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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Gatlings at Santiago, by John H. Parker
+
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+Title: The Gatlings at Santiago
+
+Author: John H. Parker
+
+Release Date: November, 2004  [EBook #6888]
+[This file was first posted on February 7, 2003]
+
+Edition: 10
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK, THE GATLINGS AT SANTIAGO ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Paul Hollander, Juliet Sutherland, Charles Franks and the Online
+
+Distributed Proofreading Team.
+
+
+
+HISTORY OF THE GATLING GUN DETACHMENT
+FIFTH ARMY CORPS, AT SANTIAGO,
+
+With a Few Unvarnished Truths Concerning that Expedition.
+
+(Short Title: The Gatlings at Santiago)
+
+
+BY JOHN H. PARKER,
+1st Lieut. 13th Inf.
+
+(Late) Commanding Gatling Gun Detachment,
+Fifth Army Corps, at Santiago.
+
+
+
+
+DEDICATION.
+
+To the Enlisted Members of the Detachment, Who, by Their Devotion,
+Courage and Endurance, Made Its Success Possible, this Volume is
+Dedicated as a Token of Esteem by the Author.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+
+I. L'envoi.
+II. Inception Of The Scheme.
+III. The Ordnance Depot.
+IV. The Voyage And Disembarkation.
+V. The March.
+VI. The Battery In Camp Wheeler.
+VII. The Battle.
+VIII. Tactical Analysis Of The Battles At Santiago.
+IX. The Volunteers.
+X. The Sufferings Of The Fifth Army Corps.
+XI. Home Again.
+Appendix I
+Appendix II
+Appendix III
+Index
+
+
+
+
+The photographic illustrations in this work are due to the courage and
+kindness of Mr. John N. Weigle, of Gettysburg, Pa. This young man was
+first sergeant of the Gatling Gun Detachment, and took with him a
+large supply of material. It was his delight to photograph everything
+that occurred, and his pleasure to furnish a set of photographs for
+the use of the author. Mr. Weigle was recommended for a commission in
+the Regular Army of the United States, for his extreme gallantry in
+action, and is a magnificent type of the American youth. The thanks of
+the author are tendered to him for the photographic illustrations so
+generously supplied.
+
+
+
+
+ILLUSTRATIONS
+
+
+Lieut. John H. Parker, 13th US Infantry, Late Commanding Gatling Guns
+    at Santiago. (_Frontispiece_)
+Map--Santiago and Surrounding Area.
+Skirmish Drill at Tampa.
+Skirmish Drill at Tampa.
+Field Bakery.
+Awaiting Turn to Embark.
+Baiquiri.
+The "Hornet."
+Waiting.
+Wrecked Locomotives and Machine Shops at Baiquiri.
+The Landing.
+Pack Train.
+Calvary Picket Line.
+San Juan Hill.
+Cuban Soldiers as They Were.
+Wagon Train.
+Gatling Battery under Artillery Fire at El Poso.
+Gatling Gun on Firing-Line July 1st. (Taken under fire by Sergeant
+    Weigle).
+Fort Roosevelt.
+Sergeant Greene's Gun at Fort Roosevelt.
+Skirmish Line in Battle.
+Fort Roosevelt.
+A Fighting Cuban, and Where He Fought.
+Map--Siege Lines at Santiago.
+Gatling Camp and Bomb-Proofs at Fort Roosevelt.
+Tree Between Lines Showing Bullet Holes. This Tree Grew on Low Ground.
+Spanish Block-House.
+Spanish Fort of Three-Inch Guns.
+Tentage in Cuba.
+After the Rain.
+Native Industry.
+Charge on San Juan Hill.
+Gatlings at Baiquiri Just Before Starting For the Front.
+Cuban Cart used by Gatling Gun Detachment, Priv. J. Shiffer Driving.
+Tiffany at his Gun in the Trench.
+Relics of the Battle. 1. Range Table of 16-cm. Gun in Spanish Fort,
+    Silenced by Gatlings July 1, '98. 2. Rear Sight of same Gun.
+    3. Fuse picked up by J. Shiffer July 1. 4. Remington Cartridge used
+    by the Spanish Volunteers, the so-called "Explosive" Brass-covered
+    Bullet. 5. Piece of Coral dug up in the Trenches. 6. Spanish
+    Spurs.
+Cieba Tree, under Which General Toral Surrendered.
+Undergrowth in Cuba.
+Cuban Residence.
+"Reina Mercedes" Sunk by the "Iowa" near Mouth of Harbor of Santiago.
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+
+On the morning of July 1st, the dismounted cavalry, including my
+regiment, stormed Kettle Hill, driving the Spaniards from their
+trenches. After taking the crest, I made the men under me turn and
+begin volley-firing at the San Juan Blockhouse and intrenchments
+against which Hawkins' and Kent's Infantry were advancing. While thus
+firing, there suddenly smote on our ears a peculiar drumming sound.
+One or two of the men cried out, "The Spanish machine guns!" but,
+after listening a moment, I leaped to my feet and called, "It's the
+Gatlings, men! It's our Gatlings!" Immediately the troopers began to
+cheer lustily, for the sound was most inspiring. Whenever the drumming
+stopped, it was only to open again a little nearer the front. Our
+artillery, using black powder, had not been able to stand within range
+of the Spanish rifles, but it was perfectly evident that the Gatlings
+were troubled by no such consideration, for they were advancing all
+the while.
+
+Soon the infantry took San Juan Hill, and, after one false start, we
+in turn rushed the next line of block-houses and intrenchments, and
+then swung to the left and took the chain of hills immediately
+fronting Santiago. Here I found myself on the extreme front, in
+command of the fragments of all six regiments of the cavalry division.
+I received orders to halt where I was, but to hold the hill at all
+hazards. The Spaniards were heavily reinforced and they opened a
+tremendous fire upon us from their batteries and trenches. We laid
+down just behind the gentle crest of the hill, firing as we got the
+chance, but, for the most part, taking the fire without responding. As
+the afternoon wore on, however, the Spaniards became bolder, and made
+an attack upon the position. They did not push it home, but they did
+advance, their firing being redoubled. We at once ran forward to the
+crest and opened on them, and, as we did so, the unmistakable drumming
+of the Gatlings opened abreast of us, to our right, and the men
+cheered again. As soon as the attack was definitely repulsed, I
+strolled over to find out about the Gatlings, and there I found Lieut.
+Parker with two of his guns right on our left, abreast of our men, who
+at that time were closer to the Spaniards than any others.
+
+From thence on, Parker's Gatlings were our inseparable companions
+throughout the siege. They were right up at the front. When we dug our
+trenches, he took off the wheels of his guns and put them in the
+trenches. His men and ours slept in the same bomb-proofs and shared
+with one another whenever either side got a supply of beans or coffee
+and sugar. At no hour of the day or night was Parker anywhere but
+where we wished him to be, in the event of an attack. If a troop of my
+regiment was sent off to guard some road or some break in the lines,
+we were almost certain to get Parker to send a Gatling along, and,
+whether the change was made by day or by night, the Gatling went.
+Sometimes we took the initiative and started to quell the fire of the
+Spanish trenches; sometimes they opened upon us; but, at whatever hour
+of the twenty-four the fighting began, the drumming of the Gatlings
+was soon heard through the cracking of our own carbines.
+
+[Illustration: Map--Santiago and Surrounding Area.]
+
+I have had too little experience to make my judgment final; but
+certainly, if I were to command either a regiment or a brigade,
+whether of cavalry or infantry, I would try to get a Gatling
+battery--under a good man--with me. I feel sure that the greatest
+possible assistance would be rendered, under almost all circumstances,
+by such a Gatling battery, if well handled; for I believe that it
+could be pushed fairly to the front of the firing-line. At any rate,
+this is the way that Lieut. Parker used his battery when he went into
+action at San Juan, and when he kept it in the trenches beside the
+Rough Riders before Santiago.
+
+Theodore Roosevelt.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+L'ENVOI.
+
+
+The history of the Gatling Gun Detachment, Fifth Army Corps, is to a
+certain extent the history of the Santiago campaign. The detachment
+was organized on the spur of the moment, to utilize material which
+would otherwise have been useless, and was with the Fifth Corps in all
+the campaign. It participated in all the fighting of that campaign,
+except the fight at La Guasimas, and was disbanded upon the return of
+the Fifth Corps to Montauk. Whatever hardships were endured by the
+Fifth Corps were shared by this detachment; whatever dangers were
+faced by the Fifth Corps were faced by it also; where the hottest
+fighting occurred this detachment went in and stayed; and at the
+surrender it was paraded, to use the words of General Shafter, "Upon
+that portion of the line which it occupied so promptly and defended so
+well."
+
+But this memoir is not intended as a history of that campaign nor of
+the Fifth Corps. The author has not the data available to cover so
+large a field, nor the ability to do justice to the courage,
+fortitude, and endurance so heroically displayed by that gallant army.
+That story will be written by abler pens, and will be the wonder of
+the world when it is told.
+
+This story is that of an experiment. It is told to lay before the
+general public, as well as the military critic, the work of a little
+detachment of thirty-seven men, armed with an untried weapon,
+organized in the short space of four days preceding July 1, 1898, and
+which without proper equipment, adequate instruction, or previous
+training, in the face of discouragements and sneers, and in spite of
+obstacles enough to make the mere retrospect sickening, still achieved
+for itself a warm place in the hearts of all true soldiers, and
+covered itself with glory upon the hardest fought battle-field of the
+Hispano-American War.
+
+This story is to commemorate the gallantry of the enlisted men who
+helped to make history and revolutionize tactics at Santiago. It will
+tell of the heroism of the plain American Regular, who, without hope
+of preferment or possibility of reward, boldly undertook to confute
+the erroneous theories of military compilers, who, without originality
+or reason, have unblushingly cribbed the labored efforts of foreign
+officers, and foisted these compilations of second-hand opinions upon
+the American Army as military text-books of authority and weight.
+These literary soldiers declared, following the lead of their foreign
+guides, that "The value of machine guns on the battle-field is
+doubtful," and that "Their offensive value is probably very small."
+They also agreed, with most touching unanimity, that "A direct assault
+upon a fortified position, occupied by good, unshaken infantry, armed
+with the modern rifle and plentifully supplied with ammunition is sure
+to fail, unless made by overwhelming numbers and prepared by strong
+and accurate fire by artillery."
+
+These servile imitators of foreign pen soldiers were destined to see
+all their pet theories exploded by the grim old mountain puma from
+California and his brave Fifth Corps. They were to learn, so far as
+they are capable of learning, that the American Regular makes tactics
+as he needs them; that the rules of war established by pen soldiers do
+not form the basis of actual operations in the field; that theories
+must go to the wall before the stern logic of irrefutable facts; and
+that deductions based on the drill-made automatons of European armies
+are not applicable to an army composed of American Volunteer Regulars,
+led by our trained officers.
+
+We shall see that an army destitute of cavalry, and hence without
+"eyes"; not supported by artillery; in the most difficult country over
+which soldiers ever operated, and without maps or reconnaissance--in
+twenty days shut up and captured an army of twice its own effective
+strength, in a strongly fortified city, with better served and more
+numerous artillery.
+
+We shall find that when the "sledge" was not at hand, American
+ingenuity was able to use the "mallet" instead, making light machine
+guns perform all the function of artillery, and dispensing altogether,
+so far as any practical results were concerned, with that expensive
+and much overrated arm; that the Regular private is capable of meeting
+all demands upon his intelligence, and that the American non. com. is
+the superior of foreign officers.
+
+It is also hoped to place before the intelligent American public some
+correct ideas of the new arm which was tried thoroughly at Santiago
+for the first time in the history of the world. The machine gun is the
+latest practical product of American inventive genius applied to war.
+The first form of this weapon tried, the mitrailleuse, was not very
+successful. It failed, not on account of faults of construction, or
+imperfect mechanism, but because its proper tactical employment had
+not been thought out by the French army. Since that time machine guns
+have been greatly improved, but no one has succeeded in making their
+great value appreciated by military authorities. The failures of the
+French brought the gun into disfavor, and created a prejudice against
+its employment.
+
+The Artillery of the world, which poses in every country as an
+elite body of scientific fighters, and is often found on the
+battle-field to be an aggregation of abstruse theorists, were jealous
+and contemptuous. They said, "See how easily the artillery knocked out
+machine guns at Gravelotte." The Cavalry of the world, famous
+everywhere for an _esprit-du-corps_ which looks haughtily down on
+all other arms of the service, were too deeply absorbed in the merits
+of saber vs. revolver, and in the proper length of their
+spectacular plumes, to give a second thought to this new, untried, and
+therefore worthless weapon. The world's Infantry, resting upon the
+assumption that it is the backbone of all armies, and the only real,
+reliable fighting body under all conditions, left the consideration of
+these vague dreams of mechanical destructiveness to lunatics, cranks,
+and philanthropists.
+
+In our own country the Ordnance Department, which is the trial court
+before which all military inventions must appear, scouted the idea of
+usefulness of machine guns even after war was declared, and adhered to
+the view that machine guns, in the very nature of things, could never
+be useful except in the defense of fortified positions; that they
+never could be brought up on the battlefield, nor used if they were
+brought up. This view was that of a prominent young officer of that
+department who wrote a report on the subject, and it seemed to express
+the views of the department.
+
+This view must have been that of our War Department, for it did not
+even acknowledge the receipt of drawings and specifications for a
+machine gun carriage, offered freely to the Government as a gift by
+the inventor six months before the war, together with the first
+correct tactical outline of the proper use of machine guns ever filed
+in any War Office in the world. This invention was designed to
+facilitate the use of the machine gun by making its advance with the
+skirmish line possible on the offensive, and was recommended by the
+whole staff of the Infantry and Cavalry School as a meritorious
+device, worthy of trial. The discussion filed with the invention
+pointed out, for the first time, the correct tactical employment of
+the weapon, and staked the military reputation and ability of the
+author and inventor on the correctness of his views.
+
+From these facts it may be gathered that there was required a certain
+degree of originality and energy to get together and organize a
+machine gun battery for the Santiago campaign.
+
+The project was conceived and executed. The service rendered by this
+battery has forever set at rest the question of the proper tactical
+use of the machine gun arm, both on the offensive and defensive. These
+things are now beyond the realm of theory. They are a demonstrated
+problem. The solution is universally acknowledged to be correct.
+
+This is the history of that detachment.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+INCEPTION.
+
+From the 26th of April until the 6th of June, Tampa and Port Tampa
+were the military centers of greatest interest in the United States.
+Troops were rushed into these places on special trains and camped on
+available sites, pending the organization of a proposed expedition
+to--somewhere. Supplies of every description came pouring in on long
+trains of express and freight cars; mounted officers and orderlies
+ploughed their rushing way through great heaps and dunes of
+ever-shifting sand, leaving behind them stifling clouds of
+scintillating particles, which filtered through every conceivable
+crevice and made the effort to breathe a suffocating nightmare. Over
+all the tumultuous scene a torrid sun beat down from a cloudless sky,
+while its scorching rays, reflected from the fierce sand under foot,
+produced a heat so intolerable that even the tropical vegetation
+looked withered and dying. In this climate officers and men, gathered
+mostly from Northern posts, were to "acclimate" themselves for a
+tropical campaign--somewhere.
+
+[Illustration: Skirmish Drill at Tampa.]
+
+They never encountered as deadly a heat, nor a more pernicious
+climate, in Cuba nor in Porto Rico, than that of southern Florida. Its
+first effect upon men just emerging from a bracing Northern winter was
+akin to prostration. Then began to follow a decided tendency to
+languor; after this one was liable to sudden attacks of bowel
+troubles. The deadly malaria began to insidiously prepare the way for
+a hospital cot; the patient lost flesh, relish of food became a
+reminiscence, and an hour's exertion in the sun was enough to put a
+man on his back for the rest of the day. Exposure to the direct action
+of the sun's rays was frequently followed by nausea, a slight chill,
+and then a high fever. The doctors subsequently called this "thermal
+fever," which is suspected to be a high-sounding name calculated to
+cover up a very dense ignorance of the nature of the disease, because
+no one ever obtained any relief from it from them. Recurrence of the
+exposure brought recurrence of the fever, and, if persisted in,
+finally produced a severe illness.
+
+One reason for this was that the troops continued to wear the winter
+clothing they had worn on their arrival. The promised "khaki" did not
+materialize. Some regiments drew the brown canvas fatigue uniform, but
+the only use made of it was to put the white blanket-roll through the
+legs of the trousers, thereby adding to the weight of the roll,
+without perceptible benefit to the soldier.
+
+Such a climate, under such surroundings, was not conducive to original
+thought, prolonged exertion, or sustained study. Everybody felt "mean"
+and was eager for a change. Nobody wanted to listen to any new
+schemes. The highest ambition seemed to be to get out of it to
+somewhere with just as little delay and exertion as possible. It was
+at this juncture that the plan of organizing a Gatling gun battery was
+conceived, and the attempt to obtain authority began.
+
+The Gatling gun is one of the two machine guns adopted in the land
+service of the United States. Not to enter into a technical
+description, but merely to convey a general idea of its working and
+uses, it may be described as follows:
+
+The gun is a cluster of rifle barrels, without stocks, arranged around
+a rod, and parallel to it. Each barrel has its own lock or bolt, and
+the whole cluster can be made to revolve by turning a crank. The bolts
+are all covered in a brass case at the breech, and the machine is
+loaded by means of a vertical groove in which cartridges are placed,
+twenty at a time, and from which they fall into the receivers one at a
+time. As the cluster of barrels revolves each one is fired at the
+lowest point, and reloaded as it completes the revolution. The gun is
+mounted on a wye-shaped trunnion; the lower end of the wye passes down
+into a socket in the axle. The gun is pointed by a lever just as one
+points a garden hose or sprinkler, with the advantage that the gun can
+be clamped at any instant, and will then continue to sprinkle its
+drops of death over the same row of plants until the clamps are
+released. The axle is hollow and will hold about a thousand
+cartridges. It is horizontal, and on its ends are heavy Archibald
+wheels. There is also a heavy hollow trail, in which tools and
+additional ammunition can be stored. The limber resembles that used by
+the Artillery, and is capable of carrying about 9600 rounds of
+cartridges. The whole gun, thus mounted, can be drawn by two mules,
+and worked to good advantage by from six to eight men. It is built of
+various calibers, and can fire from 300 to 900 shots per minute. The
+guns used by the Gatling Gun Detachment, Fifth Army Corps, were built
+by the Colt's Arms Co., were the latest improved model, long
+ten-barrel gun, and fired the Krag-Jorgenson ammunition used by the
+Regular Army.
+
+The attempt to obtain authority to organize a machine gun battery met
+with many discouragements and repeated failures. No one seemed to have
+thought anything about the subject, and Tampa was not a good place nor
+climate in which to indulge in that form of exercise, apparently.
+Perhaps the climate was one reason why so little thinking was done,
+and everything went "at sixes and sevens."
+
+[Illustration: Skirmish Drill at Tampa.]
+
+The officer who had conceived the scheme was a young man, too. He was
+only a second lieutenant ("Second lieutenants are fit for nothing
+except to take reveille"), and had never, so far as his military
+superiors knew, heard the whistle of a hostile bullet. He had made no
+brilliant record at the Academy, had never distinguished himself in
+the service, and was not anybody's "pet." He was, apparently, a safe
+man to ignore or snub if occasion or bad temper made it desirable to
+ignore or snub somebody, and, above all, had no political friends who
+would be offended thereby.
+
+"Politics" cut quite a figure in Tampa in some respects. An officer
+who was known to be a personal friend of Senator Somebody, or protege
+of this or that great man, was regarded with considerable awe and
+reverence by the common herd. It was ludicrous to see the weight
+attached to the crumbs of wisdom that fell from the friends of the
+friends of somebody. They shone only by a reflected light, it is true;
+but nobody there at Tampa had a lamp of his own, except the few who
+had won renown in the Civil War, and reflected light was better than
+none at all. A very young and green second lieutenant who was able to
+boast that he had declined to be a major in a certain State was at
+once an oracle to other lieutenants--and to some who were not
+lieutenants. The policy which governed these appointments was not so
+well understood at that date in the campaign as it is now.
+
+When the court of a reigning favorite was established at the Tampa Bay
+Hotel as a brigadier, and people began to get themselves a little
+settled into the idea that they knew who was in command, they were
+suddenly disillusioned by the appointment of another and senior
+brigadier to the command. They settled down to get acquainted with the
+new authority, and were just beginning to find out who was who, when
+the telegraph flashed the news that the deposed potentate had been
+made a major-general, and, of course, was now in command. The thing
+was becoming interesting. Bets began to be made as to which would come
+in ahead under the wire. The other also became a major-general. Then
+came a period of uncertainty, because the question of rank hinged upon
+some obscure and musty record of forgotten service some thirty-four
+years before. From these facts will be apparent the difficulty under
+which a subordinate labored in trying to create anything.
+
+It is hardly worth while in any case of that sort to waste time with
+subordinates. The projector of an enterprise had better go straight to
+the one who has the necessary authority to order what is wanted; if
+access to him can be had, and he can be brought to recognize the
+merits of the plan--that settles it; if not--that also settles it. In
+either case the matter becomes a settled thing, and one knows what to
+depend upon.
+
+But who was the man to see there at Tampa? Nobody knew.
+
+The first officer approached was the one in direct line of
+superiority, Col. A. T. Smith, 13th Infantry. The idea was to
+ascertain his views and try to obtain from him a favorable endorsement
+upon a written plan to be submitted through military channels to the
+commanding general at Tampa. Perhaps it was the deadly climate; for
+the reply to a request for a few minutes' audience on the subject of
+machine guns was very gruff and curt: "I don't want to hear anything
+about it. I don't believe in it, and I don't feel like hearing it. If
+you want to see me about this subject, come to me in office hours."
+That settled it. Any effort to get a written plan through would have
+to carry the weight of official disapproval from the start, and even a
+"shavey" knows that disapproval at the start is enough to kill a paper
+in the official routine.
+
+The next officers approached were Major William Auman and Capt. H.
+Cavanaugh, of the 13th Infantry, who were asked for advice. These two
+officers, both of whom rendered very distinguished services on the
+battle-field, listened with interest and were convinced. Their advice
+was: "Get your plan in tangible shape, typewritten, showing just what
+you propose; then go straight to the commanding general himself. If he
+listens to you, he will be the responsible party, and will have waived
+the informality; if he will not receive you, no harm is done."
+
+This advice was followed and the following plan prepared:
+
+_Scheme for Organization of Division Galling Gun Detachment._
+
+"Material:
+
+"Three guns with limbers and caissons; 28 horses and 16 saddles; 6
+sets double harness, wheel, and 6 lead; 1 escort wagon, team and
+driver; and 100,000 rounds, .30 cal.
+
+"Personnel:
+
+"One first lieutenant, 3 sergeants, 3 corporals, 1 clerk, 1 cook, and
+35 enlisted men selected for their intelligence, activity, and daring;
+volunteers, if possible to be obtained, as the service will be
+hazardous.
+
+"Equipment:
+
+"Officer: Revolver, saber, or machete, and field-glass.
+
+"Enlisted men: Revolver and knife.
+
+"Fifty rounds to be carried on person for revolver, and 50 in ordnance
+train.
+
+"Camp Equipage:
+
+"Four conical wall-tents, 2 'A' wall-tents, and the ordinary cooking
+outfit for a company of 41 men.
+
+"Organization:
+
+"In the discretion of the detachment commander, subject to approval of
+division commander; probably as follows, subject to modifications by
+experience:
+
+"Three detachments under a sergeant. A detachment to be composed of 1
+gunner and 7 men. The gunner should be a corporal.
+
+"Administration:
+
+"The Division Gatling Gun Detachment to be subject only to the orders
+of the division commander, or higher authority. Its members are
+carried on 'd. s.' in their respective organizations. Its commander
+exercises over it the same authority as a company commander, and keeps
+the same records. Returns, reports, and other business are transacted
+as in company, except that the detachment commander reports directly
+to and receives orders directly from Division Headquarters. The
+detachment is not subject to ordinary guard or fatigue. When used as
+part of a guard, whole detachments go with their pieces.
+
+"Instruction:
+
+"The organization is purely experimental; hence the greatest possible
+latitude must be allowed the detachment commander, and he should be
+held accountable for the results. He should not be subjected to the
+orders or interference of any subordinates, however able, who have
+made no special study of the tactical use or instruction for machine
+guns, and who may not have faith in the experiment. It will be useless
+to expect efficiency of the proposed organization unless this liberty
+be accorded its organizer. The field is a new one, not yet well
+discussed by even the text-writers. Organization and instruction must
+be largely experimental, subject to change as the result of
+experience; but no change from the plans of the organizer should be
+made except for good and sufficient reasons.
+
+"Tactical Employment:
+
+"This organization is expected to develop:
+
+  "(a) The fire-action of good infantry.
+
+  "(b) The mobility of cavalry.
+
+"Its qualities, therefore, must be rapidity and accuracy, both of fire
+and movement.
+
+"Its employment on the defensive is obvious. On the offensive it is
+expected to be useful with advance guards, rear guards, outposts,
+raids, and in battle. The last use, novel as it is, will be most
+important of all. The flanks of the division can be secured by this
+organization, relieving reserves of this duty; it will give a
+stiffening to the line of support, and at every opportune occasion
+will be pushed into action on the firing line. The _moral effect_
+of its presence will be very great; it will be able to render valuable
+assistance by its fire (over the charging line) in many cases. Last,
+but very important, the occupation of a captured line by this
+organization at once will supply a powerful, concentrated, and
+controlled fire, either to repulse a counter-charge or to fire on a
+discomfited, retiring enemy. Being a horsed organization, it can
+arrive at the critical point at the vital moment when, the defender's
+first line having been thrust out, our line being disorganized, a
+counter-charge by the enemy would be most effective, or controlled
+fire by our own troops on him would be most useful.
+
+"It is urged that this last use of machine guns is one of the most
+important functions, and one which has been overlooked by writers and
+tacticians.
+
+"There is one vital limitation upon the proposed organization; viz.,
+it must not be pitted against artillery.
+
+"It is urgently suggested that this organization can be perfected here
+and now without difficulty, while it will be very difficult to perfect
+after the forward movement has begun. Horses and harness can be easily
+procured at Tampa; there will be no difficulty if some energetic
+officer be authorized to proceed with the work, and directed to attend
+to the details.
+
+"Believing earnestly in the utility of the proposed organization,
+which will convert useless impedimenta into a fourth arm, and
+realizing the dangerous nature of the proposed service, I respectfully
+offer my services to carry these plans into effect.
+
+"John H. Parker,
+"2d Lieut. 13th Infty."
+
+With this plan well digested and with many a plausible argument in its
+favor all thought out, Col. Arthur McArthur, assistant adjutant-general
+to Gen. Wade, who was at that moment in command, was approached.
+
+[Illustration: Field Bakery.]
+
+Col. McArthur was a very busy man. He was also a very business-like
+man, and one of handsome appearance, easy access, and pleasant
+address. He sandwiched in a fifteen-minute interview between two
+pressing engagements, and manifested both interest and approval. But
+nothing could be done at that time. "Come again a week from to-day,"
+said he, "and I will try to obtain you a hearing before one who can do
+what you wish by a single word. I believe in your scheme and will help
+you if I can." The week rolled by and a change of commanding generals
+occurred. Gen. Wade was ordered away, taking McArthur with him, and no
+progress had been made. It was discouraging.
+
+The next step in the plan was by lucky accident. Lieutenant (now
+Lieut.-Col.) John T. Thompson, Ordnance Department, who was in charge
+of the Ordnance Depot at Tampa, accidentally met the would-be
+machine-gun man, and was promptly buttonholed over a dish of ice
+cream. Thompson was himself a young man and a student. His department
+placed an insuperable obstacle in the way of himself carrying out a
+plan which he, also, had conceived, and he was keen to see the idea,
+which he fully believed in, demonstrated on the battle-field. He had,
+moreover, as ordnance officer, just received an invoice of fifteen
+Gatling guns, complete, of the latest model, and he had access to the
+commanding general by virtue of being a member of his staff. By reason
+of the terrible rush of overwork, he needed an assistant, and it
+seemed practicable to try to kill two birds with one stone. But all he
+said was, "I believe in the idea; I have long advocated it. It may be
+possible for me to get you your opportunity, and it may not. If so,
+you will hear from the matter."
+
+The attempt to get the thing going had been apparently abandoned,
+when, utterly without notice, the regimental commander received orders
+per letter, from Headquarters Fifth Army Corps, which resulted in the
+following orders:
+
+"Headquarters 13th Infantry, in the Field,
+"Tampa, Fla., May 27, 1898.
+
+"Special Orders No. 22:
+
+"Pursuant to instructions contained in letter from Headquarters 5th
+Army Corps, May 26, 1898,
+
+2d Lieut. John H. Parker, 13th Infantry.
+Sergeant Alois Weischaar, Company A,
+Sergeant William Eyder, Company G,
+Private Lewis Kastner, Company A.
+Private Joe Seman, Company B,
+Private Abram Greenberg, Company C.
+Private Joseph Hoft, Company D,
+Private O'Connor L. Jones, Company D,
+Private Louis Misiak, Company E,
+Private George C. Murray, Company F,
+Private John Bremer, Company G,
+Private Fred H. Chase, Company H,
+Private Martin Pyne, Company H,
+
+will report to Lieut. J. T. Thompson, ordnance officer, for duty in
+connection with the Gatling Gun Battery.
+
+"These men will be fully equipped, with the exception of rifle,
+bayonet, scabbard, and blanket-bag, and will be rationed to include
+May 31, 1898.
+
+"By order of Colonel Smith.
+
+"M. McFarland,
+"1st Lieut. 13th Infty., Adjutant."
+
+These men were selected by their company commanders. It is not known
+whether the selections were made with a view to special fitness or
+not. They had no notice that the detail was to be anything but a
+transient character; in fact, one company commander actually detailed
+the cook of his private mess, and was intensely disgusted when he
+found that the detail was to be permanent or semi-permanent. The men
+were sent fully armed and equipped; carrying rifles, knapsacks, etc.,
+and marched down to the Ordnance Depot for instructions. These
+instructions were to return to camp, turn in their rifles, bayonets,
+cartridges, belts, and knapsacks, and return early the following
+morning equipped with blanket-roll complete, haversack, and canteen.
+Each man, after full explanation of the hazardous duty, was given a
+chance to withdraw, but all volunteered to stay.
+
+The instructions were obeyed, and the Gatling Gun Detachment was
+born--a pigmy.
+
+[Illustration: Awaiting Turn to Embark.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+THE ORDNANCE DEPOT.
+
+
+The Ordnance Depot at Tampa was located on Lafayette Street, at the
+end of the bridge over the river, next to the Tampa Bay Hotel. The
+river washed the sides of the building, which was occupied by the
+Tampa Athletic Club, and had formerly been used as a club-house. There
+were two stories and a basement. The basement was nearly on a level
+with the river, the main floor on a level with the bridge, and there
+was also a spacious upper floor. The main floor was used for storage
+of light articles of ordnance; the basement for heavy articles and
+ammunition. Hundreds of thousands of rounds of rifle and revolver ball
+cartridges, thousands of rounds of Hotchkiss fixed ammunition, and
+many hundreds of pounds of powder charges for field artillery and
+mortars were here stored. Miscellaneous assortments were daily coming
+in, generally without any mark on the box by which to learn what were
+the contents. The name of the arsenal, if from an arsenal, was usually
+stamped on the seal; generally there was no mark whatever to designate
+the origin or contents of the many boxes which came from ordinary
+posts. The invoices came from a week to ten days behind or in advance
+of the arrival of the boxes, and there was not the slightest clue to
+be gained from them. Consequently those who had to check up invoices
+and prepare for issues were at their wits' end to keep things
+straight. A requisition for so many articles would come in, duly
+approved; unless the boxes containing these articles happened to have
+been unpacked, it was uncertain whether they were on hand or not. No
+wholesale merchant of any sense would ship out boxes of goods without
+some indication of their contents; but that was exactly what was done
+from all over the country to the Ordnance Depot at Tampa.
+
+The upper floor consisted of one large room. A rope railing was placed
+around it to preserve clear space around the desks. There were several
+of these for the ordnance officer and the various clerks. A chief
+clerk, an assistant clerk, a stenographer, and two ordnance sergeants
+looked after the red tape. An overseer with four subordinates and a
+gang of negro stevedores attended to loading and unloading boxes,
+storing them, counting out articles for issue or receipt, and such
+other duties as they were called on to perform. There was an old
+janitor named McGee, a veteran of the Civil War, whose business it was
+to look after the sweeping and keep the floors clean.
+
+Four guns in their original boxes were issued to the detachment on the
+27th of May. They were new, and apparently had never been assembled.
+On assembling them it was found that the parts had been constructed
+with such "scientific" accuracy that the use of a mallet was
+necessary. The binder-box on the pointing lever was so tight that in
+attempting to depress the muzzle of the gun it was possible to lift
+the trail off the ground before the binder-box would slide on the
+lever. The axis-pin had to be driven in and out with an axe, using a
+block of wood, of course, to prevent battering. A truly pretty state
+of affairs for a gun the value of which depends on the ease with which
+it can be pointed in any direction.
+
+Inquiry after the war at the factory where the guns are made disclosed
+the fact that these parts are rigidly tested by a gauge by the
+Government inspectors, and that looseness is regarded as a fatal
+defect. Even play of half a hundredth of an inch is enough to insure
+the rejection of a piece. The very first thing done by the Gatling Gun
+Detachment, upon assembling these guns, was to obtain a set of
+armorers' tools and to file away these parts by hand until the aim of
+the piece could be changed by the touch of a feather. The detachment
+was ordered to rely upon the friction clutches for steadiness of aim,
+when necessary, and not upon the tight fit of the parts. It was
+ordered that there must be no doubt whatever of easy, perfectly free
+manipulation at any and all times, even if the pointing lever should
+become rusted. This precaution proved on July 1st to have been of
+great value.
+
+[Illustration: Baiquiri.]
+
+The instruction of the detachment began immediately, and consisted, at
+first, of unpacking, mounting, dismounting, and repacking the guns.
+The four guns were mounted and a drill held each time in the loading
+and firing of the piece. This system of instruction was continued
+until the detachment was ordered on board ship on the 6th of June.
+During this instruction members of the detachment were designated by
+name to fall out, and the remainder of the detachment required to
+execute all the maneuvers of the piece as before. In fact, this
+instruction was carried to such a point that one man alone was
+required to load, aim, and fire the gun at designated objects without
+any assistance.
+
+The detachment at once assumed the position of an independent command.
+It reported directly to Maj.-Gen. W. R. Shafter, commanding the 5th
+Corps, in everything so far as its duties with Gatling guns were
+concerned, was regarded as an independent command, kept its own
+records in the same manner as a company, obtained cooking utensils
+from the quartermaster and ran its own mess, and furnished its own
+guard. This status, that of a separate command, continued until the
+detachment was finally disbanded at Montauk.
+
+On the 27th of May the detachment commander was summoned to Gen.
+Wheeler's headquarters and there requested to explain to the general
+in person his plans for organizing a Gatling gun detachment. Gen.
+Wheeler had just assumed command of all the Cavalry belonging to the
+5th Army Corps. His headquarters, instead of being in a suite of rooms
+in the palatial Tampa Bay Hotel, where all the other general officers
+had their headquarters, were located about half a mile from the hotel
+in a treeless pasture. The cavalry guidon floating from a lance-head
+was the only indication of headquarters, and the half-dozen "A" tents
+in an irregular line gave no sign that one of the most distinguished
+generals in the world had here his headquarters in the field.
