VOLUNTEER REFORM.

Thames Guardian and Mining Record, Volume I, Issue 239, 15 July 1872, Page 3

VOLUNTEER REFORM.

To tho Editor of the THAMES GUAKUIAN. Sir,—l clearly see that if we do not make a stir, we shall still be drilled in the same old-fashioned way year after year, and ho armed with our present oldfashioned muzzle-loading rifles, and big sandwich-boxes, which we wear slung over one shoulder when fully equipped for Government inspection, or active service. Sir, I consider that the Government are not doing justice to our adopted country, if they do not at once rectify this. What we require is improved arms (Sniders or Martini-Henry rifles), and to lenrn how to use them with precision, also to learn a new course of drill suitable for those arms. And further, what is greatly needed for the Volunteer force to become efficient is—a Board of Staff Officers to visit each province, and examine all those who wish to pass an examination to qualify themselves as efficient for tho different ranks in the service. The successful candidates to be presented with a badge (to wear on the left arm of uniform), also with a certificate. If these suggestions were carried out, it would tend to raise the efficiency of our citizen soldieis, and also add to the confidence already reposed in them as the defenders of our hearths and homes. Should this meet the eyes of those in authority, perhaps they may be found worthy of consideration.—l am, &c, VOX. Grahamstown, July 13, 1872.