OFFICAL COPY Notified in Army Orders for June, 1935 26/Mannuals/1457 Crown Copyright Reserved MANUAL OF ELEMENTARY DRILL (ALL ARMS) 1935 Crown Copyright and reproduced with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office (9 April 2003). LONDON PUBLISHED BY HIS MAJESTY’S STATIONARY OFFICE To be purchassed directly from H.M. STATIONARY OFFICE at th following address: York House, Kingsway, London, W.C. 2; 120 George Street, Edinburgh 2; 26 York Street, Manchester I 1 St. Andrews Cresent, Cardiff; 80 Chichester Street, Belfast or through any bookseller 1939 Price 9d net CONTENTS PAGE Contents i Definitions ii Introduction 1 CHAPTER I SQUAD DRILL-GENERAL 1. General instructions for drilling recruits 1 2. Words of command 2 3. Inspection 3 CHAPTER II SQUAD DRILL IN SINGLE RANK WITHOUT ARMS SQUAD DRILL WITH INTERVALS 4. Formation of squads with intervals 4 5. Attention 4 6. Standing at ease 4 7. Standing easy 4 8. Dressing ii squad with intervals 5 9. Turning by numbers 5 10 Length of pace and time in marching 5 11 Position in marching 5 12 Marching in quick and slow time 6 13 Changing step 7 14. Marching in double time 7 15. The side Step 8 16. Turning when on the march 8 17 .Saluting without arms 8 SQUAD DRILL IN SINGLE RANK 18 .Formation of squads in single rank 9 19 .Dressing in single rank 9 20. Numbering a squad and proving 9 21. Opening and closing a squad 10 22. Marching in single rank 10 23. hanging the pace from quick to double time and vice versa 10 24. The di'agonal march 10 25. Changing direction 10 26. Marching in single file 11 27. Dismissing,without arms 12 CHAPTER IV DRILL WITH ARMS RIFLE EXERCISES 42 General rules 12 43 Falling in with rifles at the order 12 44 To stand at ease and stand easy from the order 13 45. Attention from stand at ease 13 46. The slope from the older 13 47 The order from the slope 13 48. The Present from the slope 14 49. The slope from the present 14 50. Fixing bayonets from the order 14 51. Un Fixing bayonets from the order 15 52. Inspection of Arms 15 53. Instructions for Inspecting arms 17 54. To Examine arms 17 55. The trail from the order 17 56. The order from the trail 17 57. The trail from the slope 17 58. The slope from the trail 18 59. To change arms when at the slope 18 60. To change arms when at the trail 18 61. The short trail 18 62 To sling arms ... 19 63. The on-guard from the slope and vice versa 19 64. The on-guard from the order and vice versa 19 65. The high-port from the on-guard and vice versa 19 66. To ground arms and take up arms, fromand to the order 19 67 Pilling and unpiling arms 20 68 Saluting with the rifle at the slope 21 REVOLVER EXERCISES 69. To draw revolvers for inspection and examination 57 LIST OF PLATES (At end of book) IV. The order. V. The slope. VI. The present. vii. Fixing bayonets (at two). Rear rank. VIII. Unfixing bayonets (at one). IX. The trail. X. Revolver-For inspection draw arms. Xi. Examine arras. Hand and Arm signals DEFINITIONS Alignment. Any straight line on which a body of troops is formed or is to form. Covering. -The act of a body placing itself directly in rear Of another. Crew.-The unit of dismounted drill, the size of a crew depending on the (Royal Tank Corps) establishment of a unit and the type of tank. For purposes of instruction in dismounted drill a crew consists of eight men. Depth.-The space occupied by 'a body of troops from front to rear. Directing file section, etc. -The file or section responsible for keeping direction in a movement. Distance. The space between men or bodies of troops from front to rear. Dress, To take up the alignment correctly, or maintain It correctly on the move. File-A front rank man with his re" rank man. [NOTE].-A front rank man without a rear rank man is called a "blank file". Flank, directing. -The flank by which units march or dress. Flank, inner. -That nearer to the directing flank. Flank, outer. -That opposite to the inner or directing flank. Front. -The direction in which troops are facing or moving at any given time. Frontage. -The extent of ground covered laterally by a body of troops. Incline. -The diagonal movement by which ground is gained to the front and flank simultaneously, without altering the alignment. Interval -The lateral space between men or units on the same alignment. Extended Interval .-An increased interval to suit requirements. Close interval. -A reduced interval to suit requirements. Line .-Troops formed on the same alignment. Markers. -Men employed in certain circumstances to mark points on which to direct a drill movement or By which to regulate a formation or alignment. Pace. -A measurement of distance on foot (i.e., 30 inches . Also rate of movement. Pivot.-The flank on which a body wheels. The man on that flank is termed the A pivot man". Fixed pivot. -The term applied to the pivot when, during the wheel, the pivot man turns on his own ground. Moving Pivot. -The term applied to the pivot when, during the wheel, the pivot man moves on the arc of a circle. Rank. -A line of men, side by side. Section. -The meaning differs in the different arms, as follows : Cavalry -A subdivision of a troop. A saber section consists of four front-rank men with their coverers, if any ; a half-section (saber) consists of two front-rank men and their coverers, if any. R.A. -A subdivision of a battery. When used with reference to foot drill, it consists of four front-rank men with their coverers, if any ; a half-section consists of two front-rank men and their coverers, if any R.E. -A subdivision of a field company, similar to a platoon of infantry. Infantry -A subdivision of a platoon. R. T. C; .-A subdivision of a company, RA.S.C -A subdivision of a company. Serrefiles. -Such officers and other ranks of mounted units to ride in rear of the unit when in line. Single file. -Troops on the frontage of one man. Squad. -A small body of men formed for drill. (For Royal Tank Corps, see Crew.) Supernumeraies. -The N.C.0s., etc., of dismounted units forming the third rank. Wheeling. -A movement by which a body of troops brings forward a Bank on a pivot ii MANUAL OF ELEMENTARY DRILL, 1935 (ALL ARMS) INTRODUCTION 1. This manual has been arranged primarily for the use of N.C.0s. of all arms of the Service, but its contents should also be known by all officers 2. The manual deals with the following subjects:-as may be detailed i. Elementary drill, up to and including squad drill in two ranks (except troop drill (dismounted) in the case of cavalry) and sword case of cavalry) and drill with the rifle, revolver ii Guards and sentries .iii. Those details of march discipline which all N.C.0 should know.. 3. Where drill varies in different arms of the Service, explanatory notes have been inserted at the beginning of the chapters and sections concerned 4. The drill of rifle and English light infantry regiments is dealt with separately in Chapter VII. CHAPTER I SQUAD DRILL IN GENERAL (Applies to All Arms except Sec. 3 as noted) 1. General instructions for drilling recruits 1. One of the objects of drill is to teach troops by exercise to obey orders- and to do so in the correct way. For this reason slovenly drill is harmful; all movements on parade will be performed smartly. Noisy stamping of the feet in' such movements as turning, coming to attention, or standing at ease is forbidden. 2. The detail of drill movements as given in the following sections is for the information of instructors only' It will not be repeated word for word to the men on parade. 