California Militia and National
Guard Unit Histories
San Francisco Home Guard
(The Old Guard, 1st Regiment,
California Home Guard; 85th, 86th, 87th and 91st Companies, California
Home Guard)
1st Regiment,
California Home Guard
A majority of the documentation here
comes from the December 22, 1917 issue of the California Home
Guard News
Joining the
Home Guard:
Interesting
Description of San Francisco's First Regiment Activity
by William S. Scott
Chairman
Senate Committee on Military Affairs
Adjutant 1st Battalion, First Regiment San Francisco Home Guard
The people of this country should by this time realize the
necessity of adequate military training for all the young men
of the nation. Less attention will be paid in the future to the
soothing doctrines of the well intentioned but misguided pacifists
who have been responsible for the lamentably unprepared condition
in which we found ourselves when it became plain that Germany
was determined to force us into the terrible world-war.
The Germans knew that the United States had but little military
equipment, that our stores of ammunition were nil, that we had
but few trained officers and soldiers, and, therefore, they felt
that they could destroy our commerce and murder our women and
children on the high seas with impunity.
If Germany had known
that every man of military age in the United States was trained
in the school of the soldier, and that every one of those men
was provided with a high powered rifle that he knew how to use
effectively, that there was an abundance of ammunition on hand
for each of those rifles, that a sufficient number of those men
were highly trained as officers who could lead our troops successfully
in battle, and if the Germans had known that the United States
had an adequate navy with all its necessary auxiliaries and a
merchant marine that could be used to transport troops, they
very probably would never have taken the liberties with us that
they did. If the United States had been prepared as she should
have been it is likely that there would have been no world war,
and if there had, it would never have reached the awful proportions
that it has, and thousands of happy American homes would not
be in deep mourning, as they will be before this terrible war
is ended.
It is the same old
story, we have closed the stable door after the horse was stolen-and
history has repeated itself as it has done in all the wars of
our Republic.
It is gratifying to witness the splendid manner in which our
country is now rallying to the colors, the colors that have been
tattered and torn, but that have never been lowered, and that
never will be lowered, no matter how much disloyalty is shown
to them by a certain element of our people.
All over our nation today young men are being hastily trained
as officers, and at the many large army camps throughout the
country the very flower of the youth of our land is being hurriedly
taught the Art of War, not for the purpose of aggression, but
in defense of democracy.
The layman has but a vague idea of the amount of training necessary
to perfect a soldier. Modern combat demands the highest order
of training, discipline, leadership and morale upon the part
of an army which must be fit to cope successfully with all conditions
that may arise. The leaders must possess selfreliance, initiative,
aggressiveness, and a thorough conception of team work, and in
order to lighten the severe physical strain which of necessity
falls upon the troops they must make constant efforts to spare
them unnecessary hardship and fatigue, they must look carefully
after the mental and physical welfare of the men under their
command, they must know the capacity and traits of the men they
command, and, above all, they must not needlessly sacrifice their
men by leading them into combats that do not promise success.
The rank and file must have the tenacity to hold every advantage
gained, they must have the individual and collective discipline
and skill necessary to overcome the enemy, they must have the
dogged determination to close with the enemy in attack and to
meet him vigorouslv with the bayonet in defense.
Every soldier must possess good health, vigorous physique, keen
eyesight, presence of mind, and courage with good judgment, military
training and experience. It is of such men that the American
Army is composed, and they will surely uphold the best traditions
of our Republic. It takes time to develop and perfect these qualities
in men, and I hope after this war is ended our country will adopt
universal military training, so we may always have an adequate
trained force to protect us from invasion or aggression.
Now, that our Regular Army, our National Guard, and our National
Army are either in France or are on their way over there,"
the spirit of '76 and of '61 and of '98 is pervading those of
us who, for various reasons, are unable to rally to the colors
on a foreign shore.
Throughout the nation the Home Guard companies, battalions and
regiments are being organized and drilled in military science
for the purpose of having an auxiliary military force upon which
the various State governments may depend for support in cases
of need.
This action on the
part of thousands of patriotic citizens shows how thoroughly
our people are becoming aroused to the necessity of supporting
the President and their State authorities.
All over California splendid Home Guard companies are flourishing.
In San Francisco, Colonel F. F. Canon, former Assistant Adjutant-General
of California; Lieutenant-Colonel Thos. A. Nerney ; Captain Louis
Graf, and other patriots, have organized a regiment of twelve
companies of Home Guards with a machine gun company, a hospital
detachment, and a regimental band.This regiment is composed of
Grand Army men, Spanish War Veterans, former National Guardsmen,
and hundreds of citizens between the ages of eighteen and sixty
years, all imbued with a determination to help win the war. Among
the number are many young men of draft age who are receiving
their preliminary military training, which will assist them and
make them more valuable to the Government when they enter the
National Army.
The wives of the rnembers have formed an auxiliary Red Cross
Association, and on Monday and Tuesday evenings of each week
they visit the armory at 14th and Mission Streets, and while
the men are drilling as soldiers, the women are industriously
knitting garments for the American Red Cross Society to be sent
to the boys "over there."
Immediately upon my
return from Presidio I joined the twelfth company of Colonel
Canon's Home Guard regiment, where I am glad to assist in training
our citizens to be of use to our Government.
On Tuesday evening,
December 4th, in company with Hon. Chester H. Rowell, Judge Thos.
F. Graham and Senator Lester G. Burnett, I visited the armory
and witnessed a drill and review of the regiment. They made a
splendid showing. The officers were efficient, the men were well
trained, and the band, under the direction of Leader W. D. J.
Murphv, rendered inspiring music. We recognized among the personnel
many of the leading citizens of San Francisco.
After the drill and review Col. Canon assembled the officers
in the headquarters, where the visitors addressed them. Each
expressed himself as surprised and pleased to behold such an
excellent military body, and they pointed out the various needs
for such an organization, wishing them every success, and assuring
the regiment of their support.
WILLIAM S. SCOTT,
Chairman Senate Committee
on Military Affairs.
First Regiment,
San Francisco, California Home Guard
F. F.
CANON, Commanding
Formerly the Assistant Adjutant-General of California
OUR COLONEL
WHEN it came to the choice of an officer to foster and lead
the movement which has resulted in the formation of San Francisco's
regiment of "Home Guards," the line, field
and staff officers of that organization made no mistake in selecting
Colonel F. F. Canon, National Guard of California, retired, as
their Commanding Officer.
As a drill-master or executive, as an organizer or arbitrator,
and a man of tactfulness and zeal, Colonel Canon, by effectiveness
and enthusiasm of purpose, has demonstrated his fitness to command.
It would be well to look into the Colonel's "past,"
and taking his record of military efficiency as a guide, we learn
At the outbreak of the Spanish-American War he became Private
F. F. Canon, Co. "F," 6th California Infantry, U. S.
Volunteers, where he served until the close of the war, until
honorably discharged by the Fderal Government.
When the California National Guard was re-organized, 'following
the close of the war, he presented himself for service, and was
enlisted in Co. "E," 2nd Infantry, N. G. C., at Sacramento,
California, on April 29, 1899, and on May 3rd of the same year
was promoted to thegrade of Corporal. He was advanced to the
grade of Sergeant the following February, and served at this
rank until August 1, 1.903, when he was chosen First Lieutenant
in the same company. On the 12th of August, 1905, Lieut. Canon
was promoted to the grade of Captain, and placed in command of
Co. "E." Here he served five years as a company commander,
when he was again promoted to the grade of Major, and given command
of the 1st Battalion, 2nd Infantry, N. G. C. Major Canon's service
in the 2nd Infantry, N. G. C., was terminated on January 11,
1911, and he was rewarded by being commissioned a Colonel, and
appointed the Assistant Adjutant-General, State of California.
Col. Canon served his term of office until 1915, when he was
placed on the retired list of California National Guard Officers.
Colonel Canon has other active service besides his participation
in the Spanish American War. This includes service, of an executive
nature, in San Francisco, incident to the earthquake of 1906,
and also at McCloud, California, in 1909, where he aided the
civil authorities to establish law and order. When the late Brig.-Gen.
E. A. Forbes and State Senator W. S. Scott (Lieut. W. S. Scott)
fostered and legislated the provisions of the High School Cadet
bill through the State Legislature, Colonel Canon was the officer
chosen to carry out the provisions of that law. His activities
in connection with the first of the "Training Camps"
in 1913, was another demonstration of Colonel Canon's ability
as anorganizer and executive.
This movement, from
its inception, lacked the moral support of our citizens, and
was successfully accomplished.
Your regiment is to be congratulated upon the choice of this
officer as your Colonel. He brings to you the ideas and methods
of the progressive student of military matters-gained through
personal experience as a company officer, a field officer, and
also as a staff officer. In Colonel Canon, you will come to recognize
a regimental commander with all those prerequisites that distinguish.
