The Cadet Guns

I know I already posted a picture similar to this, but I didn't really explain the story behind the cadet guns and how they and the Corps of Cadets fought in the Civil War.  This is a picture of the four cadet guns nicknamed “Matthew”, “Mark”, “Luke”, and “John”.  They were used by the Virginia Military Institute to train their cadets on the artillery and how to use them effectively.  Usually, artillery used by the military have a carriage coated with olive drab green paint.  However, these cannons are adorned with red paint which signifies that the barrels are not regulation size.  The barrels were specifically made smaller for training because it would be easier for the young cadets to move them around.  During the Civil War, the four guns from VMI were used by the Confederate army for active service.  This is where they were given their names.  The guns were used throughout the war and were later returned to the institute where they still stand today.  The cadet corps was also put into service during the war.  They played a key role in breaking the union line at New Market in 1864 where 10 cadets lost their lives.  In order to be able to be a regular soldier at that time, a male had to be at least 18 years old.  However, thousands of underage boys on both sides signed up and fought.  Some were even given promotions which placed them in positions where they were commanding men sometimes twice their age.