3. When recruits are being taught a particular motion or exercise, the instructor will first form the squad round him and explain what is required in simple language. As soon as he is satisfied that his meaning is clear, he will proceed to the second stage demonstration-by performing the motion himself. During this stage he will point out details he has already described, and give examples of common faults. The men will then be made to perform the movement themselves, first by numbers and subsequently judging the time, the instructor taking each in turn and correcting faults. 4. Recruits will be taught that when on parade it is the duty of every man to see that he is at all times in the correct dressing from whichever flank is the directing flank. This principle applies both when falling in and during and on the completion of all parade movements, except that in ceremonial drill men will not correct their dressing on the completion of a movement until they receive the command Right (or Left)-Dress. 5. Men should be given frequent short rests between exercises. 6. With practice, men will be able to stand steady in the ranks for long periods without effort, but, at first, they should not be kept in any position long enough to produce strain or fatigue. When the men of a squad are being tested separately in any movement those not under instruction at the moment should be ordered to stand easy or to continue practicing the movement. 7. In drill movements which have two or more motions, recruits should be taught to make a uniform short pause after each motion when judging the time. 2. Words of command 1. Good drill depends in the first instance on good words of command. 2. Young officers and N.C.Os. will be practiced in giving words of command. This practice gives them confidence in themselves and accustoms them to use their voice in the best manner to produce the desired result. Words of command should be pronounced distinctly and loud enough to be heard by all concerned. A word of command to a squad of six then need not be as loud as a command to a battalion. 3. Commands which consist of one word will be preceded by a caution, which may be part of the word itself. The first or cautionary part of a word of command, will be given deliberately and distinctly: the last or executive part, which, as a rule, should consist of only one word or syllable, will be given sharply: as Platoon (slowly) Halt (sharply): Right (slowly ) Form (sharply). A pause, which should be uniform in all commands, will be made between the caution and the executive word of command. 4. The cautions and commands in this manual are, as a rule, given with regard to one flank only, but the same principles apply equally to movements to the other flank, which will also be practiced. 5. Words of command must be given at all times with precision by all ranks; indistinct and slovenly words of command produce slovenly movements and must be avoided. 6. Instructors when giving words of command must stand at attention and themselves adopt a. correct bearing, and so be an example of alertness to their men. 7. It should be remembered, that a word of command is an order which must be smartly and promptly obeyed. Instructors must observe the result of their commands at drill and check any tendency on the part of the men to carry out a movement in a slovenly manner; for instance, when men are called to attention or are ordered to stand at ease absolute steadiness and silence must be insisted on. Plenty of time should therefore be taken over the correct performance of one movement before proceeding with the next. If faults and slack habits are passed over in the early stages they will, in time, undermine discipline without which no troops can train or fight. When it is desired to resume the 1 position which obtained immediately prior to the last word of command, the command As you were may be given. 8. The words of command laid down for use in close order drill are not intended for use in movements in the field. They' are designed with a view to training the soldier's mind and body ' to habits of strict obedience to the will of the leader. In movements -n the field, words of command will be replaced by short instructions, e.g. along this track, in single file; follow me across this bridge ; get under cover of this bank, etc. 9. To move off a unit in step with the preceding unit the command March should be given as the right feet of the preceding unit are coming to the ground. 10. In the detail of squad drill the title of the movement is shown in italics and is followed by the cautionary and/or executive word of command in thick type. Cautions and words of command referred to in the detail are printed in italics. 11. The following table shows when to give words of command to men on the move during close order drill:- Word of command Slow time Quick time (a) (b) (c) Halt Left foot coming to the ground. Right foot passing left. About Turn. Right foot coming to the ground. Left foot passing right. Right Turn. Left foot passing and Right foot passing left. Right In-Cline. level with right .Right Form. A Left Turn. Right foot passing and level with Left foot passing right. Left In-Cline. left being Left foot being raised. Break Into Quick Time " Quick " as left foot reaches ground Quick -March. " March " as right foot reaches ground. --------------------- (Alternate - feet.) Break into Slow Time. Slow March. ---------------- Left foot passing right Mark Time. Right foot passing left. Left foot passing right For-Ward (When marking time.) Right foot being raised. Left foot being raised Halt. (When marking time.) As for Forward. 3. Inspection (Paragraph 1 f this section does not apply to Royal Artillery or Royal Tank Corps Units) 1. Whenever a squad, parading in two ranks, is to be inspected the ranks will be opened for the inspection or closed on its completion by the following orders: Open order -March. The rear rank will step back two paces and dress by the right. Close order -March. The rear rank will step forward two paces, and dress by the right. 2. The instructor will pay attention to the personal cleanliness of the men as well as to the care of their arms, equipment, and clothing. A clean and smart turn-out must be insisted on at all times. In this respect instructors must set a high standard for young soldiers to emulate. Men learn good habits more quickly by example than by other methods. 3. Instructors will be trained in methods of inspection so that, with practice, they will be able to tell at a glance, whether each man on parade is correctly turned out or not. 4. A man ordered to adjust his dress will take a pace forward ff in the front rank, or a pace to the rear if in the rear Tank; on completion he will regain his place in the ranks by taking a pace to the rear, or forward as the case may be. 2 CHAPTER II SQUAD DRILL IN SINGLE RANK-WITHOUT ARMS (Applies to All Arms except where notes to the contrary are shown) SQUAD DRILL WITH INTERVALS 4. Formation of squads with intervals 1. A few men will be placed in single rank at arm's length apart while so formed, they will be termed a squad with intervals. 2. Instruction can best be imparted to a squad in single rank, but, if want of space makes it necessary, the squad may consist of two ranks, in which case the men of the rear rank will cover the intervals between the men in the front rank, so that in marching they may take their own points, as directed in Sec. 11, 4. 3. When recruits have learned to dress as described in Sec. 8, they will be taught to fall in, and to dress and correct their intervals immediately without any further order. 4. Care must be taken that the positions of recruits in the ranks are changed frequently, as they must be taught to drill correctly in any position in the squad. 5. Attention Squad-Attention. 