DUKE
UNIVERSITY
LIBRARY
T^reasure %oom
MANUAL OF LNSTRUCTION
FOR THE
VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA
OK THE
CONFEDERATE STATES
BY
WILLIAM GILHAM,
COLOiN'KL OF VOLUNTEERS, INSTRUCTOR OF TACTICS, AND COMMANDANT OF CADETS,
VIROINIA MILITARY INSTITUTE.
W
^
RICHMOND, VA.
WEST & JOHNSTON,
145 Main Street.
Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1861, hy
WEST & JOHNSTON,
In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the Confederate States for the Eastern
District of Virginia,
Printed by Evans & Cogswell, No. 3 Broad Strket, Charleston, S. C.
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PREFACE.
TiTK following work was undertaken with the hope of meeting, to
some extent at least, a long-felt want among the volunteers and mili-
tia; that is, a manual, which, Iwsides containing everything which
may he necessarj'^ for mere tactical instruction, should also embrace
more or less instruction on various other subjects of equal importance
with tactics; subjects that few men Avho have not been regularly
trained in the military service have much familiarity with. In the
regular service the necessity for such a work is not felt, at least not to
the same extent as among the volunteers and militia, from the fact
that the militarj- system being in constant operation, and each indi-
vidual, no matter what his present rank may be, having gradually
risen from a low, or perhaps the very lowest grade, has abundant
opportunities for becoming familiar with it in all its details, before he
is called upon for any extensive exercise of his professional knowledge.
With the volunteers and militia, however, where no such process for
the acquisition of important practical knowledge is attainable, the
case is very dilfcrent. Called suddenly into active service, from the
various pursuits of civil life, all, even the highest in rank, and the best
informed, meet with difficulties on every side; what would seem to bo
com])aratively plain and simple to the old campaigner, must of neces-
sity be more or less obscure to the volunteer or militia officer, whose
opportunities for the attainment of military knowledge have been
limited.
It is not intended, nor indeed would it be desirable, that the present
work should embrace everything which is proper to be known by our
citizen soldiery ; its aim is, simply to aid the inexperienced so far as
to enable them to become familiar with such principles and practical
details of the military service as are absolutely essential to those who
would be competent officers, whether in the line or in the staflF. If it
accomplishes this, it will not have been compiled in vain.
The Introduction, or " Glossary," will, it is hoped, be found useful
to the student of military art or science, and to the reader of military
history X 0 ^ ^ S
iv PREFACE.
Article I, on Army Organization, commences with a general account
of the four arms of the service — Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery and
Engineers — the duties of each in the conduct of a campaign, and the
proportion they should bear to each other in an army. The latter part
of the Article enters more fully into the details of the organization of
each of the three leading arms, and closes with a short account of the
duties of the various departments of the staff.
In Article II, upon Arms and Ammunition, will be found a con-
densed account of the various arms and kinds of ammunition used by
infantry, cavalry and artillery, together with the manner of preparing
and using the latter.
From Article III to Article XI, inclusive, will be found the tactical
portion of the work; it embraces very full instructions for every kind
of Infantry troops, from the School of the Soldier to that of the Bat-
talion ; Cavalry tactics, from the School of the Trooper to the Instruc-
tion of the Regiment; and Artillery tactics, from the School of the
Piece to the Evolutions of a Battery. The whole will be found to be
in strict conformity with the requirements of the United States
service.
Article XII embraces directions and forms for the conduct of every
form of parade ; the kinds and duties of guards ; together with much
other matter of a kindred nature.
In Article XIII the duties of captains, and other company officers,
in regard to the internal management, police and morale of their
companies, together with the proper equipment of officers and men, to
secure efficiency as well as comfort, when in the field, camps, marches,
etc., are discussed.
Article XIV is devoted to the Staff, and embraces such directions
for the conduct of those departments of the staff upon which the
efficiency of an army in the field must mainly depend, as seemed
most necessary. In This Article will also be found directions and
forms for the preparation of the morning reports of Companies, Regi-
ments, Brigades and Divisions, together with such forms for requisi-
tions, returns, etc., as are in most frequent use.
In Article XV will be found some account of the various orders of
battle, together with an outline of the manner in which the different
kinds of troops should be handled in action.
Article XVI contains directions for the organization and conduct
of Military Courts; and lastly, the Appendix, containing the Articles
of War, presents us with the Military Law now in force.
W. G.
Virginia Military Institute, JJecemhcr, 1860.
CONTENTS.
[The numbej-s refer to paragraphs ami not to pages.]
ARTICLE I.
A R :\I Y ORGANIZATION.
1. Army corps: 2. Infantry — Proportion of infantry to the other
arms — Distinction between heavy and light troops— The musket
Uses and formation of infantry of the line : 3. Light infantry and
riflemen— The rifle and sword-bayonet— Duties, and mode of forma-
tion of light troops : 4. Cavalry— Its rank, and the proportion it
should bear to the infantry— Distinguishing qualities and uses ; 5.
Artillery and its rank — Proportion to other arms — Light and heavy
artillery — Distinction between mounted and horse artillery — Uses
of artillery; 6. Engineer troops.
O U rj A N I Z A T I 0 N OF INFANTRY.
7. The company and its ofliccrs- The Platoon— Formation of the com-
pany ; Comrades in buttle ; 8. Posts of officers, etc. ; 9. The regi-
ment—Its oflicers; 10. Posts of the field and staff of the regiment;
11. Pioneers, field music and band; 12. Color guard; 13. General
guides and markers; 14. Battalion in column; 15. Posts of officers
in column ; 16. Brigades and divisions— Posts of general officers in
line and in column.
OHGAJflZATION OF CAVALRY.
17. The company— Posts of officers, etc. : 18. The squadron— Posts of
officers and file-closers; 19. The regiment in line— Posts of the field
and staff, etc. : 20. The regiment in column by twos and fours ; 21.
In column of platoons; 22. In column by division ; 23. Order in
close column of squadron, cavalry brigades and divisions.
ORGANIZAT ION OF FIELD ARTILLERY.
25. Batteries — Guns and howitzers — Relative proportions of these —
Caissons; 26. Complement of officers and men necessary to man the
battery; 27. The order in line; 28. The order in column; 29. The
order in battery; 30. Two or more batteries united; 31. The posi-
tion of artillerv.
VI CONTENTS.
THE STAFF.
32. The different departments of the .<taff: :V.\. Adjutant-ffeneral's
department; 34. The inspector-f^eneral't^ department ; 35. The quar-
termaster's department; 30. The eommissary department : 37. The
engineer department; 3S. The ordnanee department; 39. The jiay
department; 40. The medical department.
ARTICLE II.
ARMS AND AMMUNITION.
41. Small arms now in use; 42. The smooth bore musket; 43. The
rifled musket — The cylindro-conical hall: H. The "altered mus-
ket;" 45. The rifle (Minie) ; 40. llifleil earbines. and breeeh-loadiuf^
rifles; 47. Pistols and pistol-rarbines ; 48. Sabres; 4'J. Artillery —
Guns — Howitzers — Mortars — The different calibres of each in use;
60. Field guns — Siege and garrison guns — Sea-coast guns ; 51. How-
itzers— Field — Mountain — Siege and garrison — Sea-coast; 52. Field
howitzers; 53. Mortars; 54. Trunnions: 55. Field gun carriages;
50. Caissons; 57, 5K. Cartridges f(»r small arms, and how to jtrepare
them; 50. Ball, and ball an<l buek-shot cartridges; 00. To 111! car-
tridges; 01, ()2. Cartridges for elongated projectiles; 63. How to
use them: 04. Cartridges for artillery — Fixed ammunitinn : 65.
Dimensions, and h(»w made; 00. The charges of jinwder ; 07,08,
Sabots; 00. Canister shot, and how jjrepared ; 70. To attach the
cartridge to the projectile; 71, 72. Cartridge blocks, and paper caps;
73,74. Shells and their charges; 75, Spherical-case shot; 70. To
load spherical-case; 77. The fuse; 78,70. The lioarman fuse, and
how to use it; SO. Priming and friction tubes; 81. Portfires and
their uses.
ARTICLE IIL
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER.
82. General directions; 83. Position of soldier : 84-86, The facings;
87. Balance step — Direct step; 88-92. Common time — Quick time —
Double quick stej) — Double quick time: 03. (iencral directions for
manual; 04-141. Manual for the musket: 142-100. Manual for the
rifle : 101-190. The firings : 107. Bayonet exercise ; 198. Salute
with the sword or sabre; 109. Color salute: 200-203. The align-
ments; 204; To march to front: 205. The oblique; 206, 207. The
Double quick and the about; 208-210. To march by a flank; 211-
215. AVheeling and turning.
ARTICLE IV.
SCHOOL OF THE C 0 M P A N Y .
210. To form the company : 217. To open and close ranks : 218-221.
The alignments: 222.223. To stack arms; 225-230. The firings;
231-236. To advance in line — The oblique — Mark time — March in
retreat— The about; 237-230. To march by flank; 240. On right by
file into line: 241. Marching by the flank to form company or
platoons; 242-245. Breaking into, and the march of, a column of
platoons; 240-248. To form a column of platoons into line to the
CONTENTS. Vii
left or right : 249, 260. A company marching in line, to break into
column of platoon.*, and to re-form comjiany : 2.i]. In column of
platoon?, to break files to the rear: 252-255.' The route step; 256.
The countfcrm.Trch : 257. In column of platoon?, to form line on the
right : 25H-261. To form from two to four ranks, and reciprocally;
2fi2. General directions for skirmishers : 26.3. Deployments ; 264!
To deploy forward ; 265. To deploy by a flank : 266. To deploy oii
the centre: 267, 268. To extend and clo.<ie intervals: 269. To relieve
a company deployed as skirmishers : 270-273. The advance, retreat,
chiingcs of directions, etc. ; 274-276. The firings ; 277-282 The
rally ; 28.3. The assembly.
ARTICLE V.
TARGET PRACTICE.
284-296. The various rules for securing accuracy of aim. and skill in
the use of small arms.
ARTICLE yi.
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION.
297. To form the regiment or battalion; 298. To open and close ranks;
299. The firings: 300. To break to the right into column : 301,302!
To break to the right and rear into column ; 303-305. To form close
column; 306-308. To march in column at full distance; 309-312.
To close the column to half distance, or in mass ; 313, 314. In
column at half distance, or closed in mass, to take distances; 315-
317. In column closed in mass, to change direction; 318-320. In
column by company, to form divisions; 321. The countermarch;
322. Mminer of determining tiie line of battle; 323-325. A column
at full distance formed into line of battle to the left or right; 327.
Successive formations: 32.s. On the right into line; 329, 330. Col-
umn at full distance forward into line: 331-332. Into line faced to
the rear; 33.3-335. Formation of the line of battle by two move-
ments; 336-339. Different modes of passing from a column at half
distance into line of battle ; 340-343. Deployments of columns
dosed in mass ; 314-347. The advance and retreat in line of battle,
and the movements incident thereto ; .348-350. The passage of obsta-
cles ; 351. To pass a defile in retreat; 352, 353. To march by a
flank; 354. To form the battalion on the right or left, l)y file, into
line; 355-357. Changes of front; 358, 359. To form the battalion
into double column : 360-363. The deployment of the double column;
364-379. Dispositions against cavalry, or the formation of squares;
380. To deploy the battalion as skirmishers; 381. The rally.
ARTICLE VIL
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER.
382-384. Directions for, and position of trooper before mounting; 385.
To mount; 386. Position of trooper mounted ; 387-389. The use of
the arms and legs; 390. To march; 391. To turn to the right or
left; 392. To the right or left about; 393. To make a quarter turn
to the right or left; 394. To rein back; 395. To dismount; 396. To
Viii CONTENTS.
file off; 397-429. Exercises in the ridiu;; house in sinjrle and in
double ranks; 430-432. Principles of the gallop; 433-438. The
wheelings in single and double runk.«. and on fixed and movable
pivots; 439-461. Sabre exercise ; 402-160. Manual of carbine, or
breech-loading rifle for horsemen ; 467-469. Manual for Colt's
revolvers.
ARTICLE VIII.
SCHOOL OF THE T K 0 O P .
470,471. General directions — Mounting and forming ranks; 472-476.
The alignments; 477. To open and dose ranks: 47H. To rein back:
479-480. To break the troop by file, and the direct march in file;
481. The oblique march : 482-484. The troop marching in colunm,
by file, to form it into line to (he front, to the left, or on the right:
485-487. To break the tro(»p by twos and by fours, and the direct and
oblique march ; 488-490. The troop marching in column by twos
or by fours, to form it to the front, to the left, or on the right into
line; 491. To break the troop by the left; 492. To break by twos
and fours at the trot and at the gallop; 493. 494. To form the troop
to the left into one rank, and to the right into two ranks ; 496-499.
To form twos and fours at the sanie gait, and to break by twos
and by fours at the same gait ; o00-604. To form twos and fours
in doubling the gait, and to break by twos and fours in doubling
the gait; 605, 600. Sabre exercise; 507, 6(t8. Direct march t»f
the troop in line: 509. Tlie couutermarcb ; 610-612. The troop
being in line, to form it into column >\itb distance, and the march of
this column; 613. Tlie ol)lique march in column; 614-621. In col-
umn, to break by fours, by twos, and by file, and to form two.«, fours,
and platoons at the same gait: 622-527. The same movements in
doubling the gait: 528, 529. The about in column, and the halt;
530-532. To form line to left, and right: 633, 534. To form line on
the right, and on the left; 535, To form front into line; 536, 537.
The formation of lines faced to the rear; 538-642. Movements by
fours, the troop being in column with distance : 543-547. The
changes of direction of a troop marching in line; 548. Movement
by fours, the troop in line; 549. The tritop marching in line, to break
it by platoons to the right, and to re-form it; 550-551. The troop
marching in line, to break it to the front by platoons, and to re-form
it; 552-557. The charge; 558. Rallying: 559. Skirmishing.
AllTICLE IX.
SCHOOL OF *rHE SQUADRON.
560, 561. The movements of the squadron ; 562. Successive align-
ments of platoons in the squadron ; 563, 564. To break from the
right to march to the left: 565. To break by platoons to the right,
and to advance: 566. To form line to the front by inversion; 567.
Break to the right by platoons, head of column to the left or half
left; 568. To form line faced to the rear, by inversion, en the rear of
the column : 569. By platoons to the right, head of column to the
right, or half right: 670. To form line face to the rear, by inversion,
on the head of the column: 571. The oblique; 672. The oblique by
platoons : 673. By fours about, and face to \he front again : 574. The
CONTENTS. IX
about \>y platofin? : o75. T'> break the pquadron to the front by pla-
toon!", and to re-form it; 576.577. The pa.«?ae:e of obstacles; 5?8-
581. Skirraisbing ; 582-587. The column by division.
ARTICLE X.
EVOLUTIONS OF THE REGIMENT.
588. Positions of the guides in column; 589. 590. The alignments:
591. To break the regiment by fours; 592, 593. Form pl.atoons,
and to break the platoons by fours; 594, 595. The same movements
in doubling the gait; 596-59H. To form the regiment to the front,
to the left, and upon the right into line; 599. To form the regiment
into column with distance; 600, 601. To break from the right, to
march to the left ; 602-605. To form the regiment into close column;
606, 607. The march, and change of direction in column ; 608.
Platoons left about wheel ; 609. 610. By fours to the right, and right
or left about; 611. The oblique; 612-620. Various methods of
forming a regiment into line of battle; 621. 622. The deploy-
ments of a close column: 623. The march in line: 624. The regi-
ment marching in line to oblique by platoons; 625. To gain ground
to the right; 626. To march in retreat; 627. 628. The changes of
front of the line; 629, 030. The pMsage of defiles; 631. 632. The
charge,
ARTICLE XI,
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS.
633-635. Manner of forming the gun detachments, and posting the
cannoneers: 636-643. Loading and firing the piece : 644,645. Mov-
ing the piece by hand ; 646.647. Changing posts and cfiuipments ;
648-650. Limbering; 651. Post of cann*)neers, the piece limbered;
652-656. To form the detachments, their posts, and changing posts;
657. Moving the piece by hand, when limbered : 658-660. Unlim-
bered and coming into action ; 661. Movements with the prolonge :
662. Service of the gun with diminished numbers; 663. Supply of
ammunition when in action ; 664—666. Pointing and ranges ; 667.
Composition of the battery — The officers and men necessary to man
it; 668. Posts of officers, etc. ; 669. Manning the battery; 670, 671.
To mount and dismount the cannoneers ; 072-684. To unpack, and
to perform various movements in column ; 685-687. Various ways of
passing from the order in column to the order in line; 688-695. To
pass from the order in line to the order in column; 696, 697. To form
the double column into line ; 698-700. To advance, to change direc-
tion in line, and to halt : 701-717. Formations in battery ; 718. To
pass from the order in battery to the order in column; 719-723. The
firings; 724-727. The changes of front in battery; 728, 729. The
passage of defiles.
ARTICLE XII.
730. Honors paid by troops to the President, Governor, Goneral-in-
chief, Major-Geueral. Brigadier-General, etc., Members of the Cabi-
net, etc.. Foreign Ministers, Officei-s, etc. ; 731. Compliments paid by
guards — Compliment? paid b3' officers and soldiers to their superiors;
X ' CONTENTS.
732. Artillery salutes; 733. Escorts of honor, how forme^ and con-
ducted; 734. Funeral honors — the escort for various grades — the
manner of conducting the march, etc. ; 735, 736. Manner of inspect-
ing infantry and cavalry ; 737-741. Forms of parade — Dress parade
— Review of infantry — Review of cavalry — Review of artillery; 742.
Guard mounting — Relieving sentinels and guards; 743. Method of
escorting and receiving the color of an infantry regiment; 744.
Method of escorting and receiving the standard of a cavalry regi-
ment; 74.5. Method of receiving one body of troops by another ; 746.
Manner in which orders should be written and communicated; 747.
The manner of conducting musters of the troops; 748. The roster,
or details for service, how made ; 749. Sentinels are relieved, how
often — The countersign and parole — Duties of officers, non-commis-
sioned officers, and privates of guards — Manner of challenging —
Receiving the "■ grand rounds," etc., etc. ; 750. General arrange-
ment of the guards of a camp or position ; 751. The different kinds
of guards — Police guards — Pickets — Grand guards — Outposts —
Patrols : .752. Strength and duties of the police guard — Duties of the
regimental officer of the day: 753. Strength and duties of the
pickets; 754-757. Strength and duties of the grand guards and out-
posts— Manner of posting them, etc., etc.
ARTICLE XIII.
DUTIES OP CAPTAINS — COMPANIES — DUTIES IN CAMP
AND GARRISONS, ETC.
758. Responsibility of captains; 759. Manner of issuing arms to vol-
unteer companies ; 700. The uniform and equipment of volunteers
and militia — The knapsack — Haversack — Bedsack — Blankets, etc. ;
761. Tents— The Sibley tent— The shelter tent— Tent knapsack—
Half-faced camp; 762. The "kit," or necessary equipment for the
field; 763. Interior police of companies — Method of keeping the
arms, etc., in order — The ration, how cooked and served ; 764, 765.
Duties in camp and garrison — The reveille — Breakfast call — Troop —
Surgeon's call — Dinner call — Retreat — Tattoo — Stable call — Drum-
mer's call; 765. Daily duties — General officers of the day — Field
officers of the day — Regimental officers of the day — Their duties;
766. Camp of infantry; 767. Camp of cavalry: 768. Camp of artil-
lery ; 769. Bivouacs ; 770. Cantonments ; 771. Preliminaries for the
march — The general — Long roll — Directions for the conduct of the
march; 772. The camjjing party — Going into camp — Details for
duty.
ARTICLE XIY.
THE STAFF.
773-778. Duties of the adjutant-general's department — Adjutant-gen-
erals and assistant adjutant-generals — Morning reports of brigades
and divisions — Orders, how distributed — The parole and countersign,
how issued, and to whom sent — Manner of folding the countersign —
Brigade and division inspectors — Adjutants of regiments — Morning
report of regiment; 779-785. Quartermaster's department — Quar-
ters, and the allowance of — Transportation — The forage ration — Sta-
tionery— Camp and garrison equipage — Depot, quartermaster's,
CONTENTS. XI
etc.; 78G-789. Subsistence department — The ration — Provision re-
turns— Issues; 790, 791. The medical department — Surgeon's call,
and morning sick report ; 792. The i)ay dei^artment,
ARTICLE XV.
BATTLES.
793. The different kinds of ])attles ; 794. When a defensive battle
should be given : 795. Conditions to be satisfied in a defensive posi-
tion ; 796. Offensive battles: 797. The meeting of two armies; 798,
799. The different orders of battle: 800-808'. The infantry— The
defence — Attack — Pursuit — Retreat — Means of prolonging the en-
gagement— T)efence against cavahy — Against artillery — Attack on
artillery ; 809-812. The position of cavalry— The defence— Its attack
upon infantry — Upon artillery; 813-815. Position of artillery — De-
fence— Attack.
ARTICLE XVL
COURTS MARTIAL.
816. Courts martial defined; 817. What officers eligible as members;
818. Kinds and powers of courts martial; 819. Who may assemble
general courts martial, and manner of assembling them; 820. Num-
ber of officers necessary to compose a court; 821. Revision of the
proceedings, etc. ; 822. Regimental and garrison courts; how con-
vened, etc.; 823-828. The trial— Challenges— The oath of the mem-
bers, and of the judge advocate — The plea of the i)risoner — The
examinations of the witnesses — The defence; 829-831. The findings;
832-834. The sentence; 835, 836. Duties of the judge advocate;
837. Form of order convening a court; 838. Form of proceedings.
APPENDIX.
THE ARTICLES OF ^\^ A R .
INTRODUCTION
GLOSSARY.
A.
Abatis. A specie? of intrcnchtncnt ; it consists of trees felled, and
laid with their branches sharpened and interwoven, so as to present
a thick row of pointed stakes toward the enemy. They are general-
ly used in front of field works: while the enemy is removing them
he is exposed to a destructive fire from the defenders.
About. A technical word to express the movement by which a body of
troops reverses its front. In infantry the about is always to the
right; in cavalry it is either to the right or left; and in artillery it ia
to the left.
AccKssiBf-K. A place is said to be accessible, by land or sea, when it
can be approached by a hostile force on either of these sides.
ArrouTRKMKXTs. A term denoting the belts, cartridge box, scabbard,
etc., of a soldier.
AcTiox, in military language, is an engagement between two armies, or
any smaller bodies of troops.
Ad.htant. a regimental staff officer, who discharges all the duties of
detail of a regiment or military post, communicates all orders, forms
the battalion for drills, parades, etc.. mounts the guards, and in the
manoeuvres assists the lieutenant-colonel.
Ad.ittant-Genkrai. is the chief staff officer of the army, division, or
brigade to which he belongs, and assists the general in the discharge
of his duties; he keeps the roster of the officers; makes details for
duty; makes up the morning reports, returns, etc.; publishes the
orders of the general; and is the channel through which all reports
to, and correspondence with the general, pass.
Advanced — signifies some part of the army in front of the rest, as in
adtanccd rjuardH, which always precede the main body; it applies
also to any portion of the command which is thrown in front of the
first line.
Advantage Ground. A ground that gives superiority, or an opportu-
nity for annoyance or resistance.
Affair. An action or engagement ; genferally between small bodies of
troops.
Aid-de-Camp. An officer appointed to attend a general officer; he re-
ceives and carries orders, and discharges such other duties as may
be necessary. A brigadier-general is entitled to one, and a major-
general to two aideB-de-camp.
XIV GLOSSARY.
Aim. The act of bringing the firearm to its proper line of directiim
with the object to be struck.
Alarm is a sudden apprehension of an attack, by which men take to
their arms, and stand upon their guard.
Alarm Post is the place appointed for every regiment or detachment
to assemble, in case of alarm.
Aleut. Vigilant.
Alignment is the placing of men on the same line. In artillery it ap-
plies to the gun carriages, caissons, etc.
Ally, in a military sense, implies a nation united to another, undur
treaty, either otfensive or defensive.
AsfBuscAPE. A body of men posted in some secret or concealed place,
for the purpose of falling upon an enemy by stirprise.
Ambush. A place of concealment for a body of troops intended for a
surprise.
Ammunition implies everything in the way of powder, balls, shells,
cartridges, canister and grape shot, etc., etc.
Appointments. Warlike habiliments, accoutrements, etc.
Apprehend. Seizing or confining any person.
Approaches. The works that are carried on toward a work that is be-
sieged.
Covntcr-AppROAciiKS. The works carried on by the besieged against
those of the besiegers.
Apron. In gunnerj^, a piece of leather to cover the rent of a piece of
ordnance.
Arm. a term used to signify a particular kind of troops, as the iu/nn-
try arm, cavalry arm, etc.
To -Arm. To take arms, or prepare to meet an enemy.
Armed. Something provided with or carrj'ing arms.
Ai} Armed body of men denotes a corps or detachment ready for an en-
gagement.
Armistice. A temporary truce.
Armory. A place for the construction of arms: also a place of deposit
for arms.
Arms. All weapons whether of offence or defence.
Fire-AnMS. Any machine discharged by inflamed gunpowder.
Place of Arms. A part of the covered way of a fortification. (See
Fortijication.)
Army. An organized body of armed men commanded by a general.
In time of peace, the whole organized military force of the State is
intended when we speak of the army; in time of war this force is
broken up into several distinct bodies, each of which is an army.
These armies are named, from the particular duty assigned them, as
the army of inrasion, army of occupation., etc.; or from the country
or direction in which they operate — as, anny of the North, army of
Mexico, etc.; or from the general who commands it — as, army of
Scott, etc. An army is made up of a stafi" and administrative depart-
ments, and four distinct arms— Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery, and
iiLOSSARY. XV
Engineers: each ha\ing distinct duties, but all combining to form
one and the same military body.
Arrest. The depriving an officer of his sword, preparatory to trial,
for an offence against military law. The order for arrest usually
designates the particular limits within which the officer is required
to confine himself. An officer under arrest must not call upon his
commanding officer without permission, and then it must be upou
business.
Jirrnrh of Arrkst. Going beyond the limits prescribed in the order
of arrest of an officer. It is a grave offence.
Arsenal. A place of deposit for arms and other implements. Arse-
nals are sometimes nrncnnh of coiiKtrvrticm, a term which signifies
that it is a place of construction as well as deposit.
Articles of War. Rules for the better government of the army.
Artillery. Every sort of firearms of large calibre, as guns, mor-
tars, howitzers, etc., together with everything necessary for serving
them in the field, at sieges, etc. Also a term applied to the science
which treats of the construction and service of artillery. Also a
name given to the troops which serve artillery.
Assault. A furious effort to carry a fortified post, camp, or fortifica-
tion.
Assembly. The signal to form by company.
Attack. An onset upon the enemy, either to gain a post, or break
his ranks : or to divert his attention and make him divide his forces,
when it becomes n. fahe nlfaok.
B.
Baggage. The clothing, tents, utensils, provisions, etc., of an army
or corps.
Band. A body of musicians attached to any regiment or battalion.
Banquette. A small elevation of earth three or four feet wide, and
four feet nine inches below the crest of the parapet, to enable the
shortest men to fire over it with facility.
Barbette-batteries are platforms raised behind a parapet to enable
the guns mounted on them to fire over the parapet, and sweep the
surrovinding countr)-. The.y are usually ])laced in the salirni points
of works.
Barracks. Permanent buildings for the quartering of troops.
Barricade. To barricade, is to block up the avenues by which an
enemy might have access to, any position. This is done by abatis,
wagons, etc.
Barrier. A passive obstacle.
Bastion, in fortification, is a work constructed at one of the angles of
a polygon, consisting of two faces and two flanks. It is so con-
structed, that every part of it is defended by the flanking fire of
some other part of the works.
Battalion. Any body of infantry from two companies to ten, and
serving under the same commander.
Batter. A cannonade of heavy ordnance.
XVI GLOSSARY.
To Battkr in hreacJi is a heavy cannonade of many pieces directed to
a single point in the walls of a fortification.
Batteriks. The name given to any place where guns, howitzers or
mortars are mounted, either for the purpose of attacking the enemy,
or of battering a fortification. When a number of pieces of artillery
are thrown together they also constitute a battery, as a mounted bat-
tery, where from four to six or eight pieces are together, the can-
noneers serving on foot; or a horse artillery battery, where the same
number of pieces constitute the battery, the cannoneers being
mounted on horses.
Battle. An action in which the forces of two contending armies are
engaged.
Bayonet. A kind of triangular dagger, with a hollow shank, which
tits over the muzzle of the musket, rifle or carbine. It is princi-
pally used by infantry troops. A new form of bayonet has of late
,years been introduced for use on the rifle; this bayonet is in the
form of a short sabre. It is called the sabre-bayonet, and is intended
for use in the hand as well as on the rifle.
Berm. a narrow space between the ditch and parapet of a work, to
keep the parapet from falling into the ditch.
To Besiege. To lay siege to or invest any place with an armed force.
Besieged. The garrison that defends a place.
Besiegers. The troops that lay siege to a fortified place.
Bivouac. An army is said to bivouac, when, instead of camping in
tents, the men sleeji around the fires, or make temporary shelters
of branches of trees, etc.
Body. Any number of men serving under one commander, as the
main body, etc.
Bombard. To throw shells from mortars.
Breach. An opening in the works of a fortified place, made by the
artillery or mines of the besiegers, preparatory to making an as-
sault.
Breech of a gun. The portion from the vent to the cascable.
Brigade. Two or more regiments of infantry or cavalry, or both,
under the command of a brigadier-general.
Brigadier-Gexeral. The commander of a brigade ; an officer whose
rank is next above that of a colonel.
Cadence. Uniform time and pace in marching, an indispensable re-
quisite in the manoeuvres of troops.
Calibre, in gunnery, is the diameter of the bore of any piece of ord-
nance, or the weight of the solid shot which it carries.
Caisson. A carriage for artillery ammunition ; each piece of field
artillery is followed by its caisson.
Camp is the extent of ground occupied by an army when under can-
vas.
Campaign. The period of each year that an army is in the field.
Cankok. a general term for every form of artillery.
GLOSSARY. XVll
Cannoneers. Soldiers who serve or manage pieces- of artillery.
Canteen. A small vessel used bj soldiers to carry water, etc.
Cantonmknts. Troops are in cantonments when quartered in towns
and villages, lying as near as possible to each other.
To Capitulate is to surrender any place or bodj^ of troops to the ene-
my, on certain stipulated conditions.
Capitulation. The conditions on which the garrison of a besieged
place agree to give it up.
Caponniere, in fortification, is a ditch defence; they are of two sorts,
simjle or double
Captain. The commander of a company.
Carbine. A species of fire-arms smaller than the musket, .and used
mainly by cavalry.
Cartel. An agreement between two States at war for an exchange of
prisoners of war.
Cartridge. A case of pajior, or flannel, fittotl to the 1)orc of a. piece,
and holding the exact charge of gun))owder. Cartridges for small
arms are made of strong paper, those for artillery are made of flan-
nel, or some other woollen goods.
Cartridge-box. A box made of stout leather, attached to a belt
which is worn over the shoulder, or around the waist, and used to
hold cartridges for small arms.
Cascable. in artillery, is the part of the gun in rear of the breech,
and consists of the neck and the knob.
Casemate. A chamber covered with a boml)-proof arch, in a fortifica-
tion, having an embrasure cut through the wall, through which the
gun is fired. Used in fortifications on the sea-coast.
Cavalier. A work constructed in the interior of a bastion.
Cavalry. That portion of an army which serves and fights on horse-
back.
Chamber, of a mortar or hnipitzer. A cavity at the bottom of the mor-
tar or howitzer, intended to receive the cartridge.
Charge, in gunnery, denotes the quantity of powder with which the
piece is loaded.
In the evolutions, the charge expresses the advance of a body of
infantry to attack the enemy with bayonets fixed; or the rapid
attack of cavalry.
Chase of a gun. The length from the trunnions to the muzzle.
Cheek. The ])ieces of timber which form the sides of gun-carriages,
and upon which the trunnions rest; also, in fortification, the oblique
sides of the embrasure.
CnEVAL-DE-FRiEZE. A piccc of timber some six inches square, pierced
with many holes, through which pass pieces of wood some six feet
long, crossing each other at, right angles, and pointed at the ends.
They are used to stop up breaches, to block up the avenues of ap-
proach, etc.
Line of Circumvallation. An earthen work consisting of a low para-
pet and trench, made around a place which it is intended to besiege.
Colonel. The commander of a regiment.
2
XVlll GLOSSARY.
Color. Large silk flags fixed on wooden jioles.
Camj) Colors. Small flags, eighteen inches square, and used to mark
the color line, jjoints of wheeling, etc. ; they are also carried by the
markers in the evolutions.
Combat. A battle.
Commissary. An officer charged with the purchase and issue of pro-
visions for the troops.
Company. A small body of from 50 to 100 men. and commanded by a
captain.
Convoy. A detachment of troops emplo^^ed to guard any supply of
men, money, ammunition, provisions, etc., conveyed in time of war
to a town or army.
Corporal. A non-commissioned officer of the lowest grade.
Corps. A body of troops acting together under one commander.
Countersign. A particular word which is exchanged between guards,
and entrusted to those employed on duty in camp or garrison.
Court-Martial. A military court for the investigation and punish-
ment of all offences committed by officers and soldiers, in resistance
of military' law.
Cuirassiers. Heavy cavalry armed with breast-plates of metal, or
cuirasses.
A Curtain, in fortification, connects two contiguous bastions.
D.
Defence, in fortification, consists of all sorts of works that cover and
defend an army or place.
Defile. A narrow passage or road through which troops can only
march by flank, or with a very small front.
Deploy. To display, or spread out troops.
Depot. A place of deposit for military stores.
Detachment. A body of troops taken from an army for a particular
service.
Discipline. The instruction and government of soldiers.
Dislodge. To drive an enemy from his position.
Dismantle. To strip a town or fortress of its outworks.
Ditch. An excavation or trench made around the works of a fortifica-
tion, from whence the earth necessary for the construction of the
parapet is raised. Ditches are of two kinds — wet and dry. *■
Dragoons, are a kind of cavalry, who serve both on horseback and
on foot.
E.
Echelon. A position in tactics, when different bodies, whether the
divisions of a battalion, battalions, or brigades, follow each other on
diflereut lines. By this arrangement, both the front and one or both
flanks may be protected at once.
Elevation. In gunnery, the angle included between the horizon and
the axis of any piece of artillery.
GLOSSARY. XIX
Embrastre. In fortification, an opening, or aperture in the parapet
of a work, through which pieces of artillery are fired at the enemy.
ExciEXTE, in fortification, is the interior wall or rampart which sur-
rounds a place.
Encounter. Combat. Fight.
Enemy. One who is on the opposite side in war.
To Enfilade is to throw shot along the whole length of the enemy's
line.
Engineers. Officers charged with planning, constructing, and repair-
ing all fortifications and all defensive works; witli planning the at-
tack and defence of military works, etc., etc.
Epaulement. a kind of Ijreastwork to cover troops in front, or on the
flank.
Epaulettes. Shoulder-knots worn by othcers.
Eprouvette. a small mortar for trying the strength of gunpowder.
Equipage. All kinds of furniture made use of by an army.
Establishment implies the quota of officers and men in an army, regi-
ment, troop, or company.
Evolution. The movement made by a body of troops when they
change their disposition.
Exempts. Men who, from their age or occupation, are not liable to be
called upon for military service.
Expedition. A voyage or march against an enemy.
FALSE-a^ar?>(. An alarm either designedly or unintentionally created
by noise, reports, etc., without being dangerous.
FALSE-o<^acA\ An approach which is made for the purpose of diverting
an enemy from the real point of attack.
Fascines. Long cylindrical bundles of twigs intended to support the
earth in the parapets of field fortifications, etc.
Feint. A mock attack made to conceal the true one.
Field. The place of battle. A campaign, or the action of an army
while it is in the field.
FiELD-o/^>e)-«. The colonel, lieutenant-colonel, and major of a regi-
ment.
Fight. Battle.
File. A line of soldiers drawn up behind each other. As a general
thing, a file means two soldiers, the front and rear rank men.
Firearms. Every description of arms charged with powder and ball.
Flanks. The right and left of an army, encampment, battalion, com-
pany, etc.
Flank. In fortification, any part of a work defending another, by a
fire along the outside of the parapet.
Foil. A blunt sword used in fencing.
Forage. The hay, straw, and oats required for the subsistence of the
horses of an army.
XX GLOSSARY.
Force. Any body of troops assembled for military purposes.
EoRLORN-HOPE. Men appointed to make the first attack in the day of
battle, or to be the first to storm in a siege.
Fort. A fortified place s^yrounded by a ditch, etc.
FoRTiFicATiOff. The art of surrounding; a place by works so disposed
as to render it capable of a lasting defence against a besieging army.
i-^'eW-FoRTiFicATiON is the art of constimcting all kinds of temporary
works in the field.
Front. A word of command signifying that the men are to turn to
their proper front.
FuGLE-MAX. A well-drilled, intelligent soldier, advanced in front of
the line, to give the time in the manual, etc.
Furlough. A leave of absence.
Fuse. A tube fixed into a shell filled with combustible materials,
which, when the shell is fired, burns and causes the shell to explode.
G.
Gabiox. A cylindrical basket without bottom, and employed in throw-
ing up intrenchments, etc.
Gallery. A passage in a mine.
Garrison. A place where troops are quartered.
General-officers. All officers above the rank of colonel. The only
grades in our service are brigadier-general, major-general, and lieu-
tenant-general.
Glacis. In permanent fortifications, the parapet of the covered way.
Grenade. A small shell thrown from the hand upon the enemy.
Used in defending a work.
Grape. A kind of shot.
Guard. A body of men whose duty it is to protect an army or place
from surprise. It also applies to troops kept to guard generals and
other persons, or public property, etc.
Guidons. Small silk standards for cavahy.
Gunpowder. A composition of sulphur, nitre (or saltpetre) and char-
coal, mixed together and granulated, to which, if fire be applied, it
burns with an explosion.
H.
Harass. To annoj^, perplex, hang upon the rear or Hanks of a body
of men, or an army, or to interrupt the operations of a siege by re-
peated attacks.
Haversack. A linen bag to carry a soldier's rations on the march.
Head-quarters. The place where the officer commanding an army
or independent body of troops, takes up his residence.
Hilt. The handle of a sword.
Holsters. Cases for a horseman's pistols, attached to the pommel of
the saddle.
Hospital. A place appointed for the sick and wounded.
(iLOhfSARY. XXI
Host. An army.
IIosTiMTY — denotes a state of war between two nations.
Howitzer. A piece of artillery, chambered at the bottom of the bore,
and intended for firinjj hollow shot, canister, and, if necessary, can
be used for firing solid shot.
I.
Infantuv. Foot soldiers armed with the musket or rifle.
Ini'vOAD. Sudden and desultory invasion.
Inspector-Gknekal. An officer whose duty it is to inspect the troops
at stated times, and report the state of their discipline, efficiency,
etc.
Intrenchment. Any work intended to fortify a post against the attack
of an enemy.
Invasion. The entrance or attack of the troops of a nation on the
dominions of another.
To Invest. To seize upon all the avenues of approach to a place or
town, so as to cut it off li-om succor.
