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Editorial
October 12, 1812
Portland Gazette, And Maine Advertiser
Portland, Cumberland County, Maine
What is this article about?
An extract from the Washingtonian editorial doubts the constitutionality of men volunteering under officers commissioned by President Madison for war, arguing they become regular soldiers subject to the Articles of War and severe penalties like execution for desertion, unlike drafted militiamen who have escape options.
Clipping
OCR Quality
98%
Excellent
Full Text
Extracts from the Washingtonian
VOLUNTEERING.
Doubts are entertained, whether it be constitutional for men to enroll themselves under officers to be commissioned by the President as Volunteers for carrying on the war. Which are these, Regular Troops, or Militia? The Constitution knows no other kinds of military force.
One thing those ought to consider, who thus volunteer. The moment their officers are commissioned by Mr. Madison, they become subject to the Rules and Articles of War: and are, de facto, SOLDIERS—and are liable to be SHOT, if they desert, or refuse to march.
This is rather more serious than being a militia man drafted; who can either hire a substitute; or run away,—or pay thirty-four dollars,—or get some quack Doctor to certify, that he is unfit for duty!
VOLUNTEERING.
Doubts are entertained, whether it be constitutional for men to enroll themselves under officers to be commissioned by the President as Volunteers for carrying on the war. Which are these, Regular Troops, or Militia? The Constitution knows no other kinds of military force.
One thing those ought to consider, who thus volunteer. The moment their officers are commissioned by Mr. Madison, they become subject to the Rules and Articles of War: and are, de facto, SOLDIERS—and are liable to be SHOT, if they desert, or refuse to march.
This is rather more serious than being a militia man drafted; who can either hire a substitute; or run away,—or pay thirty-four dollars,—or get some quack Doctor to certify, that he is unfit for duty!
What sub-type of article is it?
Constitutional
Military Affairs
What keywords are associated?
Volunteering
Constitutionality
Articles Of War
Militia
Desertion Penalties
What entities or persons were involved?
Mr. Madison
President
Volunteers
Editorial Details
Primary Topic
Constitutionality Of Volunteering Under Presidential Commission
Stance / Tone
Critical Warning Against Volunteering
Key Figures
Mr. Madison
President
Volunteers
Key Arguments
Doubts On Whether Volunteers Under Presidentially Commissioned Officers Are Constitutional
Constitution Recognizes Only Regular Troops Or Militia
Volunteers Become Subject To Rules And Articles Of War Upon Commissioning
Volunteers Are De Facto Soldiers Liable To Be Shot For Desertion Or Refusal To March
Volunteering Is More Serious Than Militia Draft With Options Like Substitutes Or Exemptions