MILITARY INSTRUCTORS MANUAL

BY

CAPTAIN JAMES P. COLE, 59th INFANTRY

Instructor 3rd Battalion, 17th Provisional Training Regiment, Plattsburg, N.Y.

AND

MAJOR OLIVER SCHOONMAKER, 76th DIVISION

Assistant Instructor 3rd Battalion, 17th Provisional Training Regiment, Plattsburg, N.Y.

E-text prepared by Juliet Sutherland, Jeannie Howse,

Acknowledgment.

To have prepared this book within the time allotted to it, without the assistance of Candidates Alcott Farrar Elwell and Lyle Milton Prouse would have been impossible, and grateful recognition is made of their services. Not only much of the manual labor, but the preparation of entire chapters, has been in their hands.

Candidates Charles Huntington Jacobs and Michael Francis Mcaleer have rendered very valuable assistance and we wish to thank the following candidates for the loan of materials used elsewhere, for typewriting and other work:

Introduction.

The officer of to-day has big problems to face at short notice. His training has necessarily been so intensive that he cannot absorb a large amount of it. He has little time to make out schedules or even to look over the hasty notes he may have made during his training period, yet he finds himself facing problems which force him to immediate action.

This book so condenses and systematizes general military instruction and the work done at Plattsburg so that it may be easily utilized in training other troops. No broad claim for originality is made except in the arrangement of all available material; the bibliography makes acknowledgment to all texts so utilized. Besides bringing helpful reminders to new officers regarding the elements of modern warfare, much of the material will be found of radical importance, as it is practically new and never before condensed. Since under the new army organization the platoon leader virtually has assumed the roll of a captain of a company, it is not enough for him to know simply his own part; he must be ready with all the information that his non-commissioned officers and men should know, and more important still, he must know how to teach them. Having little or no time to work over and digest for himself this mass of new material pouring in upon him, the officer may find in this book, material condensed and already arranged.

It is hoped that this work will serve to recall to many officers, valuable points of military training which would otherwise be lost, to them in the mass of notes never looked at since the day they were made. More than this, every reader will find help in planning his work, saving thereby precious hours already too full of necessary duties, and will find fresh material for progress in the game of war.

It is the purpose of this book to help men who are in the service of the United States, and through them to share in bringing victory.

Table of Contents.

CHAPTER 1.

Schedules.

Schedule Of Instruction, Reserve Officers' Training Camp
Plattsburg, N.Y., August 27 to September 1, 1917

Schedule Of Instruction, Reserve Officers' Training Camp
Plattsburg, N.Y., September 3 to September 8, 1917

Schedule Of Instruction, Plattsburg Training Camp
Plattsburg, N.Y., September 3 to September 8, 1917—(Concluded)

Schedule Of Instruction, Plattsburg Training Camp
Plattsburg, N.Y., September 10 to September 15, 1917

Schedule Of Instruction, Plattsburg Training Camp
Plattsburg, N.Y., September 10 to September 15, 1917—(Concluded)

Schedule Of Instruction, Plattsburg Training Camp
Plattsburg, N.Y., September 17 to September 22, 1917

September 24-29, 1917. Construction Of Trenches.

Schedule Of Instruction, Plattsburg Training Camp
Plattsburg, N.Y., October 1 to October 6, 1917.

Schedule Of Instruction, Plattsburg Training Camp
Plattsburg, N.Y., October 1 to October 6, 1917—(Concluded)

Schedule Of Instruction, Plattsburg Training Camp
Plattsburg, N.Y., October 8 to October 13, 1917.

Schedule Of Instruction, Plattsburg Training Camp
Plattsburg, N.Y., October 8 to October 13, 1917—(Concluded)

October 15-17, 1917. Construction Of Trenches.

October 18-19, 1917. Occupation Of The Trenches From 8.00 a.m. October 18, 1917 To 8.00 a.m. October 19, 1917.

October 20, 1917. 7.30 a.m.-11 a.m. Conference Of Trench Occupation, 11 a.m. Inspection.

Schedule Of Instruction, Plattsburg Training Camp
Plattsburg, N.Y., October 22 to October 27, 1917

Schedule Of Instruction, Plattsburg Training Camp
Plattsburg, N.Y., October 22 to October 27, 1917—(Concluded)

Schedule Of Instruction, Plattsburg Training Camp
Plattsburg, N.Y., October 29 to November 3, 1917

Schedule Of Instruction, Plattsburg Training Camp
Plattsburg, N.Y., October 29 to November 3, 1917—(Concluded)

Schedules.

