When all were aboard the lights were turned off, leaving Uncle Sam's men in complete darkness, save where a pipe or cigarette glowed.
Despite the eagerness the newness and uncertainty of it all, many of the soldiers dozed unconscious of the talk and laughter of others.
Singing was forbidden and non-coms had orders to be alert to stop any unnecessarily loud noises.
Forth into the night fared the sections of the train.

How long it was on the rail none of the men had any clear idea.

It was still dark, however, when a stop was made and the order ran monotonously along: "All out!" Again dim lights were turned on, that men might find all their belongings.

Adjusting their packs the platoons of the Ninety-ninth found their way to the ground below.
For once there was no attempt at good military formation.

At route step and in irregular columns, the regiment moved forward by platoons.