,he non-commissionsd staff officers are

kept, hut in the cases of some appointments I found no records transferred.

In fact, some men wearing the chevrons of a sergeant-major have appeared

at my inspection, in the ranks of their former commands, and commanding

officers have considered them bona fide members. When a man is appointed

a non-commissioned staff officer he ceases to belong to his former command.

Discharge Certijicate.-Concerning the discharge of men I would allude to the

adoption and use, in at lea~t two organizations, of a discharge certificate, in

form and substance very similar to that furnishe'd regular soldiers upon leav-

ing the service by authority.

Such a certificate, if put in general use among the troops, would, it is

thought, have a salutary effect upon discipline and efficiency. In the first

place, the reason for discharge should be clearly set forth, and secondly, the

\.
13

character of the man should be accurately described and the manner in which>

he has attended to and performed his duty carefully noted.

The fact of discharge, the cause therefor, the character given, should be

recorded on the company books and a report in full made to the Adjutant-

General. All men, before entering the service, should be forewarned that

their records will ultimately reach the highest military office of the State.

As to the Effect.-Let a man serve either bis full term or be discharged for

good cause prior to its expiration; be has been a faitbful soldier; his attend-

ance at drills and schools of instruction has been excellent; bis interest keen,.

and conduct exemplary; his commanding officer can then give bim what will

be a desirable recommendation in other ventures or in another company; and

in such a paper he may feel a pardonable pride.

But suppose tbe opposite, where, from lack of attention to duty, continued

non-attendance, delinquency in meeting just obligations to his company, the

man bas become a useless member and a burden to his command. He is also

offered a certificate on which snch facts are impartially set down. He may

not want sucb a document; be would not make use of it. In bot4 instances.

the facts noted become of record in his company and at tbe Capitol.

It is claimed that this practice would serve as a stimulus to good work,

and deserving men would be encouraged to win recognition for honest effort.

On the contrary, an aspirant for tbe elothes, not the bone of the military

service, would hesitate before associating himself with a company where in-

difference and carelessness would be given due publicity.

.

Record on Discharge.--In describing a man's record there rests upon a

commanding officer a most responsible and delicate duty; his duty to the

service, his duty to tbe man, must be weighed with impartial justice, and a

keen distinction made between the character of the individual as a man and

bis record as a soldier.

Character should be given without "partiality, favor or affection"; all

personal friendships, all individual animosity, should be thrown out of con-

sideration.

OFFICERS.

Under tbe provisions of paragraph 3, General Orders No.7, series of 1889, Adjutant-General's Office, all company or line officers before receiving commissions, shall be examined upon Upton's Tactics or such other tactics as may be adopted for the armies of the United States, in "company and squad drill." In case of an unfavorable report by the examining officer no commission shall issue.
The purpose ofthis order is unquestionably good; on general principles it is a step in the right direction; but does it accomplish all that was contemplated in its inception; all that is desired? Are its requirements sufficiently comprehensive in scope and character; is the execution of the order uniform?
Tl1ere are many capable and zealous officers in the State; there are alRo those who are not so well qualified, either in their knowledge and familiarity with their legitimate duties, in military aptitude and inclination. One fact has forcibly impressed itself upon me during my service in connection with the Volunteers; it is tbat these examinations have been, in inany instances,

..
14
merely perfunctory, or else the officers examined have long since fbrgotten what once they must have known. I have found certain officers seemingly un, .acquainted with the drill manuals, and in some cases officers have excused themselves from exercisingcommand at my inspection.
In very great measure, individual organizations, the troops, are what their officers in particular what their captains, make them. By an officer's work he is best judged; by the officer frequently may the company be gauged. By an officer's knowledge of the duty demanded of him, by his faithful attention, indeed, by his example, men are inspired to active effort or conceive an aversion or indifference for the service. A well informed and progressive captaiu means a good company; an indifferent officer a poor one.
The troops possess" all the qualifications to make a fiue body of soldiery;" select proper officers and their efficiency will be markedly enhanced, if not assured. The key to success is in placing good men in commission. The system {If selecting officers in this State is the eleeti ve ; and with all its acknowledged defects it is doubtless the only practicable alternative. This phase of the problem must be aecepted, but its solution should be hedged about with proper safeguards. The qualities which go to make up a good officer are far more than the ability to correctly answer the questions, few or many, put to him, in his examination; more than a theoretieal knowledge of those portions of the drill book denominated as the school of the soldier and of the compjny. An officer should not only know his drill. the prescribed movements for the unit which he commands; he should be able to dl'ill and to command. :Nor are these schools the compass of his qualifications. Extended order exercise, the 'embodiment of the principles of the tactics of to-day; the general rules governing battalion drill; guard duty and the instructiollS to sentinels; matters of military administration, discipline and courtesy; and the regulations for the troops; in fact, all information which may find its application in camp or {lther field duty might well be eInbraced in his examination.
The requirements should be more comprehensive, the test itself more rigorously applied, the standard raised for all. The necessary qualities do not rest here, for every officer should be possessed of tact, be capable of inspiring confidence, enforcing discipline and insuring an uniform and efficient company administration.
There is no doubt that the men themselves can do a great deal towards the selection of good officers by a careful consideration of the elements last named, by electing only such men to office as give promise of efficiency. Good fellowship and popularity are poor exponents of an officer's capacity, but I have reason to believe that in many instances it has been the criterion.
It is to be observed that some companies are unfortunate in not being able to secure proper officers. Owing to a variable interest in military matters in different places there are unequal opportunities for obtaining tile best material. }\.t som'e stations well quaJifiedand energetic officers are to be had; while at others indifference exists, and desirable men will not accept command. Availability, therefore, as in other walks of life, rather than special fi tness, freq uently determines a choice. In such localitie! I believe it would be a wise policy, from a military standpoint, to disband the organizations and admit others. ltis as great an expense to maintain a poor company as a good one; with the limited

15
callotm,ent from the general government only effective commands should be held in service. . Some officers, good drill masters withal, accept commissions without a full 'sense of the duty demanded of them, with too light a conception of the respimsibility involved; and with the dissipation of the impulse which brought them into command, so fades or ceases their activity and concern. 'When an ,officer loses interest in his work or from business reasons or other considerations is unable to give the necessary time to his company, he should step aside. If an officer becomes indifferent, if he is slack in attendance, what can be expected of the men? Surely their interest must lag. I can state as the result of careful observation that the best and most efficient organizations of ,the State are those whose officers give the most attention to their drms and .instruction. This remark does not necessarily apply to those commands which are unable to assemble at regular intervals, whose opportunities for instruction are limited.
I believe that the holding of a commission might wisely be made dependent 'upon the efficiency of the unit the officer commands. TJ determine this question careful, investigation and rigid inspection should be had at least annually'. If a company, troop or battery falls inexcusably short of, a prescribed but fair standard, the commanding officer should retire or the company he disbanded. And in the case of field officers who are unable to command, or who are in,different to the proper training of the units they represent, new appointments should be made.
One great detriment to any command is the frequency of resignations on the 'Part of officers. Too many changes occur. Directly a company, under some inspiration, gets a fair growth and acquires a presentable stature, its captain or other officers find occasion for relinquishing command. There is a tendency to unstable production, not alone as applied to officers, but in some in ~ stances companies enter the service more through a desire to satisfy special whims than to promote the efficiency of the military of the State. An officer before assuming the obligations of a commission should consider well the possibilityand probability of his continuance in service.
The existing methods of examination are objectionable. They lack uniformity, and vary as much in their requireJIlents as do the officers who be~ome the examiners. A practicable scheme, and one more likely, in my opinion, to produce better results, is to be found in a system of examinations by 'boarels composed of at least three officers, of recognized ability and competency, permanently convened at the principal stations or, main centers of the State. A cursory glance at the map suggests not more than five boards as necessary for the purpose, as one each at Atlanta, Augusta, Macon, Savannah and Thomasville.
The character and scope of their duties, the ground to be covered, should be precisely described and fixed by regulations from the office of the Adjutant and Inspector-General. The examinations should be in writing, and all reports, toger,her with the recommendations of the boards, forwarded to that office for review and final approval. The details of such a plan will readily suggests themselves. The expense incident herato would scarcely be greater

16

than under the present re'gime; the results attained'would; it is thought,more' than compensate for any possible increase.
r would add in this connection that my experience prompts the thought that
administrative staff officers should undergo examinations in tr_e duties of their' respective offices prior to being commissioned.
r find generally among officers located at the'same station a want of frater-
nity, save with tho.>e of distinct organizations ; there is little or no disposition on their part to get together, know each other, exchange views on matters pertaining to the profession, "talk shop" if need be; bring about harmony of sentiment with the military idea and spirit as a basis. The superior officers have it in their power to accomplish something in this line; and it should be remembered that for the yeneral good of the service officers of all branches arebut" birds of a feather."

NON-COM)f!SSIONED OFFICERS.

'I.'he responsibility attaching to the office of non-commissioned officer is

not duly estimated or satisfactorily valued by the officer.> and mp-n throughout

the Volunteers. The importance of non-commissioned officers is not fully'

realized nor are their legitimate duties well understo~d. Sergeants and cor-

porals are frequently looked upon as figure heads, elected or appointed to

office more from form than with an eye to usefulness. This may seem a broad..

statempnt, but its boldness is somewhat relieved when the existing conditions

are revealed.

Generally speaking, their duties are too much restricted, are seldom varied,_

and in comparatively few instances are the- proper demands made upon them.
r find an almost universal practice of requiring nothing mora of a first ser-

geant, who is, in sorne commands, erroneollsly designated orderly sergeant,

than to form a company and act as right guide; another sergeant,denomi-

nated second sergeant, perform~ only the function of left guide; and fre-

quently other sergeants are placed and drilled in ranks., Once a man is

assigned to a particular duty his position never changes, and as a consequence

when thrown among new faces he straightway' loses his head, and the com-
pany follows in his wake. r may mention the case of a remarkably well-

drilled company, which, at my inspection, had its left guide, so termed, miss-

ing. Another non-commissioned officer was called upon to occupy the posi-

tion; he could not, at least did not creditably, because he had never performed

such duty. Again, I visited one company where a guide was absent,and

although there were other non-commissioned officers present, the commanding

officer was disposed to proceed with his drill without a guide. The moral

needs no interpretation. The practice of drilling sergeants in ranks should be

corrected. They are file closers, and as such have special functions to perform"

which are clearly described in the drill book. In this connection attention

might be called to page 4, Infantry Drill Regulations.

The drill manual is, perhaps, unfortunate in giving the several noncom-

rnissioned officers numerical designations. Many commands follow a custom

of establishing so many grades, the dates of appointment having no signifi-

cance in the determination of nmk.

'

17
The question of rank and precedence among these officers has been given little attention. Indeed, until the publication of the last annual register of the Georgia Volunteers, even commissioned officers felt but slight concern re6arding rank, nor appreciated what it conferred.
The infantry drill regulations contemplate five sergeants, and while they are designated numerically, such designation simply indicates rank, save that the first sergeant is senior by reason of special selection. Rank, in each grade, is determined by date of appointment. "Absent officers and non-commissioned officers are generally replaced by the next in rank or grade."
Heretofore there has widely prevailed throughout the State a practice of electing non-commissioned officers. Snch methods are open to numerous objections; here, even more than in the case of officers, election means that popularity is the standard instead of special fitness. A man elected on this platform does not give so good promise of efficiency as one appointed, for the popular individual is less prone to forbear compliances for retaining his popularity, and his usefulness is proportionately diminished. Concerning noncommissioned officers' duty, I find too few organizations where they are re-quired to act as instructors in the school of the soldier or other practical work. In my inspection with companies which I believed conld stand the strain I have freely called for drills under sergeants and corporals; and I have invariably endeavored to impress upon all captains, not only the propriety, but the absolute necessity, of placing non-commissioned officers. in charge of squads, in fact, making them instructors. Some commands have shown me excellent men, while in others the sergeants and corporals are sadly deficient. This was their misfortune rather than their fault; the blame 'rests on the captains who make no proper use of their assistants. In one instance I found a sergeant, in another a corporal, both in office for a reasonable period, who, upon being aljked to instruct a squad, confessed complete ignorance and begged to be excused from the bumiliation. I cannot too strongly appeal to commanders to give their non-commissioned officers ample opportunity for instruction. Unless they acquire experience and confidence they are but ornamental; even WOlse, they are a positive drawback./ In view of the new drill regulations, other than well instructed and confident men in office must seriously compromise the efficiency of a command.
The defects of the elective system will, in some measure, disappear upon a regular compliance with the recent instructions from the office of the Adjutant and Inspector-General, directing that all non-commissioned officers be appointed in accordance with the provisions of the army rflgulations. Such an order should, and I am satisfied will, meet with general favor and approval.
No light duty rests upon a captain in selecting his non-commissioned officers. By a good appointment he may build up his command and make it efficient; by a ponr choice detract from its would-be standard or reputation.
The matter should be regarded from two standpoints. First, the man's capability and reliability in the light of an instructor and assistant in practical work. Second, his tact and judgment as factors towards the promotion of discipline.
The man may be capable of repeating pages of the drill book, but be incompetent as an assistant in drills. Before any mall is permitted to wear a
[2]

18

'chevron he should be tested. He should also be a disciplined man before he

essays to command others. There are plenty of men who are othllrWlse well

qualified, but lack the necessary jud~mentand disciplinary qualities. A young

man, even if bright, does not always make a success.

,

These comments are prompted as a result of my observation of the troops,

among whom I find not the greatest discretion displayed in selecting non-

-commissioned officers.

DISCIPLINE.
To properly estimate the discipline of any command more opportunity 'should be afforded than is availahle during an inspection. My observation of companies was necessal'ily limited to from one to four hours, and then under not the most favorable conditions for judging. The occasion for the assembly of a company was special, and pach command felt itself perhaps under a critical examination; pride, therefore, together with a spirit of emulation, spurred each member to his best efforts. Opinions thus formed might be amended were the troops observed under more real and trying circumstances and for a greater time, as in camp or in the field.
In order to ascertain as far as possible to what extent eompanies had received disciplinary instruction, I did not confine my observations to their drills alone. Careful inquiry was made of officers as to what features of discipline were practiced when in camp, or taught in armories or at their several stations, My comments will, therefore, deal with some particulars which can better be judged of when under canvas.
Discipline, in so far as ohedien~e and subordination constitutes a factor. may be reported as uniformly good; but this element, however, can scarcely be said to have been tested. Organizations came before me simply for the drills called for in the several schools of instt"uction, and there was no occasion for other than willing obedience. Considering the matter of respect for superiors, the observance of military etiquette and courtesy, the practice of drawing a line of demarkation between officers and men, I am unable to report an uniform and satisfactory state of discipline among the troops visited. Certain notable exceptions will be mentioned later in this re::->ort in dealing with individual commands.
Regarding the separation of officers from the men when on dut,li, I found but , few instances where distinctions were taught or required; among the excep-
tions the line is not only clearly drawn, but these commands take the greatest pride in such observance. The practice in two organizations is rigorously and understandingly carried out. This feature of discipline is perhaps difficult of attainment among volunteer troops generally. There are no class dist.inctions ; one man, as the saying goes, is as good as another, is his equal and peer. Then, again, for the employer of to-,day to become his clerk's subordbate to-morrow seems incongruous; such contrarieties are not readily appreciated, either by th\l employer W;}:l0 fails to disassociate his civilian from his quasi-military status, nor by the clerk who is correspondingly embarrassed in the presence of the man who is his superior in the business world. Relatives, fast friends and boon companions in civilian attire assume distinct relations when under arms. For a private to hold aloof from his captain, who is his personal friend, is no

19
-easy matter; the nece,sity therefor as promoting the ends of discipline is not readily understood. The responsibility reets mainly with the officers, who either from a want of appreciation of the subject or from an undue love of the popularity of the men, or from a desire for their favor politically, fail to prop,eriy deal with and instruct them. Discipline depends very largely upon the captains. They are, so to speak, the fathers of their companies, and while looking after the interests of one individual member, must represent all under their authority. They cannot exercise that impartial control if on any and all occasions they listen to and heed the importunities or suggestions of their sub,ordinates, as they are very apt to do with personal friends. The captain must be free and unfettered in his administration. In camp his being "on duty" ,does not end with a drill or cerem'ony; his responsibility is continuous. And likewise, in the case of all officers, discipline is better maintained when a sep_ aration is observed between the commissioned and enlisted grades. If such distinctions are accepted by the troops of the State as judicious and necessary in the regular service, then as a lesson of instruction, they might well be ob'served by themselves.
I am far from claiming that we should expect the discipline of the regular army among the volunteers. It cannot be had; nor, ,perhaps, is it necessary; but as a means to learning what discipline is we might approximate to it.
This army custom or regulation should be practiced, if for no other reason than instruction. Having this object in view, I cannot believe that, with troops of as marked intelligence and interest as make up the Volunteers of the State, its enforcement would engender dissatisfaction; certainly not, if they were itaught to recognize a good reason for it.
In but few commands was military courtesy observed at my inspections. Men in armories seldom rise upon the entrance of an officer or recognize his presence in any way, nor while he is present preserve a soldierly bearing. Likewise in the open there is a corresponding lack of rf'spect shown. A military attitude was not generally assumed when addressing officers, nor were salutes usually rendered when approaching or passing them. On one occasion, during an inspection, I observed a non-coffimissionedofficer approach his captain with piece in hand, a burning cigar between his teeth, and in a bungling manner salute his superior officer with his left hand; and when conversing with him he 4>uuged about in a very unsoldierly attitude. The captain seemingly noticed no impropriety. Numerous other irregularities .of this character might be cited, but I believe it unnecessary; general reference to the suhject will suffice with troops ,,'ho fail in a proper observance of these customs through no disrespect, nor on the ground of social equality; rather from a want of proper instruction and heedlessness.
The difficulty rests in the fact that men are not taught the military necessity and propriety of these arr~y custolns and rules.
Officers should require the military courtesies from the men, and as much pride should be cnlisted in their practice as in drills or ceremonies. It may be borne in mind that in saluting the officer or in showing him, respect it is the office rather thau the incumbent that is thus recognized.
The saluting of officers as practiced by some commands is not through a .sense of duty and a keen appreciation of the purposes or reasons therefor. I

,

20

have observed men render very precise salutes, who I am satisfied did so more

for the amusement it afforded them than from any feeling that they were

obliged to show such marks of respect to authority at all times; for wbile the

inspecting officer was punctiliously recognized, the presence of company-

officers was not seemingly discovered or observed.

Making the remark generally applicable, I would comment upon the great

lack of attention and steadiness in ranks during inspection and while under

arms. There was too much gazing about. t;everal men were observed to be

chewing tobacco, and not a few were seen spitting in ranks. Again-and I

am pleased to state that a very few instances occurred - I noted a disposition

to trifle on the part of some men. One command is deserving of censure in,

this particular.

As having, in my belief, a direct bearing on discipline, I am constrained to

mention that in at least two commands a club is maintained, fitted up and

equipped with the usual cOll\'eniences pertaining to such organizations. 1

am very strongly convinced that the club feature is not compatible with the

maintenance of good, e.tIective discipline in any volunteer military command,

nor can I believe it conducive to the proper instruction of men in the prin-

ciples of discipline. I do not advocate the exclusion of certain amusements or

attractions whereby men are induced to visit their armories and while there

feel them~elves under the shadow and influence of military authority. The

hilliard and pool table, the gymnasium and the reading room may serve the

good purpose of attracting young men in the formative period from other less

innocent places of amusement, especially when judiciously employed in a

military atmosphere, but distinctive club attraction in armories must seri-

ously interfere with the prosecution of any regular and precise course of in-

struction in legitimate military particulars.

The social feature possesses smooth edges and round corners, and wears with

less frictil;ln than the military, and, as between the two, the line of least re-

sistance will usually be followed. The two ideas are not in affinity and cannot

work together with the greatest promise of success in the ostensible or avowed

channel of instruction.

It has been argued that through the medium of the clnb attendance at drills

is greatly increased. Granting this, it may be asked whether it is the mili-

tary or the club attraction that op,Jrates to bring men out" and during instruc-

tion Cin the military and the club features be fully separated and kept distinct '!

Cim instruction be as well carried out as other,}Vise?

.

Th" revenues arising from a club may go far towards the Illaintenanc~ of an

organization, towards securing it a habitation and a home, but experience very

generally throughout the State does not recognize the necessity for such

methods or indorse the means to that end.

My comments hereon are, perhaps, in great measure theoretical. Time and

opportunity were not afforded for closely investigating the practical side of

the question. My remarks, therefore, deal with general principlp.s rather than

with actual faets elicite'l by personal observation. It must require, however,

strong eviderlce to alter a firm convietion.

In the enforcement of discipline army customs are not observed in inrli-

vidual organizations. No State regulations are prescribed, althoug-h the mili-

21
;tary code does provide for the punishment of its members. This code has illever been placed in the hands of the troops.
Under section l103(ff), Code of 1882, "the rules of any company or battalion may provide for the organization of courts-martial within such companyor battalion for the trial and punishment of its own members for offences against its own rules."
In conformity thereto the several commands, according to their own ideas, iliaveformulated and embodied among their rules apd by-laws certain penal processes and exactions. These differ as do their originators and possess few features in common. As a ~eneral thing, the company constitutions provide for courts-martial, which are variously constituted. For the trial of an offi~er it is usual for the whole or the majority of the company to sit in judgment, while the enlisted man's court consists of an officer, one to three non-commissioned ~ officers and two to eight privates.
According to these rules the offences of an officer and enlisted man cogn.izable by the company courts is ungentlemanly or unsoldierly conduct in the character of a member of the command and neglect of dnty such as to impair its interests or reputation.
The rulca prescribe that the practice of company courts shall be in accordance with that of the regular service, the company or corps commanders being the reviewing authorities.
The usual punishments imposed are fines, censure or expulsion. In addition hereto, all company rules prescribe tables of penalties for minor '01' other shortcomings, such as neglect of or absence from duty, disobedience, the improper or unauthorized use or disgrace of the uniform, and in several commands the having or drinking of intoxicants in armories and gambling therein. Non-attendance at drills or instruction meetings I find to be the chief offence Ifor which fines are imposed. The excuses herefor which are usually accepted as satisfactory are absence from the immediate station of the command, sickness of the member, business. In a few organizations the cllaracterof the business is inquired into. In too many cases the whole company at its regular meetings judges of these excuses; in others the subject is in charge of committees; while in a few the commanding officer is the sole and tinal arbiter in 'strictly military affairs. One command has adopte:i the summary court, sub stantially as found in the regular service, with final authority in regard to fines for absence from any duty. Regarding the prompt collection of fines, I am obliged to report, in many eommands, the number of men in arrears on account of fines as entirely and inexcusably too great. Absence from duty may seem a light offence, b,ut it becomes serious when persisted in, particularly when many members absent themselves,either for good or insufficient cause. It. should not be thought that the payment of the fine compensates for the absence; the man's presence as desired, not his money. Should it be determined, in the next general inspection to assign figures of merit for work performed in the various duties, I believe due credit should be given for attendance of members during the course or the year. LOlt this enter ;as a factor in determining a companY'd comparative efficiency. The organiza-

22
tion attaining the best or highest percentage should be published in orders. The pride of the organizations and of the members would in this way be ap pealed to. And it may be said in this connection that pride is the one potent force which holdR any volunteer command up to efficient work. It is most. true in this State where the troops receive so little comppnsation for their labors.
'While touching upon discipline I am obliged to take notice of a certain carelessness on the part of some commanding officers in not fully complying with instructions sent them by me relative to inspection. Before making a visit to any organization I addressed each captain a communication advising him of the day appointed therefor, and ull.iformly requested that all books and papers of military rpcord pertaining to the command, 'and all arms and other property of the State for whieh he was accountable, be brought together in readi ness for inspection. My requests were not generally complied with, and in several instances I was unable to verify and examine the arms and ordnance stores as thoroughly as my orders from the Adjutant and Inspector-General's office required, or as I should liked to have done in order to ascertain the care and attention usually bestowed upon them. I am well satisrled that no officer willfully disregarded these instructions; neglect and carelessness must be assigned as the cause for this breach of discipline.
I may also state, in this connection, tbat this same heedlessness has been, discoved in several officers in my office work at the Capitol. Communications calling for official information have been sent out to officers in the State, which were not promptly answered, and in at least two cases no notice was, seemingly taken of them.
THEORETICAl, IX,TRUCTION.
With but two or three exceptions I find no regular system of theoretical instruction of officers and non-commissioned officers pursued among the troops. The injunctions of the drill book are not seemingly observed. They hold the captain responsible for the theoretical and practical instruction of his subordinates, who are required to study and recite the regulations. The advantages to be derived from sucD a course of study are quite apparent and should appeal with force to all commanders.
The scope of instruction, however, might well be extended to include all the duties of the officers and non-commissioned officers, not only as laid down in the drill book, but in other manuals, such as the guard manual and the firing regulations. Attention should likewise be given to the care and handling of the rifle, the use and adjustment of the sights.
For example, I would commend the thorou?;hn'ss of instruction and the methods followed in one command, viz., Company E, First Regiment. A school is regularly had, which the whole company attends, and, by interrogatories, the clptain instructs each meJ;nber. It was a real pleasure to witness the marked interE'st actually displayed, as well as that felt in the work as indicated by the large attendance. I listened to members describing the various duties of sentinels, the subject taught on the occasion of my visit. The prompt and accurate answers exhibited great proficiency, which was fully confirmea when I examined the men at inspection.

