PREFACE.

    THE individual instruction of the soldier is the foundation upon which the structure of the army rests. If it is complete, the operations of the army, aided by military science, may be calculated with mathematical accuracy; and unless it is carried to a certain point at least, the management of an army is a mere matter of chance, and success the result only of fortuitous circumstances.

    Whilst able men have devoted themselves to the higher branches of the military profession, it is a matter of great surprise that the rudiments have been so long overlooked.

    Heretofore the enlisted soldier has been dependent upon tradition for a knowledge of his specific duties; for justice he has been at the mercy of his superiors.
    Sounds a lot like reenacting.

    If his officers were competent and conscientious men, faithful in the discharge of their duties and industrious in accumulating and disseminating knowledge among the men, they were cared for, their rights were secured to them, and the ambitious and meritorious were enabled to obtain advancement.

    On the contrary, if their superiors were incompetent and unscrupulous men, careless in the execution of their duties, and indolent in acquiring knowledge and instructing the soldiers, the latter were neglected, their rights suffered, and they had little or no opportunity of learning those things necessary to their advancement.

CUSTOMS OF SERVICE
FOR
NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERS
AND SOLDIERS.

THE SOLDIER.

    1. THE soldier commands respect in proportion to his capacity and length of service. A youth of military pride and bearing, who wears his uniform with neatness and grace, and does his duty faithfully and with energy and determination, deserves admiration, and generally receives it; but the veteran whose scars and wounds are the reminders of many battles, and whose numerous service chevrons and gray hairs mark a life devoted to the service of his country, chains the listening ear of the citizen to the story of his heroic life, and the greatest chieftain will raise his hat with respect to return his punctilious salute.
    Lesson : Soldiers are respected.

    2. The decisive events of a soldier’s life are few and far between, and the intervals are devoted to waiting for these turning-points. If the time he spends in waiting is usually occupied in preparing himself for the critical moments, he will thereby enhance his chances of success, and add lustre to the promotion which his achievements are sure to obtain for him.
    Lesson : Be Prepared.

3. The military profession involves a knowledge of almost every art, and information accumulated and held in store for the fortunate moment is suddenly demanded and called for, and he who can come forward and say, "I possess it," is the victor. A soldier can, therefore, never be placed in any situation in which his leisure moments may not be devoted to something that may some time win him a grade.
    Lesson : Be Prepared.

4. All knowledge, however, is the more readily obtained if sought after methodically. Thus, a soldier should be conversant first of all with the proper and legitimate duties of his grade, and, these attained, his next step is the acquirement of a knowledge of the duties of the next highest position; for success in military life is usually a succession of progressive steps from a lower to a higher, and the omission of one of these steps is an important deficiency, that should be repaired as soon as possible. Those officers who undertake the duties of a position without having made themselves familiar with those of grades below them are at a great disadvantage.
    Lesson : Study!

THE PRIVATE SOLDIER.

15. Whilst officers are required to have the Articles of War read to soldiers, no soldier can plead, in bar of punishment, that this regulation has not been complied with, although he may plead it in extenuation of his offence.
    Lesson : Know the Articles of War.

PAY AND ALLOWANCES OF SOLDIERS.

22. Twelve and one-half cents is deducted from the pay of all enlisted men per month by the paymaster, for the support of the Military Asylum or Soldiers’ Home.
    Lesson : You’re saving for your future even though you didn’t realize it.

39. In cases of "excessive fatigue" or "severe exposure," soldiers may receive an issue of whiskey of one gill per ration.
    Lesson : Work hard ; get booze.

44. The law also provides for disabled soldiers who have been rendered so in the line of their duty, by giving them pensions.
    Lesson : Sacrifice is rewarded.

45. The Military Asylum, or Soldiers’ Home, is an institution created for the benefit of indigent, superannuated, and disabled soldiers, where they are clothed, subsisted, and taken care of at public expense. The institution is open to all soldiers who have become unfit for service, in the service of the United States. It is one of the richest and best-endowed institutions in the United States, it a healthy and pleasant locality about two or three miles north of Washington, in the District of Columbia.
    Lesson : The place where all good soldiers go.

46. Soldiers who become insane in the service are provided for and sent to the Asylum for the Insane at Washington.
    Lesson : There’s a place for those who go crazy from obeying their superiors.

DUTIES OF THE SOLDIER.
DEPORTMENT.
    Lessons on how to perform the courtesies

47. ONE of the first things a soldier has to learn on entering the army, is a proper military deportment towards his superiors in rank: this is nothing more than the military way of performing the courtesies required from a well-bred man in civil life, and a punctual performance of them is as much to his credit as the observance of the ordinary rules of common politeness.

        48-54,56 : The when and how of saluting

48. "Sergeants, with swords drawn, will salute by bringing them to a present; with muskets, by bringing the left hand across the body, so as to strike the musket near the right shoulder. Corporals out of the ranks, and privates not sentries, will carry their muskets at a shoulder as sergeants, and salute in like manner" (Reg. 255.)
    Lesson : The general rule of saluting when armed

49. "When a soldier without arms, or with sidearms only, meets an officer, he is to raise his hand to the right side of the visor of his cap, palm to the front, elbow raised as high as the shoulder, looking at the same time in a respectful and soldier-like manner at the officer, who will return the compliment thus offered." (Reg. 256.)
    Lesson : The general rule of saluting when unarmed

50. "A non-commissioned officer or soldier being seated, and without particular occupation, will rise on the approach of an officer, and make the customary salutation. If standing, he will turn toward the officer for the same purpose. If the parties remain in the same place or on the same ground, such compliments need not be repeated." (Reg. 257.)
    Lesson : When to rise and what to do if standing

52. The following customs are equally binding, though not provided for in Regulations: —

When soldiers are marching in the ranks, they do not salute, unless ordered at the time. If employed at any work, they are not expected to discontinue their employment to salute.

esson : Soldiers working do not salute.

53. A soldier or non-commissioned officer, when he addresses an officer, or is spoken to by one, salutes; on receiving the answer or communication from the officer, he again salutes before turning to go away.
    Lesson : Begin and end conversations with officers by saluting

54. When a soldier enters an officer’s quarters armed, he simply makes the required salute, and does not take off his cap; but without arms, or with side-arms only, he takes off his cap and stands in the position of a soldier, and delivers his message or communicates what he came for in as few words as possible and to the point.
    Lesson : Don’t take off that cap when armed, but do when not. What about during the playing of Taps after battle?

55. A slovenly attitude, frequent changes of position, or much gesticulation, is exceedingly unmilitary, and looks bad. Say what you have to say in a prompt, courageous manner, without diffidence or hesitation; and, if always respectful, no matter what the subject, it is much more likely to be considered than when delivered in a drawling, hesitating, and timid manner.
    Lesson : Spit it out, boy!

56. A mounted soldier should always dismount if the officer he wishes to address is dismounted. A mounted soldier passing an officer salutes with the hand, except when he has his sabre drawn, and then he salutes with the sabre.
    Lesson : Get off that high horse.

57. When a soldier enters an officer’s quarters, he remains standing in the position of a soldier until invited to sit down. When soldiers are in a room and an officer enters, they should rise and remain standing until invited to sit down.
    Lesson : Stand up! Sit down. Fight, fight, fight!

58. Soldiers should bear in mind that the officer has his duties to perform, and that they are more weighty and important than any soldier can have, and that his leisure time is limited, and they should therefore avoid, as much as possible, troubling him with unimportant matters, or, at least, not be disappointed if they receive short answers.
    Lessons 58-60 - ofc free time is precious. Leave them alone.

