Repository: UIHistories Project: Board of Trustees Minutes - 1894 [PAGE 114]

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PROCEEDINGS OF BOARD OE TRUSTEES.

115

I t was evident at once t h a t the new officers who commanded the older companies (A and JB) composed of their own classmates, were at a disadvantage; this was partly overcome but not wholly. ' 'Several students who were preparing for the medical profession applied for permission to form a hospital corps detachment. The request being granted, two litters were obtained from the adjutant general of the State by one of the students. Mr. H. II. Marsh was appointed hospital steward, and a detachment of 8 men placed under him for drill as bearers. These students drilled once each weak with their respective companies and once at litter drill. They also received instructions in first aid to the injured from Professor Donald Mcintosh, of the university faculty. They were regular in attendance and took great interest and pride in the work, Early in this spring term Mr. Marsh left to take a position in the hospital corps of the Columbian Exposition, and the detachment was then discontinued. "During this term all drills were indoors and were in the schools of the company and battalion, and bayonet exercise. Battalion drill was had with but two companies, the floor space being insufficient for t h e four companies. Many of these drills were conducted by the cadet major under my direction. Winter term closed March 22, 1893, with a total of 212. " I n the winter term the freshman military class numbered 164. Upon my recommendation the class was divided into six sections and Cadet Major Earl employed to assist me. Every week we exchanged sections. Cadet Major Earl's assistance was of great value to me, and it is due him t h a t I should express my high appreciation of his services, both as an instructor and as an officer of the battalion. The class studied and recited in the school of the company—close and extended order. "The sophomore military class recited on Tuesdays, reviewing the school of the company and taking up the ceremonies, manual of guard, U. S. signal code, etc. "At the examination of March 18th all members of both classes who were examined, except one, passed satisfactorily. "The spring term began March 23, and closed June 7, 1893. A freshman military class was formed * * * * i found t h a t I had but 10 men to fill the positions of officers and sergeants. The artillery detachment was without an officer. Owing to the weather I have not been able to have any outdoor drills this term, about one-half have been held indoors: and consequently but little has been accomplished in extended order. There have been several battalion drills, three parades, and five reviews and inspections. The strength of the battalion has been reduced to 177. "There has been an unusual amount of sickness this year, not only among the students, but among the population in general, and quite a number have been obliged to return home on t h a t account. Up to this day (May 17th) since September 19, 1892, the number of absences from drill on account of sickness has been, for the fall term, 145; winter term, 160; spring term, 45; total, 350. "The freshman class has had, this term, recitations in the school of the battalion and the ceremonies; the sophomore class in guard duty, notes on cannon and projectiles, and practice in signaling with wand and flags. "The target b u t t was partly torn down by some one, probably in search of lead, and was not repaired until about May 1st. Saturday being the only day available for practice, I have had but one afternoon on the range. The firing party consisted of officers and non-commissioned officers only, and as there is but one target it was slow work. The practice was at 50 and 100 yards, and the results were unusually good. This party had been instructed in aiming previous to firing. "The artillery detachment has had instruction in the manual of t h e piece, formation of and posting detachments, mechanical maneuvers and firing with blank cartridges. I t s composition has changed three times, wholly or in part, through members leaving college and being relieved because of absence from drill. This has impeded instruction somewhat.