+
+The general was easily accessible. The first thing that impressed one
+of him was his extraordinary quickness. His eye seemed to take in
+everything within sight of him at a single glance, and to read one's
+thoughts before the tongue could give expression to them. He grasped
+ideas when they were only half uttered and immediately drew deductions
+from mere statements of simple facts, the result of years of careful
+study. These deductions, which Gen. Wheeler drew instantly, were in
+every case correct, and showed a keener and more correct appreciation
+of the proper tactical employment of machine guns than was shown by
+any other officer of the 5th Corps. The result of the interview with
+the general was that a scheme for the organization of a tactical unit
+to be composed of three Gatling guns and to be employed with the
+cavalry division, was drawn up on the spot, under Gen. Wheeler's
+personal direction, and was submitted by him to Gen. Shafter, with the
+request that authority be granted for the organization of this command
+for the purpose indicated.
+
+In the application Gen. Wheeler stated that he believed that such a
+battery of machine guns, if properly handled, could go anywhere that
+cavalry could go, could take the place of infantry supports, could
+dash up and hold any ground or advantageous position that a body of
+cavalry might seize, could be thrown out to one flank of the enemy and
+assist in his demoralization in preparation for the cavalry charge,
+and would be of particular service in case the enemy attempted to form
+infantry squares, which were at that time supposed to be the main part
+of the Spanish tactics of battle. This application was disapproved.
+
+On the 30th of May, Gen. Lee sent for the detachment commander for an
+interview on the subject of Gatling guns. Gen. Lee was at this time
+quartered at the Tampa Bay Hotel, and was engaged in the organization
+of the 7th Army Corps. It was supposed that the 7th Corps was designed
+for the Havana campaign, and it was believed that the attack upon
+Havana would begin at a very early date. The result of the interview
+with Gen. Lee was that he directed a scheme for the organization of a
+tactical unit to be composed of 9 guns, 3 batteries of 3 guns each, to
+be prepared for service with the 7th Army Corps.
+
+It was desired that this organization be a volunteer organization, and
+the application was therefore made for authority from the President,
+under that law of Congress authorizing the employment of special
+troops. Col. Guild, well and favorably known from his connection with
+the Massachusetts National Guard, was prepared to furnish a volunteer
+organization already in existence, well drilled and already officered,
+composed of the flower of the youth of Massachusetts, very largely of
+college graduates, who had already been communicated with on the
+subject, and who were even at that time expecting momentarily a
+telegram calling them to this duty. Nothing resulted from this effort.
+
+Meantime the drill instruction of the little detachment continued. Its
+members had acquired a considerable degree of proficiency in the
+mechanical handling of their guns, and were beginning to appreciate
+the destructive possibilities of their weapon. They were enjoying a
+degree of liberty which they had not found in their regimental camp,
+because when not on duty they were free to come and go at will, when
+and where they pleased. The hours for instruction were designated in
+the morning and in the cool of the afternoon, leaving the middle of
+the day and the evening for the men's own recreation. The result of
+this system of treatment was that _esprit-du-corps_ began to be
+developed in the detachment. They began to feel that they were a
+special organization, expected to do special work, and that they were
+receiving very special treatment. They began to be proud of being
+members of the Gatling Gun Detachment, to take greater interest in the
+work, and when on the first of June they received their monthly pay
+not a single member of the detachment committed any excesses in
+consequence of this unusual degree of freedom. No one was intoxicated.
+No one was absent without permission.
+
+The detachment had not been at the Ordnance Depot very long before an
+opportunity occurred for some of its members to exhibit those
+qualities which made the success of the battery so conspicuous on the
+battle-field afterward. The detachment commander had been detailed by
+verbal orders on the first of June in charge of the issues of ordnance
+property to the Santiago expedition. This was in addition to his
+duties with the Gatling guns. The work would commence about 6 o'clock
+in the morning, and from that time until dark there was a continual
+stream of wagons carrying away stores such as rifles, haversacks, meat
+ration cans, tin cups, and all the articles needed by troops in the
+field during a campaign. The ammunition which was issued to the troops
+at this time was drawn at the same place.
+
+When wagons arrived to receive issues, stevedores were directed to
+count out the different articles under the direction of an overseer,
+and these piles of articles were verified by the officer in charge of
+the issues. The stevedores then loaded them on the wagons which were
+to haul them to the different camps. Receipts in duplicate were always
+taken and invoices in duplicate were always given, in the name, of
+course, of Lieut. John T. Thompson, who was responsible for the
+stores.
+
+On the 4th of June issues were being made of rifle-ball cartridges.
+These cartridges came packed in boxes of 1000 rounds each, and each
+box weighed 78 pounds. A great quantity of it was stored in the
+basement, where there was also a considerable quantity of fixed
+Hotchkiss ammunition, as well as several thousand rounds of powder
+charges in boxes. The Hotchkiss ammunition, which comes with
+projectile and powder both set in a brass case, is bad ammunition to
+pack; for, no matter how carefully it is handled, there is almost
+always some leakage of powder from the cartridge case, thus causing a
+certain amount of loose powder to sift into the box in which it is
+packed.
+
+About half past 11 o'clock on this morning a negro stevedore
+accidentally dropped a box of rifle ammunition near a pile of
+Hotchkiss fixed, and the next instant the laborers saw smoke ascending
+toward the ceiling of the basement. They yelled "Fire! fire!" at the
+top of their voices, and everybody in the basement at once made a rush
+for the two doors. It was a panic. The danger was imminent. The smoke
+curled up to the ceiling and then curled down again, and the excited,
+panic-stricken faces of the negroes as they rushed through the door
+made an awful picture of human terror. People on the outside of the
+building began to shout "Fire!"
+
+At this juncture McGee, the old janitor, who had just reached the
+door, cried out, "Lieutenant, there is a box in here on fire!"
+speaking to Lieut. Parker, who was verifying issues just outside the
+door. The lieutenant replied, "Let's throw it into the river," and
+dashed toward the box through the door, pushing the excited negroes to
+each side in order to assist McGee, who had instantly started for the
+box. When Lieut. Parker reached the box, he found that McGee had
+already taken it up, and was staggering under its weight. He placed
+one arm around McGee's shoulder and with the other assisted him to
+support the box, from which the smoke was still ascending, and the two
+rushed for the door, throwing the whole momentum of their weight and
+speed against the crowd of frightened negroes, who were falling over
+each other in their panic-stricken efforts to escape. Priv. Greenberg,
+of the 13th Infantry, a member of the Gatling Gun Detachment, who was
+the sentinel on post at the time, saw the two men coming with the box,
+and with great presence of mind added his own weight with a rapid rush
+to the shock they had produced, thus enabling them to break their way
+through the dense throng at the door. It was only the work of an
+instant to then throw the box in the river, where it sank in the water
+and for a moment the blue smoke continued to bubble up from the box,
+which lay clearly visible on the bed of the river, the water being
+only about two feet deep at this point, which was, however, enough to
+entirely cover the box and thus extinguish the fire. At the outcry of
+"Fire!" Lieut. H. L. Kinnison, of the 25th Infantry, who was waiting
+outside of the basement with a wagon, started in at the other door,
+and Serg. Weischaar, acting first sergeant of the Gatling Gun
+Detachment, started for water. Just as the two men emerged from the
+door carrying the box, Lieut. Kinnison reached the spot where the fire
+had originated, and Serg. Weischaar appeared with two buckets of
+water. He and Lieut. Kinnison at once flooded the floor, seized a
+woolen cloth which happened to be near, and wetted down the boxes of
+Hotchkiss ammunition as a measure of precaution.
+
+[Illustration: The "Hornet."]
+
+McGee, the hero of this episode, is an old veteran of the Civil War,
+having served three years in the Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry
+during the war, and five years in the Regular Army after the war. He
+has never drawn a pension nor applied for one, although he suffers
+considerably from disease and wounds contracted and received during
+the war, and certainly should be rewarded by a grateful government for
+his conspicuous heroism. The explosion of this magazine would have
+brought the whole expedition to a standstill, besides inflicting
+tremendous destruction of property and frightful loss of life.
+
+The same day the Artillery of the army began to draw its material for
+the campaign, and for a period of thirty-nine hours there was no rest
+for anybody connected with the issue of ordnance stores. It was at
+this time that the lack of intelligent marking and packing of the
+boxes was keenly felt. The greatest difficulty was experienced in
+selecting, from the mass of stores in the depot, the stores that were
+required by the Artillery. It was especially difficult during the work
+by night, when the only light that could possibly be allowed was a
+single lantern, on account of the danger of fire.
+
+At the close of this thirty-nine hours of arduous duty, the officer in
+command of the Gatling Gun Detachment learned that orders had been
+issued for the embarkation of the 5th Army Corps at Port Tampa, and
+that no reference had been made to the Gatling Gun Detachment in these
+orders. He at once sought Lieut. Thompson, who could offer no light on
+the omission, but said, "I have orders to send at once to the
+Cherokee 521,000 rounds of rifle-ball cartridges and all the
+revolver ammunition on hand. This is the reserve ammunition of the 5th
+Army Corps. I will send you in charge of this ammunition and you will
+see it to its destination. You may take an escort or not, as you
+please. The ammunition is to go on the 4 o'clock train and you must
+make all the arrangements in regard to it. Get box-cars, haul the
+ammunition over there and put it in the cars, see that it goes on that
+train, and as soon as it arrives at Port Tampa, see that it is
+properly put on board the Cherokee."
+
+In order to fully understand the situation of the Gatling Gun
+Detachment at this juncture, the following correspondence on the
+subject is necessary:
+
+"Office of Ordnance Officer,
+"Lafayette Street, West of Bridge,
+"Tampa, Fla., June 3, 1898.
+
+"The Assistant Adjutant-General, 5th Army Corps, Tampa,
+Florida:
+
+"Sir,--Replying to your letter of June 1,1898, in reference to Gatling
+Gun Detachment, I have the honor to submit the following report:
+
+Guns, men, and equipment required for a 4-gun detachment:
+
+                   Guns. Serg. Corp. Priv.
+  Total required:      4     5     4    28
+  On hand:             4     2     0    10
+  Required:                  3     4    18
+
+The gun crews thus organized will give most effective service for the
+detachment.
+
+Ammunition: Each limber carries 9,840 rounds cal. .30. Four limbers,
+27,360; necessary reserve, 32,640; total, 60,000.
+
+Tentage: Two conical wall-tents for enlisted men; one 'A' wall-tent
+for officer.
+
+Camp equipage, in addition to that on hand in Gatling Gun Detachment:
+one buzzacot, small; four mess-pans, one dish-pan, one coffee-mill.
+
+Blanket-roll complete; revolver with 50 rounds per man; waist-belts
+and entrenching-knives.
+
+"It is recommended that Priv. Butz, 'G' Co., 13th Infantry, Corp.
+Robert S. Smith, 'C' Co., 13th Infantry, and Serg. Weigle, 9th
+Infantry, be members of the detachment; and that detachment be taken
+from 9th Infantry, which has some well-instructed men.
+
+"It is further recommended that the detachment be fully horsed as soon
+as practicable, and that the whole be placed under the command of
+Lieut. John H. Parker, 13th Infantry, as acting captain.
+
+"I recommend that I be authorized to issue the 4 Gatling guns and
+parts to him.
+
+"The details should carry the rations prescribed in General Orders
+5th, May 31, 1898, 5th Army Corps. Very respectfully,
+
+(Signed) "Jno. T. Thompson,
+"1st Lieut., Ord. Dept, U. S. A."
+
+This letter, prepared by Lieut. Parker and signed by Lieut. Thompson,
+was endorsed as follows:
+
+First Endorsement.
+
+"Headquarters 5th Army Corps,
+"Tampa, Fla., June 5, 1898.
+
+"Respectfully returned to Lieut. J. T. Thompson, Ordnance Officer.
+
+"If Lieut. Parker, in charge of the detachment as at present
+constituted, can make the arrangements suggested within, he may take
+action; but, in view of the limited time remaining, it is thought the
+detachment already organized will answer.
+
+"By command of Maj.-Gen. Shafter.
+
+"E. J. McClernand,
+"Assistant Adjutant-General."
+
+Second Endorsement.
+
+"Office of the Ordnance Officer,
+"Lafayette Street Bridge,
+"Tampa, Fla., June 5, 1898.
+
+"Respectfully referred to Lieut. John H. Parker for his information.
+
+"Jno. T. Thompson,
+"1st Lieut., Ordnance Dept, U. S. A."
+
+It will be seen from the first endorsement that a certain amount of
+discretion was left to the detachment commander. He was authorized to
+take action if he could make the arrangements suggested within. Lieut.
+Thompson had authorized an escort for the reserve ammunition, if it
+was considered necessary. The detachment commander resolved to take
+action by using his whole detachment as an escort, putting it on board
+the Cherokee, with the reserve ammunition, and accompanying it to its
+destination--in Cuba, trusting to the future to enable him to complete
+the detachment according to the first endorsement.
+
+It was now 11 o'clock in the forenoon. Between that time and 4 o'clock
+it was necessary to obtain two freight cars, have them placed upon the
+siding at a convenient point, have more than twenty wagon-loads of
+ammunition, camp equipage, etc., placed in these cars, have the four
+guns with their limbers placed on board, and, more difficult than all
+the rest, go through the necessary red tape at the quartermaster's
+office in order to get the two cars moved to Port Tampa. It was all
+accomplished.
+
+The general freight agent was bluffed into believing that unless the
+two cars were instantly set where they were wanted his whole railroad
+would be tied up. The quartermaster was hypnotized and dropped
+formality, putting all the clerks to work upon papers and making out
+the necessary bill of lading, invoices, etc., in time to catch the 4
+o'clock train. He also issued the necessary transportation for the
+officer and men of the detachment from Tampa to Port Tampa, accepting
+the first endorsement above as sufficient orders for that purpose.
+
+One member of the detachment, Priv. Murray, had been very ill with
+what we afterward learned to call the Cuban fever, and, while
+apparently convalescent, was entirely too weak to accompany the
+detachment. He was a splendid fellow, and the tears rolled down his
+emaciated face when he was told he must remain behind. He was
+furnished with a descriptive list and a letter was written to the
+chief surgeon of the Division Hospital, requesting him to send an
+ambulance immediately for the sick man. One member of the detachment
+carried this letter to Tampa Heights, and so sharp was the work of
+getting away that this man had to board a moving train as it was
+pulling out to keep from getting left; but Priv. Murray was taken to
+the hospital and cared for, and Priv. Bremer did not get left.
+
+The detachment reached Port Tampa about sundown, and Maj. Cushing, who
+had charge of the loading of the transports, at once authorized the
+cars to be set alongside the Cherokee. The ammunition, guns, camp
+equipage, men, and all were promptly put aboard. The training in
+packing and unpacking the guns was the only thing which enabled the
+work to be done in the limited time allotted. Not so much as a
+ten-penny nail belonging to the detachment was left behind.
+
+During the night the troops that were to occupy the Cherokee came on
+board, and it was found the next morning that five or six tons of
+regimental baggage had been piled on top of the guns, making it
+practically impossible to disembark, even if such a movement should be
+ordered.
+
+[Illustration: Wrecked Locomotives and Machine Shops at Baiquiri.]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+THE VOYAGE AND DISEMBARKATION.
+
+
+It seemed that the work had been accomplished none too soon, for on
+the morning of June 7th orders came to the Cherokee to leave the slip
+and proceed down the bay. There were on board at this time, beside the
+little Gatling Gun Detachment, the 17th Infantry, under command of
+Col. Haskell, and a battalion of the 12th Infantry, under command of
+Col. Comba, who was the senior officer on board. The ship was
+frightfully crowded. The berth deck and lower deck had been arranged
+for the accommodation of the men by nailing rows of two 2x4 scantlings
+just far enough apart to leave room for a man to lie down, and
+fastening three tiers of bunks to these scantlings. The men were
+packed in these bunks like sardines in a box. The ventilation was
+conspicuous by its absence, the heat below deck was frightful and the
+misery entailed by such accommodations was beyond description. But the
+men were very cheerful, and, being allowed the privilege of the upper
+deck, very little in the way of complaint was heard. Everybody was
+anxious to be off. The hope most frequently expressed was for a quick
+passage and a sharp, swift campaign. It was easily foreseen by the
+officers on board the ship that a long sojourn on shipboard under such
+conditions would have a very bad effect on the men.
+
+The ship dropped down the bay to the quarantine station, starting
+about noon, and there lay to, waiting, as was supposed, for the
+remainder of the fleet. Suddenly, about 8 p. m., one of the torpedo
+cruisers came tearing down the bay under full steam, and we heard the
+message sounded through the megaphone: "Return to port. Three Spanish
+cruisers within three hours' sail of the offing." It was a thrilling
+moment. Officers and men were lounging, taking, as they supposed,
+their last view of the American shores, without a suspicion of present
+danger, when they were rapidly brought to a realizing sense that "war
+is hell," by a notice that the enemy was upon them. Whether they were
+in danger or not, the danger was deadly real and imminent to them at
+the time.
+
+The Cherokee had been anchored pretty well inside. She immediately got
+up steam and went out to warn other vessels farther out in the offing,
+and then made safely for the harbor. Officers and men behaved with
+perfect coolness. It was hopeless to attempt to escape by concealment,
+so Col. Comba ordered out the band of the 17th Infantry and the good
+ship fled up the bay, in momentary expectation of a smashing shot from
+the enemy, to the strains of "There'll be a hot time." What little
+excitement there was displayed itself in a feverish searching of the
+bay with field-glasses for signs of the enemy. The older officers,
+upon whom the responsibility was resting, sat upon the quarter-deck,
+smoking their pipes and discussing the situation. The captains quietly
+moved about, assigning stations to their companies, in case of attack,
+with the view of trying the effect of the modern rifle upon the
+armored sides of a Spanish man-of-war, and two of the younger officers
+took advantage of the catchy air which the band was playing to dance a
+two-step on the quarter-deck. So the evening wore away. The moon went
+down. The myriad little stars came out, twinkling in the deep blue
+sky, and at last both officers and men, tired of looking for an enemy
+who was never to appear, turned in for such sleep as they could get,
+leaving a small guard on deck to keep a lookout. When they awoke next
+morning, the ship was in the deepest part of the nearest slip, moored
+fast by her guy-ropes to the dock. Thus ended the first engagement
+with the enemy.
+
+From the 8th until the 13th, the Cherokee lay at anchor in the slip.
+She was relieved on the 10th of about 200 men, thus slightly
+lightening her overcrowded condition. In the meantime, this
+overcrowded condition of the ship had led to some discussion as to who
+could best be moved on board some other ship, with some prospect that
+the Gatling Gun Detachment might be disturbed. The situation was not
+at all satisfactory. With four guns, no mules, no harness, no
+authority, and only twelve men, the Gatling Gun Detachment did not
+appear to be in a very fair way toward inflicting much damage upon the
+enemy. So on the 11th of June the detachment commander visited Gen.
+Shafter at his headquarters, determined to bring the matter to an
+issue, definitely, one way or the other. This was the first time he
+had met the general, and, under the circumstances, the manner of his
+reception appeared to be doubtful.
+
+Gen. Shafter is a big man. This is not noticed at first glance. He is
+above the average height, but his corpulent figure does not indicate
+that he is full five feet nine inches in height, because his girth is
+of like proportion. His hands are big; his arm is big; his head is
+big. The occiput is especially full, and the width of head just over
+the ears is noticeable. There is plenty of room for the organs of
+combativeness. One would think he is probably a lover of children;
+during this interview he patted the head of an inquisitive dog, which
+evidently belonged somewhere on board the flag-ship, and which strayed
+into the room. His eyes are big, very full and very keen. As you enter
+he says curtly, "Take a seat." He waits, looking down, for you to
+state your business, then suddenly fixes you with a piercing glance,
+and goes to the heart of the subject by one incisive sentence, which
+leaves no more to be said. This description is a general type of
+several interviews with him. On this occasion the general inquired
+concerning the facts, looking keenly, searchingly, and meditatively at
+the detachment commander. The machine gun man was "on trial." Then the
+general broke the silence by one short question, "What do you want?"
+and the reply was in kind, "Twenty men, general, with the privilege of
+selecting them." The general suggested the advisability of taking a
+complete organization; to which was replied, "That at this late hour
+in the expedition it is imperative to have selected men in order to
+perform the required duty; that men taken at random, as would be the
+case in a complete organization such as a company, would not be likely
+to have the required characteristics." The general tersely remarked,
+"You may have them. Make out your list, name any man in the corps that
+you want, and hand the list to me. I will send the men to you." The
+trial was over, and the Machine Gun Detachment was a settled fact.
+
+Accordingly on the following day Special Orders No. 16 were issued, as
+follows:
+
+Extract.
+
+"Headquarters 5th Army Corps,
+"On Board S. S. Seguransa,
+"Tampa Bay, Fla., June 11, 1898.
+
+"Special Orders, No. 16:
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"4. The following named enlisted men are detailed for duty with the
+Gatling Gun Detachment, 5th Army Corps, and will report at once to 2d
+Lieut. John H. Parker, 13th Infantry, commanding the detachment for
+duty:
+
+"9th Infantry: Sergeant Weigle.
+
+"12th Infantry: Privates Voelker, Company A; Anderson, Lauer, and
+Timberly, Company C; Prazak, Company E.
+
+"13th Infantry: Sergeant Green, Company H; Corporals Stiegerwald,
+Company A; Doyle, Smith, and Rose, Company C; Privates Corey and
+Power, Company A; Barts, Company E; and Schmadt, Company G.
+
+"17th Infantry: Privates Merryman and Schulze, Company A; McDonald,
+Company B; Elkins, Dellett, and McGoin, Company D; Click, Needle,
+Shiffer, and Sine, Company E.
+
+"Each of the soldiers will report equipped as follows: Blanket-roll
+complete, haversack and contents, canteen, waist-belt of leather,
+hunting-knife, and revolver, and they will be rationed with ten days'
+travel rations. Descriptive lists of these men will be sent to the
+commanding officer of the detachment.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"By command of Maj.-Gen. Shafter.
+
+"Official. J. D. Miley, E. J. McClernand,
+                 "Aide.    Asst. Adj.-Gen."
+
+"Headquarters 5th Army Corps,
+"On Board S. S. Seguransa,
+"Tampa Bay, June 11, 1898.
+
+"Special Orders, No. 16:
+
+Extract.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"5. 2d Lieut. John H. Parker, 13th Infantry, commanding the Gatling
+Gun Detachment, 5th Army Corps, is authorized to make the usual
+requisitions for supplies.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"By command of Maj.-Gen. Shafter.
+
+"Official. J. D. Miley, E. J. McClernand,
+                 "Aide.    Asst. Adj.-Gen."
+
+The organization was thus perfected by a single stroke of the
+general's pen on the 11th of June, theoretically; practically it was
+the 14th of June before the details from the 12th and 17th Infantry
+reported, and when they did, instead of being equipped as directed,
+they carried rifles with 100 rounds of ammunition.
+
+[Illustration: The Landing.]
+
+Serg. Weigle, of the 9th Infantry, who reported at the same time,
+carried a revolver. On the 14th a wigwag message was received from the
+13th Infantry, inquiring whether the detail was desired to report at
+once or not, to which the reply was sent that it was desired to report
+at the earliest possible moment. It did not report.
+
+The detachment was at once organized as well as possible for the trip
+on board the transport, and the guns brought up from the hold of the
+ship and mounted in such a way that they would be ready for instant
+use. It was not known but that the detachment might have to
+participate in a naval engagement, and the value of machine guns in
+the navy has long been demonstrated. At any rate, it was determined to
+be ready to give a warm reception to any torpedo vessel which might
+attempt to attack the Cherokee. One object of getting the guns up was
+to give instruction to the new men who reported on the 14th. Sergt.
+Weigle was well instructed in the use of Gatling guns, but none of the
+other members of the detachment had ever received any instruction, and
+had been selected rather on the ground of their superior intelligence
+and courage than on any special knowledge of machine guns. They were
+given a drill each day in loading and firing the piece, during the
+time they remained on board the transport, when the weather permitted.
+
+The condition of the troops on board the transport was miserable. The
+following extract from a letter written at that time will convey some
+idea of the crowded, ill-ventilated condition of the vessel:
+
+"We have now been on board the transport a week, and are getting into
+a frame of mind suitable for desperate work. If you can imagine 1000
+men crowded into space needed for 500, and then kept there without
+room to stand or move or sit for seven days, under a tropical sun, in
+foul holds utterly without ventilation (just imagine it!), endured
+without a single murmur or complaint, not stoically, but patiently and
+intelligently, while every officer on board is kicking as hard and as
+often as possible for the relief of his men, then you will have some
+idea of the situation. The men are very patient, but they know someone
+has blundered. Talk about the heroism of the Light Brigade! It is
+nothing to the heroism that goes cheerfully and uncomplainingly into
+the Black Hole of Calcutta (there is nothing else that will compare
+with these transports), all because it is duty. When will the people
+appreciate the heroism of the Regular Army?"
+
+This was the actual condition of affairs on board the Cherokee
+up to the time of leaving port on the 14th of June, and it was
+modified only by the hoisting of wind-sails, after we got under way.
+These were not very efficient and there were only two of them, so very
+little relief was given to the overcrowded berth-deck. Most of the men
+spent their time on the upper deck, and one whole company was
+quartered there. At night, after 8 o'clock, Col. Comba authorized the
+men to sleep on deck, and there was always a rush, when the ship's
+bell struck the hour, for good places on the quarter-deck. The only
+thing that made the voyage endurable was the good weather which
+prevailed. This prevented seasickness, to a certain extent.
+
+The squadron reached Santiago de Cuba, and after tacking about for
+several days, either for the purpose of deceiving the enemy, or of
+waiting a decision as to the landing-place, finally approached
+Baiquiri, which had been selected for the landing. The troops on the
+Cherokee began to land on the 23d of June, the battalion of the
+12th Infantry going first. This was followed by the 17th Infantry, and
+upon its departure the captain of the Cherokee put to sea. The
+reason for this maneuver is not known. The orders issued by Gen.
+Shafter in regard to the landing were that the Gatling Gun Detachment
+should accompany Gen. Lawton's Division. This movement of the
+Cherokee completely blocked the landing of the Gatling guns. The
+ship's captain was finally induced to put back into the bay and speak
+to the Seguransa, and Gen. Shafter directed that the detachment should
+be taken off the next morning.
+
+An effort was made, therefore, to obtain the use of a lighter which
+was not at that time in use, but the Commissary Department refused to
+yield the boat, and it remained until 11 o'clock the next morning tied
+up to the wharf with half a load of commissaries on board before it
+became available, and then was seized by the Quartermaster's
+Department. An effort was then made to obtain the use of three
+pontoons, belonging to the Engineer Department, which had been drawn
+up to the shore and were of no use to anybody. The young engineer
+officer in charge of these boats, a premature graduate of the class of
+'98, was "afraid the boats might get smashed in the surf," and could
+not consent without seeing Col. Derby. Col. Derby could not be found.
+
+[Illustration: Pack Train.]
+
+A wigwag came from Gen. Shafter, asking whether the Gatling guns had
+been landed. The reply, "No; may I use pontoons?" was answered at
+once, "Use pontoons, and get off immediately." On returning to shore
+with a party to work the pontoons, the party was stopped in the act of
+launching the first boat by Gen. Sumner, and ordered to proceed to the
+Cherokee, take her out into the offing, and order another to take her
+place to unload. Protesting against this action, and informing Gen.
+Sumner of the urgent orders for the Gatling guns to disembark at once,
+that officer inquired the opinion of the prematurely graduated
+engineer as to the practicability of using the pontoons, and this
+experienced young man again expressed the fear that the boats might be
+injured in the surf. To the detachment commander's indignant
+exclamation, "What the h-- were these boats made for, if they are not
+to be used and smashed?" Gen. Sumner responded by a peremptory order
+to warp the Cherokee out from the pier and send the other vessels in.
+The order was obeyed, and all the circumstances reported to Gen.
+Shafter the same evening, with the expression of the opinion that if
+the general wanted the Gatling guns landed, he would have to attend to
+it personally, because the Gatling gun commander did not have
+sufficient rank to accomplish it in the face of all these obstacles.
+Early on the morning of June 25th, therefore, Gen. Shafter sent
+peremptory orders to the lighter to lay alongside the Cherokee, take
+the Gatling guns and detachment on board, and land them on the dock.
+The transfer began at 8 o'clock in the morning, Gen. Shafter coming
+out in person in his steam launch to see that his order was executed.
+By 11 o'clock the guns, carriages, 30,000 rounds of ammunition, four
+sets of double harness, and the detachment were on board the lighter.
+This had been accomplished a mile outside in the offing, with the
+vessel rolling and pitching in the trough of the sea and on the crest
+of the gigantic rollers in so violent a manner that it was almost
+impossible for men to stand on their feet, much less handle such heavy
+material as guns and ammunition. The lighter was warped to the pier at
+11 o'clock, and the general tied his steam launch alongside to see
+that it was not disturbed until the debarkation was completed. At 1
+o'clock everything was ashore, and, in compliance with the general's
+instructions, the best mules in the corral were taken, and as they
+were led away from the corral-gate, a fat, sleek, black streaked,
+long-eared specimen, which had been selected for a saddle-mule, set up
+a cheerful "Aw! hee haw! haw!" which produced a burst of laughter and
+cheering from the members of the detachment and the soldiers in the
+vicinity. It was a cheerful omen. These Missouri mules were capable of
+pulling anything loose at both ends, and four experienced drivers had
+been selected from the detachment who were capable of riding anything
+that walked on four feet, or driving anything from an Arab courser to
+a pair of Shetland ponies.
+
+Priv. J. Shiffer had been selected as corral boss of the detachment.
+The most picturesque figure, the most boyish member, and as brave a
+soldier as ever shouldered a musket; broad of shoulder, stout of limb,
+full of joke, as cheerful as a ray of sunlight, this man was the
+incarnation of courage and devotion. He loved a mule. He was proud of
+the job. With the instinct of a true teamster, he had snapped up the
+best pair of mules in the whole corral and was out before the
+detachment commander had selected a single mule. This team was as
+black as Shiffer's shoes and as strong as a pair of elephants. They
+were worked harder than any other team in the 5th Army Corps, and when
+they were turned in to the quartermaster in August, they were as fat,
+as sleek, as strong, and as hardy as on the day they were taken from
+the corral in Baiquiri. The other three teamsters were like unto the
+first. They were all handy men. They were as capable of fighting or
+aiming a gun as of driving a team. Any one of the four could take a
+team of mules up a mountain-side or down a vertical precipice in
+perfect safety. They could do the impossible with a team of mules, and
+they had to do it before the detachment reached the firing-line. The
+success of the battery was to depend to a very large degree upon the
+coolness, good judgment, and perfect bravery of these four teamsters.
+
+[Illustration: Calvary Picket Line.]
+
+It should be noted that the use of mules was an experiment. The
+"scientific" branch of service has always held that the proper animal
+to draw a field-piece is the horse. They expatiate with great delight
+upon the almost human intelligence and sagacity of that noble animal;
+upon his courage "when he snuffeth the battle afar," and upon the
+undaunted spirit with which he rushes upon the enemy, and assists his
+master to work the destruction of his foes. The Artillery claims that
+mules are entirely too stubborn, too cowardly, and too hard to manage
+for the purpose of their arm of the service. It was also an experiment
+to use two mules per gun. The Engineer Department had reported that
+the road to the front was impassable for wheeled vehicles, and even
+the general had apparently thought that four mules per gun would be
+necessary. The necessity of economizing mules, and the opinion of the
+detachment commander that two mules per gun would be sufficient, had
+led to the issue of that number. Those who despise the army mule for
+the purposes of field artillery know very little of the capacity of
+this equine product of Missouri when properly handled. It was
+demonstrated that two mules can pull a Gatling gun with 10,000 rounds
+of ammunition, loaded down with rations and forage, where eight horses
+are required to draw a field-piece; and that mules are equally as easy
+to manage under fire as horses.
+
+The landing was completed and the detachment organized at 3 p. m.,
+having rations, forage, and ammunition complete. There was no tentage,
+except the shelter-halves which some of the men had brought with them.
+Capt. Henry Marcotte, retired, the correspondent of the Army and Navy
+Journal, requested permission to accompany the detachment, which was
+granted, and soon all were _en route_ for the front, entrusted with
+the task of opening the way for wheeled transportation and of
+demonstrating the practicability of the road for army wagons and field
+artillery.
+
+For the first mile the road was excellent. It lay through one of the
+most fertile parts of the most fertile island in the world. A little
+stream trickling along the side of the road furnished plenty of water
+for both men and animals. At the end of the mile the detachment found
+a steep hill to descend. The Ordnance Department, which designed and
+built the carriage for the Gatling guns, had never foreseen the
+necessity for a brake, and it was therefore necessary to cut down
+bushes from the roadside and fasten the rear wheels by placing a stout
+pole between the spokes and over the trail of the piece. This locked
+the wheels, and the guns were thus enabled to slide down the steep
+hill without danger of a runaway. From this point the road became a
+narrow defile. The rank jungle closed in upon the trail, the long
+barbed leaves of the Spanish bayonet hung across and lacerated the
+legs of the mules until the blood trickled down to the hoofs; the
+boughs of the trees hung down over it so that even the men on foot had
+to stoop to pass under them, and the tortuous path winding in and out
+amid the dense tropical undergrowth made it impossible to see in
+places more than twenty-five or thirty yards ahead at a time.
+
+The advance guard, consisting of all the members of one gun crew, had
+been organized at once upon starting, and this guard moved along the
+road about two hundred and fifty yards in advance of the detachment,
+scouting every path vigilantly to the right and left, and keeping a
+constant, careful lookout to the front. Their orders were, in case of
+encountering the enemy, to scatter in the underbrush, open fire with
+magazines, so as to produce the impression upon the enemy that there
+was a large force, and then slowly fall back upon the battery. The
+plan was, upon the first alarm, to bring the two leading guns into
+battery upon the road, with the fourth gun ready to be opened to
+either flank, while the gun crew of the third gun, which formed the
+advance guard, were to act as infantry support to the battery. It was
+hoped that the enemy would follow the advance guard as it retreated,
+and it was believed that the Gatling gun battery could take care of
+two or three regiments of Spaniards without help if necessary.
+
+This form for the march had been adopted as the result of mature
+reflection. The general had offered a cavalry escort of two troops,
+and Gen. Sumner had rather urged the use of an escort, but it was
+desired to demonstrate that a battery of machine guns, properly manned
+and equipped, is capable of independent action, and does not need the
+assistance of either arm of the service. In fact, the Gatling gun men
+would have been rather pleased than not to have had a brush with the
+enemy without the assistance of either infantry or cavalry. But it was
+not to be.
+
+The march was continued until darkness fell over the landscape, and
+the battery arrived at a beautiful camping-place about one mile east
+of Siboney, where a break in the water-pipe near the railroad track
+gave an ample supply of excellent water, and a ruined plantation, now
+overgrown with luxuriant sugar-cane, provided ample forage for the
+mules. The two troops of cavalry, which had been offered and refused
+as an escort, had reached this camping-place some time before, so that
+the wearied members of the detachment found pleasant camp-fires
+already throwing their weird lights and shadows over the drooping
+branches of the royal palm.
