Fairmont High School - Maple Leaves Yearbook (Fairmont, WV)

Page 8 text:

drived with much joy; at other times announcements of fierce conflicts ahead were made. The bulletin contained such things as the official statement for to day,” and any other affairs which were to be announced to the soldiers. As messages were frequently sent to the soldiers at their various posts, they soon looked upon the “wireless depart- ment” as an important factor. Sometimes these messages were received with great pleasure, but at other times through the wireless, the soldiers were summoned to a court martial which in many cases was not so pleasant. During the term of fighting the soldiers took great interest in the drills and as a result proved themselves almost unconquerable in this department. At these drills the soldiers would give their battle cry and battle songs which were very interesting to the spectators. At a few of the drills, the military band rendered martial music. The relief corps was one of the very best and throughout the year proved itself of great aid to the wounded. Occasionally a soldier was known to desert his work, probably a forty-five min- ute period of training, but on the next day lie was met with retribution administered by the major general and was forced to present his captain a written document sign- ed by the major general, explaining the nature and cause of his absence. If this was accepted, the soldier was allowed to resume his position. Often during the fighting a bomb wa s dropped into the ranks, but on account of the major general’s skill in handling such cases, very little harm resulted. Throughout the year the infantry did great work but another section of the army was likewise in evidence. This was the cavalry. The fleet-footed ponies of- fered exceedingly quick transportation (translation) to the soldiers in their journeys through the Oerman ami French ter- ritory. It was in the wars with Caesar, however, that the services of the cavalry were most efficient. By their aid many victories were won which showed the real significance of this department. As the war occurred in the year of 1914-1915 perhaps many peo- ple will think that only the newest war supplies were used. But such was not the case, as a great many insisted on the old method of “Using Powder.” They differed from our ancestors, however, by carrying it in leather cases rather than powder horns. During the year a great many furloughs were granted, which always received with much pleasure. This battle was fought for nine long months. But finally a treaty was made. The battle had come to an end. The oldest soldiers who had spent four years in the army were honorably dismissed, with their names placed on the Roll of Honor. The other soldiers on account of their faithful work were promoted to a higher company. Many hard- ships and obstacles had appeared, but the soldiers realizing the importance of a victory over the enemy and being determined to win. had proven themselves unconquerable.

Page 7 text:

FOREWORD On the morning of September 8, 1.M4 all Fairmont was silent. A mighty calamity had arisen. Young men ami boys w -rc standing here and there on the streets apparently discussing a very exciting subject. Across the top of the morning pa- per was written in large letters. “War.” A great battle was prophesied. The commander in chief and other officers had lulled for volunteers. From all directions young people were seen bravely leaving their homes on their way to the battle- field. which waf situated on Fifth Street, near I tenon i Avenue. Some were fresh recruits while others had been enlisted in the army for some time. A great many of the recruits when entering the Held seemed rather backward as they were upon a strange ground and among so many experienced soldiers. However, they soon inquired about the recruiting station where they entered and enlisted. The major gen- eral seemed very kind and after a short talk, informed them that they were to enter the infantry. By about 9:00 A. M. fully 450 soldiers had assembled in one portion of the Held. Here interesting addresses were given by both the major general and the commander in chief, explaining the importance of victory and the plan of battle. About noon all sol- diers were dismissed. Bright and early on the following morning the troops reported for duty. They again assembled in one place and each soldier was assign- ed to a captain. The captains then led the soldiers into different portions of the Held which they were to guard. Here the captain assigned to each one work which he was to do. This being thoroughly explained the soldiers were again dismissed. Oil the following morning the Held was covered with inspired soldiers. Suddenly a mysterious noise was heard and all the soldiers arose from their positions and marched into different parts of the Held. Many of the recruits became greatly amazed, but after inquiring found that this was the first signal announcing that they were to report to their captains at this time. Hereupon the roll was called and the announcements were given. When the second signal was heard, each soldier went to the supply house where he was furnished with ammunition. The sold iers. being eager to use their new supplies, immediately went to their various | ositions and it was then that they did their first fight- ing. After more than three hours of continuous fighting, some of the soldiers retired to the camp kitchen where lunch was served. After this the soldiers resumed their posi- tions and fought until late in the afternoon. As the battles progressed it was seen that they were fought with great zeal and enthusiasm; it was also evident that the sol diers were deriving much pleasure from their work. It was not long until the soldiers began to realize the significance of the camp bulletin. As a result, the first thing done upon their entrance to tin field was a general survey of the hul letin. Sometimes it announced a furlough, an item that was re-

Page 9 text:

FAIRMONT HIGH SCHOOL