59. In a company of seventy or eighty men, if each one should go only once a day to his captain with any matter, it is easily seen how annoying such a thing would soon become.

60. Soldiers should learn, as far as possible, to manage their own affairs; and, whilst their company commander is the legitimate person to apply to for any thing needful or when in difficulty, his time should not be trespassed upon with regard to matters they should know themselves.

61. The company commander, through the first sergeant, is the proper person to apply to for all indulgences, such as passes, furloughs, &c., and for clothing, rations, pay, and the adjustment of all differences and difficulties in the company.
    Lesson : Bother your sergeant instead.

62. An application to any other source will most generally be answered by referring the applicant to his company commander, whose duty it is to attend to the wants of his men. Only when the company commander neglects his duty in this respect is a soldier justified in applying to his regimental or post commander.
    Lesson : Go up the chain.

INSTRUCTION.

63. The first duties which a newly-enlisted soldier is called upon to perform are to familiarize himself with his camp or garrison duties.

65. Under the instruction of a drill-sergeant, he is taught the first principles in the "School of the Soldier" After a certain progress in the instruction without arms, his arms and accoutrements are issued to him; for these he is held responsible, and, if injured or lost by any fault of his, they are charged to him on his muster-roll, and their value deducted from his pay at the first subsequent payment.

Lesson : Take care of your gear.

DUTIES IN CAMP OR GARRISON.

70. IT is the duty of the soldier, under all circumstances, to be always present with his company for duty, and attend all the standing roll-calls and exercises, unless specially excused by his commanding officer, or he is sick and excused by the surgeon, or is absent on duty.
    Lesson : Don’t doddle at the sutlers.

71. The various duties to which a soldier is subject are matters of regular detail, — each soldier taking his regular tour of each as it comes.
    Lesson : Everyone gets their turn at duty.

72. The roster for these various details is kept by the first sergeant, and the longest off are the first to be detailed. The details are usually published to the company at retreat roll-call for the next day.
    Lesson : Rosters ensure fairness.

75. ON GUARD —

81. To salute all officers, according to rank, who may pass near his post, means to halt and face outwards, and stand at a "carry," until the officer has passed, if the officer is of the rank of captain or below; if above the rank of captain, the sentinel must "present arms." He must, also, "present arms" to the officer of the day and commanding officer whether above or below the rank of captain.
    Lesson : When on guard, don’t go across the body to salute. Also, know how to present arms to the big bugs.

82. This involves a knowledge of the uniforms of officers. A safe guide is the fact that all officers above the rank of captain in the army have a double row of buttons on their coats, whilst captains and lieutenants have only a single row."
    But not necessarily in CS service where double breasted frocks were common for line officers.

83. Armed bodies of men passing near the sentinel’s post, commanded by an officer, are entitled to a "present;" if under a non-commissioned officer, they are saluted with a "carry." To give the alarm is to call out "the guard," to fire off his piece, or to cry "fire."
    Lesson : More exceptions to the saluting rules.

85. To challenge is to call out, "Who comes there?" Soldiers usually commence challenging after taps, and continue until reveille; although it is sometimes ordered to commence challenging immediately after retreat.
    Lesson : Don’t be challenging in the daytime.

90. Sentinels are often, even in times of peace, placed in trying and difficult positions. In times of popular excitement, they may be posted for the protection of persons or property threatened with violence. Under such circumstances, coolness and firmness are the first requisites. No danger or circumstances will justify a sentinel in leaving his post without orders.
    Lesson : Keep the peace.

91. If a sentinel, from any cause, wishes to leave his post, he calls for the corporal of the guard, who will relieve him, if necessary, by another sentinel, or take charge of his post until he can return to it.
    Lesson : Ask for help.

94. To be surprised, or to fall asleep, in times of danger, is a crime of the gravest character, and punishable with death. Sometimes, when popular violence is threatened, the courage and firmness of a single sentinel may intimidate and keep back a mob, whilst timidity and doubt might encourage them. True courage will defend the post to the last. No man can desire a nobler death than to die in the cause of right.
    Lesson : Keep a level head.

100. Neatness and correct soldierly bearing are enjoined on all sentinels. Precision in the compliments to officers, and in marching on and off duty, reflects credit upon the soldier, and secures to him the consideration and attention of his superiors.
    Lesson : Don’t look like or be a slob.

101. Orderlies and color-sentinels are usually selected from the neatest, cleanest, and most soldierly-looking member of the guard. These duties are of a lighter and more complimentary character, and are the first steps to promotion.
    Lesson : Reward for cleanliness.

102. FATIGUE —

107. In cases of more than ordinary fatigue or exposure, it is the custom to make an issue of whiskey to the men on fatigue. To obtain this issue, The sergeant or corporal of police makes out a return, called an "extra return," giving the number of men and number of gills, one gill being allowed to each man. This return is signed by the officer in charge of the party; and it is then submitted to the commanding officer of the regiment, post, or detachment, who attaches his order for the issue, and the whiskey is then drawn from the commissary and issued to the men by the sergeant.
    Lesson : Here’s how you get your whiskey.

THE INFANTRY SOLDIER.

144. IN the infantry is the main strength of an army. Cavalry and artillery are the auxiliaries. The final results of a war or campaign are achieved by this arm of the service; and the foot soldier should bear in mind the importance of his position, and seek to achieve the highest perfection of his arm. No cavalry or artillery can stand against perfect infantry properly handled.
    Lesson : Infantry is trump. All others are second rate.

146. The infantry soldier should bear in mind that, with whatever exultation the cavalry or artillery pass him in advancing upon the enemy, the grand result cannot be achieved without him, and that the presence of the musket and its proximity is what enables them to precede him in the fight.
    Lesson : Ditto.

147. A well-instructed and disciplined infantryman is always prepared for duty. His hours of leisure are devoted to preparation. His clothing is prepared and cleaned, his knapsack always packed, his arms and accoutrements in order, and his ammunition secure.
    Lesson : Be prepared.

148. The supply of necessary articles in the field should be limited to the smallest possible amount; and industry will make up for many a deficient article. Messes unite, and each carries an article that can be used in common.
    Lesson : Less is more.

150. The shoes are the most important item of clothing to the foot-soldier. Woolen socks should be worn. The feet should be bathed frequently in cold water. Boots are universally impracticable for marching. If the ankles require support, the French gaiter can he worn: they are also a very good protection from the mud and dust, and protect the trousers.
    Lesson : Take care of your feet.

151. An hour’s drill, morning and afternoon, when not marching, is a necessary exercise, no matter what may be the proficiency of the regiment or company. It keeps the body in condition for service at any moment, and is conducive to health.
    Lesson : Drill is good for you.

152. A good soldier makes his company and regiment his home, and never absents himself without proper permission, and then returns punctually at the expiration of his pass. The habit of always being absent is exceedingly pernicious; it cultivates tastes and habits that are detrimental to the soldier’s best interest, and he is almost sure to be absent when most wanted, and loses, perhaps, a favorable moment to do himself a credit.
    Lesson : Don’t stray.

153. He should learn to wait: a soldier’s life is made up in waiting for the critical moments. The times in distinction are few, and quickly pass; and, once gone, he has a long time to wait for the next opportunity. Constant training and faithful watching are necessary, so that he may see the proper moment and be in the best possible condition to perform his duty.
    Lesson : Be prepared.

