The Drill Pad
Judge's Corner

The following drill movements correspond with the National High School Drill Championship's Unarmed Flight Regulation sequence.
NOTE: A formation at the Nationals consists of twelve cadets in a flight/platoon with three elements/squads.

Movement Air Force Army Navy/Marines
1. Dress Right Dress

2. Ready Front

(normal interval)

everyone except the last airman in each element raises and extends the left arm laterally from the shoulder with snap so the arm is parallel with the ground. As the arm is raised, uncup the hand at approximately waist level, keeping the palm down. Extend and join the fingers and place the thumb along the forefinger. At the same time as the left arm is raised, each individual (except the guide and second, third, and fourth element leaders) turns head and eyes 45 degrees to the right with snap. The leading individual of each file establishes normal interval (by taking small choppy steps and aligning with the base file) and establishes exact shoulder-to-fingertip contact with the individual to the immediate right. The second, third, and fourth element leaders align themselves directly behind the person in front of them (using small choppy steps) and visually establish a 40-inch distance. As the remaining members align themselves behind the individual in front of or to the right of them, their shoulders may or may not touch the fingertips of the individual to their right. If the arm is too long, place the extended hand behind the shoulder of the individual to the left. If the arm is too short, leave it extended toward the individual to the left and parallel to the ground. Once dress, cover, interval, and distance have been established, the command Ready, FRONT will be given. On this command, airmen whose arms are up will lower their arms with snap to their sides (without slapping their sides) and recup their hands when their arm is at approximately waist level. As the arm is lowered, airmen whose heads are turned will return their heads to the front with snap. The body is now back to the position of attention.

(complete movement)

the right flank man stands fast. Each member, except the right flank man, turns his head and eyes to the right and aligns himself with the man on his right. Each member, except the left flank man, extends his left arm laterally at shoulder level, elbow locked, fingers and thumb extended and joined, palm facing down. He ensures his left arm is in line with his body and positions himself by short steps right or left until his right shoulder touches the fingertips of the man on his right. On the command of execution FRONT, each member returns sharply to the position of attention.

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 half right in marching, returns to his position (center of the squad), halts perpendicular to the formation, faces to the left, and commands Ready, FRONT.

Squad Leaders. At the command of execution DRESS, all squad leaders will furnish interval to the men on their left by smartly raising their left arm laterally to shoulder height. The fingers are extended and joined. The thumb is along the hand with the palm down. The second, third, and fourth squad leaders will cover on the first squad leader and keep their heads to the front and obtain proper distance. They will remain in this position until given another command.
Remainder of the Platoon. At the com
mand of execution DRESS, all remaining members of the platoon will furnish interval to the men on their left by smartly raising their left arm laterally to shoulder height. The fingers are extended and joined. The thumb is along the hand with the palm down. At the same time, they will smartly turn their heads to the right to obtain interval by moving to the right or to the left until their right shoulder lightly touches the finger tips of the man on their right. They will obtain alignment by moving forward or backward until on line with the man on the right. The extreme left flank men would not raise their hands since there is no one to furnish interval to. They will remain in this position until given another command. The only command they may receive is Ready, FRONT; COVER. On the command of execution FRONT, all men will smartly and quietly lower their arms to their sides and at the same time turn their heads to the front. On the command COVER, all members of the second, third and fourth ranks will cover on the respective member in the front rank.

