Page:History of the 305th field artillery (IA historyof305thfi01camp).pdf/340

290 malities had been complied with, and organizations gathered in a pouring rain for their final pay and their railroad tickets home. Men glanced proudly at the red chevrons on their left arms signifying discharge. They walked, in formation for the last time, to the familiar railroad station where organization commanders and officers gave them their discharges and shook hands as they passed through the gates-civilians after one of the best jobs soldiers ever did. And with tliis breaking up of the 305th Field Artillery died a good deal that was fine, a good deal that you couldn't see vanish without regret. Yet, although it may seem paradoxical, few would care to watch its completest resurrection, because that would mean also the rebirth of the conditions on which it was built.

No more that great communal chorus "When do we eat?”

No more the revolt in one's heart at the best cursed music in the world, First Call!

No niore tcaring one's hair at Paper Work!

No more elaborate language or strong arm competitions with the Red Hats!

Even the first sergeant got a sympathetic thought that last morning.

His piercing whistle at reveille had a special significance.

And so did his loud, uncompromising, and final:

“Outside!"