23
On another occasion I found a lieutenant of this company explaining to the men the parts of the rifle and the subject of the setting of the sights and the adjustment of the windage.
In another armory (Company F, Fourth Regiment) I found an enlarged drawing of all the parts of the Springfield rifle hanging on the wall, where men frequently come in contact with it. The answers given me by the men when questioning them at inspection proved that the drawing was not made in vain.
I would suggest that regulations be prepared. and published requiring aU commands to pursue a systematic course of theoretical and also practical instruction. At regimental and battalion ,headquarters, or at stations where several organizations are assembled, the officers might be called together at least monthly, and when thus together, in addition to official business concerning their commands, let professional topics be discussed.
In one instance I discovered this to have been done, and learned that orders recently issued call for regular meetings hereafter of the officers of the regiment for this purpose. At such assemblies officers should be encouraged to read professional papers, either original or otherwise. A pre-arranged course should be laid out and rigidly followed. If properly initiated, the interest of officers would be aroused and the practice would soon make itself felt. Once started officers would be loath to abaudon it.
I have met many officers who strongly favor such a scheme. The only impediment is the seeming apathy of regimental .and battalion commanders. It lies within the power of these officers to greatlyimprove the efficiency of their commands by a closer attention to their needs and [l, more careful supervision of their work.
Schools of instrnction in individual organizations, under the direct supervision of the officers, should be held at regular intervals. In order that instruction may be uniform and progressive the superior officers should announce fully the c~urses to be taken up, and require that reports of the same be rendered. '"
PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION.
The practical instrueiion of the troops of the State is, generally speaking, too narrow in scope; is not as regularly and systematically conducted as is necessary for efficiency; is lacking in really useful tendencies and aims..It does not embrace enough of the soldier's duty, does not cover a sufficient field of the soldier's instruction. True it is that with little stimulation to hold commands up to all-round work, with scarcely any direction from or supervision of superior officers, with perhaps an excusable want of knowledge as to what constitutes a consistent and useful course of military training, the majority of the organizations have followed the trend of their fancies, carrying out but a modicum of the drill book, as suited their conveniences aud tastes.
So far as the infantry is concerned, instruction has been, confined to drill's in the school of the company and the manual of arms. Few companies have progressed beyond, as a regular practice, nor have they manifested much ambition to exceed these circumscribed limits. It may be observed that some companies, "crack companies," so-called, have in this school attained re-

24
markable proficiency and hava acquired considerable reputation, performing with great precision and facility all the prescribed evolutions therein. Such proficiency has been gained under sudden and temporary impulse, in preparation for, and the reputation won through success in, competitive or prize drills.
Prize drill or~anizations are not, however, military companies in the true sense of the word; they are rather athletic teams of !'rom sixteen to twentyfour men, selected for the special purpose.
When such a company's achievements are considered, this fact must not be lost sight of. With a selected few an excellent exhibition in company maneuvers may be presented; with the whole company or all its enlisted strength in ranks the result is disappointing. It has been my experience to witness prize drills of certain organizations of the State; in some cases their work was almost perfection. These same commands have appeared at my inspection with other thair'their "teams" and their showing exhibited want of thorough instruction and deficiency in practical thought.
There are also other organizations, not in this category, which have never advanced beyond the school of the company; not many of these have covered even that school in its entirety.
Such commands have not been in touch with the prize drill contagion, and although the scope of their teaching is less comprehensive, they are entitled to the consideration attaching to more ~eneral instruction. The prize drill companies limit instruction to a certain few; the commands in question seek to brin~ out all available men, and, therefore, free from the harmful effect of competition as thus regulated, are more workable from a practical point of view.
Again, several companies, with no less an impetus than a desire and determination to be better soldiers, and with only homemadeopportunities, have cut loose from the usual treadmill routine and have made long strides in the direction of soldierly usefulness. Some have shown at inspection p;ood effort in all the several schools asked for; a few have exhibited not only general instruction, but excellent results of .the same.
In all round efficiency, in discipline and for progressive and systematic instruction, onE.' command, Company E, First Regiment, has exceeded what I had thought attainable with volunteer troops. It is by far the best infantry Qrganization in the State, and, in my belief, is second to none in any State.
My detailed report below would perhaps indicat.e the company, but in view of its remarkable proficiency and its soldierly qualities and aims, I have felt justified in thus making special mention.
Regarding the cavalry, I find that practical instruction has been very ~en erally restricted to merE.' company evolutions mounted.
The schools of the soldier and company, dismounted, have received bllt very slight attention except in three troops. In a few instances rlismounted work has been seemingly neglected.
One or two troops were like" fish out of water" when I called for foot drills. The skirmish, or extended order exercise, moullted and dismounted, was presented by only two commands.
The subject of the care, treatment and shoeinp; of the horse and his stable management has not been included in either practical or theoretical instruction.

25
In view of the general neglect of dismounted work by the majority of the 'cavalry, the foot drills of Troops K, F and A, Fifth Regiment, are deserving of -commendation.
As showing- thoroull;hness of instruction in all the det.ails for which oppor-tunities have been available, the work, mounted and dismounted, of Troop K warrants special reference. For general efficiency this command is no mean competitor with the best infantry organization of the State.
It may be remarked concerning this arm of the service that in some locali'ties it constitutes a police force and protection, and should not be judged on the basis of pretty movements or great accuracy in details. These commands are, in truth, more efficient in the character of their existence than others that regard mounted company drill as the tout ensemIJle of the cavalryman's school; -they are better soldiers and have a much clearer conception and appreciation of discipline. A trooper who can attend to his monnt, care for and lise his 'weapon, carry and cook his ration, and if required for arduous duty would reespond cheerfully and loyally, g-ives greater promise of efficiency from a miltary basis than he who is provided with groom and cook and who fails to keep his gun in clean and serviceable condition.
The organized troops of cavalry are not equally favored in conveniences and {)ccasions for exercise. It is not practicable for some to assemble oftener than five orsix times each year; their members are widely separated and are engaged in business that will not permit of frequent all-day interruption. An assembly for them means a whole day, and for some of the men even more time is taken ,up in the g'oing to and returning from the rendezvous. In one instance, for the purpose of inspection, the majority of the troop travelell from eighteen to 'twenty-five miles; one man, a war veteran and a soldier still, came thirty-five miles from an adjoining county.
While such men may not drill in as beautiful form as the more fortunate -h )rsemen from the citie, or lu')re densely populate I districts their intrinsic w.)rtb j in their perhaps special sphere, cannot be disputed; it should not be IU'1derestimated. In many practical details they can teach some of the better drilled.
Again it is to be borne in mind that cavalry is an expensive army to maintain and properly instruct. For mounted exercises there is a heavy drain on the pocket-books of the members. Realizing this I uniformly left to the dis -cretion of troop commanders the que3tion of presenting their troops mounted at inspection; but in all cases laying E>tress upon dismounted instruction wherein the cavalry of the State, with few exceptions, is sadly lacking.
The school of the trooper and the troop is for the purpose of teaching horsemanship and training tbe horse. The first is an acknowledged quality of all ; it requires no inspection to discover that fact among men who have been ac .customed to the horse from boyhood. Indeed, I found men so proficient 'herein that their very assurance made them forgetful of their mounts to the -extent of being careleRs in keeping the necessary hold on the reins. As a con-sequence many movements were irregular and horses did not move out to. "gether.Horsemanship shou!d not be regarded, as is done by SO'lle, as the ~avalryman'sonly password to success. The training of the animal is next in :importance to riding him; unless properly trained mounted movements will

26
be difficult to perform with predsion and evenness. 'rhis is the chief troublein the way to efficiency in drills with the cavahy. The troops cannot afford to own their mounts, nor is it always possible to secure the same animals._ Untried horses will appear in ranks, and even, mobile evolutions will be the exception rather than the rule, as I uniformly found.
The mounted instruction of the cavalry includes far more than company drill. This is but one of the means to an end; it is not that end.-
Scouting, recounaissance, advance and rear guard and patrol duty are of greater importance; in fact, they constitute the more legitimate functions of this arm. Mounted work should cover these particulars as far as is possible. I find that none of the cavalry commands have attempted any such teaching.
It may be said, however, that Ifor proper and adequate instruction in such features more frequent occasions for exercise should be afforded. But individual-members cannot undergo the expense; moreover time is not available. To maintain efficient cavalry the horses used should be owned and furnished by the State. But public necessity does not warrant such a policy; wisdom does not dictate it.
In view of the great expense involved, and the comparatively small compensation rendered therefor, namely, the very limite:! amount of instruction imparted, and the improbability of using the force in its special character, I doubt the wisdom of the poUcy of maintaining as great a number of troops of cavalry as are now organized. Fourteen troops are kept up. Save in such localities as eonstantly require protection now afforded by it, the occasions for the employment of a mounted force are few and far between; that of cavalry, per se, less frequent. In fact such occasions are not readily realized.
In case of riot duty or disturbances of the peace, it is reasonable to supposethat the less expensive but more effective arm, infantry, would be called out. Again, when all this cavalry is ordered into an encampment, the attendant expense in transportation, forage, etc., cuts no small figure in the annual appropriation.
Furth ermore and looking to the instruetion of tbe men who enter this arm. and their efficiem:y, the end sought to he subserve:! by the government when appropriating money for the support of the militia, it may be asked how much knowledge of the mounted service do they acquire, how much experience isgained in real cavalry details. In this connection it may be stated as a fact that New York maintains but one troop of cavaly, Pennsylvania three an& Ohio one.
.ls to the artillery, I find practical instruction to be almost exclusively confined to the standing gun drill or the manual of the piece and mechanical maneuvers. The training of the men, their physical culture, the formation of the battery and its drill, dismounted, have received little or no attention. I failed to find the men satisfactoriiy informed as to the nomenclature of the piece, carriages and harness. The harness drill is not taught; the men are not trained as (lrivers.
Owing to the expense of hiring horses, the batteries are seldom mounted,_ only for special occasions, as for parades. Mounted drills in the schools of the section, platoon and battery are not had for the same reason; nor are individ-ualmen instructed in the school of the soldier mounted.

27
The practical and theoretical instruction of the artilleryman embraces more than that of the sister arms, and its prosecntion calls for even greater syste m and regularity. It is more comprehensive, and for that reason this branch enjoys an advantage in being able to make its teaching interesting and attractive. If this advantage is duly appreciated and improved, the men would soon develop an active interest and the humdrum drill about the piece would cease to be regarded as all for which the battery is maintained. Erroneous and imperfect impressions are fostered by always clinging to one thing. Variety in instruction would add zest to the exercises; a little ingenuity would supply the means. What is needed is a willingness and a determination to do; these at hand, the way follows.
Prior to any mounted drill, the men should be taught how to harness their horses, should know something about the harness, how to clean and care for it. Instead of keeping tHe harness on pegs it might occasionally be placed on a wo'oden horse orform where men could and would examine it, learn itli parts and uses. 'fhe harness drill might also be taught with such a simple device.
Before target practice, the fundamental principles of gunnery, the use of sights, the pointing and laying of guns should receive attention, else amm.unition would be wasted. The armament of the artillerv consists of 8-inch rifles and 6-pounders, old and perhaps unserviceable for other purposes than stand- . ing gun drills. For actual service ~t is behind the day.
But field artillery, like cavalry, is expensive. Its proper maintenance and the adequate instruction in target practice entail continued heavy outlays, not only as regards the original plant, new guns of the latest pattern, but for the necessary ammunition. Again, like cavalry, for efficiency the batteries should be horsed by the State. Then, and here enters an important element for consideration, in its special capacity as field artillery, there will be very few oceasions for its use.
The dissemination of artillery training and practiee is of course most desirable, but I cannot believe the end attained or attainable would justify the means. I think it would be a better plan to replace the field guns by Gatling guns of small arm calibre; they need not be horsed; ratlter provide them with hand ropes for hauling about as is done with boat howitzers in the Navy. Such weapons, for the State's purposes would be more useful, more effective and deeidedly more eeonomical.
Reference being had to all arms, it may 00 remarked that practical instruction, as thus abridged, has not 'been characterized by uniform methods or, within its limits, thoroughness. General effect and good appearance on parade has prevailed to the excludion of the practical. I feel satisfied that many organizations meet more from habit and form than a real military interest._ 'fhey go over and over the game ground, introducing no leaven in the shape of variety. In other words there had been too much of a tendency to tedious routine; too little disposition to attempt new matter. No progress is thus made. A company is a poor one which knows no more and is no better after a season's work than when practice began. The men soon lose interest and become indifferent. In but ww organizations havd I found any prearranged plan of instruction carried out: "In pursuing any course of practice there I!Ihould be a well-defined system, where instruction shall be gradual and pro-

28
-gressive." "The best school is that which is systematic." To drill simply because the company is assembled, to g) through the wearisome details of the manual merely as a form; in fact to do anything in a perfunctory manner, is 'not fulfilling the purposes for which a command is organized and maintained. Adopt a plan; begin at some initial point, proceed" slowly but thoroughly," ,and in every exercise have some good aim in view. At the commencement of the drill season, let each captain carefully layout his work, time and opportunity fuliy considered. Make the system known if need be, and surely greater 'interest will be aroused in the men than under the "happy-go-lucky" plan so frequently pursued. There is no question as to what the result will be.
A scheme well calculated to insure greater uniformity, progress and interest 'in all characters of instruction would be to prescribe clearly defined regulations from the general headquarters of the State, which the proper authorities should see are rigidly carried out. The theoretical as 'Well as the practical in'structions of tbe troops would thus be brought under supervision and be given direction. The two can oftentimes be advantageously combined.
Training would thus be made uniform and the troops would feel that they were being thought of and their needs considered. Companies would thus be given something to do and would have a purpose to follow in lieu of wandering about with no guidance as at present. As a rule I do not discover that regimental and battalion eommanders show that attention to the instruction of their commands or give them that personal coneern neeessary for uniformity and steady progress. Company commanders are nsually left to their own devices.
I take pleasure, in this eonnection, in testifying to the marked interest taken 'by the eommanding offieer of the 5th Georgia Cavalry, Colonel Wm. ",V. Gordon, in the needs of and the praetieal work performed by the troops of his regiment. Colonel Gordon, at his own expense and' at a saerifice of valuable time, accompanied me in the inspection of every troop of his eommand visited, .and in the cases Of three troops whieh I was unable to reach, he inspeeted them himself.
. Time Devoted to Practicallnstruction.-As a general rule organizations meet four times in eaeh month; three of the meetings being devoted to drills, the fourth to business eonnected with the eommand. These meetings are in pursuance of the rules and by laws of the companies. In some eommands the matter of instruction is wholly in the hands of the eommanding officer, where it should be. Save when praparing- for some special occasion, as for my inspection, I find very few eompanies indulgin5' in practical exercises more frequently than weekly. . It may be said in justice to certain organizations that they are unable to meet oftener than onee a month; some not so frequently, the men being very \ffiueh seattered. In such cases the commands might .withadvantage be divided into equads whieh would assemble more regularly at eonvenient rendezvous ;for drills under officers or non-c Hnmissioned officers. I find this a practiee in two or three organizations.
The regularity of drills also varies greatly with the season of the year. During the winter or cotton season men are not able to devote so mnch time to ~heir companies, and henee instruction is less frequent. 'While it may be

29

proper to abandon drills in a measure, I cannot believe that a totalsuspension,_
a as was dis~overed in few instances, is necessary. I do not so find it in sev-

eral commands whose members are engaged mainly in dealing with cotton,

and naval. stores. There are orj."(anizations which, notwithstandinl:( the press of

business, are able to and do keep up regular instruction; even attendance is

but slightly reduced.

.

I have to report a practice, the sooner corrected the better, of accepting men

into the ranks with the distinct understanding and agreement that during the

busy period of the year no military work is to be required of them. The ob-

servance of this barj."(ain causes a total suspension of military duty. It is im-

possible to carryon any sytem of instruction under such rules. The trouble

rests with the captains who fail to arouse and keep alive the interest of the

men. A man who can make time for a dance or party, can find time for the

discharge of his military obligations.

The attendance of officers and men at drills varies with the seasons of the'

year. During the sprinj."( it is I:(enerally greater than during the winter months.

I gave this matter careful investigation in the inspections in order to ascertain

the percentage of men ordinarily undergoing instruction, and thus to be able

to estimate the interest shown throu~hout the yeat. In a few commands no

record appears to have been kept; therefore, the number of men usuallyat-

tending drills, as also the number of drills had, could only be stated approxi-

mately. The best attendance was discovered in one of the companies of the

1st regiment, viz.: seventy per centum of the total strength during the winter

or busy season and eighty-eight during the spring. Several commands showed

fij."(ures of from sixty' five to sfwenty. With the majority, however, the per

centum is from fifty to sixty; in some as low as thirty-three per centum. To

insure satisfactory and steady progress in the various schools of instruction

these figures shoulrl be decidedly improved.

The vitality of a company should not be judged from the number of men

carried on its roll, nor the number present at a parade; its stren,th lies in the

percentage regnlarly for dnty at drill. 'Vhereas many companies can report

but a medium attendance at drills. I find that for occasions of parade the

etrength in ranks is usually much greater. For these, men who make no reg-

ular practice of attending instruction, frequently turn out, and not a little

pride is manifested in presenting full ranks. Honorary and other non-active

members also participate, thns swellinl:( the commands to goodly proportions,

but with other than eife ~tives. This practice is doubtless very beneficial in

fostering a military enthusiasm and esprit de corps, but, quoting an officer of the

volunteers, I believe that "too much stress is laid on the parade with big num-

bers." The non-active members, the non-combatants, so to speak, attend these

parades at th~ir option, and in order to make a fine showing they are sought

after and induced to turn ant. This must naturally discourage the enlisted

man, and when his term of service expires it may be his impulse 19 go on to

some pay list and thus be able to exercise his will. The attendance at the in-

spections will appear in the detailed reports of organizations; for this work I

impressed upon all that only regularly enlisted men were expected in ranks.

School of the Soldicl'.- Uniform and consistent practice in this school is the-

ground-work for efficiency in the School of the Company. It is the "A B C"

30
{)f all after-exercises, and as it is thoroughly. conducted so will the proficiency of the whole command as a body be enhanced. I fail to find as careful attention given to this character of instruction as should be to insure the best results. In many commands the training of the recruit is overlooked and heglected. Few organizations have adopted and pursue any regular course of instruction for new men. Putting a "green" man in ranks as number two orthree seems to have been a common practiee under the old system of drill; and this before he was taJlght to face, march, mark time and perform the other simple but important details of the school. Under the new regulations, however, the interval to be observed between files or men will render this inexcusable makeshift too apparent; as a result of the newly imposed individual responsibility, commanding officers will be forced to adopt more consistent methods. A new mln can be more thoroughly instructed in a squad than in a company; more attention and care may be bestoW8(1 upon him. The child must creep before he walks. It is too frequent a custom to omit the fundamental teaehing, and if a man suceeeds it is more from pride and self-instruction tban through the aid of an instructor. Directly a recruit joins he is placed in ranks, and the only primary instruction he eyer receives he obtains there. A new man should never progress from the squad to the company until found by proper te.st to be proficient. His presence in the company and his instruction must discourage the instructed men.
It was obseryed that instruction under this head was characterized by want of thoroughness in the particulars touched npon; and again, the training was not sufficiently comprehensive. A man may be drilled until he makes a passable showing before a not very exacting drill committee, 'but it is not usually that his training is persisted in until he knows his work. The company which he enters must therefore be correspondingly weakened.
The entire school has not been pursued generally by the troops. The balance step, important in giving a man a soldierly step, the alignments, forward and backward, the marking time by pivots, the principles of the movable pivots, seem to have been omitted, save by a few organizations. Every feature Qf the school of the soldier has a bearing upon some movement in that of the company; there should be no omissions.
Moreover, the squad drill is essential in the instruction of the non-commissioned officers, who should acquire confidence in themselves and an ability to command. In yiew of the responsible duties of corporals and chiefs of sections in the extended order exercises, the necessity for their thorough training is very plain; every captain should realize it. They should be made instructors and drill masters, and be recognized in their proper capacities, if not the main pillars, at least the strong braces of the company structure.
"Many drill halls, rented or u,ed, do not' perhaps permit of co-mpany formations, but they are well adapted for instruction in the primary training of the men. The majority of the commands visited have given some thought to the setting-up drill, but not that close attention which it deserves, whieh it demands. This drill has been had, however, more as a preparation for my inspection than asa regular or systematic course. In a few organizations, particularly among the colored troops, it hal'\ been neglected. As the importanee of the setting' up cannot be too highly estimated, a frequeut practice should be

31

;had. Besides improving the general military appearance of the command, the

soldierly build and bearing of each individual would be bettered. It is also

.a.n exercise that officers might well indulge in to their physical advantalZe.

I am gratified to report that with companies inspBcted byrne since the adop'

tion of the new drill regnlations, I find the exercises very favorably received;

the commands are devoting not a little attention to them. I would point out,

'however, that the ,lrill is gone through with too much as a form, with not

~nough appreciation of real purpose underlying it, as is implied in the name.

Dsually the exercises are performed too rapidly; even those whidl the regula-

tions prescribe shall be executed slowly or gradually.

In the MANUAL OF Amrs I find not enough care given towards securing ac-

curacy and uniformity in the positions. Facility and the simultaneous execu-

tiun of the motions seemingly are sought after to the exclusion of correct

ness. The trouble may in great measure be attributed to the want of individual

instruction or in squads. The recruit is allowed to take his place in ranks and

there drilled without adequate preparation. Several men have informed me

that they taught themselves the manual.

The main defects observed were: Pieces not vertical nor held at uniform

height at present, not accurately inclined at load, ready, secure, right shoulder

and port; clock-like regularity in the execution of the loadings; left eyes not

closed in firing; lack of uniformity of slope of pieces where inclined; omission

of the stacking of arms with the swivel; not throwing up pieces for inspection

properly; too much movement of the bodies m the execution of the manual;

and on the part of officers, not a correct observance of cadence in commands.

School Qf the Company.-Company drill was performed by all the infantry

ompanies inspected, save a few which lack facilities therefor. The exceptions

were those commands which have no drill halls and which were unable to drill

upon the streets. My inspections were necessarily at night. I did not feel

justified in calling U[Jon men to leave their business during the day.

I can state that there are very few armories in the State that are adapted for

company evolutions; and I find it customary for commands to use the streets.

Regarding the colored troops, however, there is a general practice of remaining

indoors, and their drills are quite uniformly characterized by the defects aris-

ing from work.ing in reduced limits.

Commands which restrict themselves to drilling on floors and hard pave-

ments are unconsciously lead into placing too much reliance on the sound of

the step, and when occasion removes them from their sounding boards, they

soon lose their integrity.

At inspection, I made it a practice to call upon fmbaltern officers to exercise

command in company evolutions. I have to report that in many instances I

found them lacking in confidence and experience. Inquiry of commanding

officers revealed the fact that in many organizations the lieutenants are never



placed in 'charge of their companies, never are given opportunities for ac-

quainting themselves with the duties of company commander; thev are

denied responsibility. As a consequence when acting in a new capacity they

are entirely out of their sphere.

Many errors were observed in the company drills, chiefly among which may

be enumerated the following: At formation, slow falling in ranks, men not

32

arranged according to size, left guides not familiar with their duties, counting

of twos and counting off from right to left, calling names of officers. In

opening ranks, captains out of proper place when giving commands, position

of guides not verified, lieutenants halting and facing coming to front, failure-

of men to dress to the right (very general among thetroops)._ During inspec-

tion proper, officers saluting with sword, men gazing about in ranks, unstead-

iness and inattention, some officers standing at "parade-rest." At drill,Jailure

of pivot men to mark time accurately in their places forming column from

line and the reverse; guides and inner flank men marking time in changing

direction (doubtless due to drilling in small halls), file-closers not keeping

at proper distance from company when in column, file-closers never correcting

errors (very general), movable pivots not observed and pivot guides taking

backward step in .changing direction in company front, men not keeping well

closed up in column of files, wrong commands on part of officers, commands

not well pronounced, stamping of feet upon halting.

The cultivation of the voice, voice drill, and the practice by officers and

non-commissioned officers in giving commands appear to have been over-

looked. These matters have a direct bearing on evolutions and drill and,

should not be neglected. A listless, careless command will usually be followed,

by indifferent execution; a smart, soldierly tone will inspire:

I found very few commands which presented any formation of drill in

double rank. This may be accounted for by reason of the fact that companies-

are usually too small, and for drills too few men-appear; Instruction in other

than single rank is therefore omitted, and companies were not prepared for it

at inspection.

As regards the mounted company drills of the cavalry, certain general faults

were noticed which might wisely be pointed out.

The chief trouble is want of drill, but this cannot be readily obviated, for-

reasons already indicated.

The principal defects observed in the mounted drills of this arm were :

failure on the part of the troopers to keep the reins well in hands, which

amounted in some cases to carelessness; failure to move horses-promptly or

together; in wheeling on fixed pivot, failure of pivot troop to turn his horse

on forefeet (very general), the movable pivot not usually executed, the pivot-

man not moving over the arc of a circle, marching flanks not increasing the

gait; forming column from line and the reverse, not executed together by sub-

divisions; changes of gait not executed together; proper distance between sets

of fours and subdivisions not well preserved. The-commands of officers in the

mounted movements were, almost without exception, those for infantry. They

were not sufficiently prolonged, particularly so with the command of execution.

-

The Skirmish Drill 01' Eetended Order Eeercise. -Save as a preparation for the inspection, few commands appear to have given any attention to skirmishing.

But I must commend the energy displayed in taking np new work, and in

some cases the good results attained in so short a time. It simply shows that

companies can, if they will, vary their systems of instruction and make it

more general and useful. The importance of this drill-under the new ttlgu-

lations, theextencled order method of fighting-eannot be overestimated. The

33
skirmish line, instead of close order, is surely that of the future, and too much attention cannot be given to teaching the principles.
The German Field Exercise, 1888, may be referred to in this connection. It is therein stated that: "Infantry should be able to fight over any description of ground practicable for an active man, and to surmount obstacles even of a serious nature, when fully equipped. Extended order is specially adapted for this purpose. The infantry fight will, as a rule, be decided by fire action, and this is most fully developed in extended order. The delivery of fire by bodies in close order is the exception. Extended order is the formation now principally employed in action. The fight is commenced, and in most cases carried through to the end, in extended Qrder."
The armories, drill halls, and, in fact, the grounds used by the commands for skirmish exercise were entirely too limited, save in one or two instances. I could expect, therefore, only some of the general principles; but notwithstanding these disadvantages, I deemed it proper to call for such drills, if only for the purpose of inviting attention to the subject and inducing companies to get out of a deep worn rut.
The chief fault. observed in the skirmish exercises was want of thoroughness. The entire school should be practicer:, and officers and men made to realize the importance of the principles governing it. As stated above, facilities were not generally at hand for illustrating all points.
As generally characteristic of these drills, there was observed a disposition on the part of men to always carry their pieces in some one position, as at a port or carry, and to keep step.
When opportunities are at hand, as in the next encampment, instruction in extended order exercise should be rigidly enforced. As having an immediate bearing in this school, I would call attention to the fact that in no company save one are the men regularly taught the bugle calls and the whistle signals. This company is fortunate in having among its members an excellent trnmpeter. The trumpet is not a difficult instrument to use, and it is tl:;tought that in every company some man may be found who would be willing to instruct himself in blowing it, if properly encouraged.
Inrecognition of good practical W0rk, I must allude to the skirmish drill of Company E, 1st Regiment. It was excellent; and for precision in details, marked alertness, apparent appreciation of the matter of cover, and the observance of fire discipline, it excelled any drill of its character that I have ever witnessed. All commands were delivered by the trumpeter's bugle and the captain's whistle. The records of this company show but twelve exercises in skirmishing- during the last year. It is a wonder how such proficiency has been attained.
The skirmish drill, mounted and dismounted, was performed by Troops K and A 5th Regiment, Georgia Cavalry; and in view of the limited instruction given to it their work was commendable.
Troop A had but about twelve men in ranks, however, for its mounted exercise. All men should be taught. It was noticed that the led horses of this troop, in preparing to fight on foot, were not linked short enough, thereby occasioning confusion in ranks when the horse-holders attempted to move them.
[3]

34
The mounted exercise of Troop K wa~ in accordance with the new cavalry drill regulations, and was exeeuted with marked precision and smartness.
Guard Duty. - 'With a view to encouraging organizations to take up instruction in the principles of guard formation and sentry duty at their respective stations, I included this subject among others called for, advising them that their knowledge of these matters would affect the reports to be made as to efficiency. 8everal commands presented the entire ceremony of guard mounting, the posting and relieving of sentinels. In a few I found men well informed as to the general orders and duties of sentinels.
With the majority of the troops only the formation of guard details by noncommissioned officers was presented. In such cases, and in all instance;; where sentinels were not posted, I sought to impress upon officers the propriety of teaching guard duty, by interrogating the men, particularly those who had been in camp. Simulated guard duty has been very generally overlooked or neglected. There seems no valid reason for this omission, as all armories are adapted for it, and surely theoretical instrnetion can be given in sentinels' duties.
Two organizations, one company of the 1st regiment and a troop of the 5th cavalry, pursue a regular course of instruction in these particulars. Printed cards, giving in full the general orders for sentinels, are distributed by each among the men. My inspection revealed the excellent results of such good practice. Men for guard were selected by myself at random, were subsequently interrogated, and every man gave his orders as thoroughly and understandingly as any regular soldier I ever inspected. It may be said, regarding the cavalry command, that it has never been in camp.
Field Signalling.-No instruction has been had by any of the troops in field signalling with the flag, torch or heliograph. This is an important matter in field operations, and may become so in the duties which the State troops are liable to be called upon to perform, and should be given attention. Occasions may be readily imagined where a knowledge of the signal code would be very useful. A few commands have indicated a desire to take up this subject, and with such object in view I have furnished them with signal cards and printed instructions.
In the next general inspection this subject might be included among others inquired into, and for which a fignre of merit would be given. It is not contemplated that every man in the company shall qualify, but for the purpose of introducing such instruction, a certain number should be acquainted with the signal code and be able to use it.
J.Wilitary Gymnastics. -I find no regular system of gymnasiics carried on by the troops. As contributing to the proper training of the soldier, such a course might well be pursued in connection with the school of the soldier. It should be systematic and regular, beginning with the setting-up drill and progressing gradually to exercises in running, jumping, climbing and carrying weights.
Antagonistics, such as wrestling, boxing and the use of the foils, may also be introduced with advantage. They help to develop agility and suppleness of muscles and joints; at the same time they educate the man's temper and selfcontrol. Swimming, where opportunities are afforded, should likewise be taught or indulged in.

