Very soon after joining the DeWitt Guard, he was chosen Company Standard Bearer; later was appointed by Colonel Barto Regimental Gunner. Has been for the last three years Company Armorer, and all who have visited the Armory, and at all examined the guns and accoutrements, can testify to his qualifications for this office. He is probably one of the best, if not the best, marksmen in Tompkins County, always taking a prize at the target shoots of the Company.
Mr. Deschner is a very worthy, upright and honest citizen, and is well entitled to all the honors that have been bestowed upon him.
WALTER C. STEEL, Student, enlisted June 22d, 1864. Mr. Steel is a young man that commands the respect and esteem of all his acquaintances. He enlisted in this Company as musician, but he is at all times ready to perform any duty in a military way that he may be called upon to do. He is not only an expert with the drum, but few can excel him in the tactics, is perfectly familiar not only with all the calls with the drum, but can go through the drill equally well. He volunteered in the United States service with the Company, and well did he serve out the whole of his time; of all the musicians at Elmira none could compete with Mr. Steel. He is a young man of much promise, and the whole Company wish him great success in whatever profession he may adopt.
GEORGE R. WILLIAMS, Vice-President Merchants' & Farmers' National Bank, of Ithaca, enlisted July 13th, 1864. For a perfect sample of an honest, upright, conscientious, as well as active, energetic and successful young man, we produce Mr. Williams. Notwithstanding his official duties, he endeavors to be present at the drills and meetings, and is an invaluable member. He volunteered in the service of the General Government with the Company in 1864. They were soon deprived of his services, by reason of his being detailed as chief Clerk at Head-Quarters. He however remained with them in camp, frequently volunteering to appear with them on dress-parade and during inspections. No man stood higher, or commanded more respect in Elmira, than Mr. Williams.
H. E. SMITH, Clerk, enlisted August 29th, 1864. Discharged July 7th, 1865; served with the Company at Elmira.