Unit Leader.
At his own command of execution, the unit leader will face half left as in marching and take a 30-inch step. He will continue to march until he has positioned himself on line with the first rank and one pace to the right of the extreme right flank man. He will then execute a right face, so that he is facing down line. He will align the front rank by commanding those men in advance or rear of the line to move forward or backward until on line. Only those men commanded to move will move and they will continue to move until commanded, "Steady". He may verify alignment by taking a series of short left steps or right steps. He may not lean to the right or to the left to identify men. He must be on line with the first rank in order to command them to move. He will identify these men by name or number only. After aligning the first rank, he will then face left as in marching and take a 30-inch step. He will continue to march maintaining his one pace interval to the right of the extreme right flank man until he comes on line with the second rank and will execute a halt. He will then execute a right face and will then align the second rank in the same manner as the first rank. After aligning the second rank, he will then face left as in marching and take a 30-inch step. He will continue to march, maintaining his one pace interval to the right of the extreme right flank man until he comes on line with the third rank and will execute a halt. He will then execute a right face and align the third rank in the same manner as he aligned the first and second ranks. After aligning the third rank, he will face left as in marching and take a 30-inch step. He will continue to march, maintaining his one pace interval to the right of the extreme right flank man until he comes on line with the fourth rank. There he will execute a halt. He will then execute a right face and align the fourth rank in the same manner as the first, second, and third rank. He will then face right as in marching and take a 30-inch step. He will continue to march, maintaining his one pace interval to the right of the extreme right flank man until he has positioned himself three paces in front of the front rank and will execute a halt. He will then execute a right face. From here he will give his next command which is READY FRONT. On the command of execution, all members of the formation who have executed dress right dress will smartly and quietly lower their left arm to their side and at the same time, return their head to the front. The unit leader will then command COVER. On the command COVER, all members of the second, third, and fourth squads will cover on their respective member in the front rank. At the command COVER, the unit leader moves by the most direct route to his post, six paces in front of and centered on the platoon.

3. At Ease On the command AT EASE, airmen may relax in a standing position, but they must keep the right foot in place. Their position in the formation will not change, and silence will be maintained.

(complete movement)
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.

NOTE: Do not confuse this movement with Stand At Ease (See item 44).

(complete movement)
keep your right foot in place. You may move about but must not talk. You may also be given this command when not in ranks. In this case, it means cease talking but continue whatever you were doing before the command.

4. Flight/Platoon, Attention

On the preparatory command for attention, immediately assume parade rest.

On the command of execution, lift left leg from hip and place left foot smartly to the right; heels together on line, feet 45 degrees. Place thumbs, which are resting along the first joint of the forefinger, along the seams of the trousers or sides of the skirt.

Hands are cupped
(but not clenched as a fist) with palms facing the leg.

(complete movement)

On the preparatory command for attention, immediately assume parade rest.

bring the heels together sharply on line, with the toes pointing out equally, forming an angle of 45 degrees. Rest the weight of the body evenly on the heels and balls of both feet. Keep the legs straight without locking the knees. Hold the body erect with the hips level, chest lifted and arched, and the shoulders square.

Keep the head erect and face straight to the front with the chin drawn in so that alignment of the head and neck is vertical.

Let the arms hang straight without stiffness. Curl the fingers so that the tips of the thumbs are alongside and touching the first joint of the forefingers. Keep the thumbs straight along the seams of the trouser leg with the first joint of the fingers touching the trousers.

Remain silent and do not move unless otherwise directed.

(complete movement)

thumbs along the trouser seams, palms facing inward towards your legs, and fingers joined in their natural curl.
5. Count Off ( line formation)

Note: See item 43 for column formation.

The command is Count, OFF. On the command OFF, all airmen, except the guide and element leaders, turn their head and eyes 45 degrees to the right, and the element leaders call out ONE in a normal tone of voice. After the element leaders call out ONE, airmen in the next file turn their heads and eyes in unison to the front and call out TWO. This procedure continues in quick time until all files, full or partial, are numbered. All movements are made in a precise manner with snap.

(complete movement)
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.
6. Right Face

raise the right toe and left heel slightly and pivot 90 degrees to the right on the ball of the left foot and the heel of the right foot, assisted by slight pressure on the ball of the left foot. Keep legs straight, but not stiff. The upper portion of the body remains at attention. Next, bring the left foot smartly forward, ensuring heels are together and on line. Feet should now be forming a 45-degree angle, which means the position of attention has been resumed.

