value of this method of post-graduate instruction is already apparent. Most of the student officers have undertaken, in addition to the work incident to the general curriculum, specialized work from which the service is realizing returns at this early date. A course of 50 lectures was delivered during the year by men who are eminent authorities on the subjects of their various discourses. The information gained by the class which visited a large number of manufacturing plants during the summer of 1910 was comprehensive and valuable. The officials of many of the companies gave much time and attention to providing opportunities, not usually afforded, for complete observation of method of management and of manufacture. Not only were the notes taken by individual officers on professional subjects during this tour of great value, but the acquaintance with well-known engineers and professional men of civil life will prove to be most useful both to these officers and to the service. AVIATION. The experimental work for the development of aviation in the Navy was confided to the bureau under the recent appropriation by Congress. An aerodrome has been established at Greensbury Point, Annapolis, Md., and three aeroplanes of domestic manufacture were purchased from the two pioneer factories in this country and three officers have been trained as experts in their use. These officers are now qualified to instruct and train other officers in aviation as well as to continue in the experimental work of development. ENGINEERING DUTY AFLOAT AND ASHORE. The number of officers assigned to engineering duty is being gradually increased, and this practical experience, in addition to the advanced course obtained at the Post Graduate School of Engineering, will soon accomplish all that was designed in the personnel bill so far as the amalgamation of the line and former Engineering Corps is concerned. ENLISTED PERSONNEL. On the 30th of June, 1911, there were in the Navy 47,612 men of all ratings, an increase over the corresponding date of 1910 of 2,536 men. This force was distributed as follows: From the above it will be seen that the quota allowed by law, 47,500, was exceeded by 112, but as the number authorized is exclusive of prisoners under sentence of dishonorable discharge, the authorized strength has not been reached. It is thought, however, that it will be reached during the coming winter. |