VOLUNTEERS IN THE AIR.

Timaru Herald, Volume XIIC, Issue 1405, 26 October 1909, Page 3

VOLUNTEERS IN THE AIR.

<»• AMERICA LEADS. Tlie latest addition to the American Volunteer forces is that of an aeronautical section of the National Guard, which corresponds to the British Territorial Army. Missouri lias the honour of starting tho movement. Lieutenant Chester Burg, of the United States Signal Corps, a wellknown aeronaut, has enlisted fifteen enthusiasts for tiie new branch, which is located at St. Louis, and lie lias been overwhelmed witli applications from members of the militia to join the new force. .For the present, however, no more will be accepted owing to tho difficulties of training. The recruits include some of tho most prominent and wealthy young men in St. Louis, and have been selected for their high standard of intolligenco. Later on it is intended to increase tho number in order to secure the services of several meteorologists and astronomers. For the present tho corps will receive instruction from experienced aeronauts and will have the use of two balloons belonging to the St. Louis Aero Club. The club intends to present the volunteers with a balloon of tlieir own shortly, and as soon as they have mastered the rudiments of aerial navigation aeroplanes will be secured and studied.

A similar movement is being organised in Massachusetts in the National Guard there, and other States are becoming eager to fall in line, the recent conquest of the air having given an impetus in this matter to the volunteers.