FIRST REGIMENT NOTES
Major Abram M. Marks, First Battalion California Home Guard.
Enlisted Co. G, 2nd Infantry, N. G. C., 1906, serving through
the different non-commissioned grades. Transferred to Co. E,
2nd Infantry, N. G. C., where he was elected First Lieutenant,
taking command of the s company upon the election of Colonel
(there Captain) Canon to the rank of Major of the Battalion.
First Company
First Company is very
fortunate in having at its head a man of such personal influence
and acquaintance as Capt. Louis Graf. Capt. Graf was an officer
of the Ninth Co. Coast Artillery. He was instrumental in organizing
this company, and served them long with high credit. He has succeeded
in making the first company of our Regiment one of the most promising,
and is ably assisted by First Lieutenant Sykes, an old guardsman,
who in public life is Fire Commissioner of San Francisco. The
entire Regiment is under many obligations to Lieut. Sykes for
his untiring energy inpromoting its marvelous growth. Second
Lieutenant of the First Co. is C.B. Stebbins, known as the live
wire, not only of the company but the entire Regiment. Stebbins
served with the 28th Coast Artillery Corps, and was honorably
discharged. Former Lieut. Ferbeck has found it necessary to take
a business trip to Honolulu, Yokohama and several points in the
interior of Japan. The First Co. have lost two popular members
who have been called to the colors by Uncle Sam.
Recruiting Dance, First
Company, First Regiment California Home Guard
A pleasant evening
was enjoyed Saturday, December 15th, at the State Armory, the
occasion being a dance given by the members of the 'First Company,
California Home Guard, Captain Louis Graf commanding. It was
the first of a number of social affairs which are to follow.
The following committee, R. Leiser, Chappie H. R. Fried, Walter
Schwartz, Claude Graham, John Fox and Harry Hughes handled the
affair excellently, despite the large attendance of members and
friends.The Regimental orchestra furnished the music, much to
the satisfaction of all present.
Second Company
The Second Company hereby challenges any company in the regiment
to a competitive drill to be held at the Armory drill ground
any date within the next month. In the person of Captain Kane
the Second Company realizes that it has lost a captain possessing
rare snap and ability to handle men. But First Lieut. Griffin,
acting commander, sprung a surprise on the company the first
night he had charge in the shape of a strenuous workout, and
with the able assistance of First Sergeant Kermode, was instrumental
in the institution of several reforms, which, in the opinion
of all concerned, will be for the best of the company. Notable
among them was the establishment of permanent squads and a roll
call each drill night before maneuvers. While this procedure
is essential to all well-drilled companies, it was impossible
to put it into effect until non-commissioned officers were chosen.
However, to Lieut. Griffin and Sergeant Kermode belongs the credit
of its institution at the earliest possible time.
Those men who are desirous of enrolling in the crack Second Company
had better sign up quickly, as the company is fast filling up
to its full quota of seventy-five men. Only a few vacancies are
left, and every night finds a half dozen new recruits waiting
to sign up.
Third Company
Captain F. S. Robbins, First Lieut. L. B. Schmitt and Second
Lieut. F. W. Merriweather, with their efficient corps of noncoms.,
are rapidly getting the company into excellent shape., The personnel
of the company is all that could be desired and they certainly
make some showing as they pass with "eyes right" in
review. Sunday, December 2d, two squads met at Nineteenth Avenue
and Sloat Boulevard for a practice march, and say, how those
old young boys did enjoy it! Each night before assembly, Captain
Bobbins gives a talk upon and diagrams the, work to be given
on the parade ground, and they are both interesting and instructive.
Our social committee has been selected and we expect to have
some things doing very soon. Come on in, boys; we are going to
carry Third Co. right up front.
Fourth Company
Under the command of Captain W. C. V. Nelson,this company
is malting great progress, and all companies are warned to be
on their toes in order to keep pace with it. Captain Nelson,
besides having long military service, is just out of the Officers'
Training Camp, and is up to the minute in all the late tactics.
He is ably assisted by Lieuts. Mahoney and Cooke, so great work
is expected of this company. In our company we have about fifteen
U. S. Mail Clerks, so if you see a squad of Mail Carriers drilling
as they deliver your Christmas mail, it's only a few loose from
the 4th Company. One of our Lieutenants drilled so hard one night
that he had a toothache for a week, and his excuse for being
absent the next drill night was, a dentist is drilling me tonight.
Fifth Company
Capt. M. F. Sylva is
making great progress in efficiency drilling with his company.
The Captain certainly knows how. He has served in the 61st Company
of the Coast Artillery, and Gen. Commander of the 7th Company,
California Coast Artillery. Capt. Sylva is ably assisted by First
Lieut. D. M. Barrows, who was formerly with the 8th Infantry,
U. S. A., as Corporal and expert rifleman. Lieut. John W. Whitson
was formerly with the 7th Company of California Coast Artillery.
Sergt. Buckley saw service of one year in Belgium Army.
Seventh Company
Seventh Company is one of the three companies formed out of
the Old Guard, an organization composed of ex-members of the
National Guard. After the company had been organized, it elected
W. C. Sharpstein Captain, W. F. Chipman, First Lieutenant, and
J. W. Davis, Second Lieutenant. All of these officers were formerly
captains in the National Guard.
Since becoming the Seventh Company of the Regiment, the strength
of the company has increased from forty-five to ninety-two, and
applications to enlist are still coming in. The Seventh Company
belongs to the Second Battalion, and at its last meeting, held
Monday evening, December 10th, voted to change its drill night
to Thursday so that the entire battalion could drill on the same
night. Captain Sharpstein has about fifty seasoned veterans and
the recruits are rapidly being brought into shape under the instruction
of Lieutenants Chipman and Davis. About the 1st of January, a
competitive examination will be held for noncommissioned officers.
The examination will consist of oral and written questions and
of squad instruction by the candidates.
Eighth Company
Company is commanded
by Captain Henry John Bucking, a veteran of the Spanish-American
War. He certainly knows how. He has as his right hand man, First
Lieutenant Tooker.
The Captain, as well
as most of the men, are employed at the Union Iron Works, so
they are not only doing service to their country in the way of
turning out certain equipment necessary to the United States
Government, but also preparing themselves to protect it if necessary.Although
not so strong in numbers as some of the other companies of the
regiment, are building up fast.
Tenth Company
The 10th Company of
the First Regiment is composed of men of a high personnel, and
nearly all the membership has seen service in the Philippines
or in the National Guard. It therefore lacks no material for
the making of efficiency and esprit de corps.
Captain Stanley H. Stewart is a well known drill master, and
has the confidence of the entire company. Both First Lieutenant
J. A. Tamblin and Second Lieutenant V. Houck have had service
in the regular and volunteer armies, which goes to show that
the company is well officered.
The 10th Company expects
to be one of the crack companies of the regiment, and judging
from its make-up it is not an idle assertion. Each man in the
company knows what is to be expected of him, and that he must
be a part of a harmonious whole so as to make for success to
be attained by military organization. There can be nohanging
back in the traces; there each one in the loth Company knows.
The question asked: When are we going to obtain our uniforms
and rifles? What are the officers doing in the way of recognition
and for getting financial assistance? Members of the 10th Company
feel that as long as they have enlisted in a cause for protection
of property and life, they should be supported not only by the
State at large, but by the business and property owners of the
city and State, who will benefit directly through Guard activities
when the call comes for duty. Here is a thought that the business
interests of the State may do well to ponder over, and then come
to the aid of the Home Guard now struggling to get into shape
and usefulness.
FIRST REGIMENT CALIFORNIA HOME-GUARD BAND
Band Notes
Nothing Instrumental
But Interesting
The California Home Guard First Regiment of San Francisco
has the honor and distinction of having the first Home Guard
Band. We must state that it is a band and one that every member
of the regiment is proud of, composed of over fifty experienced
musicians, the greater number of whom have seen service in the
Army and Navy.
Under a competent instructor,
rehearsals are held every Tuesday evening at the State Armory,
at Fourteenth and Mission Streets, and will soon be ready to
render the most difficult operatic or classical selection,not
taking a back seat for any musical organization in the country.
Mr. Lee Burbeck, instructor, is a musician of wide knowledge
and extensive training. For the past twelve years he has been
connected with many bands, including the famous Exposition Band.
He is well versed in arranging and composing.
The band was organized on Tuesday, Oct. 30, 1917, on twenty-four
hours' notice, by Bandmaster W. D. J. Murphy and Assistant Bandmaster
E. M. Blum.
At the first rehearsal, eighteen men passed in review of the
regiment, and on the following Tuesday the Home Guard was surprised
to see forty fullfledged musicians pass in review.
Applications are on file up to date from 121 musicians, and they
are all anxious to do their little bit for their country. On
Saturday evening, Dec. 8, 1917, the band gave its first concert
at the Civic Auditorium for a Red Cross lecture.
