Chapter IV: Introduction (1)

1. Success in battle is the ultimate object of all military training; success may be looked for only when the training is intelligent and thorough.

2. Commanding officers are accountable for the proper training of their respective organizations within the limits prescribed by regulations and orders.

The excellence of an organization is judged by its field efficiency. The field efficiency of an organization depends primarily upon its effectiveness as a whole. Thoroughness and uniformity in the training of the units of an organization are indispensable to the efficiency of the whole; it is by such means alone that the requisite teamwork may be developed.

3. Simple movements and elastic formations are essential to correct training for battle.

4. The Drill Regulations are furnished as a guide. They provide the principles for training and for increasing the probability of success in battle.

In the interpretation of the regulations, the spirit must be sought. Quibbling over the minutiæ of form is indicative of failure to grasp the spirit.

5. The principles of combat are considered in Part II of these regulations. They are treated in the various schools included in Part I only to the extent necessary to indicate the functions of the various commanders and the division of responsibility between them. The amplification necessary to a proper understanding of their application is to be sought in Part II.

6. The following important distinctions must be observed:

(_a_) Drills executed at _attention_ and the ceremonies are _disciplinary exercises_ designed to teach precise and soldierly movement, and to inculcate that prompt and subconscious obedience which is essential to proper military control. To this end, smartness and precision should be exacted in the execution of every detail. Such drills should be frequent, but short.

(_b_) The purpose of _extended order drill_ is to teach the _mechanism_ of deployment, of the firings, and, in general, of the employment of troops in combat. Such drills are in the nature of disciplinary exercises and should be frequent, thorough, and exact in order to habituate men to the firm control of their leaders. Extended order drill is executed _at ease_. The company is the largest unit which executes extended order drill.

(_c_) _Field exercises_ are for instruction in the duties incident to campaign. Assumed situations are employed. Each exercise should conclude with a discussion, on the ground, of the exercise and principles involved.

(_d_) The _combat exercise, a form of field exercise_ of the company, battalion, and larger units, consists of the _application of tactical principles_ to assumed situations, employing in the execution the appropriate formations and movements of close and extended order.

Combat exercises must simulate, as far as possible, the battle conditions assumed. In order to familiarize both officers and men with such conditions, companies and battalions will frequently be consolidated to provide war-strength organizations. Officers and noncommissioned officers not required to complete the full quota of the units participating are assigned as observers or umpires.

The firing line can rarely be controlled by the voice alone; thorough training to insure the proper use of prescribed signals is necessary.

The exercise should be followed by a brief drill at attention in order to restore smartness and control.

7. In field exercises the enemy is said to be _imaginary_ when his position and force are merely assumed; _outlined_ when his position and force are indicated by a few men; _represented_ when a body of troop acts as such.

_General Rules for Drills and Formations._

8. When the _preparatory_ command consists of more than one part, its elements are arranged as follows:

(1) For movements to be executed successively by the subdivisions or elements of an organization: (_a_) Description of the movement; (_b_) how executed, or on what element executed.

(2) For movements to be executed simultaneously by the subdivisions of an organization: (_a_) The designation of the subdivisions; (_b_) the movement to be executed.

9. Movements that may be executed toward either flank are explained as toward but one flank, it being necessary to substitute the word "left" for "right," and the reverse, to have the explanation of the corresponding movement toward the other flank. The commands are given for the execution of the movements toward either flank. The substitute word of the command is placed within parentheses.

10. Any movement may be executed either from the halt or when marching, unless otherwise prescribed. If at a halt, the command for movements involving marching need not be prefaced by _forward_, as 1. _Column right (left)_, 2. _MARCH_.

11. Any movement not specially excepted may be executed in double time.

If at a halt, or if marching in quick time, the command _double time_ precedes the command of execution.

12. In successive movements executed in double time the leading or base unit marches in _quick time_ when not otherwise prescribed; the other units march in _double time_ to their places in the formation ordered and then conform to the gait of the leading or base unit. If marching in double time, the command _double time_ is omitted. The leading or base unit marches in _quick time_; the other units continue at double time to their places in the formation ordered and then conform to the gait of the leading or base unit.

13. To hasten the execution of a movement begun in quick time, the command: 1. _Double time_, 2. _MARCH_, is given. The leading or base unit continues to march in quick time, or remains at halt if already halted; the other units complete the execution of the movement in double time and then conform to the gait of the leading or base unit.

14. To stay the execution of a movement when marching, for the correction of errors, the command: 1. _In place_, 2. _HALT_, is given. All halt and stand fast, without changing the position of the pieces. To resume the movement the command: 1. _Resume_, 2. _MARCH_, is given.

15. To revoke a preparatory command, or, being at a halt, to begin anew a movement improperly begun, the command, _AS YOU WERE_, is given, at which the movement ceases and the former position is resumed.

16. Unless otherwise announced, the guide of a company or subdivision of a company in line is _right_; of a battalion in line or line of subdivisions or of a deployed line, _center_; of a rank in column of squads, toward the side of the guide of the company.

To march with guide other than as prescribed above, or to change the guide: _Guide (right, left_, or _center)_.

In successive formations into line, the guide is toward the point of rest; in platoons or larger subdivisions it is so announced.

The announcement of the guide, when given in connection with a movement, follows the command of execution for that movement. Exception: 1. _As skirmishers, guide right (left_ or _center)_, 2. _MARCH_. (_C.I.D.R., No. 2._)

17. _The turn on the fixed pivot_ by subdivisions is used in all formations from line into column and the reverse.

_The turn on the moving pivot_ is used by subdivisions of a column in executing changes of direction.