(complete movement)

slightly raise the left heel and right toe, and turn 90 degrees to the right on the right heel, assisted by a slight pressure on the ball of the left foot. Keep the right leg straight without stiffness and allow the left leg to bend naturally. On the second count, place the left foot beside the right foot, resuming the position of attention. Arms remain at the sides, as in the position of attention, throughout this movement.

(complete movement)

raise your left heel and right toe slightly. Turn to the right on your right heel and left toe. Keep your left leg straight but not stiff. On count two, place the left foot smartly beside the right and stand at attention.

7. Close March
(Army - Close Interval)
the third element stands fast. The remaining elements take the required number of right steps, all at the same time, and halt together.

The second element takes two steps, and the first element takes four steps. The upper portion of the body remains at attention throughout the movement.

(complete movement)

8. Extend March
(Army - Close Interval)
Reverse the procedures used to obtain close interval to obtain normal interval.

(complete movement)
9. Left Face raise the left toe and right heel slightly and pivot 90 degrees to the left on the ball of the right foot and the heel of the left foot, assisted by slight pressure on the ball of the right foot. Keep legs straight, but not stiff. The upper portion of the body remains at attention. Next, bring the right foot smartly forward, ensuring heels are together and on line. Feet should now be forming a 45-degree angle, which means the position of attention has been resumed.

(complete movement)
slightly raise the right heel and left toe, and turn 90 degrees to the left on the left heel, assisted by a slight pressure on the ball of the right foot. Keep the left leg straight without stiffness and allow the right leg to bend naturally. On the second count, place the right foot beside the left foot, resuming the position of attention. Arms remain at the sides, as in the position of attention, throughout this movement.

(complete movement)
10. Open Ranks March

On the command MARCH, the third rank stands fast and automatically executes dress right dress at normal interval. Each succeeding rank in front of the third rank takes the required numbered of paces, stepping off with the left foot and a coordinated armswing (all at the same time), halts, and automatically executes dress right dress. The second rank takes one pace forward, halts and automatically executes dress right dress. The first rank takes two paces forward, halts and automatically executes dress right dress

Once halted, the distance between ranks will be 70 inches.

The flight commander proceeds and aligns the flight. Once the flight is aligned, the flight commander commands Ready, FRONT.

(complete movement)

On the command of execution MARCH, the front rank takes one step forward, the second rank stands fast, and the third rank takes two steps backward.

NOTE: After taking the prescribed steps, the men do not raise their arms.

(complete movement)
11. Close Ranks March

On the command MARCH, the first rank stands fast.

The second rank takes one pace forward with coordinated arm swing and halts at the position of attention

The third rank takes two paces forward with coordinated arm swing and halts at the position of attention

(complete movement)

On the command of execution MARCH, the first rank takes two steps backward, the second rank stands fast, and the third rank takes one step forward.

On the command of execution MARCH, the platoon leader takes the appropriate number of steps to maintain their post.

(complete movement)
12. Right Step march

12a. Flight/Platoon Halt

On the command MARCH, raise the right leg from the hip just high enough to clear the ground. The leg will be kept straight, but not stiff, throughout the movement. Place the right foot 12 inches, as measured from the inside of the heels, to the right of the left foot. Transfer the weight of the body to the right foot, then bring the left foot (without scraping the ground) smartly to a position alongside the right foot as in the position of attention. This movement is continued in quick time; the upper portion of the body remains at attention and arms remain at the sides throughout.

To halt from the right step, the preparatory command and command of execution are given as the heels come together. The halt from the right step is executed in two counts. On the command HALT, one more step is taken with the right foot and the left foot is placed smartly alongside the right foot as in the position of attention.

(complete movement)

On the preparatory command of Right step, shift the weight of the body without noticeable movement onto the left foot. On the command of execution MARCH, bend the right knee slightly and raise the right foot only high enough to allow freedom of movement. Place the right foot 15 inches to the right of the left foot, and then move the left foot (keeping the left leg straight) alongside the right foot as in the position of attention. Continue this movement, keeping the arms at the sides as in the position of attention.