A benefit raffle of a $50.00 suit and a $10.00 pair of shoes
is being given for a Uniform Fund, drawing December 29th. Any
well-dressed gentleman appearing at the Armory during January
will surely look like a winner.A much-needed section of the battery
of the band was donated by Mr. H. Hansen, of 111 Kearny Street,
in the form of a bass drum.
Drum Major Syl Newman
of the band is on the job all the time. It is, a pleasure to
witness him wield thestick. Just notice how he has them countermarching
when on parade.
Our First Regiment Band has placed its order for uniforms with
the firm represented by our Lieutenant Colonel, Tom A. Nerney,
and more than 40 have already signed up for measures.
Syl Newman has his
old-time form as Drum Major of the First Regiment Band and the
organization is very lucky to have him. Many of the Spanish War
veterans will recall "Syl" as the snappy and alert
man of '98 at Manila with the "Fighting First" from
California.
Perhaps the girlies insist on knitting sweaters instead of socks
because they know the American boys will never get cold feet.
85th Company,
California Home Guard
This company was formerly
the 6th Company, 1st Regiment.
86th Company, California
Home Guard
Commanded by Captain William
Crittenden Sharpsteen, this company was formerly the 7th Company,
1st Regiment.
Record of
the Eighty-Sixth Company, California Military Reserve
The biography of a man
commences with an account of his ancestry. It seems fitting,
therefore, that the record of this Company should be preceded
by a brief account of the two organizations out of which it was
evolved.
The Old Guard
Shortly after the United
States declared war against Germany, a number of former National
Guardsmen issued a call to all men who had formerly served in
the army or navy of the United States, or in the National Guard
of this, or other states, to meet for the purpose of forming
an organization whose services should be tendered to the federal,
state and municipal governments.
At the first meeting a
temporary organization was effected and a resolution was adopted
tendering the services of the organization and of its members
to the President of the United States, the Governor of the State
of California, and the Mayor of the City of San Francisco for
such employment as the several executives might designate. At
a subsequent meeting a permanent organization was effected under
the name of The Old Guard, to whose membership were eligible
all honorably discharged soldiers and sailors of the United States
and of the National Guard of the several states. Albert E. Castle,
formerly a Colonel in the National Guard of California, was elected
President, and H. L. Batchelder, formerly a Captain in the National
Guard of California was elected Secretary.
Others who will be mentioned
in this record, who took part in The Old Guard are: Hugh T. Sime,
formerly a Major in the National Guard of California and subsequently
a Major in the United States Army during the Spanish War and
W. C. Sharpsteen and W. F. Chipman, formerly Captains in the
National Guard of California. The five officers mentioned were
among those elected to the Board of Directors of The Old Guard.
After a number of meetings had been held and the roll had increased
to about three hundred members, it was decided that until some
service was found for the organization, the members should be
given instruction in the Infantry Drill Regulations of the United
States Army insamuch as these regulations had been adopted subsequent
to the tactics under which most of the members had been instructed.
Accordingly, one of the
halls in the Civic Auditorium having been procured for the purpose,
Major Sime was appointed to take charge of the instruction, and
he selected four former Captains as his assistants. One of these
was Captain Sharpsteen, who by reason of the withdrawal of the
other Captains ultimately became sole drill master. Weekly drills
were held until the Fall of 1917.
On May 10, 1917, The Adjutant
General of the State of California issued regulations for the
organization and government of the Home Guard. Briefly, it authorized
citizens of the United States, or those who had declared their
intention to become citizens, between the ages of eighteen and
sixty years, to the number of not less than forty nor more than
seventy-five, to form a company and upon signing muster rolls
approved, first, by the County Council of Defense and then by
the Adjutant General, a license would be issued by the Governor
to the Company.
The Officers of the company were a captain, a first lieutenant
and a second lieutenant to be elected by the members, and a first
sergeant, sergeants and corporals to be appointed by the captain.
Each company was required to drill at least once a week for one
hour and a half, and members failing to report for three consecutive
drills without good and sufficient excuse were to be dropped
from the rolls. The purposes for which the organization were
formed were, as declared in the regulations, "to repel invasion,
to suppress insurrection or riot, and to prevent destruction
of life or property."
Provisions which became
the subject of an acrimonious discussion, which will be noticed
later, were the following: "Companies may in the discretion
of The Adjutant General, be organized into battalions or regiments
with the necessary headquarters personnel." "Headquarters
officers will be appointed by the Governor upon the recommendation
of The Adjutant General."
These regulations had
been in force for several months before they came to the notice
of The Old Guard. In the meantime, sixty companies had been formed
in other parts of the state.
Information came to The
Old Guard that a movement was on foot in San Francisco to organize
twelve companies of the Home Guard, which were to be formed into
a regiment, and that one company, the Sixty-first, had already
been organized and licensed.
An invitation was issued to The Old Guard to organize four companies
out of its membership to constitute the Second Battalion of the
regiment. Muster rolls were accordingly procured and signed and
the four companies were numbered Fifth, Sixth, Seventh and Eighth
and designated as the Second Battalion. After muster rolls had
been signed by the minimum number of men required by the regulations,
but before they had been approved the several companies proceeded
to the election of officers. M. F. Sylva was elected Captain
of the Fifth Company, William Wehser of the Sixth Company, W.
C. Sharpsteen of the Seventh Company. W. F. Chipman was elected
First Lieutenant, and John W. Davis Second Lieutenant of the
Seventh Company.
Almost simultaneously
the other companies were organized and elected officers. While
the companies were in process of formation, and with only one
company licensed the officers of that company, together with
a number of persons who had been active in promoting the organization
of the regiment, met and and appointed regimental field and staff
officers.
Although this was considered in bad taste by the members of the
Second Battalion, as in their judgment no selection of field
and staff officers should have been made until all the companies
had been formed and elected officers, no protest was made.
The muster rolls of the
several companies were placed in the hands of the person named
as colonel for the purpose of having him file them with The Adjutant
General and procure the licenses. Instead of proceeding as the
regulations required, the Colonel informed The Adjutant General
that a regiment of Home Guards had been formed in San Francisco,
and had selected a full complement of field and staff officers
and requested The Adjutant General to organize the companies
into a regiment and to issue certificates to the persons select
as field and staff officers. The Adjutant General very properly
insisted on observance of the regulations, pointing out that
they required, first, approval of the muster rolls; second, issuance
of the license; third, selection of company officers; and fourth,
confirmation of the officers elected.
After these preliminaries had been observed and not before it
would be in order for The Adjutant General in his "discretion"
to organize the companies into a regiment and to recommend to
the Governor the field and staff officers. The colonel insisting
upon recognition of the regiment and the appointment of the field
and staff officers at the same time as approval of the muster
rolls and of the officers selected by the several companies,
a deadlock ensued. A most unedifying controversy followed in
which it was sought to force The Adjutant General into a recognition
of the regiment and of its field and staff officers. Much of
the controversy found its way into the newspapers and produced
a very demoralizing effect on the companies of the regiment,
the members of which were doing their best to qualify themselves
for the emergency for which they had enlisted.
The Adjutant General having
allowed the companies to use the State Armory for their meetings
and drills, each battalion was assigned one drill night each
week on which the companies were first drilled by their commanding
officers and later as a battalion by their respective majors.
Major Sime was elected Major of the Second Battalion.
Besides the drills at the Armory, the regiment on two occasions
held drills at Golden Gate Park and took part in a number of
parades, one of which was on Memorial Day when it marched to
the Presidio. The other occasions were in aid of the several
Liberty Loans.
The White House presented
the regiment with the national colors and O'Connor, Moffatt and
Company presented it with the regimental colors. This latter
event took place in the Civic Auditorium and was largely attended
by citizens of San Francisco.
Eighty-Sixth Company, California
Home Guard
It soon became evident
to the officers of the Second Battalion that if an emergency
arose the Governor would not call upon the companies of the Home
Guard in San Francisco because of their having no official status,
and at a meeting of the Board of Officers of the regiment a motion
was adopted for the appointment of a Committee to interview The
Adjutant General relative to the situation. Captains Sharpsteen,
Blackburn and Clark were appointed such committee, and after
interviewing The Adjutant General made a report in which they
recommended that each company should proceed to organize in accordance
with the Home Guard regulations; that the regimental organization
should be dissolved, and that the affairs of the regiment should,
pending the organization of the companies into a regiment, be
conducted by three of the captains. This report was signed by
Captains
Sharpsteen and Blackburn in its entirety. Captain Clark concurred
except as to that portion which called for the dissolution of
the regimental organization. Upon the question of the adoption
of the majority or minority report being put to the Board, the
officers of the field and staff, together with the officers of
the first and third battalions voted in favor of the adoption
of the minority report. The captains of the second battalion
reported the result of this meeting to their companies following
which the companies authorized their captains to withdraw from
the regiment. Accordingly new muster rolls were signed by the
members of the companies of the Second Battalion, which having
been approved by the County Council of Defense were forwarded
to the Adjutant General, who in turn approved them and issued
licenses to the four companies. The Fifth Company became the
Eighty-seventh Company, Sixth Company the Eighty-fifth Company;
the Seventh Company the Eighty-sixth Company and the Eighth Company
the Ninety-first Company.