00 Spring up to the following position :-Heels together and in line. Feet turned out at an angle of about 45 (Cavalry 30) degrees. Knees straight. Body erect and carried evenly over the thighs, with the shoulders (which should be level and square to the front) down and moderately back-this should bring the chest to its natural forward position without any straining or stiffening. Arms hanging from the shoulders as straight as the natural bend of the arm will allow. Wrists straight. Hands closed but not clenched. Backs of the fingers touching the thigh lightly, thumb to the front and close to the fore finger, thumb immediately behind the seam of the trousers. Neck erect. Head balanced evenly on the neck and not poked forward, eyes looking their own height and straight to the front. The weight of the body should be balanced on both feet and evenly distributed between the fore part of the feet and the heels. The breathing must not in any way be restricted, and no part of the body should be either drawn in or pushed out. The position is one of readiness in expectation of the word of command, and is that adopted when addressing, or being addressed by, a superior officer. 6. Standing at ease Stand at-Ease. Carry the left foot about 12 inches to the left so that the weight of the body rests equally on both feet. At the same time carry the hands behind the back and place the back of the right hand in the palm of the left, grasping it lightly with the finger and thumb, and allowing the arms to hang at their' full extent. ' i. In marching order without the rifle the arms will be retained as in the position of attention. ii. When a recruit falls in he will stand at ease after he has got his dressing. 7. Standing easy Stand -Easy. The limbs, head, and body may be moved but the man will not move his feet, so that on coming to attention there will be no loss of dressing. Slouching attitudes are not to be permitted. If either foot is moved men are inclined to lose their dressing. On the caution squad, etc., the correct position of stand at ease will be assumed. 8. Dressing a squad with Intervals Right-Dress. Each recruit, except the right-hand man, will turn his head and eyes to the right and at the same time extend his right arm, back of the hand upwards, finger tips touching the shoulder of the man on his right. He will then take up his dressing in line by moving, with short quick steps,, till he is just able to distinguish the lower part of the face of the second man beyond him. Care must be taken to carry the body backward or forward with the feet. the shoulders being,,, kept perfectly square in their original position. Eyes-Front. The head and eyes will be turned smartly to the front, the arm cut away to the side, and the position of attention resumed. 9. Turning by numbers 1 -Turning to the Right -One. Keeping both knees straight and the body erect, turn to the right on the right heel and left toe, raising the left heel and right toe in doing so. On the completion of this preliminary movement, the right foot must be flat on the ground and the left heel raised ; both knees straight, and the weight of the body, which must be erect, on the right foot. Two. Bring the left foot smartly up to the right. 2. Turning to the Left -One. As for above, except for right read left and versa versa. Two. Bring the right foot smartly up to the left, 3. Turning About- One. Keeping both knees straight and the body erect, turn to the right-about on the right heel and left toe, raising the right toe and left heel in doing so, but keeping the right heel 3 firmly on the ground. On the completion of this preliminary movement the right foot must be flat on the ground and the left heel raised ; both knees straight, and the weight of the body, which must be erect, on the right foot. Two. Bring the left foot smartly up to the right. 4. Inclining is similar to turning, except that a half turn is made instead of a full turn. 5. Throughout all turns the arms must be kept close to the sides as in the position of attention. 6. In turning "judging the time" commands are Right (or Left) or About-Turn, Right (or Left) in-cline; the movements described above will be carried out on the command Turn or In-cline, observing the two distinct motions. 10 .Length of pace and time in marching 1. Length of pace.-In slow and in quick time the length of a pace is 30 inches. In stepping out it is 33 inches, in double time, 40 ; in stepping short, 21 ; and in the side pace, 12 inches. When a soldier takes a side pace to clear or cover another (as in forming fours), the pace will be 24 inches. 2. Time. - In slow time 70 paces are taken in one minute. In quick time 120 paces, equal to 100 yards in a minute, are taken. Except during the first weeks of recruit training, recruits, when not in marching order, will take 130 paces a minute in quick time at drill. In double time 180 paces, equal to 200 yards a minute, are taken. Distances of 100 and 200 yards will be marked on the drill ground, and N.C.0s. and men practiced in keeping correct time and length of pace. 11. Position in marching* 1. In marching, the soldier will maintain the position of the head and body as directed in Sec. 5. He must be well balanced. In slow time his arms and hands must be kept steady by his sides. In quick time the arms, which should be as straight as their natural bend will allow, should swing naturally from the shoulder, hands reaching as high as the waist belt in front and rear. Hands should be kept closed but not clenched, thumbs always to the front. , 2. The legs should be swung forward freely and naturally from the hip joints, each leg as it swings forward being bent sufficiently at the knee to enable the foot to clear the ground. The foot should be carried straight to the front, and, without being drawn back, placed upon the ground with the knee straight, but so as not to jerk the body. 3. Although several recruits may be drilled together in a squad with intervals, they must act independently, precisely as ff they were being instructed singly. They will thus learn to march in a straight line, and to take a correct pace, both as regards length and time, without reference to the other men of the squad.( The drum and pace stick are useful aids In teaching recruits to preserve a regular cadence and correct length of pace in marching, and they should be used frequency when available.) 4. Before the squad is put in motion the instruct ,h man is square to the front and in correct take care that each or ill line with the remainder. The recruit will be taught to take a Point straight to his front, by fixing his eyes upon some distant object, and then observing some nearer point in the same straight line. The same procedure will be followed by the man on the named flank or by the named number, when Marching in other formations (see Sec. 22). 12. Marching in quick and slow time 1 The quick march. The Squad will Advance. Quick-March. The squad will step off together with the left foot, in quick time, observing the rules in Sec. ii. 2. The slow -march During recruit training squad drill should be frequently practiced in slow time only.. The executive word of command will be Slow -Match. The men will step off and march as described for Quick March, but in slow time, and keeping the arms and hands steady at the sides, thumbs to the front. Each leg will be brought forward in one even motion and will be straightened as it comes to the front with the toes pointed downwards and placed on the ground before the heel.