To halt when executing right step, the command is Squad (Platoon), HALT. This movement is executed in two counts. The preparatory command is given when the heels are together the command of execution HALT is given the next time the heels are together. On the command of execution HALT, take one more step with the lead foot and then place the trailing foot alongside the lead foot, resuming the position of attention.

(complete movement)
Done exactley the same way as the Air Force.
13. Left Face
(Same as item 9)
14. Right Step March

14 a. Flight/Platoon Halt
On the command MARCH, raise the Right leg from the hip just high enough to clear the ground. The leg will be kept straight, but not stiff, throughout the movement. Place the right foot 12 inches, as measured from the inside of the heels, to the right of the left foot. Transfer the weight of the body to the right foot, then bring the left foot (without scraping the ground) smartly to a position alongside the right foot as in the position of attention. This movement is continued in quick time; the upper portion of the body remains at attention and arms remain at the sides throughout.

To halt from the rightt step, the preparatory command and command of execution are given as the heels come together. The halt from the right step is executed in two counts. On the command HALT, one more step is taken with the right foot and the left foot is placed smartly alongside the right foot as in the position of attention.

(complete movement)
On the preparatory command of Right step, shift the weight of the body without noticeable movement onto the left foot. On the command of execution MARCH, bend the right knee slightly and raise the right foot only high enough to allow freedom of movement. Place the right foot 15 inches to the right of the left foot, and then move the left foot (keeping the left leg straight) alongside the right foot as in the position of attention. Continue this movement, keeping the arms at the sides as in the position of attention.

To halt when executing right step, the command is Squad (Platoon), HALT. This movement is executed in two counts. The preparatory command is given when the heels are together the command of execution HALT is given the next time the heels are together. On the command of execution HALT, take one more step with the lead foot and then place the trailing foot alongside the lead foot, resuming the position of attention.

(complete movement)
Done exactley the same way as the Air Force.
15. About Face

lift the right foot from the hip just enough to clear the ground. Without bending the knees, place the ball of the right foot approximately half a shoe length behind and slightly to the left of the heel. Distribute the weight of the body on the ball of the right foot and the heel of the left foot. Keep both legs straight, but not stiff. The position of the foot has not changed. This completes count one of the movement.

Keeping the upper portion of the body at the position of attention, pivot 180 degrees to the right on the ball of the right foot and heel of the left foot, with a twisting motion from the hips. Suspend arm swing during the movement, and remain as though at attention. On completion of the pivot, heels should be together and on line and feet should form a 45-degree angle. The entire body is now at the position of attention. This completes count two of the movement.

(complete movement)

move the toe of the right foot to a point touching the marching surface about half the length of the foot to the rear and slightly to the left of the left heel. Rest most of the weight of the body on the heel of the left foot and allow the right knee to bend naturally.

On the second count, turn to the right 180 degrees on the left heel and ball of the right foot, resuming the position of attention. Arms remain at the sides, as in the position of attention, throughout this movement.

(complete movement)
At the command ABOUT, shift your weight to your left leg without noticeable movement. On count one at the command FACE, place your right toe half a foot length behind and slightly to the left of your heel. Do not change the position of your left foot. Rest most of your weight on the left heel.

On count two, turn smartly to the right until facing rear. The turn is made on the left heel and ball of the right foot. Your feet will be at attention when the turn is completed if your right toe was placed properly in the beginning.
16. Forward March

On the command MARCH, smartly steps off straight ahead with the left foot, taking a 24-inch step (measured from heel to heel), and places the heel on the ground first. When stepping off and while marching, the airman will use coordinated arm swing; that is, right arm forward with the left leg and left arm forward with the right leg. The hands will be cupped with the thumbs pointed down. The arms will hang straight, but not stiff, and will swing naturally.

