Army Manual
Army Manual
Army Manual
DRILL
AND
CEREMONIES
DECEMBER 1986
HEADQUARTERS, DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
*FM 22-5
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Preface
This field manual provides guidance for Armywide uniformity in the conduct of
drill and ceremonies. It includes methods of instructing drill, teaching techniques,
individual and unit drill, manual of arms for infantry weapons, and various other
aspects of basic drill instruction.
This manual is designed for use by soldiers of all military occupational skills,
to include the new soldier in the initial entry training environment. Since exact
procedures covering all situations or eventualities pertaining to drill and ceremonies
cannot be foreseen, commanders may find it necessary to adjust the procedures
to local conditions. However, with the view toward maintaining consistency
throughout the Army, the procedures prescribed herein should be adhered to as
closely as possible.
Personnel preparing to give drill instruction must be thoroughly familiar with
Chapters 1 through 5 before attempting to teach material in Chapters 6 and 7.
For ease in distinguishing a preparatory command from a command of execution,
the commands of execution are printed in BOLD CAP letters and preparatory
commands are printed in Bold Italic letters. Reference to positions and movements
are printed in italics.
A reference diagram for symbols used in illustrations appears in Appendix B.
AR 670-1 should be used as a reference for the proper wearing of uniforms and
insignia.
Users of this manual are encouraged to submit recommendations to improve
the publication. Comments should be keyed to the page, paragraph, and line(s) of the
text where a change is recommended. Reasons should be provided for each comment
to insure understanding and complete evaluation. Comments should be prepared
using DA Form 2028 (Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms) and
forwarded to the Commandant, US Army Infantry School, ATTN: ATSH-I-V, Fort
Benning, Georgia 31905-5000.
Unless otherwise stated, whenever the masculine gender is used, both men and women are included.
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Foreword
Gentlemen: you have now reached the last point. If anyone of you doesnt
mean business let him say so now. An hour from now will be too late to
back out. Once in, you ve got to see it through. Youve got to perform without
flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or
the danger attending it. If it is garrison duty, you must attend to it. If
it is meeting fever, you must be willing. If it is the closest kind of fighting,
anxious for it. You must know how to ride, how to shoot, how to live in
the open. Absolute obedience to every command is your first lesson. No
matter what comes you mustnt squeal. Think it over all of you. If any
man wishes to withdraw he will be gladly excused, for others are ready
to take his place.
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, 1898
PURPOSE
The purpose of drill is to:
Enable a commander to move his unit from one place to another in an orderly
manner.
Aid in disciplinary training by instilling habits of precision and response to
the leaders orders.
Provide a means, through ceremonies, of enhancing the morale of troops,
developing the spirit of cohesion, and presenting traditional, interesting and
well-executed military parades.
Provide for the development of all soldiers in the practice of commanding troops.
History
Military history reveals that armies throughout the world have participated in
some form of drill. The primary value of drill historically has been to prepare troops
for battle. For the most part, the drill procedures practiced have been identical
to the tactical maneuvers employed on the battlefield. Drill has enabled commanders
to quickly move their forces from one point to another, mass their forces into a
battle formation that afforded maximum firepower, and maneuver those forces as
the situation developed.
In 1775, when this country was striving for independence and existence, the nations
leaders were confronted with the problem of not only establishing a government
but also of organizing an army that was already engaged in war. From the shot
heard around the world, on 19 April 1775, until Valley Forge in 1778, revolutionary
forces were little more than a group of civilians fighting Indian-style against well-
trained, highly disciplined British Redcoats. For three years, General George
Washingtons troops had endured many hardships lack of funds, rations, clothing,
and equipment. In addition, they had suffered loss after loss to the superior British
forces. These hardships and losses mostly stemmed from the lack of a military
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To ensure continuity and uniformity, von Steuben, by then a major general and
the Army Inspector General, wrote the first Army field manual in 1779, The
Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States,
commonly referred to as the Blue Book. The drill procedures initiated at Valley
Forge were not changed for 85 years, until the American Civil War, and many
of the drill terms and procedures are in effect today.
Drill commands are about the same as at the time of the War of 1812, except
that then the officers and noncommissioned officers began them by saying, Take
care to face to the right, right, face. Also, during the American revolutionary period,
troops marched at a cadence of 76 steps a minute instead of the current cadence
of 120 steps. Then units performed precise movement on the battlefield, and the
army that could perform them best was often able to get behind the enemy, or
on his flank, and thus beat him. Speed spoiled the winning exactness. Also, firearms
did not shoot far or accurately in 1776, so troop formations could take more time
to approach the enemy.
As armament and weaponry have improved, drill has had to adapt to new tactical
concepts. Although the procedures taught in drill today are not normally employed
on the battlefield, the objectives accomplished by drill teamwork, confidence,
pride, alertness, attention to detail, esprit de corps, and discipline are just as
important to the modern Army as they were to the Continental Army.
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Military music
Origins
The earliest surviving pictorial, sculptured, and written records show musical or
quasimusical instruments employed in connection with military activity for
signaling during encampments, parades, and combat. Because the sounds were
produced in the open air, the instruments have tended to be brass and percussion
types. Oriental, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and American Indian chronicles and
pictorial remains show trumpets and drums of many varieties allied to soldiers
and battles
Bugle Calls
These are used in US military service as the result of the Continental Armys
contact with the soldiers and armies from Europe during the revolutionary period.
After the American Revolution, many of the French (and English) bugle calls and
drum beats were adopted by the United States Army.
Attention
This is taken from the British Alarm, at which call the troops turned out under
arms.
Adjutants Call
This indicates that the adjutant is about to form the guard, battalion, or regiment.
To the Color
The old cavalry call, To the Standard, in use from about 1835, was replaced
by the present call of To the Color.
National Anthem
The Star-Spangled Banner officially became the National Anthem by law on
3 March 1931, in title 36, United States Code 170.
Sound Off
The band, in place, plays Sound Off (three chords). It then moves forward and,
changing direction while playing a stirring march, troops the line and marches
past the soldiers in formation, then returns to its post. Upon halting, the band
again plays three chords.
Retreat
It is the ceremony that pays honors to the national flag when it is lowered in
the evening.
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CHAPTER 1
Drill Instructions
"Troops who march in an irregular and disorderly manner are always
in great danger of being defeated.
Vegetius: De Re Militari: A.D. 378
Section I
INSTRUCTIONAL METHODS
1-1. General
a. The progress made by individuals and units in precise and unified action in
drill is determined by the following:
(1) The methods of instruction and the thoroughness of the instructor.
(2) The organization of soldiers into units of the most effective instructional
size.
b. There are three methods of instruction used to teach drill to soldiers: step-
by-step, talk-through, and by-the-numbers. The character of the particular
movement being taught will indicate the most effective method to use. As a
rule, marching movements are taught by using the step-by-step method.
Movements that require numerous or simultaneous actions by an individual
or unit are best taught by the talk-through method. Movements that have two
or more counts are taught by using the by-the-numbers method.
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1-2. Explanation
a. In the explanation stage, the instructor must:
(1) Give the name of the movement.
(2) Give the practical use for the movement.
(3) Give the command(s) for the movement and explain its elements: the
preparatory command and the command of execution. He must also discuss
the command(s) necessary to terminate the movement. (Supplementary
commands are discussed where appropriate in the explanations.)
b. This is how an instructor teaches a marching movement using the first teaching
stage.
Platoon, ATTENTION. AT EASE. The next movement (position), which I
will name, explain, and have demonstrated, and which you will conduct practical
work on, is the 30-inch step from the halt. This movement is used to march an
element from point A to point B in a uniform manner. The command to execute
this movement is Forward, MARCH. This is a two-part command, Forward being
the preparatory command, and MARCH the command of execution. The command
to terminate this movement is HALT. HALT is also a two-part command when
preceded by a preparatory command such as Squad, or Platoon. I will use
Demonstrator as the preparatory command and HALT as the command of
execution. When given, these commands are as follows: Forward, MARCH;
Demonstrator, HALT.
1-3. Demonstration
NOTE: The instructor may demonstrate the movement himself, modifying his position when necessary
to maintain eye-to-eye contact with personnel being instructed.
a. Step-by-Step Method of Instruction. The explanation and demonstration
are combined. The movements are taught one step at a time using the step-
by-step method of instruction, as described in subparagraph (2).
(1) The instructor explains that on the command of execution, the demonstrator
takes only one step and then stops in position until the command Ready,
STEP (for the next step) is given. While the demonstrator is stopped in
position, the instructor makes on-the-spot corrections and explains the
actions to be taken on the next step. The instructor then has the
demonstrator execute the movement at normal cadence.
(2) This is how an instructor teaches the demonstration stage when using
the step-by-step method of instruction:
Demonstrator, POST. I will use the step-by-step method of instruction.
On the preparatory command Forward of Forward, MARCH, without
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noticeable movement, shift the weight of the body onto the right foot.
Forward.
On the command of execution MARCH of Forward, MARCH, step
forward 30 inches with the left foot. The head, eyes, and body remain
as in the position of attention. The arms swing in natural motion, without
exaggeration and without bending the elbows, about 9 inches straight to
the front and 6 inches straight to the rear of the trouser seams. The fingers
and thumbs are curled as in the position of attention, just barely clearing
the trousers. MARCH.
On the command of execution STEP of Ready, STEP, execute a 30-
inch step with the trail foot. Once again, ensure that the head, eyes, and
body remain as in the position of attention, and that the arms swing
naturally, without exaggeration and without bending the elbows, about
9 inches straight to the front and 6 inches straight to the rear of the trouser
seams. The fingers and thumbs are curled, as in the position of attention,
barely clearing the trousers. Ready, STEP. Notice that there are two steps
explained: one from the halt and one while marching.
The command to terminate this movement is HALT. The preparatory
command Demonstrator of Demonstrator, HALT, may be given as
either foot strikes the marching surface. However, the command of
execution HALT of Demonstrator, HALT, must be given the next time
that same foot strikes the marching surface. The halt is executed in two
counts.
On the command of execution STEP of Ready, STEP, execute a 30-
inch step with the trail foot. When that foot strikes the marching surface,
the demonstrator will receive the preparatory command Demonstrator
of Demonstrator, HALT. Ready, STEP. Demonstrator.
On the command of execution STEP of Ready, STEP, execute a 30-
inch step with the trail foot. This is the intermediate (or thinking) step
required between the preparatory command and the command of execution.
Ready, STEP.
(one count at a time). The instructor then has the demonstrator execute
the movement at normal cadence.
(2) This is how an instructor teaches the demonstration stage using the by-
the-numbers method of instruction:
Demonstrator, POST. I will use the by-the-numbers method of
instruction. Port arms from order arms is a two-count movement. On the
command of execution ARMS of Port, ARMS, this being count one, grasp
the barrel of the rifle with the right hand and raise the rifle diagonally
across the body, ensuring that the right elbow remains down without strain.
Simultaneously, grasp the rifle with the left hand at the handguard just
forward of the slipring, keeping the rifle about 4 inches from the belt.
By-the-numbers, Port, ARMS.
On count two, release the grasp of the rifle with the right hand and regrasp
the rifle at the small of the stock. Keep the rifle held diagonally across
the body, about 4 inches from the belt, elbows drawn in at the sides, and
ensure the right forearm is horizontal, thus assuming the position of port
arms. Ready, TWO.
Order arms from port arms is a three-count movement. On the command
of execution ARMS of Order, ARMS, this being count one, release the
grasp of the rifle with the right hand and move the right hand up and
across the body, approaching the front sight assembly from the right front,
and firmly grasp the barrel without moving the rifle. Ensure the right
elbow remains down without strain. Order, ARMS.
On count two, release the grasp of the rifle with the left hand, and with
the right hand lower the rifle to the right side until it is about 1 inch
off the marching surface. At the same time, guide the rifle into place with
the left hand at the flash suppressor, fingers and thumb extended and
joined, palm facing the rear. Ready, TWO.
On count three, sharply move the left hand to the left side as in the
position of attention and, at the same time gently lower the rifle to the
marching surface with the right hand, assuming the position of order arms.
Ready, THREE.
At normal cadence, these commands (movements) are as follows:
Without-the-numbers, Port, ARMS. Order, ARMS. AT EASE
Platoon, what are your questions pertaining to port arms from order arms
and order arms from port arms when executed at normal cadence or when
executed by-the-numbers ? (Clarify all questions.)
Demonstrator, ATTENTION. You will be my assistant instructor.
FALL OUT. (Notice that there is no Ready, ONE command. Also notice
that a double preparatory command is given to execute and terminate
the by-the-numbers method of instruction.)
1-4. Practice
The practice stage is executed in the same manner as the demonstration stage
except that the instructor uses the proper designator for the size of his element.
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However, the instructor does not have his element execute the movement at normal
cadence until his element has shown a satisfactory degree of proficiency executing
the movement using the selected method of instruction.
Section II
INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES
1-5. General
Basic drill instruction includes line and U-formations, stationary and moving
cadence counts, and dedicated instruction to units and individuals.
1-6. Formations
a. Instruction and practical work, in all phases of drill, can best be presented
by using the U-formation or line formation. As a rule, stationary movements
are taught using the U-formation; marching movements, to include squad,
platoon, and company drills, are best taught from the line formation. Soldiers
should be taught in the smallest formation possible to ensure individual
attention; however, squad drill, whenever possible, should be taught to squad-
size units, platoon drill to platoon-size units, and company drill to company-
size units.
b. The U-formation is formed by the instructor commanding First and second
squads, FALL OUT (pause); U-formation, FALL IN. On these commands,
the third squad stands fast, and the first and second squads fall out and fall
in facing each other so that the last man in the first squad and the squad
leader of the second squad are one step in front of and one step outside the
flanks of the third squad. Simultaneously, the fourth squad executes one step
to the left. To re-form the platoon in a line formation, the commands are: FALL
OUT (pause); FALL IN.
c. When instructing, using the line formation, at normal interval, it is
recommended that the first rank kneel (right knee), second rank stand fast,
third rank take one step to the right, and fourth rank take one step to the
left. The instructor adjusts the fourth rank as necessary to ensure they are
uncovered. This formation can quickly be formed by commanding Instruc-
tional formation, MARCH. To re-form the unit into a line formation, the
command is FALL IN.
NOTE: When conditions do not warrant this formation, soldiers may be directed to remain standing and
to uncover. To assemble the unit, the command FALL IN is given.
1-7. Instructors
When acting as instructors or assistant instructors, officers and noncommissioned
officers go wherever they are needed. They correct mistakes and ensure steadiness
and proper performance in ranks. When an individual shows that he is unable
to execute the proper movements or assume the proper position, the instructor may
physically assist the soldier.
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CHAPTER 2
Commands and the Command Voice
The spirit of discipline, as distinct from its outward and visible guises,
is the result of association with martial traditions and their living
embodiment.
B. H. Liddell Hart, Thoughts on War, 1944
Section I
COMMANDS
2-1. General
a. A drill command is an oral order of a commander or leader. The precision
with which a movement is executed is affected by the manner in which the
command is given.
b. The following rules for giving commands apply to the commander when the
unit drills as a separate unit and not as part of a larger formation.
(1) When at the halt, the commander faces the troops when giving commands.
On commands that set the unit in motion (marching from one point to
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b. When the instructor wants the unit to use mass commands, he commands
AT YOUR COMMAND. The instructor gives a preparatory command
describing the movement to be performed; for example, face the platoon to
the right. The command of execution is COMMAND. When the instructor
says COMMAND, all personnel in the unit give the command Right, FACE,
in unison, and simultaneously execute the movement.
c. To give mass commands while marching, the instructor gives the preparatory
command for the movement and substitutes COMMAND for the command
of execution MARCH; for example, Column right, COMMAND; Rear,
COMMAND.
d. Mass commands for the execution of the manual of arms are given in the
same manner as described in subparagraph a-c.
e. When the instructor wants to stop mass commands, he commands AT MY
COMMAND. The normal method of drilling is then resumed.
2-6. Directives
a. Directives are oral orders given by the commander that direct or cause a
subordinate leader to take action.
b. The commander gives directives rather than commands when it is more
appropriate for subordinate elements to execute a movement or perform a task
as independent elements of the same formation.
c. Directives are given in sentence form and are normally prefixed by the terms
HAVE YOUR UNITS or BRING YOUR UNITS. Example: HAVE YOUR
UNITS OPEN RANKS AND STACK ARMS; BRING YOUR UNITS TO
PRESENT ARMS.
d. TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR UNITS is the only directive on which a
commander relinquishes his command and on which salutes are exchanged.
Section II
THE COMMAND VOICE
2-7. General
A correctly delivered command will be understood by everyone in the unit. Correct
commands have a tone, cadence, and snap that demand willing, correct, and
immediate response.
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unconscious tightening of the neck muscles to force sound out. This produces
strain, hoarseness, sore throat, and worst of all, indistinct and jumbled sounds
instead of clear commands. Ease is achieved through good posture, proper
breathing, and correct adjustment of throat and mouth muscles, and confidence.
c. The best posture for giving commands is the position of attention. Soldiers
in formation notice the posture of their leader. If his posture is unmilitary
(relaxed, slouched, stiff, or uneasy), the subordinates will imitate it.
d. The most important muscle used in breathing is the diaphragm the large
muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. The
diaphragm automatically controls normal breathing and is used to control
the breath in giving commands.
e. The throat, mouth, and nose act as amplifiers and help to give fullness
(resonance) and projection to the voice.
2-9. Distinctiveness
a. Distinctiveness depends on the correct use of the tongue, lips, and teeth, which
form the separate sounds of a word and group the sounds into syllables. Distinct
commands are effective; indistinct commands cause confusion. All commands
can be pronounced correctly without loss of effect. Emphasize correct
enunciation (distinctiveness). To enunciate clearly, make full use of the lips,
tongue, and lower jaw.
b. To develop the ability to give clear, distinct commands, practice giving
commands slowly and carefully, prolonging the syllables. Then, gradually
increase the rate of delivery to develop proper cadence, still enunciating each
syllable distinctly.
2-10. Inflection
Inflection is the rise and fall in pitch and the tone changes of the voice.
a. The preparatory command is the command that indicates movement. Pronounce
each preparatory command with a rising inflection. The most desirable pitch,
when beginning a preparatory command, is near the level of the natural
speaking voice. A common fault with beginners is to start the preparatory
command in a pitch so high that, after employing a rising inflection for the
preparatory command, it is impossible to give the command of execution with
clarity or without strain. A good rule to remember is to begin a command
near the natural pitch of the voice (Figure 2-l).
b. The command of execution is the command that indicates when a movement
is to be executed. Give it in a sharper tone and in a slightly higher pitch than
the last syllable of the preparatory command. It must be given with plenty
of snap. The best way to develop a command voice is to practice.
c. In combined commands, such as FALL IN and FALL OUT, the preparatory
command and command of execution are combined. Give these commands
without inflection and with the uniform high pitch and loudness of a normal
command of execution.
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2-11. Cadence
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CHAPTER 3
Individual Drill
Maintain discipline and caution above all things, and be on the alert to obey
the word of command. It is both the noblest and the safest thing for a great
army to be visibly animated by one spirit. "
Archidamus of Sparta: To the Lacaedaemonian
expeditionary force departing for Athens, 431 B.C.
Section I
STATIONARY MOVEMENTS
3-1. General
a. This section contains most of the individual positions and stationary movements
required in drill. These positions and the correct execution of the movement, in
every detail, should relearned before proceeding to other drill movements.
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b. Movements are initiated from the position of attention. However, some rest
movements may be executed from other rest positions.
c. The explanation of a movement that may be executed toward either flank is given
in this chapter for only one flank. To execute the movement toward the opposite
flank, substitute left for right, or right for left, in the explanation.
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b. Stand At Ease. The command for this movement is Stand at, EASE. On the
command of execution EASE, execute parade rest, but turn the head and eyes
directly toward the person in charge of the formation. At ease or rest may be
executed from this position.
c. At Ease. The command for this movement is AT EASE. On the command AT
EASE, the soldier may move; however, he must remain standing and silent with
his right foot in place. Rest may be executed from this position.
d. Rest. The command for this movement is REST. On the command REST, the
soldier may move, talk, smoke, or drink unless otherwise directed. He must
remain standing with his right foot in place. At ease may be executed from this
position.
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NOTE: On the preparatory command for attention, immediately assume parade rest when at the position of
stand at ease, at ease, or rest. If, for some reason, a subordinate element is already at attention, the
members of the element remain so and do not execute parade rest on the preparatory command, nor
does the subordinate leader give a supplementary command.
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NOTE: Throughout these movements, the remainder of the body remains as in the position of attention.
e. When reporting or rendering courtesy to an individual, turn the head and eyes
toward the person addressed and simultaneously salute. In this situation, the
actions are executed without command. The salute is initiated by the subordinate
at the appropriate time and terminated upon acknowledgment (4, Figure 3-5).
f. The hand salute may be executed while marching. When double timing, a soldier
must come to quick time before saluting.
NOTE: When a formation is marching at double time, only the individual in charge assumes quick time and
salutes.
Section II
STEPS AND MARCHING
3-6. General.
a. This section contains all of the steps in marching of the individual soldier. These
steps should be learned thoroughly before proceeding to unit drill.
b. All marching movements executed from the halt are initiated from the position of
attention.
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c. Except for route step march and at ease march, all marching movements are
executed while marching at attention. Marching at attention is the combination
of the position of attention and the procedures for the prescribed step executed
simultaneously.
d. When executed from the halt, all steps except right step begin with the left foot.
e. For short-distance marching movements, the commander may designate the
number of steps forward, backward, or sideward by giving the appropriate
command: One step to the right (left), MARCH; or, Two steps backward
(forward), MARCH. On the command of execution MARCH, step off with the
appropriate foot, and halt automatically after completing the number of steps
designated. Unless otherwise specified, when directed to execute steps forward,
the steps will be 30-inch steps.
f. All marching movements are executed in the cadence of quick time (120 steps per
minute), except the 30-inch step, which may be executed in the cadence of 180
steps per minute on the command Double time, MARCH.
g. A step is the prescribed distance from one heel to the other heel of a marching
soldier.
h. All 15-inch steps are executed for a short distance only.
