Chapter VI: Part I: Individual Instruction (1)

=Section 2. General provisions.=

=34.=[6] Thorough training in the school of the trooper is the basis of efficiency.

[Footnote 6: The numbers refer to paragraphs in the Cavalry
Drill Regulations, 1916.]

=35.= Short and frequent drills are preferable to long ones, which exhaust the attention of both instructor and recruit.

=36.= As the instruction progresses, the recruits will be grouped according to proficiency, in order that all may advance as rapidly as their abilities permit. Those who lack aptitude and quickness will be separated from the others and placed under experienced drillmasters.

=37.= The individual dismounted instruction of the recruit is habitually given by experienced noncommissioned officers, especially selected for that purpose. All such instruction is under the careful personal supervision of a commissioned officer, and in the corresponding mounted instruction it is desirable that the actual instructor be a commissioned officer when this is practicable. All lieutenants will be required to instruct recruits in person sufficiently to acquire skill in such work.

When recruits, upon their arrival at a station, are assigned to their respective troops for training, the captains prescribe and supervise the instruction.

=38.= The instructor will always maintain a military bearing and by a quiet, firm demeanor, set a proper example to his men. A calm and even temper is indispensable. Unnecessarily loud commands and prolonged explanations are to be avoided.

As the recruits become somewhat proficient in the school of the trooper, the officer superintending the instruction may call upon them in turn to drill the squad in his presence and to correct any errors that may be observed. This will increase their interest, hasten their instruction, and facilitate judgment upon their fitness for the duties of noncommissioned officers.

=39.= A carefully thought out program of instruction, prepared in advance and based upon the probable time and facilities for instruction that the case in question may present, is essential to economy of time and effort and to systematic, thorough instruction.

=40.= The preliminary individual instruction, dismounted and mounted, should be carried on during different drill hours of the same days. This preliminary phase should include, in addition to regular drill, instruction in: The elements of discipline; the names of the various parts of the arms and equipment; the proper care of arms, equipment, and clothing; elementary instructions as to the names of those parts of the horse that are frequently referred to at drill and stable duty; grooming; a few simple rules regarding the care of the horse; personal hygiene; and other related subjects.

=41.= As soon as the instruction shall have advanced so far as to include the few necessary preliminary drills, collective instruction =in the school of the squad= will be taken up. This instruction may, like the individual instruction, properly be carried on during different hours of the same drill days, in both mounted and dismounted phases. The recruits meanwhile continue their progress in the individual instruction.

=42.= The progress in =mounted= collective instruction must be carefully regulated in accordance with the recruit's confidence and skill in the management of his mount, and must progress no faster than the recruit's horsemanship justifies; but this restriction need not affect the =dismounted= collective instruction, and the latter may properly be carried forward as rapidly as the state of the dismounted individual instruction will permit. By the time the recruit's instruction in equitation has progressed so as to prepare him for mounted drills at the faster gaits, he should have learned the mechanism of all the movements by executing them at a walk. His course of dismounted training should meanwhile have included not only the close-order movements of the squad but the mechanism of extended order, practice in the use of the saber, a little preparatory range practice with the rifle and pistol, and work in the nature of minor field exercises involving dismounted fire action. He should, during the same period, have learned the mechanism of passing from mounted action to dismounted action and should have acquired familiarity with all commands and signals used in the squad. The recruit will thus ordinarily be ready to enter with reasonable efficiency upon certain phases of the work in the platoon and troop before his individual mounted instruction is completed.

=43.= There are two kinds of commands:

The =preparatory= command, such as =forward=, indicates the movement that is to be executed.

The command of =execution=, such as =MARCH=, =HALT=, or =ARMS=, causes the execution.

=Preparatory= commands are distinguished by =boldface type=, those of execution by =CAPITALS=.

The =preparatory= command should be given at such an interval of time before the command of =execution= as to admit of being properly understood; the command of =execution= should be given at the instant the movement is to commence.

The preparatory command is enunciated distinctly, with a rising inflection at the end, and in such manner that the command of execution may be more energetic.

On foot, the command of execution is firm in tone and brief.

In mounted movements the preparatory command is usually somewhat prolonged to insure its being heard, and the command of execution is always prolonged.

_Commands will be given no louder than is necessary._

Laxness or indifference suggested in the manner of giving a command is certain to result in corresponding carelessness of execution.

=44.= To revoke a preparatory command, or being at the halt, to begin anew a movement improperly begun: =AS YOU WERE=. Any movement ceases and the former position is resumed.

=45.= To stay the execution of a movement when marching, for the correction of errors, the commands may be given: 1. =In place=, 2. =HALT=. All halt and stand fast. If executed dismounted, the position of the rifle is not changed. To resume the movement, the commands are: 1. =Resume=; or, 1. =Resume, trot=; or, 1. =Resume, gallop=. 2. =MARCH=. The movement is then completed as if it had not been interrupted.