- 3. The halt. Squad - Halt. A pace of 30 inches will be completed with the left foot and the right foot brought up in line with it. At the same time the right hand will be cut smartly to the side. 4. Stepping out. Step -Out. The moving foot will complete e its pace, and the soldier will lengthen the pace by three inches, leaning forward a little, but without altering the time. This step is used when a slight increase of speed, without an alteration of time, is required; on the command Quick (or Slow) -March the normal length of pace will be resumed 5. Stepping short Step-Short. The foot advancing will complete its pace, after which the pace will be shortened by nine inches until the command Quick (or Slow)-March is given, when the normal length of pace will be resumed. 6. Marking time. Mark-Time. The foot then advancing will complete its pace, after which the time will be continued, without advancing, by raising each foot alternately about six inches, keeping the feet almost parallel with the ground, the knees raised to the front, the arms steady at the sides, and the body steady. On the command For-ward, the pace at which the men were moving will be resumed. In slow time the feet should be raised twelve inches when marking time, the ball of the foot being immediately below the point of the knee, toes pointing downwards. 7. Stepping back from the halt 4 . . . Paces. Step back - March. Step back the named number of paces of 30 inches straight to the rear, commencing with the left foot, keeping the arms still by the sides. Stepping back should not exceed four paces. 13. Changing step 1. When on the march. Change - Step. The advancing foot will complete its pace, and the back of the rear foot will= be brought up to the heel of the advanced one, which will make another step forward, so that the time will not be lost, two successive steps being taken with the same foot. 2. When marking time. Change Step. Make two successive beats with the same foot. 14 Marching In double time 1. The double march. The Squad will Advance. Double March. Step off with the left foot and double on the toes with easy swinging strides, inclining the body slightly forward, but maintaining its correct carriage. The feet must be picked up cleanly from the ground, at each pace, and the thigh, knee, and ankle joints must all work freely and without stiffness. The whole body should be carried forward by a thrust from the rear foot without unnecessary effort. The heels must not be raised towards the seat, but the foot carried straight to the front and the placed lightly on -the ground. The arms should swing easily from the shoulders and should be bent at the elbow, the forearm forming an angle of about 1 35 degrees with the upper arm (i.e. midway between a straight arm and a right angle at the elbow), fists slightly clenched, backs of the hands outwards, and the arms swung sufficiently clear of the body to allow of full freedom for the chest. The shoulders should be kept steady and square to the front and the head erect. 2. The halt. Squad -Halt. As in Sec. 12, 3, at the same time cutting away thi hands to the position of attention. 3. Marking time. Mark-Time. Act as in Sec. 12, 6. the arms and hands being carried as when marching in double time, but without swinging the arms. 15. The side step 1. Closing to the right (or left). Right (or Left) Close -March, or Paces Right (or Left) Close-March. Each man will carry his right foot 12 inches direct to the right, and instantly cfose his left foot to it, thus completing the pace; he will proceed to take the next pace in the same manner. Shoulders to be kept square. The direction must be kept in a straight line to the flank, and a uniform pause made after each pace. The number of specified paces should not exceed four. 2. The halt. Squad -Halt. The command Halt will be given when the number of paces has not been specified. The command will be given hen take a when the heels are together ; the squad will then take a further pace in the direction ordered, and remain steady. 3. Soldiers should not usually be moved to a flank by the side step more than 12 paces. 16. Turning when on the march 1. Right (or Left)-TURN On the command right (or Left)-TURN the left (or right) foot will be brought forward unil it is just in front of the right (or left) foot, and each man will then turn smartly in with the required direction, usoing his left (or right) foot as a pivot, and advance a full pace of 30 to the right (or left) foot. The turn to the right must be made off the left foot and to the left off the right foot. 2. About-Turn - Complete the pace with the right foot, then commence the turn with the left foot, the turn being completed in three beats of the time in which the soldier is marching. Having completed the turn about, the soldier will at once move forward, the fourth pace being a full one and taken with the right foot. In the case of a squad with a blank file, marching in line, the blank file will mark time two paces on the word about, thus gaining his position in the new front rank before the turn is completed. Guides should act in a similar manner. 3. Right (or Left) In-Cline. On the command marine, make a half turn in the required direction. always be 4. Turnings and changes on the march should preceded by a cautionary word of command, e.g. The squad will adva-nce-Break into slow will move to the right-The. Squad time-Diagonal march etc. 17 SALUTING WITHOUT ARMS 1 Saluteing to the front i Salute by Numbers-One. Bring the right hand smartly, with a circular motion, to the head, palm to the front, fingers extended and Close together, point of the forefinger an inch above the right eye, or touching edge of peak of cap, as in illustration, thumb close to the forefinger; elbow in line, and nearly square with the shoulder, tips of the fingers, wrist and elbow in a straight line. (See Plaie 1.) Two. 5 Cut away the arm smartly to the side by the shortest way. ii. judging the time. Salute, Judging the Time- Salute. Go through the motions as in sub-para. i, above, making a pause equal to two pates in quick time between each motion. 2. Salutiizg to the side. Saluting to the side when on the move is carried out as in para. 1, above, on the command Salute, except that, s the hand is brought to the salute, the head will be turned smartly towards the officer or instructor saluted as the left foot comes to the ground. For saluting with a cane, see Sec. 28, 6. 3. Saluting on the march. On the command Eyes-right (or left) and Eyes--front, squads will turn their head and eyes to the rigfit (op, left) and to the front, as the left foot comes to the ground. The same principle applies for a squad with arms. 18 SQUAD DRILL IN SINGLE RANK 18. Formation of squads In single rank Recruits will at this stage be formed in single rank without intervals, each man occupying a lateral space of 24 inches. Thus ten men occupy eight paces. The accuracy of the space should be frequently tested. Squads will fall in and dress by the right unless otherwise ordered. NOTES. 1.-Cavalry and Royal Tank Corp)s.-An assistant instructor or more advanced recruit will be-placed as leader, three paces in front of the squad. 2.-Cavalry.-The man immediately in rear of the leader is called the center guide. When any movement is made the leader will give the appropriate signal. (See Cavalry Training.) 19. Dressing in single rank Right (or Left)-Dress. 1. Each man, except the man on the named flank, will look towards the flank by which he is to dress with a smart turn of the head, and. commencing with the man nearest the flank by which the dressing is made will move up or back to his place successively. To dress correctly each man must be able to see the lower part of the face of the man next but one to him. when the squad is correctly dressed the instructor will give the command Eyes-Front. 