35
Some few organizations own well equipped gymnasiums, but they are not 'l"esorted to for instruction. Practice should be encouraged, and if possible made obligatory rather than left optionaL
Other Pr(tctical Exercises.-Iu addition to observation of the above drills, inquiry was made as to whether commands had practiced any other exer.cises of a practical military nature. I found but little instruction outside of the usual routine. One company (E, 1st Regiment) has executed some few marches with the field outfit; at times it turns out so equipped. This was the only coI'nmand inspected that appeared in heavy marching order, with knapsacks (packed), haversacks and canteens, overcoats, blankets, leggins, etc. Ammunition and rations were only required to complete its equipment.
I find that certain organizations, using the State's arms and equipments, have been in camp during the last twelve m'lnths by other than the direction of the Adjutant-General. I endeavored to ascertain whether, on such occasions, discipline was maintained, what exercises were had, what amount of instruction w~s given in guard duty. I discovered that these camps ~ere more for pleasure and recreation than real military work, and that few of the practical duties of the soldier were taught or required. The camp of Company D, 1st Battalion, Georgia Volunteers however, was admirably and successfully conducted; discipline was well maintained and not a little useful experience gained.
I believe it would be wise policy to prohibit individual encampments where the property of the State is used, unless they are conducted on a proper mili tary basis. And in every case full reports should be required, showing the character of work performed and the instruction communicated. For other than camps of instruction, the State's propt'Tty should not be used, nor should the uniform of the State be worn.
Such outings are too liable to degenerate into frolics; as such they have a most unfavorable influence on public opinion, and must indirectly, if not directly, injure the military of the State.
Section 1l03(x), Code of Georgia, prescribes that "every company of volunteers shall parade at least four times in every year, and each battalion at least once very year." This law is very generally complied with, and as previouslv remarked, considerable interest is manifested in these occasions. The parade~, so-called, are usually street marches. Some commands, however, combine practical drills with them.
The majority of the commands, particularly in the middle and lower sections of the State, under their rules assemble annually for target shooting or other practic~l exercise. 'fhe ranges fired over seldom exceed 200 yards; in several instances 100 yards is the longest.
As a stimulus to the men, prizes are given for excellence. In one organization I find that a medal is also awarded to the man making the lowest record. In this connection I quote the company rules governing the matter: "The member making the poorest record thereat shall be required to wear the iron and brass medal of the troop for the term of one year, and he shall not appear in the full uniform without this emblem of the baseness of his skill and the .loftiness of his presumption in endeavoring to compete for a trophy with so .little preparation therefor."
Further reference to target practice will appear later in this report.

36
'With several cavalry commands I learn of a practice of meeting at least once
every year for a so-termed" tilt" or" exercise of contention." I enjoyed the
pleasure of witnessing two of such contests by troops of the Fifth Cavalry, viz., Troop E, Jones' Creek, Liberty county, and Troop A, Savannah.
As contributing to horsemanship and the dextrous use of the sabre, mounted, and with horse at full speed, these exercises are very useful. Moreover, they serve a good purpose in maintaining an interest and esprit de corps.
In some instances, however, members are allowed to contest who never appear for any other duty. As an encouragement to steady and regular attendance on the work of the command, none but enlisted and active men should be recognized as entitled t:J prizes.
Target Pmctice.-Save as indicated above, and to the very litJlit~d extent cited, target practice has received no uniform or regular attention. It requires. no argument or comment to convince all of the vital importance of such instruction.. A man may handle his musket with facility and preeision, but nnless he can use it offensively for the purposes for which it is placed in his hands, it is no more useful than a base-ball bat lind far less effective.
To properly train a soldier in the use of his weapon demands more practice than a score of five shots at 100 or 200 yards once a year. The trouble is not with the troops, hut in a want of system and regulations and the requisite ammunition and facilities.
Target firing has constituted no part of the military instruction of the troops. Whatever haH been done, little, perhaps, as it is, has been accomplished through their own efforts and at their own p,xpense save as regards a small amount of ammunition furnished.
Target practice should be inaugurated at the earliest practicable date, and should be conducted in accordance with prescribed regulations.
The practice as heretofore has been devoid of method. There has been no uniformity in either the character of the targe.ts employed or in the weapon and ammunition used. Some commands have fired at Creedmoor targets, others at targets of variable dimensions of their own manufactnre. Some troops have bad the regulation cartridge, while others are permitted to fire ammunition of their own selection. Then, again, I find some commands allow their men to bring other than the prescribed rifle onto the range.
Moreover, as to records, few commands keep or preserve tbem. The practice is usually for prizes, and after the winner is determined no further attention is given to scores made, either for future reference or for reports.
But one command has made report of its practice. This remark is not to be construed as a criticism against others. Reports have never been required to be rendered.
Instruction in rifle firing should constitute a most important feature of the work of the next annual encampment, and, where opportunities are available, should be carried on at the several stations.
Preliminaries to Target Practice.-'Vith the exception of one organization no instruction has been given in sighting drills, aiming and position drills -all essential as preliminaries to target practice. Before a man engages in practice he sbould be thoroughly acquainted with his piece, have a knowledge of the sights, know how to set them and how to adjust the windage.

37
The sighting drill teaches him the character of the sights and their application, and gives him in a measure what otherwise cau only be acquired by experience, for which he has not the time or facilities.
A tripod, sand-bag and a rifle with the sights constitute the outfit for this instruction.
With a view to inducing officers to instruct their men in the setting of sights and windage scales, and also to draw attention to the proper care and handling of the rifle, I freely interrogated men as to these particulars. Some commands gave me evidence of good previous instruction, while with the majority I found them unfamiliar with the subjects.
The aiming and plilsition drills are but progressive steps, and instruct the man in holding his gun in the positions he can best assume in firing and help him to acquire the simultaneous use of the eye' and the finger.
In this connection I would remark that the artillery troops do not seem to have given much attention to the simple principles of gunnery and the pointing and laying of gnns, nor are they as well acquainted with the nomenclature of their pieces, carriages and harness as they might be.
Gallery Prctctice.-As an advance, gallery practice is important. It is target practice on a reduced scale-that is, with reduced charge, weight of projectile, reduced target and a short range.
Instruction in sighting, aiming and position drills can be had in any armory Qr drill-room, and should form a part of the work of the troops. To the end that instruction may be uniform and progressive, regimental and battalion commanders might well give it their direction and supervision. In each organization a competent instructor should be detailed.
Few armories are adapted for gallery practice, and at few stations can it be iutroduced without considerable cost in convenient proximity to armories.
Where a gallery can be constructed, the hecessary appurtenances should be supplied and the commands furnished with reloading tools and ammunition.
Skirmish Firing.-But one command, Company E, First Regiment, has taken up instruction in skirmishing at figure targets, an important element in the practical training of the soldier, bearing, as it does, some resemblance to the delivery of fire in action.
While I witnessed this practice, I oeem it unnecessary to further allude to it, as the full report of the work has been submitted and has been published in the last annual report of the Adjutant and Inspector-General.
At very few points visited on my tour of inspection was I able to find ground suitable for skirmishing convenient at hand. The possible ranges were too short. To secure adequate ranges would involve considerable expense for the rent of the land and the construction of artificial butts.
Longer ranges than 300 yards should be used. This practice is supposed to be carried on at unknown distanees, and one of the chief objects of the exercise, practice in estimating continually varying distances, would be lost if the firing was restricted to short limits.
This character of instruction might be reserved for the annual encampment, where a range of 600 yards and more is obtainable.

38
~ILITARY RECORDS, CORRESPONDENCE, ADMINISTRATION.
The only records required by existing orders to be kept by individual organizations are (1) original enlistment papers and (2) a report of drills and parades, showing the number of officers and men present and absent. Other than these there are no records kept except in the cases of a very few commands.
The only regular reports required to be rendered are (1) returns of enlistment, and (2) an "annual report," May 1st, showing the strength of the command and the amount of ordnance and ordnance stores pertaining to each organization. For the above records and reports blanks are furnished from the office of the Adjutant and Inspector~GeneraJ.
Original enlistment papers for the current year and the report of drills were exhibited by the majority of commands, but ~uch papers for previous years are seemingly preserved by only a few commanding OffiCeI'd, and seldom are retained copies of the annual report made or kept; indeed I find very little care exercised in or thought given to the matter of records.
These omissions certainly provoke surprise in so far as old commands and officers of service and experience are concerned. It is very natural to suppose thatan organization which has had a long existence, has won honor in service, and upon whose rolls at times have appeared the names of men of reputation and distinction would be tenacious of its history and would jealously guard its past record and preserve data establishing that of the present.
All information pertaining to or affecting an organization should become of record; it is a part of its history, and should be preserved. An order, a letter, an indorsement, a report or return, all show action, iindicate a policy or announce a decision, furnish statistics, and purposes of subsequent reference should prompt their retention in legible and intelligible form.
Certain officers, however, of their own volition and originality, have adopted and have in constant use additional records. In two commands I found almost as complete a system pursued as is prescribed by the army regulations, and fully adequate for their purposes. While this practice has not been required by any State regulation or order, these officers are deserving of credIt for a work which cannot be regarded as one of supererogation.
In just recognition of voluntary efforts to ('any out proper methods I would commend the following organizations, the records of which, substantially the same in character and scope, I found complete and pertinent, and accurately and neatly kept:
Troop K, 5th Regiment, Cavalry, Captain Owen T. Kenan, and Company E, 1st Regiment, Infantry, Ca'ptain Jordan F. Brooks.
Their records consist of (1) enlistment or descriptive book; (2) order book; (3) letter sent and indorsement book (letter press copy); (4) record of target practi(e; (5) record of drills and parades; (6) property book; (7) first sergeant's roll book; (8) retained Teturns and reports; and (9) in adhesive files are kept all orders, circulars and letters received.
'With a view to the proper keeping and preservation of records by the troops oftbe State, and for purposes of instruction, I would recommend the adoption of the following books and blanks. Looking to simplicity of method, a weighty consideration in any military command, particularly among volunteer troops, only a few are suggested, only a few are required, viz. :

39
BOOKS FOR REGDI:E:<fTS A:<fD BATTALIOXS.
(For continual use.) 1. Enlistment and Roster Book. 2. Letter and Indorsement Book. 3. Order and Record Book. 4. Property Book.
(For use in camp.) 5. Consolidated Morning Report Book. 6. Guard Report Book. 7. Surgeon's Morning Report Book. The Enlistment, Letter, Order and Morning Report books to be kept by the Adjutant; the Property book by the Quartermaster; Surgeon's Morning Report by the Surgeon.
BOOKS FOR CmI:PAN1ES.
(For continual use.) 1. Enlistment and Roster Book. 2. Letter and Indorsement Book. 3. Order and Record Book. 4. Property Book. 5. First Sergeant's Roll Book.
(For use in cflmp.) 6. Morning Report Book. 7. Sick Report Book. All company books are to be kept under the immediate supervision of the company commander, who should require his lieutenants and non-commissionp,d officers to assist him in the performance of his duties, placing them in charge of special features. For all comma,nds, adhesive files, in which will be keptsepar~telyall orders and communications to be retained at headquarters, or with the company records.
PURfOSES OF THESE BOOKS.
1. The Enlistment and Roster book to contain the names and full data concerning every man recruited f01 the command, including the record of noncommissioned staff officers. Separate pages to be appropriated to rosters of officers, non-commissioned officers, to registers of men transferred, discharged and register of deaths.
The Enlistment book will constitute the original record of enlistments, and will at all times show the exact strength of a command. This book would be far more serviceable and convenient than enlistment papers. . 2. The Letter and Indorsement book will be a complete record of original letters, reports, returns, etc., and of those transm~ttedthrough. Press copy books would answer the purpose.
3. In the Order and Record book' will be written all orders originating at headquarters orfrom a company commander. A portion of the book to be reserved for records of meetings of officers, schools of instruction, drills and parades, records of events, and all matters concerning the general history of the organization.

40
4. The Property book will be a detailed exhibit of all property for which the commanding officer is responsible, and will show at all times where the property is and by whom used, when received, transferred or expended.
5. The First Sergeant's roll-book is for his use at roll calls and for keeping records of details.
The consolidated morning report, guard report, surgeon's niorning report and sick report books are for use in camp or on occasions when reports are required at regimental or battalion headquarters. Their names fully indicate their purposes.
BLANKS.
1. Enlistment paper; a small and convenient blank, to be signed and completed in the case of each recruit, and forwarded immediately after enlistlLent to regimental headquarters, where it will be copied in the enlistment book. All enlistment papers accumulating at headquarters to be forwarded quarterly to the Adjutant and Inspectm' General's-office.
2. Regimental and company returns, to be rendered quarterly, showing in figures the exact strength of the respective commands at the time of rendition, and all alterations and record of events occurring since last rendered.
3. Muster or pay rolls, one form for all commands and detachments, for use at camp or on other duty where troops receive payor commutation of rations.
4. Discharge certificate, to be made out by company commanders and furnished each mall upon his discharge.
5. Descriptive list, for use in cases of men transferred, on which will be recorded all data concerning the man and his service.
6. Report of instruction, to be rendered semi-annually, showing character and scope of instruction had during preceding six months by regiments, battalions and companies, including duty at camp.
7. Report of target practice, to be rendered immediately after the close of the prescribed practice season.
8. Property return, to be rendered semi-annually, showing the exact amount of property on hand, and the amount received, expended or otherwise disposed of during the preceding six months.
9. In view of recent orders directing the appointment of all non-commissioned oflicers in accordance with the army regulations, and for the sake of uniformity, warrants for such non-commissioned officers should also be furnished.
I believe the foregoing books and blanks will meet present needs and answer for all practical purposes. They will supply a much felt demand. Records shauld not only be kept, but officers should become familiar with their uses and in~portance. The system proposed is exceedingly simple, easily understood, and will entail very little additional work if method is observed.
In this connection, the adoption and issue of a suitable field desk is recommended as more likely to insure th-.preservation of military records. The desk may be supplied at small cost. It will be divided into compartments, each marked for the reception of the proper book or blank. A desk may be provided each organization, together with the blank forms; in it all records will be kept. At present, with no method observed, records are kept or preserved only where conveniences are at hand.

41

'The fact that records are being kept by several officers and without any di-

'rection to that effect from superior authority must offset any argument against

the introduction and employment of suitable forms. The deficiencies discov-

ered in my inspection in the matter of records is due, not to any disposition

on the part of officers to avoid labor, but to the want of the necessary material in

the shape of books and blanks, and regulations requiring the keeping of records.

Books and blanks should be printed and distributed, together with precise

instructions governing the methods for using them. Proposed forms and '

models will be submitted in a separate report.

Correspondence.-Very few officers are familiar with methods of military cor-

respondence, nor are uniform systems followed by officers of the same general

,command. In the ab;!ence of regulations officers have not been able to inform

themselves on this subject. My comlnents, therefore, must not be construed

:as criticism.

I endeavored, ::;;0 far as available time permitted at inspection, to indicate to

,officers methods of addressing official communications, folding, briefing and en-

dorsing them, etc., but carefully prepared rules are absolutely necessary to in-

sure familiarity with any system and bring about uniformity. Correspondence

,cannot readily be learned from a lecture; experience aided by reference to

prescribed forms is required.

In the cases of two commands, which possess copies of the Army Regnla-

tions, I found the system of correspondence therein laid down very closely

.followed by commanding officers.

'

Preservation qf Orders and Olhn' ConlmunicatiolLs.-A neglect to preserve

,orders, etc., received from higher authority was discovered to be very general

among the troops. The importance of retaining all official communications is

not seemingly appreciated. A general order contains information aff'ecting

the whole force; it announces laws and regulations, may, in fact, be a regula-

tion, and as such is a guidance for a command until it is revoked or amended,

and should be kept on file for reference and future observance. Many in-

stances came to my observation where general orders published frdm the Ad-

jutant and Inspector-General's office had not been kept, and close inquiry re-

vealed the fact that" while they had been received, they had never been com-

municated to the commands. Officers generally, and I judge by their practices,

'seemingly regard official communications, orders, etc., affecting the personnel

-of their organizationR or the orgalliz\tioll as a whole as pri vate property, and

as having no public value or future use.

Orders are issued anclcirclliated for the gO\'ernment of the troops, and while

"they are addressed to the commanding officer, they are intended for his infor-

mation as such, to be held in trust, so to ~peak, by him as the legal representa-

tive. He receives them not as Captain A, or Captain B, but as Commanding

Officer, and it should be remembered that the office continues although a par-

ticular incumbent may vacate it. The successor" stands, in rE'garll to his duties,

in the same situation as his predecessor," and as affecting such duties, existing

orders and regulations should be turned over to him for his guidance. They

should therPfore be preserved.

Examples may make my remarks more forcible, and therefore I would

mention that, in several cases, when examining enlistment papers, I inquired

42
of officers if they could show me copies of general orders, Nos. 9 and 10, heretofore quoted in this report. I found but a very few. Orders are not regarded! by all as guides for future action; in other words, a regulation is looked upon as special not genp,ral, and if occasion exists for a compliance at the time of its receipt it is executed, but it is not held for the sake of subsequent observance. One officer, with a copy of general orders, No.9, neatly filed with other communii>~tions in his possession, informed me that enlistments were reported. only once a year.
Administration.-The scope of my inspection, as already pointed out, embraced only companies, troops and batteries, and therefore it may be expected that I shall confine my remarks on administration to matters concerning these individual commands; but the intimate relation which must exist between the legitimate unit of administration, the regiment or the separate battalion, and the elements making up that unit, compels some reference to the composite organizations. Administration may be said to be a division of labor and responsibility and concerns the duties devolving upon the several commanders from the highest to the lowest in rank; it is effective only where the touch between the superior and the subordinate, either direct or indirect, is felt and maintained; the less sensitive the touch, the looser the control. It is simplified and rendered easier of execution where proper and accountable officers are required to perform their whole duty, each in his own sphere or bailiwick.
The great difficulty in the way of good administration is the want of proper organiza ion; that of the Volunteers, under existing laws, is defective. This subject is perhaps foreign to my report, and will not be entered into.
But accepting the organization as it stands, I find hinderances blocking the road to efficien~ management of the troop3 and instruction in administrative ideas, chief among thfJm being a want of knowledge of their several duties on the part of some regimental and battalion commanders or a seeming disinclination or inability to fully execute them.
The duties of the commanding officers relate to the needs of their commands, to their discipline and instruction, and under recent orders, to the appointment and reduction of non-commissioned officers. The matter of organization of individual commands is in the hands of higher authority.
Under section l103(ff), Laws of 1884-5, provision is made for a regimental board of officers to each regiment, and a battalion board of officers to each battalion, to consist of all the commissioned officers of the regiment or battalion, with power to pass laws for their own government, to establish fines and penalties for violations of such laws, to establish penalties for the nonattendance of the various non'commissioned officers and privates at drills. I do not discover that such boards have been ~rganized. The separation of individual commands may render the observance of the general law impracticable in some instances. Discipline, to which such laws particularly relate, is not assumed or enforced by regimental or battalion commanders, save in the case of the 3d Battalion, Georgia Volunteers. With this exception, discipline is almost entirely in the hands of the company commanders. So far as instruction is concerned, I find superior commanders not generally assuming that responsibility and interest requisite for the efficiency of the larger units, nor do,tbay. usually keep them-

43
selves posted as to the necessities and the conduct of affairs in their COllimands
For purposes of discipline and instruction the company is too frequently regarded as the administrative unit and permitted to exercise an unqualified autonomy. This practice is harmful in its tendencies and possible results; it is erroneous in its teachings, for when occasion brings the elements of the larger command together, that same spirit of independence, born of long usage,. mnst and will assert itself. It is not conducive to efficient and uniform administration in peace; it would be detrimental to discipline and control in field operations, where individual commands must merge their identity into that of the whole. Training in peace time is but preparatory, and all instrnction should be conducted with a view to the ultimate ends of organization.
Deficiencies in the administration of discipline can only be effectually amended by the adoption of adequate and appropriate general laws. The existing code is not sufficiently comprehensive. But in matters of tactical instruction' I can discern no good reason why commanding officers should not direct and supervise it. I endeavored to ascertain by inquiry of officers in what official matters regimental and battalion commanders were regarded as authority and to what extent they exercised authority. I learned that reports and returns were usnally forwarded through them, but as regards discipline and instruction they were not felt.
Instruction of a regiment or battalion should be uniform and progressive; it cannot be when company commanders are left to their own devices; their methods must vary as frequently do the uniforms of their commands.
The superior commander should see to the instruction, both practical and theoretical, of his officers and men, carrying out plans of his own or enforcing those otherwise prescribed. He should require reports rendered as to the work of each organization. He should encourage the deserving and, eschewing all partiality, admonish indifference and carelessness.
The colonel is responsible to his superiors for the training of his regiment. As a company is what its captain makes it, so, it may be said a regiment or battalion will reflect the character and purpose of the commanding officer. In the particular of tactical and administrative instruction, the 1st Regiment and 3d Battalion, Georgia Volunteers, enjoy peculiar advantages. The com panies composing them are quartered under the same roof, and, in this regard, bear a strong resemblance to an army post or garrison. Official business might be conducted by them upon similar lines.
In connection with this subject I would remark upon the prevailing practice of giving almost exclusive significance to the special names of companies.. Instead of referring to them by their alphabetical letters, their special designations are very generally used, and company commanders frequently overlook their official titles. I note exceptions in the cases of the 5th Regiment of Cavalry :md the 3d Battalion, Georgia Volunteers. The Code of the State permits a company to adopt any special name, but requires, when attached to a regiment or battalion, that it shall receive an alphabetical designasion. Company pride has much to do with the above mentioned custom. Dis- tinction won in service or reputation gained in prize drills has been achieved under special names. Commanding officers have it in their power to incul-

44
ocate regimental and battalion esprit de corps, and thus render easier their administratiye duties.
Stoi! Administration.~Another detriment to the teaching of proper methods 'of administration is the fact that staff officers are, generally speaking, required to do too little. I find that some administrative staff ojQcers are not req nired to perform the duties which legitimately pertain to their departments. Some adjutants are but figure heads, the commanding officer assemin~ all corres pondence. This I discovered in interrogating officers as to their knowledge of official channels. This practice is not just to staff officers, who never learn their duties, nor to company commanders and officers generally, who are thus unwittingly lead to disregard channels of communication. As a result adjutants must be taught their functions, and company commanders must lwlearn their false teachings when going into camp.
The law authorizes certain regimental and battalion staff officers, whose duties are purely nominal. Some of these offices are simply honorary. The effect cannot be said to be encouraging to others. -With such officers there is too little of real business, too much of the" play-soldier,"
Company Administmtion.-A company commande~, be he in the regular service or State force, should require his subalterns to make out official papers, reports and returns, and to familiarize themselves with forms of correspond. ence, wherein uniformity and method are sO much needed. It is instruction, and the manual labor involved should not be cause for complaint, nor will it be so looked upon when the same lieutenants are thrown on their own responsibility in the event of assumin~ command. I find very few instances where lieutenants are required to perform any other duty than at drill.
They are not made acquainted with records or the principles of correspond-ence. As a consequence, when temporarily in command they are at a great disadyantage and know not what to do. Each subaltern might be assigned a special department, and thus be of assistance to the company commander. Each should be prepared for corpmand.
Orders.-I notice a practice in some organizations of denominating orders as ." general" and" special." Orders emanating from commanders of posts, regiments, battalions and companies should bfJ classed as "orders" simply. The company ord.ers should omit the word" headquarters" at its head, and should not be signed by the first sergeant or secretary at its foot, as I frequently observed. Spacedoes not permit me to mention several other irregularities which were discovered and pointed out relative to the iss;;.ance of orders. They can be better corrected by regulations and models.
Publication of Orders, etc.-All communications, from whatever source, directly affecting the command, should be publiRJied to it. This is not generally done. Orders from superior authority and company orders, when published at all, are usually posted on bulletin boards, and are therefore not given the force of official publication. Vvith some commands orders, etc., are read at regular meetings.
Inspection of Companies.-I find very few company commanders who make it a practice to inSPect their commands at regular intervals. These officers cannot give too close attention to the cleanliness and serviceability of arms, accoutrements, equipillents, harness; to the condition and fit of clothing, etc.