The swing of the arms will measure 6 inches to the front (measured from the rear of the hand to the front of the thigh) and 3 inches to the rear (measured from the front of the hand to the back of the thigh). If applicable, proper dress, cover, interval, and distance will be maintained. Proper cadence will be adhered to.

(complete movement)

On the preparatory command Forward, shift the weight of the body to the right foot without noticeable movement. On the command of execution MARCH, step forward 30 inches with the left foot and continue marching with 30-inch steps, keeping the head and eyes fixed to the front.

The arms swing in a natural motion, without exaggeration and without bending at the elbows, approximately
9 inches straight to the front and 6 inches straight to the rear of the trouser seams. Keep the fingers curled as in the position of attention so that the fingers just clear the trousers.

On Forward, shift your weight to the right leg without noticeable movement. On MARCH, step off smartly, left foot first, and walk straight ahead with 30-inch steps.

Swing your arms easily in their natural arcs,
6 inches straight to the front and 3 inches to the rear. Do not overdo movements and do not march stiffly.
17. Column Right March
(forward march)

On the command Column Right, MARCH, the third element leader takes one more 24-inch step, pivots 90 degrees to the right on the ball of the left foot, and suspends armswing during the pivot. Following the pivot, step off in a 24-inch step and resume coordinated armswing. Beginning with the second step after the pivot, take up the half step. Each succeeding member of the third element marches to the approximate pivot point established by the
person in front of him or her and performs the same procedures as the element leader

The second element leader takes one 24-inch step, (maintaining coordinated arm swing throughout) pivots 45 degrees to the right on the ball of the left foot, and takes two 24-inch steps prior to pivoting 45 degrees to the right on the ball of the left foot. Continue marching in 24-inch steps until even with the person who marches on the right. Then begin half stepping and establish interval and dress. Each succeeding member of the third (second) element marches to the approximate pivot point established by the person in front of him or her and performs the same procedures as the element leader.

The first element leader takes one more 24-inch step, (maintaining coordinated armswing throughout) pivots 45 degrees to the right on the ball of the left foot, and takes four 24-inch steps prior to pivoting 45 degrees to the right on the ball of the left foot. Continue marching in 24-inch steps until even with the person who marches on the right. Then begin half stepping, and establish interval and dress. Each succeeding member of the first element marches to the approximate pivot point established by the person in front of him or her and performs the same procedures as the element leader.

Once the entire formation has changed direction and dress, cover, interval, and distance are reestablished, Forward, MARCH will be given. On the command MARCH, take one more 12-inch step with the right foot, then step off with a full 24-inch step with the left foot.

(complete movement)
18. Column Right March
(forward march)
Same as item 17.
19. Left Flank March

On the command MARCH, takes one more 24-inch step, pivots 90 degrees to the left on the ball of the right foot, keeping the upper portion of the body at the position of attention.

Then step off with the left foot in the new direction of march with a full 24-inch step and coordinated arm swing. Arm swing is suspended to the sides as the weight of the body comes forward on the pivot foot. The pivot and step off are executed in one count. Throughout the movement, maintain proper dress, cover, interval, and distance.

(complete movement)
20. Right Flank March On the command MARCH, the airman takes one more 24-inch step, pivots 90 degrees to the right on the ball of the left foot, keeping the upper portion of the body at the position of attention.

Then step off with the right foot in the new direction of march with a full 24-inch step and coordinated arm swing. Arm swing is suspended to the sides as the weight of the body comes forward on the pivot foot. The pivot and step off are executed in one count. Throughout the movement, maintain proper dress, cover, interval, and distance.

