Matross

A matross was a soldier of artillery, who ranked next below a gunner.

The duty of a matross was to assist the gunners in loading, firing and sponging the guns. They were provided with firelocks, and marched with the store-wagons, acting as guards. In the United States Army, a matross ranked as a private of artillery.

The word is probably derived from French matelot, or from German Matrose, both of which refer to a sailor or seaman.

References

 This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domain: Chisholm, Hugh, ed. (1911). "Matross". Encyclopædia Britannica. 17 (11th ed.). Cambridge University Press. p. 890.