154. A soldier is dependent on his officers for pay, clothing, subsistence, and medical attendance; but his health, success, and promotion depend, in the main, upon himself. Within certain limits, he must look out for himself.
    Lesson : Take care of number one.

156. A little industry in mending and cleaning his clothes will well reward his labors in the savings of the frugal soldier. To this end, he should be provided with a little wallet, containing an assortment of thread, needles, buttons, scissors, &c., and should economize and use up faithfully his allowance of soap.
    Lesson : A stitch in time....

THE CAVALRY SOLDIER.

158. THE cavalry soldier is apt to look with some contempt as he rides by the weary footman carrying his knapsack; but he should bear in mind how much he is dependent upon him, and how much of he confidence with which he rides to the front is due to the staunch columns of infantry he leaves in his rear, and how soon he may be compelled to seek refuge from the enemy’s sharpshooters and artillery in the rear of the same columns of infantry.
    Lesson : Infantry is the queen of battle.

160. The general duties of the cavalry soldier are the same as those of the infantry soldier, varying only on account of his horse and the difference in the character of the service.
    Lesson : You’re an infantryman with a pet to mind.

167. The horse has been found to be demoralizing to the habits of the soldier. The cavalry service removes the cavalry-man more from the immediate control of his officers; he is enabled soon to become more familiar with the surrounding country, on his duties as messenger, orderly, foraging, reconnoitring, picket and outpost duty, his temptations to straggle and commit depredations are much greater, the chances of detection are less, and the violation of orders is attended with much less personal fatigue and inconvenience; and hence the irregularities peculiar to the cavalry service.
    Lesson : Cavalrymen are pirates on land.

168. Cavalrymen, however, should bear in mind that these facilities are no excuse for misdemeanors of irregularities; and every soldier should have the interest of his own corps too much at heart to aid or abet in misconduct that gives to his arm of service such a disagreeable notoriety. He should labor to give his own corps as high a reputation for good conduct as the foot-soldier. He should not allow himself to be excelled in propriety by the infantry-man.
    Lesson : Mind your manners.

THE ARTILLERY SOLDIER.

178. The artillery soldier is expected to be more or less familiar with all the duties expected of cavalry and infantry, as in field-batteries they have a similar care of horses, and in heavy artillery they are required to perform all the duties required of infantry, at times. He is required to know all about guard-duties. They are not, however, required to do as much outpost, fatigue, or picket duty, and only in the absence of the proper troops for such duty.
    Lesson : You sure you want to be in the artillery?

179. The peculiarities with which an artillery soldier in a field-battery must familiarize himself, in addition to most of the duties of cavalry and infantry, is the care of guns and harness, and especially the ammunition. He should understand well the principles in firing, and peculiarities of the particular gun and the ammunition used in the battery.
    Lesson : It’s a complicated life.

180. During the firing, he must learn to be composed, and guard against being confused by the noise of the cannon and the commotion among the horses. He must use his eyes, as well as his ears, and watch his own piece and the workings of his companions.
    Lesson : Artillery is complicated.

181. Where pieces are massed close together, he is apt to mistake the firing of an adjoining piece for his own; and many a man has been killed or injured by jumping in at the command "load" at an adjoining piece, just as his own gunner gave the command "fire." To prevent the hearing from being injured by the concussion, the ears may be protected by a little cotton. The shock is also lessened by keeping the mouth open.
    Lesson : It’s dangerous in the artillery.

THE ORDNANCE SOLDIER.

190. ENLISTED men of ordnance are not so much soldiers as mechanics and laborers. They are employed in arsenals and armories for the manufacture and care of ordnance. They are enlisted like other men, but differently employed, and receive different allowances of pay, clothing, and rations.
    Lesson : It’s a technical job.

THE ENGINEER SOLDIER.

197. ENGINEER soldiers are enlisted like other soldiers, and are similarly organized and instructed.

199. They are expected to know all the garrison and field duties of soldiers of the line, and, in addition, the practical duties involved in the construction of fortifications, bridges, &c. For this reason, mechanics and educated men are preferred; and their promotion to privates of the first class, and to non-commissioned officers, depends upon their superior intelligence and progress in every department of practical military knowledge.
    Lesson : Only the smart ones need apply.

NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERS.

ORGANIZATION.

294.The non-commissioned officers of a regiment and company, allowed by law in the various arms and regiments of the army, are as follows, viz.:—

INFANTRY AND ARTILLERY (Old Army.)

Non-Commissioned Staff Each Company.

One Sergeant Major One First Sergeant.

One Quartermaster Sergeant. Three Sergeants.

Two Principal Musicians. Four Corporals.

295. Volunteer regiments of infantry differ from the above in having one commissary sergeant and one hospital steward, and no principal musicians, in the non-commissioned staff and four sergeants and eight corporals in each company.

296. INFANTRY (New Army.)

Non-Commissioned Staff Each Company.

Three Battalion Sergeant Majors One First Sergeant.

Three Battalion Quartermaster Sergeants Four Sergeants.

Three Battalion Commissary Sergeants Eight Corporals

Three Battalion Hospital Stewards

One Drum-Major, or Leader of the Band

Two Principal Musicians.

    Lesson : And you thought there was too much rank in reenacting.

RANK.

302. Non-commissioned officers are all appointed by the commanding officer of the regiment; those of the company, however, are appointed on the recommendation of the company commanders.
    Lesson : That’s how they got their rank.

306. At depots for recruits, where there is no legal organization, temporary appointments are made, called Lance Sergeants and Lance Corporals, that by Regulations have the same authority as a duly authorized appointment, and they must be obeyed and respected accordingly. They do not, however, receive any increase of pay beyond that of a private; and, when the recruits reach their destination, the appointment ceases.
    Lesson : NCO’s are lanced, not breveted.

307. For the purpose of ascertaining the merits of candidates, and particularly to replace absent non-commissioned officers who have not vacated their appointments, the Lance appointments are frequently made in the companies. Lance appointments wear the chevron of their rank, the same as legal appointments.
    Lesson : You get to show the rank for the ladies even though it’s sewn on temporarily.

309. Non-commissioned officers are entitled to implicit obedience from the soldiers, and they should be obeyed and respected by the men; and when a non-commissioned officer fails in obtaining this regard and obedience from the men, he falls in his most essential qualification.
    Lesson : Obey or die.

310. The confidence of the soldiers in the integrity of a non-commissioned officer can only be obtained by his being rigidly just and impartial to those under him, and by keeping his temper on all occasions, and discharging his duty without passion or feeling. A non-commissioned officer who cannot control himself will find difficulty in controlling those over whom he is placed.
    Lesson : Be fair.

311. Confidence and energy are the progressive traits of the non-commissioned officer who would be successful. Let him first feel he is right, and acting in obedience to orders and instructions, and then do his duty with decision and firmness; and success will be more certain, and failure much less discreditable.
    Lesson : The reward for fairness.

312. Non-commissioned officers should provide themselves with a pencil and notebook in which to enter the names of men forming the details. Orders and instructions given to them verbally they should at once reduce to writing, and not trust to their memory. Lists of property placed in their charge temporarily should be entered; and, in fact, all items that it may possibly be necessary to recall should be put down in such a book.
    Lesson : Have a notebook and pencil at the ready

THE CORPORAL.

313. THE appointment of corporal is the first step to promotion in the army, and may lead to the highest distinction in the military service. The corporal is usually selected from the most intelligent privates, who have been longest in the service, and who are noted for their military appearance and attention to duty.
    Lesson : Remember that even Hitler was once a corporal.

