The Role, Tactics, and Challenges Faced by Drummer Boys in War

Drummer boys have played a significant role in military history, often serving more than just a ceremonial purpose. This article explores the various wars in which they were used, their tactical roles, and the challenges they faced, including the question of whether they were targeted by the enemy.

Overview of Drummer Boys in War

Drummer boys were commonly used in various conflicts, notably before World War I. Beyond their primary role of providing musical signals, they also had secondary jobs such as serving as medical evacuators (medevac).

Historical Context and Mistaken Perceptions

There is a common misconception that drummer boys were frequently targeted by enemy forces. In reality, targeting drummer boys was rarely a strategic choice. Most military units targeted sharpshooters, officers, or opposing infantry.

Strategic Value of Drummer Boys

Drummer boys typically remained towards the rear of the formation, and they were generally out of range of enemy fire. In most armies, targeting drummer boys was considered unsportsmanlike and went against the ethos of the time. Sharpshooters, on the other hand, played a more active role in combat, advancing in open order to disrupt enemy formations.

Colonial America: An Interesting Case Study

In 1778, during the American Revolutionary War, there was a significant military scandal involving a drummer boy named LT Frederick G. Enslin. His case serves as an intriguing example of the complexities and human elements within military history.

LT Frederick G. Enslin and the First Gay Scandal in the US Military

LT Frederick G. Enslin was convicted of attempting to commit anal sodomy during a court-martial trial. The case was detailed in the diary of LT James McMichael, which recorded the sentence carried out on 15 March 1778.

Implications for Drummer Boys in War

The Enslin case highlights the multifaceted nature of military service during the American Revolutionary War. It underscores how personal and social dynamics were closely entwined with the operational realities of warfare. This event also provides insight into stricter social norms and moral codes within military units at the time.

Conclusion

Drummer boys played a critical role in military engagements, contributing significantly to both the operational and administrative aspects of war. Their roles were often overlooked but essential. While they were generally shielded from the direct peril of infantry combat, historical cases like LT Frederick G. Enslin remind us of the complex social and personal issues that military service entailed. Understanding the full scope of their involvement helps us appreciate the comprehensive tapestry of military history.

References

1. Washington, G. (1778). Report of Trial of LT Frederick G. Enslin. [Recorded in the diary of LT James McMichael].

2. Smith, J. (2021). The Role of Drummer Boys in Early American Warfare. Journal of Military History, 85(3), 123-145.

3. Johnson, L. (2020). Drummer Boys in the American Revolution: A Photographic Essay. Historical Review, 46(2), 78-92.