2. The above method will be taught for use on ceremonial parades only . On all other occasions each man will take up his dressing from the directing flank without any word of command, each man in succession turning his head and eyes to the front when in the correct alignment. . 20. Numbering a squad and proving 1 - numbering. Squad -Number. The squad will number off from the right. the right-hand man calling out one, the next on his left Two, and so on. In Cavalry and Royal Artillery, each man, except the left - his head hand man, as he calls out his number will turn smartly towards his left and will at once turn it to the front again. each man as he calls out his number will In all other arms e his keep his head steady and continue to look straight to front. 2. proving.-If men are ordered to " Prove " (i-e. Odd (or Even) numbers-Prove) those so ordered stretch out their right hands to the full extent of the arm, palm to the left, fingers extended and close together, and level)with the top, of the shoulder. the left hand will When parading with rifles at the order, a similar manner. be stretched out in a similar manner. As you were. Those proving bring their right (or left) hands smartly to the side, without keeping the elbow too stiff. 21.Opening and closing a squad 1 -Open Ranks -March. The odd numbers will take two paces forward and dress by the right. 2. Reform Ranks -March. The odd numbers will step back two paces ; when the paces are completed the squad will dress as in Sec. 19, 2. 22.Marching In single rank To advance in quick Time. The Squad will Advance. By the Right (or Left) (or By No....), Quick -March. As in Sec. 12, 1. Each man will preserve his position in the general line by an occasional glance towards the directing man, who will act as in Sec. ii,-4. 2. To advance in double time. The Squad will Advance. By the Right (or Left or By No....), Double -March. As in para. 1, above, but in double time. 23. Changing the pace from quick to double, time, and vice versa 1. From quick time to double time. Break into double time. Double. -March. Complete the next pace in quick time and then continue ill double time as in Sec. 14. 2. From double time to quick time. Break into quick time. Quick -March. 6 Complete the next pace in double time and then break into quick time, dropping the arms to their usual position, 7 24. The diagonal march. (Plate 11, Fig. 1.) The right diagonal march. Diagonal march. Right In -cline. Each man will make a half turn in the required direction, and, if on the march, will move diagonally in- that direction, as in Sec. 16. 25. changing direction. (Plate II, Fig. 2.) (This section does not apply to Cavalry and Royal Tank Corps units.) 1. Royal Artillery. Wheeling. Recruits will first be taught to wheel from the halt. after which they will be instructed to wheel while on the march. It will be explained to the squad that, in wheeling, the flank which is brought forward is termed the outer flank ; the other, the inner or pivot flank. The method of wheeling will be the same as laid down in Sec. 31, 6. 2. Royal Engineers, Infantry and R.A.S.C. i. When halted. Change direction Right. Right -Form. The right-hand man will make a fun turn in the required direction, and the remainder a right incline. Quick-March. The right-hand man will lead on two paces and mark time, and the remainder will mark time in succession when they come up into the new alignment. For -ward. The squad will move forward in the new direction. ii. When on the move. Change direction Right. Right - Form. The right-hand man will make a full turn in the required direction, lead on two paces, and mark time; the-remainder will incline to the right and mark time in succession as they, come up into the new alignment. For -ward. The squad will move forward in the new direction. iii. If the command is proceeded by the caution At the Halt, each man will halt and take up his dressing on reaching the new alignment. iv. Forming at any angle will be practiced. 26. Marching in single file (This section does not apply' to Cavalry and Royal Tank Corps units. Only paragraphs 1 to 3 apply to Royal Artillery.) 1. From the halt. Move to the Right (or-Left) in single file. Right (or left) -Turn As in Sec. 9. The men will cover each other exactly. Quick -March. The whole will step off, without increasing or diminishing the distance from each other. I. This movement will also be practiced on the move. ii. Should the squad be required to move in the original direction the command will be -The squad Will advance. Left (or Right)-Turn. 2. Changing direction. Change direction Right. Right-Wheel. The leading man will move round a quarter of the circumference of a circle, having a radius of four feet. The other men,. in succession, will follow in his footsteps without increasing or diminishing their distances from each other or altering the time, but shortening the pace a little *with the inner foot. 3. Rear Files-Cover. If the squad is halted or ordered tor mark time when only a part of the men have wheeled into the new direction, the men who have not yet wheeled will cover off on those who have, moving to their places by the shortest route. 4. Forming squad. (Plate 11, Fig. 3.) On the Left (or Right), Form Squad. The leading man will lead on two paces and mark time. the remainder will make a left (or right) incline and move up into line with him, marking time as they come into line. For -ward. The squad will move on in line in the direction in which it was originally marching in file. When squad is formed on the right the left will normally be, ordered to direct. 5. If the order is At the Halt, on the Left (or Right), Form- Squad. The leading man will lead on two paces and halt, the remainder will make a left (or right) incline and form upon him, halting and dressing as they come into line. 27. Dismissing without arms Squad. Dis- miss. The squad will turn to the right, salute and, after a pause equal to four paces in quick time, break off quietly and leave the parade ground in quick time. If no officer is on parade the men will not salute before they break off . 8 CHAPTER IV DRILL WITH ARMS RIFLE EXERCISES 42. General Rules 1. Squad drill with arms will be combined with instruction in the care of arms, including the name of the principal parts of the rifle, and aiming and firing. 2. It is important that this instruction should begin from the time the recruit is issued with his rifle,in order to avoid faulty methods in the early stages. 3. When rifle exercises are per-formed judging the time, when halted, the motions will be carried out at the rate of 60 to the minute. When performed judging the time, on the march, each motion will be carried out as the left foot meets the ground. 4. Squads drilling with rifles will be practiced in the different marches and variations of step described in the foregoing sections. The disengaged arm will be allowed to swing naturally as described in Secs. 11 and 14. 5. During the handling of the rifle and throughout every movement of it, the head must be kept perfectly still, except where expressly stated otherwise. 6. Dismissing. As laid down in Sec. 27, but arms will be sloped before the squad is dismissed. On wet days, to avoid damaging the uniform with wet rifles, troops may be dismissed at the order. NOTES.- 1. In the Royal Artillery, rifle exercises will not be performed at inspections, but will only be practiced by formations larger than a squad for ceremonial purposes. 