The guards were organized on March 1, 1918, and not only drilled faithfully and continuously in the manual of arms, but they kept the morale of our citizens high during the struggle of the world for independence.

Invitations were sent out a few days before,

HISTORY OF WESTERN NEBRASKA

to the members of the company and several of their friends, requesting them to appear at the opera house the evening of January 16, for demobilization exercises. About eighty-five people assembled at the opera house and held one of the most delightful social events that have ever been held in the city of Bridgeport.

Tables were set on the stage and a spread was served, immediately after which responses to the toasts were given. The guards who responded to the toasts proved that they were orators as well as soldiers. Captain W. H. Willis acted as toastmaster. Private Estill gave the toast, "Fall in ;" Sergeant Bayles gave, "At Ease ;" First Lieutenant Rogers gave, "Forward. March!" First Sergeant Morris gave "Company Dismissal." There were also read letters from Chaplain McDougall and Private Deulen, who were absent:

After the banquet Captain Willis presented to each member of the company an honorable discharge from service and the gun and equipment that had been used by the members while in service. The arm and equipment becomes the property of the discharged members, and will be a valued souvenir of his service in the home guards.

Following is the final roll call of the Bridgeport home guards :