Militia enquiry.

[Red Tom]

Good morning folks, I have an ancestor enlisting in the militia in 1896,and then again  18 months later. Why would that be,is this normal practice?

[Red Tom]

I think I may have sorted this out, the first attestation was for the Militia,the second was for 'Short Service'.Do I take it that this was for the regular army?

[km1971]

Yes short service was 12 years in the Regular army - it was 'short' compared to the previous unlimited service earlier in the century. This was for life or more usually until the man's health failed after 21 years.

Joining the Militia first was a good way of trying army life before committing for 12 years. The Militia only charged £2 to purchase a discharge, compared to £20 in the Regulars. Joining the Regular army from the Militia was free.

The 12 years was split seven years in uniform followed by five years in the Army Reserve, which was for two weeks a year in exchange for half pay. The army also tried 3 plus 9 years in order to attract more men. Once in if he earned two good conduct badges he could stay in uniform for the full 12 years and beyond. If he transferred to the Army Reserve he could extend for a further four years.

Ken

[Red Tom]

Thank you for your help Ken,I appreciate it.