+
+Here, in the midst of the jungle, they pitched their first camp in
+Cuba. The condition of the mules was duly looked to, their shoulders
+washed down with strong salty water, their feet carefully examined,
+and the animals then tethered to graze their fill on the succulent
+sugar-cane, after having had a bountiful supply of oats. Meantime the
+camp cooks had a kettle full of coffee simmering, and canned roast
+beef warming over the fire, and after a hearty meal the tired men
+stretched themselves upon the ground, with no canopy except the stars
+and only one sentinel over the camp, and slept more soundly than they
+had on board the tossing Cherokee.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+THE MARCH.
+
+
+At early dawn the battery arose, and, after a quick breakfast, resumed
+the march. Some half-mile farther on they passed a battery of light
+artillery which had preceded them on the road by some nine hours, and
+which had camped at this point awaiting forage. At Siboney the
+detachment stopped to look after the detail from the 13th Infantry,
+which had not yet reported. The detachment commander sought out the
+regimental adjutant, who referred him to the regimental commander,
+Col. Worth. This colonel was at first reluctant to allow the men to
+go, but, on being informed of the necessity for them, and after
+inquiring about the orders on the subject, he directed the detail to
+report immediately. All the members of this detail reported at once,
+except Corp. Rose, who had been left by his company commander on board
+ship.
+
+The road from Siboney to the front was not known. There was no one in
+camp who even knew its general direction. Application was therefore
+made to Gen. Castillo, who was in command of a body of Cubans at
+Siboney, for a guide. After a great deal of gesticulation, much
+excited talk between the general and members of his staff, and
+numerous messengers had been dispatched hither and thither upon this
+important and very difficult business, a Cuban officer was sent with
+instructions to furnish a guide who could conduct the detachment to
+Gen. Wheeler's headquarters at the front. In the course of some twenty
+minutes, a dirty slouchy, swarthy, lousy-looking vagabond was pointed
+out as the desired guide, and was said to know every by-path and trail
+between Siboney and Santiago. He was told to go with the detachment to
+Gen. Wheeler's headquarters and then return, and the detachment
+commander started for his command followed by his sable guide. Passing
+through a group of these brave Cuban heroes, he lost sight of his
+redoubtable guide for an instant, and has never since found that
+gentleman.
+
+It would be just as well to add a description of the patriotic Cuban
+as he was found by the Gatling Gun Detachment during their campaign in
+behalf of Cuban independence, in the name of humanity; and this
+description, it is thought, tallies with the experience of all
+officers in the expedition.
+
+The valiant Cuban! He strikes you first by his color. It ranges from
+chocolate yellow through all the shades to deepest black with kinky
+hair; but you never by any chance see a white Cuban, except the fat,
+sleek, well-groomed, superbly mounted ones in "khaki," who loaf around
+headquarters with high-ranking shoulder-straps. These are all imported
+from the United States. They comprise the few wealthy ones of Spanish
+descent, who are renegade to their own nativity, and are appealing to
+the good people of the United States to establish them in their status
+of master of peons without any overlord who can exact his tithes for
+the privilege.
+
+[Illustration: San Juan Hill.]
+
+The next thing you notice is the furtive look of the thief. No one has
+ever yet had a chance to look one of these chocolate-colored Cubans
+straight in the eye. They sneak along. Their gait has in it something
+of that of the Apache, the same soft moccasined tread, noiseless and
+always stealthy. Your impressions as to their honesty can be instantly
+confirmed. Leave anything loose, from a heavy winter overcoat, which
+no one could possibly use in Cuba, to--oh well, anything--and any
+Cuban in sight will take great pleasure in dispelling any false
+impressions that honesty is a native virtue.
+
+Next you notice that he is dirty. His wife does sometimes make a faint
+attempt at personal cleanliness; this is evident, because in one
+bright instance a white dress was seen on a native woman, that had
+been washed sometime in her history. But as to his lordship, the proud
+male citizen of Cuba libre, you would utterly and bitterly insult him
+by the intimation that a man of his dignity ought ever to bathe, put
+on clean clothes, or even wash his hands. He is not merely dirty, he
+is filthy. He is infested with things that crawl and creep, often
+visibly, over his half-naked body, and he is so accustomed to it that
+he does not even scratch.
+
+Next you observe the intense pride of this Cuban libre. It is
+manifested the very first time you suggest anything like manual
+labor--he is incapable of any other--even for such purposes as camp
+sanitation, carrying rations, or for any other purpose. His manly
+chest swells with pride and he exclaims in accents of wounded dignity,
+"Yo soy soldado!" Still his pride does not by any chance get him
+knowingly under fire. At El Poso some of him did get under fire from
+artillery, accidentally, and it took a strong provost guard to keep
+him there. If he ever got under fire again there was no officer on the
+firing-line who knew it.
+
+He is a treacherous, lying cowardly, thieving, worthless, half-breed
+mongrel; born of a mongrel spawn of Europe, crossed upon the fetiches
+of darkest Africa and aboriginal America. He is no more capable of
+self-government than the Hottentots that roam the wilds of Africa or
+the Bushmen of Australia. He can not be trusted like the Indian, will
+not work like a negro, and will not fight like a Spaniard; but he will
+lie like a Castilian with polished suavity, and he will stab you in
+the dark or in the back with all the dexterity of a renegade graduate
+of Carlisle.
+
+Providence has reserved a fairer future for this noble country than to
+be possessed by this horde of tatterdemalions. Under the impetus of
+American energy and capital, governed by a firm military hand with
+even justice, it will blossom as the rose; and, in the course of three
+or four generations, even the Cuban may be brought to appreciate the
+virtues of cleanliness, temperance, industry, and honesty.
+
+Our good roads ended at Siboney, and from there on to Gen. Wheeler's
+headquarters was some of the worst road ever traveled. Part of it lay
+through deep valleys, where the sun was visible scarcely more than an
+hour at noontime, and the wet, fetid soil was tramped into a muck of
+malarial slime under foot of the mules and men. The jungle became
+ranker, the Spanish bayonets longer and their barbs sharper in these
+low bottom jangles. The larger undergrowth closed in more sharply on
+the trail, and its boughs overhung so much in some places that it
+became necessary to cut them away with axes in order to pass.
+
+These guns were the first wheeled vehicles that had ever disturbed the
+solitude of this portion of Cuba. The chocolate-colored natives of
+Cuba sneak; the white native of Cuba, when he travels at all, goes on
+horseback. He very seldom travels in Cuba at all, because he is not
+often there. Consequently the roads in Cuba, as a rule, are merely
+small paths sufficient for the native to walk along, and they carry
+the machete in order to open a path if necessary. These low places in
+the valleys were full of miasmatic odors, yellow fever, agues, and all
+the ills that usually pertain to the West Indian climate.
+
+At other places the road ran along the tops of the foot-hills from one
+to two hundred feet higher than the bottom of these valleys. Here the
+country was much more open. The path was usually wide enough for the
+guns to move with comparative ease. Sometimes one wagon could pass
+another easily. These parts of the road were usually more or less
+strewn with boulders. The road was rarely level and frequently the
+upland parts were washed out. Sometimes it was only the boulder-clad
+bottom of a ravine; again the water would have washed out the gully on
+one side so deep as to threaten overturning the guns. The portions of
+the road between the valleys and the top of these foot-hills were the
+worst places the detachment had to pass. These ascents and descents
+were nearly always steep. While not at all difficult for the man upon
+horseback or for the man on foot, they were frequently almost too
+steep for draft, and they were always washed out. In places it was
+necessary to stop and fill up these washouts by shoveling earth and
+stone into the places before the detachment could pass.
+
+[Illustration: Cuban Soldiers as They Were.]
+
+On one of these occasions, while heaving rock to fill up a bad
+washout, Priv. Jones was stung by a scorpion. Jones did not know what
+had bitten him, and described it as a little black thing about as long
+as his finger. Fortunately there was a small supply of whisky with the
+detachment, and this remedy was applied to Jones internally. Some
+soldier in the detachment suggested that a quid of tobacco externally
+would be beneficial, so this also was done. It was not a dressing
+favorable to an aseptic condition of the wound, perhaps, nor was there
+anything in the quid of tobacco calculated to withdraw the poison or
+neutralize its effects, so the doctors may characterize this as a very
+foolish proceeding; but country people skilled in simples and herb
+remedies might tell some of these ultra scientific surgeons that the
+application of a quid of tobacco or of a leaf of tobacco to the sting
+of a wasp or the bite of a spider, or even the sting of a scorpion, is
+nearly always attended by beneficial results. In fact, when Jones was
+stung there was a surgeon, a medical officer, who turned up even
+before Jones was treated with the whisky cure, and, upon receiving
+Jones' explanation that he had been heaving rock and had been bitten
+on the end of the finger by a little black thing, and after hearing
+the remarks of the men that it was very probably a scorpion sting,
+this medical officer very sagely diagnosed the accident to that
+effect, but was unable to prescribe any remedy because he had not
+brought along his emergency case. This medical officer, with his two
+attendant hospital satellites, had left both litter and emergency case
+upon the transport.
+
+The ordinary line officer or soldier who is somewhat accustomed to
+carrying weights and does not require a hospital drill to teach him to
+carry a wounded comrade a few yards, looks with a certain degree of
+envy upon the possession of a hospital litter with its convenient
+straps for weight-carrying, and would consider this a very convenient
+means for carrying a pack. This litter is designed to enable two men,
+hospital attendants or band men, to pick up a wounded soldier weighing
+some 160 or 180 pounds and carry him from fifty yards to a mile if
+necessary, to a dressing-station or hospital shack. The medical
+field-case No. 1 weighs about sixty pounds filled, and field-case No.
+2 weighs about forty pounds. These two cases contain all the medicines
+necessary to run a division hospital; the case of emergency
+instruments does not weigh above ten or twelve pounds, and would not
+be a burden for a child to carry. It is therefore difficult for the
+small-minded officer of the line to see why the Medical Department was
+unable to have these medicines up at the front. They had the same
+means of locomotion provided for the other soldiers, by Nature, and
+they had, moreover, no particular necessity for all rushing to the
+extreme front. On the contrary, they had from the 23d of June, when
+the landing began, at Baiquiri, until the 1st of July, to accomplish a
+distance of less than twenty miles; and it would seem reasonable that
+they might have had their medicine-cases up where they were needed by
+that time.
+
+These gentlemen pose as the most learned, expert, scientific, highly
+trained body of medical men in the world. They are undoubtedly as well
+trained, as highly educated, and as thoroughly proficient as the
+medical officers of any army in the world. A summons of an ordinary
+practitioner would bring with him his saddle-bags of medicines; no
+physician in the city would pretend to answer even an ambulance call
+without having a few simple remedies--in other words, an emergency
+case; but it was an exception, and a very rare exception at that, to
+find a medical officer who took the trouble to carry anything upon his
+aristocratic back on that march to the front.
+
+A conversation overheard between two medical officers on board a
+transport just before landing may serve to partially explain the state
+of affairs. Said surgeon No. 1 to surgeon No. 2, "We are going to land
+this morning; are you going to carry your field-case?" To which
+surgeon No. 2 indignantly replied, "No, I'm not a pack-mule!" Surgeon
+No. 1 again inquired, "Are you going to make your hospital men carry
+it?" To which surgeon No. 2 replied, "No; my men are not beasts of
+burden." Both of these medical officers went ashore; one of them had
+his field case carried; the other did not. Both of them were up at the
+firing-line, both did good service in rendering first aid. Both of
+them worked heroically, both seemed deeply touched by the suffering
+they were compelled to witness, and both contracted the climatic
+fever. But in the absence of medicines the role of the surgeon can be
+taken by the private soldier who has been instructed in first aid to
+the injured; for in the absence of medical cases and surgical
+instruments the first-aid packet is the only available source of
+relief, and these first-aid packets were carried by the private
+soldier, not by the Medical Department.
+
+[Illustration: Wagon Train.]
+
+A little less "theory," a little less "science," a little less
+tendency to dwell on the "officer" part of the business, with a little
+more devotion to the duty of relieving suffering humanity--in short, a
+little less insistence upon "rank," would have vastly improved the
+medical service of the United States Army in the field at this time.
+
+These remarks do not apply to the heroes like Ebert, Thorpe, Brewer,
+Kennedy, Warren, and a few others, who fearlessly exposed their lives
+upon the very firing-line. These men are the very "salt of the earth."
+The escape of even a "frazzle" of the 5th Corps was due to their
+superhuman energy and exertions. They did much to redeem the good name
+of their corps and to alleviate suffering.
+
+But Priv. Jones recovered from the sting of the scorpion. In fact,
+soldiers were heard to exclaim that they would be glad to find a
+scorpion when they saw the character of the remedy applied in Jones'
+case.
+
+The detachment left Siboney about 10 o'clock in the morning and
+tramped steadily along the road up hill and down until 12; then, upon
+finding a convenient place, it halted for dinner. The mules were
+unharnessed, coffee prepared, and, just as the detachment was about to
+begin this noonday meal, two of the peripatetic newspaper fraternity
+joined, _en route_ to the rear. The ubiquitous correspondent had
+for the first time discovered the Gatling Gun Detachment, and they
+thought it was Artillery.
+
+One of these gentlemen was a long, slim, frayed-out specimen of
+humanity, with a wearied and expressive droop of the shoulders; the
+other was a short, stout, florid, rotund individual, and his "too, too
+solid flesh" was in the very visible act of melting. The newspaper
+gentlemen were invited to participate in the noonday meal, and, with
+some gentle urging, consented. It was only after the meal was over
+that it was learned that this was the first square meal these men had
+had in over forty-eight hours. They had been with Gen. Wheeler at La
+Guasimas, had rejoined Wheeler after reporting that fight, in hopes of
+making another "scoop," and were now on their way to Siboney, hoping
+to buy some provisions. Poor devils! They had worked for a "scoop" at
+La Guasimas; they had gone up on the firing-line and had sent back
+authentic accounts of that little skirmish; but they did not make the
+"scoop." The "scoop" was made by newspaper men who had remained on
+board the transports, and who took the excited account of a member of
+the command who had come back delirious with excitement, crazed with
+fear, trembling as though he had a congestive chill--who, in fact, had
+come back faster than he had gone to the front, and in his excited
+condition had told the story of an ambuscade; that Wheeler, Wood, and
+Roosevelt were all dead; that the enemy was as thick as the barbs on
+the Spanish bayonet; and that he, only he, had escaped to tell the
+tale. This was the account of the battle that got back to the
+newspapers in the form of a "scoop," and it was nothing more nor less
+than the excited imagination of the only coward who at that time or
+ever afterwards was a member of the famous Rough Riders. He was
+consequently returned to civil life prematurely.
+
+The newspaper correspondent in Cuba was of a distinguished type. You
+recognized him immediately. He was utterly fearless; he delighted in
+getting up on the firing-line--that is, a few of him did. Among these
+few might be mentioned Marshall, and Davis, and Remington, and
+Marcotte, and King, and some half-dozen others; but there was another
+type of newspaper correspondent in Cuba, who hung around from two
+miles and a half to three miles in rear of the firing-line, and never
+by any possibility got closer to the enemy than that. The members of
+this guild of the newspaper fraternity were necessarily nearer the
+cable office than their more daring comrades; in fact, there were a
+few who were known to have been eight or nine miles nearer to the
+cable office during battles, and those correspondents were the ones
+who made the great "scoop" in the New York papers, by which a regiment
+that laid down and skulked in the woods, or ran wildly to the rear,
+was made to do all the fighting on the first day of July. This latter
+class of journalists were a menace to the army, a disgrace to their
+profession, and a blot upon humanity. Even the Cubans were ashamed of
+them.
+
+The detachment resumed the march at half past 1, and encountered some
+very difficult road, difficult because it needed repairs. The most
+difficult places were the ascents and descents of the hills, and in
+nearly every case fifteen or twenty minutes' careful investigation was
+able to discover a means of getting around the worst places in the
+road. When it was not practicable to go around, J. Shiffer and his
+three fellow-teamsters would take a twist of their hands in the manes
+of their long-eared chargers, and apparently lift them down, or up, as
+the case might be, always landing on their feet and always safely. It
+was merely a question of good driving and will to go through. The
+worst places were repaired by the detachment before these reckless
+attempts at precipice-scaling were made. At one place there was a
+detachment of the 24th Infantry engaged in an alleged effort to repair
+the road. They did not seem to work with much vim. Chaplain Springer,
+having in the morning exhorted them to repentance and a better life
+and to doing good works unto their brethren, the enemy, was engaged at
+this point in the afternoon, it being Sunday, in a practical
+demonstration of what he considered good works. In other words, the
+chaplain, whose religious enthusiasm no one doubts, was engaged in
+heaving rocks with his own hands to show these colored soldiers how
+they ought to make good road, and he was doing "good works."
+
+It is but a just tribute to Chaplains Springer and Swift, of the
+Regulars, to say that they were conspicuous in the hour of danger at
+the point of greatest peril. In the fearless discharge of their holy
+office, they faced all the dangers of battle; nor did they neglect the
+care of the body while ministering to the spiritual needs of the
+soldiers. Springer, for example, collected wood and made coffee for
+all on the firing-line, within 400 yards of the block-house at El
+Caney; and Swift was equally conspicuous in relieving suffering,
+binding up wounds, and caring for the sick. There were probably others
+equally as daring; but the author knows of the deeds of these men, and
+desires to pay a tribute of respect to them. Chaplains of this stamp
+are always listened to with respectful attention when they express
+their views of the true course of life to obtain a blessed hereafter.
+They were in very sharp contrast to the long-visaged clerical
+gentlemen who were so much in evidence at Tampa, and who never got
+within 500 miles of danger.
+
+The detachment safely passed all the bad places and obstacles in the
+road, arriving at Gen. Wheeler's headquarters about half past 4
+o'clock, and reported. It was assigned a position between the advance
+outposts and directed to dispose of its guns in such a manner as to
+sweep the hills on which these outposts were placed. High hills to the
+right at a distance of about 2000 yards were supposed to be infested
+by the enemy, and a blockhouse which stood out against the sky-line
+was thought to contain a Spanish detachment. A high hill to the left
+at a distance of about 1000 yards had not yet been explored, and it
+was thought probable that some of the enemy was concealed on this hill
+also. The detachment commander was directed to report, after posting
+his battery, in which duty he was assisted by Col. Dorst, to Gen.
+Chaffee, who had charge of the outposts. The General inquired what the
+battery consisted of, and upon being informed that "It consists of
+four Gatling guns, posted so as to command the neighboring hills,"
+remarked in a very contemptuous manner, "You can't command anything."
+Gen. Chaffee subsequently had reason to revise his opinion, if not to
+regret the expression of it.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+THE BATTERY IN CAMP WHEELER.
+
+
+At this point in the history of the detachment, it would be well to
+give some account of the reasoning which led to its formation and the
+personnel of the detachment.
+
+Since the days of '65 the armies of the civilized world have adopted a
+rifle whose effective range is more than twice as great as that used
+in the Civil War. Very able discussions have been made upon the
+theoretical changes of the battle-field thus brought about, but no
+proper conclusion had been reached. It was acknowledged by all
+text-book writers that the artillery arm of the service would find
+much greater difficulty in operating at short ranges, and that
+assaults upon fortified positions would be much more difficult in the
+future. But only Gen. Williston, of the United States Artillery, had
+ever taken the advanced ground that in a machine gun arm would be
+found a valuable auxiliary as a result of these changed conditions.
+This theory of Gen. Williston's was published in the Journal of the
+Military Service Institute in the spring of '86, but never went,
+so far as Gen. Williston was concerned, beyond a mere theory; nor had
+the detachment commander ever heard of Gen. Williston's article until
+after the battle of Santiago.
+
+[Illustration: Gatling Battery under Artillery Fire at El Poso.]
+
+A study of the science of tactics--not merely drill regulations, but
+tactics in the broader sense of maneuvering bodies of troops upon the
+battle-field--had led Lieut. Parker to the conclusion that the
+artillery arm of the service had been moved back upon the battle-field
+to ranges not less than 1500 yards. This not because of lack of
+courage on the part of the Artillery, but as an inherent defect in any
+arm of the service which depends upon draft to reach an effective
+position. It was not believed that animals could live at a shorter
+range in anything like open country. The problem of supporting an
+infantry charge by some sort of fire immediately became the great
+tactical problem of the battle-field. Admitting that the assault of a
+fortified position has become much more difficult than formerly, the
+necessity of artillery support, or its equivalent in some kind of
+fire, became correspondingly more important, while under the
+conditions it became doubly more difficult to bring up this support in
+the form of artillery fire.
+
+The solution of this problem, then, was the principal difficulty of
+the modern battle-field; and yet, strange to say, the curtailed
+usefulness of artillery does not seem to have suggested itself to
+anybody else in the service previous to the first day of July. This
+problem had been made the subject of special study by him for several
+years, and had led to the conclusion that some form of machine gun
+must be adopted to take the place of artillery from 1500 yards down.
+This in turn led to the study of machine guns. The different forms in
+use in the different armies of the world had been considered, and it
+was found that there was none in any service properly mounted for the
+particular use desired. All of them required the service of animals as
+pack-mules, or for draft, while the very conditions of the problem
+required a gun to be so mounted that the use of animals could be
+dispensed with.
+
+The Maxim gun has been reduced in weight to about 60 pounds, and is
+furnished with a tripod weighing about the same; but this is too
+heavy, and the supply of ammunition at once becomes a critical
+question. The Colt's automatic rapid-fire gun has been reduced to 40
+pounds, with a tripod of equal weight, but here again the same
+difficulty presents itself. The soldier is capable of carrying only a
+limited amount of weight; and with his already too heavy pack, his
+three days' rations, together with the heat, fatigue and excitement of
+battle, it did not appear possible for any tripod-mounted gun to be
+effectively used.
+
+The problem therefore resolved itself into the question of carriages:
+A carriage capable of carrying any form of machine gun using
+small-caliber ammunition, capable of being moved anywhere by draft,
+capable of being dismantled and carried on a pack-mule, and, above,
+all, capable of being moved by hand; required also some device for
+getting the requisite amount of ammunition up to the firing-line. A
+carriage and ammunition cart was invented fulfilling all these
+conditions and the invention was presented to the adjutant-general of
+the army for consideration, accompanied by a discussion of the proper
+tactical use of the gun so mounted. This discussion, in part, was as
+follows:
+
+"It is claimed for this carriage that a machine gun mounted on it can
+be carried with a firing-line of infantry on the offensive, over
+almost any kind of ground, into the decisive zone of rifle fire and to
+the lodgment in the enemy's line, if one is made.
+
+"On broken ground the piece can be moved forward by draft under cover
+of sheltering features of the terrain to a position so near the enemy
+that, under cover of its fire, an infantry line can effect a lodgment,
+after which the piece can be rushed forward by a sudden dash.
+
+"The machine gun, mounted on this carriage, is especially adapted for
+service with the reserve of a battalion on the offensive, acting
+either alone or in regiment. Its use will enable the commander to
+reduce the reserve, thereby increasing the strength of the
+fighting-line, and yet his flanks will be better protected than
+formerly, while he will still have a more powerful reserve. If the
+fighting-line be driven back, the machine guns will establish a point
+of resistance on which the line can rally, and from which it can not
+be driven, unless the machine guns be annihilated by artillery fire.
+
+"In case of counter-charge by the enemy, the superior weight and
+intensity of its fire will shake the enemy and so demoralize him that,
+in all probability, a return counter-charge will result in his
+complete discomfiture.
+
+[Illustration: Gatling Gun on Firing-Line July 1st. (Taken under fire
+by Sergeant Weigle.)]
+
+"Retiring troops as rear guards have in this weapon _par excellence_
+the weapon for a swift and sharp return with the power of rapidly
+withdrawing. If the enemy can by any means be enticed within its
+range, he will certainly suffer great losses. If he cannot be brought
+in range, his distance will be rather respectful."
+
+This discussion as presented was entirely and absolutely original with
+the author and the result of his own unaided researches on the
+subject. It will be seen in the account of the battle how accurately
+the conditions there laid down were fulfilled.
+
+But the carriage in use by the Gatling Gun Detachment was not the one
+proposed to the War Department. That carriage has not, as yet, been
+built, nor has the War Department in any way recognized the invention
+or even acknowledged the receipt of the communication and drawings.
+
+The problem, therefore, confronting the Gatling Gun Detachment was to
+demonstrate the above uses of the machine gun, taking the obsolete
+artillery carriage drawn by mules, and endeavor to get the guns into
+action by draft. The personnel of the detachment alone accounts
+for their success. They got the guns up on the firing-line, not
+because of any superiority of the carriage over that in use by the
+artillery, for there was none; not because of aid rendered by other
+arms of the service, for they actually went into battle as far as 100
+yards in advance of the infantry skirmishers; but because the Gatling
+Gun Detachment was there for the purpose of getting into the fight and
+was determined to give the guns a trial.
+
+In the first place, all the members of the Gatling Gun Detachment were
+members of the Regular Army. All but three of them were natives of the
+United States, and those three were American citizens. Every man in
+the detachment had been selected by the detachment commander, or had
+voluntarily undertaken to perform this duty, realizing and believing
+that it was an extremely hazardous duty. Every member of the
+detachment possessed a common-school education, and some of them were
+well educated. All of them were men of exceptionally good character
+and sober habits. The drivers were Privs. Shiffer, Correll, Merryman,
+and Chase. The description formerly given of Shiffer applies, with
+slight modifications, to all the four. The first sergeant, Weigle, a
+native of Gettysburg, a soldier of eight years' experience in the
+Regular Army, a man of fine natural ability and good educational
+attainments, was worthy to command any company in the United States
+Army. Thoroughly well instructed in the mechanism of Gatling guns, of
+exceptionally cheerful and buoyant disposition, he was an ideal first
+sergeant for any organization. Steigerwald, acting chief of gun No. 1,
+was of German birth, well educated. He had chosen the military
+profession for the love of it; he was a man of wonderfully fine
+physique, a "dead sure" shot, and one who hardly understood the
+meaning of the word "fatigue." He was ambitious, he was an ardent
+believer in the Gatling gun, and he was determined to win a commission
+on the battle-field.
+
+Corporal Doyle was a magnificent type of the old-time Regular--one of
+the kind that composed the army before Proctorism tried to convert it
+into a Sunday-school. In former days Doyle had been a drinking man;
+but the common opinion as expressed by his company officers even in
+those days was, "I would rather have Doyle, drunk, than any other
+non-commissioned officer, sober; because Doyle never gets too drunk to
+attend to duty." Two years before this Doyle had quit drinking, and
+the only drawback to this most excellent noncommissioned officer had
+been removed. He was a thorough disciplinarian; one of the kind that
+takes no back talk; one who is prone to using the butt end of a musket
+as a persuader, if necessary; and Doyle was thoroughly devoted to the
+detachment commander. Corp. Smith was another of the same stamp. Corp.
+Smith loved poker. In fact, his _sobriquet_ was "Poker Smith." He
+was one of the kind of poker-players who would "see" a $5 bet on a
+pair of deuces, raise it to $25, and generally rake in the "pot." It
+was Corp. Smith who thought in this Gatling gun deal he was holding a
+pair of deuces, because he didn't take much stock in Gatling guns, but
+he was a firm believer in his commanding officer and was prepared to
+"bluff" the Dons to the limit of the game.
+
+[Illustration: Fort Roosevelt.]
+
+Sergeants Ryder and Weischaar were splendid types of the American
+Regular non-commissioned officer, alert, respectful, attentive to
+duty, resolute, unflinching, determined, magnificent soldiers. Serg.
+Green was a young man, only twenty-three, the idolized son of his
+parents, in the army because he loved it; enthusiastic over his gun,
+and fully determined to "pot" every Spaniard in sight. Corp. Rose was
+like unto him. They were eager for nothing so much as a chance to get
+into action, and equally determined to stay there. The privates of the
+detachment were like unto the noncommissioned officers. They had
+volunteered for this duty from a love of adventure, a desire to win
+recognition, or from their personal attachment to the commanding
+officer; and there was not a man who was not willing to follow him
+into the "mouth of hell" if necessary. The gunners were expert shots
+with the rifle. Numbers 1 and 2, who turned the crank and fed the gun,
+respectively, were selected for their dexterity and coolness; the
+drivers, for their skill in handling mules; and each of the other
+members of the detachment was placed on that duty which he seemed best
+fitted to perform.
+
+The roll of the detachment and its organization as it went into battle
+on the first day of July are subjoined:
+
+Gatling Gun Detachment, Fifth Army Corps.
+
+Commanding Officer, John H. Parker, first lieutenant, 13th Infantry.
+Acting First Sergeant, Alois Weischaar, sergeant, Co. A, 13th Infantry.
+Acting Quartermaster Sergeant, William Eyder, Co. G, 13th Infantry.
+
+Gun No. 1:
+Acting Chief and Gunner, Charles C. Steigerwald, corporal, Co. A,
+  13th Infantry.
+No. 1, Private Voelker, Co. A, 12th Infantry.
+No. 2, Private Elkins, Co. D, 17th Infantry.
+No. 3, Private Schmandt, Co. G, 13th Infantry.
+No. 4, Private Needles, Co. E, 17th Infantry.
+No. 5, Private Click, Co. E, 17th Infantry.
+No. 6, Private Jones, Co. D, 13th Infantry.
+Driver, Private Shiffer, Co. E, 17th Infantry.
+
+Gun No. 2:
+Chief, Sergeant William Ryder, Co. G, 13th Infantry.
+Gunner, Corporal Geo. N. Rose, Co. C, 13th Infantry.
+No. 1, Private Seaman, Co. B, 13th Infantry.
+No. 2, Private Kastner, Co. A, 13th Infantry.
+No. 3, Private Pyne, Co. H, 13th Infantry.
+No. 4, Private Schulze, Co. A, 17th Infantry.
+No. 5, Private Barts, Co. E, 13th Infantry.
+Driver, Private Correll, Co. C, 12th Infantry.
+
+Gun No. 3:
+Chief, Sergeant Newton A. Green, Co. H, 13th Infantry.
+Gunner, Corporal Matthew Doyle, Co. C, 13th Infantry.
+No. 1, Private Anderson, Co. C, 12th Infantry.
+No. 2, Private Sine, Co. E, 17th Infantry.
+No. 3, Private Lauer, Co. C, 12th Infantry.
+No. 4, Private Dellett, Co. D, 17th Infantry.
+No. 5, Private Cory, Co. A, 13th Infantry.
+No. 6, Private Greenberg, Co. G, 13th Infantry.
+Driver, Private Merryman, Co. A, 17th Infantry.
+
+Gun No. 4:
+Chief, Sergeant John N. Weigle, Co. L, 9th Infantry.
+Gunner, Corporal Robert S. Smith, Co. C, 13th Infantry.
+No. 1, Private McGoin, Co. D, 17th Infantry.
+No. 2, Private Misiak, Co. E, 13th Infantry.
+No. 3, Private Power, Co. A, 13th Infantry.
+No. 4, Private McDonald, Co. B, 17th Infantry.
+No. 5, Private Prazak, Co. E, 12th Infantry.
+Driver, Private Chase, Co. H, 13th Infantry.
+Cook, Private Hoft, Co. D, 13th Infantry.
+Assistant cook, Private Bremer, Co. G, 13th Infantry.
+Absent, sick, Private Murray, Co. F, 13th Infantry, at Tampa.
+
+Sergeant Weigle was subsequently appointed first sergeant of Co. L.,
+9th Infantry, and of the Gatling Gun Detachment, vice Weischaar,
+relieved at his own request.
+
+Another element which contributed much to the success of the
+detachment was the presence with it of Captain Marcotte. This
+excellent officer had served with great distinction in the Civil War,
+having been promoted from a private in the ranks through all of the
+grades up to a captaincy, for meritorious conduct in battle, and
+having failed of higher grades only because he was too badly shot to
+pieces to continue with the Army. He joined the detachment on the 25th
+of June, and his valuable advice was always at the disposal not merely
+of the commander, but of any member of the detachment who wished to
+consult him. He had spent seventeen years in the Cuban climate and was
+thoroughly familiar with all the conditions under which we were
+laboring. He contributed not a little, by his presence, his example,
+and his precept, to the final success of the organization. When the
+battery went under fire, Marcotte was with it. It was the first time
+most of the members had passed through this ordeal, but who could run,
+or even feel nervous, with this gray-haired man skipping about from
+point to point and taking notes of the engagement as coolly as though
+he were sitting in the shade of a tree sipping lime-juice cocktails, a
+mile from danger.
+
+Such was the personnel of the detachment. It lay in Camp Wheeler,
+which was only about a mile and a half from El Poso, where the first
+engagement occurred on the first of July, until that morning. The
+mules were daily harnessed up and drilled in maneuvering the pieces,
+and the members of the detachment experimentally posted in different
+positions in order to get the most effective service.
+
+On the 27th, Serg. Green was sent back to Siboney with orders to bring
+Corp. Rose or his body. He brought Corp. Rose, and the corporal was
+very glad to be brought.
+
+The mules were fed with oats and on the juicy sugar-cane. It is worthy
+of mention that no other organization at the front had oats. A feed or
+two of oats was given to Gen. Wheeler and Col. Dorst for their horses;
+it was the first time their horses had tasted oats since leaving the
+transports, and was probably the last time until after the surrender.
+Furthermore, the Gatling Gun Detachment had "grub." Of course, it was
+"short" on potatoes, onions, and vegetables generally; these luxuries
+were not to be well known again until it returned to the United
+States; but it did have hardtack, bacon, canned roast beef, sugar, and
+coffee, having drawn all the rations it could carry before leaving
+Baiquiri, and was the only organization which had as much as
+twenty-four hours' rations. Gen. Hawkins and his whole brigade were
+living from hand to mouth, one meal at a time. The same was true of
+Gen. Wheeler and the whole cavalry division, and they were depending
+for that one meal upon the pack-mule train. On the 30th of June a
+complete set of muster- and pay-rolls, was prepared for the
+detachment, and it was duly mustered in the usual form and manner. It
+was the only organization at the front of which a formal muster was
+made, and was the only one there which had muster- and pay-rolls.
+
+It rained on the 29th and 30th of June. Not such rains as the people
+of the United States are familiar with, but Cuban rains. It was like
+standing under a barrel full of water and having the bottom knocked
+out. These rains caused the rifles and carbines of the army to rust,
+and some quickwitted captain bethought himself to beg oil from the
+Gatling Gun Detachment. He got it. Another, and another, and still
+another begged for oil; then regiments began to beg for oil; and
+finally application was made for oil for a whole brigade. This led to
+the following correspondence:
+
+"Camp Six Miles from Santiago,
+"29th June, 1898.
+
+"The Adjutant-General, Cavalry Division, Present:
+
+"Sir,--I have the honor to inform you that I have learned that some of
+the rifles in this command are badly in need of oil, and that in some
+companies there is no oil to use on them. These facts I learned
+through requests to me for oil.
+
+"I therefore report to you that my men found at Altares (the second
+landing-place) and reported to me four (4) barrels of lard oil and
+three (3) barrels of cylinder oil, in an old oil-house near the
+machine shops.
+
+"If this be procured and issued, it will save the rifles and carbines
+from rust.
+
+"Very respectfully,
+
+"John H. Parker,
+"Lt. Comdg. G. G. Detachment, 5th Corps."
