Page 87 - history-of-military-units-in-columbia-county-fl-(1970)-robert-gary-shields

History of Military Units in Columbia County, FL (1970) Robert Gary Shields

REPORTS ON INSPECTIONS

1902

Adj. Gen. inspection
Company "H" , 1st Infantry, was inspected Sept. 9. Only a very
few were present, but this was explained in a measure, by the fact
that a great many of the original enlistments had expired the month
previous. The clothing was in fair condition, but the appearance of
the men could have been improved had more attention been given to
securing uniformity. Collars were not of the prescribed style; cap
ornaments were not worn by all; some had their blouses unbuttoned
at the neck; and one appeared without leggins. Instruction was
good. The armory is rented by the County; the assembly room is of good
size, and there are two large store rooms, but the roof leaks, and
the building is in much need of repair. Many of the lockers were
broken. Money and property accounts were kept, but no Company
letter and order books. No Summary Court had been appointed. The
commanding officer assured the inspector that immediate steps would
be taken to recruit the Company up.

1904
Adj. Gen. inspection

Company "H", 1st Infantry, presented a fair appearance.
Percentage of attendance not good, and proper attention not given
by the men to their personal appearance, and to securing uniformity
in dress. Arms good. The armory is located in second story of large
brick building. Sufficient drill and storing room, but badly out of
repair, and in some respects believed to be unsafe. New quarters
should be secured as soon as possible.
Federal inspection
Company "H,r, General appearance, good, except 2 men wearing
civilian trousers; uniform worn, but serviceable; condition of
arms, good. In drills, fairly proficient. Has had some extended
order drill, also target practice - once for record.

1905 *

State inspection
Company "H", 1st Infantry, at Lake City, presented a good
appearance, although the attendance was poor. Out of an aggregate
membership of 75 men, there were only 39 present. It is believed that
the large number of absentees was due Lc partially to the failure
of the Company Commander to discharge men who have permanently removed
from the post, and whose terms of enlistments have expired. This
is a criticism which can be made not only of this company, but will
apply to a majority of other organizations; and such neglect upon
the part of the Company Commander has been the means of giving
their organizations a very poor percentage of attendance at this
inspection. The armory is located on the.second floor of a brick
building. It has a large assembly room and suitable store rooms, and
the quarters, seem to be very well adapted for military purposes.

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