18. Partial changes of direction may be executed:

By interpolating in the preparatory command the word _half_, as _Column half right (left)_, or _Right (left) half turn_. A change of direction of 45° is executed.

By the command: _INCLINE TO THE RIGHT (LEFT)_. The guide, or guiding element, moves in the indicated direction and the remainder of the command conforms. This movement effects slight changes of direction.

19. The designations _line of platoons_, _line of companies_, _line of battalions_, etc., refer to the formations in which the platoons, companies, battalions, etc., each in column of squads, are in line.

20. Full distance in column of subdivisions is such that in forming line to the right or left the subdivisions will have their proper intervals.

In column of subdivisions the guide of the leading subdivision is charged with the step and direction; the guides in rear preserve the trace, step, and distance.

21. In close order, all details, detachments, and other bodies of troops are habitually formed in double rank.

To insure uniformity of interval between files when falling in and in alignments, each man places the palm of the left hand upon the hip, fingers pointing downward. In the first case the hand is dropped by the side when the next man on the left has his interval; in the second case, at the command _front_.

22. The posts of officers, noncommissioned officers, special units (such as band or machine-gun company), etc., in the various formations of the company, battalion, or regiment, are shown in plates.

In all changes from one formation to another involving a change of post on the part of any of these, posts are promptly taken by the most convenient route as soon as practicable after the command of execution for the movement; officers and noncommissioned officers who have prescribed duties in connection with the movement ordered, take their new posts when such duties are completed.

As instructors, officers and noncommissioned officers go wherever their presence is necessary. As file closers it is their duty to rectify mistakes and insure steadiness and promptness in the ranks.

23. Except at ceremonies, the special units have no fixed places. They take places as directed; in the absence of directions, they conform as nearly as practicable to the plates, and in subsequent movements maintain their relative positions with respect to the flank or end of the command on which they were originally posted.

24. General, field, and staff officers are habitually mounted. The staff of an officer forms in single rank 3 paces in rear of him, the right of the rank extending 1 pace to the right of a point directly in rear of him. Members of the staff are arranged in order from right to left as follows: General staff officers, adjutant, aids, other staff officers, arranged in each classification in order of rank, the senior on the right. The flag of the general officer and the orderlies are 3 paces in rear of the staff, the flag on the right. When necessary to reduce the front of the staff and orderlies, each line executes _twos right_ or _fours right_, as explained in the Cavalry Drill Regulations, and follows the commander.

When not otherwise prescribed, staff officers draw and return saber with their chief.

25. In making the about, an officer, mounted, habitually turns to the left.

When the commander faces to give commands, the staff, flag, and orderlies do not change position.

26. When making or receiving official reports, or on meeting out of doors, all officers will salute.

Military courtesy requires the junior to salute first, but when the salute is introductory to a report made at a military ceremony or formation, to the representative of a common superior (as, for example, to the adjutant, officer of the day, etc.), the officer making the report, whatever his rank, will salute first; the officer to whom the report is made will acknowledge by saluting that he has received and understood the report.

(_C.I.D.R., Nos. 6 and 17._)

27. For ceremonies, all mounted enlisted men of a regiment or smaller unit, except those belonging to the machine-gun organizations, are consolidated into a detachment; the senior present commands if no officer is in charge. The detachment is formed as a platoon or squad of cavalry in line or column of fours; noncommissioned staff officers are on the right or in the leading ranks.

28. For ceremonies, such of the noncommissioned staff officers as are dismounted are formed 5 paces in rear of the color, in order of rank from right to left. In column of squads they march as file closers.

29. Other than for ceremonies, noncommissioned staff officers and orderlies accompany their immediate chiefs unless otherwise directed. If mounted, the noncommissioned staff officers are ordinarily posted on the right or at the head of the orderlies.

30. In all formations and movements a noncommissioned officer commanding a platoon or company carries his piece as the men do, if he is so armed, and takes the same post as an officer in like situation. When the command is formed in line for ceremonies, a noncommissioned officer commanding a company takes post on the right of the right guide after the company has been aligned.

ORDERS, COMMANDS, AND SIGNALS.

31. _Commands_ only are employed in drill at attention. Otherwise either a _command_, _signal_, or _order_ is employed, as best suits the occasion, or one may be used in conjunction with another.

32. Signals should be freely used in instruction, in order that officers and men may readily know them. In making arm signals the saber, rifle, or headdress may be held in the hand.

33. Officers and men fix their attention at the first word of command, the first note of the bugle or whistle, or the first motion of the signal. A signal includes both the preparatory command and the command of execution; the movement commences as soon as the signal is understood, unless otherwise prescribed.

34. Except in movements executed at _attention_, commanders or leaders of subdivisions repeat orders, commands, or signals whenever such repetition is deemed necessary to insure prompt and correct execution.

Officers, battalion noncommissioned staff officers, platoon leaders, guides, and musicians are equipped with whistles.

The major and his staff will use a whistle of distinctive tone; the captain and company musicians a second and distinctive whistle; the platoon leaders and guides a third distinctive whistle.

(_C.I.D.R., No. 15._)

35. Prescribed signals are limited to such as are essential as a substitute for the voice under conditions which render the voice inadequate.

Before or during an engagement special signals may be agreed upon to facilitate the solution of such special difficulties as the particular situation is likely to develop, but it must be remembered that simplicity and certainty are indispensable qualities of a signal.

_Orders._

36. In these regulations an _order_ embraces instructions or directions given orally or in writing in terms suited to the particular occasion and not prescribed herein.

_Orders_ are employed only when the _commands_ prescribed herein do not sufficiently indicate the will of the commander.