Knapsack. A leather or canvas bag, worn on the backs of infantry
soldiers, and which contains his clothing and other necessaries.
L.
LAnouATOUv. A jdace where all sorts of fire-works are prepared,
whether for actual service or for display.
Lieutenant. The lowest grade of commissioned officers.
Line of Battle is the disposition of the troops for battle.
Links. Thongs of leather used by cavalry to fasten their horses to-
gether.
Litter. A sort of bed on which wounded officers and men are carried
off the field.
Lodgment. Possession of the whole or a part of the enemy's works.
Liixkttk. a small field work.
M.
Magazine. A place in which stores, arms, ammunition, or provisions
are kept.
Major. An officer next in rank to a lieutenant-colonel.
Martial Law. The law of war.
Match A preparation to communicate fire to guns, mortars, mines,
etc.
Mines. Subterranean passages dug under the walls of a fortification,
or under the works of a besieging army, for tlie purpose of blowing
them up by means of gunpowder.
Mortars. Short cannon with large bores fitted with chambers, and
used for throwing shells, stones, etc.
XXll GLOSSARY.
Muster. A parade of troops for the purpose of inspection, and taking
an account of their numbers, presence, etc.
Mutiny, Any seditious or refractory conduct among soldiers.
N.
Nitre. A compound of nitric acid and potash, used in the manufac-
ture of gunpowder,
0.
Orders, All such lawful directions as may be issued by a superior
officer.
Ordnance, A general term for all guns, howitzers, and mortars.
Outposts, Bodies of troops posted beyond the bounds or limits of the
encampment.
Outworks, in fortification, are the works constructed beyond the prin-
cipal works.
P.
Palisades. In fortifications, stakes made of strong pieces of wood,
and set in the ground.
Parallels. The trenches or lines made by the besiegers around the
works of the besieged.
Parapet, In fortification, an elevation of earth designed for covering
the soldiers from the fire of the enemy.
Park op Artillery, The place appointed for the artillery.
Parley, A conference with the enemy.
Parole, The promise or word of honor given by a prisoner of war
when permitted to be at large, that he will return at the time ap-
pointed.
Parole is also a word given out in orders for the purpose of distin-
guishing friends from foes.
Party. A small detachment of troops employed upon any duty, as
fatigue party, etc.
Patrol. A small party under a non-commissioned officer detached
from one of the guards, to move from post to post, through streets,
along roads, etc, to ensure vigilance, order, etc.
Paymaster, An oflficer charged with the payment of the troops.
Pickets. Outguards occupying the first line beyond the police guards ;
when attacked the outposts and grand guards fall back upon the
pickets for support.
Pillage, Plunder,
Pioneers, A small body of soldiers, provided with saws, axes, etc,
and intended to clear the way for troops on the march, to work on the
intrenchments, etc.
Platoon, Half a company.
Pontoons, Small boats used to sustain the bridges across streams for
the passage of troops.
Portfire, A sort of match for firing guns, etc,
Provost-Marshal. An officer whose duty it is to see punishments put
in force, secure prisoners, etc,
Pyrotechny, Evei-y kind of artificial fireworks.
GLOSSARY. XXni
Q.
Quarter. To give quarter is to spare the life of a vanquished enemy.
Quartermaster. An officer whose duty it is to supply the quarters,
fuel, clothing, transportation, etc., to the troops.
R.
Ralx^y. To re-form disordered or dispersed troops into regular order.
Rampart. A bank of earth raised about a place to resist the enemy's
shot, cover the buildings, etc.
Range. The distance from the gun to the place where the projectile
touches the ground.
Rank. A lino of soldiers drawn up side by side.
Rank and File. Non-commissioned officers and privates.
Ration. The daily allowance of bread, meat, etc., to the soldiers.
Rear Guard. A detachment of troops which brings up and protects
the rear of an army.
Reconnoitre. To view and examine the country in which an enemy is
operating; to examine the approaches to an enemy's works; ascer-
tain his position, strength, etc., etc.
Redoubt. A small work in fortification.
Regiment. A body of troops composed of ten or twelve companies,
and commanded by a colonel.
Reserve. A body of troops so posted as not to come into action until
near its close, or until a critical moment in the battle.
Retreat. To retreat is to make a retrogade movement.
Retrenchment. Any work raised to cover a point, and fortify it
against an enemy.
Ricochet. The rebounding of shot or shells after striking the ground.
Rosters are lists or tables by which the details of officers, non-com-
missioned officers and privates, for various duties, are regulated.
Round. A general discharge of cannon or small arms.
Rounds. A visiting or personal inspection of the guards and sentinels
on duty.
Rout. The confusion created in an army or body of troops when de-
feated or dispersed.
S.
Sabre. A species of sword with a broad and heavy blade, curved to-
ward the point.
Sack. An expression used when a town has been taken by storm and
given up to pillage.
Safeguard. A protection granted by the general of an army, for
some of the enemy's lands or persons, to preserve them from being
insulted or plundered.
Sallv. a sally, or sortie, is a secret movement of attack made by
strong detachments of troops from a besieged place, for the purpose
of destroying the enemy's works.
Salute. A discharge of artillery in compliment of some individual.
It also means the ceremony of presenting arms.
XXIV GLOSSARY.
Saxd Bags. Bags filled with earth for the purpose of repairing
breaches, etc.
Scouts. Horsemen sent in advance or on the wings of an ai'my to dis-
cover the enemy.
Sextixel. a private soldier placed upon a post, whose duty it is to
watch the motions of the enemy, prevent surprise, and in general to
enforce any specific order with which he may be entrusted.
Sergeant. A non-commissioned ofiicer.
Sergeant-Major. The first non-commissioned officer of his regiment,
and assists the adjutant in the discharge of his duties.
Service. Every kind of duty which a military man may be called
upon to perform.
Shells. Hollow iron balls thrown among the enemy from mortars and
howitzers. Being filled with powder, and provided with a fuse which
sets fire to the contents, the shell explodes.
Siege. The art of surrounding a fortified place with an armj^, and
attacking it by means of battei'ies, mines and trenches.
Skirmish. A loose desultory kind of combat in presence of two
armies.
Sorties. Parties that sally out of a place secretly to annoy the be-
siegers.
Spherical Coxe Shot. Thin shells filled with musket balls, and fired
from a howitzer.
Storm. A vigorous assault on a fortified place.
Stratagem. A scheme or plan devised by a general to cover his de-
signs during a campaign.
Strategy. The hostile movements of armies beyond the range of each
other's cannon.
Surprise. To fall upon an enemy unexpectedly.
T.
Traverses. Parapets of earth raised to cover troops from the enfila-
ding fire of an enemy.
Trenches. Ditches made during a siege, to enable the assailants to
approach more securely.
Troop. A company of cavalry.
Trophy. Anj^thing captured from an enemy.
V.
Vedettes. Sentries on horseback upon outposts.
Vent. The opening in firearms through which the fire is communica-
ted to the charge.
Volley. The simultaneous discharge of a number of firearms.
W.
Windage. The difference between the diameter of the bore, and the
diameter of the shot or shell.
Wings. The right or left divisions of an army or battalion.
"NVoRKS. Fortifications.
MANUAL
F O 11
VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA
Article I.
ARMY ORGANIZATION.
1. Every thoroughly-organized army consists of one or more army
corps, made up of infantry and cavalry, with an artillery equipage of
one or more batteries, dejiending upon the strength of the corps, engi-
neer troops, bridge trains, etc.
2. The infantry, from its powers of endurance, its capability of
operating successfully in almost every position, its entire indepen-
dence of the various casualties which sometimes completely paralyze
cavalry and artillery, ranks first in importance in the organization of
any army. The strength of the other arms is always based upon that
of the infantry, which long experience has shown should be about /o«r-
Ji/ths of the entire force.
The troops which compose the infantry are usually divided into
heavy and light; these distinctions arise partly from the nature of
the weapons, and partly from their different destination on the field
of battle. The former is known as the infantry of the line, the latter
as light infantry and rifles.
The only arm of the infantry of the line of the present day is the
musket, usually the rifled musket, provided with the bayonet, which,
in all the manoeuvres, is fixed to the piece. This arm possesses all the
essential qualities of the rifle, together with the advantages peculiar to
the musket, making it a most efiicient weapon in the hands of well
disciplined troops.
The infantry of the line should be so disciplined as to act as one
mass, which knows no breaking; it should be prepared to deliver its
fire in line, in the face of an opposing foe; to form in columns to
3
26 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
attack Avith the bayonet ;, form into square to resist the charge of cav-
alry ; or stand unmoved under the fire of artillery. To it must be
confided everything in the conduct of a battle which requires unyield-
ing firmness — as the attack and defence of strong points, the formation
of attacking or supporting columns, the reserves, etc.
The habitual formation of the infantry of the line of our service is
in two ranks ; the men of each rank being side by side, with an inter-
val of thirteen inches between the backs of the men of the front rank
and the breasts of those of the rear rank.
3. Light infantry may be armed with the musket, the same as the
infantry of the line, the bayonet being worn by the side except upon
rare occasions, when it is fixed; or, it may be armed with rifles, when
light infantry men become rijienten. The rifle now used is short, light,
easily carried on long or rapid marches, and possesses the additional
advantage of the sicord bayonet, which, in a charge, may be used like
the ordinary bayonet, or as a sword, in a hand-to-hand engagement.
The duties of light troops are to open an engagement, and to do
their part during its continuance. They should cover the front and
flanks of the infantry of the line, in the advance of the latter, driving
the enemy out of all covers, etc., only retiring upon the main body
when too strongly pressed to maintain their position. Upon them
usually devolve advance post, detachment, and advance and rear guard
service.
Light troops form as other infantry when occasion requires, but the
habitual order of battle is the diajiersed order, in which each man is
separated some distance from his neighbor, and must depend in a great
degree upon himself.
They should be expert marksmen, cool, circumspect, skilful in taking
advantage of their position to secure cover, etc., and should be pre-
pared to keep an enemy occupied for many hours at once, and maintain
their ground inch by inch.
All infantry now receives very nearly the same instruction, so as to
enable it to perform all the duties that may be required of the infantry
soldier, making the distinction between heavy and light troops much
less.
The volunteers and militia of our country possess, in an eminent
degree, all the qualities requisite for both heavy and light troops, and
were they disciplined and well instructed, as all must be to be truly
formidable, might serve in either capacity with as much efficiency as
any other troops, let them come from whatever quarter they may.
4. " In all countries where military art is justly appreciated, the cav-
alry arm is placed in the second rank to infantry. To it an army is
often indebted for turning the scales of victory, and giving a decisive
ARMY ORGANIZATION. 27
character to the issue. To it the infantry, when exhausted by fatigue,
or broken, often owes its safety, and through the respite gained by its
charges, finds time to breathe and re-form. Without it, much of
advanced post duty, patrols and detachment service, requii-ing great
activity, would be but badly performed.
" But the arm of cavalry by itself can eflect but little ; and, in many
circumstances, does not suffice for its own safety. The smallest obsta-
cles arc sufficient to render it powerless; it can neither attack nor hold
a post without the aitl of infantry : and at night is alarmed, and justly
so, at every phantom. The proportion borne by the cavalry to the
infantry should vary with the features of the seat of Avar; being greater
in a champaign than in a broken, or mountainous counti'y. The pro-
portion of onc-fvurih of tlie infantry for the first, and oue-si.rth for the
last, is generally admitted by received military authority as the best."
— (Mahan.)
The essential qualities of cavalry, which distinguish it from all other
troops, arc that of celerity, and the irresistible force with which, under
favorable circumstances, it bears down all opposition ,• making it, when
properly handled, a truly formidable arm.
Cavalry, to be etficient, should unite several essential conditions :
horses and weapons in good condition; sufficient ground to gather
speed for the charge, and space for rallying: to have its flanks covered
to prevent a surprise ; to be led boldly into action ; and to be followed
by a support or reserve sufficient to cover a retreat, or secure it from
confusion if brought up unexpectedly by the enemy.
In European armies there is a marked distinction between heavy and
h'ght cavalry, but in ours the distinction is more nominal than real ; all
cavalry being called u^ion alike for the discharge of the duties of both
heavy and light troops.
When acting as heavy cavalry, its duties are usually confined to the
field of battle ; there, placed in reserve, it is held in hand until the
decisive moment arrives, when it is sent forth to achieve victory or
prevent defeat.
To the light cavalry are entrusted the duties of securing the heavy
cavalry from surprise; to watch over the safety of the field artillery;
to perform the services required of them by infantry divisions, and
those pertaining to out-post and detiichraent service in general.
In our service all cavalry is armed with the aabre, Avith Colt's revolv-
ing 2>iftoIii, and with breech-loading rijiea, or carbines, of which there
are several different patterns now in use: as Sharpc's rifle and carbine,
Burnside's and Maynard's rifles, etc.
r>. " The artillery is placed third t» rank among the arms. Its duties
are to support and cover the other arms ; keep the enemy from ap-
28 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
preaching too near; hold him in check as he advances; and prevent
his dehonching at particular points. To perforin these duties it is con-
sidered that an allowance of one j^icc^ for each tJwttsand men^ of the
other arms, and one in reserve from the proper quota of this arm. It is
to be remarked, however, that this proportion supposes the other arms
in an excellent state of organization and dis.ipliue. In the contrary
case, the quota of artillery must be increased; for it inspires poor
troops with confidence, as they rely upon it to keep off the enemy, and
cover their retreat." — (Mahan.)
Artillery is incapable of defending itself, and must always be pro-
tected by a sufficient force of cavalry or infantry.
Field artillery, like the other arms, is divided into light and heavi/; a
division which results from differences in the calibre of the pieces, and
the manner in which they are used. The heavy field artillery comprises
the 12-pounder gun, and the 24 and 32-pounder howitzer; they are
generally reserved for batteries- in position, and are seldom shifted
during an action.
The light field artillery is composed of the 6-pounder field gun, and
the 12-pounder howitzer. When the cannoneers are moi;nted upon
horses during the evolution, it is called horse artillery/; when they
follow the pieces on foot, it becomes mounted artillery.
To the heavy artillery are assigned the duties of occupying posi-
tions for strengthening the weak points of the field of battle ; for
securing the retreat of the army ; for defending all objects whose pos-
session might be of importance to the enemy, as villages, defiles, etc. ;
and for breaking down all obstacles that protect the enemy, or check
the progress of the other's arms.
The light pieces, serving as mounted artillery, follow the move-
ments of the infantry ; covering the flanks of its position, preparing
the way for its advance, and arresting that of the enemy. When well
disciplined and skilfully handled, mounted artillery, by having the
cannoneers mounted upon the ammunition boxes, may be moA^ed with
great celerity, and made almost, if not quite, as efficient as horse
artillery.
The horse artillery, besides jDerforming the same duties as the
mounted batteries, may be used with great effect at the decisive mo-
ments of an action. "When launched forth, its arrival and execution
should be unexpected and instantaneous. Ready to repair all disasters
and partial reverses, it, at one moment, temporarily replaces a battery
of foot, and at the next in another point of the field, to force back an
1 Tlie proportion in our service is tiuo pieces to every thousand men, and one in
reserve.
ARMY ORGANIZATION. 29
enemy's column. In preparing the attacks of cavalry, this arm is
often indispensable, and always invaluable ; brought Avith rapidity in
front of a line, or opposite to squares of infantry, -within the range of
canister, its well-directed fire, in a few discharges, opens a gap, or so
shakes the entire mass, that the cavalier finds but a feeble obstacle,
where, without this aid, he would in vain have exhausted all his pow-
ers."
6. Engineer troops constitute a fourth arm of service; as compared
with artillery, their relative numbers are about as two to three. They
arc divided into the staff", guards, or fort-keepers, artificers, sappers
and pioneers, miners and pontoniers.
The officers constituting the staff" are charged in time of peace with
planning, constructing and repairing all fortifications and other de-
fensive works, etc. ; in time of war, engineer troops are charged with
the attack and defence of military works, the laying out and con-
struction of field defences, redoubts, intrenchments, roads, etc.; in the
attack they form a part of the advanced guard, to remove obstructions ;
and in reti'eat they form a part of the rear-guard, to erect obstacles,
destroy roads, bridges, etc., so as to retard an enemy's pursuit.
ORGANIZATION OF INFANTRY.
7. In the organization of infantry, the smallest number complete in
itself, is the conqxiny, which varies in number from 50 to 100 rank and
file.
A captain, two or more lieutenants, from four to six sergeants, and as
many corporals, are attached to every company. The captain and
lieutenants are the officers, and the sergeants and corporals the non-
commissioned officers of the company.
The captain is responsible for the instruction, discipline, general
efficiency and moral tone of the company.
The lieutenants assist the captain in the maintenance of discipline,
and in the instruction.
The company is divided into two equal parts, which are designated
as the first and second platoon, counting from the right; and each
platoon is, in like manner, divided into two sections.
The company is formed into two ranks in the following manner: the
corporals on the right and left of platoons, according to height; the
tallest corporal and the tallest man from the first file on the right, the
next two tallest men from the second file, and so on to the last file,
which is composed of the shortest corporal and the shortest man.
The odd and even files, numbered as one, two, in the company, from
right to left, form groups of four men, who, when they act as light
troops, are designated comrades in battle.
80 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
8. The officers and non-commissioned officers of the company are
posted in the following manner :
The captain on the right of the company, touching with the left
elbow.
The first sergeant, in the rear rank, touching with the left elbow, and
covering the captain. In the manoeuvres he is denominated covering
sergeant, or right guide of the company.
The remaining officers and sergeants are posted as file-closers, in the
ran^of file-closers, two paces behind the rear rank.
Th.& first lieutenant, opposite the centre of the fourth section.
The second lieutenant, opposite the centre of the first platoon.
The third lieutenant, opposite the centre of the second platoon.
The second sergeant, opposite the second file from the left of the
company. In the manoeuvres he is called the left guide of the com-
pany.
The third sergeant, opposite the second file from the right of the
second platoon.
Tlh.Q fourth sergeant, opposite the second file from the left of the first
platoon.
The fifth sergeant, opposite the second file from the right of the first
platoon.
The corporals are posted in the front rank, as directed in No. 7.
The Regiment.
9. A REGIMENT is composed of ten companies, which are habitually
posted from right to left, in the following order : first, sixth, fourth,
ninth, third, eighth, fiftli, tenth, seventh, second, according to the rank of
the captain. With a less number of comj^anies the same principle will
be observed, viz : the first captain commands the right company, the
second captain the left company, the third captain the right centre
company, and so on.
The companies thus posted are designated from right to \efi, first
company, second company, etc. This designation is observed in all the
manoeuvres.
The first two companies on the right, whatever their denomination,
form the first division ; the next two companies the second division;
and so on to the left.
In all exercises and manoeuvres, every regiment, or part of a regi-
ment, composed of two or more companies, is called a battalion.
Every regiment is provided with a color, which is posted with its
guard, to be designated hereafter, on the left of the right centre com-
pany,- that company, and all on its right belong to the right wing of
ARMY ORGANIZATION. 31
the regiment or battalion ; the remaining companies constitute the
left ii)i)if/.
To each regiment are attached a colonel, who commands it, and is
responsible for its general discipline and instruction, a lieiitenant-
colouel, two majors, a quartermaster, comminnary, paymaster, sitrc/eon,
and frequently an assistant surgeon, an adjutant, sergeant-major, quar-
termaster-sergeant, and commissary sergeant. The four first named of
these officers are iha field officers of the regiment: the others constitute
its commissioned and non-commissioned staff'.
Posts of Field Officers and Regimental Staff.
10. The field officers are supposed to be mounted, and on active ser-
vice must be on horseback. The adjutant, when the battalion is
manoeuvring, is on foot; when on the march, or in action, he is
mounted.
The colonel's post is thirty paces in rear of the file-closers, and oppo-
site the centre of the battalion. The lieutenant-colonel and senior
major are behind the centres of the right and left wings respectively,
the junior major behind the centre of the battalion, all twelve paces in
rear of the file-closers.
The adjutant and sergeant major are opposite the right and left of
the battalion respectively, and eight paces in rear of the file-closers.
They assist the lieutenant-colonel and major, respectively, in the
manoeuvres.
E.The quartermaster, surgeon, and other staff'-otficers, are in one rank
on the left of the colonel, and three paces in his rear. The quarter-
master-sergeant is on a line with the front rank of the field music, and
two paces on its right.
Pioneers, Field Music and Band.
11. The pioneers (one for each company) are drawn up in two ranks,
and posted on the right, having their left four jjaces from the right of
the first compan_y. A corporal of pioneers, selected from the corporals
by the colonel, is posted on the right of the pioneers.
The field miigic (two musicians to each company) is drawn up in
four ranks, and posted twelve paces in rear of the file closers, the left
opposite the centre company. The principal musician is two paces in
front of the field mui^ie. The regimental band (not to exceed sixteen
musicians), if thex'e be one, is drawn up in tAVO or four ranks, accord-
ing to its numbers, and posted five paces in rear of the field music,
having a principal musician at its head.
32 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Color-Guard.
12. The color-guard of a regiment or battalion is composed of eight
'(orporals, posted on the left of the right centre compauj^, of which
company, for the time being, the guard forms a part.
The front rank is composed of a sergeant selected by the colonel,
who is called the color-hearer, with the two ranking corporals on his
right and left; the rear rank is composed of the three corporals next
in rank; the three remaining corporals are posted in rear in the rank
of file-closers. The left guide of the color company, when the three
last named corporals are in the rank of file-closers, is immediately on
their left.
In battalions of less than five companies, there should be no color-
guard, and no display of colors, except at reviews.
General Guides and Markers.
13. There should be two general guides in each battalion, selected by
the colonel from among the sergeants (other than first sergeants) for
their accuracy in marching. These sergeants are denominated right
and left general guide, respectively, and are posted in the line of file-
closers ; the first in rear of the right, and the second in rear of the
left flank of the battalion.
Three marhers are required to every battalion; they are posted
behind the first company in the rank of file-closers, when the battalion
is in line, and behind the leading company or division whenever it is
in column.
The Battalion in Column.
14. For the march, in many of the manoeuvres, etc., the battalion is
in column. The column may be one of companies, or of divisions, in
rare instances it is one of platoons. It may be a column right in front,
in which case the first company, or division, is in front, all the others
being behind it in regular succession ; or it may be a column left in
front, in which the last company or division leads, the others following
in the inverse order of their numbers.
When the right is in front, the guides of the column are habitually
to the left, and to the right when the column is left in front.
The column may be one at full dibfanve, at half distance, or closed
in mass; in the first case the distance between the guides of any two
consecutive companies of the column is equal to the width of one of
the companies or divisions; in the second case it is one-half the width
of the company or division ; and in the last case, that of the column
closed in mass, the distance between the guides is six paces.
ARMY ORGANIZATION. 33
Posts of the Officers when the Battalion is in Column.
15. The colonel is on the directing flank, fifteen or twenty paces
from the guides, and abreast the centre of his battalion ; the lieuten-
ant-colonel is on the directing flank, abreast with the leading company
or division, and six i)aces from the guide; the majors are on the same
flank, the senior abreast with the rearmost coi^pany or division, and
six paces from the guide, the junior in a corresponding position abreast
the centre company ; the adjutant is near the lieutenant-colonel, and
the sergeant-major near the senior major.
In a column of companies, the captains are two paces in front of the
centres of their companies; the right guide of each companj^ is on the
right of the front rank, the left guide in a corresponding position on
the left; the lieutenants, and remaining sergeants, are in the rank of
file-closers.
In a column of divisions, the senior captain of each division is two
paces in front of the centre of his division, the junior captain in the
interval between the two companies; the right guide of the right
company is on the right of the front rank of the division, the left
guide of the left company is in a corresponding position on the left;
the right guide of the left company is in the rear rank, behind the
junior captain, and the left guide of the right company is in the rank
of the file-closers.
Brigades and Divisions.
16. Two or more regiments serving together constitute a brigade,
under the command of a l)rigadier-(jeneral.
Two or more brigades serving together constitute a division, com-
manded by a uiaJor-gciieraL
Two divisions serving together constitute an anin/ corjjs.
The army corps, Avheu supplied with a due proportion of cavalry,
artillery, etc., comprises Avithin itself all the elements of a complete
armj"^, ready for any emergency.
The interval between two contiguous regiments in the same brigade,
division, or army corps, is twenty-two paces.
As often as one or more brigades or divisions, united in the same
line, manoeuvre together, each battalion will be designated by its num-
ber, according to its position in the line. The battalion on the right
of the whole is denominated ^/-s^, that next on its left second, the fol-
lowing one third, and so on to the battalion that closes the left of the
line.
In line of battle, the (jencrul (the senior major-general present) has
no fixed pi-si'ion; he goes wbilhersoevor he may judge his presence
necessary.
34 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
In column, he will hold himself habitually at its head, in order to
direct it according to his views. In the evolutions, he will place him-
self at the point Avhence he can best direct the general execution of
the movement.
In line of battle, generals of division place themselves at about
sevent}' paces in rear of the centres of their divisions.
In column the^' ho4d themselves on the directing flank, abreast
with the centres of their divisions, and at thirty or forty paces from
the guides.
In line of battle, generals of brigade place themselves at about forty
paces in rear of the centre of their brigades.
In column, they hold themselves at fifteen or twenty paces outside
the guides, and abreast with the centre of their brigades.
ORGANIZATION OF CAVALRY.
The Company.
3 7. The company in cavalry is denominated the t'-oojy; it is organ-
ized upon the same principles as that of infantry ; its habitual forma-
tion is in two ranks.
When the company is in line, and acting singly, the officers and non-
commissioned officers are posted as follows :
The captain in front of the centre, one pace from the front rank.
The first lieutenant in rear of the centre, in the rank of file-closers.
The second lieutenant commands the first platoon ,• in the absence of
a third lieutenant, the second platoon is commanded by the senior ser-
geant. The chiefs of platoons are posted one pace in front of the
centres of their respective platoons.
The first sergeant in rear of the right, in the rank of file-closers.
The second and third sergeants on the right and left of the company,
and denominated the guide of the right, and guide of the left, respect-
ively.
The fourth sergeant is on the left of the first platoon, in the front
rank, and counted in the rank; tlie fifth sergeant is in a corresponding
position on the right of the second platoon.
Corporals on the flanks of platoons.
Buglers twenty paces in rear of the centre.
The Squadron.
18. Two companies united constitute the squadron. Each squadron
is composed of four platoons, distinguished by the denomination of
first, second, third and fourth, commencing on the right.
ARMY ORGANIZATION. 35
The first and second platoons form the first division, the third and
fourth form the second division.
The senior captain of the squadron is denominated the captain com-
mandinff, the junior captain the second captain.
When the squadron is in line, the officers and non-commissioned
officers are posted as follows :
The cajitain commanding at the centre of the«squadron, tlie croup of
his horse one pace in front of the heads of the horses of the front
rank.
The second captain three paces in rear of the centre of the squadron.
He is charged with the alignment of the rear rank and line of file-
closers.
The senior first lieutenant commands the first platoon; the. junior first
lieutenant commands the fourth i^latoon.
The senior second lieutenant covamands the second platoon; the junior
second lieutenant commands the third platoon.
Each of these officers is posted at the centre of his platoon, with the
croujJ of his horse one pace in front of the heads of the horses of the
front rank.
The senior sergeant is posted behind the first file fi-om the right of
the first platoon ; he is the principal guide when the column of squad-
rons is left in front.
The second sergeant is behind the third file from the left of the fourth
platoon ; he is principal guide when the column of squadrons is right
in front.
The third sergeant is posted on the right of the front rank of the
squadron ; he is the guide of the right, and is not counted in the rank.
The fourth sergeant on the left of the front rank ; he is guide of the.
left, and not counted in the rank.
The ffth sergeant on the left of the first platoon, and counted in the
rank.
The sixth sergeant on the right of the second platoon, also counted
in the rank.
The seventh sergeant on the right of the third platoon; the eighth
sergeant on the right of the fourth platoon — both are counted in the
rank.
The heads of the horses of the file-closers are at one pace from the
croup of those of the rear rank.
The corporals are in the front rank, on the right and left of their
respective platoons, and supply the places of sergeants when neces-
sary.
When guidons are used they are carried by the non-commissioned
officers on the left of the first and third platoons.
80 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The Regiment in TAne.
ID. The rcgiweut is made up of five .-^ciiuulron?, di!-tin.<,'ui.shed by the
dciiouiiniition, //>«^ second, third, fuitrtli au d ji/th ; they are formed on
the same line, in the order of these numbers, eommencing on the
ri.L'ht, and with an interval of twelve paces.
This is the iirimitivQ.aud habitual order of the squadrons in regi-
ments.
When a regiment is to mount, bnot^ and saddles is sounded ; at
this signal the horses arc saddled, bridled, and prepared to be led
out.
At the signal, to horse ! the first sergeants direct the men to lead
out.
The sergeants, corporals and privates being in two ranks, in the
order of their platoons, at the head of their horses, the orderly-ser-
geant calls the roll.
The captain directs them to call oif by fours and to mount (see No.
383), and on reaching the regimental parade, reports all absentees to
the adjutant, through the orderly-sergeant.
In case of alarm or surprise, to horse is sounded ,• the men then
saddle, bridle and mount with the utmost celerity, and repair to the
place of assembly, which is always previously designated.
The ofiicers and non-commissioned officers of the field and staff of
the regiment are posted as follows :
The colonel twenty-five paQcs in front of the centre of the regiment,
having a chief bugler behind him.
The lieutenant-colonel twelve paces in advance of the centre of the
right wing.
The iniijor twelve paces in advance of the centre of the left wing.
The Junior major, when there is one, twelve paces in front of the
centre of the regiment.
The colonel moves where his presence may be necessary.
The adjutant on a line with the front rank, two paces from the right
of the regiment. AVhen the regiment marches in line with the guide
right, it is his duty to give the points of direction, and superintend the
guides and the direction of the march.
The Hertjcunt major on a line with the front rank, two paces from the
left of the regiment, lie is charged with the same functions as the
adjutant, when the march is in line with the guide left.
The adjutant, assisted by the sergeant-major, is also charged with
tracing the lines.
The standard-hearer is placed at the last file but one from the left
of the front rank of the platoon on the right of the centre of the
regiment.
ARMY ORGANIZATION. 37
General staff-officers (surgeon, paymaster, etc.), serving with the regi-
ment, twenty-five jiaces in rear of the right of the first squadron,
according to rank.
The quartermaster-sergeant hehind the adjutant, on the line of the
rear rank.
The (jcneral guides of the right and left are jilaccd in the rank of
file-closers, in rear of the sergeant-major and quartermaster-sergeant.
The trumpeters, formed in two ranks, are twenty-five paces in rear of
the centre of the regiment.
The truvipcfers of a squadron acting separately, arc posted in the
same manner, but in one rank.
Order of the Regiment in Column.
Bj Tiro or bi/ four.
20, In this order the squadrons preserve an interval of twelve paces
between each other; the same as in line. This distance is measured
from the croups of the horses of the last files of one squadron, to the
heads of the horses of the first files of the next squadron.
The colonel marches at the centre of the regiment, on the side of the
guides, twenty-five paces from the flank of the column, having behind
him a chief bugler.
The lieutenant-colonel on the side of the guides, twelve paces from
the flank of the column ; he marches on a line with the lieutenants
commanding the first platoon of the first squadron.
The major marches in the same direction of the lieutenant-colonel,
and on a line with the guide of the left of the fifth squadron.
The adjutant marches on the side of the guides, two paces from the
flank, and on a line with the leading files of the column, to observe
the guides and the direction of the march.
The sergeant-major marches on the side of the guides, two paces from
the flank of the column, and on a line with the guide of the left of the
fifth squadron ; if the left is in front, he executes on the side of
the guides what is prescribed for the adjutant when the right is in
front.
The qnartermastcr-sergeant having the right general guide behind
him, marches on the side opposite the guides, two paces from the flank,
and on a line with the first files of the column.
The captains commanding march on the side of the guides, and four
paces from the flank, and abreast of the centre of their squadrons.
The second captains march on the aide opposite the guides, four paces
from the flank, and abreast of the centre of their S(|ua<lronj'.
The yrV*^ lieutenant of each squadron marches at the head of the first
38 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
platoon, one pace in advance of the first files, having the guide of the
right on his right.
The chiefs of the other platoons march on the side of the guides,
one pace from the flank of the column, and abreast of their first files ;
the file-closers march on the side opposite the guides, one pace from the
flank, and on a line with the centre of their platoons.
They all march in a similar manner on the flanks of the column
when the left is in front ; and, in this ease, it is the junior first lieuten-
ant who marches in the column at the head of the fourth platoon of
each squadron.
The guide, who in line is posted on the left of the squadron, marches
behind the last file of the squadron ; when the column is left in front,
he takes post on the left of the officer commanding the fourth platoon,
one pace in front of the left file.
Order in Column of Platoonsi.
21. In this order, the distance from one platoon to another, measured
from the men of one front rank to those of another front rank, is equal
to the front of a platoon ; that is to say, it is twelve paces if the platoon.s
are of twelve files, subtracting the depths of two ranks, which is six
paces, there remains six paces from the croup of the horses of the rear
rank of one platoon to the heads of the horses of the front rank of
the next platoon, a distance which is equal to half of the front of a
platoon.
The colonel marches at the centre of the regiment, on the side of the
guides, twenty-five paces from the flank of the column.
The lieutoiant-coloncl marches on the side of the guides, twelve paces
from the flank of the column, and on a line with the lieutenant com-
manding the first platoon of the first squadron.
The major marches in the dii'ection of the lieutenant-colonel, and
abreast of the file closers of the last platoon of the column.
The adjutant marches behind the left file of the first platoon to direct
the guide of the column ; he should occasionally place himself in front
of this file to satisfy himself that the guides of each platoon preserve
the same direction.
The sergeant-major marches on the side of the guides, two paces from
the flank of the column, and abreast of the file-closers of the fourth
platoon of the fifth squadron ; and, if the left is in front, he executes
on the side of the guides that which is prescribed for the adjutant when
the right is in front.
The quartermaster-sergeant having the right general guide behind
him, marches on the side opposite to the guides, two paces from the
ARMY ORGANIZATION. 39
flank of the colmiin, and on a line with the front rank of the first
platoon.
The capiain>i cowmaudiuff march on the side of the guides, four
paces from the flank of the column, and habitually abreast of the
centre of their squadrons.
The second coptaiiix march on the side opposite to the guides, four
paces from the flank of the column, and abreast of the centre of their
squadrons.
The ///•«< and secoud licnlenaiitH march at the centre of their platoons,
one pace from the front rank : those who command the platoons at the
head of squadrons, preserve, besides their distance, the ground neces-
sary to enable each squadron, in wheeling into line, to maintain its
interval.
The sergeants, who are file-closers, march on the side opposite to the
guides, behind the third file of their platoons.
When the column marches right in front, the guide at the right of
each squadron marches on the right of the first platoon ; and the guide
of the left places himself as file-closer behind the second file from the
left of the fourth platoon.
The post of these sergeants is the reverse when the left is in front.
^ Order in Column of Divisions.
22. The colonel, lieufoinnt-colouel, ntajor, and adjutant, are posted as
in the column of platoons. ^
It is the same for the captains connnanding, and the second cnjJtains.
The senior first lieutenant commands the first division, the other Jirst
lieutenant the second ; they remain, however, at the centre of their pla-
toons.
All the other ofiicers and sergeants of each division are posted as pre-
scribed in the order in column of platoons, the file-closers remaining in
their places, on whatever side the guide may be.
Order in close Colunifi of Squadrons.
23. In this order, the distance from one squadron to another is
twelve paces, measured from the croup of the horses of the rear rank of
one squadron, to the heads of the horses of the front rank of the next
squadron.
The colonel, lieutenant-colonel, and major, are posted as in column of
l)latoons.
The adjutant marches behind the left guide of the first squadron, on
the alignment of the file-closers, to superintend the direction of the
march.
40 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The sergeant-major is posted as in column of platoons, and when the
left is in front, he performs the same duties as the adjutant when the
right is in front.
The quarfermaster-sei-geant marches on the side opposite the guides,
as in column of platoons.
The guide of the left of the left wing of the first squadron moves to
the front on the alignment of the officers; he is replaced by the sergeant
file-closers of the fourth platoon. If the left is in front, the guide of
the right of the fifth squadron places himself on the alignment of the
officers to serve as guide ; he is replaced by the sergeant file-closer of
the first platoon.
All the officers of the squadron, and the file-closers, remain posted as
in the order of battle, except the captains commanding, who march on
the sides of the guides, four paces from the flank, and on a line with
the officers of their squadrons.
Cavalry Brigades and Divisions.
24. Two or more regiments of cavalry constitute a brigade; and two
or more brigades constitute a division. They are officered in the same
manner as infantry brigades and divisions.
Mixed brigades and divisions, composed of regiments of infantry
and cavalry, are sometimes formed.
ORGANIZATION OF FIELD ARTILLERY.
25. Field artillery is always formed into batteries. A battery may be
composed of four, six, or eight pieces; the pieces may be all 6-pounder
or 12-pounder guns, or it may be composed of 6-pounder guns and
12-pounder howitzers, or 12-pounder guns and 24 or 32-pounder how-
itzers.
The number of guns should be double that of the howitzers ; for a
defensive war, from i to l-5th of the pieces should be 12 pounder guns,
and 2-4 or 32-i)ounder howitzers. For an oft'ensive war, from l-7th to i:
only should be of these calibres, otherwise the batteries could not be
moved with sufficient celerity.
Each piece is followed by a caisson for ammunition ; each piece and
caisson is drawn by four or six horses.
2fi. A battery of six pieces will be supposed ; it is divided into three
sections, the right, centre and left; each containing two pieces and
two caissons. In each section, the pieces are denominated right pieces
and left pieces.
The battery is also divided into half batteries, denominated right
and left half batteries.
ARMY ORGANIZATION. 41
The word piece applies to the gun or howitzer, either with or without
its limber; and sometimes to the piece and caisson together.
The officers and men required for the service of the battery, are as
follows :
One cfijJtaiu, who commands the battery.
Four lieutenants ; the first in rank commanding the right section (of
two pieces), the second the left, the third the centre, and the fourth the
line of caissons. When half batteries are formed, the first commands
the right, and the second the left.
Six mounted serf/cants, each charged with guiding and superintend-
ing a piece.
Twenty-four or thirty-six drivers, being one to each pair of horses.
Six detachments of cannoneers, each containing nine men in mounted
batteries, and eleven in horse artillerj', including the chief of the cais-
son, and the gunner who commands the detachment. In each detach-
ment of horse artillery, the two last extra men are horni'holders, who
hold the horses of the detachment while it is serving the piece.
Two trumpeters or buglers. One guidon.
Order in Line.
27. The order in line is that in which the carriages arc formed in two
lines; the horses all facing the same direct ion (to the front), the pieces
limbered, and each followed or preceded by its caisson.
The interval between the carriages in a mounted battery is fourteen
yjxrds ; in a horse artillery battery it is seventeen yards.
The distance between the two lines, in a mounted battery, measured
from the rear of the carriages of one line to the heads of the horses of
the second, is two yards; in horse artillery the detachments being two
yards in rear of their pieces, the second line is two yards in rear of
them.
In a mounted battery the cannoneers are at their posts.
