Glossary

Glossary

Absent Without LeaveMissing from his regiment without permission.
Brigade HospitalIn January 1778, each brigade was ordered to build a log hut to serve as a hospital for the men of the brigade.  
CashieredThe term applied to an officer who was dismissed from the Army for incompetence or misconduct.  
Command/ On CommandOn assignment outside of camp for periods of a day to months at a time for a military assignment.  Most of the where or what does not appear in the records.  
Deserted/Deserter  A man who left his regiment without authorization and may have gone over to the enemy or left for his home.
DischargedReleased from the army either due to the end of his term of enlistment or occasionally for medical reasons.
EnlistedThe man has joined the army as a private or non-commissioned officer.
EnsignThe lowest ranking officer who carried the colors or ensign into battle.
Furlough/on furloughGiven leave to be absent from military duty.
In inoculationUnder inoculation for smallpox. 
JoinedThe date the man reported to his regiment at camp.
OmittedLeft off the paymaster’s roll.
On guardThe men detailed to protect the encampment.
On detachmentA variable number of men sent out of camp on a particular task or assignment. Detachments could last for days or months.
On roll without commentSoldier was present in camp with no remarks on the muster roll.
On duty                          In camp on some undifferentiated military assignment.
PrisonerA soldier held captive by the enemy.
ResignedOnly officers could resign from the army and could do so without completing a specific term of service.
Sick absentSick in an unspecified location outside of camp.
Sick in camp or quartersSick in a hut or tent in camp.
Time out/ time is outThe period for which a man enlisted has ended.
Under confinement/ Under guardUnder guard for violating regulations.

Sources:

Boyle, Joseph Lee.  “Virginia makes the Poorest Figure of any State”

The Virginia Infantry at the Valley Forge Encampment 1777-1778. Maryland: Clearfield Company. 2019