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military power is confided in a Standing Army; but in those 
that are free, the Citizens themselves form the bulwark of their 
own liberty & independence. Thus it is in the United States, 
the free citizens of America are their own guardians; they 
constitute the military force destined to preserve the peace 
of the Community, & to guard against foreign invasion. In 
a nation thus situated, there can be no real cause of jealousy 
between the civil & military powers. The citizens composing 
the militia, having the same interests in the welfare of the 
community, they will be faithful guardians of the common
 weal. Hence it is reasonable for the Commander in chief 
to expect, that every individual will do his duty with alacrity, 
that the laws for regulating the militia will be punctually 
obeyed; that order & subordination will be maintained; & 
that regularity & discipline will be fully established 
throughout the militia of this Commonwealth. Although 
much has been done to accomplish these desirable ends, 
& much credit is due to the officers & other citizens of the 
militia for their exertions to perfect the system of discipline 
established; yet that they are capable of still greater improve
ment, will not be contended. To attain which the Com
mander in chief equally relies upon those whose province