(complete movement)
21. Column Left March
(forward march)
On the command Column Left, MARCH, the first element leader takes one more 24-inch step, pivots 90 degrees to the left t on the ball of the right foot, and suspends armswing during the pivot. Following the pivot, step off in a 24-inch step and resume coordinated armswing. Beginning with the second step after the pivot, take up the half step. Each succeeding member of the first element marches to the approximate pivot point established by the person in front of him or her and performs the same procedures as the element leader

The second element leader takes one 24-inch step, (maintaining coordinated arm swing throughout) pivots 45 degrees to the left on the ball of the right foot, and takes two 24-inch steps prior to pivoting 45 degrees to the left on the ball of the right foot. Continue marching in 24-inch steps until even with the person who marches on the left. Then begin half stepping and establish interval and dress. Each succeeding member of the second element marches to the approximate pivot point established by the person in front of him or her and performs the same procedures as the element leader.

The third element leader takes one more 24-inch step, (maintaining coordinated armswing throughout) pivots 45 degrees to the left on the ball of the right foot, and takes four 24-inch steps prior to pivoting 45 degrees to the left on the ball of the right foot. Continue marching in 24-inch steps until even with the person who marches on the left. Then begin half stepping, and establish interval and dress. Each succeeding member of the third element marches to the approximate pivot point established by the person in front of him or her and performs the same procedures as the element leader.

Once the entire formation has changed direction and dress, cover, interval, and distance are reestablished, Forward, MARCH will be given. On the command MARCH, take one more 12-inch step with the right foot, then step off with a full 24-inch step with the left foot.

the responsibility of dress reverts to the left flank on the preparatory command Column left. The responsibility remains with the left flank until the command MARCH is given; then it reverts to the right flank.

(complete movement)
22. To the Rear March

On the command MARCH, takes a 12-inch step with the left foot, placing it in front of and in line with the right foot and distributes the weight of the body on the balls of both feet. Then pivot on the balls of both feet, turning 180 degrees to the right, and take a 12-inch step with the left foot in the new direction, with coordinated armswing, before taking a full 24-inch step with the right foot. While pivoting, do not force the body up or lean forward. The pivot takes a full count, and the arm swing is suspended to the sides as the weight of the body comes forward while executing the pivot, as if at the position of attention.

(complete movement)
23. Half Step March

On the command MARCH, take one more 24-inch steps followed by a 12-inch step (measured from heel to heel) in quick time, setting the heel down first without scraping the ground. Mmaintain coordinated arm swing and continue the half step until marched forward or halted.

(complete movement)
24. Forward March Forward, MARCH is given as the heel of the left foot strikes the ground. On the command MARCH, take one more 12-inch step with the right foot and then step out with a full 24-inch step with the left foot.

(complete movement)
25. To the Rear March
Same as item 22.
25a. Flight Halt

The command is Flight, HALT, given as either foot strikes the ground. On the command HALT, take one more 24-inch step. Next, the trailing foot will be brought smartly alongside the front foot. The heels will be together, on line, and form a 45-degree angle. Coordinated arm swing will cease as the weight of the body shifts to the leading foot when halting.

(complete movement)

The preparatory command Squad (Platoon) is given as either foot strikes the marching surface as long as the command of execution HALT is given the next time that foot strikes the marching surface. The halt is executed in two counts. After HALT is commanded, execute the additional step required after the command of execution and then bring the trail foot alongside the lead foot, assuming the position of attention and terminating the movement.

(complete movement)

26. Column of Files From the Right
(forward march)

The command is Column of Files From the Right, Forward, MARCH. The element leader of the right element turns his or her head 45 degrees to the right and commands Forward. At the same time, the remaining element leaders turn their heads 45 degrees to the right and command STAND FAST. Their heads are kept to the right until they step off. On the command MARCH, the extreme right element steps off. The element leader of each remaining element commands Forward, MARCH as the last person in each element passes, ensuring the leaders element is in step with the preceding element. All elements then incline to the right, following the leading elements in successive order.