=46.= Movements that may be executed toward either flank are explained as toward but one flank, it being necessary to substitute the word "left" for "right," and the reverse, to have the explanation of the corresponding movement toward the other flank. The commands are given for the execution of the movements toward either flank. The substitute word of the command is placed within parentheses.

=47.= Any movement may be executed either from the halt or when marching unless otherwise prescribed.

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

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

=48.= As instructors, officers and noncommissioned officers go wherever their presence is necessary.

=49.= Before beginning work, the instructor always assures himself that those under his charge are neatly dressed and in proper uniform. At mounted formations he will also require that horses be properly groomed and that equipments be in good condition and adjusted as prescribed.

=50.= The value of recruit drill as an exercise in teaching discipline must be kept constantly in view by the instructor. No phase of the instruction is of such great ultimate importance.

=Section 3. School of the trooper, dismounted.=

=51.= The object of this school is to develop the strength and agility of the trooper, to give him a military bearing, to fix in him the habit of sustained attention and instant obedience, to prepare him for instruction in mounted combat with the saber and pistol, and to train him in dismounted combat with the rifle.

In order to make rapid progress in those exercises which form the basis of instruction of the trooper, it is necessary that the lessons should, as far as practicable, be given individually.

=52.= _Cautions to instructors._--The instructor explains briefly each movement, first executing it himself if practicable. He requires the recruits to take the proper positions unassisted and does not touch them for the purpose of correcting them, except when they are unable to correct themselves. He avoids keeping them too long at the same movement, although each should be understood before passing to another. He exacts by degrees the desired precision and uniformity. Recruits should be allowed to stand at ease frequently. During these pauses the instructor will not be idle, but opportunity will be taken to talk to the men, to encourage them to ask questions, and so to develop their confidence and common sense.

=53.= During the period devoted to preliminary instruction, without arms, the recruit will be prepared for subsequent instruction with arms by being taught the names of the principal parts of the different weapons and the proper methods of cleaning, disassembling, assembling, and operating the latter.

PHYSICAL TRAINING.

=54.= The physical training of the soldier must receive due attention. Its direct results are to increase the soldier's strength, agility, and endurance, and it has indirect results of far-reaching value in connection with discipline and morale. It should begin with his first instruction as a recruit and be continued throughout his entire enlistment. The methods prescribed in the authorized Manual of Physical Training will be followed with a view to making the soldier's development thorough and well balanced, and to prevent the instruction from becoming unnecessarily tedious and monotonous.

=55.= In the earlier phases of the recruit instruction, and under temporary conditions that do not favor the carrying out of a more comprehensive scheme of training, special attention will be given to the =setting-up exercises=. Running, jumping, and swimming are phases of training of special importance to the soldier.

INDIVIDUAL INSTRUCTION WITHOUT ARMS.

=56.= For this instruction a few recruits, usually not exceeding 3 or 4, are placed (as a squad) in single rank, facing to the front.

=57.= To teach the recruits how to form in ranks the instructor will first place them in single rank, arranged according to height, the tallest man on the right, with intervals of about 4 inches between men, and will explain that the object of these intervals is to give freedom of movement in marching and in the use of the rifle in ranks. He will then direct each man singly to place the palm of the left hand on the hip, fingers pointing downward, and draw attention to the fact that the indicated interval of about 4 inches may be verified by each man so placing himself that his right arm, when hanging naturally at his side, touches the elbow of the man on his right. When this is understood, he will cause the recruits to fall out and successively to place themselves as before, each man verifying his interval by causing his right arm to touch the left elbow of the man on his right, the latter's hand being on his hip, as already explained. He will then explain that at the command =FALL IN= the men will, beginning with the right trooper, successively and quickly take their places in rank, each man placing the left hand at the hip as above and dropping his hand to his side as soon as the man on his left has the proper interval.

=58.= The recruits having had sufficient instruction to understand how to form by command, the instructor commands: =FALL IN=.

The men assemble as prescribed in par. 57, each taking the position of =attention= as described below.

As soon as the recruits have had sufficient preliminary instruction they will habitually be formed as regularly prescribed for a squad.

POSITION OF THE TROOPER, OR ATTENTION (DISMOUNTED).

=59.= Heels on the same line and as near each other as the conformation of the man permits.

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

Knees straight without stiffness.

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

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

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

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

THE RESTS.

=60.= Being at a halt, the commands are: =FALL OUT=; =REST=; =AT EASE=; and 1. =Parade=, 2. =REST=.

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

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

At the command =at ease=, each man keeps one foot in place and is required to preserve silence, but not immobility.

