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Title: The Plattsburg Manual
       A Handbook for Military Training

Author: O.O. Ellis and E.B. Garey

Release Date: October 16, 2006 [EBook #19552]

Language: English

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THE

PLATTSBURG MANUAL

A HANDBOOK FOR MILITARY TRAINING

BY

O. O. ELLIS MAJOR, UNITED STATES INFANTRY

AND

E. B. GAREY MAJOR, UNITED STATES INFANTRY

(INSTRUCTORS, PLATTSBURG TRAINING CAMP, 1916) (INSTRUCTORS, OFFICERS'
TRAINING CAMP, FT. MCPHERSON, GA., 1917) (INSTRUCTORS, OFFICERS'
TRAINING CAMP, FT. OGLETHORPE, GA., 1917)

WITH MORE THAN 220 ILLUSTRATIONS

NEW YORK THE CENTURY CO. 1918




Copyright, 1917, by
The Century Co.

Published, March, 1917
Second Edition, March, 1917
Third Edition, April, 1917
Fourth Edition, April, 1917
Fifth Edition, May, 1917
Sixth Edition, May, 1917
Seventh Edition, August, 1917
Eighth Edition. September, 1917
Ninth Edition, January, 1918
Tenth Edition, May, 1918




TO
THOSE FAR-SEEING MEN
WHO INAUGURATED AND ATTENDED THE
FIRST FEDERAL TRAINING CAMP
THIS TEXT IS RESPECTFULLY
DEDICATED




FOREWORD


The Plattsburg Manual, written by Majors Ellis and Garey, will prove
very useful to men who are contemplating military training. It will also
be of great value to those who are undergoing training.

It is full of practical information presented in a simple and direct
manner and gives in detail much data not easily found elsewhere. It is a
useful book, easily understandable by those who have had little or no
military experience.

It will be useful not only at training camps but it will be of very
great value at schools and colleges where military instruction is being
given.

The authors of this book have performed a valuable service, one which
will tend to facilitate and aid very much the development of military
training in this country. In addition to the purely mechanical details
of training the book presents in a very effective and simple manner the
tactical use of troops under various conditions.

In a word it is a useful and sound work and one which can be commended
to those who contemplate a course in military training.

(Signed) Leonard Wood,
Major General U. S. A.

February 27, 1917.




PREFACE


This book is intended to serve as a foundation upon which the military
beginner may build so that he may in time be able to study the technical
service manuals intelligently. It has been written as an elementary
textbook for those who desire to become Reserve Officers, for schools
and colleges, and for those who may be called to the colors.

The authors have commanded companies at Plattsburg, New York, and,
noting the need of such a text, compiled their observations while there.

The average man undergoing military training wants to know as much as
possible about the art and science of war. He wants to acquire a good
knowledge of the principles involved. He is interested in the technique
of movements. He is willing to work for these things, but he often
becomes lost in confusion when he attempts to study the technical
service manuals. He does not know how to select the most important and
omit the less important. The authors have selected from the standard
texts some of the vitally important subjects and principles and have
presented them to the civilian in a simple and plain way.

The first part of the text is for the beginner. It tells him how to
prepare physically for strenuous military work. After assisting him
through the elementary part of his instruction, it presents for his
consideration and study the Officers' Reserve Corps.

The second part, or supplement, is a more technical discussion of those
subjects introduced in the first. It is intended principally for those
who have made excellent progress.




CONTENTS


   I General Advice                                           3
  II Physical Exercise                                       21
 III School of the Soldier                                   28
  IV School of the Squad                                     63
   V School of the Company                                   86
  VI Fire Superiority                                       130
 VII The Service of Security                                136
VIII Attack and Defense                                     144
  IX General Principles of Target Practice                  153
   X Practice March or "Hike"                               159
  XI Officers' Reserve Corps                                169


SUPPLEMENT


   I The Theory of Security                                 221
  II Attack and Defense                                     242
 III Patrolling                                             254
  IV Target Practice                                        260
   V Tent Pitching                                          292
  VI Signals and Codes                                      297
 VII First Aid to the Injured                               309

     Appendixes                                             321

     Index                                                  331




THE PLATTSBURG MANUAL




CHAPTER I

GENERAL ADVICE



The United States is divided geographically into military departments
with a general officer commanding each department. The departments and
their headquarters are as follows:

     (1) The Northeastern Department, with headquarters at Boston,
         Massachusetts.

     (2) The Eastern Department, with headquarters at Governors Island,
         New York.

     (3) The Southeastern Department, with Headquarters at Charleston,
         South Carolina.

     (4) The Central Department, with Headquarters at Chicago, Illinois.

     (5) The Southern Department, with Headquarters at Fort Sam Houston,
         Texas.

     (6) The Western Department, with Headquarters at San Francisco,
         California.

     Overseas    { (7) The Philippine Department, with Headquarters at
     Departments {     Manila.
                 {
                 { (8) The Hawaiian Department, Departments with
                 {     Headquarters at Honolulu, Hawaii.

(For States comprising each department, see Appendix)

If you are a civilian and desire any information in regard to the army,
any training camps, the officers' reserve corps, or any military
legislation or orders affecting you, write to the "Commanding General"
of the Department in which you live. Address your letter to him at his
headquarters.



MAIL


Mail is most often delayed because there is not sufficient information
for the Postmaster on the envelope. The delivery of your mail will be
delayed unless your letters are sent to the company and the regiment to
which you belong. Therefore, prepare, before you reach camp, several
stamped postal cards, addressed to your family and business associates,
containing directions to address all communications to you care of
Company----, Regiment----. As soon as you are assigned to a company and
regiment, fill in these data and mail these postal cards at once. This
should be done by wire in case important mail is expected during the
first week of camp. Mail is delivered to each company as soon as a
complete roll of the organizations can be made out and sent to the
post-office.



INOCULATIONS AND VACCINATION


As soon as you become a member of the army, whether as a private or as
an officer, you will receive the typhoid prophylaxis inoculation and be
vaccinated against smallpox.



WHAT TO BRING


    1. Travel light. Bring only the bare necessities of life with you.
    Don't bring a trunk. Enlisted men (not officers) will be supplied
    with all necessary uniforms and underwear. This includes shoes.

    2. Bring a pair of sneakers, or slippers. They will add greatly to
    your comfort after a long march or hard day's work. A complete
    bathing suit often comes in handy.

    3. Report in uniform if you have one.

    4. The Government will provide you with the necessary shoes.
    However, if you can afford it, buy before you report for duty, a
    pair of regulation tan shoes, larger than you ordinarily wear, and
    break them in well before arrival. Rubber heels are recommended.

    5. Bring your toilet articles (comb, brush, mirror shaving
    equipment, etc.), and a good supply of handkerchiefs, and towels.



WHAT TO DO ON YOUR ARRIVAL


There is a general rule of procedure to follow in reporting for duty at
any post or training camp.

    1. If you receive an order directing you to report for duty at a
    camp or post at a certain specified time, read it carefully, put it
    in a secure place, and, on the day that you are to report for duty
    at the camp or post, present yourself in uniform, if you have one,
    with your order. Be careful not to lose your order or leave it at
    home. Have it in your pocket book.

    2. Upon being assigned to a company, unless you receive orders to
    the contrary, report at once with your baggage to your company
    commander (captain), whom you can easily find when you reach your
    barracks or company street. If you cannot locate your company
    commander, report to the first sergeant.

    3. It is a custom of the service to have an experienced soldier
    explain to a new man exactly where he is to go and what he is to do.
    Feel no embarrassment at being ignorant of your new duties and
    surroundings. The Government does not expect anything of you except
    eagerness to learn and willingness to obey.

    4. After reporting to your company commander or first sergeant, you
    will have a bed assigned to you and you will be issued the property
    and uniforms necessary to your comfort and duties. Check your
    property carefully as it is issued to you. You will have to sign for
    all of it. Look after your property at all times.

    5. After checking your property, make up your bed and arrange neatly
    your personal and issued property on or under your bed or cot.

    6. Spend all your spare time cleaning your rifle and bayonet until
    they satisfy your company commander. Then keep them clean.

    7. Don't leave the company street or barracks on the first day,
    except with the permission of your company commander. Don't ask for
    this permission unless you have a valid reason.



RULES OF CONDUCT FOR CAMP LIFE


The first few days will be easy and profitable if you will read
carefully and adhere to the following plan of procedure:

    1. Get up at the first note of reveille and get quickly into proper
    uniform.

    2. Get within two or three feet of your place in ranks and await the
    sounding of assembly for reveille and then step into ranks.

    3. Stand at attention after the first sergeant commands "Fall In."
    Remember that this command is equivalent to "Company, Attention."

    4. After reveille, make up your bed, arrange neatly your equipment,
    and clean up the ground under and around your cot. The company
    commander will require the beds made up and the equipment arranged
    in a prescribed way.

    5. Wash for breakfast.

    6. Upon returning from breakfast, go at once to the toilet. Next,
    prepare the equipment prescribed to be worn to drill. This is
    especially important when the full pack is prescribed. Assist your
    tent mates in policing the ground in and around your tent.

    7. If you need medical attention give your name to the first
    sergeant at reveille and report to him at his tent upon your return
    from breakfast. Don't wait until you are sick to report to the
    hospital, but go as soon as you feel in the least unwell.

    8. When the first call for drill is blown, put on your equipment,
    inspect your bed and property to see that everything is in order,
    and then go to your place in ranks.

    9. After the morning drill, get ready for dinner. Get a little rest
    at this time if possible.

    10. After dinner a short rest is usually allowed before the
    afternoon drill. Take advantage of this opportunity; get off your
    feet and rest. Be quiet so that your tent mates may rest.

    11. Following the afternoon drill there is a short intermission
    before the ceremony of retreat. During this time take a quick bath,
    shave, get into the proper uniform for retreat, shine your shoes and
    brush your clothes and hat. Be the neatest man in the company.

    12. Supper usually follows retreat.

    13. After supper, you usually have some spare time until taps. The
    Y. M. C. A. generally provides a place supplied with Bibles,
    newspapers, good magazines, and writing material. Don't be ashamed
    to read the Bible. Don't forget to write to the folks back home.

    14. Be in bed with lights out at taps. After taps and before
    reveille, remain silent, thus showing consideration for those who
    are sleeping or trying to sleep.

    15. Consult the company bulletin board at least twice daily. On this
    bulletin board is usually found the following information:

        (a) A list of calls.
        (b) The proper uniform for each formation.
        (c) Schedule of drills.
        (d) Special orders and instructions.

    16. Get all your orders from (a) the bulletin board, (b) the first
    sergeant, (c) the acting noncommissioned officers, (d) the company
    commander. Don't put much faith in rumors.



ADVICE REGARDING HABITS


Your life in camp in regard to food, exercise, hours of sleep,
surroundings, and comforts, will differ greatly from that you lead as a
civilian. You will submit your body to a sudden, severe, physical test.
In order to prepare your body for this change in manner of living and
work, we recommend that for a short time prior to your arrival in camp,
and thereafter, you observe the following suggestions:

     1. Use no alcohol of any kind.

     2. Stop smoking, or at least be temperate in the use of tobacco.

     3. Eat and drink moderately. Chew your food well. It is advisable,
     however, to drink a great deal of cool (not cold) water between
     meals.