MARCH, take one more step with the left foot, then in one count place the right
toe near the heal of the left foot and step off again with the left foot. The arms
swing naturally.
b. This movement is executed automatically whenever a soldier finds himself out of
step with all other members of the formation.
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step forward. On the command of execution MARCH, take one more step, bring
the trailing foot alongside the leading foot, and begin to march in place. Raise
each foot (alternately) 2 inches off the marching surface; the arms swing
naturally, as in marching with a 30-inch step forward.
NOTE: While marking time in formation, the soldier adjusts position to ensure proper alignment and cover.
b. To resume marching with a 30-inch step, the command Forward, MARCH is
given as either foot strikes the marching surface. On the command of execution
MARCH, take one more step in place and then step off with a 30-inch step.
c. The halt from mark time is executed. in two counts, basically the same as the halt
from the 30-inch step.
b. When at the halt and the preparatory command Double time is given, shift the
weight of the body to the right foot without noticeable movement. On the
command of execution MARCH, raise the forearms to a horizontal position, with
the fingers and thumbs closed, knuckles out, and simultaneously step off with the
left foot. Continue to march with 30-inch steps at the cadence of double time. The
arms swing naturally to the front and rear with the forearms kept horizontal.
(When armed, soldiers will come to port arms on receiving the preparatory
command of Double time.) Guides, when at sling arms, will double time with
their weapons at sling arms upon receiving the directive GUIDE ON LINE.
c. When marching with a 30-inch step in the cadence of quick time, the command
Double time, MARCH is given as either foot strikes the marching surface. On
the command of execution MARCH, take one more 30-inch step at quick time,
and step off with the trailing foot, double timing as previously described.
d. To resume marching with a 30-inch step at quick time, the command Quick time,
MARCH is given as either foot strikes the marching surface. On the command of
execution MARCH, take two more 30-inch steps at double time, lower the arms to
the sides, and resume marching with a 30-inch step at quick time.
NOTE: Quick time, column half left (right), and column left (right) are the only movements that can be
executed while double timing. Armed troops must be at either sling arms or port arms before the
command Double time, MARCH is given.
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CHAPTER 4
Individual Drill with Weapons
Feed em up and give em hell. Teach em where they are. Make em so
mad theyll eat steel rather than get dressing from you. Make em hard
but dont break em.
Laurence Stallings: What Price Glory? 1926
Section I
MANUAL OF ARMSM16 SERIES RIFLE
4-1. General
a. This section contains procedures for executing the manual of arms with the
M16 series rifle (FM 23-9) in conjunction with individual and unit drill
movements (Figure 4-l).
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b. At the halt, all movements are initiated from order arms or sling arms, which
are the positions of attention with the rifle.
c. All precision movements are executed in quick-time cadence.
d. For drill purposes, the magazine is not carried in the rifle. When performing
duty requiring the use of the magazine, the rifle is carried at sling arms.
e. The command Port, ARMS or Sling, ARMS must be given prior to the
command for double time.
f. Facings, alignments, and short-distance marching movements are executed
from order arms or sling arms. When these movements are commanded while
at order arms, it is necessary to automatically raise the rifle about 1 inch
off the marching surface on the command of execution. When the movement
has been completed, automatically return the rifle to order arms.
g. Facing movements are executed from order arms or sling arms. When a facing
is necessary to establish the direction of march, the facing movement is executed
before the command for the manual of arms. After a marching movement has
been completed, Order, ARMS or Sling, ARMS is commanded prior to the
command for the facing movement.
h. Ready, Port, ARMS must be commanded following inspection arms and before
any other movements can be commanded.
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FM 22-5
i. Port arms is the key position assumed in most manual of arms movements
from one position to another except right shoulder arms from order arms and
order arms from right shoulder arms.
j. Manual of arms movements are a combination of the position of attention
and the procedures for the prescribed movement. Most manual of arms
movements are executed with the head, eyes, and body as in the position of
attention.
NOTE: Paragraphs 4-2 through 4-11 refer to slings tight. However, all individual and unit drill movements
may be executed with slings loose except when executing fix and unfix bayonets.
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4-4
FM 22-5
b. Order arms from port arms is executed in three counts. The command is Order,
ARMS. On the command of execution ARMS, move the right hand up and
across the body to the right front of the front sight assembly, grasp the barrel
firmly without moving the rifle, and keep the right elbow down without strain.
On the second count, move the left hand from the handguard and lower the
rifle to the right side until it is about 1 inch from the marching surface. Guide
the rifle to the side by placing the forefinger of the left hand at the flash
suppressor, fingers and thumb extended and joined, palm to the rear. On the
third count, move the left hand sharply to the left side, lower the rifle gently
to the marching surface, and resume the position of order arms (Figure
4-4).
arms in two counts. On the third count, move the left hand from the handguard
and grasp the pistol grip, thumb over the lower portion of the bolt catch. On
the fourth count, release the grasp of the right hand, unlock the charging handle
with the thumb, and sharply pull the charging handle to the rear with the
thumb and forefinger. At the same time, apply pressure on the lower portion
of the bolt catch, locking the bolt to the rear. On the fifth count, without changing
the grasp of the right hand, sharply push the charging handle forward until
it is locked into position; then regrasp the rifle with the right hand at the
small of the stock. On the sixth count, remove the left hand, twist the rifle
with the right hand so that the ejection port is skyward, regrasp the handguard
with the left hand just forward of the slipring, and visually inspect the receiver
through the ejection port. On the seventh count, with the right hand, twist
the rifle so that the sights are up and come to inspection arms (Figure 4-6)
NOTE: The method for inspecting the rifle by an inspecting officer is explained in Chapter 7.
b. Ready, Port, ARMS is the only command given from inspection arms. On
the command Ready, move the left hand and regrasp the rifle with the thumb
and fingers forming a U at the magazine well and trigger guard, the thumb
(without pressure) on the upper part of the bolt catch, fingertips placed below
or under the ejection port cover. On the command Port, press the bolt catch
and allow the bolt to go forward. With the fingertips, push upward, and close
the ejection port cover. Grasp the pistol grip with the left hand and place the
left thumb on the trigger. On the command ARMS, pull the trigger and resume
port arms.
the right elbow down without strain. With the left hand, grasp the handguard
just forward of the slipring, ensuring that the weapon is about 4 inches from
the waist. On the second count, move the right hand from the barrel and grasp
the heel of the butt between the first two fingers with the thumb and forefinger
touching. On the third count (without moving the head), release the grasp
of the left hand (without changing the grasp of the right hand), twist the rifle
so that the sights are up, and place the weapon onto the right shoulder, moving
the left hand to the small of the stock to guide the rifle to the shoulder. Keep
the fingers and thumb (left hand) extended and joined with the palm turned
toward the body. The first joint of the left forefinger touches the rear of the
charging handle. Keep the left elbow down, and keep the right forearm
horizontal with the right upper arm against the side and on line with the
back. On the fourth count, sharply move the left hand back to the left side
as in the position of attention (Figure 4-7).
b. Order arms from right shoulder arms is a four-count movement. The command
is Order, ARMS. On the command of execution ARMS, without moving the
head and without changing the grasp of the right hand, press down quickly
and firmly on the butt of the rifle with the right hand and twist the weapon
(with the sights up), guiding it diagonally across the body and about 4 inches
from the waist. Grasp the rifle with the left hand at the handguard just forward
of the slipring. On the second count, move the right hand up and across the
body, approaching from the right front of the front sight assembly, and firmly
grasp the barrel without moving the rifle; keep the right elbow down without
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FM 22-5
strain. The third and fourth counts are the same as from port arms to order
arms (Figure 4-4).
b. Order arms from left shoulder arms is a five-count movement. The command
is Order, ARMS. On the command of execution ARMS, move the right hand
up and across the body and grasp the small of the stock, keeping the right
elbow down. On the second count (without moving the head), release the grasp
of the left hand and with the right hand move the rifle diagonally across the
body (sights up) about 4 inches from the waist. At the same time, regrasp
the handguard just forward of the slipring with the left hand, and resume
port arms. Counts three, four, and five are the same as order arms from port
arms (Figure 4-4).
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into the marching surface, bend over, and depress the catch mechanism with
the left hand while pulling upward on the rifle with the right hand.
Section II
SLING ARMSM16 SERIES RIFLE
4-12. General
a. This section contains the procedures for executing manual of arms movements
while at sling arms.
b. Remain at sling arms during all rest movements.
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c. All individual and unit drill movements can be executed at sling arms except
stack arms and fix and unfix bayonets, which are executed from order arms.
d. When in formation at sling arms, execute the hand salute on the command
Present, ARMS.
e. Platoon leaders and platoon sergeants carry their rifles at sling arms during
all drills and ceremonies, and from this position they execute present arms
only. They do not execute unsling arms. This also applies to squad leaders
when squads drill as separate units.
f. When all members of a unit are carrying their rifles at sling arms, the platoon
leaders and platoon sergeants execute present arms only. They do not execute
unsling arms.
NOTE: Unless otherwise specified, armed elements of a formation fall in at order arms with slings loose.
e. To return the rifle to order arms with the sling loose, the command is Unsling,
ARMS. On the command of execution ARMS, reach across the body with
the left hand and grasp the sling at the right shoulder. Release the right hand
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FM 22-5
grasp of the sling and remove the rifle from the shoulder. Grasp the rifle barrel
with the right hand, release the left hand grasp of the sling, and guide the
rifle to the order arms position (as previously described).
NOTE: Individuals performing duty in congested areas, which would require frequent salutes, should
carry the weapon at sling arms.
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FM 22-5
d. To execute inspection arms when the magazine is in the rifle, remove the
magazine (just prior to count three) with the left hand and place it between
the waist (left front) and the clothing. Return the magazine immediately after
pulling the trigger and before resuming port arms.
Section III
SLING ARMSM203 GRENADE LAUNCHER
4-17. General
a. This section contains the procedures for executing the Manual of Arms
movements with the M203 weapon (FM 23-31).
b. The M203 weapon is carried at sling arms. All individual drill movements
are executed as prescribed while remaining at sling arms.
c. The only manual of arms movements that may be executed are present arms
(hand salute), port arms, and inspection arms. Individuals armed with the
M203 weapon remain at sling arms during other manual of arms movements;
or, they return to sling arms from port arms when other members with M16
series rifles are commanded to other positions.
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FM 22-5
b. Port Arms. Execute port arms in the same manner as with the M16 series
rifle from sling arms.
c. Inspection Arms.
(1) Inspection arms with the M203 weapon is executed the same as inspection
arms (while at sling arms) with the M16 series rifle. After completing the
movements for inspection arms of the M16 series rifle, press the barrel
release latch with the left thumb, slide the barrel to the left, and visually
inspect the chamber (Figure 4-13).
(2) Ready port arms is executed the same as ready port arms with the M16
series rifle with one exception: on the command Ready, the first action
is to close the barrel and pull the trigger of the grenade launcher.
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CHAPTER 5
Squad Drill
The [so1diers] must learn to keep their ranks, to obey words of command,
and signals by drum and trumpet, and to observe good order, whether they
halt, advance, retreat, are upon a march, or engaged with an enemy.
Niccolo Machiavelli Arte dells Guerra, 1520
Section I
FORMATIONS AND MOVEMENTS
5-1. General
a. Individual drill movements and the manual of arms are executed (as previously
prescribed) while performing as a squad member.
b. The squad has two prescribed formations line and column. However, the squad
may be formed into a column of twos from a column formation.
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c. When the squad is in line, squad members are numbered from right to left
when in column, form front to rear.
d. The squad normally marches in column, but for short distances it may march
in line.
e. When the squad drills as a separate unit, the squad leader carries his weapon
at sling arms. When the squad is in a line formation, the squad leader assumes
a post three steps in front of and centered on the squad; when in a column
or a column of twos, three steps to the left and centered on the squad.
f. When the squad drills as part of a larger unit, the squad leader occupies the
number one (base) position of the squad. He carries his weapon in the same
manner as prescribed for other riflemen in the squad.
interval, FALL IN. Squad members obtain close interval by placing the
heel of the left hand on the left hip even with the waist, fingers and thumb
joined and extended downward, and with the elbow in line with the body
and touching the arm of the man to the left.
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FM 22-5
(3) To form in column, the squad leader faces the proposed flank of the column
and commands In column, FALL IN. On the command of execution FALL
IN, squad members double time to their original positions (grounded
equipment) in formation and cover on the man to their front.
b. When armed, members fall in at order arms or sling arms. For safety, the
commands Inspection, ARMS; Ready, Port, ARMS; and Order (Sling),
ARMS are commanded at the initial formation of the day or when the last
command is DISMISSED (Figure 5-l).
5-3. Counting Off
a. The squad may count off in line or column formation. The command is Count,
OFF.
b . When the squad is in a line formation, the counting is executed from right
to left. On the command of execution OFF, each member, except the right
flank man, turns his head and eyes to the right, and the right flank man
counts off ONE. After the man on the right counts off his number, the
man to his left counts off with the next higher number and simultaneously
turns his head and eyes to the front. All the other members execute count
off in the same manner until the entire squad has counted off.
c. When the squad is in column formation, the counting is executed from front
to rear. On the command of execution OFF, the soldier at the head of the
column turns his head and eyes to the right and counts over his shoulder,
ONE. After counting off his number, he immediately comes to the position
of attention. All other members count their numbers in sequence in the same
manner as the number one man; the last man in the file does not turn his
head and eyes to the right.
5-4. Changing Interval While in Line
NOTE: To ensure that each member understands the number of steps to take, the squad leader should
command Count, OFF before giving any commands that cause the squad to change interval.
Members do not raise their arms when changing interval.
a. To obtain close interval from normal interval, the command is Close Interval,
MARCH. On the command of execution MARCH, the right flank man (number
one man) stands fast. All men to the left of the number one man execute right
step march, take one step less than their number (for example, number five
man takes four steps), and halt.
NOTE: The squad leader takes the correct number of steps to maintain his position of three steps in
front of and centered on the squad.
b. To obtain normal interval from close interval, the command is Normal
interval, MARCH. On the command of execution MARCH, the right flank
man stands fast. All men to the left of number one man execute left step march,
take one step less than their number (for example, number nine man takes
eight steps), and halt.
c. To obtain double interval from normal interval, the command is Double
interual, MARCH, On the command of execution MARCH, the right flank
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FM 22-5
man stands fast. All men to the left of number one man face to the left as
in marching, take one 30-inch step less than their number (for example, number
seven man takes six steps), halt, and execute right face.
d. To obtain normal interval from double interval, the command is Normal
interual, MARCH. On the command of execution MARCH, the right flank
man stands fast. All men to the left of the number one man face to the right
as in marching, take one 30-inch step less than their number (for example,
number three man takes two steps), halt, and execute left face.
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FM 22-5
NOTE: If the squad leader wants exact alignment, on the command of execution DRESS, he faces to
the half left in marching and marches by the most direct route to a position on line with the
squad, halts one step from the right flank man, and faces down the line. From his position,
he verifies the alignment of the squad, directing the men to move forward or backward, as necessary,
calling them by name or number: Private Jones, Forward two inches; Number Eight, Backward
four Inches. The squad leader remains at attention, taking short steps to the right or left as
necessary to see down the squad. Having aligned the squad, he centers himself on the right
flank man by taking short steps left or right. He then faces to the ha/f right in marching, returns
to his position (center of the squad), halts perpendicular to the formation, faces to the left, and
commands Ready, FRONT. These procedures also apply when aligning the squad at close or
double interval.
b. To align the squad at close interval, the commands are At close interval,
Dress right, DRESS and Ready, FRONT. The movement is executed in
the same manner prescribed for alignment at normal interval except that the
squad members obtain close interval (Figure 5-3).
c. To align the squad at double interval, the commands are At double interval,
Dress right, DRESS and Ready, FRONT. These commands are given only
when the troops are unarmed or at sling arms. On the command of execution
DRESS, each member (except the right flank man) turns his head and eyes
to the right and aligns himself on the man on his right. At the same time,
each member (except the right and left flank men) extends both arms and
positions himself by short steps right or left until his fingertips are touching
the fingertips of the members on his right and left. (The right flank man raises
his left arm; the left flank man raises his right arm.)
d . To align the squad in column, the commands are COVER and RECOVER.
On the command COVER, each member (except the number one man) raises
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FM 22-5
his left arm to a horizontal position, elbow locked, fingers and thumb extended
and joined, palm facing down, and obtains an arms length plus about 6 inches
(from the fingertips) to the back of the man to his front. At the same time,
each man aligns himself directly behind the man to his front. To resume the
position of attention, the command RECOVER is given. On this command,
each member sharply returns to the position of attention.
take one more step with their left foot, pivot on the balls of both feet, turn
180 degrees to the right, and step off in the new direction. The arms are not
allowed to swing outward while turning.
d. To avoid an obstacle in the line of march, the squad leader directs, INCLINE
AROUND . The lead man inclines around the obstacle and
resumes the original direction. All other members follow the lead man.
command FALL OUT will not be used to terminate a formation (AR 310-
25).
Section II
STACK AND TAKE ARMS (M16 SERIES RIFLE)
5-12. General
a. The squad members execute stack arms from their positions in line formation
(at normal interval) from order arms (Figure 5-4).
NOTE: When the squeal is part of a larger unit, stack arms may be executed in a column formation
(when the formation consists of three or more files and the squads are at normal interval). Second
or third squad is designated as the stack squad.
b. When in line formation, the squad leader commands Count, OFF and then
designates the stackmen by numbers (2-5-8).
the rifle vertical at all times). The first two fingers of the left hand hold the
inner part of the loop against the rifle. The stackman reaches across the front
of the rifle with his right hand, grasps the outer part of the loop, and holds
it open for insertion of other rifles.
b. On the command of execution ARMS, the men to the right and left of the
stackman perform the following movements simultaneously:
(1) The man on the stackmans right grasps the barrel of his rifle with his
right hand and raises and centers his rifle with the magazine well facing
to the front, wrist held shoulder high, elbow locked. With his left hand,
he then grasps the handguard (midway), releases his right hand, and
regrasps the rifle at the small of the stock. He lowers both arms, with
elbows locked (holding the rifle in a horizontal position with the muzzle
to the left and the magazine well to the front).
(2) The man on the stackmans left grasps the barrel of the rifle with his
right hand and raises and centers his rifle with magazine well facing to
the front, wrist held shoulder high, elbow locked. Using his left hand, he
then grasps the rifle at the small of the stock, releases the right hand,
and regrasps the handguard (midway). He then lowers both arms, with
elbows locked (holding the rifle in a horizontal position with the muzzle
to the right and magazine well to the front).
c. As soon as the stackman has placed his rifle in position, both men move the
foot nearest the stackman 18 inches (half right or half left) toward the stackman.
The man on the stackmans left inserts the muzzle of his rifle into the loop
to a point about halfway between the flash suppressor and the front sight
assembly. He holds his rifle in this position until the man on the stackmans
right inserts the muzzle of his rifle in a similar manner and above the other
rifle muzzle.
d. Without moving the feet, both riflemen swing the butt of their rifles out and
then down to the marching surface, making the stack tight with the rifle butts
online and about two feet from the base line. When the stack has been completed,
all three men resume the position of attention.
e. Additional rifles are passed to the nearest stack on the right (right or left
if stacked in column). The men with additional rifles grasp the rifle barrel
with the right hand and raise the rifle vertically with the magazine well to
the front, wrist held shoulder high, elbow locked, and right arm extended to
the right front. Throughout the pass, the rifle is held vertical with the magazine
well to the front. The man to the left of the stackman then grasps the rifle
midway at the handguard with his left hand. The man passing the additional
rifle then releases the rifle and sharply returns to the position of attention.
The man to the left of the stackman then moves the rifle to the right until
it is centered on his body, and he grasps the rifle barrel with his right hand,
wrist held shoulder high and elbow locked. He then releases the left hand
and sharply returns his left hand to the left side as in the position of attention.
He then moves the rifle to his right front. The stackman receives the rifle
and centers it in the same manner as previously described. The man to the
left of the stackman sharply returns to the position of attention after he releases
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FM 22-5
the rifle. Once the stackman has centered the rifle and grasped the barrel
with the right hand, he bends forward at the waist and places the rifle in
the stack so that it is secure (without damaging the front sight assembly).
If there are two additional rifles, the second rifle is passed in the same manner
as the first.
I
5-11
FM 22-5
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FM 22-5
CHAPTER 6
Platoon Drill
If in training soldiers commands are habitually enforced, the army will
be well-disciplined; if not, its discipline will be bad.
Sun Tsu, On the Art of War, trans. 1910
Section I
FORMATIONS
6-1. General
a. Individual drill movements and the manual of arms are executed (as previously
described) while performing as a squad member during the conduct of platoon
drill.
b. For the most part, platoon drill merely provides the procedures for executing
drill movements in conjunction with other squads formed in the same formation.
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FM 22-5
c. The platoon has two prescribed formations line and column (Figure 6-l).
However, the platoon may be formed into a file or a column of twos from
a column formation.
d. When in a line formation, the elements (squads) of a platoon are numbered
from front to rear; in a column formation, from left to right.
e. During all drill and ceremonies, the platoon leader and platoon sergeant carry
their rifles at sling arms. When the platoon drills as part of a larger unit,
the platoon leader and platoon sergeant remain at sling arms during all manual
of arms movements except when executing the hand salute while at sling arms.