(complete movement)

The commands are File from the right, MARCH. On the preparatory command, the squad leader of the designated squad gives the supplementary command Forward. The other squad leaders command STAND FAST. On the command of execution MARCH, the lead squad marches forward. The squad leader next to the lead element (or as designated) looks over the shoulder nearest the moving element and commands Column half right when the second from the last man is on line with him. The squad leader gives the command of execution MARCH as the right foot of the last man strikes the marching surface when abreast of him. On the command of execution, the squad leader executes the column half right, then inclines without command to the right (left), and follows the last man of the preceding squad at correct distance. Other members of the squad march forward and execute the same movements as the squad leader. The remaining squads form the file in the same manner as the squad immediately behind the lead element.

(complete movement)
27. Column of Threes to the Left March

To form a column of threes when in a single file, the command is Column of Threes to the Left, MARCH. On the preparatory command, the leading element leader turns his or her head 45 degrees to the right and commands STAND FAST. At the same time, the remaining element leaders turn their heads 45 degrees to the right and command Column Half Left. On the command MARCH, the leading element stands fast, and the element leader returns his or her head back to the front. The remaining element leaders turn their heads back to the front and step off, executing a column left simultaneously, and incline and form to the left of the leading element. The remaining members of each element march to the approximate pivot point established by the element leaders and perform the movement in the same manner as the element leaders. Each element is halted by its element leader turning his or her head 45 degrees to the left and commanding the element to halt so his or her element is abreast of, and even with, the leading element.

(complete movement)

The platoon re-forms to the original column formation only from the halt. The command is Column of threes the left, MARCH. On the preparatory command, the squad leader of the base squad commands STAND FAST. All other squad leaders command Column half left. On the platoon leader’s command of execution MARCH, the base squad stands fast all other squads execute the column half left simultaneously. As each of the moving squad leaders reach a point (line) that ensures correct interval on the element to their right, they automatically incline to the right and command Mark time, MARCH and Squad, HALT so that their squad is abreast of the base (other) squad when halted.

(complete movement)

 

28. Column Left March
(forward march)
Same as item 21.
29. Double Time March
30. Quick Time March
31. Column Left March
(forward march)
Same as item 21.
31a. Flight Halt
Same as item 25a.
32. Column 1/2 Left March

When column half right (left) is executed from a halt, the procedures are the same as described while marching except, on the command of execution, the element leaders begin the movement by executing a face in marching to the indicated direction.

On the command MARCH, the leading airman of the right (left) flank advances one full 24-inch step, pivots 45 degrees to the right (left) on the ball of the left (right) foot, and advances another full 24-inch step, maintaining coordinated armswing.

The airman then takes up the half step and continues in a half step until each member in his or her rank is abreast of each other. Then all members of that rank resume a full 24-inch step. In the meantime, the remaining individuals of the leading rank pivot 45 degrees to the right (left), with coordinated armswing and without changing the interval, and continue marching in full 24-inch steps until they are abreast of the base file.

At this point, they conform to the step of the individual in the right (left) flank and establish the proper interval. The remaining airmen in each file march to the approximate pivot point established by the element leader and perform the movement in the same manner. They then dress to their right and cover directly behind the person in front of them.

The flight commander and guide pivot 45 degrees in the direction of the movement. Then they pivot 45 degrees back to their original positions in front of the column.

(complete Movement)

On the command of execution MARCH, the lead man faces in the commanded direction and steps off, as in marching. All other members march forward and pivot on the ball of the lead foot in the commanded direction and step off with the trailing foot. As the members approach the pivot point, they shorten or lengthen their steps as necessary to pivot at the approximate point that the lead man pivoted.

On the command of execution, MARCH, the pivot man would face half left as in marching and would take a 30-inch step with his left foot. He would then half step in the new direction of march. He continues to half step until the other men of this rank are abreast of him. Then he resumes a full step. The other men of his rank oblique to the leftght and place themselves abreast of the pivot man and conform to his step. This oblique is executed in such a manner that when completed they will be marching toward the new front with proper interval. The ranks to the rear of the leading rank will execute the movement on the same ground and in the same manner as the leading rank.