On June 6, 1918, Major
Sime, by direction of The Adjutant General, presided at the election
of officers for the Eighty-sixth Company at which W. C. Sharpsteen
was elected Captain, W. F. Chipman First Lieutenant and Felton
Taylor Second Lieutenant. As soon as the officers for the four
companies had been elected and certificates issued to them, application
was made by the commanding officers to organize the companies
as a battalion. This application was denied by The Adjutant General
but upon the invitation of the commanding officers of the companies
Major Sime continued to act as instructor in battalion drill.
Arms and Uniforms
A most serious defect
was the lack of arms, and after the companies had been drilled
in all the movements that could be performed without arms, this
was very keenly felt.
Through the efforts of
Lieutenant Chipman the use of forty rifles owned by The Nationals was procured for the Eighty-sixth
Company. At about the same time the Eighty-fifth and Eighty-seventh
Companies procured rifles in sufficient quantities to arm their
men, and the members of the Ninety-First Company as well. The
rifles of the Eighty-Fifth and Eighty-Sixth Companies were the
old Springfield caliber .45, and those of the Eighty-seventh
Company were Mausers. None of the rifles had bayonets, but ultimately
bayonets for the rifles of the Eighty-sixth Company were purchased,
and that company was then given instruction in the bayonet exercise
prescribed in the Infantry Drill Regulations.
To increase efficiency
an effort was made to inaugurate target shooting. On September
9, 1918, a detachment of twenty men under command of Lieutenant
Chipman met at the range at Shellmound Park and fired two hundred
and forty rounds.
The practice demonstrated
that the rifles were in no condition for target shooting, and
that no proficiency could be attained with them.
As soon as the company
had been licensed the subject of procuring uniforms for the members
was agitated. Due to the energy of Lieutenant Taylor uniform
hats (campaign) were procured by the members in time for the
Fourth of July parade, but no progress was made toward obtaining
anything else until the early part of September 1918 when a committee
composed of Lieutenants Chipman and Taylor, Sergeant Teller and
Privates Partridge and Kirkpatrick volunteered to raise the necessary
funds. Their efforts were instantly successful. In a two days'
canvass the required sum was secured. Following is a list of
the contributors:
American National Bank,
Anglo California Trust Company, Anglo, London and Paris National
Bank, Bank of California, Bank of Italy, Crocker National Bank,
First National Bank, French Savings Bank, Fugazi Popolare Bank,
Hibernia Savings and Loan Society, Humboldt Bank, Italian American
Bank, Mercantile National Bank, Merchants National Bank, Savings
Union Bank and Trust Company, Seaboard National Bank, Union Trust
Company, Wells Fargo Nevada National Bank, Liverpool and London
and Globe Insurance Company, W. R. Grace and Company, Welch and
Company, O'Connor, Moffatt and Company, Roos Brothers, White
House, Frank C. Drew, J. M. Mannon, Jr., Garrett McEnerney, Morrison,
Dunne and Brobeck, Henry Rosenfeld, Major C. L. Tilden, John
S. Partridge, A. Spreckels, Albers Brothers Milling Company,
San Francisco Savings and Loan Society, The Mission Bank.
Contracts were made with
Roos Brothers for a uniform consisting of coat, breeches and
leggins, and with O'Connor, Moffatt & Company for O. D. shirts,
which were furnished in time for the Fourth Liberty Loan parade,
which occurred on the evening of September 28, 1918, on which
occasion thirty-six members paraded. The Eighty-sixth Company
was the only company in San Francisco that was uniformed.
Field Exercises
Although the company at
the time of its organization was composed almost entirely of
men beyond the draft age who would not be accepted for service
in the army, a conviction formed in the minds of the officers
that an excellent opportunity was presented to give instruction
to men within the draft age who might be called into service.
A special effort was, therefore, made to enlist such men in the
company. The result of the effort was most gratifying. The recruits
under the instruction of the officers and non-commissioned officers
of the company soon became so proficient in the drill given in
the limited space of the drill yard that it was decided to find
a large tract of ground convenient to the street car lines on
which instruction in extended order and bayonet exercise could
be given.
Through the courtesy of
Mr. Behan, Manager of the Spring Valley Water Company, Lake Merced
tract was allotted to the company, and on Sunday August 25, September
22 and October 6, 1918, the company engaged in these exercises
for several hours with great profit to everyone. The ground selected
was especially adapted to extended order.
Trench Construction
and Bayonet Assault
The exigencies of trench
warfare, as waged in the World War, resulted in rendering the
bayonet exercise prescribed in the drill regulations obsolete.
It was not, however, until about the time that the second draft
was imminent that the new method of fighting with the bayonet
was published.
The officers of the company immediately decided to carry the
instruction beyond what had been originally contemplated. The
Spring Valley Water Company was appealed to set aside a piece
of ground and to permit the construction on it of trenches, and
the necessary equipment for a bayonet assault course.
Permission was readily
given, and on Sunday October 6, 1918, after a drill in extended
order over the brush covered sand dunes at the western extremity
of the Lake Merced tract, the company proceeded to the ground
selected for the trenches and began to work.
The United Railroads donated
to the company the use of a dozen picks and a dozen shovels.
The San Francisco Retail Lumber Yard gave the lumber necessary
which amounted to about two thousand feet.
The Pacific Wire and Steel Works contributed the wire and the
Palace Hardware Company and W. A. Plummer Manufacturing Company
made substantial discounts in their bills for hardware and canvas
dummies respectively.
Messrs. R. H. Swayne, George W. Lamb and T. H. Palache contributed
money toward defraying the expenses. The work was continued on
Sundays October 13, 20 and 27, November 10 and 17, 1918, on which
last date the work was practically completed.
The Armistice having been
declared on November 11, 1918, no instruction was ever given
at the trenches although instruction in the use of the bayonet
in trench fighting was given at the Armory during the period
construction of the trenches was under way, extra drill being
given each week in order to make the instruction more intensive.
On Sunday December 15,
1918, twenty-one members of the company met at the trenches in
uniform and were photographed in various positions.
Owing to the small number attending it was impossible to assume
a strictly military formations in every instance so the photographer
was given considerable license in the arrangement of the groups.
The slow progress made
in trench construction was due to the fact that during practically
the whole of the period there was an epidemic of Spanish Influenza.
There was a sickness in the families of many of the men and a
natural disinclination to expose one's self that made the attendance
very light on two or three occasions. Those who did attend did
not observe "union hours", and genuine regret was expressed
when the work was completed.
Parades
In addition to the parade
in aid of the Fourth Liberty Loan, which has been mentioned,
the company paraded on the Fourth of July and also the evening
of August 6, 1918, when it acted with the other three companies,
as escort to Governor Stephens, who addressed a patriotic meeting
in the Richmond District.
Officers' Association
The Home Guard regulation,
to which reference has been made, were doubtless dictated by
a desire to allay the apprehensions of the people who feared
that the withdrawal of so many able-bodied men, including the
organized National Guard, into the military service of the United
States, would invite riot and insurrection. The fact that neither
the United States or the State then had arms or equipment for
the Home Guard detracted from the value of these organizations
in a military sense.
Some of the companies outside of San Francisco undertook to arm
themselves with rifles of a non-military character and, therefore,
unsuited for the purposes of drill. The four companies in San
Francisco at a late day succeeded in getting military rifles
of obsolete patterns, which, while suitable for purposes of drill,
would not have been of much service as firearms.
At the outset The Adjutant
General did not require companies to be armed as a condition
to being licensed, but before application was made by the Eighty-fifth,
Eighty-sixth, Eighty-seventh and Ninety-first Companies, a ruling
was made that no further Home Guard organizations would be licensed
unless they had arms or had contracted to procure them. This
virtually put an end to the organization of Home Guard Companies
as it was impossible, except at prohibitive prices, to purchase
military rifles.
In a number of localities
there were several companies which could have been organized
into battalions. The Adjutant General, however, declined to issue
the necessary order for such organization, except in one instance,
Fresno, but he refused to recommend the appointment of headquarters
officers for that battalion.
In several cities of the
state there were either state-owned armories, or armories that
had been rented by the state, and the Home Guard companies in
these cities made unsuccessful appeals to The Adjutant General
for use of the armories for the purposes of assembly and drill,
except in San Francisco where permission for use of the State
Armory was given to a number of organizations, none of which
at the time belonged to the Home Guard.