314. The sergeants are appointed from the corporals; and they should therefore look upon their position as one of probation, and should seek to perform well their part, in order that they may be advanced.
    Lesson : Sergeants are not born. They hatch as corporals.

316. The duties of a corporal are simple, and depend for their successful performance mainly upon his capacity to control and direct soldiers in the performance of their duty. They take charge of the smaller details for fatigue and police duty in camp and garrison duty: their most important duty is that of Corporal of the Guard. They frequently succeed to the responsibilities of sergeant in his absence, and should therefore be familiar with his duties.
    Lesson : Corporals need to know the duties of sergeants.

317. Corporals should bear in mind that they are entitled to implicit obedience from the men placed under them; and, whilst they are not usually authorized to confine soldiers on their own judgment, they should always be sustained by their superiors in the performance of their duties, and in the execution of their office.
    Lesson : Obey or die.

319. Non-commissioned officers have it in their power at times to favor certain soldiers, that is, to relieve them from the most disagreeable part of the duty before them, and give it to others. Such distinctions soon destroy their influence over men, and give rise to trouble and difficulty.
    Lesson : Be fair.

320. They should seek to be just towards the men, treat all alike, and when a hardship falls upon an individual he should have no grounds for thinking he has been especially selected.
    Lesson : The reward of fairness.

321. The corporal should insist upon obedience, without being arbitrary, and should maintain his position as a non-commissioned officer firmly, but without arrogance. When he first receives his appointment, his calibre meets with the severest tests. Soldiers, for a time, will be apt to try the material he is made of, which they do in many ways, and by progressive steps, and, if not checked, will increase to a complete disregard, and terminate in an entire inefficiency of the corporal.
    Lesson : You will be tested.

322. He should take the first opportunity, and make it the decisive issue that will settle once and for all that he intends to maintain his position with the jealousy of the highest grade.
    Lesson : How you should perform.

323. Corporals should be living examples for the soldiers in the neatness and cleanliness of their clothing, arms, and accoutrements. They should be the first to fall into ranks at roll-calls, and should have their tents or bunks, wherever their quarters, always systematically in order.
    Lesson : Model soldiers.

324. They should be familiar with the "School of the Soldier," and capable of instructing the recruits in the elementary principles of tactics.
    Lesson : Study and teach.

325. In the field, [ ] non-commissioned officers [ ] attend to drawing provisions for their mess, and are held responsible for the conduct of the mess-mates in the keeping of their tents and the care of the camp and garrison equipage in their charge.
    Lesson : You are now responsible for the conduct of others.

326. CORPORAL OF THE GUARD — This is the most important duty that falls to the corporal. He should be perfectly familiar with the duties of the sentinel, and able to instruct the members of the guard in their duties.
    Lesson : There’s more to learn than the School of the Soldier.

334. Corporals should remember that the only persons authorized to give them orders when on guard are the commanding officer, officer of the day, and the commissioned and noncommissioned officers of the guard; and they take orders from no other persons.
    Lesson : Tell your captain, with perfect impunity, to shove it.

342. FATIGUE — Corporals usually have charge of the smaller details for fatigue duty.
    Lesson : Little supervisors.

343. In barracks or quarters there are many duties that call for details for fatigue[.] [T]he labor should be divided pro rata among the noncommissioned officers and the men.
    Lesson : Fairness, once again.

345. They should make lists of the names of the men under them, so that they will know at any time the detail. The habit of taking notes cannot be too strongly recommended to corporals and other noncommissioned officers.

THE SERGEANT.

365. IT is difficult to draw the line between the duties of the corporal and those of the sergeant. There is really no great difference in their duties. Sergeants generally have larger details under their charge, and have corporals under their direction to assist them. They are usually entrusted with more responsible duties, and they are supposed to have greater experience, and to approach nearer the commissioned officer in a knowledge of all military matters.
    Lesson : Sergeants are just corporals with an extra stripe.

366. Sergeants generally have a more general supervision of the men, whilst corporals have more of the detail to attend to. The company should be divided into a number of squads proportionate to the number of duty-sergeants in the company, with a proportionate number of corporals, who should have charge when the sergeants are absent.
    Lesson : Labor is divided equally.

367. They are responsible for the camp and garrison equipage which the squad has in general use. They have charge of the preliminary instruction of the men in their various duties, and must preserve order in their squad, and see that the men do not absent themselves without proper authority.

368. The most important duty of sergeant is that of file-closer. Posted in the rear of the company when paraded, it is his duty to see that the men pay attention to their duty, preserve order, march properly, and keep closed.
    Why are so many reenacting sergeants found in the front rank?

369. In time of battle, it is his duty to keep the men in ranks, not to allow them to fall out on any pretext, and to prevent them from misbehaving before the enemy. He is even required to shoot men down when they attempt to run away in times of danger.
    Please refrain from shooting fleeing soldiers.

373. Sergeants are usually appointed, by the commanding officer of the regiment or post, from the corporals, on the recommendation of the company commander.

401. In battle, the importance of the position of chief of piece can scarcely be overestimated. No individual soldier in the army is required to be so cool or under stronger obligations to preserve unimpaired all his faculties.

THE FIRST SERGEANT

419. The duties of first sergeant are peculiar to his position, and require capacity and knowledge superior to those of other sergeants. Whilst he does not rank as high as some others, nor receive as much pay, his position is one of the most responsible and most honorable that noncommissioned officers can occupy.

420. The first sergeant is selected by the captain of the company from the other sergeants, without regard to rank, and commissioned by the commanding officer of the regiment.

421. He has the immediate supervision of the company. He gets his orders from the captain or officer commanding the company, and sees that they are performed in the company. He is, in fact, the foreman; the men are the artisans. He lays out and superintends the details of the work which the captain has directed to be executed.

422. Orders received from the commanding officer or other officer by the first sergeant should be communicated to the company commander at once, before being obeyed, if there is time. Under any circumstances, they should be reported to him as soon as possible. Whenever the orderly call sounds, the first sergeant repairs to regimental or post head-quarters to receive the orders or instructions, and, if they are at all unusual, they should be communicated to the company commander without delay.

423. An hour is generally established for assembling the orderlies or first sergeants, usually at noon, for the distribution of orders and announcement of details, and for communicating any alteration in the ordinary routine. The published orders should be copied in the company order book; and it is best, also, to make memorandums of any other orders or instructions received.

424. He keeps the rosters, and makes all the details; he superintends the company clerk, and assists him in making out all the required papers. These duties are fully explained in "The Company Clerk," and are, therefore, omitted here.

425. He should memorize the roster of the company in alphabetical order, so that he can at all hours form the company and call the roll, day or night.
    This continues to amaze me as this would be quite a feat.

427. At all roll-calls the first sergeant takes his place six or eight paces, according as the company is small or large, in front of and opposite the centre of his company, facing towards it. If the company is forming without arms, the men fall in and take the position of parade rest, and the first sergeant takes the same position. (Reg. 335.)
    Roll call.

428. They should fall-in in two ranks, whether with or without arms. With arms they fall in at a shoulder arms instead of at parade rest. The company is formed in the interval between the musician’s call and the last note of the assembly when every man should be in ranks; and those who fall in afterwards should he punished for being late.
    When to do it.