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

=61.= Being in march, at the command: 1. =Route order=, 2. =MARCH=; or 1. =At ease=, 2. =MARCH=, the men keep their places in ranks, but are not required to keep the step; at =route order=, they are not required to preserve silence. If halted from =route order=, the men stand at =rest=; if halted from =at ease=, they remain at ease.

Marching at =route order= or =at ease=, rifles are carried at will, the muzzles elevated.

=62.= To resume the attention: 1. =Squad=, 2. =ATTENTION=.

If at a halt, the men take the position of the trooper, dismounted (par. 59). If marching, the cadenced step in quick time is resumed, and rifles, if carried, are brought to the right shoulder.

=63.= To dismiss the squad: =DISMISSED=.

EYES RIGHT OR LEFT.

=64.= 1. =Eyes=, 2. =RIGHT=, 3. =FRONT=.

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

FACINGS.

=65.= To the flank: 1. =Right=, 2. =FACE=.

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

=66.= To the rear: 1. =About=, 2. =FACE=.

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

=67.= 1. =Hand=, 2. =SALUTE=.

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

(=TWO=), Drop the arm smartly by the side. The salute for officers is the same (Fig. 1).

STEPS AND MARCHES.

=68.= All steps and marchings executed from a halt, except right step, begin with the left foot.

=69.= The length of the full step in =quick time= is 30 inches, measured from heel to heel, and the cadence is at the rate of 120 steps per minute.

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

The instructor, when necessary, indicates the cadence of the step by calling =one=, =two=, =three=, =four=, or =left=, =right=, the instant the left and right foot, respectively, should be planted.

=70.= All steps and marchings and movements involving march are executed in quick time unless the squad be marching in double time, or double time be added to the command; in the latter case double time is added to the preparatory command.

Example: 1. =Forward, double time=, 2. =MARCH=.

=71.= It should be explained to the recruits that in collective drills and exercises one of the troopers, termed the =guide=, habitually has to follow a leader or direct himself upon some designated objective, the other troopers regulating their march so as, in line, to march abreast of the guide, maintaining their approximate intervals. The necessity, in this connection, for learning to march steadily in a given direction without wavering from side to side should further be pointed out. Each recruit should then be practiced individually in marching upon a designated objective, selecting for that purpose two points of direction on the straight line that passes through the trooper and the objective and keeping constantly in the prolongation of that line. When the objective is sufficiently distinct it should be taken as one of the points of direction and another point in line with the trooper and the objective, and either nearer or more distant than the latter be selected as a second point to fix the direction of march.

QUICK TIME AND DOUBLE TIME.

=72.= Being at a halt, to march forward in quick time: 1. =Forward=, 2. =MARCH=.

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

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

=73.= Being at a halt, or in march in quick time, to march forward in double time: 1. =Forward=, =double time=, 2. =MARCH.=

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

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

=74.= To resume the quick time: 1. =Quick time=, 2. =MARCH.=

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

TO MARK TIME.

=75.= Being in march: 1. =Mark time=, 2. =MARCH.=

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

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

THE HALF STEP.

=76.= 1. =Half step=, 2. =MARCH.=

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

=77.= =Forward=, =half step=, =halt=, and =mark time= may be executed one from the other in quick or double time.

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

SIDE STEP.

=78.= Being at a halt or mark time: 1. =Right (left) step=, 2. =MARCH.=

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

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

If at order arms, the side step is executed =at trail= without other command.

BACK STEP.

=79.= Being at a halt or mark time: 1. =Backward=, 2. =MARCH.=

Take steps of 15 inches straight to the rear.

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

If at order arms, the back step is executed =at trail= without other command.

TO HALT.

=80.= To stop the march in quick or double time: 1. =Squad=, 2. =HALT.=

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

TO MARCH BY THE FLANK.

=81.= Being in march: 1. =By the right (left) flank=, 2. =MARCH.=

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

This movement is not executed by =signal= except in =foragers=.

TO MARCH TO THE REAR.

=82.= Being in march: 1. =To the rear=, 2. =MARCH.=

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

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

This movement is not executed by =signal= except in =foragers=.

CHANGE STEP.

=83.= Being in march: 1. =Change step=, 2. =MARCH.=

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

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

TO COUNT FOURS.

=84.= Being in line, at the command, =COUNT FOURS=, all the troopers in the rank except the right trooper execute =eyes right= and, beginning on the right, count successively =1=, =2=, =3=, =4=. Each turns his head and eyes to the front as he counts.

Fours may be counted at the halt or marching, mounted or dismounted, in line or in column of twos or troopers. In counting fours in column of twos or troopers the elements count off successively from front to rear in the column and from right to left in each two. =Eyes right= is not executed when counting fours from column of twos or troopers.

TO TAKE INTERVALS AND DISTANCES.