     4. Don't eat between meals.

     5. Accustom yourself to regular hours as to sleeping, eating, and
     the morning functions.

     6. Keep away from all soda fountains and soft drink stands.

     7. For at least two weeks prior to your arrival at camp, take
     regularly the exercises described in this book.

Most men are troubled with their feet during the first week of each
camp, usually because they do not observe the following precautions:

     1. If you have ever had trouble with the arches of your feet, wear
        braces for them.

     2. Lace your shoe as tightly as comfort will permit.

     3. Wash the feet daily.

     4. Every morning shake a little talcum powder or "Foot Ease" in
        each shoe.

     5. Each morning put on a fresh pair of socks. Your socks should fit
        the feet so neatly that no wrinkles remain in them and yet not be
        so tight that they bind the foot. Do not wear a sock with a hole in
        it or one that has been darned.

     6. Some men cannot wear light wool socks with comfort. Do not wear
        silk or cotton socks until you have given light wool socks a fair
        trial.

     7. In case of a blister, treat it as directed in Chapter X.

     8. Most of the foot troubles are caused by wearing shoes that do
        not fit properly. If the shoe is too large it rubs blisters, if too
        small it cramps the foot and causes severe pain. Marching several
        hours while carrying about thirty pounds of equipment causes each
        foot to expand at least one half a size in length and
        correspondingly in breadth; hence the size of the shoe you wear in
        the office will be too small for training camp use. If you have
        been living a sedentary life, ask for a pair of shoes larger than
        you ordinarily wear.

     9. In case the tendon in your heel becomes tender, report at once
        to the hospital tent and get it strapped.



A DISCIPLINED SOLDIER


You will be expected to become quickly amenable both mentally and
physically to discipline. A clear conception on your part of what drills
are disciplinary in character and what discipline really is, will help
you to become a disciplined soldier. Drills executed at attention are
disciplinary exercises and are designed to teach precise and soldierly
movements and to inculcate that prompt and subconscious obedience which
is essential to proper military control. Hence, all corrections should
be given and received in an impersonal manner. Never forget that you
lose your identity as an individual when you step into ranks; you then
become merely a unit of a mass. As soon as you obey properly, promptly,
and, at times, unconsciously, the commands of your officers, as soon as
you can cheerfully give up pleasures and personal privileges that
conflict with the new order of life to which you have submitted, you
will then have become a disciplined man.



DRESS


The uniform you will wear stands for Duty, Honor, and Country. You
should not disgrace it by the way you wear it or by your conduct any
more than you would trample the flag of the United States of America
under foot. You must constantly bear in mind that in our country a
military organization is too often judged by the acts of a few of its
members. When one or two soldiers in uniform conduct themselves in an
ungentlemanly or unmilitary manner to the disgrace of the uniform, the
layman shakes his head and condemns all men wearing that uniform. Hence,
show by the way in which you wear your uniform that you are proud of it;
this can be best accomplished by observing the following rules:

     1. Carry yourself at all times as though you were proud of
        yourself, your uniform, and your country.

     2. Wear your hat so that the brim is parallel to the ground.

     3. Have all buttons fastened.

     4. Never have sleeves rolled up.

     5. Never wear sleeve holders.

     6. Never leave shirt or coat unbuttoned at the throat.

     7. Have leggins and trousers properly laced.

     8. Keep shoes shined.

     9. Always be clean shaved.

    10. Keep head up and shoulders square.

    11. Camp life has a tendency to make one careless as to personal
        cleanliness. Bear this in mind.



SALUTING


The military salute is universal. It is at foundation but a courteous
recognition between two individuals of their common fellowship in the
same honorable profession, the profession of arms. Regulations require
that it be rendered by both the senior and the junior, as bare courtesy
requires between gentlemen in civil life. It is the military equivalent
of the laymen's expressions "Good Morning," or "How do you do?"
Therefore be punctilious about saluting; be proud of the manner in which
you execute your salute, and make it indicative of discipline and good
breeding. Always look at the officer you are saluting. The junior
salutes first. It is very unmilitary to salute with the left hand in a
pocket, or with a cigarette, cigar, or pipe in the mouth. Observe the
following general rules:

     1. Never salute an officer when you are in ranks.

     2. Indoors (in your tent) unarmed, do not salute but stand at
        attention, uncovered, on the entrance of an officer. If he speaks
        to you, then salute.

     3. Indoors, armed, render the prescribed salute, i.e., the rifle
        salute at order arms or at trail.

     4. Outdoors, armed, render the prescribed salute, i.e., the rifle
        salute at right shoulder arms.

     5. Outdoors, unarmed, or armed with side arms, salute with the
        right hand.



ARMY SLANG


The following army slang is universally employed:

     "Bunkie"--the soldier who shares the shelter half or tent of a
     comrade in the field. A bunkie looks after his comrade's property
     in the event the latter is absent.

     "Doughboy"--the infantryman.

     "French leave"--unauthorized absence.

     "Holy Joe"--the chaplain.

     "K.O."--the commanding officer.

     "On the carpet"--a call before the commanding officer for
     admonition.

     "Q.M."--quartermaster.

     "Rookie"--a new recruit.

     "Sand rat"--a soldier on duty in the rifle pit during target
     practice.

     "Top sergeant"--the first sergeant.

     "Come and get it"--the meal is ready to be served.



HOW TO CLEAN A RIFLE AND BAYONET


Get a rag and rub the heavy grease off; then get a soft pine stick,
pointed at one end, and with this point remove the grease from the
cracks, crevices and corners. Clean the bore from the breech. When the
heavy grease has been removed, the metal part of the gun, bore included,
should be covered with a light coating of "3-in-1" oil. Heavy grease can
be removed from the rifle by rubbing it with a rag which has been
saturated with gasoline or coal oil.



FRIENDS


There are a few men in all companies who play, loaf, and who are
constantly in trouble. As the good men in each company will not become
friendly with them, they seek their acquaintances among the new men on
whom they have a baneful influence. We wish to warn you about making
friends too quickly.



FINAL SUGGESTIONS


Don't be profane or tell questionable stories to your bunkies or around
the company. There is a much greater number of silent and unprotesting
men in camp than is generally supposed, to whom this is offensive. Keep
everything on a high plane.




CHAPTER II[1]

Read this chapter as soon as you decide to attend a Camp.



PHYSICAL EXERCISE


The greatest problem you will have to solve will be that of making your
body do the work required. Every one else will be doing exactly what you
are doing, and you have too much pride to want to take even a shorter
step than the man by your side. Some men have to leave the training
camps because they are not in the proper physical condition to go on
with the work. If this chapter is taken as seriously as it should be, it
will be of great help to you.

If you have not a pair of sensible marching shoes (tan, high-tops, no
hooks on them) get a pair. These shoes should be considerably larger
than a pair of office shoes.

Walk to and from your business. Take every opportunity to get out in the
country where the air is pure. Fill your lungs full. Get into the habit
of taking deep breaths now and then. Don't make this a task, but
surround it with pleasantries. Get some delightful companion to walk
with you. Walk vigorously.

Let down on your smoking. Better to leave it alone for a while. You will
enjoy the air. Deep breathing seems to be more natural.

Make it a work for your country. View it in that light. If you are not
going to be called upon to undergo the cruel hardships and physical
strain of some campaigns, your son will be, and you can be of great help
to him by being fit yourself. You and your sons will form the backbone
of America's strength in her next peril.

You will have a great deal of walking after you arrive in camp, possibly
a great deal more than you have ever had, and probably a great deal more
than you expect, even with this word of warning. If you have failed to
provide yourself with proper shoes and socks, great will be the price of
your lack of forethought. You will wince at your own blisters. You will
get no sympathy from any one else. It is the spirit of the camp for each
man to bear his own burdens. So arrive at camp with hardened legs and
broken in shoes. Don't buy shoes with pointed or narrow toes. They
should be broad and airy.

Immediately after you arise in the morning and just before you retire at
night, go through the following exercises for two or three minutes. In a
short time you may want to make it more. No objection. Give it a fair
trial. Be brisk and energetic. Forget, for the time being, what you are
going to get out of it. Give and then give more. The result will take
care of itself.


1st Exercise

Involving practically every important muscle in the body.

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2]

From first position spring to second position; instantly return to first
position and continue.

Be light on your feet. Alight on your toes. Begin with a limited number
of times. Day by day increase it a little until you reach a fair number.
Be most moderate at first. Never allow yourself in any exercise to
become greatly fatigued.


2d Exercise

To reduce waist, strengthen back muscles, and become limber.

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2]

Assume position No. 1.

Swing to position (No. 2), return at once to No. 1, and continue.

Shoot your head and arms as far through your legs as your conformation
permits.


3rd Exercise

To harden leg muscles and exercise joints.

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2]

From position No. 1 come to position No. 2. Return at once to No. 1 and
continue.

Toes turned well out. Body and head erect. Up with a slight spring.
After a little practice, you will have no difficulty with this exercise
in balancing yourself.


4th Exercise

To exercise arms and shoulders and organs of chest and shoulder muscles.

[Illustration: No. 1]

From position No. 1 thrust arms forward to position No. 2, and return at
once to position No. 1.

[Illustration: No. 2]

Vary by thrusting arms downward, sideward and upward. Be moderate at
first. Grow more vigorous with practice.


5th Exercise

[Illustration: No. 1]

To strengthen ankles and insteps.

From position No. 1 rise on the toes to position No. 2, return at once
to position No. 1, and continue.

Go up on your toes as high as you can.

[Illustration: No. 2]




CHAPTER III

SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER

Based on the Infantry Drill Regulations



Success in battle is the ultimate object of all military training; hence
the excellence of an organization is judged by its field efficiency.
Your instruction will be progressive in character, and will have as its
ultimate purpose the creation of a company measuring up to a high
standard of field efficiency.

The Preparatory Command, such as Forward, indicates the movement that is
to be executed.

The Command of Execution, such as MARCH, HALT, or ARMS, commences the
execution of the movement.

Preparatory Commands are distinguished by bold face, those of execution
by capitals. As, 1. Forward, 2. MARCH.

The average man understands better and learns faster when you show him
how a thing is done. Don't be content with telling him how. Bear this in
mind when you become an instructor.

On account of the absence of the Regular Army on the border, it was not
practical to obtain photographs of regular troops with which to
illustrate this book. The photographs used were taken under the direct
supervision of the authors.



POSITION OF A SOLDIER AT ATTENTION


[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2 CORRECT POSITION]

No. 1. Eyes to the front. Hands hang naturally. Rest weight of the body
equally on feet. Feet turned out making angles of 45 deg..

No. 2. Head erect. Shoulders down and back. Chest out. Stomach up. Thumb
along the seams of trousers. Knees straight, not stiff. Heels on line
and together. Do not stiffen the fingers: The mind ought also to be at
attention.

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2 INCORRECT POSITIONS]

No. 1. Don't gaze about. That's not playing the game. Don't turn your
feet out making an angle of 100 deg..

No. 2. Don't slouch. Hold yourself up. Keep your eyes off the ground.

These are the common errors of beginners.


1. Parade, 2. REST.

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2 CORRECT POSITION]

No. 1. Clasp hands without constraint in front of center of body. Left
hand uppermost. Fingers joined. Thumb and fore finger right hand clasps
the left thumb.

No. 2. Bend left knee slightly. Right foot is carried 6 inches straight
to the rear.

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2 INCORRECT POSITIONS]

No. 1. Not looking straight to the front. Right foot not carried
straight to the rear.

No. 2. Leaning back too far. Right foot carried back too far.


1. Hand, 2. SALUTE.

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2 CORRECT POSITION]

No. 1. Look toward the person saluted.

No. 2. Tip of forefinger right hand touches cap or hat above right eye.
Thumb and forefingers extended and joined. Hand and wrist straight. Palm
to the left.

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2 No. 3 INCORRECT POSITIONS OR COMMON ERRORS]

No. 1. Palm of the hand to the front and fingers not joined.

No. 2. Arm held too high. Fingers not perfectly joined.