429. When the music has ceased, the first sergeant commands "Attention!" whereupon the company, if at parade rest, take the position of the soldier, and if with arms, the sergeant adds, "Support arms." The roll is then called, commencing with sergeants, Adams, Smith, &c., in the order of rank, until all are called; then "corporals," Brown, Jones, &c., to "farriers;" then "buglers, or musicians;" and finally "privates," Ames, Brown, Cox, &c., in alphabetical order. As each name is called, they answer, "Here;" and if with arms at a support they come to a "shoulder" and finally to "order arms," immediately on answering to their names; if with sabres or pistols drawn, they return them to their scabbards.
    How to do it.

431. The first sergeant makes out the morning report and signs it, and then submits it to the commanding officer of the company for his signature, after which it is handed in to the regimental or post commander. To make it correctly the sergeant should be constantly posted on the changes in the company, as the report is valuable only in proportion to its correctness. It should be a correct statement of the company in order that the commanding officer may each day be able to know the condition of his command.
    The paperwork ...

432. For duty means all the men available for the legitimate duties of the soldier; and the column "for duty" should show the effective strength for actual service of the company for each day. Some understanding is necessary with regard to the men on extra and daily duty, as to whether they are included in the effective strength or not. An order from post or regimental head-quarters would regulate this point.
    ... and how to prepare it.

437. He makes all the details from the company, and sees that a record is kept on the roster.

457. Rations — If there is a commissary sergeant in the company, the immediate labor and duty of drawing the rations and distributing them is entrusted to him; otherwise this is superintended by the first sergeant.
    A good job for a third sergeant.

476. There is no material difference in the duties of the first sergeant in the three arms of infantry, artillery, and cavalry, except some few modifications incident to the different kinds of arms used and the peculiar nature of the service.

478. The first sergeant, although he should be familiar with all the duties of the sergeants and corporals, is seldom called upon to perform any duty that would remove him from the duties of his own position. He is, therefore, not liable for guard-duty, or fatigue or detached service, unless the entire company is on the same. He is, however, not absolutely excluded from any special service of short duration that it may be desirable, under peculiar circumstances, to entrust him with.

479. The most important task of the first sergeant relates to the government of the company and the preservation of good order and military discipline. This depending chiefly on innate qualifications, definite rules, cannot easily be given. A complete control of temper, good judgment, and a strong sense of justice are essential; whilst a due application to duty and attention to the necessities of the men are also of the highest importance.
    Sergeants run the companies, not the officers.

480. Whilst he is not expected to preserve the same distance between himself and the men that exists between them and the officer, his position, indeed, not allowing of it, he should, however, never descend to familiarity, but should always endeavor to preserve a certain amount of restraint, and select his intimates from the first sergeants of other companies or noncommissioned officers of merit of other grades.
    The respectful distance and familiarity.

481. A quiet, imperturbable temper, combined with firmness and resolution, will of itself enforce obedience and command respect. Excitability and passion cannot easily be divested of prejudice and injustice, and have a tendency to excite similar feelings in the men.
    Loud sergeants aren’t necessarily good sergeants.

482. Partiality and favor to individuals should be avoided above all things. The men should be treated with the greatest equality. Harsh and violent treatment, even towards the worst of soldiers, are questionable, if not reprehensible means for governing them.
    Be impartial and fair.

483. It is rare, indeed, that the practice of summary chastisement indulged in by some orderly sergeants with the unruly characters that are to be found in almost every company, can be regarded as successful. Individual instances, however, exist of very good government where the sergeant rules almost exclusively by physical force; but good judgment in forbearing to a point where the offender has placed himself beyond the consideration of kindness by his conduct, will be found to be the true secret of success in a physical-force policy.
    Beware the sergeant complex.

484. Constantly present with the company, always on hand for every emergency, ever consulting the interests of the men and encouraging them in their duties, he cannot fall to attach them to the company, and make them cheerful and content, and faithful on duty.
    More good advice.

THE COMPANY COMMISSARY SERGEANT.

510. THIS office is of recent date, and is authorized only in the mounted regiments and the new artillery regiment.

511. His duty is to make out the provision return, attend to drawing the rations for the company, and superintend their cooking and distribution to the men. He takes care of the company savings, and keeps the account with the commissary.
    Here’s a duty for the third sergeant.

THE QUARTERMASTER SERGEANT.

515. A REGIMENTAL quartermaster sergeant is allowed to each regiment or battalion in the army. A quartermaster sergeant is also allowed to each company in the cavalry and in the Fifth Artillery.

THE COMPANY QUARTERMASTER SERGEANT.

532. THE quartermaster sergeant of the company performs the same duties with reference to the company that the regimental sergeant does towards the regiment. He is under the direction of the company commander and first sergeant.
    Here’s another duty for the third sergeant of an infantry company.

533. He receives the fuel and forage for the company from the quartermaster sergeant, and keeps the account. He takes charge of the wagon assigned to the company, and all the company property in it. In garrison he has the immediate charge of the company store-room.

534. He attends to receiving the clothing, camp and garrison equipage, and assists the first sergeant in its distribution. He also receives all other quartermaster’s property turned over to the company, and sees that it is properly cared for, and must be able to account for it to his company commander.

535. On the march, he attends to the loading and unloading of the wagons, and superintends the erection of tents, putting up the picket-line, &c. He sees that the forage is properly distributed and that the public animals are fed.

537. He procures the fuel for the company, makes out the requisitions for the company commander to sign, and draws the fuel from the quartermaster sergeant.

538. Straw for bedding for men and horses is procured in the same way.

THE SERGEANT MAJOR.

541. THE sergeant major is the ranking non-commissioned officer of the regiment: he is appointed by the regimental commander. Each regiment in service is entitled to one sergeant major, and the nine new regiments of infantry are allowed one to each battalion.

542. The sergeant major assists the adjutant in the performance of his duties; he makes the details for guard, fatigue, &c. under his direction parades them, verifies the number required from each company, and sees that they are properly equipped for the duty for which they have been detailed.

543. He superintends the clerk, and assists him in making out the various returns, rolls, and reports required, and in keeping the books and records of the regiment.

544. He keeps the roster of the sergeants and corporals and of the various details for guard, fatigue, detachments, &c., and is responsible that these duties are equally required from the various companies.

545. He generally keeps the time at head-quarters, and sees that the musician detailed for the purpose at head-quarters sounds the calls at the proper time.

546. At orderly call, he returns the morning report books to the first sergeants, gives them the orders for the day, and furnishes them with the details required from their respective companies for the morrow. The orders, to be copied in the company order-book, are also furnished them.

547. In the absence of a drum-major or principal musician, the musicians of the companies are controlled and directed by him, and he attends to their instruction. He sees that they attend practice, and that they do not absent themselves without authority.

548. He keeps their roster for the various duties of orderly, guard, fatigue, &c.

550. At dress-parade, the sergeant major posts the left guide or marker, and, after all the companies have formed, he takes his post two paces on the extreme left of the regiment. When the guard or regiment marches in review, the sergeant marches on the left of the guard or rear platoon, two paces, or on the left of the rear company or platoon.

551. The sergeant major should be a model soldier for the rest of the regiment in his dress and military deportment. His example and punctual requirements of duty go far towards influencing a proper discipline in the regiment. If a due regard for the merits of the non-commissioned officers of the regiment is maintained, he will be the first to succeed to a commission in the regiment.

OBEDIENCE TO ORDERS.

644. OBEDIENCE to the orders of their superiors is enjoined upon officers and enlisted men, and the instances are extremely rare where an inferior can assume the responsibility of disobeying the orders of his superior The illegality of the orders may sometimes be so apparent that an inferior can assume the responsibility of disobeying them; but, as a rule, such a course would involve him in greater difficulties than to obey them.
    Obey.