45
. Some officers are very careless in these matters, which accounts in a great degree for the very poor condition in which I found' their property and the poor appearance of their commands.
Attention should be given not only to the property, but also tothe condition of the armories, drill rooms and store rooms.
I visited some drill halls and store rooms which were in considerable disorder; in several the floors were unsightly from tobacco spittle.
Inspection of Clothing.-While clothing is, of course, furnished at the expense of the men, either directly or throngh the company funds, it should be carefully inspected so as to fit before acceptance from the maker. Very frequently men exercise their own tastes in the selection and make of their clothing. A neatly fitting garment adds much to the military appearance of an individual soldier; it will enhance the general appearance of the command.
Assemnling Men a.t Armories.-Usually, for the purpose of quickly bringing men to armories in unforeseen emergencies, companies are divided into squads under the charge of non-commissioned officers, each of whom is provIded with a list showing the address of each Ulan of his squad. In case of a sudden call, it is customary for the first sergeant to notify the other non-commissioned officers who in turn warn their men. In other cases a drum or a bell alarm is employed. Again, in some commands I find no system in use for promptly turning out the men, and commanding officers do not keep themselves posted as to the residences of their men. This matter would have some importance in the event of a fire or disturbance of the peace or riot, when property should be looked after or guarded, or the armory defended.
Provision for Pield Duty. - Very little thought has seemingly been given. hy company commanders to providing for the subsistence of their mell in the field or when ordered out for duty away from their stations. Many' officers have never anticipated such events nOr thonght to make provisions therefor.
I learned of one command which was engaged on one occasion in maintaining the peace in a sparsely settled country district. Not a ration was carried along, and for forty-eight hours the men subsisted on sweet potatoes alone. Men should never rely on eating houses nor expect to "skirmish around for food" as one officer informed me he would do. The man's stomach is a vital factor and should receive due cOllsideration.
An excellent system for supplying subsistence was discovered, after close inquiry, in Company E, 1st Regiment, and I take occasion here to commend the efficiency, as acting commissary sergeant, of private H. ,T. Sutcliffe of this organization.
This company, as well as some few others, is amply equipped with a field mess outfit. The best company kit seen. during the inspection was that of Company B, 1st Regiment. All dishes are made of papier mache and are very light and durable. The whole kit is compactly stored in two llless chests.
In none of these infantry commands are the men supposed to cook their' own rations; hired cooks are provided.
This feature of a soldier's duty is, however, fully understood by some troops of the 5th Georgia Cavalry, Troops Band E. The men of these troops can and would perform these necessary duties in the field. They would also care for their own mounts.

46
ARMS AND EQUIPMENTS.
'With the exception of four companies, the infantry of the Georgia Volun: teers is armed with the .45 calibre Springfield rifle, with two patterns of sights. The great majority of these companies have both patterns. The 1884 sight is the desirable one, particularly for purposes of target practice. By it deviation due to drift is automatically corrected, and therefore the individual judgment of the firer in this matter does not enter as a varying' factor. With the huckhorn sight allowances for natural drift must be made by the soldier. The number of pieces with the improved sight in the hands of the troops is ample for present needs in small-arms practice. After the troops have been. provided with the necessary field outfit, I would recommend that the latest model of rifle be supplied them. The magazine rifle should replace all when it has been adopted and is manufactured by the general government. Four companies have the .50 calibre Springfield, which should be called in at the earliest practicable date and the smaller calibre substituted. These troops will work at a great disadvantage in small-arms practice with such unserviceable and out-ofdate weapons. The arm used shuuld be uniform throughout the entire force. All but a few companies of the Georgia Volunteers, colored, carry the .50 -calibre Springfield; three companies have the old muzzle loaders only.
The cavalry, with the exception of one troop which has the.44 calibre Marlin Safety repeating firearm, is provided with the Springfield carbine, calibre .45. Five troops are yet without arms.
I only introduce these latter references as pointing to tendencies in foreign .a.rmies.
The troop using the .44 calibre piece should be furnished the Spring:leld ,carbine both for purposes of uniformity and for use in target practice wbere the ammunition supplied by the government can be fired. The pistol in the hands of the cavalry is the army revolv~r. Without entering into any discus sion as to the merits of this character of weapon-this report is not the place for argument on such a question~I would strongly recommend on the ground of expediency and economy that the pistol be turned in, and abandoned as a part of the prescribed equipment of the State troops. Experiences during the civil war, except in a few sporadic instances, do not place much value in the revolver for cavalry. The armament of the German cavalry, cuirassier, uhlans, dragoons and hussars, is the steel tube lance, carbine and sabre. I do not discover, from casual reading that the pistol constitutes a part of the defensive or offensive equipment. The officers and sergeants-major of infantry wear the revolver.
But aside from these facts, aside from sentiment, it must be granted that the equipment of the volunteer troops should be as simple as is consistent with current needs. A volunteer soldier- must not be freighted down with every piece of traditional armament. He does not use all; he cannot properly care for all. The proper care of arms is a desideratum and should be carefully considered in establishin/!; an uniform and really useful armament. I would further present the almost unanimous desire on the part of the cavalry officers of the State, the representative officers in particular, to do away entirely with the pistol, as unnecessary. Regarding its serviceability, I WllS informed by several cavalry officers, during my inspection, that the revolver furnished is

47
continually getting out of order, and that several shots cannot be fired from it in quick succession without a hitch. The fault is with the weapon, as the complaints come from officers whose pistols I found in excellent condition and well cared for.
Most of the infantry is furnished with the McKeever cartridge box and black leather waist belt. Several companies of infantry and some of the cavalry have provided themselves with the cartridge belt. These latter equipments are not, however, of uniform pattern, and for the simple reason that they have not been supplied from one source. Considering the care which must be bestowed upon arms and equipments, and in view of the great simplicity of the cartridge belt, I would recommend that it be prescribed as a part of the outfit ,for infantry and cavalry, and that it be issued in lieu of the McKeever box and waist belt. The web or cartridge belt is much more easily kept in order, is ' serviceable, and with the State regulation uniform, will present a good, soldierly appearance.
I find lack of uniformity in bayonet scabbards, and also the method of their attacl'tment to the belt. Some are steel, others leather with brass tips; some are provided with a brass sliding loop for making fast to the belt, others with brass hook attachments. But one pattern should qe furnished.
As regards the cavalry, I found considerable want of uniformity in saddles, bridles, saddle blankets and spurs. Cruppers and breast straps are worn in various commands.
For the purpose of dismounted work each troop should be supplied with sabre straps and link straps. The sabres should be strapped to the saddles, while the link straps are used in attaching horses.
Concerning the equipment of the volunteers, uniformity should prevail in the three branches, and complete field outfits should be supplied; provided, of ,course, that the State continues its policy of maintaining the field artillery and as much cavalry as now exists. I have already alluded to the question of keeping up these latter arm@, but would further add here that reasons of economy and the very limited use for field artillery and the very infrequent ,employment of cavalry, except in the lower counties, would seem to' point to the infantry as the effective arm for the needs of the State.
I]are of Arms.--The condition of arms and equipments will be fully shown in the detailed reports. As a general rule among the Georgia volunteers, the property furnished through the Stat"l is kept in good condition and order. Of the several regiments and battalions, the arms and equipments in the hands of the 1st Regiment are by far in the best condition. Likewise in this regiment do I find property in general better cared for and accounted for.
The chief faults observed in the care of arms were:' rust in chambers, extractor slots and base of cbambers where the rim of the cartridge when home rests. If the cam latch is rusty or covered with dust it may stick when opening the breech after discharge. A rusty chamber may prevent the free and full insertion of the shell, wben the piece is rendered unserviceable for the time being. I discovered several front sights bent from one cause qr another. A short practice in target firing will soon show to men how difficult it is to make a good score with an injured or twisted sight.

48
It was noticed that in sticking arlIlS many men were disposed to ram the' piece against the ground or floor; some few men were even seen dragging the arm across the floor. A tum bIer may be broken or the usefulness of the piece otherwise impaired by such misuse. But few of the commands possess rules for the care and management of the rifle and carbine. These rules are issued by the Ordnance Department of the army; they have reached several organizations, but for various reasons have been lost or have not been retained. I would suggest that if copies of the pamphlet containing these rules cannot be obtained in sufficient number for distribution, suitable and precise directions be published to the troops by the State.
I find the brasses on many equipments covered with verdigris. Brasses, . may soon tarnish, but there is no valid reason for their turning green, as
observed on the buttons of cartridge boxes and on the buckles of bridle& and screw heads of saddles.
Regarding the equipments, harness, etc., of the artillery and. cavalry the main defects notpd were: rusty bits, some straps hard and cracked, harness dry and hard, trace chains rusty.
A field artilleryman and the cavalryman take upon themselves a much heavier obligation than the foot soldier when receiving their equipments.. : They have much more to care for and keep clean, and this fact should be well considered before assuming such roles.
Considering the amount of stores requiring attention, Troop K, 5th Georgia Cavalry, is deserving of marked commendation for the excellent condition of its armament. The infantryman has his rifle, cartridge box and belts to look after; the cavalryman must c.\re for his carbine and sling, pistol and holster, sabre and scabbard, belt, saddle and bridle, bit and spurs; the task of the' latter is no light one. Regarding these articles of equipment in the troop mentioned, I am free to say that I have never seen property so uniiormly bright and clean; and it is kept so at all times.
The arrangement for keeping and storing property varies in great measure with the financial ability of the commands, organizations in the city beingbetter able to provide suitable means than those located in small towns and country districts. Arms are very generally kept in gun racks, the equipments on pegs. I observed a practice in two commands of keeping the breech blocks open when the pieces are in the racks. I do not discover the object of this ;: dust must surely accumulate in the receivers.
In very few instances is property not arranged in some order. The colored troops are at fault in this particular.
I have, in this conneetion, to invite attention to the fact that in a few cases command.ing officers are extremely careless about accounting for the property for which they are responsible. Some captains were unable to state the extent of their accountability.
The use of fiuitable property books and returns would,. it is thought, correct these inexcus~bleirregularities. In some instances property is issued or turned over to men and no receipt or acknowledgment taken. This practice should be discontinued. Some cOUlmanding officers liot only keep accurate exhibits of their property in books, but provid.e placards, which are placed in the armory or store-room, showing exactly what each man is responsible for. No

49
officer who neglects his arms and other property can be said to be efficient or painstaking.
As a very general thing, no stores are loaned out or allowed to be used save in the performance of military duty. Some cavalry troops, however, use their horse equipments for private purposes. Regulations should prohibit such uses.
.Marking Property.-No uniform system of marking arms and equipments is observed by the troops throughout the State. 'fhe necessity of uniformity is very apparent, and it is recommeuded that an uniform method be prescribed in orders. I discovered some rifle stocks and some articles of equipment marked with the special names of organizations. Special names shQuld not appear on State property. In case of transfer to other commands much confusion would result.
lVissing Property.-'With some commands I found property missing, lost or destroyed by fire. A separate report will show the deficiencies. Every accountable officer should be required to report all losses and damages to the proper authority. The methods prescribed by the laws of Congress for relieving-the responsible party should be followed through boards of survey composed of officers of the militia. 'With a view to informing the troops on this matter I include in this report the following extracts from an Act of Congress governing such cases.
"That the purchase or manufacture of arms, ordnance stores, quartermaster's stores and camp equipage for the militia, under the provisions of this Act shall be made under the direction of the Recretary of 'War, as snch arms, ordnance and quartermaster's stores and camp equipage are now manufactured or otherwise provided for the use of the regular army, and they shall be receipted for ana shall remain the property of the United States."
. "That all arms, equipments, ordnance stores or tents which may become unserviceable or unsuitable shall be examined by a board of officers of the militia, and its report shall be forwarded by the Governor of the State or territory direct to the Secretary of 'Val', who shall direct what disposition, by sal," or otherwise, shall be made of them; and if sold, the proceeds of such sale shall be covered into the Treasury of the United States."
Regulations governing the procedure of boards. of survey should be prepared and published to the troops, and the proper methods to be pursued clearly explained to them.
Under the general laws of the State no arms shall be issued until a bond, in double the value of the property, shall be executed and delivered by the accountable officer. Some officers do not seemingly feel the obligation resting upon them when giving their bonds. The law plainly sets forth that the officer's responsibility extends to "the safe keeping" and "proper use" of the property issued to him. An officer is not fulfilling his obligation when stores intrusted to his keeping are not accounted for or properly kept. If an officer were held to account on his bond for property rendered unserviceable or lost through neglect, more care and thought would be exercised than is the case in a few instances.
[4]

50
lTNIFORM.
General Orders No.8, series of ]890, Adjutant General's Office, prescribes a fatigue uniform, to-wit:
"B. That the fatigue uniform for the Georgia Volunteers shall be as follows: For commissioned officers, the fatigue uniform of officers of the same grade in corresponding arms of the United States service, except that the Georgia button shall be used. For enlisted men, a tunic of dark blue cloth and trousers of light blue of same shade as those worn by the officers. A strip of an inch and a quarter width to be worn on the .outer seam of the trousers. All stripes and the chevrons of the non-commissioned officers to be of white for infantry; red for artillery, and yellow for cavalry, of the shades in use by the United States Army. Ohevrons marking the grade. of non-commissioned officers to correspond exactly in form and number with those used by the United States Army. Button to be the Georgia State button for all arms. Cap of same pattern and style of those used as fatigue cap hy officers of United States Army, those for infantry having crossed muskets over the visor; for artillery crossed cannon, and for cavalry crossed sabres, the number of the regiment or battalion to be placed above their ornaments."
This uniform, with the exception of some ornamentation, has been purchased and is being worn by several organizations. Those commands only which have the State regulation dress will be mentioned in the detailed reports. It would be adding much useless information were a description given of the various uniforms worn by the many organizations of the State. Several companies wear a serviceable field dress of various colors and patterns, but for reasons stated are not described or mentioned. As regards the State regulation field dress it may be said that very few of the troops wearing it have strictly observed the orders above quoted. Usually black braid is placed on the breast across the front and on the cuffs. The forage caps are of the regulation pattern, but the cap ornaments vary in style and mode of attachment. Some are embroidered in gold, others are gilt metal pinned or hooked above the visor. There is much irregularity as to placing the number of the regiment or battalion above the cap ornament signifying the arm of service. Some companies use the initials of their special names. When an organization is attached to a regiment or battalion its special name should be dropped for the time being. Only the alphabetical designation should be officially recognized. But uniformity in dress cannot be hoped for, cannot be expected where each command is left to provide entirely for itse:f. Regimental and battalion commanders have it in their power to accomplish not a little in establishing uniformity of dress as well as regularity in instruction. Friendly counsel and advice will have a marked effect upon all well.meaning commands. The end sought after cannot be attained on short notice, but persistent effort and kindly persuasion will gradually eradicate irregularities and bring about uniform methods.
The quality of clothing worn is excellent, much better in fact than is furnished enlisted men of the army. In several commands considerable attention is given to the neatness of fit of clothing; the consequent improvement in general appearance is noticeable. The condition of the uniform generally was found very good; in some instances not a little care is exercised in keeping

51

-it always in good order. One command may be specially mentioned in these

particulars. The undress uniform is the State regulation. Each man is allotted

a locker, and in it every article of clothing has its place and so arranged th3lt

-each can be seen at a glance. The tunic is neatly hung up, and every pair of

trousers is placed in a pants-stretcher. For simplicity of dress, uniformity of

equipment and the care taken of the same, this organization, Troop K,5th

Regiment, Cavalry, is deserving of special mention. This troop pre-

sented a better appearance than any command visited in the State. There

was uniformity observed from head to foot. Even a uniform pattern of collar

was worn; neck ties of various colors were not seen. Few commands

seem to have discovered how much their general appearance woulQ. be im-

proved by the adoption and use of uniform patterns of collars and neck ties,

or by wearing no ties. The simple black bow will add much more to soldierly

appearance than the flashing colors.

-

'Vhite gloves are generally worn when in uniform, but in several cases they

are not used when handling pieces, nor is the hand always protected. A

piece will soon rust from the perspiration of the hand.

The glove or gauntlet is less for ceremony than the protection of the piece

and accoutrements.

I found few commands wearing easy wal'king shoes. The subject of c'om-

fortable foot-wear is not given the attention it deserves. Feet are quickly

made sore, or are chafed on guard, in camp and on the march by narrow-toed

and tight shoes. A broad-toed easy walking shoe should be worn by the troops,

particularly whellin camp.

A very few of the organizations have thus far provided themselves with

overcoats and blankets. Those in the hands of the troops are not of uniform

_pattern or color; in fact no pattern has been prescribed. This is the duty of

the State; not alone to prescribe, but to provide.

Respect for the Uniform.-However much the uniform may vary in style

of color, fit or appearance, there is conspicuous and most gratifying. uni-

formity in the respect and consideration shown it on all occasions by the

Georgia Volunteers. With scarcely an exception, the rules of the sev-

eral organizations contain provisions for preserving it inviolate. To bring

the uniform into discredit is an offence, punishable by the heaviest penalty

inflicted. I quote in substance the rule of several commands covering such

cases: For entering, in uniform, any bar-room or disreputable place, being

.under the influence of liquor, or disgracing the uniform in any manner

whatsoever, a fine of ten dollars is imposed; if repeated, the member so offend-

ing shall be expelled. Moreover, as a very general rule, the uniform is not

permitted to be worn except when on duty, and for it reasonable time pre-

vious to the hour fixed for assembly, and for the same time after dismissal.

One or two instances have been called to my attention by officers where

. persons not connected with the Volunteers have been seen wearing the uni

form of certain organizations. For such misuse there is no redress, but organ-

izations have the right to complain.

A general law protecting the troops would be but aiding them to accomplish

[\\-hat their company rules cannot fully control.

52
DET AIJ~ED REPORTS.
The foregoing remarks relate to general practices and observances: In order to be more explicit, to recognize special merit and point out defects, I have thought well to add, in substance, my observations of the work of individual organizations, which I do in the following detailed reports:
FIRST REGnIENT.
Owns armory, a detached wooden structure, comparatively safe from fire; each company is assigned a general meeting and store room; two rooms reo served on lower floor for field and staff, and for officers' meetings; windows on lower floor might be iron-barred for better protection; a janitor is employed who has general charge of the armory. A barrack yard or area is used as a drill ground, sufficiently large for company formations and evolutions; a portion adapted for gallery practice. All companies of this regiment were inspected under Upton's Tactics. All companies of tbe regiment are stationed in Savannah.
CmIPA~Y E.-Inspected January 2Hth. Enlistment and (liscbarge: well understood and fully carried out; enlistments promptly reported and Illen discharged only upon proper authority; discharge certificates are furnished. Discipline: excellent; ideal discipline for volunteer troops; military courtesies punctiliously observed; line of distinction between rank and the men clearly and understandingly drawn. Theoretical instruction: well conducted; men familiar with nomenclature of pieces; all taught to set sights and adjust windagl<. School of soldier: very thorough; all non-commissioned officers in charge of squads. Manual: excellent; every feature covered; firing in double and single rank; arms stacked with bayonet and swivel. f'chool of company: excellent; the best drill witnessed during the inspection; entire school covered; excellent officers and guides; sergeants tested as guides and as platoon commanders; all men tested as pivot file., of fours. Skirmish: very intelligently and thor.ughly executed in every particular; commands given by bugle and whistle: Guard: complete and thorough; formation of details by three sergeants; one sergeant acting as sergeant major ; ceremony of guard mounting, relieving old guard. posting sentinels, and day and night dutrcs of non-commissioned officers and men illustrated. Arms and equipments: exeelleut; cartridge boxes and belts the best in the ::-ltate. Company equipped with field outfit; the most complete camp equipage and table ware in the State. Armory and store room neat and property well stored and aceounted for. Book and papers; full reeords kept and preserved: neatly and correctly kept. The only company which appeared in the field outfit with knapsacks packed, overcoats rolled, blankets, haversacks, canteens, leggins, etc. The most efficient organization in the State and the equal of any volunteer command in the Union.
Its training and teachings are purely practical; all men undergo instruction. Soldierly efficiency is sought after to the exclusion of general effect in numbers and display.
CmIPANY B.-Inspected January 26th. Enlistment and discharge: men discharged and dropped by action of company alone. Discipline: very good; military courtesies taught but not observed on all occasions; several men un-

53
13teadyand gazing about and some hIking in ranks at inspection. Theoretical instruction: not regular. School of soldier: very go::>d. Manual: good; cadence somewhat slow; several inaccuraeies in position of pieces; position of pieces in loading 'irregular ; no swivel stack. School of company: good; distance between sets of fours in column not well kept; marking time on pivots not good by some men; movable pivots not observed in charging direction in column of platoons; distance lost in column of twos; passing of obstacles unevenly executed and not seemingly well understood by one lieutenant; obliquing in column of fours excellent. Skirmish: fair; intervals not well taken or preserved; skirmishers carry piecjs at "carry"; some men not familiar with deploying and assembling. Guard: fair; formation of details fair; ceremony. of gUOlrd mounting illustrated; commands of officer of the guard incorrect; some men not familiar with duties of sentinels. Arms: excellent. Equipments: very gJod; "orne brasse, tarn:shed. Armory and store room neat and property well cared for. Book" and papers: very goo:!; neatly kept. Company equipped with knapsacks, canteens, overcoats, blankets, legl';ins. etc. Ample table ware; packed in mess chests; best system observed by any company in the State. A very good company.
Cm[PANY D. -Inspected January 28th. Elllistment and di'icharge: some dates on enlistment papers not recorded; men discharged and dropped by ~ompany action; men transferred and no record furnished new commander. Discipline: very good; military courtesies taught; men very "teady; company very soldierly in bearing and appearllnce; a few men observed gazing about in ranks. Theoretical instruction: not regular. School of soldier: fair; more thorough instruetion needed. Manual: several inaccuracies in position of pieces, particularly in the loadin~s; a few men in ranks not well instructed; heels of some men in ranks not together; stacking with bayonet good. School of eompany: good; guides not promptly verified in opening ranks; formation of fours from twos very good; step "omewhat slow; fours keep distances very well; platoons left front into line. poorly executed; mov' able pivots not well observed in changing direction; some men not well instructed as pivot files; fours did not oblique together executing left front into line from column; marching in line very good. Skirmish: fair; intervals not well preserved; some talking in ranks; rallying by fours good; assembling very good. Guard: fair; formation of details slow; acting first sergeants not sure; supernumerary out of place at guard mounting; marching of detail" onto line not good; one corporal of the guard very well informed and very soldierly; men not well instructed as to duties of sentinels. Arms: very good; generally clean; some with slight rust in chambers and extractor slots. Equipments: very good; verdigris on a few brasses. Armory and store room neat and property well cared for. Company equipped with overcoats, blankets, knapsacks, canteens, leggins, etc. Books and papers: incomplete. This company appeared in knapsacks at inspection; men are familiar with slinging and unslinging. A very good company.
CO)[i'ANY A.-Inspected January 2,5th. Enlistment and discharge: men dropped by action of company. Diseipline: good; military courtesies not well taught; some gazing about in ranks. Theoretical instruction: irregular. School of soldier: fair; no setting up exercises; squad drill fair. Manual:

54
good; pieces thrown up for inspectiou very well; no swivel stacking; stackingarms with bayonet very good; command," posts" omitted after firing. School of company: fair; officers wear full dress belt with undress uniform; marching in line wavering; distances not well preserved in column; movable pivot not observed in changing direction; distances well kept in column of twos and files. Skirmish: fair; not sufficiently comprehensive. Guard: fair; details brought onto line fairly well by two sergeants; first sergeant very good; men not well informed as to duties of sentinels. Arms: good; some few pieces rusty in chambers and ejector slots. Equipments: good; brasses tarnished. Armory and store room in very good order and property well cared for. Books and papers: incomplete. Company is equipped with knapsacks, blankets, overcoats, haversacks, canteens, leggins, etc. A good company.-
COMPANY C.-Inspected January 27th. Enlistment and discharge: understood; discharge certificate furnished men upon discharge. Theoretical instruction: not regular. Discipline: very good; military courtesies taught; men very soldierly; some gazing about in ranks at inspection. School of soldier: fair; no setting up exercises; squad drill fair; movements in doubletime irregular. Manual: good; position of pieces somewhat inaccurate; stacking with bayonet good; no swivel stack. School of company: fair guides not verified in opening ranks; marking time on pivots not well understood by men; movable pivot not observed in changing direction; forming fours from twos and files not correctly executed. Skirmish: no instruction given. Guard: fair; ceremony of, guard mounting not well performed; men need instruction in t1::e duties of sentinels. Arms and equipments: excellent. Armory and store room very neat and orderly; property well cared for. Company is equipped with knapsacks, haversacks, canteens, leggins, overcoats, blankets. Very good mess kit; neatly kept. Books and papers: not COI11plete. A good company; most promising.
SECOND REGnIENT.
All companies, save o'ne, were inspected under Upton's Tactics. CO}IPANY I.-Inspected December 4th, at Perry. Enlistment and discharge: enlistments not promptly reported; no uniform practice as to discharge. Discipline: good; military courtesies not taught; very good attention and steadiness in ranks at inspection; men very prompt. Theoretical instruction: not had. School of soldier: very good; setting up exercises by whole company excellent, balance step gaining ground poor, lack of practice; changing step poor; squad drill good. Manual: excellent; comprehensive; stacking arms with bayonet and'swivel very good, save that stacks are not lowered to ground' gently; forcibly dropping pieces is liable to injure tumblers. School of company: excellent; comprehensive; formation of company very smart and accurate; very good officers; company was drilled in a very limited space, 32 by 45 feet, but the captain had a remarkably good control over his command, never running it against the walls or breaking it up. Skirmish: very good; comprehensive. Guard: filiI'; formation of details and marching onto line somewhat slow, but fairly accurate; men not familiar with the instructions to sentinels. Arms: pieces actually in the hands of the men at inspection excellent, save one rusty in bayonet socket and one rusty in chamber; pieces not in use rusty in chambers and extractor slots. Equipments: cartndge belts worn

55
by' men excellent; McKeever boxes and belts not in good condition. Pieces kept in gun racks, eqnipments in drawers underneath. Company owns armory, detached wooden structure, safe from fire; not well protected; windows should be iron-barred and doors better secured. In connection with armory company owns ample ground around it; a portion is leveled off for drill pnrposes. Books and papers: incomplete; enlistment papers neat and correct; records of drills not exhibited. Captain not able to state what exact amount of property he is responsible for. Company not eqnipped with field outfit or table ware. Has a dress n niform, and the State regulation undress or service uniform; the officers wear full dress belts with nndress uniform; has overcoats. A very smart company.
COMPANY C.-Inspected November 24th, at Macon. Enlistment and discharge: no uniform practice as to reporting enlistments; all discharges made with proper authority; enlistment roll shows two men enlisted under age (16) allowed by Code. Theoretical instruction: not regular. Discipline: good; military courtesies not well taught; men prompt and very orderly at " rest" during inspection; good attention and interest displayed. School of soldier: very good; setting up exercises, under (new) drill regulations, very well executed; squad drill good. J:vIanual: very good; old and new drill regulations used; dnring firings the file closers fired; stacking arms with swivel slow, some new men in ranks. School of company: good; formation under new drill regulations very good; officers' names called at roll call; left four of company not properly formed by first sergeant; alignments fairly good; company was .drilled in a very limited space, not sufficient for the execution of evolutions evenly; the principles of the drill fairly well understood by men. Skirmish: good; principles understood; want of space made it impossible to perform all movements. Guard: fair; formation of details well done; marching onto line filir; men not well instructed as to the duties of sentinels Arms: excellent; this company has a number of second hand pieces which were thoroughly cleaned; this fact is mentioned for the reason that some officers seem to think that unless they secure pieces direct from an arsenal of construction they cannot be kept clean; the above practice cO.tl.troverts such opinions. Equipments: very good; 'a few brasses tarnished. Pieces kept in racks; avltilable room not adequate for storing property well. Company rents armory, third floor, brick building; comparatively safe; well protected. Books and papers: very good; enlistment book kept in lieu of enlistment papers; letters, etc., received carefully filed. Not provided with field outfit or mess kit. \Vears State regulation uniform. A good company.
COMPANY G.-Inspected March 30th,at Columbus. Enlistment and discharge: enlistments not promptly reported; no uniform practice as to discharges. Theoretical instruction: not had. Discipline: good; military courtesies sought to be observed; men generally very steady and attentive in ranks; some gazing about. School of soldier: very good; setting up exer~isesvery good; squad drill very good; excellent non-commissioned officers. Manual: very good; cadencJe good; position of pieces fairly accurate; only direct firings given. School of company: very good; all non-commissioned officers instructed as to forming company ; roll call somewhat slow; sergeants in ranks; odd file on left of company not fallen out; marking time on pivats well understood by men; marching in