November 5th-9th, 1917.

November 12th-17th, 1917.

November 19th-23rd, 1917.

CHAPTER 2.

Infantry Drill Regulations.

The greatest lesson of the present war is that the keynote of success is discipline. In trenches the direct control of the men is even less than in extended order in open warfare, and only thoroughly disciplined troops with a trusted leader can hope to succeed.

The successful officer will show anger or irritation only in rare cases, and then by design: he will know his men individually and be as considerate of them as possible, ready to do himself what he asks to have done; just in administering punishments; clear in giving his commands and insistent that they be carried out promptly; he will learn from drilling his men the quickest way a desired result can be accomplished, and to give the necessary commands in the most effective manner.

He will read his Infantry Drill Regulations through each month and will always find something that he never knew or has forgotten. He will always consult it before going to drill. In explaining movements he will use blackboard diagrams in conferences. On the field he will take the fewest possible men and have movement executed by the numbers properly before the other men. Then have all the men go through the movement a number of times.

The object of each exercise or drill should be explained to the men whenever possible.

"Success in battle is the ultimate object of all military training."

School of the Soldier.

Instruction Without Arms.

The object of the facings and marchings is to give the soldier complete control of his body in drills so that he can move easily and promptly at any command.

Attention.

Position Of Attention.—This is the position a soldier assumes when in ranks or whenever the command attention is given.

In the training of anyone nothing equals the importance of a proper posture; it is the very foundation upon which the entire fabric of any successful training must be founded.

Instructors must persist in the development of this position until the men assume it from habit.

At the command, 1. Company (Squad, etc.), 2. Attention, the following position is assumed:

1. Heels Together And On A Line.—If the heels are not on a line, the hips and sometimes even the shoulders, are thrown out of line.

2. Feet Turned Out Equally, Forming An Angle Of 45 Degrees.—If the feet are not turned out equally, the result will be the same as above.

3. Knees Extended Without Stiffness.—Muscles should be contracted just enough to keep the knees straight. If locked, men tire easily and faint if at attention a long time.

4. The Trunk Erect Upon The Hips, the spine extended throughout its entire length; the buttocks well forward.

The position of the trunk, spine and buttocks is most essential. In extending the spine the men must feel that the trunk is being stretched up from the waist until the back is as straight as it can be made.

In stretching the spine the chest should be arched and raised, without, however, raising the shoulders or interfering with natural respiration.

5. Shoulders Falling Naturally and moved back until they are square.

Being square, means having the shoulder ridge and the point of the shoulder at right angles to a general anterior-posterior plane running through the body. They should never be forced back of this plane, but out rather in line with it.

6. Arms Hanging Naturally, thumbs against the seams of the trousers, fingers extended, and back of hand turned out.

The arms must not be forcibly extended nor held rigidly; if they are, a compensating faulty curve will occur in the lumbar region.

7. Head Erect, Chin Raised until neck is vertical, eyes fixed upon some object at their own height.

Every tendency to draw the chin in must be counteracted.

8. When this position is correctly assumed, the men will be taught to incline the body forward until the weight rests chiefly upon the balls of the feet, heels resting lightly upon the ground.

When properly assumed, a vertical line drawn from the top of the head should pass in front of the ear, shoulder and thighs, and find its base at the balls of the feet.

Every tendency toward rigidity must be avoided; all muscles are contracted only enough to maintain this position, which is one of co-ordination, of physical and mental alertness, that makes for mobility, activity and grace. A man who faints standing at attention has not taken the proper position.

Rests.

Position Of Rest And At Ease.—When men are standing at rest or at ease they must be cautioned to avoid assuming any position that will nullify the object of the position of Attention. Standing on one leg, folding arms, allowing shoulders or head to droop forward, must be discountenanced persistently until the men form the habit of resting with feet separated but on the same line, hands elapsed behind the back,—head, shoulders and trunk erect, (m.p.t., pp. 21 and 22.)

Fall Out.—Leave ranks.

Rest.—One foot in place. Can talk.

At Ease.—One foot in place. Silence.

Parade Rest.—Do not slouch down on right foot. Keep chest well up.

Eyes Right, 2. Front.—Have it snappy.