The captain is four yards in front of the centre; but, during the
manoeuvres, he goes wherever his presence may be most necessary, and
where his commands may be best heard.
Each chief of section is in line with his leading drivers, and midway
between the leading carriages of his section.
The chief of the line of caissons is opposite the centre, four yards
behind the rear line of carriages.
Each chief of piece is on the left, and near the leading driver of his
leading carriage. In horse artillery, when the chiefs of caissons are
mounted, each chief of carriage is near its leading driver on the left.
The trximpeter is near the captain.
4
42 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Order in Column.
28. The order in column is that in Avhieh the battery is formed by-
sections ; the carriages being in two files, and each piece being followed
or preceded by its caisson.
In a mounted batter}^, the interval between the two pieces of each
section of the column is fourteen yards ; the distance between the
carriages is two yards. The cannoneers are in file on each side of
their pieces.
In horse artillery, the interval between carriages is seventeen yards*
The distance between the carriages and detachments is two yards.
The detachments formed in two ranks are two yards in rear of their
pieces.
The captain is generally fourteen yards from the column and oppo-
site the centre.
Each chief of section is in line with his leading drivers and midway
between his leading carriages.
The chief of the line of caisson fi is in line with the captain, on the
same side of the column, and four yards from it; but he does not
change his position to conform to that of the captain.
The chiefs of pieces and caissons are posted as in line.
Order in Baiter?/.
29. The order in battery is that in which the pieces are prepared for
firing; the pieces, limbers, and caissons being turned toward the
enemy, and formed in three parallel lines.
In a mounted battery the interval between the carriages is fourteen
yards. The distances between the lines of pieces and limbers is six
yards, measured from the end of the handspike to the heads of the
leading horses. The distance between the lines of limbers and caissons
is eleven yards, measuring from the rear of the limbers to the heads of
the leading horses of the caissons. The cannoneers are at their posts.
In horse artillery the interval between the pieces is seventeen yards.
The distances between the lines are the same as for the mounted battery.
The cannoneers are at their posts, and the detachments of horses are
four yards in rear of the limbers.
The captain is generally on the left of the chief of the centre sec-
tion ; but he may go wherever his presence is required.
Each chief of section is habitually in the centre of his section, half
way between the lines of pieces and limbers.
The chief of the line of caissons is opposite the centre, four yards in
rear of the line of caissons.
Each chief of jyicce is outside the file on the left of his piece; but
ARMY ORGANIZATION. 43
near it, and opposite the middle of the trail handspike. During the
executions of the firings he habitually dismounts and gives the reins
of his horse to the driver of the wheel horses of the limber.
Each chief of caisson is on the left, and four yards in rear of the
limber of the piece. In horse artillery he gives the reins of his horse
to the driver of the wheel horses of the caissons.
Tico or more Batteries united.
30. When necessary, two or more batteries may be united ; they uifty
be formed by sections in one or more parallel columns, or in two
columns joined, and presenting a front of four pieces with the same
intervals as in line. Sometimes they arc formed in close column with
a front of four or six pieces, and the batteries being placed a distance
apart equal to the interval between two pieces. When the batteries
are in line, the intervals between them are twice the intervals between
the pieces.
The position of Artillery.
31. Artillery seldom or never acts in an independent capacity, but in
conjunction with either infantry or cavalry, or both.
The positions usually assigned batteries are on the flanks, or in the
intervals between regiments and brigades, these intervals being in-
creased suflicicntly to admit them. When a battery is brought into
action, it is usually thrown forward some sixty paces in front of the
main line.
Two mounted batteries are usually assigned to each division of
infantry, and one of horse artillery to every division of cavali\y.
Besides, for each array corps of infantry, there is a reserve of several
batteries.
THE STAFF.
32. The well-being and efficiency of an army must depend in a large
degree upon the thorough organization of the various dei^ai'tments of
the Stajf.
These ai'e :
An Adjutant- General's Department
An Inspector-GeneraVs Department.
A Quartermaster's Department.
A Commissary Department.
An Engineer Department.
An Ordnance Department.
A Pay Department.
A Medical Depai'tment.
44 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
33. The officers of the adjutant-general's department are, an adju-
tant-general, with such rank as may be assigned him by legislative
enactment, usually that of colonel or brigadier-general, with as many
assistant adjutant-generals as the exigencies of the service may require.
The adjutant-general should be the chief of the staif of the com-
mander-in-chief. He is the regular channel through which command-
ers of corps and chiefs of departments communicate with the com-
mander-in-chief; and all orders, special instructions and general
r^ulations, issued by the commander-in-chief relative to the organiza-
tion, discipline and instruction of the forces, are prepared and pub-
lished by the adjutant-general, conformably to the direction of the
commander-in-chief.
When the commander-in-chief takes the field the adjutant-general
should accompany him; when an army in the field is in command of
any general not the general-in-chief, an assistant adjutant-general is
assigned to him as chief of his staff.
An assistant adjutant-general, with the rank of captain, is assigned
to the commander of each brigade, and one with the rank of major is
assigned to the general of every division. In each case the assistant
adjutant-general is the chief of staff of his general, and his duties are
of the same general nature as those of the adjutant-general.
An adjutant is the chief of staff of his regiment.
34. The officers of the inspector-general's department are one or
more inspector-generals, with a division inspector for each division, and
a brigade insp>ector for each brigade.
To the inspector-general, and the division and brigade inspectors,
are assigned the duties of inspecting the troops, fortifications, camps,
etc., at stated times ; and division and brigade inspectors are specially
entrusted with the instruction of regimental officers. The militia laws
of Virginia, and some of the other States, impose all the duties of this
department upon that of the adjutant-general, in which case the divis-
ion and brigade inspectors become the chiefs of staff of their divisions
and brigades, and discharge all the duties which usually devolve upon
the assistant adjutant-general.
35. The officers of the quartermaster's department are, a quarter-
master-general, who has the control of the department; one or more
assistant quartermaster-generals, quartermasters and assistant quarter-
masters.
The duties of this department are, to provide quarters and transpor-
tation for the troops; storage and transportation for all army supplies;
clothing for the troops ; camp and garrison equipage ; cavalry and
artillery horses ; fuel; forage; straw, and stationery.
36. The officers of the commissary department are, a commissary
ARMY ORGANIZATION. 45
(jeneral, one or more assistant comm!ssar>/-generaIs, and as many com-
viissnries and assistant commissaries as the exigencies of the service
may require.
To this department are assigned the duties of providing all the sup-
plies necessary for the subsistence of the troops.
37. The officers of the engineer department are, a chief enf/iuecr, and
as many officers of engineers as may be necessary to give efficiency to
the department.
The duties of this department usually relate to the construction of
l)ermanent and field fortifications; works for the attack and defence
of places; for the passage of rivers; for the movements and operations
of troops in the field, and such reconnoissances and surveys as may be
required for these objects.
38. The ordnance department is officered in the same manner as that
of the engineers.
This department has charge of all arsenals and armories; all cannon
and artillery carriages and equipments; all apparatus and machines
for the service and manoeuvres of artillery; all small arms and accou-
trements and horse equipments; all ammunition, and all materials for
the construction of munitions of war.
39. The officers of the pay department are, a pa^»ia.sfe/--f/c»e;-a/, one
or more deputy pa)jmaster-<jenerals, and one paymaster, ordinarily, to
every regiment. When large bodies of troops are serving together, the
number of paymasters may be very much reduced without detriment to
the service.
To this department belong all the duties pertaining to thepayment of
the troops when they are in the service of the State.
40. The officers of the medical dejjartment are a siiygeon-fjeneval, with
one surgeon to each regiment, and such other surgeons and assistant
surgeons as a proper attention to the health of the troops may require.
The senior medical officer, on duty with any corps in the field, unless
otherwise specially ordered by the commanding officei', will be, e.r-
ojficio, the medical director, and Avill have the general control of the
medical officers and the supervision of the hospitals under their charge.
46 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MIILTIA.
Article II.
ARMS.
41. The principal small arms used in warfare at the present day are
the common or smooth, bore musket with percussion lock, the rifled
musket, the rifle with elongated ball, rifled carbines, pistols and sabres.
42. The smooth bore musket (U. S. service pattern) is four feet ten
inches in length from the butt to the muzzle ; is provided with a bayonet
eighteen inches in length, which fits upon the outside of the muzzle, and
locks, so as to prevent its removal by an adversary; it has a bore of
0.69 of an inch in diameter, and carries a leaden ball running 32 to the
pound. The musket with its bayonet weighs ten pounds nearly. The
fire of the musket is inaccurate, but in a general action, where accuracy
of fire is not attainable, it may be made effective up to 300 yards; be-
yond 400 yards it is useless.
This arm is being rapidly superseded by the rifled musket, or Minie
musket, as it is sometimes called.
43. The rifled musket is nothing but the common musket "rijled;"
the grooves are three in number, they are of eq^^al width, and equal in
width to the "lands ;" the twist of the grooves is a uniform spiral of
one turn to six feet in length ; the grooves are very shallow at the muz-
zle (0.005 of an inch), and deepen slightly as they go down to the
breech. The projectile, instead of being round, as in the common
musket, is made cylindm-conical, the cylindrical portion having three
grooves around it, and the base or bottom being hollowed out in a coni-
cal form. The object of giving the ball a pointed form is that it may
meet with the least possible resistance in its flight through the air ; the
effect of the grooves is, by the action of the air upon them, to keep the
point of the ball in front, and cause it to strike first; the object of
making it hollow at the base is to make it expand when the piece is
fired, thereby causing it to fill the grooves, and follow them in its
passage out of the piece.
The dimensions of the rifled musket (U. S. pattern) are as follows:
length, without bayonet, four feet eight inches ; with bayonet fixed, six
feet two inches ; weight, ten pounds ; diameter of bore, 0.58 of an
inch; weight of ball, 500 grains.
44. The "altered musket" of the U. S. service is the old pattern
musket rifled; the principal difference between this and the new rifled
ARMS. 47
musket being that the altered inuskct has a larger bore, its diameter
being 0.69 of an inch. The ball carried by it is heavier, weighing 730
grains, and a heavier charge of powder is necessary.
45. The riflej or Minic rifle, as it is generality called, is rifled in the
same manner as the muskets; the diameter of the bore is 0.58 of an
inch, the same as the new musket, and the same ball is used; it is
shorter than the musket, being but four feet one inch in length, without
the bayonet, and not quite six feet with the bayonet fixed : its weight is
greater than that of the musket, it being, without the bayonet, ten
pounds, within a small fraction, and thirteen with it. The bayonet is
not quite twenty-two inches in length ; it is made in the form of a
heavy sabre, but slightly curved near the point. It is usually worn at
the side, and is only fixed when pressed by cavalry, or in a charge.
46. There are sevei'al forms of rifles and carbines which are more or
less in use by mounted troops, as Colt's repeating carbines and repeat-
ing rifles, Maynard's, Burnsides, and Sharp's rifles, and Sharp's carbine
all of which arc breech-loading arms. Colt's arms are intended for
both round and elongated balls; in the others, the elongated ball is
alone used.
47. The pistols in general use at this time are the largest size of
Colt's repeaters; they are rifled, and may be used as cai'bines by the
attachment of an '' adjustable breech."
There is also a "a pistol carbine" manufactured by the U. S. ord-
nance department; it is rifled, has the same bore as the rifle and rifle
musket, and the same ball may be used, although a ball with a larger
cavity than that of the rifle ball is preferable. This arm may be used
as a pistol or carbine — in the latter case an adjvistable breech becomes
necessary.
48. All cavalry and artillery troops are armed with sabres — the U. S.
cavalry and artillery sabres have steel scabbards ; are forty-three and
thirty-eight inches long respectively, and are attached to "sling" belts,
which are worn around the waist.
49. The fire-arms used in artillery are divided into three classes, gnni,
hoioitzers and mortars. Guns are used to throw solid shot, which cut
by their force of percussion, hence they are always fired with lai'ge
charges of powder, say from one-fifth to one-half the weight of the
ball. They are used to strike an object direct, and at a distance ; or, by
their ricochet fire, for reaching objects not attainable by direct fire.
They arc also used to batter down the walls of fortifications. They are
always designated by the weight of solid shot which they carry.
There are six different calibres, which are divided into three classes,
they are 6, 12, 18, 24, 32 and 42-poundors.
60. The 6 and 12-pounders, usually made of bronze, but sometimes
48 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
of cast iron, constitute one class called field guns ; the 12, 18, and 24-
l^ounders, made of cast iron, constitute a second known as siege and
garrison guns ; and the 32 and 42-pounders, also cast iron, make the
third, denominated sea-coast guns.
Field guns are used in the field as light artillery ; siege and garrison
guns are used in permanent and field fortifications, and in sieges, to
batter down the walls, etc. ; sea-coast guns are principally used in per-
manent fortifications on the sea-board.
61. A howitzer is a gun with a chamber in it. It is used principally
for firing hollow projectiles, or shells ; in order to prevent breaking the
shell, and at the same time to give the projectile sufficient velocity, a
small charge of powder is fired from a cylindrical chamber at the bot-
tom of the bore.
The calibre of howitzers is designated by the weight of the solid shot
which they would carry, or by the number of inches that the bore is in
diameter. They are divided into field howitzers, mountain howitzers,
siege a)id garrison, and sea-coast honntzers ; field howitzers are 12, 24,
and 32-pounders,- mountain howitzers are 12-pouuders, siege and gar-
rison howitzers are 24-pounders and 8-inch, and sea-coast howitzers are
8 and 10 inch.
52. Field howitzers are used with light batteries in the field; the
mountain howitzer is for service in countries too rough to admit the
passage of wheeled carriages ,• siege and garrison howitzers are used in
the trenches at sieges, and in the defence of permanent fortifications ;
and sea-coast howitzers are used in permanent fortifications on the sea-
board.
53. There are several kinds of mortars ranging from six to sixteen
inches in calibre; the heavy mortars are principally used on the sea-
coast; the others are for use in the trenches at sieges, and in the defence
of fortifications of all kinds.
54. Pieces of artillery are mounted on their carriages by means of
trunnions ; they are cylinders cast with the gun, having a common axis
at right angles to that of the gun. The trunnions of the G-pounder gun,
and 12-pounder howitzer have the same diameter, so that guns and
howitzers may be mounted on the same sized carriages, and serve to-
gether in the same battery; the trunnions of the 12-pounder gun, and
24 and 32-pounder howitzer, are also of the same size, so that they may
be thrown together in the same battery.
55. The field gun carriage is composed of two jDarts — the portion on
which the piece rests when it is fired, and the limber. The first part,
or carriage proper, is two-Avheeled ; from the axle proceeds the stock, to
which are fastened two upright pieces called cheeks, upon which the
trunnions rest. The end of the stock, designated the trail, rests on the
AMMUNITION. 49
ground during the firings ; at other times it is attached to the limber ;
the piece gets its proper elevation by means of the elevating screw,
which works through a plate on the stock. The limber is the part of
the carriage to which the horses are attached ; on the end of the trail
is an iron plate called the lunette, throitgh which there is an opening,
which goes over a hook on the axle of the limber called the j^^'^tle-hooJc,
and is secured in its place by a bolt called the 2)rntle-holt. The limber
also carries an ammunition box, which may be removed at pleasure.
56. Each piece is followed by its caisfion or carriage, for ammunition.
The wheels of the carriage, limber and caisson, are all of the same size ;
and may, when necessai'y, replace each other, and a spare wheel is car-
ried on the rear of every caisson. The caisson carries three ammu-
nition boxes, of the same size as the one on the limber, and movable,
so tbat when the box on the limber is empt}', it may be exchanged for
a full one from the caisson. Tbe boxes arc partitioned off into small
compartments, each compartment being the receptacle for a charge of
ammunition.
Every artillery carriage is drawn by from four to six horses, a driver
being required for each pair of horses.
AMMUNITION.
57. When troops are in the field it is not only necessary that they
shoulii go with a suflScient supply of ammunition, but that it should be
put up in such form as to be convenient for use, and at the s.ame time
as well protected as possible from the effects of the weather, etc.
Cartridges made of paper or flannel, or some other woollen goods, are
in general use ; the foriner for small arms, and the latter foV artillery.
58. To make the cylinders for blank cartridges, the paper is cut in a
trapezoidal form, with a pattern. The former is a cylinder of hard
wood, of the same diameter as the ball, concave at one end, and con-
vex at the f>ther. The paper is laid on a table with the side perpen-
dicular to the bases next the workman, the broad end to the left, the
former laid on it with the concave end half an inch from the broad
edge of the paper, and enveloped in it once. The right hand is then
laid flat on the former, and all the paper rolled on it. The projecting
end of the paper is now neatly folded down into the concavity of the
former, pasted, and pressed on a ball imbedded in the table for the
purpose.
Instead of being pasted, these cylinders may be closed by choking
5
50 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
with a striug tied to the table, aud having at the other end a stick by
which to hold it. The convex end of the former is placed to the left,
and after the paper is rolled on, the former is taken in the left hand,
and a turn made around it, with the choking string, half an inch from
the end of the paper. Whilst the string is drawn tight with the right
hand, the former is held in the left, with the forefinger resting on the
end of the cylinder, folding it neatly down upon the end of the former.
The choke is then firmly tied with twine.
69. For ball cartridges, the cylinders are made and choked as above,
and the choke tied without cutting the twine. The former is then
withdrawn, the ball inserted, and followed by the concave end of the
former. Two half-hitches are made just above the ball, and the twine
cut off.
For ball and buck-shot cartridges make the cylinder as before, insert
three buck-shot, fasten them with a half-hitch, and insert and secure
the ball as before.
For buck-shot cartridges make the cylinder as before, insert four
tiers of thi'ee buck-shot each, as at first, making a half-hitch between
the tiers, and ending with a double hitch.
60. To fill the cartridges, the cylinders are placed upright in a box,
and the charge poured into each from a conical charger of the appro-
priate size; the mouths of the cylinders are now folded down on the
powder by two rectangular folds, and the cartridges bundled in pack-
ages of ten. For this, a folding box is necessary ; it is made with but
two vertical sides, at a distance from each other equal to five diameters
of the ball, and two diameters high.
Put a wrapper in the folding box, and place in it two tiers of five
cartridges each, parallel to each other and to the sliort sides of the
wrapper, the balls alternating,- wrap the cartridges whilst in the fold-
ing-box, by folding the paper over tliem, and tie them. A package of
twelve percufiaioli caps is placed in each bundle of ten cartridges.
The bundles are marked with the numl)cr and kind of cartridge.
61. The cartridges for elongated projectiles diff"er so much from those
used with the spherical bullet, that a separate description is necessary.
Each cartridge is made of three pieces of paper, the larger piece or
cartridge proper, is made of what is known as cartridge paper, but it
should not be too strong ; the second piece is made of the same or
stronger paper, and the third is made of the stoutest rocket paper.
Before enveloping the balls in the cartridges, their cylindrical parts
should be covered with a melted composition of one part beeswax and
three parts tallow; it should be applied hot, in which case the super-
fluous pai-t would run off. Care should be taken to remove all the
AMMUNITION. 51
grease from the bottom of the ball, lest by coming in contact with the
bottom of the case it penetrate the paper and injure the powder.
62. The sticks on which the cartridges are rolled are made of tho
same diameter as the bore of the piece j the dimensions given are for
the U. S. muykct or ritlc of 0.58 bore. The piece of stiff or rocket pa-
per is laid on the smaller trapezoidal piece, with one of its longer sides
coinciding with the shorter parallel side of the trapezoid. The former
is laid on the side of the trapezoid, perpendicular to the parallel sides,
leaving about a quarter of an inch of the side uncovered by the former,
and the paper is rolled around the former; the projecting end of the
paper is then folded down and pasted. After the cylinder thus made is
dry, it is again put on the stick; the stick is then taken in the left hand
and laid upon the outer wrapper, the end not far from the middle of the
wrapper (the oblique edge of the wrapper turned from the workman,
the longer vertical edge toward his left hand), and snugly rolled up.
The ball is then inserted in the open end of the cartridge, the base
resting on the cylinder case, the paper neatly choked around the point
of the ball, and fastened by tying with cartridge thread. Tho stick is
then withdrawn, sixty grains of powder pourcdjnto the case, and the
mouth of the cartridge is "pinched" or folded in the usual way.
63. To use this cartridge, tear the fold and pour out the powder;
then seize the ball end firmlj' between the thumb and forefinger of the
right hand, and strike the cylinder a smart blow across the muzzle of
the piece; this breaks the cartridge and e.xposes the bottom of the ball;
a slight pressure of the thumb and forefinger forces the ball into the
bore clear of all cartridge paper. In striking the cartridge the cylinder
should be held square across, or at right angles to the muzzle; other-
wise, a blow given in an oblique direction would only bend the cartridge
without breaking it.
64. The ammunition for artillery consists of a charge of powder con-
tained in a cartridge bag, and the projectile, which may be either fixed
to, or separate from the cartridge. When the two are fastened together,
the whole constitutes a charge oi fixed ammunition.
65. The cartridge bag should be made of merino, bombazette, or flan-
nel, which should be all wool, otherwise fire might be left in the piece
after its discharge. The texture and sewing should be close enough to
prevent the powder sifting through. Untwillcd stuff is preferable. The
bag is formed of two pieces, a rectangle, which forms the cylinder, and
a circular piece which forms the bottom. As the stuff does not stretch
in the direction of its length, the long side of the rectangle should be
taken in that direction, otherwise the cartridge might become too large
for convenient use with its piece. The material is laid sometimes scve-
r:il folds thick, on a (.'ilili-. !iii<l the rectangles and circles marked out on
52 MANUAL rOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
it with chalk, using, for the purpose, patterns made of hard, well season-
ed wood, sheet iron, or tin. The pieces are then cut with the scissors.
For a 6-pounder gun and 12-pounder howitzer, the rectangle is 11.4
inches long by 7.25 inches in height, the diameter of the bottom being
4.37 inches — the seam is half an inch wide. For the 12-pounder gun,
and 24 and 32-pounder howitzer, the rectangle is 14.2 inches by 10, and
the diameter of the bottom is 6.25 inches. The short sides of the rec-
tangle are sewed togther, and the bottom sewed in. The sewing is done
with woollen yarn, twelve stitches to the inch. The two edges of the
seam are turned down on the same side, and basted, to pi-event the
powder from sifting through.
Blank cartridge bags, or those intended for immediate use, may be
made of two rectangular pieces with semi-circular ends sewed together.
66. When special accuracy is required, charges are carefully weighed
in delicate scales ; but usually the bags are filled by measurement. The
powder measures are made of sheet copper; they are cylindrical, and
their diameters and height are equal. A measure 3.628 inches in diam-
eter and height, holds one and a quarter pounds of powder, the charge
for a 6-pounder gun when it fires solid shot; one of 3.368 inches holds
one pound of powder, the charge for the same gun when it fires spheri-
cal case or canister; it is also the charge for the 12-pounder how-
itzer. A measure of 4.24 inches in diameter and height, holds two
pounds of powder, the light charge for a 24-pounder howitzer; one of
4.57 inches holds two and a half pounds of powder, the heaviest charge
for the 24-pounder howitzer, and the light charge for the 32-pounder.
The one pound and a quarter measure, and the two pound measure,
making three and a quarter pounds, will be the heavy chai'ge for the
32-pounder howitzer.
67. Blank cartridges, and those for the 12-pounder gun, are, after
being filled, simply tied firmly about the neck with twine. Those for
fixed ammunition are attached to pieces of wood called sabots, by tying
them with strong twine; before attaching them to the sabots, however,
the sabot must be fastened to the projectile.
The sabot, for guns, is cylindrical, or nearly so, in shape, and for
howitzers, conical. For shot and spherical case for guns, they have
one groove for attaching the cartridge; those for gun canisters, and for
12-pounder howitzer shells, spherical case, and canister, have two
grooves. Sabots for 32-pouuder and 24-pounder howitzers have no
grooves, but are furnished with handles made of a piece of cord, pass-
ing through two holes, and fastened by knots countersunk on the inside.
68. The sabots are fastened to shot and shell with strips of sheet tin.
For shot there are two straps crossing at right angles, one passing
through a slit in the middle of the other. For shells there are four
AMMUNITION. 58
ptraps soldered to a ring of tin; the straps are nailed to the sabot. If
tin cannot be pi'ocured, straps may be niade of strong canva>t, one inch
wide, sowed at the point of crossing. The part of the ball which is to
be inserted into the socket is dipped in glue; the straps are glued to the
ball, and nailed to the sabot.
69. A canister shot is a cylinder of tin, of the same diameter as the
bore of the piece, filled with small balls. The cylinder is left open at
both ends; after being soldered, it is nailed to the sabot, and a plate of
rolled iron placed at the bottom of the sabot. To prevent rusting, the
cylinder before filling should be covered with beeswax dissolved in
spirits of turpeutiuc, and the balls should be painted or lacquered.
To fill the canister place it upright on its sabot; put in a tier of balls,
filling the interstices with dry sawdust, jiacking it with a pointed stick,
so that the balls will hold by themselves when the case is turned over,
and throw out the loose sawdust. Place another tier of balls, and pro-
ceed in the same manner until the canister is filled; cover the top tier
with a layer of sawdust, and put on the cover, which is a circular plate
of sheet iron, settling it well witli a mallet in order to compress the
sawdust. The top of the cylinder is cut into slits about half an inch
oug, which are turned down over the cover to secure it.
70. The shot, shell, or canister being secured to the sabot, the car-
tridge is tied to it, making the charge complete. The mouths of the
bag are first twisted and pressed down, so as to settle the powder; they
are then opened and the powder smoothed. The sabot is introduced,
and the cartridge drawn up around it, until it reaches the powder; the
cartridge is then secured by passing several turns of strong twine
around it in the grooves, and tying it, after which the excess of the bag
is cut oif.
71. The cartridge and projectile for the 24 and 32-pounder howitzers
arc kept separate; the projectile is attached to the sabot as has been
explained, No. 68, and the cartridge to a cylindrical piece of light wood
called a cartridge block.
These blocks give a better finish to the cartridge, help to fill the
chamber and keep the cartridge from turning in the bore while the piece
is being loaded. They have but one groove ; the grooved end is in-
serted in the mouth of the cartridge, and pressed down upon the pow-
der; the bag is pulled over it and tied with twine in the groove. The
mouth of the bag is then turned down, and another tie made over it,
which keeps the powder from working up between the block and the
bag. The superfluous part of the bag is then cut off".
72. For the greater security of field ammunition, the cartridges are
covered with paper cylinders and caps. They are both made together,
on the same former, which is a piece of board with slightly inclined
51 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
sides and rounded edges. The paper is pasted around this. The re-
quisite length for the cylinder is cut from the smaller end, the rest
forming the cap, which is choked at the end from which the cylinder is
cut. For choking, a cylindrical former of wood, with a hemispherical
end, is used, which should be bored through the end to facilitate the
drawing off of the cap. The cylinder fits over the body of the car-
tridge and a part of the sabot to which it is tied, while the cap fits over
the end. When the cap is drawn off, which is always done when the
cartridge is placed in the piece, the lower end is left exposed so that
the priming wire, or fire from the friction tube, can reach it without
going through any pajDer.
73. Shells arc hollow shot, the interior space being formed of a
sphere concentric with the outer surface, making the sides of equal
thickness. They have a conical opening or eije, used to load the shell,
and in which is inserted ihQ fuze to communicate fire to the charge.
74. To load shells, they are set upon their sabots, the charges meas-
ured out in the proper powder measure, and poured in through a copper
funnel. The 32-pounder requires a charge of one pound of powder
(rifle or musket powder) to burst it, the 24-pounder twelve ounces and
the 12-pounder seven ounces. If now the shell is to be fired by an
ordinary fuze (see article on fuzes), a conical piece of dry beech is
firmly driven into the eye, and then a hole is reamed out through it to
receive the fuze, and stopped with a wad of tow, the fuze not to be
driven in until the shell is to be fired.
75. Spherical ease, or Schrapnel shot, as they are called, after the
English officer who brought them to perfection, are thin-sided shells in
which, besides the bursting charge, are placed a number of musket
balls. Their sides are much thinner than those of the ordinary shell,
in order that they may contain a greater number of bullets; and these
acting as a support to the sides of the shell prevent it from being broken
by the force of the discharge. The weight of the empty case is about
one-half that of the solid shot of the same diameter. Lead being much
more dense than iron, the schrapnel is, when loaded, nearly as heavy
as the solid shot of the same calibre ; but on account of the less charge
which it is necessary to use to prevent breaking the case, their fire is
neither so accurate nor the range so great as with the solid shot. But
when the schrapnel bursts just in front of an object the effect is terri-
ble, being as great as the discharge of grape from a piece at a very
short range.
76. To load a schrapnel shot, the requisite number of balls are
placed in ,• the shell for a 6-pound gun requires thirty-eight balls, that
for the 12-pound gun and howitzer seventy-eight, the 24-pound howitzer
one hundred and seventy-five, and the 32-pound howitzer two hundred
AMMUNITION. 55
and twenty-five. The balls being inscrtcfl, a stick a little less in diam-
eter than the fuze-hole, and having a groove on each side of it, is in-
serted and pushed to the bottom of the chamber by working the balls
aside. The shell is then heated to about the melting point of sulphur,
and melted sulphur is poured in to fill up the interstices between the
balls. When the shell is cool the stick is withdrawn, and any adhering
sulphur is removed.
If a fuze-plug and common fuze are to be used, the charge is placed
in and the plug inserted as for shells; but if the Boarman fuze is to be
used (see the article on fuzes), the charge is to be inserted, and the
stopper and fuze are screwed into their places. The bursting charges
are as follows: for the 6-pouudei', 2,5 ounces j for the 12-pounder, 4.5
ounces; for the 2i-pounder, 6 ounces; and for the 32-pounder, 8 ounces.
77. A fuse is a contrivance for communicating fire to the charge in a
shell. It consists of a highly inflammable composition, inclosed in
a wood, metal or paper case. The i^aper fuze consists of a conical
paper case, containing the composition, whose rate of burning is shown
by the color of the case, as follows :
Black burns two seconds to the inch.
Red " three " " "
Green " four " " "
Yelloio " five " " "
Each fuze is made two inches long, and the yellow burns, conse-
quently, ten seconds. For any shorter time, the fuse is cut with a
sharp knife. This fuze is not placed in the shell until it is to be fired,
when the wad of tow is removed from the fuze-plug, and the fuze
pressed down with the thumb.
78, The Belgian or Boarman fuze is the best now in use. The fuze
case is made of metal (an alloy of lead and tin), and consists, first, of
a short cylinder, having at one end a horse-shoe shaped indentation,
one end only of which communicates with the magazine of the fuze
placed in the centre. The indentation extends nearly to the other end
of the cylinder, a thin layer of metal only intervening. This is grad-
uated on the outside into equal parts, representing seconds and quarter
seconds. In the bottom of this channel a smooth layer of the compo-
sition is placed, with a piece of wick or yarn underneath it; on this is
placed a piece of metal, the cross section of which is wedge-shaped;
and this is by machinery pressed down upon the composition. The
cylindrical opening is filled with fine powder and covered with a sheet
of tin, which is soldered in its place, closing the magazine from the
external air. Before using the fuse, several holes are punched through
this sheet of tin to allow the flame to escape into the shell. On the
side of the fuse the thread of a screw is cut which fits into one on the
5a MANUxVL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
inside of the fuze hole, and the fuze is screwed into the shell with a
wrench.
79. The thin layer of raetal over the composition is cut away with a
gouge or chisel of any kind, at the point marked with the number of
seconds which we wish the fuze to burn. The metal of this fuze being
soft, there is danger of its being driven into the shell by the explosive
force of the charge. To prevent this, a circular piece of iron, of a less
diameter than the fuze, with a hole through its centre, and the thread
of a screw on the outside, is screwed into the fuze-hole before the fuze
is placed in.
The regularity and certainty of this fuze is very great; one of its
most important advantages is, the fact that the shells can be loaded, all
ready for use, and remain so for any length of time, perfectly safe from
explosion ; as the fuze can be screwed to its j^lace, and the composition
never exposed to external fire until the metal is cut through. The only
operation to be performed when the shell is to be fired is to gouge
through the metal at the proper point, which may be done with any
kind of a chisel, knife or other instrument.
80. Fire is communicated to the charge in a cannon by means of
priininr/ tubes and friction tubes.
Quill priming tubes are made from quills by cutting off the barrel at
both ends, and splitting down the large end for about half an inch, into
seven or any other odd number of parts; these are bent outward, per-
pendicular to the body of the quill, and from the cup of the tube.
Fine woollen yarn is then woven into these slits like basket work, the
end being brought down and tied on the stem ; or a perforated dish of
paper is pasted on them.
These tubes are filled by injecting into them, with a tube-injector, a
liquid paste made of mealed powder and spirits of wine; a better
method is, not to make the paste too thin, and then press it in with the
thumb. A strand of quick match, two inches long, is now laid across
the cup, jmd pasted in them with the powder paste. A small wire is
then run through the tube, and remains there until the paste is dry;
this leaves an aperture, furnishing a quick communication for the fire
along the tube. A paper cap is placed over the cup, and twisted tightly
around the tube under the cup.
Tubes are also made of metal ; they are either moulded, or formed
into tubes by machinery. They are filled, primed and capped in the
same way as quill tubes.
Priming tubes are now almost superseded hy friction tubes, which are
made by machinery at one of the U. S. arsenals.
81. To fire priming tubes 2^oitfires are used; they consist of paper
eases, filled with a highly inflammable, but slowly bui-ning composi-
AMMUNITION. 57
tion, ti.e flame of which is very intense and penetrating, and cannot be
extinguished with water.
Friction tubes are fired by means of a lu„i,,n;l ; this is a stout cor<l
which has a wooden handle at one end, and an iron hook upon the
other; the cannoneer puts the hook through the loop in the wire of the
friction tube, and, holding the lanyard by the handle, pulls sleadily
until the wire is withdrawn, when an explosion takes place, induced by
the friction of the wire against the composition in the tube.
58 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILTTIA.
Article III.
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER.
GENERAL RULES.
82. The object of this school is the individual instruction of the
soldier; it should be taught with the greatest possible care and preci-
sion, as on it depends the efficiency of the instruction of the company,
which is again so necessary to that of the battalion, and from that of
the battalion to the evolutions of the line, where an entire army is
manoeuvred with as much precision as a single company.
The instructor should never require a movement to be executed until
he has fully explained it, and joined example to precept by performing
the movement in person. He should accustom the soldier to take for
himself the position required, cori'ecting him when necessary, and
should labor to prevent the formation of a habit of carelessness in the
execution of the movements.
Each movement should be thoroughly understood before passing to
another. After they have been properly executed in the order laid
down, the instructor should no longer confine himself to that order.
The men should be allowed to rest for a few moments, frequently, in
the earlier stages of their instruction, and as often at other times as the
instructor may think necessary to pi'event weariness, which is the
prelude to carelessness. When tlfSy are at attention, however, he
should not allow any looking to the right or left; no changing of posi-
tion, or laughing, or whispering, etc., so common among volunteers and
militia. Here is the place to make the individual soldier, to give him
habits of attention, teach him subordination, etc. If he does not
acquire them in this school, it will be too late when he is advanced in
the company.
At the command rest, the soldier is no longer required to preserve
immobility or to remain in his place. If the instructor wishes merely
to relieve the attention of the soldier, he commands, in j)hice — rest;
the soldier is then only required to keep one of his feet in place ; if he
wishes to move that foot, the other is first brought up to its proper
position.
The school of the soldier is divided into three parts, the first compre-
hending what ought to be taught to recruits without arms ; the second,
the manual of arms, the loadings and firings ; the third, the principles
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. b^
of alignment, the march by the front, the different steps, the march by
the flank, the principles of wheeling and those of change of direction.
In this school, the company is broken up into small squads, the number
of men in each squad being i^roportioned to the number of instructors ;
the S(iuads for the first and second part should be as small as possible,
and the men placed in single rank ; for instruction in the third part,
two or more squads of about equal i^roficiency should be united.
PART FIRST.
In this part, the men should be without arms, and about one pace
apart.
Position of the Soldier.
83. Heels on the same line, as near each other as the conformation of
the men will permit; because, if one were in rear of tho other, the
shoulder on that side would be thrown back.
The feet turned out equally, and forming with each other something
less than a right angle; because, if one foot were turned out more
than the other, a shoulder would be deranged, and if both feet be
too much turned out, it would not be practicable to give the body its
proper position.
The knees straight, without stiffness ; because, if stiffened, constraint
and fatigue would be unavoidable.
The body erect on the hips, inclining a little forward, because it gives
stability to the position. Soldiers are at first disposed to project the
belly and throw back the shoulders when they wish to hold themselves
erect, from which result many inconveniences in marching ; it is, there-
fore, important that the instructor should be particular to enforce this
rule at the beginning.
The shoulders square, and falling equally; if the shoulders are ad-
vanced beyond the line of the breast, and the back arched (the defect
called round-shouldered), the man cannot align himself, nor use his piece
with skill. In correcting this defect, the instructor will take care that
the shoulders are not thrown too much to the rear, causing the body to
project, and the small of the back to curve.
The arms hanging naturally; elbows near the body; palms of the
hands turned a little to the front, the little finger behind the seam of
the pantaloons. These positions are important to the shouMer arms, to
prevent the man from occupying more space in ranks than is neces-
sary, and to keep the shoulders in proper position.
60 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The head erect, aud square to the front, without constraint; the chin
slightl}'- drawn in ; the eyes fixed straight to the front, in order to pre-
vent derangement of the shoulders, and striking the ground at the dis-
tance of about fifteen paces.
84. The instructor having given the squad the position of the soldier
without arms, will now teach the turning of the head and eyes. He
will command:
1. Eyes — Right. 2. Front.
At the word right, the soldier will turn his head gently, so as to
bring the inner corner of the left eye in a line with the buttons of
the coat, the eyes fixed on the line of the eyes of the men in the same
rank. At the command Front the head will resume the direct or
habitual position. The instructor will take care that the movement
of the head does not derange the squareness of the shoulders, and
that the men do not acquire a habit of throwing down the head in
dressing.
The movement of Ui/es — Left will be executed by inverse means.
Facings.
85. Facing to the right and left will be executed in one time or
pause. The instructor commands :
1. Squad. 2. Right (or left) — Face.
At the word Face, raise the right foot slightly, turn on the left heel,
to the right (or left), raising the left toe a little, and then replace the
right heel beside the left, and on the same line. The face should al-
ways be through a right angle, and should be executed by the feet and
legs, the body moving around to the right (or left) without twisting or
constraint. The instructor should labor to keep the body steady, and
to prevent the formation of the habit of bending the knees, or spring-
ing.
86. The full face to the rear is always to the right, and is executed
in two times, or pauses. The instructor commands :
1. Squad. 2. About — Face.
First motion. At the word about, the soldier will turn far enough on
the left heel to bring the left toe directly to the front, at the same time
carrying his right foot to the rear, the hollow opposite to, and full three
inches from the left heel, the feet square to each other. The back of
the right hand is placed a little above the right hip, and the body is
turned to the right sufficiently to give ease to the position.
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 61
Second motion. At the word face, the soldier raises his toes a little,
turns upon both heels, faces to the rear, keeping his legs straight, and
draws back the right heel by the side of the left, at the same tiui.e
dropping his right hand by his side.
Balance Step.
