AID-DE-CAMP, Pol'dr-klix' (Fr., camp as sistant), or AID. A military officer serving ou the staff of a commanding general °nicer. In time of war it is a position of grave responsi bility, as shown lay the terrible mistake which led to the brilliant. hut foolish, light ea•alry charge of the British in the Crimean War of 1851. it is also a position involving, much dan ger, as may be seen from the nature of the duties performed. on active service the aid-de cmnp is in close confidential touch with the gen eral officer to whom he is attached. and when neeessary acts as his military secretary. On the battle-fichl lie carries all orders from the gen eral in command to the commanding officers of the various arms, and must of necessity be alert. quick-witted, resourceful, and prompt. giving his message in the plainest anti most unmistakable form. Wherever possible such
orders must be delivered in writing,. In, Euro pean nations. an appointment of aid-de-camp, particularly if on the staff of the ruler or a mem ber of the ruling family, carries much social as well as military prestige. while in ali services it is a much coveted and much sought appoint ment. lu the )kited States a lieutenant-general is allowed to have two aids (lientenant-colonels) and a military secretary: a major-general. three aids (eithe• captains or lieutenants): and a brigadier-general. two aids (lieutenants). Be fore an officer can receive such appointment. lie must have served at least three of the five pre ceding years with his regiment or corps. The appointment is for tire years, and may HOI be exceeded. except on request of a general who retires within one year.