No. 3. Fingers not extended and joined. Left hand not by side while
salute is being made.

Some beginners forget, while saluting, to remove their pipes,
cigarettes, or cigars from their mouths. This proves clearly that they
are beginners, for trained and experienced men are careful about
military honors and salutes.



THE RESTS


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.


1. Parade, 2. REST. Previously explained.

To resume the attention: 1. Squad, 2. ATTENTION. The men take the
position of the soldier.



EYES RIGHT OR LEFT


1. Eyes, 2. RIGHT (LEFT), 3. FRONT.

[Illustration]

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. Notice the right
file does not turn the eyes to the right.



FACINGS


To the flank: 1. Right (left), 2. FACE.

[Illustration]

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 deg..

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. There is no
left about face.



STEPS AND MARCHINGS


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

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.

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


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.

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.

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


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
prescribed above. Common errors are to raise the feet several inches and
to run up the cadence, i.e., go too fast.

1. Half step, 2. MARCH.

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

Forward, half step, halt, and mark time may be executed one from the
other in quick or double time. Any step less than the full step (i.e.,
half step, right step, or backward) is apt to be too fast, i.e., greater
than 120 steps a minute.

To resume the full step from half step or mark time: 1. Forward, 2.
MARCH.



SIDE STEP


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


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


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


Being in march: 1. By the right (left) flank, 2. MARCH.

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2]

The command march must be given when the right foot is on the ground as
shown in No. 1. Then advance and plant the left foot and turn on the
toes to right as shown in No. 2, and step off with the right foot.



TO MARCH TO THE REAR


Being in march: 1. To the rear, 2. MARCH.

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2]

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.

The turn is made on the toes as shown.

The command march must be given when the right foot is on the ground.
The left foot is then advanced to the position shown.

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


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


To acquire proficiency in the Manual of Arms, you should practice,
practice, and practice.

Position of order arms standing, i.e., the position of attention under
arms.

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2 CORRECT POSITION]

No. 1. Arm and hands hang naturally. Right hand holding piece between
thumb and fingers. Butt rests evenly on ground. Barrel to the rear.

No. 2. Toe of the butt on a line with toe of and touching the right
shoe.

To execute the movements in detail, the instructor first cautions: "By
the Numbers"; all movements divided into motions, are then executed
singly. That is to say, make one motion and then wait until a further
command for another. This is for the purpose of correcting erroneous
positions and giving detailed instructions. We are explaining the manual
by the numbers.

[Illustration: FIRST POSITION OF PRESENT ARMS FROM ORDER ARMS]

Being at order arms: 1. Present, 2. ARMS. It takes two counts.

At command 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 left
hand at the balance. Left forearm is horizontal and rests against body.
The balance of the piece is approximately the position of the rear
sight.

[Illustration: CORRECT POSITION OF PRESENT ARMS]

At command two, grasp the small of the stock with the right hand.

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2 No. 3

INCORRECT POSITION OF PRESENT ARMS

These are the common errors made by beginners.]

No. 1. Thumb along barrel.

No. 2. Piece held too low. The front sight will be a little above the
eyes when the left fore arm is horizontal.

No. 3. Piece not vertical; too close to body.



Being at order arms: 1. Port, 2. ARMS. It takes one count.

[Illustration: CORRECT POSITION OF PORT ARMS]

At the command 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 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 rifle is held in a vertical plane parallel
to the front.

In executing this movement, it is a common error with beginners to raise
the piece as though it weighed much more than it does. No part of the
body should move except the arms, in coming to "port arms" from "order
arms."

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2 No. 3 INCORRECT POSITIONS OF PORT ARMS]

No. 1. Arms held away from side.

No. 2. Piece held too low and too close to body.

No. 3. Piece held too high and not in a vertical plane parallel to the
body.

Being at present arms: 1. Port, 2. ARMS. It is executed in one count. At
the command arms, carry the piece diagonally across the body and take
the position of "port arms."

Being at port arms: 1. Present, 2. ARMS. It is executed in one count. At
the command arms, carry the piece to a vertical position in front of the
center of the body and take the position of present arms.

Being at present or port arms: 1. Order, 2. ARMS. It is executed in two
counts.

[Illustration: NEXT TO THE LAST POSITION OF ORDER ARMS]

At the command 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
position shown here, which is the next to the last position in coming to
the order. The left hand should be above and near the right, steadying
the gun, fingers extended and joined, forearm and wrist straight and
inclined downward. Barrel to the rear. All the fingers of the right hand
grasp the gun. Butt about 3 inches from the ground.

Being in the above position, at the command Two, lower the piece gently
to the ground with the right hand, drop the left hand quickly by the
side, and take the position of order arms.

The common errors are to slam the gun down on the ground and to drop the
left hand by the side in a slow and indifferent manner.

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2 No. 3 INCORRECT POSITIONS]

Common errors in the next to the last positions of order arms.

No. 1. Thumb is up. Gun too far from the ground.

No. 2. Gun too near to ground. Thumb is up. Butt of gun too far to the
right.

No. 3. Gun held too high and too far away from body.

Being at order arms: 1. Right shoulder, 2. ARMS. It is executed in three
counts.

At the command arms, with the right hand raise and throw the piece
diagonally across the body; carry the right hand quickly to the butt,
and at the same time grasp the heel between the first two fingers as
shown. Note the position of the first two fingers of right hand.

[Illustration: THE FIRST POSITION OF RIGHT SHOULDER ARMS FROM THE ORDER]

At the command two, without changing the grasp of the right hand, place
the piece on the right 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, wrist
straight and elbow down. Barrel up, and inclined at an angle of about
45 deg. from the horizontal. Trigger guard in the hollow of the shoulder,
tip of forefinger touching the cocking piece. Right fore arm horizontal.

[Illustration: NEXT TO THE LAST POSITION OF RIGHT SHOULDER ARMS]

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2 No. 3  COMMON ERRORS IN THE NEXT TO THE LAST
POSITION OF RIGHT SHOULDER ARMS]

No. 1. Right arms not by side. Left arm too high. Remember that the left
arm rests on the chest. This is very commonly confused with the rifle
salute.

No. 2. Thumb is up. Butt of rifle carried to the right.

No. 3. Trigger guard not against shoulder. Butt held too low. Hand not
straight.

[Illustration: CORRECT POSITION OF RIGHT SHOULDER ARMS]

At the command three, drop the left hand by the side.

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2 No. 3

INCORRECT POSITION OF RIGHT SHOULDER ARMS]

No. 1. Right arm not by side. Right forearm not horizontal.

No. 2. Heel of gun too far to left.

No. 3. Trigger guard not against shoulder. Butt held too low.

Being at right shoulder Arms: 1. Order, 2. ARMS. It is executed in 3
counts.

Press the butt down quickly and throw the gun diagonally across the
body, to the position shown here.

At the command two, lower the gun and assume the next to the last
position of order arms. At the command three, come to the order arms.

The common errors in this movement are to move the head to the left and
to throw the gun too far to the front.

[Illustration]

Being at port arms: 1. Right shoulder, 2. ARMS. It is executed in three
counts.

At the command arms, change the right hand to the butt.

At the command two and three, come to the right shoulder as from order
arms.

Being at right shoulder arms: 1. Port, 2. ARMS. It is executed in two
counts.

At the command arms, press the butt down quickly and throw the piece to
the diagonal position across the body with the left hand grasping it at
the balance; the right hand retaining its grasp of the butt.

At the command two, change the right hand to the small of the stock.

Being at right shoulder arms: 1. Present, 2. ARMS. It is executed in
three counts.

At the command arms, execute port arms. (This requires two counts.) At
the command three, execute present arms.

Being at present arms: 1. Right shoulder, 2. ARMS. It is executed in
four counts.

At the command arms, execute port arms. At the command two, three, four,
execute right shoulder arms as from port arms.

Being at port arms: 1. Left shoulder, 2. ARMS. It is executed in two
counts.

[Illustration: THE NEXT TO THE LAST POSITION OF THE LEFT SHOULDER ARMS]

At the command ARMS, carry the piece with the right hand and place it on
the left shoulder; at the same time grasp the butt with the left hand,
heel between first and second fingers. Thumb and fingers of right hand
closed on the stock. Barrel up, trigger guard in the hollow of the
shoulder.

[Illustration: No. 1 No. 2 No.3

COMMON ERRORS IN THE NEXT TO THE LAST POSITION OF LEFT SHOULDER ARMS]

No. 1. Right arm too high. Butt too high.

No. 2. Butt too close to center of body. Not grasping gun correctly with
fingers of left hand.

No. 3. Right arm too high. Butt too high.

At the command two, drop the right hand by the side.

[Illustration: THE CORRECT POSITION OF LEFT SHOULDER ARMS]

The incorrect positions are usually the same as are found in the right
shoulder arms, and as illustrated here.

[Illustration]

Being at left shoulder arms: 1. Port, 2. ARMS. It is executed in two
counts.

At the command arms, grasp the piece with the right hand at the small of
the stock.

At the command two, carry the piece, with the right hand to the position
of port arms, regrasp it with the left.

Left shoulder arms may be ordered from the order, right shoulder or
present, or the reverse. At the command arms, execute port arms and
continue to the position ordered.

Being at order arms: 1. Parade, 2. REST. It is executed in one count.

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

[Illustration: CORRECT POSITION OF PARADE REST]

Being at parade rest: 1. Squad, 2. ATTENTION. Executed in one count.

At the command attention (it is a custom of the service to execute the
movement at the last syllable of the command), resume the order, the
left hand quitting the piece opposite the right hip.

Being at order arms: 1. Trail, 2. ARMS.

At the command arms, raise the piece, right arm slightly bent, and
incline the muzzle forward so that the barrel makes an angle of about
30 deg. 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.

[Illustration: CORRECT POSITION OF TRAIL ARMS

Being at trail arms: 1. Order, 2. ARMS.

At the command arms, lower the gun with the right hand and resume the
order.]

Being at right shoulder arms: 1. Rifle, 2. SALUTE. It is executed in two
counts.

At the command salute, carry the left hand smartly to the small of the
stock, forearm horizontal, palm of hand down, thumb and fingers joined,
forefinger touching end of cocking piece. Look toward the person
saluted. At the command two, drop the hand by the side; turn the head
and eyes to the front.

[Illustration: THE CORRECT POSITION OF RIFLE SALUTE, BEING AT RIGHT
SHOULDER ARMS.]

[Illustration: COMMON ERRORS IN RIFLE SALUTE AT RIGHT SHOULDER ARMS.

No. 1. Left elbow too low. Forearm should be horizontal.

No. 2. Left elbow too high. Fingers not extended and joined.]

Being at order or trail arms: 1. Rifle, 2. SALUTE.

At the command 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. At the
command two, drop the left hand by the side; turn the head and eyes to
the front.

[Illustration: RIFLE SALUTE BEING AT ORDER ARMS]

[Illustration: COMMON ERRORS IN RIFLE SALUTE AT ORDER OR TRAIL ARMS

No. 1. Fingers not extended and joined.

No. 2. Fingers not joined. Gun held too high.]

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.

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 laying 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.

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

Being at order arms: 1. Inspection, 2. ARMS.

At the command arms, take the position of port arms; at the command 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. Keep your right hand on the bolt.

[Illustration: INSPECTION ARMS]

It is a very common error to change the position of the piece while
drawing the bolt back. Guard against this.

Being at inspection arms: 1. Order (or right shoulder, or port), 2.
ARMS.

At the preparatory command (i.e., at the command order), 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


Being at a halt: 1. Inspection, 2. ARMS, 3. Port, 4. ARMS, 5.
DISMISSED.

