Quartermaster

in military affairs a regimental officer. In the United States army, he is appointed by the colonel, subject to the approval of the secretary of war. He has the rank and pay of a lieutenant. It is his duty in the field to mark out the camp and to superintend the assignment of quarters and distribution of clothing, fuel, and rations. In permanent quarters he has charge of the barracks or tents. The quartermaster department at Washington has general charge of military quarters. It provides for the transportation of the army, and purchases all clothing, food, tents, horses, and forage. The providing of stationery and medicine also comes within the province of this department. Emergency expenses, such as the employment of spies, interpreters, guides, the pursuit of deserters, the burial of officers and soldiers, and the care and maintenance of national cemeteries, are in charge of the department.