Although The Adjutant
General, by authority of the Governor, had promulgated regulations
for the organization and discipline of the Home Guard, there
was no appropriation for supervision of the companies. The Adjutant
General's office was swamped with work connected with the draft
so that only the most perfunctory attention could be given matters
pertaining to the Home Guard.
In this situation officers
of the Home Guard to the number of forty-five and representing
thirty companies met at Sacramento on September 21, 1918, pursuant
to a call made by Captain E. A. Brown of the Ninth Company to
discuss matters of interest to the Home Guard with a view to
making it a more effective organization. A permanent organization
was effected and the following were elected officers:
Captain Brown President and Captain Sharpsteen Vice-President,
who with Captain Baldwin of the Tenth Company, Captain Curson
of the Second Company and Lieutenant Hubbard of the Fiftieth
Company constituted the Executive Committee. The following resolutions
were adopted:
"1. We, the officers
of the California Home Guard hereby pledge our loyalty and service
to the President of the United States, to the Governor of the
State of California, at any and all times as in their opinion
they require them.
"2. That the Secretary
be instructed to address a request to the Governor that the allotment
of 2861 rifles as noted in Special Regulation #37 War Department
be requisitioned by him for distribution to the Home Guard; and
that all State Armories and all equipment supplementary there
to be requisitioned for the Home Guard.
"3. That when
sufficient companies exist, which justify the formation of battalions,
that
battalions be formed and the necessary officers authorized.
"4. That a legislative
committee be appointed by the President to work with The Adjutant
General of the State to draft a bill to be presented to the coming
session of the Legislature covering the requirements of the Home
Guard.
"5. That pending
legislation The Adjutant General be requested to change the name
of the California Home Guard to some other suitable name."
The Executive Committee
took steps to carry out all these resolutions but owing to the
declaration of the Armistice, the only one of the resolutions
on which results were obtained was that relative to the change
of name. On November 1, 1918, The Adjutant General issued an
order changing the name of the organization from California Home
Guard to California Military Reserve.
If the Officers Association
had been organized as soon as sufficient companies had been licensed
to make an effective association, it is safe to say that many,
if not all, of the disagreeable incidents which served only to
impair the efficiency of the Home Guard would not have occurred.
With the headquarters of the association at Sacramento, the Executive
Committee would have acted as a means of communication between
the companies and The Adjutant General and the fullest co-operation
would have been assured.
Achievement
If it be true that "they
also serve who only stand and wait", the Eighty-sixth Company
may well be proud of its record. Its members were at all times
ready to perform any service that might be required of them,
and instead of merely marking time endeavored in every way to
fit themselves for the emergency which was feared but did
not occur.
It drilled once a week
for fourteen months, except for a period of three weeks, when
the "flu" was prevalent. During a part of this time
there were extra drills at the armory. The field exercises, including
the work of constructing the trenches, occupied not less and
often more than six hours of each of eight Sundays.
All this, however, was
in performance of the service required by the Home Guard Regulations.
Its proudest achievement is that it helped to train eight young
men who entered the military service of the United States. That
it did not do more is due entirely to the failure of the authorities
to recognize the value of the training that could be given by
such organizations as the Home Guard, to men about to enter service.
It was not until the second
draft that the importance of such preparation was recognized.
Provost Marshal General Crowder at that time instructed all draft
boards to urge all registrants for the draft to attach themselves
to organizations that were giving instruction in all the drill
regulations as the superiority of the men who had had none had
been remarked by army officers everywhere. Nine members of the
Seventh Company entered the military service of the United States
prior to the company being licensed as the Eighty-sixth Company,
and these added to the eight members of the Eighty-sixth Company
makes a total of seventeen. The records of these men appear in
the roster which follows.
This record would not
be complete without acknowledgment of the enthusiastic support
given the commanding officer by the lieutenants and the non-commissioned
officers. Their faithful attendance at every drill and on every
occasion when the company was assembled, together with the remarkable
interest displayed at all times in the patriotic work for which
the company was organized was always appreciated.
When it is considered
that all of the officers and non-commissioned officers were men
of family and had reached an age when they looked forward to
a quiet evening at home as a rest from the cares of the day's
occupation, it will be understood how completely their hearts
were in the work. The same may be said of most of the privates,
who by their example encouraged the younger man to give the time
and effort necessary to prepare them in no slight degree for
service.
Dinner to Celebrate
the Mustering Out of the Company
On February 28, 1920,
the long awaited order discontinuing the California Military
Reserve was published by The Adjutant General to be effective
March 10, 1920.
Notice was immediately
given that the event would be celebrated by a dinner at the St.
Francis Hotel on Saturday evening March 13, 1920.
All members of the Company
were invited to the dinner, and in addition the Governor, The
Adjutant General, Captain E. A. Brown, President of the Officers'
Association of the California Military Reserve, Major Hugh T.
Sims, and all former members who had entered the military and
naval service of the United States.
Forty-two sat down to
the excellent dinner. A letter of regret was read from the Governor
in which he expressed his appreciation of the service rendered
by the Company. During the evening an orchestra, in charge of
Corporal Youngberg, played popular airs, which were rendered
vocal by the guests.
Addresses were made by
the Adjutant General, Captain Brown, Major Sime, Lieutenant Hendricks
and Captain Sharpsteen.
A resolution was adopted
that annually on the Saturday evening nearest to the 13th of
March a dinner of the Company should be held as a means of keeping
alive the spirit of comradeship.
During the evening a beautiful
potted plant was presented by the members of the Company, through
Lieutenant Chipman as spokesman, to Mrs. Sharpsteen in recognition
of the sacrifice she so much of his time to the Company. Lieutenant
Chipman also announced that the members of the Company would
later present Captain Sharpsteen with a token of their regard.
The evening concluded
with distribution by The Adjutant General of service certificates
to all members of the Company who had served three consecutive
months, and to those members who had served a less period but
who had entered service.
The certificates bore the signatures of the Governor, The Adjutant
General and the Captain.
The Star Spangled Banner
was then sung and the assemblage dispersed looking forward to
the next annual reunion.
A few days later a Committee,
consisting of Lieutenants Chipman and Taylor, First Sergeant
Masten and former First Sergeant Walberg, called on Captain Sharpsteen
and presented him with a gold pencil inscribed: "From men
of 86th Co. C.M.R. to Capt. W. C. Sharpsteen, 3-13-20".
Captain Sharpsteen thanked the Committee and through them the
men, and assured them that while he needed nothing to remind
him of his associates, the pencil would always bring to mind
the days when the Eighty-sixth Company was doing its part to
help win the war.
ROSTER OF MEMBERS 86TH
COMPANY CALIFORNIA MILITARY RESERVE FORMERLY CALIFORNIA HOME
GUARD
FROM DATE OF MUSTER ROLL TO DATE COMPANY WAS MUSTERED OUT OF
SERVICE.
SIGNERS OF MUSTER ROLL
MAY 24, 1918.
*W. C. SHARPSTEEN
Elected Captain June 6, 1918.
*FELTON TAYLOR
Elected Second Lieutenant June 6, 1918.
*HENRY D. LUCE
Appointed Sergeant June 6, 1918.
*JOHN D. WALBERG
Appointed First Sergeant June 6, 1918.
Honorably discharged September 5, 1918.
*BENJAMIN F. THOMAS, JR.
Appointed Corporal June 6, 1918.
*GEORGE O. TURNLEY
Appointed Corporal September 19, 1918.
*JACQUES L. VANDENBOS
Appointed Corporal June 6, 1918.
*ALFRED H. de LISLE
Honorably discharged September 19, 1918.
HENRY L. BATCHELDER
Honorably discharged July 11, 1918, before having served three
consecutive months.
*FREDERICK D. P. TELLER
Appointed Corporal June 6, 1918.
Appointed Sergeant August 29, 1918.
*WILLIAM F. CHIPMAN
Elected First Lieutenant June 6, 1918.
*WILLIAM M. WRIGHT
Appointed Corporal June 6, 1918.
*ADELBERT W. LAWRENCE
Appointed Corporal June 6, 1918.
*W. H. REED
*F. E. MAYHEW
*H. C. KIRKPATRICK
*ROBERT P. TROY
*FRED W. FRANK
*JOSEPH NUGENT
Honorably discharged August 29, 1918, to enter military service
of the United States.
No record of service.
*F. C. YOUNGBERG
Appointed Corporal August 29, 1918.
*H. H. ADAMS
Honorably discharged October 10, 1918.
*P. S. BRECK
Appointed Corporal June 13, 1918.
*LORIN E. VAIL
Honorably discharged September 19, 1918. Entered Merchant Marine
as Radio Operator.
After being placed on vessel was stricken with influenza and
had not recovered when armistice was signed.
*W. S. FLEMING
Appointed Sergeant June 6, 1918.
*JOHN THOMAS KIDD
A. E. McDOWELL
Honorably discharged July 18, 1918, before having served three
consecutive months.
*FRANK H. VIVIAN
*W. E. CONNER
Appointed Sergeant June 6, 1918.