Orders are more fully described in paragraphs 378 to 383, inclusive.

_Commands._

37. In these regulations a _command_ is the will of the commander expressed in the phraseology prescribed herein.

38. There are two kinds of commands:

The _preparatory_ command, such as _forward_, indicates the movement that is to be executed.

The command of _execution_, such as _MARCH_, _HALT_, or _ARMS_, causes the execution.

_Preparatory_ commands are distinguished by _italics_, those of _execution_ by _CAPITALS_.

Where it is not mentioned in the text who gives the commands prescribed, they are to be given by the commander of the unit concerned.

The _preparatory_ command should be given at such an interval of time before the command of _execution_ as to admit of being properly understood: the command of _execution_ should be given at the instant the movement is to commence.

The tone of command is animated, distinct, and of a loudness proportioned to the number of men for whom it is intended.

Each _preparatory_ command is enunciated distinctly, with a rising inflection at the end, and in such manner that the command of _execution_ may be more energetic.

The command of _execution_ is firm in tone and brief.

39. Majors and commanders of units larger than a battalion repeat such commands of their superiors as are to be executed by their units, facing their units for that purpose. The battalion is the largest unit that executes a movement at the command of execution of its commander.

40. When giving commands to troops it is usually best to face toward them.

Indifference in giving commands must be avoided as it leads to laxity in execution. Commands should be given with spirit at all times.

_Bugle Signals._

41. The authorized bugle signals are published in Part V of these regulations.

The following bugle signals may be used off the battle field, when not likely to convey information to the enemy:

_Attention:_ Troops are brought to attention.

_Attention to orders:_ Troops fix their attention.

_Forward, march:_ Used also to execute quick time from double time.

_Double time, march._

_To the rear, march:_ In close order, execute _squads right about_.

_Halt._

_Assemble, march._

The following bugle signals may be used on the battle field:

_Fix bayonets._

_Charge._

_Assemble, march._

These signals are used only when intended for the entire firing line; hence they can be authorized only by the commander of a unit (for example, a regiment or brigade) which occupies a distinct section of the battle field. Exception: _Fix bayonet_. (See par. 318.)

The following bugle signals are used in exceptional cases on the battle field. Their principal uses are in field exercises and practice firing.

_Commence firing:_ Officers charged with fire direction and control open fire as soon as practicable. When given to a firing line, the signal is equivalent to _fire at will_.

_Cease firing:_ All parts of the line execute _cease firing_ at once.

These signals are not used by units smaller than a regiment, except when such unit is independent or detached from its regiment.

_Whistle Signals._

42. _Attention to orders._ A _short blast_ of the whistle. This signal is used on the march or in combat when necessary to fix the attention of troops, or of their commanders or leaders, preparatory to giving commands, orders, or signals.

When the firing line is firing, each squad leader suspends firing and fixes his attention at a _short blast_ of his platoon leader's whistle. The platoon leader's subsequent commands or signals are repeated and enforced by the squad leader. If a squad leader's attention is attracted by a whistle other than that of his platoon leader, or if there are no orders or commands to convey to his squad he resumes firing at once.

_Suspend firing._ A _long blast_ of the whistle.

All other whistle signals are prohibited.

(_C.I.D.R., No. 15._)

_Arm Signals._

43. The following arm signals are prescribed. In making signals either arm may be used. Officers who receive signals on the firing line "repeat back" at once to prevent misunderstanding.

_Forward, march._ Carry the hand to the shoulder; straighten and hold the arm horizontally, thrusting it in direction of march.

This signal is also used to execute quick time from double time.

_Halt._ Carry the hand to the shoulder; thrust the hand upward and hold the arm vertically.

_Double time, march._ Carry the hand to the shoulder; rapidly thrust the hand upward the full extent of the arm several times.

_Squads right, march._ Raise the arm laterally until horizontal; carry it to a vertical position above the head and swing it several times between the vertical and horizontal positions.

_Squads left, march._ Raise the arm laterally until horizontal; carry it downward to the side and swing it several times between the downward and horizontal positions.

_Squads right about, march_ (if in close order) or, _To the rear, march_ (if in skirmish line). Extend the arm vertically above the head; carry it laterally downward to the side and swing it several times between the vertical and downward positions.

_Change direction_ or _Column right (left), march._ The hand on the side toward which the change of direction is to be made is carried across the body to the opposite shoulder, forearm horizontal; then swing in a horizontal plane, arm extended, pointing in the new direction.

_As skirmishers, march._ Raise both arms laterally until horizontal.

_As skirmishers, guide center, march._ Raise both arms laterally until horizontal; swing both simultaneously upward until vertical and return to the horizontal; repeat several times.

_As skirmishers, guide right (left), march._ Raise both arms laterally until horizontal; hold the arm on the side of the guide steadily in the horizontal position; swing the other upward until vertical and return it to the horizontal; repeat several times.

_Assemble, march._ Raise the arm vertically to its full extent and describe horizontal circles.

_Range_, or _Change elevation._ To announce _range_, extend the arm toward the leaders or men for whom the signal is intended, fist closed; by keeping the fist closed battle sight is indicated; by opening and closing the fist, expose thumb and fingers to a number equal to the hundreds of yards; to add 50 yards describe a short horizontal line with forefinger. _To change elevation_, indicate the _amount of increase_ or _decrease_ by fingers as above; point upward to indicate increase and downward to indicate decrease.

_What range are you using?_ or _What is the range?_ Extend the arms toward the person addressed, one hand open, palm to the front, resting on the other hand, fist closed.