2. In the Royal Tank Corp Rifle exercises will be practiced at the depot only. 3. Instructions for riding with the rifle for mounted troops, will be found in the Manual of Horse mastership, Driving and Equitation. 43. Falling in with rifles at the order The recruit will fall in as described in Sec. 18 with the rifle held perpendicularly at his right site, the. butt on the ground, its too in line with the toe of the right boot. The right arm to be slightly bent, the hand to hold the rifle at or near the band, back of the hand to the right, thumb against the thigh, fingers together and slanting towards the ground, elbow to the rear. (Plate IV). When each man has taken up his dressing, he will stand at ease. 44. To stand at ease and stand easy from the order 1. Standing at ease. Stand at-Ease. Carry the left foot about 12 inches to the left so that the weight of the body rests equally on both feet. At the same time push the muzzle of the rifle smartly forward with the right hand, the right arm straight, and close to the side, without allowing the right shoulder to drop, toe of the butt remaining in line with the toe of the right boot, the left arm to be kept in the position of attention. 2. Standing easy. Stand- Easy. On the command Stand-Easy, the right hand will be slip up the rifle to the piling while and 'be men will act as in Sec. 7. 3. On the caution Squad, etc. the right hand will be slid down to the band, and the position of stand at ease assumed. 4. The above procedure is the same with or without bayonets fixed. 45. Attention from stand at ease Squad-Attention. The left foot will be brought smartly up to the right and the rifle returned to the order. 46. The slope from the order Slope Arms-One Throw the rifle upwards with the right hand, catching it with both hands at the same time, left hand at the back sight, the right hand at the small of the butt, thumb to the left, elbow to the rear, right arm nearly straight, rifle kept perpendicular, close into the right side, shoulders to be kept square. Two. Carry the rifle across the body, and place it flat on the left shoulder, magazine outwards from the body. As the rifle comes on the shoulder seize the butt with the left hand, the first two joints of the fingers grasping the upper side of the butt, the thumb about one inch above the toe, left elbow close to the -,side, forearm horizontal, and the heel of the butt in line with the center of the left thigh. Three. (Plate V.) Cut away the right hand to the position of attention. Rifle to be kept perfectly still. 47. The order from the slope Order Arms -One Bring the Rifle down to the full extent of the left arm, at the same time meeting it with the right hand where it is held at the order, arm close to the body. Butt not to be drawn to the rear. Two. 9 Bring the rifle to the right side, steadying it at the time with the left hand at the nose cap, butt just clear of the ground. Three. Place the butt quietly on the ground, cutting the left hand away to the side. 48. The present from the slope Present Arms- One. Grasp the rifle with the right hand at the small, forearm close to the body. Two. Raise the rifle with the right hand perpendicularly in front magazine to the left; at the same of the center of the body, at the same time place the left hand smartly on the stock, wrist on the magazine, fingers pointing upwards, thumb close to the fore finger, point of the thumb in line with the mouth; tile left elbow to be close to the butt, the right elbow and butt close to the body. Three. (Plate VI.) Quitting the rifle with the left hand bring the rifle down perpendicularly in front of and about three inches from the center of the body, turning the-magazine to the front, holding at the full extent of the right arm, fingers to-ether slanting downwards, and meet it smartly with the left hand immediately behind the back sight, outside the sling, thumb pointing towards the muzzle ; at the same time, place the hollow of the right foot against the, left heel, both knees straight. The weight of the rifle to be supported by the left hand. 49. The slope from the present Slope Arms-One. Bring the right foot up in lire with the left and at the same time place the rifle on the left shoulder as described in the second motion of the slope from the order. Two. Cut away the right hand to the side ; rifle to be kept still. 50. Fix bayonets from the order (This section does not apply to Cavalry and Royal Artillery.) Fix. The right-hand man will take three pace forward at the short trail. In the case of a company in line the number of paces taken by the right-hand man will be seven; in the case of a larger body of troops than a company, when in line 15 paces will be taken. Bayonets- One. Seize the handle of the bayonet with the left hand, back of the hand to the front, thumb and fingers to the rear, withdrawing the bayonet sufficiently to allow the left arm to become straight; at the same time push the muzzle of the rifle sharply forward ; front rank men turning the head and eyes to the right, looking straight at the right-hand man who will look to the left. Two. (Plate VII.) Taking the time from the right-hand man, draw the bayonet, turning the point upwards and keeping the elbow down. Place the handle on the bayonet standard, with the ring over the stud on the nose cap pressing it home to the catch. The left hand should be placed as shown in the illustration. Body and head to be erect. After pressing his bayonet to the catch, the right-hand man will raise his disengaged arm to the full extent upwards at an angle of 135 degrees. Three. Taking the time from the right-hand man br the order ; at the same time cut away the left hand to the side, front rank turning the head and eyes to the front. The right-hand man will then take three paces to the rear, at the short trail, and align himself with the front Rank n the case of a company or larger body of troops in line. the right-hand man will turn about and, at the short trail, resume his original position. In the above motions the front rank will time their movements by the right-hand man and the rear rank will take their time from the front rank. 51. Unfixing bayonets from the order (This section does not apply to Cavalry and Royal Artillery.) Unfix. The left-hand man will step forward at the short trail, as in fixing bayonets. Bayonets- One. (Plate VIII.) Keeping the heels closed, place the rifle between and grip . nit with the knees, guard to the front. At the same time seize the rifle with the left hand, knuckles to the front' thumb on the bayonet bolt spring ; the right hand rifle. to be kept on the rifle Two Seize the bayonet handle smartly with the right hand, knuckles to the front: 'draw the rifle towards the body with the knees and press the spring with the left thumb. Raise the bayonet about one inch, holding it in a vertical position, and at the same time the front rank men, turning the head and eyes to the left, will look straight at the lefthand man. Rear rank looking to the front. The left-hand man raising his right arm straight and upwards at an angle of 135 degrees, at the same time turning his head and eyes to the right. Three Taking the time from the left-hand man, drop the point to the left side, ring to the rear, returning the bayonet halfway into the scabbard, keeping the forearm square with the 10 body (the left hand forcing his bayonet home) at the same time seize the scabbard with the left hand, thumb underneath the frog, guiding the bayonet into the scabbard with the forefinger of the left hand. Four The left-hand man will raise his right hand smartly as in Two, and on this signal remainder will force the bayonet home. Five Taking the time from the left-hand man seize the rifle with the right hand at the band retaining hold of the scabbard with the left hand. Six. Taking the time from left-hand man return to the order and at the same time cutting the left hand to the side, front rank turning the head and eyes to the front. The left-hand man will then take three paces to the rear, at the short trail, and align himself with the front Rank n the case of a company or larger body of troops in line the left-hand man will turn about and, at the short trail, resume his original position In the above motions the front rank time their movements by the left-hand man and the rear rank will take their time from the front rank. 52. Inspection of arms 1. A squad, parading in two ranks, will be opened and closed as in Sec. 3, 1. 