Make a point of becoming sufficiently familiar with the different parts
of the rifle to obey the following general rules governing the manual.

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.

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.




CHAPTER IV

SCHOOL OF THE SQUAD

Based on the Infantry Drill Regulations



CLOSE ORDER DRILLS


For several days after reporting you will undergo many hours of close
order drill. You will ask yourself, "Why is all this mental and physical
strain necessary when these exercises are not used in battle?" The
answer is: they are disciplinary exercises and are designed to inculcate
that prompt and subconscious obedience which is essential to proper
military control and to teach you precise and soldierly movements;
hence, they are executed at attention.



DEFINITIONS


Deploy. To extend the front. A squad deploys when it goes "As
skirmishers." A company likewise deploys when it goes from column into
line.

File. Two men, the front rank man and the corresponding man in the
rear rank. The front rank man is the file leader. A file which has no
rear rank man is a blank file.

Interval. Space between elements of the same line. The interval
between men in ranks is 4 inches and is measured from elbow to elbow. It
is to get this interval that each man is required to raise his arm when
the company is formed.

Distance. Space between elements in the direction of depth. It is
measured from the back of the man in front to the breast of the man in
rear. The rear rank when in line or column is 40 inches from the front
rank.

The guide of a squad in line is right unless otherwise announced.

The guide of a squad deployed, (i.e., skirmishers) is center unless
otherwise announced.



TO FORM THE SQUAD


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--one, two, three, four; each man turns his head and eyes to the
front as he counts.

Pieces are then inspected.

[Illustration]

The purpose of putting the left hand on the hip is to get enough elbow
room. A man should have sufficient space to operate his piece. These
four-inch intervals give it to him.

[Illustration]

Note the space between elbows (interval) is 4 inches. The space between
the front and rear rank (distance) is 40 inches, and is measured from
the back of the man in front to the breast of the man in the rear.



ALIGNMENTS


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 lines executes eyes right, and, taking steps of 2 or 3
inches, places himself so that his right arm rests lightly against the
elbow of the man on his right (vice versa in left dressing), and so that
his eyes and shoulders are in line with those of the men on his right,
and also that each man can see the eyes of at least two men on his
right.

[Illustration]

The instructor verifies the alignment of both ranks from the right flank
and orders up or back such men as may be in the 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.

There are in dressing a number of common errors that we should try to
avoid. Don't jab the man on your left with your elbow. If you are not on
the line, move your feet. Don't lean forward or backward. Be sure to
touch gently the man on your right with your right arm. Be certain to
keep your left elbow forced well to the front. This is a little
uncomfortable at first, but unless we do this our arms will not measure
the 4 inches correctly. Don't hump up the left shoulder, and don't turn
the shoulders to the right. Keep fingers of left hand extended and
joined.

We want to place especial stress on the importance of three movements
in the school of the squad. When you have thoroughly mastered these
three, you will have a splendid basis for the remainder of the School of
the Squad, the full value of which you will later appreciate. These are:
Squad right, Squad right about, and Right turn.

The first line drawing in this chapter shows correct proportions of
interval and distance. To save space and for convenience, the drawings
hereafter are made without regard to proportions (intervals and
distances).



First Movement


SQUAD RIGHT

Being in line, to turn and march: 1. Squad right (left), 2. MARCH.

In this movement many instructors have recruit squads step off on the
7th count. When the drill progresses the squad should step off on the
5th count.

[Illustration: This is what we have

This is what we want]

At the command march, No. 1 in the front rank faces to the right in
marching and marks time; Nos. 2, 3, and 4 of the front rank turn 45
degrees to the right (right oblique), place themselves abreast (on the
same line) of No. 1 and mark time.

Now it is difficult quickly to understand the movements of the rear
rank. Give them a lot of study and don't go on until you are certain
that you understand.

[Illustration: This is the way it is done.]

No. 3 moves straight to the front.

No. 2 follows No. 3.

No. 1 follows No. 2.

When they (Nos. 3, 2 and 1) arrive in rear of their file leaders, (Nos.
3, 2 and 1, front rank) they face to the right in marching and mark
time.

No. 4 of the rear rank moves straight to the front four paces, and
places himself abreast of No. 3, rear rank.

When No. 4, front rank, and No. 4, rear rank, are on the line, (and the
remainder of the squad must glance toward them to see when that is
true), the whole squad moves forward without further command.

Note that we have said that No. 1 front rank marks time. We see that he
becomes, temporarily, an immovable pivot for his squad. We, therefore,
call him a fixed pivot.

Had the command been squad left, instead of squad right, No. 4 would
have been the fixed pivot instead of No. 1.

Being in line, to turn and halt: 1. Squad right (left), 2. MARCH, 3.
Squad, 4. HALT.

The turn is executed as prescribed in the preceding case except that all
men, on arriving on the new line, mark time until the command halt is
given, when all halt.

Whenever the third command (i.e., squad) is given means that the command
halt is to follow. This is caution to the squad to prepare to halt. The
command halt should be given as No. 4 arrives on the line.



Second Movement


SQUAD RIGHT ABOUT

Being in line, to turn about and march: 1. Squad right (left) about, 2.
MARCH.

[Illustration:

This is what we have

This is what we want]

At the command march, the front rank twice executes Squad right,
initiating (starting) the second Squad right when No. 4 has arrived on
the line. That much is very simple.

The rear rank has a harder task. Let us have the front and rear rank
execute the movement separately:

[Illustration]

The rear rank is to take its place on the dotted line a b.

No. 3 rear rank moves straight to the front until in prolongation of
the line to be occupied by the rear rank.

No. 2 follows No. 3.

No. 1 follows No. 2.

When No. 3 arrives on the line to be occupied by the rear rank he
changes direction to the right; he moves in the new direction until in
rear of No. 3, front rank, when Nos. 3, 2, and 1, rear rank, are in rear
of Nos. 3, 2, and 1, front rank, (i.e., when they are in rear of their
front rank men), they face to the right in marching and mark time. No. 4
marches on the left of No. 3 to his new position. As he arrives on the
line, both ranks execute forward march without command, For the
remainder of the squad to know when No. 4 front and rear rank have
arrived on the line, they glance to see. The squad should step off on
the 9th count.



Third Movement


RIGHT TURN

Being in line: 1. Right (left) turn, 2. MARCH.

[Illustration: THIS IS THE WAY IT IS DONE]

At the command march, No. 1 front rank faces to the right in marching
and takes the half step. Nos. 2, 3, and 4 front rank right oblique
(turn 45 degrees to the right) until opposite their places in line, then
execute a second right oblique and take the half step on arriving
abreast of the pivot man. When No. 4 arrives on the line Nos. 1, 2, 3,
and 4 take the full step without further command. (To know when No. 4
arrives on the line it is necessary to glance in his direction.) Full
step on the 7th count.

The rear rank executes the movement in the same way and turns on the
same ground as the front rank. The rear rank, therefore, moves forward
at the command march, or continues to move forward, if already marching,
until it arrives at the place where the front turned, when it turns.

Note that the squad turns on No. 1 front rank but that he does not
remain in his position even temporarily, as in squad right; he is,
therefore, called the moving pivot. No. 4 is called the marching flank.

Had the command been left turn, No. 4 would have been the moving pivot,
and No. 1 the marching flank.

Knowing the three above movements, we are prepared for the following:

Being in line at a halt: 1. Take interval, 2. To the right (left), 3.
MARCH, 4. Squad, 5. HALT.

[Illustration: BEING IN THIS FORMATION]

At the command to the right (left), the rear rank men march backward
four steps (15 inches each step) and halt.

[Illustration: LIKE THIS

Note that the actual distance from the front rank to the rear rank is
now 40 plus 4x15 inches, i.e., 100 inches.]

At the command march, all face to the right and No. 1 front and rear
rank step off. No. 2, front and rear rank, follow No. 1, front and rear
rank, at a distance of four paces. Likewise with the other numbers.

[Illustration: Like this, when No. 1 front and rear rank have gained
four paces distance.]

At the command halt, given when No. 3 is three paces distant from No. 4,
all halt and face to the front.

[Illustration: The squad looks like this when the movement is
completed.]

Being at intervals: 1. Assemble, to the right, (left), 2. MARCH.

At the command march, No. 1 front rank stands fast. No. 1 rear rank
closes to 40 inches. The other men face to the right, close by the
shortest line, and face to the front.

[Illustration]

Being in line at a halt: 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 four 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.

[Illustration]

The front rank men should walk straight to the front and their rear rank
men should cover them accurately.

Being at distances, to assemble the squad: 1. Assemble, 2. MARCH.

No. 1 of the front rank stands fast; the other numbers move forward to
their proper places in line.



THE OBLIQUE MARCH


For the instruction of recruits, the squad being in column or correctly
aligned, the instructor causes the squad to face half right (or half
left), points out to the men their relative positions, and explains that
these are to be maintained in the oblique march.

1. Right (left) oblique, 2. MARCH.

Each man steps off in a direction 45 degrees to the right of his
original front. He preserves his relative position, keeping his
shoulders parallel to those of the guide (the man on the right front of
the line or column), and so regulates his steps that the ranks remain
parallel to their original front.

At the command halt, the men halt faced to the front.

To resume the original direction: 1. Forward, 2. MARCH.

[Illustration]

The men half face to the left in marching and then move straight to the
front.

If at half step or mark time while obliquing, the oblique march is
resumed by the commands: 1. Oblique, 2. MARCH.


TO FOLLOW THE CORPORAL

Being assembled or deployed, to march the squad without unnecessary
commands, the corporal places himself in front of it and commands:
FOLLOW ME.

If in line or skirmish line, No. 2 of the front rank follows in the
track of the corporal at about 3 paces; the other men conform to the
movements of No. 2, guiding on him and maintaining their relative
positions.

If in column, the head of the column follows the corporal.

[Illustration]

Note that No. 4 rear rank takes the place of the corporal when the
corporal is in front of the squad. This a general rule. When any front
rank man is absent his rear rank man steps up in the front rank. When
the squad is following the corporal No. 4 rear rank remains blank (i.e.,
No. 3 does not step to the left and cover No. 4).



TO DEPLOY AS SKIRMISHERS


Being in any formation, assembled: 1. As skirmishers, 2. MARCH.

The corporal places himself in front of the squad, if not already there.
Moving at a run, the men place themselves abreast of the corporal at
half-pace intervals. Nos. 1 and 2 on his right, Nos. 3 and 4 on his
left, rear-rank men on the right of their file leaders, extra men on the
left of No. 4; all then conform to the corporal's gait.

There is a rule of thumb that must be remembered. The rear-rank man is
always on the right of his file leader.

A common error is for beginners to execute the movement at a slow trot
which a run is required.

When the squad is acting alone, skirmish line is similarly formed on No.
2 of the front rank, who stands fast or continues the march, as the case
may be; the corporal places himself in front of the squad when advancing
and in rear when halted.

When deployed as skirmishers, the men march at ease, pieces at the trail
unless otherwise ordered.

The corporal is the guide when in the line; otherwise No. 2 front rank
is the guide. The guide is center.

The normal interval between skirmishers is one-half pace, resulting
practically in one man per yard of front. The front of a squad thus
deployed as skirmishers is about 10 paces.

[Illustration: SQUAD DEPLOYED ON CORPORAL

THIS IS THE WAY IT IS DONE]

The common error is to keep an interval of a very few inches when 15
inches are required.



TO INCREASE OR DIMINISH INTERVALS


If assembled, and it is desired to deploy at greater than the normal
interval; or if deployed, and it is desired to increase or decrease the
interval: 1. As skirmishers, (so many) paces, 2. MARCH.