_Are you ready?_ or _I am ready._ Raise the hand, fingers extended and joined, palm toward the person addressed.

_Commence firing._ Move the arm extended in full length, hand palm down, several times through a horizontal arc in front of the body.

_Fire faster._ Execute rapidly the signal "Commence firing."

_Fire slower._ Execute slowly the signal "Commence firing."

_To swing the cone of fire to the right, or left._ Extend the arm in full length to the front, palm to the right (left); swing the arm to right (left), and point in the direction of the new target.

_Fix bayonet._ Simulate the movement of the right hand in "Fix bayonet" (par. 95).

_Suspend firing._ Raise and hold the forearm steadily in a horizontal position in front of the forehead, palm of the hand to the front.

_Cease firing._ Raise the forearm as in _suspend firing_ and swing it up and down several times in front of the face.

_Platoon._ Extend the arm horizontally toward the platoon leader; describe small circles with the hand. (See par. 44.)

_Squad._ Extend the arm horizontally toward the platoon leader; swing the hand up and down from the wrist. (See par. 44.)

_Rush._ Same as _double time_. (_C.I.D.R., Nos. 2 and 14._)

44. The signals _platoon_ and _squad_ are intended primarily for communication between the captain and his platoon leaders. The signal _platoon_ or _squad_ indicates that the platoon commander is to cause the signal which follows to be executed by platoon or squad.

_Flag Signals._

45. The signal flags described below are carried by the company musicians in the field.

In a regiment in which it is impracticable to make the permanent battalion division alphabetically, the flags of a battalion are as shown; flags are assigned to the companies alphabetically, within their respective battalions, in the order given below.

First battalion:
Company A. Red field, white square.
Company B. Red field, blue square.
Company C. Red field, white diagonals.
Company D. Red field, blue diagonals.

Second battalion:
Company E. White field, red square.
Company F. White field, blue square.
Company G. White field, red diagonals.
Company H. White field, blue diagonals.

Third battalion:
Company I. Blue field, red square.
Company K. Blue field, white square.
Company L. Blue field, red diagonals.
Company M. Blue field, white diagonals.

46. In addition to their use in visual signaling, these flags serve to mark the assembly point of the company when disorganized by combat, and to mark the location of the company in bivouac and elsewhere, when such use is desirable.

47. (1) For communication between the firing line and the reserve or commander in the rear, the subjoined signals (Signal Corps codes) are prescribed and should be memorized. In transmission, their concealment from the enemy's view should be insured. In the absence of signal flags, the headdress or other substitute may be used.

--------------+--------------------------------+--------------------------- Letter of |If signaled from the rear to |If signaled from the firing alphabet. | the firing line. | line to the rear. --------------+--------------------------------+--------------------------- AM |Ammunition going forward. |Ammunition required. CCC |Charge (mandatory at all times).|Am about to charge if no | | instructions to the | | contrary. CF |Cease firing. |Cease firing. DT |Double time or "rush". |Double time or "rush". F |Commence firing. |Commence firing. FB |Fix bayonets. |Fix bayonets. FL |Artillery fire is causing us |Artillery fire is causing | losses. | us losses. G |Move forward. |Preparing to move forward. HHH |Halt. |Halt. K |Negative. |Negative. LT |Left. |Left. O |What is the (R.N. etc.)? |What is the (R.N. etc.)? (Ardois | Interrogatory. | Interrogatory. and | | semaphore | | only.) | | _ _ __ __ _ _ | | |What is the (R.N. etc.)? |What is the (R.N. etc.)? (All | Interrogatory. | Interrogatory. methods | | but ardois | | and | | semaphore.) | | P |Affirmative. |Affirmative. R |Acknowledgment. |Acknowledgment. RN |Range. |Range. RT |Right. |Right. SSS |Support going forward. |Support needed. SUF |Suspend firing. |Suspend firing. T |Target. |Target. --------------+--------------------------------+---------------------------

(2) THE TWO-ARM SEMAPHORE CODE.

(See illustrations on pages following.)

(_C.I.D.R., No. 13._)

TWO-ARM SEMAPHORE CODE.

SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER.

48. The instructor explains briefly each movement, first executing it himself if practicable. He requires the recruits to take the proper positions unassisted and does not touch them for the purpose of correcting them, except when they are unable to correct themselves. He avoids keeping them too long at the same movement, although each should be understood before passing to another. He exacts by degrees the desired precision and uniformity.

49. In order that all may advance as rapidly as their abilities permit, the recruits are grouped according to proficiency as instruction progresses. Those who lack aptitude and quickness are separated from the others and placed under experienced drill masters.

_INSTRUCTION WITHOUT ARMS._

50. For preliminary instruction a number of recruits, usually not exceeding three or four, are formed as a squad in single rank.

_Position of the Soldier, or Attention._

51. Heels on the same line and as near each other as the conformation of the man permits.

Feet turned out equally and forming an angle of about 45°.

Knees straight without stiffness.

Hips level and drawn back slightly; body erect and resting equally on hips; chest lifted and arched; shoulders square and falling equally.

Arms and hands hanging naturally, thumb along the seam of the trousers.

Head erect and squarely to the front, chin drawn in so that the axis of the head and neck is vertical; eyes straight to the front.

Weight of the body resting equally upon the heels and balls of the feet.

_The Rests._

52. Being at a halt, the commands are: _FALL OUT_; _REST_; _AT EASE_; and 1. _Parade_, 2. _Rest_.

At the command _fall out_, the men may leave the ranks, but are required to remain in the immediate vicinity. They resume their former places, at attention, at the command _fall in_.

