DEPARTMENT REPORTS. 191 



only. Those only were wanted who desired to progress in the military 

 work and had the interest of the corps in view. 



The prospect of an interesting year in the work is very good 



Very respectfully, 



liRA LONGANECKER, 

 1st Lieut. 22d U. S. Infantry, 

 Professor of Military Science and Tactics. 



To the President, Michigan Agricultural College: 



Sir — I have the honor to submit the following report covering the work 

 in this department from the beginning of the college year 1015, to Janu- 

 ary 26, 1916. 



1. Both the practical and theoretical courses of instruction were 

 changed considerably at the beginning of the college year so as to con- 

 form to the requirements' of the War Department ; heretofore not more 

 then one-half of the required subjects being covered. The revised course 

 has also been made more attractive and instructive; not being the same 

 old subjects term after term. The course now contains those subjects 

 which any good citizen, who is a college graduate, should know. 



2. Apparently from outward appearances, the interest displayed by 

 the student body generally in the military work has been much more 

 marked and noticeable during the last tew years. This is probably due 

 to a number of causes, but the work can, and will be made more attrac- 

 tive. 



Aside from the military value, the drill is a good, clean, and healthful 

 exercise, and the young men who have been taught to walk erect and 

 expand their chests will have several years added to their lives. The 

 instructors can give sound advice to their classes, and it is recommended 

 that they do so whenever an occasion is presented. Of course it is un- 

 derstood that correct information and advice should be given; not in- 

 formation that is liable to create a wrong impression or ridicule. 



3. The success of the college rifle team in winning the intercollegiate 

 championship of the United States deserves special mention. The 

 twelve students who were especially selected for their expertness in 

 rifle shooting deserve commendation. These men worked exceptionally 

 hard during the fall and winter terms ; and during this time, they proved 

 the fact that rifle shooting, is one of the most healthful exercises, and 

 one of the most exacting sports in which a student may engage. It not 

 only develops the muscles, eyes and nerves, but teaches how to co-ordi- 

 nate the functions in unison and produce results which otherwise were 

 impossible. 



This phase of the military work could be greatly developed at a very 

 small expense, and it would also increase the interest of the student 

 body. A complete out-door target range should be provided, where shoot- 

 ing up to five and six hundred yards could be conducted. 



As most of the ammunition would be provided by the Federal Govern- 

 ment, the upkeep of the range would be very small. 



There are a number of out-door matches in which students could com- 

 pete. These would be shot under the rules of the National Rifle Asso- 