56
line good; obliquingin column very good; platoon movements very good; chiefs of platoon very good; passing of obstacles p@orly executed, not seemingly understood; movable pivots not well observed; no double rank formation given. Skirmish: fair; not sufficiently comprehensive. Guard: fair; marching details fair; formation, inspection and marching onto line by one sergeant eAcellent; distances between lines at guard mounting not accurate; men not flmiliar with instructions for sentinels. Arms: pieces, model 1884, generally good; some dirty in chambers; pieces, model 1879, generally rusty in chambers and extractor slots. Equipments: good; some brasses tarnished; verdigris on some brasses. Arms in gun racks, equipments hanging on pegs; pieces left with breech blocks open. Books and papers: fair; letters received neatly filed; letter hook of captain during war preserved; no property book, and commanding officer not able to state exact amount of property for which he is responsible. Not provided with field outfit, overcoats or blankets; no mess kit. Rents armory on third floor, brick structure; comparatively safe from fire; fairly well protected. A good company, but too small a percentage of members llndergo regular instruction.
COMPANY A.-Inspected Nov. 28th, at Macon. Enlistment and discharge: captain stated that enlistments were promptly reported, and that in case of discharge authority of Adjutant-General would be asked for; one man transferred but no descriptive list furnished. Discipline: fair; military courtesies not observed; during "rest" some noise and confusion among men; good attention and steadiness in ranks. Theoretical instrnction: not had. School of soldier: good; setting up exercises fair; squad drill fairly comprehensive; wrong commands used for opening files. Manual: very good; stacking a'rms with bayonet and swivel good; firings generally very good. School of company: very good; formation good; one corporal out of place in ranks; men fairly well instructed in principles; passing of obstacles not attempted. Skirmish: fair; not comprehensive, but what was attempted was ,good. Guard: fair; formation of details and the guard mounting fairly well done; men not (familiar with the orders of sentinels. Arms: pieces, model 1884, in excellent conjition; .50 calibre pieces, loaned by the State, rusty in chambers and not cared for; nearly all unserviceable; should be turned in. Equipmenta: cartridge belts good; MeKeever boxes scratched and-not given proper care; pieces kept in chests or in gun cases against wall; company not able to provide gun racks. Books and papers: incomplete; enlistment papers neat and correct; files of orders, etc., not exhibited. Company rents armory,' second floor, brick building; comparatively safe from fire; not protected; rear windows should be iron-barred. Wears State regulation uniform. Not provided with field outfit, overcoats or blankets; no table ware. A deserving company.
CO)!PANY F.-Inspected December 5th, at Macon. Enlistment and discharge: enlistments not promptly reported; men discharged and dropped by action of company alone. Discipline: very good; the captain has thoroughly instructed his men in military courtesies; men are punctilious in observing them; line of distinction between officers and men well understood and practiced; men steady and attentive in ranks. Theoretical instruction: not had. School of Soldier: very good; double step not properly taught. Manual:

57
'very good; some men in ranks not accurate in details of manual; one lieurtenant inattentive and lounging during manuaL School of company: very good; formation prompt, accurate, smart save that left guide was unfamiliar 'with his duties; school well covered and executed, save by a few poor files and uninstructed left guide. Skirmish: fair; not sufficiently comprehensive, 'Guard: fair; formation of details aud marching onto line fairly well done; men not instructed in duties of sentinels, Arms: twenty-six pieces used by prize drill "teem" eKcellent; fifty, two pieces rusty and dirty. Equipments: cartridge belts good; McKeever box'~s scratched, worn and not well cared for; officers wear full dress belts with undress uniform; company equipped with lknapsacks, overcoats, blankets and mess kits. Rents armory, second floor, brick building; not safe; fairly well protected; newspaper office below and printing shop above; armory not adapted for company evolutions. A smart company, but t ;0 small a p'lrcentage of members undergo regular instruction.
CO)IPANY B.-Inspected November 23d, at Macon. Enlistment and discharge: some dates on enlistment papers not given; no uniform practice as to reporting enlistments; men dropped by action of company; several men dropped but no dates shown. Theoretical instruction: none. Discipline: fair; military courtesies not well observed; too much noise and talking during "rest" ,at inspection; one non-commissioned officer left armory without permission, and when called for by inspector to take charge of a squad was absent; men ,generally steady in ranks. School of soldier: fair; no setting up exercises; ,non-commissioned officers not able to command squads; squad drill under :lieutenant good; want of instruction. Manual: fair; positiou of pieces in several instances incorrect; stacking arms with bayonet good; no swivel
'stack; firings fair; durine firings the file closers fired; waut of drill. School
of company: fair; formation slow: left guide net familiar with his duties; company well sized; alignments backward uncertain; forward very good; pivot files do not mark time properly; principles of most platoon evolutions understood, but distances not well kept; chiefs of platoo.l not familiar with ,their duties executing on left into line from column of platoons; officers lack confidence; company ,lrill fairly good, bat show,; lack of drill. Skirm ish: no instruction given. GU'lrd: poor; formation ot details slow and uncertain; marching onto line n ,t good; men not instructed in the general orders for sentinels. Arms: excellent; fine condition. Equipments: very good; few brasses tarnished; piece, kept iu gun rack., in gun room on se~ond floor of armory.; equipments in upright lockers on third floor; this arrangement not ,considered good in case of a sudden emergency; wears State regulation 'uniform. Books and paper,,: incomplete. Company owns a fine armory, the :best equipped in the State; the drill hall measures 60 by 100 feet; well pro,tected; property is secure and well eared for; not prJvided with field outfit, overcoats or blankets; has table ware. A good company but in need of more ,drill and instruction.
THIRD REGIMEKT
.All companies of this regiment were inspected under Upton's Tactics. CQ)IPAl<lY I.-Inspected October 14th, at Dalton. Enlistment and discharge: 'tl:llistments not promptly reported; men discharged upon the authority of the

58
captain. Theoretical instruction: none. Discipline: fair; military couJ'tesies not observed; men not instructed in such matters; men steady and generally attentive in ranks; few gazing about; during "rest" men very orderly. School of soldier: good; setting up exercises by whole company very good; squall drill very wellexecuted ; balance and double step not taught. Manual; good;. several slight inaccuracies in positions; during firings the file closers fired. School of compan:': good; formation of company very good, smart and soldierly: first sergeant omitted to ma.ke division of platoons; alignments good; commands of officers not given with life; stacking arms with bayonet fair; no swivel stack; company not well up in platoon evolutions or passing of obstacles. Skirmish: no instruction given. Guard: good; formation of guard details; posting of sentinels good; men understand fairly well the orders for sentinels. Arms: good; pieces generally clean; dust in s )me bores; a few slight rust in chambers. Equipments: excellent; pieces in gun racks, equipments in closets underneath; property well cared for; armory neat; not well protected; entrance can easily be made through rear windows; windows should be barred. Rents armory, second floor: brick building; safe. Not provided with field outfit, overcoats or blankets; no table ware; wears State regulation uniform. A good company; very promising; ambitious.
COMPANY H.-Inspected October 20th, at Athens. Enlistment and discharge: enlistments not properly reported; men discharged upon authority of company alone. Theoretical instruction: not had. Discipline: fair; military courtesies not observed; good attention in ranks at inspection; some gazing about. Bchool of soldier: fair; no setting up exercises; squad drill good so far as given, but does not include several important features. Manual: good; several irregularities in position of pieces; no stacking with swivel. School of company: good; formation fair; names of officers called; officer in command did not take proper position when giving commands at inspection; wheeling on fixed pivot not correct; sergeants in ranks and corporals out of proper' places: company not divided into platoons; good officers; their commands are first-class. Skirmish: no instruction given. Guard: fair; formation of guard detail and marching onto line by one sergeant excellent; men not familiar with general orders for sentinels. Arms: fair; some pieces very rusty in chamber. Equipments: fair; scratched and worn, but serviceable; verdgris on some brasses. Pieces in gun racks and equipments well cared for; store room well protected; windows barred; only entrance by heavy door. Books and papers: none. Company has full dress uniform; gaudy but unserviceable; undress, State regulation. Not provided with field outfit, overcoats or blankets; no mess kit. Rents armory, formerly the opera house; safe. A good company.
COMPANY G.-Inspected October 22d, at Conyers. Enlistment and discharge: enlistments not promptly reported; men discharged by vote of company and dropped. Theoretical instruction: none. Discipline: good; behavior excellent; military courtesies well observed when inspector entered armory and while present; no line of distinction between officers and lIlen drawn: attention and steadiness in ranks very good. School of soldier: not satisfactory; setting up exercises not well executed; squad drill poor; but small part of the school given; needs more instruction. Manual: very good; stacking with.

59
bayonets good, save one set of fours; no swivel stack; loadings and firings' well done. School of company: good; formation inaccurate; officers' names called; opening and closing ranks very smart and correct; marking time on pivots well understood; wheel on fixed pivot not well performed, halting too late; formation into line from column to and on the right good; passing of obstacles very poor; formation of column of twos and files good; room not sufficient for platoon evolutions; examined chiefs of platoon and found them familiar with their duties. Skirmish: none. Guard: poor; formation of guard details slow and inaccurate; men not acquainted with general orders for sentinels. ..A_rms: excellent. Equipments: very good. Pieces kept in gun racks, equipments on pegs. Armory floor not neat; spittle on floor. Books and papers: not kept. Rents armory, second floor, brick building; comparatively safe; fairly well protected. Not proVided with field outfit, overcoats or blankets; ample table ware. A good company.
CO)!PANY E.-Inspected Nov. 14th, at Madison. Enlistment and discharge: very irregular practice regarding the enlistment of men; men not required to sign papers; no record of enlistment kept; men dropped from roll by vote of company. Di3cipline: fair j military courtesies not observed; no line of distinction between rank and the men drawn; men prompt; some men gazing about and talking in ranks dnring inspection and drill. Theoretical instruction: none. School of. soldier : very good; best in this regiment; setting up exercises well performed; squad drill well executed. Manual: good; several inaccuracies in position of pieces; firings fairly good; no stacking with swivel; stacking with bayonet good; pieces thrown up for inspection very well. School of company: good; formation fairly accurate and smart; officers' names called; very good step in quick and double time; obliques in column gooll; marking time by pivots fairly well understood; forming fours from twos and tiles not correct; slow catching step forming front into line at double time; movable pivots not observed in changing direction. Skirmish: no instruction. Guard: not satisfactory; formation of details and marching onto line not well performed; men not instructed in the duties of sentinels. Arms: neglected condition; generally rusty in chambers; dirty in screw heads. Equipments: scratched and worn, but serviceable; brasses tarnished; verdigris on some. Arms and equipments very badly accounted for; issued to men and no account taken; neither captain nor acting quartermaster sergeant could state exact amount of property for which captain is responsible. Books and papers: none. Not provided with field outfit, no overcoats or blankets; no table ware. Company has no armory; uses city hall for indoor drills and meetings; hall not adequate for company evolutions; pieces in racks on lower floor, which is used as fire engine room. Wears State regulation dress uniform. Men not required to wear gloves at times when handling pieces. A fairly good company; is on the right track in giving close attention to the school of the soldier.
CO)IPANY F.-Inspected October 21st, at Elberton. Enlistment and discharge: enlistments not promptly or regularly reported; men dropppd from roll by action of company; enlistment papers not well kept; dates not fully recorded; erroneous impression as to enlistment; practice of enlisting men On same day each year.. Theoretical instruction: none. Discipline: fair; no observance of military courtesies; no distinction made between officers and men when on.

60
-duty; considerable unsteadiness and inattention in ranks. School of soldier: not satisfactory; no setting up exercises; squad drill attempted, but men not familiar with it. Manual: poor; showing lack of instruction; stacking arlDS not well done. School of company: not satisfactory; formation slow and nncertain; sergeants in ranks and corporals out of place in ranks; officers not accurate in their duties; their commands not correct; men in ranks not sized; principles of marking time on pivots and movable pivots not understood; company formed in double rank, but could not stack arms in that formation. Company in need of systematic instruction. Skirmish: no instruction. Guard: fair; formation of guard detail by first sergeant very good; men not well up on duties of sentinels. Arms: very good; a few pieces slightly rusty iu chambers. Equipments: fair; boxes scratched; brasses tarnished. Books and papers: incomplete. Rents armory, second floor, brick building; fairly well protected; arms ill gun racks; equipments on pegs. Not 'provided with field outfit, no overcoats or blankets; no table ware. 'Wears State regulation uniforru. Company composed of excflllent material, and with proper training will be heard from.
CmIPANY A.-Inspected November 30th, at LaGrange. Enlistment and discharge: enlistments not promptly or regularly reported; men dropped without proper autbority; dates on enlistment papers not accurately kept. Theoretical instruction: none. Discipline: men not instmcted in matters of discipline; military courtesies not observed; no line of distinction between rank and men drawn; men not prompt; unsteady and not attentive in ranks. School of soldier: unsatisfactory; instruction very limited in setting up exercises and squad drill. Manual: fair; several inaccuracies in detail; stacking with bayonet fair; no swivel stack; firings direct fair. School of company: fair; formation inaccurate and slow; bayonets not fixed for inspection; no division of platoons; left guide not familiar with l:is duties; in opening ranks men do not l1ast eyes to right; principles of drill not well understood; due to lack of drill. Skirmish: no instruction. Guard: fair; formation of detail by first sergeant fairly well d,me; marching into liue not good; men not instructed as to general orders for sentin els. Arms: unsatisfactory; pieces generally rusty in chambers; five unserviceable. Equipments: fair; serviceable; scratched; brasses tarnished. Owns armory, second floor, brick building drill hall 30 by 60 feet; comparatively safe; not well protected; property not well cared for; floor of armory not neat. Books and papers: incomplete; record of drills correctly kept; property book incomple~e. Wears State regulation uniform. Not provided with field outfit, no overcoats, no blankets; ample table ware. A range of 500 yards is obtainable in vicinity of station; butts can be made at small cost. Drills are held regularly during summer and spring; drills not regularly had during winter. A fair company, but in need of more regular instruction.
CmIPANY C.-Inspected November 13th, at Greensboro. Enlistment and discharge: no uniform or regular system of keeping records of enlistment; if a man is elected he is regarded as a member, but is not required to sign enlistment paper; captain stated that report of enlistment would be made only when directed by Adjutant-General; no retained enlistment papers. Theoretical instruction: none. Diseipline: fair; behavior good; no observance of

61
military courtesies; considerable unsteadiness in ranks; some inattention ana talking in ranks. School of soldier: not satisfactory; no setting- up exercises; some few features of squad drilJ attempted, but men not well instructed. Manual: fairly good; several inaccuracies in details; commands of captain faulty: no cadence observed; firings not good; file closers fired. School of company: not good; formation of company slow and inaccurate; sergeants in, ranks; corporals out of place; first sergeant caUs names of officers; 'left guide does not understand that he is to remain in line of file closers until after counting fours; pivots do not mark titne well; lack of drill in forming line to the right or left and on the right or left; drill uneven; men not well instructed individually; unevenness of drill due in g-reat measure to poor cOlIlrnands. Skirmish: no instruction. Guard: not satisfactory; insufficient instruction. Arms: fair; some pieces clean; several others rusty in chambers, and dirty in screw heads; arms not well eared for. Equipments: not good; belts and' boxes scratched; verdigris on brasses. '\Tears State resulation uniform. Not provided with field outfit, no overcoats, no blankets; ample table ware. For drilJ and meetings company rents room, iiD by 50 feet, in court-house; safe. Arms and equipments kept in separate building; pieces in gun racks and equipments (On pegs; store room very orderly; well protected: member of company sleeps in room. Books and papers: none kept. Fair company.
COMPANY D.-Inspected Oct. 19th, at Gainesville. Enlistment and discharge: enlistments not promptly reported; men discharged and dropped by action of company alone. Theoretical instruction: none. Discipline: fair; military courtesies Itot well observed; unsteadiness and inattention in ranks; considerable gazing about. School of soldier: not satisfactory; no setting up exerci~es; very few features of squad drill understood. Manual: not satisfactory; irregular. School of company: fair; formation slow; men slow taking places in ranks; no counting of fours; sergeants in ranks; opening and closing ranks inaccurate; marking time on pivots not understood; principle of fixed and movable pivots not taught; too much talking in ranks during drill; platoon evolutions not well executed. Skirmish: not satisfactory; some movements were attempted, but men not familiar with subject; commands not correct for deploying. Guard: not satisfactory; formation of guard detail uncertain; men not familiar with instructions to sentinels. Arms: seemingly neglected; rusty in chambers; several pieces with chamber filled with dirt. Equipments: not good; serviceable but scratched; brasses not cared for. Arms in gun racks. Books and papers: not kept. Rents armory, second floor, brick building; drill ball 50 by 60 feet; comparatively safe; fairly well protected; armory not neat; gun racks dirty. Wears State regulation uniform. Not provided with field outfit, no' overcoats, no blankets; ample table ware. Company in unsatisfactory condition.
CONIPA:-IY B.-Inspected Oct. 13th, at Rome. Enlistment and discharge: enlistments not promptly reported; men dropped and expelled by action of company. Theoretical instructions: none. Discipline: not satisfactory; behavior during drill not orderly; not prompt; men not prompt to obey captain when they were out of ranks; much unsteadiness and inattention in ranks; there was evidence of trifling during portion of the drill. School of soldier: not satisfactory; no setting up exercises; squad drill poorly executed; evidence

62
of very little attention to subject. Manual: unsatisfactory; irregular; men not taught to stack arms. School of company: not satisfactory; formation very slow; incorrect; first sergeant not very familiar with his duties; alignments poor; pivots do not mark time properly; 'not familiar with platoon movements or passing obstacles; forming column of fours from twos and files. Skirmish: no instruction. Guard:' not satisfactory: formation of guard detail poorly executed; men not taught the duties of sentinels. .A rms: neglected; pieces dirty and rusty in chambers; one gun stock broken. Equipments: not good; boxes scratched and worn, but serviceable, brasses dirty. Pieces in gun racks, but not locked in ; side arms on pegs underneath; armory not tidy. Rents armory; safe and well protected; drill hall 50 by 100 feet. Books and papers: none. Had only full dress uniform; not provided with field outfit; no mess kit. Company in unsatisfactory condition.
FOURTH REGDIEKT.
CO}[PAKY F.-Inspected March 1st, at Waycross. Enlistment and discharge : understood and properly executed. Theoretical instruction: officers and noncommissioned officers meet twice a month; instruction given in school of soldier, company, guard, military courtesies by interrogation. Discipline: excellent, so far as could be observed; line of distinction between officers and men understandingly drawn; military courtesies very well observed; company never in camp, but has seen some service in maintaining peace. School of soldier: very good: opening files correctly done; setting up exercises very w<"ll performed; squad drill very good. Manual: very good; firings direct and by file very good; disposition to load in cadence; slope of pieces at load correct and uniform; throw up pieces for inspection very well. School of company: very good; formation and roll call very soldierly; men very steady and attentive in ranks; step in quick time perfect; turnings very well executed; wheeling on fixed pivot halting done too late; very good officers and non-commissioned officers; platoon evolutions very good; some evidence of inclination to place right in front before a new movement. Skirmish: good; deploying by flanks very good; deploying forward not good; some hesitation in rallying by fours; wheeling line as skirmishers good; intervals well preserved. Guard: good; formation of detail by first seJ'geant very good; guard mounting fairly well performed; march past good; men fairly well instructed in orders to sentinels; posting sentinels good. Arms: pieces in use excellent; some pieces not in use slightly rusty in chambers, but carefully oiled. Equipments: excellent; some old pattern belts on hand which should be turned in. Pieces in gun racks; equipments on pegs behind pieces; very neat and orderly. Arms are .50 calibre and should be turned in. Rents armory, second floor, brick building, safe and fairly well protected; armory neat. Wears t'tate regulation uniform. Not provided with field outfit; no table ware. Books and papers: incomplete. Range of 450 yards obtainable in vicinity of station; butt can be thrown up at small cost. Company used Upton's Tactics. A very good company, promising and ambitious.
CmlPANY L-J:nspected March 2d, at Brunswick. Enlistment and discharge: enlistments not promptly reported; no record of enlistment kept by present company commander for want of blanks; not familiar with obligation of en-

63
ilistment. Theoretical instruction: no regular practice; usually before drills non-commissioned are questioned as to drill and guard. Discipline: fair; military courtesies not observed; no line of distinction between officers and men drawn; men very soldierly and attentive in ranks throughout drill. School of soldier: very good; squad drill very good and comprehensive; opening files ,correct. Manual: very good; slopes of pieces when inclined very good; stacking of arms with bayonet very good; no swivel stack; firings direct, oblique 'and as rear rank very good. School of company: very good; formation and '1'011 call accurate and prompt; very good first sergeant; men throw up pieces Jor inspection very well; distances and cover well kept in column of fours; marking time by pivot files very good; lll'lrching iuline very good; step a trifle too slow; wheels in company front excellent; platoon evolutions very good; movable pivots well understood. Skirmish: good; fairly comprehensive; men shouting when rallying by company. Guard: very good; formation of details, marching onto line, marching past, relieving old guard, posting of sen'tinels fairly well done; men not all familiar with instructions to sentinels; one man pOoted as a sentinel fairly well instructed. Arms: not in good condition; rusty in chambers and bores; it is to be remarked that this company is sta_ tioned near coast, and it is extremely difficult to keep arms free from rust. Equipments: very good, Arms in racks; equipments on pegs in store room; well cared for; armory neat and store room in good order. Rents armory, second floor, tabby bnilding, safe and well protected. Drill hall not adequate ,for company formations and evolutions. Books and papers: fair; files orders, etc., received: list of property kept on retained annual report; keeps copies of letters sent. \Vears State regulation uniform; not provided with field outfit; ample table ware and cooking utensils. COlIlJlany was inspected under Upton's Tactics. A very good company.
COJIPANY K.-Iuspected March 4tb, at Thomasville, under (new) drill regulations, except in skirmish exercise. Enlistment and discharge: enlistments ,not promptly reported; roll of members kept instead of enlistment record; men released or dropped when removing from immediate bounds of company. Theoretical instruction: no system pursued. Discipline; fair; military courtesies not strictly observed; very good attention and interest displayed during entire inspection and drill; no line of distinction between officers and men observed. School of soldier: very good; setting up exercises very thorough; squad drill cornprdhensive and good. Manual: good; some inaccuracies in the loadings, rear rank men not stepping off promptly; new drill but recently taken up. School of company: good and fairly comprehensive; principles fairly well understooll. Skirmish: good; men fairly well instructed. Guard: good; formation of details and marchiug onto line fairly well done; march past old guard good; men fairly well instructed in orders to sentinels. Arms: not satisfactory; generally rusty in chambers. Equi:Jments: good. Property not kept in armory; arms and equipments in hands of men. Company has recently purchased a former dwelling-house for armory; proposes to build armory on site. Has ordered State regulation unifortn. Books and papers: incomplete; property book well kept. Not provided with field outfit; no mess kit. A very promising company.
CO~IPANY E.-Inspected March 7th. at Albany. Enlistment and di3charge:

64
enlistments not promptly reported; no uniform practice regarding discharge;: re-enlistments properly made. Theoretical instruction: no regular system. Discipline: fair; military courtesies not taught or required; some gazing about during inspection; during "rest" too much noise. School of soldier: fair; no setting up exercises; squad drill very well by squad under charge of the first Iilergeant. Manual: very good; loadings and firings very good; stacking arms rather uncertain; file closers slow in passing up pieces; some talking in ranks. School of company: fair; company but recently took up new' drill; room in which company was inspected not adequate for evolutions in .new drill; prineipies fairly well understood. Skirm ish: no instruction. Guard: good; formation of detail and marching onto line by first sergeant very' well done; excellent first sergeant; men fairly well informed as to general duties of sentinels. Arms: not satisfactory; generally rusty in chambers; piece in the hand of Private J. B. Davis in excellent condition; a model. Equipments: cartridge belts very good; MeKeever boxes not cared for. Pieces kept in racks; equipments in lockers with uniforms. Arrangement of store room ord~rly. Rents annory, formerly opera house; safe; property well protected. Wears State regulation uniform. Not provided with field out fit; some table ware. Books and papers: fair; record of drills neatly kept; no record of squad drills; order book; letters, orders, etc., received very carefnlly filed; no property book; unable to give list of property. Officer~ wear full dress belt with undress uniform. Company was somewhat at a disadvantage in the new drill regnl!J,tions, but is deserving of credit" in not clinging to the old systetn for the purpose of inspection. A smart and promising company.
CmIPAXY H.-Inspected March 7th, at Dawson, under new drill regulations. Enlistment and discharge: no e:llistment record; men coming since last encampment not enrolled; enlistment papers lost: company should complete its records; no uniform practice as to discharge. Theoretical instructions: none. Discipline: fair; military courtesies not well taught; line between officers and men not drawn; men prompt; very good attention througllOu t drill. School of soldier: very good; setting up exercises very well executed, squad drill very good. Manual: very good; stacking of arms fairly good: loadings and firings good; fire kneeling and lying down very good; rise not good. School of company: good; formation prompt and soldierly; names of officers called; opening of ranks good; principles of new drill well nnderstood; rear rank not kept closed up well; one officer lacks confidence. Skirmish: no instruction in extended order exercises yet given; principles were explained by inspector. Guard: fair; formation alnd inspedion of guard detail very good; men not well instructed in sentinel duties. Arms: fair; some pieces rusty in chambers, but there was evidence 0: attention being given to care of pieces. Equipments: very good. Arms and equipments kept by men in upright lockers with clothing. Has no armory, but has use of hall for drills and meetings. Books and papers: none. Wears State regulation uniform. Not provided with field outfit; no mess kit. A good c0l11pany.
CO~IPANY B.-Inspected Feb. 29th, at Valdosta, under (new) drill regulations. Enlistment and discharge: no uniform practice; enlistment papers correctly kept. Theoretical instruction: no practice. Discipline: fair; principles of