=85.= Being in line at a halt: 1. =Take intervals, to the right (left)=, 2. =MARCH=, 3. =Squad=, 4. =HALT.=

At the command =march=, all face to the right and the leading trooper steps off; the other men step off in succession, each following the preceding trooper at four paces.

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

=86.= Being at intervals, to assemble the squad: 1. =Assemble to the right (left)=, 2. =MARCH.= The trooper on the right stands fast. The other troopers face to the right, close by the shortest line and face to the front.

=87.= Being in line at a halt and fours having been counted: 1. =Take distance=, 2. =MARCH=, 3. =Squad=, 4. =HALT.=

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

If there be more than one No. 1, all the Nos. 1 move forward together, guiding on the right trooper. The same principle applies to the other numbers.

=88.= The normal interval and distance of 4 paces indicated, respectively, in pars. 34 and 36, may be increased or diminished by adding to the corresponding preparatory command the indication of the interval or distance desired; thus: 1. =Take interval to the right at 1 pace=, 2. =MARCH=, etc.; 1. =Take distance, at 2 paces=, 2. =MARCH=, etc.

=89.= Being at distances, to assemble the squad: 1. =Assemble=, 2. =MARCH.=

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

INDIVIDUAL INSTRUCTION WITH ARMS.

MANUAL OF THE RIFLE.

=90.= When the recruit has made fair progress in the instruction without arms, including that required by par. 53, he is taught the manual of arms. Instruction without arms and that with arms alternate.

=91.= The following rules govern the carrying of the rifle:

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

=Second.= Whenever troops are formed under arms, rifles are immediately inspected at the commands: 1. =Inspection=, 2. =ARMS=; 3. =Order (right shoulder, port)=, 4. =ARMS.=

A. similar inspection is made immediately before dismissal.

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

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

=Fourth.= =Fall in= is executed with the rifle at the order arms. =Fall out=, =rest=, and =at ease= are executed as without arms. On resuming =attention= the position of order arms is taken.

=Fifth.= If at the order, unless otherwise prescribed, the rifle is brought to the right shoulder at the command =march=, the three motions corresponding with the first three steps. Movements may be executed at =the trail= by prefacing the preparatory command with the words =at trail=, as, 1. =At trail=, =forward=, 2. =MARCH=; the trail is taken at the command =march=.

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

=Sixth.= The rifle is brought to the order on halting. The execution of the order begins when the halt is completed.

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

=92.= The following rules govern the execution of the manual of arms:

=First.= In all positions of the left hand at the balance (center of gravity) the thumb clasps the rifle; the sling is included in the grasp of the hand. (Figs. 6, 12.)

=Second.= In all positions of the rifle "diagonally across the body" the position of the rifle, left arm, and hand are the same as in port arms. (Fig. 6.)

=Third.= In resuming the order from any position in the manual, the motion next to the last concludes with the butt of the rifle about 3 inches from the ground, barrel to the rear, the left hand above and near the right, steadying the rifle, fingers extended and joined, forearm and wrist straight and inclining downward, all fingers of the right hand grasping the rifle. To complete the order, lower the rifle gently to the ground with the right hand, drop the left quickly by the side, and take the position of order arms. (Fig. 2.)

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

=Fourth.= The cadence of the motions is that of quick time; the recruits are first required to give their whole attention to the details of the motions, the cadence being gradually acquired as they become accustomed to handling their rifles.

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

To execute the movements in detail, the instructor first cautions: =By the numbers=; all movement divided into motions are then executed as above explained until he cautions: =Without the numbers=; or commands movements other than those in the manual of arms.

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

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

=93.= =Position of order arms, standing=: The butt rests evenly on the ground, barrel to the rear, toe of the butt on a line with toe of, and touching, the right shoe, arms and hands hanging naturally, right hand holding the rifle between the thumb and fingers.

=94.= =Being at order arms=: 1. =Present=, 2. =ARMS.=

With the right hand carry the rifle in front of the center of the body, barrel to the rear and vertical, grasp it with the left hand at the balance, forearm horizontal and resting against the body. (=TWO=) Grasp the small of the stock with the right hand. (Fig. 5.)

=95.= =Being at order arms=: 1. =Port=, 2. =ARMS.=

With the right hand raise and throw the rifle diagonally across the body, grasp it smartly with both hands; the right, palm down, at the small of the stock; the left, palm up, at the balance; barrel up, sloping to the left and crossing opposite the junction of the neck with the left shoulder; right forearm horizontal; left forearm resting against the body; the rifle in a vertical plane parallel to the front. (Fig. 6.)

