Regimental Morale
One of the most interesting developments in the course of our long drawn-out preparation period at Custer was the growth of what might be termed regimental morale. We used to wonder, what with unlimited "fatigue", unnecessary squads east and west, inexhaustible coal piles, incessant turn-over of man power, etc., ad infinitum, how we would ever get the spirit and co-operative punch essential to a real fighting unit. We were sure that every other F.A. regiment had it all over us in every way—except work— and we were weary to the point of distraction of dull routines, idle rumor and blank waiting. But, when we finally did go, and saw these same men we helped to discipline and the men who had worked to discipline and drill us under the strain of travel, under fire and through hell—it suddenly dawned on us that we did get something fine and deep back there in Custer, something enduring.
Authorities call it morale. We don’t know what to call it, but we know some of the stuff it’s made of. A bit of kindness and a bit more of tolerance; a bit of thoughtfulness and a deal of pride----pride in our cause, our buddies and our outfit; a respect for "properly constituted authority" , as D. R. calls it; a knowledge that discipline is essential and means servility only to those who are by inclination servile. And, along with all this, something deeper and finer—respect and compassion for the weak and the helpless which, after all, was what we set out to fight for Over There. Wasn’t it?
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