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FM 22-5
f. When the platoon drills as a separate unit, in a line formation, the post for
the platoon leader is six steps in front of and centered on the platoon; when
in a column formation, the platoon leader is six steps on the left flank and
centered on the platoon.
g. When the platoon leader commands Open ranks, Backward, Right (Left)
step, Forward, MARCH or causes the platoon to change interval, he moves
at the same time (with the appropriate step) so as to maintain proper position.
h. When the platoon drills as part of a larger unit, in a line formation, the post
for the platoon leader is six steps in front of and centered on the platoon;
in a column formation, the platoon leader is at correct distance (one arms
length plus 6 inches) in front of and centered between the second and third
squad leaders. When assuming his post in column from a line formation, the
platoon leader faces to the right in marching (on the command of execution
FACE) and marches in the most direct route to his post, halts, and faces
to the left. When assuming his post in line from a column formation, the platoon
leader faces to the left in marching (on the command of execution FACE)
and marches in the most direct route to his post, halts perpendicular to the
formation, and faces to the right. When in column formation (company) and
the command Column of twos from the right is given, the platoon leader
faces to the right in marching, repositions himself in front of and centered
between the squad leaders of the third and fourth squads, halts, and faces
to the left. When the unit re-forms into a column of fours, he faces to the
left in marching and resumes his original position in the column.
i. When the platoon drills as a separate unit, in a line formation, the post for
the platoon sergeant is centered on the platoon at correct distance (one step)
to the rear of the last rank. On the command Open ranks, MARCH;
Backward, MARCH; Right (Left) step, MARCH; FORWARD, MARCH
and on commands that cause the platoon to change interval in line, he moves
at the same time (with the appropriate step) so as to maintain proper position.
If a file or column of twos is formed, he remains in position until the last
file has passed, faces to the half left (half right) in marching, and continues
marching, positioning himself behind the last man in the file or in a column
of twos, at the correct distance to the rear and centered between the two squads.
When re-forming into a column of fours, the platoon sergeant follows the rear
element and resumes his post in the column when the element has halted.
j. When the platoon drills as part of a larger formation, in a line formation,
the platoon sergeants post is one step to the rear and centered on the platoon;
in a column formation, the platoon sergeant is one step behind and centered
between the second and third squads. When assuming his post in column from
a line formation, the platoon sergeant faces to the left in marching (on the
command of execution FACE) and marches in the most direct route to his
post. He then halts and faces to the right. When assuming his post in line
from a column formation, he faces to the right in marching (on the command
of execution FACE) and marches in the most direct route to his post, halts
centered on the platoon, and faces to the left. When the platoon is in a column
formation (company) and the command of Column of twos from the left
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FM 22-5
is given, the platoon sergeant faces to the right in marching, repositions himself
behind and centered between the third and fourth squads, halts, and faces
to the left.
NOTE: When the files (columns) are uneven, the platoon sergeant normally directs the men in longer
files to move to another file to balance the formation; or he may fill the vacancy himself as the
last man in the right file.
k. The leader of the first squad serves as the base when the platoon is a line
formation. The leader of the fourth squad serves as the base when the platoon
is in a column formation.
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FM 22-5
160-921 O - 94 - 3
FM 22-5
b. To change interval when the platoon is in a column at the halt, the right
file stands fast and serves as the base. All other members (abreast of each
other) execute the movement as previously described. To obtain close interval
from normal interval, the third squad takes one right step, the second squad
takes two right steps, and the first squad takes three right steps. To obtain
normal interval, the procedures are the same except that the squads execute
the same number of left steps.
c. To change interval when the platoon is marching in a column, the preparatory
command Close interval is given as the right foot strikes the marching surface,
and the command of execution MARCH is given the next time the right foot
strikes the marching surface. On the command of execution MARCH, the base
squad (right file) takes one more 30-inch step and then executes the half step.
All other men take one more step, simultaneously execute a column half right,
and march until close interval is obtained. They execute a column half left
and assume the half step when abreast of the corresponding man of the base
squad. On the command Forward, MARCH, all men resume marching with
a 30-inch step. The commands Mark time, MARCH and Platoon, HALT
may also be given.
d. To resume marching at normal interval, the preparatory command Normal
Interval is given as the left foot strikes the marching surface, and the command
of execution MARCH is given the next time the left foot strikes the marching
surface. On the command of execution MARCH, the platoon members obtain
normal interval in the same manner prescribed for close interval except that
they each execute column half left and then column half right.
e. To obtain double interval from normal interval, the procedures are the same
as from close interval to normal interval.
f. To obtain normal interval from double interval (closing the formation in column
from open ranks), the procedures are the same as obtaining close interval from
normal interval.
6-6. Aligning the Platoon
a. The platoon is aligned similar to the squad.
b. On the command of execution DRESS, the first squad leader stands fast and
serves as the base. Other squad leaders obtain correct distance by estimation.
The members of the first squad execute in the same manner as in squad drill
to obtain exact interval. All other squads execute as the first squad, except
that each squad member raises the left arm only for uniformity, actually
covering (glancing out the corner of the left eye) on the man to the front.
c. If the platoon leader wants exact alignment, he faces to the half left (half
right) in marching and marches (on the command of execution DRESS) by
the most direct route to a position on line with the first squad, halts one step
from the squad leader or left flank man, and faces down the line. From this
position, he verifies the alignment of the first squad, directing the men to
move forward or backward, as necessary, calling them by name or number:
Private Jones, Forward two inches; Number eight, Backward four
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FM 22-5
inches. The platoon leader remains at attention, taking short steps to the
right or left as necessary, to see down the squad. Having aligned the first
squad, the platoon leader, after centering himself on the first squad, faces
to the left (right) in marching, taking two (three if at open ranks) short steps
to the next squad, halts, faces down the line, and aligns the squad in the
same manner. After the last squad is aligned, the platoon leader centers himself
on the squad leader by taking short steps left or right, faces to the right (left)
in marching, returns to his position (centered on the platoon), halts
perpendicular to the formation, faces to the left (right), and commands Ready,
FRONT.
NOTE: When the platoon dresses as part of a larger formation, all squad leaders glance to their right
and align themselves on the unit to their right. The platoon leader aligns the platoon from the
left flank rather than from the right flank when his platoon is not formed as the right flank platoon.
d. To align the platoon in column, the commands are COVER and RECOVER.
On the command COVER, the fourth squad leader stands fast and serves
as base. The squad leaders with the exception of the left flank squad leader,
raise their arms laterally and turn their heads and eyes to the right. The
members of the fourth squad raise their left arms horizontally (as in squad
drill) to the front and cover the man to their front at correct distance. Squad
members of the third, second, and first squads raise their left arms horizontally
to the front (for uniformity only), cover on the man to their front, and, at
the same time, glance out of the corner of their right eyes aligning on the
man to their right. To resume the position of attention, the command is
RECOVER. On this command, each man sharply returns to the position of
attention.
NOTE: When the platoon is aligned in column as part of a larger unit but is not the lead platoon, the
squad leaders do not raise their arms or turn their heads and eyes but cover on the squad to
their front. The platoon leader must wait until the platoon leader of the platoon to his front has
commanded RECOVER before he faces about and gives the command COVER.
d. On the command of execution MARCH, the platoon leader and platoon sergeant
take the appropriate number of steps to maintain their posts.
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at a 45-degree angle. They focus on and follow the person passing to the front
until they are again looking forward, at which time their heads and eyes remain
fixed to the front. Only the platoon leader renders the hand salute.
c. When marching, the preparatory command Eyes is given as the right foot
strikes the marching surface and the command of execution RIGHT is given
the next time the right foot strikes the marching surface. On the command
of execution RIGHT, all men, except the right file, turn their heads and eyes
to the right and align themselves on the right file while continuing to march.
Men in the right file do not turn their heads and eyes but continue looking
straight to the front and maintain correct distance. Only the platoon leader
salutes. To terminate the courtesy, the preparatory command Ready is given
as the left foot strikes the marching surface, and the command of execution
FRONT is given the next time the left foot strikes the marching surface. On
the command of execution, the men turn their heads and eyes sharply to the
front and the platoon leader terminates the hand salute.
6-12. Changing the Direction of a Column
a. The platoon changes the direction of marching basically the same as the squad.
b. During a column movement, the base element is the squad on the flank in
the direction of the turn.
c. To change the direction 90 degrees, the command is Column right (left),
MARCH. On the command of execution MARCH, the base squad executes
the movement as in squad drill except that the squad leader takes one 30-
inch step and then takes up the half step. The squad leader continues marching
with the half step until the other squad leaders come abreast. The other squad
leaders, while maintaining correct (offset) interval, execute a 45-degree pivot
and continue marching in an arc. As they come on line (abreast) with the
base squad leader, they take up the half step. When all squad leaders are
abreast, they step off with a 30-inch step without command. All other platoon
members march forward on the command of execution and execute the column
movement at approximately the same location as their squad leaders and in
the same manner.
NOTE: When the platoon leader and platoon sergeant are marching at their post in column as part of
a larger formation, they execute a column ha/f right (left) rather than a 90-degree column movement.
After executing the column half right (left), they continue marching in an arc, incline as necessary,
and resume their correct positions. After sensing that the squad leaders are abreast of each other,
the platoon leader resumes the 30-inch step. At times, the platoon leader may find it necessary
to shorten or lengthen his step in order to maintain correct distance from the unit to his front.
d. To change the direction 45 degrees, the command is Column half right (left),
MARCH. On the command of execution MARCH, the platoon executes the
movement in the same manner as a 90-degree turn except that the base squad
leader as well as the other squad leaders execute a column half right (left).
NOTE: When executing a column movement at double time, elements adjust the length of their steps
so that interval and distance are maintained through and beyond the pivot point.
e. The platoon marches in the opposite direction (Rear, MARCH) in the same
manner as the squad.
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f. The platoon inclines in the same manner as the squad. The squad nearest
the direction of the turn serves as the base. To avoid an obstacle in the path
of the march, the platoon leader directs INCLINE AROUND LEFT (RIGHT).
g. When space is limited and the platoon leader wants to march his unit in the
opposite direction (reverse), with the squad leaders at the head of their squads,
he commands Counter column, MARCH. On the command of execution
MARCH (at the halt), the first squad marches forward three steps, executes
a column right, marches across the front of the platoon, and executes another
column right just beyond the fourth squad. The second squad steps forward
one step, executes a column right, marches forward, and execute another column
right between the third and fourth squads. The third squad executes two short
column lefts from the halt and marches between the remainder of the third
squad and the second squad. The fourth squad marches forward two steps,
executes a column left, marches across the front of the platoon, and executes
another column left between the first and second squads (Figure 6-2).
NOTE: When there are only three squads, the first squad takes two steps before executing column right
h. As the third squad leader marches past the last man in the third squad, he
and his squad begin to march at the half step. After marching past the last
man in each file, all other squads incline to the right and left as necessary,
obtain normal interval on the third squad, and begin to march with the half
step. When all squads are abreast of each other, they begin marching with
a 30-inch step without command.
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i. During the movement, the platoon leader marches alongside the first squad,
and the platoon sergeant marches one step to the rear and centered between
the second and third squads (Figure 6-l).
j. When marching, the preparatory command Counter column is given as the
left foot strikes the marching surface and the command of execution MARCH
is given the next time the left foot strikes the marching surface. On the command
of execution MARCH, the platoon executes the movement basically the same
as from the halt, except that the squad takes one additional step to ensure
that the pivot foot is in the correct position to execute the movement.
NOTE: When the platoon leader and platoon sergeant are marching at their posts as part of a larger
formation, the platoon leader takes three steps forward and executes a column right, marches
across the front of the platoon, executes another column right (just beyond fourth squad), marches
to his post in the most direct manner, takes up the ha/f step, and then steps off with a 30-inch
step when the squad leaders come on line. The platoon sergeant inclines to the right, follows
the third squad until the movement is completed, and then resumes his post.
6-13. Marching to the Flanks
The platoon marches to the flank in the same manner as the squad.
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the marching surface at the pivot (column left), or the first time the last mans
right foot strikes the marching surface after the pivot (column right).
d. The platoon re-forms to the original column formation only from the halt. The
command is Column of fours to the right (left), MARCH.
NOTE: To re-form the platoon to its original column formation when the file was formed on the command
In sequence , MARCH, the commands FALL OUT and FALL IN must be given.
On the preparatory command, the squad leader of the base squad commands
STAND FAST. All other squad leaders command Column half right (left).
On the platoon leaders command of execution MARCH, the base squad stands
fast all other squads execute the column half right (left) simultaneously. As
each of the moving squad leaders reach a point (line) that ensures correct
interval on the element to their left (right), they automatically incline to the
left (right) and command Mark time, MARCH and Squad, HALT so that
their squad is abreast of the base (other) squad when halted.
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elements, the squad leader gives the preparatory command Column left (right)
when the second from the last man is abreast of him; then he gives the command
of execution MARCH as the right foot of the last man strikes the marching
surface at the pivot (column left) or the first time the last mans right foot
strikes the marching surface after the pivot (column right). Although the
command is Column left (right), the outside squads (fourth or first) execute
column half left (right).
d. The platoon re-forms to the original column formation only from the halt.
The command is Column of fours to the right (left), MARCH. On the
preparatory command, the squad leaders of the base squads command STAND
FAST. The trailing squad leaders command Column half right (left). On
the platoon leaders command of execution MARCH, the base squads stand
fast. The trailing squad leaders execute slightly more than the column half
right (left) simultaneously. As the trailing squad leaders reach a point (line)
that will ensure correct interval on the element to their left (right), they
automatically incline to the left (right). The squad leader nearest the stationary
squads (second or third) commands Mark time, MARCH and Squads, HALT.
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CHAPTER 7
Company Drill
The fundamentals of drill are established daily . . . If these maneuvers
are all accurately observed and practiced every day then the army will
remain virtually undefeatable and always awe inspiring. .."
Frederick the Great: History of My Own Times, trans. 1789
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Section I
PROCEDURES AND PERSONNEL
7-1. General
a. Individual drill movements, manual of arms, and squad and platoon drills
are executed (as previously described) while conducting company drill.
b. For the most part, company drill provides the procedures for executing platoon
drill in conjunction with other platoons in the same formation.
c. For drill purposes, a company consists of a company headquarters and two
or more platoons. The company headquarters personnel are attached to the
platoons to equalize platoon strength without interfering with the permanent
squad organization; however, the commander may form the headquarters
personnel into a separate platoon at either flank of the company. When
headquarters personnel form as a separate element, the senior sergeant serves
as the platoon segeant, and the company executive officer serves as the platoon
leader.
d. When in a line or a mass formation, the right platoon serves as the base;
when in a column formation, the lead platoon serves as the base.
e. The first sergeant assumes the position of company commander, if there are
no officers present.
f. When the company commander directs that the company open or close ranks,
align, stack or take arms, extend march, close on the leading platoon, or prepare
for inspection, the movements are executed on the command of the platoon
leaders and not on the directives of the company commander. The platoon
leaders command the movement in sequence beginning with the base platoon.
g. During all drills and ceremonies, the first sergeant and executive officer carry
their weapons at sling arms. They remain at sling arms during all manual
of arms movements except that they execute the hand salute while at sling
arms.
h. The members of a company break ranks in the same manner as in platoon
drill except that the individuals called from the formation form on the
commander rather than on the platoon leader.
i. The company marches, rests, and executes eyes right in the same manner
as the platoon.
j. The company has four prescribed formations: company in line with platoons
in line, company in column with platoons in column, company in column with
platoons in line (used primarily for ceremonies), and company mass formation.
However, the company may be formed into a column of twos in the same
manner as the platoon.
12 steps (from the front rank of troops) to the front and centered on the company.
As part of a larger unit, when the company is in a column with platoons
in column and when in a mass formation, his post is 6 steps from the front
rank of troops to the front and centered on the company. As a separate unit,
when the company is in column with platoons in column, his post is 12 steps
from and centered on the left flank.
b. Guidon Bearer. The guidon bearers post is two 15-inch steps to the rear
and two 15-inch steps to the left of the company commander (Appendix C)
(Figure 7-l).
NOTE: The company commander should inconspicuously direct the guidon bearer to remain in position
and move with the commander when the company is to be faced to the right and marched for
only a short distance.
c. Executive Officer. When the company is in a line formation, the executive
officers post is two steps to the rear of the first sergeant in a column or a
mass formation, he is three steps to the rear of the last rank and off center
(one 15-inch step to the right) of the company.
d. First Sergeant. When the company is in a line formation, the first sergeants
post is three steps to the rear of the last rank and centered on the company;
in a column or a mass formation, he is three steps to the rear of the last rank
and off center (one 15-inch step to the left) of the company (Figure 7-2).
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NOTE: The executive officer inconspicuously gives the necessary commands (march, column half left,
halt, and facings) for himself and the first sergeant when changing from one post to another.
Once in motion, they incline as necessary and march to their new posts. When the company
changes from a line formation to column formation, the first sergeant and executive officer face
with the company but do not march forward. They remain in position until the last platoon has
passed. If the company marches forward (column formation) for a short distance only, or if it
closes on the base platoon (line formation) at close interval, the first sergeant and executive officer
march forward or face to the right in marching and resume their posts. When the company changes
from a column (platoons in column) to a line formation, they face to the right in marching and
assume their posts in line. When the company forms a company in column with platoons in line,
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as the unit is faced, they face to the right in marching and assume their posts to the rear of
the last platoon. When the company is formed in mass, they face to the right in marching and
assume their posts at the center of the company immediately after halting with the last platoon
(Figure 7-4). The off-center position explained for the first sergeant and executive officer should
place them at normal interval from each other while covering a file to their front. If either one
is not present during a formation, the one present changes posts without command and assumes
the post at the center of the company rather than off center (Figure 7-3)
Section II.
NOTE: If the command At close Interval, FALL IN is given, the members of the platoon form at close
interval however, the five-step interval between platoons is maintained.
(c) When all of the platoon sergeants are facing to the front, the first sergeant
commands (if appropriate) Inspection, ARMS; Ready, port, ARMS;
Order (Sling), ARMS. He then directs (if appropriate) RECEIVE THE
REPORT. The platoon sergeants face about and command REPORT.
The squad leaders report as previously described in paragraph 6-2d.
Having received the report, the platoon sergeants face about. When all
platoon sergeants are facing to the front, the first sergeant commands
REPORT. The platoon sergeants salute and report (as previously
described in paragraph 6-2e) in succession from right to left. The first
sergeant returns each salute individually. Having received the report from
the platoon sergeants, the first sergeant faces about and awaits the arrival
of the company commander.
NOTE: If the company commander is not scheduled to receive the company, the first sergeant commands
POST. On this command, the platoon sergeants and guidon bearer step forward three steps.
Simultaneously, the first sergeant faces about, steps forward three steps, and occupies the position
of the commander.
(d) When the company commander has halted at his post, the first sergeant
salutes and reports, "Sir, All present, or "Sir, All accounted for, or
Sir, (So many) men absent. The company commander returns the
salute and commands POST. The first sergeant faces about and marches
to his post three steps to the rear and at the center of the company,
halts, and faces about. The guidon bearer steps forward three steps. The
platoon sergeants face to the right in marching and assume their posts
to the rear of their platoons (if the platoon leader is not present, they
step forward three steps). The platoon leaders march around the left flank
of their platoons and assume their posts by inclining and halting, already
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facing to the front. The company executive officer assumes his post two
steps to the rear of the first sergeant.
(2) Forming with officers. When the company is formed by the company
commander, the procedures are the same as forming with the noncommis-
sioned officers except that the platoon leaders form their platoons and the
first sergeant, platoon sergeants, and guidon bearer fall in at their posts
(Figure 7-l). The command POST is not necessary.
leader has stepped off to align the second rank), the platoon leader to the
left commands Dress right, DRESS. He then faces to the half right in
marching, moves to a position on line with and one step to the left of the
left flank man of the first rank, and faces (left face) down the line. After aligning
the first rank, the platoon leader centers himself on the first rank, faces to
the right in marching, takes two short steps, halts, executes left face, and
aligns the second rank. The third and fourth ranks are aligned in the same
manner as the second rank. After aligning the fourth rank, the platoon leader
faces to the left in marching returns to his position, center of the platoon;
halts perpendicular to the formation; faces to the right commands Ready,
FRONT; and faces about. All platoon leaders to the left of the second platoon
take the same actions as the second platoon leader.
NOTE: If necessary, the platoon leaders to the left of the base platoon command VERIFY INTERVAL
before commanding Dress right, DRESS. On the command VERIFY INTERVAL, the base (squad
leader of the first squad) faces to the right in marching and moves to the left flank member (first
squad) of the platoon to the right, halts, faces about, steps forward five steps, halts, faces to
the right, and aligns himself on the element to his right.
b. To align the company in column, the company commander directs HAVE
YOUR PLATOONS COVER. On this directive, the first platoon leader faces
about and commands COVER. The other platoon leaders command STAND
FAST. The first platoon covers as in platoon drill. The other platoons then
execute the movement in succession as soon as the platoon to their front has
completed the movement.
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to give the command Right (Left) turn, MARCH. He then faces about and
completes the turning movement himself. After the company has completed
the turn, he faces about, commands Forward, MARCH, and again faces about.
Mark time. On the preparatory command, the second platoon leader commands
Column right, and the succeeding platoon leaders command Continue to
march. On the command of execution MARCH, the leading platoon executes
mark time and marches in place (approximately eight counts) until the platoon
leader commands Platoon, HALT. The other platoons execute the movement
in the same manner as from the halt.
c. To re-form in column with platoons in column, the company commander
commands Right, Face; Column of platoons, Left platoon, MARCH. On
the command Right, Face, the platoon leaders and platoon sergeants face
in marching and resume their posts in column. On the preparatory command
Column of platoons, Left platoon, the left platoon leader commands
Forward, (Column left [Half left]). All other platoon leaders command
Column half left. On the command of execution MARCH, the left platoon
executes the movement. The other platoon leaders give the appropriate
commands so as to follow the lead platoon at correct distance.
NOTE: If necessary, the platoons following the second platoon automatically adjust the length of their
step to ensure correct distance from the platoon to their front.
sergeants step forward three steps, face about, and dismiss the platoons as
in platoon drill.
