Besides heading the Athenian Society, he also formed the only military company in the history of the college. "Captain" Pierce, in an attempt to provide recreation and instruction for his fellow students, led the Bowdoin Cadets in their daily drills on the grounds in front of the President's house. The Reverend William Allen, the college's president, objected to the noise and ordered a halt to the activity. When Pierce refused to comply with Allen's order, animosity grew between the students and the college authorities resulting in the junior class going on strike. Pierce was accused of leading the rebellion, but the college records do not acknowledge the event. Pierce's father took note of his son's role, however, and in a rare letter, admonished him about his behavior. In later years, classmates fondly recalled the strike and Pierce's key role.

^ Boulard 2006, p. 23

^ Waterman, Charles E. (March 7, 1918). "The Red Schoolhouse in Action". The Journal of Education. New England Publishing Company. 87–88 (10): 265. doi:10.1177/002205741808701007. S2CID 188507307.

^ Holt 2010, 230

^ Wallner 2004, pp. 28–32

^ Holt 2010, 258

^ Wallner 2004, p. 56

^ Wallner 2004, pp. 28–33

^ Wallner 2004, pp. 