At the command _rest_ each man keeps one foot in place, but is not required to preserve silence or immobility.

At the command _at ease_ each man keeps one foot in place and is required to preserve silence but not immobility.

53. 1. _Parade_, 2. _REST_. Carry the right foot 6 inches straight to the rear, left knee slightly bent; clasp the hands, without constraint, in front of the center of the body, fingers joined, left hand uppermost, left thumb clasped by the thumb and forefinger of the right hand; preserve silence and steadiness of position.

54. To resume the attention: 1. _Squad_, 2. _ATTENTION_. The men take the position of the soldier.

_Eyes Right or Left._

55. 1. _Eyes_, 2. _RIGHT (LEFT)_, 3. _FRONT_.

At the command _right_, turn the head to the right oblique, eyes fixed on the line of eyes of the men in, or supposed to be in, the same rank. At the command _front_, turn the head and eyes to the front.

_Facings._

56. To the flank: 1. _Right (left)_, 2. _FACE_.

Raise slightly the left heel and right toe; face to the right, turning on the right heel, assisted by a slight pressure on the ball of the left foot; place the left foot by the side of the right. Left face is executed on the left heel in the corresponding manner.

_Right (left) half face_ is executed similarly, facing 45°.

"To face in marching" and advance, turn on the ball of either foot and step off with the other foot in the new line of direction; to face in marching without gaining ground in the new direction, turn on the ball of either foot and mark time.

57. To the rear: 1. _About_, 2. _FACE_.

Carry the toe of the right foot about a half foot-length to the rear and slightly to the left of the left heel without changing the position of the left foot; face to the rear, turning to the right on the left heel and right toe; place the right heel by the side of the left.

_Salute with the Hand._

58. 1. _Hand_, 2. _SALUTE_.

Raise the right hand smartly till the tip of the forefinger touches the lower part of the headdress or forehead above the right eye, thumb and fingers extended and joined, palm to the left, forearm inclined at about 45°, hand and wrist straight; at the same time look toward the person saluted. (_TWO_) Drop the arm smartly by the side.

For rules governing salutes, see "Honors and Salutes," paragraphs 758-765.

(_C.I.D.R., Nos. 3, 6, and 18._)

_STEPS AND MARCHINGS._

59. All steps and marchings executed from a halt, except right step, begin with the left foot.

60. The length of the full step in quick time is 30 inches, measured from heel to heel, and the cadence is at the rate of 120 steps per minute.

The length of the full step in double time is 36 inches; the cadence is at the rate of 180 steps per minute.

The instructor, when necessary, indicates the cadence of the step by calling _one, two, three, four_, or _left, right_, the instant the left and right foot, respectively, should be planted.

61. All steps and marchings and movements involving march are executed in _quick time_ unless the squad be marching in _double time_, or _double time_ be added to the command; in the latter case _double time_ is added to the preparatory command. Example: 1. _Squad right, double time_, 2. _MARCH_ (School of the Squad).

_Quick Time._

62. Being at a halt, to march forward in quick time: 1. _Forward_, 2. _MARCH_.

At the command _forward_, shift the weight of the body to the right leg, left knee straight.

At the command _march_, move the left foot smartly straight forward 30 inches from the right, sole near the ground, and plant it without shock; next, in like manner, advance the right foot and plant it as above; continue the march. The arms swing naturally.

63. Being at a halt, or in march in quick time, to march in double time: 1. _Double time_, 2. _MARCH_.

If at a halt, at the first command shift the weight of the body to the right leg. At the command _march_, raise the forearms, fingers closed, to a horizontal position along the waist line; take up an easy run with the step and cadence of double time, allowing a natural swinging motion to the arms.

If marching in quick time, at the command _march_, given as either foot strikes the ground, take one step in quick time, and then step off in double time.

64. To resume the quick time: 1. _Quick time_, 2. _MARCH_.

At the command _march_, given as either foot strikes the ground, advance and plant the other foot in double time; resume the quick time, dropping the hands by the sides.

_To Mark Time._

65. Being in march: 1. _Mark time_, 2. _MARCH_.

At the command _march_, given as either foot strikes the ground, advance and plant the other foot; bring up the foot in rear and continue the cadence by alternately raising each foot about 2 inches and planting it on line with the other.

Being at a halt, at the command _march_, raise and plant the feet as described above.

_The Half Step._

66. 1. _Half step_, 2. _MARCH_.

Take steps of 15 inches in quick time, 18 inches in double time.

67. _Forward_, _half step_, _halt_, and _mark time_ may be executed one from the other in quick or double time.

To resume the full step from half step or mark time: 1. _Forward_, 2. _MARCH_.

_Side Step._

68. Being at a halt or mark time: 1. _Right (left) step_, 2. _MARCH_.

Carry and plant the right foot 15 inches to the right; bring the left foot beside it and continue the movement in the cadence of quick time.

The side step is used for short distances only and is not executed in double time.

If at order arms, the side step is executed _at trail_ without command.

_Back Step._

69. Being at a halt or mark time: 1. _Backward_, 2. _MARCH_.

Take steps of 15 inches straight to the rear.

The back step is used for short distances only and is not executed in double time.

If at order arms, the back step is executed _at trail_ without command.

_To Halt._

70. To arrest the march in quick or double time: 1. _Squad_, 2. _HALT_.

At the command _halt_, given as either foot strikes the ground, plant the other foot as in marching; raise and place the first foot by the side of the other. If in double time, drop the hands by the sides.

_To March by the Flank._

71. Being in march: 1. _By the right (left) flank_, 2. _MARCH_.

At the command _march_, given as the right foot strikes the ground, advance and plant the left foot, then face to the right in marching and step off in the new direction with the right foot.