Intervals are taken at the indicated number of paces. If already
deployed, the men move by the flank or away from the guide.

The above command is used but very little.



THE ASSEMBLY


Being deployed: 1. Assemble, 2. MARCH.

The men move toward the corporal and form in their proper places.

If the corporal continues to advance, the men move in double time, form,
and follow him.

The assembly while marching to the rear is not executed.

     Note. It will be better for the beginner to let the remainder of
     this chapter go for awhile. Your instructor will explain all of the
     following points in a way that will be easier for you than for you
     to try to work them out alone. They will come up in the first
     month's work and will be explained and shown as you go along. As
     you become more proficient we advise you, then, to take up the
     remainder of the chapter.

If standing: KNEEL.

Half face to the right; carry the right toe about 1 foot to the left
rear of the left heel; kneel on the right knee, sitting as nearly as
possible on the right heel; left forearm across left thigh; piece
remains in position of order arms, right hand grasping it above the
lower hand.

If standing or kneeling: LIE DOWN.

Kneel, but with right knee against left heel; carry back the left foot
and lie flat on the belly, inclining body about 35 degrees to the
right; piece horizontal, barrel up, muzzle off the ground and pointed to
the front; elbows on the ground; left hand at the balance, right hand
grasping the small of the stock opposite the neck. This is the position
of order arms, lying down.

If kneeling or lying down: RISE.

If kneeling, stand up, faced to the front, on the ground marked by the
left heel.

If lying down, raise body on both knees; stand up, faced to the front,
on the ground marked by the knees.

If lying down: KNEEL.

Raise the body on both knees; take the position of kneel.

In double rank, the positions of kneeling and lying down are ordinarily
used only for the better utilization of cover.

When deployed as skirmishers, a sitting position may be taken in lieu of
the kneeling position.



LOADINGS AND FIRINGS


The commands for loading and firing are the same whether standing,
kneeling, or lying down. The firings are always executed at a halt.

When kneeling or lying down in double rank, the rear rank does not load,
aim, or fire.

The instruction in firing will be preceded by a command for loading.

Loadings are executed in line and skirmish line only.

Pieces, having been ordered loaded, are kept loaded without command
until the command unload, or inspection arms, fresh clips being
inserted when the magazine is exhausted.

The aiming point or target is carefully pointed out. This may be done
before or after announcing the sight setting. Both are indicated before
giving the command for firing, but may be omitted when the target
appears suddenly and is unmistakable; in such case battle sight is used
if no sight setting is announced.

The target or aiming point having been designated and the sight setting
announced, such designation or announcement need not be repeated until a
change of either or both is necessary.

Troops are trained to continue their fire upon the aiming point or
target designated, and at the sight setting announced, until a change is
ordered.

If the men are not already in the position of load, that position is
taken at the announcement of the sight setting; if the announcement is
omitted, the position is taken at the first command for firing.

When deployed, the use of the sling as an aid to accurate firing is
discretionary with each man.



TO LOAD


Being in line or skirmish line at halt: 1. With dummy (blank or ball)
cartridges, 2. LOAD.

At the command load each front-rank man or skirmisher faces half right
and carries the right foot to the right, about 1 foot, to such position
as will insure the greatest firmness and steadiness of the body;
raises, or lowers, the piece and drops it into the left hand at the
balance, left thumb extended along the stock, muzzle at the height of
the breast, and turns the cut-off up. With the right hand, he turns and
draws the bolt back, takes a loaded clip and inserts the end in the clip
slots, places the thumb on the powder space of the top cartridge, the
fingers extending around the piece and tips resting on the magazine
floor plate; forces the cartridges into the magazine by pressing down
with the thumb; without removing the clip, thrusts the bolt home,
turning down the handle; turns the safety lock to the "safe" and carries
the hand to the small of the stock. Each rear rank man moves to the
right front, takes a similar position opposite the interval to the right
of his front rank man, muzzle of the piece extending beyond the front
rank, and loads.

A skirmish line may load while moving, the pieces being held as neatly
as practicable in the position of load.

If kneeling or sitting, the position of the piece is similar; if
kneeling, the left forearm rests on the left thigh; if sitting the
elbows are supported by the knees; if lying down, the left hand steadies
and supports the piece at the balance, the toe of the butt resting on
the ground, the muzzle off the ground.



STACK AND TAKE ARMS


The subject of stack and take arms is less important than the rest of
this chapter. It is difficult to be learned from a book. Your company
commander will explain it to you. It is given here to serve as a
reference.

Being in line at a halt: STACK ARMS.

Each even number of the front rank grasps his piece with the left hand
at the upper band and rests the butt between his feet, barrel to the
front, muzzle inclined slightly to the front and opposite the center of
the interval on his right, the thumb and forefinger raising the stacking
swivel; each even number of the rear rank then passes his piece, barrel
to the rear, to his file leader, who grasps it between the bands with
his right hand and throws the butt about two feet in advance of that of
his own piece and opposite the right of the interval, the right hand
slipping to the upper band, the thumb and forefinger raising the
stacking swivel, which he engages with that of his own piece; each odd
number of the front rank raises his piece with the right hand, carries
it well forward, barrel to the front; the left hand, guiding the
stacking swivel, engages the lower hook of the swivel of his own piece
with the free hook of that of the even number of the rear rank; he then
turns the barrel outward into the angle formed by the other two pieces
and lowers the butt to the ground, to the right of and against the toe
of his right shoe.

The stacks made, the loose pieces are laid on them by the even numbers
of the front rank.

When each man has finished handling pieces, he takes the position of the
soldier.

Being in line behind the stacks: TAKE ARMS.

The loose pieces are returned by the even numbers of the front rank;
each even number of the front rank grasps his own piece with the left
hand, the piece of his rear-rank man with his right hand, grasping both
between the bands; each odd number of the front rank grasps his piece in
the same way with the right hand, disengages it by raising the butt from
the ground and then, turning the piece to the right, detaches it from
the stack; each even number of the front rank disengages and detaches
his piece by turning it to the left, and then passes the piece of his
rear-rank man to him, and all resume the order.

Should any squad have Nos. 2 and 3 blank files, No. 1 rear rank takes
the place of No. 2 rear rank in making and breaking the stack; the
stacks made or broken, he resumes his post.

Pieces not used in making the stack are termed loose pieces.

Pieces are never stacked with the bayonet fixed.




CHAPTER V

SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY

Based on the Infantry Drill Regulations


The company in line is formed in double rank with the men arranged, as
far as practicable, according to height from right to left, the tallest
on the right.

The original division into squads is effected by the command: Count off.
The squads, successively from the right, count off as in the School of
the Squad, corporals placing themselves as No. 4 of the front rank.

At the formation of the company the platoons or squads are numbered
consecutively from right to left, and these designations do not change.

For convenience in giving commands and for reference, the designations,
right, center, left, when in line, and leading, center, rear, when
in column, are applied to platoons or squads. These designations,
right, center, left, when in line, and leading, center, rear, when
in column, are applied to the actual right, left, center, head, or rear,
in whatever direction the company may be facing. The center squad is
the middle or right middle squad of the company. If there are an even
number of squads in the company, for instance eight, the center squad
would be the fourth.

The designation "So-and-so's" squad or platoon may also be used.

[Illustration: This is exactly the same as the photograph. It
shows the correct position of every man in the company. man for man.]

During battle, these assignments are not changed; vacancies are filled
by non-commissioned officers of the platoon, or by the nearest available
officers or non-commissioned officers arriving with reinforcing troops.



CLOSE ORDER


In column of squads, each rank preserves the alignment toward the side
of the guide.

Men in the line of file closers do not execute loadings and firings.



TO FORM THE COMPANY


At the sounding of the assembly the first sergeant takes position 6
paces in front of where the center of the company is to be, faces it,
draws saber, and commands: Fall in.

The right guide of the company places himself, facing to the front,
where the right of the company is to rest, and at such point that the
center of the company will be 6 paces from and opposite the first
sergeant; the squads form in their proper places on the left of the
right guide, superintended by the other sergeants, who then take their
posts.

The first sergeant commands: Report. Remaining in position at the order,
the squad leaders, in succession from the right, salute and report: All
present; or Private(s)---- absent. The first sergeant does not return
the salutes of the squad leaders; he then commands: 1. Inspection, 2.
ARMS, 3. Order, 4. ARMS, faces about, salutes the captain, reports:
Sir, all present or accounted for, or the names of the unauthorized
absentees, and without command, takes his post.

If the company cannot be formed by squads, the first sergeant commands:
1. Inspection, 2. ARMS, 3. Right shoulder, 4. ARMS, and calls the roll.
Each man, as his name is called, answers here and executes order arms.
The sergeant then effects the division into squads and reports the
company as prescribed above.

The captain places himself 12 paces in front of the center of, and
facing, the company in time to receive the report of the first sergeant,
whose salute he returns, and then draws saber.

The lieutenants take their posts when the first sergeant has reported,
and draw saber with the captain.

Generally in camp the saber is not worn. The officers and first
sergeants carry pistols. The hand salute is rendered when so armed.

In the School of the Squad we gave three movements that formed the basis
of the squad drill. There are six movements in the School of the Company
that should be thoroughly understood. When the beginner knows these he
will have no difficulty with the remainder of the close order.



1ST MOVEMENT ON THE FIXED PIVOT


Being in line, to turn the company: 1. Company right (left), 2. MARCH,
3. Company, 4. HALT; or, 3. Forward, 4. MARCH.

[Illustration: SHOWING MOVEMENT HALF COMPLETED]

Notice that the part of the company which has not completed the movement
is perpendicular to the part that has. The common error is for the rear
rank to oblique before marching four paces to the front.

At the second command the right-flank man in the front rank faces to the
right in marching and marks time; the other front-rank men, oblique to
the right, place themselves abreast of the pivot, and mark time; in the
rear rank the third man from the right, followed in column by the second
and first, moves straight to the front until in rear of his front-rank
man, when all face to the right in marching and mark time; the remaining
men of the rear rank move straight to the front 4 paces, oblique to the
right, place themselves abreast of the third man, cover their file
leaders, and mark time; the right guide steps back, takes post on the
flank and marks time.

The fourth command is given when the last man is 1 pace in rear of the
new line.

The command Halt may be given at any time after the movement begins;
only those halt who are in the new position. Each of the others halts
upon arriving on the line, aligns himself to the right, and executes
front without command.

The difference between this movement and squad right is slight. The rear
rank acts a little differently, and the company waits for the command to
move forward. The idea is exactly the same.



2D MOVEMENT ON THE MOVING PIVOT


Being in line, to change direction: 1. Right (left) turn, 2. MARCH, 3:
Forward, 4. MARCH.

Executed as described in the School of the Squad, except that the men do
not glance toward the marching flank and that all take the full step at
the fourth command. The right guide is the pivot of the front rank. Each
rear-rank man obliques on the same ground as his file leader.

[Illustration: THIRD MOVEMENT TO CHANGE FROM LINE TO COLUMN AND
MOVE FORWARD]

Being in line, to form column of squads and move forward: 1. Right
(left) by squads, 2. MARCH.

At the command march, the right squad marches forward; the remainder
of the company executes squads right, column left, and follows the
right squad. The right guide, when he has posted himself in front of the
right squad, takes four short steps, then resumes the full steps; the
right squad conforms.

A common error is for the guide to forget to take the four short steps.