Section III
INSPECTIONS
7-16. General
a. The company has one prescribed formation for inspecting personnel and
equipment in ranks company in line with platoons in line. When inspecting
crew-served weapons and vehicles, the personnel are normally positioned to
the rear of the formation with the operator (gunner) standing by his vehicle
(weapon).
b. The commander may conduct an in-quarters (barracks) inspection to include
personal appearance, individual weapons, field equipment, displays,
maintenance, and sanitary conditions.
c. When field equipment is to be inspected, it should be displayed as shown in
Figure 7-5 (as a guide). Additional equipment not shown or different models
of the equipment should be arranged in a uniform manner established by the
local commander.
The other platoon leaders execute the same actions as the company commander
approaches their platoons.
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NOTE: As soon as the platoon leader and company commander have ha/ted in front of the first two
men, the platoon leader commands Second, third, and fourth squads, AT EASE. When moving
from man to man during the inspection, the company commander and platoon leader (executive
officer and first sergeant) simultaneously face to the right in marching, take two short steps (one
step if the company is at close interval), halt, and face to the left. After the company commander
has inspected the last man in the front rank, the platoon leader hesitates momentarily and allows
the company commander to precede him as he inspects the front rank from the rear. As the
company commander begins to inspect the rear of each rank, the platoon leader commands the
next squad to ATTENTION. As they begin to inspect the next rank, the platoon leader commands
the last rank inspected to stand AT EASE. Normally, when inspecting the rear of each rank, the
company commander conducts a walking inspection. As the company commander inspects the
rear of the last man in each rank, he turns and halts directly in front of the squad leader of the
next rank. The platoon leader turns and halts directly in front of the second man. The executive
officer and first sergeant march past (behind) the company commander and assume their positions
to his left.
c. As the company commander halts and is directly in front of and facing the
individual being inspected, the individual executes inspection arms. If the
company commander wants to inspect the individuals weapon, he will inspect
the weapon first, then the individuals uniform and appearance. As soon as
the company commander grasps the weapon, the individual releases the weapon
and resumes the position of attention. When the company commander has
finished inspecting the weapon, he returns it in the same manner as it was
received. The individual receives the weapon by grasping the center of the
handguard just forward of the slipring with the left hand and the small of
the stock with the right hand. He then executes ready, port arms; order, arms.
NOTE: In the event the company commander does not want to inspect the weapon, the individual remains
at inspection arms until the company commander has ha/ted in front of and is facing the next
man. The individual then execute ready, port, arms, and order, arms. As the company commander
moves to the rear of the rank being inspected, each man, as the commander approaches, unfastens
the snap of his scabbard, grasps the point of the scabbard with the left hand, and moves the
point slightly forward. The scabbard is held in position until the bayonet has been replaced or,
if the bayonet is not inspected, until the company commander has moved to the next man. At
that time, the securing straps are fastened and the position of attention is resumed.
d. The correct method of manipulating a rifle for inspection is as follows:
(1) When receiving the rifle from the inspected individual, reach forward and
grasp the rifle at the upper portion of the handguard with the right hand.
Lower the rifle diagonally to the left, twist the rifle slightly, insert the
tip of the little finger of the left hand into the ejection port (do not twist
the rifle but insert the thumb into the receiver of the M16 series rifle),
and look into the barrel. The finger reflects sufficient light for the inspection
of the barrel.
(2) Grasp the small of the stock with the left hand and raise the rifle to a
horizontal position (sights up) with the muzzle to the right. The rifle is
centered on the body with the forearms horizontal and the palms up. Move
the rifle horizontally to the left and inspect the upper portion of the rifle
beginning with the flash suppressor. Move the rifle slowly to the right
inspecting the butt. Return the rifle to the center of the body.
(3) Keeping the rifle horizontal, rotate it 180 degrees (sights toward the body)
so that the sights point toward the marching surface. Move the rifle
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horizontally to the left and inspect the muzzle. Move the rifle slowly to
the right and inspect the butt. When moving the rifle across the body,
twist the rifle as necessary and inspect the movable parts on the sides
of the receiver. Having completed the inspection of the lower parts of the
rifle, return it to the center of the body.
(4) Keeping the rifle horizontal, rotate the rifle 180 degrees (sights away from
the body) so that the sights are up. Release the left hand and return the
rifle in the same manner as received.
(5) When inspecting a weapon other than a rifle, the inspecting officer receives
the weapon with his right hand and inspects it in the most convenient
manner. Having completed the inspection, the weapon is returned with
the right hand in the same manner as received.
e. When the company commander has completed the inspection of the platoon
sergeant, the platoon leader commands the platoon to ATTENTION and
overtakes the company commander en route back to the front of the platoon.
The platoon leader halts facing to the front (six steps in front and centered
on his platoon) and exchanges salutes with the company commander. The
company commander (executive officer and first sergeant) faces to the right
in marching and moves to the next platoon. As soon as the company commander
has cleared the first platoon, the platoon leader faces about, commands Close
ranks, MARCH and AT EASE, and then faces about and executes at ease.
When the company commander has completed (exchanged salutes with the
platoon leader) the inspection of the last platoon, he returns to his post at
the center of the company and commands the company to ATTENTION.
He then dismisses the company, as previously described.
f. When the company is inspected by an officer of a higher command, on the
approach of the inspecting officer, the company commander commands
Company, ATTENTION. He then faces about, salutes, and reports, Sir,
The company is prepared for inspection. The inspection is conducted
as previously described except that the company commander takes a position
immediately to the left of the inspecting officer. The inspection is terminated
by the company commander in the same manner prescribed for a platoon leader.
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CHAPTER 8
Battalion and Brigade Formations
The exterior splendor, the regularity of movements, the adroitness and
at the same time firmness of the mass all this gives the individual soldier
the safe and calming conviction that nothing can withstand his particular
regiment or battalion.
Colmar von der Goltz, 1843-1916 Rossback und Jena
Section I
BATTALION FORMATIONS
8-1. General
a. For the most part, battalion and brigade drill merely provides the procedures
for executing company or battalion drill in conjunction with other companies
or battalions in the same formation.
b. For drill purposes, a battalion or brigade consists of a headquarters (staff),
Colors, and two or more companies or battalions. The right flank unit serves
as base when in a line formation; the leading element is the base when in
column.
c. To facilitate the forming of a larger unit, the commander normally alerts the
component units as to the desired formation, time, place, route, uniform, and
the sequence in which the units will form. Unless the right guides position
at the formation site has been previously marked, the guides report to the site
and receive instructions prior to the arrival of the troops.
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d. The commissioned staff forms in one rank, at normal interval and centered
on the commander. Staff members are normally arranged in their numerical
order from right to left. When enlisted staff personnel form as part of the officer
staff, they form two steps to the rear of their respective staff officer. The
command sergeant major forms one step to the rear of the commissioned staff
and centered on the commander, or one step to the rear and centered on the
Colors when they are carried to the rear (battalion mass) of the staff.
8-2. Formations
a. The battalion has two basic formations a line and a column. There are
several variations as to how the separate elements are arranged within either
formation: the battalion may be formed in line with the companies in line
with platoons in line, or battalion in line with companies in column with
platoons in line (Figure 8-1). From those formations, the battalion may be
positioned in a battalion in column with companies in column, or companies
in mass, or companies in column with platoons in line (Figure 8-2).
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NOTE: Because of the time involved in inspecting a battalion, the commander normally directs his staff
to inspect the companies while he inspects the Colors and makes a general inspection of the
battalion. The Color guards do not execute inspection arms.
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c. As the battalion commander (or his designated staff officer) approaches the
company, the company commander faces about, salutes, and reports, "Sir,
Company is prepared for inspection. The inspecting officer
then proceeds to the first platoon to be inspected. The company commander
takes a position to the left of the inspecting officer. The platoons are inspected
in the same manner as explained in company drill. In the event a platoon
has already been inspected by a staff officer, or is waiting to be inspected
by a staff officer, and the battalion commander approaches, the battalion
commander is invited to inspect the platoon.
d. When the inspection has been completed and the battalion commander is en
route back to his post, the company commanders bring their units to
ATTENTION and CLOSE RANKS and AT EASE. When the battalion
commander has returned to the front of the formation and all staff officers
have completed their inspection, the battalion commander commands
Battalion, ATTENTION and dismisses the battalion (as previously
described).
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If the battalion is being inspected by a higher commander and his staff, the
battalion commander reports to the inspecting officer in the same manner as
the company commanders. The battalion commanders staff takes a position
to the left of the higher inspecting staff and escorts them to the unit. The
battalion commander escorts the higher commander.
Section II.
BRIGADE FORMATIONS
8-5. General
a. The brigade, like the battalion, has two basic formations a line and a column.
There are several variations as to how the battalions are arranged within either
formation: the brigade may be formed with battalions in mass, or battalions
in line with companies in mass. From those formations, the brigade may be
positioned in column with battalions in mass, companies in mass, or battalions
in column with companies in column.
b. The formation selected is normally dictated by the space available and the
desires of the commander (Figure 8-4).
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CHAPTER 9
Ceremonies
"A ceremonial parade, impeccably performed, can never fail to be a source
of inspiration to those who watch it or take part in it. It is the noblest
and proudest form of drill. Based on the blunt whetstone of drill
instruction to recruits it was for many hundreds of years the foundation
of battle discipline in all Armies . . .
Today once the elements of discipline have been instilled through drill
on the parade square, it develops, naturally, into various forms of crew
drill, gun drill, and battle drill but the aim of discipline remains unchanged.
This aim is the conquest of fear. Drill helps to achieve this because when
it is carried out men tend to lose their individuality and are unified into
a group under obedience to orders.
If men are to give their best in war they must be united. Discipline seeks
through drill to instill into all ranks this sense of unity, by requiring them
to obey orders as one man. A Ceremonial parade, moreover, provides an
occasion for men to express pride in their performance, pride in the
Regiment or Corps and pride in the profession of Arms.
General Sir Harold Alexander, Ceremonial For
the Army Ministry for Defense, Army Department,
November 1968
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Section I
REVIEWS
9-1. General
a. Reviews can be traced to the Middle Ages when rulers, as a way of showing
their strength, were likely to have military ceremonies.
b. In the American Army, reviews were originally outlined in Baron Friedrich
von Steubens Blue Book and practiced by revolutionary soldiers. A review
consisted of four stages: a formation of troops, presentation and honors,
inspection, and a march in review. Todays reviews have incorporated three
additional stages: honors to the nation, remarks, and a conclusion. The
presence of the band represents the significant role that the drum, fife, and
other musical instruments have played throughout military history for
signaling in camp or on the battlefield. The presence of the Colors at the center
of the formation represents their presence at the forefront of the unit during
the heat of battle.
c. At the beginning of the FM 22-5 17th century, armies throughout the world were adopting
the regimental system. Regiments were assigned a specific color or number
for ease of identification and position on the battlefield. In battle, the color
(or flag) party marched at the front and center of its unit as a point for the
unit to dress on. By leading the unit in battle, the colors became prime targets,
as victories in those days were expressed in terms of the number of enemy
colors captured; consequently, the color party bore the brunt of the battle and
suffered heavy casualties. Historically, in the American Army, the Colors have
been placed in the center of the formation and have been considered to be
a part of the company on the immediate right of the Colors. This company
is still called the Color unit.
(1) In infantry regulations of 1812, the line up of companies from right to
left was determined by the seniority of the company commander, with the
senior on the right. The manual for US infantry tactics in 1862 placed
the senior commander on the right and the second senior on the left with
the other eight companies in between. After they were lined up, the
companies were then numbered first through tenth from right to left. In
the infantry drill regulations of 1892, companies continued to be aligned
by seniority. Between 1910 and 1970, companies were designated by letters
of the alphabet and lined up from right to left: headquarters company,
rifle companies in alphabetical order, then any combat support companies.
The Colors, however, remained posted in the center of the formation.
(2) Musical elements (usually drums and fifes, and sometimes a band) were
used during actual battle and marched 12 to 15 paces to the rear of the
formation. By 1892, the infantry drill regulations posted bands and field
music on the right of the formation or at the head of the formation when
it moved in column.
d. Honors appear to have originated as musical fanfare and later a gun salute
was added. The combination of the two now constitute military honors.
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(1) The custom of announcing the arrival of royalty and heads of state with
a fanfare of trumpets or drum rolls had its origin in England. It is ironic
that drum ruffles and the two-note bugle call flourishes, used in this manner
today, have all but disappeared in the British Commonwealth while the
tradition is still carried on in the United States.
(2) The colonists brought many of the military customs of their mother country
with them when they came to America. At the time of the French-Indian
Wars, soldiers were instructed to rest (present arms) and beat two ruffles
for the Royal Governor of Virginia. In 1776, officers of the Continental
Army were advised that the adjutant is to order a drum and fife to give
two ruffles to a major general and one to a brigadier.
(3) When Baron von Steuben wrote his manual of discipline, he stated that
there were to be certain ruffles for generals. It is interesting to note that
General George Washington was not accorded ruffles. Instead, his arrival
was announced by a march more than likely Washingtons March
that is still played today. In time, this custom was extended to include
governors of sovereign states and visiting foreign dignitaries.
(4) Ruffles were not considered elegant and were used exclusively by the
military. In some cases they were even accorded to the officer of the day.
(5) It was some time before trumpets were added to the drum rolls; it is believed
they were so used during the War of 1812. Honors for dignitaries were
modified to include a flourish of trumpets called the Three Cheers. It
is likely that this particular salute evolved into the ruffles and flourishes
as they are played today.
(6) Navy records indicate that the regulations of 1876 stipulated there would
be a ruffle of drums to announce the Presidents arrival but made no mention
of the trumpet flourishes. A later regulation (1893) stated that the chief
executive would receive four ruffles and flourishes.
(7) Gun salutes may be traced back to a period when it took a long time to
reload guns. By firing all of its guns at once, the battery or fort was left
defenseless. The number of guns fired as a salute to honor a US President
was not established until 1841. Prior to that, presidential honors included
one gun for every state. It reached at least 24 guns before it was decided
that any more guns would be unrealistic and the number of 21 was adopted
in 1841. In 1875, the United States adopted 21 guns for the international
salute and that number is currently used as honors for all dignitaries of
rank equivalent to the President.
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strikes the marching surface. The commands Ready and FRONT are given
as the left foot strikes the marching surface.
f. Any of the formations described for the battalion or brigade may be used;
however, the two recommended formations for conducting reviews are:
(1) Battalion in line with companies in mass (Figure 9-2).
(2) Brigade in line with battalions in mass (Figures 9-3, 8-3).
NOTE: When desired or more appropriate, commands may be substituted for directives.
g. The formation selected is determined by space available and other desires
of the commander. Commanders may alter the formation or prescribed
distances to meet local situations. Each unit should be sized uniformly with
the tallest men in front and on the right. Commanders should not cause the
leaders to change positions because of their size. Officers and key
noncommissioned officers, including squad leaders and others equivalent by
virtue of their rank and time in service, should participate in their deserved
positions of dignity.
h. If possible, the reviewing officer should arrive at his post (Figure 9-4) after
the staff of the commander of troops has reversed and the commander of
troops has faced the reviewing stand. Upon arrival, the reviewing officer should
immediately take his post and refrain from greeting distinguished spectators
until after the review has terminated.
NOTE: In battalion mass formation, the platoon leaders form as the first rank of troops. The right flank
platoon leader serves as the guide.
i. The reviewing officer, host or host commander, and distinguished persons
invited to attend the review (but not themselves receiving the review), take
positions facing the troops (Figure 9-4).
j. When a ceremony is conducted for an individual junior in rank to the host
or host commander, the junior takes a position to the left of the host or host
commander unless the commander yields the post of honor to him. In all
cases, the honor position is the position on the right and is the reviewing
officers post. The host or host commander gives the appropriate directive,
PRESENT THE COMMAND and PASS IN REVIEW, during the conduct
of the review.
k. When a civilian or foreign dignitary receives the review, he takes the honor
position to the right of the host. The host or host commander returns all salutes
when, in his judgment, it would be more appropriate. As a courtesy, the host
or host commander should cue the dignitary and inconspicuously explain the
procedures during the conduct of the ceremony. The position in which the
flags are displayed at the rear of the reviewing party corresponds to the position
taken by the individual in the front rank of the reviewing party.
1. When a ceremony is conducted honoring a foreign official or dignitary entitled
to honors, equivalent honors (salutes) are rendered in the manner prescribed
in AR 600-25.
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NOTE: If the honors of the dignitary include his or her nations anthem, the honors are played in the
following order: four ruffles and flourishes, the foreign anthem, an approximate 3-second drum
roll, and the US National Anthem.
m. When the ceremony includes decorations, awards, or retirements, the host or
host commander should be senior in rank or position to the highest ranking
individual being honored.
n. An officer from the local staff is designated to escort and brief members of
the reviewing party and to show them their positions.
o. Since all situations or eventualities relative to various services or units (military
academies, special honor guard, active Army units, reserve components,
Reserve, Officer Training Corps, and training centers) cannot be foreseen,
commanders may make minor changes to stated procedures. However, with
a view toward preserving Army tradition and maintaining consistency, they
should not alter or modify the sequence of events other than stated.
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(6) When all units are at attention, the adjutant directs SOUND ADJU-
TANTS CALL.
(7) The band sounds adjutants call, and (without pause) begins playing a
march. It continues until the last unit halts on the final line.
(8) Immediately after adjutants call, the following events take place
simultaneously:
(a) All unit commanders immediately command GUIDE ON LINE. The
guide of each unit double times (port arms, unless weapons are to be
carried at sling arms) to his position on the final line of markers, halts
with his right foot on the marker, executes order arms, and then faces
(to the right) the adjutant.
(b) The adjutant aligns the guides (if necessary) and immediately marches
to a position centered on the command and halfway between the post
of the commander of troops and the final line. He halts and faces to
the left, facing the line of troops.
(c) As soon as the guides are on line, the unit commanders (in sequence
from right to left) command Forward, MARCH. As they approach the
positions of the guides, commanders command Mark time, MARCH
so that the rank of squad leaders begins to mark time and is on line
with the left shoulder of the guide. The commander allows the unit to
mark time for about eight counts and then commands Company
(Battalion), HALT. On the command of execution HALT, the guide
executes left face, which places his right foot on the marker. If the unit
is at right shoulder arms, the unit commanders command Order, ARMS.
The unit is then aligned by the command At close interval, Dress
right, DRESS. At the command of execution DRESS, the platoon leader
of the right platoon moves by the most direct route to the right flank
and verifies the alignment of as many ranks as necessary to ensure
proper alignment. When he has completed verification, he returns to
a position directly in front of his third squad leader, halts parallel to
the formation, and faces to the right. Other platoon leaders, on the
command of execution DRESS, position themselves directly in line with
their third squad by executing one (15-inch) step to the right. The
commander then commands Ready, FRONT and, immediately,
Parade, REST. He faces about and assumes parade rest. For larger
reviews, the command AT EASE may be substituted for PARADE
REST throughout the ceremony.
NOTE: If a ceremony is conducted with a company formed in line with platoons in column, the commands
COVER and RECOVER are given to align the platoons.
(9) When all units are on the final line and are at parade rest, the adjutant
directs BRING YOUR UNITS TO ATTENTION.
(10) Unit commanders face about and (in sequence starting with the right
flank unit) command Company (Battalion), ATTENTION. For larger
formations, the commands may start with the center or right center unit,
working toward both flanks. The unit commander then faces about.
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(11) When all units are at attention, the adjutant faces about. That is the
signal for the commander of troops and his staff to move from their
positions near the reviewing stand to their posts midway between the
line of troops and the reviewing stand and face the line of troops.
(12) When the commander of troops has halted at his post, the adjutant faces
about and directs BRING YOUR UNITS TO PRESENT ARMS.
(13) Unit commanders face about and in sequence command Present, ARMS.
They then face about and salute.
(14) After all units are at present arms, the adjutant faces about, salutes, and
reports Sir, The command is formed.
(15) The commander of troops returns the salute of the adjutant and directs
TAKE YOUR POST. (The members of the staff do not salute.) The
adjutant takes his post by facing to the half left in marching, marches
forward, halts at normal interval to the right of the right flank staff
member, and faces about. When the adjutant is in position, the commander
of troops directs BRING YOUR UNITS TO ORDER ARMS. Unit
commanders terminate their salutes; face about; command Order, ARMS;
and then face about. When all units are at order arms, the left flank staff
officer commands Right, Face; Forward, MARCH; Column left,
MARCH; Column left, MARCH; Staff HALT; and Left, FACE. At
that time, the staff should be centered on, and two steps in front of, the
commander of troops (Figure 9-5).
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(16) When the units have completed order arms and the staff has reversed,
the commander of troops then faces the reviewing stand and waits for
the reviewing officer to take his post. If, for some reason, the reviewing
officer has been delayed, or if a delay is prearranged, the commander
of troops directs the units to Parade, REST and then directs them to
ATTENTION before the reviewing officers arrival.
b. Presentation and Honors.
(1) When the reviewing officer has halted at his post, the commander of troops
faces about and directs BRING YOUR UNITS TO PRESENT ARMS.
Unit commanders face about; command Present, ARMS; face to the front;
and salute. When the units have completed this movement, the commander
of troops faces about and commands his staff and himself to Present,
ARMS.
NOTES: 1. If the reviewing officer is entitled to honors (AR 600-25), the commander of troops should
verify that the salute battery (executive officers right arm is raised) and the band (band
masters arms are at the ready-play position) are prepared to render honors before he faces
the reviewing officer. The salute of the commander of troops is the signal for the band and
salute battery to render honors, The reviewing party, and all military personnel within sight
or hearing, salute on the first note of the music and terminate their salute when honors
have been completed.
2. If the reviewing officer is not entitled to honors, only the reviewing officer returns the salute
of the commander of troops.
3. During a review, salutes (honors) are directed to the reviewing officers post. In some reviews,
it is appropriate for a person (colonel) not entitled honors to participate as the reviewing
officer, and a person (general) entitled honors to participate as host or distinguished guest.
