Royal Sappers & Miners
Plate XI.
UNIFORM. 1813
Printed by M & N Hanhart.
In March an important plan was adopted for the promotion of non-commissioned officers. All men at home recommended for advancement, were sent to Woolwich to be examined. If found competent as artificers and soldiers, they were especially instructed in a uniform system of routine and drill, and returned perfect to their companies. A few years, however, showed the expense and inconvenience of the system, and it was necessarily relinquished.
In July the rank of colour-sergeant was granted to the corps. One was appointed to each company with the pay of 2s. 9¼d. a-day, and was distinguished by the badge of the open colour and cross swords on the right arm. Sixpence a-day was also added to the pay of the sergeant-majors, which raised it to 4s. 1¼d. a-day.