65
discipline not tanght; men attentive and steady during inspection and drill. School of soldier: fair; setting up exercises fairly well performed; company has but recently taken up new drill; squad drill not yet given very mnch attention. Manual: fair. School of company: fair; drill at inspection was virtually the first in the new drill; company marches fairly well; fours kept their distances and cover; passing of obstaeles good; turnings fairly well understood; captain erroneously comlnands "attention" before executing any .movement ; company formed and remained in single rauk. Skirmish: no instruction given. Guard: very little instruction given; men not familiar with duties of sentinels. Arms: unsatisfactory; pieces rusty in chambers ;'dirt n some screw heads. Eqnipments: fair; belts somewhat worn and scratched; verdigris on brasses. Pieces kept in lockers with uuiform. Rents armory; property fairly well protected. Not provided with field outfit; no mess kit. Books and papers: fair; enlistment papers, record of drills, files of orders, etc., from higher authority; company order book kept. Fair company.
COMPANY A.-Inspected March 30, at Talbotton. Enlistment and discharge: enlistments not promptly reported; men are permitted to resign; no uniform practice as to discharge. Theoretical instruction: officers and non-commissioned officers meet and discuss drill regulations on drill days. Discipline: fair; military courtesies and principles of discipline not taught; men show good interest in their work. The men of this company are nearly all farmers and widely scattered, some living fourtefln miles from staion. Meetings and drills caIlnot be had at regular intervals. During last twelve months twenty'one drills have been had. Fur general drills the lllen assemble at Talbotton and engage in their exercises during the entire day. A general drill means a whole day to the members of the organization. A practice is followed by this company in requiring squads to meet at sub,rendezvous for drill by officers and non-comIllissioned residing in the vicinity; these drills are had at four points, including the station. At inspection the company was formed under Upton's Tactics, but officers and' men were not very familiar with the principles of the formation. Some few features of the manual were presented, but there was a lack of instruction. The company was in~pected at night and eould not go into the streets for evolutions, and the hall in which it met was too limited for drill. Some few movements in the selwol of the soldier were attempted, but there was considerable lack of training. The setting up exercises are not taught. .-\. short talk was given by the inspector on the principles of the new drill, the extended order exercises and miiitary courtesies. Some poin.ts were illustrated. The attention of officers is invited to some few irregularities observed: com mandiug officer not in proper position when giving cOIllmands at inspection; a proper cadence shonld be observed in giving commands, particularly in the manual; officers should wear an nndress belt with the undress uniform; men in ranks should remain constantly at attention; commands "company, attention" unnecessary when co:np:Lny is at attention; collars of uniform pattern would add to appearance of company; men should wear a uniform neck-tie or none at all. Company has no armory, but keeps arms in sIllall room in opera house. Wears State rflgulation uniform. Arm>;: genera]!]y in good order; some few rusty in chambers; some firing pins missing. Equipments: good
[5]

60
~erviceable cOllllition ; verdigris on some brasses. Company not provided with field ontfit; no mess kit. Books and papers: fair; record of drills neatly kept; orders issued by company commander kept by first sergeant; keeps files of orders, letters, etc., from higher authority. Attention is invited to the fact that three colored men are members of this company, taken in as musicians. Company composed of fine mB.terial, most williug and well meaning, and with fair opportunities for regular instruetion may be relied upon to do creditable work.
COMPA xv G. - Inspected March 3d, at Quitman. Enlistment and discharge: men expelled and allowed to resign without proper authority; enlistment pap(ors kept eorredly. Theoretical instruetion: not regular." Discipline: fair; young eompany; not instrneted in matters of discipline: echool of soldier: no instruction. Manual very little instrtlction. School of company: unsatisfa dory ; formation slow and incorrect; men unfamiliar; officers' nameS called by first sergeant; non-eommissioned officers do not wear chevrons; men unsteady in ranks; marching in colnmn of files, twos and forming column of fours attempted; step very irregular; dress and cover poor. Company had not taken Ull new drill regulations. Inspel'tor drilled the company under new system, pointing ont importallt features, and ~ave a talk on principles invoh'ed, on subject of military cOlll'tesies, discipline, sightiug drills and setting of sights. Company has reeeived no instruction m, yet in skirmish exercises, gnard formation and sentry duty. Arms: twenty-three pieces, model 1884, good order; seventeen pieces, model 11')7:;, rusty in chambers; rust on outside of bm:rels. Equipments: cartridge boxes; good order; sOllle brasses tarnished; \"erdigris on sOllie; belts old, worn but serviceable and strong; belts old when received. Company Ims no field outfit, 110 llIess kit or table ware. Pieces kept ill gun racks; ('<jllipments hanging on piel,es (liable to injure sights). Rents arlDory. detached building, safe from iire; property poorly proteded; doors can be easily broken in; should be barred. tltore room in goo(l ol'd(j\'. G~loves are not worn at all tiUles when handling pieces. Uniform pattern of collars and sallle pattern of necktie or nOlle at all would add to the general appearance of COlUllIand. More regular antI sy,'tematic drill and instruction needed. Green company.
FInST JUTTAI,ION.
CO)ll'A~Y D.-Inspeeted March 18th, at Augusta, under new drill regulations. Enlistment and lliseharge: no uniform practice as to enlistment and discharge; no reco]"(ls kept on the ground of no blanks. Theoretical instruction: rpgular; weekly since December 1st last. Discipline: very good; military courtesies taught and observed; line of distinction between officers and lllen drawn apprel,iated ; Illen attentive and very steady and soldierly. School of soldier: gOOlI; setting up exen,ises thoroughly performed; squad drill good; only three drills in new system up to date; progress excellent. Manual: very good; instruction thorough. tlchool of company: very good; formation soldierly and correct; officers' names called; distances and cover in column of fours good; marking time on pivots very well understood and observed; on right and left into line good; company right and company right turn very good; the lllost accurate drill observed under new system; but three prepara-

67
tory drills had for inspection; very good officers; commands first class. Skirmish : no instruction. Guard: fair; formation and inspection of guard details very fair; men not well informed as to duties of sentinels; one man fair. Arms: eighteen pieces, Illodel 18S4, excellent condition; tWfmty-two pieces, buckhorn sights, good and serviceable; slight rlmt in dmmhers. Equipments: vpry good. Very good care exerdsed in keeping property. Hents armory, kept in good order. Drill hall sixty by forty fect. Property protectml. Books and papers: fair; no enlistment papers; property book corrpctly kept; very good system for accounting for property issued to men. 'Vpars State re;rulation nniform: undress nniform the simplf,st in the State, without braid on breast; no stripes on trousers. Very good company.
COMPA:-iY A.-Inspected Nov. 12th, at Washington. Enlistment and discharge: understood; enlistment papers not exhibited. Theoretieal instruction: none. Discipline; fair; military courtesiei'l taught; no line of distinction between officers and men drawn; men steady and soldierly in ranks; some few gazing abont. School of soldier: fair; selting np exercises well understood; balanee step not well taught; eommands of front sergeant not sure. Manual: good; several inaccuracies in details; stacking with hayonet good; no swivel stack; firings generally good. School of company: good; formation prompt and accurate', save that first sergeant omittef] to make division of platoons and left gui,le not familiar with duty as to falling out odd files, and as to time when to come up onto line; ,lrill comprehensive and general principles seemingly understool, save the movable pivot, proper step not tnken by pivot; very good officers. Skirmish: good; fairly eomprehensive; deployments hy flank and forward, rallying by fonrs RlHI company and assembling very well executed; firings fairly goo,!. Gunrd: fair; formation of two guard details somewhat slow hnt accurate; general instructions for sentinels and their duties not well understood. Arms: generally excellent; three noticed to have slight rust in chambers. Equipments: good: worn somewhat but serviceable; few brasses tarnishe,!. Arms and equipments kept in hands of men; property brought together and verified at intervals. Rents armory safe; not well protected. Armory neat. Not provided with field outfit; no overcoats, no blankets; ample table ware and cooking utensils. Books and papers: incomplete; record of ,lrills neatly and correctly kept. Company inspected under Upton's l\lCtics. A very goo,l eompany.
CO~IPA"Y C.-Inspeetcll lVLlrch 16th, at Augusta, unller new drill re6 nlations. Enlistment and discharge: 110 ree ,rcls kept in default of blanks; men discharged for non-atten,lance by eompany action. Discipline: fair; military courtec,ies not strictly obscrvcd; distiJwtion betweel1 officers and men not taught; men not perfcctly steady in mnks. Schoo] of soldier: fair; instruction not sufficient; one sqnad drilled und"r lieutenant with first awl another sergennt in ranks; non oom missioned ofl1cers should be made instructors; facings, nL\.rchings, turnipgs, obliqnes, marehing "(0 th" rear," changing step, very well execnte,]; settillg up exercises very wpll executed. Manual: good; instnlltion thorough. Sehool of "olllpany: fair; company had hut recently taken up new dril1; oblique very good; good eon'r in eolumn of fours, hut distances not correct; intervals bctween files not af'cnrate; step good; tnrning understood. Skirruish: no instruction. Guard: fail'; forma-

68
tion of guard detail fair; men not well instructed in orders of sentinels. Arms: good; generally clean; some rusty in chambers. Equipments: good; brasses tarnished. Pieces kept in lockers with equipments and uniform. Some files noticed to drag their pieces across floor after dismissal. Rents armory; drill hall 40 }lY 70 feet. Books and papers: fair; record of drills and property book kept. Property well cared for. Good company.
COMPc\NY E.--Tm;pected March 14th, at 'Waynesboro, under new drillrellula tions. Enlistment au,l discharg'l: no uniform practice observed; no dischargps. 'fbeoretical instruction: none. Discipline: fair; military courtesies not taught; distinction between rank and men not made; men attentive and steady during (lrill. School of soldier: fair; setting np exercises fairly well executed by entire company; the number of the exercise should be omitted from the commands; sqnad drill unsatisfactory; non-commissioned officers not efficient.. Manual: fair; (~adence slow; position of pieces fairly accurate; stacking with bayo let very gooel; firings fair. School of company: fair; formation in single rank; calls names of otliccrs; commanel "company" before commands for manual unnecessary; ca(lenee in commanels not good; distances not well kept in column of twos anel files; step not well kept; company turns not evenly executed, files spread out too much; not well up on platoon movements; fair drill but considerable lack of precision in marching, tUlning and marking time on pivots; intervals not well kept. Arms: not satisfactory; attention is called to the fact that this company has only .50 calibre pieces, old and unserviceable; sights are useless; cannot engage in target practicll unless furnished with A5 calibre pieces. Equipments: fair; worn and unserviceable; old style; should be replaced by cartridge belts. Pieces kept in lockers with equipments antI uniform. Rents armory; not adequate for company evolutions; property well protecte,1. Wears State regulation uniform; offic8rs' forage caps braided. Books and papers: fair; property hook kept; letters sent kept; no record of drills. Good company; deserving.
CQ1rPANY B.-Inspected :YLtrch liith, at Augusta, under Upton's T..wtics. En listment and (lischarge: no uniform practice as to enlistment and discharge; keep no retained enlistment papers. Theoretical instruction: none had. Discipline; fair; military conrtesies not taught; distinction between rank and men not observed. Rchool of soldier: fair; no setting up 'exerciRes. Manual: fair; position of pieces not correct in several instances; loadings irregular, stacking not correct, the pieces of rear rank men not thrown to front; during firing the file closers fired. School of company: fair; formation slow; men slow falling in; officers' names called; bayonets fixed before roll call; considerable ga7,ing ahout and unsteadiness in ranks; changes of direction not made on movable pivots; wheeling of platoons on fixed pivot good; step slow; cover in column of fours good; passing of obstacles not correctly executed; marching in line very good; Arms: unsatisfactory; pieces generally rusty in chamber,,; gummy otl in chambers. Equipments: fair; boxes scratched; brasses not Clean. Pieces kept in racks. Books and papers: none; property book not kept. The sergeant-major of the 1st battalion was in ranks at the formation of the company. Good company, but in need of mOre thorough instruction.

69
THIRD BATTALION.
All companies of this battalion are stationed in Savannah; all were inspected under Upton's Tactics. Men joining the command are assigned by the adjutant to companies, the individual preferences of the applicants to be consnlted if possible. Transfers from one company to another are made upon proper application approved by the company commanders concerned, and the commanding: offi(~er. It is to be obs'Jrved that the several companies are not well eqnalized; J~ company has forty-one men, B thirty-nine, C fifty-five. Under the rules of the batta]j'm no Illen unller eighteen years of age are admitted. I learned from the adj lltant that men under five feet five inches were not accepted. The duties of the adjntant conform as far as applicable to the system prescribed in the Army regulations. The qU'lrtermaster has charge of all arms, ammunition, camp equipage an,l such other property as may be intrusted to his keeping The commanding officer is responsible for all property furnishedhy the State.. Company commanders are not directly accountable for the arms and eqnipments used by their respective conJ.mands, nor are they assigned to individnal members. It is submitted that much better results would be obtained by apportioning the property among the companies. A spirit of emulation would thus be aroused, aud each would take pride in the care of its arms. This will not be done where property is used indiscriminately by all.
For the purpose of the inspection such a prac.tice would have given the several companies an opportunity for special work. In an inspection where comparative efficiency is to be reported npon, a command is handicapped if not accorded son.e freedom in these matters. By reference to the rules of the battalion it is to be olJserved that the instrnction of their companies is in the hands of the company commanders, who" are expected to exercise a constant
and active supervision of the drills." * ;;' "They are authorized to order
such night drills as they may think necessary." Regarding new men, the rules contemplate that each shall" prepare himself
by drill for the ranks; second, in case of neglect, without good and sufficient reasons, his name may be dropped from the roll. The rules also prescribe that" every non-commissioned officer, when appointed, is bound to capacitate himself for the duties of the office to which he has been appointed, by perfecting in the' school of the soldier,' 'school of the company,' and' school of the battalion," or resign his office." It is thought that men should be trained under competent instructors; their training will thus be more uniform and consistent. Non commissioned should be tested before being appointed to an office.
Enlistment rolls are kept in each company. After enlistment the man's n{lme is furnished the Adjutant and by him llCcorded in the descriptive book kept at battalion headquarterll. I notice that regular active members are permitted to resign, are expelled or dropped, and are transferred from the active roll to the" exempt by service" list by and with the anthority of the command. No practice is seemingly observed as to promptly reporting enlistments; as to discharge or release the practice is irregular, as indicated above.
The records kept by the Adj lltant consist of order book, record of officers, staff and company, non-commissioned offioers and men, together with record

70
of casualities, files of orders, etc., receive 1. These records were found very neatly and correctly kept.
~Warrants ari' furnished the nun-commissioned officers. They are not, however, marle official by the signatures of the commanding officer atnd Adjutant; the names of tlwse officers are merely printed upon them.
The arms are kept in gun racks; very orderly. The equipments are stored in boxes; returned to boxes after being useri. Condition of arms: generally rusty in chambers; many rusty about sights and trigger guads; dirty in screw heads; gummy grease in s~)[ne pieces. Equipments: cartridge boxes gnod and serviceable; some scratched; verdigris on some, brasses; brasses tarnifihed. The proper care is not given the equipments, as was shown by a practice observed. One co~npany before being dismissed removed the belts and boxes and dropped them onto the floor; they were afterwards picked up and thrown into chests. This battalion has no armory, but is building one. It now uses a rented structure, which is not sufficiently large for company evolutions. The battalion has a club in connection with its military organization. Diseipline: fair; military courtesies not stri"Uy observed; line of distinction between rank and men not well drawn. Theoretical instruCtion: battalion mIl'S contemplate meetings of officers from time to time. Praet\
II instrudion: the regular drill season covers a period from December] fJ to .J
15, between which dates drills are held weekly. From August to December drills are not compulsory The battalion enga~es in target practice for prize at least once a year; only rifles furnished by their battalion can be used, bu" men are permitted to supply their own cartridges. The b'lttalion is equipped with overcoats, blankets, knapsacks, leggins, cartridg: belts.
COMPA~Y A ... Inspected February ::d. Theoretical instruction: several instruction meetings fer non-comntissioned officers held by special action of captain. School of soldier: very good; setting up exercises very well executed; squad drill under five non-commis,doned officerJ comprehensivp, good; execution of balance step unstelvly; movements from line by the flanks somewbat uneven. Manual: very good; cadence good; mann'll comprehensive and evenly executed; details hirly ac(:nrate; firings very good; stacking arms good, but file elosers diel not lay on loos: pieces; no swivel stack. School of co:n pany: very good; lientenan ts at "parade rest" during inspection; marking time on the pivots well understood; platoon evolutions well executed; movable pivot in changing (lirection very well observed; the ease with which the company changes from one formation to another was noticeable; passing of obstaeles goo,l; very good oflicers. Skirmish: good; some men not familiar with deployments; rallying by fours good, save by two files; rally by company well executed and intelligE'ntly; head work displayed in the firings. Guard: very good; formation of guard details prompt and correct; marching onto line very good, prompt and smart; first seargeant failed to drop supernumerary back to proper place; (hring march past first sergeant did not bring snpernnmeraries to "parade rest;" posting seutinels by one corporal very ~ood; orders for sentinels fairly well understood. Books and papers: exci'llent; complete and very neatly and correctly kept. The steadiness and attention of the men of this company during the entire inspection and the soldierly bearing of the command were commendable; the collars worn

7i
were of a uniform pattern; neckties also; alilling to the good appearance of the company. Very good company.
OOMP.\XY O.-Inspected February 1st. Theoretical instructidn: reeitalion of non-com~issioneJ officer". _"chool of soldier: fair; setting' up l:xercises fair; men need more instrnction in sqnall drill. ::\lanual: fair; cadence not good; position of pieces not uniformly accurate; firings fair; stacking arms with bayonet good; no swivel stack. School of company: good; formation correct; left guide not thoroughly familiar with his duties; cover in column of fours good; marking time by pivot files fairly well understood; cover in obliqning in column not good; captain's commands frequently faulty. Skirmish; fair; developed by fianks only; intervals not well kept; firings marching by fiank not good; firing while marching to the rear men fire to rear not towards enemy. Guard: fair; marching details onto line not well done; non-commissioned officers of the guard pass outside of sergeant-major; passing old guard good; posting sentinels by one corporal very good; relieving .,entinels poorly executed; lllen not familial' with duties of sentinels. Books and papers: not complete. Some lllen were observed to be smoking cigarettes during inspection and when at "resL" Good company but in nced of more drill.
OmII'A~Y B. -Inspected Febmarv 2d. Theoretical instruction: instrnction of non-commissioned office;;' Sciwol of soldier: fair; sl,tting up exercises fair; squad drill not sulliciently comprehensive; "to the rear" not correctly execnted, cOIllmand march not gi ven at prop:r time. Manual: good; pieces thrown up for inspection very well; some green men in muks; stacking arms fair; no swivel stack. School of company: good; marching in line wavering; pivot files do not mark time in tlleir places well; platoon evolutions fair; distam:es in column of tiles not well kept; forllling fours from files poor; step uncertain; passing of obstaeles not wcll excl:nterl; men not very familiar with wheel on fixed p: vot. t:kirmish: fair; men carry pieces at " earry "on skirmish line j unneeessary lauglling du ring skirmish exercise; deploying forward not well executed, men not seemingly familiar; men need more instruction in rallying. Guard: fair; formation of details good; marching details on to line not well perfonned; very good first oergeant ; march past good; posting relief by one corporal very good; during gnard men at "rest" were too noisy; disposition on the part of two non-commissioned officers of guard to trifle; men not thoroughly familiar with duties of sentinels. Books and papers: incomplete. Good company, but in need of more drill.
FOURTH BATTALION.
All companies of tllis battalion l\rc stationed at Atlanta; all were ins:lected under Upton's Tactics.
OOMPANY B.-Inspected Odober 5th. Erllistment and discharge: no uniform pmetice; enlistments not promptly reported; men diseharged byaetion of comp:my. Theoretical instruction: none. Discipline: fair; military cOUl-tesies not strictly carried out; line of distinction between rank and men not observed; men steady and attent,ive in ranks. School of soldier: good; setting up exercises well executed by entire eOIllpany; squad drill by five

72
trlen fairly good; this instruction sh0uld be m0re general. .Manual: very good; few inaccuracies in position. School of company: very good; formation of company prompt, smart and soldierly; drill generally very good; wheels on movable pivot fair. Skirmish: not satisfactory; not l'iufficiently comprehensive; only deployed by flanks and assembled on center skirmisher. Guard: fair; formation of guard detail and marching onto line very well done by first sergeant; men not familiar with general instructions of sentinels. Arms: thirty pieces, model 1884, good condition; thirty pieces; buckhorn sights neglected; rusty in chambers. Equipments: good; some hrasses tarnished. Pieces kept in gun racks. Store-room neat and orderly; property well accounted for; owns armory; drill hall 5iJx108 feet; not well protected; entrance can easily be made throngh rear windows. \Vears S~te regulation uniform; appearance of company very good; provided with knapsacks, bnt no other field outfit; no table ware. Books and papers: fair; property book neatly and accurately kept by quartermaster sergeant; mtained enlistment papers kept. Very good company.
COMPANY D. Inspected September 30th. Enlistment and discharge: no uniform practice observed; enlistments not promptly reported; men released without proper authority. Theoretical instruction: none. Discipline: fair; military courtesies not observed; line of distinction between officers antI men not drawn; steadiness and attention in ranks at inspecti0n and dnring drill excellent. School of soldier: not satisfactory; instruction too limited. Man ual: very good, accurate and smart. School of company: very good; formation of company very prompt and soldierly; first sergeant omitted to fall out odd file on left; drill fairly comprehensive and good. Skirmish: no instruction. Guard: fair; some instruction in ceremony of guard mounting; no instruction in sentry dnty. Arms: poor con2ition; some new guns rusty in chambers; second-hand equipments neglected. Eq nipments: good. Pieces in gnn racks; eql1ipments on pegs; racks covered to keep out dust. Arrangement of quartermaster's store-room excellent; wears State regulation uniform; rents armory;' drill hall 611x170 feet. Not prclvided with field outfit; owns twenty-eight overcoats. Books and papers: fair; retained enlistment papers kept; preperty book kept by quarter'master sergeant neatly and accurately. This company was inspected on the last day of the month, which may account for the comparatively small attendance. Good company.
COMPAlolY C.-Inspected October il,l. Enlistment aud discharge: no reports of enlistment rendered except annually; men discharged and released without prop!"r authority. Discipline: fair; military courtesies not taught,; some want of promptness and some unsteadiness in ranks. Theoretical instruction: none. School of soldier: not satisfactory; evidence of want of instruction in setting up exercises and squad drill. Manual: fair. School of company: fair; formation of company incorrect; omitted to count fours; odd files on left not fallen out; alignments not good; drill exhibited want of systematic instruction. Skirmish: no instruction. Guard: no instruction. Arms: 80 pieces, calibre .4,5 good condition; 80 pieces, calibre .50 negleeted; dirty and badly rusted. Arms kept in racks; eql1ipments on pegs; arrangement wry good and orderly. Not provided with field outfit, no mess kit. Books and papers: fair; property book neatly kept.

73
Company not progre~sive; too small a percentage of men undergoing regular instruction.
COMPANY A.-Inspected September 29th. Enlistment and dischalge: no uniform practice observed. Theoretical instruction: none. Discipline: fair; principles of discipline not taught; too much inattention, laughing and gazing about in ranks; interest good. School of soldier: not satisfactory; not sufficient instruction. Manual: not satisfactory; partakes entirely too much of the Zouave character. School of con'lpany: fair; the drill in general effect and appearance is good, but inaccurate, showing lack of instruction; step entirely too fast; company should give more attention to the prescribed drill regulations. Skirmish: no instruction. Guard: no instruction. Arms: not satisfactory; several pieces rusty in chambers; screw heads dirty; twenty-three pieces have been nickel plated and rear sights removed, rendering them unserviceahle. Arms: cadet rifle should be replaced. Arms kept in racks. Equipments: good; serviceable. Store room not in good order. Not provided with field outfit; no mess kit. This company is in considerable measure Zouave in its character. Company not in satisfactory condition.
FIFTH REGDIENT-GEORGIA CAVALRY.
The several troops of this regiment were inspected under Upton's Tactics, with the exception of the mounted exercises of Troop K.
TROOP K.-Inspected December 3d, at ~1acon. Enlistment and discharge: well undl;rstood and fully carried out; enlistments are promptly reported and men are discharged only upon proper authority; statement of discharge furnished. Theoretical instruction: regular; well conducted. Discipline: excellent; military courtesies carefully observed; line of demarkation between rank and men understandingly drawn. School of soldier; excellent; instruction very thorough; very effiuient non-commissioned officers. Manual: very good; manual of pistol, sabre and carbine. School of company dismounted: very good; formation prom pt, smart and soldierly; drill comprehensive. School of company mounted: excellent; under new drill regulatil)ns ; horses held well in hand; principle3 of fixed and movable pivots finely illustrated; the best mounted drill witnessed during the inspection; evolutions at the trot and gallop very well executed; the eaS3 with which the troop changes from one formation to another was very noticeable. Skirmish: dismounted, very good; fairly comprehensive: mounted, under new drill regulations; very intelligentlyexecuted, all but four men being present; four absent unavoidably. Guard: excellent; ceremony of guard mounting, march past, relieving old guard, posting and relieving sentinels very thoroughly executed; men remarkably familiar witli the general instructions to sentinels, never having been in camp. Arms: excellent condition; model for regular troops; sabres, scabbards, carbines, pistols, saddles, bridles, bits, spurs and everyarticle of equipment kept in beautiful condition. Each man is responsible for the con(1ition of the property used by him. All stores are thoroughly cared and accounted for. The order and arrangement of store room is excellent; best in the State; each article has its place in plain view; the loss of any would be quickly discovered. Books and papers: excellent; full records
[H I


74
kept, neatly and IH'curately. Rents armory; drill hall 90 by 60 feet; armory ilnd store room neal. 'Veal's Rlale regulation uniform with no ornamental -additions; -when mounted wears a uniform pattern of black leather leggin. Provided with overcoats; not provided with field outfit; no mess kit. In"truction in this troop is most thorough and progressive, and conducted entirely from a practical standpoint, all men undergoing instruction. The captain is a very thorough officer. The discipline and efficiency of this troop was well illustrated on the occasion of my inspection of the mounted exercises, April 5th. Upon returning from drill each man removed the saddle and bridle from his horse, carried them, together with all arms and equipments used, into the armory, and carefully cleaned them before replacing them. The men take pride in doing what many others either regard as unnecessary, or neglect. The most efficient troop in the State, and, I believe, superior to any volunteer troop of c,avalry in any State.
TROOP A.-Inspected February 4th, at Savannah. Enlistment and discharge: it is the custom in the troop to enlist once a year; no uniform practice as to discharge; one man transferred to pay-roll by action of troop. Theoretical instruction: school for officers and non-commissioned officers; subject: drill regulations. Discipline: good; military courtesies not strictly observed; good interest and attention displayed Ly men in ranks. School of soldier: very good; setting up exercises very good; alignments good; squad drill comprehensive. .:Ylanual: very good; sabre exercise excellent; best in the regiment. carbine manual very good; firings very good. School of company dismounted; good; pieces thrown up for inspection very well; cover and distance in column of fours well kept; some spreading out and some loss of step in column of files; movable pivots not well observed in changing direction in eolumn of platoons; pivots mark time wheeling into line from column and the reverse and in executing fours in circle; company wheel on fixed pivot not accurate; platoons wheeled into line by wrong command; guides not announced on pivot flank, pivots did not halt. School of COmpany mounted: good; moving horse on fixed pivot not well done; horses not held well in hand; wheeling on movable pivots not well done. Rkirmish, dismounted: very good; deploying by flank very good; intervals well taken and preserved; rallying by com pa-ny well executed. Skirmish, mounted: very good ; led horses not linked close enough. _Arms: carbines, some rust in cham bel's; pistols in good condition; saddles in good serviceable condition, leathers soft and pliable; sabres clean. Saddles kept on long wooden horses in basement of armory; carbines in gun racks; pistols in boxes; sabres leaning against wall. \Vears State regulation uniform. Owns armory. Drill hall not adequate for dismounted work. Officers wear full dress belt with undress uniform. Not equipped with field outfit; owns ample table ware. Books and papers: excellent; full records kept; books very neatly and correctly kept. It was noticed that the regimental commissary sergeant was in the ranks with this troop. A club is maintained in conneetion with the military organization. A very good tr ,op. The interest displayed by the troop in practical work is very commendable.
TROOP F.-Inspected February 5th, at Brunswick. Enlistment and discharge: understood and correctly executed. Theoretical instruction: no uniform system. Discipline: good; military courtesies sought to be observed;