In that situation, honors (ruffles and flourishes and cannon salute) are not appropriate.
(2) Upon completion of the presentation and/or honors, the commander of
troops commands his staff to Order, ARMS; faces about; and directs
BRING YOUR UNITS TO ORDER ARMS AND PARADE REST.
(3) Unit commanders terminate their salutes, face about, and command Order,
ARMS and Parade, REST. They then face to the front and execute parade
rest.
(4) When all troops are at parade rest, the commander of troops faces about.
He and his staff remain at attention.
NOTE: When scheduled, retreat is integrated into the review at this point, Procedures are outlined in
paragraph 9-6.
c. Inspection.
NOTE: The inspection may be omitted for decorations, awards, or retirement ceremonies. If the inspection
is omitted, the ceremony continues (paragraph 9-4) immediately following the presentation and/
or honors, or following retreat, if it is scheduled.
(1) When the commander of troops has faced the reviewing stand, the reviewing
officer and the host or host commander moves forward and halts 3 steps
in front of the commander of troops. Staffs, aides-de-camp, flag bearers,
and orderlies do not normally accompany the inspecting party.
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(2) The commander of troops salutes and reports Sir, The command is
prepared for inspection. The band begins to play marching music on
the salute of the commander of troops and continues to play until the
reviewing officer has returned to his post.
(3) The commander of troops guides the reviewing party to the right flank
of the band. The commander of troops and the host or host commander
march to the right of the reviewing officer. Whether marching or riding,
the reviewing party passes between the line of brigade commanders and
staffs, battalion commanders, and company commanders in division or
similar-size reviews. In reviews for a battalion, or units of similar size,
the inspecting party passes between the front rank of troops and the line
of company commanders, or they pass immediately in front of the platoon
leaders when companies are in a line formation.
(4) When the inspection is made by motor vehicle, the reviewing party enters
the vehicle in front of the reviewing stand. The reviewing officer enters
first and occupies the left rear position. The host or host commander occupies
the right rear position. The vehicle, approaching from the left of the
commander of troops, proceeds to the post of the commander of troops
and stops. The commander of troops salutes, reports, and enters the vehicle,
occupying the right front position.
(5) Upon the departure of the reviewing party, the senior staff officer commands
the staff to Parade, REST. After the inspection has been completed, the
senior staff officer commands Staff, ATTENTION before the return of
the commander of troops.
(6) When the reviewing party approaches the right flank of each unit, the
unit commander faces about and commands Company, ATTENTION.
He then faces to the front and over his right shoulder commands Eyes,
RIGHT. On the command Eyes, RIGHT, the company commander,
executive officer, and platoon leaders execute eyes right and salute. The
guidon bearers execute eyes right and present guidons.
NOTES: 1. Platoon leaders give the command Eyes, RIGHT and salute when the company is in a line
formation. The company commander faces his unit, but neither he nor his guidon bearer
salute.
2. When in battalion mass formations, the battalion commander faces about and commands
Battalion, ATTENTION and Eyes, RIGHT, but neither he nor his staff salute or execute eyes
right. The unit commanders, executive officers, platoon leaders, and guidon bearers salute.
The battalion commander remains facing his unit, until the reviewing officer has passed the
left front of his unit, at which time he commands Order, ARMS and Parade, REST. He then
commands his staff to Parade REST but remains facing his unit.
Each soldier turns his head to the right and, as the reviewing officer comes
into his line of vision, each soldier follows the officer with his head and
eyes, until the reviewing officer reaches the front. At that point, the head
and eyes of each soldier remain to the front. As soon as the reviewing
officer has cleared the unit, the commander commands Order, ARMS.
He then faces about and commands Parade, REST, assumes the position
himself, and remains facing his unit. The left flank unit remains at attention
until the reviewing party has cleared the right rear of the unit. Other
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(7) As the reviewing party approaches the Colors, the commander of troops
inconspicuously commands Present, ARMS (six steps from the Colors)
and Order, ARMS (six steps beyond the Colors). They do not salute when
passing to the rear of the Colors. The Color guard and bearers execute
eyes right. The organizational color dips (salutes).
(8) After passing in front of the troops (to include the salute battery), the
inspection continues along the rear of the troops and terminates at the
right flank of the band. The commander of troops commands Party, HALT.
The bandmaster has the band play softly until the reviewing party members
begin marching back to their posts. The commander of troops faces to the
half left in marching, takes two steps, halts, and faces about. The host
or host commander repositions himself to the left of the reviewing officer.
When the host or host commander is in position, the commander of troops
and the reviewing officer exchange salutes. Upon termination of the salutes,
the reviewing officer and host or host commander immediately face to the
half left in marching and return to their posts. The commander of troops
hesitates momentarily and then faces to the right in marching and returns
to his post (Figure 9-6).
NOTE: Other ceremonial activities may be integrated into the review at this point. The sequence of events
and actions of individuals are discussed in paragraphs 9-4 and 9-5.
d. Honors to the Nation.
(1) When the reviewing party members have returned to their posts, the
commander of troops faces about and directs BRING YOUR UNITS TO
ATTENTION AND PRESENT ARMS. Unit commanders face about and
command Company (Battalion), ATTENTION and Present, ARMS.
Each commander then faces about and salutes. When all units have
completed these movements, the commander of troops faces about and
commands Present, ARMS for himself and his staff. On the execution
of the hand salute by the commander of troops, the band begins to play
the National Anthem.
(2) The reviewing party and all military spectators salute while the National
Anthem is being played (Appendix E).
(3) Upon completion of the National Anthem, the commander of troops and
staff terminate their salutes on his command. He then faces about and
directs BRING YOUR UNITS TO ORDER ARMS AND PARADE
REST.
(4) Unit commanders terminate their salutes; face about; command Order,
ARMS and Parade, REST; face about; and execute parade rest.
(5) When the last unit has executed the directive, the commander of troops
faces about and commands his staff and himself to Parade, REST.
e. Remarks. After the commander of troops and his staff have assumed parade
rest, the reviewing officer, the host or host commander, or the distinguished
guest may address the command.
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f. March in Review.
(1) Upon completion of the remarks, the commander of troops commands
his staff to ATTENTION, faces about, and directs BRING YOUR
UNITS TO ATTENTION. Unit commanders face about and command
Company (Battalion), ATTENTION and face back to the front. When
the units are at attention, the commander of troops faces the reviewing
officer.
(2) When the commander of troops has faced the reviewing officer, the host
or host commander directs PASS IN REVIEW.
(3) The commander of troops faces about and directs PASS IN REVIEW.
The band is then faced to the right and marched to a position that enables
it to move straightforward onto the line of march without an initial turning
movement, halts, and faces to the left. The left turn marker should be
positioned to minimize the movement of the band (Figure 9-7).
(4) Unit commanders face to the right when the commander of troops directs
PASS IN REVIEW. If weapons are to be carried at right shoulder arms,
the commander faces about and commands Right shoulder, ARMS. He
then faces to the left. The commander next to the band waits until the
band moves into position. He then commands Right turn, MARCH loud
enough for the band to hear. The band takes this command as its signal
to begin playing and to march forward onto the line of march.
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(5) Other units move out in procession in the same manner and follow in
column at the prescribed distance (Figure 9-8). For larger reviews,
commanders may command their units (in sequence) to parade rest while
waiting their turn to move onto the line of march.
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(6) The band and each following unit change direction at points indicated
by markers. The commander commands, Left turn, MARCH. The
commander faces about while marching as his unit is making the turn.
When his unit has completed the turn, the commander commands,
Forward MARCH, and faces back to the front.
(7) All commanders, except the commander of troops, move with their staff
into positions in the column and at the head of their respective units just
before turning onto the reviewing line (Figure 9-9).
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(8) The commander of troops and his staff move forward and execute turning
movements to arrive at a position 12 steps in front of the drum major
on the reviewing line.
(9) On command, the commander of troops, the brigade and battalion
commanders, their staffs, and the command sergeant major execute EYES
RIGHT and salute at the eyes right marker. The commander commands
Ready, FRONT and terminates the salute when their staffs have reached
the ready front marker.
(10) The reviewing officer returns only the salute of the commander of troops.
(The return of the salute by the reviewing officer represents the salute
for all subordinate commanders. This enables the reviewing officer to
observe the review without being interrupted by frequent salutes.) The
reviewing officer, the host or host commander, their staffs, and military
spectators salute the National Color when it passes.
(11) After terminating the salute, the commander of troops and his staff
(without command) execute three wheeling movements and take their post
with the commander of troops on line with and to the right of the reviewing
officer.
(12) Troop units execute eyes right on command from their company
commander or from the center company commander when in battalion
mass. Commanders give the preparatory command Eyes over their right
shoulder two steps from the marker as the right foot strikes the marching
surface. The command of execution RIGHT is given when the right foot
strikes the marching surface again and on line with the marker. On the
preparatory command, the guidon bearer executes raised guidon. On the
command of execution, the company commander, executive officer, and
platoon leaders execute eyes right and the hand salute. The guidon bearer
executes eyes right and present guidon. The right file continues to look
straight forward and maintains correct distance. All other members
execute eyes right and maintain alignment. When the rear of the unit
has passed six steps beyond the reviewing officer, company commanders
command Ready as the left foot strikes the marching surface and FRONT
the next time the left foot strikes the marching surface. Unit personnel
end their salutes and turn their heads and eyes to the front. The guidon
bearer executes raised guidon on the command Ready and returns to
the carry position on the command FRONT.
(13) When passing the reviewing officer, the bandmaster salutes and continues
to look straight forward, and simultaneously the drum major executes
eyes right and salutes. The other members of the band continue to play
marching music without interruption. When the band has passed the
reviewing officer, the drum major has the band execute three left turns
into a position in front of and facing the reviewing officer and at least
12 steps from the left flank of the marching troops. As the Colors pass,
the bandmaster and drum major salute while the band continues to play
marching music without interruption.
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(14) As the Color guard passes the reviewing officer, each member, except
the right flank man, executes eyes right on the command of the senior
Color sergeant. The organizational color is dipped in salute.
g. Conclusion.
(1) When the last troop element has passed the reviewing stand and has
executed ready front, the band goes into an eight-bar drum cadence. On
the first beat following the drum cadence, the band begins playing (in
place) the official version of The Army Goes Rolling Along, beginning
at the introduction. At the appropriate time, the drum major has the band
march forward and execute a left turn onto the reviewing line while
continuing to play until the completion of the chorus.
NOTE: The band may play music representative of the command after the last troop element has passed
the reviewing stand and before playing The Army Goes Rolling Along.
(2) At the completion of the Army song, the commander of troops and the
reviewing officer face each other and exchange salutes, thus officially
terminating the ceremony.
(3) It is appropriate for spectators to rise and stand at attention while The
Army Goes Rolling Along is being played.
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d. The persons to be decorated and retirees are formed at the ready line at correct
distance behind the last rank of the color unit. (An alternate position for these
personnel may be six steps to the left and on line with the reviewing officer.
They then join the detachment after the Colors are brought forward.) They
line up from left to right according to the rank of the decoration to be received.
Those persons receiving decorations of the same rank take positions according
to their military grade. On the command CENTER, persons to be decorated
execute right face. On the command MARCH, they march forward to clear
the right rear of the unit to their front. They then execute column left, march
six steps in front of the line of company commanders, execute column left,
halt in a position centered on the Colors, and execute right face. The commands
HALT and Right, FACE are given by the last man in the file.
e. When unit colors or guidons are to be decorated, each is accompanied by its
commander and positioned in a single rank five steps in front of the persons
to be decorated according to the rank of decorations to be bestowed (the highest
ranking decoration on the right). The senior staff officer (battalion) or platoon
leader (company) assumes command in the absence of the commander.
f. On the command MARCH, the Colors march forward seven steps and halt
one step in front of the line of company commanders.
g. The staff of the commander of troops, on the command CENTER, executes
right face. On the command MARCH, the staff marches forward far enough
to provide clearance for the Colors and persons to be honored. The staff then
halts and executes left face on command of the rear staff officer.
h. The commander of troops marches forward and takes his post five steps in
front of and centered on the leading element. He faces about and commands
Forward, MARCH. The commander of troops, persons to be honored, and
Colors march forward. The commander of troops commands Detachment,
HALT when he is about six steps from the reviewing officer. He then salutes
and reports Sir, The persons and colors to be honored are present.
The host/host commander returns the salute and directs PRESENT THE
COMMAND.
i. The commander of troops faces to the right in marching, passes around the
right flank of the persons being honored, and proceeds directly to his post,
two steps in front of and centered on his staff. He then directs BRING YOUR
UNITS TO PRESENT ARMS. Unit commanders face about and command
Present, ARMS. They then face about and execute the hand salute. The
commander of troops then faces about and commands Detachment present,
ARMS; he and his staff come to present arms with the detachment.
j. Honors to the nation are rendered at that time. At the last note of the National
Anthem, the commander of troops commands (for himself, his staff, and the
detachment) Detachment order, ARMS. He then faces about and directs
BRING YOUR UNITS TO ORDER ARMS AND PARADE REST. Unit
commanders terminate their salutes, face about, and command Order, ARMS
and Parade, REST. They then face to the front and assume parade rest.
The commander of troops faces about and commands Parade, REST; the
commander of troops and his staff execute parade rest.
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k. The reviewing officer advances by the most direct route to the right front
of the line of persons to be honored. A command sergeant major or designated
soldier carrying the awards or certificates positions himself one step to the
rear and one 15-inch step to the left of the reviewing officer. After the citation
is read, the award bearer immediately steps forward and passes the award
to the reviewing officer. After the award has been presented, the award bearer
returns to his original position to the rear of the reviewing officer. The award
bearer moves with the reviewing officer as he moves down the line of awardees.
As soon as the reviewing party has halted in front of the first awardee, a
narrator reads the citation. The narrator pauses between citations to permit
the reviewing officer time to pin the medal on the person being decorated
and move to the next man, or to fasten the streamer on the staff of the guidon
or organizational color. As the reviewing officer approaches the guidon to
be decorated, the bearer executes present guidon so that the reviewing officer
may fasten the streamer. The Color bearer lowers the organizational color
to be decorated far enough for the reviewing officer to fasten the streamer.
The Color bearer gathers the organizational color around the staff so it will
not touch the marching surface. He resumes the carry position after the
streamer has been attached.
l. When the last award has been presented, the reviewing officer and his party
return to their posts.
NOTE: Remarks are made at this time. In some instances, for special ceremonies, the detachment (Colors,
awardees) is posted prior to remarks. In this situation, the units are brought to attention before
the Colors are moved and returned to parade rest when the Colors are in their original position.
m. Upon completion of the remarks, the commander of troops brings his staff
to attention, faces about, and direct BRING YOUR UNITS TO ATTEN-
TION. Unit commanders face about and command Company (Battalion),
ATTENTION, and then face about. The commander of troops faces about
and commands Detachment, POST (pause), MARCH. On the command
POST, the following occurs simultaneously:
(1) Colors reverse march and halt.
(2) Awardees and/or retirees execute a right face; guidon bearers and/or
commanders execute an about face.
n. On the command MARCH, Colors and awardees step off and the band begins
to play.
(1) Persons who were decorated march forward, execute two column lefts and
halt on line (six steps to the left of the reviewing officer), and execute a
left face. The commands HALT and Left, FACE are given by the last
man in the file.
(2) Colors step off and return to their original posts.
o. As the Colors pass his position, the commander of troops faces himself and
his staff to the left and marches his staff back to the center of the field and
faces them to the right. The commander of troops faces to the left; when the
Colors are in position he then faces the reviewing officer.
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The command sergeant major removes the organizational color from the
Color bearers sling (with his right hand above his left hand), and faces
about. The narrator reads the assumption-of-command order. Upon
completion of the reading, the command sergeant major steps forward and
presents the organizational color to the outgoing commander (l), who grasps
the organizational color with the left hand above his right hand. The
outgoing commander passes the organizational color to the senior
commander (2), who grasps the color with his right hand above his left
hand and, in turn, passes the organizational color to the new commander
(3), who grasps the organizational color with his left hand above his right
hand. The incoming commander passes the organizational color to the
command sergeant major (4) who grasps it with his right hand above his
left hand, faces about and returns the organizational color to the Color
bearers sling (Figure 9-11). As the command sergeant major faces about,
both commanders then execute facing movements back to their original
direction facing the Colors. The command sergeant major and the reviewing
party face about and return to their post. Procedures from this point forward
are the same as previously described, paragraph 9-4 m-o.
NOTE: 1. This procedure allows the organizational color to be over the heart of the incoming and outgoing
commanders.
2. For a company level change of command, the reviewing party is lined up the same as in larger
units. The guidon takes the place of the organizational color and the first sergeant replaces
the command sergeant major. The guidon is passed in the same manner as the organizational
color. The sequence of events remains the same with modifications made to fit available assets.
(2) Activation ceremonies. The position of the senior commander is four
steps in front of the Color bearer (with an empty sling for the organizational
color of the unit to be activated) with the unit commander to his left. The
command sergeant major moves from his post with the cased organizational
color and positions himself in front of and facing the senior commander.
The narrator reads the activation order. Upon completion of the reading,
the command sergeant major presents the cased organizational color to
the senior commander and steps backward. The senior commander lowers
the cased organizational color to allow the command sergeant major to
unease the organizational color. The command sergeant major folds the
case and places it inside the Color bearers cartridge belt (rear center). With
the organizational color uncased, the senior commander rotates the staff
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to allow the organizational color to unfurl and drape freely. The senior
commander presents the organizational color to the commander of the unit
to be activated. The command sergeant major steps forward and accepts
the organizational color from the unit commander and places it in the Color
bearers sling. When the command sergeant major faces about, the reviewing
party faces about and returns to the reviewing stand. The command sergeant
major returns to his original post. Procedures from this point forward are
the same as previously described in paragraph 9-4, m-o.
(3) Inactivation ceremonies. The position of the commander is four steps
in front of the organizational color. The command sergeant major moves
from his post and positions himself in front of the organizational color.
He moves the organizational color from the bearers sling andfaces about.
The narrator reads the inactivation order. Upon completion of the reading,
the command sergeant major presents the organizational color to the
commander and steps backward. The organizational color is grasped by
the commanders and the command sergeant major as described for change-
of-command ceremonies. The commander rotates and lowers the organ-
izational color, allowing the command sergeant major to case the
organizational color. Upon completion of the casing, the commander
presents the cased organizational color to the senior commander and the
command sergeant major steps forward and accepts the organizational
color from the senior commander. The reviewing party faces about and
returns to the reviewing stand. The command sergeant major hands the
cased organizational color to a designated soldier who marches from the
field and the command sergeant major returns to his post. The Color bearer
of the inactivated unit marches with the Color guard for the remainder
of the ceremony with an empty sling. The procedures from this point forward
are the same as previously described in paragraph 9-4, m-o.
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c. When the ceremony is held on an Army post, the cannon is fired on the last
note of Retreat, and the flag is lowered while To the Color is played. (See
Appendix E regarding appropriate procedures.)
d. The reviewing officer and his staff stand at attention during the sounding
of the retreat. On the first note of To the Color, they salute and hold the
salute until the last note is played.
e. On the last note of the music, the commander of troops commands Order,
ARMS for himself and his staff, faces about, and directs BRING YOUR
UNITS TO ORDER ARMS AND PARADE REST. When the units have
completed these movements, the commander of troops then faces the reviewing
officer.
f. The review then proceeds with the inspection as in a normal review.
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(9) Platoon leaders command Column left, MARCH at the first turn marker
and Left flank, MARCH when centered on the reviewing line.
d. Indoor ceremonies retain the same sequence as a normal review, excluding
elements that are precluded because of space. Normally, a pass in review is
not possible indoors.
Section II
PARADES
9-8. General
a. The term parade had various meanings to Continental Army troops camped
at Valley Forge. It could mean to form, march, and drill. Present day parade
procedures originated from the daily activities conducted then to form, organize,
instruct, and issue parole and countersign words to the various guards on
duty (outpost, picket, camp, and quarters). Early parades also enabled
commanders to give special instructions to subordinate leaders and to make
command announcements. In the US Army Regulations of 1863, reviews were
a type of parade, and dress parades were conducted daily, except on
extraordinary and urgent occasions. The parade remains basically the same
as the review except that it has retained its original intent a method whereby
unit commanders could inspect troops, present awards, and issue information.
The sequence of a parade has the following steps formation of troops, sound
off by a band, honors to the nation, presentation, manual of arms, report,
orders published, officers center, pass in review.
b. Battalion and brigade parades are opened by adjutants call sounded on a
trumpet. This call has opened parades of the American forces for over 150
years. After some preliminaries, the adjutant directs SOUND OFF and the
band plays three chords. Having sounded off, the band marches in front of
the troops and then countermarches to its original position. This march across
the front of the line is said to have originated with the Crusades (A.D. 1095
to 1260). The troops offering themselves for holy service were drawn up in
a long formation and the band countermarched only before those chosen to
serve. In American ceremonies, the sound off has been handed down as a
ceremonial tradition.
c. After the band sounds off, the commanding officer may, if he wishes, give
the troops some facings or movements of the manual of arms. This was the
traditional way in which he established control over his command, and it has
been practiced in the United States since the revolutionary war.
d. Parades in the revolutionary army were usually held at Troops or about
8 oclock in the morning and was the time used for sergeants to call the roll
and report it to the adjutant.
e. After the sergeants had returned to their posts, the commander directed that
necessary orders and information be reported. After the adjutant had read
the orders, he announced Parade is dismissed. At that time, officers moved
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9-9. Preparation
The appearance and movement of troops in formation are the primary
characteristics of a parade. The preparation and organization of troops for a parade
are similar to that for a review. In a parade, since the commander of troops is
also the reviewing officer, the distance between the troops and the commander is
greater than that for a review. Other differences are that the band conducts sound
off, the inspection is omitted, a report is rendered, orders are published, and officers
and guidons are marched forward and centered on the commander. If retreat is
scheduled, honors to the nation are conducted concurrently with retreat.