87. Before commencing the march the soldier should always be
instructed in the balance step, the object of which is to teach him the
free movement of his limbs, while he, at the same time, preserves per-
fect squareness of the shoulders, with the greatest steadiness of the
body J no labor should be spared to attain this object, which lies at the
very foundation of good marching.
The squad being at attention, the instructor commands :
Left foot — Foil WARD.
At this command the soldier will throw his left foot gently forward,
about twenty-four inches, balancing his body well on the right foot
without changing the position of the shoulders, and without the body
losing its erect position. The toe should be turned out as in the pot:i-
tion of the soldier, the foot about three inches from the ground and
very nearly parallel to it. the toe being very slightly depressed.
At the command :
Left foot — Rear.
The left foot is brought gently back, the ball of the left foot close to
the I'ight heel, the leg straight, toe raised, and heel depressed.
As soon as the soldier becomes steady in the new position, the in-
structor repeats the command, left foot forward, then left foot rear,
for several times, and then commands :
Halt :
at which the left foot, either advanced or to the rear, is brought to the
right, as in the position of the soldier.
The instructor then causes the soldier to balance on the right foot,
by advancing and retiring the right, as has been directed for the left.
The Direct Step.
88. After the soldier is sufficiently instructed in the balance step to
execute it on either foot without losing his balance, the instructor will
62 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
proceed to instruct him in the mechanism of the direct step. For this
purpose he will command :
1. By the numbers — Forward. 2. One.
At the command one, the soldier will throw forAvard the left foot, as
in the position of left foot forward, the instructor then commands :
Two.
At this command, the weight of the body is thrown forward, the left
foot striking the ground without shock, at the distance of twenty-eight
inches from the right; the body assumes the perpendicular position,
and the right foot is brought up to the position of rujht foot rear.
The right foot is then brought forward at the command one, and the
stfep completed at the command two; thus the squad is made to advance
step by step. The halt is executed as in the balance steji.
89. When the squad is sufficiently instructed in the mechanism of the
direct step, the instructor will cause it to take up the march in common
time,- for this i')urposc he will command:
1. Squad forward — Common time. 2. March.
At the command forioard, the soldier will throw the weight of his
body on the right leg, without bending the left knee.
At the command march, he will smartly, but without a jerk, carry
straight forward the left foot twenty-eight inches from the right, the
sole near the ground, the leg extended, the toe a little depressed, and
both it and the knee slightly turned out; he will at the same time throw
the weight of the body forward, and plant flat the left foot, without
shock, precisely at the distance where it finds itself from the right
when the weight of the body is brought forward, the whole of which
will now rest on the left foot. The soldier will next, in like manner,
advance the right foot and plant it as directed for the left, the heel
twenty-eight inches from the heel of the left foot, and thus continue the
march without crossing the legs, or striking one against the other, with-
out turning the shoulders, and always preserving the face direct to the
front. Common time is executed at the rate of ninety steps to the
minute.
When the instructor wishes to arrest the march he commands :
1. Squad. 2. Halt.
The command halt should be given just as one foot has come to the
ground and the other is raised for making the next step; the soldier
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 63
instinctively completes the pace with the raised foot, and brings the
other firmly to its place beside it. By careful attention to this rule a
large command may be as readily halted at the same instant as a single
individual.
90. The i^rinciples of the step in quick time are the same as for com-
mon time; it is executed, however, at the rate of 110 steps per minute.
After the soldier is well established in the length and swiftness of the
step at common time, he should be jiractiscd in quick time, as it is the
pace best adapted to marches, the manoeuvres, etc.
The instructor wishing the squad to march in quick time, commands:
1. Squad forward. 2. March.
Principles of the Double Quick Step.
91. The length of the double quick is thirty-three inches, and its
swiftness is at the rate of 165 steps per minute. This step is designed
especially for light troops, such as light infantry and riflemen, and to
them it is indispensable; its utility has, however, been so frequently
demonstrated of late years, as to make it proper that it should form a
part of the instruction of all infantry troops.
The instructor wishing to teach his squad the principles and mechan-
ism of the double quick step, commands:
1. Double quick step. 2. March.
At the command double qniclr step, the soldier will raise bis hands to
a level with his hips, the hands closed, the nails toward the body, the
elbows to the rear and well drawn in toward the body.
At the command march, he will raise his left knee as high as possible
without derangement of the body, keeping his leg from the knee down
in a vertical position, the toe depressed; he will then replace his foot in
its former position. At the command tim, he will execute with the right
leg what has just been prescribed for the left, and the alternate move-
ment of the legs at the commands one, Hco, will be continued until the
command :
1. Squad. 2. Halt.
At the command half, the soldier will bring the foot which is raised
by the side of the other, and at the same time dropping his hands by
his side will resume the position of the soldier without arms.
When the squad has learned to execute the step properly, the instruc-
64 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
tor will repeat the words one, two, in more rapid succession, and will
finally drop them, leaving the files to execute the step in their own time.
The instructor will see that the step is taken in rapid sucession, and
that none of the files lose the step.
92. The soldier being suflBciently established in the principles of this
step, the instructor will command :
1. Squad, forward. 2. Double quick. 3. March.
At the command forward, the soldier will throw the weight of his
body on the right leg, withou.t bending the left knee.
At the command double quick, he will place his arms as indicated
above.
At the command march, he will carry forward the left foot, and plant
it, the toe first, at the distance of thirty-three inches from the right,
the legs slightly bent, and the knee somewhat raised; he will then
execute with the right foot what has just been prescribed for the left.
This altei'nate movement of the legs will take place by throwing the
weight of the body on the foot that is planted, and by allowing a
natural, oscillatory motion to the arms. The feet should not be raised
too much, a common fault with beginners, and the body should incline
slightly forward.
The double quick step may be executed with different degrees of
swiftness. Under urgent circumstances, the cadence of this step may
be increased to 180 per minute. At this rate, a distance of 4000 yards
would be i^assed over in about twenty-five minutes.
The men should also be exercised in running; the principles are the
same as for the double quick step, the only difference consisting in a
greater degree of swiftness.
It is recommended, in marching in double quick time or the run,
that the men should breathe as much as possible through the nose,
keeping the mouth closed.
PART SECOND.
General Rules.
93. The instructor will not pass the soldiers to this second part until
they are well established in the position of the body, and in the man-
ner of marching at the different steps.
In the manual of arms, each command will be executed in one time
(or pause), but this time will be divided into motions, the better to
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 65
make known the mechanism and to secure uniformity and precision iu
the movements.
The rate (or swiftness) of each motion, iu the manual of arms, is
fixed at the ninetieth part of a minute: but the instructor will, at first,
look more particularly to the execution of the motions, without I'cquir-
ing a nice observance of the cadence, to which he will bring the men
progressively, and after they have become a little familiarized with the
use of the weapon.
The motions relative to the cartridge, to the I'ammer, and to the
fixing and unfixing of the bayonet, cannot be executed at the rate pre-
scribed, or even with uniform swiftness; the instructor will, however,
labor to have these motions executed with promptness and regularity.
The last syllable of the command will decide the brisk execution of
the first motion of each time (or pause). The commands two, three
&nd four, will decide the brisk execution of the other motions. As soon
as the men comprehend well the positions of the several motions of a
time, they will be taught to execute the time without resting on its
motions; the mechanism of the time must, however, be observed, as
well to give perfect use of the weapon as to prevent carelessness or
slighting of the motions. When the men have acquired sufficient pro-
ficiency to execute the times without resting, the instructor must be
careful to have the proper cadence observed; great promptness in the
execution of the motions is not incompatible with the observance of a
pause between them, so that they may be executed at the prescribed
rate — that is, of ninety to the minute. Those instructors who insist
most upon the strict observance of this rule are those vfhose squads
execute the manual in the best manner.
Principles of Shouldered Armh\
94. Each soldier being in the position of the soldier, the instructor
will cause him to turn up the left hand without bending the wrist, the
left forearm only acting. The instructor will raise the piece perpen-
dicularly, and place it as follows :
The piece in the left hand, the arm very slightly bent, the elbow
back near the body, the palm of the hand pressing on the outer flat of
the butt; the outer edge of the latter on the uppei^ joints of the'fingers,
the heel of the butt between the middle and forefingers, the thumb on
the front screw of the butt plate, the remaining fingers under the butt,
the butt more or less kept back according to the conformation of the
man, so that the piece, «een from the front, shall appear perpendicular,
and, also, that the movement of the thigh, in marching, may not raise
6
66 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
it or cause it to waver; the stock, below the tail-band, resting against
the hollow of the shoulder, just within the joint, the right arm hanging
naturally, as prescribed in the jyosition of the soldier.
Soldiers on first bearing ai'ms are liable to derange their position,
and particularly to distort the shoulders, which, causing the musket
to lose its point of support, they drop the left hand to prevent the
musket from falling from the shoulder, which again causes that shoulder
to droop, a curvature of the side, spreading of the elbows, etc. The
insti'uctor will be careful to correct all these faults by continually rec-
tifying the position ; he will avoid fatiguing the men too much in the
beginning, but labor to render this position so natural and easy by
degrees, that they may remain in it a long time without fatigue.
The instructor will also take great care that the musket be not car-
ried too high or too low; if too high, the left elbow would spread out,
the soldier would occupy too much space in I'anks and the musket
would be unsteady; if too low, the files would be too close, the man
would not have the necessary space to handle his musket with facility,
the left arm would become too much fatigued, the shoulder would
droop, etc.
The manual of the musket will be taught in the following order:
The instructor commands :
Support — Arms.
One time and three motions.
95. First motion. With the right hand seize the small of the stock
briskly, four inches below the lock, raising the piece a little, but not
turning it.
Second motion. Take the left hand from the butt; extend the left
forearm upward across the body, and under the hammer, the left hand
flat on the right breast.
Third motion. Drop the right arm smartly to its position.
The squad being at supiiort arms, the instructor commands :
Carry — Arms.
())ie time and three motions.
J)G. First motion. Carry quickly the right hand to the small of the
stock.
Second motion Place the left hand under the butt, as in the position
of shoulder arms.
Third motion. Lot fall smartly the right hand to its position, and
\
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 67
drop with the left, at the same time, the piece into the position of
shoulder anus.
Present — Arms.
One time and two motions.
97. First motion. Turn the piece with the left hand, the lock out,
and seize the small of the stock at the same time with the right hand,
the piece perpendicular and detached from the shoulder, the left hand
remaining under the hutt.
Second motion. Complete the turning inward of the piece, so as to
hring it erect before the centre of the body, the rammer to the front,
the right hand under and against the guard; seize it smartly at the
same time with the left hand just above the lock, the thumb extended
along the barrel and on the stock, the left forearm resting on the body
without constraint, and the hand at the height of the elbow.
Shoulder— Arms.
One time and two motions.
98. First motion. Turn the piece with the right hand, the barrel to
the front, raise and support it against the left shoulder with the right
hand, drojj the left under the butt, the right hand resting on, without
grasping, the small of the stock.
Second motion. Drop quickly the right hand into its position.
Order — Arms.
One time and two motions.
99. First motion. Drop the piece smartly by extending the left arm,
seize it at the same time with the right hand, above and near the tail-
band ; quit the hold of the left hand, and carry tbe piece opposite to
the right shoulder, the rammer to the front, the little finger behind the
barrel, the right hand supported against the hip, the butt three inches
from the ground, the piece erect, tbe left hand hanging by the side.
Second motion. Let the piece slip through the right hand to the
ground without shock, and take the position about to be described.
Position of Order Anns.
100. The hand low, the barrel between the thumb and forefinger ex-
tended along the stock j the other fingers extended and joined; the
68 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
muzzle about two inches from the right shoulder; the rammer in front;
the toe of the butt against, and in a line with, the toe of the right foot,
the barrel perpendicular.
101. When the instructor wishes to give repose in this position, he
commands :
Rest.
At this command the soldiers will not be required to preserve silence
or steadiness. They, however, will not quit their rank without special
permission.
102. When the instructor wishes the men to pass from this position
to that of silence and steadiness, he commands :
1. Attention. 2. Squad.
At the second word, the men will reserve the position of order arnifi,
and remain firm and silent.
Shoulder — Arms.
One time and two motions.
103. First 77iotion. Raise smartly the piece with the right hand,
carry it against the left shoulder, turning it, so as to bring the barrel
to the front; at the same time place the left hand under the butt, and
slip the right hand down to the lock.
Second motion. Let the right hand fall briskly to its position.
Charge — Bayonet.
One time and tioo motions.
104. First motion. Make a half face to the right on the left heel,
bring the left toe directly to the front, at the same time place the right
foot behind, and at right angles with the left, the hollow of the right
foot opposite to, and about three inches from the left heel; turn the
piece with the left hand, the lock outward, and seize the small of the
stock at the same time with the right hand, the musket perpendicular
and detached from the shoulder, the left hand under the butt.
Second motion. Bring down the piece with the right hand, letting it
fall firmly into the left, the latter seizing it a little in advance of the
tail-band, the barrel up, the left elbow near the body, the right hand
against the hip, the point of the bayonet as high as the. eye.
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 69
Shoulder — Arms.
One time and fico motions.
105. First motion. Face to the front by turning on the left heel,
bring up the right by the side of the left heel ; at the same time bring
up the piece with the right hand to the left shoulder, and place the left
hand under the butt.
Second motion. Let the right hand fall promptly into its position.
Load in ten times.
1. Load.
One time and two motions.
106. First motion. Drop the piece by a smart extension of the left
arm, seize it with the right hand above and near the lower band; at
the same time carry the right foot forward, the heel against the hollow
of the left foot.
Second motion. Drop the piece with the right hand along the left
thigh, seize it with the left hand above the right, and with the left
hand let it descend to the ground, without shock, the piece touching
the left thigh, and the muzzle opposite the centre of the body ; carry
the right hand quickly to the cartridge-box and open it.
2. Handle — Cartridge.
One time and one motion.
107. Seize a cartridge with the thumb and the next two fingers, and
place it between the teeth.
3. Tear — Cartridge.
One time and one motion.
108. Tear the paper down to the powder, hold the cartridge upright
between the thumb and the next two fingers, near the top ; in this
position place it in front of and near the muzzle, the back of the hand
to the front.
4. Charge — Cartridge.
109. Fix the eye on the muzzle, turn quickly the back of right hand
toward the bod}'^, in order to discharge the powder into the barrel,
70 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
raise the elbow to the height of the wrist, shake the cartridge, force it
into the muzzle, and leave the hand reversed, the fingers closed but
not clenched.
5. Draw — Eammer.
One time and three motions.
110. First motion. Drop the right elbow smartly, and seize the ram-
mer between the thumb and forefinger bent, the other fingers shut ;
draw it smartly, extending the arm, seize the rammer again at the
middle between the thumb and forefinger, the hand reversed, the palm
to the front, the nails up, the eyes following the movement of the hand,
clear the rammer from the pipes by again extending the arm.
Second motion. Turn rapidly the rammer between the bayonet and
the face, closing the fingers, the rammers of the rear rank grazing the
right shoulders of the men of the same file in front, the rammer paral-
lel to the bayonet, the arm extended, the butt of the rammer opposite
to the muzzle, but not yet inserted, the eyes fixed on the muzzle.
Third motion. Insert the butt of the rammer, and force it down as
low as the hand.
6. Earn — Cartridge.
One time and one motion.
111. Extend the arm to its full length to seize the rammer betAveen
the right thumb extended and the forefinger bent, the other fingers
closed J with force ram home twice and seize the rammer at the small
end, between the thumb and forefinger bent, the other fingers closed,
the right elbow touching the body.
7. lleturn — Rammer.
One time and three motions.
112. First motion. Draw the rammer briskly, re-seize it at the mid-
dle between the thumb and forefinger, the hand reversed, the palm to
the front, the nails up, the eyes following the hand, clear the rammer
from the barrel by extending the arm.
Second motion. Turn the rammer rapidly between the bayonet and
the face, closing the fingers, the rammers of the rear rank grazing the
right shoulders of the men in the same file in front, the rammer paral-
lel to the bayonet, the arm extended, the little end of the rammer
opposite to the first pipe, but not yet inserted, the eyes fixed on that
pipe.
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 71
Third motion. Insert the small end, and with the thumb, which will
follow the movement, force it as low as the middle band ; raise the
hand- quickly, a little bent, place the little finger on the butt of the
rammer, and force it down ; lower the left hand on the barrel to the ex-
tent of the arm without depressing the shoulder.
8. Cast — About.
One time and tiro motions.
113. Fiist motion. With the left hand bring up the piece vertically
against the left shoulder, seize it smartly with the right hand at the
small of the stock, and slide the left hand down as low as the chin.
Second motion. Make a half face to the right on the left heel, bring
the left toe to the front, place the right foot at the same time close
behind, and at right angles with the left, the hollow of the right foot
against the left heel ; carry the piece opposite to the right shoulder ;
bring doAvn the piece with the right hand into the left, which Avill seize
it at tlie tail-band, the thumb extended on the stock, the butt under the
right forearm, the small of the stock against the body, and about two
inches under the right breast, the muzzle at the height of the eye, the
left elbow supported against the side, the right hand grasping the
small of the stock.
9. Prime.
One time and one motion.
114. Place the thumb of the right hand on the hammer (the fingers
remaining under and against the guard), and half cock the piece;
brush off the old cap, and with the thumb and first two fingers of the
right hand take a cap from the pouch, place it firmly on the cone by
pushing it down with the thumb, and seize the piece by the small of
the stock.
10. Shoulder — Arms.
One time and tn-o motions.
115. First motion. Face to the front by turning on the left heel; at the
same time bring the piece briskly with the right hand to the left
shoulder, and place tlie left hand under the butt.
Second motion. Let the right hand fall smartly into its position at
shonlder arms.
72 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Ready. (From the position of prime.^
One time and one motion.
116. Place the thumb of the right hand on the hammer (the fingers
remaining under and against the guard), cock the piece, and seize the
small of the stock.
Ready. (From the position of shoulder arms.)
One time and four motions.
117. First motion. Turn the piece with the left hand, the lock to the
front, seize it at the small of the stock with the right hand, at the same
time make a half face to the right on the left heel, bringing the left toe
to the front, and placing the right foot behind, and at right angles to
the left, the hollow of the foot against the left heel.
Second motion. Bring the piece with the right hand to the middle of
the body, place the left hand just above the lock, the thumb extended
along the stock at the height of the chin, the counter (or S) plate turn-
ed toward the body, the rammer obli([uely to the left and front.
Third motion. Place the thumb on the hammer, the forefinger under
and on the guard, the other three fingers joined to the first, the elbow
at the height of the hand.
Fourth motion. Close the right elbow smartly to the body in cocking,
without bending the wrist, seize the piece by the small of the stock, let
it descend along the body in the left hand to the tail-band, which will
remain at the height of the shoulder.
Aim.
One time and one motion.
118. Raise the butt to the shoulder, the left elbow a little down, shut
the left eye, direct the right along the barrel, drop the head upon the
butt to catch the object, and place the forefinger on the trigger. The
rear rank will at the same time, carrj'^ the right foot about eight inches
toward the left heel of the man next on his right.
Fire.
One time and one motion.
119. Apply the forefinger with force to the trigger without further
lowering or turning the head, and remain in that position.
SCHOOL OP THE SOLDIER. /o
Load. (From the Fire.)
One time and two motioiiH.
120. First motion. Bring back the piece quickly with both hands,
depress the butt strongly by extending the right arm, and carry it with
the arm thus extended to the left side, the barrel to the front and oppo-
site to the left shoulder, the left hand at the height of the chin, the
back of the hand to the front, the left forearm touching the stock; at
the same time face to the front and carry the right foot forward, the heel
against the hollow of the left foot.
Second motion. Let go the handle with the right hand, let the piece
descend through the left to the ground, without shock, and take the
position of the second motion of load.
Shoulder — Arms. (From the Fire.)
One time and tico motions.
121. First motion. Bring back the piece with both hands, face to
the front, carry the piece against the left shoulder, and place the left
band under the butt.
Second motion. Let the right hand fall smartly to its position.
The squad being in the position of aim, the instructor, to habituate
the soldiers to wait for the word fire, sometimes commands :
Recover — Arms.
One time and one motion.
122. Withdraw the finger from the trigger, throw up the muzzle
smartly, and retake the position of the fourth motion of ready.
The men being in this jjosition, if the instructor wishes them to come
to a shoulder, he commands :
Shoulder — Arms.
123. At the word shoulder, the squad will face to the front, and bring
their pieces to the middle of the body again ; the left thumb at the height
of the chin, the little finger just above the lock; next place the right
thumb on the head of the hammer, support the forefinger on the trig-
ger, sustain the hammer carefully in its descent at the same time, to the
position of half-cock, then seize the small of the stock with the right
hand. At the word ai-ms, carry the piece to the shoulder smartly, and
take the position of shoulder arms.
1
74 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
To load in four times (or pauses).
124. The instructor commands :
1. Load in four timp:s. 2. Load.
Execute the first time of loading, handle cartridge, tear cartridge,
charge cartridge.
Two.
125. Draw rammer, enter it as far as the hand, and ram twice.
Three.
126. Return rammer, cast about, and prime.
Four.
127. Execute the tenth time of loading.
128. The soldiers being at a shoulder, when the instructor may wish
to return bayonets, he commands :
Unfix — Bayonets.
One time and three motions.
First motion. Drop the piece by a smart extension of the left arm,
seize it with the right hand above and near the tail-band.
Second motion. Drop the piece with the right hand along the left
thigh, seize it with the left hand above the right, lengthen out the left
arm, rest the butt on the ground, without shock, and carry the right
hand at the same time to the bayonet, with the thumb lower the clasp
against the stop, and then seize the bayonet at the socket and shank.
Third motion. Wrest off the bayonet, return it to the scabbard, place
the little finger on the butt of the rammer, lower the left hand along the
barrel in extending the arm, without dei^ressiug the shoulder.
Shoulder — Arms.
One time and three motions.
129. Fii-8t motion. Raise the piece with the left hand along the left
side, the hand at the height of the chin, the forearm touching the
piece, the barrel to the fi-out,- di'op at the same time the right hand to
seize the piece a little above the handle, the forefinger touching the
cock, and the thumb on the counter plate.
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 75
Second niolioii. Raise the piece with the right hand, di'op the left,
and place it under the hutt. support the piece with the right hand
against the shoulder, in the position prescribed for shoulder ann^, the
right hand resting on, without grasping, the piece.
Third motion. Let fall smartly the right hand into its position by
the side of the thigh.
Fix — B A Y O X E T .
180, First and serond motions. As the first and second motions of
un/lr bayonet, exce])t that at the end of the second motion, the right
hand will go to seize the bayonet by the socket and shank, so that the
lower (now upper) end of the socket shall extend about an inch above
the heel of tlic palm.
Third motion. Draw the bayonet from the scabbard, carry and fix it
on the muzzle, turning the clasp toward the body with the right thumb ;
place the little finger on the head of the rammer, lower the left hand
along the barrel, in extending the arm.
Sh oulder — Ar m s .
The same as from the unfix hajjonet.
Secure — Arms.
One time and two motions.
131. First motion. Seize quickly the piece with the right hand, the
thumb on the counter plate, and the forefinger against the cock: detach
the piece from the shoulder at the same instant, the barrel to the front,
seize it at the tail-band with the left hand, the thumb extended on the
ranuucr, the piece erect, opposite to the shoulder, the left elbow on the
piece.
/Second motion. Keversc the piece, pass it under the left arm, the left
hand remaining at the tail-band, the thumb on the rammer to prevent
it from sliding out, the little finger resting against the hip, and the right
hand falling at the same time into its position.
Slioulder — Arms.
One time and two motions.
132. First motion. Raise the piece with the left hand, but not too
suddenly, lest the rammer should fly out; seize the handle with the
right hand to support it against the shoulder, quit the hold of the left
hand, and place quickly this hand under the butt.
76 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Second motion. Let fall smartly the right hand into its position;
drop at the same time the piece into the position of shouldered arms.
Trail — Arms.
One time and ttvo motions.
133. First motion. As the first motion of order arms.
Second motion. Incline a little the muzzle to the front, the butt to
the rear, and about three inches from the ground, the right hand, sup-
ported at the hip, will sustain the piece so that the men of the rear rank
may not touch with their bayonets the men in front of them.
Shoulder — Arms.
134. At the command shoulder, raise the piece perpendicularly in the
right hand ; at the command arms, execute what has been prescribed
for the shoulder from the position of order arms.
To right shoulder., shift — Arms.
One time and one motion.
135. Turn the piece with the left hand, the lock to the front, seize it
at the same time with the right hand at the handle, place it on the right
shoulder, the left hand not quitting the butt, the lock-plate upward,
the muzzle up ; sustain the piece in this position by placing the right
hand on the flat of the butt ; let fall the left hand by the side.
Shoulder — Arms.
136. Raise the piece by extending the right arm, seize it with the left
hand above the lock, carry it against the left shoulder, turning the bar-
rel to the front, the right hand being at the handle, place the left hand
under the butt, and let the right fall into its position.
Arms — At will.
*'.i- One time and 07ie motion.
137. Carry the piece at pleasure on either shoulder, or with one or
both hands, the muzzle always up.
Shoulder — Arm s.
138. Retake smartly the position of shoulder arms.
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 7 7
Inspection of Arms.
139. The squad being at ordered arms, and having the bayonet in
the scabbard, if the instructor wishes to cause an inspection of arms,
he will command :
Inspection of- — Arms.
One time and three motions.
Firfit motion. Face to the right once and a half on the left heel, car-
rying the right foot ijcrpendicularly to the rear of the alignment, about
six inches from, and at right angles with, the left foot ; seize promptly
the piece with the left hand a little above the middle band, incline the
muzzle to the rear Avithout displacing the heel of the butt, the rammer
turned toward the body; carry at the same time the right hand to the
bayonet, and seize it as has been prescribed.
Second motion. Draw the bayonet from the scabbard, carry and fix
it on the muzzle : seize next the raninier, draw it as has been explained
in loading it twelve times, and let it glide to the bottom of the bore.
Third motion. Face promptly to the front, seize the jiiece with the
right hand, and retake the position of ordered arms.
The instructor will then inspect in succession the piece of each man
in passing along the front of the rank. Each, as the instructor reaches
him, will raise smartly his piece Avith his right hand, seize it with the
left between the tail-band and the feather-spring, the lock to the front,
the left hand at the height of the chin, the piece opposite to the left
eye ; the instructor will take it Avith the right hand at the handle, and,
after inspecting it, will return it to the soldier, who will receive it back
with the right hand, and replace it in the position of ordered arms.
When the instructor shall have passed him, each soldier Avill retake
the position prescribed at the command inspection of arms, and return
the rammer ; after which he will face to the front.
140. If, instead of inspection of arms, it be the Avish of the instructor
only to cause bayonets to be fixed, he Avill command :
Fix — Bayonet.
Take the position indicated inspection of arms (first motion), fix
bayonets as has been explained, and immediately face to the front.
IJayonets fixed, if it be the wish of the instructor, after firing, to as-
certain Avhether the pieces have been discharged, he will command :
Sprimi — Ram m e r s .
^:.
78 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Put the rammer in the barrel, as has been explaiued above, and
immediately face to the front.
The instructor, for the purpose stated, can take the rammer by the
small end and spring it in the barrel, or cause each man to make the-
rammer ring in the barrel.
Each man, after the instructor passes him, will return rammer, and
face to the fi'ont.
Arms — Port.
One time and one motion.
141. Throw the piece diagonally across the body, the lock to the
front, seize it smartly at the same instant with both hands, the right at
the handle, the left at the tail-band, the two thumbs pointing toward
the muzzle, the barrel sloping upward and crossing opposite to the
point of the left shoulder, the butt proportionately lowered. The palm
of the right hand will be above, and that of the left under the piece,
the nails of both hands next to the body, to which the elbows will be
closed.
Shoulder — Arm s.
One time and two motions.
First motion. Bring the piece smartly to the left shoulder, placing'
the left hand under the butt.
Second motion. Drop the right hand smartly by the side.
MANUAL OF ARMS FOR THE RIFLE.
Princi]}les of Shouldered Arms.
142. The soldier standing in the position of the soldier, the instructor
causes him to bend the right arm slightly, and places the piece in it in
the following manner: The piece in the right hand — the barrel nearly
vertical and resting in the hollow of the shoulder — the guard to the
front, the arm hanging nearly at its full length near the body; the
thumb and forefinger embracing the guard, the remaining fingers
closed together, and grasping the swell of the stock just under the cock,
which rests on the little finger.
Support — Arms.
One time and three motions.
143. First motion. Bring the piece, with the right hand, perpendicu-
larly to the front and between the eyes, the barrel to the rear; seize the
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 79
piece with the left hand at the lower baud, raise this haud as high as
the chin, and seize the piece at the same time with the rijjht hand
four inches below the cock.
Second motion. Turn the piece with the right hand, the barrel to the
front ; carry the piece to the left shoulder, aud pass the forearm
extended on the breast between the right hand and the cock: support
the cock against the left forearm, the left hand I'esting on the right
breast.
Third motion. Drop the right hand hj the side.
Shoulder — Arms.
One time and three motions.
144. First motion. Grasp the piece with the right hand under and
against the left forearm ; seize it with the left hand at the lower band,
the tlinuib extended; detach the piece slightly from the shoulder, the
left forearm along the stock.
Second motion. Carry the piece vertically to the right shoulder with
both hands, the rammer to the front, change the position of the right
hand so as to embrace the guard with the thumb and forefinger, slip
the left hand to the height of the shoulder, the fingers extended and
joined, the right arm nearly straight.
Third motion. Drop the left haud quickl}- by the side.
Present — Arms.
One time and two motions.
145. First motion. With the right hand bring the piece erect before
the centre of the body, the rammer to the front; at the same time seize
the piece with the left hand half-way between the guide sight and lower
band, the thumb extended along the barrel and against the stock, the
forearm horizontal and resting against the body, the hand as high as
the elbow.
Second motion. Grasp the small of the stock Avitb the right hand
below and against the guard.
SJioulder — Arms.
One time and two -motions.
146. First motion. Bring the piece to the right shoulder, at the same
time change the position of the right hand so as to embrace the guai'd
with the thumb and forefinger, slip up tlie left haud to the height of
80 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
the shoulder, the fingers extended and joined, the right arm nearly-
straight.
Second motion. Drop the left hand quickly by the side.
Order — Arms.
One time and two motions.
147. First motion. Seize the piece briskly with the left hand near
the upper band, and detach it slightly from the shoulder with the right
hand; loosen the grasp of the right hand, lower the piece with the left,
re-seize the piece with the right band above the lower band, the little
finger in rear of the barrel, the butt about four inches from the ground,
the right hand supported against the hip, drop the left hand by the
side.
Second motion. Let the piece slip through the right hand to the
ground by opening slightly the fingers, and take the position about to
be described.
Position of order arms.
148. The hand low, the barrel between the thumb and forefinger
extended along the stock; the other fingers extended and joined; the
muzzle about two inches from the right shoulder; the rammer in front;
the toe (or beak) of the butt against and in a line with the toe of the
right foot, the barrel perpendicular.
Shoulder — Arms.
One time and two motions.
149. First motion. Raise the piece vertically with the right hand to
the height of the right breast, and opposite the shoulder, the elbow
close to the body ; seize the piece with the left hand below the right,
and drop quickly the right hand to grasp the piece at the swell of the
stock, the thumb and forefinger embracing the guard; press the piece
against the shoulder with the left hand, the right arm nearly straight.
Second motion. Drop the left hand quickly by the side.
Load in nine times.
1. LOAD.^
One time a)id one motion.
150. Grasp the piece with the left hand as high as the right elbow.
1 Whenever the loadings and firings are to be executed, the instructor will cause
tlie cartridge boxes to be brought to the front.
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 81
and bring it vertically opposite the middle of the body ; shift the right
hand to the upper baud, place the butt between the feet, the barrel to
the front ; seize it with the left hand near the muzzle, which should be
three inches from the body ; carry the right hand to the cartridge box.
2. Handle — Cartridge.
One time and oue motion.
151. Seize the cartridge with the thumb and next two finj^ers. and
place it between the teeth.
8. Tear — Cartridge.
One time and one motion.
152. Tear the paper to the powder, hold the cartridge upright between
the thumb and first two fingers, near the top; in this position place it
in front of and near the muzzle — the back of the hand to the front.
4. Charge — Cartridge.
One time and one motion.
15.3. Empty the powder into the barrel; disengage the ball from the
paper with the right hand and the thumb and first two fingers of the
left; insert it into the bore, the pointed end uppermost, and press it
down with the right thumb; seize the head of the rammer with the
thumb and forefinger of the right hand, the other fingers closed, the
elbows near the body.
5. Dratc — Rammer.
One time and three mnlions.
154. First motion. Half draw the rammer by extending the right
arm ; steady it in this position with the left thumb ; grasp the rammer
near the muzzle with the right liand, the little finger uppermost, the
nails to the front, the thumb extended along the rammer.
Second motion. Clear the rammer from the pipes by again extending
the arm; the rammer in the prolongation of the pipes.
Third motion. Turn the rammer, the little end of the rammer pass-
ing near the left shoulder; place the head of the rammer on the ball,
the back of the hand to the front.
82 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILTTTA.
6. Rtuii — Cartridge.
One time and one motion.
155. Insert the riimmer as far as the \'\%^t, aud steady it in this posi-
tion with the thumb of the left hand ; seize the rammer at the small
end with the thumb aud forefinger of the right hand, the back of the
hand to the front; press the ball home, the elbows near the body.
7. Return — Rammer.
One time and three motions.
156. Fiist motion. Draw the rammer half-way out, and steady it in
this position with the left thumb; grasp it near the muzzle with the
right hand, the little fiugcr uppermost, the nails to the front, the
thumb along the rammer; clear the rammer from the bore by extend-
ing the arm, the nails to the front, the rammer in the prolongation of
the bore.
Second tnotion. Turn the rammei", the head of the rammer passing
near the left shoulder, and insert it in the pipes until the right hand
reaches the muzzle, the nails to the front.
Third motion. Force the rammer home by placing the little finger
of the right hand on the head of the rammer; pass the left hand down
the barrel to the extent of the arm, without depressing the shoulder.
8. Prime.
One time and two motions.
157. First motion. With the left hand raise the piece till the hand is
as high as the eye, gra.'^p the small of the stock with the right hand;
half face to the right; place, at the same time, the right foot behind
aud at right angles with the left; the hollow of the right foot against
the left heel. Slip the left hand down to the lower baud, the thumb
along the stock, the left elbow agaiust the body ; l)ring the piece to the
right side, the butt below the right forearm — the small of the stock
against the body and two inches below the right breast, the barrel up-
ward, the muzzle on a level with the eye.
Second motion. Half-cock with the thumb of the right hand, the
fingers supported against the guard and the small of the stock — remove
the old cap with one of the fingers of the right hand, and with the
thumb and forefinger of the same hand take a cap from the pouch,
place it on the nipple, and press it down with the thumb; seize the
small of the stock with the richt hand.
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 88
9. Shoulder — Arms.
One time and two )noti()Uft.
158. First motion. Bring the piece to tl\o right shoulder, and support
it there with the left hand, face to the front; bring the right heel to the
side of and on a line with the left; grasp the piece with the right hand
as indicated in the position of shoulder arms.
Second motion. Drop the left hand quickly by the side.
Ready.
One time and three motions.
159. First motion. Raise the piece slightly with the right hand,
making a half face to the right on the left heel; carry the right foot to
the rear, and place it at right angles to the left, the hollow of it oppo-
site to, and against the left heel: grasp the piece with the left hand at
the lower band and detach it slightly from the shoulder.
Second motion. Bring down the piece with both hands, the barrel
upward, the left thumb extended along the stock, the butt below the
right forearm, the small of the stock against the body and two inches
below the right breaSt, the muzzle as high as the eye, the left elbow
against the side; place at the same time the right thumb on the head
of the cock, the other fingers under and against the guard.
Third motion. Cock, and seize the piece at the small of the slock
without deranging the position of the butt.
Aim.
100, As ill the manual for the musket.
Fire.
101. As in the manual for the musket.
Load.
One time and one motion.
162. Bring down the piece with both hands, at the same time face to
the front and take the position of load. Each rear rank man will bring
his right foot by the side of the left.
The men being in this position, the instructor will cause the loading
to be continued by the commands and means prescribed.
If. after firing, the instructor should not wish the recruits to reload,
he will command :
84 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Shoulder — Arms.
Ove time and one motion.
163. Throw up the piece briskly with the left hand and resume the
position of shotdder arms, at the same time face to the front, turning
on the left heel, and bring the right heel on a line with the left.
Recover — Arms.
164. The same as in the manual for the musket.
165. The soldiers being in the position of the third motion of ready,
if the instructor should wish to bring them to a shoulder, he will com-
mand :
Shoulder — Arms.
One time and o)ie motion.
At the command shoulder, place the thumb upon the cock, the fore-
finger on the trigger, half cock, and seize the small of the stock with
the right hand. At the command arms, bring up the piece briskly to
the right shoulder, and retake the position of shoulder arms.
The recruits being at shoulder arms, when the instructor shall wish
to fix bayonets, he will command :
Fix — Bayonet.
On", time and three ynotions.
166. First motion. Grasp the piece with the left hand at the height
of the shoulder, and detach it slightly from the shoulder with the right
hand.
Second motion. Quit the piece with the right hand, lower it with the
left hand, opposite the middle of the body, and place the butt between
the feet, without shock : the rammer to the rear, the barrel vertical, the
muzzle three inches from the body ; seize it with the right hand at the
upper band, and carry the left hand reversed to the handle of the
sabre-bayonet.
Third motion. Draw the sabre-bayonet from the scabbard and fix it
on the extremity of the barrel ; seize the piece with the left hand, the
arm extended, the right hand at the upper band.
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 85
Shoulder — Arms.
One time and fico motions.
167. First motion. Raise the piece with the left hand aud place it
against the right shoulder, the rammer to the front ; seize the piece at
the same time with the right hand at the swell of the stock, the thumb
and forefinger embracing the guard, the right arm nearly extended.
Second motion. Drop briskly the left hand by the side.
Charge — Bayonet.
One time and two motions.
168. First motion. Raise the piece slightly with the right hand and
make a half face to the right on the left heel ; place the hollow of the
right foot opposite to, and three inches fi'om the left heel, the feet
square ; seize the piece at the same time with the left hand a little
above the lower band.
Second motion. Bring down the piece with both hands, the barrel
uppermost, the left elbow against the body ; seize the small of the stock
at the same time with the right hand, which will be supported against
the hip ; the point of the sabre-bayonet as high as the eye.
Shoulder — Arms.
One time and two motions.
169. First motion. Throw up the piece briskly with the left hand in
facing to the front, place it against the right shoulder, the rammer to
the front ; turn the right hand so as to embrace the guard, slide the
left hand to the height of the shoulder, the right hand nearly ex-
tended.
Second motion. Drop the left hand smartly by the side.
Ti'ciil — Arms.
One time and tn:o motions.
170. First motion. The same as the first motion of order arms.
Second motion. Incline the muzzle slightly to the front, the butt to
the rear, and about four inches from the ground. The right hand sup-
ported at the hip will so hold the piece that the rear rank men may
not touch with their bayonets the men in the front rank.
86 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
SJioulder — Arms.
