Graduates of the Naval, Academy have always held in affectionate remembrance, and have never failed to pay proper tribute to, the faithfulness and efficiency of the old instructors' and employees at Annapolis.
There have been many fine types among these men, and we are always delighted to grasp them by the hand whenever we return to our alma mater.
Professor Corbesier's record was one of complete loyalty to naval and military traditions. For many years he was my assistant as drill master in the Department of Ordnance, and I have never seen a finer example of attention to every duty. His success with midshipmen was insured by his never-failing enthusiasm and infinite patience.
The funeral services were held in the Naval Academy Chapel, and the interment took place in the Naval Academy Cemetery. All officers, and the regiment of midshipmen, attended as mourners to pay the last tribute to a man who had always shown in himself a good example of "virtue, honor, patriotism, and subordination."
U. S. NAVAL ACADEMY
ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND
March 26, 1915
NAVAL ACADEMY ORDER No. 60
The Superintendent has the painful duty of announcing the death of First Lieutenant Antoine Joseph Corbesier, U. S. Marine Corps, which occurred at the Naval Hospital, Annapolis, at 4.20 a. m., Friday, March 26. Lieutenant Corbesier was born in Brussels, Belgium, January 22, 1837, and was appointed swordmaster at the U. S. Naval Academy in October, 1865, serving faithfully and efficiently for a period of 49 years.
He was commissioned a first lieutenant in the Marine Corps, March 4, 1913, by special Act of Congress.
Professor Corbesier was an interesting and conspicuous figure in the history of the Naval Academy for nearly half a century. Possessed of a stern though lovable nature, he won the high esteem and affection of all with whom he came in contact.
Every graduate of the Naval Academy on the active list of the navy, today, except the admiral of the navy, has been under the military instruction of Professor Corbesier, and his death will be mourned by thousands of men in all walks of life who have known him through their attendance at the Naval Academy.
The value of Professor Corbesier's services to the navy is incalculable. He was the author of the " Sword Exercise" and "Bayonet Exercise" as aid down in the Navy Drill Regulations, and his "Setting Up" drill was long the standard of the navy.
During all the years of his splendid service, Professor Corbesier showed the greatest possible interest in the development and instruction of midshipmen, and he never failed to win their sincere respect and affection. His manner and bearing were always military, his habits and his private character were exemplary and his influence was most powerful for good.
The deepest sympathy is extended to his family in their bereavement.
W. F. FULLAM,
Rear Admiral, U. S. Navy,
Superintendent.