+
+First Endorsement.
+
+"Headquarters Cavalry Division,
+"Camp 6 miles east of Santiago de Cuba,
+"June 29, 1898.
+
+"Respectfully referred to the adjutant-general, 6th Army Corps.
+
+"Jos. Wheeler,
+"Major-General U. S. Vols., Comdg."
+
+Second Endorsement.
+
+"Headquarters 5th Corps,
+"June 29, 1898.
+
+"Return. Lt. Parker will send a man back tomorrow to obtain the
+necessary oil.
+
+"By command of Gen. Shafter.
+
+"E. J. McClernand,
+"A. A. G."
+
+Third Endorsement.
+
+"Headquarters Cavalry Division,
+"June 29, 1898.
+
+"Return Lt. Parker. Attention invited to the foregoing endorsement.
+
+"J. H. Dorst,
+"Lieutenant-Colonel."
+
+Fourth Endorsement.
+
+"June 30, 1898.
+
+"The Quartermaster, Altares, Cuba:
+
+"Please furnish to Sergeant Green of my detachment transportation for
+two (2) barrels of oil. He will show you an order from Gen. Shafter,
+and the matter is urgent. The soldiers must have this oil at once, as
+their rifles are rusting badly.
+
+"John H. Parker,
+"Lt. Comdg. Gatling Gun Detach."
+
+[Illustration: Sergeant Greene's Gun at Fort Roosevelt.]
+
+The quartermaster furnished the transportation and two barrels of oil
+were duly forwarded to the front and placed in charge of brigade
+quartermasters at different points, with orders to distribute out one
+quart to each company. This oil, perhaps, had some bearing upon the
+condition of the rifles in the fight following.
+
+On the 27th of June, Captain Marcotte and the detachment commander
+made a reconnaissance of a high hill to the left of Camp Wheeler, and,
+having gained the top, reconnoitered the city of Santiago and its
+surrounding defenses with a powerful glass, and as a result reported
+to Gen. Wheeler that the key of Santiago was the Morro mesa, a
+promontory or tableland overlooking the city on the east side at a
+distance of about a mile and a half and not at that time occupied by
+the enemy, with the proposition that a detail of a half-dozen men from
+the detachment should make a rush and capture this plateau, and hold
+it until the guns could be brought up. The general could not authorize
+the proposed undertaking, as it would have endangered the safety of
+his army, perhaps by leading to a premature engagement. By the time a
+sufficient reconnaissance had been made and convinced everybody of the
+value of this plan, the mesa had been strongly occupied by the enemy.
+It is still believed that the occupation of this height was
+practicable on the 27th of June, and thought, if it had been
+authorized, the Gatlings could have occupied and held this position
+against all the Spaniards in the city of Santiago. A glance at the map
+will show the extreme tactical importance of this position.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+THE BATTLE.
+
+
+On the 30th day of June, General Shafter pitched his camp about half a
+mile in advance of Camp Wheeler in a valley, and about five o'clock in
+the afternoon communicated the plan of battle to the division
+commanders and to the commander of the Gatling Gun Detachment.
+
+Reconnaissance had developed the fact that the enemy occupied the
+village of El Caney, and that their first line of works surrounded the
+city of Santiago at a distance of about a mile, crowning a
+semicircular ridge. Between the position occupied by the general's
+camp and this ridge, a distance of about two and one-half miles,
+flowed the Aguadores and San Juan rivers, and about one mile from the
+San Juan River, on the east side, was a ruined plantation and mission
+house, called El Poso. Midway between El Caney and the Spanish
+position was a large handsome mansion, called the Du Cuorot house,
+standing in the midst of a large plantation and owned by a Frenchman,
+which both sides had agreed to respect as neutral property. The
+general plan of the battle as given to these officers on the 30th of
+June was for one division of the army (Lawton's), assisted by one
+battery of artillery (Capron's), to make an attack at daybreak upon
+the village of El Caney, and drive the enemy out of it. Another
+division (Kent's) was to make an attack upon the semicircular ridge of
+hills south of El Caney as soon as Lawton was well committed to the
+fight, both for the purpose of preventing reinforcements from going to
+El Caney and to develop the enemy's strength. It was expected that
+Lawton would capture El Caney about eight or nine o'clock in the
+morning, and pursue the retreating enemy, by the way of the Du Cuorot
+house, toward Santiago. This movement would cause Lawton to execute,
+roughly, a left wheel, and it was intended that in executing this
+maneuver Kent's right should join, or nearly join, Lawton's left,
+after which the whole line was to move forward according to the
+developments of the fight. Kent's attack was to be supported by
+Grimes' Battery from El Poso. The Gatling Gun Detachment was to move
+at daylight on the morning of July 1st, take position at El Poso
+sheltered by the hill, in support of Grimes' Battery, and there await
+orders.
+
+[Illustration: Skirmish Line in Battle.]
+
+This outline of the battle, as laid down by Gen. Shafter on the 30th
+day of June, was eventually carried out to the letter; its successful
+operation shut up a superior force in the city of Santiago, and
+compelled the surrender of the city.
+
+Perhaps no better comment can be made upon the generalship of the
+corps commander, no higher compliment be paid, than the mere statement
+that he was able, fifteen hours before a shot was fired in the battle,
+to prescribe the movements of the different organizations of his
+command, and to outline the plan of battle as it was finally carried
+out, with a degree of precision which can be fully appreciated only by
+those to whom the plan was communicated in advance. In spite of slight
+changes, made necessary by local failures and unforeseen
+circumstances; in spite of the very poor cooperation of the artillery
+arm; in spite of the absence of cavalry, which made good
+reconnaissance practically impossible; in spite of the fact that he
+was operating against a superior force in strong intrenchments--the
+plan of battle thus laid down was finally carried out with perfect
+success in every detail.
+
+The Gatling Gun Detachment was assembled at six o'clock, and so much
+of the plan of battle was explained to them as it was proper to give
+out, with orders that breakfast was to be prepared by four o'clock and
+the detachment be ready to move at 4:30. The plans were heard with
+careful attention by the men, and the wisdom of giving to them some
+idea of the work they were expected to do was fully vindicated on the
+following day, when they were compelled to lie nearly three hours
+under a dropping fire, waiting for "Lawton to become well engaged,"
+after which the detachment moved forward, without a man missing, with
+the utmost steadiness and coolness, to the attack.
+
+There was no nervousness displayed by the men. They knew their work
+was cut out for them, and each man was eager to play his part in the
+great drama of the morrow. There was no excited talk indulged in. None
+of the buzz of preparation nor the hum of anticipation which to the
+civilian mind should precede a desperate battle, but three or four
+members of the detachment took out their soldiers' hand-books and
+wrote in them their last will and testament, requesting their
+commander to witness the same and act as executor. The courage evinced
+by these men was not of that brutal order which ignores danger, but of
+the moral quality which, fully realizing that somebody must get hurt,
+quietly resolves to face whatever may happen in the performance of the
+full measure of duty.
+
+At four o'clock the guard aroused the members of the detachment
+quietly, and each man found a good hearty breakfast waiting for him,
+consisting of hardtack, coffee, condensed milk, sugar, bacon, canned
+roast beef, and some canned fruit, which had been obtained somehow and
+was opened upon this occasion. It was the last square meal they were
+to have for several days. At half past four the camp equipage had all
+been packed upon the guns in such a manner as not to interfere with
+their instantly getting into action, and the battery started for the
+front.
+
+The road to El Poso was very good and the mules trotted merrily along,
+preceded and followed by infantry also bound for the front. The
+Cubans, too, were in evidence; an irregular, struggling mob of
+undisciplined barbarians, vociferous, clamorous, noisy, turbulent,
+excited. Presently the Cubans and infantry in front of the battery
+halted and it passed beyond them, immediately throwing out the crew of
+the third gun in front as an advance guard. It reached El Poso at six
+o'clock, at which time there were no other soldiers there. The battery
+took position as directed, under cover in rear of the hill and to the
+right front of the El Poso house. The camp equipage and blanket-rolls,
+were removed and piled neatly upon the ground, and Priv. Hoft was
+detailed to guard them, as well as one of the spare mules. About half
+past seven o'clock Grimes' Battery arrived, and Col. McClernand, the
+assistant adjutant-general of the corps. The battery of artillery
+halted upon the hill near the Gatlings, while its commander, the
+adjutant-general, the Army and Navy Journal correspondent, and the
+Gatling gun man climbed to the top of the hill to reconnoiter the
+enemy. They were accompanied by several attaches and a battalion of
+newspaper correspondents.
+
+[Illustration: Fort Roosevelt.]
+
+To the southwest, at a distance of about 3,000 yards, the city of
+Santiago lay slumbering in the morning sun. The chain of hills which
+surrounded the city, lying between it and our position, was crowned
+with rank tropical verdure, and gave no indications of military
+fortifications. There was no sign of life, a gentle land breeze swayed
+the tops of the royal palms, and the little birds flitted from bough
+to bough caroling their morning songs as though no such events were
+impending as the bombardment of a city and the death of 400 gallant
+soldiers. The gentle ripple of the creek, lapping over its pebbly bed
+at the foot of the hill, was distinctly audible.
+
+The artillery officers produced their range-finders and made a
+scientific guess at the distance from the hill to a red brick building
+in the northern edge of Santiago. This guess was 2600 yards. They
+signalled to the lead piece of Grimes' Light Battery to ascend the
+hill. It was delayed for a moment while picks and shovels were plied
+upon the top of the hill to make slight emplacements for the guns, and
+at last, at ten minutes before eight o'clock, the first piece started
+the difficult ascent. The drivers stood up in their stirrups and
+lashed their horses and shouted; the horses plunged and reared and
+jumped. The piece stuck half way up the hill. The leaders were turned
+slightly to the right to give new direction and another attempt was
+made--ten yards gained. The leaders were swung to the left, men and
+officers standing near by added their shouts and blows from sticks. A
+tall artillery officer, whose red stripes were conspicuous, jumped up
+and down and swore; the team gave a few more jumps, then they wheeled
+the gun by a left about, with its muzzle pointing toward the city. It
+was quickly unlimbered and run to its place.
+
+The second piece started up the hill. The drivers of this piece sat
+quietly in their saddles, and, with a cluck, started up the hill at a
+walk. The tall artillery officer shouted, and a driver muttered under
+his breath, "Damned fool!" Regardless of the orders to rush their
+horses, the drivers of this piece continued to walk up the hill. At
+the steepest part of the hill, they rose slightly in their stirrups,
+as one man, and applied the spur to the lead horses, and, at the same
+time, a lash of the quirt to the off horses of the team. The horses
+sprang forward, and in an instant the second piece was in battery. The
+third and fourth pieces were taken up in the same manner as the
+second.
+
+The pieces were loaded; a party of newspaper correspondents produced
+their lead pencils and pads, and began to take notes; the little birds
+continued to sing. The Gatling Gun man, the Army and Navy Journal man,
+and the assistant adjutant-general stepped to the windward a few yards
+to be clear of the smoke. The range was given by the battery
+commander--2600 yards; the objective was named, a small, almost
+indistinguishable redoubt, below the hospital about 300 yards. The
+cannoneers braced themselves, No. 3 stretched the lanyard taut on his
+piece, and Grimes remarked, in a conversational tone, "Let her go."
+
+The report of the field-piece burst with startling suddenness upon the
+quiet summer morning, and a dense cloud of grayish-colored smoke
+spurted from the muzzle of the gun. Everybody involuntarily jumped,
+the sound was so startling, although expected. The piece recoiled
+eight or ten feet, and the gunners jumped to the wheels and ran it
+forward again into battery. Field-glasses were glued upon the vicinity
+of the brick hospital. There was a puff of white smoke and an
+exclamation, "A trifle too long!" The second piece was aimed and
+fired. There was no response. The third, and fourth, and fifth, with
+like results. It was like firing a salute on the Fourth of July. There
+was no indication of any danger whatever; laugh and jest were
+beginning to go round.
+
+Suddenly a dull boom was heard from somewhere, the exact direction
+could not be located. The next thing was a shrill whistle overhead,
+and then a most startling report. The first Spanish shell exploded
+about twenty feet above the surface of the ground, and about twenty
+yards in rear of the crest of the hill. It exploded in the midst of
+our brave Cuban contingents, killed one and wounded several. The
+valiant sons of Cuba libre took to their heels, and most of the
+newspaper correspondents did likewise. The members of Grimes' Battery,
+who were not needed at the guns, were sent back to the caissons, and
+another round of shrapnel was sent in reply. Again a hurtling sound
+rent the air; again there was the fierce crack of a Spanish shell in
+our immediate vicinity, and, on looking around to see where this shell
+struck, it was observed that it had burst over the Gatling battery.
+Luckily, it had gone six or eight feet beyond the battery before
+exploding. A fragment of the shell had struck Priv. Bremer upon the
+hand, producing quite a severe contusion. The Missouri mules stamped
+the ground impatiently; one of them uttered the characteristic
+exclamation of his race, "Aw! hee! aw! hee! aw!" and the members of
+the detachment burst into a merry peal of hearty laughter. It was
+evident that this detachment was not going to run, and it was equally
+evident that the Missouri mules would stand fire.
+
+[Illustration: A Fighting Cuban, and Where He Fought.]
+
+[Illustration: Map--Siege Lines at Santiago.]
+
+A third shell whistled over the hill. This one burst fairly over
+Grimes' third piece, killed the cannoneer, and wounded several men.
+
+The members of the detachment were now directed to lie down under
+their guns and limbers, except the drivers, who declined to do so, and
+still stood at the heads of their mules. Priv. Hoft, disdaining to
+take cover, shouldered his rifle and walked up and down, sentry
+fashion, over the pile of camp equipage.
+
+Serg. Weigle, who had brought along a small portable camera, with a
+large supply of film-rolls, requested permission to photograph the
+next shot fired by Grimes' Battery. It was granted. He climbed to the
+top of the hill, stepped off to the left of the battery, and calmly
+focused his camera. Grimes fired another salute, and Weigle secured a
+good picture. A Spanish shell came whistling over the hill; Weigle,
+judging where it would burst from previous observations, focused his
+camera, and secured a picture of the burst. He then rejoined his
+detachment, and photographed it as it stood. He seemed chiefly worried
+for fear he would not get a picture of everything that happened.
+
+The artillery duel continued for some twenty minutes. The infantry
+began to pass on, to the front. Grimes no longer needed the support of
+the Gatling guns, because he now had an infantry support in front of
+him, and was firing over their heads. Col. McClernand sent orders to
+the detachment to move to the rear, out of range. The order was
+obeyed.
+
+Private Hoft, with the instinct of a true soldier, continued to tramp
+back and forth guarding the pile of camp equipage. The battery moved
+to the rear at a gentle trot, and, as it turned down the hill into the
+first ford by the El Poso house, a Spanish shell whistled over the
+head of Private Shiffer, who was leading the way, and burst just
+beyond his off mule. Shiffer didn't duck and nobody was hurt.
+Providence was taking care of this experiment. Corporal Doyle and two
+other members of the detachment got lost, and wandered off among the
+crowd of Cubans, but soon found the battery and rejoined. Orders were
+given that as soon as the battery was out of range, it should halt and
+face to the front, at the side of the road.
+
+The battery halted about half a mile to the rear, and the 13th
+Infantry passed it here, on their way to the front. The comments
+bestowed were not calculated to soothe the ruffled feelings of people
+who had been ordered to retreat. "I told you so." "Why don't you go to
+the front?" "Going to begin firing here?" "Is this the place where you
+shoot?" "Is this all there is of it?" "I knew they would not get into
+the fight." "Watch them hang around the rear." "Going to start in
+raising bananas back here, John Henry?" "What do you think of machine
+guns now?" and similar remarks, of a witty but exasperating nature,
+greeted the detachment, from both officers and men, as the regiment
+passed on its way to the front. The only thing that could be done was
+to endure it, in the hope of getting a chance to make a retort later
+in the day.
+
+About nine o'clock, the artillery firing ceased, and the Gatling Gun
+Battery returned to El Poso. Grimes' guns were still up on the hill,
+but there were no cannoneers; they had ceased to fire, and had left
+their guns. Two or three dead men were lying on the side of the hill;
+wounded men were limping around with bandages. Cubans were again
+passing to the front. These fellows were trying to reach El Caney.
+They never got into the fight. They did reach the vicinity of El
+Caney, and the Spanish fired one volley at them. The Cubans set up a
+great howl, accompanied by vociferous gesticulations--and then
+"skedaddled."
+
+During all this time the sound of firing had been heard toward El
+Caney. It had been opened up there about half an hour before Grimes
+first spoke at El Poso. The fire in this direction sounded like
+ranging fire, a shot every two or three minutes, and it was supposed
+that Capron was trying to locate the enemy. The sharp crack of
+musketry was heard on our front, it swelled and became continuous. It
+was evident that quite a fight was going on at El Caney, which was to
+our right about one mile and to our front perhaps half a mile. Kent's
+Division kept pushing forward on the El Poso road. Col. McClernand was
+asked for instructions for the Gatling Gun Detachment. He replied,
+"Find the 71st New York, and go in with them, if you can. If this is
+not practicable, find the best place you can, and make the best use of
+your guns that you can." These were the only instructions received by
+the Gatling Gun Detachment until one o'clock.
+
+[Illustration: Gatling Camp and Bomb-Proofs at Fort Roosevelt.]
+
+The Gatling Gun Detachment moved forward about half a mile. They found
+the 71st New York lying down by the side of the road, partially
+blocking it. Troops passing them toward the front were compelled to
+break into columns of twos, because the road was crowded by the 71st.
+The colonel and his adjutant were sought and found, and informed of
+the detachment's instructions. Information was requested as to when
+and where the 71st was going into the fight. It appeared that they had
+a vague idea that they were going in on the left center of the left
+wing. Lawton's Division at El Caney will be considered the right wing;
+Kent's Division and Wheeler's Division the left wing of the army at
+San Juan. The 71st did not seem to know when it was going to move
+toward the front, nor just where it was going; and there was no
+apparent effort being made to get further down the road to the front.
+Wheeler's Division was also pressing forward on the road, dismounted
+cavalrymen, with no arms in their hands except their carbines without
+bayonets. With these same carbines these men were, a little later, to
+storm the intrenchments, manned by picked and veteran soldiers, who
+knew how to die at their posts.
+
+With Wheeler's Division were the Rough Riders, the most unique
+aggregation of fighting men ever gathered together in any army. There
+were cowboys, bankers, brokers, merchants, city clubmen, and society
+dudes; commanded by a doctor, second in command a literary politician;
+but every man determined to get into the fight. About three-quarters
+of a mile in advance was the first ford, the ford of the Aguadores
+River; beyond this a quarter of a mile was another ford, the ford of
+the San Juan. The road forked about two hundred yards east of the
+Aguadores ford, turning sharply to the left. Down the road from El
+Poso crept the military balloon, it halted near this fork--"Balloon
+Fork." Two officers were in its basket, six or eight hundred feet
+above the surface of the ground, observing the movements of the troops
+and the disposition of the enemy.
+
+The sharp crackle of the musketry began in front, and still the
+Gatling Gun Detachment lay beside the road with the 71st, waiting,
+swearing, broiling, stewing in their own perspiration, mad with
+thirst, and crazed with the fever of the battle. The colonel of the
+71st was again approached, to ascertain whether he was now going to
+the front, but still there were no signs of any indication to move
+forward. So the long-eared steed was mounted and the ford of the
+Aguadores reconnoitered. The bullets were zipping through the rank
+tropical jungle. Two or three men were hit. Those who moved forward
+were going single file, crouching low, at a dog trot. There was no
+evidence of hesitation or fear here. Some of the "Brunettes" passed,
+their blue shirts unbuttoned, corded veins protruding as they slightly
+raised their heads to look forward, great drops of perspiration
+rolling down their sleek, shiny, black skins. There was a level spot,
+slightly open, beyond the ford of the Aguadores, which offered a place
+for going into battery; from this place the enemy's works on San Juan
+were visible, a faint streak along the crest of the hill illumined
+from time to time by the flash of Mausers.
+
+On return to the battery, there were no signs of being able to enter
+the action with the gallant 71st, and, acting under the second clause
+of the instructions, the Gatling battery was moved forward at a
+gallop. Major Sharpe, a mounted member of Gen. Shafter's staff, helped
+to open a way through this regiment to enable the guns to pass. The
+reception of the battery by these valiant men was very different from
+that so recently given by the 13th Regulars. "Give 'em hell, boys!"
+"Let 'er go, Gallagher!" "Goin' to let the woodpeckers go off?"--and
+cheer after cheer went up as the battery passed through. Vain efforts
+were made to check this vociferous clamor, which was plainly audible
+to the enemy, less than 1500 yards away. The bullets of the enemy
+began to drop lower. The cheering had furnished them the clew they
+needed. They had located our position, and the 71st atoned for this
+thoughtlessness by the loss of nearly eighty men, as it lay cowering
+in the underbrush near Balloon Fork.
+
+Just before reaching the Aguadores ford, the battery was met by Col.
+Derby, who had been observing the disposition of the troops, from the
+balloon, and had afterward ridden to the front on horseback. The
+colonel was riding along, to push the infantry forward in position
+from the rear, as coolly as if on the parade-ground. A blade of grass
+had gotten twisted around a button of his uniform and hung down like a
+buttonhole bouquet over his breast. There was a genial smile on his
+handsome face as he inquired, "Where are you going?" and, on being
+informed of the orders of the detachment and of the intention to put
+the battery into action, he replied, "The infantry are not deployed
+enough to take advantage of your fire. I would advise that you wait a
+short time. I will send you word when the time comes." The advice was
+acted upon, the guns were turned out by the side of the road, and the
+men directed to lie down.
+
+[Illustration: Tree Between Lines Showing Bullet Holes. This Tree Grew
+on Low Ground.]
+
+During the gallop to the front they had been compelled to run to keep
+up, there not being sufficient accommodation for them to all go
+mounted on the guns. They were panting heavily, and they obeyed the
+order and crept under the guns, taking advantage of such little shade
+as was offered. Troops continued to pass to the front. The crackle of
+musketry gradually extended to the right and to the left, showing that
+the deployment was being completed. More men were hit, but no
+complaints or groans were heard. A ball struck a limber-chest; a man
+lying on his face in the road, during a momentary pause of one of the
+companies, was perforated from head to foot: he never moved--just
+continued to lie there; the flies began to buzz around the spot and
+settle on the clotted blood, that poured out from the fractured skull,
+in the dust of the road. Down at the ford, some twenty-five or thirty
+yards in advance, men were being hit continually.
+
+Shots came down from the trees around. The sharpshooters of the
+Spanish forces, who had been up in the trees during the artillery
+duel, and beyond whom our advance had swept, fully believing that they
+would be murdered if captured, expecting no quarter, were recklessly
+shooting at everything in sight. They made a special target of every
+man who wore any indication of rank. Some of our heaviest losses
+during the day, especially among commissioned officers, were caused by
+these sharpshooters. They shot indiscriminately at wounded, at
+hospital nurses, at medical officers wearing the red cross, and at
+fighting men going to the front.
+
+The firing became too warm, and the Gatling battery was moved back
+about fifty yards, again halted, and faced to the front. It was now
+nearly one o'clock. The members of the detachment had picked up their
+haversacks on leaving El Poso, and now began to nibble pieces of
+hardtack. A bullet broke a piece of hardtack which a man was lifting
+to his mouth; without even stopping in the act of lifting it to his
+mouth, he ate the piece, with a jest.
+
+Suddenly the clatter of hoofs was heard from the front. Lieut. Miley
+dashed up and said, "Gen. Shafter directs that you give one piece to
+me, and take the other three beyond the ford, where the dynamite gun
+is, find some position, and go into action." Sergeant Weigle's gun was
+placed at Miley's disposal, and the other pieces dashed forward at a
+dead run, led by the musical mule who uttered his characteristic
+exclamation as he dashed through the ford of the Aguadores.
+
+The place formerly selected for going into action had been again twice
+reconnoitered during the wait, and a better place had been found about
+thirty yards beyond the ford of the San Juan River. The dynamite gun
+had stuck in the ford of the Aguadores; a shell had got jammed in it.
+The Gatlings were compelled to go around it. They dashed through the
+intervening space, across the San Juan ford, and up on the opening
+beyond. The position for the battery, partially hidden from the view
+of the enemy by a small clump of underbrush, was indicated. The right
+piece, Serg. Green's, was compelled to go into action in the middle of
+the road, and in plain sight of the enemy. While the pieces were being
+unlimbered, which was only the work of an instant, an inquiry was made
+of Captain Boughton, of the 3d Cavalry, whose troop had just reached
+this point, as to the position of our troops and of the enemy, with
+the further remark that the battery had been under fire since eight
+o'clock, and had not seen a Spaniard. "I can show you plenty of
+Spaniards," replied Boughton, and, raising his hand, pointed toward
+the San Juan blockhouse and the ridge in its vicinity, sweeping his
+hand toward the right. It was enough. Before his hand had fallen to
+his side, the pieces were musically singing.
+
+Corp. Steigerwald turned and asked, "What is the range, sir?" To which
+was instantly replied, "Block-house, 600 yards; the ridge to the
+right, 800 yards," and Steigerwald's piece was grinding 500 shots a
+minute within a quarter of a second, playing upon the San Juan
+block-house. Serg. Green took 800 yards, and began to send his
+compliments to the ridge beyond the block-house. In an instant Priv.
+Sine, at Green's gun, who was feeding, fell backward dead. At the same
+instant Priv. Kastner fell out. Sine was shot through the heart,
+Kastner through the head and neck. At this time Ryder's gun began to
+talk. It spoke very voluble and eloquent orations, which, although not
+delivered in the Spanish language, were well understood by our
+friends, the enemy, upon the hill.
+
+[Illustration: Spanish Block-House.]
+
+Serg. Green, at the right gun, had run back for ammunition, and Corp.
+Doyle, when Sine fell, seized the pointing lever, and was coolly
+turning the crank while he sighted the gun at the same time. He was
+for the moment the only member of the detachment left at the piece,
+but was given assistance, and a moment later Green arrived and began
+to feed the gun.
+
+Steigerwald was short-handed. Some of his men had been sun-struck
+during the run, and he, too, was compelled to work his gun with only
+one assistant. Then some of those who had been unable to keep up
+arrived at the battery and began to render assistance. Priv. Van
+Vaningham, who had gotten lost from his own command, began to pass
+ammunition. Priv. Merryman, who was holding his team back in the
+river, was impressed by a doctor to help carry wounded men, and Priv.
+Burkley, another man lost from his command, stepped into Merryman's
+place. Priv. Chase left his team, seeing the piece short-handed, and
+began to pass ammunition. The mules merely wagged their ears backward
+and forward and stamped on account of the flies.
+
+All these changes were accomplished, and the pieces had not even
+ceased fire. Doyle had fed about 100 rounds, alone. Capt. Landis, of
+the 1st Cavalry, arrived just at this time, and volunteered to assist
+in observing the effect of the fire. He stood fearlessly out in the
+middle of the road, just to the right of Green's piece, in the very
+best position for observation, but, at the same time, a most
+conspicuous target for the enemy, and observed the effect of the
+Gatling fire, as though he were at target practice, reporting the
+same, continually, to the battery commander.
+
+For the first two minutes the enemy seemed dazed, then suddenly a
+perfect hell of leaden hail swept through the foliage. The only thing
+that saved the battery from absolute destruction was that the enemy's
+shots were a little high. As it was, many of them struck the ground
+between the guns, and several hit the pieces. Three members of the
+detachment were slightly hurt. One mule was shot through the ear. He
+sang the usual song of the mule, shook his head, and was suddenly hit
+again on the fore leg. He plunged a little, but Priv. Shiffer patted
+him on the head and he became quiet. A bullet passed by Shiffer's
+head, so close that he felt the wind fan his whiskers, and buried
+itself in the saddle on the same mule. This sudden concentration of
+the enemy's fire lasted about two minutes.
+
+About the same time the detachment heard a wild cheer start on the
+left and gradually sweep around to the left and right, until in every
+direction, sounding high above the din of battle and the crackling of
+the Mausers, even above the rattle of the Gatling guns, was heard the
+yell of recognition from our own troops. There was, for an instant, a
+furious fusillade on our right and left, and in a few moments the
+whole line of our troops had risen and were moving forward to the San
+Juan ridge. While moving forward, they necessarily almost ceased to
+fire, but the fire of the Gatlings continued, deadly and accurate. A
+troop of the 10th Cavalry, from our right and rear, came up, part of
+the squadron commanded by Col. Baldwin. Some of this troop did not
+understand the Gatling gun drama, and were in the act of firing a
+volley into our backs, when Lieut. Smith, who was to so heroically
+lose his life within ten minutes afterward, sprang out in front of the
+excited troopers, and, with tears in his eyes, implored them not to
+fire, that these were "our own Gatlings." They did not fire in our
+direction, but they did give a most thrilling and welcome cheer, as
+the squadron swept forward by our right. Col. Baldwin ran up, and
+shouted that he would place two troops in support of the battery as
+long as they were needed. It was the first time the battery had ever
+had a support of any kind.
+
+After a couple of minutes, the enemy's fire perceptibly slackened. It
+was evident they were seeking cover from our fire in the bottom of
+their ditches, and our fire at this time was being made chiefly from
+the Gatling battery. This cessation of fire on the part of the enemy
+lasted about two minutes, and then the Gatling gunners observed the
+Spaniards climbing from their trenches. Until that time the Gatling
+battery had been worked with dogged persistency and grim silence, but
+from that moment every member of the battery yelled at the top of his
+voice until the command "Cease firing" was given. Groups of the enemy,
+as they climbed from their trenches, were caught by the fire of the
+guns, and were seen to melt away like a lump of salt in a glass of
+water. Bodies the size of a company would practically disappear an
+instant after a gun had been turned upon them.
+
+This flight of the enemy from their trenches had been caused by the
+fact that the charging line had cut through the barb-wire fences at
+the foot of the hill, and had started up the slope. The Spaniards were
+unable to stay with their heads above the trenches to fire at the
+charging-line, because of the missiles of death poured in by the
+machine guns; and to remain there awaiting the charge was certain
+death. They did not have the nerve to wait for the cold steel. They
+were demoralized because they had been compelled to seek the bottom of
+their trenches. American troops would have awaited the charge, knowing
+that the machine gun fire must cease before contact could occur, but
+the Spaniards forgot this in their excitement, and made the fatal
+mistake of running.
+
+The Gatlings had the range to perfection. Capt. Boughton, who was one
+of the first officers upon the hill, stated, on the 1st of September
+at Montauk, that he visited a portion of the Spanish trenches
+immediately upon arriving at the crest, and that the trenches which he
+inspected were literally filled with writhing, squirming, tangled
+masses of dead and wounded Spaniards, and that the edge of the
+trenches was covered with wounded and dead Spaniards, who had been
+shot in the act of climbing out. This execution was done mainly by the
+machine guns, because the infantry and cavalry were not firing much
+when it was done; they were running up the hill to the charge.
+
+Colonel Egbert, who commanded the 6th Infantry, states, in his
+official report, that when his regiment reached the sharp incline near
+the top of the hill they were brought to a standstill because the
+Gatling bullets were striking along the crest. The officers of the
+13th Infantry state the same thing. It was Lieut. Ferguson, of the
+13th, who when the troops had climbed as high as possible under the
+leaden canopy which the Gatlings made to cover their charge, waved his
+white handkerchief as a signal to cease firing. At the same moment
+Landis exclaimed, "Better stop; our men are climbing the hill now." A
+shrill whistle gave the signal "Cease firing," and the Gatling Gun
+Battery, to a man, rose to their feet and gazed with absorbing
+interest as the long, thin, blue line swept forward and crowned the
+crest of the hill. An instant later an American flag floated proudly
+from the San Juan block-house; then the roar of musketry and the
+volley of rifles indicated that the fleeing enemy was receiving warm
+messengers as he ran down the hill toward his second line of
+intrenchments.
+
+The next immediate duty confronting the detachment was to take stock
+of losses and to occupy the captured position in case of necessity.
+
+Private Sine had been killed and Private Kastner was supposed to be
+mortally wounded. Private Elkins fell exhausted just as the Stars and
+Stripes were run up on the block-house. He had been knocked down by
+the pole of a limber, which struck him over the kidneys, but had
+continued to feed his gun until the very last. He was utterly
+exhausted. Sergeant Green had been wounded slightly in the foot, but
+not enough to disable him. Private Bremer had been hit early in the
+morning by the fragment of a shell on the hand. One or two other
+members had been merely touched, grazed by balls. Private Greenberg
+had been overcome by the heat. Merryman, one of the teamsters, as
+stated before, had been seized to carry wounded. Private Lauer was
+missing and Dellett sunstruck. Private Hoft had joined the battery on
+hearing it go into action, and it was necessary to send someone back
+as guard over the camp equipage. A volunteer was called for, and it
+was with the utmost difficulty that a member of the detachment,
+Private Pyne, was induced to take this duty. He shot four Spanish
+sharpshooters, who were shooting at our wounded and our medical
+officers, out of trees near El Poso, during the remainder of the day.
+Private Chase had sprained his back so badly as to be unable to ride a
+mule; and two places were vacant for drivers. It was necessary to
+instantly supply this deficiency. Private Burkley, 16th Infantry, who
+had assisted in passing ammunition during the firing, volunteered to
+drive one of the teams, and Private Correll the other. Private
+Raymond, 6th Cavalry, and Private Van Vaningham, of the same regiment,
+also joined the detachment at this point, being separated from their
+own commands.
+
+The pieces were limbered up as soon as these dispositions could be
+made, except Sergeant Ryder's gun, which had bent the pintle-pin and
+consequently could not be limbered quickly. The other two pieces and
+the limber belonging to Ryder's gun were moved forward on a run to the
+captured position on the San Juan ridge, gun crews riding or following
+as best they could. Both pieces went into action on the right of the
+road. A limber was then sent back for Ryder's gun, and it was brought
+up, Priv. Shiffer performing this duty under a perfect hail of
+dropping fire. In advancing from the position at the ford to the
+captured position it was necessary to cut three barb-wire fences. The
+members of the detachment behaved with the utmost coolness, all
+working together to remove these obstructions, and not a man sought
+shelter, although a dropping fire was striking around the detachment,
+from some source. Where this fire came from it was impossible to tell;
+but it did not come from the enemy.
+
+[Illustration: Spanish Fort of Three-Inch Guns.]
+
+The two pieces which first reached the top of the hill were halted
+under shelter of the crest, while the ground above was reconnoitered.
+It was instantly observed that the enemy was coming back for a
+counter-charge. Accordingly the pieces were immediately run to the top
+of the hill, the drivers, Shiffer and Correll, riding boldly up and
+executing a left-about on the skirmish line, where the skirmishers
+were lying down. The pieces were unlimbered and instantly put into
+action at point-blank range, the skirmishers giving way to the right
+and left to make way for the guns. The enemy was less than 300 yards
+away, and apparently bent on recovering the position.
+
+The fire immediately became very hot. A skirmisher, who had thought to
+gain a little cover by lying down beside the wheel of the right gun
+(Green's), was shot through the arm. "I knowed it," he growled; "I
+might have knowed that if I got near that durned gun, I'd get potted."
+He rolled down behind the crest; a soldier produced an emergency
+packet, staunched the blood, and the wounded soldier, finding no bones
+broken, returned to the firing-line and resumed his work. The enemy,
+at this part of the line, began to waver and again broke toward his
+second line of intrenchments.