[Illustration: The diagram shows the movement completed]

Keep dressed accurately on the side of the guide. (He is always on the
side opposite from the file closers This is a rule of thumb that should
be memorized at once.) The guide in every squad should keep 40 inches
from the man in front. So many new men forget about the 40 inches. They
usually take a little over 30. When the company is moved into line there
is of course a jam. Hold your head up. Don't look down to the ground.
You will be in the formation more than any other. Try to keep the
following cautions in mind: The leading men of the company should have
four inches interval. Better to have too much than too little if
mistakes are to be insisted upon. Keep the pieces in the correct
positions at right shoulder and then have heads and rifles in a bee
line. When the movement is completed the company will be in the
formation shown in the drawing.



FOURTH MOVEMENT COLUMN RIGHT


Being in column of squads, to change direction: 1. Column right (left),
2. MARCH.

At the second command the front rank of the leading squad turns to the
right on moving pivot as in the School of the Squad; the other ranks,
without command, turn successively on the same ground and in similar
manner.

[Illustration]

It is a very common error for the pivot man to take too short a step and
thereby cause a jam. Bear this in mind. Another very common error is for
the flank man (or men) to take a very long step. This is caused by the
pivot man's forgetting to glance and see when the flank man arrives on
the line, before he takes the full step. Another common error is to get
out of column while making this movement. Bear this in mind and walk
straight to the turning point.

[Illustration: THIS SHOWS THE COMPANY IN COLUMN OF SQUADS, CORRECT
POSITION]

[Illustration: THIS SHOWS THE COMMON ERRORS]

Now we come to the last two movements. They cause more trouble than any
others.



FIFTH MOVEMENT ON RIGHT (LEFT) INTO LINE


Being in column of platoons or squads, to form line on right or left: 1.
On right (left) into line, 2. MARCH, 3. Company, 4. HALT, 5. FRONT.

(On right [left] into line, means turn in the direction that is on your
right and get into line. You have to be in column before the movement is
begun.)

Let us first consider the company in column of squads.

[Illustration]

At the captain's command on right into line, the corporal of the leading
squad commands right turn. The corporals of all the remaining squads, if
halted, command forward, if marching they caution their squads to
continue the march. At the captain's command march, the leading squad
turns to the right on a moving pivot. The remaining squads march
straight to the front.

Each corporal commands right turn before arriving opposite the right of
his squads place in line. When the front rank of his squad has arrived
opposite that place he gives the command march.

The command halt is given when the leading squad has advanced the
desired distance in the new direction. Only the leading squad halts. The
corporal then commands right dress.

The remaining corporals before arrival on the line, command, squad, and
add the command halt just before the right front rank reaches the line.
Then, they, command right dress.

The captain then dresses the company and commands front.

If executed in double time the leading squad marches in double time
until halted.

Now let us consider the company in columns of platoons. See
illustration on next page.

At the captain's command on right into line, the leader of the first
platoon commands right turn, the leaders of the rear platoons, if
halted, command forward; if marching, they caution their platoons to
continue the march. The first platoon executes the right turn at the
captain's command march. Having completed the turn the platoon commander
gives the command, forward, MARCH.

[Illustration]

The remaining platoon commanders give right turn, MARCH, when opposite
their places, and the command, forward, MARCH, when the turn has been
completed.

When the leading platoon has advanced the desired distance the captain
gives the command, company, HALT. At the command company, the leading
platoon leader gives the command, platoon. His platoon only halts at the
captain's command, halt. The platoon leader then gives the command,
right dress, and takes his post in the file closers. The remaining
platoons are successively halted and dressed by their leader. The
captain gives the command FRONT.



SIXTH MOVEMENT RIGHT FRONT INTO LINE


Being in column of platoons or squads, to form line to the front: 1.
Right (left) front into line, 2. MARCH, 3. Company, 4. HALT, 5. FRONT.

(Right [left] front into line means move to the right of the front and
get into line. It is necessary to be in column to begin this movement.)

Let us first consider the company in column of squads. At the captain's
command, right front into line, the corporal of the leading squad, if
halted, commands forward; if marching, he cautions his squad, continue
the march. The corporals of the remaining squads command right oblique.
At the command march, the leading squad moves forward. The remaining
squads oblique as indicated. The command halt is given when the leading
squad has advanced the desired distance; its corporal then commands left
dress.

The remaining corporals command forward, MARCH, when opposite their
places in the line. They halt and dress their squads on the line
established by the leading squad.

When the company is in column of platoons the movement is executed in
the same manner and by the same commands except the word platoon is
substituted for squad. The Captain gives the command FRONT.

[Illustration]

Being in line, to form column of platoons, or the reverse: 1. Platoons
right (left), 2. MARCH, 3. Company, 4. HALT; or, 3. Forward, 4. MARCH.

[Illustration]

Executed by each platoon as described for the company.

Before forming line the captain sees that the guides on the flank toward
which the movement is to be executed are covering. This is effected by
previously announcing the guide to that flank.

The two common errors are: 1. First, the pivot man takes a short step
instead of marking time. Second, (being in line), the pivot men of the
platoons forget that they are the pivots and therefore do not execute
the command when ordered.

[Illustration]

The following illustration shows the side view of a platoon. Note the
common errors: No. 1 rear rank is closed up to about twenty inches. He
is looking down at the heels of his front rank file (man). Rifles are
improperly held. Some men in the rear rank have more than forty inches
distance from their front rank men.

Being in line, to form column of squads, or the reverse; or, being in
line of platoons, to form column of platoons, or the reverse: 1. Squads
right (left), 2. MARCH; or, 1. Squads right (left), 2. MARCH, 3.
Company, 4. HALT.

Executed by each squad as described in the School of the Squad.

[Illustration]

If the company or platoons be formed in line toward the side of the file
closers they dart through the column and take posts in rear of the
company at the second command. If the column of squads be formed from
line, the file closers take posts on the pivot flank, abreast of and 4
inches from the nearest flank.

Being in column of platoons, to change direction: 1. Column right
(left), 2. MARCH.

At the first command the leader of the leading platoon commands: Right
turn. At the command march the leading platoon turns to the right on
moving pivot; its leader commands: Forward, 2. MARCH, on completion of
the turn. Rear platoons march squarely up to the turning point of the
leading platoon and turn at the command of their leaders. When each
platoon has completed its turn, the leader commands forward, MARCH.

[Illustration]

Being in column of squads, to form line of platoons or the reverse: 1.
Platoons, column right (left), 2. MARCH.

Executed by each platoon as described for the company.

Being in line, to form column of squads and then change direction. 1.
Squads left (right), column right (left), 2. MARCH.

[Illustration: The dotted line shows the company in line before the new
movement is begun.

This shows the movement half completed.]

The left squad initiates (begins) The column right as soon as it has
completed the squad left.]

Being in line, to form line of platoons: 1. Squads left (right),
platoons, column left (right), 2.

[Illustration: LINE OF PLATOONS]

MARCH; or, 1. Platoons, right (left) by squads, 2. MARCH.

Executed by each platoon as described for the company in the preceding
paragraph.



FACING OR MARCHING TO THE REAR


Being in line, line of platoons, or in column of platoons or squads, to
face or march to the rear: 1. Squads right (left) about, 2. MARCH; or,
1. Squads right (left) about, 2. MARCH, 3. Company, 4. HALT.

Executed by each squad as described in the School of the Squad.

If the company is in line of platoons, or in column of squads, the file
closers turn about toward the column, and take their posts; if in line,
each darts through the nearest interval between squads.

To march to the rear for a few paces: 1. About, 2. FACE, 3. Forward, 4.
MARCH.

If in line, the guides place themselves in the rear rank, now in front
rank; the file closers, on facing about, maintain their relative
positions. No other movement is executed until the line is faced to the
original front.

Being in column of squads to form column of platoons, or being in line
of platoons, to form the company in line: 1. Platoons, right (left)
front into line, 2. MARCH, 3. Company, 4. HALT, 5. FRONT.

Executed by each platoon as described for the company. If forming column
of platoons, platoon leaders verify the alignment before taking their
posts; the captain commands front when the alignments have been
verified.

When front into line is executed in double time the commands for
halting and aligning are omitted and the guide is toward the side of the
first unit in line.



ROUTE STEP AND AT EASE


The column of squads is the habitual column of route, but route step
and at ease are applicable to any marching formation.

To march at route step: 1. Route step, 2. MARCH. Sabers are carried at
will or in the scabbard; the men carry their pieces at will, keeping the
muzzles elevated; they are not required to preserve silence, nor to keep
the step. The ranks cover and preserve their distance. If halted from
route step, the men stand at rest.

To march at ease: 1. At ease, 2. MARCH.

The company marches as in route step, except that silence is preserved
when hated, the men remain at ease.

Marching at route step or at ease: 1. Company, 2. ATTENTION.

At the command attention the pieces are brought to the right shoulder
and the cadenced step in quick time is resumed.



RULES FOR GUIDES


A guide is a noncommissioned officer or a private upon whom the company
regulates its march.

It is not difficult for an inexperienced man learn, with a little
practice, the duties and the correct positions of a guide. Remember the
rule of thumb, The guide and the file closers are on the opposite
flanks when the company is in column of squads. In squads right about
it would be ridiculous for the file closers to move from one flank to
another. Guides are permitted and supposed look around to see if they
are in their proper places; most new men are timid about this.

The following general rules and examples will help you:

The guide of a company or platoon in line is right, unless otherwise
announced.

The guide of a company or platoon in column of squads is toward the side
of the guide, who places himself on the side of the company away from
the file closers.

The guide of a deployed line (a skirmish line) is always center unless
otherwise announced.


EXAMPLES

Suppose the company to be in line.

In executing:

    1. Squads right. The guides go to the left flank.

    2. Right by squads. The guides go to the left flank.

    3. Squads left. The guides go to the right flank.

    4. Left by squads. The guides go to the right flank.

If the company is in column of squads and the command is either squads
right or left about, the guides simply remember to remain on the flank
opposite from the file closers. It is very easy to see that a world of
confusion would be caused by the file closers attempting to move to the
opposite flank during squads right or left about. If the guides are in
doubt look to see where the file closers are and then apply the rule of
thumb: File closers and guides are always on opposite flanks.


TO DIMINISH THE FRONT OF A COLUMN OF SQUADS

Being in column of squads: 1. Right (left) by twos, 2. MARCH.

At the command march all files except the two right files on the leading
squad execute "in Place Halt"; the two left files of the leading squads
oblique to the right when disengaged and follow the right files at the
shortest practicable distance. The remaining squads follow successively
in like manner.

Being in column of squads or twos:

1. Right (left) by file, 2. MARCH.

At the command march, all files execute "In Place Halt," except the
right file of the leading two or squad. The left file or files of the
leading two or squad oblique successively to the right when disengaged
and each follows the file on its right at the shortest practicable
distance. The remaining twos or squads follow successively in like
manner.

[Illustration: RIGHT BY TWOS]

Being in column of files or twos, to form column of squads; or, being in
column of files, to form column of twos: 1. Squads (twos), right (left)
front into line, 2. MARCH.

At the command march, the leading file or files halt and come to order
arms. The remainder of the squad, or twos, obliques to the right and
halts on line with the leading file or files. The remaining squads or
twos close up and successively form in rear of the first in like manner.

The movement described in this paragraph will be ordered right or left,
so as to restore the files to their normal relative positions in column
of twos or in column of squads.

[Illustration: RIGHT BY FILE]

The movements prescribed in the three preceding paragraphs are difficult
of execution at attention and have no value as disciplinary exercises.

[Illustration: Executing twos left front into line.

Executing squads left front into line.]

Marching by twos or files can not be executed without serious delay and
waste of road space. Every reasonable precaution will be taken to
obviate the necessity for these formations.

The remainder of chapter on close order drill, School of the Company,
is in general for those above the grade of private, therefore, unless we
are perfectly clear in what we have had so far, let us not go too deeply
into these special features until we have more experience.