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g. Publishing of Orders.
(1) The battalion commander returns the salute and directs PUBLISH THE
ORDERS.
(2) The adjutant faces about and directs ATTENTION TO ORDERS (he
then reads the orders).
h. Officers Center March.
(1) After reading the orders, the adjutant directs BRING YOUR UNITS TO
PARADE REST.
(2) Unit commanders face about and command Parade, REST. They then
face about and come to parade rest.
(3) When all units are at parade rest, the adjutant commands (loud enough
for the band to hear) Officers (pause), Center (long pause), MARCH.
He then faces about and takes his post with the staff.
(a) On the command Officers, all officers come to attention and guidon
bearers come to carry guidon.
(b) On the command Center, when companies are in mass formation, the
company commanders and guidon bearers face to the center. Officers
commanding platoons move one step forward and face to the center.
Executive officers move through the interval between units nearest to
the center and take their posts in the column formed by the platoon
leaders.
(c) At the command MARCH, the band plays marching music and continues
to play until the officers have halted in front of the commander. Officers
and guidon bearers close to the center, halt, and individually face to
the front. Company commanders, when moving to the center, face half
right or half left in marching, march to the front, and close on a line
four steps in advance of the line of guidon bearers. The guidon bearers
close on their own line, each taking a post to the rear of his company
commander. All other officers close on the line of platoon leaders (Figure
9-12).
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(4) After the officers and guidon bearers have closed and faced to the front,
the senior company commander commands Forward, MARCH. The center
officer of the leading rank is the guide. The officers and guidon bearers
are halted with the leading rank six steps from the battalion commander,
and they salute. The commands HALT and Present ARMS are given
by the senior company commander. The battalion commander returns the
salute. On the command Order, ARMS by the senior company commander,
the officers execute order arms and the guidon bearers execute carry guidon.
(5) The battalion commander gives such instruction as he deems necessary
and then commands Officers, Post (pause), MARCH.
(a) At the command Post, all officers and guidon bearers face about.
(b) At the command of execution MARCH the band begins to play and
officers and guidon bearers step off.
(6) The senior commander commands Officers, HALT. He halts the leading
rank in line, three steps from the line of companies. He then commands
Post (pause), MARCH.
(a) At the command Post, the officers and guidon bearers face outward.
(b) At the command MARCH, the officers and guidon bearers step off and
return to their posts and come to parade rest. The music ceases when
the last officer has taken his post and come to parade rest.
(7) During the execution of officers center and officers post, except when
saluting, all guidon bearers remain at carry guidon.
i. Pass in Review.
(1) When all officers have returned to their posts and the band has stopped
playing, the battalion commander directs BRING YOUR UNITS TO
ATTENTION.
(2) Unit commanders assume the position of attention, face about, and
command Company, ATTENTION. Then they face about.
(3) When all units are at attention, the battalion commander directs PASS
IN REVIEW.
(4) The battalion passes in review in the same manner as prescribed for a
review except the units render honors when six steps to the left of the
commander of troops and staff, and terminate honors when the unit is
six steps to the right of the commander of troops and staff. The commander
of troops and staff then assume the role of the reviewing party at their
location on the field.
j. Conclusion.
(1) When the last element of troops has passed the reviewing stand and executed
ready front, the band ceases playing and goes immediately into an eight-
bar drum cadence. On the first beat following drum cadence, the band
begins playing (in place) the official version of The Army Goes Rolling
Along, beginning at the introduction. On the second time through letter
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A (or ninth bar), the drum major has the band march forward and execute
a left turn onto the reviewing line while continuing to play until the
completion of the chorus.
(2) The completion of The Army Goes Rolling Along terminates the ceremony.
(3) It is appropriate for spectators to rise and stand at the position of attention
while The Army Goes Rolling Along is being played.
9-11. Ceremonial Brigade Parade
a. The brigade ordinarily is formed in line with battalions in mass formations.
The parade is the same as the ceremonial battalion parade with the following
exceptions:
(1) The brigade commander is substituted for battalion commander, and
brigade for battalion, in the description.
(2) In moving across the front of the brigade, the band passes in front of
the line of battalion commanders during the sound off.
b. The battalions execute present arms, order arms, parade rest, and come to
attention on the command of execution of their respective commanders. Reports
are made by the battalion commanders instead of company commanders.
c. At the command of execution MARCH, of Officers, Center, MARCH, the
battalion commanders, their staffs, and Colors close on the line of battalion
commanders and staffs. The company commanders face to the half right or
half left in marching and close on a line four steps to the rear of the battalion
color. The guidon bearers face half right or half left in marching and close
on a line four steps back of the company commanders. The other officers face
half right or half left in marching and close on a line four steps in back of
the guidon bearers. The command sergeant major remains in place and assumes
command of the battalion.
d. The officers, guidon bearers, and Colors having closed and faced to the front,
the senior battalion commander commands Forward, MARCH. The center
officer of the leading rank is the guide. On the command of the senior battalion
commander, the officers, guidon bearers, and Colors are halted with the leading
ranks six steps from the brigade commander. They salute the brigade
commander; he returns the salute. The commands Present, ARMS and Order,
ARMS are given by the senior battalion commander.
e. The brigade commander commands Officers, Post (pause), MARCH. On the
command Post, the Colors execute reverse march. All others execute about
face. On the command of execution MARCH, the officers, Colors, and guidon
bearers march forward. The senior battalion commander commandsOfficers,
HALT so that the rank of battalion commanders is on line with its original
position. The senior battalion commander then commands Post (pause),
MARCH. On the command Post, the battalion commanders and staffs face
outward, the battalion Color guard executes wheeling movements, and on the
command of execution MARCH the color guard marches back to its original
position. The company commanders, guidon bearers, and other officers face
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to the half right or half left in marching and move back to their original
positions.
Section III
HONOR GUARDS
9-13. General
a. In the Continental Army, honor guards were used as a protective measure
and as a means of showing the improvement in discipline in the newly formed
army. They were probably selected specifically for their size and strength and
maybe their proven prowess in combat. Today, the honor guard formation
is a special courtesy to visiting dignitaries.
b. Members of the guard are selected for their soldierly appearance and superior
discipline. An honor guard consists of a band, Colors, salute battery (when
available and appropriate), and a formation of troops. Honor guards render
personal honors to persons of high military or civilian rank or position upon
arrival or departure from a military command. Honor guards are not a substitute
for those ceremonies appropriate in a review or parade.
c. An honor guard should not be so large as to compromise the exceptional
standards required of honor guards. Uniforms will be those prescribed in Army
regulations and tables of allowance.
d. The senior commander or his appointed representative is the host and takes
part in the ceremony. He is briefed on the sequence of events and advises
the person to be honored of actions that will take place.
e. Prior to the arrival of the person(s) to be honored, the honor guard commander
positions the band, formation of troops, and salute battery from right to left
in that order. The troops are formed in line of companies or platoons with
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the Colors centered. When conditions dictate, the salute battery may be located
separately but its control and purpose must not be impaired.
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honoree(s). When the host is in position, the honor guard commander and
the honoree(s) exchange salutes. Upon termination of the salutes, the honoree(s)
and the host immediately face to the half left in marching and return to their
posts. The honor guard commander hesitates momentarily, then faces to the
right in marching, and returns to his post.
i. After the inspection is terminated and the honoree(s) and host return to their
positions, the honor guard is given Present, ARMS and the band plays the
National Anthem. If the honoree(s) is a foreign dignitary, the national anthem
of his country is played first, followed by an approximate three-second drum
roll and the playing of The Star-Spangled Banner.
j. When The Star-Spangled Banner ends, the command Order, ARMS is given.
The honor guard commander faces about after the command for order arms
is given and remains at attention while the band plays one chorus of The
Army Goes Rolling Along, beginning at the introduction. At the completion
of The Army Goes Rolling Along, the honor guards commander salutes and
announces Sir, This concludes the ceremony. The honor guard remains
at attention until the honoree(s) has departed. The band may play incidental
background music while the honoree(s) is being introduced to the staff and
other guests.
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Section IV
COMMAND RETREAT
9-16. General
In the 18th century, command retreat was a daily occurrence, not to honor the
flag but as a signal for units to call the roll as a final accounting before reveille
the following morning.
9-17. Meaning
Command retreat is a ceremony conducted with all members of the command
present. Normally, it is conducted by a battalion or larger unit.
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The commanders salute is the signal for the band to begin playing To the
Color or the National Anthem as the flag is lowered.
m. After the last note of music, the commander of troops commands himself and
his staff to Order, ARMS, faces about, commands Order, ARMS and directs
TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR UNITS. The unit commanders render the hand
salute. The commander of troops returns all salutes with one salute.
n. The commander of troops marches his staff away or dismisses them at this
time.
Section V
COMMAND REVEILLE
9-19. General
Command reveille was conducted as Troop in 1812 and designed to muster the
unit or for roll call.
9-20. Meaning
Today, command reveille is conducted with all members of the command present.
Normally, command reveille is conducted by a battalion or larger unit.
Section VI
RETREAT
9-22. General
a. The term Retreat is taken from the French word Retraite and refers to
the evening ceremony. The bugle call sounded at retreat was first used in the
French army and dates back to the Crusades. Retreat was sounded at sunset
to notify sentries to start challenging until sunrise, and to tell the rank and
file to go to their quarters. The ceremony remains as a tradition.
b. The old cavalry call To the Standard, in use from about 1835, has been
replaced by the present call of To the Color. This remains as music honoring
the flag as it is lowered in the evening.
9-23. Meaning
Retreat is a ceremony in which the unit honors the US flag when it is lowered
in the evening. This ceremony is conducted at the direction of the unit commanders.
The installation commander sets the time for sounding retreat.
b. Four minutes before the sounding of retreat, the adjutant or other appointed
officer takes his position centered on and facing the line of troops and commands
Battalion, ATTENTION and then Parade, REST.
c. The adjutant faces about and executes parade rest. On the last note of Retreat,
the evening gun is fired. The adjutant then comes to attention, faces about,
and commands Battalion, ATTENTION and Present, ARMS so that the
unit is at present arms when the first note of To the Color or the National
Anthem is sounded. The adjutant then faces about and executes present arms.
The adjutants salute is the signal for the band to begin playing To the Color.
d. At the last note of To the Color or the National Anthem, the adjutant faces
about, commands Order, ARMS, and then directs TAKE CHARGE OF
YOUR UNITS.
e. Unit commanders render the hand salute. The adjutant returns all salutes
with one salute. This terminates the retreat formation.
NOTE: When subordinate units stand retreat, not as a part of a major command, the sequence is the
same except the unit commander gives the commands.
Section VII
REVEILLE
9-25. General
Reveille was not originally intended as honors to the flag. In 1812, it was a drum
call to signify that soldiers should rise for day duty and sentries should leave off
night challenging. As time passed, reveille came to denote when the flag was raised
in the morning and honors paid to it.
9-26. Meaning
Reveille is a ceremony in which a unit honors the US flag as it is raised in the
morning. This ceremony is conducted at the direction of the commander. The
installation commander sets the time for sounding reveille.
d. The adjutant commands Parade, REST and then assumes parade rest himself.
If a band is present, about 30 seconds before reveille, the adjutant commands
ATTENTION, directs SOUND REVEILLE, commands Present, ARMS,
and then faces about. The adjutants salute is the signal for the band to sound
reveille and to fire the morning gun. When reveille is sounded by a recording,
the call ATTENTION is sounded about 30 seconds before reveille. This ensures
that the adjutant has sufficient time to command the units to Present, ARMS
before the first note of Reveille.
e. After the last note of Reveille has sounded, the adjutant terminates his salute,
faces about, commands Order, ARMS, and then directs TAKE CHARGE
OF YOUR UNITS. The adjutant returns all salutes with one salute. This
terminates the ceremony.
NOTE: When a unit conducts the reveille ceremony not as a member of a major command, battalion,
or company, the sequence of events remains the same except the unit commander gives all
commands.
Section VIII
FUNERALS
9-28. General
a. Funeral services of great magnificence evolved as custom (from what is known
about early Christian mourning) in the 6th century. To this day, no religious
ceremonies are conducted with more pomp than those intended to commemorate
the departed.
b. The funerals of soldiers, more than any other ceremony, have followed an
old pattern as the living honor the brave dead.
c. The first general mourning proclaimed in America was on the death of Benjamin
Franklin in 1791 and the next on the death of George Washington in 1799.
The deep and widespread grief occasioned by the death of the first President
assembled a great number of people for the purpose of paying him a last tribute
of respect, and on Wednesday, 18 December 1799, attended by military honors
and the simplest but grandest ceremonies of religion, his body was deposited
in the family vault at Mount Vernon, Virginia.
d. Several military traditions employed today have been brought forward from
the past
(1) Reversed arms, displayed by one opponent on the battlefield, signaled that
a truce was requested so that the dead and wounded could be carried off
and the dead buried.
(2) Todays customary three volleys fired over a grave probably originated
as far back as the Roman Empire. The Roman funeral rites of casting
dirt three times on the coffin constituted the burial. It was customary
among the Remans to call the dead three times by name, which ended
the funeral ceremony, after which the friends and relatives of the deceased
pronounced the word vale (farewell) three times as they departed from
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the tomb. In more recent history, three musket volleys were fired to announce
that the burying of the dead was completed and the burial party was ready
for battle again.
(3) The custom of using a caisson to carry a coffin most likely had its origins
in the 1800s when horse-drawn caissons that pulled artillery pieces also
doubled as a conveyance to clear fallen soldiers from the battlefield.
(4) In the mid to late 1800s a funeral procession of a mounted officer or enlisted
man was accompanied by a riderless horse in mourning caparison followed
by a hearse. It was also a custom to have the boots of the deceased thrown
over the saddle with heels to the front signifying that his march was ended.
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for entering the chapel. The band ceases playing and the escort is brought
to the order when the casket has been secured into the hearse.
i. The procession is then formed in the following order (Figure 9-14):
(1) Escort commander.
(2) Band.
(3) Escort, including colors, firing party, and bugler.
(4) Honorary pallbearers, if riding in cars.
(5) Clergy.
(6) Caisson or hearse, and honorary pallbearers, if walking.
(7) Active pallbearers.
(8) Personal color (if appropriate).
(9) Family.
(10) Members of the former command of the deceased.
(11) Friends and patriotic or fraternal organization.
NOTE: The firing party and bugler will be pre-positioned at gravesite if they are not a part of the escort
(AR 600-25).
j. When the procession has been formed, the escort commander commands
Forward, MARCH, to the band and escort. The elements in the rear conform.
The procession marches slowly to solemn music (cadence of 100 beats per
minute). When there is considerable distance from the chapel to the grave,
the escort, after leaving the vicinity of the chapel, may march in quick time.
The band plays appropriate music throughout the march. Care is exercised
to avoid disturbing other funeral processions or services that may be passed
on the route of march. When the escort is in the vicinity of the grave, it resumes
a slow cadence to solemn music. Customary music is used.
k. As the procession approaches the grave, the marching elements move directly
to their predesignated positions. The band and military escort are formed in
line in view of the next of kin. The other marching elements are halted as
near as practicable to the grave. The firing party is positioned so that it fires
over the grave, and so that it is in view of the next of kin.
l. Before the hearse is halted, the honorary pallbearers are formed in two ranks,
senior closest to the hearse, forming an aisle extending from the hearse toward
the grave. When the grave is too near the road to permit this formation, they
take their position at the grave before the casket is removed from the hearse.
m. When all is in readiness to move the casket from the hearse, the escort
commander commands Present, ARMS. At the command of execution ARMS,
the escort executes present arms and the band renders honors, if appropriate,
followed by a hymn. At the first note of the hymn, the active pallbearers
remove the casket from the hearse.
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n. The chaplain and the cemetery representative or funeral director precede the
active pallbearers bearing the casket between the ranks of honorary
pallbearers. As soon as the casket has passed, the honorary pallbearers face
toward the grave and follow the casket in column of twos, followed by personal
colors (when appropriate), the famiiy, and friends. The active pallbearers, on
reaching the grave, place the casket on the lowering device and remain in
place facing the casket. Honorary pallbearers move to a predetermined position
near the grave. Active pallbearers raise the flag from the casket and hold
it in a horizontal position, waist high, until the conclusion of Taps.
o. When the casket has been placed over the grave, the band ceases playing,
and the escort commander commands Order, ARMS and Parade, REST.
p. When the escort has been brought to parade rest, the chaplain conducts the
graveside service. At the conclusion of the benediction, he moves two steps
to the side or rear.
NOTE: If the deceased is entitled to a gun salute, the chaplain, before the benediction, moves two steps
to the side or rear, the escort commander commands Escort, ATTENTION and Present, ARMS;
the salute battery fires appropriate honors at five-second intervals; at the conclusion the escort
commander commands Order, ARMS. The chaplain returns to his position and pronounces the
benediction, concluding the service.
q. When the service has been completed, the commander commands Escort,
Present, ARMS; Firing party, FIRE THREE VOLLEYS. The firing party
fires three volleys of blank cartridges, assumes the position of present arms
at the command of the noncommissioned officer in charge, and remains in
this position until the conclusion of Taps. The bugler, positioned near the
firing party and in view of the next of kin, sounds Taps immediately after
the firing party has been brought to present arms. At the first note of taps,
and until its last note has sounded, military personnel attending in the
individual capacity and honorary pallbearers uncover or salute.
r. At the conclusion of Taps, the rifles of the firing party are locked, and the
escort commander commands Order, ARMS and Parade, REST. The active
pallbearers holding the flag above the casket fold the flag into the shape of
a cocked hat (Figure 9-16). The band plays appropriate music as the flag is
folded. The flag, when folded, is passed to a pallbearer who faces left at the
head of the grave and places the flag at chest level into the hands of the
officer in charge or noncommissioned officer in charge. The pallbearer salutes
the flag for three seconds and then faces right to assume his original position.
The active pallbearers face left or right together and march away from the
grave in column of twos. The officer in charge or noncommissioned officer
in charge presents the flag to the next of kin or passes it to the military chaplain
for presentation. The presenter uses an expression similar to that which has
become standard at Army Funerals: This flag is presented on behalf of a
grateful nation, as a token of our appreciation for the honorable and faithful
service rendered by your loved one. The band and escort remain in position
until the family begins to move away from the grave. The escort commander
commands the band and escort to march from the area, at, quick time, with
a single drum tap; the other elements conform. At the first halt, the rifes
of the firing party are unloaded and inspected.
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NOTE: If a military chaplain is not present the officer in charge or noncommissioned officer in charge
will present the flag to the next of kin.
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the funeral ceremony is held at the crematory, and when no further honors
are anticipated, the volleys are fired and Taps is sounded at the discretion
of the commanding officer.
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(b) The pallbearers carry the casket, feet first and level, to the grave. On
reaching the grave, the casket is placed on the lowering device. The
pallbearers raise the flag from the casket and hold it in a horizontal
position, waist high, until the conclusion of Taps.
(c) The remainder of the ceremony is conducted as prescribed in paragraphs
9-29 and paragraph 9-30 p-r.
(d) Firing is conducted as outlined in paragraph 9-41.
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the position of attention (at port arms), and face to half left. From this
position, the firing party is commanded to Present arms before the
playing of Taps. After Taps,they are commanded to order arms. The
noncommissioned officer in charge executes a right (left) face and remains
at attention until the flag has been folded and saluted by the officer
in charge or noncommissioned officer in charge of the funeral detail.
At this time, the firing party noncommissioned officer in charge executes
a right (left) face and commands Right (Left), FACE; Port, ARMS;
and Forward, MARCH. The weapons are unloaded and cleared as soon
as possible after leaving the gravesite.
NOTE: The noncommissioned officer in charge may position himself on the opposite flank or to the rear
of the firing party.
Section IX
COLORS
9-42. General
a. Flags are almost as old as civilization itself. Imperial Egypt as well as the
armies of Babylon, Chaldea, and Assyria followed the colors of their kings.
The Old Testament frequently mentions banners and standards. Until
comparatively recent years, the flags that identified nations usually were based
on the personal or family heraldry of the reigning monarch or ruling nobleman.
As autocracies faded or disappeared, dynastic colors were no longer popular
and national flags, as thought of today, came into being. These national flags,
such as the Union Jack of Great Britain, the Tricolor of France, and the Stars
and Stripes, are relatively new to history. Many flags of different designs were
present in parts of the American colonies before the Revolution. When the
struggle for independence united the colonies, there grew a desire for a single
flag to represent the new nation. The first flag borne by the Army as a
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representative of the 13 colonies was the Grand Union flag. It was raised over
the Continental Army at Cambridge, Massachusetts, on 2 January 1776. That
flag had the familiar 13 stripes (red and white) of the present flag, but the
blue square contained the Crosses of St. George and St. Andrew from the British
flag.
b. The Stars and Stripes was born on 14 June 1777, two years to the day after
the birth of the Army. On that date, Congress resolved that the flag of the
United States be 13 stripes, alternate red and white, and that the union be
13 stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation. The arrangement
of the stars on the blue field was not specified.
c. According to some historians, the Stars and Stripes was first raised over Fort
Stanwix, New York, on 3 August 1777. In that Army version of the flag, the
stars were arranged in a circle. (The Navy version had the stars arranged
to form crosses similar to the British flag.)
d. When Vermont and Kentucky joined the Union, the flag was modified so that
there were 15 stars and 15 stripes. It was that flag, flying triumphantly over
Fort McHenry, Maryland, on 13 and 14 September 1814, inspiring Francis
Scott Key to compose the verses of The Star-Spangled Banner. That flag
was the national banner from 1795 until 1818. Thus, when it was raised over
Tripoli by the Marines in 1805, it was the first United States flag to be hoisted
over conquered territory in the Old World. Later, it was flown by General Andrew
Jackson at the Battle of New Orleans.
e. Realizing that adding a stripe for each new state would soon spoil the
appearance of the flag, Congress passed a law in 1818 fixing the number of
stripes at 13 and providing for the addition of a star in the Blue Union for
each new state. The star is to be added and the new flag to become official
on the Fourth of July following the admission of the new state to the Union.
f. It was not until shortly before the Civil War that the Stars and Stripes actually
became the National Color.
g. From the earliest times, warriors used a banner or other symbol to identify
specific units and to serve as a rallying point for troops. In medieval days,
the standard or banner was used to signal a general assault, which was
generated by a cry of Advance your banners.
h. After the Battle of Waterloo, a British sergeant wrote About 4 oclock I was
ordered to the Colours; this, although I was used to warfare as much as anyone,
was a job I did not at all like. But still I went as boldly to work as I could.
