Illinois Verse/Military Day

by Anna Shattuck Palmer

Military Day

Military Day in the last full week of May
Brings out on the drill-field all the great brigade.
Both the regiments of infantry appear;
Batteries of artillery, troops of cavalry
Follow, and line up proudly for the grand parade.

Companies abreast, they stand; imposing sight!
On their right flank is the military band.
Officers are facing them across the field
Sent by the government to decide our military rank
Among distinguished colleges of the land.

Gayly playing a grand march, the band leads down the field
Men swing into columns; four abreast they go.
In two long lines each of the companies passes before
Its judges in review. The cavalry now displays
Great skill. And the artillery moves along the row.

Passing down the ranks of companies at attention,
Judges look at equipment and men with closest care.
Many hours were spent before by anxious cadets
Polishing bayonets and rifles, puttees, belts,—
Knowing this severe inspection they must bear.

Presentation of the Hazleton medal follows.
Best of the freshman units wins it; given for
Over thirty years. The Uni medal of gold
Comes next and bronze. Then back to the huge old armory
March the men and disband to rush forth free once more.