What this probably means is that he was assigned and joined this particular regiment on active service in 1783. He was originally enlisted or inducted in 1777. The time between 1777 and 1783 he could have served in another regiment at home or been awaiting a vacancy to occur. German armies were very stingy with soldiers' pay. They were often granted extensive leave, such as during harvest time, during which time they did not receive pay but were subject to being called-up. However, this is a lengthy period to await a vacancy. Some regiments were generally preferred over others due to location and living conditions, extra uniform and or food allowances, and the prestige of the regiment and it's commander. I am extrapolating from the Prussian practice which was the general pattern of other German principalities. Don Fehlings Renton, Washington, USA Tel: 425/255-8588 Dfehlings@aol.com