*ARTHUR KIDD
*JAMES OTIS
Honorably discharged September 10, 1918.
*ERWIN M. COOPER
*ASA H. WAUGAMAN
*WILLARD C. FLEMING
Honorably discharged October 17, 1918, to enter military service
of United States.
Enlisted October 5, 1918, in the S.A.T.C. Affiliated Colleges
unit and served as private until honorably discharged December
13, 1918.
JOSEPH F. GIANNINI
Appointed Corporal June 6, 1918.
Discharged September 19, 1918, for three consecutive absences
without excuse.
MELVILLE L. FRIEDLANDER
Discharged July 18,1918, for three consecutive absences without
excuse.
ROY HENRY
Discharged July 11, 1918, for three consecutive absences without
excuse.
JOSEPH E. MONTGOMERY
Honorably discharged July 11, 1918, before having served three
consecutive months.
*C. E. MOSS
*WILLIAM W. HENDRICKS
Honorably discharged September 19, 1918, to enter military service
of the United States.
Appointed First Lieutenant of Engineers U.S.A.
Served as instructor in
Officers' Training School camp Hunphreys, Virginia; also at Camp
Gordon, Georgia in construction work; also at Ft. McPherson,
Georgia as Camp Activities Officer.
EDWARD J. CASEY
Honorably discharged July 18, 1918, before having served three
consecutive months.
*RALPH P. WOOD
Honorably discharged September 19, 1918.
*A. G. FRANK
*J. E. HACKETT
Honorably discharged September 19, 1918, to enter field service
of Y.M.C.A.
*E. G. KNAPP
HENRY W. ROOT
Honorably discharged July 18, 1918, before having served three
consecutive months.
*FRED L. CAMPBELL
DORMAN BALDWIN, JR.
Appointed Sergeant July 11, 1918.
Honorably discharged July 29, 1918, before having served three
consecutive months to enter field service of Y.M.C.A.
GEORGE F. SCHWARZ
Honorably discharged July 18, 1918, before having served three
consecutive months.
*GEORGE L. THOMPSON
*JAY RANDOLPH SHARPSTEEN
Appointed Sergeant June 6, 1918.
Honorably discharged October 17, 1918, to enter active military
service of the United States. At the time of his enlistment he
was in the Medical Enlisted Reserve Corps in
which he had enlisted November 16, 1917. On October 16, 1918,
he was transferred for service in the S.A.T.C. Co. A, Affiliated
Colleges unit and served as corporal until
discharged December 11, 1918.
C. C. STONE
Honorably discharged June 18, 1918, before having served three
consecutive months.
ELECTED JUNE 6, 1918.
BRIDSON E. CANNON
Discharged September 10, 1918, for three consecutive absences
without excuse.
*M. P. MOHR
Honorably discharged September 19, 1918.
ELECTED JUNE 13, 1918.
*F. D. KELLY
Honorably discharged August 29, 1918, to enter military service
of the United States.
Inducted into service
September 5, 1918, Camp Kearny. Served with Headquarters Company
47th Field Artillery from October 7, 1918, to date of honorable
discharge February 21, 1919, with rank of Sergeant.
ELECTED JUNE 13, 1918.
FREDERICK LAWRENCE BALLAGH
Honorably discharged September 10, 1918, before
having served three consecutive months.
ST. CLAIR IRWIN
Honorably discharged August 15, 1918, before
having served three consecutive months.
RAYMOND E. SQUIRE
Discharged for three consecutive absences
without excuse.
CHARLES E. STURGES
Honorably discharged August 15, 1918, before
having served three consecutive months.
ELECTED JUNE 27, 1918
*JOHN BLAIR ALDERSON
*A. R. BABCOCK
DAVID LOCKE CLEMENT
Discharged October 10,
1918, for three consecutive absences without excuse.
FRANK LOUIS GAYTON
Honorably discharged September
10, 1916, before having served three consecutive months.
VERNON PAUL HIGGINS
Honorably discharged August
29, 1918, before having served three consecutive months.
*C. S. HOOBER
Honorably discharged August
11, 1918, to enter military service of the United States. Enlisted
July 13, 1918, in the Air Service and assigned to 604th Company
Aero Supply Squadron.
Transferred to 13th Company
Supply Squadron. Transferred to Quartermaster Corps at Vancouver
Barracks March 1, 1919.
Transferred to Presidio and made Sergeant. Honorably discharged
March 17, 1919.
*H. E. KENTFIELD
FRANK NEIL
Honorably discharged August
29, 1918, before having served three consecutive months.
FRANK A. HENDERSON
Honorably discharged September 10, 1918, before having served
three consecutive months.
CHARLES AUSTIN JORY
Honorably discharged September 19, 1918, before having served
three consecutive months.
*JOHN A. SPEARS
P. D. WHITAKER
Honorably discharged September 15, 1918 before having served
three consecutive months.
ELECTED AUGUST 28, 1918.
* WILLIAM G. VOGEL
ELECTED SEPTEMBER 5, 1918.
*REUBEN DAVIS
WM. C. KOENIG
Discharged October 10, 1918, for three consecutive absences without
excuse.
*JOHN F. SHIELDS
*JOSEPH W. STEEL
Honorably discharged September 19, 1918, to enter military service
of the United States. No record of service.
R. M. WINTER
Honorably discharged September 19, 1918, before having served
three consecutive months.
*HARRY I. SEDDON
ELECTED SEPTEMBER 19,
1918.
*CLARENCE BOYD
*FRANK LYONS DEERING
*EDWIN F. HUSTON
MILLARD F. JONES
Discharged October 10, 1918, for three consecutive absences without
excuse.
*HAROLD A. KELLER
*ERNEST KLEIN
*MONTAGUE H. POTTER
ELECTED OCTOBER 10, 1918
CARL A. SANDBERN
Honorably discharged December 12, 1910, before having served
three consecutive months.
ALEXANDER T. MAGUIRE
Honorably discharged December 12, 1918, before having served
three consecutive months.
ELECTED JULY 4, 1918.
*J. M. MASTEN
Appointed Corporal July 18, 1918
Appointed Sergeant July 29, 1918
Appointed First Sergeant September 5, 1918
*JOHN L. SHARPSTEEN
Appointed Sergeant July 11, 1918
ELECTED JULY 11, 1918.
R. B. BROTHERS
Honorably discharged August 15, 1918, before having served three
consecutive months.
HARRY P. CROZIER
Honorably discharged September 20, 1918, before having served
three consecutive months.
*WILLIAM HENRY EDDY
*GUS A. MAUER
*EARL C. ORTELL
*FRANK F. PARTRIDGE
H. L. SMITH
Honorably discharged September 10, 1918, before having served
three consecutive months.
ELECTED JULY 18, 1918.
G. H. HICKS
Honorably discharged September 10, 1918, before having served
three consecutive months.
*EDWARD J. JOSE
Honorably discharged September
19, 1918, to enter military service of the United States. Enlisted
September 23, 1918, United States army and served in 17th Recruit
Company C.S.I. Fort McDowell with rank of Sergeant. Honorably
discharged January 24, 1919
ELECTED AUGUST 1, 1918.
ROBERT J. BARR
Honorably discharged August 29, 1918, before having served three
consecutive months.
WM. J. MOHR
Honorably discharged September 19, 1918, before having served
three consecutive months.
ELECTED AUGUST 15, 1918
*LOUIS W. JENKINS
OLIVER E. SHOLDERS
Honorably discharged September 19, 1918, before having served
three consecutive months.
ELECTED AUGUST 22, 1918.
JOHN WALTER ALDEN
Honorably discharged September 19, 1918 before having served
three consecutive months.
*J. DEMAR ALLEN
*EDWARD G. BOLLES
*W. A. CAVANAUGH
Honorably discharged September 19, 1918, before having served
three consecutive months.
*JOHN D. HALEY
Discharged October 10, 1918, for three consecutive absences without
excuse.
*WM. E. HALLAHAN
Discharged October 10, 1918, for three consecutive absences without
excuse
* Members of Company entitled
to Service Certificates.
MEMBERS OF SEVENTH COMPANY,
SAN FRANCISCO REGIMENT, CALIFORNIA HOME GUARD, WHO ENTERED THE
MILITARY SERVICE OF THE UNITED STATES.
LEONARD K HEISER
Entered service July 21, 1918. Assigned to 105th Squadron. Honorably
discharged January 12, 1919. Died March 8, 1919.
J. R. PARKINSON
Enlisted December 5, 1917. Attached to Flying Corps Kelly Field
June 1, 1918.
Transferred to Squadron C Rockwell Field where he served until
April 12, 1919 when he was honorably discharged.
H. H. HAIGHT
Enrolled in U. S. Naval Reserve force seaman second class December
13, 1917.
