 On 25 August 1824, the battalion was named "Battalion of National Guards" (its distinctive name until, in 1862, the legislature appropriated it for the uniformed militia) in tribute to the Marquis de Lafayette.Gray uniforms were adopted and the intention to become a regiment was declared.In December 1824, the fifth company was organized, and Captain Stevens' company, of the 11th New York Artillery, transferred to it as the sixth company.