The captain is responsible for the theoretical and practical instruction
of his officers and noncommissioned officers, not only in the duties of
their respective grades, but in those of the next higher grades.

If the left squad contains less than six men, it is either increased to
that number by transfers from other squads or is broken up and its
members assigned to other squads and posted in the line of file closers.
These squad organizations are maintained, by transfers if necessary,
until the company becomes so reduced in numbers as to necessitate a new
division into squads. No squad will contain less than six men.

The company is further divided into two, three, or four platoons, each
consisting of not less than two nor more than four squads. In garrison
or ceremonies the strength of platoons may exceed four squads.

Platoons are assigned to the lieutenants and noncom-missioned officers,
in order of rank, as follows: 1, right; 2, left; 3, center (right
center); 4, left center.

The noncommissioned officers next in rank are assigned as guides, one
to each platoon. If sergeants still remain, they are assigned to
platoons as additional guides. When the platoon is deployed, its guide,
or guides, accompany the platoon leader.

The first sergeant is never assigned as a guide. When not commanding a
platoon, he is posted as a file closer opposite the third file from the
outer flank of the first platoon; and when the company is deployed he
accompanies the captain.

Musicians, when required to play, are at the head of the column. When
the company is deployed, they accompany the captain.

Guides and enlisted men in the line of file closers execute the manual
of arms during the drill unless especially excused, when they remain at
the order. During ceremonies they execute all movements.

In taking intervals and distances, unless otherwise directed, the
right and left guides, at the first command, place themselves in the
line of file closers, and, with them, take a distance of 4 paces from
the rear rank. In taking intervals, at the command march, the file
closers face to the flank and each steps off with the file nearest him.
In assembling the guides and file closers resume their positions in
line.

Being in line at a halt, the captain directs the first sergeant, dismiss
the company. The officers fall out; the first sergeant places himself
faced to the front, 3 paces to the front and 2 paces from the nearest
flank of the company, salutes, faces toward opposite flank of the
company, and commands: 1. Inspection, 2. ARMS, 3. Port, 4. ARMS, 3.
DISMISSED.

The alignments are executed as prescribed in the School of the Squad,
the guide being established instead of the flank file. The rear-rank man
of the flank file keeps his head and eyes to the front and covers his
file leader.

At each alignment the captain places himself in prolongation of the
line, 2 paces from and facing the flank toward which the dress is made,
verifies the alignment, and commands: FRONT.

Platoon leaders take a like position when required to verify alignments.



EXTENDED ORDER DRILLS


As soon as your progress in close order is sufficiently advanced, you
will be given extended order drill, which will teach you the formations
used in battle, and how a firing line is controlled. They are executed
at ease.

We should know the meaning of the two following terms: Base and Deploy.

Base. The element on which a movement is regulated. In company drill
it is usually the right or left; leading, rear, or center squad.

Deploy. To extend the front. The company deploys when it executes as
skirmishers.

There are really only two conditions that we must consider in this
drill. The movements are very easy to

[Illustration]

understand, but they require a lot of practice to prevent confusion.

First Case. Let us take the company in line at a halt. It is desired
to form a skirmish line to the front. 1. As skirmishers, guide right
(left or center), 2. MARCH.

At the preparatory command (i.e., as skirmishers, guide right) all the
corporals, except the corporal of the first squad, give the command, by
the left flank, the corporal of the first squad gives the command, as
skirmishers.

At the command march, all squads, except the first squad, move to the
left, and when they have their proper intervals they are deployed to the
right (left) and on the line of the base squad by the corporals giving
the commands: As skirmishers, 2. MARCH. The corporal of the first squad
deploys his squad as soon as he has sufficient room (interval).

That's all there is to the first movement with some slight
modifications.

Of course if the command had been as skirmishers, guide left, the base
squad would have been the left or fourteenth Squad instead of the first
squad, for when we speak of the right or left of a company, in the
deployments, the company being in line, we mean the right or left squads
of the company.

Another modification: Suppose the command had been as skirmishers, guide
center. In that case the base squad would be the center or seventh
squad. The base (seventh) squad deploys without moving to the right or
left. There is only one thing for the first six squads to do and that is
to move to the right. There is only one thing for the last seven squads
to do and that to move to the left.

We have considered the company so far to be at a halt; suppose that it
had been moving forward. The corporal of the base squad deploys his
squad as soon as he has sufficient interval, and then continues straight
to the front until the command: 1. Company, 2. HALT, is given by the
captain. The other corporals move their squads to the left front (or
right front), by commanding their squads, Follow me. They conduct their
squads on the shortest and easiest route to their places in the line and
then deploy their squads as they arrive in the general line.

[Illustration]

The corporals should remember that they are not to step out from their
squads to conduct them to their proper places until the captain has
given the command march.

The corporals often fail to take sufficient intervals thus causing a
jam.

The company being at a halt, the corporals should remember to give by
the right or left flank instead of right or left face.



SECOND CASE


Now suppose the company is in column of squads at a halt. It is desired
to form a skirmish line to the front: 1. As skirmishers, guide right
(left), 2. MARCH.

At the command march, the corporal of the first, or leading squad,
deploys his squad without advancing. All of the other corporals move to
the left front and deploy their squads on the line formed by the first
squad. At the preparatory command the corporals command, follow me, and
at the command MARCH, they step in front of their squads and conduct
them to their places.

Had the command been as skirmishers, guide left, of course all except
the leading squad would have moved to the right. For when the company is
in column of squads, as skirmishers, guide right means that the first or
leading squad is to be the right of the skirmish line. If left, instead
of right is given that simply means that the leading or base squad is to
be the left of the skirmish line.

Now we come to the last variation. It is difficult for the new man. The
command as skirmishers, guide center, the company being in column of
squads, simply means that the center squad is to be the base squad. All
other squads are to regulate their movements on the base squad as in all
other cases.

This is a peculiar case and for it the authorities have adopted a rule
of thumb. All squads in front of the base squad go to the right, those
in rear to the left. That's all there is to it. But that must be
remembered. Corporals will conduct their squads to their proper places
by the shortest and easiest routes.

We will use a platoon of four squads to illustrate the idea.

[Illustration]

Note that the leading corporal turns his squad well to the right rear
and then to the left.

We have assumed the company to be at a halt; suppose it is moving
forward. In that case the base squad simply continues moving forward
after it has deployed until the captain gives the command halt. The
other corporals conduct their squads by the shortest routes to their
proper places and deploy them on the general line.

[Illustration]

When the company, while moving, is deployed, it is a common error for
squads in rear of the base squad to take long and fast steps and come up
on the line of the base squad. This should not be done unless the
command double time is given. In which case all the squads take up the
double time, except the base squad.


Extended Order

RULES FOR DEPLOYMENTS

The command guide right (left or center) indicates the base squad for
the deployment; if in line it designates the actual right (left or
center) squad; if in column the command guide right (left) designates
the leading squad, and the command guide center designates the center
squad. After the deployment is completed, the guide is always center
without command, unless otherwise ordered.

At the preparatory command for forming skirmish line, from either column
of squads or line, each squad leader (except the leader of the base
squad, when his squad does not advance) cautions his squad, follow me or
by the right (left) flank, as the case may be; at the command march, he
steps in front of his squad and leads it to its place in line.

Having given the command for forming skirmish line, the captain, if
necessary, indicates to the corporal of the base squad the point on
which the squad is to march; the corporal habitually looks to the
captain for such directions.

The base squad is deployed as soon as it has sufficient interval. The
other squads are deployed as they arrive on the general line; each
corporal halts in his place in line and commands or signals, as
skirmishers march; the squad deploys and halts abreast of him.

If tactical considerations demand it, the squad is deployed before
arriving on the line.

Deployed lines preserve a general alignment toward the guide. Within
their respective fronts, individuals or units march so as best to secure
or to facilitate the advance but the general and orderly progress of
the whole is paramount.

On halting, a deployed line faces to the front (direction of the enemy)
in all cases and takes advantage of cover, the men lying down if
necessary.

The company in line or column of squads may be deployed in an oblique
direction by the same commands. The captain points out the desired
direction; the corporal of the base squad moves in the direction
indicated; the other corporals conform.

To form skirmish line to the flank or rear the line or the column of
squads is turned by squads to the flank or rear and then deployed as
described.

The intervals between men are increased or decreased as described in the
School of the Squad, adding to the preparatory command, guide right
(left or center), if necessary.



THE ASSEMBLY


The captain takes his post in front of, or designates, the element on
which the company is to assemble and commands: 1. Assemble, 2. MARCH.

If in skirmish line the men move promptly toward the designated point
and the company is re-formed in line. If assembled by platoons, these
are conducted to the designated point by platoon leaders, and the
company is reformed in line.

Platoons may be assembled by the command: 1. Platoons, assemble, 2.
MARCH.

Executed by each platoon as described for the company.

One or more platoons may be assembled by the command: 1. Such
platoon(s), assemble, 2. MARCH.

Executed by the designated platoon or platoons as described for the
company.

Wherever it is necessary in campaign to deploy troops there is often so
much noise and confusion that it is impossible for the officers and
noncommissioned officers to make themselves heard. Signals must be used
instead of verbal commands.



WHISTLE SIGNALS


There are only two kinds of whistle signals; a short last and a long
blast. A short blast means pay attention, or look out for a signal or
command.

A long blast means stop firing for a minute (suspend firing).



THE ADVANCE


The advance of a company into an engagement whether for attack or
defense) is conducted in close order, preferably column of squads, until
the probability of encountering hostile fire makes it advisable to
deploy. After deployment, and before opening fire, the advance of the
company may be continued in skirmish line or other suitable formations,
depending upon circumstances. The advance may often be facilitated, or
better advantage taken of cover, or losses reduced by the employment of
the platoon or squad columns or by the use of a succession of thin
lines. The selection of the method to be used is made by the captain or
major, the choice depending upon conditions arising during the progress
of the advance. If the deployment is found to be premature, it will
generally be best to assemble the company and proceed in close order.

Patrols are used to provide the necessary security against surprise.

Being in skirmish line: 1. Platoon columns, 2. MARCH.

[Illustration: SHOWING HOW PLATOON COLUMNS ARE FORMED]

The platoon leaders move forward through the center of their respective
platoons: men to the right of the platoon leader march to the left and
follow him in file; those to the left march in like manner to the right;
each platoon leader thus conducts the march of his platoon in double
column of files; platoon guides follow in the

[Illustration: SQUAD COLUMN]

rear of their respective platoons to insure prompt and orderly execution
of the advance.

[Illustration: SQUAD COLUMNS]

Being in skirmish line: 1. Squad columns, 2. MARCH. See preceding
page.

Each squad leader moves to the front; the members of each squad oblique
toward and follow their squad leader in single file at easy marching
distances.

Platoon columns are profitably used where the ground is so difficult
or cover is so limited as to make it desirable to take advantage of the
few favorable routes; no two platoons should march within the area of
burst of a single shrapnel (ordinarily about 20 yards wide). Squad
columns are of value principally in facilitating the advance over rough
or brush-grown ground; they afford no material advantage in securing
cover.

To deploy platoon or squad columns: 1. As skirmishers, 2. MARCH.

Skirmishers move to the right or left front and successively place
themselves in their original positions on the line.

[Illustration: PLATOON COLUMNS]

Being in platoon or squad columns: 1. Assemble, 2. MARCH.

The platoon or squad leaders signal assemble. The men of each platoon or
squad, as the case may be, advance and, moving to the right and left,
take their proper places in line, each unit assembling on the leading
element of the column and reforming in line. The platoon or squad
leaders conduct their units toward the element or point indicated by the
captain, and to their places in line; the company is reformed in line.

