The Fort McHenry Guard

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.

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