=96.= =Being at present arms=: 1. =Port=, 2. =ARMS.=

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

=97.= =Being at port arms=: 1. =Present=, 2. =ARMS.=

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

=98.= =Being at present or port arms=: 1. =Order=, 2. =ARMS.=

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

=99.= =Being at order arms=: 1. =Right shoulder=, 2. =ARMS.=

With the right hand raise and throw the rifle diagonally across the body; carry the right hand quickly to the butt, embracing it, the heel between the first two fingers. (=TWO=) Without changing the grasp of the right hand, place the rifle on the right shoulder, barrel up and inclined at an angle of about 45° from the horizontal, trigger guard in the hollow of the shoulder, right elbow near the side, the rifle in a vertical plane perpendicular to the front; carry the left hand, thumb, and fingers extended and joined, to the small of the stock, tip of the forefinger touching the cocking piece, wrist straight and elbow down. (=THREE=) Drop the left hand by the side. (Fig. 7.)

=100.= =Being at right shoulder arms=: 1. =Order=, 2. =ARMS.=

Press the butt down quickly and throw the rifle diagonally across the body, the right hand retaining the grasp of the butt. (=TWO=), (=THREE=) Execute order arms as described from port arms.

=101.= =Being at port arms=: 1. =Right shoulder=, 2. =ARMS.=

Change the right hand to the butt. (=TWO=), (=THREE=) As in right shoulder arms from =order arms=.

=102.= =Being at right shoulder arms=: 1. =Port=, 2. =ARMS.=

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

=103.= =Being at right shoulder arms=: 1. =Present=, 2. =ARMS.=

Execute port arms. (=THREE=) Execute present arms.

=104.= =Being at present arms=: 1. =Right shoulder=, 2. =ARMS.=

Execute port arms. (=TWO=), (=THREE=), (=FOUR=). Execute right shoulder arms as from port arms.

=105.= =Being at port arms=: 1. =Left shoulder=, 2. =ARMS.=

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

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

=106.= =Being at left shoulder arms=: 1. =Port=, 2. =ARMS.=

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

=107.= =Being at order arms=: 1. =Parade=, 2. =REST.=

Carry the right foot 6 inches straight to the rear, left knee slightly bent; carry the muzzle In front of the center of the body, barrel to the left; grasp the rifle with the left hand just below the stacking swivel and with the right hand below and against the left. (Fig. 8.)

=Being at parade rest=: 1. =Squad=, 2. =ATTENTION.=

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

=108.= =Being at order arms.= 1. =Trail=, 2. =ARMS.=

Raise the rifle, right arm slightly bent, and incline the muzzle forward so that the barrel makes an angle of about 30° with the vertical. (Fig. 9.)

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

=109.= =Being at trail arms=: 1. =Order=, 2. =ARMS.=

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

RIFLE SALUTE.

=110.= =Being at right shoulder arms=: 1. =Rifle=, 2. =SALUTE.=

Carry the left hand smartly to the small of the stock, forearm horizontal, palm of the hand down, thumb and fingers extended and joined, forefinger touching end of cocking piece; look toward the person saluted. (=TWO=) Drop left hand by the side; turn head and eyes to the front. (Fig. 10.)

With the rifle on the left shoulder, the salute is rendered in a corresponding manner with the right hand.

=111.= =Being at order or trail arms=: 1. =Rifle=, 2. =SALUTE.=

Carry the left hand smartly to the right side, palm of the hand down, thumb and fingers extended and joined, forefinger against the rifle near the muzzle; look toward the person saluted. (=TWO=) Drop the left hand by the side; turn the head and eyes to the front. (Fig. 11.)

THE INSPECTION.

=112.= =Being at order arms=: 1. =Inspection=, 2. =ARMS.=

At the second command, take the position of port arms. (=TWO=) Seize the bolt handle with the thumb and forefinger of the right hand, turn the handle up, draw the bolt back and glance at the chamber. Having found the chamber empty, or having emptied it, raise the head and eyes to the front. (Fig. 12.)

=113.= =Being at inspection arms=: 1. =Order (right shoulder, port)=, 2. =ARMS.=

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

TO DISMISS.

=114.= =Being at halt=: 1. =Inspection=, 2. =ARMS=, 3. =Port=, 4. =ARMS=, 5. =DISMISSED.=

TO STACK AND TAKE ARMS.

=115.= Three rifles only are used to make a stack; rifles not so used are, in this connection, termed loose rifles.