171. At the commaud shoulder, raise the piece perpendicularly in
the right hand, the little finger in rear of the barrel; at the command
arms, execute what has been prescribed for the shoulder from the j)Osi-
tion of order arms.
Unjix — Bayonet.
One time and three motions.
172. First and second motions. The same as the first and second
motions of fix bayonet, except that, at the end of the second command,
the thumb of the right hand will be placed on the spring of the sabre-
bayonet, and the left hand will embrace the handle of the sabre-bayo-
Bet and the barrel, the thumb extended along the blade.
Third motion. Press the thumb of the right hand on the spring,
wrest off the sabre-bayonet, turn it to the right, the edge to the front,
lower the guard until it touches the right hand, which will seize the
back and the edge of the blade between the thumb and first two fin-
gers, the other fingers holding the piece; change the position of the
hand without quitting the handle, return the sabre-bayonet to the scab-
bard, and seize the piece with the left hand, the arm extended.
Shoulder — Arms.
One time and two motions.
173. First motion. The same as the first motion from /?.r bayonet.
Second motion. The same as the second motion from /?> bayonet.
Secure — Arms.
One tii),.e and three motions.
174. First motion. The same as the first motion of su2^2^ort arms,
except with the right hand seize the piece at the small of the stock.
Second motion. Turn the piece with both hands, the barrel to the
front; bring it opposite the left shoulder, the butt against the hip, the
left hand at the lower band, the thumb as high as the chin and extended
on the rammer; the piece erect and detached from the shoulder, the left
forearm against the piece.
Third motion. Reverse the piece, pass it under the left arm, the left
hand remaining at the lower band, the thumb on the rammer to prevent
it from sliding out, the little finger resting against the hip, the right
hand falling at the same time by the side.
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 87
Shoulder — Arms.
One time and three motions.
175. Fii-fit motion. Raise the piece with the left hand, and seize it
Avitb the right hand at the small of the stock. The piece erect and
detached from the shoulder, the butt against the hi}), tlio left forearm
along the piece.
Second motion. The same as the second motion of shonldci- arms from
a Nupjxirf.
Third luotion. The same as the third motion oi' shoulder arms from a
sojyport.
Right shoulder shift — Arms.
One time and two motions.
First motion. Detach the piece perpendicularly from the shoulder
with the right hand, and seize it with the left between the lower band
and guide-sight, raise the piece, the left hand at the height of the
shoulder and four inches from it; place, at the same time, the right
hand on the butt, the beak lietwcen the first two fingers, the other two
fingers under the butt plate.
Second motion. Quit the piece with the left hand, raise and place the
piece on the right shoulder with the right hand, the lock plate upward;
let fall, at the same time, the left hand by the side.
Shoulder — Arms.
One time and tiro motions.
177. First motion. Raise the piece perpendicularly by extending the
right arm to its full length, the rammer to the front, at the same time
seize the piece \i^ith the left hand between the lower baud and guide-
sight.
Second, ^notion. Quit the butt with the right hand, which will imme-
diately embrace the guard, lower the piece to the position of shoulder
arms, slide up the left hand to the height of the shoulder, the fingers
extende<l and closed. Drop the left hand by the side.
The men being at supi)ort arms, the instructor will sometimes cause
pieces to be brought to the right shoulder. To this effect, he will com-
mand :
Right shoulder shift — Arms.
One time and two motions.
88 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
178. First motion. Seize the piece with the right hand, below and
near the left forearm, place the left hand under the butt, the heel of the
butt between the first two fingers.
Second motion. TiTrn the piece with the left hand, the lock plate
upward, carry it to the right shoulder, the left hand still holding the
butt, the muzzle elevated; hold the piece in this position and place
the right hand upon the butt, and let fall the left hand by the side.
Support — Arm s .
One time and two motions.
179. First motion. The same as the first motion of shoulder arms.
Second motion. Turn the piece with both hands, the barrel to the
front, carry it opposite the left shoulder, slip the right hand to the
small of the stock, place the left forearm extended on the breast, and
let fall the right hand by the side.
A?'ms — At will.
One time and one motion.
180. At this command, carry the piece at pleasure on either shoulder,
with one or both hands, the muzzle elevated.
SJwulder — Arms.
0)te time and one motion.
181. At this command, retake quickly the position of shoulder arms.
Ins])ection of arms.
182. The soldiers being at ordered arms, and having ^he sabre-bayo-
net in the scabbard, if the instructor wishes to cause an inspection of
arms, he will command :
Inspection — Arms.
One time and two motions.
183. First motion. Seize the piece with the left hand below and near
the upper band, carry it with both hands opposite the middle of the
body, the butt between the feet, the rammer to the rear, the barrel ver-
tical, the muzzle about three inches from the body ; carry the left hand
reversed to the sabre-bayonet, draw it from the scabbard and fix it on
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 89
the barrel; grasp the piece with the left hand below and near the upper
band, seize the rammer with the thumb and forefinger of the right hand
bent, the other fingers closed.
Second motion. Draw the rammer as has been explained in loading,
and let it glide to the bottom of the bore, replace the piece with the
left hand opposite the right shoulder, and retake the position of ordered
anus.
The instructor will then inspect in succession the piece of each man,
in passing along the front of the rank. Each, as the instructor reaches
him, will raise smartl}' his piece with his right hand, seize it with the
left between the lower band and guide sight, the lock to the front, the
left hand at the height of the chin, the i)iece opposite to the left ejG;
the instructor will take it with the right hand at the handle, and, after
inspecting it, will return it to the man, who will receive it back witli the
right hand, and replace it in the position of ordered arms.
When the instructor shall have passed him, each soldier will retake
the position prescribed at the command inspection arms, return the ram-
mer, and resume the position of ordered arms.
If, instead of inspection of arms, the instructor should merely wish
to cause the bayonets to be fixed, he will command :
Fix — Bayonet.
184; Take the position indicated fix bayonets as has been explained,
and immediately resume the position of ordered arms.
If it be the wish of the instructor, after firing, to ascertain whether
the pieces have been discharged, he will command:
Spring — Rammers.
This is done as in the manual for the musket.
To load in four times.
185. The first time will be executed at the end of the command ; the
three others at the commands, tivo, three and/o»r.
The instructor will command :
1. Load in four times. 2. Load.
18G. Execute the times to include charge cartridge.
Two.
187. Execute the times to include ram cartridge.
8
00 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Three.
188. Execute the times to include prime.
Four.
189. Execute the time of slioulder arnm.
To load at will.
190. The instructor will next teach loading at will, which will be
executed as loading in four times, but continued, and without resting
on either of the times. He will command :
1. Load at loill. 2. Load.
The instructor will habituate the soldiers, by degrees, to load with
the greatest possible promptitude, each without regulating himself by
his neighbor, and above all without waiting for him.
Firings.
191. The firings are direct or oblique, and will be executed as fol-
lows :
The direct Jire.
The instructor will give the following commands :
1. Fire hy Squad. 2. Squad. 3. Ready. 4. Aim. 5. Fire.
6. Load.
Tliese several commands will be execiited as has been prescribed in
the manual of ariDs. At the third command, the men will come to the
position of ready as heretofore explained. At the fourth they will aim
according to the rank in which each may find himself placed, the rear
rank men inclining forward a little the upper part of the body, in order
that their pieces may reach as much bej'^ond the front rank as possible.
At the sixth command, they will load their pieces, and return imme-
diately to the position of ready.
The instructor will recommence the firing by the commands :
1. Squad. 2. Aim. 3. Fire. 4. Load.
When the instructor wishes the firing to cease, he will command:
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 91
Cease firing.
At this command, the men will cease firing, but will load their pieces
if unloaded, and afterward bring them to a shoulder.
Oblique Jiringa.
192. The oblique firings v.ill be executed to the right and left, and by
the same commands as the direct fire, with this single difference — the
cammaud aim will always be preceded by the caution, right or left
oblique.
Position of the two ranks in the oblique jire to the right.
At the command ready, the two ranks will execute what has been
prescribed for the direct fire.
At the cautionary command, right ohUqne, the two ranks Avill throw
back the right shoulder and look steadily at the object to be hit.
At the command aini, each front rank man will aim to the right with-
out deranging the feet; each rear rank man will advance the left foot
about eight inches toward the right heel of the man next on the right
of his file leader and aim to the right, inclining the upper part of the
body forward and bending a little the left knee.
Position of the tivo ranks in the oblique fire to the left.
At the cautionary command, left oblique, the two ranks will throw
back the left shoulder and look steadily at the object to be hit.
At the command (lin), the front rank will take aim to the left without
deranging the feet: each man in the rear rank will advance the right
foot about eight inches toward the right heel of the man next on the
right of his file-leader, and aim to the left, inclining the upper part
of the body forward and bending a little the right knee.
In both cases, at the command load, the men of each rank will come
to the position of load as prescribed in the direct firej the rear rank
men bringing back the foot which is to the right and front by the side
of the other. Each man will continue to load as if isolated.
To fire bij File.
193. The fire by file will lie executed by the two ranks, the files of
whicb will fire successively, and without regulating on each other,
except for the first fire.
The instructor will command :
92 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
1. Fire hy File. 2. Squad. 3. Ready. 4. Commence Firing.
At the third commaud, the two ranks will take the position pre-
scribed in the direct fire.
At the fourth command, the file on the right will aim and fire ; the
rear rank man in aiming will take the position indicated in No. 118.
The men of this file will load their pieces briskly and fire a second
time ; reload and fire again, and so on in continuation.
The second file will aim at the instant the first brings down pieces
to reload, and will conform in all respects to that which has just been
prescribed for the first file.
After the first fire, the front and rear rank men will not be required
to fire at the same time.
Each man, after loading, will return to the position of ready and
continue the fire.
When the instructor wishes the fire to cease, he will command:
Cease — Firing.
At this command the men will cease firing. If they have fired, they
will load their pieces and bring them to a shoulder j if at the position
of ready, they will half cock and shoulder arms. If in the position of
aim, they will bring down their pieces, half cock, and shoulder arms.
To fire hy Rank. ^
194. The fire by rank will be executed by each entire rank, alter-
nately.
The instructor will command :
1. Fire hy Rank. 2. Squad. 3. Eeady. 4. Rear rank.
5. Aim. 6. Fire. 7. Load.
At the third command, the two ranks will take the position of ready,
as prescribed in the direct fire.
At the seventh command, the rear rank will execute that which has
been prescribed in the direct fire, and afterward take the position of
ready.
As soon as the instructor sees several men of the rear rank in the
position of ready, he will command :
1. Front rank. 2. Aim. 3. Fire. 4. Load.
At these commands, the men in the front rank will execute what has
been prescribed for the rear rank, but they will not step off with the
right foot.
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 93
The instructor will recommence the firing by the rear rank, and will
thus continue to alternate from rank to rank, until he shall wish the
firing to cease, when he will command, cease firiiuj, which will be
executed as heretofore prescribed.
To Jire and load Kneeling.
195. In this exercise the squad will be supposed loaded and drawn
up in one rank. The instruction will be given to each man individu-
all}', without times or motions, and in the following manner.
■ The instructdr will command :
Fire ani> load Kneeling.
At this command, the man on the right of the squad will move for-
ward three paces and halt; then carry the right foot to the rear and to
the right of the left heel, and in a position convenient for placing the
riglit knee upon the ground, and bending the left leg; place the right
knee upon the ground; lower the piece, the left forearm supported
upon the thigh on the same side, the right hand on the small of the
stock, the butt resting on the right thigh, the left hand supporting the
piece near the lower band.
He will next move the right leg to the left around the knee supported
on the ground, until this leg is nearly perpendicular to the direction of
the left foot, and thus seat himself comfortably on the right heel.
Raise the piece with the right hand and support it with the left, hold-
ing it near the lower band, the left elbow resting on the left thigh near
the knee; seize the hammer with the thumb, the forefinger under the
guard; cock and seize the piece with the small of the stock; bring
the piece to the shoulder ; aim and fire.
Bring the piece down as soon as it is fired, and support it with the
left hand, the butt resting against the right thigh; carry the piece to
the rear, rising on the knee, the barrel downward, the butt resting on
the ground; in this position support the piece with the left hand at the
upper band, draw cartridge with the right and load the piece, ramming
the ball, if necessary, with both hands.
When loaded, bring the piece to the front with the left hand, which
holds it at the upper band; seize it at the same time with the right
hand at the small of the stock; turn the piece, the barrel uppermost
and nearl}^ horizontal, the left elbow resting on the lelt thigh ; half
cock, remove the old cap and prime, rise, and return to the ranks.
The second man will then be taught what has just been prescribed
for the first, and so on througli the remainder of the squad.
94 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
To fire and load Lying.
196. In this exercise, the squad will he iu one rank and loaded; the
instruction >yill he given individually and without times or motions.
The instructor will command :
Fire and load Lying.
At this command, the man on the right of the squad will move for-
ward three paces and halt ; he will then bring his piece to an order,
drop on both knees, and place himself on the ground flat on his belly.
In this position he will support the piece nearly horizontal with the left
hand, holding it near the lower band, the butt end of the piece and the
left elbow resting on the ground, the bai'rel uppermost ; cock the piece
with the right hand, and carry this hand to the small of the stock ; raise
the piece with both hands, press the butt against the shoulder, and,
resting on both elbows, aim and fire.
As soon as he has lired, bring the piece down and turn upon his left
side, still resting on his left elbow; bring back the piece until the cock
is opposite his breast, the butt end resting on the groimd; take out a
cartridge with the right hand; seize the small of the stock with this
hand, holding the cartridge with the thumb and two first fingers; he
will then throw himself on his back, still holding the piece with both
hands ; cai*ry the piece to the rear, place the butt between the heels, the
barrel up, the muzzle elevated. In this position, charge cartridge,
draw rammer, ram cartridge, and return rammer.
AVhen finished loading, the man will turn again upon his left side,
remove the old cap and prime, then raise the piece vertically, rise, turn
about, and resume his position in the ranks.
The second man will be taught what has just been prescribed for the
first, and so on throughout the squad.
Bayonet Exercise.
197, The bayonet exercise in this book will be confined to two move-
ments, the (juard ayawst infiuitri/, and the guard ac/dirtst cavalry. The
men will be placed in one rank, with two paces interval, and, being at
shoulder arms, the instructor will command:
1, Guard against Infantry. 2. Guard.
One time and two motions.
Finst motion. Make a half face to the right, turning on both heels,
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 95
the feet squai'e to each other; at the same time raise the piece slightly,
and seize it with the left hand above and near the lower band.
Second motion. Carry the right foot twenty inches perpendicularly
to the rear, the right heel on the prolongation of the left, the knees
slightly bent, <he weight of the body resting equally on both legs ;
lower the piece with both hands, the barrel uppermost, the left elbow
against the body; seize the piece at the same time with the right hand
at the small of the stock, the arms falling naturally, the point of the
bayonet slightly elevated.
Shoulder — Arms.
One time and one motion.
Throw up the piece with the left hand, and place it against the right
shoulder, at the same time bring the right heel by the side of the left,
and face to the front.
1. Guard against Cavalry. 2. Guard.
One time and two motions.
Both motions the same as for fjuard against infantry, except that the
right hand will be supported against the hip, and the bayonet held at
the height of the eye, as in charge bat/onet.
Sh 0 uhJer — Ar m s .
One time and one motion.
Spring up the piece with the left hand and place it against the right
shoulder, at the same time bring the right heel by the side of the left,
and face to the front.
MANUAL OF THE SWORD OR SABRE, FOR OFFICERS.
POSITION OF THE SWOUD OR SABRE, UNDER ARMS.
198. The carry. The gripe in the right hand, which will be sup-
ported against the right hip, the back of the blade against the
shoulder.
TO SALUTE WITH THE SWORD OR SABRE.
Three times [or pauses).
One. At the distance of six paces from the person to be saluted,
raise the sword or sabre perpendicularly, the point up, the flat of the
96 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
blade opposite to the right eye, the guard at the height of the shoulder,
the elbow supported on the body.
Two. Drop the point of the sword or sabre by extending the arm,
so that the right hand may be brought to the -side of the right thigh,
and remain in that position until the person to whom the salute is ren-
dered, shall be passed, or shall have passed, six paces.
Three. Raise the sword or sabre smartly, and resume the position
first prescribed.
COLOR SALUTE.
199. In the ranks, the color-bearer, whether at a halt or in march,
will always carry the heel of the color-lance supported at the right
hip, the right hand generally placed on the lance at the height of the
shoulder, to hold it steady. When the color has to render honors, the
color-bearer will salute as follows :
At the distance of six paces slip the right hand along the lance to
the height of the eye; lower the lance by straightening the arm to its
fullest extent, the heel of the lance remaining at the hip, and bring
back the lance to the habitual position when the person saluted shall
be passed, or shall have passed, six paces.
PART THIRD.
200. When the men are Avell established in the principles and mech-
anism of the step, the jiosiiion of the body, and the manual of arms,
the instructor will unite from eight to twelve in a squad, in order to
teach them the principles of alignment, the touch of the elbow in
marching to the front, the principles of the march by the flank, wheel-
ing from a halt, wheeling in marching, and the change of direction to
the side of the guide. He will place the squad in one rank, elbow to
elbow, and number the men from right to left.
Alignments.
201. The instructor will at first teach the soldiers to align themselves,
man by man, in order to make them understand the principles of align-
ment better 5 for this purpose, he will command the two men on the
right flank to march two j^aces to the front, and having aligned (or
dressed) them, he will cause the remainder of the squad to move up, as
may be successively called, each by his number, as three, four, etc., and
align (or dress) themselves successively on the line of the first two
men.
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 97
Each man, as designated by his number, will turn his head and eyes
to the right, as directed for eyes right in the first part, and march tioo
jHices forward in quick time, shortening the last step, so as to find him-
self about six inches behind the new line, which he ought never to
cross; he will then move up steadily by steps of two or three inches,
the legs straight, to the side of the next man to him on the line, so
that, without throwing the head or the shoulders out of place, he may
find himself in the exact line with the files on his right, and touching
elbows Avitli tlie nearest one without ojjening out his arms.
The instructor, seeing the line properly dressed, commands :
Front.
At which the men will turn their eye.s to the front, and remain firm.
Alignments to (he left will be conducted on the same principles.
202. When the men shall have learned to dress correctly, man by
man, without deranging the head or shoulders, and without jostling,
the instructor will cause the entire squad to dress at once by the com-
mand :
Squad right (or left) — Dress.
At this the squad, except the two men placed in advance as a basis
of alignment, will move up in quick time, and place themselves on the
new line according to the principles just laid down.
The instructor will superintend the dressing, and when he sees the
greater number of the squad in their proper j^laces, will command :
Front.
The instructor may afterward order this or that file forward or bac/i,
designating each man b}'^ his number (or name). The file or fil^s ;]esig-
nated, will slightly turu the head toward the rii/ht (or left), to judge
how much they ought to move up or back, place themselves on the line
by moving an inch or two at a time, and then turn e3^es to the front,
without waiting for any command from the instructor.
203. Alignments to the rear will be executed on the same principles,
the men stepping back a little beyond the line, and then dressing up
according to the principles laid down in No. 201 ; the commands of the
instructor are :
Right (or left) backward — Dress.
7o march to the front.
204. The squad being correctly aligned, and ths instructor wishing
to march it to the front, he will place a well-instructed man on the
9
98 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
right or left, according to the side on which he wishes the guide to be,
and command :
1. Squad, forward. 2. Guide right (or lefC). 3. March.
At the command march, the squad will step off smartly with the left
foot, and will take up quick time, unless otherwise specially ordered.
This rtde is general. The guide will take care to march straight to the
front, keeping his shoulders always square with that line. The men
will touch elbows lightly on the side toward the guide, maintaining the
shoulders square to the front, no matter on which side the guide may be;
they should be careful not to open out the left elbow, or the right arm;
that they j'ield to pressure coming from the side of the guide, and
resist that coming from the side opposite; that they recover, by insen-
sible degrees, the touch of the elbow, if lost; and if any files are
before or behind the line, that they correct themselves by shortening
or lengthening the step by almost insensible degrees. It is all impor-
tant that the closest attention should be paid to each one of the above
directions, otherwise the men cannot attain proficiency, and when they
are advanced to the company drill, it will be impossible to secure
promptness or accuracy in the manoeuvres.
205. The men being well established in the principles of the direct
march, the instructor will exercise them in marching obliquely. The
squad being in march, the instructor commands :
1. Right (or left) oblique. 2. March.
At the command march, each man will make a half face to the right
(or left), and will then march straight forward in the new direction.
As the men no longer touch elbows, they will glance along the nearest
files, toward the side to which they are obliquing, and will regulate
their steps so that the right (or left) shoulder shall always be behind
the left (or right) shoulder of their next neighbor on the right (or left),
and that his head shall conceal the heads of the other men on the right
(or left). The men should be careful to preserve the same length of
pace, and the same degree of obliquity. The guides must always be on
the flank toward which the oblique takes place.
The instructor wishing to resume the direct march, will command:
1. Forward. 2. March.
At the command march, each man will make a half face to the left
(or right), and all will march straight to the front, conforming to the
principles laid down for marching to the front.
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 99
To march to the front in double quick time.
206. Instruction in the principles of this step is recommended for all
infantry troops ; it may he omitted for infantry of the line, hut in no
other case ; nothing but the imperative necessity for giving all of the
time at the disposal of the insti'uctor to instruction in the principles
of the quick step and to the manoeuvres, should prevent even infantry
of the line from being thoroughly instructed in the principles of this
step.
The squad being at a march in quick time, the instructor com-
mands :
1. Double quick. 2. March.
At the command march, which will be given when either foot is com-
ing to the ground, the squad will step off in double quick time. The
men should be careful to follow the rules already laid down for the
march in the double quick step, and to preserve the alignment.
When the instructor wishes the squ^d to resume the quick step, he
will command :
1. Quick time. 2. March.
At the command march, which should be given when either foot is
coming to the ground, the squad will retake the step in quick time.
If the squad is at a halt, and the instructor wishes to march at the
double quick step, he commands :
1. S quad ^ forward. 2. Guide right (or left). 3. Double quick.
4. March.
The squad being on the march in double quick time, the instructor
will occasionally cause it to mark time; the men will then mark double
quick time without altering the cadence. He will also cause them to
pass from the direct to the oblique march, and the reverse, conforming
to what has been prescribed for the oblique march.
In marching at double quick time, the men will always carry their
pieces on the riffht shoulder, or at a trail. This rule is general.
If the instructor wishes the pieces carried at a trail, he will give the
command trail (trnis, before the command double quick. If, on the con-
trary, this command is not given, the men will shift their pieces to the
right shoulder at the command double quick. In either case, at the
command halt, the men will bring their pieces to the position of
ahoiddered arms. Thin rule is general.
100 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
To face about in marching.
207. If the squad be marching in quick, or double quick time, and
the instructor should wish to march in retreat, he will command :
1. Squad, right about. 2. March.
At the command march, which should be given at the instant the
right foot touches the ground, the soldier will complete the next pace
with the left foot, then turning to the right about on both heels, will
step off with the left foot.
To march by the Jlank.
208. The squad being at a halt, and correctly aligned, the instructor
will command :
1. Squad, right — Face. 2. Forward. 3. March.
At the command /ace, the squad will face to the right; the even num-
bered men, after falling to the right, will step quickly to the right side
of the odd numbered men, the latter standing fast, so that when the
movement is executed, the men will be formed into files of two men
abreast, or doubled.
At the command march, the squad will step off smartly with the left
foot; the files keeping their dress, and preserving their intervals.
The march by the left flank will be executed by the same commands,
substituting the words left for right, and by inverse means; in this case,
the even numbered men, after facing to the left, will stand fast, and the
odd numbered will place themselves on their left.
When the instructor shall wish to halt the squad, marching by the
flank, and to cause it to face to the front, he will command :
1. Squad. 2. Halt. 3. Front.
At the second command the rank will halt, and afterward no man
will stir, although he may have lost his distance. This prohibition
is necessary, to habituate the men to a constant attention to their dis-
tances.
At the command front, each man will front by facing to the left, if
marching by the right flank, and by a face to the right, if marching by
the left flank. The rear rank men will move quickly into their places,
so as to form the squad into one rank again.
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 101
209. The squad bciug on the inarch by the flank, the instructor will
cause it to change direction bj' commanding:
1. By file left for right). 2. March.
At the command march., the first file will change direction to the left
(or right) in describing a small arc of a circle, and will then marcli
straight forward; the two men of this file, in wheeling, will keep up
the touch of the elbows, and the man on the side to which the wheel
is made, will shorten the first three or four steps. Each file will como
successively to the wheel on the same spot where that which preceded
it wheeled.
210. The instructor will also cause the squad to face by the right or
left flank in marching, and for this purpose will command :
1. Squad, hy the right (or left) Jianlc. 2. March.
At the command march, which will be given a little before either foot
comes to the ground, the men will turn the body, plant the foot that
is raised in the new direction, and step off with the other foot without
altering the cadence of the step. AVheu the squad faces to the front or
rear in marching, the men who find themselves in rear step to the right
or left so as to form a single rank, each man in his place as in the be-
ginning; this is called the xindouhliug of files.
If, when the squad is marching to the front or rear, the instructor
causes it to march by a flank, the files will double; when the squad is on
the march to the front, and is faced by the right flank, the even num-
bers will step up to the right of the odd ones, as in the first instance in
facing from a halt; when it is marched by the left flank, the odd num-
bers should double on the left of the even : if the squad is marching to
the rear when it is faced by the right flank, the odd will double on the
even as in the last case, but if faced by the left flank the even will
double to the right of the odd as4n the first case.
The instructor will sometimes march by a flank Avithout doubling
files ; for this purpose he commands :
In one rank, right — Face.
In marching at the double quick, however, the files will always be
doubled.
General principles of wheelings.
211. Wheelings are of two kinds; from a halt, or on fixed pivots,
an'l on the march, or on a movable pivot.
In wheelings from a halt, the pivot-man only turns in his place,
102 MANUAL rOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
without advancing or receding. In the wheels in marching, the pivot-
man takes steps of nine or eleven inches, according as the squad is
marching in quick or double quick time, so as to clear the wheeling
point, which is necessary in order that, in a column composed of sec-
tions, platoons, or companies, the distances between the different parts
of it shall not be lost, as will be more fully explained in the school of
the company.
The man on the wheeling flank will take a full pace of twenty-eight,
or thirty-three inches, according to whether the time is quick or double
quick.
Wheeling from a halt or on a fixed pivot.
212. The squad being at a halt, the instructor will place a well-in-
structed man on the wheeling flank to conduct it, and command :
1. By squad, right wheel. 2. March.
At the command viarcli, the squad will step off with the left foot,
turning the head at the same time a little to the left, the eyes on the
line of the eyes of the men to their left; the pivot-man will merely
mark time, gradually turning his body, in order to conform himself to
the movements of the marching flank ,• the man who conducts this
flank will take steps of twenty-eight inches, and from the first step
advance the left shoulder a little, cast his eyes from time to time along
the rank, and feel constantly, but lightly, the elbow of the next mau
on his right, but never push him. The other man will feel lightly the
elbow of the next man to his right, resist pressure coming from the
left, and yield to any coming, from the right ; each man will conform
himself to the march of the men on the left, shortening his step more
and more as he is nearer the right, or pivot.
The instructor will make the squad wheel round the circle once or
twice before halting, in order to cause the principles to be better under-
stood, and he will be watchful that the centre does not break or get too
far in advance.
He will cause the wheel to the left to be executed on the same prin-
ciples.
When the instructor wishes to arrest the wheel, he commands :
1. Squad. 2. Halt.
At the second command the squad will halt, and no man stir. The
instructor going to the left (or right, if the wheel has been to the left)
flank, will place the two outer men of that flank in the direction he
may wish to give to the squad, without however displacing the pivot.
SCHOOL OF THE SOLDIER. 103
who will conform the line of his shoulders to this direction. The in-
structor will take care to have between these two men and thejpivot
only the space necessary to contain the other men. He will then com-
mand :
Left (or righi) — Dress.
At this the squad will place itself on the alignment of the men fixed
as the bases, in conformity with the principles laid down for the align-
ments. As soon as the men are aligned, the instructor commands :
Front.
Wheeling in marching, or on a movable pivot.
213. When the men have been brought to execute the wheel from a
halt properly, they will be taught the wheel in marching.
For this end, the squad being on the march, when the instructor shall
wish to cause it to change direction to the flank opposite the guide, he
will command :
1. Right (or left) wheel. 2. March.
The first command will be given when the squad is four paces from
the wheeling point.
At the command march the wheel will be executed in the same man-
ner as from a halt, except that the touch of the elbow will remain to-
ward the left or marching flank, instead of the side of the actual
pivot; that the pivot man, instead of merely turning in his place, will
conform himself to the movement of the marching flank, feel lightly
the elbow of the next man, take steps of full nine inches, and thus
gain ground forward so as to clear the point of the wheel. The middle
of the rank will bend slightly to the rear. As soon as the movement
shall commence, the man who conducts the marching flank will cast his
eyes on the ground over which he will have to pass.
The wheel being ended, the instructor will command ;
1. Forward. 2. March.
The command forward will be given four paces before the wheel is
complete.
At the command march, which will begin at the instant the wheel is
complete, the man who conducts the wheel will march straight for-
ward; the pivot man a^id all the rest of the squad will retake the step
of twenty-eight inches, and bring the head direct to the front.
104 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND IMILITIA.
Turning, or change of direction to the side of the guide.
214. The change of direction to the side of the guide, in marching,
will be executed as follows : the instructor will command :
1. Left (or right) turn. 2. March.
The first command should be given when the squad is /o«r paces from
the turning point.
At the command march, to be pronounced at the instant the rank
ought to turn, the guide will face to the left (or right) in marching,
and move forward in the new direction without changing the pace.
The whole squad will promptly conform to the new direction ,• to effect
which, each man will advance the shoulder opposite the guide, take the
double quick step, turn the head and eyes to the side of the guide,
place himself on the line with the guide, from whom he will take the'
step, touch elbows to the side of the guide, and resume the direct posi-
tion of the head. The men will arrive in their places in regular suc-
cession.
215. When the men comprehend, and can execute the various wheels,
etc., in quick time, the instructor Avill cause them to be repeated in
double quick time, by the same commands, and according to same
principles as in quick time, except that the command double quick will
precede that of march. In wheeling while marching, the pivot man
will take steps of eleven inches, and in the changes of direction to the
side of the guide, the men on the side opposite the guide must increase
the gait in order to bring themselves into line.
The instructor, in order not to fatigue the men, and not to divide
their attention, will cause them to execute the several movements of
wheelings, etc., first without arms, and next, after the mechanism be
well comprehended, with ai^ms.
SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY. 105
Article IV.
SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY.
MANNER OF FORMING THE COMPANY.
216. The whole company being assembled on its parade ground, or
in the rendezvous, the Jirst, or orderly sergeant, will command:
Fall in — Company.
At this command the cori)()rals and privates will form in one rank
faced to the right, and in the order of height from right to left, the
tallest man on the right (noAV head of the company), the next tallest
man immediately covering the first, and so on to the left or rear of
the rank, in which position will be placed the shortest man. The
other sergeants will take post in the rank of file-closers, two paces to
the right of the company, and assist the first sergeant in forming the
company.
When the men have their places, the first sergeant will command :
Front.
The second sergeant, who is the left guide of the comi)any, Avill now
place himself on the left of the company, and the orderly sergeant will
promptly command:
1. In two ranks, form company. 2. Lefl — Face. 8. March.
At the command left face, the whole company will face to the left,
except the guide and man on the left, who stand fast.
At the command march, the whole of the men who have faced to the
left, will step off together; the second man, counting from the left, will
place himself in the rear rank, behind the man next to the guide, and
face to the front ; the two following men will, in like manner, on clos-
ing up, form the next file, the third man in the front, and the fourth in
the rear rank behind him, and all the other men will come successively
to form files, two deep, to the right of those already formed.*
* When the company is in good discipline, the files may be formed in two ranks
at once, each man liaving his proper number in the company depending upon his
lieight, and being able to take his appropriate place without creating cunfusion.
106 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The officers will now take'their posts as prescribed in No. 8 ; if the
captaiu has to discharge the duties of instructor, the first lieutenant
will take his place on the right of the front rank, the second lieutenant
replacing the first behind the fourth section.
The instructor will then cause the files to be numbered, and for this
purpose will command:
In each rank — count Twos.
At this command the men count in each rank from right to left, pro-
nouncing in a loud and distinct voice, in the same tone, without hurry
and without turning the head, one, two, according to the place each one
occupies. He will also cause the company to be divided into platoons
and sections, taking care that the first platoon is always composed of
an even number of files.
To open t'anks.
217. The company being at ordered arms, the ranks and file-closers
well aligned, when the instructor shall wish to cause the ranks to be"
opened, he will direct the left guide to place himself on the left of the
front rank, which being executed, he will command :
1. Company. 2. Shoulder — Arms.
3. To the rear, open order.
At the last command, the covering sergeant (or orderly sergeant),
and the left guide, will step off smartly to the rear, four paces of twenty-
eight inches from the front rank, in order to mark the position for the
rear rank. They will judge this distance by the eye without counting
the stcjas.
The instructor will place himself at the same time on the right flank,
in order to observe if these two non-commissioned ofiicers ai'e on a line
parallel to the front rank ; and, if necessary, to correct their positions,
which, being executed, he will command :
4. March.
At this command the front rank will stand fast. The rear rank will
step to the rear without counting the steps, and will place themselves
on the alignment marked for this rank, each man stepping slightly
behind the line, and then dressing forward as in the backward dress.
The covering sergeant will dress the rear rank on the left guide placed
SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY. 107
to mark the left of this rank. The instructor seeing the rear rank
aligned, will command :
5, Front.
At this command, the sergeant on the left of the rear rank will return
to his place as a file-closer.
Alignments in open ranks.
218. The ranks being open, the instructor will, in the first exercises,
align the ranks, man by man, the better to inculcate the principles.
To effect this, he will cause two or four men on the right or left of each
rank to march two or three paces forward, and, after having aligned ■
them, command :
By fie ^ right (or left) — Dress.
At this, the men of each rank will move up successively on the
alignment, each man being preceded by his neighbor in the same rank,
toward the basis, by two paces, and having correctly aligned himself,
will cast his eyes to the front.
219. Successive alignments having habituated the soldier to dress
correctl}', the instructor Avill cause the ranks to align themselves at
once, forward and backward, sometimes in a direction parallel, and
sometimes in one oblique to the original direction, giving, in each case,
two or four men to serve as a basis of alignment to each rank. To
effect which he will command :
1. Right (oY left) — Dress. 2. Front;
or,
1. Right (or left) backward — Dress. 2. Front.
In oblique alignments, in opened ranks, the men of the rear rank
will not seek to cover their file-leaders, as the sole object of the exer-
cise is to teach them to align themselves correctly in their respective
ranks, in the different directions.
In the several alignments, the captain will superintend the front
rank, and the covering sergeant the rear rank. For this purpose they
will place themselves on the side by which the ranks are dressed.
In oblique alignments, the men will conform the line of their shoul-
ders to the new direction of their ranks, and will place themselves on
the alignment as has been prescribed in the school of the soldier,
according as the new direction shall be in front or rear of the original
one. '
108 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
To close ranks.
220. The instructor -will command :
1. Close order. 2. March.
At the command march, the rear rank will close up in quick time,
each man directino; himself on his file-leader.
Alignments m closed ranks.
221. The ranks being closed, the instructor will cause to be executed
parallel and oblique alignments by the right and left, forward and
backAvard, observing to place always two or four files as a basis of
alignment. He will give the same commands prescribed for opened
ranks.
In alignments in closed ranks, the captain will superintend the front
rank, and the covering sergeant the rear rank. They will habituate
themselves to judge the alignment by the lines of the eyes and shoul-
ders, in casting a glance of the eye along the front and rear of the
ranks.
The moment the captain perceives the greater number of the front
rank aligned, he will command Front, and rectify afterward, if neces-
sary, the alignment of the other men by ordering fliis or that file for-
ward or back, designating each bj^ its number. The rear rank will
conform to the alignment of the front rank, superintended by the cov-
ering sergeant.
The ranks being steady, the instructor will place himself on the
flank to verify their alignment. He will also see that each rear rank
man covers accurately his file-leader.
In all alignments, the file-closers will preserve the distance of two
paces from the rear rank.
The alignments being ended the instructor will exercise the company
at the manual, and finish with stacking arms as follows:
To Stack Aj-ms.
222. The men being at order arms, the instructor will command :
Stack — Arms.
At this command, the front rank man of every even numbered file
will pass his piece before him, seizing it with the left hand above the
middle baud, and place the butt behind and near the right foot of
SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY. 109
the man next on the left, the barrel turned to the front. At the same
time the front rank man of every odd numbered file will pass his piece
before him, seizing it with the left hand below the middle band, and
hand it to the man next on the left ; the latter will receive it with the
right hand two inches above the middle band, throw the butt about
thirty-two inches to the front, opposite to his right shoulder, incline
the muzzle toward him, and lock the shanks of the two bayonets; the
lock of this second piece toward the right, and its shank above that of
the first piece. The rear rank man of every even file will project his
bayonet forward, and introduce it (using both hands) between and
under the shanks of the two other bayonets. He will then abandon
the piece to his file-leader, who will receive it with the right hand under
the middle band, bring the butt to the front, holding up his own piece
<- and the stack with the left hand, and place the butt of this third piece
between the feet of the man next on the right, the S plate to the rear.
The stack thus formed, the rear rank man of every odd file will pass
his piece into his left hand, the barrel turned to the front, and, sloping
the bayonet forward, rest it on the stack.
223. If the company be armed with rijies, or any piece without the
bayonet, arms will be stacked by the same commands, and in the fol-
lowing manner : At the command stuck arms, the front rank man ».f
every even numbered file will pass his piece before him, seizing it v.-,th
the left hand near the upper band; will place the butt a little in a«l-
vauce of his left toe, the barrel turned toward the body, and draw the
rammer slightly from its place; the front rank man of every odd
numbered file will also draw the rammer slightly, and pass his piece
to the man next on his left, who will seize it with the right hand near
the upper band, and place the butt a little in advance of the right toe
of the man next on his right, the barrel turned to the front; he will
then cross the rammers of the two pieces, the rammer of the piece of
the odd numbered man being inside ; the rear rank man of every even
file will also draAV his rammer, lean his piece forward, the lock-plate
downward, advance the right foot about six inches, and insert the
rammer between the rammer and barr(^ of the piece of his front rank
man; with his left hand he will place the butt of his piece on the
ground, thirty-two inches in rear of, and perpendicular to, the front
rank, bringing back his right foot by the side of the left; the front
rank man of every even file will at the same time lean the stack to the
rear, quit it with his right hand, and force all the rammers down.
The stack being thus formed, the rear rank man of every odd file will
pass his piece into his left hand, the l)arrel to the front, and inclining
it forward, will rest it on the stack.
110 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
224. The men of both ranks having taken the position of the soldier
without arms, the instrvictor Avill command :
1. Break ranks. 2. March.
To Resume Arms.
Both ranks being re-formed in rear of their stacks, the instructor
will command :
Take — Arms.