Right Face.—To face in marching and advance, turn on the ball of either foot and step off with the other foot in the new line of direction. (Do not confuse with the ordinary command, "Right Face.")

Right Half Face.—45 degrees, used to show position in Right Oblique.

About Face.—Have weight well back. Not necessary to move right foot after turn is made.

Hand Salute.—Manner of rendering is index to manner in which all other duties are performed.

Forward March.—Shift weight to right foot, mentally.

Double Time, March.—Tendency to go too fast. Time it. 30 steps in 10 seconds. Take one step quick time, then take up double time.

Mark Time, March.—Given as either foot strikes the ground. To resume full step, Forward, March.

Half Step, March.—All steps and marchings executed from a halt, except Right Step, begin with left foot.

Right Step, March. Backward, March.—Executed in quick time only and at trail, without command. 15 inch Step.

Squad, Halt.—Given as either foot strikes the ground.

By The Right Flank, March.—Step off with right foot.

To The Rear, March.—Given as right foot strikes the ground. If marching in double time, turn to the rightabout taking 4 steps, in place, in cadence, and step off with left foot.

Change Step, March.—Being in march; given as either foot strikes the ground.

Manual of Arms.

Purpose.—To make the man so accustomed to the rifle that he handles it without a thought.

Eight rules govern the carrying of the piece. See paragraph 75, Infantry Drill Regulations.

Six rules govern the execution of the manual. See paragraph 76, Infantry Drill Regulations.

Commands and Cautions.

Order, Arms.—See that all the fingers of the right hand are around the piece.

Present, Arms.—Left forearm horizontal and against the body.

Port, Arms.—Right forearm horizontal. Left forearm against the body.

Right Shoulder, Arms.—Insist on an angle of 45 degrees. Trigger guard in hollow of shoulder. Right hand does the work.

Left Shoulder, Arms.—Right hand in next to last position grasps small of stock.

Parade, Rest.—Left hand grasps piece just below stacking swivel. Right foot straight back 6 inches.

Trail, Arms.—Piece at angle of about 30 degrees, about 3 inches off the ground.

Rifle Salute.—Left forearm horizontal.

Fix Bayonet.—Parade Rest and resume order after bayonet is fixed.

Unfix Bayonet.—Parade Rest and resume order after bayonet is unfixed.

Inspection Arms.—Be sure men glance down in chamber and keep hold of bolt handle.

Parade, Rest can be executed only from order arms, and the command Attention follows Parade, Rest.

Any movement not in the manual, e.g., Right, Face, breaks the execution of movements by the numbers. The number of counts in the execution of each command must be remembered.

Distinguish between raise and carry and throw.

School of the Squad.

Object.—To give basic element, the squad, its first lesson in team work.

Team work wins battles just as it does football games.

Avoid keeping men too long at the same movement.

Composition Of Squad.—7 men and a corporal. Never less than 6 nor more than 11 men.

Fall In.—Instructor 3 paces in front of where center is to be.

Fall Out.—If under arms, always preceded by Inspection Arms. Does not mean dismissed.

Count Off.—Right file front and rear do not execute eyes right. Front and rear rank men count off together.

Inspection Arms.—

Right Dress, Front:

1. Company Commander must establish base file or files before giving the command Right Dress.
2. Right flank men remain facing to front.
3. Be sure first four men are on desired line and rest of company can easily be made to conform.
4. Right guide may be established at any point desired and at command Right Dress all march to their proper positions without other command, and at the trail.
5. Have men beyond base files step forward until one pace beyond where new line is to be and then dress back on line established.

Guide Right.—Keep head and eyes off the ground. Close in or open out gradually.

Take Interval, To The Right, March, Squad, Halt.—(At command "To the Right") Rear rank falls back 60 inches. At March, all face to right and leading man of each rank steps off, followed by the others at four-pace intervals, rear-rank men marching abreast of their file leaders. When halted all face to the front.

To Reform, Assemble To The Right (Left), March.

Take Distance, March.—1-2-3-4 front rank, 1-2-3-4 rear rank, 4-pace intervals. Guide in each four is right.

Assemble, March.—No. 1, Front rank stands fast.

Stack Arms.—Piece of even number front rank: butt between his feet, barrel to front. Even number rear rank passes piece to file leader.