645. Generally, however, soldiers are liable to act upon some erroneous impression that they are required to do more than their proper share of duty, and that, therefore, the officer has no right to require such duty from them. In such cases, the proper course for the soldier is to obey the order, and complain of the injustice of the treatment afterward. It must be an order manifestly illegal that can justify positive disobedience.
    Lesson : obey the order. Complain later.

647. An order, when it is legal, is binding upon the person to whom it is given, whether made by a corporal or a general. The latter has more power to enforce his order than the former, but obedience is due as much to one as to the other.
    Lesson : Orders are orders no matter the source.

648. In the execution of orders, much depends upon a correct understanding of them, as also upon giving them in a clear and decisive manner. A good officer, having a perfect understanding of what he wishes done, will give his orders in a clear and distinct manner, and will take pains to see that they are understood; whilst, on the other hand, a good soldier will not start to execute an order until he understands fully what he has got to do, and then, if conscientious, will execute it to the best of his ability.
    Lesson : Communicate.

649. Important orders should always be written; and non-commissioned officers and soldiers are recommended to carry a memorandum-book and pencil, and always write down their orders and instructions: It serves the memory, and the order is obtained correct.

ARTICLES OF WAR.

650. SOLDIERS should know that the Articles of War are a code of laws passed by Congress for the government of the army. The most of them prescribe penalties for certain crimes and offences. The Articles of War were nearly all passed at one time, but many laws have been made since, from time to time, that are of the same nature, and have all the force of the Articles of War.

651. Article 101 prescribes that the Articles of War shall be read and published once in every six months to every garrison, regiment, troop, or company mustered, or to be mustered, into the service of the United States. This article is rarely complied with, but no one can claim immunity from them because they have not been published as required. The Regulations for the Army are often confounded with the Articles of War; but they do not have the same force, and are liable to be changed at any time by the Secretary of War in general orders.

652. The following are all the Articles affecting soldiers; and they should be carefully read and studied by every enlisted man in the service. With the exception of 10, 20, and 87, they remain unchanged. The changes are indicated by the notes appended.

‘ART. 2. It is earnestly recommended to all officers and soldiers diligently to attend divine service; and all officers who shall behave indecently or irreverently at any place of divine worship shall, if commissioned officers, be brought before a general court-martial, there to be publicly and severely reprimanded by the President; if noncommissioned officers or soldiers, every person so offending shall, for his first offence, forfeit one-sixth of a dollar, to be deducted out of his next pay; for the second offence, he shall not only forfeit a like sum, but be confined twenty-four hours; and for every like offence, shall suffer and pay in like manner; which money, so forfeited, shall be applied, by the captain or senior officer of the troop or company, to the use of the sick soldiers of the company or troop to which the offender belongs.
    Go to church and mind your manners while there.

"ART. 3. Any non-commissioned officer or soldier who shall use any profane oath or execration, shall incur the penalties expressed in the foregoing article; and a commissioned officer shall forfeit and pay, for each and every such offense, one dollar, to be applied as in the preceding article.
    Wonder how often this penalty was imposed.

"ART. 5. Any officer or soldier who shall use contemptuous or disrespectful words against the President of the United States, against the Vice-President thereof, against the Congress of the United States, or against the Chief Magistrate or Legislature of any of the United States, in which he may be quartered, if a commissioned officer, shall be cashiered, or otherwise punished, as a court-martial shall direct; if a non-commissioned officer or soldier, he shall suffer such punishment as shall be inflicted on him by the sentence of a court-martial.
    Be respectful to members of the government.

"ART. 6. Any officer or soldier who shall behave himself with contempt or disrespect toward his commanding officer, shall be punished, according to the nature of his offence, by the judgment of a court-martial.
    Be respectful to the commanding officer.

"ART. 7. Any officer or soldier who shall begin, excite, cause, or join in, any mutiny or sedition, in any troop or company in the service of the United States, or in any party, post, detachment, or guard, shall suffer death, or such other punishment as by a court-martial shall be inflicted.
    Don’t create cliques and make trouble.

"ART. 8. Any officer, non-commissioned officer, or soldier, who being present at any mutiny or sedition, does not use his utmost endeavor to suppress the same, or, coming to the knowledge of any intended mutiny does not, without delay, give information thereof to his commanding officer, shall be punished by the sentence of a court martial with death, or otherwise, according to the nature of his offence.
    Don’t be considered an accomplice.

"ART. 9. Any officer or soldier who shall strike his superior officer, or draw or lift up any weapon, or offer any violence against him, being in the execution of his office, on any pretence whatsoever, or shall disobey any lawful command of his superior officer, shall suffer death, or such other punishment as shall, according to the nature of his offence, be inflicted upon him by the sentence of a court-martial.
    Don’t assault or disobey the officers.

"ART. 11. After a non-commissioned officer or soldier shall have been duly enlisted and sworn, he shall not be dismissed the service without a discharge in writing; and no discharge granted to him shall be sufficient which is not signed by a field officer of the regiment to which he belongs, or commanding officer, where no field officer of the regiment is present; and no discharge shall be given to a non-commissioned officer or soldier before his term of service has expired, but by order of the President, the Secretary of War, the commanding officer of a department, or the sentence of a general court-martial; nor shall a commissioned officer be discharged the service but by order of the President of the United States, or by sentence of a general court-martial.
    Don’t quit the service without the proper paperwork.

"ART. 20. All officers and soldiers who have received pay, or have been duly enlisted in the service of the United States, and shall be convicted of having deserted the same, shall suffer death, or such other punishment as, by sentence of a court-martial, shall be inflicted.
    Living history opportunity here.

"ART. 21. Any non-commissioned officer or soldier who shall, without leave from his commanding officer, absent himself from his troop, company, or detachment, shall upon being convicted thereof, be punished according to the nature of his offence, at the discretion of a court-martial.
    Don’t be absent without permission.

"ART. 22. No non-commissioned officer or soldier shall enlist himself in any other regiment, troop, or company, without a regular discharge from the regiment, troop, or company in which he last served, on the penalty of being reputed a deserter, and suffering accordingly. And in case any officer shall knowingly receive and entertain such noncommissioned officer or soldier, or shall not, after his being discovered to be a deserter, immediately confine him, and give notice thereof to the corps in which he last served, the said officer shall, by a court-martial, be cashiered.
    Don’t hop from company to company.

"ART. 24. No officer or soldier shall use any reproachful or provoking speeches or gestures to another, upon pain, if an officer, of being put in arrest; if a soldier, confined, and of asking pardon of the party offended in the presence of his commanding officer.
    Play nice.

"ART. 25. No officer or soldier shall send a challenge to another officer or soldier, to fight a duel, or accept a challenge if sent, upon pain, if a commissioned officer, of being cashiered; if a non-commissioned officer or soldier, if suffering corporal punishment, at the discretion of a court-martial.
    Dueling Prohibited!

"ART. 26. If any commissioned or non-commissioned officer commanding a guard shall knowingly or willingly suffer any person whatsoever to go forth to fight a duel, he shall be punished as a challenger; and all seconds, promoters, and carriers of challenges, in order to duels, shall be deemed principals, and be punished accordingly. And it shall be the duty of every officer commanding an army, regiment, company, post, or detachment, who is knowing to a challenge being given or accepted by any officer, noncommissioned officer, or soldier, under his command, or has reason to believe the same to be the case, immediately to arrest and bring to trial such offenders.
    Assisting duelers is also prohibited.