75
some difficulty in collecting fines; some gazing about in ranks at inspection. S~hool of soldier: very good; fairly comprehensive; setting up exercises very good; squad drill good; one sergeant and one corporal very good instructors. Manual: good; carbine manual not comprehensive; sabre exercisA very good; opening of files not correctly done. School of company, dismounted: very good; lieutenants should not salute inspecting officer; forming line to front from column of fours very well executed; step in quick time perfect; marking time on pivots well understood; platoon evolutions fairly well performed, wheels on movable pivots fair; file closers change unnecessarily from one flank to another when fours are wheeled about in column. Skirmish: no instruction. Guard: fair; formation of guard detail fair;. men fairly well acquainted with orders to sentinels. A,'ms: carbines rusty in chambers; pistols generally in good condition; sabres very good; scabbards nickel plated; saddles and bridles good serviceable condition; bits generally rusLy; cartridge boxes and belts fair; brasses tarnished. The proximity of the station to the sect coast makes it extremely difficult to keep arms free from rust. Good care
is exercised and order displayed in keeping and accounting for property, pieces in gun racks; pistols, sabres, saddles and bridles on pegs. Rents armory; drill hall not adequate for company movements. Books and papers: incomplete. Not equipped for field service; ample table ware. A very good troop.
The men of the following troops, B, E and G, are widely scattered and cannot assemble at regular intervals. The troops' are composed of excellent material, well-meaning and deserving. Each troop is in need of more thorough instruction in the school of the soldier, squad drill and dismounted work. None have received instruction in skirmish exercises, mounted 'or dismounted. The men are fine horsemen; their self-assurance on the horse accounts, perhaps, for their failure to hold the animal well in hand, which is necessary for even and regular evolutions mounted. The remark is not intended to convey the impression that the horse should be tightly held; on the contrary, the reins should be light; constant pressure on the bit would make a horse hard-mouthed; but unless a gentle grasp is held men will be slow to gather their horses, and will not move them together.
TROOP B.-Inspected January 20th, at McIntosh, Liberty county. Enlistlllent and discharge: enlistments not promptly reported; no uniform practice as to discharge. Discipline: fair; military courtesies not strictly observed; very good interest; men gave good attention during drills. Theoretical instruction: none had. The schools of the soldier and company dismounted showed want of drill. School of company mounted: very good; creditable; captain has good command over his troop; drill was fairly comprehensive and movements executed with considerable ease at walk, trot and gallop. The sabre exercise mounted was well executed. {iuard: more instruction needed; some men fairly well acquainted with the general instructions of sentinels. The troop has no armory; arms, etc., are kept in the hands of the men. .For drill purposes when assembled the troop owns a ten acre lot within one mile of McIntosh. During the last twelve months the troop bas been together on six occasions. Not equipped with field outfit; ample table ware and cooking

76
utensils. But seven carbines are in the hands of the organization; 23 more should be supplied. Has ordered the t-itate regulation trousers, and by changing the present silver button and white chevron on th~ blouse will have uniform undress. Good troop.
TROOP E.-Inspected JanUlJrY 19th, at Jones' Creek, Liberty county. En listment and discharge: no uniform practice observed. Theoretical instruction: none. Discipline: fair; military courtesies not observed; men obedi" ent, steady and attentive in ranks; interest good. ~chool of company mounted: fair, what was, given; but a few movements at a walk were exhibited; much lack of drill. Troop has assembled but four times in last twelve months. Ko instruction in skirmish or guard duty exhibited. Has no armory; not provided with field outfit; no mess kit. The majority of the meu of this troop live from eighteen to twenty miles from the rendezvous. ""Vears State regulation uniform. No books and papers. Arms, etc., kept in the hands of men;, in gOOQ, serviceable condition. Fair troop.
TRooP G.-Inspected February 6th at Darien, IVIcIntosh county. Enlistment and discharge: understood; dates of discharge not noted. Theoretical instruction: none. Discipline: fair; men rather unsteady in ranks. No instruction in squad drill, school of soldier or other dismounted work exhibited.
The troop presented but a few movements mounted. The principles of the fixed and movable pivots not well understood or illustrated. The troop has assembled but three times since last annnal encampment. Sixty-six per centulll of the men reside at a distance from the station. Books and papers: nont': captain unable to state exact amount of property for which he is accountablt'. Arms,: saddles and bridles serviceable; bits rusty; carbines rusty in chambers; pistols in good serviceable condition; one pistol found loaded at inspection ; sabres and scabbards clean; boxes not well cleaned up for inspection. Troop has no armor\"i arms kept iu hands of men; surplus property kept ill court house at Darien. Not provided with field outfit; ,ample table ware and cooking utensils. TroDp uot in satisfactory condition. It may be noted that several recruits were present in ranks at drill.
The following organizations were not inspected by myself. Dates had been assigned for each, but telegraphic orders from the Adjutant and InspectorGeneral's. office called me tf; the capitol and their inspection was necessarily abandoned. Rather than disappoint these troops, the regimental commander,
Col. ""V. W. Gordon, visited them and witnessed their work; in addition he
collected certain data which, with his approval, I em.brace in this report. TROOP D.-Visited February 12th, at Sylvania. Arms and equipments issued
to members and kept in order by them. All presented at i,nspection were in excellent condition, clean and bright. Cap, copt and pants regula'ion pattern; no overcoats, or blankets.
Since May, 18~n, there have been five cl rills , three of them lasting two days. each. 'Whenever the troop assembles it is drilled monnted, and sometimes in addition it is drilled dismounted. Captain drilled troop mounted and dismounted. All movements in school of the company mounted were executed at a walk and at a trot and many at a gallop and well done. J\Iounted skirmish drill deserved special commendation. Xeither of the lieutenants present

77
had ever been in command, nor had any of the non-commissioned officers; nor were they very profieient in their respective positions. Nevertheless, the appearance and mounted movements of this troop surpassed all other troops in the regiment. This was partly due to the perfect uniformity which prevailed. Every man in complete regulation uniform with new gauntlets of same color and shape, leggins, spurs, saddles, bridles; cloth alike and uni[orms~ arms and eq11ipments all in a tip-top condition. Discipline good while mounted; po'or when dismounted, men apparently feeling less interested and hence paying less attention. Troop bas camp and cooking utensils. Every one in the troop is accustomed to care of horse:! and most of the m could cook camp fare. No armory. Most of the members ride ten and fifteen miles in coming to meetings; a few ride twenty miles.
TROOP C. - Inspected February 18th, at Springfield. Arms and equipments issued to men and kept in order by them. Of those present at inspection aU were serviceable hut the pistols and belt buckles and bits and metal attachInents generally needed brightening and the leathers softening. Caps regulation shape and color; coat regulation; officers have infantry shoulder straps and chevrons; pants regulation color; light buff stripe. No boots, leggins, overcoats or blankets. Since May, IH91, there have been three mounted drills and one dismounted. Dismounted drills include sabre exercise. About half of those present at inspection went throngh sabre drill fairly well. No setting up exercises. Very little drilling in facings or wheelin!{s on foot. Captain drilled troop mounted at walk, trot and gallop. The 1st Lieutenant also drilled it. The other lieutenants had never been in command; nor had any of the non-commissioned officers. Only two meJ.Ilbers of the troop reside in Springfield. The others live from five to fifteen miles to the north and east, some over twenty miles; hence the difficulty of assembling for drills. Troop owns one acre of ground in Springfield and a five acre drill ground in its suburbs. On the one acre is a two story wooden building for meetings and squad drills and manual of arms.
TROOP I.-Inspected February 10th, at Jesup. Carbines, slings and sockets are iss ned to .enlisted men and kept in order by them. Of those presented at inspection three showed a little rust; eighteen clean and one extra clean and bright, all serviceable. Saddles and bridles are issued to men and kept by them. Of those presented at inspection all were still serviceable; but the bits and metal attachments of both bridles and saddles needed brightening and the leathers softening. No boots, leggins, overcoats or blankets. Drills: once each month dismounted and with carbine. At the monthly drills the company is usually drilled in mounted movements. Occasionally sabre exercise is added to the dismQunted exercises. Captain drilled company mounted and dismounted breaking from line to column and forming line from column; also as dismounted . skirmishers. None of the lieutenants had ever been in command. First sergeant, graduate of military school, excellent officer; second sergeant well up in his duties; remaining non-commissioned officers not yet instrncted. Discipline: excellent; no talking or laughing; everyone attentive and anxious to learn. All of th'e memhers of this company are accustomed to taking care

78
of horses and rilOst of them can cook camp fare. Company has camp and cooking utensils. About half of the company reside in and around Jesup; the other half in various parts of the county and ride ten to twenty miles in coming to meetings.
FIRST BATTALION-GEORGIA CAVA [,RY.
TROOP A.-Inspected March 18th, at Augusta. Enlistment and discharge: practice irregular; fmlistments not promptly reported; men discharged and dropped without proper authority; records of enlistment deficient. 'l'heoretical instruction: not had. Discipline: fair; military courtesies not observed line between rank and men not taught; good attention during drill; some gazing about; one man spitting in ranks. School of soldier dismounted; not practiced. Sabre manual: good. School of company mounted; fair; shnwed want of drill.; lacked the precision in a well instructed command; forming column of fours marching flanks of sets do not move out together; pivots do not turn horses on fore-feet; in changing direction marching flanks do not increase gait; movable pivots not well observed; in forming colu mn of files men string out too much. No instruction in skirmish and guard. 'Arms: some carbines rusty in chambers; saddles and bridles generally in good condition; some straps stiff and hard; bits rusty; sabres in good order; property n8t well cared for; not well accounted for; captain unabb to state exact amount of property for which he was accountable. Rents armory; drill hall forty by eighty feet. Books and papers: no records. Fair troop, but in need of more thorough instruction,
TI,loOP B.-Inspected September 29th at Atlanta. Enlistment and discharge: not uniform in practice. Theoretieal instruction: not regular. Disciplinfl: fair; milltary. courtesies not observed; line of distinction between rank and men not drawn; men not prompt; consiclerable unsteadiness and some inattention in ranks. School of soldier dismounted: no instruction. Troop not familiar with sabre manual; not provided with carbines. School of company dismounted; unsatisfactory; not enough attention given to subject. School of company mounted: good; formation of company too slow; men slow getting into places; too much talking in ranks; names of officers called at roll call; troop presented good general drill; mounting and dismounting in line not evenly executed; not prompt or smart. Arms: gOOt, <:vhclition. Equipments: good. 1'roperty in hands of men; should bEi k ~pt at armory. Troop uses rooms in basement of capitol building as mTIory. Property not well accounted for; not regularly verified. No instruction has been given in skirmish exercises or guard duty Not provided with field outfit; ample table ware and cooking ul e nsils. Books and papers: not exhibited. Fair troop, but instruction entirr .y too limited; only mounted company drill indulged in. Instruction not regular.
TROOP C.-Inspected December 1st, at LaGrange. Enlistment and diEcharge: very irregular; nn retained copy of enlistment papers; no record kept showing who are members of organization ; no uniform practice regarcling discharge. Theoretical instruction; no regular system. Discipline; fair; military courtesies not observed; line of distinction between officers and men not drawn; attention of men during driil and inspection not satisfactory;

7IJ
troop composed of well-intentioned men; pride with them would go a great way in matters of discipline. School of soldier:. not satisfactory; setting up exercises not generally taught; squad drill not comprehensive. Manual: of carbine not good; of sabre good. School of company mounted: fair; formation slow; mounted drill lacks freedom of action and mobility; not comprehensive: in changing direction the pivots are fixed; fours do not keep closed up to proper distances; horses not held well in hand. School of company dismounted: fair; formation slow; much want of drill. Practical instruction irregular since July last. Arms and equipmeuts: carbines not well cared for; sabres generally clean; saddles and bridles not well cared for; bits very rusty; finger marks (rust) on arms; gloves not worn when handling pieces. Arrangement of store room not orderly; all arms and equipments belonging to an individual man hanging on sam~ peg. Rents armory; drill hall 40 by 60 feet; property not well cared for; not well protected. Carbines in use the Marlin safety; repeating; 13 shots; 44 calibre; should be supplied with uniform calibre. "Vear uniform leather leggius when mounted. Carbine slings russet leather; should be supplied with regulation sling. Equipped with horse blankets, saddle cloths. Eacb man has rubber coat. Unprovided with field outfit. Each man owns his mount. No mess kit. Books and papers: none. Fair troop, but in need of more regular drill and instruction.
AHTILlliRY.
The two batteries of field artiliery organized are unattached. Both inspected under old system of artillery tactics.
ATLAxTA ARTILLERy.-Inspected September 25th, at Atlanta. Enlistment and discbarge: understood. Tbeoretical instruction: none. Discipline: fair; military courtesips not observed; line of distinction between rank and men not drawn when on duty; considerable unsteadiness in ranks at inspectiOl, ; interest displayed keen and maintained throughout. School of soldier: several files were taken at random from the ranks and drilled in the setting up eKercises by a non-commissioned officer; the men were uninstructed; the non-commissioned officer explained the drill very well; a squad drill was given, but it exhibited an entire want of instruction; the m<;n did not seem to understand the commands. School of battery dismountel: not taught; the formation and calling of rolls was very slow; the chiefs of section did not" fall in" properly or promptly, not seemingly familiar with their positions or duties; the opening and closing ranks slow and uncertain. The battery much in need of instruction in this school. Standing gun drill: very well executed by a detachment of non commissioned officers; very poorly by a detachment selected at random by inspector. The mechanical maneuvers were very well performed by a selected detachment. Men not familiar with nomenclature of piece, limber and caisson, nor with that of the harness. Harness drill: no instruction; men not taught to harness their horses; horses are hitched by hired men. Guard: battery not instructed in guard duty or guard mounting of a battery (stable guard) ; has not been in camp aud is not familiar with the duties of sentinels. Pieces, carriages, limbers and caissons in very good condition; neatly and properly painted. Two pole pads missing; front sights for 3-inch rifles wanted. Harness and saddles in good serviceable condition;

80
brasses on harness and bits dirty; some bits rusty; trace chains rusty. Equip. ments and implements in good condition. Pieces and carriages stored in basement of capitol; battery has meeting room in basement; harness kept in order in store room. Books and papers: order book; property book; neatly kept. Record of drills complete and neat. Battery in need of more comprehensive artillery instruction.
CHATHAM ARTILLERY.- Inspected January] 8th, at Savannah. Enlistment and discharge: no uniform system. Theoretical in~truction: none. Discipline: fair; military courtesies not observed; line (If distinction between rank and men not taught; several men unsteady and some talking in ranks; attention in ranks not good; some men smoking cigarettes during drill about piece. School of soldier: unsatisfactory; no setting up exercises; a few movements in squad drill not well executed; instruction not comprehemive or thorough. School of battery dismounted: battery not well instructed; instruction incomplete and not thorough. Standing gun drill: fair; men not generally instructed: no mechanical maneuvers. Guard: no instruction communicated; stable and park guard duty not taught. Books and paperR: incomplete; re port of drills kept; no enlistment papers exhibited; no record showing dates of discharges. Officers wear full dress belt with undress uniform. Pieces, 3-inch rifles, and carriages' kept in barrack yard; harness in store room. Property in good order; some leathers hard; trace 'chains and bits need brightening. Recruits taught manual of piece; no instruction in school of soldier. Enlistments made but once a year,an(l if man joins subsequent to general date he is not enlisted until following year. Battery not progressive; in need of more comprehensive and thorough artillery instruction.
The following remaining organizations were not visited or inspectel for want of necessary transportation: Infantry, Georgia Volunteers-Companies D, E, H, K, L, M, 2d Regiment; Company K, 3d Regiment; Companies C and D, 4th Regiment; DuBignon Volunteers and Constitutional Guards. Georgia Cavalry-Troop H, 5th Regiment and Troop D, 1st Battalion.
GEORGIA VOLUNTEERS-COLORED.
All colored troops were inspected under Upton's Tactics. None have carried on instruction in skirmish exercise or guard duty. In no command are records kept. 'fhe matter of enlistment and discharge is not understood by these troops; enlistments "are not reported regularly or in full in some cases; men come and go at will. The principles of discipline are not taught or understood. The armories used are without exception too limited for.company evolutions. With very few exceptions the arms are kept iil the hands of the men. As a very general rule the property is not well cared for or accounted for. These troops are unable finaneially to provide suitable means for storing or caring for property. Several officers are unable to read or write. In no command are the arms serviceable, being old and useless for praetical purposes. The equipments are worn and out of date. The uniforms vary as do the commands; in some organizations the facings of the u'niforms vary in color and pattern. Most of the eompanies use only a full dress uniform; a few have a good serviceable field dress. No command is provided with a field outfit or mess kit; none with blankets.

81
FIRST BATTALION.
All companies of this battaHon are stationed in Savannah. The lieutenantcolonel is a very good officer, ana takes a good interest in his command.
CO)IP.-DIY C.-Inspected February 2!. School of soldier: fair; setting up exercises good; most of the features of squad drill atte'npted, but instruction not thorough. 'Manual: fair; best mmual in this battalion. School of company: fair; principles not well understood. Arms: generally rusty in chambel's; piece of Private Frank. White in very good condition. Equipments: in good order; brasses tarnished. Considerable unsteadiness in ranks.
CO:VIPAXY A.--Inspected January 30th. School of soluier: fair; setting up exereises fairly well executed; some few movements in squau drill presented. ,:Hanual: fair; cadence slow and lacking in smartness; details of manual inaccurate. School of CJmpany: fair; principles not well understood. Arms: generally rusty in chambers; boxes worn and brasses tarnished.
CmIP.-I.:-IY E.-Inspected February 26th. S(;hool of soldier : fair; no setting up exercises; squau drill limited. }Ianual: very poor; much irregularity in cadence and positions. School of company: fair; formation slow and uncertain; men uo not answer their names properly; first, sergeant commands: "count four, commence on the right; " files do not dress to right when ranks are opened; company drill unevenly executed; principles of marking time on pivots and movable pivots not understood. Arms: pieces generally clean; rust in two pieces; some screw heads dirty. Equipments: fair; scratched and worn. Much unsteadiness and gazing about in ranks.
CmIP,~XY D.-Inspected February 25th. bchool of soldier: poor; squad drill poorly executed. Manual: poor; irregular. School of company: poor; marching in line wavering; chiefs of platoons not familiar with duties; cover and distance in column poor; guiues do not march straight to the front; marking time on pivots and movable pivots not understood. Arms: pieces generally clean; rust in chambers of very few. EC[uipments: worn; brasses tarnished. Considerable unsteadiness and gazing about in ranks.
CO)IPA:-IY B.-Inspected February 23d. School of soldier: poor; not much attention seemingly given to this school. 'Manual: poor; irregular; cadence ill commands poor. School of company: poor; formation irregular; mark time before executing march; principles of marking time on pivots and movable pivots not understdod. Arms: generally very good; free from rust; some screw heads dirty. Equipments: somewhat worn; some men not with belts. Much unsteadiness in ranks.
CO:VIPANY F.-[nspeded February 27th. School of soldier: poor; no setting up exercises; squad drill poor. Manual: poor; position irregular. School of ,company: poor; principles not understood. Arms: generally rusty. Equipments: worn. M Llch unsteadiness in ranks.
SECOXD BA'[ TALION.
All companies of this battalion, save Company E, are stationed in Atlanta. The books at battalion headquarters are very necltly and correctly kept by the ca<1jutant, who is a very good officer.
CO:VIPANY B.-Inspected October 7th. School of soldier: taught, but instruction notaccnrate or thorough; setting up exercises not well executed.

82
Manual: ragged; irregular. School of company: poor; for mation slow and irregalar; company not sized; sergeants in ranks; lack of instruction in marking time on pivots; wheels on fixed and movable pivots not well understood. Arms: rusty in chambers; neglected. Equipments: poor condition. Much unsteadiness and inattention in ranks.
CO)[PAXY C.-Inspected October 6th. School of soldier: poor; no setting up exerci~es; squad drill poor. Manual: poor. School of company: poor; formation slow and inaccurate; company not sized; first sergeant did not call roll properly; general principles of drill not understood; prescribed commands not always used; captain unmilitary; constantly calling out to men in ranks. Arms: neglected; one stock broken. Equipments: neglected. Very much unsteadiness and inattention in ranks.
CO)IPA;IlY E.-Inspected March 31st, at Columbus. School of soldier: fair; three squads under non-commissioned officers executed drill fairly well. Manual: poor; irregular. School of company: poor; principles of company drill not understood. Arms: rusty in chambers; neglected. Equipments: not cared for. Much inattention and unsteadiness in ranks.
CmIPAXY D.-Inspected September 2ith. School o~ soldier: very poor; almost entirely neglected. Manual: ragged; irregular. School of company: very poor; instruction very milch neglected. Arms: very bad condition; no order observed in caring for arms; arms thrown about the floor. Equipments: bad condition. Inattention, unsteadiness, talking, laughing in ranks.
CmIPANY A.-'-Inspeeted October 2d. School of soldier almost totally neglected. Manual: very poor. School of company: very poor; principles not understood. Arms: rusty in chambers. Equipments: worn and badly scratched. Men not seemingly obedient judging from remarks of captain; very unsteady and inattentive in ranks; not much interest displayed.
THIRD BATTALION.
All companies of this battalion are stationed in Augusta. The commanding officer is a very good officer.
CmIPAXY A.-Inspected November lIth. School of soldier: fair; setting up exercises not taught; -facings, salutes, changing of cadence of step from. quick to common time and reverse fairly well done; step in quick time good; double time poor. Manual: generally good; several inaccuracies in details; firings fairly good; no stacking of arms. School of company: good; formation pcompt and fairly accurate; roll call good; alignments good in principle; formations into line from column fairly well done; movable pivot not well understood; platoon movements were very well executed; ehiefs of platoons very quick and smart; very good officers. Good company ; best among thecolored troops.
CO)IPANY B.-Inspectel November 5th. School of soldier: instruction imperfect and very incomplete. Manual; good; best manual among the colored troops; firings very well done. School of company: fair; formation very slow; first sergeant not familiar wIth his duties; sergeants in ranks; wheels on fixed pivots poorly executed; marking time by pivot files not good; on right and front into line fairly well done; formation of column of twos and files and reforming fours fairly well executed. Arms: rusty in cham bel'S and

83
otherwise dirty; neglected; this company has no arms from the State; has purchased its arms and equip merits. Equipments: wear white belts which are very much soiled. Fairly good company; a very smart captain.
COMPANY E.-Inspected November 9th. School of soldier: fair. Manual: fair; stacking of ~rms poorly done; firing fairly well done. School of company: fair; formation and roll call fairly good; principles not well understood; obliquE'S in column fair; wheel" poorly executed; poorly instructed as to marking .time on pivots. A~ms: rusty in chambers; extE'rior rusty; neglected. Equipments: white belts; soiled and badly worn. Fairly good captain; very smart first sergeant.
CO~IPANY C.-Inspected November 7th. School of soldier: very little instruction. Manual: very inaccurate; firings fair; no stacking of arms. School of company: very poor. Arms: pieces generally bright and clean outside; apparently cared for; some dirt in chambers; Equipments: worn and scratched. Men prompt and fairly attentive. Company in need of instruction.
CmU'ANY D.-Inspected November lOth. School of soldier: poor. Manual: poor. School of company: poor; very limited. Arms: rusty in chambers; generally neglected. Equipments: soiled and scratched. Company poorly instructed.
UNATTACHED CO)IPAKIES-IXFANTRY.
UNION LINCOLN GUARDS.-Illspected October 29th, at Macon. School <;>f soldier: very little instruction. Manual: fair. School of company: fair; company fairly well drilled. Arms: rusty in chambers. Equipments: boxes and belts, scratched, soiled. Fair company.
BIBB COmiTY BLUEs.-Inspected October 26th, at Macon. School of soldier: very little instruction. Manual: poor. School of company: drill showed great want of instruction. Arms: rusty in cham bel'S. Equipments: scratched and worn.
COLQUITT GUARDs.-Tnspected March 5th, at Albany. School of soldier: very little instruction. Manual: very irregular. School of company: fair; marching in line fair; principles not well understood. Arms: unserviceable; muzzle loaders rusty. Equipments: old style; unserviecable; not cared for.
R01\1E STAR GlJARDs.-Inspected October 12th, at Rome. School of soldier: very much neglected. Manual: very ragged. Rchool of company: very poor; not in accordance with the tactics; commands not correct; "from the right, count fours;" "from the right, count twos;" but a 'few company movements are attempted. Arms: neglected. Equipments: neglected.
SAVANNAH HussARs.-Inspected January 22d, at Savannah. School of soldier: fair; few features exhibited. Sabre exercises: very good. Sabre only arm worn. No school of company mounted. School of company di~mounted: fair; few movements exhibited. Captain a very good instructor. Sabres: good order.
GEORGIA ARTILLERy.-Inspected January 21st, at Savannah. School of soldier: very little instruction. School of company: fair; some principles fairly well understood. Standing gun drill: fair by selected detachment. This organization bas no State property, but at its own expense has provided two six-pounder brass pieces and carriages and limbers; kept in good order; sabres in very good condition. A good captain; a deserving organization.

84

STATEMENT

Showing actual strength of organizations, number of o.fJicers and men attending iT!spection, and average attendance at drills thrmtghout the year:
GEORGIA VOLUNTEERS.

FIRST REGDIEi'\1'.

Present !peArvceernatgageeII

I at of attend-
Strength.I Inspec- ance at
tion. ~lrills dur-

Remarks.

mg year.,
-----'-----,------

. ---1----------- ~oQ,)
____e.. __ <JompanYjE

=:
~0)

Iw~ :::

I . E:::..J

~0)

,0 __ 47-/-------- --.- ----

A 3 46 3 30

B 3 53 3 37 50

.

C D

331

41 46

331

27 26

68 61

E

3 56 3 41 70 winter.ln men reported unavoidably absent.

88 spring.

SECOND REGIME:-lT.

A 2 49 2 31 61

B
C F

I~~ 4 94
4 71 4 62

4 56 1 4 44 4 21 33

G 4 86 3 29 36

I

4 45 :3 26 IMl

1 officer, 12 men reported unavo y absent.

THIRD REGIMEl"T.

A B C

~I 4 42 4' 26 fi2

1 58

23 43

4 42

21 43

D
E
F

~I 4 35

17 38

3 26

22 66

3 43 3 33 46

10 men reported unavoidably absent

G H
I

I:,4 43 39 35

41 21 21 17 ]. 24

46

50 winter. ] officer unavoidably absent.