33. Column 1/2 Left March
Same as item 32.
34. To the Rear March
Same as item 22.
35. To the Rear March
Same as item 22.
36. Eyes Right

On the command RIGHT , all persons, except those on the right flank, turn their heads and eyes smartly 45 degrees to the right.

(complete Movement)

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.

(complete Movement)

On the command of execution RIGHT and for the count of one, your next step would be a 30-inch step to the front with your left foot. At the same time all files, except the right file, will smartly turn their head and eyes 45 degrees to the right (Step). The shoulders remain square to the front. The members of the right file will keep their head and eyes to the front. You will continue to march until given the next command.

(complete Movement)
37. Ready front The command Ready, FRONT is given as the left foot strikes the ground. On the command FRONT, heads and eyes are turned smartly to the front.

On the command of execution, the men turn their heads and eyes sharply to the front and the platoon leader terminates the hand salute.

On the command of execution, your next step is a 30-inch step to the front with your right foot. At the same time, all members who have executed eyes right will turn their head and eyes to the front (Step). You will continue to march until given another command.

38. Column Left March
(forward march)
Same as item 21.
39. Column Left March
(forward march)
Same as item 21.
40. Left Flank March
Same as item 19.
41. Change Step March

On the command MARCH, given as the right foot strikes the ground, take one more 24-inch step with the left foot. Then in one count, place the ball of the right foot alongside (not behind) the heel of the left foot, suspend arm swing, and shift the weight of the body to the right foot. Step off with the left foot in a 24-inch step, resuming coordinated arm swing.

The upper portion of the body remains at the position of attention throughout.

(complete movement)

On the command of execution 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.

(complete movement)
On MARCH, take one more 30 inch step. As your right foot comes forward to the next step, place the toe near the left heel and step out again with the left foot. This changes the cadence count, but not the rhythm.
41a. Flight Halt
Same as item 25a.


Additional Drill Movements
42. Parade Rest raise the left foot from the hip just enough to clear the ground and move it smartly to the left so the heels are 12 inches apart, as measured from the inside of the heels.

Keep the legs straight, but not stiff, and the heels on line. As the left foot moves, bring the arms, fully extended, to the back of the body, uncupping the hands in the process; and extend and join the fingers, pointing them toward the ground.

The palms will face outwards. Place the right hand in the palm of the left, right thumb over the left to form an "X" Keep head and eyes straight ahead, and remain silent and immobile.

Only Attention can be executed from this position

(complete movement)
move the left foot about 10 inches to the left of the right foot. Keep the legs straight without locking the knees, resting the weight of the body equally on the heels and balls of the feet. Simultaneously, place the hands at the small of the back and centered on the belt. Keep the fingers of both hands extended and joined, interlocking the thumbs so that the palm of the right hand is outward. Keep the head and eyes as in the position of attention. Remain silent and do not move unless otherwise directed.

Stand at ease, at ease, and rest may be executed from this position.

(complete movement)
move your left foot smartly 12 inches to the left. Both legs should be straight so your weight rests equally on each foot.

At the same time, join hands behind your back with your right hand inside your left, palms to the rear just below the belt.

The right hand loosely holds the left thumb.
Fingers are extended and joined.

Do not move and do not talk. Hold your head and eyes in the same position as you would if at attention.
43. Count Off (column formation) The command is Count, OFF. On the command OFF, the element leaders turn their heads 45 degrees to the right and in unison call out ONE over their right shoulder in a normal tone of voice.

Once the number is sounded, the element leaders turn their heads back to the front as shown. Once the heads of the individuals of the previous rank are turned back to the front, individuals in the next rank turn their heads 45 degrees to the right and call out the subsequent number.

This procedure continues in quick time until all ranks (full or partial) have been numbered. Except when calling out their number, individuals remain at the position of attention.

(complete movement)
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 ey
es to the right.
44. Stand at EASE No equivalent movement The command for that 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.

(complete movement)
No equivalent movement