A Military Dictionary and Gazetteer / Comprising ancient and modern military technical terms, historical accounts of all North American Indians, as well as ancient warlike tribes; also notices of battles from the earliest period to the present time, with a concise explanation of terms used in heraldry and the offices thereof. The work also gives valuable geographical information. Compiled from the best authorities of all nations. With an appendix containing the Articles of war, etc.

by Thomas Wilhelm

Fire, Tables of. In artillery, are tabulated statements for each piece, showing the range and time of flight for each elevation, charge of powder, and kind of projectile. Their purpose is to assist the artillerist in attaining his object without waste of time and ammunition, and also to regulate his aim when the effect of shot cannot be seen on account of the dust and smoke of the battle-field. The first few shots generally produce a great effect on the enemy, and it is very important that they should be directed with some knowledge of their results, which, in the field, can only be attained by experience, or from the data afforded by a table of fire. Tables of fire for different kinds of cannon may be found in the Ordnance and Artillery Manuals.

Fire, Vertical. See [Fire].

Fire-workers. In the British service, were formerly subordinate to the fire-master and his mate; had afterwards the rank of youngest lieutenants in the regiment of artillery, but now that rank is abolished, and they are all second lieutenants. They were supposed to be well skilled in every kind of laboratory-work, which knowledge is an essential qualification in every officer of that branch of the service.

Fireworks. Are various combustible preparations used in war. See [Pyrotechny].

Firing. The act of discharging fire-arms.

First Sergeant. The ranking non-commissioned officer in a company. He has immediate charge of all enlisted men of the company and company property; has command of it during formations, and calls the roll. He also makes all details, keeps the roster, etc. See [Orderly Sergeant].

Fishguard. A seaport town of South Wales, county of Pembroke. About 2¹⁄₂ miles south of this town a French force of 1400 men, under Gen. Tate, landed on February 22, 1797, and next day surrendered to a few militia and volunteers not half their number.

Fishtail Wind. A term in target practice with small-arms for a rear wind which is variable in direction.

Fish Torpedoes. See [Torpedoes].

Fissure. A narrow chasm where a small breach has been made, as in a fort, citadel, etc.