_To March to the Rear._

72. Being in march: 1. _To the rear_, 2. _MARCH_.

At the command _march_, given as the right foot strikes the ground, advance and plant the left foot; turn to the right about on the balls of both feet and immediately step off with the left foot.

If marching in double time, turn to the right about, taking four steps in place, keeping the cadence, and then step off with the left foot.

_Change Step._

73. Being in march: 1. _Change step_, 2. _MARCH_.

At the command _march_, given as the right foot strikes the ground, advance and plant the left foot; plant the toe of the right foot near the heel of the left and step off with the left foot.

The change on the right foot is similarly executed, the command _march_ being given as the left foot strikes the ground.

_MANUAL OF ARMS._

74. As soon as practicable the recruit is taught the use, nomenclature (Pl. I), and care of his rifle; when fair progress has been made in the instruction without arms, he is taught the manual of arms; instruction without arms and that with arms alternate.

75. The following rules govern the carrying of the piece:

First. The piece is not carried with cartridges in either the chamber or the magazine except when specifically ordered. When so loaded, or supposed to be loaded, it is habitually carried locked; that is, with the _safety lock_ turned to the "safe." At all other times it is carried unlocked, with the trigger pulled.

Second. Whenever troops are formed under arms, pieces are immediately inspected at the commands: 1. _Inspection_, 2. _ARMS_; 3. _Order (Right shoulder, port)_, 4. _ARMS_.

A similar inspection is made immediately before dismissal.

If cartridges are found in the chamber or magazine they are removed and placed in the belt.

Third. The cut-off is kept turned "off" except when cartridges are actually used.

Fourth. The bayonet is not fixed except in bayonet exercise, on guard, or for combat.

Fifth. _Fall in_ is executed with the piece at the order arms. _Fall out_, _rest_, and _at ease_ are executed as without arms. On resuming _attention_ the position of order arms is taken.

Sixth. If at the order, unless otherwise prescribed, the piece is brought to the right shoulder at the command _march_, the three motions corresponding with the first three steps. Movements may be executed at the trail by prefacing the preparatory command with the words _at trail_; as, 1. _At trail, forward_, 2. _MARCH_; the trail is taken at the command _march_.

When the facings, alignments, open and close ranks, taking interval or distance, and assemblings are executed from the order, raise the piece to the trail while in motion and resume the order on halting.

Seventh. The piece is brought to the order on halting. The execution of the order begins when the halt is completed.

Eighth. A disengaged hand in double time is held as when without arms.

]

76. The following rules govern the execution of the manual of arms:

First. In all positions of the left hand at the balance (center of gravity, bayonet unfixed) the thumb clasps the piece; the sling is included in the grasp of the hand.

Second. In all positions of the piece "diagonally across the body" the position of the piece, left arm and hand are the same as in port arms.

Third. In resuming the order from any position in the manual, the motion next to the last concludes with the butt of the piece about 3 inches from the ground, barrel to the rear, the left hand above and near the right, steadying the piece, fingers extended and joined, forearm and wrist straight and inclining downward, all fingers of the right hand grasping the piece. To complete the order, lower the piece gently to the ground with the right hand, drop the left quickly by the side, and take the position of order arms.

Allowing the piece to drop through the right hand to the ground, or other similar abuse of the rifle to produce effect in executing the manual, is prohibited.

Fourth. The cadence of the motions is that of quick time; the recruits are first required to give their whole attention to the details of the motions, the cadence being gradually acquired as they become accustomed to handling their pieces. The instructor may require them to count aloud in cadence with the motions.

Fifth. The manual is taught at a halt and the movements are, for the purpose of instruction, divided into motions and executed in detail; in this case the command of _execution_ determines the prompt execution of the first motion, and the commands, _two_, _three_, _four_, that of the other motions.

To execute the movements in detail, the instructor first cautions: _By the numbers_; all movements divided into motions are then executed as above explained until he cautions: _Without the numbers_; or commands movements other than those in the manual of arms.

Sixth. Whenever circumstances require, the regular positions of the manual of arms and the firings may be ordered without regard to the previous position of the piece.

Under exceptional conditions of weather or fatigue the rifle may be carried in any manner directed.

77. _Position of order arms standing:_ The butt rests evenly on the ground, barrel to the rear, toe of the butt on a line with toe of, and touching, the right shoe, arms and hands hanging naturally, right hand holding the piece between the thumb and fingers.

78. Being at order arms: 1. _Present_, 2. _ARMS_.

With the right hand carry the piece in front of the center of the body, barrel to the rear and vertical, grasp it with the left hand at the balance, forearm horizontal and resting against the body. (_TWO_) Grasp the small of the stock with the right hand.

79. Being at order arms: 1. _Port_, 2. _ARMS_.

With the right hand raise and throw the piece diagonally across the body, grasp it smartly with both hands; the right, palm down, at the small of the stock; the left, palm up, at the balance; barrel up, sloping to the left and crossing opposite the junction of the neck with the left shoulder; right forearm horizontal; left forearm resting against the body; the piece in a vertical plane parallel to the front.

80. Being at present arms: 1. _Port_, 2. _ARMS_.

Carry the piece diagonally across the body and take the position of port arms.

81. Being at port arms: 1. _Present_, 2. _ARMS_.

Carry the piece to a vertical position in front of the center of the body and take the position of present arms.

82. Being at present or port arms: 1. _Order_, 2. _ARMS_.

Let go with the right hand; lower and carry the piece to the right with the left hand; regrasp it with the right hand just above the lower band; let go with the left hand, and take the next to the last position in coming to the order. (_TWO_) Complete the order.