+
+Just at this moment, Lieut. Traub came up and shouted, "Gen. Wood
+orders you to send one or two of your guns over to help Roosevelt."
+The order to move the guns was disregarded, but Traub pointed out the
+enemy, which was menacing Col. Roosevelt's position, and insisted.
+About 600 yards to the right, oblique from the position of the guns
+and perhaps 200 yards, or less, in front of the salient occupied by
+Col. Roosevelt and the 3d Cavalry (afterward called Fort Roosevelt),
+there was a group of about 400 of the enemy, apparently endeavoring to
+charge the position. There was no time to notify the second piece.
+Serg. Green's gun was instantly turned upon this group, at point-blank
+elevation. The group melted away. Capt. Marcotte states that, after
+the surrender, some Spanish officers, whom he met, and who were
+members of this group, described this to him, stating that the enemy
+seen at this point was a body of about 600 escaping from El Caney;
+that they were struck at this point by machine gun fire so effectively
+that only forty of them ever got back to Santiago; the rest were
+killed.
+
+Serg. Green's gun, already heated to a red heat by the continuous
+firing of the day, had been worked to its extreme limit of rapidity
+while firing at this body of the enemy, and on ceasing to fire,
+several cartridges exploded in the gun before they could be withdrawn.
+A ball lodged in one barrel from one of these explosions, and this
+piece was drawn down out of action just as the piece which had been
+left at the ford returned. Subsequently the disabled piece was sent
+back to the ford, with the idea that that would be a safer place to
+overhaul it than immediately in rear of the firing-line. The piece
+remained at the ford until the night of the 3d of July, when it was
+brought up to the battery, then at Fort Roosevelt, and on the 4th was
+finally overhauled and put into action. This led to the impression, on
+the part of some of the command, that one of the Gatlings had been
+blown up, which was not true. The gun was not injured, except that one
+barrel could not be used during the remainder of the fighting, but the
+gun was used on the morning of the 4th, and during the whole of the
+engagement on the 10th and 11th, as well as on outpost duty, using
+nine barrels instead of ten.
+
+Following this repulse of the enemy, which occurred about 4:30 p. m.,
+there was a lull in the firing. Advantage was taken of this to visit
+Col. Roosevelt's position and inspect the line of battle. Upon
+reaching the salient, Col. Roosevelt was seen walking up and down
+behind his line, encouraging his men, while a group of them was held,
+just in the rear of the crest, in charge of Maj. Jenkins, to support
+the firing-line if necessary. On the right of the Rough Riders, the 3d
+Cavalry were in the fight, and Capt. Boughton was again encountered.
+
+The firing suddenly began again, and it was remarkable to observe the
+coolness with which these two officers sauntered up and down the line,
+utterly regardless of the bullets, which were cutting the grass in
+every direction. There were no soft places on this part of the hill.
+The enemy's sharpshooters, up in high trees, were able to see every
+point of the crest, and were dropping their shots accurately behind it
+at all points.
+
+[Illustration: Tentage in Cuba.]
+
+Just at this moment, Serg. Weigle came up with his gun. Serg. Weigle
+had had a hard time. His gun had been taken, under direction of Lieut.
+Miley, to a point near the San Juan farm-house, and pulled to the top
+of the hill. Weigle, whose only idea of a battle, at this time, was a
+chance to shoot, had been, to his intense disgust, restrained from
+opening fire. Then the piece had been taken down from the hill and
+around to the left of the line, where Lieut. Miley's duty as aide had
+carried him, to observe the progress of the battle, and Weigle had
+been again denied the privilege of "potting" a Spaniard. He was the
+most disgusted man in the American Army; he was furious; he was
+white-hot; he was so mad that the tears rolled down his cheeks, as he
+reported with a soldierly salute, "Sir, Serg. Weigle reports, with his
+gun. Lieut. Miley did not allow me to open fire. I would like to have
+orders."
+
+In spite of the critical condition of the engagement, it was extremely
+ludicrous; but the reopening of the fire at this moment presented an
+opportunity to accommodate the sergeant to his heart's content. He was
+directed to run his piece up on the firing-line, report to the officer
+in charge thereof, and go into action as soon as he pleased. Within
+thirty seconds he was getting his coveted opportunity. He fired until
+his gun became accidentally jammed, pulled it down behind the crest of
+the hill and removed the defective cartridge, returned it and repeated
+this operation, actually bringing the gun down three times, and
+returning it into action, doing very effective work, and all the time
+displaying the utmost coolness and good judgment. A sharpshooter began
+to make a target of Weigle's gun, and "potted" a couple of men
+belonging to the cavalry near it. This made Weigle so mad that he
+turned the gun, for a moment, upon the tree in which the sharp-shooter
+was concealed. That sharpshooter never shot again. Finally, Weigle's
+gun got so hot, and he himself so cool, that he concluded the piece
+was too warm for further firing. So he ran it down behind the hill,
+and ran his detachment back on the hill with rifles, and, during the
+remainder of the evening, the members of this crew practiced with
+"long Toms" upon the Spanish soldiers.
+
+On returning to the other two pieces near the road, they were moved to
+another position, on the other side of the road. This precaution was
+judicious in order to conceal the pieces, or change their position,
+because the enemy had pretty thoroughly located them in the previous
+brush, and it was rather dangerous to remain at that place. It was now
+nearly sundown. Scarcely had the pieces opened at this new position,
+when a battery of the enemy's artillery, located near the hospital,
+began to fire at them. There was a heavy gun, which made a deep
+rumbling sound, and this sound was supplemented by the sharp crack of
+a field-piece. A shell came whistling overhead and exploded within
+thirty yards of the battery, just beyond it. Another one came, and
+this time the enemy's artillery was located. Quick as a flash, the two
+Gatlings were turned upon the enemy's guns at the 2000-yard range.
+Another shell came whistling along and exploded about ten feet
+overhead and twenty feet in rear of the battery. It tore up the grass
+in rear of the battery. After this engagement was over, Priv. Shiffer
+picked up the still hot fuse of this last shell. It was a large brass
+combination fuse, and set at eight seconds, which justified the
+estimated range. This third shell was the last one the enemy was able
+to fire from these pieces. The powerful field-glasses which were used
+in locating the battery revealed the fact that as soon as the Gatling
+guns were turned on it, the Spanish gunners ran away from their
+pieces. The big gun turned out to be a 16-centimeter converted bronze
+piece, mounted on a pintle in barbette, rifled and using smokeless
+powder. It was also found that they were firing four 3-inch
+field-pieces of a similar character in this battery, as well as two
+mountain guns.
+
+It is claimed that this is the first time in the history of land
+fighting that a battery of heavy guns was ever put out of action by
+machine-gun fire. This battery of the Spanish was never afterward able
+to get into action. Their pieces, which had been loaded for the fourth
+shot, were found on the 18th of July, still loaded, and a Spanish
+officer gave the information that they had lost more than forty men
+trying to work that battery, since the 1st of July. This is accounted
+for by the fact that this Spanish battery was made the subject of
+critical observation by the Gatling Gun Detachment from this time on.
+
+[Illustration: After the Rain.]
+
+During this last engagement it had been necessary to obtain more men
+to assist in carrying ammunition, and Capt. Ayers, of the 10th
+Cavalry, had furnished a detail, consisting of Serg. Graham and
+Privates Smith and Taylor, Troop E, 10th Cavalry. These colored
+soldiers proved to be excellent. They remained with the battery until
+the end of the fighting on the 17th, and were in every respect the
+peers of any soldier in the detachment. Serg. Graham was recommended
+for a medal of honor. Privates Smith and Taylor did as good service,
+were as willing, as obedient, as prompt, and as energetic in the
+discharge of their duties as any commanding officer could wish to
+have. It is a great pleasure to be able to give this testimony to the
+merits of our colored troopers, and to say, in addition, that no
+soldiers ever fought better than the "Brunettes" of the 9th and 10th
+Cavalry, who fought from the 3d of July until the 12th, near or with
+the Gatlings.
+
+After the firing at the ford had ceased, Capt. Marcotte had returned
+to El Poso to investigate the movements of our artillery. These were
+then, and have remained, one of those inscrutable and mysterious
+phenomena of a battle; incomprehensible to the ordinary layman, and
+capable of being understood only by "scientific" soldiers. The charge
+upon the San Juan ridge was practically unsupported by artillery. No
+American shells had struck the San Juan block-house; none had struck
+or burst in its vicinity; not even a moral effect by our artillery had
+assisted in the assault. So Marcotte had gone to investigate the
+artillery arm. He returned at sundown, and brought the information
+that our baggage was safe at El Poso; that Private Pyne, still alive
+and unhurt, had been doing good work against the enemy's
+sharpshooters; and, better than all this, had brought back with him a
+canteen of water from the San Juan River and a pocket full of
+hardtack. He poured out his hardtack, and it was equally distributed
+among the members of the detachment, each man's share amounting to two
+pieces. Each man was also given a sup of water from the canteen, and
+this constituted their only supper on that night, as they had been
+compelled to throw away everything to keep up with the guns. Having
+disposed of that, exhausted Nature could do no more; they lay down in
+the mud where they stood, and slept so soundly that even the firing
+which occurred that night did not arouse them from their slumbers.
+They were not disturbed until Best's Battery began to occupy this hill
+about four o'clock in the morning. They were then aroused and the
+Gatling guns were drawn down, and the whole battery moved to the
+salient occupied by the Rough Riders, because their position was at
+that time closest to the enemy, and, as was determined by the previous
+day's reconnaissance, offered a chance to enfilade several of the
+enemy's trenches with machine gun fire.
+
+To dispose of the subject of artillery, it may be said that Best's
+Battery and some other artillery occupied the ground vacated by the
+Gatlings on the morning of July 2d, fired four shots, and then
+withdrew with more haste than dignity. They remarked, "This is the
+hottest fire to which artillery has been subjected in modern times,"
+and lit out to find a cooler place. They found it--so far in rear that
+their fire was almost equally dangerous to friends and foes on account
+of the close proximity of the two firing-lines. The obvious conclusion
+is that machine guns can live at close ranges, where artillery can not
+stay. There is no better light artillery in the world than that which
+had to withdraw from San Juan block-house and its vicinity, on the
+morning of July 2d.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+TACTICAL ANALYSIS OF THE BATTLES AT SANTIAGO.
+
+
+The situation of affairs on the night of the 1st of July was rather
+critical. The plan which the general had laid down had been delayed in
+execution at El Caney, while the impetuousity of the troops had
+precipitated an unexpected rapidity of movement at San Juan. Capron's
+Battery had opened at El Caney about half past seven o'clock, with
+badly aimed and ill-directed fire, which did very little damage to the
+enemy. The troops engaged in this part of the battle were pushed
+forward until, by about eleven o'clock, they had become pretty
+thoroughly deployed around the vicinity of Las Guamas Creek. They had
+also extended slightly to the right and to the left toward the Du
+Cuorot house. The Spanish forts obstinately held out, and the handful
+of Spanish soldiers in El Caney and vicinity stubbornly resisted the
+attack made by our troops.
+
+About nine o'clock, Hamilton's right piece, No. 3 of Capron's Battery,
+succeeded in planting a shell directly in the old stone fort, which
+knocked a hole in the masonry; but, just at this juncture, the battery
+was ordered to cease firing at the blockhouse, and to shell the
+enemy's trenches. The enemy forthwith utilized the hole made in the
+wall by the shell as a loop-hole, and continued to fire through it
+until the fort was taken by the infantry assault at about half-past
+four o'clock. No worse commentary than this could possibly be made
+upon the tactical handling of this battery of artillery, because,
+having obtained perfectly the range of the enemy's stronghold, it was
+simply asinine not to knock that block-house to pieces immediately.
+
+So Lawton's Division had remained in front of El Caney, held by about
+1000 Spaniards, while the shadows crept from the west to the north,
+from the north to the northeast, and from the northeast toward the
+east. It was coming toward night before the artillery was finally
+turned loose. One corner and the roof of this block-house were knocked
+off, but even then the artillery was so poorly handled that the enemy
+had to be dislodged from this block-house by hand-to-hand fighting, A
+single Hotchkiss gun, properly handled, should have converted it into
+ruins in thirty minutes.
+
+While these events were transpiring, Kent and Wheeler, constituting
+the left wing of the army, had moved forward on the El Poso road,
+parallel to the Aguadores River, as far as the San Juan had captured
+the San Juan farm-house, and had gradually deployed to the right and
+to the left along the San Juan River. About one o'clock their line had
+swept forward and had captured the first ridge between the San Juan
+and the city of Santiago, the "San Juan ridge," driving the enemy on
+this portion of the field into their last trenches. But the right
+flank of this wing was entirely unsupported, and the road by the way
+of Fort Canosa to San Juan, passing by the portion of the line
+subsequently occupied by the dynamite gun, marked the extreme position
+of the right of this wing of the army. The enemy was already well
+toward its right, and had the excellent El Caney road to move upon. He
+was thoroughly familiar with the country, while the troops composing
+this wing were exhausted by the charge. This wing had no reserve that
+the firing-line knew of, and, as a matter of fact, had none except two
+battalions of the 71st New York, which had not got into battle, and
+which were scattered along the road from the San Juan River to
+Siboney.
+
+The position occupied by the left wing of the army was a strong
+natural position, but had no protection for the right flank. In this,
+Lawton's Division did not execute the part of the battle assigned to
+it. Thus the officers on the San Juan ridge, who knew anything about
+the plan of the battle, were constantly directing their gaze, at every
+lull in the fighting, toward El Caney, and to the right of Gen. Wood's
+position, but there were no indications of the approach of Gen.
+Lawton.
+
+Returning now to the right wing: the San Juan block-house and the
+ridge in its vicinity having been captured, a glance at the map will
+show that the retreat of the Spanish forces at El Caney was in
+imminent danger of being cut off. This capture occurred at 1:23-1/2 p.
+m. The Spanish commander at El Caney had been killed about noon, his
+men had suffered heavily, and the new commanding officer discovered
+that his retreat by the El Caney road was threatened. The only other
+line of retreat was by way of the San Miguel and Cuabitas roads. The
+Spanish forces at El Caney were also running low in their ammunition,
+and it was therefore decided to withdraw. Portions of the Spanish
+troops did withdraw, some by way of the El Caney road toward Santiago;
+the remainder, some 350 or 400, were crushed in the final charge upon
+El Caney, between 4 and 4:30 o'clock.
+
+Gen. Lawton's Division then proceeded down the El Caney road to Santa
+Cruz, passing by way of the masonry bridge. This was about dusk. The
+division marched in columns of fours, with the artillery in front in
+column of sections, and without even an advance guard thrown out. The
+artillery had passed the masonry bridge and had nearly reached the
+Santa Cruz farm-house, when the order was given to halt. The division
+halted in the road and began to cook supper. Fires were kindled, and
+coffee put on to boil. Suddenly, a few shots came scattering over the
+ridge and dropped in among the troops. A messenger was sent back to
+Gen. Shafter to inform him that further advance in this direction was
+not practicable, as the enemy had been encountered in force. The
+position this division was destined, in the beginning, to occupy was
+within less than 300 yards of where it halted. There was no large body
+of Spanish troops in that portion of the field. The whole valley
+between that ridge and Santiago had been swept by machine gun fire
+during the afternoon. It is possible that there might hare been a few
+Spanish pickets on the ridge, but this is not believed to be probable.
+There was some firing about this time from the Spanish trenches near
+Fort Canosa, at the 13th Infantry upon the hill where the dynamite gun
+was subsequently placed. A glance at the map will show that these
+shots, having passed over the hill, would drop in the vicinity of the
+masonry bridge and the Santa Cruz farm-house. This was the firing that
+alarmed Lawton's Division and caused the report mentioned to be sent
+back to General Shafter.
+
+[Illustration: Native Industry.]
+
+This statement of the conditions has been necessary in order to
+understand why the counter-march was made by Lawton's Division. The
+position at El Caney had ceased to be of any importance as soon as the
+San Juan block-house and ridge were taken; any Spanish troops
+remaining at El Caney were necessarily victims. But it was vitally
+important to hold the position gained by the left wing. The appearance
+of a heavy force of the enemy in front of the masonry bridge could
+signify only one thing, and that was that the left wing, with its
+right flank in the air, was liable to be doubled up at any moment by a
+heavy force of the enemy striking it upon that flank. Further, that
+Gen. Lawton, with this column advancing on the El Caney road as before
+explained, was liable to be struck at the head of his column and
+similarly doubled up. The enemy would thus interpose between the two
+wings of the army, cutting Lawton off, and probably defeating the army
+in detail, unless something be done immediately.
+
+Of course, it is known now that this operation of the enemy was never
+probable for an instant; but that was the status of affairs at
+midnight on July 1st, as then reported to the commanding general.
+
+Lawton was, therefore, ordered to withdraw, by way of the El Caney
+road, back to Gen. Shafter's headquarters in rear of El Poso, from
+which position his division was rushed forward on the El Poso road to
+San Juan on the 2d of July. His men were marched almost all night,
+almost all day the next day, and were well-nigh utterly exhausted when
+they reached a position in rear of the right flank of the left wing.
+It was supposed, up to this time, at headquarters, that the
+information on which this marching was ordered was correct.
+
+During the time that Lawton had been countermarching from Santa Cruz,
+back by way of El Poso, there had been, as before stated, no reserve
+for the left wing. The independent division of Gen. Bates had been
+ordered to the front as rapidly as possible. Part of it had reached
+the vicinity of El Poso, and from there one or two of the regiments
+had participated in the fight, late on July 1st; but nobody on the
+firing line knew anything about Bates' independent division at this
+time, and it was too much exhausted to be useful as a reserve. The
+morning of the 2d it was used to extend the lines. It is therefore
+evident, now that the history of the battle is understood, that the
+Gatling guns were the only effective reserve which the left wing of
+the army had during the night of July 1st and all day on the 2d.
+
+Acting on this belief, the Gatling Gun Battery was placed in reserve,
+in the rear of Fort Roosevelt, on the morning of July 2d, and was held
+there in reserve all day on July the 2d and 3d. The pieces were placed
+within twenty yards of the firing-line, just below the crest of the
+hill. The feed-guides were filled, and the gun crews lay down beside
+their pieces. The battery was ready to either support the firing-line
+against a charge, or protect its flank against a turning movement. But
+it was not considered necessary or desirable to run the pieces up on
+the firing-line in the open, and participate in the trench-firing,
+which was the only fighting done on July 2d and 3d. It was considered
+that the battery was too valuable as a reserve to sacrifice any of its
+men uselessly. Some very well-meaning officers urged that the battery
+be rushed up on the hill and put into action, but this was stubbornly
+refused, under the third clause of the instructions given on the 1st
+of July, "to make the best use of the guns possible." Gen. Wood and
+Col. Roosevelt were consulted, and they concurred with the above
+views, and the battery remained in reserve.
+
+[Illustration: Charge on San Juan Hill.]
+
+On the morning of the 2d of July a handsome young soldier, in the
+uniform of a Rough Rider, approached the battery commander, saluted,
+and said, "Col. Roosevelt directs me to report to you with my two
+guns." Inquiry elicited the fact that the young trooper was Serg.
+William Tiffany, that he had command of two Colt's automatic
+rapid-fire guns, with a crew consisting of Corp. Stevens and six men,
+and that he had 4,000 rounds of 7-millimeter ammunition. Four thousand
+was not a very large supply for two guns which could fire at the rate
+of 500 shots each per minute. Fortunately, the Gatling Gun Detachment
+had found time, on the 1st of July, to collect about 10,000 rounds of
+Mauser ammunition in the captured trenches, and a comparison of the
+Mauser with the 7-millimeter ammunition at once disclosed the fact
+that it was precisely the same ammunition which Tiffany had brought
+along for his guns. The problem of ammunition supply for Tiffany's
+guns was solved. He now had 14,000 rounds, and his guns became a very
+powerful reinforcement at this point.
+
+Serg. Tiff any and his men had carried these guns from Siboney to the
+firing-line upon their backs. How they got the four boxes of
+ammunition through they themselves could hardly tell. The firing was
+too heavy to mount the tripods in the trenches during the daytime, so
+placing the guns was deferred until night. For some reason it was not
+practicable to place the tripods on the night of the 2d, and they were
+finally placed on the night of the 3d; Serg. Tiffany, with two of his
+men, aiding in digging the emplacements.
+
+While digging, suddenly a burst of firing broke out, and it was
+believed by many that a serious night attack had been made. During the
+firing, Capt. Ayers, of the 10th Cavalry, and Col. Roosevelt again
+displayed those characteristics of fearless bravery which so endeared
+these two gallant officers to their men. Some of the troops in the
+trenches had begun to fire wildly. In fact, all the firing was done
+wild; there was no sense in any of it; there was no occasion for it.
+Intent listening to the enemy's fire made it absolutely certain that
+their firing never approached nearer our lines. There may have been
+some small body seeking to explore the road, but there was no
+indication of any attack in force. At any rate, Roosevelt and Ayers
+determined to stop the firing of our line, and suddenly, above the din
+of battle, these two officers could be heard, tramping up and down the
+trench in front of their men, haranguing, commanding, ridiculing their
+men for shooting in the dark. Ayers told his men that they were no
+better than the Cubans, upon which the burly black troopers burst into
+a loud guffaw, and then stopped firing altogether. Roosevelt told his
+men that he was ashamed of them. He was ashamed to see them firing
+valuable ammunition into the darkness of the night, aiming at nothing;
+that he thought cowboys were men who shot only when they could see the
+"whites of the other fellow's eyes." They also stopped firing. The
+enemy's bullets continued to whiz by for a few minutes, and they too
+ceased firing, and everybody began to laugh at everybody else. Tiffany
+had joined the two officers in their walk up and down, exposing
+himself with the utmost coolness. He and his men now succeeded in
+placing his guns in the trench, and, from that time until the end of
+the fight, they could hardly be induced to leave them long enough to
+eat; they didn't leave them to sleep--they slept in the trench by the
+guns.
+
+About one o'clock on the 3d there was a lull in the firing, during
+which a flag of truce was sent with a communication to General Toral,
+notifying him that a bombardment would follow unless he surrendered.
+The firing was resumed and continued until about half past twelve on
+the 4th of July, at which time another flag of truce went up, and
+there was no more firing until the 10th of July at about three
+o'clock. Troops, however, were compelled to lie on their arms; the
+relief was constantly in the trenches, and the nervous strain was even
+worse than the actual dangers of battle.
+
+Negotiations for capitulation having failed, firing was resumed about
+three o'clock on the 10th, and continued until one o'clock on the 11th
+of July. In this firing all four of the Gatling guns were used;
+Tiffany's guns and the dynamite gun under Serg. Borrowe participated.
+Three of the Gatling guns had been placed in the trench on the night
+of July 3d. The wheels were taken off and laid on the ground in the
+rear of the pieces; sand-bag revetments were built up in front of the
+guns, and each crew divided into two reliefs. One relief was required
+to be constantly at the gun and always ready for instant action. The
+fourth gun, the one that had been temporarily disabled, was repaired
+on the 4th, thoroughly cleaned, and placed in reserve behind the crest
+of the hill. On the 4th of July, Serg. Borrowe had been directed to
+obey any instructions given him by the Gatling gun commander, and the
+dynamite gun had been placed in position to cooperate with the battery
+of machine guns. There were now, therefore, seven pieces in the
+battery. It was the most powerful and unique battery ever used in
+battle.
+
+[Illustration: Gatlings at Baiquiri Just Before Starting For the
+Front.]
+
+The Sims-Dudley pneumatic dynamite gun throws a Whitehead torpedo,
+carrying a charge of four and one-half pounds of explosive gelatine;
+the effective force of this charge is equal to that of nine pounds of
+dynamite, No. 1. The charge explodes, on striking, by means of a
+percussion fuse, and steadiness of flight is secured by means of a
+vane. The propelling force is a charge of seven ounces of smokeless
+powder. The gun is pointed in the same manner as a mortar, and fired
+in the same manner as a field-piece. During the 10th and 11th
+considerable attention was devoted to the tactical cooperation of the
+guns composing this unique battery.
+
+The plan adopted was for the dynamite gun to throw a shell toward a
+designated point. Upon the explosion of this shell the Spanish
+soldiers invariably exposed themselves, and were immediately assailed
+by machine gun fire. Occasionally a dynamite shell would fall with
+sufficient accuracy to do efficient work on its own account. On the
+afternoon of the 10th a dynamite shell fell in a long trench near Fort
+Canosa, clearing out the trench. The Spanish survivors were cut down
+almost to a man by the machine gun fire, and the Spanish troops were
+unable to occupy this trench until the following morning, when the
+operation was repeated, practically destroying the usefulness of this
+trench during the whole fight. Capt. Duncan, of the 21st Infantry,
+states that this relieved his battalion of an enfilading fire, and was
+a valuable service to them. Another dynamite shell, on the afternoon
+of the 10th, fell into a Spanish battery of artillery, near the brick
+hospital, and completely destroyed the battery, which consisted of two
+3-inch guns. In all, about a dozen dynamite shells were thrown with
+some degree of accuracy, and with good effect.
+
+The fourth Gatling gun, which had been held in reserve, was used
+during the afternoon of July 10th, and all day on the 11th, to pour a
+vertical fire upon the city of Santiago, beyond that portion that was
+visible to the American troops. Perhaps 6,000 or 7,000 shots were thus
+dropped into the heart of the city, making the streets unsafe,
+communication difficult, and striking terror to the hearts of the
+Spanish troops who were held there in reserve. Gen. Toral, in his
+official statement to his own government, specifically mentions this
+fire as one of his principal reasons for surrender.
+
+On the afternoon of the 10th and during the 11th of July a battery of
+mortars, under command of Capt. Ennis, posted about half a mile to the
+right of the machine gun battery, threw a few shells at the enemy's
+intrenchments. There were four of these mortars in action and they
+were placed behind the ridge in a perfectly safe position. They threw,
+perhaps, twenty-five shells all told. The first eight or ten failed to
+explode for the reason that the fuses had not been punched. Finally,
+Capt. Ennis discovered that his shells were not exploding, and, on
+inquiry, found that there was no fuse-punch in the battery. He
+succeeded in finding a brad-awl, which, luckily, some member of the
+battery had in his pocket, and showed a sergeant how to punch the fuse
+with a brad-awl. After this the mortar shells exploded all right. None
+of this fire, however, was directed at the city; it was directed at
+the trenches of the enemy, and not over eight or ten of the shells
+fell with any precision. The mortar fire was effective in the sense
+that it tended to demoralize the enemy, but its material effect was
+very small.
+
+There was no firing of field-pieces during all this time of which any
+account is necessary. The field-pieces were even less useful during
+this time than they were on the 1st of July, if such a thing could be
+possible.
+
+On the night of the 4th of July the reserve Gatling gun was posted to
+command the Fort Canosa road, in support of a picket on that road, and
+from that time until the surrender this piece was posted there every
+night. The members, therefore, of this detachment did practically
+double duty. This was the gun in charge of Sergts. Weischaar and
+Ryder, referred to in the official report. Luckily, it was not fired,
+but there can be no doubt of the immense value it would have had if
+its use had been necessary.
+
+Summing up the use of machine guns from the 2d to the 11th of July,
+inclusive, it may be said that they demonstrated the use of the arm as
+a tactical reserve and an auxiliary to an outpost, and that, in
+combination with a dynamite gun, they demonstrated that a new arm of
+the service had been formed which can live at closer range to the
+enemy, and do far more effective work, than artillery. Nor is this all
+to be considered. It should be remembered that a field-piece throws a
+shell which breaks into 273 fragments. The machine gun throws 1000
+shots, and each of these shots is aimed with absolute precision.
+Therefore, at any effective range, the machine gun is far superior to
+a field-piece against anything except material obstacles. Of course
+the machine guns will not do to batter down stone walls, nor to
+destroy block-houses. It had already been demonstrated on the 1st of
+July that "machine guns can go forward with the charging-line to the
+lodgment in the enemy's position," and that "their presence on the
+field of battle, with a supply of ammunition for ten minutes, is a
+decisive factor in the engagement."
+
+These were the principal points claimed for the machine gun in the
+discussion of the subject on the 1st of January. The use of the
+machine gun for advance and rear guards was not demonstrated at
+Santiago, for the reason that no opportunity was presented.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+THE VOLUNTEERS.
+
+
+The white flag went up at one o'clock on the 11th, and this was the
+end of the fighting at Santiago. The Rough Riders had been moved from
+the hill at Fort Roosevelt to a position west of the El Caney road,
+and one of the Gatling guns had been sent with them. This gun was
+brought back on the 17th after the surrender. Various other movements
+of troops occurred before the 17th, which had been decided upon by the
+generals as the last day of grace. Gen. Toral had been notified that
+one o'clock on the 17th was the time for either the surrender or the
+signal for the assault. The hour approached, and still the Spaniard
+attempted to delay. The orders for the assault were issued. The troops
+lay in the trenches with their fingers on the triggers. Gen. Randolph
+had come and pushed the artillery into better positions. The pieces
+were loaded and the gunners stood with their lanyards in their hands.
+The ammunition-boxes were opened. The nervous tension of the line was
+terrific. The troops on the extreme right and left, designated for the
+assault, were only waiting the word to dash forward upon the
+intrenchments of the enemy. Then suddenly from Gen. Wheeler's
+headquarters a mounted officer was seen spurring eastward along the
+crest. He was waving his hat over his head. His horse gathered speed,
+and the foam began to fly from his flanks and nostrils, and as Capt.
+McKittrick passed he called, "No cheering, please; the city and
+province of Santiago have surrendered."
+
+The members of the Gatling Gun Detachment walked to the top of the
+hill, and, facing toward the gallant enemy who had so valiantly
+defended the foredoomed city, silently took off their hats.
+
+All along the line the reception of the glorious news was marked by
+comments upon the gallant defense which had been made. There was no
+demonstration which could have hurt the feelings of so magnificent a
+foe. Five minutes after the surrender the American trench was lined by
+American troops on our side and Spanish troops on the other. The
+Spanish troops brought bottles of mescal, aguardiente, and wine. Our
+troops carried hardtack and canned roast beef. These recent foes began
+at once to exchange the necessaries of life and souvenirs of the siege
+of Santiago. They fraternized as all brave men do after the battle. A
+few Cubans skulked around the rear of our line, despised by both
+sides.
+
+The next day witnessed the formal surrender of the city. At twelve
+o'clock, the preliminary formalities having been complied with, the
+9th Infantry and a battalion of the 13th Infantry, the two regiments
+which had been adjudged first honors in the assault, were ready as an
+escort to raise the flag in the heart of the city. All of the other
+regiments were formed upon the ground which they occupied during the
+siege. As the second-hands of our watches showed the minute of twelve,
+noon, a field-piece burst upon the stillness of the sultry day, and
+the band began the strains of "The Star-spangled Banner." Every hat
+was taken off, and an instant later, efforts to restrain it being
+ineffectual, six miles of solid cheering encompassed the latest
+American city.
+
+[Illustration: Cuban Cart used by Gatling Gun Detachment, Priv. J.
+Shiffer Driving.]
+
+Grizzled old soldiers, scarred with wounds from Indian wars, and gay
+recruits who had arrived too late to join in the fighting, gray-haired
+generals and athletic young subalterns, all forgot propriety and the
+silence usually enjoined in ranks and joined in that tremendous yell.
+From over on the right of the El Caney road we could hear the "Rah!
+rah! rah!" of Harvard and the "Rah! rah! rah!" of Yale, mingled with
+the cowboy yell of the Indian Territory. From the ranks of the
+Regulars came the old Southern yell, mingled with the Northern cheer.
+The most thrilling and dramatic moment of the Spanish-American War had
+passed into history.
+
+The troops settled themselves down to wait for developments, and while
+they waited, opportunities were presented for the first time to make
+observations of the personnel of this heterogeneous army.
+
+The American Regular is a type of his own, and no description of him
+is necessary. He was the fighting strength of the 5th Corps. Only
+three Volunteer regiments participated in the charges of July 1st-the
+71st New York, the 2d Massachusetts, and the 1st Volunteer Cavalry.
+
+The Volunteers presented many different types: some good, some
+otherwise. There should be no sympathy with that servile truckling to
+popular sentiment which speaks of our brave Volunteers indiscriminately,
+as if they were all good and all equally well instructed. There were
+Volunteers who were the equals of the Regulars in fighting and in
+leadership. And there were some who should have been at home pulling
+on a nursing-bottle or attending a kindergarten. To praise them
+indiscriminately creates a false impression on the public, and works a
+rank injustice toward those who were really good and efficient in the
+service. It does even worse than that: it fosters the popular idea
+that all there is to do to make soldiers is to take so many laborers,
+clerks, hod-carriers, or farmers, and put on them uniforms, arm them
+with rifles, and call them "gallant Volunteers"! Out upon such an
+insane delusion!
+
+Fighting is a scientific trade. It would be no more absurd to give an
+idiot a tambourine and call him a musician--he would be an idiot all
+the same. So with the clerk, the laborer, the hod-carrier, the
+teacher; he remains the same in spite of all the polished arms,
+resplendent uniforms, and pompous titles bestowed upon him. He remains
+just what he was before, until he learns his new trade and becomes a
+soldier by the acquisition of the necessary knowledge and experience
+to practice his new calling.
+
+It is one of the duties of trained officers to tell these homely
+truths to the people who have not made a study of the matter, in order
+that they who foot the bills may understand what they pay for and why
+they do it. And it is equally the duty of the citizen who has no
+knowledge of the subject to give a fair hearing to such statements,
+and, if he finds them correct after due investigation, to translate
+the information thus imparted into such laws as will in future supply
+an army composed of soldiers who can fight, instead of a herd of
+ignorant incompetents who die like rotten sheep within half an hour's
+ride by rail of their own homes.
+
+These remarks can be illustrated by observations in Cuba.
+
+For example, the 34th Michigan pitched its camp on the hill at Fort
+Roosevelt on the 2d of August. They were in an awful condition. A man
+had died in one company the day before, and there had not been enough
+able-bodied men in the company to bury him. A detail had to be made
+from another company to dig the grave. More than fifty per cent of the
+regiment were sick, and the remainder were far from well. At this
+time, more than two weeks after the surrender, they were still cooking
+individually. Within fifteen minutes after their arrival they were
+overrunning the Gatling gun camp, picking up the firewood which had
+been gathered by the detachment for cooking purposes. An attempt to
+stop this marauding was received with jeers. A green-looking Wolverine
+at once began to make catcalls, and was ably seconded by his comrades.
+Sentinels were then posted over the Gatling gun camp, with orders to
+keep the Michiganders out; they abused the sentinels in the same
+manner, and their officers made no effort to restrain them. It became
+necessary to make a personal matter of it, which was promptly done,
+and one Wolverine was thereafter respectful--so respectful, in fact,
+that he jumped to attention and took off his hat to even the privates
+of the detachment.
+
+The regiment took a delicate revenge. They had dug neither latrines
+nor sinks. Up to this time they used the surface of the camp-ground
+over their own camp for this purpose. They now took possession of a
+trench within twenty yards of the battery's tents. The nuisance was
+intolerable, and was reported to their brigade headquarters. No
+attention was paid to the report. Twelve hours later it was again
+reported, with the same result. Twelve hours after this it was a third
+time reported, with the same result. In the meantime not a single
+shovelful of dirt had been thrown on the trench and an odor arose from
+it which was not exactly like the perfume of "Araby the blest."