60 spring.

65

1 officer unavoidably absent.

FOURTH REGDIENT.

A

4 33 4 1;~ not stated.

B E

~I 1 21
4 49

17 60 32 57

8 men reported unavoidably absent, (i men rep0rted unavoidably absent

F 3 36 3: 27 5R

9 men reported unavoidably absent,

G H I K

~I

34 41

31 32

31 40

2' 27

223!11

20
27 24

52 42 55 54

7 men reported unavoidablr, absent 1 officer reported ullavoidab y absent
7 men reported unavoidably absent,

8.5

FIRS1' BATTALION.

A B

4' 38 31 49

4 2

27 23

.1'6476

1 officer,4 men rept'd unav'd'bly abs't

C

4 39 2 20 142 winter. 1 officer, 3 men rept'd unav'd'bly abs't

174 fall.

D

4 52 4 25 39 winter. 10 men reported unavoidably absent.

160 spring.

E

4 49

4 57 .0)'~)

6 men reported unavoidably absent.

THIRD BATTALION.

I~\ ~\ A
B

41

29

39

35 I6G03

C

5.5 \ 31 41

\ 1 officer repoIted unavoidably absent.

FOURTH BATTALION.

A B
C D

[23~\'1

.55 .56 48 G4

I[~~II

2:3
83
1G
,).~
_oJ

[47 1.54 [88 .54

11 officer absent sick.

FIFTH REGIMENT-GEORGIA CAVALRY.

A

52 3 27 .57

I

B

831 :{l "oJ 23 74

C

33 4 ~2 not stated. I

D
E F
G I K

II 36 43 3.5

31 41 4

:31 46 40

0 .)
3
I:3

22 2G 24 17 22
:{O

not stated'

l not stated' J
60

!nnoott ssttaatteedd',l

G7

8 men reported unavoidably absent.

FIRST BATTALION-GEORGIA CAVALRY.

~ II :4, ~~ \ ~\ ~~ !~~t stated. I 10 men reported unavoidably absent.

C

1 .54 3 2G !46

I

AHTILLERY.

3[ Chatharn]51 6.5 I 40 17;')
Atlanta i.51 39 3 :{O .5:1

11 officer unaVO~dablYabsent.

~ battery surgeon is attached to each battery; neither present.

GEORGIA VOLUNTEERS-COLORED. FIFST BATTALION.

A B

I 1-') .)
.)

4G

:n .)
ol

3 2!l :40
'2 21 o~

C D

\0,) 4 7:{
28 .)
oJ

8 2

:-~~
27

I~~

E F

3 36 4\ 42

3 1

22
In

:38 140

-l officer absent sick.

86

SECOND BATTALION.

.. A'" B

., 4-a,i

30 32

C 4 42

D '4! 33

E 2*

~~II

11 21 31 18 18

'45
1346 129 Inot stated.,

*Not known; enlisted strength cannot be stated.

THIRD BATTALION

A B

4

')~
vi

4~ 41

ill 26 43
4 23 46

1

C D

41 42 41 37

1
14[ 2170

39 48

I

E

41 28 4 22 65

i

UNATTACHED CO;\IPANIES-IXFANTRY.

a

31

22

4 41 b

1 41 5600 1

8214

123
1

c

2 46 1 22 138

d 1 4 44 41 28 41

a, Union Lincoln Guards. b, Bibb County Blues. c, ColqUitt Guards. d, Rome Star Guards.

CAVALRY.

Hussars I 4 <;' I 31 26 [not stated. I
1 *Not kno\\u; enlisted strength cannot be stated.

Georgia 121 47 I 11 30 )38

ARTILLERY.

GENERAL REMARKS.
To close this report without some comment as to the character of the troops, the facilities afforded them for practical work and instruction, and the encouragement held out as a bonus for their unceasing sacrifices, would be to leave false impressions. The general tenor of this report is, on the whole, rather unfavorable; in some instances perhaps seemingly severe.
Subsequent remarks will throw light on this matter. Criticism, in the sense in which the word is usually accepted, has been scrupulously avoided. Candid criticism, however, has been indulged in without reserve, where, with a view to their amendment, faults and irregularities, misunderstandings and misconceptions have been discovered. And I have permitted commendation to enter into my remarks where I have felt that the work performed justified special mention, where practical aims and ambitions have been found so pronounced a3 to warrant favorable comment; and whereever bestowed it has been gi ven for work done, for aims exhibited. Personalities have been cast aside. The best encomium which an officer can aspire to is a just recognition of his work. He who judges otherwise is not always safe in his judgment.

87
While a plan of inspection has been followed which in the abstract might be regarded as t,)O rigid, perhaps too comprehensive for volunteer troops, such pre-arranged scheme must not be accepted as exacting. The wide school of the soldier embraces more than what commands generally throughout the State have sought to exemplify in their drills and method3 of instruction. The fact that comparatively little progress has been made beyond the school of the c,)mpany will account for the seeming deficiency noted in the report. A plan of general scope was made appropriate and even necessary by reason of two considerations: (1) that all might be judged alike and by the same standard; and this standard was not fixed arbitrarily by myself, rather in greater measure by the troops themselves. Some had broken through the narrow bounds which tradition has seemingly established as the ultimate ends of volunteers. They had shown capability in other fields than the mere company movements, and capacity and willingness for the more useful attainments of soldiers. They had discovered more in military training than exact alignment in wheels, precision of step and the microscopic details of the manual of arms. Such troops determined the standard, and it is only just to say that what one body of men, with no wider range of opportunities and advantages, do accomplish, others may attain by an exhibition of the same energy and pluck. (2) In order to present to the troops a more progressive training than had been their wont to pursue, instruction in practical schools was held up for thonght and practice. The plan followed was intended chiefly as a suggestion; the practical to the absolute exclusion of the ornamental side of the question was given prominence. I have recognized merit, at the saIJ;l.e ti me pointed out deficiences. Such defects, however, have been rendered noticeable mainly by being gauged by home-made standards.
In my remarks relative to the instruction carried on, I have not brought into consideration what has been or would be done in camp. I dealt with present and possible practices at the several stations. Every matter called for during the inspection and upon which comments have been made, can be given attention in the drill hall or barrack yard. Many companies have been content with fair proficiency in the school of the company, and had my report been based upon the corr.paratively little which a large percentage of the commands engage in, instead of the great deal of work performed by a small number, it would have showed up the forces as a whole in much better light. The great majority of the organizations are proficient in minor features. That they have not advanced in cadence with the more progressive must not be set down wholly to their accountability. It cannot be said that they have hid their talents in the ground. The) trouble lies not so much in the troops as in the system under which they exist and are maintained. The material making up the Georgia Volunteers cannot be excelled. The interest shown throughout the force in military is well known; that exhibited in some sections, Savannah in particular, is a precedent in itself. With such men and with such military spirit nothing seems unattainable. But a flower will wither, fade and die unless given nourishment and care; so military inspiration and enthusiasm must lose their edge and keenness and grow dull unless whetted by stimulus and hope of recognition. The material is not only excellent but most willing; there is shown on almost every side an anxiety to learn; the interest is evi-

88
denced by what the troops themselves do and Lave done. With the very great majority, so far as the prosecution of practical instruction is concerned, what is needed is a knowledge of the way, an intimation as to what should or should not be done. In this light I endeavored during the inspection to indicate courses of work directly, or by asking for information on various subjects suggest them for practice and teaching. In this report errors and defects are recorded as showing that they do exist and wbere, and correction is invited; good work and proper methods are likewise recognized as an example for continued practice and m0re general observance. I feel assured that by tbe time' tbe next inspection is made mark"d improvement will be observed, and tbat tbe report to be rendered of the same will show the troops to much better advantage. The matter rests in their hands.
But no body of men, however desirous of progress, however interested, can. be expected to attain great efficiency in any undertaking unless encouraged. Service in the Volunteers is purely volnntary; it has even a greater significance-that no regular compensation is guaranteed. It must also be borne ill< mind tbat the service of the militiaman is not his calling, and although many men keep up their membership for years and continue their devotion, their connection with the service is but incidental. Still while service is only casual, time is spent and means expended. In many eases the time given to military work is valuable time lost, and the means expended considerable. 'When a man enlists he does so with no hope of remuneration; but with a knowledge' that his personal comfort and com'enience may at times be compromised, and, that he may be called upon for service by the State,-a duty involving fatigue and perhaps hardship. His motive in making the personal sacrifices is only his interest and military spirit. He offer.; his services, which the State by accepting declares as of value. And quoting a recent military writer, "if the' guardsman is to he obtained without pay, and to give his evenings and h'is holidays to military work, the service must be made attractive to him by the' f'tate and Federal governments. To keep this enthusiasm ali,"e the State and the nation must do their part."
It may be asked then what these Governments have done. The NationalGovernment makes an annual appropriation of $400,000 for the maintenance of the militia, 'ivhich is apportioned among the several States on the basis of congregational representation. The f'tate of Georgia receives as her share the sum of $11,057.16, which amount is placed to her credit and is available not in cash, but in arms, ordnance stores, qu'artel'master's stores and camp equipage. "'hile these are distributed among the troops they remain the property of the l.7nited f'tates; and it is most reasonable t'1 suppose that su.ch property should receive care and protection. Here enters a duty on the part of the State, that of making provision for storing it and for keeping it in ser' viceable condition. The question whether the Government makes.ample or adequate appropriations is not one for consideration; the fact that mOlley if'! made available for the support of the militia presupposes that the f'tates will do their share.
This State during the last three years has expended or approIJriated $5ii,100 for encampments, and $2,100 for the expenses of the office of the Adjutant and Inspector-General; the above is the only en('ouragelllent ever given to the

89

Volunteers. It is needless to ask whether it is sufficient. These appropria-

tions have been made for encampments; nothing has been contributed for

armories for the safe keeping of the Government property.

Although the State by Act of the General Assembly has prescribed a service

uniform no provision has been made for supplying it to the men in service.

Further, for target practice, without which the troops can never become effi-

cient in their distinctive character as guardsmen and for the purposes for

which they are enlisted, no aid is extended. An encampment then, is the one

instance of the State's generosity; it is fully appreciated by the troops who

have shown themselves worthy of even that small recognition by hard en-

deavor to become practical soldiers. But the encampment is only of a week's

duration and the lessons there learned, while useful and practical, are few,

and what is more, cannot be carried on with that thoroughness necessary for

assured profiCiency. A knowledge of camp life and the field duties of a

soldier cannot be taught. in seven days, but in this limited time good seed is

planted which continued annual experiences will ripen into desirable fruit.

The instruction of the troops in other features of the profession may be best

conducted when under canvas, but it may also be prosecuted at their several

stations and should receive corresponding encouragement.

To accomplish this the troops must be made to feel that the State has an eye

to their interests and a heart in their work. The best exponent of that con.

cern in their welfare will be more liberal aid and aid in more than one chan-

nel. I am aware that the Constitution of the State constructively inhibits

appropriations for the support of the troops, save to suppress insurrection, re-

pel invasions and defend the State in time of war, but it expressly lays down

in Article X, section 1, that the General Assembly shall have authority to arm

and equip the Volunteers. In this connection and as more clearly presenting

the question, I take the liberty of embracing in these pages certain matters

which lllay at first thought be considered foreign to the purview of the report

but which have, in truth, a direct significance as regards its spirit and mo-

tives; and with this consideration I feel warranted in quoting from a report of

the Advisory Board of 1889:

" What has the State done to carry into effect the Constitution of 1887, in

this regard?

.

"In the session of 1878-79, and 1880-1, certain laws were passeJ, organizing

the'volunteer forces, which are now comprised in the Oode of Georgia, from

section 1l03(a) to section 1l03(rr) inclusive; and then, in the session of 1884-

85, this matter received considerable attention from the General Assembly, and

on the 13th of October, 1885, a very elaborate statute was passed, amending

previous Acts above mentioned, which Act is embodied in Acts df 1884-85,

pages seventy-four to eighty-eight inclusive, and providing for the entire or-

ganization, government and discipline of the troops of the State, and during

the sallle session an Act was also passed, on 17th of October, 1885, see page

sixty-two, amending section 1104 of the Code, declaring the volunteer organ-

ization to be a portion of the militia of the State; the two Actiii taken together,

distinguishing the present force of the State, as the active militia. In this

military law of 1885, the General Assembly made quite an advance in carrying

out the Constitution of 1877. In section five of :said Act, on the subject of

[7]

90

uniforms, it struck out the clause in the old law, requiring volunteers to uniform and equip themselves at their own expense, and declared that a service uniform should be adopted, to be prescribed by the Governor, etc~
"Again, in section 14, the 'military fund,' which had been previously so characterized as a fund to be kept apart in the treasury of the State, was made to embrace 'all moneys appropriated from time to time, by the General Assembly, for the support, maintenance or equipment of the State Volunteer forces,' clearly indicating that it was in the contemplation of the General Assembly to make appropriations to carry the said law into effect.
"In section 21 of said Act it was made the duty of the Governor to take immediate steps to gather and collect together the arms, equipments and military property of the State, which had been issued to commands then disbanded or no longer in actual existence, and to bring suits upon bonds, given to secure the State, for the issuance of such arms, eqdipments or military property; and in section 22, the Advisory Board is created, its duties defined, and the necessary expenses of said board were declared to be a proper charge, to be paid out of the military fund upon the Governor's warrant.
"These laws, theoretically, recognize the obligation resting upon the General Assembly to carry into effect article 10 of the Constitution, and the volunteer commands of the State, organized in pursuance of said laws or made part of said force, had a right to assume that the State of Georgia would appropriate sufficient money to give vitality to said enactments.
"It now remains for the General Assembly to provide means for all of the objects contemplated in said laws in relation to the military force, or else previous legislatures will have done a vain thing in enaeting such statutes.

~'"

.;i:-

>i<

0;;'

.;;.':.

-::.:-

0\:-

"l:-

.;!:-

"Without going into particulars, it is well known that the majority of the

States of the American Union have, in the past quarter of a century, and es-

pecially in the past ten years, recognized the importance of this subject, with

the result of well equipped, well trained bodies of men in each of the same, of

whom the said States are justly proud, and for whom everything is provided

by appropriations from the State treasury, from the canteen of the soldier to the armory of the regiment. Even the Sou~hern States not so prosperous as

Georgia have followed in the course marked out by the Northern, Middle and

Westeni States with the most gratifying results. Can it be presume1 for one

moment that the people of Georgia, having recognized and declared most sol-

emnly the nece~sity of a similar force in Georgia in order to maintain peace

and gOld order within the borders of the State, l1eeding the advice of the father

of his country, 'in times of peace to prepare for war,' intend that the so-called

military force in Georgia shall be disbanded?

"And yet this is the issue now presented. It is simply impossible to maintain

the present force, or any force worthy of the name, unless the State of Georgia takes

hold of the maUier as othe1' Sltttes hare done, tmd regulates, maintains and supports it.

If an exp3riment should be tried and the entire force of Georgia be disbanded,

we venture to assert that it would shortly become necessary, in view of the

disturbances of the peace immediately consequent, for the Governor to call an

extra session of the General Assembly, to make provisions for the erection of

91
military commands supported entirely by the State, so as to ensure the peace and security of the citizens of Georgia in their persons and property."
In order to ascertain the monetary sacrifices to which the troops are put, I inquired of every commanding'officer visited as to the approximate annual cost of maintaining his company. I deem it but just to the troops to make references to their outlays.
The expense for armories proper ranges from twenty-five dollars in one small town to five hundred in the cities. In some localities where men are much separated no armories are used, and no expense is incurred therefor. In the instance where an expense of only twenty-five dollars is involved the company owns its armory and a lot adjoining it, purchased from savings covering a considerable period. This small sum goes for heating and lighting. In addition to expenditures for armories-rent, fuel, light-many other items enter as drains on the funds of organizations ;-insurance on public and company property; for target practice; hire of armorer; printing blanks and other forms for correspondence; repairs to armories; repairs to arms; expenses incident to transfer of baggage to and from depots when attending encampments; all tbis exclusive of cost of uniforms and such equipments as have not or are not furnished through the State.
Companies stationed in cities cannot live for the small amount which might maintain commands in the country Not that their tastes are more extravagant, but that rpnts are higher and cost of fuel and light greater. Moreover, a company located in a city must make its assembly rooms attractive; it has amusements and attractions to contend against which a country command (and I use the term with no thought of depreciation-some of the best companies are to be found in the country) does not meet with. The city presents entertainment for the men which is more enticing than an armory, unless the latter is made inviting. Men will be loath to give up their readily obtained pleasures for the cold comfort of an unattractive drill hall. Militaryenthusiasm must be exceeding great to divert a man from his club, his reading room, his home, to the cheerless 0arrack room. That men do make these sacrifices bespeaks in louder voice than words can tell what enthusiasm exists among tbe troops, but it does not argue that they always will forego their ease and complacently submit to even self-imposed restraints. The armory in the country constitutes in most cases the only meeting place,for the young men; other amusements are not frequently at hand. As regards capaeity, tl'e armories in .the country towns are really unworthy of the name. They are rather places for keeping arms. Tilerefore, the expenses for such purposes must not be judged of by the smaller standard. But for all commands, some incentive must be held out if it is expected that the troops shall keep up their interest the whole year round and give regular attention to instruction. The best results are attained where the liveliest interest is displayed and maintained.
~ome few commands own their own armories, but they must continually undergo an expense for keeping them in repair and otherwise making them attractive. Suitable means for caring for property and keeping it in good order must be provided, but the State does not foot the bill. Gun racks are necessary, and lockers are required for putting away uniforms and equipments. Target practice i~ supposed to b~ DDnducted. Some ammunition may be sup-

92
plied, but the requisite targets aud butts must be forthcoming. The companies provide these. The last annual report of the Adjutant and Inspector-General shows that Company E, 1st Regiment, expended $64.35 for one day's target firing.
Commanding officers are required to give their bonds for the safe keeping of ordnance and quartermaster's stores issued to them. To protect themselves th~y must insure the property. The companies pay the premiums.
The armories should always be kept neat and in good condition. An armorer is hired for the purpose.
Officers are required to render reports and returns, and are supposed to keep records, but under existing practices they are forced to provide their own stationery and books. Some few commanding officers have gone to no little trouble and expense in supplying such means for conducting and preserving a record of administration.
My report shows much irregularity in these matters. I have spoken of them, however, only in the abstract and for the special purpose of drawing attention to the importance of the subject. It cannot be said that the officers are blamable when not provided with the ways and means for observing proper methods. Official correspondence must be carried on in obedience to orders from superior authority. While the outlay therefor is not great, the fact that they must provide their own postage still exists.
A company is ordered to camp or for duty in keeping the peace. It must carry some baggage. No transportation is furnished save as hired from the company fund.
To encourage men to frequent their armories, I find a very commendable practice prevailing in a few commands. The prescribed drill regulations, army regulations and manuals of instruction are furnished, and periodicals and literature of a military character are subscribed for. By reference to a statement of receipts and expenditures submitted by one company commander, I learn' that for the above current literature the sum of thirty-six dollars was expended during the year 1891. It was money well expended. I believe tbe greatest interest among men witnessed during my inspection was observed in this same command. Instruction is carried on with the greatest regularity. The efficiency of the command is an acknowledged fact. Men seemingly realize that they have a military home where, wben drills are dismissed, they can enjoy some rest; they feel that some thougbt is given to their comfort and welfare.
r only allude to this circumstance to point out that where proper and appro-
priate attractions are afforded good results will follow. The total receipts during the year from various sources by the command in
mind were $1,661.80, including dues from "special pay", pay and active members, commutation of rations at camp and interest on mone:' deposited. The expenditures for tbe same period for the several items enumerated above and for sundry matters amounted to $1,470.59. This organization attended the annual encampment at Chickamauga and received for per diem, at the rate of seventy-five cents per day per man, $242.25. Its expenses incident to that tour of duty and for legitimate purposes only were $350.73. In addition hereto, in order to take a full complement of men to camp the command was obliged to make good the time lost by certain members, and for this paid out $97.25.

93
In other words, and referring to a remark of the commanding officer of another organization, to the effect that it would hardly be possible for his command to attend the approaching encampment as his company fund was too limited, many organization are put to considerable expense in order to participate in a camp of instruction.
Further, I have been informed that certain commanders of larger units have expended from their own resources hundreds of dollars for putting their men in presentable shape for such work and thus encourage them to undertake it j even to save them from disbandment.
One company visited had, just prior to my inspection, purchased a State regulation uniform-forage caps, tunics and trousers,-at a cost of $531 for thirty-three men, or $16 per man. This latter amount may be taken as the approximate average cost of the fatjgue uniform.
But very few organizations have thus far equipped themselves with overcoats or blankets-necessary parts of the soldier's outfit. It is not reasonable to expect that they should. Companies must use table ware in camp, and they pay for it. They have not yet been taught to use the sol.lier's mess kit.
The foregoing figures present a fair statement of what the troops have to pay for the privilege of carrying arms and being recognized as military in character; indeed, what they pay in order to be a defence to the State and subject to her call.
Armories should be either provided, as is done in some States directly, or appropriations should be made for rent and current expenses. The State of Pennsylvania appropriates from $100 to $200 for armory rent and annual allowances for each company. I discover in another State that the counties in which military compaines are located are supposed to provide armories, the County Commissioners being responsible. .
Certain counties of the State of Georgia are not wanting in public spirit or in a lack of proper appreciation of the value of the military. One county on the line of the Georgia Railroad, and several in the southern tier of the State, have, during the last year, generously donated sums for the support of the companies stationed within their boundaries. But this is a practice upon which commands cannot rely; a change of administration may result at any time in discontinuing the good work. Moreover, it places too much of a premium on local pride, and companies will not share alike over the State; at the same time they all constitute a part of the comrrlon defence. The necessities of the different sections, military districts, so to speak, being disproportionate, must be recognized, and the question of the number of troops to be maintained in each should be determined by one authority. The responsibility should rest with the State, which may exercise discretion as tothe interests of any given section or command, and work out suitable projects for the mobilization of the troops. I do not pretend to indicate any fixed amount as adequate or requisite for the living expenses of companies; .Buch figures can readily be determined when the principle is acknowledged that such allowances are just and judicious, and that time must surely come, sooner or later, in the inevitable solution of social and economic problems within the borders of the State.
A considerable saving might be made to companies and assistance rendered,

94'
if the buildings or property which they are obliged to rent were, when occupied and used by them for strictly military purposes, exempt from taAation.
There is nothing which adds more to the appearance of troops than uniformity of dress and equipments; and while such uniformity does not make soldiers, it is calculated to make more favorable and lasting impressions. It arouses pride and inculcates esprit de corps, which are potent factors in the maintenance of volunteer trclOps. In this particular it may be asked what is the condition of the Georgia Volunteers to-day?
Scwe the arms and a few equipments they provide themselves with the entire outfit. In but one tactical unit is uniformity observed. This battalion, the Third, eomposed of three companies, presents a far better appearance than any other composite command in the State. It wears a serviceable field dress, and each company is equipped alike. For this distinction it has only itself to thank. The appearance of the National Guard of Pennsylvania, 8,500 men, fully uniformed and equipped, may also be presented as a thought for consideration in this connection. But appearance is not a guarantee of efficiency. The subject is only brought into this seeming prominence as better helping to show that the troops are unprovided for. It may also be asked on the othel' hand in what manner they are encouraged. The inducements held out, further than through appropriations for encampments, may be summed up in the following exemptions and privileges:
1. The uniform of the Volnnteer, which uuder section 1103(s) of the Code, he is to provide at his own expense, is exempt from levy or sale for debt, except for fines or dues to his company or battalion.
2. He is exempt from road and street tax during his term of service and after ten years continuous service he is thenceforth exempt, should he remain upon the exempt or other lists of his company.
3. He is exempt from militia duty during his membership, and after ten years-continuous service in any company or battalion, in any capacity as an active member, uniformed and equipped,he shall be exempt from all militia duty or commutation tax therefor, which may be required by law' in time of peace.
4. Individual eompanies are allowed the privilege of bearing upon their rolls of pay members a class of "special pay members ", not exceeding fifteen in number, who, upon paying a sum of money, as prescribed by such companies not less than twenty-five dollars per annum each, shall be exempt from jury and road duty and street tax. Some organizations, by special acts of the Legislature, are allowed to carryon their rolls a greater number of special pay members. I find that only a few commands derive any benefit from this provision; it is not possible, at all stations, to find the men who are willing to contribute this amount for the exemption.
5. When any part of the volunteer force is called into service of the State. in case of invasion, rebellion, insurrection or probable prospect thereof, all the officers and soldiers responding to such call shall be entiCed to such pay, rations and other allowances, or to commutation therefor, as are prescribed for officers and soldiers of the regular army.
The duty or the State is evident. If the troops are to be used for public

needs their absolute and proper wants should be provided; if it hoped to keep alive and to develop the marked military spirit which prevails among them it must be given substantial encouragement; if the pride of the officers aud men, that living force which has made the Georgia Volunteers what they are, is to be saved from deterioration, it must be fostered. Men cannot be expected to undergo sacrifices without prospects of recognition; troops can never be made effective or efficient if neglected.
Enthusiasm is the militiaman's bank account; but however considerable it may be, as is the case in some commands, constant drafts upon it will eventually deplete the fund unless replenished by assistance and supporL. "Patidnt merit" will lose its uncomplaining nature and ambition will all ooze out if not rewarded or in some measure gratified.
RECOMMEKDA TIO)!S.
Many minor recommendations have been made throughout the eourse of this report. They relate more particularly to matters. of routine, and can be carried into effect under existing laws. But for the development of an efficient military system, based upon workable principles, I would respectfully submit the following as absolute necessities:
1. Reasonable and economical financial assistance from tho State. 2. A complete revision of the present code, or preferably, the adoption of a new military code which shall provide for a judicious and uniform organization of the forces-an organization suggested by modern tactical exigencies and the needs of the State. :3. The organization of the several administrative departments on a practical working basis. The only existing departments are the Adjutant-General's, Quartormaster-General's and the Judge Advocate-General's; not one fully organized. 4. The publication of comprehensive and consistent regulations for the government of the troops. Until these are given consideration other recommendations are useless. This report is rendered in my capacity as Acting Assistant Inspector-General; as such I have felt and considered myself an officer of the State I have therefore permitted details and suggestions to enter into it, and have framed it in a manner which wonld be perhaps inappropriate had I inspected the troops entirely from the standpoint of a representative of the General Government. In conclusion I wish to express to the officers and men of the Yolunteers my sense of appreciation of the courtesy and hospitality so uniformly shown me during my tour of inspection. To Colonel 'V. W. Gordon and Adjutant A. R. Lawton, Jr., of the 5th Regiment, Georgia Cavalry, Colonel A. J. 'Vest, Quartermaster-General, Major R. K. Holtzclaw, 2d Regiment, and Colonel E. L. 'Wight, 4th Regiment, I am especially indebted for great assistance, without which I could not have continued or completed my work.
Yery respectfully, Your obedient servant,
C. B. SATTERLEE, ]st Lieutenant, :3d Artillery, Acting Assistant Adjutant and Inspector-General.