Called into active service at San Pedro March 4, 1918. Received
commission as Ensign U. S. Naval Reserve force at Pelham Bay,
New York, October 7, 1918. Attached
to U.S.S. George C. Henry running between New York and France
October 28, 1918.
Released from active service
May 24, 1919.
LOUIS LUCKSCHEWITZ
Enrolled in U. S. Naval Reserve force December 1, 1917. Assigned
to active duty U.S. Naval Reserve force March 22, 1918.
Served as seaman and signal quartermaster on patrol duty in and
around San Pedro, California. Released to inactive duty January
24, 1919.
LYNN J. WARD
Enrolled in U. S. Naval Reserve force September 1917. Entered
Officers' School San Pedro, California, April 1918.
Commissioned Ensign U.S. Naval Reserve force October 1918. Assigned
to duty at U. S. Naval Training Station at San Pedro as regular
watch and division officer.
Released from active service February 1919.
ROSTER OF EIGHTY-SIXTH
COMPANY CALIFORNIA MILITARY RESERVE AT DATE OF MUSTER-OUT.
- - - - -
CAPTAIN
W. C. SHARPSTEEN
FIRST LIEUTENANT
W. F. CHIPMAN
SECOND LIEUTENANT
FELTON TAYLOR
FIRST SERGEANT
J. M. MASTEN
SERGEANTS.
CONNER, W. E.
FLEMING, W. S.
LUCE, HENRY D.
SHARPSTEEN, JOHN L.
TEILER, FREDERICK D. P.
CORPORALS.
THOMAS, BENJAMIN F. JR.
WRIGHT, WILLIAM M.
VANDENBOS, JACQUES L.
LAWRENCE, ADELBERT W.
BRECK, P. S.
YOUNGBERG, F. C.
TURNLEY, GEORGE O.
PRIVATES.
ALDERSON, JOHN BLAIR
ALLEN, J. DEMAR
BABCOCK, A. R.
BOLLES, EDWARD G.
BOYD, CLARENCE
CAMPBELL, FRED L.
COOPER, ERWIN M.
DAVIS, REUBEN
DEERING, FRANK LYONS
EDDY, WILLIAM HENRY
FRANK, A. G.
FRANK, F. W.
HUSTON, EDWIN F.
JENKINS, LOUIS W.
KELLER, HAROLD A.
KENTFIELD, H. E.
KIDD, ARTHUR
KIDD, JOHN THOMAS
KIRKPATRICK, H. C.
KLEIN, ERNEST
KNAPP, E. G.
MAUER, GUS A.
MAYHEW, F. E.
MOSS, C. E.
ORTELL, EARL C.
PARTRIDGE, FRANK F.
POTTER, MONTAGUE H.
REED, W. H.
SEDDON. HARRY I.
SHIELDS, JOHN F.
SPEARS, JOHN A.
THOMPSON, GEORGE L.
TROY, ROBERT P.
VIVIAN, FRANK H.
VOGEL, WILLIAM G.
WAUGAMAN, ASA H.
From pages 315-316 of Portuguese Pioneers
of the Sacramento Area:
MANUEL F. SYLVA was born in Clarksburg
on July 31, 1882, and was educated in the public schools of Yolo
and Sacramento Counties. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1903
for service in the Spanish American War, rising through various
gunnery classifications to sergeant until he was discharged in
1907.
During the San Francisco earthquake
and fire in April 1906 he commanded patrols in the Presidio District.
On July 1909 he enlisted as first sergeant of the California
National Guard, made first lieutenant, and was discharged in
1912. In 1917, with the advent of World War I, he asked unsuccessfully
to be commissioned for active service in any rank on four different
occasions. He was commissioned captain, commanding the 87th Company,
California Home Guard, and at the close of the war was in command
of the Second Provisional Battalion, and placed on the reserve
list as Brigadier General, to command the projected California
Department.
The company, which he organized, lacked
guns, so in 1918 he called on the San Francisco Turn Verein to
lend them rifles for the duration of the war, and received 29
Old Model Springfield rifles and 50 Mauser rifles which had been
a personal gift of Germany's Kaiser Wilhelm to the San Francisco
Krieger Verein.
In civilian life Manuel F. Sylva was
traveling manager for review of the Reviews Company, assigned
to the California Department. Later he was credit manager of
D.N.& E. Walter Company of San Francisco. During this period
he studied law at Kent Law School and the YMCA Law Review Course,
passed the bar examination, and went on to practice law for 16
years. He was at one time Assistant District Attorney for San
Francisco.
Affiliated with many civic organizations,
he was founder, organizer, and first grand president of the Grand
Council of Cabrillo Civic Clubs of California in 1934. Sylva's
motivation in organizing the Cabrillo Clubs was to give proper
recognition of the Portuguese explorer's contribution to the
history of California. He was the leader in efforts to make Cabrillo
Day, September 28, 1937, a state holiday.
He died August 28, 1937, survived by
his wife Grace F. Sylva.
The World's War Record of the 87th Company,
California Military Reserve
October 1917 to November 1918
History of the 87th Company C. M. R.
On. October 1st, 1917, Colonel. F. F. Canon,
who was organizing the 1st Regiment California Home Guards, called
on M. F. Sylva for assistance. Mr. Sylva was offered a staff position,
but declined, preferring to organize and serve with a company.
In accordance with his request, he was given a set of Muster Rolls
with which to organize a company. These Muster Rolls had been
drawn up and signed in accordance with the Act of Congress approved
June 3rd, 1916, with Chapter 170 of the Penal Code and Chapter
159 of the Statutes of 1911, State of California.
On October 23rd, 1917, a meeting was held,
at which the company was duly organized, and officers were elected
as follows: M. F. Sylva, Captain; D. M. Barrows., First Lieutenant;
J. W Whitson, Second Lieutenant. The company was then designated
5th Company. California Home Guards, and was assigned to the 2nd
Battalion, under command of Major Hugh T. Sime.
Due to a change in the policy of the Adjutant-General's
office, the licenses for the companies and the commissions for
the officers were not issued. In spite of this handicap, drills
were held regularly, which were well attended, and many men received
training which helped them greatly when going into active service.
On February 8th, 1915, realizing the handicap
of drilling without arms of any description, the company obtained
twenty-nine wooden rifles, which were made by certain active members.
These rifles, while only makeshifts, proved of great value in
instruction in the manual of arms.
During this time there was considerable
friction between the office of the Adjutant-General and some of
the local companies, due to the non-issuance of licenses and commissions.
There was also a great deal of trouble between the officers of
the 1st and 3rd Battalions on the one hand, and the officers of
the 2nd Battalion on the other. The 6th, 7th, and 8th Companies
which, together with the 5th comprised the 2nd Battalion, had
formerly been the organization known as the Old Guard, and had
drilled at the Auditorium before coming in with the Home Guard.
All of the officers of the 2nd Battalion
were men of military experience, and were incensed at the decidedly
unmilitary tactics of the officers of the other two battalions.
The Adjutant-General had stated that companies procuring arms,
and obtaining the approval of their County Councils of Defense,
would be licensed as separate companies and not as units in regiments
or battalions. This did not meet with the approval of the officers
of the 1st and 3rd Battalions, but the officers of the 2nd Battalion
believing that the rule was a wise one, and also believing that
the first duty of a soldier is to obey orders from a superior,
finally broke off entirely from the other two battalions.
The next problem was to obtain arms. On
May 13th, 1918, Capt. Sylva called on the San Francisco Krieger
Verein and the San Francisco Turn Verein, and requested them to
loan the rifles owned by them to the 5th Company for the duration
of the war. This request was very courteously and gladly complied
with by these organizations. The company received from the San
Francisco Turn Verein twenty-nine Old Model Springfield Rifles
and from the San Francisco Krieger Verein fifty Mauser Rifles
with stands. These latter rifles had been a personal gift of the
Kaiser to the Krieger Verein.
Upon notification sent to the Adjutant-General
that arms had been secured, a set of muster rolls was forwarded
to Capt. Sylva. These rolls were soon filled with forty-six names,
were approved by the County Council of Defense, and forwarded
to the Adjutant General, whereupon a license to bear arms was
issued to the company, and it was officially designated as the
87th Company, California Home Guards.
In obedience with an order from the Adjutant-General,
an election was held for officers. The incumbent officers were
elected unanimously, namely: M. F. Sylvia, Captain; D. M. Barrows,
First Lieutenant; J.W. Whitson, Second Lieutenant.
From that date, June 13th, 1918, the company
has drilled regularly every Thursday night at the Armory, and
on each Tuesday night there has been a well-attended non-commissioned
officers' school. The drills have covered every phase of close
order formation, including the squad, platoon, company and battalion.
There have been extensive drills in open order, and with their
German military rifles, the company has been second to none in
the manual of arms. On two occasions the company has participated
in field training in extended order and maneuvers at the Polo
Grounds, Burlingame.