Take Arms.—Loose pieces are returned by even numbers front rank. If No. 2 of rear rank is absent, No. 1 rear rank takes his place in making or breaking stacks and resumes his post. Pieces are never stacked with bayonet fixed.

Oblique, March.—Taught from Right half face. Half faced to front after obliquing, Forward, March. If at half step or mark time while obliquing, Oblique, March.

In Place, Halt.—All halt and stand fast without changing position of pieces.

Resume March.—Only given after In place, Halt.

Right Turn.—Turn on moving pivot is used by subdivisions of a column in executing change of direction.

Each rank successively and on same ground executes movement. All except pivot man execute two right obliques. No marking time. Arriving on new line, all take the half step, glance toward marching flank and take full step without command as last man arrives on the line.

Right Half Turn.—Executed in similar manner.

Squads Right.—Turn on fixed pivot is used in all formations from line into column and the reverse. No half step. Right flank man faces to right in marching and marks time. Rest of front rank oblique once to new position. Step off on 5th step.

Squad Right About.—Front rank twice executes squads right.

In rear rank, No. 3 with No. 4 abreast of him on his left and followed in column by the second and first moves straight forward until on prolongation of new line he is to occupy; faces to right in marching and proceeds to place. Then all face to the right in marching, mark time and glance toward marching flank. As last man arrives on new line all step off without command on 9th step.

Deploying as skirmishers and following the corporal are covered under Company Extended Order.

School of the Company.

The company is the basic fighting and administrative unit, and must be easily handled and capable of promptly carrying out the will of its commander.

Team work among the squads, so that the company can be easily managed as a whole, is the purpose of company drill.

Close order drill is for discipline.

Numerical designations of squads or platoons do not change.

Center squad is middle or right middle squad of the company.

First Sergeant when not commanding a platoon is opposite the 3rd file from outer flank of first platoon, in line of file closers.

Fall In.—First Sergeant 6 paces front of center, facing company. Right guide takes post at such point that the center will be 6 paces from and opposite the First Sergeant.

Squad leaders salute and report all present; or Private(s) —— absent. First Sergeant does not return salute of squad leaders.

Captain takes post 12 paces in front of center of company in time to receive report of First Sergeant, "Sir, all present or accounted for," or names of unauthorized absentees. E.G. A man in hospital might be reported absent by squad leader if he did not know where he was, but First Sergeant would know, and would not report him absent.

Captain returns salute of First Sergeant who then takes his post without command.

Platoon Movements In Platoon Column.

Questions Which Come Up In Daily Military Life.

It is well to have a solution on hand.

(1) The company is in line reversed,—16th squad where 1st squad should be. Bring the company into proper line, 1-2-3-4; 5-6-7-8; 9-10-11-12; 13-14-15-16.

(2) You are platoon leader. Your platoon is drilling separately and you get assembled in company line.

16-15-14-13; 12-11-10-9; 4-3-2-1; 5-6-7-8.

What commands do you give to get the platoon into line properly arranged?

(3) You are in charge of the company and find yourself marching into the company street in reverse order. What commands do you give to correct this?

(4) You are marching your company to the rear along a road through a narrow cut. Suddenly around a bend comes an ambulance. To let it pass, you must immediately reduce your marching front. What is the quickest method? (This can be used also in arranging the advance party of the outguard.)

(5) You are marching your company in company front, and wish to march in column of platoons. What do you command?

Answers.

1. Right (left) by squads.
   Column left (right).
   Squads right (left)
   Company, Halt.
2. Forward; 2 March.
   On left into line; 2 Platoon; 3 Halt.
3. On right (left) into line.
4. 1 Squads right; 2 March.
   2 By the left flank; 2 March.
5. 1 Right by squads; 2 March.
   2 Platoons left front into line; Double time;
   2 March.

On the O.D. Shirt Collar Insignia is worn as follows:

"On the right side, in the middle of the collar, the letters (U.S.), (U.S.R.), (U.S.N.A.), and the insignia of rank; the letters one inch from the end of the collar and the insignia of rank one-half inch from letters."

"On the left side in the middle of the collar, and one inch from the end, the insignia of the arm of the service."

For Second Lieutenants.

On the right side, in the middle of the collar, and one inch from the end, the letters (U.S.), (U.S.R.), (U.S.N.A.).

On the left side, in the middle of the collar and one inch from the end, the insignia of the arm of service.

