James J. Loughrey

(July 4, 1869 — August 28, 1965), Sergeant in ‘A’ Company of the United States California Volunteer Infantry.

August 30, 1898

We were called out at 10.10 p.m. after Insurgents attacked a flourmill. We returned to quarters about 11 p.m. when “M” Company was despatched to

August 31, 1898

We were mustered and inspected at 8 am.

September 6, 1898

Requiem High Mass was celebrated for Captain Richter and the other members of the regiment who had died. Father Doughterty celebrated the Mass, with the

September 8, 1898

Solemn High Mass was celebrated, accompanied by a native choir. The service and singing were beautiful.

September 9, 1898

Admission Day entertainment at the Filipino Theatre by NSGW [Native Sons of the Golden West]. I developed a bad cold and cough.

September 10, 1898

It was reported that Insurgents killed three men from the Battery of the 3rd US Artillery in the trenches last night. We received orders to

September 14, 1898

A boat capsized about 800 yards up river from our quarters at about 5.30 p.m. W. W. Smith was drowned but the other occupants, Privates

September 16, 1898

We drilled by platoon. C. O’Donnell, chief of the 1st platoon at command faced left about and remained at the rear of the platoon!

September 18, 1898

I came off guard at 9.30 a.m. Fourteen prisoners were taken during the night.

September 20, 1898

We left barracks at 7 am. for a regimental inspection at Malate. I received 2 months pay — $43.20. A report circulated that the leader

September 22, 1898

The regimental parade took place at Malate. Later I bought a box for $2 (Mexican)

September 26, 1898

We received helmets and white uniforms today. Crow left for San Francisco; he was awarded $368 transportation money

September 28, 1898

Received mail, three letters and two newspapers.

September 30, 1898

Colonel Smith’s servant ‘Sam’ died suddenly. I had my photograph taken in town. There were 21 series of court-martials which resulted in the following sentences:

October 2, 1898

Mass at 8.30 a.m. in St. Ignatius Church in the walled city, with the Archbishop of Manila in attendance. Camp open 9.30 to 11 am.

October 3, 1898

I received some mail from home and went on parade at 4.30 pm.

October 13, 1898

Today we had rain for the first time in ages. We were issued with shoes and leggings. There was uproar over the supper which consisted

October 14, 1898

Weather showery. For breakfast we had hot biscuits for the first time. For supper we had macaroni and applesauce which was fine. For tea we

October 15, 1898

I despatched mail home. Today we were given rice, which was just mush.

October 19, 1898

We left Malacañang for quarters near the suspension bridge to do police duty in Manila. Received mail.

October 20, 1898

We mounted regimental guard at 8.15 a.m. — 72 men, 12 corporals and 2 sergeants. Received more mail.

October 22, 1898

We had inspection at 11 a.m., light marching order with khaki uniforms. There were rumours that we were going to fight theInsurgents. There were changes