=Being in line at a halt=: =STACK ARMS.=

=At the command stack=, No. 3 steps back and covers No. 2, No. 2 raises his rifle with the right hand, grasps it with the left at the upper band and rests the butt between his feet, barrel to the front, muzzle inclined slightly to the front and opposite the center of the interval on his right, the thumb and forefinger raising the stacking swivel; No. 3 then passes his rifle, barrel to the rear, to No. 2, who grasps it between the bands with his right hand and throws the butt about 2 feet in advance of that of his own rifle and opposite the right of the interval, the right hand slipping to the upper band, the thumb and forefinger raising the stacking swivel, which he engages with that of his own rifle; No. 1 raises his rifle with the right hand, carries it well forward, barrel to the front, the left hand guiding the stacking swivel, engages the lower hook of the swivel of his own rifle with the free hook of that of No. 3; he then turns the barrel outward into the angle formed by the other two rifles and lowers the butt to the ground to the right of and against the toe of his right shoe. No. 2 lays loose rifles on the stack; No. 3 resumes his place in line. When each man has finished handling rifles, he takes the position of attention. The instructor may then rest or dismiss the squad, leaving the arms stacked.

On re-forming, the men take their places in rear of the stacks.

=116.= =Being in line, behind the stacks: TAKE ARMS.=

No. 3 steps back and covers No. 2; No. 2 returns the loose rifles, then grasps his own rifle with the left hand, the rifle of No. 3 with his right hand, grasping both between the bands; No. 1 grasps his rifle in the same way with the right hand. No. 1 disengages his rifle by raising the butt from the ground and then turning the rifle to the right, detaches it from the stack; No. 2 disengages and detaches his rifle by turning it to the left, and then passes the rifle of No. 3 to him; No. 3 resumes his place in line; all resume the order.

KNEELING AND LYING DOWN.

=117.= If standing: =KNEEL=.

Half face to the right; carry the right toe about 1 foot to the left rear of the left heel; kneel on the right knee, sitting as nearly as possible on the right heel; left forearm across left thigh; rifle remains in position of order arms, right hand grasping it above the lower band. This is the position of =order arms=, kneeling. (Fig. 13.)

=118.= If standing or kneeling: =LIE DOWN=.

Kneel, but with right knee against left heel; carry back the left foot and lie flat on the belly, inclining body about 35° to the right; rifle horizontal, barrel up, muzzle off the ground and pointed to the front; elbows on the ground; left hand at the balance, right hand grasping the small of the stock opposite the neck. This is the position of =order arms=, lying down. (Fig. 14.)

=119.= If kneeling or lying down: =RISE=.

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

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

=120.= If lying down: =KNEEL=.

Raise the body on both knees, take the position of kneel. When deployed as skirmishers, a sitting position may be taken instead of the position kneeling.

II. INSTRUCTION WITH THE RIFLE.

=23.= The commands for and the execution of the foot movements are the same as already given for movements without the rifle.

=24.= The men having taken intervals or distances, the instructor commands:

1. =Bayonet exercise=, 2. =GUARD=.

At the second command take the position of guard (see par. 15); at the game time throw the rifle smartly to the front, grasp the rifle with the left hand just below the lower hand, fingers between the stock and gun sling, barrel turned slightly to the left, the right hand grasping the small of the stock about 6 inches in front of the right hip, elbows free from the body, bayonet point at the height of the chin.

=25.= 1. =Order=, 2. =ARMS=.

Bring the right foot up to the left and the rifle to the position of order arms, at the same time resuming the position of attention.

=26.= During the preliminary instruction, attacks and defenses will be executed from guard until proficiency is attained, after which they may be executed from any position in which the rifle is held.

ATTACKS.

=27.= 1. =THRUST=.

Thrust the rifle quickly forward to the full length of the left arm, turning the barrel to the left, and direct the point of the bayonet at the point to be attacked, but covering the right forearm. At the same time straighten the right leg vigorously and throw the weight of the body forward and on the left leg, the ball of the right foot always on the ground. Guard is resumed immediately without command.

The force of the thrust is delivered principally with the right arm, the left being used to direct the bayonet. The points at which the attack should be directed are, in order of their importance, stomach, chest, head, neck, and limbs.

=28.= =1. LUNGE.=

Executed in the same manner as the thrust, except that the left foot is carried forward about twice its length. The left heel must always be in rear of the left knee. Guard is resumed immediately without command. Guard may also be resumed by advancing the right foot if for any reason it is desired to hold the ground gained in lunging. In the latter case the preparatory command forward will be given. Each method should be practiced.

=29.= 1. =Butt=, 2. =STRIKE.=

Straighten right arm and right leg vigorously and swing butt of rifle against point of attack, pivoting the rifle in the left hand at about the height of the left shoulder, allowing the bayonet to pass to the rear on the left side of the head. Guard is resumed without command.

The points of attack in their order of importance are head, neck, stomach, and crotch.

=30.= 1. =Cut=, 2. =DOWN.=

Execute a quick downward stroke, edge of bayonet directed at point of attack. Guard is resumed without command.

=31.= 1. =Cut=, 2. =RIGHT (LEFT).=

With a quick extension of the arms execute a cut to the right (left), directing the edge toward the point attacked. Guard is resumed without command.