83. Being at order arms: 1. _Right shoulder_, 2. _ARMS_.

With the right hand raise and throw the piece diagonally across the body; carry the right hand quickly to the butt, embracing it, the heel between the first two fingers. (_TWO_) Without changing the grasp of the right hand, place the piece on the right shoulder, barrel up and inclined at an angle of about 45° from the horizontal, trigger guard in the hollow of the shoulder, right elbow near the side, the piece in a vertical plane perpendicular to the front; carry the left hand, thumb and fingers extended and joined, to the small of the stock, tip of the forefinger touching the cocking piece, wrist straight and elbow down. (_THREE_) Drop the left hand by the side.

84. Being at right shoulder arms: 1. _Order_, 2. _ARMS_.

Press the butt down quickly and throw the piece diagonally across the body, the right hand retaining the grasp of the butt. (_TWO_), (_THREE_) Execute order arms as described from port arms.

85. Being at port arms: 1. _Right shoulder_, 2. _ARMS_.

Change the right hand to the butt. (_TWO_), (_THREE_) As in right shoulder arms from order arms.

86. Being at right shoulder arms: 1. _Port_, 2. _ARMS_.

Press the butt down quickly and throw the piece diagonally across the body, the right hand retaining its grasp of the butt. (_TWO_) Change the right hand to the small of the stock.

87. Being at right shoulder arms: 1. _Present_, 2. _ARMS_.

Execute port arms. (_THREE_) Execute present arms.

88. Being at present arms: 1. _Right shoulder_, 2. _ARMS_.

Execute port arms. (_TWO_), (_THREE_), (_FOUR_) Execute right shoulder arms as from port arms.

89. Being at port arms: 1. _Left shoulder_, 2. _ARMS_.

Carry the piece with the right hand and place it on the left shoulder, barrel up, trigger guard in the hollow of the shoulder; at the same time grasp the butt with the left hand, heel between first and second fingers, thumb and fingers closed on the stock. (_TWO_) Drop the right hand by the side.

Being at left shoulder arms: 1. _Port_, 2. _ARMS_.

Grasp the piece with the right hand at the small of the stock. (_TWO_) Carry the piece to the right with the right hand, regrasp it with the left, and take the position of port arms.

_Left shoulder arms_ may be ordered directly from the order, right shoulder or present, or the reverse. At the command _arms_ execute _port arms_ and continue in cadence to the position ordered.

90. Being at order arms: 1. _Parade_, 2. _REST_.

Carry the right foot 6 inches straight to the rear, left knee slightly bent; carry the muzzle in front of the center of the body, barrel to the left; grasp the piece with the left hand just below the stacking swivel, and with the right hand below and against the left.

Being at parade rest: 1. _Squad_, 2. _ATTENTION_.

Resume the order, the left hand quitting the piece opposite the right hip.

91. Being at order arms: 1. _Trail_, 2. _ARMS_.

Raise the piece, right arm slightly bent, and incline the muzzle forward so that the barrel makes an angle of about 30° with the vertical.

When it can be done without danger or inconvenience to others, the piece may be grasped at the balance and the muzzle lowered until the piece is horizontal; a similar position in the left hand may be used.

92. Being at trail arms: 1. _Order_, 2. _ARMS_.

Lower the piece with the right hand and resume the order.

_Rifle Salute._

93. Being at right shoulder arms: 1. _Rifle_, 2. _SALUTE_.

Carry the left hand smartly to the small of the stock, forearm horizontal, palm of hand down, thumb and fingers extended and joined, forefinger touching end of cocking piece; look toward the person saluted. (_TWO_) Drop left hand by the side; turn head and eyes to the front. (_C.I.D.R., No. 6._)

94. Being at order or trail arms: 1. _Rifle_, 2. _SALUTE_.

Carry the left hand smartly to the right side, palm of the hand down, thumb and fingers extended and joined, forefinger against piece near the muzzle; look toward the person saluted. (_TWO_) Drop the left hand by the side; turn the head and eyes to the front.

For rules governing salutes, see "Honors and Salutes" (pars. 758-765).

_The Bayonet._

95. Being at order arms: 1. _Fix_, 2. _BAYONET_.

If the bayonet scabbard is carried on the belt: Execute parade rest; grasp the bayonet with the right hand, back of hand toward the body; draw the bayonet from the scabbard and fix it on the barrel, glancing at the muzzle; resume the order.

If the bayonet is carried on the haversack: Draw the bayonet with the left hand and fix it in the most convenient manner.

96. Being at order arms: 1. _Unfix_, 2. _BAYONET_.

If the bayonet scabbard is carried on the belt: Execute parade rest; grasp the handle of the bayonet firmly with the right hand, pressing the spring with the forefinger of the right hand; raise the bayonet until the handle is about 12 inches above the muzzle of the piece; drop the point to the left, back of the hand toward the body, and, glancing at the scabbard, return the bayonet, the blade passing between the left arm and the body; regrasp the piece with the right hand and resume the order.

If the bayonet scabbard is carried on the haversack: Take the bayonet from the rifle with the left hand and return it to the scabbard in the most convenient manner.

If marching or lying down, the bayonet is fixed and unfixed in the most expeditious and convenient manner and the piece returned to the original position.

Fix and unfix bayonet are executed with promptness and regularity but not in cadence.

97. _CHARGE BAYONET._ Whether executed at halt or in motion, the bayonet is held toward the opponent as in the position of _guard_ in the Manual for Bayonet Exercise.