There had been before me that day 14 sergeants already killed and wounded
and the staff and the Colours almost cut to pieces.
i. Before the Civil War, in lieu of a National Color, the US soldiers carried a
blue silk color on which was embroidered the arms of the United States, and
an American eagle bearing a shield on its breast, and in its talons an olive
branch and arrows, signifying peace and war. After the National Color was
authorized, the organizational color with the eagle became the regimental color.
Because of the high casualty rate among the members of the Color party,
plus the advent of modern weapons, the time-honored practice of carrying the
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Colors in battle was discontinued. Today, the Colors, with battle streamers
attached, join their unit in formations during ceremonies to signify their
presence during past battles.
during the pass in review. Also, consideration must be given to the frequency
of salutes required by the reviewing officer. Another method in which
subordinate Color-bearing units may carry their Colors is to have them
participate in a massed Colors formation. Because of many complications
caused by massed Colors, units should prescribe a local SOP governing the
desired procedures. Examples of complications include: organizational colors
lose their identity, order of precedence, resizing of Color guards and bearers,
uniformity when the first rank consists of five men rather than four, and
presenting a good appearance when returning to the formation after being
brought forward while keeping the National Color on the marching right.
i. When Colors are participating in a ceremony they will be received (posted)
and dismissed (retired) as described in paragraphs 9-48 and 9-49.
9-44. Salutes
a. The National Color renders no salute (dip). An exception to this rule is followed
by naval vessels when, upon receiving a salute of this type from a vessel
registered by a nation formally recognized by the United States, the compliment
must be returned.
b. The organizational color salutes (dips) in all military ceremonies while the
National Anthem, To the Color, or a foreign national anthem is being played,
and when rendering honors to the organizational commander, an individual
of higher grade including foreign dignitaries of higher grade, but in no other
case. The United States Army flag is considered to be an organizational color
and as such is also dipped while the National Anthem, To the Color, or
a foreign national anthem is being played, and when rendering honors to the
Chief of Staff of the United States Army, his direct representative, or an
individual of equivalent or higher grade, but in no other case.
c. When marching, organizational colors salute when six steps from the person
entitled to the salute. They are returned to the carry position when six steps
beyond the person.
wheeling to the right or left. The command for a facing movement is, Right
(Left) wheel, MARCH. To execute a wheeling movement, the guard nearest
the direction of turn serves as the pivot point and executes the movement
by marching in place and simultaneously turning in the new direction. Other
members shorten their steps and turn in an arc keeping abreast of each other
to maintain alignment. When the movement has been completed, each member
automatically marches in place until the command HALT or Forward,
MARCH is given.
d. When passing in review, the Color guard executes eyes right at the prescribed
saluting distance on the command of the Color sergeant. The commands are
Eyes, RIGHT and Ready, FRONT. The organizational color salutes at the
command RIGHT, and resumes the carry at the command FRONT. The guard
on the right flank of the Color guard does not execute eyes right.
e. During ceremonies, the Color guards remain at right shoulder arms except
(as specified in subparagraph 9-45 g) when presenting arms.
f. When not participating in a ceremony and a situation occurs that warrants
a salute by the organizational color, the Color sergeant commands Color,
SALUTE. The return to the carry is made at the command Carry, COLOR.
g. When in formation with the Color company, and not during a ceremony, the
Color bearers execute at ease and rest, keeping the staffs of the Colors vertical.
The Color guard executes right shoulder, order arms, and present arms with
the Color company. During ceremonies when the Colors are not forward and
remarks are to be made, the Color guards and Color bearers execute order
arms and parade rest on command of the Color company commander. During
any ceremony when the units are at ease, the Color guard and Color bearers
are at parade rest.
h. The uniform for Color guards should be the same as prescribed for participating
troops.
(or his direct representative) positions himself six steps in front of and centered
on the formation. He then commands Sling, ARMS. The Color guards
immediately adjust their slings and assume sling arms. The command sergeant
major commands POST. The Color guards face to the half left (right) in
marching, take four steps, halt, and execute about face. The command sergeant
major then directs UNCASE THE COLORS. The Color bearers lower the
Colors (same as present guidon). The two guards move forward and untie and
unease the Colors. The Color bearers unfurl and immediately return the Colors
to the carry (order) position. While the Colors are being unfurled, the guards
fold the cases and secure them in their left hand. When the Colors are in
the carry position, the command sergeant major commands Present, ARMS.
The command sergeant major, Color guards, and the organizational color
salute. He commands Order, ARMS, and then commands POST. On the
command of execution POST, the Color guards place the folded canvas cases
inside the cartridge belts (center rear) of the Color bearers. The Color guards
assume their original positions, adjust their slings, and return to right shoulder
arms. If the command sergeant major or his representative is not present,
the senior Color sergeant gives the necessary commands.
b. To case the Colors, the procedures are basically the same except present arms
is given before the Colors are lowered.
c. When casing or uncasing the Colors with the command present, the commander
directs UNCASE (CASE) THE COLORS. The command sergeant major and
Color guards execute the movement (previously stated) except that they execute
present arms and order arms with the Color company. When the Colors are
uncased and returned to the carry position, the commander directs BRING
YOUR UNITS TO PRESENT ARMS. After the units have executed this
directive, he then directs BRING YOUR UNITS TO ORDER ARMS.
d. If the Colors are to be cased or uncased during the receiving or dismissing
by the Color company, the Color guards execute present arms and order arms
on command of the company commander.
e. The command sergeant major uncases the organizational color when it is
displayed by itself. He may also assist the Color guards when uncasing more
than two Colors.
e. The specialists or privates of the Color guard execute present arms and return
to right shoulder arms on the commands of the company commander (present
arms and order arms).
f. The senior sergeant then marches the Color guard to its position within the
company formation. If the company is in column formation, the Color guard
forms at the rear of the company. When the company is in line or mass,
the Color guard forms at the left of the company. The Color company may
join the battalion before the battalion forms at the ceremony site or join with
the battalion at the ceremony site. When the Color company joins the battalion,
the senior Color sergeant marches the Color guard to its appropriate post
in the battalion formation.
g. The Color guard is dismissed at the conclusion of the ceremony. This can
occur in the vicinity of the ceremony site, in the Color company area, or at
the battalion headquarters. At the designated area, the senior sergeant
marches and halts the Color guard 10 steps in front of and facing the
commander of the Color company. The actions for dismissing the Colors are
the same as receiving the Colors. After being dismissed, the Color guard
marches to the office, headquarters, or tent of the commanding officer.
h. The Colors are received and dismissed from organizations smaller than a
company, such as a funeral escort, in a similar manner.
i. Casing and uncasing the Colors may be scheduled in conjunction with
receiving and dismissing the Colors, as described in paragraphs 9-48.
colors are present. The host acknowledges the report and directs,
POST THE COLORS. The area should be arranged to allow adequate
space for the Color guard to move between the head table and the flag
stand.
2. The Color sergeant then commands Order, ARMS; Right, FACE; and
Forward, MARCH. On the command of execution MARCH, the Color
guard marches to the rear of the head table (Figure 9-19).
3. Once the Color guard is centered on the flag stand, they mark time
and the Color sergeant commands Colors, HALT and Right, FACE.
The Color guard should approach the flag stands from the right to
position the National Color bearer in front of the flag holder on the
right, facing the audience.
4. The Color bearers, without command, place the colors in the stand.
5. When the Colors are in the stand, the color sergeant commands Present,
ARMS and Order, ARMS. The guards return to right shoulder arms;
the Color sergeant commands Left, FACE and Forward, MARCH;
and the Color guard exits the area.
(b) When a head table is not used, the Color guard enters and moves to
a predesignated position centered on and facing the audience. This may
require the Color guard to move in a column and use facing movements.
The movement must be planned so that the National Color is always
on the right when in line and is leading when in column. The procedures
are as follows:
1. When the Colors arrive at the predesignated position, the Color sergeant
commands Colors, HALT; LEFT (right), FACE; and Present,
ARMS. If music or the Pledge of Allegiance is scheduled, it occurs at
this time. The Color sergeant then commands Order, ARMS.
2. The Color sergeant commands Right (Left), FACE and Forward,
MARCH. On the command of execution MARCH, the Color guard
marches to the flag stand where the actions of the Color guard are
the same as described in paragraph (a) 3, 4, and 5, above.
b. Retiring the Colors.
(1) The audience is directed to stand for the retiring of the Colors.
(2) When a head table is used, the Color sergeant moves the Color guard to
the head table.
(a) The Color sergeant commands Color guard, HALT; Present, ARMS,
and reports to the host, Sir, Request permission to retire the colors.
The host acknowledges the report and directs RETIRE THE COLORS.
(b) The Color sergeant commands Order, ARMS; Right, FACE; Forward,
MARCH; and moves the Color guard until they are centered on the flag
stand where they mark time.
(c) The Color sergeant commands Color guard, HALT; Right, FACE;
Present, ARMS; and Order, ARMS. Upon completion of Order arms
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the color bearers, without command, retrieve the colors and assume the
carry position.
(d) The Color sergeant commands Left, FACE and Forward, MARCH.
The Color guard exits the area.
(3) When the head table is not used, the Color guard moves directly to the
flag stands where the Colors are retrieved, and the Color guard exits as
described in paragraph (2) (c) and (d) above.
NOTE: The above procedures will vary when the command sergeant major is in charge of the Colors
during a formal dining-in.
e. Numbers 2, 3, and 4 mark time after completing their movements until all
men are abreast, then step off together or halt, as the situation dictates (Figure
9-21).
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four full steps forward, faces to the right in marching, takes three full steps
forward, and marks time.
f. Numbers 2, 3, 4, and 5 mark time after completing their movements.
g. When all men are abreast of each other, they step off together or halt, as
the situation dictates (Figure 9-22).
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NOTE: Left about may be used in lieu of colors reverse. The command for this movement is Left about,
MARCH. The Color sergeant is the pivot man for the movement. On the command of execution,
the Color sergeant marches in place and turns to the left. Other members shorten their step and
turn in an arc keeping abreast of each other and maintaining alignment. When the movement
has been completed, each man marches in place until the command HALT or Forward, MARCH
is given. This movement may be executed from the HALT or while marching.
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a. Number 1 takes five steps forward, faces to the left in marching, takes six
full steps forward, faces to the left in marching, takes five full steps in the
new direction, and marks time.
b. Number 2 faces left while marking time, takes three full steps forward, and
faces to the left in the new direction, while marking time.
c. Number 3 takes two full steps forward, faces to the left while marching, takes
two steps forward, faces to the left while marching, takes two full steps in
the new direction, and marks time.
d. Number 4 takes one full step forward, faces to the right while marching, takes
two half steps forward, faces to the right in marching, takes one full step
in the new direction, and marks time.
e. Number 5 takes three full steps forward, faces to the right in marching, takes
three full steps forward, faces to the right in marching, takes three full steps
in the new direction, and marks time.
f. Number 6 takes four full steps forward, faces to the right in marching, takes
six full steps forward, faces to the right in marching, takes four full steps
in the new direction, and marks time.
g. Numbers 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 mark time after completing their movement.
h. When all men are abreast of each other, they step off together or halt, as
the situation dictates (Figure 9-23).
9-54. Position of the Colors at the Order
At the order, the ferrule of the staff is rested on the marching surface and touching
the outside of the right footgear opposite the ball of the right foot. Hold the staff
in the right hand with the back of the hand facing outward and the fingers wrapped
around the staff. Rest the staff against the hollow of the shoulder (Figure 9-24).
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Section X
SALUTE BATTERY
9-58. General
Ceremonies did not originally use field artillery as a salute battery. In the 19th
century, branches of service were lined up from right to left: infantry, field artillery,
and cavalry, respectively. Field artillery lined up their guns but did not fire them.
When honors began to be fired in ceremonies, the guns were moved out of the
formation to avoid injury to other elements of the formation.
9-59. Preparation
a. The salute battery should arrive at the ceremonial site early enough to position
their pieces before the arrival of units on the ready line.
b. The pieces are positioned downwind from the ceremony site with the muzzles
pointing away from the reviewing stand. When possible, the opened trails are
two steps to the rear of the final line and the number six piece is positioned
twelve steps from the left flank unit. Other pieces are positioned about four
steps apart (measure from inside wheels) and on line with number six.
c. Once the pieces are in position, the battery is formed to the left of the number
one piece and in front of the line so that the number six and three sections
are on the final line (Figure 9-28).
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b. Presentation of Honors.
(1) When the commander of troops has directed order arms (adjutant has
taken his post), the battery commander faces about and commands Order,
ARMS. He then directs FIRE THE SALUTE and faces about.
(2) The battery commander quietly commands (himself and the guidon bearer)
Present, ARMS and Order, ARMS as appropriate.
(3) The executive officer, counter, and chief of firing battery face about. The
executive officer commands Cannoneers, POST.
(4) The cannoneers immediately move to their firing positions.
(5) The executive officer commands With blank ammunition (pause),
LOAD. He then commands STAND BY, NUMBER ONE.
(6) As each piece is ready to fire, the section chief raises his arm (nearest
the executive officer) and looks at the executive officer.
(7) When all section chiefs have indicated they are ready (arm raised), the
executive officer raises his right arm and looks at the commander of troops.
(8) The commander of troops takes the raised arm as the signal that the
battery is ready to fire. He then faces about and commands (himself and
his staff) Present, ARMS.
(9) As the commanders hand touches his headgear, the executive officer
signals the first piece to fire.
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(l0) The executive officer drops his arm to a horizontal position and then raises
it back to a vertical position for each round. Rounds are fired at three-
second intervals for normal honors and five-second intervals for funerals
(AR 600-25).
(11) During the salute, as the second to last round is fired, the counter faces
about and announces ELEVEN.
(12) As the next to last round is fired, the chief of the firing battery faces
about and announces TWELVE. This is the signal for the executive officer
to fire one more round.
(13) During the firing, each section immediately reloads after each round is
fired and is prepared to fire in case of a misfire.
(14) When the last round has been fired, the executive officer signals CEASE
FIRE and then signals UNLOAD.
(15) When all pieces are unloaded and the cannoneers are at attention, the
executive officer commands to the rear of the piece, FALL IN (cannoneers
automatically fall in at dress right); he then commands Ready, FRONT
and Parade, REST.
(16) When all sections are back in position on the final line, the executive
officer faces about.
c. Inspection.
(1) As the reviewing party approaches piece number six, the battery
commander faces about and commands Battery, ATTENTION. He then
faces to the front and (over his right shoulder) commands Eyes, RIGHT.
(2) The battery commander and executive officer execute eyes right and salute.
(3) The guidon bearer executes eyes right and present guidon.
(4) All others execute eyes right and follow the reviewing officer, turning
the head until facing to the front.
(5) When the reviewing party has passed the last piece, the battery commander
commands Order, ARMS for himself, the executive officer, and the guidon
bearer. He then faces about. When the reviewing party has cleared the
right rear of his unit, he then commands Parade, REST, faces about,
and assumes parade rest.
d. Honors to the Nation. The battery executes appropriate movements on
command or directives by the commander of troops.
e. Remarks. Reference honors to the nation.
f. March in Review. On the command or directive to PASS IN REVIEW,
the battery commander faces about and commands Parade, REST. He then
faces about and assumes parade rest.
g. Conclusion.
(1) When the band begins the eight-bar drum beat (before The Army Goes
Rolling Along) the battery commander faces about and commands
Battery ATTENTION. He then faces about.
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(2) When the band has finished playing the music, the battery commander
faces about and commands REST.
Section XI
CIVILIAN PARTICIPATION IN MILITARY CEREMONIES
9-61. General
Since its inception at the beginning of the American Revolution, the US Army
has always seen the importance of civilian control of the military and participation
of civilians in military activities. As a result, military ceremonies are frequently
held to honor civilians.
9-62. Purpose
This section serves as a guide for commanders in planning and conducting military
ceremonies with civilian participation.
receive an award at the same time, they are aligned from right to left with
the highest award on the right.
(3) When the awardees are posted, they remain in the same order. If there
are no military awardees, the civilians move to the left of the reviewing
stand, as stated in paragraph 9-4.
NOTE: If there is only one awardee, he may be the reviewing official.
b. When this ceremony is conducted for presenting posthumous awards, other
types of awards are not incorporated. A carefully selected escort officer should
accompany relatives of persons receiving posthumous awards.
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APPENDIX A
Saluting
A-1. General
The origin of the hand salute is uncertain. Some historians believe it began in late
Roman times when assassinations were common. A citizen who wanted to see a public
official had to approach with his right hand raised to show that he did not hold a
weapon. Knights in armor raised visors with the right hand when meeting a comrade.
This practice gradually became a way of showing respect and, in early American
history, sometimes involved removing the hat. By 1820, the motion was modified to
touching the hat, and since then it has become the hand salute used today.
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A-9. Uncovering
a. Officers and enlisted men under arms uncover only when:
(1) Seated as a member of (or in attendance on) a court or board.
(2) Entering places of divine worship.
(3) In attendance at an official reception.
b. Male personnel remove their headdress indoors. When outdoors, military
headdress is never removed, or raised as a form of salutation. When appropriate,
civilians may be saluted in lieu of removing the headdress.
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c. Female military personnel will remain covered at all times when it would be
appropriate for civilian women at a similar function to wear a hat. They must
wear headgear when in uniform outdoors if headgear is authorized.
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APPENDIX B
Symbols
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APPENDIX C
Manual of the Guidon
C-1. General
a. The guidon is a company, battery, or troop identification flag. It is present at all
unit formations unless otherwise directed by the commander.
b. When armed with a rifle, the guidon bearer slings the weapon behind his back
with the sling diagonally across his chest and the muzzle end up and to the left
(Figure C-1).
c. When the unit is formed, the guidon bearer is one step in front of and two (15-inch)
left steps to the right of and facing the person forming the unit (the person
forming the unit is facing the unit.) If the first sergeant forms the unit, the guidon
bearer steps forward three steps on the command POST.
d. To face with the guidon, raise the ferrule one inch off the marching surface by
bending the right elbow slightly. After executing the movement, automatically
lower the ferrule to the order position. Keep the staff vertical throughout the
movement.
e. Execute facing movements, marching movements, present arms (present
guidon), and rest movements with the unit. During manual of arms movements,
remain at order guidon except for present arms (Figure C-1).
f. When in a line formation and the company is faced to the right for a marching
movement, face to the right in marching, assume the double time position and
double time from that position to a position five steps forward of and centered on
the squad leaders of the first platoon. If the company commander joins the
formation at the head of the column (six steps in front of and centered on the
squad leaders), execute two left steps (Figure C-6).
NOTE: Execute raised guidon only on the preparatory commands for Present, ARMS; Eyes, RIGHT; and on
the preparatory command Order of Order, ARMS following the execution of present arms and eyes
right. Also execute raised guidon on the preparatory command Ready of Ready, FRONT.
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b. Stand at ease is the same as parade rest, except that the eyes and head are turned
toward the commander.
c. Execute at ease and rest with the guidon from the order guidon position.
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inches, regrasping the staff. On the command of execution MARCH, return the
left hand smartly to the left side and simultaneously step off (2, Figure C-3).
b. To resume order guidon from carry guidon, let the staff slide through the right
hand until the ferrule touches the marching surface.
c. When double timing, carry the guidon diagonally across the body in the same
manner as port arms.
C-4
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and thumb are extended and joined, palm down, wrist straight, and forearm
horizontal (Figure C-7).
b. After the salute is acknowledged, return the left hand sharply to the side.
c. When at double time (not in formation), return to quick time, returning the guidon
to the carry position and render the guidon salute as previously described
(subparagraph a). Upon completing the salute return to the carry position and
resume double time (Figure C-6).
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APPENDIX D
Mounted Drill
D-1. General
a. This appendix contains the procedure for the orderly formation and movement of
vehicles during drill and ceremonies for motorized and mechanized units. When
necessary, the procedures may be modified to conform to local conditions.
b. Motorized and mechanized units, when dismounted, conduct drill and ceremo-
nies in the same manner as prescribed for infantry units.
c. When mounted in vehicles, visible troops sit at attention. Those armed with a
rifle place the butt of the weapon alongside the right foot in the same manner as
order arms, with the weapon vertical and parallel to the calf of the leg. Grasp the
weapon with the right hand so that the right forearm is horizontal. Visible troops
not armed with a rifle, fold their arms (right over the left) and raise the elbows so
that the upper arms are horizontal.
d. When marching units and motorized and/or mechanized units take part in the
same ceremony: the units form dismounted (in a formation corresponding to the
marching units) with their vehicles to the rear. On the directive PASS IN
REVIEW, the commander faces about and directs At your vehicles, FALL IN
or MOUNT (LOAD) YOUR VEHICLES. Subordinate commanders and lead-
ers, in sequence from right to left, command At your vehicles, FALL IN
(MOUNT YOUR VEHICLES) and all vehicle members double time to their
vehicle. On the signal to mount, they mount their vehicle. Drivers observe their
commander or leader for the signal to start engines.
D-2. Formations
a. The formations for motorized and mechanized units are basically the same as for
infantry units. The interval between vehicles is about five steps. The distance is
about 10 steps between vehicles one behind the other.
(1) Column. In this formation, the vehicles are placed one behind the other, and
the right edges of the vehicles are aligned.
(2) Line. In this formation, vehicles are abreast, and the front edges of the
vehicles are aligned.