"ART. 27. All officers, of what condition so ever, have power to part and quell all quarrels, frays, and disorders, though the persons concerned should belong to another regiment, troop, or company; and either to order officers into arrest, or non-commissioned officers or soldiers into confinement, until their proper superior officers shall be acquainted therewith; and whosoever shall refuse to obey such officer (though of an inferior rank), or shall draw his sword upon him, shall be punished at the discretion of a general court-martial.
    Play nice.

"ART. 28. Any officer or soldier who shall upbraid another for refusing a challenge, shall himself be punished as a challenger; and all officers and soldiers are hereby discharged from any disgrace or opinion of disadvantage which might arise from their having refused to accept of challenges, as they will only have acted in obedience to the laws, and done their duty as good soldiers who subject themselves to discipline.
    Don’t duel.

SUTLERS

"ART. 29. No sutler shall be permitted to sell any kind of liquors or victuals, or to keep their houses or shops open for the entertainment of soldiers after nine at night, or before the beating of the reveille, or upon Sundays, during divine service or sermon, on the penalty of being dismissed from all future sutling.
    But at all other times, it’s okay.

"ART. 30. All officers commanding in the field, forts, barracks, or garrisons of the United States, are hereby required to see that the persons permitted to sutler shall supply the soldiers with good and wholesome provisions, or other articles, at a reasonable price, as they shall be answerable for their neglect.
    Another living history opportunity.

"ART. 32. Every officer commanding in quarters, garrisons, or on the march, shall keep good order, and, to the utmost of his power, redress all abuses or disorders which may be committed by any officer or soldier under his command; if, upon complaint made to him of officers or soldiers beating or otherwise ill-treating any person or disturbing fairs or markets, or committing any kind or riots, to the disquieting of the citizens of the United States, he, the said commander, who shall refuse or omit to see justice done to the offender or offenders, and reparation made to the party or parties injured, as far as part of the offender’s pay shall enable him or them, shall, upon proof thereof, be cashiered, or otherwise punished, as a general court-martial shall direct.
    Keep the peace.

"ART. 35. If any inferior officer or soldier shall think himself wronged by his captain or other officer, he is to complain thereto to the commanding officer of the regiment, who is hereby required to summon a regimental court martial, for the doing justice to the complainant; from which regimental court-martial either party may, if he thinks himself still aggrieved, appeal to a general court-martial. But if, upon a second hearing, the appeal shall appear vexatious and groundless, the person so appealing shall be punished at the discretion of the said court-martial.
    You may have the right to complain, but it may not be a good idea.

"ART. 37. Any non-commissioned officer or soldier who shall be convicted at a regimental court-martial of having sold, or designedly, or through neglect, wasted the ammunition delivered out to him, to be employed in the service of the United States, shall be punished at the dis cretion of such court.
    Don’t waste ammo.

"ART. 38. Every non-commissioned officer or soldier who shall be convicted before a court-martial of having sold, lost, or spoiled, through neglect, his horse, arms, clothes, or accoutrements, shall undergo such weekly stoppages (not exceeding the half of his pay) as such court-martial shall judge sufficient, for repairing the loss or damage; and shall suffer confinement, or such other corporeal punishment as his crime shall deserve.
    Cause spoilage, expect garnishment.

"ART. 39. Every officer who shall be convicted before a court-martial of having embezzled or misapplied any money with which he may have been entrusted, for the payment of the men under his command, or for enlisting men into the service, or for other purposes, if a commissioned officer, shall be cashiered, and compelled to refund the money; if a non-commissioned officer, shall be reduced to the ranks, be put under stoppages until the money be made good, and suffer such corporeal punishment as such court-martial shall direct.
    Don’t embezzle.

"ART. 40. Every captain of a troop or company is charged with the arms, accoutrements, ammunition, clothing, or other warlike stores belonging to the troop or company under his command, which he is to be accountable for to his colonel in case of their being lost, spoiled, or damaged, not by unavoidable accidents, or on actual service.
    Many a new captain found himself in trouble over this article.

"ART. 41. All non-commissioned officers and soldiers who shall be found one mile from the camp without leave, in writing, from their commanding officer, shall suffer such punishment as shall be inflicted upon them by the sentence of a court-martial.
    Don’t stray.

"ART. 42. No officer or soldier shall lie out of his quarters, garrison, or camp, without leave from his superior officer, upon penalty of being punished according to the nature of his offence, by the sentence of a court-martial.
    Get permission first.

"ART. 43. Every non-commissioned officer and soldier shall retire to his quarters or tent at the beating of the retreat; in default of which he shall be punished according to the nature of his offence.
    Don’t prowl.

"ART. 44. No officer, non-commissioned officer, or soldier shall fail in repairing, at the time fixed, to the place of parade, of exercise, or other rendezvous appointed by his commanding officer, if not prevented by sickness or some other evident necessity, or shall go from the said place of rendezvous without leave from his commanding officer, before he shall be regularly dismissed or relieved, on the penalty of being punished, according to the nature of his offence, by the sentence of a court-martial.
    Be prompt and timely.

"ART. 45. Any commissioned officer who shall be found drunk on his guard, party, or other duty, shall be cashiered. Any non-commissioned officer or soldier so offending shall suffer such corporeal punishment as shall be inflicted by the sentence of a court-martial.
    Guards don’t drink and/or sleep on duty.

"ART. 46. Any sentinel who shall be found sleeping upon his post, or shall leave it before he shall be regularly relieved, shall suffer death, or such other punishment as shall be inflicted by the sentence of a court-martial.
    Don’t be a slacker.

"ART. 47. No soldier belonging to any regiment, troop, or company shall hire another to do his duty for him, or be excused from duty but in cases of sickness, disability, or leave of absence; and every such soldier found guilty of hiring his duty, as also the party so hired to do another’s duty, shall be punished at the discretion of a regimental court-martial.
    Do your duty when called.

"ART. 48. And every non-commissioned officer conniving at such hiring of duty aforesaid, shall be reduced; and every commissioned officer knowing and allowing such ill practices in the service, shall be punished by the judgment of a general court-martial.
    Don’t pay someone to do your duty. Living history opportunity here.

"ART. 50. Any officer or soldier who shall, without urgent necessity, or without the leave of his superior officer, quit his guard, platoon, or division, shall be punished according to the nature of his offence, by the sentence of a court-martial.
    No one likes quitters.

"ART. 52. Any officer or soldier who shall misbehave himself before the enemy, run away, or shamefully abandon any fort, post, or guard which he or they may be commanded to defend, or speak words inducing others to do the like, or shall cast away his arms and ammunition, or who shall quit his post or colors to plunder and pillage every such offender, being duly convicted thereof shall suffer death, or such other punishment as shall be ordered by the sentence of a general court-martial.
    The coward and thief clause.

"ART. 53. Any person belonging to the armies of the United States who shall make known the watchword to any person who is not entitled to receive it according to the rules and discipline of war, or shall presume to give a parole or watchword different from what he received shall suffer death, or such other punishment as shall be ordered by the sentence of a general court-martial.
    Might as well hand the keys to the enemy.

"ART. 54. All officers and soldiers are to behave themselves orderly in quarters and on their march; and whoever shall commit any waste or spoil, either in walks of trees, parks, warrens, fish-ponds, houses, or gardens, cornfields enclosures of meadows, or shall maliciously destroy any property whatsoever belonging to the inhabitants of the United States, unless by order of the then commander-in-chief of the armies of the said States, shall (besides such penalties as they are liable to by law) be punished according to the nature and degree of the offence, by the judgment of a regimental or general court-martial.
    Mind your manners.

