It would be convenient if the word Train were officially used for all the non-fighting Trains.
Now that the whole force of a great nation includes several Armies, it is desirable to have a separate word for the whole Army. Perhaps Host?
A short word (like Base) is much needed for the L. of C. and the Advanced Base. Perhaps Rear-Routes and Fore-Base might be used?
A better word for Advanced Guard would be Foreguard, on the analogy of Rear-Guard and Vanguard. The cumbrous expression “Commander of the Advanced Guard” might then be replaced by Foreguard Chief.
The awkward French word depôt (with its accent) might be replaced by the Old English word stow, which we find surviving in place-names, where it meant a military depôt during the English conquest of Britain.
The importance of shortening and defining military terms does not rest only on the convenience of writers and readers. The advantage in saving time, and conducing to lucidity, cannot be overestimated when Orders are to be written and read, often under difficulties and in a hurry.
A scientific system of Military Terminology would thus prove of real value in war. The above observations are made in order to call attention to this matter, in the hope that official action may one day lead to a more logical system of military terms.
Printed and bound by Hazell, Watson & Viney, Ld., London and Aylesbury.
Transcriber’s Notes
Punctuation, hyphenation, and spelling were made consistent when a predominant preference was found in this book; otherwise they were not changed.