The cuts are especially useful against the head, neck, and hands of an enemy. In executing left cut it should be remembered that the false, or back, edge is only 5.6 inches long. The cuts can be executed in continuation of strokes, thrusts, lunges, and parries.

=32.= To direct an attack to the right, left, or rear the soldier will change front as quickly as possible in the most convenient manner, for example: 1. =To the right rear=, 2. =Cut=, 3. =DOWN=; 1. =To the right=, 2. =LUNGE=; 1. =To the left=, 2. =THRUST=, etc.

Whenever possible the impetus gained by the turning movement of the body should be thrown into the attack. In general this will be best accomplished by turning on the ball of the right foot.

These movements constitute a change of front in which the position of guard is resumed at the completion of the movement.

=33.= Good judgment of distance is essential. Accuracy in thrusting and lunging is best attained by practicing these attacks against rings or other convenient openings, about 3 inches in diameter, suitably suspended at desired heights.

=34.= The thrust and lunges at rings should first be practiced by endeavoring to hit the opening looked at. This should be followed by directing the attack against one opening while looking at another.

=35.= The soldier should also experience the effect of actual resistance offered to the bayonet and the butt of the rifle in attacks. This will be taught by practicing attacks against a dummy.

=36.= Dummies should be constructed in such a manner as to permit the execution of attacks without injury to the point or edge of the bayonet or to the barrel or stock of the rifle. A suitable dummy can be made from pieces of rope about 5 feet in length plaited closely together into a cable between 6 and 12 inches in diameter. Old rope is preferable. Bags weighted and stuffed with hay, straw, shavings, etc., are also suitable.

DEFENSES.

=37.= In the preliminary drills in the defenses the position of guard is resumed, by command, after each parry. When the men have become proficient the instructor will cause them to resume the position of guard instantly without command after the execution of each parry.

=38.= 1. =Parry=, 2. =RIGHT.=

Keeping the right hand in the guard position, move the rifle sharply to the right with the left arm, so that the bayonet point is about 6 inches to the right.

=39.= 1. =Parry=, 2. =LEFT.=

Move the rifle sharply to the left front with both hands so as to cover the point attacked.

=40.= 1. =Parry=, 2. =HIGH.=

Raise the rifle with both hands high enough to clear the line of vision, barrel downward, point of the bayonet to the left front.

When necessary to raise the rifle well above the head, it may be supported between the thumb and forefinger of the left hand. This position will be necessary against attacks from higher elevations, such as men mounted or on top of parapets.

=41.= 1. =Low parry=, 2. =RIGHT (LEFT).= Carry the point of the bayonet down until it is at the height of the knee, moving the point of the bayonet sufficiently to the right (left), to keep the opponent's attacks clear of the point threatened.

These parries are rarely used, as an attack below the waist leaves the head and body exposed.

=42.= Parries must not be too wide or sweeping, but sharp, short motions, finished with a jerk or quick catch. The hands should, as far as possible, be kept in the line of attack. Parries against butt strike are made by quickly moving the guard so as to cover the point attacked.

=43.= To provide against attack from the right, left, or rear the soldier will change front as quickly as possible in the most convenient manner; for example: 1. =To the left rear=, 2. =Parry=, 3. =HIGH=; 1. =To the right=, 2. =Parry=, 3. =RIGHT=, etc.

These movements constitute a change of front in which the position of guard is resumed at the completion of the movement.

In changing front for the purpose of attack or defense, if there is danger of wounding a comrade, the rifle should first be brought to a vertical position.

III. INSTRUCTION WITHOUT THE BAYONET.

=44.= 1. =Club rifle=, 2. =SWING.=

Being at order arms, at the preparatory command quickly raise and turn the rifle, regrasping it with both hands between the rear sight and muzzle, barrel down, thumbs around the stock and toward the butt; at the same time raise the rifle above the shoulder farthest from the opponent, butt elevated and to the rear, elbows slightly bent and knees straight. Each individual takes such position of the feet, shoulders, and hands as best accords with his natural dexterity. =SWING.= Tighten the grasp Of the hands and swing the rifle to the front and downward, directing it at the head of the opponent, and immediately return to the position of club rifle by completing the swing of the rifle downward and to the rear. Repeat by the command, =SWING=.

The rifle should be swung with sufficient force to break through any guard or parry that may be interposed.

Being at club rifle, order arms is resumed by command.

The use of this attack against dummies or in fencing is prohibited.

=45.= The position of =club rifle= may be taken from any position of the rifle prescribed in the Manual of Arms. It will not be taken in personal combat unless the emergency is such as to preclude the use of the bayonet.