When the Star Spangled Banner is played, an officer in uniform if uncovered stands at Attention. If covered he salutes. An officer "Presents his compliments" only to his juniors.

1. Company Right, March; Company, Halt; Forward March.
   

   Being in line to turn. Right-flank man is pivot. Right guide steps back at command March, and marks time.

2. Platoons Right, March; Company, Halt; Forward March.
   

   Line to Column Platoons, reverse.

   Guides must be covering.

3. Squads Right, MARCH; Company, Halt.
   

   Line to Column Squads, reverse.

   Line of Platoon to Column Platoons, reverse.

4. Right Turn, March; Forward, March.
   

   Line to change direction. Right guide is pivot. Men do not glance toward flank. Rear rank begins oblique on same ground as front rank.

   All take full step at command, Forward, March.

5. Column Right, March.
   

   First Platoon Leader, Right Turn.

   Other Platoon Leaders (if halted), Forward; (if marching), cautions, continue the march. All Platoons execute right turn on same ground.

   Column of Platoons to change direction.

6. Column Right, March.
   

   Column Squads to change direction.

7. Platoons, Column Right, March.
   

   Column Squads to Line of Platoons.

8. Squads Right, Column Right, March.
   

   Right by Squads, March.

   Line to Column Squads and change direction.

   Right guide posts himself and takes 4 short steps. Right Squad conforms.

9. Squads Right, Platoons, Column Right, March.
   

   Platoons right by Squads, March.

   Line to line of Platoons. Guide same as in 8.

10. Squads Right About, March; Company, Halt.
    

    To face or march to the rear.

    About Face; Forward, March.

    To the rear a few paces.

11. On Right Into Line, March; Company, Halt, Front.
    

    Column Platoons or Squads to line to side.

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

12. Right Front Into Line, March; Company, Halt, Front.
    

    Column Platoons or Squads to line (front).

    In double time, halting and aligning are omitted. Guide is toward side of first unit in line. If halted, leader of leading unit commands, Forward.

13. Platoons, Right Front Into Line, March; Company, Halt, Front.
    

    Column Squads to Column Platoons.

    Line of Platoons to Company line.

14. Route Step, March.
    

    Muzzles kept elevated. Ranks cover, preserve distances. (If halted, at rest.)

    At ease, March. Silence preserved. (Halted, at ease.)

15. Right By Twos, March.
    

    All but 2 right files of leading Squad execute in place, Halt.

    Right By Files, March.

    To diminish the front in Column Squads.

16. Squads Right Front Into Line, March.
    

    Twos right front into line, march.

    Twos or files, to Column Squads. Leading file or files halt.

    N.B.—If right by twos, then left into line or reverse.

Dismiss The Company.—First Sergeant places himself 3 paces to front. 2 paces from nearest flank, salutes, faces toward opposite flank, commands, Inspection Arms, Port Arms, Dismissed.

To Fall In Company When It Cannot Be Formed By Squads.—Inspection Arms.

Right Shoulder Arms.

Roll Call. Each man as name is called, executes Order Arms.

For Muster, Commands Are: Open Ranks, March, Front. (At command Open Ranks, Rear Rank drops back 4 steps, 5 counts.)

(As mustering officer approaches) Right Shoulder Arm's. Attention to Muster.

Each man, as name is called, answers "Here" and comes to Order Arms.

Company Commander is on right flank, in same place as "Prepare for Inspection."

In Aligning Company.—Captain places himself 2 paces from and facing the flank toward which dress is made, verifies alignment and commands Front.

(Platoon leaders same position for Platoon alignment.)

To March Squad Without Unnecessary Commands.—The Corporal commands, Follow Me.

Men always at ease. Squad conform to pace of Corporal, and carry pieces as he does.

In line or skirmish line, No. 2 front rank follows in trace of Corporal at 3 paces. Others guide on No. 2.

As Skirmishers, March.—At run. Rear rank men on right of file leaders. All conform to Corporals gait. In squad alone, skirmish line is formed on No. 2, front rank, Corporal ahead when advancing, in rear when halted.

Regular interval in skirmish line ½ pace = 1 yard per man.

Squad deployed = 10 paces.

Any number of paces may be specified, e.g. As Skirmishers, at 10 paces, March.

Assemble, March.—Men form on corporal. If he continues to advance, move in double time, form and follow. Do not assemble while marching to rear.

Kneel.—Left forearm and left lower leg form straight line.