(3) Mass. A unit formed with two or more columns abreast constitutes a mass.
Masses may be grouped as follows:
(a) LINE OF MASSES. Masses abreast with ten-step intervals (Figure D-1).
(b) COLUMN OF MASSES. Masses placed one behind another with ten-step
intervals between companies (Figure D-2).
(c) LINE OF BATTALIONS IN LINE OF MASSES. Battalions in line of
masses abreast with 20-step intervals between battalions.
(d) LINE OF BATTALIONS IN COLUMN OF MASSES. Battalions in column
of masses abreast with 20-step intervals between battalions.
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45-degree angle, turn again at a 45-degree angle when the prescribed interval is
obtained, and then halt when on line with the base vehicle.
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APPENDIX E
Flags and Colors
E-1. General
a. For occasions when the flag of the United States is raised, lowered, or flown at
half-staff, see AR 600-25 and paragraph E-2 and E-3.
b. When the flag is to be flown at half-staff, it is first hoisted to the top of the flagpole
and then lowered to the half-staff position. Before lowering the flag, it is again
raised to the top of the flagpole and then lowered (AR 840-10).
c. Normally, a flag detail consists of one noncommissioned officer in charge
(NCOIC), two halyard pullers, and two to eight flag handlers. The purpose of the
flag handlers is to ensure correct folding (unfolding) of the flag and to ensure that
the flag does not touch the ground. As a guide, two flag handlers are needed when
raising or lowering the storm (small) flag, six handlers for the post (medium) flag,
and eight handlers for the garrison (large) flag (paragraph E-5).
d. The members of the flag detail are equipped according to local standing
operating procedure and/or letter of instructions.
e. The NCOIC inconspicuously gives the necessary commands or directives to
ensure proper performance by the flag detail. On windy days, he may assist the
flag handlers to secure or fold the flag.
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c. At the appropriate time, the NCOIC directs ATTACH THE FLAG. On this
directive, all flag handlers take one side step toward the flagpole. The two
handlers nearest the flagpole immediately attach the top of the flag to the
halyard. The halyard pullers raise the flag until the bottom of the flag can be
attached.
NOTE: When raising the larger flags, the NCOIC may command Side step, MARCH and HALT while the
halyard pullers raise the halyard until the lower portion of the flag is attached.
d. At the first note of the music, the reveille gun is fired and the halyard pullers
rapidly raise the flag. The NCOIC salutes. As the flag is raised from the handlers
hands, they face the flagpole and salute. (Reveille is about 20 seconds in
duration.) At the last note of the music, the NCOIC commands Order, ARMS for
himself and the flag handlers while the pullers secure the halyards. The NCOIC
then positions himself between the halyard pullers, executes an about face, and
commands Ready, FACE. The detail will face in the appropriate direction to
depart the flag pole. He then marches the detail from the site.
E-3. Lowering the Flag (Retreat)
a. The detail is marched and positioned at the flagpole in the same manner as when
raising the flag. On the command POST, the halyard pullers free the halyards,
untangle them, ensure that they are free from the pole, and then temporarily
resecure them; the flag handlers do not face to the center. The NCOIC then
commands Parade, REST.
b. At the cannon shot or at the last note of Retreat (if a cannon is not fired), each
halyard puller immediately frees the halyards. The NCOIC commands himself
and the flag handlers to ATTENTION and Present, ARMS. At the first note of
To the Color, the flag is lowered slowly and with dignity.
NOTE: The call, To the Color, is approximately 40 seconds in duration. As the flag is lowered to within
reach, the two flag handlers farthest away from the flag terminate their salute, move forward rapidly,
secure the flag, and move back from the flagpole. As the flag passes each handler, he terminates
his salute and assists in securing the flag. The NCOIC terminates his salute at the last note of the
music. Once the flag is detached, it is then folded (Figure 9-17). After securing the halyard, the
handlers assist in the folding. After the flag has been folded and received by the NCOIC, the detail
is marched to the storage site. Once the flag has been folded (cocked hat), it is treated as a cased
Color and not saluted by persons meeting the flag detail.
E-4. Display
The flag of the United States represents the living country and is considered a living
thing.
a. Rules and customs for displaying of the US flag, adopted by an act of Congress in
1942 and amended in 1976, are found in Title 36 of the United States Code.
NOTE: No other flag or pennant should be placed above or, if on the same level, to the right of the flag of the
United States of America except during church services conducted by naval chaplains at sea, when
the church pennant may be flown above the flag during church services for Navy personnel, and
except as required by multinational agreements to which the United States is a signatory.
b. The union, the field of blue with the grouping of stars representing the individual
states, is the honor point and is the flags right. When the flag is displayed, the
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union is always to the top and to the flags own right (the left of the observer).
When carried, the flag is always free, never stretched flat or carried horizontally.
In the company of other flags, the US flag is always on the marching right (the
flags own right), or if there is a line of other flags, in front of the center of that
line. When a number of flags of states, or localities, or pennants of societies are
grouped and displayed from staffs, the US flag is in the center and at the highest
point of the group. If all flags are displayed from staffs of the same height, the
flag of the United States is placed in the honor position, to the right of the other
flags (to the left of the observer). When flags of two or more nations are displayed,
they are flown from separate staffs of the same height, they are of approximately
equal size, and the US flag is to the right of the others.
NOTE: When the US flag is flown in conjunction with other national flags, care must be taken to ensure that
the foreign national flag is correct and properly displayed.
c. The flag of the United States is never used as drapery. It is displayed hung flat
against a wall or flown free from a staff. It is not festooned over doorways or
arches, tied in a bow, or fashioned into a rosette. It is not used to cover a speakers
desk or draped over the front of a platform. For those purposes, bunting may be
used, giving the blue of the bunting the place of honor at the top of the
arrangement or in the center of the rosette. Traditionally, there is one permissible
departure from the rules for display of the flag of the United States: in a dire
emergency, the flag may be flown upside down as a distress signal.
NOTE: For a detailed explanation of the regulations concerning the flag of the United States and other flags
and colors see ARs 640-10 and 600-25.
E-5. Classification
a. A flag as distinguished from a Color is not saluted except during the ceremonies
of raising and lowering the flag. US flags used by the Army are classified by size
as follows:
(1) Garrison Flag. It is 20 feet hoist by 38 feet fly of nylon wool and displayed on
holidays and important occasions.
(2) Post Flag. It is 8 feet 11 3/8 inch hoist by 17 feet fly of nylon and used for
general display, and flown daily.
(3) Field Flag. It is 6 feet 8 inches hoist by 12 feet fly of nylon wool and used for
display with the positional field flag.
(4) Storm Flag. It is 5 feet hoist by 9 feet 6 inches fly of nylon and flown during
inclement weather.
(5) Interment Flag. It is 5 feet hoist by 9 feet 6 inches fly of cotton bunting.
b. A Color is the US flag trimmed on three sides with golden yellow fringe 2 1/2
inches wide. The Color is primarily for indoor display. US Colors used by the
Army are classified by size as follows:
(1) Four feet 4 inches hoist by 5 feet 6 inches fly displayed with the US Army flag,
positional colors, the Corps of Cadets Colors, 1st Battalion 3rd Infantry Colors,
and the chapel flag.
(2) Three feet hoist by 4 feet fly displayed with the Army field flag, distinguishing
flags, organizational colors, institutional flags, and the chapel flag.
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APPENDIX F
Manual of ArmsM249E1 Squad Automatic Weapon
F-1. General
a. This appendix contains procedures for executing the manual of arms with the
M249E1 squad automatic weapon (SAW).
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b. The weapon is earned at sling arms. All individual drill movements (as appli-
cable) are executed while at sling arms.
c. When at ease or rest is commanded (from parade rest), the soldier unslings the
weapon and places the butt of the weapon on the marching surface beside his
right foot.
d. The only manual of arms movements that may be executed are present arms
(present arms at sling arms), unsling arms, inspection arms, and ready port
arms. During other manual of arms movements, the soldier remains at sling
arms (1, Figure F-2).
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b. Ready, Port ARMS is the only command that is given from inspection arms.
On the command Ready, grasp the pistol grip with the right hand and the feed
tray cover with the left hand and close the feed tray cover. On the command
Port, grasp the cocking handle with the left hand and sharply push the cocking
handle to its most rearward position. On the command ARMS, pull the trigger
with the right forefinger and ride the bolt forward with the left hand, then return
to the port arms position (Figure F-2).
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APPENDIX G
Manual of ArmsM14 and M14A1 Rifles
G-1. General
The manual of arms with the M14 (Figure G-1) and M14A1 rifles is executed in the
same manner as the manual of arms for the M16 series rifle (Chapter 4) except
inspection arms, stack arms, order arms, and some movements of present arms.
c. When at left shoulder arms, the salute is executed by moving the right arm across
the chest and touching the first joint of the forefinger to the rear of the receiver.
The right elbow is held so that the forearm is horizontal. The fingers, thumb, and
wrist are as described in a. The palm is down. The second count is similar to the
return from the rifle salute at right shoulder arms.
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three, release the small of the stock and move the right hand forward (fingers
extended and joined, thumb on the opposite side of the receiver). Place the knife
edge on the hand in contact with the operating rod handle. On count four, press
the operating rod handle sharply to the rear and lock the bolt to the rear by
pressing the bolt lock with the thumb. At the same time, lower the head and eyes
to check the receiver. On count five, raise the head and eyes back to the front
and regrasp the small of the stock with the right hand, assuming the inspection
arms position.
(2) Ready, Port, ARMS is the only command that is given from inspection arms.
On the command Ready, relax the grip of the right hand and hook the top of the
forefinger to the rear. On the command Port, release the operating rod handle
(allowing the bolt to go forward) and place the forefinger on the trigger. On the
command of execution ARMS, pull the trigger and come to port arms.
b. M14A1 Rifle.
(1) The command for this movement is Inspection, ARMS. On the command of
execution ARMS, execute port arms. The remaining movements are the same
as with the M14 rifle (Figure G-4).
(2) Ready, Port, ARMS is the only command that maybe given from inspection
arms. The procedures are the same as for the M14 rifle.
(3) The procedures for executing inspection arms with the magazine in the weapon
are the same as for the M14 rifle.
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into the loop held by the stackman until the bayonet stud protrudes past the far
end of the loop (2, Figure G-5). He holds his rifle in that position until the man on
the stackmans right inserts the muzzle of his rifle through the loop in the same
manner and above the muzzle of the rifle of the left man.
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f. When both rifles have been inserted into the loop, the men on each side of the
stackman swing the butts of their rifles out and down to the marching surface
until the stack is tight with the (two) rifle butts on line and about 2 feet from the
baseline.
g. After necessary adjustments have been made, the three men come to attention (3,
Figure G-5).
h. Extra rifles are passed to the nearest stack on the right. As each rifle is passed, it
is grasped at the upper part of the handguard with the right hand. Then, with the
rifle held vertical, it is passed with fully extended arm to the right front. The man
on the right grasps the rifle at the balance with his left hand, brings the rifle to the
center of his body, and regrasps it at the upper part of the handguard with his
right hand. This action continues until the stackman receives the rifle and places
it on the stack with his right hand as nearly vertical as possible. He places the
rifles on the stack with the slings away from the stack (if the second squad is the
stack squad, extra rifles are passed to the left).
i. To take arms, the leader commands Take, ARMS.
(1) On the command ARMS, the stackman passes each extra rifle toward its
bearer. The rifles are handled in the manner described for passing them to the
stack (left hand at the balance, right hand at the upper part of the handguard).
As the men receive their rifles, they come to order arms.
(2) After all extra rifles have been returned, the stackman grasps the base rifles,
holding the loop open as in stack arms.
The men to the right and left of the stackman take one step to their left and
right fronts, respectively. They reach down, grasp their rifles, and bring the
rifles to a horizontal position. The man to the right of the stackman frees his
rifle from the stack first. Each man returns to order arms after unsling arms
and retrieves his rifle. He does this by guiding and steadying the rifle with his
left hand (as in the next to the last count of order arms).
(4) The stackman adjusts the sling of his rifle before returning to order arms.
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APPENDIX H
Manual of ArmsShotgun (Riot)
H-1. General
a. Except for inspection arms, execute the manual of arms with the shotgun in the
same manner as prescribed for the M16 series rifle.
b. Carry the weapon at the ready position when physically guarding prisoners
(Figure H-1).
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trigger guard. Bend the right arm comfortably, and keep the gun barrel at an
angle from the body and the muzzle skyward.
b. To ease fatigue, carry the weapon in the same manner on the left hip.
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APPENDIX I
Manual of ArmsAutomatic Pistols
I-1. General
a. This appendix contains the procedures for executing the manual of arms with
automatic pistols (FM 23-35).
b. All individual drill movements are executed as prescribed with the weapon secure
in the holster.
c. The only manual of arms movements that may be executed are present arms
(hand salute) and inspection arms. During other manual of arms movements,
remain at attention.
d. The position of raised pistol represents the position of port arms when
challenging as a sentinel on guard duty.
c. Inspection Arms.
(1) The command for this movement is Inspection, ARMS. On the command of
execution ARMS, execute raised pistol and then, without lowering the right
hand, reach across the body and grasp the slide with the left thumb and the first
two fingers so that the thumb is on the left side of the slide. Shift the grip of the
right hand so that the right thumb engages the slide stop. Push the slide fully to
the rear and engage the stop in its notch with the right thumb. Return the left
hand to the left side and remain at raised pistol.
(2) Ready, Port, ARMS is the only command that may be given from inspection
arms. On the command Ready, place the right thumb on the slide stop. On the
command Port, press down on the slide stop, allowing the slide to go forward,
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and then place the forefinger on the trigger. On the command ARMS, pull the
trigger and return the weapon to the holster, fasten the flap, and come to
attention.
(3) To execute inspection arms with the magazine in the weapon, execute raised
pistol and then remove the magazine and place it between the belt and clothing
before locking the slide to the rear. After pulling the trigger, and before
returning the pistol to the holster, return the magazine to the weapon.
(4) If the pistol is inspected in ranks and the inspecting officer takes the weapon,
lower the right hand smartly to the right side. When the inspecting officer is
ready to return the pistol, raise the right hand back to the raised position and
accept the weapon. After the pistol is returned, allow the slide to go forward, pull
the trigger, return the pistol to the holster, and come to attention.
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APPENDIX J
Manual of ArmsRevolver
J-1. General
a. This appendix contains the procedures for executing the manual of arms with the
revolver (FM 23-35).
b. All individual drill movements are executed as prescribed with the weapon
secured in the holster.
c. The only manual of arms movements that may be executed are present arms
(hand salute) and inspection arms. During other manual of arms movements,
remain at attention.
J-2. Manual Movements
a. Present Arms. The hand salute is executed in the same manner as prescribed
in individual drill.
b. Inspection Arms.
(1) On the command of execution ARMS, unsnap the holster strap with the right
hand and grasp the pistol grip. Withdraw the revolver from the holster and
raise the right forearm to the front until the hand is about 6 inches in front of the
right shoulder, and the right elbow is against the right side. Hold the pistol grip
in a U formed by the thumb and last three fingers. Extend the forefinger
outside and alongside the trigger guard. Point the muzzle outward and up at
about a 30-degree angle (1, Figure J-1). Open the cylinder by operating the
thumb latch with the left forefinger (2, Figure J-1), and push the cylinder to the
left with the right forefinger. Return the left hand to the left side. Raise the
revolver to a point where the cylinder chambers can be visually inspected and
checked for clearance (3, Figure J-1). After inspecting the weapon, return
(cylinder out) to raised pistol.
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(2) Ready, Port, ARMS is the only command that may be given from inspection
arms. On the command Ready, move the left hand up and across the body and
place the left forefinger on the cylinder. On the command Port, close the
cylinder and return the left hand sharply to the side. On the command ARMS,
return the revolver to the holster and secure the strap with the right hand and
come to attention.
(3) If the revolver is inspected in ranks and the inspecting officer takes the
revolver, lower the right hand smartly to the right side. When the inspecting
officer is ready to return the revolver, raise the right hand back to the raised
position and accept the weapon. After the revolver is returned, close the
cylinder (left hand), return the weapon to the holster, and come to attention.
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APPENDIX K
Manual of ArmsSaber and Sword
K-1. General
a. The nomenclature for the saber is saber, officer, infantry, revolutionary. The
blade is 31 inches long. The nomenclature for the sword is sword, infantry, Army,
noncommissioned officer, model 1840.
b. The saber is worn by officers while participating in ceremonies with troops under
arms, or as directed. It is earned on the left side of the body attached to the belt by
the scabbard chain with the guard of the saber to the rear. The sword is worn by
all platoon sergeants and first sergeants while participating in ceremonies with
troops under arms, or as directed. It is carried in the same manner as the officers
saber.
c. Figure K-1 shows the nomenclature for pertinent parts of the saber (sword) and
scabbard.
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K-2
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rests inside the point of the shoulder and not along the arm. The saber (sword)
is held in this position by the thumb and forefinger grasping the grip, and it is
steadied with the second finger behind the grip.
(2) The carry saber (sword) position is assumed under the following situations:
(a) To give commands.
(b) To change positions.
(c) By officers when officially addressing (or when officially addressed by)
another officer, if the saber is drawn.
(d) By NCOs when officially addressing a soldier, or when officially addressed by
an officer, if the sword is drawn.
(e) Before returning the saber (sword) to the scabbard.
(f) At the preparatory command for (and while marching at) quick time.
(3) Present saber (sword) may be executed from the carry when serving in the
capacity of commander of troops or serving in a command that is not part of a
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(4) On the command Order ARMS, the saber (sword) is returned to the position of
carry saber (sword).
d. Parade Rest. This position is assumed without moving the saber (sword) from
the order arm position. At the command of execution, the left foot is moved
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about 10 inches to the left (of the right foot), and the left hand is placed in the
small of the back, fingers extended and joined, palm to the rear (Figure K-6). At
the command of execution ATTENTION, the left hand and foot are returned to
the position of attention.
NOTE: When ever the saber (sword) is at the order arms position the saber (sword) is straight, not at an angle
inward or outward in relationship to the body.
e. Return Saber (Sword). This movement is executed from carry saber (sword) in
three counts.
(1) At the preparatory command Return of the command Officers (Noncom-
missioned officers), Return, SABER (SWORD), the saber (sword) is
brought to a vertical position (1, Figure K-7). The forearm (wrist) is held parallel
to the marching surface about three inches from the body; the guard is pointed
to the left.
(2) At the command of execution SABER (SWORD), three actions take place
simultaneously: the saber (sword) is pivoted downward toward the guard, at
the same time grasp the scabbard with the left hand just above the upper brass
ring mounting. Tilt it forward and turn it clockwise 180 degrees. The scabbard
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should form a 45-degree angle with the ground, and the saber (sword) bearer
turns his head to the left and looks down to observe the mouthpiece of the
scabbard (the shoulders remain squared to the front and level). As smoothly
and as quickly as possible, the saber (sword) is inserted into the scabbard and
stopped so that about 12 inches of the blade is showing; the right forearm
(wrist) is horizontal to the marching surface and three inches from the body (2, Figure
K-7).
(3) At the command of execution CUT of the command Ready, CUT, the saber
(sword) is thrust smartly into the scabbard, the scabbard is rotated so that its
tip is forward, and the saber (sword) bearer comes to attention (3, Figure
K-7).
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K-7
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the body. The saber (sword) is canted 45 degrees from the vertical with the guard
pointed to the left. The left hand grasps the scabbard.
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Glossary
Terminology
column. A formation in which the elements are one behind the other.
In a platoon column, the members of each squad are one
behind the other, with the squads abreast of each other. To
change a line formation to a column formation, the
command is Right, FACE. To change a column formation
to a line formation, the command is Left, FACE.
front. The space from side to side of a formation, including the right and left
elements.
guide. The person responsible for maintaining the prescribed direction and rate of
march.
head. The leading element of a column.
interval.
close. The lateral space between soldiers, measured from right to left by
the soldier on the right placing the heel of his left hand on his hip,
even with the top of the belt line, fingers and thumb joined and
extended downward, with his elbow in line with the body and
touching the arm of the soldier to his left.
double. The lateral space between soldiers, measured from right to left
by raising both arms shoulder high with the fingers extended
and joined (palms down) so that fingertips are touching the
fingertips of the soldiers to the right and to the left.
normal. The lateral space between soldiers, measured from right to left
by the soldier on the right holding his left arm shoulder high,
fingers and thumb extended and joined, with the tip of his
middle finger touching the right shoulder of the soldier to his
left.
post. The correct place for an officer or noncommissioned officer to
stand in a prescribed formation.
rank. A line that is one element in depth.
re-form. A command to restore the previous element or formation (used only during
drill instructions).
step. The prescribed distance measured from one heel to the other heel of a marching
soldier.
Acronyms, Abbreviations
NCO noncommissioned officer.
NCOIC noncommissioned officer in charge.
ROTC Reserve Officers Training Corps.
TOE table of organization and equipment.
US United States.
GLOSSARY- 2
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References
REQUIRED PUBLICATIONS
Required publications are sources that users must read in order to understand or to
comply with this publication.
NONE
RELATED PUBLICATIONS
Related publications are sources of additional information. They are not required in
order to understand this publication.
220-90 Bands
310-25 Dictionary of United States Army Terms
310-50 Catalog of Abbreviations and Brevity Codes
600-25 Salutes, Honors, and Visits of Courtesy
670-1 Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia
840-10 Flags, Guidons, Streamers, Tabards, and Automobile and Aircraft Plates
REFERENCE-1
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INDEX-1
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INDEX-2
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8 DECEMBER 1986
Official:
R.L. DILWORTH
Brigadier General, United States Army
The Adjutant General
DISTRIBUTION:
Active Army, ARNG, and USAR: To be distributed in accordance with DA Form 12-11A,
Requirements for Drill and Ceremonies (Qty rgr block no. 178).
U.S. GOVERNMNT PRINTING OFFICE : 1994 0 - 160-921