"ART. 55. Whosoever, belonging to the armies of the United States in foreign parts, shall force a safeguard, shall suffer death.
    Respect the citizenry.

"ART. 56. Whosoever shall relieve the enemy with money, victuals, or ammunition, or shall knowingly harbor or protect an enemy, shall suffer death, or such other punishment as shall be ordered by the sentence of a court-martial.
    But don’t respect your enemies.

"ART. 57. Whosoever shall be convicted of holding correspondence with, or giving intelligence to, the enemy, either directly or indirectly, shall suffer death, or such other punishment as shall be ordered by the sentence of a court-martial.
    Don’t communicate with the enemy.

"ART. 58. All public stores taken in the enemy’s camp, towns, forts, or magazines, whether of artillery, ammunition, clothing, forage, or provisions, shall be secured for the service of the United States; for the neglect of which the commanding officer is to be answerable.
    Enemy property captured must be redistributed fairly. Don’t be keeping anything for yourself.

"ART. 59. If any commander of any garrison, fortress, or post shall be compelled, by the officers and soldiers under his command, to give up to the enemy, or to abandon it, the commissioned officers, non-commissioned officers, or soldiers who shall be convicted of having so offended, shall suffer death, or such other punishment as shall be inflicted upon them by the sentence of a court-martial.
    The commanding officer can surrender his fort or army, but his soldiers cannot. See, above for Mutiny.

"ART. 60. All sutlers and retainers to the camp, and all persons whatsoever, serving with the armies of the United States in the field, though not enlisted soldiers, are to be subject to orders, according to the rules and discipline of war.
    It’s in the contract.

"ART. 67. No garrison or regimental court-martial shall have the power to try capital cases or commissioned officers; neither shall they inflict a fine exceeding one month’s pay, nor imprison, nor put to hard labor, any noncommissioned officer or soldier for a longer time than one month.
    This keeps field officers from letting their heads get too big.

"ART. 70. When a prisoner, arraigned before a general court-martial, shall, from obstinacy and deliberate design, stand mute, or answer foreign to the purpose, the court may proceed to trial and judgment as if the prisoner had regularly pleaded not guilty.
    Afterall, the right to remain silent is in the Constitution.

"ART. 76. No person whatsoever shall use any menacing words, signs, or gestures, in presence of a court-martial or shall cause any disorder or riot, or disturb their proceedings, on the penalty of being punished at the discretion of the said court-martial.
    Mind your manners.

"ART. 78. Non-commissioned officers and soldiers, charged with crimes, shall be confined until tried by court martial, or released by proper authority.
    Prevents arbitrary confinement.

"ART. 79. No officer or soldier who shall be put in arrest shall continue in confinement more than eight days; or until such time as a court-martial can be assembled.

"ART. 80. No officer commanding a guard, or provost marshal, shall refuse to receive or keep any prisoner committed to his charge by an officer belonging to the forces of the United States; provided the officer committing shall, at the same time, deliver an account in writing, signed by himself, of the crime with which the said prisoner is charged.
    Cannot just dump prisoners on another entity without completing the proper paperwork.

"ART. 81. No officer commanding a guard, or provost marshal, shall presume to release any person committed to-his charge without proper authority for so doing, nor shall he suffer any person to escape, on the penalty of being punished for it by the sentence of a court-martial.
    Once you accept, you cannot release without proper authority.

"ART. 82. Every officer or provost marshal, to whose charge prisoners shall be committed, shall, within twenty-four hours after such commitment, or as soon as he shall be relieved from his guard, make report in writing, to the commanding officer, of their names, their crimes, and the names of the officers who committed them, on the penalty of being punished for disobedience or neglect, at the discretion of a court-martial.
    More work for the clerks.

"ART. 83. Any commissioned officer convicted before a general court martial of conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman, shall be dismissed the service.
    Mind your manners.

"ART. 85. In all cases where a commissioned officer is cashiered for cowardice or fraud, it shall be added in the sentence, that the crime, name, and place of abode, and punishment of the delinquent, be published in the newspapers in and about the camp, and of the particular State from which the offender came, or where he usually resides; after which it shall be deemed scandalous for an officer to associate with him.
    Everyone will know about the cowardice and no one will associate with you.

"ART. 86. The commanding officer of any post or detachment, in which there shall not be a number of officers adequate to form a general court martial, shall, in cases which require the cognizance of such a court, report to the commanding officer of the department, who shall order a court to be assembled at the nearest post or department, and the party accused, with necessary witnesses, to be transported to the place where the said court shall be assembled.

Insures fairness, but someone might be confined too long waiting for justice.

"ART. 87. No person shall be sentenced to suffer death but by the concurrence of two-thirds of the members of a general court-martial, nor except in the cases herein expressly mentioned; nor shall more than fifty lashes be inflicted on any offender, at the discretion of a court martial; and no officer, non-commissioned officer, soldier, or follower of the army, shall be tried a second time for the same offense.
    The lash is still in the regulations.

"ART. 88. No person shall be liable to be tried and punished by a general court-martial for any offence which shall appear to have been committed more than two years before the issuing of the order for such trial, unless the person, by reason of having absented himself, or some other manifest impediment, shall not have been amenable to justice within that period.
    Something of a statute of limitations rule with the usual exceptions.

"ART. 95. When any non-commissioned officer or soldier shall die, or be killed in the service of the United States, the then commanding officer of the troop or company shall, in the presence of two other commissioned officers, take an account of what effects he died possessed of, above his arms and accoutrements, and transmit the same to the Department of War, which said effects are to be accounted for and paid to the representatives of such deceased noncommissioned officer or soldier. And in case any of the officers, so authorized to take care of the effects of deceased officers and soldiers, should, before they have accounted to their representatives for the same, have occasion to leave the regiment or post, by preferment or otherwise, they shall, before they be permitted to quit the same, deposit in the hands of the commanding officer, or of the assistant military agent, all the effects of such deceased non-commissioned officers and soldiers in order that the same may be secured for, and paid to, their respective representatives.

"ART. 97. The officers and soldiers of any troops, whether militia or others, being mustered and in pay of the United States, shall, at all times and in all places, when joined or acting in conjunction with the regular forces of the United States, be governed by these rules and Articles of War, and shall be subject to be tried by courts-martial, in like manner with the officers and soldiers in the regular forces; save only that such courts-martial shall be composed entirely of militia officers.
    "You’re in the army now..."

"ART. 99. All crimes not capital, and all disorders and neglects which officers and soldiers may be guilty of to the prejudice of good order and military discipline, though not mentioned in the foregoing Articles of War, are to be taken cognizance of by a general or regimental court-martial, according to the nature and degree of the offence, and be punished at their discretion.
    Something not listed here may still be included if it ought to have been here.

"ART. 101. The foregoing articles are to be read and published, once in every six months, to every garrison, regiment, troop, or company, mustered, or to be mustered, in the service of the United States, and are to be duly observed and obeyed by all officers and soldiers who are, or shall be, in said service."

BATTLE.

662. IN battle, men are apt to lose their self possession, and do very absurd things. They rarely take good aim, unless they have been in battles before. Raw troops are liable to panics, and become completely uncontrollable; and this will happen sometimes to veterans.
    Sounds just like reenactments.