+
+[Illustration: Tiffany at his Gun in the Trench.]
+
+Forty-five hours after the arrival of the regiment notice was served
+upon the brigade commander thereof that, unless the nuisance was
+abated immediately, a sentinel would be placed over the offending
+ditch and notice would be given to General Bates, the division
+commander, requesting the action of an inspector; notice was further
+served that if any resistance were made, four Gatling guns would be
+turned loose upon the 34th Michigan and the regiment swept off the
+face of the hill and into Santiago Bay for a much-needed bath. It was
+enough. Officers and men ran instantly for spades and proceeded to
+fill up the trench. Report was then made to Gen. Bates, the division
+commander, of the offense and action had thereon, with the information
+that the Gatling gun commander awaited to answer any complaints. An
+investigation was immediately made, with the result that such action
+was sustained.
+
+There were some ignorant Volunteers at Santiago, but of all the
+willful violation of all the laws of sanitation, camp hygiene, and
+health ever seen, these particular Volunteers did the most outrageous
+things. They threw their kitchen refuse out on the ground anywhere;
+half of the time they did not visit the sink at all, but used the
+surface of the ground anywhere instead; and they continued these
+offenses at Montauk Point. They raked over an abandoned camp of the
+Spanish prisoners on their arrival at Fort Roosevelt, and appropriated
+all the cast-off articles they could find, using the debris for
+bedding. This surgeon, a "family doctor" from the pine woods in
+northern Michigan, did not seem to regard these matters as of any
+importance. His attention was called to them, but he took no action.
+In short, there was no law of health which these people did not
+utterly ignore, no excess dangerous to health which they did not
+commit. Three-fourths of them were too sick for duty, and the rest
+looked like living skeletons. They fairly wallowed in their own filth
+--and cursed the climate of Cuba on account of their sickness.
+
+In sharp contrast to the 34th Michigan was the 1st U. S. Volunteer
+Cavalry, the Rough Riders. This was an organization the peer of any in
+the Regular Army in morale, in fighting, and in every quality that
+goes to make up a fine body of soldiers. They were picked men; all
+classes were shown in that organization. The tennis champion was a
+private, the champion oarsman of Harvard a corporal. On the 2d of July
+a stock-broker of Wall Street who can sign his check for $3,000,000
+was seen haggling with a cow-puncher from the Indian Territory over a
+piece of hardtack. Both were privates and both were fine soldiers. The
+whole regiment was just such a medley, but fought like Regulars, and
+endured like Spartans. They hung on like bull-dogs, and charged like
+demons. They were as strict about the camp police as Regular Army
+surgeons, and as punctilious about saluting as a K. O. on "official
+relations." Withal, they were a clean-mouthed, clean-clad,
+clean-camped lot of gentlemen, each in his way, from the "Hello,
+pard!" of the cowboy to the frozen stare of the monocled dude from
+Broadway. And they fought--like Regulars; there is no other just
+comparison. Roosevelt said: "They are the 11th Cavalry." He found
+enthusiastic endorsers of this remark in every Regular who saw them
+fight. They were the finest body of Volunteers who ever wore uniform,
+and they were stamped indelibly with the personality of Theodore
+Roosevelt. Pushing, aggressive, resolute, tenacious, but self-contained,
+cool, and restrained, they represented the very best type of what the
+Volunteer ought to be--but often was not.
+
+[Illustration: Relics of the Battle. 1. Range Table of 16-cm. Gun in
+Spanish Fort, Silenced by Gatlings July 1, '98. 2. Rear Sight of same
+Gun. 3. Fuse picked up by J. Shiffer July 1. 4. Remington Cartridge
+used by the Spanish Volunteers, the so-called "Explosive" Brass-covered
+Bullet. 5. Piece of Coral dug up in the Trenches. 6. Spanish Spurs.]
+
+Above them all, however, shone out three types.
+
+Theodore Roosevelt. He needs no eulogy from my pen. He has done
+everything, and in each occupation has been conspicuously successful.
+He is, however, a born soldier. His virile frame contains the vigorous
+mind, the keen intellect, the cool judgment, and the unswerving,
+never-hesitating courage of the natural soldier. He is affable and
+courteous, or stern and scathing, as circumstances demand. One instant
+genial smiles overspread his expressive countenance, whereon the
+faintest emotion writes its legend with instantaneous and responsive
+touch; the next, on occasion, a Jove-like sternness settles on his
+face, and, with a facility of expression bewildering to less gifted
+tongues, scathing invective, cutting sarcasm, or bitter irony impress
+upon an offender the gravity of a breach of discipline. Withal, he is
+modest. He appreciates his own power, but there is no undue display of
+that appreciation, no vainglorious boasting over achievements which
+read like a fairy-tale. Fittest to lead or follow, idol of every true
+soldier. Who, that knows him as those who fought beside him, does not
+wish to see him at the head of that army and that nation of which he
+is the brightest ornament in every position, civil, military, or
+political?
+
+Woodbury Kane--social leader, Fortune's favorite, aristocratic,
+refined, cultured, wealthy, _haut ton de haut ton_, and _sabreur sans
+peur et sans reproche_--how shall I paint him to you as I learned to
+know him in those dreadful, delightful seventeen days in which we
+lived only from instant to instant, and every man unconsciously bared
+his soul to his comrades because he could not help it?
+
+A gentleman--he always looked that in the fullest sense of the word.
+Well groomed; in those days when our bed was a mud-puddle and our
+canopy the stars, when the music which lulled us to sleep was the hum
+of the Mauser bullets and the vicious popping of the Remingtons, when
+water to drink had to be brought at the peril of life for every
+mouthful, Kane turned up every morning clean-shaved and neatly
+groomed, shoes duly polished, neat khaki, fitting like a glove and
+brushed to perfection, nails polished, and hair parted as nicely as if
+he were dressed by his valet in his New York apartments. How did he do
+it? We never knew. He kept no servant; he took his regular turn in the
+ditches, in the mud, or torrid sun, or smothering rain. No night alarm
+came that did not find Kane first to spring to the trench--and yet he
+did it, somehow. The courteous phrases of politest speech fell ever
+from his ready lips, as easily as they would have done in the
+_boudoir_ of any belle in the metropolis. The shrieking of a shell or
+tingling hiss of a sharpshooter's close-aimed bullet never came so
+near as to interrupt whatever polished expression of thanks, regret,
+or comment he might be uttering. And it was the real thing, too. The
+gentle heart was there. No man was readier to bind a wound or aid a
+sun-struck soldier in the ranks; none more ready to deny himself a
+comfort or a luxury to help a more needy comrade. A braver man, a
+surer or more reliable officer, never trod in shoe-leather. A grand
+example to our pessimistic, socialistic friends and cheap demagogues
+of the sterling worth and noble, chivalric character of a "society man
+of wealth." He is a living type of _"Bel a faire peur,"_ without the
+idiotic sentimentality of that maudlin hero, and with all his other
+characteristics.
+
+Greenway and Tiffany. The one a Harvard football-player, just out,
+plunging into the great game of war with all the zest he formerly
+found in the great college game. The other the petted son of wealthy
+parents, also a college graduate, and the idolized fiance of his
+childhood's sweetheart. Equally ready for fight or fun, they were the
+finest type of youthful manhood to be found. Endowed by Nature with
+every gift, educated at the best of colleges, bred in the best of
+society, ready to enter upon the most desirable of careers, they threw
+all upon the altar of country's love. They entered battle as one might
+go to a game or begin a play. All of unbounded zeal, youthful
+enthusiasm, restless energy, keen enjoyment--everything seemed to be
+equally acceptable to them, and no discomfort ever assumed any guise
+other than that of a novel and untried sensation.
+
+They are the type of our young manhood--our representative American
+youth--as Roosevelt is of its vigorous manhood. They are the salt of
+the earth, and Kane--is both salt and spice. All were comrades in
+arms, types of American manhood unspoiled by Fortune's favors, capable
+of anything and everything. Such men mould the destiny of this great
+nation, and in their hands it is safe.
+
+But neither of these two regiments is a fair type of the Volunteers;
+they are the two extremes. For a type, take the 1st Illinois. They
+were a Chicago regiment with fifteen years' service, and they enlisted
+in a body to a man. They reached the firing line on the 10th and
+participated in the fight with two battalions, with distinguished
+gallantry. The third battalion was detailed on the necessary but
+unpleasant duty of caring for the yellow fever hospital at Siboney.
+These city-bred Volunteers peeled off their coats, buried yellow fever
+corpses, policed the hospital and hospital grounds, and nursed the
+victims of the scourge. They did not utter a complaint nor ask for a
+"soft" detail; they did their duty as they found it. Another battalion
+was detailed immediately after the surrender to guard the Spanish
+prisoners. This most thankless duty was performed by them with
+fidelity and care. The commander of the battalion and half his
+officers were proficient in the Spanish language as a part of their
+preparation for the campaign, and they soon established cordial
+relations with the prisoners they were set to guard. It was a trying
+duty, but they performed it faithfully. Sickness visited this
+battalion, and sometimes guard duty had to be performed with only one
+day off, but they never whimpered. The other battalion was detailed
+after the surrender to do stevedore work at the commissary depot. The
+slender clerks and soft-handed city men slung boxes of hardtack and
+sacks of bacon and barrels of coffee, and performed manual labor with
+all the faithfulness that would be expected of men accustomed to such
+work, and with never a complaint. The sanitary measures of this
+regiment were perfect, and they bore themselves like Regulars. It is
+now recognized that this is a compliment to any Volunteer
+organization.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+THE SUFFERINGS OF THE FIFTH ARMY CORPS.
+
+
+In such a campaign as that of Santiago, a certain amount of suffering
+is inevitable. In such a climate as that of southern Cuba, a certain
+amount of disease is unavoidable. In the very hot-bed of yellow fever
+and malaria, no army could hope to escape without contracting these
+diseases; and in a campaign conducted with the marvelous celerity of
+the one at Santiago, some difficulty in forwarding supplies must
+necessarily be encountered.
+
+The root of all our difficulties lay in the fact that the commanding
+general had under him supply departments whose officers reported to
+heads of bureaus not under control of the corps commander. This caused
+unnecessary delays in obtaining supplies, entailed confusion in their
+distribution, and led to suffering beyond what was necessarily the
+result of the climate and the campaign.
+
+A brief description of the method of obtaining supplies will make this
+point more clear. When a given article was wanted, whether it was
+soap, quinine, tentage, or transportation, a requisition upon the
+chief of the proper bureau at Washington had to be made, with full
+statement of the reasons for the request; this requisition had to be
+approved by all intermediate commanders and go through military
+channels to the chief of the bureau, who might or might not be
+convinced of the necessity for the article wanted. His action being
+endorsed thereon, the requisition returned through the same devious
+route, and possibly might be followed in course of time, either by
+invoices from some distant purchasing agent of the required articles,
+or by directions of the bureau chief to make further explanations. The
+usual length of time allowed for an official communication through
+military channels, in time of peace at home, from any regimental
+headquarters to Washington and return, is from ten to thirty days.
+Here was the first cause of suffering.
+
+If the heads of the supply departments in the field, beginning at
+Tampa, could have acted promptly upon the orders of their respective
+commanding officers, without the action of any other authority,
+unnecessary delay would have been avoided.
+
+To illustrate this point: The Gatling Gun Detachment was ordered to be
+equipped with revolvers upon reporting to the detachment commander,
+and this order was issued on the 11th of June, before sailing from
+Port Tampa. They did not so report, and it devolved upon the
+detachment commander to make requisition for the necessary equipment.
+This was done, but no revolvers arrived. The invoices for revolvers
+reached the detachment commander on the 15th of September, at Fort
+Leavenworth, Kansas, where he was then, on leave of absence, sick, ten
+days after the detachment was disbanded.
+
+This is an extreme case, but the same difficulty was experienced in
+obtaining supplies of all descriptions. It was, therefore, very
+difficult for a quartermaster, a commissary, a medical officer, or any
+other officer whose duty it was to obtain supplies, to have the same
+when emergency demanded it. The necessity for supplies could not
+always be foreseen, the quantity desired could not always be estimated
+for with precision, and it followed that sometimes there was a
+deficiency when the articles were needed.
+
+[Illustration: Cieba Tree, under Which General Toral Surrendered.]
+
+Again, the transportation of the 5th Army Corps could not be made
+available at first to carry supplies up from the landing-place. The
+troops had drawn travel rations, which lasted them until they
+disembarked. The first supply problem, upon landing, was that of
+issuing rations; and, at the moment when every available boat was
+engaged in carrying troops ashore, it became necessary to put rations
+ashore also. The exigency demanded the speedy disembarkation of the
+greatest possible number of men. The fight of La Guasimas emphasized
+the necessity of getting men to the front. It was no time to delay the
+movement of troops for the purpose of waiting on wagons, tentage, or
+rations. The safety of the expedition, the fate of the whole campaign,
+depended upon energetic and rapid movement to the front. Consequently
+regiments were put forth with only such amounts of rations and tentage
+as they could carry upon their backs. It will be readily seen that
+this amount was very limited, and the only tentage possible was the
+shelter tent.
+
+There were 118 wagons in the hold of the Cherokee, but it was not
+practicable to delay the disembarkation of the corps and hazard the
+fate of the whole campaign by utilizing the only wharf and all the
+boats two or three days to land these wagons. By the time they could
+be taken off, the rains had made the roads almost impassable, and they
+could not all be used. It was therefore a daily struggle to get enough
+rations forward to feed the fighting-line from day to day. Greatly to
+the credit of those who performed the duty, it can be said that, with
+rare exceptions, all the soldiers of the 5th Army Corps had every day,
+when they could possibly cook the same, hardtack and bacon, roast
+beef, and coffee. This much was accomplished in the face of
+insurmountable obstacles by the heroic exertions of the pack-train.
+When the 1st of July arrived, and the battle began, it was ordered
+that all soldiers carry three days' rations. The heat was intense, the
+fight exceedingly hot, and marching through the jungle extremely
+difficult. The consequence was that the soldiers threw aside all
+impedimenta in order to fight more effectively, and, of course, the
+rations went with the blankets and the overcoats. The man who held on
+to a canteen and haversack was fortunate; very many abandoned the
+haversack, and a considerable number abandoned everything except rifle
+and ammunition. That was what won the fight; but it made hungry men,
+and it caused men to sleep on the wet ground under the open sky,
+without blankets or tentage. The pack-train continued its magnificent
+work. During the fighting it had to bring ammunition. The men were
+supposed to have three days' rations. As soon as the deficiency became
+known to the higher officials, the pack-train began to bring food.
+Commissary depots were established immediately in rear of the
+firing-line, and issues of hardtack, bacon, and coffee, which were
+about the only components of the ration that could be brought forward
+in sufficient quantities, were made without formality or red tape. It
+was almost impossible to get a sufficient quantity of even these
+components to the front. Sometimes the ration was a little short.
+Bacon and hardtack for seventeen consecutive days, after three weeks
+of travel ration, do not form the most appetizing diet in the world.
+The exposure consequent upon the fighting and lack of tentage had its
+inevitable result in sickness.
+
+The same difficulties which had beset the quartermaster and commissary
+departments were also encountered by the surgeons. Hospital
+accommodations were scanty, the quantity of medicines available was
+very limited, the number of wounded men disproportionately large, and,
+when sickness was added to the wounds, the small number of surgeons
+available at the front were not able to give the individual attention
+and scientific treatment which forms a part of our admirable medical
+system in time of peace. There were only three or four ambulances
+available until after the 11th of July. A considerable number of the
+surgeons were on duty at the general hospitals far in the rear; the
+number at the front was not sufficient to attend to all the duties
+which devolved upon them. This deplorable condition reacted, causing a
+greater amount of illness. To add to this difficulty, the Volunteers
+began to suffer excessively from the results of their own ignorance
+and carelessness; and when the yellow fever scourge was added to all
+the other difficulties which beset the 5th Corps, the outlook became
+gloomy.
+
+The attempt has been made in the foregoing exposition of the
+conditions at Santiago to represent fairly the difficulties under
+which all parts of the army labored. The fact remains, nevertheless,
+that there was an appalling amount of suffering due to causes which
+might have been foreseen and which were easily preventable.
+
+[Illustration: Undergrowth in Cuba.]
+
+On the 18th day of July the transports entered the harbor of Santiago.
+From that day forward there was unlimited wharfage at disposal, and
+there were excellent macadamized roads leading to all parts of the
+command. The fall of Santiago had been foreseen more than a week, and
+if there was not a sufficient quantity of wagons present on board the
+ships, there had been ample time to make telegraphic requisition for
+them to Washington. Up to the surrender, the suffering from sickness
+had been exceedingly light. There was something stimulating about the
+nervous strain and excitement of the time which kept the men up to
+their work; but the inadequacy of the medical supplies on hand had
+been amply demonstrated by the 10th. and it had become fully apparent
+that the medical corps was unable to handle the number of patients on
+hand. The previous remark about the practicability of telegraphing to
+headquarters for additional force applies to this department also.
+
+The principal sufferings after the surrender were due to four causes:
+first, improper clothes; second, improper food; third, lack of
+shelter; fourth, lack of proper medical attention.
+
+In regard to clothing and these other necessaries, it should be borne
+in mind that the corps which went to Santiago was virtually the
+Regular Army. Every regiment which went to Tampa went there ready for
+service. Its equipment was just as complete on the 26th of April as it
+was on the 6th of June. There should have been no problems to solve in
+regard to them--and yet there were many.
+
+
+First--Clothing.
+
+The troops wore the same clothing to Cuba they had brought from
+Sheridan, Assinniboine, and Sherman. They wore winter clothing for
+their service in the torrid zone, and those who received summer
+clothing at all received it late in August, just in time to return to
+the bracing breezes of Montauk Point, where, in their enfeebled
+condition, winter clothing would have been more suitable. It did not
+require a professor of hygiene to foresee that the winter clothing
+used in northern Michigan would not be suitable for campaigning in
+southern Cuba in July; or that summer clothing suitable for southern
+Cuba would be too light for men returning to the northern part of Long
+Island. Is it to be concluded that it was impossible to obtain summer
+clothing for 18,000 men between the 26th of April and the 6th of June?
+
+
+Second--Improper Food.
+
+Most of the troops were embarked upon the transports by the 10th of
+June. Their food on transport consisted of the travel ration: canned
+roast beef, canned baked beans, canned tomatoes, and hardtack, with
+coffee, were the components. They subsisted upon this food, imprisoned
+in fetid holds of foul transports, unfit for the proper transportation
+of convicts, until the 25th day of June, when they disembarked. On
+drawing rations for the field it was found that the field ration would
+be of the same components, with the addition of bacon and minus the
+baked beans and tomatoes. During the emergency, up to include the 18th
+day of July, this was the ration. Occasionally a few cans of tomatoes
+found their way to camp, but rarely. The ration was always short,
+such as it was, but this the soldiers could have endured and did
+endure without a murmur.
+
+But on the 18th of July, with unlimited wharfage at a distance of two
+miles and a half, with excellent roads, and with abundance of
+transportation (see Gen. Shafter's Official Report), and with
+surrender foreknown for a sufficient length of time to have brought
+any quantity of vegetables from New York City, the ration continued to
+be bacon, canned beef, hardtack, and coffee. Finally, about the 25th
+of July, small amounts of soft bread began to be doled out, and an
+occasional issue of frozen fresh beef was made. It was soon
+demonstrated that not sufficient fresh beef could be made available.
+The vegetables which had been brought had nearly all spoiled on the
+transports. Hundreds of barrels of potatoes and onions were unloaded
+upon the docks and were so badly decayed as to make them useless.
+These vegetables had been drifting about the Caribbean Sea and upon
+the Atlantic Ocean since the 9th and 10th of June. Occasionally it was
+practicable to get a quarter or a half ration of potatoes and half of
+the usual allowance of canned tomatoes, but that was all.
+
+It did not require a professor of hygienic dietetics to predict that
+men fed in the tropics upon a diet suited to the icy shores of
+Greenland would become ill, especially when they were clad in a manner
+suited to the climate of Labrador. Are we to conclude that it was
+impossible to get rice, beans, canned fruits, canned corn, and other
+vegetables to take the place of potatoes and onions?
+
+[Illustration: Cuban Residence.]
+
+
+Third--Lack of Shelter.
+
+The allowance of tentage was prescribed for each regiment. Granted
+that it was impossible to get tentage up until after the surrender;
+yet it should have been practicable to forward tentage over two and
+one-half miles of macadamized roads. Yet whole regiments remained
+without tentage until they embarked for the United States. The 13th
+Infantry did not get tentage until the 5th of August. The 20th
+Infantry and the 3d Infantry obtained a portion of their tentage about
+the same time, but a large part of these regiments remained under
+shelter tents until they reembarked. The 1st Illinois and the 34th
+Michigan remained in shelter tents until the 15th of August, at which
+time the author embarked for the United States. These regiments are
+fair examples.
+
+The Gatling Gun Detachment was provided with shelter-halves and
+remained under them until the 10th of August. Repeated applications
+for proper tentage were made, accompanied by medical certificates that
+the issue of tentage was imperatively necessary for the health of the
+command. Endorsements thereon by the chief quartermaster of the 5th
+Corps as late as the 5th of August show that there was no available
+tentage for issue. Application was made to the regimental commander,
+13th Infantry, for a portion of regimental tentage for the detachment
+of the 13th Infantry; but, in spite of the fact that the reduced
+regiment had on hand all the canvas prescribed for the full regiment,
+none could be obtained for the detachment. The detachment commander
+was entirely without tentage from the 25th of June until the 5th of
+August--forty-five days in the rainy season in Cuba, exposed to the
+torrid sun by day, to chilling dews by night, and the drenching rains
+of the afternoon, without shelter from any inclemencies of the
+weather, and this in spite of repeated applications to proper
+authorities for the suitable allowance of tentage. Is it any wonder
+that men grew sick, and that death stalked broadcast through the camp
+of the 5th Corps, under these conditions?
+
+
+Fourth--Lack of Proper Medical Attendance.
+
+The surgeons who were at the front with the firing-line worked
+heroically, but were burdened beyond their physical powers. Owing to
+the foregoing causes, great numbers of men became ill as soon as the
+strain and tension of the battle were relieved. It was not uncommon to
+find twenty or twenty-five per cent of a command on the sick-report,
+and in some cases the sick-list went as high as fifty per cent. There
+were no well men in the 5th Army Corps. Those who refused to go on the
+sick-report were, nevertheless, sick. The author has yet to find a
+single member of the expedition who did not suffer from the climatic
+fever. The surgeons themselves were not exempt, and the very limited
+supply of doctors was speedily decreased by sickness. Were there no
+doctors in the United States who were willing to come to Cuba?
+
+Up to the 25th of July the supply of medicines was very deficient.
+There was never a sufficient supply of ambulances. The accommodations
+in the hospitals were even worse than those on the firing-line. A sick
+soldier on the firing-line could always find some comrade who would
+cut green boughs or gather grass for a bed, but the one who went to
+the hospital had to lie on the ground. The supply of hospital cots was
+ridiculously inadequate, and this condition did not improve.
+
+The difficulty of obtaining adequate medical attendance may be
+illustrated by the case of Priv. Fred C. Elkins, of the 17th Infantry,
+member of the Gatling Gun Detachment. Priv. Elkins had been hurt in
+the fight on the 1st of July and had been sent to the hospital. He
+found the accommodations so wretched that he feigned improvement and
+returned to his detachment. He remained with the detachment until the
+14th of July, improving so far as his injury was concerned, but
+contracted the climatic fever. During this time he was prescribed for
+twice by the assistant surgeon with the Rough Riders, Dr. Thorpe,
+previous to the time this regiment was moved westward on the
+firing-line. His condition became worse, and on the 12th of July Dr.
+Brewer, 1st lieutenant and assistant surgeon with the 10th Cavalry,
+was called upon to examine him. This surgeon had then under treatment
+over 100 cases pertaining to his proper command, and was himself ill,
+but he readily came and inspected the patient. He promised to send
+medicines for him, but in the rush of overwork forgot to do so, and on
+the 13th of July he was again summoned. This time he sent a hospital
+attendant to take the patient's temperature, which was 104 degrees. No
+medicines were sent. On the 14th of July the patient became delirious.
+The detachment commander went in person to request the same surgeon to
+attend to the case, he being the only one available at that time. The
+hospital attendant was again ordered to take the temperature. At the
+end of an hour even this had been neglected. The hospital man was
+sick, and had been without sleep for fifty hours. Priv. Elkins was put
+upon a board and carried to Brewer's tent, with his descriptive list
+in his pocket. The surgeon was told the name of the patient and the
+facts that he was related to a distinguished family and had been
+recommended for a commission for gallantry upon the field of battle.
+Dr. Brewer was himself suffering at the time, with a temperature of
+103 degrees, but he rose from his own sick-bed and administered
+remedies which relieved the patient. The following day, the third of
+his illness, Dr. Brewer was found to be suffering from yellow fever,
+and was carried back to the yellow fever hospital at Siboney along
+with Priv. Elkins. He had been sick all the time, but had done his
+best. Priv. Elkins improved sufficiently to write a letter to his
+commanding officer from the hospital at Siboney, on the 25th of July,
+which reached that officer at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, on the 12th
+day of September. In spite of the fact that the patient was furnished
+with descriptive list, and was specially commended to the care of the
+surgeon as a soldier marked for extreme gallantry, all trace of him
+had been lost; and although two private detectives were searching for
+him a month, no further clew had been found to his whereabouts or fate
+as late as the 1st of October. Even if his descriptive list had not
+been furnished with this man, the fact that he was alive and rational
+enough on the 25th day of July to write a letter concerning his
+approaching discharge should have made it easy for some record of his
+case to have been kept.
+
+But this one isolated case sinks into insignificance beside the
+condition in which some of the sick were left by commands returning to
+the United States. All cases of yellow fever suspects were left
+behind, and in the mad scramble to embark for the return voyage many
+of these were left without proper attention or supplies.
+
+Gen. Kent's Division had left by the 11th of August. The following
+extract from a letter dated Santiago de Cuba, August 12, 1898, will
+convey some idea of the condition in which the sick of this division
+were left:
+
+"Yesterday Gen. Kent's Division left for Montauk, and they left behind
+350 sick, many of them too ill to care for themselves. This humane
+country, of course, left ample care for them? There was left one
+surgeon, one steward, and one case of medicines. Many of these men are
+too ill to rise. They are 'suspected' of having yellow fever. They are
+suffering from Cuban malaria, and many of them from diarrhea. There
+was not left a single bed-pan for this battalion of bed-ridden,
+suffering humanity, nor any well men to nurse the sick. There was not
+even left any to cook food for them. Those left by the 9th Infantry
+had to bribe marauding, pilfering Cubans, with a part of their
+rations, to carry food to the camp of the 13th, where there were a few
+less ill, to get it cooked.
+
+"They are too sick to dig sinks; some are delirious. When the poor
+emaciated wrecks of manhood have to obey the calls of Nature, they
+must either wallow in their own filth or stagger a few paces from
+their wet beds on the slimy soil to deposit more germs of disease and
+death on the surface already reeking with ghastly, joint-racking
+rheums.
+
+"There were left less than fifty cots for these 350 sick men--men
+compelled by sheer weakness to lie on the ground which will soon lie
+on them, if enough strong men are left by that time to cover them
+mercifully over with the loathsome, reeking vegetable detritus which
+passes here for soil, and which is so fairly animate that you can see
+every spadeful of it writhe and wriggle as you throw it over the
+rotting hour-dead shell of what was a free American citizen and a
+Chevalier Bayard.
+
+"When the last man and wagon of the flying division disappeared over
+the hill toward health and home, a despairing wail went up from the
+doomed 350 left in this condition of indescribable horror. 'We are
+abandoned to die!' they cried; 'we are deserted by our own comrades in
+the hour of danger and left to helplessly perish!'
+
+"These men are those who fought the climate, hunger, and the enemy on
+the battle-field which has shed so much undying glory on the American
+arms. They are the men who have accomplished unheard-of feats of
+endurance and performed incredible feats of valor on the same
+ground--not for Cuba, but at the call of duty. They are citizens. They
+are brave soldiers who have done their full duty because it was duty."
+
+The mail facilities were wretched. Cords of mail were stacked up at
+Siboney for weeks; and although there was more transportation on hand
+than could be used, the officer detailed to attend to the mail
+business of the corps, Lieut. Saville, of the 10th Infantry, could not
+succeed in securing a wagon to haul this mail to the front. Since the
+corps returned to the United States a dozen letters have reached the
+author which have chased him by way of Santiago and Montauk, since
+dates between the 1st and 20th of July, inclusive. The person to whom
+these letters were addressed was well known to every officer and
+employee in the corps, and if the mail addressed to one so well known
+could go astray in this manner, what could an unknown private expect?
+This may seem like a little hardship, but to men in the weakened and
+enfeebled condition of the survivors of the 5th Corps a letter from
+home was both food and medicine. Scores of men who are to-day rotting
+in Cuban graves died of nostalgia, and might have lived if they had
+received the letters from home which were sent to them.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+THE CAUSE.
+
+The causes of these conditions are not far to seek. The United States
+has not had an army since 1866. There has been no such a thing as a
+brigade, a division, or a corps. There has been no opportunity to
+study and practice on a large scale, in a practical way, the problems
+of organization and supply. The Army has been administered as a unit,
+and the usual routine of business gradually became such that not a
+wheel could be turned nor a nail driven in any of the supply
+departments without express permission, previously obtained from the
+bureau chief in Washington. The same remarks apply equally to all the
+other staff departments. The administration had become a bureaucracy
+because the whole Army for thirty years had been administered as one
+body, without the subdivisions into organizations which are inevitable
+in war-time and in larger bodies.
+
+War became a reality with great suddenness. Those who have grown gray
+in the service, and whose capacity, honesty, and industry had never
+been and can not be impeached, found themselves confronted with the
+problem of handling nearly three hundred thousand men, without
+authority to change the system of supply and transportation. The
+minutest acts of officers of these departments are regulated by laws
+of Congress, enacted with a view of the small regular force in time of
+peace, and with no provisions for modifications in war. In authorizing
+the formation of large volunteer armies, Congress did not authorize
+any change in the system of administration or make any emergency
+provision. As before, every detail of supply and transportation had to
+be authorized from the central head.
+
+The administrative bureaus were handicapped to some extent by
+incompetent and ignorant members. Late in the campaign it was learned
+that the way to a "soft snap" was through the Capitol, and some came
+in that way who would certainly never have entered the Army in any
+other.
+
+There were alleged staff officers who had tried to enter the service
+through the regular channels and who had failed, either by lack of
+ability or bad conduct, to keep up with the pace set by classmates at
+the Academy; there were others who were known as failures in civil
+life and as the "black sheep" of eminent families; and there were some
+who must have been utterly unknown before the war, as they will be
+afterward.
+
+How these persons ever obtained places high above deserving officers
+of capacity and experience is a question which cries aloud for
+exposure--but in a good many cases they did. Indeed, it is to be
+observed that, for that matter, the next register of the Army will
+show a great many more promotions into the Volunteer service, of
+officers who never heard a hostile bullet during the war, who never
+left the United States at all, than it will of deserving officers who
+bore the heat and burden of the march and the battle.
+
+[Illustration: "Reina Mercedes" Sunk by the "Iowa" near Mouth of
+Harbor of Santiago.]
+
+The most discouraging thing about it all to a line officer is that
+this same register will afford no means of determining who did the
+service and who did the "baby act." Lieut. Blank will be borne thereon
+as major and subsequently colonel of the Steenth Volunteers (which
+never left the State rendezvous, probably) during the war with Spain;
+Lieut. Blank No. 2 will be carried on the same book as second
+lieutenant, ---- Infantry, during the same war. The gentle reader will
+at once "spot" the man who was so highly promoted as a gallant fellow
+who distinguished himself upon the bloody field; the other will be set
+down as the man who did nothing and deserved nothing.
+
+Yet--the ones who went received no promotion, and those who staid
+behind and by their careless incompetence permitted camps amid the
+peaceful scenes of homes and plenty to become the hot-beds of fever
+and disease--these are the ones borne as field and other officers of
+the Volunteers.
+
+To illustrate some of the material with big titles sent to "assist" in
+running the staff departments, two incidents will suffice.
+
+On the 11th of June, at a certain headquarters, it was desired to send
+a message, demanding reply, to each transport. A gray-haired officer
+turned to another and said, "Whom shall we send with this? Will
+So-and-so do?" naming one of the before-mentioned civil appointments.
+"For heaven's sake, no! He would tie up the whole business. Send an
+orderly," was the reply. The orderly, an enlisted man of the Regulars,
+was sent. The officer thus adjudged less competent to carry a message
+than a private soldier was perhaps actuated by a high sense of duty;
+but he filled a place which should have been occupied by an
+experienced and able officer--no, he did not fill it, but he prevented
+such a man from doing so.
+
+The second incident was related by an officer on a transport bound for
+home. Say his name was--oh well, Smith.
+
+Smith went, on the 20th of July, to a certain headquarters in the
+field on business. Those who could have attended to it were absent,
+but there was one of the recent arrivals, a high-ranking aide, there,
+and he, sorry for Smith's worn-out look of hunger, heat, and thirst,
+asked if he would have a drink. Smith, expecting at the best a canteen
+of San Juan River water, said he was a little dry.
+
+The newly-arrived clapped his hands, and, at the summons, a colored
+waiter in spotless white duck appeared. "Waitah, take this gentleman's
+ordah," said the host. Smith, greatly astonished, asked what could be
+had, and was yet more astonished to learn that he could be served with
+Canadian or domestic whisky, claret, champagne, or sherry. Much
+bewildered, and utterly forgetting the awful dangers of liquor in the
+tropics, he called for Canadian Club. When it came, on a
+napkin-covered tray, he looked for water, and was about to use some
+from a bucket full of ice which he at that moment espied. "Aw! hold
+on," exclaimed the host; "we nevah use that, don't y' know, except to
+cool the apollinaris. Waitah, bring the gentleman a bottle of
+apollinaris to wash down his liquor."
+
+Within half a mile were soldiers and officers lying sick in hospital
+on the ground, eating hardtack and bacon, and drinking San Juan
+straight, because hospital supplies and rations could not be got to
+the front!
+
+It was this same officer who explained that he approached his
+headquarters "by rushes," upon his arrival, for fear the enemy would
+see him and consider this reinforcement a violation of the truce.
+
+These are two examples of some of the able assistants from civil life
+who were sent to help feed, clothe, and transport the 5th Corps.
+
+With such assistants, is it any wonder that, under such extraordinary
+circumstances as those encountered in Cuba, a system designed for
+peace and 25,000 men weakened in some respects when the attempt was
+made to apply it to 300,000 in time of war?
+
+The great wonder is that it did the work as well as it did. And this
+was due to the superhuman exertions of the chief officers of the
+supply departments and their experienced assistants. These men knew no
+rest. They were untiring and zealous. On their own responsibility they
+cut the red tape to the very smallest limit. Instead of the regular
+returns and requisitions, the merest form of lead-pencil memorandum
+was sufficient to obtain the necessary supplies, whenever they were
+available. This much was absolutely necessary, for these officers were
+personally responsible for every dollar's worth of supplies and had to
+protect themselves in some degree. As it is now, many of them will
+find it years before their accounts are finally settled, unless some
+provision be made by law for their relief. This disregard of routine
+was essential; but how much to be desired is a system suited to the
+exigencies of the service, both in peace and war!