At this command, the rear rank man of every odd numbered file
will withdraw his piece from the stack ; the front rank man of every
even file will seize his own piece with the left hand, and that of the
man on his right with his right hand, both above the lower band ;
the rear rank man of the even file will seize his piece with the right
hand below the lower band; these two men will raise up the stock to
loosen the rammers or bayonets; the front rank man of every odd file
will facilitate the disengagement of the rammers, if necessary, by
drawing them out slightly with the left hand, and will receive his
piece from the hand of the man next on his left ; the four men will
retake the position of the soldier at order arms.
The firings.
To fire hy company.
225. The instructor, wishing to cause the fire by company to be exe-
cuted, will command :
1. Fire hy company. 2. Commence firing.
At the first command, the captain will promptly place himself op-
posite the centre of his company, and four paces in rear of the line of
file-closers : the covering sergeant will retire to that line, and place
himself opposite to his interval. This rule is yeneral, for both the cap-
tain and covering sergeant, in aff the different firings.
At the second command, the captain will add :
1. Company. 2. Ready. 3. Aim. 4. Fire. 5. Load.
At the command load, the men will load their pieces, and then take
the position of ready, as prescribed in the school of the soldier.
The captain will immediately recommence the firing, by the com-
mands :
1. Company. 2. Aim. 3. Fire. 4. Load.
SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY. Ill
The firing will be thus continued until the signal to cease firing is
sounded.
The captain will sometimes cause aim to be taken to the right or
left, simply observing to pronounce right (or left) oblique, before the
command aim.
The fire hy file.
226. The instructor wishing to cause the fire by file to be executed,
will command :
1. Fire hy file. 2. Company. 3. Ready. 4. Commence firing.
The third and fourth commands will be executed as prescribed in
the school of the soldier.
The fire will be commenced by the right file of the company; the
next file will take aim at the instant the first brings down pieces to
reload, and so on to the left ; but this progression will only be observed
in the first discharge, after which each man will reload and fire with-
out regulating himself by others, conforming himself to what is pre-
scribed in the school of the soldier.
The fire hy rank.
227. The instructor wishing the fire by rank to be executed, will
command :
1. Fire hy rank. 2. Company. 3. Ready. 4. Rear rank — Aim.
5. Fire. 6. Load.
The fifth and sixth commands will be executed as is prescribed in the
school of the soldier.
When the instructor sees one or two pieces in the rear rank at a
ready, he will command :
%l. Front rank. 2. Aim. 3. Fire. 4. Load.
The firing will be continued thus, by alternate ranks, until the signal
is given to cease firing.
228. The instructor will sometimes cause aim to be taken to the right
and left, conforming to what is prescribed for the oblique fire.
The instructor will cause the firing to cease, whether by company, by
file, or by rank, by sounding the signal to cease Jiriny; at which signal
the men will cease to fire. If they have fired, they will load their
pieces and bring them to a shoulder ; if at the position of ready, they
112 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MIJ.ITIA.
will half-cock and shoulder arms. If in the position of aim, they will
bring down their pieces, half-cock, and shoulder arms.
229. The signal to cease firing will be alwaj^s followed by a bugle
note, or tap of the drum ; at which sound the captain and covering
sergeant will promptly resume their places in line, and will rectify, if
necessary, the alignment of the ranks.
The fire by file being that which is most frequently used against an
enemy, it is highly important that it be rendered perfectly familiar to
the troops. The instructor will, therefore, give it almost exclusive
preference, and labor to cause the men to aim with care, and always,
if possible, at some particular object. As it is of the utmost im-
portance that the men should aim with precision in battle, this
principle will be rigidly enforced in the exercises for purposes of
instruction.
Tojire hy the rear rank.
230. The instructor will cause the several fires to be executed to the
rear, that is, by the rear rank. To effect this, he will command :
1. Face hy the rear rank. 2. Company. 3. About — Face.
At the first command, the captain will step out and place himself
near to, and facing the right file of his company; the covering ser-
geant and file-closers will pass quickly through the captain's interval,
and place themselves faced to the rear, the covering sergeant a pace
behind the cajitain, and the file-closers two paces from the front
rank opposite to their places in line, each passing behind the covering
sergeant.
At the third command, which will be given at the instant the last
file-closer shall have passed through the interval, the company will
face about; the captain will place himself in his interval in the rear
rank, now become the front, and the covering sergeant will cover him
in the front rank, now become the rear.
The company having faced by the rear rank, the instructor will
cause it to execute the fire by company, both direct and obli^ie. the
fire by file, and the fire by rank, by the commands and means pre-
scribed. The captain, covering sergeant, and the men will conform
themselves, in like manner, to what is prescribed.
The fire by file Avill commence on the left of the company, now
become the right. In the fire by rank the firing will commence
with the front rank, now become the rear.
To resume the proper front, the instructor will command:
1. Face hv the front rank. 2= Company. 3. About — Face.
SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY. 113
At the first command, the captain, covering sergeant and file-closers
will conform to what is prescribed above.
At the third command, the company having faced about, the captain
and covering sergeant will resume their places in line.
In this lesson, the instructor will impress on the men the-importance
of aiming always at some particular object, and of holding the piece
as prescribed in the school of the soldier.
The instructor will recommend to the captain to make a short pause
between the commands aim and fire, to give the men time to aim with
accuracy.
To advance in line of battle.
231. The company being in line of battle, and correctly aligned,
when the instructor shall wish to exercise it in marching by the front,
he will assure himself that the shoulders of the captain and covering
sergeant are perfectly in the direction of tlieir respective ranks, and
that the sergeant accurately covers the cap :ain ; the instructor will
then place himself twenty-five or thirty paces in front of them, face
to the rear, and place himself exactly on the prolongation of the line
passing between their heels.
The instructor, being aligned on the directing file, will command :
1. Company, forward.
At this, a sergeant, previously designated, will move six paces in
advance of the captain : the instructor, from the position prescribed,
will correctly align this sergeant on the prolongation of the directing
file.
This advanced sergeant, who is to be charged with the direction,
will, the moment his position is assured, take two points on the ground
in the straight line which would pass between his own and the heels of
the instructor.
These dispositions being made, the instructor will step aside, and
command :
2. March.
At this, the company will step ofiF with life. The directing sergeant
will observe, with the greatest precision, the length and cadence
of the step, marching on the two points he has chosen ; he will
take in succession, and always a little before arriving at the point
nearest to him, new points in advance, exactly in the same line with
the first two, and at the distance of some fifteen or twenty paces
from each other. The captain will march steadily in the trace of
10
114 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
the directing sergeant, keeping always six paces from him ; the
men will each maintain the head direct to the front, feel lightly the
elbow of his neighbor on the side of direction, and conform himself
to the principles prescribed, school of the soldier, for the march by
the front.
The man next to the captain will take special care not to pass him ;
to this end, he will keep the line of his shoulders a little in the rear,
but in the same direction with those of the captain.
The file-closers will march at the habitual dis*^ance of two paces
behind the rear rank.
If the men lose the step, the instructor will command:
2^0 the — Step.
At this command, the men will glance toward the directing ser-
geant, retake the step from him, and again direct their eyes to the
front.
The instructor will cause the captain and covering sergeant to be
posted sometimes on the right, and sometimes oii the left of the
company.
The directing sergeant, in advance, having the greatest influence on
the march of the company, he will be selected for the precision of his
step, his habit of maintaining his shoulders in a square with a given
line of direction, and of prolonging that line without variation.
To halt the company^ mar^ching in line of battle., and to align it.
The instructor, wishing to halt the company, will command:
1. Company. 2. Halt.
At the second command, the company will halt ; the directing
sergeant will remain in advance, unless ordered to return to the line
of file-closers. The company being at a halt, the instructor may
advance the first three or four files on the side of direction, and
align the company on that basis, or he may confine himself to causing
the alignment to be rectified. In this last case, he will command :
Captain, rectify the alignment. The captain will direct the covering
sergeant to attend to the rear rank, when each, glancing his eyes
along his rank, will promptly rectify it, conforming to what is pre-
scribed in the school of the soldier.
SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY. 115
Oblique march in line of battle.
232. The company being in the direct march, when the instructor
shall wish to cause it to march obliquely, he will command :
1. Right (or left) oblique. 2. March.
At the command march, the company will take the oblique step.
The men will accurately observe the principles prescribed in the
school of the soldier. The rear rank men will preserve their dis-
tances, and march in rear of the man next on the right (or left) of
their habitual file-leaders.
When the instructor wishes the direct march to be resumed, he will
command :
1. Forward. 2. March.
At the command march, the company will resume the direct march.
The instructor will move briskly twenty paces in front of the captain,
and facing the company, will place himself exactly in the prolongation
of the captain and covering sergeant; and then, by a sign, will move
the directing sergeant on the same line, if he be not already on it; the
latter will immediately take two points on the ground between him-
self and the instructor, and as he advances, will take new points of
direction.
In the oblique march, the men not having the touch of elbows,
the guide will always be on the side toAvard which the oblique is
made, without any indication to that effect being given ; and when
the direct march is resumed, the guide will be, equally without indica-
tion, on the side where it Avas previous to the oblique.
To mark time, to march in double quick time, and the back step.
233. The company being in the direct march and in quick time, the
instructor, to cause it to mark time, will command:
1. Mark time. 2. March.
To resume the march, he will command :
1. Fonvard. 2. March.
To cause the march in double quick time, the instructor will com-
mand :
1. Double quick. 2. March.
116 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The command march will be pronounced at the instant either foot is
coming to the ground.
To resume quick time, the instructor will command :
1. Quick time. 2. March.
The command march will be pronounced at the instant either foot is JH
coming to the ground.
The company being at a halt, the instructor will cause it to march in
the back step ; to this effect, he will command :
1. Company, hackivard. 2. Marcpi.
The back step will be executed according to the principles prescribed
in the school of the soldier, but the use of it being rare, the instructor
will not cause more than fifteen or twenty steps to be taken in success-
ion, and to that extent but seldom.
The instructor ought not to exercise the company in marching in
double quick time till the men are well established in the length and
swiftness of the pace in quick time ; he will then endeavor to render
the march of 165 steps in the minute equally easy and familiar, and
also cause them to observe the same erectness of body and composure
of mind, as if marching in quick time.
To march in retreat.
234. The company being halted and correctly aligned, when the
instructor shall wish to cause it to march in retreat, he will command:
1. Company. 2. About — Face.
The company having faced to the rear, the instructor will place him-
self in front of the directing file.
The instructor, being correctly established on the prolongation of
the directing file, will command :
3. Company, forward.
At this, the directing sergeant will conform himself to what is pre-
scribed. No. 231, with this difi"ercnce — he will place himself six paces in
front of the line of file-closers, now leading.
The covering sergeant will step into the line of file-closers, opposite
to his interval, and the captain will place himself in the rear rank, now
become the front.
This disposition being promptly made, the instructor will command :
4. March.
SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY. 117
At this, the directing sergeant, the captain, and the men, will con-
form themselves to what is prescribed. No. 231.
The instructor will cause to be executed, marching in retreat, all that
is prescribed for marching in advance ; the commands and the means
of execution will be the same.
The instructor having halted his company, Avill, when he may wish,
cause it to face to the front. The captain, the covering sergeant, and
the directing sergeant, will resume their habitual places in line, the
moment they have faced about.
2.35. The instructor being in march by the front rank, if the in-
structor should wish it to march in retreat, he will cause the right
about to be executed while marching, and to this effect he will com-
mand :
1. Company. 2. Right about. 3. March.
At the third command, the company will pi-omptly face about, and
recommence the march by the rear rank.
The directing sergeant will face about with his company, and will
move rapidly six paces in front of the file-closers, and upon the prolon-
gation of the guide. The instructor will place him in the proper direc-
tion by the means prescribed. The captain, the covering sergeant, and
the men, will conform to the principles prescribed for the march in
retreat.
When the instructor wishes the company to march by the front rank,
he will give the same commands, and regulate the direction of the
march by the same means.
236. The instructor will cause all the above marches, except the
backward march, to be executed in the double quick time; the latter
will be executed only in quick time. He will give the same commands,
observing to add dunhle quick before the comniiind march.
When the pieces are carried on the right shoulder, in quick time, the
distance between the ranks will be sixteen inches. Whenever, there-
fore, the instructor brings the company from a shoulder to this posi-
tion, the rear rank must shorten a little the first steps in order to gain
the prescribed distance, and will lengthen the steps, on the contrary, in
order to close up when the pieces are again brought to a shoulder. In
marching in doable quick time, the di.stance between the ranks will be
twenty-six inches, and the pieces will be carried habitually on the right
shoulder.
Whenever a company is halted, the men will bring their pieces at
once to the shoulder at the command halt. The rear rank will close to
its proper distance. These rules are general.
118 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
To march by the fiank.
237. The company being in line of battle, and at a halt, when the
instructor shall wish to cause it to march by the right flank, he will
command :
1. Compamj, right — Face. 2. Foricard. 3. March.
At the first command, the company will face to the right, the cover-
ing sergeant will place himself at the head of the front rank, the cap-
tain having stepped out for the purpose, so far as to find himself by the
side of the sergeant, and on his left; the two ranks will form to the
right at the word, the rear rank will step off one pace to the right, then
the even numbers of both ranks will step up to the right of the odd, as
directed in the school of the soldier ; so that when the movement is
completed, the files will be formed of four men aligned, and elbow to
elbow. The intervals will be preserved.
The file-closers will also move by side step to the right, so that when
the ranks are formed, they will be two paces from the rearmost rank.
At the command march, the company will move off briskly in quick
time ; the covering sergeant at the head of the front rank, and the
captain on his left, will march straight forward. The men of each
file will march abreast of their respective front rank men, heads direct
to the front ; the file-closers will march opposite their places in line of
battle.
The instructor will cause the march by the left flank to be executed
by the same commands, substituting left for right ; the rear rank steps
one pace to the left, then the odd files of both ranks take their places to
the left of the even numbered.
At the instant the company faces to the left, the left guide will place
himself at the head of the front rank; the captain will pass rapidly to
the left, and place himself by the right side of this guide ; the covering
sergeant will replace the captain in the front rank, the moment the
latter quits it to go to the left.
The instructor will sometimes exercise the company in facing with-
out doubling, for this purpose he will command :
1. Company, in two ranks, right — 2. Face.
The double quick, however, will never be executed without the ranks
being doubled.
To change direction by Jile.
238. The company being faced by the flank, and either in march or
SCHOOL OF THE COMPANYi 119
at a halt, when the instructor shall wish to fcatise it to wheel by file,
he will command :
1* By Jile^ left (oi* right). 2. March.
At the command march, the first file will wheel; if to the side of the
front rank man, the latter will take care not to turn at once, but to
describe a short arc of a circle, shortening a little the first five or six
steps, in order to give time to the fourth man of this file to conform
himself to the movement. If the wheel be to the side of the rear rank,
the front rank man will wheel in the step of twenty-eight inches, and
the fourth man will conform himself to the movement by describing a
short arc of a circle as has been explained. Each file will come to
wheel on the same ground where that which preceded it wheeled.
The instructor will see that the wheel be executed according to these
principles, in order that the distance between the files may always
be preserved, and that there be no check or hindrance at the wheeling
point.
To halt the company marching by the Jiank, and to face it to the
front.
239. To effect these objects, the instructor will command :
1. Company. 2. Halt. 3. Front.
The second and third commands will be executed as prescribed in
the school of the soldier. As soon as the files have undoubled, the rear
rank Avill close to its proper distance. The captain and covering ser-
geant, as well as the left guide, if the march be by the left flank, will
return to their habitual places in line at the instant the company faces
to the front.
The instructor may then align the company by one of the means
prescribed.
The company being in march by the flank^ to form it on the right
(or left^ ^y fil<^ i>'>'io line of battle.
240. If the company be marching by the right flank, the instructor
will command :
1. On the right, by fie into line. 2. March.
At the command march, the rear rank men doubled will mark time ;
the captain and the covering sergeant will turn to the right, march
120 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
straight forward, and be halted by the instructor when they shall have
passed at least six paces beyond the rank of file-closers ; the captain
will place himself correctly on the line of battle, and will direct the
alignment as the men of the front rank successively arrive ; the cover-
ing sergeant will phxco himself behind the captain at the distance of
the rear rankj the two men on the right of the front rank doubled, will
continue to march, and passing beyond the covering sergeant and the
captain, will turn to the right; after turning, they will continue to
march elbow to elbow, and direct themselves toward the line of battle,
but when they shall arrive at two paces from this line, the even number
will shorten the step so that the odd number may precede him on the
line, the odd number placing himself by the side and on the left of the
captain ; the even number will afterward oblique to the left, and place
himself on the left of the odd number; the next two men of the front
rank doubled, will pass in the same manner behind the two first, turn
then to the right, and place themselves, according to the means just
explained, to the left, and by the side of the two men already estab-
lished on the line; the remaining files of this rank will follow in suc-
cession, and be formed to the left in the same manner. The rear rank
doubled will execute the movement in the manner already explained
for the front rank, taking care not to commence the movement until
four men of the front rank are established on the line of battle ; the
rear rank men, as they arrive on the line, will cover accurately their
file-leaders.
If the company be marching by the left flank, the instructor will
cause it to form by file on the left into line of battle, according to the
same principles and by the same commands, substituting the indication
left for right. In this case, the odd numbers will shorten the step, so
that the even numbers may precede them on the line. The captain,
placed on the left of the front rank, and the left guide, will return to
their places in line of battle, by order of the instructor, after the com-
pany shall be formed and aligned.
To enable the men the better to comprehend the mechanism of this
movement, the instructor will at first cause it to be executed separately
by each rank doubled, and afterward by the two ranks united and
doubled.
The company being in march by the flank, to form it hy company,
or by platoon, into line, and cause it to face to the right and left
in marching.
211. The company being in march by the right flank, the instructor
SCHOOL OF THK COMPANY. 121
will order the captain to form it into Hue; the captain will iinmediately
coinraand :
1. Bjj companj/, info line. 2. March.
At the commaud march, the covering sergeant will continue to march
straight forward : the men will advance the right shoulder, take the
double quick step, and move into line by the shortest route, taking care
to undouble the files, and to come on the line one after the other.
As the front rank men successively arrive in line with the covering
sergeant, they Avill take from him the step, and then turn their eyes to
the front.
The men of the rear rank will conform to the movements of their
respective file-leaders, but Avithout endeavoring to arrive in line at the
same time with the latter.
At the instant the movement begins, the captain will face to his com-
pany in order to folloAV up the execution ; and, as soon as the company
is formed, he will command <jnide left, place himself two paces before
the centre, face to the front, and take the step of the company.
At the command guide left, the second sergeant will promptly place
himself in the front rank, on the left, to serve as guide, and the cover-
ing sergeant who is on the opposite flank will remain there.
When the company marches by the left flank, this movement will
be executed by the same commands and according to the same
principles ; the company being formed, the captain will commaud
f/Ht'de right, and place himself in front of hia company as above ;
the covering sergeant who is on the right of the front rank will serve
as guide, and the second sergeant placed on the left flank will remain
there.
Thus, supposing the company to constitute a part of a column by
company, right or left in front, the covering sergeant and the second
sergeant of each corapanj'^ will always be placed on the right and
left, respectively, of the front rank ; they will be denominated right
guide and left guide, and the one or the other charged with the
direction.
The company being in march by the flank, if it be the wish of the
instructor to cause it to form platoons, he will give an order to that
eff"ect to the captain, who will command :
1. By platoon, into line. 2. March.
The movement will be executed by each platoon according to the
above principles. The captain will place himself before the centre
of the first platoon, and the first lieutenant before the centre of the
11
122 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
second, passing tLrough the opening made in the centre of the
company, if the march be by the right flank, and around the left
of his platoon, if the march be by the left : in this last case, the
captain will also pass around the left of the second platoon in order
to place himself in front of the first. Both the captain and lieutenant,
without waiting for each other, will command guide left (or right) at
the instant their respective platoons are formed.
At the command guide left (or right), the guide of each platoon
will pass rapidly to the indicated flank of the platoon, if not already
there.
The right guide of the company will ahvays serve as the guide
of the right or left of the first platoon, and the left guide of the
company will serve, in like manner, as the guide of the second
platoon.
Thus in a column, by platoon, there will be but one guide to each
platoon ; he will always be placed on its left flank, if the right be
in front, and on the right flank, if the left be in front.
In these movements, the file-closers will follow the platoons to
which they are attached.
The instructor may cause the company, marching by the flank,
to form by company, or by platoon, into line, by his own direct
commands, using those prescribed for the captain
The instructor will exercise the company in passing, without halt,
from the march by the front, to the march by the flank, and recip-
rocally. In either case he will employ the commands prescribed in
the school of the soldier, substituting comjyauj/ for squad. The com-
pany will face to the right or left, in marching, and the captain,
the guides, and tile-closers will conform themselves to what is pre-
scribed for each in. the march by the flank, or in the march by the
front of a company supposed to be a -jubdivision of a column.
If, after facing to the right or left, in marching, the company
find itself faced by the rear rank, the captain will place himself two
paces behind the centre of the front rank, now in the rear, the
guides will pass to the rear rank, now leading, and the file-closers
will march in front of this rank.
The instructor, in order to avoid fatiguing the men, and to prevent
them from being negligent in the position of shoulder arms, will
sometimes order support arms in marching by the flank, and arms
on the right shoulder, when marching in line.
To break into column by platoon, either at a halt or in march.
242. The company being at a halt, in line of battle, the inetmctor,
SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY. 123
wishing to lireak it into column, by platoon to the right, will com-
mand :
1. By platoon, 7-ight wheel. 2. March.
At the first command, the chiefs of platoons will rapidly place
themselves two paces before the centres of their respective platoons,
the lieutenant passing around the left of the company. They need
not occupy themselves with dressing, one upon the other. The cov-
ering sergciint will replace the captain in the front rank.
At the command march, the right front rank man of each platoon
will face to the right, the covering sergeant standing fast, the chief of
each i:)latoon will move quickly by the shortest line, a little beyond the
point at which the marching flank will rest when the wheel shall be
completed, face to the late rear, and place himself so that the line
which he forms with the man on the right (who had faced) shall be
per[)endicular to that occupied bj' the company in line of battle: each
platoon will wheel according to the principles prescribed for the wheel
on a fixed pivot; and when the man who conducts the marching flank
ishall approach near to the perpendicular, its chief will command:
1. Platoon. 2. Halt.
At the command half, which will be given at the instant the man
who conducts the marching flank shall have arrived at three paces
from the perpendicular, the platoon will halt; the covering sergeant
will move to the point where the left of the first platoon is to rest,
passing by the front rank; the second sergeant will place himself,
in like manner, in respect to the second platoon. Each will take"
care to leave between himself and the man on the right of his platoon,
a space equal to its front; the captain and first lieutenant will look
to this, and each take care to align the sergeant between himself and
the man of the platoon who had faced to the right.
The guide of each platoon, being thus established on the perpen-
dicular, each chief will place himself two paces outside of his guide,
and facing towar<l him, will command :
o. Left — Dress.
The alignment being ended, each chief of platoon Avill command,
Froxt, and place himself two paces before its centre.
The file -closers will conform themselves to the movement of their
respective platoons, preserving always the distance of two paces from
the rear rank.
124 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The company will break by platoon to the left, according to the
same principles. The instructor will command :
1. By platoon^ left wheel. 2. March.
The first command will be executed in the same manner as if break-
ing by platoon to the right.
At the command march, the left front rank man of each platoon
will face to the left, and the platoons Avill wheel to the left, according
to the principles prescribed for the wheel on a fixed pivot ; the chiefs
of platoon will conform to the principles indicated.
At the command JiaJt, given by the chief of each platoon, the
covering sergeant on tlie right of the front rack of the first platoon,
and the second sergeant near the left of the second platoon, will
each move to the points where the right of his platoon is to rest.
The chief of each platoon should be careful to align the sergeant
between himself and the man of the platoon who had faced to the
left, and will then command :
Right — Dress.
The platoons being aligned, each chief of platoon will command,
Front, and place himself opposite its centre.
243. The instructor wishing to break the company by platoon to the
right, and to move the column forward after the wheel is completed,
will caution the company to that eftect, and command:
1. By platoon^ right wheel. 2. March.
At the first command, the chiefs of platoon will move rapidly in
front of their respective platoons, conforming to what has been pre-
scribed, and will remain in this position during the contiauance of
the wheel. The covering sergeant will replace the chief of the first
platoon in the front rank.
At the command march, the platoons will wheel to the right, con-
forming to the principles herein prescribed; the man on the pivot will
not face to the right, but will mark time, conforming himself to the
movement of the marching flank : and when the man who is on the
left of tnis flank shall arrive near the perpendicular, the instructor will
command :
3. Forward. 4. March. 5. Guide left.
At the fourth command, which will be given at the instant the wheel
is completed, the platoons will move straight to the front, all the men
taking the step of twenty-eight inches. The covering sergeant and
SCHOOL or THE COMPANY. 125
the second (sergeant will move rapidly to the left of their reppective
platoons, the former passing before the front rank. The leading guide
will immediately take points on the ground in the direction which may
be indicated to him by the instructor.
At the fifth command, the men will take the touch of elbows lightly
to the left.
If the guide of the second platoon should lose his distance or the
line of direction, he will conform to the principles herein prescribed.
If the company be marching in line to the front, the instructor will
cause it to break by platoon to the right by the same commands. At
the command march, the platoons will wheel in the manner already
explained; the man on the pivot will take care to mark time in his
place, without advancing or receding; the instructor, the chiefs of pla-
toon and the guides, will conform to what has been prescribed.
The company may be broken by platoons to the left, according to
the- same principles and by inverse means, the instructor giving the
rommands prescribed, substituting left for Hyht, and reciprocally.
To march in column.
244. The company having broken by platoon, right (or left) in front,
the instructor, wishing to cause the column to march, will throw him-
self twenty-five or thirty paces in front, face to the guides, place himself
correctly on their direction, and caution the leading guide to take points
on the ground.
The instructor being thus placed, the guide of the leading platoon
will take two points on the ground in the straight line passing between
his own and the heels of the instructor.
These dispositions being made, the instructor will step aside, and
command :
1. Column, forward. 2. Guide left (or right). 3. March.
At the command march, promptly repeated by the chiefs of platoon,
they, as well as the guides, will lead off", by a decided step, their re-
spective platoons, in order that the whole may move smartly and at
the same moment.
The men will each feel lightly the elbow of his neighbor toward the
guide, and conform himself, in marching, to the principles prescribed
in the school of the soldier. The man next to the guide, in each pla-
toon, will take care never to pass him, and also to march always about
six inches to the right (or left) from him, in order not to push him out
of the direction.
The leading guide will observe, with the greatest precision, the
126 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
length and cadence of the step, and maintain the direction of his
march hy the means prescribed.
The following guide will march exactly in the trace of the leading
one, preserving between the latter and himself a distance precisely
equal to the front of his platoon, and marching in the same step with
the leading guide.
To change direction.
The changes of direction of a column while marching will be exe-
cuted according to the principles prescribed for wheeling, on the march.
Whenever, therefore, a column is to change direction, the instructor
will change the guide, if not already there, to the flank opposite the
side to which the change is to be made.
245. The column being in march, right in front, if it be the wish of
the instructor to change direction to the right, he will give the order
to the chief of the first platoon, and immediately go himself, or send a
marker, to the point at which the change of direction is to be made;
the instructor, or marker, will place himself on the direction of the
guides, so as to present the breast to that flank of the column.
The leading guide will direct his march on that person, so that, in
passing, his left arm may just graze his breast. When the leading
guide shall have approached near to the marker, the chief of his pla-
toon will command :
1. Right wheel. 2. March.
The first command will be given when the platoon is at the distance
of four paces from the marker.
At the command march, which will be pronounced at the instant the
guide shall have arrived opposite the marker, the platoon will wheel to
the right, conforming to what is prescribed in the school of the soldier.
The wheel being finished, the chief of each platoon Avill command :
3. Forward. 4. March.
These commands will be pronounced and executed as is prescribed
in the school of the soldier. The guide of the first platoon will take
points on the ground in the new direction, in order the better to regu-
late the march.
The second platoon will continue to march straight forward till up
with the marker, when it will wheel to the right, and retake the direct
march by the same commands and the same means which governed the
first platoon.
The column being in march, right in front, if the instructor should
SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY. 127
wieh to change direction to the left, he will command, fjuide riyht. At
this command, the two guides will move rapidly to the right of their
reppcctive platoons, each passing in front of his subdivision ; the men
will take the touch of elbows to the right ; the instructor will after-
ward conform to what is prescribed.
The change of direction to the left will then be executed according
ts» the same principles as the change of direction to the right, but by
inverse means.
When the change of direction is completed, the instructor will com-
mand, guide left.
The changes of direction in a column, left in front, will be executed
according to the same principles.
In changes of direction in double quick time, the platoons will wheel
according to the principles prescribed in the school of the soldier.
In order to prepare the men for those formations in line which can
be executed only by turning to the right or the left, the instructor will
sometimes cause the column to change direction to the si<lc of the
guide. In this case, the chief of the leading platoon will command :
Left (or riylif) turn, instead of lift (or right) wheel. The subdivisions
will each turn, in succession, conforming to what is prescribed in the ,
school of the soldier. The leadiug guide, as soon as he has turned,
will take points on the ground, the better to regulate the direction of
the march.
To halt (he column.
The column being in march, when the instructor shall wish to halt
it, he will command:
1. Column. 2. Halt.
At the second command, promptly repeated by the chiefs of platoon,
the column will halt; the guides also will stand fast, although they
may have lost both distance and direction.
If the command halt be not repeated with the greatest vivacity, and
executed at the same instant, distances will be lost.
If a guide, having lost his distance, seek to recover it after that
command, he will only throw his fault on the following guide, who, if
he have marched well, will no longer be at his proper distance ; and if
the latter regain what he has thus lost, the movement will be propa-
gated to the rear of the column.
Being in column hy platoon, to form to the right or left into line of
battle, either at a halt or on the march.
246. The instructor having halted the column, right in front, and
128 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
wishing to form it into line of battle, will place himself at platoon
distance in front of the leading guide, face to him, and rectify, if
necessary, the position of the guide beyond; which being executed, he
will command :
Left — Dress.
At this command, which will not be repeated by the chiefs of platoon,
each of them will place himself briskly two paces outside of his guide,
and direct the alignment of the platoon perpendicularly to the direction
of the column.
Each chief having aligned his platoon, will command Front, and
return quickly to his place in column.
This disposition being made, the instructor will command:
1. Left into line, lolieel. 2. March.
At the command march, briskly repeated by the chiefs of platoon,
the front rank man on the left of each platoon will face to the left, and
place his breast lightly against the arm of the guide by his side, who
stands fast; the platoons will wheel to the left on the principle of
wheels from a halt, and in conformity to what is prescribed. Each
chief will turn to his platoon to observe its movement, and when the
marching flank has approached near the line of battle, he will com-
mand :
1. Platoon., 2. Halt.
The command halt will be given when the marching flank of the
platoon is three paces from the line of battle.
The chief of the second platoon having baited it, will return to his
place as a file-closer, passing around the left of his subdivision.
The captain having halted the first platoon, will move rapidly to the
point at which the right of the company will rest in line of battle, and
command :
Right — Dress.
At this command, the two platoons Avill dress up on the alignment;
the front rank man on the right of the leading platoon, who finds him-
self opposite the instructor established on the direction of the guides,
will place his breast lightly against the left arm of this ofiicer. The
captain will direct the alignment from the riglit on the man on the
opposite flank of the company.
The company being aligned, the captain will command :
Front.
SCHOOL OF THE CO:\IPANY. 1-0
The instructor .«eeiug the couipaiij' in line of battle, will command :
Guides — Posts.
At this command, the covering sergeant will cover the captain, and
the left guide will return to his ^ilacc as a file-closer.
If the column be left in front, and the instructor should wish to ft rm
it to the right into line of battle, he will place himself at platoon dis-
tance in front of the leading guide, face to him, and rectify, if neces-
sary, the position of the guide beyond ; which being executed, he will
command :
1. Right into line, tclieel. 2. March.
At the command march, the front rank man on the right of each
platoon will face to the right and place his breast lightly against the
left arm of the guide by his side, who stands fast; each platoon will
wheel to the right, and will be halted by its chief, when the marching
fliink has approached near the line of battle; for this purpose, the chief
of each platoon will command :
1. Platoon. 2. Halt.
The command halt will be given when the marching flank of the
platoon is three paces from the line of battle. The chief of the second
platoon having halted his platoon, will resume his place in the rank of
file-closers.
The captain having halted the first platoon, will move briskly to the
point at which the left of the company will rest, and command :
Left — Dress.
At this command, the two i)latoons will dress up on the alignment;
the man on the left of the second platoon, opposite the instructor, will
place his breast lightly against the right arm of this officer, and the
captain will direct the alignment from the left on the man on the oppo-
site flank of the company.
The company being aligned, the Oiiptaiu will command :
Front.
The instructor will afterward command :
Guides — Posts.
At this command, the captain will move to the right of his eomiiany,
the covering sergeant will cover him, and the left guide will return to
his pl.ace as a file-closer.
130 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MTLIPIA.
247. If tbe column bo marehinrr right in front, and the instructor
should wish to form it into line without halting the column, he will
p;ive the command :
1. Left into line, wheel. 2. Mauch.
and will himsolf move rapidly to platoon distance in front of the lead-
ing guide.
At the command march, briskly repeated by the chiefs of platoons,
the front rank man on the left of each platoon will face to the left, and
place his breast lightly against the arm of the guide by his side, who
stands fast; the platoons will wheel to the left on the principle of
wheels from a halt. Each chief will turn to his platoon to observe its
movement, and conform to Avhat is prescribed for wheeling into line
from a halt.
If the column be in march left in front, tiiis formation will be made
according to the same principles, and by inverse means.
248. If the column be marching right in front, and the instructor
should wish to form it into line vvithout halting the column, and to
march the company in line to the front, he will command :
1. By platoons, left vj heel. 2. March.
At the command march, briskly repeated by the chiefs of platoon,
the left guides will halt; the man next to the left guide in each platoon
will mark tima: the platoons will wheel to the left, conforming to the
principles of the wheel on a fixed pivot. When the right of the pla-
toons shall arrive near the line of battle, the instructor will command :
3. Forward. 4. March. 5. Guide right (or left).
At the fourth command, given at the instant the wheel is f;ompletcd,
all the men of the company will move off together with the step of
twenty-eight inches; the captain, the chief of the second platoon, the
covering sergeant, and the left guide, will take their positions as in
line of battle.
At the fifth command, which will be given immediately after tho
fourth, the captain and covering sergeant, if not already there, will
move briskly to the side on which the guide is designated. The non-
commissioned officer charged with the direction will move rapidly in
front of the guide, and will be assured in his line of march by the
instructor. That non-commissioned officer will immediately take
points on the ground. The men will take the touch of elbows to the
side of the guide, conforming themselves to the principles of the march
in line.
SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY. 131
The same principles are aj^plicable to a rolnmri left iu front.
A company marching to the front, to break it into platoons, and
to re-furm the company.
249. The compan\' inarchint!: in the eatleneecl step, and supposed to
make part of a column, right in front, in which case the guide is left,
when the instructor shall wish to cause it to break by platoon, he will
give the order to the captain, who will command :
1. Break into platoons,
and immediately place himself before the centre of the first platoon.
At the command break into platoons, the first lieutenant will pass
quickly around the left to the centre of his platoon, and give the cau-
tion : Mark time.
The captain will then command :
2. March.
The first plat jon Avill continue to march straight forward ; the cover-
ing sergeant will move rapidly to the left flank of this platoon (passing
by the front rank) as soon as the flank shall be disengaged.
At the command march, given by the captain, the second platoon will
begin to mark time ; its chief will immediately add :
1. Right oblique. 2. March.
The last command will be given so that this platoon may commence
obliquing the instant the rear rank of the first platoon shall have
passed. The men will shorten the step in obliquing, so that when the
eommand for ward, march is given, the platoon may have its exact dis-
tance.
The guide of the second platoon being near the direction of the guide
of the first, the chief of the second will command forward, and add
March, the instant that the guide of his platoon shall cover the guide
of the first.
In a column, left in front, the company will break into platoons by
inverse means, applying to the first platoon all that has been prescribed
for the second, and reciprocally.
In this case, the left guide of the company will sliift to the right
flank of the second platoon, and the covering sergeant will remain on
the right of the first.
250. The column, by platoon, being iu march, right iu front, when
132 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
the instructor shall wish to cause it to form company, he will give the
order to the captain, who will command :
Forjii company.
Having given this command, the captain will immediately add :
1. First jdatoon. 2. Right oblique.
The chief of the second platoon will caution it to continue to march
straight forward.
The captain will then command :
3. March.
At this command, i-epeated by the chief of the second, the first pla-
toon will oblique to the right, in order to unmask the second j the cover-
ing sergeant, on the left of the first platoon, will return to the right of
the company, passing by the front rank.
When the first platoon shall have nearly unmasked the second, the
captain will command :
1. Mark time.
and at the instant the unmasking shall be complete, he will add:
2. March.
The first platoon will then cease to oblique, and mark time.
In the mean time the second platoon will have continued to march
straight forward, and when it shall be nearly up with the first, the
captain will command forward, and at the instant the two platoons
shall unite, add March; the first platoon will then cease to mark time.
In a column, left in front, the same movement will be executed by
inverse means, the chief of the second platoon giving the command /«/•-
ward, and the captain adding the command Makch, when the platoons
are united.
The guide of the second platoon, on its right, will pass to its left
flank the moment the platoon begins to oblique ; the guide of first, on
its right, remaining on that flank of the platoon.
The instructor will also sometimes cause the company to break and
re-form, by platoon, by his own direct commands. In (his case, he will
give the general commands prescribed for the captain above :
1. Break into plat jons. 2. March.
and
1. Form company. 2. March.
SCnOOL OF THE COMPANY. 133
If, in breaking the company into platoons, the subdivision that
breaks oflF should mark time too long, it might, in a column of many
subdivisions, arrest the march of the following one, which would cause
a lengthening of the column and a loss of distances.
Being in column^ to break files to the rear, and to cause them to
re-enter into line.
251. The company being in march, and supposed to constitute a sub-
division of a column, right (or left) in front, when the instructor shall
wish to cause files to break off he will give the order to the captain,
who will immediately turn to his company, and command :
1. Two files from left (or right) to rear. 2. March.
At the command march, the two files on the left (or right) of the
company will mark time, the others will continue to march straight for-
ward ; the two rear rank men of these files will, as soon as the rear
rank of the company shall clear them, move to the right by advancing
the outer shoulder; the odd number will place himself behind the third
file from that flank, the even number behind the fourth, passing for this
purpose behind the odd number; the two front rank men Avill, in like
manner, move to the right when the rear rank of the company shall
clear them, the odd number will place himself behind the first file, the
even number behind the second file, passing for this purpose behind the
odd number. If the files arc broken from the right, the men Avill move
to the left, advancing the outer shoulder, the even number of the rear
rank will place himself behind the third file, the odd number of the
same rank behind the fourth ; the even number of the front rank be-
hind the first file, the odd number of the same rank behind the second,
the odd numbers for this purpose passing behind the even numbers.
The men will be careful not to lose their distances, and to keep
aligned.
If the instructor should still wish to break two files from the same
side, he will give the order to the captain, who will proceed as above
directed.