Lie Down.—On both knees, then both elbows.

Rise.—Stand on point marked by both knees.

(When deployed, may sit instead of kneel.)

Loadings And Firings.—Loadings are executed only in line and skirmish line.

Firings are always executed at a halt.

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

In both cease firing and suspend firing pieces are loaded and locked. (Sec. 150, i.d.r., April, 1917, is incorrect.)

1. Aiming.—Target carefully pointed out.

2. Sight-setting Announced. (Battle sight if none announced.)

3. (If by volley), Ready, Aim, Squad Fire.

To continue volley firing, Aim, Squad Fire.

Volley fire is used against large, compact enemy or in fire of position.

Fire At Will.—Normally employed in attack and defense; 3 shots per minute at effective ranges (600 to 1,200 yards); 5 to 6 shots per minute at close ranges (up to 600 yards).

Clip Fire:

Extended Order.

A squad acting alone, as one out on a patrol or for instruction, the corporal acts as the leader of a small platoon leading the advance, and in rear when halted.

Men come to trail as they come on the skirmish line.

On halting, a deployed line faces front (direction of real or assumed enemy), and takes cover.

Corporal Cautions.—By the Right Flank (if halted). Corporal steps out looking back to get his 10-pace interval. Squad Halt.

Left Face.—Base squad deploys as soon as it has room.

Guide of a deployed squad is center without command.

Captain indicates point on which corporal of base squad is to march.

Company Right is executed as explained for front rank of Company, but at ½ pace intervals.

Deployments.

From Line, to Form Skirmish Line to Front.

As Skirmishers, Guide Right, March.—1. If marching, corporal commands, Follow Me. Corporal of base squad moves straight to front, deploys as soon as possible and advances until Company, Halt, is given.

Other squads move to left front and place squads on the line.

If guide is center, other corporals on right of center squad move to the right, and squads on the left to the left, and bring their squads on the line.

If guide is left, other corporals move to right front.

2. If at halt, base squad deploys abreast of its corporal, 3 paces in front of the former line, as soon as it has room.

Other squads are conducted by the left flank, to their places.

To Deploy From Column Of Squads, Forming Skirmish Line To The Front.—If at a halt, base squad deploys abreast of its corporal 3 paces in front of its former position.

If marching, base squad deploys and moves straight to the front.

If guide is right, other corporals move to left front and place squads on line.

If guide is center, corporals in front move to right (if at a halt, to right rear), the corporals in rear of center squad move to left and come on line in succession.

Column of twos or files are deployed by same commands in same manner.

If deployment in an oblique direction is desired, the captain points out desired direction.

Column of squads may be turned to the flank or rear and then deployed.

Assemble, March.—In skirmish line, men assemble at a run, to their places individually. Squads do not assemble and march to places as units as do platoons.

Platoons, Assemble.—Men assemble individually on the run, in their platoons and are then marched to relative position on base platoon as indicated by position or command of captain.

Platoon Columns.—Platoon leaders should be sure to go through center of platoon.

Platoon guides in rear.

Columns should be 20 yards apart, or more.

(Used to take advantage of few favorable routes where cover is poor or ground difficult.)

Squad Columns.—Men oblique and follow squad leader. No advantage in cover, but used to advance more quickly over rough or brush grown ground.

(It might be desirable to teach men to take squad columns from column of squads.)

In assembling from Platoon or Squad columns, the men reform by platoons or squads and are conducted by their leaders to point indicated by captain.

Thin lines are used to cross wide stretches under artillery fire or heavy, long range rifle fire which cannot be profitably returned.

No. 1's Forward, March.

First line is led by platoon leader, right platoon.

Second line is led by platoon guide, right platoon.

Third line is led by platoon leader, next platoon, etc.

Quick time, unless conditions otherwise demand.

Captain Points Out New Line.—Original intervals preserved.

Disadvantage.—Serious loss of control over company.

Advantage.—Offers less definite target and is less likely to draw fire.

Being In Skirmish Line.

By Platoon (2 Platoons, Squads, 4 Men, Etc.), From The Right, Rush.—Leader of rush usually platoon leader.

1. Selects new line.
2. Cease firing.
3. Prepare to rush.
4. Follow me.
5. Commence firing.

When whole company rushes, it is led by Captain. Platoon leader lead their platoons.

Commands.