+
+There is a lesson to be learned from these experiences, and it is
+this: The commanding officer of any army organization should not be
+hampered in the matter of supplies by having to obtain the approval or
+disapproval of a junior in rank, in a distant bureau, who knows
+nothing about the circumstances. In other words, the system which
+causes the staff departments of the United States Army to regard a
+civilian as their head, and makes them virtually independent of their
+line commanders, is an utterly vicious system. If an officer is
+competent to command an organization, he should be considered
+competent to look after the details of its administration, and should
+be held responsible, not only for its serviceable condition at all
+times, but for the care of its property and for all the other details
+connected with its service.
+
+The quartermaster, or commissary, or other officer of a supply
+department should not know any authority on earth higher or other than
+the officer in command of the force he is to serve, except those in
+the line above such chief, and then only when such orders come through
+his chief.
+
+The commanding officer having ordered supplies to be procured, there
+should be no question whatever in regard to their being furnished.
+They should come at once and without fail. If they were not necessary,
+hold him responsible.
+
+This theory of administration eliminates the bureaucracy which has
+insidiously crept upon the Army, and relegates to their proper
+position the supply departments.
+
+The General Staff proper has a higher field of usefulness than the
+mere problems of supply. Its business is to care for the organization,
+mobilization, and strategic disposition of all the forces, both naval
+and military, of the United States. Its head should be the President,
+and the two divisions should be under the general commanding the Army
+and the admiral commanding the Navy. The remainder of this staff
+should be composed of a small but select personnel, and should limit
+its duties exclusively to those set forth above.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+THE VOYAGE HOME AND THE END OF THE GATLING GUN DETACHMENT.
+
+
+The detachment received permission on the 10th of August to use any
+standing tentage which it could find, and it was thoroughly under
+shelter an hour after this permission was received. The climate of
+Cuba was not so disagreeable when one could look at it through the
+door of a tent, but we were not destined to enjoy our tentage very
+long. On the 15th, at two o'clock, orders were received to go on board
+the Leona at Santiago, bound for Montauk Point, and at half-past
+five o'clock men, guns, and equipment were duly stowed for the voyage
+home.
+
+It was much more agreeable than the one to Cuba, The transport was not
+crowded, the men had excellent hammocks, which could be rolled up
+during the day, thus leaving the whole berth deck for exercise and
+ventilation, and the Leona was a much better vessel than the Cherokee.
+
+The detachment finally disembarked at Montauk Point on the 23d, passed
+through the usual detention camp, and was assigned a camping-place. It
+was disbanded per instructions from headquarters, Montauk Point, on
+the 5th of September, the members of the detachment returning to their
+respective regiments, well satisfied with the work they had done and
+with each other.
+
+In concluding this memoir the author desires to pay a personal tribute
+of admiration and respect to the brave men composing the detachment,
+both individually and collectively. Some of them have figured more
+prominently in these pages than others, but there was not a man in the
+detachment who was not worthy to be called the highest term that can
+be applied to any man--a brave American soldier.
+
+
+The End.
+
+
+
+
+APPENDIX I.
+
+
+Headquarters U. S. Troops,
+Santiago de Cuba, July 19, 1898.
+
+General Orders No. 26.
+
+The successful accomplishment of the campaign against Santiago de
+Cuba, resulting in its downfall and surrender of Spanish forces, the
+capture of large military stores, together with the destruction of the
+entire Spanish fleet in the harbor, which, upon the investment of the
+city, was forced to leave, is one of which the Army can well be proud.
+
+This has been accomplished through the heroic deeds of the Army and
+its officers and men. The major-general commanding offers his sincere
+thanks for their endurance of hardships heretofore unknown in the
+American Army.
+
+The work you have accomplished may well appeal to the pride of your
+countrymen and has been rivaled upon but few occasions in the world's
+history. Landing upon an unknown coast, you faced dangers in
+disembarking and overcame obstacles that even in looking back upon
+seem insurmountable. Seizing, with the assistance of the Navy, the
+towns of Baiquiri and Siboney, you pushed boldly forth, gallantly
+driving back the enemy's outposts in the vicinity of La Guasimas, and
+completed the concentration of the army near Sevilla, within sight of
+the Spanish stronghold at Santiago de Cuba. The outlook from Sevilla
+was one that might have appalled the stoutest heart. Behind you ran a
+narrow road made well-nigh impassable by rains, while to the front you
+looked upon high foot-hills covered with a dense tropical growth,
+which could only be traversed by bridle-paths terminating within range
+of the enemy's guns. Nothing daunted, you responded eagerly to the
+order to close upon the foe, and, attacking at El Caney and San Juan,
+drove him from work to work until he took refuge within his last and
+strongest entrenchment immediately surrounding the city. Despite the
+fierce glare of a Southern sun and rains that fell in torrents, you
+valiantly withstood his attempts to drive you from the position your
+valor had won, holding in your vise-like grip the army opposed to you.
+After seventeen days of battle and siege, you were rewarded by the
+surrender of nearly 24,000 prisoners, 12,000 being those in your
+immediate front, the others scattered in the various towns of eastern
+Cuba, freeing completely the eastern part of the island from Spanish
+troops.
+
+This was not done without great sacrifices. The death of 230 gallant
+soldiers and the wounding of 1,284 others shows but too plainly the
+fierce contest in which you were engaged. The few reported missing are
+undoubtedly among the dead, as no prisoners were taken. For those who
+have fallen in battle, with you the commanding general sorrows, and
+with you will ever cherish their memory. Their devotion to duty sets a
+high example of courage and patriotism to our fellow-countrymen. All
+who have participated in the campaign, battle, and siege of Santiago
+de Cuba will recall with pride the grand deeds accomplished, and will
+hold one another dear for having shared great suffering, hardships,
+and triumphs together.
+
+All may well feel proud to inscribe on their banners the name of
+Santiago de Cuba.
+
+By command of Major-General Shafter.
+
+Official: John B. Miley,     E. J. McClernand,
+             Aide.              Asst. Adj.-Gen.
+
+
+
+
+APPENDIX II.
+
+The Santiago Campaign.
+
+
+Report of Major-General Wm. R. Shafter, Commanding.
+
+September 13, 1898.
+
+Sir,--I have the honor to submit the following report of the campaign
+which terminated in the fall of Santiago de Cuba and the adjacent
+territory, and the establishment of the military government therein.
+
+The expedition was undertaken in compliance with telegraphic
+instructions of May 30, 1898, from Headquarters of the Army, in which
+it was stated:
+
+"Admiral Schley reports that two cruisers and two torpedo boats have
+been seen in the harbor of Santiago. Go with your force to capture
+garrison at Santiago and assist in capturing harbor and fleet."
+
+On this date there were a large number of transports in Port Tampa
+Bay, which had been collected for the purpose of an expedition which
+it had been previously contemplated I should command, and for such
+other emergencies as might arise. Orders were immediately given for
+loading aboard those transports the necessary subsistence and
+quartermaster supplies, and for the embarkation of the authorized
+number of troops and their material. General Orders No. 5, from these
+headquarters, indicate the organizations it was at first proposed to
+take.
+
+The order is as follows:
+
+"Headquarters 5th Army Corps,
+"Tampa, Fla., May 31, 1898.
+
+"G. O. 5.
+
+"The following troops will hold themselves in readiness to move
+immediately on board transports upon notification from these
+headquarters:
+
+"1. The 5th Army Corps.
+
+"2. The Battalion of Engineers.
+
+"3. The detachment of the Signal Corps.
+
+"4. Five squadrons of cavalry, to be selected by the commanding
+general of the cavalry division, in accordance with instructions
+previously given.
+
+"5. Four batteries of light artillery, to be commanded by a major, to
+be selected by the commanding officer of the light artillery brigade.
+
+"6. Two batteries of heavy artillery, to be selected by the commanding
+officer of the siege artillery battalion, with eight (8) guns and
+eight (8) field mortars.
+
+"7. The Battalion of Engineers, the infantry and cavalry will be
+supplied with 500 rounds of ammunition per man.
+
+"8. All troops will carry, in addition to the fourteen (14) days'
+field rations now on hand, ten (10) days' travel rations.
+
+"9. The minimum allowance of tentage and baggage as prescribed in
+G. O. 54, A. G. O., c. s., will be taken.
+
+"10. In addition to the rations specified in paragraph 8 of this
+order, the chief commissary will provide sixty (60) days' field
+rations for the entire command.
+
+"11. All recruits and extra baggage, the latter to be stored,
+carefully piled and covered, will be left in camp in charge of a
+commissioned officer, to be selected by the regimental commander.
+Where there are no recruits available, the necessary guard only will
+be left.
+
+"12. Travel rations will be drawn at once by the several commands, as
+indicated in paragraph 8.
+
+"By command of Maj.-Gen. Shafter.
+
+"E. J. McClernand,
+"A. A. G."
+
+This order was afterwards changed to include twelve squadrons of
+cavalry, all of which were dismounted because of lack of
+transportation for the animals, and because it was believed, from the
+best sources of information obtainable, that mounted cavalry could not
+operate efficiently in the neighborhood of Santiago. This was found
+subsequently to be correct.
+
+The facilities at Tampa and Port Tampa for embarking the troops and
+the large amount of supplies required were inadequate, and with the
+utmost effort it was not possible to accomplish this work as quickly
+as I hoped and desired.
+
+On the evening of June 7th I received orders to sail without delay,
+but not with less than 10,000 men.
+
+The orders referred to caused one division, composed of Volunteer
+troops, commanded by Brig.-Gen. Snyder, and which it had been intended
+to include in my command, to be left behind. I was joined, however, by
+Brig.-Gen. Bates, who had already arrived on transports from Mobile,
+Ala., with the 3d and 20th Infantry and one squadron of the 2d Cavalry
+with their horses, the latter being the only mounted troops in my
+command.
+
+After some of them had already reached the lower bay, telegraphic
+instructions were received from the honorable Secretary of War,
+directing that the sailing of the expedition be delayed, waiting
+further orders. This delay was occasioned by the Navy reporting that a
+Spanish war vessel had been sighted in the Nicholas Channel. The ships
+in the lower bay were immediately recalled. On the next day, in
+compliance with instructions from the adjutant-general of the Army,
+the necessary steps were taken to increase the command to the full
+capacity of the transports, and the expedition sailed on June 14th
+with 815 officers and 16,072 enlisted men.
+
+The passage to Santiago was generally smooth and uneventful. The
+health of the command remained remarkably good, notwithstanding the
+fact that the conveniences on many of the transports, in the nature of
+sleeping accommodations, space for exercise, closet accommodations,
+etc., were not all that could have been desired. While commenting upon
+this subject, it is appropriate to add that the opinion was general
+throughout the Army that the travel ration should include tomatoes,
+beginning with the first day, and that a small quantity of canned
+fruit would prove to be a most welcome addition while traveling at sea
+in the tropics. If the future policy of our Government requires much
+transportation for the military forces by sea, definite arrangements
+should be determined upon to provide the necessary hammock
+accommodations for sleeping. Hammocks interfere immeasurably less than
+bunks with the proper ventilation of the ships and during the day can
+be easily removed, thus greatly increasing space for exercise;
+moreover, they greatly diminish the danger of fire.
+
+While passing along the north coast of Cuba one of the two barges we
+had in tow broke away during the night, and was not recovered. This
+loss proved to be very serious, for it delayed and embarrassed the
+disembarkation of the army. On the morning of June 20th we arrived off
+Guantanamo Bay, and about noon reached the vicinity of Santiago, where
+Admiral Sampson came on board my headquarters transport. It was
+arranged between us to visit in the afternoon the Cuban general
+(Garcia) at Aserraderos, about eighteen miles to the west of the
+Morro. During the interview Gen. Garcia offered the services of his
+troops, comprising about 4,000 men in the vicinity of Aserraderos and
+about 500, under Gen. Castillo, at the little town of Cujababo, a few
+miles east of Baiquiri. I accepted his offer, impressing it upon him
+that I could exercise no military control over him except, such as he
+would concede, and as long as he served under me I would furnish him
+rations and ammunition.
+
+
+DISEMBARKATION IN CUBA.
+
+Ever since the receipt of my orders I had made a study of the terrain
+surrounding Santiago, gathering information mainly from the former
+residents of the city, several of whom were on the transports with me.
+At this interview all the possible points of attack were for the last
+time carefully weighed, and then, for the information and guidance of
+Admiral Sampson and Gen. Garcia, I outlined the plan of campaign,
+which was as follows:
+
+With the assistance of the small boats of the Navy, the disembarkation
+was to commence on the morning of the 22d at Baiquiri; on the 21st 500
+insurgent troops were to be transferred from Aserraderos to Cujababo,
+increasing the force already there to 1,000 men. This force, under
+Gen. Castillo, was to attack the Spanish force at Baiquiri in the rear
+at the time of disembarkation. This movement was successfully made. To
+mislead the enemy as to the real point of our intended landing, I
+requested Gen. Garcia to send a small force (about 500 men), under
+Gen. Rabi, to attack the little town of Cabanas, situated on the coast
+a few miles to the west of the entrance to Santiago harbor, and where
+it was reported the enemy had several men intrenched, and from which a
+trail leads around the west side of the bay to Santiago.
+
+I also requested Admiral Sampson to send several of his warships, with
+a number of my transports, opposite this town, for the purpose of
+making a show of disembarking there.
+
+In addition, I asked the admiral to cause a bombardment to be made at
+Cabanas and also at the forts around the Morro and at the towns of
+Aguadores, Siboney, and Baiquiri. The troops under Gen. Garcia
+remaining at Aserraderos were to be transferred to Baiquiri or Siboney
+on the 24th. This was successfully accomplished at Siboney.
+
+These movements committed me to approaching Santiago from the east
+over a narrow road, at first in some places not better than a trail,
+running from Baiquiri through Siboney and Sevilla, and making attack
+from that quarter. This, in my judgment, was the only feasible plan,
+and subsequent information and results confirmed my judgment.
+
+On the morning of the 22d the Army commenced to disembark at Baiquiri.
+The following general order indicates the manner in which the troops
+left the transports and the amount of supplies carried immediately
+with them:
+
+"Headquarters 5th Army Corps,
+"On board S. S. Seguransa,
+"At Sea, June 20, 1898.
+
+"G. O. 18.
+
+(Extract.)
+
+"1. Under instructions to be communicated to the proper commanders,
+troops will disembark in the following order:
+
+"First--The 2d Division, 5th Corps (Lawton's). The Gatling Gun
+Detachment will accompany this division.
+
+"Second--Gen. Bates' Brigade. This brigade will form as a reserve to
+the 2d Division, 5th Corps.
+
+"Third--The dismounted cavalry division (Wheeler's).
+
+"Fourth--The 1st Division, 5th Corps (Kent's).
+
+"Fifth--The squadron of the 2d Cavalry (Rafferty's).
+
+"Sixth--If the enemy in force vigorously resist the landing, the light
+artillery, or a part of it, will be disembarked by the battalion
+commander, and brought to the assistance of the troops engaged. If no
+serious opposition be offered this artillery will be unloaded after
+the mounted squadron.
+
+"2. All troops will carry on the person the blanket-roll (with
+shelter-tent and poncho), three days' field rations (with coffee,
+ground), canteens filled, and 100 rounds of ammunition per man.
+Additional ammunition, already issued to the troops, tentage, baggage,
+and company cooking utensils will be left under charge of the
+regimental quartermaster, with one non-commissioned officer and two
+privates from each company.
+
+"3. All persons not immediately on duty with and constituting a part
+of the organizations mentioned in the foregoing paragraphs will remain
+aboard ship until the landing be accomplished, and until notified they
+can land.
+
+"4. The chief quartermaster of the expedition will control all small
+boats and will distribute them to the best advantage to disembark the
+troops in the order indicated in paragraph 1.
+
+"5. The ordnance officer--2d Lieut. Brooke, 4th Infantry--will put on
+shore at once 100 rounds of ammunition per man, and have it ready for
+distribution on the firing-line.
+
+"6. The commanding general wishes to impress officers and men with the
+crushing effect a well-directed fire will have upon the Spanish
+troops. All officers concerned will rigidly enforce fire discipline,
+and will caution their men to fire only when they can be see the
+enemy.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"By command of Maj.-Gen. Shafter.
+
+"E. J. McClernand,
+"A. A. G."
+
+The small boats belonging to the Navy and the transports, together
+with a number of steam launches, furnished by the Navy, were brought
+alongside and loaded with troops as prescribed in the order just
+quoted. When Gen. Lawton's Division was fairly loaded in the small
+boats, the latter were towed in long lines by the steam launches
+toward the shore. The sea was somewhat rough, but by the exercise of
+caution and good judgment the beach was reached and the troops
+disembarked satisfactorily. As a precaution against a possible attack
+upon the part of any Spaniards who might have been hidden in the
+adjacent block-houses and woods, the Navy opened a furious cannonade
+on these places while the troops were moving toward the shore. It was
+learned afterward that the Spanish garrison had retired in the
+direction of Siboney soon after daylight.
+
+By night about 6,000 troops were on shore. Gen. Lawton was ordered to
+push down a strong force to seize and hold Siboney.
+
+On the 23d the disembarkation was continued and about 6,000 more men
+landed. Early on this date Gen. Lawton's advance reached Siboney, the
+Spanish garrison of about 600 men retiring as he came up, and offering
+no opposition except a few scattering shots at long range. Some of the
+Cuban troops pursued the retreating Spaniards and skirmished with
+them. During the afternoon of this date the disembarkation of Kent's
+Division was commenced at Siboney, which enabled me to establish a
+base eight miles nearer Santiago and to continue the unloading of
+troops and supplies at both points.
+
+The disembarkation was continued throughout the night of the 23d and
+24th, and by the evening of the 24th the disembarkation of my command
+was practically completed.
+
+
+PREPARING FOR THE ADVANCE.
+
+The orders for June 24th contemplated Gen. Lawton's Division taking a
+strong defensive position a short distance from Siboney, on the road
+to Santiago; Kent's Division was to be held near Santiago, where he
+disembarked; Bates' Brigade was to take position in support of Lawton,
+while Wheeler's Division was to be somewhat to the rear on the road
+from Siboney to Baiquiri. It was intended to maintain this situation
+until the troops and transportation were disembarked and a reasonable
+quantity of necessary supplies landed. Gen. Young's Brigade, however,
+passed beyond Lawton on the night of the 23d-24th, thus taking the
+advance, and on the morning of the latter date became engaged with a
+Spanish force intrenched in a strong position at La Guasima, a point
+on the Santiago road about three miles from Siboney. Gen. Young's
+force consisted of one squadron of the 1st Cavalry, one of the 10th
+Cavalry, and two of the 1st United States Volunteer Cavalry; in all,
+964 officers and men.
+
+The enemy made an obstinate resistance, but were driven from the field
+with considerable loss. Our own loss was 1 officer and 15 men killed,
+6 officers and 46 men wounded. The reported losses of the Spaniards
+were 9 killed and 27 wounded. The engagement had an inspiring effect
+upon our men and doubtless correspondingly depressed the enemy, as it
+was now plainly demonstrated to them that they had a foe to meet who
+would advance upon them under a heavy fire delivered from
+intrenchments. Gen. Wheeler, division commander, was present during
+the engagement and reports that our troops, officers and men, fought
+with the greatest gallantry. His report is attached, marked "A." This
+engagement gave us a well-watered country farther to the front on
+which to encamp our troops.
+
+My efforts to unload transportation and subsistence stores, so that we
+might have several days' rations on shore, were continued during the
+remainder of the month. In this work I was ably seconded by
+Lieut.-Col. Charles F. Humphrey, deputy Q. M. G., U. S. A., chief
+quartermaster, and Col. John F. Weston, A. O. G. S., chief commissary;
+hut, notwithstanding the utmost efforts, it was difficult to land
+supplies in excess of those required daily to feed the men and
+animals, and the loss of the scow, mentioned as having broken away
+during the voyage, as well as the loss at sea of lighters sent by
+Quartermaster's Department was greatly felt. Indeed, the lack of steam
+launches, lighters, scows, and wharves can only be appreciated by
+those who were on the ground directing the disembarkation and landing
+of supplies. It was not until nearly two weeks after the army landed
+that it was possible to place on shore three days' supplies In excess
+of those required for the daily consumption.
+
+After the engagement at La Guasima, and before the end of the month,
+the army, including Gen. Garcia's command, which had been brought on
+transports to Siboney from Aserraderos, was mostly concentrated at
+Sevilla, with the exception of the necessary detachments at Baiquiri
+and Siboney.
+
+On June 30th I reconnoitered the country about Santiago and made my
+plan of attack. From a high hill, from which the city was in plain
+view, I could see the San Juan Hill and the country about El Caney.
+The roads were very poor, and, indeed, little better than bridle-paths
+until the San Juan River and El Caney were reached.
+
+The position of El Caney, to the northeast of Santiago, was of great
+importance to the enemy as holding the Guantanamo road, as well as
+furnishing shelter for a strong outpost that might be used to assail
+the right flank of any force operating against San Juan Hill.
+
+In view of this, I decided to begin the attack next day at El Caney
+with one division, while sending two divisions on the direct road to
+Santiago, passing by the El Pozo house, and as a diversion to direct a
+small force against Aguadores, from Siboney along the railroad by the
+sea, with a view of attracting the attention of the Spaniards in the
+latter direction and of preventing them from attacking our left flank.
+
+During the afternoon I assembled the division commanders and explained
+to them my general plan of battle. Lawton's Division, assisted by
+Capron's Light Battery, was ordered to move out during the afternoon
+toward El Caney, to begin the attack there early the next morning.
+After carrying El Caney, Lawton was to move by the El Caney road
+toward Santiago, and take position on the right of the line. Wheeler's
+Division of dismounted cavalry, and Kent's Division of infantry, were
+directed on the Santiago road, the head of the column resting near El
+Pozo, toward which heights Grimes' Battery moved on the afternoon of
+the 30th, with orders to take position thereon early the next morning,
+and at the proper time prepare the way for the advance of Wheeler and
+Kent, on San Juan Hill. The attack at this point was to be delayed
+until Lawton's guns were heard at El Caney and his infantry fire
+showed he had become well engaged.
+
+The remainder of the afternoon and night was devoted to cutting out
+and repairing the roads, and other necessary preparations for battle.
+These preparations were far from what I desired them to be, but we
+were in a sickly climate; our supplies had to be brought forward by a
+narrow wagon road, which the rains might at any time render
+impassable; fear was entertained that a storm might drive the vessels
+containing our stores to sea, thus separating us from our base of
+supplies; and, lastly, it was reported that Gen. Pando, with 8,000
+reinforcements for the enemy, was _en route_ from Manzanillo, and
+might be expected in a few days. Under these conditions, I determined
+to give battle without delay.
+
+
+THE BATTLE OF EL CANEY.
+
+Early on the morning of July 1st, Lawton was in position around El
+Caney, Chaffee's Brigade on the right, across the Guantanamo road,
+Miles' Brigade in the center, and Ludlow's on the left. The duty of
+cutting off the enemy's retreat along the Santiago road was assigned
+to the latter brigade. The artillery opened on the town at 6:15 a. m.
+The battle here soon became general, and was hotly contested. The
+enemy's position was naturally strong, and was rendered more so by
+block-houses, a stone fort, and intrenchments cut in solid rock, and
+the loop-holing of a solidly built stone church. The opposition
+offered by the enemy was greater than had been anticipated, and
+prevented Lawton from joining the right of the main line during the
+day, as had been intended. After the battle had continued for some
+time, Bates' Brigade of two regiments reached my headquarters from
+Siboney. I directed him to move near El Caney, to give assistance if
+necessary. He did so, and was put in position between Miles and
+Chaffee. The battle continued with varying intensity during most of
+the day and until the place was carried by assault about 4:30 p. m. As
+the Spaniards endeavored to retreat along the Santiago road, Ludlow's
+position enabled him to do very effective work, and to practically cut
+off all retreat in that direction.
+
+After the battle at El Caney was well opened, and the sound of the
+small-arm fire caused us to believe that Lawton was driving the enemy
+before him, I directed Grimes' Battery to open fire from the heights
+of El Pozo on the San Juan block-house, which could be seen situated
+in the enemy's intrenchments extending along the crest of San Juan
+Hill. This fire was effective, and the enemy could be seen running
+away from the vicinity of the block-house. The artillery fire from El
+Pozo was soon returned by the enemy's artillery. They evidently had
+the range of this hill, and their first shells killed and wounded
+several men. As the Spaniards used smokeless powder, it was very
+difficult to locate the position of their pieces, while, on the
+contrary, the smoke caused by our black powder plainly indicated the
+position of our battery.
+
+At this time the cavalry division, under Gen. Sumner, which was lying
+concealed in the general vicinity of the El Pozo house, was ordered
+forward with directions to cross the San Juan River and deploy to the
+right of the Santiago side, while Kent's Division was to follow
+closely in its rear and deploy to the left.
+
+These troops moved forward in compliance with orders, but the road was
+so narrow as to render it impracticable to retain the column of fours
+formation at all points, while the undergrowth on either side was so
+dense as to preclude the possibility of deploying skirmishers. It
+naturally resulted that the progress made was slow, and the long-range
+rifles of the enemy's infantry killed and wounded a number of our men
+while marching along this road, and before there was any opportunity
+to return this fire. At this time Generals Kent and Sumner were
+ordered to push forward with all possible haste and place their troops
+in position to engage the enemy. Gen. Kent, with this end in view,
+forced the head of his column alongside of the cavalry column as far
+as the narrow trail permitted, and thus hurried his arrival at the San
+Juan and the formation beyond that stream. A few hundred yards before
+reaching the San Juan the road forks, a fact that was discovered by
+Lieut.-Col. Derby of my staff, who had approached well to the front in
+a war balloon. This information he furnished to the troops, resulting
+in Sumner moving on the right-hand road, while Kent was enabled to
+utilize the road to the left.
+
+Gen. Wheeler, the permanent commander of the cavalry division, who had
+been ill, came forward during the morning, and later returned to duty
+and rendered most gallant and efficient service during the remainder
+of the day.
+
+After crossing the stream, the cavalry moved to the right with a view
+of connecting with Lawton's left, when he could come up, and with
+their left resting near the Santiago road.
+
+In the meantime Kent's Division, with the exception of two regiments
+of Hawkins' Brigade, being thus uncovered, moved rapidly to the front
+from the forks previously mentioned in the road, utilizing both
+trails, but more especially the one to the left, and, crossing the
+creek, formed for attack in front of San Juan Hill. During the
+formation the 2d Brigade suffered severely. While personally
+superintending this movement, its gallant commander, Col. Wikoff, was
+killed. The command of the brigade then devolved upon Lieut.-Col.
+Worth, 13th Infantry, who was soon severely wounded, and next upon
+Lieut.-Col. Liscum, 24th Infantry, who, five minutes later, also fell
+under the terrible fire of the enemy, and the command of the brigade
+then devolved upon Lieut.-Col. Ewers, 9th Infantry.
+
+While the formation just described was taking place, Gen. Kent took
+measures to hurry forward his rear brigade. The 10th and 2d Infantry
+were ordered to follow. Wikoff's Brigade, while the 21st was sent on
+the right-hand road to support the 1st Brigade, under Gen. Hawkins,
+who had crossed the stream and formed on the right of the division.
+The 2d and 10th Infantry, Col. E. P. Pearson commanding, moved forward
+in good order on the left of the division, passed over a green knoll,
+and drove the enemy back toward his trenches.
+
+After completing their formation under a destructive fire, and
+advancing a short distance, both divisions found in their front a wide
+bottom, in which had been placed a barbed-wire entanglement, and
+beyond which there was a high hill, along the crest of which the enemy
+was strongly posted. Nothing daunted, these gallant men pushed on to
+drive the enemy from his chosen position, both divisions losing
+heavily. In this assault Col. Hamilton, Lieuts. Smith and Shipp were
+killed, and Col. Carroll, Lieuts. Thayer and Myer, all in the cavalry,
+were wounded.
+
+Great credit is due to Brig.-Gen. H. S. Hawkins, who, placing himself
+between his regiments, urged them on by voice and bugle calls to the
+attack so brilliantly executed.
+
+In this fierce encounter words fail to do justice to the gallant
+regimental commanders and their heroic men, for, while the generals
+indicated the formations and the points of attack, it was, after all,
+the intrepid bravery of the subordinate officers and men that planted
+our colors on the crest of San Juan Hill and drove the enemy from his
+trenches and block-houses, thus gaining a position which sealed the
+fate of Santiago.
+
+_In this action on this part of the field most efficient service was
+rendered by Lieut. John H. Parker, 13th Infantry, and the Gatling Gun
+Detachment under his command. The fighting continued at intervals
+until nightfall, but our men held resolutely to the positions gained
+at the cost of so much blood and toil._
+
+I am greatly indebted to Gen. Wheeler, who, as previously stated,
+returned from the sick-list to duty during the afternoon. His
+cheerfulness and aggressiveness made itself felt on this part of the
+battle-field, and the information he furnished to me at various stages
+of the battle proved to be most useful.
+
+
+THE BATTLE OF SANTIAGO.
+
+My own health was impaired by overexertion in the sun and intense heat
+of the day before, which prevented me from participating as actively
+in the battle as I desired; but from a high hill near my headquarters
+I had a general view of the battle-field, extending from El Caney on
+the right to the left of our lines on San Juan Hill. His staff
+officers were stationed at various points on the field, rendering
+frequent reports, and through them, by the means of orderlies and the
+telephone, I was enabled to transmit my orders. During the afternoon I
+visited the position of Grimes' Battery on the heights of El Pozo, and
+saw Sumner and Kent in firm possession of San Juan Hill, which I
+directed should be intrenched during the night. My engineer officer,
+Lieut.-Col. Derby, collected and sent forward the necessary tools, and
+during the night trenches of very considerable strength were
+constructed.
+
+During the afternoon, Maj. Dillenback, by my order, brought forward
+the two remaining batteries of his battalion and put them in position
+at El Pozo, to the left of Grimes. Later in the afternoon all three
+batteries were moved forward to positions near the firing-line, but
+the nature of the country and the intensity of the enemy's small-arm
+fire was such that no substantial results were gained by our artillery
+in the new positions. The batteries were intrenched during the night.
+Gen. Duffield, with the 33d Michigan, attacked Aguadores, as ordered,
+but was unable to accomplish more than to detain the Spaniards in that
+vicinity.
+
+After the brilliant and important victory gained at El Caney, Lawton
+started his tried troops, who had been fighting all day and marching
+much of the night before, to connect with the right of the cavalry
+division. Night came on before this movement could be accomplished. In
+the darkness the enemy's pickets were encountered, and the division
+commander, being uncertain of the ground and as to what might be in
+his front, halted his command and reported the situation to me. This
+information was received about 12:30 a. m., and I directed Gen. Lawton
+to return by my headquarters and the El Pozo house as the only certain
+way of gaining his new position.
+
+This was done, and the division took position on the right of the
+cavalry early next morning; Chaffee's Brigade arriving first, about
+half-past seven, and the other brigades before noon.
+
+On the night of July 1st, I ordered Gen. Duffield, at Siboney, to send
+forward the 34th Michigan and the 9th Massachusetts. Both of which had
+just arrived from the United States. These regiments reached the front
+the next morning. The 34th was placed in rear of Kent, and the 9th was
+assigned to Bates, who placed it on his left.
+
+Soon after daylight on July 2d the enemy opened battle, but because of
+the intrenchments made during the night, the approach of Lawton's
+Division, and the presence of Bates' Brigade, which had taken position
+during the night on Kent's left, little apprehension was felt as to
+our ability to repel the Spaniards.
+
+It is proper here to state that Gen. Bates and his brigade had
+performed most arduous and efficient service, having marched much of
+the night of June 30th-July 1st, and a good part of the latter day,
+during which he also participated in the battle of El Caney, after
+which he proceeded, by way of El Pozo, to the left of the line at San
+Juan, reaching his new position about midnight.
+
+All day on the 2d the battle raged with more or less fury, but such of
+our troops as were in position at daylight held their ground, and
+Lawton gained a strong and commanding position on the right.
+
+About 10 p. m. the enemy made a vigorous assault to break through my
+lines, but he was repulsed at all points.
+
+
+SUMMONING THE ENEMY TO SURRENDER.
+
+On the morning of the 3d the battle was renewed, but the enemy seemed
+to have expended his energy in the assault of the previous night, and
+the firing along the lines was desultory until stopped by my sending
+the following letter within the Spanish lines:
+
+"Headquarters U. S. Forces, near San Juan River,
+"July 3, 1898--8:30 a. m.
+
+"Sir,--I shall be obliged, unless you surrender, to shell Santiago de
+Cuba. Please inform the citizens of foreign countries, and all the
+women and children, that they should leave the city before 10 o'clock
+to-morrow morning.
+
+"Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+
+"William R. Shafter,
+"Maj.-Gen. U. S. Vols.
+"The Commanding General of the Spanish Forces, Santiago de Cuba."
+
+To this letter I received the following reply:
+
+"Santiago de Cuba, July 3, 1898.
+
+"His Excellency the General Commanding Forces of the United States,
+near San Juan River:
+
+"Sir,--I have the honor to reply to your communication of to-day,
+written at 8:30 a. m. and received at 1 p. m., demanding the surrender
+of this city, or, in the contrary case, announcing to me that you will
+bombard this city, and that I advise the foreigners, women and
+children, that they must leave the city before 10 o'clock to-morrow
+morning.
+
+"It is my duty to say to you that this city will not surrender, and
+that I will inform the foreign consuls and inhabitants of the contents
+of your message.
+
+"Very respectfully, Jose Toral,
+"Commander-in-Chief 4th Corps."
+
+Several of the foreign consuls came into my lines and asked that the
+time given for them--the women and children--to depart from the city
+be extended until 10 o'clock on July 5th. This induced me to write a
+second letter, as follows:
+
+"Santiago de Cuba, July 3d, 1898.
+
+"Sir,--In consideration of a request of the consular officers in your
+city for further delay in carrying out my intentions to fire on the
+city, and in the interests of the poor women and children who will
+suffer very greatly by their hasty and enforced departure from the
+city, I have the honor to announce that I will delay such action,
+solely in their interests, until noon of the 5th, provided that during
+the interim your forces make no demonstration whatever upon those of
+my own.
+
+"I am, with great respect, your obedient servant,
+
+"William R Shafter,
+"Maj.-Gen. U. S. A.
+"The Commanding General, Spanish Forces."
+
+My first message went under a flag of truce at 12:42 p.m. I was of the
+opinion that the Spaniards would surrender if given a little time, and
+I thought this result would be hastened if the men of their army could
+be made to understand they would be well treated as prisoners of war.
+Acting upon this presumption, I determined to offer to return all the
+wounded Spanish officers at El Caney who were able to bear
+transportation, and who were willing to give their paroles not to
+serve against the forces of the United States until regularly
+exchanged. This offer was made and accepted. These officers, as well
+as several of the wounded Spanish privates, twenty-seven in all, were
+sent to their lines under the escort of some of our mounted cavalry.
+Our troops were received with honors, and I have every reason to
+believe the return of the Spanish prisoners produced a good impression
+on their comrades.
+
+
+OPERATIONS AFTER SANTIAGO--OUR LOSSES.