Exercises for instruction in bayonet combat are prescribed in the Manual for Bayonet Exercise.

_The Inspection._

98. Being at order arms: 1. _Inspection_, 2. _ARMS_.

At the second command take the position of port arms. (_TWO_) Seize the bolt handle with the thumb and forefinger of the right hand, turn the handle up, draw the bolt back, and glance at the chamber. Having found the chamber empty, or having emptied it, raise the head and eyes to the front.

99. Being at inspection arms: 1. _Order (Right shoulder, port)_, 2. _ARMS_.

At the preparatory command push the bolt forward, turn the handle down, pull the trigger, and resume port arms. At the command arms, complete the movement ordered.

_To Dismiss the Squad._

100. Being at halt: 1. _Inspection_, 2. _ARMS_, 3. _Port_, 4. _ARMS_, 5. _DISMISSED_.

SCHOOL OF THE SQUAD.

101. Soldiers are grouped into squads for purposes of instruction, discipline, control, and order.

102. The squad proper consists of a corporal and seven privates.

The movements in the School of the Squad are designed to make the squad a fixed unit and to facilitate the control and movement of the company. If the number of men grouped is more than 3 and less than 12, they are formed as a squad of 4 files, the excess above 8 being posted as file closers. If the number grouped is greater than 11, 2 or more squads are formed and the group is termed a platoon.

For the instruction of recruits, these rules may be modified.

103. The corporal is the squad leader, and when absent is replaced by a designated private. If no private is designated, the senior in length of service acts as leader.

The corporal, when in ranks, is posted as the left man in the front rank of the squad.

When the corporal leaves the ranks to lead his squad, his rear rank man steps into the front rank, and the file remains blank until the corporal returns to his place in ranks, when his rear rank man steps back into the rear rank.

104. In battle officers and sergeants endeavor to preserve the integrity of squads; they designate new leaders to replace those disabled, organize new squads when necessary, and see that every man is placed in a squad.

Men are taught the necessity of remaining with the squad to which they belong and, in case it be broken up or they become separated therefrom, to attach themselves to the nearest squad and platoon leaders, whether these be of their own or of another organization.

105. The squad executes the _halt_, _rests_, _facings_, _steps_ and _marchings_, and the _manual of arms_ as explained in the School of the Soldier.

_To Form the Squad._

106. To form the squad the instructor places himself 3 paces in front of where the center is to be and commands: _FALL IN_.

The men assemble at attention, pieces at the order, and are arranged by the corporal in double rank, as nearly as practicable in order of height from right to left, each man dropping his left hand as soon as the man on his left has his interval. The rear rank forms with distance of 40 inches.

The instructor then commands: _COUNT OFF_.

At this command all except the right file execute _eyes right_, and beginning on the right, the men in each rank count _one_, _two_, _three_, _four_; each man turns his head and eyes to the front as he counts.

Pieces are then inspected.

_Alignments._

107. To align the squad, the base file or files having been established: 1. _Right (Left)_, 2. _DRESS_, 3. _FRONT_.

At the command _dress_ all men place the left hand upon the hip (whether dressing to the right or left); each man, except the base file, when on or near the new line executes _eyes right_, and, taking steps of 2 or 3 inches, places himself so that his right arm rests lightly against the arm of the man on his right, and so that his eyes and shoulders are in line with those of the men on his right; the rear rank men cover in file.

The instructor verifies the alignment of both ranks from the right flank and orders up or back such men as may be in rear, or in advance, of the line; only the men designated move.

At the command _front_, given when the ranks are aligned, each man turns his head and eyes to the front and drops his left hand by his side.

In the first drills the basis of the alignment is established on, or parallel to, the front of the squad; afterwards, in oblique directions.

Whenever the position of the base file or files necessitates a considerable movement by the squad, such movement will be executed by marching to the front or oblique, to the flank or backward, as the case may be, without other command, and at the trail.

108. To preserve the alignment when marching: _GUIDE RIGHT (LEFT)_.

The men preserve their intervals from the side of the guide, yielding to pressure from that side and resisting pressure from the opposite direction; they recover intervals, if lost, by gradually opening out or closing in; they recover alignment by slightly lengthening or shortening the step; the rear rank men cover their file leaders at 40 inches.

In double rank, the front-rank man on the right, or designated flank, conducts the march; when marching faced to the flank, the leading man of the front rank is the guide.

_To Take Intervals and Distances._

109. Being in line at a halt: 1. _Take interval_, 2. _To the right (left)_, 3. _MARCH_, 4. _Squad_, 5. _HALT_.

At the second command the rear-rank men march backward 4 steps and halt; at the command _march_ all face to the right and the leading man of each rank steps off; the other men step off in succession, each following the preceding man at 4 paces, rear-rank men marching abreast of their file leaders.

At the command _halt_, given when all have their intervals, all halt and face to the front.

110. Being at intervals, to assemble the squad: 1. _Assemble, to the right (left)_, 2. _MARCH_.

The front-rank man on the right stands fast, the rear-rank man on the right closes to 40 inches. The other men face to the right, close by the shortest line, and face to the front.

111. Being in line at a halt and having counted off: 1. _Take distance_, 2. _MARCH_, 3. _Squad_, 4. _HALT_.

At the command _march_ No. 1 of the front rank moves straight to the front; Nos. 2, 3, and 4 of the front rank and Nos. 1, 2, 3, and 4 of the rear rank, in the order named, move straight to the front, each stepping off so as to follow the preceding man at 4 paces. The command _halt_ is given when all have their distances.

In case more than one squad is in line, each squad executes the movement as above. The guide of each rank of numbers is right.