Commands should be so given as to be distinctly heard by all the men who have to execute them. It is unfair to expect good execution of a slovenly command or one that cannot be heard. A sufficient interval should be allowed between the preparatory command and the command of execution, proportioned to the size of the command, so that each man has time to grasp the movement before execution is required.

School of the Battalion.

Basis.—4 companies to a battalion.

Arrangement.—Right to left by rank of Captains. After formation order is not kept with reference to rank of Captains.

Number.—From right to left in whatever direction.

Center.—Actual center or right center company.

Band.—Places itself as if it were an adjoining battalion on right.

Dressing.—Each company is dressed by its Captain who places himself on the flank toward which the dress is to be made.

In battalion line beside the guide (or beside flank file of the front rank if guide is not in line) facing front.

In column of companies—2 paces from the guide and facing down the line.

To Form the Battalion.

Other Than Ceremonies.—Column of squads. Adjutant does not take his post until companies are formed. Each Captain halts company and salutes Adjutant. Adjutant returns salutes and when last Captain has saluted, faces Major and reports "Sir, the Battalion is formed." He joins Major without command.

For Ceremonies.—Or when directed, Battalion is formed in line. Adjutant places himself 6 paces to right of right company and facing in direction line is to extend. Guides precede companies on line by 20 paces. Adjutant causes guides to cover. Companies are halted one pace in rear of line and dressed to right against arm of guide. When guides of left company have been posted, Adjutant by shortest route moves to post facing Battalion midway between post of Major and center of Battalion. Adjutant commands: 1. Guides, 2. Posts, 3. Present, 4. Arms. He then faces about and reports, "Sir, the Battalion is formed." Major commands, "Take your post, sir."

To Dismiss The Battalion.—Dismiss your companies.

To Rectify The Alignment.—See Infantry Drill Regulations, paragraphs 273-274.

To Rectify The Column.—See Infantry Drill Regulations, paragraph 275.

Helpful Hints To Beginners.—These hold good with few exceptions.

When in column of squads; first command of Captain begins with word "Column."

When in column of companies; first command of Captain begins with word "Squads."

In Column Of Squads.—

Major: On right (left) into line.

First Captain: Squads right. (Captain marches beside right guide.)

Rear Captains: Continue to march (If halted, forward).

Major: March.

Rear Captains: (Upon uncovering preceding company) Squads right.

Major: Battalion.

First Captain: Company.

Major: Halt.

First Captain: Right Dress, Front.

Rear Captains: (Coming on line). Company Halt, Right Dress, Front.

Major: Right (left) front into line.

First Captain: Column right.

Rear Captains: Column half right.

Major: March.

First Captain: (Halts and allows company to pass him and form column of squads to right.) Squads left, Company Halt, Left Dress, Front.

Rear Captains: When company in column of squads arrives one pace in rear of the right flank of the company that has formed in line. Column half right, March. The Captain then takes 5 paces beyond the flank of the last company in line, allows company to pass him, and as rear guide reaches him, commands: Squads left, March, Company Halt, Left Dress, Front.

Major: Line of companies at (seven) paces, guide left (right). (Close on first company from column of squads is no longer used in Battalion drill.)

First Captain: Continue to march (if halted, forward).

Rear Captains: Column half right.

Major: March.

Rear Captains: (When company reaches a position 7 paces to the flank of the leading company.) Column half right.

Major: Battalion.

All Captains: Company.

Major: Halt.

Major: Column of companies, first company squads right (left).

First Captain: Squads right.

Rear Captains: Continue to march (if halted, forward.).

As each company reaches the point where the first company formed line the Captain commands: Squads right, March.

In Column Of Companies Or Close Column Of Companies.—

Major: On right (left) into line.

First Captain: Right turn.

Rear Captains: Continue to march (if halted, forward).

Major: March.

Rear Captains: Each Captain takes 5 paces beyond the left flank of the company that has just executed the turn and commands: Right turn, March.

Major: Battalion.

First Captain: Company.

Major: Halt.

First Captain: Right Dress, Front.

Rear Captains: (As they come on line.) Company Halt, Right Dress, Front.

Major: Right (left) front into line.

First Captain: Company.

Second Capt: Right by Squads.

Third and fourth Captains: Squads Right.

Major: March.

First Captain: Halt, Left Dress, Front.