At the command marcli, given by the captain, the files already
broken, advancing a little the outer shoulder, will gain the space of
two files to the right, if the files are broken from the left, and to the
left, if the files are broken from the right, shortening, at the same time,
the step, in order to make room between themselves and the rear rank
of the company for the files last ordered to the rear; the latter will
break by the same commands and in the same manner as the first. The
134 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
men who double should increase the length of the step in order to pre-
vent distances from being lost.
The instructor may thus diminish the front of a company by break-
ing off successive groups of two tiles, but tue new files must always be
broken from the same side.
The instructor, wishing to cause files broten off to return into line,
will give the order to the captain, who will immediately command:
1. Two files ijito line. 2. March.
At the command march, the first two files of those marching by the
flank will return briskly into line, and the others will gain the space of
two files by advancing the inner shoulder toward the flank to which
they belong.
The captain will turn to his company, to watch the observance of the
principles which have just been prescribed.
The instructor having caused groups of two files to break one
after another, and to return again into line, will afterward cause two
or three groups to break together, and for this purpose will command :
Four or six Jilts from left (or ri(/ht) to rear, March. The files desig-
nated will mark time; each rank will advance a little the outer shoul-
der as soon as the rear rank of the company shall clear it; will oblique
at once, and each group will place itself behind the four neighboring
files, and in the same manner as if the movement had been executed
group by group, taking care that the distances are preserved.
The instructor will next order the captain to cause two or three
groups to be brought into line at once, who, turning to the company,
will command :
Fou7' or six files into line — March.
At the command march, the tiles designated will advance the inner
shoulder, move up and form on the flank of the company by the
shortest lines.
As often as files shall break off to the rear, the guide on that flank
will gradually close on the nearest front rank man remaining in line,
and he will also open out to make room for files ordered into line.
The files which march in the rear are disposed in the following
order: the left files as if the company was marching by the right
flank, and the right files as if the company was marching by the left
flank. Consequently, Avhenever there is on the right or left of a subdi-
vision, a file which does not belong to a group, it will be broken singly.
It is necessary to the preservation of distances in column, that the
SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY. 135
men should be babituated in the schools of detail to execute the move-
ments of this article with jsrecision.
If new files broken off do not step well to the left or right in
obliquing ; if, when files are ordered into line, they do not move up
with promptitude and precision, in either case the following files will
be arrested in their march, and thereby cause the column to be
lengthened out.
The instructor will i)lacc himself on the flank from which the files
are broken, to assure himself of the exact observance of the princi-
ples.
Files will only be broken off from the side of direction, in order that
the whole company may easily pass from the front to the flank march.
To march the column in route, and to execute the movements inci-
dent thereto.
252. The swiftness of the route step will be 110 steps in a minute;
this swiftness will bo habitually maintained in column in route, when
the roads and ground may permit.
The company being at a halt, and supposed to constitute a subdi-
vision of a column, when the instructor shall wish to cause it to march
in the route step, he will command :
1. Column, forward. 2. Guide left (or right'). 3. Route step.
4. March.
At the command march, repeated by the captain, the two ranks will
step off together ; the i-ear rank will take, in marching, by shortening
a few steps, a distance of one pace (twenty-eight inches) from the rank
preceding, which distance will be computed from the breasts of the men
in the i-ear rank, to the knapsacks of the men in the front rank. The
men, without further command, will immediately carry their arms at
will, as indicated in the school of the soldier. They will no longer be
required to march in the cadenced pace, or with the same foot, or to
remain silent. The tiles will march at ease: but care will be taken to
prevent the ranks from intermixing, the front rank from getting in
advance of the guide, and the rear rank from opening to too great a
distance.
The company marching in the route step, the instructor will cause it
to change direction, which will bo executed without formal commands,
on a simple caution from the captain ; the rear rank will come up to
change direction in the same manner as the front rank. Each rank
will conform it«elf, although in the route step, to the principles which
136 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
have been prescribed for the chan,ii-e in closed ranks, with this diflfer-^
ence only: that the pivot man, instead of taking steps of nine, will
take steps of fourteen inches, in order to clear the wheeling point. -
The company marching in the route step, to cause it to pass to the
cadenced step, the instructor will first order pieces to be brought to the
shoulder, and then command :
1. Clxdck time. 2. March.
At the command march, the men will resume the cadenced step, and
will close so as to leave a distance of sixteen inches between each
rank.
253. The company marching in the cadenced pace, the instructor, to
cause it to take the route step, will command :
1. Route step. 2. March.
At the command march, the front rank will continue the step of
twenty-eight inches, the rear rank will take, by gradually shortening
the step, the distance of twenty-eight inches from the front rank: the
men will carry their arms at will.
The instructor will exercise the company in increasing and diminish-
ing front by platoon, which will be executed by the same commands
and the same means as if the company were marching in the cadenced
step. When the company breaks into platoons, the chief of each will
move to the flank of his platoon, and will take the place of the guide,
who will step back into the rear rank.
254. The company being in column, by platoon, and marching in
the route step, the instructor can cause the front to be diminished and
increased, by section, if the platoons have a front of twelve files or
more.
The movements of diminishing and increasing front by section, will
be executed according to the principles indicated for the same move-
ment by platoon. The right sections of platoons will be commanded
by the captain and first lieutenant, respectively; the left sections, by
the two next subalterns in rank, or, in their absence, by sergeants.
The instructor wishing to diminish by section, will give the order to
the captain, who will command :
1. Break into sections. 2. March.
As soon as the platoons shall be broken, each chief of section will
place himself on its directing flank in the front rank, the guides who
will be thus displaced, will fall back into the rear rank ; the file-closers
will close up to within one pace of this rank.
SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY. 137
Platoons will be broken into sections onlj^ in the column in route, the
movement will never be executed in the manoeuvres, whatever may be
the front of the company.
When the instructor shall wish to re-form platoons, he will give the
order to the captain, who will command :
1. Form platoons. 2. March.
At the first command, each chief of section will place himself befoi-e
its centre, and the guides will pass into the front rank. At the com-
mand march, the movement will be executed as has been prescribed for
forming company. The moment the platoons are formed, the chiefs of
the left sections will return to their places as file-closers.
The instructor will also cause to bo executed the diminishing and
increasing front by files, as prescribed in the preceding article, and in
the same manner, as if marching in the cadcnccd step. When the com-
pany is broken into sections, the subdivisions must not be reduced to
a front of less than six files, not counting the chief of the section.
The company being broken by platoon, or by section, the instructor
will cause it, marching in the route step, to march by the flank in the
same direction, by tlio commands and the means indicated. The moment
the subdivisions sliall face to the right (or left), the first file of each will
wheel to the left (or right) in marching, to prolong the direction, and
to unite with the rear file of the subdivision immediately preceding.
The file-closers will take their habitual places in the march by the
flank, befoi-e the union of the subdivisions.
255. If the company be marching by the right flank, and the in-
structor should wish to undouble the files, which might sometimes be
found necessary, he will inform the captain, who, after causing the
cadenced step to be resumed, and arms to be shouldered or supported,
will command :
1. In two ranks ^ undouble Jiles. 2. March.
At the second command, the odd numbers will continue to march
straight forward, the oven numbers will shorten the step, and obliquing
to the left will place themselves promptly behind the odd numbers ; the
rear rank will gain a step to the left so as to retake the touch of elbows
on the side of the front rank.
If the company be marching by the left flank, it will be the even
numbers who will continue to march forward, and the odd numbers
who will undouble.
If the instructor should wish to double the files, he will give the
order to the captain, who will command :
12
13B MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
1. In four ranks, double files. 2. March.
At the commiind march, the files will double in the manner as ex-
plained, when the company faces by the right or the left flank. The
instructor will afterward cause the route step to be resumed.
The various movements prescribed in this lesson may be executed in
double quick time. The men will be brought, by degrees, to pass over
at this gait about 1100 yards in seven minutes.
When the company marching in the route step shall halt, the rear
rank will close up at the command halt, and the whole will shoulder
arms.
Marching in the route step, the men will be permitted to carry their
pieces in the manner they shall find most convenient, paying attention
only to holding the muzzles up, so as to avoid accidents.
Countermarch.
256. The company being at a halt, and supposed to constitute a part
of a column, right in front, when the instructor shall wish to cause it
to countermarch, he will command :
1. Countermarch. 2. Company., right — Face. 3. By jile left.
4. March.
At the second command, the company will face to the right, the two
guides to the right about; the captain will go to the right of his com-
pany, and cause two files to break to the rear, and then place himself
by the side of the front rank man to conduct him.
At the command M?rnc7/, both guides will stand fast: the company
will step otf smartly; the first file, conducted by the captain, will wheel
around the right gifide, and direct its march along the front rank so as
to arrive behind, and two paces from the left guide ; each file will come
in succession to wheel on the same ground around the right guide; the
leading file having arrived at a point opposite to the left guide, the cap-
tain will command :
1. Company. 2. Halt. 3. Front. 4. Right — Dress.
The first command will be given at four paces from the point where
the leading file is to rest.
At the second command, the company will halt.
At the third, it will face to the front.
At the fourth, the company will dress by the right; the captain will
step two paces outside of the left guide, now on the right, and direct
SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY. 139
the alignment, so that tlie front rank may bo enclosed between the two
guides; the company being aligned, he will command Froxt, and place
himself before the centre of the company as if in column; the guides,
passing along the front rank, will shift to their proper places, on the
right and left of that rank.
In a column, by platoon, the countermarch will be executed by the
same commands, and according to the same principles; the guide of
each platoon will face about, and its chief will place himself by the side
of the file on the right, to conduct it.
In a column, left in front, the countermarch will be executed by
inverse commands and means, but according to the same principles.
Thus, the movement will be made by the right flank of subdivisions, if
the right be in front, and by the left flank, if the left be in front ; in
both cases the subdivisions will wheel by file to the side of the front
rank.
Being in column by platoon, to form on the right (or left^ into line
of battle.
257. The column by platoon, right in front, being in march, the
instructor wishing to form it on the right into line of battle, will com-
mand :
1. On the right into line. 2. Guide right.
At the second command, the guide of each platoon will shift quickly
to its right flank, and the men will touch elbows to the right ; the col-
umn will continue to march straight forward.
The instructor having given the second command, will m' ve briskl}"^
to the point at which the right of the company ought to rest in line,
and place himself facing the point of direction to the left which he will
■choose.
The line of battle ought to be so chosen that the guide of each pla-
toon, after having turned to the right, may have at least ten paces to
take before arriving upon that line.
The head of the column being nearly opposite to the instructor, the
chief of the first platoon will command : 1, liight turn; and when
exactly opposite to that point, he will add :
2. March.
At the command march, the lirst platoon will turn to the right, in
conformity with the principles prescribed in the school of the soldier.
Its guide will so direct his marcii as to bring the front rank man next
140 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
on his left, opposite to the instructor ; the chief of the platoon will
march before its centre ; and when its guide shall be near the line of
battle, he will command : »
1. Platoon. 2. Halt.
At the command halt, which will be given at the instant the right of
the platoon shall arrive at the distance of three paces from the line of
battle, the platoon will halt ] the files not yet in line will come up
promptly. The guide will throw himself on the line of battle, opposite
to one of the three left files of his platoon ; he will face to the in-
structor, who will align him on the point of direction to the left. The
chief of platoon having, at the same time, gone to the point where the
right of the company is to rest, will, as soon as he sees all the files of
the platoon in line, command :
Right — Dress. ^
At this the first platoon will align itself; the front rank man, who
finds himself opposite to the guide, will rest his breast lightly against
the right arm of this guide, and the chief of the platoon, from the
right, will direct the alignment on this man.
The second platoon will continue to march straight forward until its
guide shall arrive opposite to the left file of the first ; it will then turn
to the right at the command of its chief, and march toward the line
of battle, its guide directing himself on the left file of the first platoon.
The guide having arrived at the distance of three paces from the
line of battle, this platoon will be halted, as prescribed for the first; at
the instant it halts, its guide will spring on the line of battle, opposite
to one of the three left files of his platoon, and will be assured in his
position by the instructor.
The chief of the second platoon, seeing all its files in line, »ud its
guide established on the direction, will command :
Right — Dress.
Having given this command, he will return to his place as a file-
closer, passing around the left; the second platoon will dress up on the
alignment of the first, and, when established, the captain will com-
mand :
Front.
The movement ended, the instructor will command :
Guides — Posts.
SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY. 141
At this comijiand, the two guides will return to their places in line of
battle.
A column by platoon, left in front, will form on the left into line of
battle^ according to the same principles, and hy inverse means, apply-
ing to the second platoon what is prescribed for the first, and recipro-
cally. The chief of the second platoon having aligned it CromTthG pni)it
d'appni (the left), will retire to his place as a file-closer. The captain
having halted the first platoon three paces behind the line of battle,
will go to the same point to align this platoon, and then command:
Front. At the command, yiiides — posts, given by the instructor, the
captain will shift to his proper flank, and the guides take their places
in the line of battle.
Formation of a company from two ranks into four^ ayid recipro-
cally, at a halt, and in march.
258. The company being formed in two ranks, at a halt, and sup-
posed to form part of a column right in front, when the instructor shall
wish to form it into four ranks, he will command :
1. In four ranl's, form company. 2. Company, left — Face. 3
March (or double quick — March).
At the second command, the left guide will remain faced to the front,
the company will face to the left ; the rear rank Avill gain the distance
of one pace from the front rank by a side step to the left and rear, and
the men will form into four ranks, as prescribed in the school of the
soldier.
At the command match, the first file of four men will reface to the
front without undoubling. All the other files of four will step off, and
closing successively to about five inches of the preceding file, will halt,
and immediately face to the front, the men remaining doubled.
The file-closers will take their new places in line of battle, at two
paces in rear of the fourth rank.
The captain will superintend the movement.
259. The company being in four ranks, when the instructor shall
Avish to form it into two ranks, he will command:
1. In two ranks, form company. 2. Company, right — Face.
3. March (or double quick — March).
At the second command the left guide will stand fast, the company
will face to the right.
At the command iinirrh, the right guide will steji oft" and march in
142 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
the prolongation of the front rank. The leading file of four men will
step oflF at the same time, the other files standing fast j the second file
will step oS" when there shall be between it and the first space sufficient
to form it into two ranks. The following files will execute successively
what has been prescribed for the second. As soon as the last file shall
have its distance, the instructor will command :
1. Company. 2. Halt. 3. Front.
At the command /rojif, the company will face to the front, and the
files will un double.
260. The company being formed in two ranks, and marching to the
front, when the instructor shall wish to form it into four ranks, he will
command :
1. In four ranks, form company. 2. By the left, double files.
3. March (or double quick — March).
At the command march, the left guide and the left file of the com-
pany will continue to march straight to the front; the company will
make a half face to the left, the odd numbers placing themselves
behind the even numbers. The even numbers of the rear rank will
shorten their steps a little, to permit the odd numbers of the front rank
to get between them and the even numbers of that rank. The files
thus formed of fours, except the left file, will continue to march
obliquely, lengthening their steps slightly, so as to keep constantly
abreast of the guide ; each file will close successively on the file next
on its left, and when at the proper distance from that file will face to
the fro)!t by a half face to the right, and take the touch of elbows to
the left.
2C1. The Company being in march to the front in four ranks, when
the instructor shall wish to form it into two ranks, he will command:
1. Li two ranks., form company. 2. By the right., undouble files.
3. March (or double quick — March).
At the command march, the left guide and the left file of the com-
l^any will continue to march straight to the front; the company will
make a half face to the right and march obliquely, lengthening the
step a little, in order to keep as near as possible abreast of the guide.
As soon as the second file from the left shall have gained to the right
the interval necessary for the left file to form into two ranks, the Sec-
ond file will face to the front, by a half face to the left, and march
straight forward ; the left file will immediately form into two ranks,
INSTRUCTION FOR SKIRMISHERS. 143
and take the touch of elbows to the left. Each file will execute suc-
cessively what has just been preseribod for the file next to the left,
and each will form into two ranks when the file next on its right has
obliqued the required distance and faced to the front.
If the company be supposed to make part of a column, left in front,
these different movements will be executed according to the same prin-
ciples and by inverse means, substituting the indication left for riyht.
INSTEUCTION FOE SKIEMISHEES.
General principles and division of the instruction.
202. The movements of skirmishers should be subjected to such
rules as will give to the commander the means of moving them in any
direction with the greatest promptitude.
It is not expected that these movements should be executed with the
same precision as in closed ranks, nor is it desirable, as such exactness
would materially interfere with their prompt e.xecution.
AVhen skirmishers are thrown out to clear the way for, and to protect
the advance of the main corps, their movements should be so regulated
by this corps as to keep it constantly covered.
Every body of skirmishers should have a reserve, the strength and
composition of which n-ill vary according to circumstances.
If the body thrown out be within sustaining distance of the main
corps, a very small reserve Avill be sufficient for each company, whose
duty it shall be to fill vacant places, furnish the line with cartridges,
relieve the fatigued, and serve as a rallying point for (he skirmishers.
If the main corps be at a considerable distance, beside the company
reserves, another reserve will be required, composed of entire compa-
nies, which will be employed to sustain and reinforce such parts of the
line as may bo warmly attacked; this reserve should be strong enough
to relieve at least half the companies deployed as skirmishers.
The movements of skirmishers will be executed in quick, or double
quick time. The run will be resorted to only in cases of urgent neces-
sity.
Skirmishers will bo permitted to carry their pieces in the manner
most convenient to them.
144 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The movements will be habitually indicated by the sounds of the
bugle.
The officers, and, if necessary, the non-commissioned officers, will
repeat, and cause the commands to be executed, as soon as they are
given ; but to avoid mistakes, when the signnls are employed, they
will wait until the last bugle note is sounded before commencing the
movement.
Deployments.
263. A company may be deployed as skirmishers in two ways : for-
ward, and by the flank.
The deployment forward will be adopted Avhen the company is be-
hind the line on which it is to be established as skirmishers : it will be
deployed by the flank, when it finds itself alrea,dy on that line.
Whenever a company is to be deployed as skirmishers, it will be
divided into two platoons, and each platoon will be subdivided into
two sections; the comrades in battle, forming groups of four men, will
be careful to know and to sustain each other. The captain will assure
himself that the files in the centre of each platoon and section arc
designated.
The interval between skirmishers depends on the extent of ground
to be covered; but in general, it is not proper that the groups of four
men should be removed more than forty paces from each other. The
habitual distance between men of the same group in open grounds will
be five paces ; in no case will they lose sight of each other.
To deploy fonoard.
264. A company being at a halt or in march, when the captain shall
wish to deploy it forward on the left file of the first platoon, holding
the second platoon in rescrv'e, he will command :
1. First platoon — as skirmishers. 2. On the left file — take inter-
vals. 3. March (or double quick — March).
At the first command, the second and third lieutenants will place
themselves rapidly two paces behind the centres of the right and left
sections of the first platoon : the fifth sergeant will move one pace in
front of the centre of the first platoon, and will place himself between
the two sections in the front rank as soon as the movement begins: the
fourth sergeant will place himself on the left of the front of the same
platoon, as soon as he can pass. The captain will indicate to the ser-
geant the point on which he wishes him to direct his march. The firit
INSTRUCTION FOR SKIRMISHERS. 145
lieutenant, ])lacii)g liimself before the centre of the second platoon,
will conimnnd :
Second platoon^ backward — March.
At this command, the second platoon will step three paces to the
rear, so as to unmask the flank of the first j^latoon. It will then be
halted by its chief, and the second sergeant will place himself on the
left, and the third sergeant on the right flank of the platoon.
At the command march, the left group of four men, conducted by
the fourth sergeant, will direct itself on the jioint indicated ; all the
other groups of fours, throwing forward briskly the left shoulder, will
move diagonally to the front in double quick time, so as to gain to the
right the space of twenty paces, which shall be the distance between
each group and that immediately on its left. When the second group
from the left shall arrive on a line with, and twenty paces from the
first, it will march straight to the front, conforming to the gait and
direction of the first, keeping constantly on the same alignment and at
twenty paces from it. The third group, and all the others, will con-
form to what has just been prescribed for the second ; they will arrive
successively on the line. The right guide will arrive Avith the last
group.
The left guide having reached the point where the left of the line
should rest, the captain will command the skirmishers to halt; the
men composing each group of fours will then immediately deploy at
five paces from each other, and to the right and left of the front rank
men of the even file in each group, the rear rank men placing them-
selves on the left of their file-leaders. If any groups be not in line at
the command halt, they will move up rapidly, conforming to what has
just been prescribed.
If, during the deployment, the line should be fired upon by the
enemy, the captain may cause the groups of fours to deploy as thej'
gain their proper distances.
The line being formed, the non-commissioned ofiicers on the right,
left and centre of the platoon, will place themselves ten paces in rear
of the line, and opposite the positions they respectively occupied. The
chiefs of sections will promptly rectify any irregularities, and then place
themselves twenty-five or thirt}'^ paces in rear of the centre of their sec-
tions, each having with him four men taken from the reserve, and also
a bugler, who will repeat, if necessary, the signals sounded by the cap-
tain.
Skirmishers should be particularly instructed to take advantage of
any cover which the ground may off"er, and should lie flat on the ground
in
146 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
whenever such a movement is necessaiy to protect them from the fire
of the enemy. Regularity in the alignment should yield to this impor-
tant advantage. W
When the movement begins, the first lieutenant will face the second
platoon about, and march it promptly, and by the shortest line, to
about 150 paces in rear of the centre of the line. He will hold it
always at this distance, unless ordered to the contrary.
The reserve Avill conform itself to all the movements of the line.
This rule is yeneral.
Light troops will carry their bayonets habitually in the scabbard,
and this rule applies equally to the skirmishers and the reserve ; when-
ever bayonets are required to be fixed, a particular signal will be
given. The captain will give a general superintendence to the Avhole
deployment, and then promptly place himself about eighty paces in rear
of the centre of the line. He will have with him a bugler and four
men taken from the reserve.
The deployment may be made on the right or the centre of the pla-
toon, by the same commands, substituting the indication ririht or centre,
for that of left file.
The deployment on the right or the centre will be made according to
the principles prescribed above ; in this latter case, the centre of the
platoon Avill be marked by the right group of fours in the second sec-
tion ; the fifth sergeant will place himself on the right of this group,
and serve as the guide of the platoon during the deployment.
In whatever manner the deployment be made, on the right, left, or
centre, the men in each group of fours will always deploy at five paces
from each other, and upon the front rank man of the even numbered
file. The deployments will habitually be made at twenty paces inter-
val ; but if a greater interval be required it will be indicated in the
command.
If a company be thrown out as skirmishers, so near the main body
as to render a reserve unnecessary, the entire company will be extended
in the same manner, and according to the same principles, as for the
deployment of a platoon. In this case, the third lieutenapt will com-
mand the fourth section, and a non-commissioned ofiicer designated for
that purpose, the second section ,• the fifth sergeant will act as centre
guide ; the file-closers will place themselves ten paces in rear of the
line, and opposite their places in line of battle. The first and second
lieutenants will each have a bugler near them.
To deploy by the Jiank.
265. The company being at a halt, when the captain shall wish to
INSTRUCTION FOR SKIRMISHERS. 147
deploy it by the flank, holding the first pLatoon in reserve, he will
command :
1. Second platoon — as skirmishers. 2. By the right flank — take
intervals. 3, March (or douhle quick — March).
At the first command, the first and third lieutenants will place them-
selves, respectively, two paces behind the centres of the first and
second sections of the second platoon: the fifth sergeant will place
himself one pace in front of the centre of the second platoon ; the
third sergeant, as soon as he can pass, will place himself on the right
of the front rank of the same platoon. The captain will indicate to
him the point on which he wishes him to direct his march. The chief
of the first platoon will execute what has been prescribed for the chief
of the second platoon. No. 264. The fourth sergeant will place himself
on the left flank of the reserve, the first sergeant will remain on the
right flank.
At the second command, the first and third lieutenants will place
themselves two paces behind the left group of their respective sections.
At the command march, the second platoon will face to the right
and commence the movement; the left group of fours will stand fast,
but will deploy as soon as there is room on its right, conforming to
what has been prescribed. No. 2(14; the third sergeant will place him-
self on the left of the right group, to conduct it; the second group
will halt at twenty paces from the one on its left, the third group at
twenty paces from the second, and so on to the right. As the groups
halt, they will face to the enemy, and deploy as has been explained for
the left group.
The chiefs of sections will pay particular attention to the successive
deployments of the groups, keeping near the group about to halt, so as
to I'ectify any errors which may be committed. When the deployment
is completed, they will place themselves thirty paces in rear of the
centre of their sections, as has been heretofore prescribed. The non-
commissioned ofliicers will also place themselves as previously indi-
cjilcd.
As soon as the movement commences, the chief of the first platoon,
causing it to face about, will move it as indicated. No. 264.
The deployment may be made by the left flank according to the same
principles, substituting left flank for right /tank.
266. If the captain should wish to deploy the company upon the
centre of one of the platoons, he will command :
1. Second platoon — as skii'mishers. 2. By the right and left
flanks — take intervals. 3. March (or double quick — March).
148 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
At the first command, the officers and non-commissioned officer? will
conform to what has been prescribed. No. 265.
At the second command, the first lieutenant will place himself behind
the left group of the right section of the second platoon, the third lieu-
tenant behind the right group of the left section of the same platoon.
At the command mnreli, the right section will face to the right, the
left section will face to the left, the group on the right of this latter
section will stand fast. The two sections will move off in opposite
directions ; the third sergeant will place himself on the left of the right
file to conduct it, the second sergeant on the right of the left file. The
two groups nearest that which stands fast will each halt at twenty
paces from this group, and each of the other groups will halt at twenty
paces from the group which is in rear of it. Each group will deploy as
heretofore prescribed, No. 264.
The first and third lieutenants will direct the movement, holding
themselves always abreast of the group which is about to halt.
The captain can cause the deployment to be made on any named
group whatsoever; in this case the fifth sergeant will place himself
before the group indicated, and the deplojanent will be made according
to the principles heretofore prescribed.
The entire company may be also deployed, according to the same
principles.
To extend intervals. "^
267. This movement, which is employed to extend a line of skir-
mishers, will be executed according to the principles prescribed for
deployments.
If it be supposed that the line of skirmishers is at a halt, and that
the captain wishes to extend it to the left, he will command :
1. By the left flank (so many paces), extend intervals. 2. March
(or double quick — March).
At the command march, the group on the right will stand fast, all the
other groups will face to the left, and each group will extend its inter-
val to the prescribed distance by the means indicated, No. 265.
The men of the same group will continue to preserve between each
other the distance of five paces, unless the nature of the ground should
render it necessary that they should close nearer, in order to keep in
sight of each other. The intervals refer to the spaces between the
groups, and not to the distances between the men in each group. The
intervals will be taken from the right or left man of the neighboring
group.
INSTRUCTION FOR SKIRIMISIIERS. 149
If the lino of skirmishers be marching to the front, and the captain
should wish to extend it to the right, he will command :
1. On the left group (so many paces')^ extend intervals. 2. Makch
(or double quick — March).
The loft group, conducted b}^ the guide, will continue to march on the
point of direction ; the other groups thi'owing forward the left shoulder,
and taking the double quick step, will open their intervals to the pre-
scribed distance.
Intervals may be extended on the centre of this line, according to
the same principles.
If, in extending intervals, it be intended that one company or pla-
toon should occupy a line which had been previously occupied by two,
the men of the company or platoon which is to retire, will fall suc-
cessively to the rear as they arc relieved by the extension of the inter-
vals.
To close intervals.
268. This movement, like that of opening intervals, will be executed
according to the principles prescribed for the deployments.
If the line of skirmishers be halted, and the captain should wish to
close intervals to the loft, he will command :
1. By the left Jiank (so many paces')^ close intervals. 2. March
(or double quick — March).
At the command march, the left group will stand fast, the other
groups will face to the left and close to the prescribed distance, each
group facing to the enemy as it attains its proper distance.
If the line be marching to the front, the captain will command:
1. On the left group (so many paces), close intervals. 2. March
(or double quick — March).
The left group, conducted by the guide, will continue to move on in
the direction previously indicated; the other groups, advancing the
right shoulder, will close to the left, until the intervals are reduced to
the prescribed distance.
Intervals may be closed on the right, or on the centre, according to
the same priucii)lcs.
When intervals are to be closed up, in order to reinforce a line of
skirmishers, so as to cause two companies to cover the ground which
had been previously occupied by one, the new company will deploy so
150 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
as to finish its movement at twenty paces in rear of the line it is to
occupy, and the men will successively move upon that line, as they shall
be unmasked by the men of the old company. The reserves of the two
companies will unite behind the centre of the line.
To relieve a company deployed as skirmishers.
269. When a company of skirmishers is to be relieved, the captain
will be advised of the intention, which he will immediately communi-
cate to the first and second lieutenants.
The new company will execute its deployment forward, so as to finish
the movement at about twenty paces in rear of the line.
Arrived at this distance, the men of the new company, by command
of their captain, will advance rapidly a few paces beyond the old line
and halt; the new line being established, the old company will assemble
on its reserve, taking care not to get into groups of fours until they are
beyond the fire of the enemy.
If the skirmishers to be relieved are marching in retreat, the com-
pany thrown out to relieve them will deploy by the flank, as prescribed.
No. 265 and following. The old skirmishers will continue to retire
with order, and having passed the new line, they will form upon the
reserve.
To advance.
To advance in line, and to retreat in line.
270. When a platoon or a company deployed as skirmishers is march-
ing by^he front, the guide will be habitually in the centre. No par-
ticular indication to this effect need be given in the commands, but if,
on the contrary, it be intended that the directing guide should be on the
right, or left, the command guide right, or guide left, will be given im-
mediately after that of forward.
The captain, wishing the line of skirmishers to advance, will cdtn-
mand:
1. Forward. 2. March (or double quick — March^.
This command will be repeated with the greatest rapidity by the
chiefs of sections, and in case of need, by the sergeants. This rule
is general, whether the skirmishers march by the front or by the flank.
At the first command, three sergeants will move briskly on the
line, the first on the right, the second on the left, and the third in the
centre.
At the cummaud march, the line will move to the front, the guide
INSTRUCTION FOR SKIRMISHERS. 151
charged with the direction will move on the point indicated to him, the
skirmishers will hold themselves alif^ncd on this guide, and preserve
their intervals toward him.
The chiefs of sections will march immediately behind their sections
so as to direct their movements.
The captain will give a general siii)erintcndence to the movement.
When he shall wish to halt the skirmishers, he will command :
Halt.
At this command, l)riskly repeated, the line will halt. The chiefs of
sections will prompt!}^ rectify any irregularity in the alignment and
intervals, and after taking every possible advantage which the ground
may otfer for protecting the men, they, with the three sergeants in the
lino, will retire to their proper places in rear.
271. The captain, wishing to march the skirmishers in retreat, will
command :
1. In retreat. 2. March (or double quick — March).
At the first command, the three sergeants will move on the line, as
prescribed. No. 270.
At the command mnrch, the skirmishers Avill face about individually
and march to the rear, conforming to the principles prescribed, No.
270.
The officers and sergeants will use every exertion to preserve order.
To halt the skirmishers, marching in retreat, the captain will com-
mand :
Halt.
At this command, the skirmishers will halt and immediately face to
the front.
The chiefs of sections and the three guides will each conform himself
to what is prescribed, No. 270.
To change direction.
272. If the commander of the line of skirmishers shall wish to cause
it to change direction to the right, he will command :
1. Pught wheel. 2. March (or double quick — March).
At the command march, the right guide will mark time in his place j
the left guide will move in a cnrcle to the right, and that he may prop-
erly regulate his movements, will occasionally cast his eyes to the
152 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA. .
right, so as to observe the direction of the line and the nature of the
ground to be passed over. The centre guide will also march in a circle
to the right, and, in order to conform his movements to the general
direction, will take care that his steps are only half the length of the
steps of the guide on the left.
The skirmishers will regulate the length of their steps by the distance
from the marching flank, being less as they approach the pivot and
greater as they are removed from it; they will often look to the march-
ing flank so as to preserve the direction and their intervals.
When the commander of the line shall wish to reSume the direct
march, he will command :
1. Forward. 2. March.
At the command march, the line will cease to wheel, and the skir-
mishers will move direct to the front ; the centre guide will march on
the point which will be indicated to him.
If the captain should wish to halt the line, in place of moving it
to the front, he will command :
Halt.
At this command, the line will halt.
A change of direction to the left will be made according to the same
principles, and by inverse means.
The line of skirmishers marching in retreat will change direction by
the same means and by the same commands as a line marching in
advance ; for example, if the captain should wish to reface his left,
now become the right, he will command :
1. Left wheel. 2. March.
At the command halt, the skirmishers will face to the enemy.
But if, instead of halting the line, the captain should wish to con-
tinue to march it in retreat, he will, when he judges the line has wheel-
ed sufficiently, command :
1. In retreat. 2. March.
To inarch hy the flank.
273. The captain, Avishing the skirmishers to march by the right
flank, will command :
1. By the right flank. 2. March (or double quick— Marcu).
INSTRUCTION FOR SKIRMISHERS. lOO
At the first command the three sergeants will place themselves on
the line.
At the command march, the skirmishers will face to the right, and
move off; the right guide will \A-aq.c himself b}' the side of the leading
man on the right to conduct him, and will march on the point indi-
cated; each skirmisher will take care to follow exactly in the direction
of the one immediately preceding him, and to preserve his distance.
The skirmishers may be marched by the left flank, according to the
same principles, and by the same commands, substituting left for riyht;
the left guide will place himself by the side of the leading man to con-
duct him.
If the skirmishers be marching by the flank, and the ca})taiu should
wish to halt them, he will command :
Halt.
At this command, the skirmishers Avill halt and face to the enemy.
The ofiicers and sergeants will conform to what has been prescribed.
No. 270.
The reserve should execute all the movements of the line, and be
held always about 150 paces from it, so as to be in position to second
its operations.
When the chief of the reserve shall wish to march it in advance, he
will command :
1. Platoon, forward. 2. Guide left. 3. March.
If he should wish to march it in retreat, he will command :
1. In retreat. 2. March. 3. Guide right.
At the coniiniind hult, it will reface to the enemy.
The men should be made to understand tliat the signals or com-
mandi?, such as fonvard, mean that the skirmishers shall march on the
enemy; in retreat, that they shall retire, and to the riyht or left Jtauk
that the men must face to the right or left, whatever may be their po-
sition.
If the skirmishers be marching by the flank, and the captain should
wish to change direction to the right (or left), he will command:
1. By file right (or left). 2. March.
These movements will also be executed by the signals, No. 2C2.
154 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
THE FIRINGS.
274. Skirmishers will fire either at a halt or marching.
To fire at a halt.
To cause this fire to be executed, the captain will command :
Commence — Firing.
At this command, briskly repeated, the men of the front rank will
commence firing; they will reload rapidly, and hold themselves ii?
readiness to fire again. During this time the men of the fear rank
will come to a ready, and as soon as their respective file-leaders have
loaded, they will also fire and reload. The men of each file will thus
continue the firing, conforming to this principle, that the one or the
other shall always have his piece loaded.
Light troops should be always calm, so as to aim with accuracy;
they should, moreover, endeavor to estimate correctly the distances
between themselves and the enemy to be hit, and thus be enabled
to deliver their fire with the greater certainty of success.
Skirmishers will not remain in the same place whilst reloading,
unless protected by accidents in the ground.
To fire marching.
275. This fire will be executed by the same commands as the fire at
a halt.
At the command, commence firing, if the line be advancing, the
front rank man of every file will halt, fire, and reload before throw-
ing himself forward. The rear rank man of the same file will
continue to march, and after passing ten or twelve paces beyond his
front rank man will halt, come to a ready, select his object, and fire
when his front rank man has loaded; the fire will thus continue to
be executed by each tile ; the skirmishers will keep united, and
endeavor, as much as possible, to preserve the general direction of
the alignment.
If the line be marching in retreat, at the command, commence
firing, the front rank man of every file will halt, face to the enemy
fire, and then reload Avhilst moving to the rear ; the i"ear rank man
of the same file will continue to march, and halt ten or twelve paces
beyond his front rank man, face about, come to a ready and fire,
when his front rank man has passed him in retreat and loaded; after
INSTRUCTION FOR SKIRMISHERS. 155
which, he will move to the rear aud reload ; the front rank man in
his turn, after marching briskly to the rear, will halt at ten or twelve
paces from the rear rank, face to the enemy, load his i:tiece and fire,
conforming to what has just been prescribed: the firing will thus be
continued.
If the -company be marching by the right flank, at the command,
commence firinr/, the front rank man of every file will face to the
enemy, stejD one pace forward, halt and fire ; the rear rank man will
continue to move forward. As soon as the front rank man has fired,
he will place himself briskly behind his rear rank man and reload
whilst marching. When he has loaded, the rear rank man will, in
his turn, step one pace forward, halt and fire, and returning to the
ranks will place himself behind his front rank man ; the latter, in
his turn, will act in the same manner, observing the same principles.
At the command, cease firing, the men of the rear rank will retake
their original positions, if not alrendy there.
If the company be marching by the left flank, the fire will be exe-
cuted according to the same principles, but in this case it will be the
rear rank men who will be first.
The following rules will be observed in the cases to which they
apply :
If the line be firing at a halt, or whilst marching by the flank, at
the command, forward — March, it will be the men whose pieces
are loaded, without regard to the parti^^ular rank to which they
belong, who will move to the front. Those men whose pieces have
been discharged will remain in their j^laces to load them before
moving forward, and the firing Avill be continued agreeably to the
principles ^jrescribed above.
If the line be firing either at a halt, advancing, or whilst march-
ing by the flank, at the command, in retreat — March, the men whose
pieces are loaded will remain faced to the enemy, and will fire in
this position ; the men whose pieces are discharged will retreat load-
ing them, aud the fire will be continued agreeably to the principles
prescribed for the fire in marching in retreat.
If the line of skirmishers be firing either at a halt, advancing, or
in retreat, at the command, hy the riyht (or left) fiank — March, the
men whose pieces are loaded will step one pace out of the general
alignment, face to the enemy, and fire in this position; the men
whose pieces are unloaded will face to the right (or left) and march
in the direction indicated. The men wlio stepped out of the ranks
will place themselves, immediately after firing, upon the general
direction, aud in rear of their front or rear rank men, as the case
156 MAxNUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
may be. The fire will be contiuued according to the principles pre-
scribed for tiring when marching by a flank.
Skirmishers will be habituated to load their pieces whilst marching;
but they will be enjoined to halt always an instant, when in the act of
charging cartridge and priming.
They should be practised to fire and load kneeling, lying down,
and silting, and much liberty should be allowed in these exercises,
in order that they may be executed in the manner found to be most
convenient. Skirmishers should be cautioned not to forget that, in
whatever position they may load, it is important that the piece should
be placed upright before ramming, in order that the entire charge of
powder may reach the bottom of the bore.
In commencing the fire, the men of the same rank should not all
fire at once, and the men of the same file should be particular that
one or the other of them be always loaded.
In retreating, the oflScer commanding the skirmishers should seize
on every advantage Avhich the ground may present for arresting the
enemy as long as possible.
At the signal to cease fir iiKj, the captain will see that the order is
promptly obeyed; but the men who may not be loaded, will load.
