Fort McHenry Guard

The members of the Fort McHenry Guard who take on the mantle of the professional soldier wear the uniform of the United States Corps of Artillery. This company of artillerists was the home garrison at Fort McHenry. These officers and soldiers of the regular army were under the command of Major George Armistead.

The life of the ordinary soldier was a daily routine of drill, guard duty, servicing weapons, clothing and accouterments, and maintaining the barracks and grounds. In this all-volunteer army, soldiers were drawn from many civilian occupations. Some were attracted by dreams of adventure and heroism while others saw the prospect of honorable employment. Patriotism motivated many but land bounties and cash bonuses also provided incentives for recruits.