Rear Captains: Column half left, March, Column half right March. Taking 5 paces from the flank of the company last on line and allowing the company to pass by him until the rear guide reaches him, Captain commands: Squads left, March, Company Halt, Left Dress, Front.

Major: Close on first company (Never any other).

First Captain: Company.

Rear Captains: Continue to march (if halted, forward).

Major: March.

First Captain: Halt.

Rear Captains: As each successive company closes to 8 paces from the company immediately in front, the Captain commands: Company Halt.

Major: Extend on fourth company. (Never any other.)

First Captain: Continue to march (if halted, forward).

Rear Captains: Company.

Major: March.

Rear Captains: Halt. Then as each company in rear of the leading company gets the proper distance (company front plus 5 paces) the Captain commands: Forward March.

Close column not extended in double time.

Major: Column of squads, first company squads right (left).

First Captain: Squads right.

Rear Captains: Continue to march (if halted, forward). As each company reaches the point where the first company formed column of squads, the Captain commands: Squads right, March.

Major: Column right (left).

First Captain: Right turn.

Rear Captains: Continue to March (if halted, forward).

Major: March.

First Captain: When the marching flank of the company is one pace from the new line the Captain commands: Forward March.

Rear Captains: Other companies march squarely up to the turning point and each changes direction at the Captain's command: Right turn, March, Forward, March.

Line Of Companies Or Close Line Of Companies.

Major: Battalion right (left).

First Captain: Column right.

Flank Captains: Column half right.

Major: March.

Flank Captains: When each company has moved 7 paces to the flank of the base company the command is: Column half right, March. The companies are then marched echeloned with an interval of 7 paces.

Major: Battalion.

First Captain: Company.

Major: Halt.

Flank Captains: Continue to march. As each company comes into line with the base company the Captain commands: Company, Halt.

Major: Close on first (fourth) company.

Extend on first (fourth) company. Both movements executed in the same manner.

First Captain: (If marching.) Halt. (If halted, cautions "Stand Fast.")

Flank Captains: Squads right.

Major: March.

Flank Captains: Right Oblique, March. (When the company has closed sufficiently): Forward March, Squads left, March. (Then as the company comes on the line with first company): Company, Halt.

Major: Column of Squads, first (fourth) company, forward.

First Captain: Forward.

Flank Captains: Column half right (left).

Major: March.

Flank Captains: As their companies come onto the line behind the leading company (at 4.4 paces) the Captain commands: Column half right, March.

In Battalion Line.

Major: Close on first (fourth) company.

First Captain: Stand fast (Caution).

Second Captain: Squads right, column right.

Third and fourth Captains: Squads right, column half right.

Major: March.

Second, third and fourth Captains: As each company reaches a point 8 paces behind the company just preceding it into close column, the command is given: Column half right, March. (Cautioning "Guide left" when closing on first company—"Guide right" when closing on fourth company): Squads left, March, Company, Halt.

Major: Halt.

First Captain: Right Dress, Front.

Rear Captains: (As they come on the line): Company Halt, Right Dress, Front.

Plate No. 2A.
CO. I—N.E. Proper Arrangement Of Shelter Tents.

Plate No. 2B.
Layout Of Equipment For Inspection.
Tent Pins Should Be Laid In Echelon Three Inches Apart.

Inspections.

(Kitchen and mess inspections have been covered under Feeding Men.)

Daily inspection of the barracks should be made and rigid discipline enforced as to the floors being kept clean, scrubbed once a week, bedding and bed clothes aired out of doors every Tuesday, shoes cleaned and kept in order under bunks, lockers under bunks, toilet articles and books all kept in order. Sheets, comforters and blankets should be shaken out, folded as for pack and laid on top of pillow until afternoon, each day.

In inspecting men every week see that hair is kept short and feet clean and in good condition, toe nails trimmed. Insist on woolen socks.

Equipment must be inspected carefully, each week, to see that it is in good condition.

Special Points Of Company Inspection.

After Open Ranks, March, given from usual position in front of Company, the Captain takes his post 3 paces in front of Right Guide, facing to the left and commands:

1. Front. 2. Prepare for Inspection.

The Lieutenants are 3 paces in front of the center of their respectives Platoons, facing to front.

If equipment is also to be inspected, commands are as follows:

1. Close Ranks. 2. March. Stack Arms. Backward, March. Take Interval to the Right, March. Company, Halt.

1. Unsling Equipment. 2. Open Pack