Enlistment

Enlistment is the mode by which the British and American army is recruited, as distinguished from the Conscription (q.v.) prevailing in most European countries. Enlistment in Britain was, until 1802, in the hands of middlemen, who received a commission for their trouble. Since that year it has been managed by the adjutant-general's department. Formerly, a soldier enlisted for life, and could never look forward to retiring on a pension while still possessed of a fair share of health and strength. This was changed in 1847 by an act which limited the term of enlistment to 10 years for infantry, and to 12 for cavalry or artillery. A soldier could then either quit the army without pension, or re-engage for the remainder of 21 years, at the expiration of which time he was entitled to a pension for life; and in 1868 twopence a day was added to the pay of every soldier so re-engaged. This system was not compatible with the formation of trained reserves, with which to bring the army to fighting strength in the event of war, and in consequence the 'Army Enlistment Act' of 1870 was passed. Under this act men still enlist for 12 years, but with the understanding that 7 years or less shall be passed with the colours, and the remainder in the reserve. This is known as 'short service;' and a reserve of trained soldiers has thus been formed who are liable to be called back into army service if great emergency arises during their reserve service. The Army Act of 1881 contains the law relating to enlistment. The Recruit (q. v.) no longer receives from the recruiting-sergeant the shilling which formerly obliged him to appear before a magistrate and take the oath, or pay a fine of twenty shillings. Now he is not deemed to be enlisted until he has voluntarily appeared before a magistrate, commanding officer, or other authorised person, who puts to him a series of authorised questions, and satisfies himself that the man is not under the influence of liquor. The recruit then signs the declaration, takes the oath, and is attested. A false answer to questions put on attestation is punishable by a civil court or court-martial. At any time within three months of his attestation if a recruit pays a sum not exceeding ten pounds he is entitled to be discharged, unless the country is at war. A man who has received pay as a soldier is deemed to be enlisted, even though he has not been attested, but can claim his discharge at any time within 3 months. An apprentice can be claimed by his master within one month of his enlistment, but must be under 21, have been bound by regular indenture for 4 years, and under 16 when so bound. Militiamen enlist for a term of 6 years, and may then re-enrol for another term of 6 years. See DESERTION, DISCHARGE, FOREIGN ENLISTMENT ACT, and RECRUIT; and for the manning of the navy, see NAVY.