+
+The cessation of firing about noon on the 3d practically terminated
+the battle of Santiago; all that occurred after this time may properly
+be treated under the head of the siege which followed. After deducting
+the detachments required at Siboney and Baiquiri to render those
+depots secure from attack, organizations held to protect our flanks,
+others acting as escorts and guards to light batteries, the members of
+the Hospital Corps, guards left in charge of blanket-rolls which the
+intense heat caused the men to cast aside before entering battle,
+orderlies, etc., it is doubtful if we had more than 12,000 men on the
+firing-line on July 1, when the battle was fiercest and when the
+important and strong positions of El Caney and San Juan were captured.
+
+A few Cubans assisted in the attack at El Caney, and fought valiantly,
+but their numbers were too small to materially change the strength, as
+indicated above. The enemy confronted us with numbers about equal to
+our own; they fought obstinately in strong and intrenched positions,
+and the results obtained clearly indicate the intrepid gallantry of
+the company officers and men, and the benefits derived from the
+careful training and instruction given in the company in the recent
+years in rifle practice and other battle exercises. Our losses in
+these battles were 22 officers and 208 men killed, and 81 officers and
+1,203 men wounded; missing, 79. The missing, with few exceptions,
+reported later.
+
+The arrival of Gen. Escario on the night of July 2d, and his entrance
+into the city was not anticipated, for although it was known, as
+previously stated, that Gen. Pando had left Manzanillo with
+reinforcements for the garrison of Santiago, it was not believed his
+troops could arrive so soon. Gen. Garcia, with between 4,000 and 5,000
+Cubans, was intrusted with the duty of watching for and intercepting
+the reinforcement expected. This, however, he failed to do, and
+Escario passed into the city along on my extreme right and near the
+bay. Up to this time I had been unable to complete investment of the
+town with my own men; but to prevent any more reinforcements coming in
+or the enemy escaping. I extended my lines as rapidly as possible to
+the extreme right, and completed the investment of the place, leaving
+Gen. Garcia's forces in the rear of my right flank to scout the
+country for any approaching Spanish reinforcements, a duty which his
+forces were very competent to perform.
+
+It had been reported that 8,000 Spanish troops had left Holquin for
+Santiago. It was also known that there was a considerable force at San
+Luis, twenty miles to the north.
+
+In the battle of Santiago the Spanish navy endeavored to shell our
+troops on the extreme right, but the latter were concealed by the
+inequalities of the ground, and the shells did little, if any, harm.
+Their naval forces also assisted in the trenches, having 1,000 on
+shore, and I am informed they sustained considerable loss; among
+others, Admiral Cervera's chief-of-staff was killed. Being convinced
+that the city would fall, Admiral Cervera determined to put to sea,
+informing the French consul it was better to die fighting than to sink
+his ships. The news of the great naval victory which followed was
+enthusiastically received by the Army.
+
+The information of our naval victory was transmitted under flag of
+truce to the Spanish commander in Santiago on July 4th, and the
+suggestion again made that he surrender to save needless effusion of
+blood.
+
+On the same date I informed Admiral Sampson that if he would force his
+way into the harbor the city would surrender without any further
+sacrifice of life. Commodore Watson replied that Admiral Sampson was
+temporarily absent, but that in his (Watson's) opinion the Navy should
+not enter the harbor.
+
+In the meanwhile letters passing between Gen. Toral and myself caused
+the cessation of hostilities to continue. Each army, however,
+continued to strengthen its intrenchments. I was still of the opinion
+the Spaniards would surrender without much more fighting, and on July
+6th called Gen. Toral's attention to the changed conditions, and at
+his request gave him time to consult his home government. This he did,
+asking that the British consul, with the employees of the cable
+company, be permitted to return from El Caney to the city. This I
+granted.
+
+The strength of the enemy's position was such I did not wish to
+assault if it could be avoided.
+
+An examination of the enemy's works, made after the surrender, fully
+justifies the wisdom of the course adopted. The intrenchments could
+only have been carried with very great loss of life, probably with not
+less than 6,000 killed and wounded.
+
+
+NEGOTIATIONS WITH GENERAL TORAL.
+
+On July 8th Gen. Toral offered to march out of the city with arms and
+baggage, provided he would not be molested before reaching Holquin,
+and to surrender to the American forces the territory then occupied by
+him. I replied that while I would submit his proposition to my home
+government. I did not think it would be accepted.
+
+In the meanwhile arrangements were made with Admiral Sampson that when
+the Army again engaged the enemy the Navy would assist by shelling the
+city from ships stationed off Aguadores, dropping a shell every few
+minutes.
+
+On July 10th the 1st Illinois and the 1st District of Columbia arrived
+and were placed on the line to the right of the Cavalry division. This
+enabled me to push Lawton farther to the right and to practically
+command the Cobre road.
+
+On the afternoon of the date last mentioned the truce was broken off
+at 4 p.m., and I determined to open with four batteries of artillery
+and went forward in person to the trenches to give the necessary
+orders, but the enemy anticipated us by opening fire with his
+artillery a few minutes after the hour stated. His batteries were
+apparently silenced before night, while ours continued playing upon
+his trenches until dark. During this firing the Navy fired from
+Aguadores, most of the shells falling in the city. There was also some
+small arms firing. On this afternoon and the next morning, we lost
+Capt. Charles W. Rowell, 2d Infantry, and one man killed, and Lieut.
+Lutz, 2d Infantry, and ten men wounded.
+
+On the morning of July 11th the bombardment by the Navy and my field
+guns was renewed, and continued until nearly noon, and on the same day
+I reported to the Adjutant General of the Army that the right of
+Ludlow's brigade of Lawton's division rested on the bay. Thus our hold
+upon the enemy was complete.
+
+At 2 p. m. on this date, the 11th, the surrender of the city was again
+demanded. The firing ceased, and was not again renewed. By this date
+the sickness in the Army was increasing very rapidly, as a result of
+exposure in the trenches to the intense heat of the sun and the heavy
+rains. Moreover, the dews in Cuba are almost equal to rains. The
+weakness of the troops was becoming so apparent I was anxious to bring
+the siege to an end, but in common with most of the officers of the
+Army, I did not think an assault would be justifiable, especially as
+the enemy seemed to be acting in good faith in their preliminary
+propositions to surrender.
+
+On July 11th I wrote to General Toral as follows:
+
+"With the largely increased forces which have come to me and the fact
+that I have your line of retreat securely in my hands, the time seems
+fitting that I should again demand of your excellency the surrender of
+Santiago and of your excellency's army. I am authorized to state that
+should your excellency so desire, the Government of the United States
+will transport the entire command of your excellency to Spain."
+
+General Toral replied that he had communicated my proposition to his
+General-in-Chief, General Blanco.
+
+July 12th I informed the Spanish commander that Major General Miles,
+Commander-in-Chief of the American Army, had just arrived in my camp,
+and requested him to grant us a personal interview on the following
+day. He replied he would be pleased to meet us. The interview took
+place on the 13th, and I informed him his surrender only could be
+considered, and that as he was without hope of escape he had no right
+to continue the fight.
+
+On the 14th another interview took place, during which General Toral
+agreed to surrender, upon the basis of his army, the 4th Army Corps,
+being returned to Spain, the capitulation embracing all of Eastern
+Cuba, east of a line passing from Aserraderos, on the south, to Sagua
+de Tanamo, on the north, via Palma, Soriano. It was agreed
+Commissioners should meet during the afternoon to definitely arrange
+the terms of surrender, and I appointed Major Generals Wheeler and
+Lawton and Lieutenant Miley to represent the United States.
+
+The Spanish Commissioners raised many points, and were especially
+desirous of retaining their arms. The discussion lasted until late at
+night and was renewed at 9:30 o'clock next morning. The terms of
+surrender finally agreed upon included about 12,000 Spanish troops in
+the city and as many more in the surrendered district.
+
+It was arranged that the formal surrender should take place between
+the lines on the morning of July 17th, each army being represented by
+100 armed men. At the time appointed, I appeared at the place agreed
+upon, with my general officers, staff, and 100 troopers of the 2d
+Cavalry, under Captain Brett. General Toral also arrived with a number
+of his officers and 100 infantry. We met midway between the
+representatives of our two Armies, and the Spanish commander formally
+consummated the surrender of the city and the 24,000 troops in
+Santiago and the surrendered district.
+
+After this ceremony I entered the city with my staff and escort, and
+at 12 o'clock, noon, the American flag was raised over the Governor's
+palace with appropriate ceremonies.
+
+The 9th Infantry immediately took possession of the city and perfect
+order was maintained. The surrender included a small gunboat and about
+200 seamen, together with five merchant ships in the harbor. One of
+these vessels, the Mexico, had been used as a war vessel, and had
+four guns mounted on it.
+
+In taking charge of the civil government, all officials who were
+willing to serve were retained in office, and the established order of
+government was preserved as far as consistent with the necessities of
+military rule.
+
+I soon found the number of officials was excessive, and I greatly
+reduced the list, and some departments were entirely abolished.
+
+A collector of customs, Mr. Donaldson, arrived soon after the
+surrender, and, due to his energy and efficiency, this department was
+soon working satisfactorily. The total receipts had, up to my
+departure, been $102,000.
+
+On August 4th I received orders to begin the embarkation of my command
+and ship them to Montauk Point Long Island, New York. The movement
+continued without interruption until August 25th, when I sailed for
+Montauk with the last troops in my command, turning over the command
+of the district to Major General Lawton.
+
+
+DIFFICULTIES ENCOUNTERED IN THE CAMPAIGN.
+
+Before closing my report I wish to dwell upon the natural obstacles I
+had to encounter and which no foresight could have overcome or
+obviated. The rocky and precipitous coast afforded no sheltered
+landing places, the roads were mere bridle-paths, the effect of the
+tropical sun and rains upon the unacclimated troops was deadly, and a
+dread of strange and unknown diseases had its effect on the Army.
+
+At Baiquiri the landing of the troops and stores was made a small
+wooden wharf, which the Spaniards tried to burn, but unsuccessfully,
+and the animals were pushed into the water and guided to a sandy beach
+about 200 yards in extent. At Siboney the landing was made on the
+beach and at a small wharf erected by the engineers.
+
+I had neither the time nor the men to spare to construct permanent
+wharves.
+
+In spite of the fact that I had nearly 1,000 men continuously at work
+on the roads, they were at times impassable for wagons.
+
+The San Juan and Aguadores rivers would often suddenly rise so as to
+prevent the passage of wagons, and then the eight pack trains with the
+command had to be depended upon for the victualing of my Army, as well
+as the 20,000 refugees, who could not in the interests of humanity be
+left to starve while we had rations.
+
+Often for days nothing could be moved except on pack trains.
+
+After the great physical strain and exposure of July 1st and 2d, the
+malarial and other fevers began to rapidly advance throughout the
+command, and on July 4th the yellow fever appeared at Siboney. Though
+efforts were made to keep this fact from the Army, it soon became
+known.
+
+The supply of Quartermaster and Commissary stores during the campaign
+was abundant, and notwithstanding the difficulties in landing and
+transporting the ration, the troops on the firing line were at all
+times supplied with its coarser components, namely, of bread, meat,
+sugar, and coffee.
+
+There was no lack of transportation, for at no time up to the
+surrender could all the wagons I had be used.
+
+In reference to the sick and wounded, I have to say that they received
+every attention that was possible to give them. The medical officers,
+without exception, worked night and day to alleviate the suffering,
+which was no greater than invariably accompanies a campaign. It would
+have been better if we had had more ambulances, but as many were taken
+as was thought necessary, judging from previous campaigns.
+
+The discipline of the command was superb, and I wish to invite
+attention to the fact that not an officer was brought to trial by
+court martial, and, as far as I know, no enlisted men. This speaks
+volumes for an Army of this size and in a campaign of such duration.
+
+In conclusion, I desire to express to the members of my staff my
+thanks for their efficient performance of all the duties required of
+them, and the good judgment and bravery displayed on all occasions
+when demanded.
+
+I submit the following recommendations for promotion, which I
+earnestly desire to see made. It is a very little reward to give them
+for their devotion and fearless exposure of their lives in their
+country's cause:
+
+E. J. McClernand, Lieutenant Colonel and Adjutant General, U. S. A.,
+to be brevetted Colonel for gallantry in the face of the enemy on the
+1st and 2d of July, and to be brevetted Brigadier General for faithful
+and meritorious service throughout the campaign.
+
+Geo. McC. Derby, Lieutenant Colonel of Engineers, U. S. V., to be
+brevetted Colonel for hazardous service on July 1st and 2d in
+reconnoitering the enemy's lines, and to be brevetted Brigadier
+General for hazardous and meritorious service in ascending, under a
+hot fire, in a war balloon on July 1st, thus gaining valuable
+information.
+
+J. D. Miley, Lieutenant Colonel and Inspector General, U. S. A., to be
+brevetted Colonel for conspicuous gallantry in the battle of San Juan
+on July 1st, and to be brevetted Brigadier General for faithful and
+meritorious service throughout the campaign.
+
+R. H. Noble, Major and Adjutant General, U. S. V., to be brevetted
+Lieutenant Colonel for faithful and meritorious service throughout the
+campaign.
+
+J. J. Astor, Lieutenant Colonel and Inspector General, U. S. V., to be
+brevetted Colonel for faithful and meritorious service during the
+campaign.
+
+B. F. Pope, Lieutenant Colonel and Surgeon, U. S. V., to be brevetted
+Colonel for faithful and meritorious service during the campaign.
+
+Maj. S. W. Groesbeck, Judge Advocate, U. S. A., to be brevetted
+Lieutenant Colonel for faithful and meritorious service throughout the
+campaign.
+
+Charles F. Humphrey, Lieutenant Colonel, Quartermaster's Department,
+to be brevetted Brigadier General for faithful and meritorious service
+throughout the campaign.
+
+John F. Weston, Colonel and Assistant Commissary General of
+Subsistence, Chief Commissary, to be brevetted Brigadier General for
+meritorious service throughout the campaign.
+
+C. G. Starr, Major and Inspector General, U. S. V., to be brevetted
+Lieutenant Colonel for faithful and meritorious service throughout the
+campaign.
+
+Leon Roudiez, Major and Quartermaster, U. S. V., to be brevetted
+Lieutenant Colonel for faithful and meritorious conduct throughout the
+campaign.
+
+H. J. Gallagher, Major and Commissary of Subsistence, U. S. V., to be
+brevetted Lieutenant Colonel for faithful and meritorious service
+throughout the campaign.
+
+Capt. Brice, Commissary of Subsistence, U. S. V., to be brevetted
+Major for faithful and meritorious service throughout the campaign.
+
+E. H. Plummer, Captain, U. S. A., A. D. C., to be brevetted Major for
+faithful and meritorious service throughout the campaign.
+
+J. C. Gilmore, Jr., Captain and Assistant Adjutant General, U. S. V.,
+to be brevetted Major for faithful and meritorious service during the
+campaign.
+
+W. H. McKittrick, Captain and Assistant Adjutant General, U. S. V., to
+be brevetted Major for faithful and meritorious service during the
+campaign.
+
+Capt. Johnson, Assistant Quartermaster, U. S. V., to be brevetted
+Major for faithful and meritorious service during the campaign.
+
+I wish to invite special attention to Dr. G. Goodfellow, of New York,
+who accompanied me throughout the campaign and performed much
+professional service as well as duties as Volunteer aid. I recommend
+him for favorable consideration of the War Department.
+
+Mr. G. F. Hawkins, of New York, also accompanied me as Volunteer aid,
+and I recommend him for favorable consideration of the War Department
+for faithful and important services rendered.
+
+My thanks are due to Admiral Sampson and Captain Goodrich, U. S. N.,
+for their efficient aid in disembarking my Army. Without their
+assistance it would have been impossible to have landed in the time I
+did.
+
+I also express my warmest thanks to division, brigade, and regimental
+commanders, without exception, for their earnest efforts in carrying
+out my wishes and for the good judgment they invariably displayed in
+handling their troops.
+
+The reports of the division commanders are attached hereto, and those
+of the brigade and regimental commanders forwarded herewith, and
+attention respectfully invited to them. Very respectfully,
+
+Wm. R. Shafter,
+Major-General, United States Volunteers,
+Commanding United States Forces in Cuba.
+
+Adjutant General of the Army, Washington, D. C.
+
+
+
+
+APPENDIX III.
+
+
+Bivouac, near Santiago, Cuba,
+July 23, 1898.
+The Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.
+
+Sir,--In compliance with orders I have the honor to submit the
+following report of my command, the Gatling Gun Detachment, 5th Army
+Corps, covering its operations down to the present date:
+
+1. Organization.--Pursuant to instructions from Gen. Shafter I was
+given a detail of two sergeants and ten men on the 26th of May, 1898,
+from the 13th Infantry, then in camp near Tampa, Fla., and directed to
+report to 1st Lieut. John T. Thompson, O. D., ordinance officer,
+Tampa, "for duty with Gatling guns." I was placed in charge of four
+guns, model 1895, cal. 30, and at once began the instruction of the
+detachment. On June 1st I received verbal instruction to assist Lieut.
+Thompson in his work at the ordinance depot, and performed this duty
+in addition to my duties with the guns until June 6, 1898,
+superintending issues to the expedition (5th Corps) then fitting out
+for Cuba.
+
+On June 6th I took my men and guns aboard the transport Cherokee, and
+on June 11th, per special orders No. 16 of that date, my detail was
+increased to thirty-seven men, all told, of whom one was left sick in
+hospital at Tampa. About twelve of these did not join me, however,
+until after debarkation at Baiquiri, Cuba. On June 25th I received
+verbal instructions from Gen. Shafter to disembark at once, select the
+necessary number of mules (two per gun), and get to the front as soon
+as possible, reporting on my arrival there to Gen. Wheeler, then in
+command of all the troops at the front. I was unable to obtain any
+tentage for myself, and had only shelter-tents for my men.
+
+I was joined on June 25th by Capt. Henry Marcotte, 17th Infantry,
+retired, regularly authorized correspondent of the Army and Navy
+Journal, who has been with me ever since, enduring all the
+vicissitudes of the season with Spartan fortitude, although equally
+destitute of cover as myself and 60 years of age. I desire to express
+here officially and fully, my sincere gratitude for the kindness which
+permitted him to accompany my command, and the great appreciation of
+the valuable advice and assistance which he has given continually. His
+large experience of war, his clear head and good judgment have always
+been at hand to aid, and his cool example to myself and my men under
+fire did much to steady us and keep us up to our work when we were
+first called on to face that ordeal.
+
+All of the detachments, who had not previously joined me, did so on
+June 26th, on which day I reached the extreme front and reported to
+Gen. Wheeler. The guns were posted in a position to sweep the
+neighboring hills toward the enemy, and I went into camp, remaining
+there until the morning of July 1st.
+
+Summing up the organization, it should be stated here that the
+detachment was organized at the first, and has ever since remained an
+independent command, receiving its orders directly from the corps
+commander. It has had its own records, returns, rolls, etc., and has
+been rationed separately all the time, and is composed of men selected
+by myself from various regiments.
+
+2. The Battery in Action.--On the morning of July 1st, I broke camp at
+4:30 a.m., and pursuant to instructions from Gen. Shafter, proceeded
+to El Poso, placing my battery, as I shall henceforth call it, in
+support behind the position taken by a battery of artillery. I took
+this position about 6 a.m., and soon after the artillery arrived, went
+on to battery and opened fire at Santiago, the range being 2,600
+yards. After some time the enemy replied with a well-directed fire,
+the second shell bursting directly over my battery in rear of
+artillery. Neither my men nor mules showed any signs of disturbance,
+and we remained in our perilous position nearly twenty minutes, the
+enemy's shells bursting all around us, until ordered to the rear by
+the chief-of-staff. The battery went to the rear under fire quietly
+until out of range, and remained there until the artillery fire
+ceased, at about 9 a.m. Private Hoft, Company D, 13th Infantry, a
+member of the detachment who had been detailed to guard the camp
+equipage at El Poso, remained at his post during the whole of the
+artillery fight, and deserves great credit therefor, his battery
+having been ordered to the rear. At 9 a.m. I returned to El Poso, and
+there received the following instructions from Col. McClernand, A. A.
+G., 5th Corps: "Find the 71st N. Y. V. and go on with them, if you
+can. If this is not practical, find the best position you can, and use
+your guns to the best advantage." Pursuant to these instructions, I
+went forward about a half-mile and found the 71st N. Y. V. halting to
+learn what their instructions were. I could get no clear idea of what
+they were going to do, but waited about fifteen minutes in their rear
+to find out. Meantime troops continually passed us toward the front.
+Then, about 10:15, firing began in front. I rode forward alone along
+the rode, which was a narrow defile through the jungle, and found that
+about a half-mile in front was a creek, upon the crossing of which the
+enemy's fire seemed concentrated. In front of this crossing seemed to
+be a level plain of about 400 to 800 yards, beyond which was a
+semi-circular ridge crowned with Spanish trenches from which the
+Spanish fire seemed to come. Men were being hit continually at this
+place (the ford), but it seemed to me to be a good place to work my
+battery effectively.
+
+I rode back, finding the Seventy-first still lying beside the road
+without any apparent intention of moving. I determined to leave them
+and go into action. Taking a gallop I moved the battery forward nearly
+to the ford (about 150 yards), where I met Col. Derby of Gen.
+Shafter's staff, who informed me that the troops were not yet
+sufficiently deployed to take advantage of my fire, and advised me to
+wait. The bullets were cutting through all around, and, as we learned
+afterward, the enemy's sharpshooters were actually in the woods near
+us, up in tall trees, picking off officers and men. It should be
+stated here that the sudden increase of the enemy's fire at this time
+was caused by a wild cheering set up by the 71st N. Y. V., as the
+battery passed them on its way to the front. The cheering located our
+position for the enemy and drew his fire. Many a brave soldier who had
+gone to the front was put forever beyond the possibility of cheering
+by this outburst of ignorant enthusiasm.
+
+I acted on Col. Derby's advice, and he promised to send me word when
+the moment for proper action came. This was necessary, as I knew only
+part of the plan of battle and might have jeopardized other parts of
+prematurely exposing our strength at this point. The gun crews lay
+down under their guns and steadily remained at this posts. The fire
+finally grew so hot that I moved about 100 yards back. This was about
+12, noon. At 1 p. m., or about that time, I received a message sent by
+Col. Derby, I think, as follows: "Gen. Shafter directs that you give
+one of your guns to Lieut. Miley, take the others forward beyond the
+ford where the dynamite gun is, and go into action at the best point
+you can find." I obeyed the order, giving Lieut. Miley Sergeant
+Weigle's gun and crew and moving the rest forward at a gallop to the
+point beyond the ford, which I had already selected as a good place.
+The battery opened with three guns simultaneously at ranges of 600 to
+800 yards at 1:15 p. m. The enemy at first concentrated his fire upon
+us, but soon weakened and in five minutes was clambering from his
+trenches and running to the rear. We fired as rapidly as possible upon
+the groups thus presented until I saw a white handkerchief waved by
+some one of my own regiment, the 13th Infantry, and at the same moment
+Capt. Landis, 1st Cavalry, who had voluntarily assisted me throughout,
+said: "Better stop; our own men are climbing up the ridge." I ordered
+the fire to cease at 1:23 1/2 p.m., and a moment later saw our own
+troops occupy the crest of the hill. The firing had been, continued by
+the battery until our own troops were within 150 yards of the enemy's
+trench, a fact made possible by the steep slope of the hill upon which
+the enemy had been.
+
+At the time when my battery went into action I had no support, and the
+position I took was at least 100 yards in front of any of our troops
+along this part of the line. About the time I ceased firing
+Lieut.-Col. Baldwin, 10th Cavalry, put two troops in support of my
+battery.
+
+I have advanced in a letter to the Adjutant General from Fort
+Leavenworth, dated January 1st, 1898, the theory that such guns as
+these can be used offensively. The conditions of this assault were
+favorable, the morale of my men superb, and the use made of the guns
+followed the theory therein set forth with the exactness of a
+mathematical demonstration. The infantry and cavalry had been pounding
+away for two hours on these positions; in eight and one-half minutes
+after the Gatlings opened the works were ours. Inspired by the
+friendly rattle of the machine guns, our own troops rose to the
+charge; while the enemy amazed by our sudden and tremendous increase
+of fire, first diverted his fire to my battery, and then, unable to
+withstand the hail of bullets, augmented by the moral effect of our
+battery fire and the charging line, broke madly from his safe trenches
+and was mercilessly cut by fire from these guns during his flight.
+
+I at once limbered up and took stock of my losses. One man was killed,
+one badly wounded, one mule hit twice, but not much injured, and
+several men were missing.
+
+Suddenly the fire was resumed at the front. I moved my three pieces
+forward again at a gallop, and went into action on the skirmish line
+on top of the captured position, with two pieces to the right and one
+to the left of the main road from El Poso to Santiago. I was compelled
+to make the skirmishers give way to the right and left in order to get
+room for my guns on the firing-line, and to impress stragglers to
+carry ammunition. Capt. Ayres, 10th Cavalry, gave me a detail of one
+sergeant and two privates, all of whom did fine service. It seemed to
+me that the enemy was trying to retake the position. About 4 to 4:14
+p. m. I saw a body, apparently about 400, of the enemy to the right
+front of my position, apparently in front of the position occupied by
+Lieut.-Col. Roosevelt with the 1st Volunteer Cavalry. I turned a
+Gatling gun on them, using 600-yard range, and they disappeared. Soon
+after the firing sensibly slackened.
+
+In the rapid fire on this last body of the enemy I had overheated one
+piece, and it went temporarily out of action. I went over to Col.
+Roosevelt's position, about a quarter of a mile to the right of a
+salient, and reconnoitered. While there Sergeant Weigle reported to me
+with his piece, informing me that Lieut. Miley had not put it into
+action, and asked for instructions. This was about the hour of 5 p.
+m., and the fire became warmer at that moment. I directed Sergeant
+Weigle to run his piece up on the firing-line and to report to the
+officer in charge thereof. He did so and went into action at once.
+Col. Roosevelt, who was and remained present, informs me that the gun
+was very effectively used. I rejoined my other two guns and put both
+of them on the line at the left of the El Poso road. At sundown the
+enemy made a sharp attack, and all three of my guns were effectively
+used. During the fight a battery in the city opened on my two guns,
+firing 16 cm. shells. I at once turned my guns on it and kept up so
+warm a fire that the cannoneers left their battery and did not return.
+In all they had fired three shells at us, all of which broke just over
+or beyond the battery. I secured the fuse of one, still warm, and
+after the surrender visited the battery which had fired at us and
+examined the gun. It is a 16 cm. (6.2992 inches) bronze rifle gun in
+barbette on a pintle. This is probably the first time in land fighting
+that such a piece was ever silenced by machine-gun fire. The range I
+used was 2,000 yards (estimated).
+
+The guns were used during the remainder of the fighting in the
+trenches. I took off the wheels and put the guns on the carriages in
+emplacements, erecting a sandbag parapet in front as cover during the
+night of July 4th. The disabled gun was brought up and repaired,
+subsequently participating in the fighting. The dynamite gun, under
+Sergeant Borrowe, 1st Volunteer Cavalry, cooperated with the battery
+thus formed, and the whole battery, including the two Colt automatic
+rapid-fire guns under Lieut. Tiffany, 1st United States Volunteer
+Cavalry, did good work in all the subsequent fighting. I supplied
+about eight thousand rounds of captured Mauser cartridges to Tiffany,
+which had been captured by my battery, and which he used effectively
+in his Colt's guns. I had a strong fire directed upon a battery of
+seven pieces of the enemy's artillery at a distance of 1,500 yards in
+front every time any attempt was made to use this battery. The result
+was that only three shots were fired from these guns after July 4th. I
+visited this battery after the surrender and found every gun in
+working order, the 16 cm. gun being actually loaded. As no
+organization, except my battery, of which I had general direction, had
+such orders, so far as I can learn, the conclusion is that this
+battery of machine guns kept out of action seven pieces of the enemy's
+artillery by making it too warm for his gunners to stay in their
+batteries.
+
+I have made certain recommendations in hasty reports for gallantry,
+which I personally witnessed. They were as follows:
+
+Capt. J. R. F. Landis, 1st Cavalry, medal of honor. Volunteered to
+assist observation of fire July 1st, and rendered great service at
+imminent peril of his life made necessary in order to render such
+service.
+
+Sergeant John N. Weigle, 9th Infantry, 2d Lieutenant U. S. Army
+(regulars). For conspicuous daring, intelligence, and coolness in
+action, July 1st.
+
+Corporal Charles C. Steigenwald, 13th Infantry, 2d Lieutenant U. S.
+Army (regulars). For coolness and judgment in keeping his gun in
+action with only one man to help on July 1st.
+
+Private Fred C. Elkins, 17th Infantry, 2d Lieutenant United States
+Volunteers. For conspicuous daring and courage in action. Although
+wounded, he remained at his post until he fell from exhaustion, July
+1st.
+
+Corporal Matthew Doyle, 13th Infantry, medal of honor. Conspicuous
+gallantry and coolness in action. When, two men had been shot down by
+his side he continued to work his gun effectively alone until
+assistance arrived, July 1st.
+
+Sergt. Green, Company H, 13th Infantry, medal of honor. Conspicuous
+coolness and steadiness in handling his piece under hot fire, July
+1st.
+
+Sergt. John Graham, 10th Cavalry, medal of honor. Conspicuous coolness
+and steadiness under fire, July 1st.
+
+Sergt. Weischaar, Company A, 13th Infantry, certificate of merit.
+Particularly meritorious steadiness, night of July 6th. Being put on
+outpost duty with a Gatling gun in time of truce, and having been
+alarmed by a sentinel, whose duty it was to warn him of the enemy's
+approach, he coolly reserved his fire for personal investigation and
+prevented a violation of the truce.
+
+Sergt. Ryder, Company G, 13th Infantry, certificate of merit.
+Particularly meritorious steadiness, night of July 6th. Being on
+outpost duty with a Gatling gun in time of truce, and having been
+alarmed by a sentinel, whose duty it was to warn him of the enemy's
+approach, he coolly held his fire for personal investigation and
+prevented a violation of the truce.
+
+In making these recommendations, I have limited myself to those which
+I personally observed. If I recommended for every deserving act, there
+is not a man in my whole detachment who has not deserved a certificate
+of merit. They were selected in the beginning from an army corps for
+what I knew of them, and they have abundantly justified my confidence
+in them. With a less efficient personnel it would have been absolutely
+impossible to organize, equip and instruct the first battery of
+Gatling guns ever used in the history of war, in the short space of
+time allotted me, and put it in efficient fighting shape. They fought
+their guns on the skirmish line and in advance of it, standing boldly
+up to do it when the skirmishers themselves lay down close for cover.
+My loss, as footed up on the night of July 1st, was 33 1-3 per cent,
+killed, wounded, and missing. The efficiency of the work of my guns
+was attested to me by numerous Spanish officers and prisoners. Their
+favorite expression was: "It was terrible when your guns opened,
+always. They went b-r-r-r-r, like a lawn mower cutting the grass over
+our trenches. We could not stick a finger up when you fired without
+getting it cut off--so!"
+
+The work of this experimental battery proves that in this weapon we
+have a new arm supplementary to infantry and cavalry, independent of
+both as one arm is of another, and more nearly capable of independent
+action than any other arm of the service. It is equally demonstrated
+that this new arm is entirely different from artillery in its
+functions, and can live where the latter is compelled to retire.
+
+It should, therefore, be organized as a separate arm. I have, at the
+request of General Wheeler, drawn up a scheme of such an organization
+and submitted it to him.
+
+Experience shows me that the carriage is too heavy. I can only renew
+the representations contained in my letter of January 1, 1898, to the
+Adjutant General, accompanying drawing, etc., of my proposed carriage
+for machine guns. I would now, based on experience, modify my theory
+of organization as then proposed, and would make several changes in
+the model of carriage then proposed without departing from the general
+principles.
+
+If any expression of such views is desired, I shall be very glad to
+submit them when called upon by the War Department to do so.
+
+Very respectfully,
+
+John H. Parker,
+2d Lieut., 13th Infantry,
+Commanding Gatling Gun Detachment, 5th Corps.
+
+
+
+
+INDEX.
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+L'ENVOI.
+
+  Record of the Detachment
+  The New Arm of the Service
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+INCEPTION OF THE SCHEME.
+
+  Conditions at Tampa
+  Florida Climate and its Effects
+  Description of the Gatling Gun
+  Difficulties Encountered
+  Politics at Tampa
+  First Efforts to obtain Authority
+  Original Plan of Organization
+  Tactical Employment of Machine Guns
+  A Lucky Accident
+  The First Detail
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+THE ORDNANCE DEPOT.
+
+  Defects in the Guns
+  Instruction of the Detachment
+  Status of the Detachment
+  Interview with General Wheeler
+  General Wheeler's Views
+  Interview with General Lee
+  Issues of Ordnance
+  Fire in the Magazine
+  Embarkation
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+THE VOYAGE AND DISEMBARKATION.
+
+  A Night Alarm on Transport
+  Decisive Interview with General Shafter
+  The Official Authority at Last
+  Condition of Transports
+  Disembarkation
+  Private J. Shiffer--Corral Boss
+  The Missouri Mule
+  The First March
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+THE MARCH.
+
+  The 13th Infantry Detail
+  The Cuban Guide
+  The Cuban as He Is
+  Roads in Cuba
+  Private Jones and the Scorpion
+  The Medical Department
+  The Newspaper Fraternity
+  Chaplain Springer
+  Arrival at the Front
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+THE BATTERY IN CAMP WHEELER.
+
+  Theory and Practice of Artillery and Machine Gun
+  The Problem Presented to this Detachment
+  Personnel of the Detachment
+  Roster on July 1st
+  Captain Marcotte
+  Oil for an Army
+  Futile Plans
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+THE BATTLE.
+
+  The Plan of Battle by General Shafter
+  Did General Shafter Capture Santiago? HE DID
+  The Night Before the Battle
+  El Poso
+  The Final Instructions
+  The 71st New York
+  Waiting for the Decisive Moment
+  In Action at Last
+  The Killed and Wounded
+  On the Skirmish Line
+  Reconnaissance
+  Weigle Gets His Opportunity
+  The Gatlings Knock out a Heavy Battery
+  The Brunettes
+  The Artillery
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+TACTICAL ANALYSIS OF THE BATTLES AT SANTIAGO.
+
+  El Caney
+  San Juan
+  Movements of Lawton's Division
+  The Gatlings as a Tactical Reserve
+  Sergeant William Tiffany
+  The Night Alarm
+  The Dynamite Gun
+  The Mortar Battery
+  Summary of Tactical Deductions on use of Machine Guns as
+    Demonstrated in Battle
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+THE VOLUNTEERS.
+
+  The Surrender
+  General Observations upon the Volunteers
+  The 34th Michigan
+  The Rough Riders
+  The 1st Illinois
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+THE SUFFERINGS OF THE FIFTH ARMY CORPS.
+
+  The Difficulties of the Campaign
+  Unnecessary Sufferings; the Causes
+  The Case of Private Elkins
+  The Sick Left by Kent's Division
+  Some Staff--and Some Others
+  The Lesson to be Derived
+  The General Staff--Proper
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+HOME AGAIN.
+
+  The Home Voyage
+  The End of the Detachment
+
+APPENDIX I
+
+APPENDIX II
+
+APPENDIX III
+
+
+
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK, THE GATLINGS AT SANTIAGO ***
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