Volunteer riflemen

Volunteer riflemen were civilian soldiers who willingly offered their services during wartime, particularly in the American Revolutionary War. Unlike regular soldiers, they often owned their own rifles and fought without being part of a standing army. Their role was to provide additional support and flexibility, engaging in combat, scouting, and defending local areas. These volunteers brought specialized skills in marksmanship and light infantry tactics, enhancing the regular troops’ effectiveness. Their involvement was crucial in early American conflicts, reflecting a community-based approach to defense where civilians actively contributed to military efforts.