On Memorial Day and on Independence Day
the company participated in the parades held locally. The marching
of the company was one of the features of the night parade, which
opened the Fourth Liberty Loan drive. On August 6th the entire
battalion, including the 87th Company, acted as an escort of honor
to Governor Stephens. Adjutant-General Borree inspected and addressed
the battalion on August 22nd.
In the non-commissioned officers' school
the following subjects have been studied intensively: Infantry
Drill Regulations, through the School of the Battalion, Interior
Guard Manual, including Guard Mounting, Small Arms Firing Regulations,
with sighting and aiming drills, Military Law, and a portion of
Military Map Reading and Sketching. The school has been open to
all privates who wished to attend, as well as to non-commissioned
officers, and many of them availed themselves of the privilege.
The course in Military Law was given by First Sergeant N. D. Cook,
a prominent member of the local bar.
On October 24th, orders were received from
the Adjutant-General suspending all meetings during the influenza
epidemic. Drills were again resumed November 21st. In the meantime,
an order was issued from the office of the Adjutant-General, changing
the name of the California Home Guard to the California Military
Reserve.
The company can surely be proud of the record
which it has established during its year of life. As far as can
he ascertained, more men have gone from the 87th Company into
Officers' Training Camps than from any similar organization in
the State. Every man who has attended the drills and school realizes
the benefit which he has received. Men who have gone into active
service from the ranks of the company have been made non-commissioned
officers almost immediately, and have written back to those remaining
behind of the great good which the intensive training received
under the officers of the 87th Company has done them. And last,
but not least the members of the company feel that lasting friendships
have been formed which should not be broken. The esprit de corps
of the company under all difficulties has been remarkable. This
has been due in part to the spirit of patriotism which imbued
all of the men, and partly to their confidence in the military
training and knowledge of the officers. The non-commissioned officers
who, with few exceptions had no military knowledge previously,
were of wonderful assistance in keeping the organization in proper
shape. Sergeant Patterson and Private Beaumont, to mention only
two of many deserving of credit, gave largely of their time, ability
and influence to the growth of the company. The 87th Company has
succeeded only because each and every man has done a little more
than his share.
A few words regarding the officers of the
company would net be out of place.
Captain M.F. Sylva
This sterling officer was the organizer
of the 87th Company. After volunteering his services four different
times during the World's War, he felt that some use could be made
of his knowledge in training men to bear arms for their country.
Surely those who know the record of the 87th Company feel that
Capt. Sylva rendered his country valuable service. His military
experience follows:
Enlisted August 1st, 1903, in Company C,
2nd Infantry, N.G.C. On November 14th, 1903, he enlisted in the
61st Company, C.A.C., U.S. Army. He held ratings as Second-class
Gunner, First-class Gunner, and Gun Commander. In marksmanship
he qualified in Special Course "A." He received his
warrant as Corporal February 24th, 1905, and Sergeant September
13th, 1905. He was in charge of patrols in the Presidio Heights
District during the catastrophe of April, 1906, and his work was
so satisfactory that the residents of that district appealed to
General Greely to have him remain for a longer period. On November
13th, 1906, he was honorably discharged with excellent character.
On December 1st, 1906, he again enlisted in Company G, 2nd Infantry,
N.G.C. as Sergeant, and was discharged on account of removal,
March 1st, 1907. On July 28th, 1909, he enlisted as First Sergeant
of the 7th Company, C.A.C., N.G.C. He was so popular with the
company that, notwithstanding his inability to be an active member,
owing to outside duties, he was elected First Lieutenant. He was
honorably discharged for removal, January 26th, 1912. After organizing
the 5th Company, C.H.G., he was unanimously elected Captain, and
was again unanimously elected to the same office on the reorganization
of the company into the 87th Company.
First Lieutenant D.M. Barrows
A more efficient officer does not exist
in the local military reserve companies. He has been of such tremendous
assistance to Capt. Sylva in military training that a great deal
of the credit is due him. The Captain has selected him several
times as instructor in the School in Infantry Tactics, Map Work,
and Small Arms Firing Manual, in which latter the Lieutenant excels,
having a well-won Expert Rifleman's badge from the regular army.
Enlisted June 13th, 1908, in the 8th Infantry,
U.S.A. He received his warrant as Corporal January 10th, 1910;
was appointed Company Clerk February 20th, 1910. He qualified
as Sharpshooter July 18th, 1908, and as Expert Rifleman May 22nd.
1909. He saw active service on the Mexican Border from March to
June, 1911. He was honorably discharged with an excellent character
by, reason of expiration of term of enlistment on .June 12th,
1911. At the organization of the 5th Company, C.H.G., he was elected
First Lieutenant, and on the reorganization, was again elected
unanimously to the same office.
Second Lieutenant J. W. Whitson
This efficient officer is one of the hardest
workers in the company, always on the job, and attending to all
duties involving on the Second Lieutenant cheerfully and 100 per
cent perfect. The Lieutenant certainly knows how.
He enlisted July 28th, 1909, in the 7th
Company, C.A.C., N.G.C. During his enlistment he held the ratings
of Second-class Gunner, First-class Gunner, and Chief Plotter.
He was honorably discharged by reason of expiration of term of
service, with an excellent character, on July 27th, 1912. He was
elected Second Lieutenant of the 5th Company, C.H.G., on its organization,
and at the re-organization he was again elected by a unanimous
vote to the same office. Great credit is due him for his valuable
assistance in training the company.
Roll of Honor, 87th Company, C.M.R.
The following men are in the service of
their country, having gone from the ranks of the 87th Company.
It is possible that there may be others who are in active service,
but as far as is known, this list is correct:
First Lieutenant R. It. Hatchett, Engineer
Corps.
Second Lieutenant S. S. Lawrence, Field Artillery.
Second Lieutenant W. Chick, Engineer Corps.
Second Lieutenant H. Barker, Infantry.
S. Simpson, Stanford Training Camp.
M. Goldsmith, Artillery Officers' Training School.
A. Gilmour, St. Mary's Training School.
L. R. Livingstone, Aviation. W. T. Varney, Aviation.
L. Bottomley, Artillery Training School.
E. G. Pew, Infantry.
G. R. Searl, Infantry.
A. S. Hardman, Hospital Corps.
L. A. Grow.
L. A. Dealy, Hospital Corps.
C. S. Purviance, Hospital Corps.
H. Harmsen, Hospital Corps.
J. P. O'Brien. Signal Corps.
J. E. Ross, Signal Corps.
A. Wood, Engineer Corps.
J. McPartland, Engineer Corps.
J. Flynn, Engineer Corps.
L. J. Grindinger, Engineer Corps.
E. McKenna, Engineer Corps.
W. McSmith, Navy.
J. P. Perrira, Navy.
H. Hoey, Navy.
L. Mitchell, Navy.
B. Fossell.
G. H. Piggotti, Jr.
C. Rasmussen.
N. M. Simon.
H. R. Wilson.
W. D. Wise.
A. Fitzpatrick.
W. Cramer.
W. B. Doyle.
P. MacDonald.
T. Sanchez.
W. Urbick,
Roster, 87th Company, C.M.R.
Captain, M. F. Sylva
First Lieutenant D. M. Barrows.
Second Lieutenant J. W. Whitson
First Sergeant N, D. Cook.
Supply Sergeant V. S. Pearce
Sergeants
E. Kreeft
N. S. Patterson
G. W. Hardman
C. O. Weedin
Corporals
C.A. Beagles
F. A. Selander
A. Nickel
C. S. Bucher
E. Ellingson
G. A. Parker
F. W. Schell
Privates
W. A. Baxter-Gould
G. P. Beaumont
A. Berglof
C. H. Bessett
L. Bloom
E. Browning
W. E. Butler
F. Callahan
W. Cullen
G. W. Cunniffe
E. H. Forrester
W. S. Franklin
J. Gill
L. Gioia
P. J. Grace
H. Griffo
P. M. Hansen
J. F. Harper
L. D. Hetter
G. G. Hibbett
H. Hill
S. J. Hipkins
A. Hippley
W. Hotter
K.C. Ingram
H. H. Kahn
M. H. Lewis
H. C. Lindberg
L. McCoy
T. B. McCoy
D. Mercato
W. T. Miley
W. Morenstern
H. J. Morse
A. Muller
W. H. Oates
J. D. Parr
L. S. Payne
O. Pettingill
F. R. Quigley
G. H. Renworth
C. E. Robinson
F. Seeger
A. Siewert
L. Silberstein
K. H. Smitten
F. K. Snowden
E. E. Stark
R. Stockman
G. R. Thomson
H. S. Tilford
A. E. Thomas
S. J. Vogel
T. E. Wales
H. Wobber
J. Zuichi
90th Company,
California Home Guard
91st Company,
California Home Guard
This company was formerly
the 8th Company, 1st Regiment.
Search
our Site!
Questions and comments concerning
this site should be directed to the Webmaster