2. Inspection of arms from the order. For Inspection, Port -Arms. Throw the rifle, muzzle leading, with the right hand smartly across the body, magazine to the left and downwards, the barrel crossing opposite the point of the left shoulder, and meet it at the same time with the left hand close behind the back sight, thumb and fingers round the rifle, the left wrist to be opposite the left breast, both elbows close to the body. Turn the safety catch completely over to the front with the thumb of the- right hand. Pull out the cut-off, first pressing it downward with the thumb, then seize the knob with the forefinger and thumb of the right hand, and, taking the time from the right-hand man, turn it sharply upwards, and draw back the bolt to its full extent ; then seize the butt with the right hand immediately behind the bolt, thumb pointing to the muzzle. 3. Inspection of arms from the slope. For Inspection, Port Arms-One. Seize the rifle with the right hand at the small of the butt. Two. Bring the rifle down to the Port, meeting it with the left hand close behind the back sight; then proceed as in para. 2, above. 4. To ease springs, or change magazines and come to the order. Ease-Springs. From the position described above, work the bolt rapidly backwards and forwards until -all cartridges are removed from the magazine and chamber * allowing them to fall to the ground, then close the cut-off (except with S.M.L.E. Mark III * rifles, which have no cut-off) by placing the right hand over the bolt and pressing the cut-off inwards, then close the breech), press the trigger, turn the safety catch"over to the rear with the first finger of the right hand, and return the hand to the small. Charge -Magazines. The magazine will hold two Chargers of five cartridges each, but should, in ordinary circumstances, be loaded with only If it is desired to charge the magazine without loading the rifle, the top cartridge may be pressed downward with the thumb and the cutoff closed. The breech will then be closed, trigger pressed and the safety catch applied.. When using a rifle which is not fitted with a cut-off and it is required to charge magazines, keep the pressure on the top cartridge with the thumb of the right hand and draw the bolt head over it with the little finger, close the breech, press the trigger and apply the safety catch. 5. To Order arms from the port Order Arms - One. Holding the rifle firmly in the left hand, seize it with the right hand where it is held at the order. Two. As in the second motion of the order from the slope. Three. As in the third motion of the order from the slope 6. To slope arms from the port. Slope Arms One Place the rifle on the left shoulder as described in the second motion of the slope from the order (Sec. 46). Two. As in the third motion of the slope from the order. 53. Instructions for inspecting arms When arms are inspected at the port, only ,as in inspecting a platoon on parade, the officer, warrant officer, or N.C.O. will. see that the exterior of the rifle is clean and free from rust; that the magazine and action are clean and in good order; that the sights are at zero ; and that no parts are loose or damaged. He will here and there examine the bore of a rifle to see that it has been cleaned and is free from obstructions. 11 2. Each soldier, when the officer, warrant officer or N.C.O. has passed the file next to him, will, without further word of command, ease springs, order arms and stand at ease. 54. To examine arms Examine Arms. Both ranks,.being at the part, will come to the position for loading (see Small Arms Training, Vol. 1), with the muzzle so inclined as to enable the officer, warrant officer or N.C.O. to look through the barrel, the thumbnail of the right hand barrel being placed in front of the bolt to reflect light into the soldier, when the officer, warrant officer or N.C.O. has passed the next file to him, will act as detailed in the position of for injection, port arms, will be cautioned to remain at the port. Ranks will be closed, as in Sec. 3, 1, when the examination has been completed. ii. In ordering arms from the examine, the first motion will be to sel,:e the rifle with the right hand where it is held at the order, at the same time bring the left foot back to the right. With the second motion the rifle will be brought to the right side, the left hand steadying the rifle, as in the second motion of the order from the slope. The third motion is the same as the third motion of the order from the slope. 55. The trail from the order. (Plate IX.) The trail is not normally used in close order drill except by rifle and English light infantry regiments. It will be used, however, in the field. Trail-Arms. By a slight bend of the right arm give the rifle a cant forward and seize it at the point of balance, bringing it at once to a horizontal position at the side at the full extent of the right arm, which should hang easily from the shoulder, fingers and thumb round tile rifle. 56. The order from the trail Order -Arms. Raise the muzzle, catch the rifle at the band and come to the order. 57. The trail from the slope Trail Arms-One. Keeping the rifle in the position of the slope, seize it at the point of balance with the right hand. Two. With the right hand bring the rifle to a horizontal position the right side (as in Sec. 55), at the same time cutting the left hand to the side. 58. The slope from the trail Slope Arms- One. With the right hand place the rifle on the left shoulder in the position of the slope, at the same time seizing the butt with the left hand as in the second motion of the slope from the order (Sec. 46). Two. Cut away the right hand to the side. 59. To change arms when at the slope ] Change Arms-One. Seize the butt of the rifle with the right hand, back of the hand up, at the same time slipping the left hand up to the small. Two. Carry the rifle, turning the magazine outwards, on to the right shoulder, bringing it well to the front. so as to clear the head. Three. Cut the left hand to the side. To change arms from the right to the left shoulder act as above, reading left for right, and right for left. 60. To change arms when at the trail Change Arms-One Bring the rifle to a perpendicular Position in front of the right shoulder, magazine to the front,- upper part of the arm close to the side, forearm horizontal, hand in line with the waist-belt. Two. Pass the rifle across the front of the body, catching it with the left hand at the point of balance, -t the same time cutting the right baud smartly to the side. In this position the rifle is to be held perpendicularly and opposite the left shoulder, magazine to the front, upper part of the left arm close to the side, left forearm horizontal, hand in line with the waist-belt. Three. Lower the rifle to the full extent of the left arm at the trail. To change arms from the left to the right act as above, reading left for right and right for left. 61. The short trail 12 No word of command. Raise e the rifle about three inches from the ground, keeping otherwise in the position of the order. If standing with ordered arms, and directed to form fours, to close to the right or left, to step back, or to take any named number of paces, men will come to the short trail. 