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| 174 Commenting on the various military organizations in the inaugural parade, the Army and Navy Journal said of the Fifth: " The general appearance of this regiment, its marching and manual of arms were a revelation to all who saw it; it was never in such condition as at present. It has made wonderful progress since its last visit to this city. The regiment was followed by its Veteran Corps, under command of Colonel Henry D. Loney, with staff of nine members. The vets marched very well, and in their handsome dress uniforms made a very pretty show. It being composed of ex-members of the regiment, and of men of middle age, they marched exceedingly well—many of them being veterans of the late war. Being of a semi-military order, they wore side arms. Salutes were well rendered; distances between platoons well kept." The Veteran Corps had gone to Washington, on the steamer Lancaster, which was their headquarters during the ceremonies. The 10th of May, 1893, was the 26th Anniversary of the formation of the regiment, and was observed by a street parade, the regiment mustering about 675 men. The parade was in every way a success, the command in white trousers making a very handsome display. The Veteran Corps was in line, and one of the companies had its Gatling gun, which had just been received. Lieutenant H. O. Dumi, United States Army, gave a lesson in handling this formidable weapon at the armory. The Veteran Corps had now an armory of its own, having purchased from the Cathedral trustees the building at 9 E. Franklin street, formerly occupied by St. Joseph's Female School. This building was fitted up for the purpose of the command, and the first occupation was celebrated by a banquet. On June 6 the Fifth assembled for regimental drill— which was held on Mt. Royal avenue—and such movements as the space would permit were well executed. During the summer months drills were suspended, but the command did not remain inactive. Every man was required to engage in target practice. On September 20 orders were issued for the resumption of drills, and on October 6 the drill season opened with a regimental parade, battalion drill and hop, which was witnessed by the governor and his staff, the brigadier-general and staff, and many other military guests. The regiment paraded 500 muskets and 50 officers. |