Norwich bulletin., 1917-07-21

spot for a camp, It Is miles long and varies from 200 yards to miles m width, containing rolling and hilly surfaces heavy timber at one end and ponds constituting excellent ter rain" for order drills, outpost, picket and advance guard problems, skirm- ishes of 200 cadets each
 Plattsburg men as well as regular army officers prove effective trainers for the cadets. All classes regardless of religion or nationality meet here to learn the great life-needed lesson of manhood, strength and stability and the cleanliness and honor of giving their best to themselves as well as to their country.
 surge from the steamers dock ruov- ing in two masses, one toward Cast Camp, the other to Hill Camp. As signed to company streets, the report is given to their officers of names schooling or employment, etc. Lead CTS of squads of eight cadets each are apointed and assigned to tents con- taining eight cots each and this starts the team work so effective later on.
 The following day. regular routine begins for the five weeks of training. Bugle sounds for reveille at 5:40 a. m. At each company forms for assembly and roll-call, followed by 10 minutes of calisthenics, breathing ex- ercises or short runs. Then wash-up and breakfast. to which in columns of two, they march to mess-sha acks. Re
 
 fast eating and indigestion. Between ' and is the chance to visit the doc tor for any treatment, such as foot blisters or any required need. The tents are also cleaned as well as the streets, followed by drill from to 10. half-hour rest. then second drill of one hour, another half-hour rest and dinner at 12.
 The afternoon drill from 1 to 23o is composed of visits and talks in the a Yfi m demonstrate the operations. of the great guns and mortars and other in- struments. Courses in radio-tele- grapfy, signalling. gas engines, searchlights and map -sketching, Is given also. At 3.30 swimming les- sons are given under supervision. Recreation in baseball tennis and track games are indulged in Supper at 5.30 and at 6, companies are as- sembled and marched to Retreat on parade grounds when the sunset gun is fired and motionleSS companies are al attention" while the Star Span gled Banner is played and Old Glory is lowered
 This simple and impressive cere- mony inspires patriotism and respect for the flag. At army posts, every cadet must, at Retreat stop and stand attention" facing the flag; as well as any visitors on the island must also show the same respect. After Retreat come boxing matches supervised by OIlceTS to cOnITOl 1dlr play. call 10 quarters at 9.15 followed by Taps 15 minutes later, finds lights out and every cadet in bed without distur- bance or conversation. Duty officers make the rounds with pocket flash lights.
 The second week in camp. night duty is preceded by ceremony of guard mounting. In rotation squads furnish sentries between 7.30 and midnight after g, challenging or halt f11ai Numerous tests are made to insure strict orders. The rudiments given the first week are followed by serving out rifles. regular army rifles without bayonets. Ten days of drill results in evening parade, exhibiting smartness and finish and splendid marching that delights the officers. Drills lead up to small manoeuvers and skirmishes and platoon work is explained, giving substantial and excellent results. Also special attention of mechanism and care of rifles comes later. bringing frequent inspections. Camp inspec- train the boys efficiently in personal neatness, cleanliness and order.
 On Sunday there is no work of any kind Religious services arc held and the remainder of the day is devoted to visitors, with a band concert in the afternoon. The Retreat is held as usual The Y. M. c. A renders val uable assistance by arranging various religious services. dispatching and delivering the heavy mai, matters, providing free moving picture enter tainments, and holding athletic meets. as well as supervising the safety of swimming periods and the health in general
 General Wood and Theodore Roose- welt have visited the camp and given valuable and inspiring talks to the cadets.
 Keen rivalry exists among compan- nf inor of fcers as to the straightness of the lines, marching swing, etc. and the general verdict is that "Plattsburg has nothing on the cadets" The mill itary discipline and excellent drills show the strict control exercised over them.
 Frequent glimpses of squadrons or destroyers and torpedo boats, man oeuVering in Gardiner's Bay are pie turesque features of Plum Island, where exhibitions of submersion of submarines is occasionally given.
 A sham battle. with blank ammuni- before the breaking up of camp, and by Col. Hero, rouses the keenest interest and rivalry among the officers and cadets. Although no decision as to victory Is made, crit icisms are given by the umpire, Col | Hero.
 In breaking up, methodical care is exercised in carefully cleaning and re- turning care1ully checkeQ-ln the pro perty and arm of Uncle Sam Bed ding is neatly piled and all baggage | ready for departure. Orderly em- barkation is followed by enthusiastic i cheers as the sturdy, we'll groomed | and greatly improved brown uniform | ed figures cargo themselves aboard | the boat. conscious of having gained | and conquered a great and enduring | lesson from the camp which they are | loathe to leave.
 If you have never been to Plum Is | land during the camping season do | so. There Is much for all to learn | there.