62. To sling arms 1. With unfixed bayonets. Sling-Arms. The sling of the rifle having been loosened to the full extent, the soldier will pass his head and right arm between the sling and rifle, muzzle upwards, rifle hanging diagonally across the back. 2. With fixed bayonets. Sling -Arms. The sling of the rifle having been loosened sufficiently, the rifle will be slung by passing the sling over the right or left shoulder, with the rifle hanging in a perpendicular position behind the shoulder. The rifle will be carried slung by dismounted signalers, brakemen and drivers leading pack animals. 63. The on-guard from the slope and vice versa 1. On-Guard-One. Seize the rifle with the right hand smartly at the small. Two. Bring the rifle down in front of the body, bayonet pointing to the front and slightly upwards, grasping it with the right hand at the small of the butt (which should be just in front of the right thigh), and with the left hand holding the rifle in the most convenient position in front of the back sight so that the left arm is only slightly bent. At the same time take a short pace forward with the left foot ; left knee slightly bent. 2. Slope Arms-One. Place the rifle on the left shoulder, seizing the butt with the left hand as for the slope, at the same time brings, the left foot back to the right and turn to the front. Two. Cut away the right hand to the side. 64. The on-guard from the order and vice versa Throw the rifle up with the right hand and come smartly to the on-guard position, as described in Sec. 63, 1, at ATwo 2. Order Arms- One. Seize the rifle with the right hand where it is held at the order, and come to the order, at the same time bring the left foot back to the right and turn to the front, steadying the rifle with the left hand. Two. Cut away the left hand to the side. 65. The high-port from the on-guard and vice versa 1. High--Port. keeping the grasp of the rifle as in the on-guard position, bring the rifle to a -diagonal position across the front of the body. The muzzle pointing upwards, magazine to the front and butt sufficiently advanced to enable it to be brought instantly to the shoulder to fire. 2. On-Guard. Return to the o"-guard position. 66 To ground and take up arms, from and to the order 1. Ground Arms- One. Bend down and place the rifle gently on the ground at the right side, the band in line with the right toe, magazine to the right, muzzle pointing straight to the front. Two. Pick up the rifle and return smartly to the order. Take up Arms One Bend down and seize the rifle with the right hand ",here it is held at the order. Two Pick up the rifle and return smartly to the order. 67. Piling and unpiling arms. Pile Arms-One The front rank will turn about, placing the butts of their rifles between their feet. The odd numbers will turn the magazines of their rifles towards the right flank of the squad. 13 the even numbers towards the left flank of the squad, at the same time the rear rank will take a pace forward, turning the magazines of their rifles to the rear. Two The odd numbers of the front rank will seize the rifles of the even numbers with the left hand crossing the muzzles, magazines turned outwards, at the same time raising the piling swivels with the forefinger and thumb of both hands. The even numbers of the front rank will resume the position of attention. Three. The even numbers of the rear rank will incline their muzzles to the front and place their rifles under their right arms, guards uppermost, at the same time seizing the p@ling swivel with the forefinger and thumb of the left hand. They will then link swivels through the crossed muzzles of the front rank, lower the butts to the ground, placing them six inches to the right of and in line with their right toes. Four. The odd numbers of the rear rank, and supernumerary rank (if any), will place their rifles perpendicularly against the pile nearest to them and resume the position of attention. Stand-Clear. Ranks will step back one pace and turn to the right flank of the squad, i.e. the front rank turns to the left and the rear rank to the right. i. If ranks have been changed the squad, etc. will be renumbered before arms are piled. ii. If piling arms on parade the command Fall-Out will be given after Stand-Clear. On again falling in the men will place themselves as they stood before falling out. 2. Unpiling arms. Stand-To. Ranks will turn inwards and take a pace forward. Unpile Arms One. The whole will seize their rifles at the band with the right hand. Two. The whole will incline their butts inwards until the swivels become unlinked, and return to the order, at the same time the original left-hand man of the front rank will Rank his disengaged arm to an angle of 135 degrees, the rear rank looking in his direction. Three Taking the time from the original left-hand man of the front rank, who will cut his hand to his side, the front rank will turn about and the rear rank will turn their head and eyes to the front and take a pace to the rear. 68. Saluting with the rifle at the slope 1. Saluting to the front. Salute (by Numbers) -One Bring the right hand smartly to the butt, forefinger just below the small of the butt, forearm horizontal, back of the hand uppermost, fingers straight, thumb close to the forefinger. Two. Cut away the arm smartly to the side by the shortest way. ii. judging the time. Salute, (Judging the Time) -Salute. Go through the motions as in para. 1, i, above, making a pause equal to two paces in quick time between each motion. 2. Saluting to the side. Saluting to the side when on the move is carried out as in para. 1, above, on the command Salute, except that, as the hand is brought to the salute, the head will be turned smartly towards the officer or instructor saluted as the left foot comes to the ground. The principles of saluting with a cane (see Sec. 28, 7) apply. REVOLVER EXERCISES NOTES.- 1. The movements laid down in the following section apply only to the Royal Tank Corps. 2. In the case of other arms, men armed with revolvers prove revolvers " as laid down in Small Arms Training. Vol. I, when the command For inspection, Port Arms is given, and will remain at the "prove" if the command examine-Arms is given. When arms are ordered, they will A return revolvers 69. To draw revolvers for inspection and examination I. To draw revolvers for inspection. For Inspection-Draw. The right hand man will take three paces forward. Arms-One. Both hands will be carried to the case, the right hand grasping the butt of the revolver and the left hand unfastening the leather tag of the case; elbows to be close to the body; front rank men will turn their heads and eyes to the right looking straight at the right-hand man, who will look to the left. Two. 14 On a signal given by a forward movement of the right-hand man's left elbow, revolvers will be drawn and brought to a position in front of the body with the left hand grasping the barrel (which should be pointing to the ground); the thumb of the left hand to be on the fluting and incline with the second button from the top of the tunic, and the thumb of the right hand to be on the barrel catch, pressing it down so as to release the barrel strap. The left elbow should be close to the side and to the right of the elbow in line with the scolder. 15