[Illustration: Assembled on the first or right squad.]

[Illustration]

Being in skirmish line, to advance by a succession of thin lines: 1.
(Such numbers), forward, 2. MARCH.

The captain points out in advance the selected position in front of the
line occupied. The designated number of each squad moves to the front;
the line thus formed preserves the original intervals as nearly as
practicable; when this line has advanced a suitable distance (generally
from 100 to 250 yards, depending upon the terrain and the character of
the hostile fire), a second is sent forward by similar commands, and so
on at irregular distances until the whole line has advanced. Upon
arriving at the indicated position, the first line is halted. Successive
lines, upon arriving, halt on line with the first and the men take their
proper places in the skirmish line.

The first line is led by the platoon leader of the right platoon, the
second by the guide of the right platoon, and so on in order from right
to left, by the officers and non-commissioned officers in the file
closers.

The advance is conducted in quick time unless conditions demand a faster
gait.

The company having arrived at the indicated position, a further advance
by the same means may be advisable.

The advance in a succession of thin lines is used to cross a wide
stretch swept, or likely to be swept, by artillery fire or heavy,
long-range rifle fire which cannot profitably be returned. Its purpose
is the building up a strong skirmish line preparatory to engaging in a
fire fight. This method of advancing results in serious (though
temporary) loss of control over the company. Its advantage lies in the
fact that it offers a less definite target, hence is less likely to draw
fire.

The above are suggestions. Other and better formations may be devised to
fit particular cases. The best formation is the one which advances the
line farthest with the least loss of men, time, and control.



FIELD EXERCISES


These exercises, as well as combat exercises, are for instruction in
duties incident to campaign. To receive the maximum benefit from them
you must know the assumed situation of each exercise.



THE FIRE ATTACK


The principles governing the advance of the firing line in attack are
considered in the chapters on Attack and Defense.

When it becomes impracticable for the company to advance as a whole by
ordinary means, it advances by rushes.

Being in skirmish line: 1. By platoon (two platoons, squad, four men,
etc.) from the right (left), 2. RUSH.

The platoon leader on the indicated flank carefully arranges the details
for a prompt and vigorous execution of the rush and puts it into effect
as soon as practicable. If necessary, he designates the leader for the
indicated fraction. When about to rush, he causes the men of the
fraction to cease firing and to hold themselves flat, but in readiness
to spring forward instantly. The leader of the rush (at the signal of
the platoon leader, if the latter be not the leader of the rush)
commands: Follow me, and running at top speed, leads the fraction to the
new line, where he halts it and causes it to open fire. The leader of
the rush selects the new line if it has not been previously designated.

The first fraction having established itself on the new line, the next
like fraction is sent forward by its platoon leader, without further
command of the captain, and so on, successively, until the entire
company is on the line established by the first rush.

If two or more platoons are ordered to rush, the senior platoon leader
takes charge of them, and the junior (or juniors) carries out the wishes
of the senior.

A part of the line having advanced, the captain may increase or decrease
the size of the fractions to complete the movement.

When the company forms a part of the firing line, the rush of the
company as a whole is conducted by the captain, as described for a
platoon in the preceding paragraph. The captain leads the rush; platoon
leaders lead their respective platoons, platoon guides follow the line
to insure prompt and orderly execution of the advance.

When the foregoing method of rushing, by running, becomes impracticable,
any method of advance that brings the attack closer to the enemy, such
as crawling, should be employed.

Quibbling over minor details shows a failure to grasp the big ideas.




CHAPTER VI

FIRE SUPERIORITY



Do not study this chapter until you begin your extended order drills.

If the authors of this text were requested to select for you the most
important of all information that you will receive during your
instruction at a training camp, they would advise you to take home that
contained in this chapter. If you have learned fully so much you will
have done well. If you have failed to comprehend as much as this, you
will have returned to your homes lacking in important knowledge.

If you are on the battle-field and propose to crush the other side
(defeat the enemy), you have got to do one thing: you have got to make
your rifle fire better than his, and you have got to keep it better.

The proposition is this: The enemy is on the defense. He is in a
number-one, first-class trench. It is constructed with steel, concrete,
and sandbags. It has all the improvements that science can devise. Your
business is to attack and crush the enemy. How can you advance over
exposed ground against such a position? The man behind all those modern
improvements has got to stick his head up more or less when he fires. If
the volume and rate and accuracy of your fire is greater than his, he
will grow timid about the matter. His fire will become less effective.
That is to say, he cannot have fire superiority. When your side has fire
superiority, it not only can advance upon such a position but it can do
so without ruinous losses, and with hope of success.

To obtain this fire superiority it is necessary to produce a heavier
volume of accurate fire than your opponent can produce. We can get a
proper conception of the ideas involved by imagining two firemen in a
fight armed with hose. One has a larger hose and a greater water
pressure than the other. All else being equal, we can foresee clearly
who will be the victor and who will be defeated. The more water one
throws into the other's face, the less accurate and effective will the
other's aim become. This is equally true with bullets. Put a man on the
target range, where no danger whatsoever is involved, and he may fire
with a nice degree of accuracy. Put him on the battle-field with a great
number of bullets whizzing around his head, and he must be a trained
veteran to fire with the same accuracy. This is true simply because we
have been made that way.

The volume and accuracy of fire depend upon several considerations: (a)
Of primary importance is the number of rifles employed. Let us imagine a
battle-line one mile long. It is obvious that we cannot have one man
firing behind another. We don't want to destroy our own men. They must,
therefore, be placed side by side. Each man must have sufficient room to
operate his rifle. Experience tells us that we must not have more than
one man per yard. We thus see that our battle-line of a mile can only
have about eighteen hundred rifles. (b) The rate of fire affects its
volume; an excessive rate reduces its accuracy. If you were hunting
tigers, you can easily imagine where one well-aimed and well-timed shot
could be of more use to you and more harm to the tiger than half a dozen
shots fired too rapidly. (c) If the target is large, is clear (can be
easily seen), and is but a short distance from you, your fire, for
reasons that do not require explanations, can be more rapid. Greater
density increases the effect. Suppose a hundred deer were grazing on a
hill; you would be more likely to kill some deer than if only a half
dozen were there. (d) The position of the target influences the effect
of fire. Suppose that ten men were lined up in a row against a wall and
that it is your business to kill the lot with a rifle. If you are in
front of them, ten shots at least will be required. But it is possible
for you to take a position in prolongation of the line (on its flank)
and kill the entire number with one bullet. (This also illustrates the
extreme vulnerability of flanks.)

What are the important steps that must be taken if you are going to get
this fire superiority? 1st, Fire Direction. 2d, Fire Control. 3d, Fire
Discipline.



FIRE DIRECTION


A company that cannot start firing or stop firing, that cannot fire
faster or slower, that cannot distribute equally its fire over an
opposing target, that cannot switch its fire from one place to another
and make bull's-eyes, would be as unsuccessful in battle to-day as
Harvard's football team would be, without practice, in its final game
with Yale. The team work in no department of athletics is as necessary
or vital as that of a military force, the teamwork of a military
machine. The first is a sport, a limited time being involved. The second
is a question of life and death to the nation.

It requires a nice and cool judgment, under actual conditions of war, to
point out and distribute properly the target to the different groups, to
find the exact range, and give all these instructions (directions) that
will be necessary to produce an effective fire upon the enemy. Who is
responsible for giving these instructions (fire direction), and exactly
what are all the conditions that must be fulfilled in order that each
individual on the firing line may know exactly where and how to fire?

The captain (company commander) is responsible for all. In the military
world there is no such thing as shifting responsibilities. The commander
assumes full responsibility, whether things go right or wrong. He must
handle his job through his subordinates (platoon leaders). 1st, He
points out the target to his platoon leaders. 2d, He assigns a part of
the target to each platoon, in such a manner that the entire target
(objective) will be covered (fired upon). 3d, He determines and gives
the men the distance to the objective (range). 4th, He indicates the
kind of fire to be employed (that is, whether each man will fire as he
pleases, fire five shots and then stop, et cetera). 5th, He indicates
when the company is to commence firing. 6th, Thereafter the captain
observes what effect his company's fire is producing, and corrects
flagrant (material) errors. He prevents the exhaustion of his ammunition
and distributes such extra ammunition as may be received from the rear.



FIRE CONTROL


We have just described what the captain directs. Now we must put his
directions (orders) into effect. This is done through his platoon
leaders, assisted by the platoon guides and the corporals. 1st, The
platoon leaders point out and describe their part of the objective
(target) to the corporals. 2d, They assign a particular part of the
objective to each corporal with the view of covering equally with the
fire the entire objective. 3d, They announce the range (distance to the
objective) to their platoons. 4th, If any part of the line cannot see
the objective, the platoon leaders must make the changes so that it can
see, or so that its fire will be effective. 5th, They order their
platoons to open fire at the proper time. Thereafter they observe the
target and make any necessary changes to keep the fire effective, i.e.,
fire fast or slow, according to the necessity, and are on the alert for
any commands or signals from the captain.

The platoon guides do one thing only: they watch the firing line and
check every breach of fire discipline. (See "Fire Discipline," below.)

The corporals have four distinct duties. 1st, They transmit the commands
and signals to their squads when necessary. 2d, They observe the conduct
of their squads and abate excitement. 3d, They do all in their power to
enforce discipline. 4th, They participate in the firing.



FIRE DISCIPLINE


Now we come to the individual private on the firing line. All of the
above measures for efficiency will come to but little unless the man
with the gun can understand and do what he is directed to do. This
training is called Fire Discipline.

Fire Discipline implies, besides a habit of obedience, a control of the
rifle by the soldier (the result of training), which will enable him in
action to make hits instead of misses. It embraces: 1st, Taking
advantage of the ground. 2d, Care in setting the sight and delivery of
fire. 3d, Constant attention to the orders of the leaders, and careful
observation of the enemy. 4th, An increase of fire when the target is
favorable, and a cessation of fire when the enemy disappears. 5th,
Economy of ammunition.


Summary

Fire Direction is the issuance of instructions regarding the firing.

Fire Control is the explanation of these instructions through the
platoon leaders.

Fire Discipline is the quality which enables the soldier to submit to
control and fire efficiently under all conditions.




CHAPTER VII

THE SERVICE OF SECURITY



"Security" has the same meaning in the military world as elsewhere. We
properly think of the security of our persons, our property, our
families in connection with the term. In the military world the family,
or community, being so much larger, the word "security" acquires
additional dignity.

A husband and father provides for the protection of his family whether
at home or abroad. So does the military commander for his command,
whether it is an army or a squad; whether it is in camp, on the march,
in battle, advancing upon or retreating from the enemy. The end desired
is the same in all cases. A study of all the measures adopted by the
successful generals in history shows that the means are not very
different.

A body of troops in camp is protected (made secure) by the use of groups
placed between the enemy and the camp. We were told by a bee expert in
Arizona that a limited number of bees remained in the vicinity of the
hive. They were quick to observe and resist (the two great duties of an
outpost) any intruder.

Suppose that you are in a part of the jungles of Borneo where wild
Mohammedan tribes still exist, that you have had a strenuous day's
march, and it is time for you to halt and camp for the night. If you are
a thoughtful and experienced hunter you will pitch your camp where its
protection will be least difficult. A few wild men may severely punish
you for a lack of judgment in the matter. They may probably spring from
a weak and unexpected quarter when the occasion is least favorable for
you. And unless the members of your camp know that you have exercised
wise discretion, and that there are proper measures for their security,
they will be unable to obtain the needed repose for the following day's
work. From this we can see the important busines