IV. COMBINED MOVEMENTS.

=46.= The purpose of combined movements is to develop more vigorous attacks and more effective defenses than are obtained, by the single movements; to develop skill in passing from attack to defense and the reverse. Every movement to the front should be accompanied by an attack, which is increased in effectiveness by the forward movement of the body. Every movement to the rear should ordinarily be accompanied by a parry and should always be followed by an attack. Movements to the right or left may be accompanied by attacks or defenses.

=47.= Not more than three movements will be used in any combination. The instructor should first indicate the number of movements that are to be combined as =two movements= or =three movements=. The execution is, determined by one command of execution, and the position of guard is taken upon the completion of the last movement only.

EXAMPLES.

=Front pass and LUNGE.=
=Right step and THRUST.=
=Left step and low parry RIGHT.=
=Rear pass, parry left and LUNGE.=
=Lunge and cut RIGHT.=
=Parry right and parry HIGH.=
=Butt strike and cut DOWN.=
=Thrust and parry HIGH.=
=Parry high and LUNGE.=
=Advance, thrust and cut RIGHT.=
=Right step, parry left and cut DOWN.=
=To the left, butt strike and cut DOWN.=
=To the right rear, cut down and butt STRIKE.=

=48.= Attacks against dummies will be practiced. The approach will be made against the dummies both in quick time and double time.

V. PRACTICAL BAYONET COMBAT.

=49.= The principles of practical bayonet combat should be taught as far as possible during the progress of instruction in bayonet exercises.

=50.= The soldier must be continually impressed with the extreme importance of the offensive due to its moral effect. Should an attack fail, it should be followed immediately by another attack before the opponent has an opportunity to assume the offensive. Keep the opponent on the defensive. If, due to circumstances, it is necessary to take the defensive, constantly watch for an opportunity to assume the offensive and take immediate advantage of it.

=51.= Observe the ground with a view to obtaining the best footing. Time for this will generally be too limited to permit more than a single hasty glance.

=52.= In personal combat watch the opponent's eyes if they can be plainly seen, and do not fix the eyes on his weapon nor upon the point of your attack. If his eyes can not be plainly seen, as in night attacks, watch the movements of his weapon and of his body.

=53.= Keep the body well covered and deliver attacks vigorously. The point of the bayonet should always be kept as nearly as possible in the line of attack. The less the rifle is moved upward, downward, to the right, or to the left, the better prepared the soldier is for attack or defense.

=54.= Constantly watch for a chance to attack the opponent's left hand. His position of guard will not differ materially from that described in paragraph 24. If his bayonet is without a cutting edge, he will be at a great disadvantage.

=55.= The butt is used for close and sudden attacks. It is particularly useful in riot duty. From the position of port arms a sentry can strike a severe blow with the butt of the rifle.

=56.= Against a man on foot, armed with a sword, be careful that the muzzle of the rifle is not grasped. All the swordsman's energies will be directed toward getting past the bayonet Attack him with short, stabbing thrusts and keep him beyond striking distance of his weapon.

=57.= The adversary may attempt a greater extension in the thrust and lunge by quitting the grasp of his piece with the left hand and advancing the right as far as possible. When this is done, a sharp parry may cause him to lose control of his rifle, leaving him exposed to a counter attack, which should follow promptly.

=58.= Against odds a small number of men can fight to best advantage by grouping themselves so as to prevent their being attacked from behind.

=59.= In fighting a mounted man armed with a saber every effort must be made to get on his near, or left, side, because here his reach is much shorter and his parries much weaker. If not possible to disable such an enemy, attack his horse and then renew the attack on the horseman.

=60.= In receiving night attacks the assailant's movements can be best observed from the kneeling or prone position, as his approach generally brings him against the sky line. When he arrives within attacking distance rise quickly and lunge well forward at the middle of his body.

VI. FENCING EXERCISES.

=61.= Fencing exercises in two lines consist of combinations of thrusts, parries, and foot movements executed at command or at will, the opponent replying with suitable parries and returns.

=62.= The instructor will inspect the entire fencing equipment before the exercise begins and assure himself that everything is in such condition as will prevent accidents.

=63.= The men equip themselves and form in two lines at the order, facing each other, with intervals of about 4 paces between files and a distance of about 2 paces between lines. One line is designated as number 1; the other, number 2. Also as attack and defense.

=64.= The opponents being at the order facing each other, the instructor commands: =SALUTE.=

Each man, with eyes on his opponent, carries the left hand smartly to the right side, palm of the hand down, thumb and fingers extended and joined, forearm horizontal, forefinger touching the bayonet. (Two.) Drop the arm smartly by the side.

This salute is the fencing salute.

All fencing exercises and all fencing at will between individuals will begin and terminate with the formal courtesy of the fencing salute.

=65.= After the fencing salute has been rendered the instructor commands: 1. =Fencing exercise=, 2. =GUARD.=