If the line be marching it will continue the movement; but the man
of each file who happens to be in front will wait until the man in
rear shall be abreast with him.
If a line of skirmishers be firing advancing, at the command halt,
the line will re-form upon the skirmishers who are in front; when
the line is retreating, upon the skirmishers who are in rear.
276. Officers should watch with the greatest possible vigilance
over a line of skirmishers: in battle, they should neither carry a
riflie or foAvling piece. In all the firings, they, as well as the ser-
geants, should see that order and silence are preserved, and that the
skirmishers do not wander imprudently ; they should especially cau-
tion them to be calm and collected; not to fire until they distinctly
perceive the objects at which they aim, and are sure that those objects
are within proper range. Skirmishers should take advantage promj)tly,
and with intelligence, of all shelter and of all accidents of the ground,
to conceal themselves from the view of the enemy, and to protect
themselves from his fire. It may often happen that intervals are
momentarily lost when several men near each other find a common
shelter; but when they quit this position they should immediately
resume their intervals and their places in line, so that they may
not, by crowding, needlessly expose themselves to the fire of the
enemy.
INSTRUCTION FOR SKIRMISHERS. 157
THE RALLY.
To form column.
277. A company deployed as skirmishers, is rallied in order to
oppose the enemy with better success; the rallies are made at a run,
and with bayonets fixed: when ordered to rally, the skirmishers fix
bayonets without command.
There are several ways of rallying, v/hich the chief of the line will
adopt according to circumstances.
If the line, marching or at a halt, be merely disturbed by scattered
horsemen, it will not be necessary to fall back on the reserve, but the
captain will cause bayonets to be fixed. If the horsemen should,
however, advance to charge the skirmishers, the captain will com-
mand, raJhj by fours. The line Avill halt if marching, and the four
men of each group will execute this rally in the following manner :
the front rank man of the even numbered file will take the position
of fjnard agniust cavalri/ ; the rear rank man of the odd numbered
file will also take the position of guard against cavalry, turning his
back to him, his right foot thirteen inches from the right foot of the
former, and parallel to it; the front rank man of the odd file, and
the rear rank man of the even*file, will also place themselves back
to back, taking a like position, and between the two men already
established, facing to the right and left ; the right feet of the four
men will be brought together, forming a square, and serving for
mutual support. The four men in each group will come to a ready,
fire as occasion may ofl'er, and load without moving their feet.
The captain and chiefs of sections will each cause the four men who
constitute his guard to form square, the men separating so as to enable
him and the bugler to place themselves in the centre. The three
sergeants will each promptly place himself in the group nearest him in
the line of skirmishers.
Whenever the captain shall judge these squares too weak, but should
wish to hold his position by strengthening his line, he will command :
Rally hy sections.
278. At this command, the chiefs of sections will move rapidly on
the centre grt)up of their respective sections, or on any other inferior
group whose position might ofi"er a shelter, or other particular advan-
tage; the skirmishers will collect rapidly at a run on this group, and
without distinction of numbers. The men composing the group on
which the Ibrraation is made will immediately form square, as hereto-
158 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
fore explained, and elevate their pieces, tbe bayonets uppermost, in
order to indicate the point on which the rally is to he made. The
other skirmishers, as they arrive, will occupy and fill the open angular
spaces between these four men, and successively rally around this first
nucleus, and in such manner as to form rapidly a compact circle. The
skirmishers will take, as they arrive, the position of charge bayonet,
the point of the bayonet more elevated, and will cock their pieces in
this position. The movement concluded, the two exterior ranks will
fire as occasion may offer, and load without moving their feet.
The captain will move rapidly with his guard, wherever he may
judge his presence most necessary.
The officers and sergeants will be particular to observe that the rally
is made in silence, and with promptitude and order; that some pieces
in each of their subdivisions be at all times loaded, and that the fire is
directed on those points only where it will be most effective.
If the reserve should be threatened, it will form into a circle around
its chief.
If the captain, or commander of a line of skirmishers formed of
many platoons, should judge that the rally by section does not offer
sufficient resistance, he will cause the rally by platoons to be executed,
and for this purpose, will command :
Rally hy plUtoons.
279. This movement will be executed according to the same princi-
ples, and by the same means, as the rally by sections. The chiefs of
platoon will conform to what has been prescribed for the chiefs of
section.
The captain, wishing to rally the skirmishers on the reserve, will
command :
Rally on the resei've.
280. At this command, the captain will move briskly on the reserve;
the officer who commands it will take immediate steps to form square ;
for this purpose, he will cause the half sections on the flanks to be
thrown perpendicularly to the rear; he will order the men to come to
a ready.
The skirmishers of each section, taking the run, will form rapidly
into groups, and upon that man of each group who is nearest the centre
of the section. These groups will direct themselves diagonally toward
each other and in such manner as to form into sections, with the
greatest possible rapidity, while moving to the rear ; the officers and
sergeants will see that this formation is made in proper order, and the
chiefs will direct their sections upon the refc^erve, taking care to unmask
INSTRUCTION FOR SKIRMISHERS. 159
it to the right and left. As the skirmishers arrive, they will continue
and complete the formation of the square begun bj^ the reserve, closing
in rapidly upon the latter, without regiird to their places in line; they
will come to a readj' without command, and fire upon the enemy;
which will also be done by the reserve as soon as it is unmasked b.y the
skirmishers.
If a section should be closely pressed by cavalry while retreating,
its chief will command, halt ; at this command, the men will form
rapidly iuto a compact circle around the officer, who will re-form his
section and resume the march, the moment he can do so with safety.
The formation of the square in a prompt and efficient manner,
requires coolness and activity on the part of both officers and ser-
geants.
The captain will also profit by every moment of respite which the
enemy's cavalry may leave him ; as soon as he can, he will endeavor
to place himself beyond the reach of their charges, either by gaining a
position where he may defend himself with advantage, or by returning
to the corps to which he belongs. For this purpose, being in square,
he will cause the company to break into column by platoons at half
distance; to this eftect, he will command :
1. Form column. 2. March.
yVt the command viarch, each platoon will dress on its centre, and
the platoon which was facing to the rear will face about without com-
mand. The guides will place themselves on the right and left of their
respective platoons, those of the second platoon will place themselves
at half distance from those of the first, counting from the rear rank.
These disj^ositions being made, the captain can move the column in
whatever direction he may judge proper.
If he wishes to march it in retreat, he will command :
1. In retreat. 2. March (or double quick — March).
At the command march, the column will immediately face by the
rear rank, and move off in the opposite direction. As soon as the
column is in motion, the captain will command :
3. Guide right (or left^.
He will indicate the direction to the leading guide; the guides will
march at their proper distances, and the men will keep aligned.
If again threatened by cavalry, the captain will command :
1. Form square. 2. March.
160 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
At the command march, the column will halt; the first platoon will
face about briskly, and the outer half sections of each platoon will be
thrown perpendicularly to the rear, so as to form the second and third
fronts of the square. The officers and sergeants will promptly rectify
any irregularities which may be committed.
If he should wish to march the column in advance, the captain will
command :
1. Form, column. 2. March.
Which will be executed as prescribed above.
The column being formed, the captain will command:
1. Forward. 2. March (or double quick — March). 3. Guide
left (or right).
At the second command, the column will move forward, and at the
third command, the men will take the touch of elbows to the side of
the guide.
If the captain should wish the column to gain ground to the right
or left, he will do so by rapid wheels to the side opposite the guide,
and for this purpose will change the guide whenever it may be neces-
sary.
281. If a company be in column by platoon, at half distance, right
in front, the captain can deploy the first platoon as skirmishers by the
means already explained ; but if it should be his wish to deploy the
second platoon forward on the centre file, leaving the first platoon in
reserve, he will command:
1. Second platoon — as skirmishers. 2. On the centre file — take
intervals. 3. March (or double quick — March).
At the first command, the chief of the first platoon will caution his
platoon to stand fast; the chiefs of sections of the second platoon will
place themselves before the centre of their sections; the fifth sergeant
will place himself one pace in front of the centre of the second pla-
toon.
At the second command, the chief of the right section, second pla-
toon, will command: Section, right face ; the chief of the left section:
Section, left face.
At the command march, these sections will move off briskly in oppo-
site directions, and having unmasked the first platoon, the chiefs of
sections will respectively command : By the left flank — March, and
By the right flank — March ; and as soon as these sections arrive on
the alignment of the first platoon, they will command : As skirmishers —
INSTRUCTION FOR SKIRMISHERS. 161
March. The groups will then deploy according to prescribed princi-
ples, on the right group of the left section, which will be directed by
the fifth sergeant, on the point indicated.
If the captain should wish the dejiloyment made by the flank, the
second platoon will be moved to the front by the means above stated,
and halted after passing some steps beyond the alignment of the first
platoon ; the deployment Avill then be made by the flank according to
the principles prescribed.
When one or more platoons are deployed as skirmishers, and the
captain should wish to rally them on the battalion, he will command :
Rally on the battalion.
282. At this command, the skirmishers and the reserve, no matter
what position the company to which they belong may occupy in order
of battle, will rapidly unmask the front of the battalion, directing
themselves in a run toward its nearest flank, and then form in its
rear.
As soon as the skirmishers have passed beyond the line of file-
closers, the men will take the quick step, and the chief of each platoon
or section will re-form his subdivision, and place it in column behind
the wing on which it is rallied, and at ten paces from the rank of file-
closers. These subdivisions will not be moved except by order of the
commander of the battalion, who may, if he thinks proper, throw them
into line of battle at the extremities of the line, or in the intervals
between the battalions.
If many platoons should be united behind the same wing of a bat-
talion, or behind any shelter Avhatsoever, they should be formed always
into close column, or into column at half distance.
When the battalion, covered by a company of skirmishers, shall be
formed into square, the platoons and sections of the covering company
Avill be directed by their chiefs to the rear of the square, which will be
opened at the angles to receive the skirmishers, who will be then
formed into close column by platoons in rear of the first fi'ont of the
stjuare.
If circumstances should prevent the angles of the square from being
opened, the skirmishers will throw themselves at the feet of the front
rank men, the right knee on the ground, the butt of the piece resting
on the thigh, the bayonet in a threatening position. A part may also
place themselves about the angles, where they can render good service
by defending the sectors without fire.
If the battalion on which the skirmishers arc rallied be in column
ready to form square, the skirmishers will be formed into close column
14
162 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
by platoon, in rear of the centre of the third division, and at the com-
mand, Form square — MARCH, they will move forward and close on the
buglers.
When skirmishers have been rallied by platoon or section behind the
wings of a battalion, and it be wished to deploy them again to the
front, they will be marched by the flank toward the intervals on
the wings, and be then deployed so as to cover the front of the battal-
ion.
When platoons or sections, placed in the interior of squares or col-
umns, are to be deployed, they will be marched out by the flanks, and
then thrown forward, as is proscribed, No. 281 ; as soon as they shall
have unmasked the column or square, they will be deployed, the one on
the right, the other on the left file.
The assembly.
283. A company deployed as skirmishers will be assembled when
there is no longer danger of its being disturbed ; the assembly will be
made habitually in quick time.
The captain wishing to assemble the skirmishers on the reserve, will
command :
Assemble on the reserve.
At this command the skirmishers will assemble by groups of fours ;
the front rank men will place themselves behind their rear rank men ;
and each group of fours will direct itself on the reserve, where each
will take its proper place in the ranks. When the company is re-
formed, it will rejoin the battalion to which it belongs.
It may be also proper 1o assemble the skirmishers on the centre, or
on the right or left of the line, either marching cr at a halt.
If the captain should wish to assemble them on the centre while
marching, he will command :
Assemble on the centre.
At this command, the centre guide will continue to march directly to
the front on the point indicated: the front rank man of the directing
file will follow the guide, and be covered by his rear rank man; the
other two comrades of this group, and likewise those on their left, will
mai-ch diagonally, advancing the left shoulder and accelerating the
gait, so as to re-form the groups while draAving nearer and nearer the
directing file; the men of the right section will unite in the same man-
ner into groups, and then upon the directing file, throwing forward the
INSTRUCTION FOR SKIRMISHERS. 168
right shoulder. As they successively unite on the centre the men will
bring their pieces to the right shoulder.
To assemble on the right or left file will bo executed according to
the same jjrinciples.
The assembly of a line marching in retreat will also be executed
according to the same principles, the front rank men marching behind
their rear rank men.
To assemble the line of skirmishers at a halt, and on the line they
occupy, the captain will give the same commands ; the skirmishers will
face to the right or left, according as they sh6uld march by the right
or left flank, re-form the groups while marching, and thus arrive on
the file which served as the point of formation. As they successively
arrive, the skirmishers will support arms.
164 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Article V.
TAEGET PRACTICE.
28i. In order that fire-arms in the hands of soldiers may produce
their full effect, it is necessary,
1st. That the soldier should have sufficient knowledge of the parts
of his piece to enable him to take it apart and put it together again for
the purpose of keeping it in order.
2d. That the soldier should know hoAV to load his piece properly.
Tlie school of the soldier contains all that is necessary on this subject.
3d. That the rules for firing his piece should be known ,• that is to
say, that he knows the manner of regulating his aim according to the
distance of the object to be hit.
4th. That he should be practiced in estimating distances within the
range of his piece.
5th. That he should be able to take a position which enables him,
To aim with ease ;
To keep the body steady, without constraint;
Not to incline the sights to the right or left j
To sup])ort the recoil.
Gth. When pressing on the trigger to discharge the piece, not to
derange his aim.
The above comprises all that is necessai-y for the soldier to know,
and put in practice, in order that he may obtain the maximum ettect of
his arm.
EXERCISE PREPARATORY TO FIRING.
2S5. In the exercises which constitute this lesson, the company will
bo divided into as many squads as there are instructors available.
When the exorcise is conducted on the drill-ground, the squads will be
foruied in one rank, wiMi an interval of one pace between the files; and
efpiipped as fur drill. The bayonet, as a general rule, will be in the
scabbard, unless otherwise directed.
TARGET PRACTICE. 165
Aiming.
286. Instruction in aiming will be given at first in the quarters, if
practicable. A bag, partially filled with sand or earth, is placed on a
bench, the bench on a table : by striking the bag with the back of the
hand, an indentation will be formed in which the piece can be rested.
The piece is now placed on the bag, and aimed by the instructor on
some object, such as a wafer on the wall, being careful that the sights
incline neither to the right or left. He now points out to his squad the
two points which determine the line of sight; that is, tlic top of the
front or muzzle sight, and the middle of the notch of the hausse or
breech sight. The instructor explains that aiming consists in bringing
these two points and the object aimed at in the same riglit line.
Eacli man, in turn, placing himself behind the butt of the piece,
without touching it, closing the left eye, looks through the middle of
the notch of tlie breech sight, over the top of the front sight, and on
the centre of the wafer upon which the line of sight was previously
directed, and satisfies himself that these three points are in the same
right line. The instructor will now derange the gun, and then call up
each soldier in turn, who will aim the piece at the point indicated : he
will criticise the aiming, pointing out to each of them their error or
errors, if any are found, by making them see that the object aimed at
is not in the line of sight, but that this line passes to the right, left,
above, or below, as the case may be. After having rectified the aiming
of each soldier, the instructor will be careful to derange the piece.
This exercise will be repeated; but, instead of the instructor rectifying
errors himself, he will first call up the men of his squad in turn, and
ask each if the line of sight passes to right, left, above, or below the
point indicated, or whether the piece inclines to the right or left.
When the men have expressed their opinions, the instructor will give
his own, correcting thus all the errors which have been committed.
The instructor will repeat this exercise as often as may be necessary.
Two drills, of two hours each, devoted to the first part of the instruc-
tion in aiming, Avill be sufficient to teach the generality of men the
principles of aiming a gun with the raised sight <lown.
In a third drill, the instructor will explain to his squad the use of
the different parts of ]\is piece, the rules for firing, the oV»jcrt and use
of the raised sight, by traciitg tlic figures on a boar<i, table or floor.
Explain that the line of fire is the axis of the gun indefinitely pro-
duced, that the ball describes a curved line during its flight, that the
line of sight is a right line passing through the middle of the notch of
the rear sight and the top of front sight, that the point-blank is the
166 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
second intersection of the trajectory, or curve, with the line of sight.
Assuming the i^oint-blank of a gun, with the hausse down, to be 200
yards, he will explain to his squad, that to hit a man in the head at
200 yards, aim at his head; at 150, at his throat; at 100, at his chest,
and so on. Thus, with the assistance of a curved line, and a few
simple remarks adapted to the comprehension of any man of ordinary
intelligence, the squad will receive a lesson which many will lind useful
in practice, and but few will forget. The instructor will, from time to
time during the drill, question the men, and satisfy himself that he is
clearly understood. The instructor will also add, that by the use of
the hausse or raised sight, the number of point-blanks are increased,
and explain the reason.
The fourth, fifth and sixth drills that follow will take place on the
drill-ground, and squads will be exercised in aiming at any distance
between 100 and 1,000 yards, or up to that point for which the aim is
sighted. Each squad is provided with a target, a bag partially filled
with sand, and a tripod, formed of poles about six feet long, tied or
fastened near the top. The tripod is placed in an upright j)Osition, the
sand-bag on the tripud, and the piece on the sand-bag. Each man aims
his own gun. When he pronounces his piece correctly aimed, the in-
structor calls up the remainder of the squad in turn, who examine the
piece, and inform the instructor, in a low tone, how, in their opinion,
the gun is sighted. He then examines the piece himself, pronounces
how the gun is aimed, calls up those who answer incorrectly, and, hav-
ing satisfied them of their errors, requires the man who aimed the
piece, to correct his mistake. Should it be desirable to economize tar-
gets, one target will answer for the different squads of the same com-
pany during this part of the drill: in that case the tripods will be
placed as near together as practicable. Soldiers who have previously
been thoi'ouglil}^ instructed in this part of the exercise, and show a
knowledge of the first four drills, ma}' be excused from the last two.
Position of a Skirmisher aiming standing.
287. AVhen the men can aim correctly from a rest, they will be in-
structed in the above position.
Squads under arms will be formed in a single rank, with an interval
of one pace between the files.
The instructor, facing the squad, will give the details of the position,
executing the same himself as he describes them.
TARGET PRACTICE. 167
Aiming with sight down {when rifled musket is used).
One time and three motions.
First motion. As first motion of " charge bayonet," except that the
right foot is carried fifteen inches to rear of left heel.
Second motion. Bring down the piece with the right hand to the
right side, the barrel uppermost; seizing it with the left hand in rear
of the hausse or breech sight, the stock resting in the palm of this
hand, the thumb extended along the stock, the left elbow close to the
body, the muzzle as high as the eye. Cock the piece with the thumb of
the right hand, the fingers supported against the guard and the small
of the stock ; seize the piece at the small of the stock with the right
hand.
Third motion. Turn in slightly the left toe, raise the piece with both
hands; place the butt firmly against the shoulder, the body erect, the
left elbow close to the body; sliut the left eye, raise the right shoulder
in order to bring the sight to the height of the right eye, the elbow
raised nearly to the height of the shoulder; aim, keeping the line of
sight horizontal and in the vertical plane of fire, inclining as little as
possible the head to the right, the thumb of the right hand over the
small of the stock, the last joint of the first finger of the right hand in
front of but not touching the trigger, the remaining fingers under, and
grasping the small of the stock.
Aiming ivith sight down (when rifle is used).
One time and three motions.
First motion. Raise the piece with the right hand; make a half-face
to the right on the left heel ; place the hollow of the right foot opposite
to, and fifteen inches from, left heel ; the feet square ; seize the piece
at the same time with the left hand in rear of the hausse or breech
sight, the thumb extending along the stock.
Second motion. Bring down the piece with both hands ; the barrel
vippermost, the left elbow close to the body, the muzzle as high as the
eye. Cock the piece with the thumb of the right hand, the fingers sup-
ported against the guard and the small of the stock. Seize the piece
at the small of the stock with tlie right hand.
Third ^notion. Same as that given for rifled musket.
The instructor directs each man to tsike the position, commencing on
the right of the squad : during the instruction he will assist the soldier
in supporting his arm by placing his riglit hand under or near the mid-
168 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
die band. After which, the man is made to take the position without
any assistance. The commands given in order to make a soldier take
or abandon the positions as given above, will be :
As a skirmisher — Aim. Cease — Aiming.
At the first part of the last command, withdraw the finger from in
front of the trigger ; at the command aiming, retake the position of the
second motion of "Aiming with sight down;" half-cock the piece, and
come to a shoulder. As the instructor proceeds with the squad, he
will direct those who have been instructed to exercise themselves 'In
taking the position, keeping it for an instant, and then abandoning it,
repeating this as often as they can Avhile the rest are being instructed.
Men will be cautioned not to cock the piece when repeating the instruc-
tion. The squad will now be exercised in aiming together, keeping
them in the position long enough to confirm, but not long enough to
fatigue them. This drill may be conducted in the quarters. In this
case the instructor will drill but one man at a time ; the remainder will
exercise themselves in taking and abandoning the position as he pro-
ceeds. Two drills will be given to the above exercise. One will suflSce
for soldiers who have been previously instructed.
During the drill, the soldier will not be required to aim at any fixed
point, the object being that he may acquire with ease the position of a
soldier, " aiming as a skirmisher, standing," and the habit of readily
catching with his eye the two points which determine the line of sight.
When the men are confirmed in the position described above, they
will be exercised at aiming at a mark. First with the sight down : one
drill will be given to this exercise. Previous to the man's aiming, the
instructor will order him to direct the line of sight below the point to
be aimed at; to raise the piece slowly until the line of sight is on the
point designated, preserving his aim for an instant, keeping the body
and gun immovable. During the first part of this drill the men will be
instructed individually.
The men will now be exercised in aiming, using the hausse for ranges
for which it is graduated, and the intermediate ones.
Aiming with sight raised (when rijied musket and rifle are used).
One time and four motiona.
Fimt and Second, Same as "Aiming with sight down."
Third motion. Raise the piece slightly with both hands, at the same
time depressing the muzzle until the piece is horizontal, the left arm and
stock against the body ; with the thumb and first finger of the right
TARGET PRACTICE.
m
hand regulate the haussc for the distance indicated, and seize the piec^
with the right hand at the small of the stock.
Fourth motion. Same as third motion, '^ Aiming with sight down."
Two drills will be given to this exercise : during the first drill, the
men will be instructed indiv^idually, commencing with the lower
sights, and then causing the hausse to be raised graduall3'.
The position of a soldier aiming as a skirmisher cannot always be
taken exactly in the same manner, as it will be found necessary to
lower the shoulder and arms in proportion as the hausse is elevated :
without moving the bodj', or inclining the head, the soldier, by lower-
ing the shoulder and arms, can take any line of sight from 250 to
1,000 yards. This will be found a good exercise for the men. In
order to aim at objects 800, 900 and 1,000 yards distant, it is neces-
sary to press the heel of the butt of the piece against the shoulder.
If men have short necks the position is constrained, and cannot be
taken properly. Instructors perceiving this difficulty will exercise
their judgment in requiring men to take the position above designated
when firing at these long ranges.
During the second drill, squads formed on the drill ground will be
exercised in aiming together, using the different lines of sight for
which the hausse is regulated. In this drill, the bayonet will be fixed
when aiming at distances not less than 400 j^ards.
Position of a soldier kneeling and aiming as a skirmisJier.
288. The instruction will be ^ivcn without times or motions. The
instructor will command:
Take the position of a skirmisher kneeling and aiming ;
or,
Cease — Aiming.
The instructor will detail the position of a skirmisher kneeling and
aiming, as follows : The squad is supposed to be at shouldered arms,
the files one pace apart. Take the position of present arms; then
carry the right foot to the rear and to the right of the left heel, and in
a position convenient for placing the right knee upon the ground
in bending the left leg ; place the right knee upon the ground, lower
the piece, the left forearm supported upon the thigh on the same side,
the right hand on the small of the stock, the butt resting on the right
thigh, the left hand supporting the piece near the lower band. Move
the right leg to the left, around the knee supported on the ground,
15
170 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
until this leg is nearly perpendicular to the direction of the left foot,
and thus seat himself on the right heel. Raise the piece with the
right hand and support it with the left, holding it near the lower
band, the left elbow resting on the left thigh near the knee. With
the thumb and forefinger of the right hand regulate the hausse, if
necessary ; cock the piece, seize it with the right hand at the small of
the stock, the right shoulder raised or lowered according to the posi-
tion of the target, the right elbow nearly to the height of the shoul-
der: aim at the point indicated, keeping the top of the muzzle sight
and the bottom of the notch of the hausse in the vertical plane of fire,
the thumb of the right hand over the small of the stock, the last joint
of the first finger of the right hand in front of but not touching the
trigger, the other fingers of this hand grasping the small of the stock.
The instructor, having taken, and detailed at the same time, the posi-
tion of a skirmisher kneeling and aiming, will instruct the men in
aiming from this position, in conformity with what has been pre-
scribed in the school of the soldier. Two drills will be given to this
exercise. One will suffice for soldiers previously instructed in the
drill.
Keeping the piece steady when the trigger is pulled.
289. It is easy to preserve the aim until the trigger is pressed upon
in order to discharge the piece ) but, when this is done, the aim is
maintained with diflSculty. When pressing on the trigger the line of
sight is apt to be deranged : although properly directed before touch-
ing the trigger, it may not be so at the moment the discharge takes
place. The report of the discharge of his piece should find the soldier
still preserving his aim. The soldier will attain this if he holds his
breath from the moment he commences to touch the trigger until the
gun is discharged ; if he does not pull the trigger with a jerk, or sud-
denly, but increases the pressure on the trigger by degrees ; if he
places his finger in such a manner upon the trigger as to exercise its
full force, pressing not on the extremity of the finger, but on the last
joint, or as near this joint as the conformation of the man will permit.
The instructor, holding a gun in a convenient position similar to that
of charge bayonet, will point out to each soldier in succession the
manner of pulling the trigger, which will be done with the first finger
of the right hand as described above, the remaining fingers of this
hand under and grasping the small of the stock, the thumb over the
stock.
The men repeat after the instructor, in succession, what he has just
executed. After this has been repeated as often as necessary, the in-
TARGET PRACTICE. 171
striictor exi>lains to his squad how they should manage in order to fire
without deranging the position of the piece after bringing the line of
sight to bear on an object. He will explain and execute this as fol-
lows :
Press upon the trigger by degrees with the last joint of the first
finger of the right hand, closing the muscles of this finger without
moving the arm, holding the breath, the sound of the discharge finding
the soldier preserving the line of sight upon the point aimed at. Re-
main aiming an instant after the gun is discharged, to be assured that
the object is still in the line of sight. In actual firing, it will be im-
possible to preserve the aim the instant the gun is discharged ; but,
should the gun hang fire, the soldier accustomed to remain an instant
aiming will be more apt to make a good shot.
The instructor should make the soldier understand that a good
marksman is known by the steadiness with which he preserves his gun
when it misses fire.
The men will be made to take one or the other of the positions of a
soldier aiming, as laid down in No. 287. They will be permitted to
snap the gun without any commands being given to that efi'ect. The
instructor will indicate the distance, either assumed or real, of the tar-
get, and will see that the men use the sights corresponding to those
distances. The instructor will command, for instance, ''Take the
position of a 'skirmisher aiming standing' at 600 yards aim."
The exercise given in this article is considered of great importance.
It will be repeated for four drills. Two will sufiice for those men who
have been previously instructed.
Simulated firing with caps.
290. This is the same as the preceding, except that a cap will be
used, and it will not be necessai-y to explain to the soldier the manner
of pulling the trigger. S«(uads assembled in the quarters will be made
to aim at a lighted candle, which will be placed three feet or more
from the mixzzle of the gun. The line of sight will be brought to bear
below the flame; then, gradually raising the piece until the line of
sight is directly on the flame, the cap will be exploded : if the cone
and barrel of the piece are perfectly clear, and the piece correctly
sighted, the body kept steady when aiming and at the moment the cap
explodes, the candle will be extinguished. Simulated firing with caps
will be executed in two drills. Ten caps per man will be exploded at
each drill ; eight caps standing and two kneeling.
172 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Simulated firing with blank cartridges.
291. Firing with blank cartridges will be conducted in conformity
with the principles laid down. The squad will be formed on the drill
ground, as prescribed in No.-£87. The men will fire in succession at a
target, placed or supposed to be placed at different distances. The
rules laid down in the foregoing examples relating to a soldier aiming
will be strictly followed. This lesson will be executed in two drills ;
ten cartridges will be fired per man at each drill ,• eight standing and
two kneeling.
The object of these drills is to accustom the men to preserve their
aim when firing.
Estimating distances.
292. The company assembled fully equipped as for drill will be
divided into at least three squads, or as many as there are company
ofiicers present. Each officer is provided with a small cord, 25 yards
long. The instructor will measure on the ground a right line, which
will be marked ofi" into distances,
n f;A inn i ^n onn a 0,50,100,150,200,
0, 50, 100, 150, 200, yards:- — ; — ; ■ —
, J 'Mill
marking these distances, as measured, with a stake, stone or line, on
the ground. He will now direct each man of his squad to pace off"
the measured distance of 100 yards, cautioning them to be careful
and preserve their natural gait, without attempting to increase or
diminish the length of their step. He will direct the men to count
the number of steps they take in passing over the distance of 100
yards. This having been repeated at least three times by each
soldier, who reports each time the number of steps taken by him in
passing over 100 yards, the ratio which a yard bears to the step of
each soldier becomes known. The instructor will inform each soldier
the number of steps it will be necessary for him to take to pass over
10 yards. The soldier now knowing the number of steps he must
take to pass over 10 and 100 yards, it will be easy for him to measure
any distance with sufficient accuracy for all practical purposes when
firing.
To estimate a distance greater than TOO yards — in steps — the sol-
dier, having started from the point of departure, will count the
number of steps he should take to pass over 100 yards; extending
as a tally, at the moment of arrival, the thumb of his right hand,
the other fingers closed: he will recommence then his count, ex-
teading the first finger of the right hand when he has counted the
TARGET PRACTICE. 173
number of steps necessary to make a second 100 yards, and so on,
until he arrives at a point less than 100 yards from the point up to
which he is to measure. AVhen the soldier finds himself less than
100 yards from the object, he will count by tens, saying, ** Ten
yards," when he has counted the number of steps necessary for him
to pass over the distance of 10 yards, 20, 30 yards, and so on, until
he arrives very near the object, when he will increase the length
of his step, counting each step a yard; and, by adding these to the
tens, he will then only have to count as hundreds the number of
fingers he has raised to know the whole distance expressed in
yards.
The instructor will form his squad at one of the extremities of
the 200 3'ai-d line, which has been measured in such a way that the
right line measui'ed shall be perpendicular to the front of the squad.
He will order four men to place themselves, the first at the point
marked 50 yards, the second at the point marked 100 yards, the
third at the point marked 150 yards, and the fourth at the point
marked 200 yards. The men selected should be as near the saine
height as practicable. The instructor will now direct the attention
of the squad to the different parts of the dress, arms, equipment,
and figure of the men on the line, such as can be easily distinguished
and recognized at 50 yards, and such as cannot be readily recognized
at this distance. He questions each man of his squad on these points,
not expecting all to answer alike, since the eyesight of men will gener-
ally differ.
The instructor will now call the attention of the men to the soldier
placed at the point 100 yards distant, and cause them to make similar
observations upon this man as those already prescribed for the soldier
at 50 yards. The instructor again questions the men, and will be
careful to point out to them the difference that exists between those
two distances, as illustrated by the difference in the appearance of the
same objects at these distances. The instructor will make, in suc-
cession, upon the two men placed at 150 and 200 yards, similar ob-
servations as prescribed for the men at 50 and 100 yards; being very
careful to call the attention of each man to the difference which exists
between the four distances, illustrated by the distinctness with which
certain objects are seen. The instructor will direct the squad to notice
that men appear smaller the farther they are off, although in reality
they are nearly the same height. The men stationed at the different
points will be frequently replaced by others. When the men of the
squad have made a sufficient number of observations upon the four
distances above indicated, and when these observations are well im-
174 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
pressed on their memories, the instructor will cause the squad to
estimate intermediate distances between 50 and 200 yards.
In order to do this, the instructor will march his squad to a different
part of the ground from that on which he measured the distances in
the first instance, and form it in one rank. He now sends out one
man, directing him to halt at a given signal. The instant this man
steps off, the squad is faced about, in order that the men may not count
the steps taken. When the man proceeds a sufficient distance, he will
be halted, facing toward the squad. The squad will now be faced to
the front. The men will estimate the distance which separates them
from the soldier. The instructor cautions the squad to recollect the
observations made by them upon the men placed at the measured dis-
tances. The instructor, placing himself a short distance from the
squad, calls each man to him in turn, directing them to give in their
estimates in a low voice. This is necessai-y, in order that no man
may be influenced in his judgment by the opinion of another. The
instructor will now cause the distance to be measui'cd, and, at the
same time, stepped oif by the men. The instructor now points out
to the men the errors, if any were committed, in estimating the dis-
tance. In order to do this more distinctly, he may send a man to
the point from which the squad started, pointing out all errors by
observations on this man. The instructor will repeat this exercise
as often as in his judgment is necessary, taking care each time to
choose a different distance, but always between the limits above
indicated.
Estimating distances should take place under different conditions of
the atmosphere, cloudy, foggy, etc. ; and, if the locality permits, squads
should be drilled on ground the outline of which is diversified by hills,
ravines, etc.
When the instructor judges that the men of his squad — who should,
if possible, be the same during these exercises — have acquired a suffi-
cient accuracy in estimating distances comprised between 50 and 200
yards, he will proceed to estimate distances comprised between 200 and
400 yards. To accomplish this, he will cause to be measured a dis-
tance of 400 yards, and mark, upon the right line so measured, dis-
tances of
0, 200, 250, 300, 350, and 400 yards; 0> ^00> ^^0- ^00, 350, 400.
J ' I I I I I I
The squads will be formed as explained. The instructor now orders
five men to place themselves, the first at 200, the second at 250, the
third at 300, the fourth at 350, and the fifth at 400 yards, facing the
squad and resting on their arms. He will make upon these different
distances observations similar to those already made upon the lesser
TARGET PRACTICE. 175
distances, and for that of 200 yai'ds. This last distance should be the
object of particular attention and study. The instructor will cause
distances comprised between 200 and 400 yards to be estimated as
explained for the lesser distances.
When the men have acquired sufficient accuracy in estimating dis-
tances comprised between 200 and 400 yards, they will be made to esti-
mate distances comprised between 60 and 400 yards.
This having been accomplished, distances will be no longer estimated
on single individuals, but on groups of men.
Each company, under the command of its captain, will be divided
into two platoons, commanded by the first and second lieutenants,
when not s-uperintending the firing of a class. The captain will keep
himself with one of the two ])latoons, having an eye to the exercise.
The chief of each platoon, having halted his platoon in a favorable
position indicated by the captain, will bring his platoon to an order,
and rest. A group, composed of a corporal, a drummer or bugler, and
two men, will proceed immediately in front of the platoon, following a
line indicated by the chief of platoon, who will point out to the corpo-
ral two points on this line upon which to direct himself. The corporal,
having passed over a distance of 200 yards, but not exceeding 700,
will be at liberty to halt his group. He will then place the men one
pace apart, in one rank, and, facing the platoon, bring them to an
order, and rest, and take his place on the right of the rank, the centre
of which should be established on the line. The chief of the platoon
will now estimate the distance himself, and note the same in his note-
book. He will now call out the non-commissioned officers, receive
their estimates (which should be given in a low tone), and so on with
the men. As soon as the officer in charge of the platoon commences to
take down the estimates of the men, a sergeant, assisted by two men
carrying a cord twenty-five yards long, Avill measure the distance
which separates the platoon from the group, and note down the same.
Should the number of units which remain after having noted the hun-
dreds and tens be less or equal to five, they will be rejected; if greater
than five, they will be counted as ten. The officer having taken down
the estimates, and the distance separating the platoon from the group
having been measured, the officer will display a signal, and the ser-
geant who measured the distance will indicate the number of yards by
causing the drummer to sound a roll for each hundred, and a single
tap for tens. The bugler will indicate the same by long and short
notes.
The group, at the discretion of the officer commanding the platoon,
may be made to increase or lessen the distance which separates it
from the platoon, the corporal keeping the group within the limits
176 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
prescribed, and on the line as indicated to him. When he halts the
group, he will be careful to establish it on the line facing the platoon.
The sergeant charged with measuring the distance will retire a few
paces from the line, after having marked the point up to which he last
measured.
He will observe the platoon, and as soon as its chief commences
recording the estimates, he will measure the distance which separates
the group from its first station, taking note of this distance, and
adding it to the first or substracting it, as the case may be.
In estimating distances comprised between 700 and 1,000 yards, the
number composing a group will be increased to eight men, a corporal,
and drummer or bugler. The groups will be formed sometimes in one
and sometimes in two ranks.
In all other respects, the rules laid down for estimating distances
between 200 and 700 yards will be followed.
Instruction in estimating distances will be given when it does not
interfere with other parts of the soldiers' drill. It will, however,
always precede ball practice, and be carried on during this practice.
When one squad is occupied in firing at the target, the remaining
squads will be exercised in estimating distances.
Ofiicers, pa^rticularly, should be prompt in estimating distances
correctly, as they are called upon to conduct and regulate the fire in
presence of an enemy.
Firing with Ball Cartridges at Different Distances, Formation of
Classes, etc.
293. The distances at which the targets are placed will be 150, 225,
250, 300, 325, 350, 400, 450, 500, 550, 600, 700, 800, 900, and 1,000
yards.
These distances will be carefully measured and staked ofi" on the
*•' firing ground."
The surfaces fired at will be,
yards, one target 6 ft. high and 22 inches broad.
« « 44
" " 66
" " 88
" " 110
" " 132
" " 176
" '' 220
" " 264
at 150
and 225
yards,
one
250 and 300
one
325,
350, and
400
one
450
and 500
one
550
and 600
one
700
one
800
one
900
one
1,000
one
TARGET PRACTICE. 177
Four rounds will be fired at each of the above distances. The com-
pany will be divided into three equal classes, non-commissioned officers
equally distributed.
After the company has fired at the several distances, 150, 225, 250,
300, 325, 350, and 400 yards, the classes will be rearranged according
to merit of firing, — the first class composed of those men who have hit
the target the greatest number of times, the second class of those who
come next in order, and so on with the third, keeping the classes as
nearly equal as practicable. Non-commissioned officers will not be
assigned to classes according to merit, but according to rank, a
sergeant in each class, the presence of non-commissioned officers being
necessary with classes when estimating distances, etc. When the
firing has been execvited at the fifteen distances, the classes will be
again re-formed, as prescribed above ; previous to which no change
will be made.
Men who, from unavoidable causes, have missed drills, will be
placed in that class to which the number of their shots that hit the
target entitles them; which will be determined by a simple calculation.
A list of the company, arranged by classes, will be kept exposed in
the quarters until new lists are formed. The object in forming classes
is that the officers may know the good marksmen in their companies,
and to stimulate the pride of the men.
When the company arrives on the ground, the classes will be paraded.
The first class, formed in one rank, will take position ten steps in rear
of the point from which the firing takes place, the centre of the rank
on and perpendicular to the plane of fire.
The remaining classes will be divided into as many squads per class
as there are intelligent non-commissioned officers available; and these
squads, superintended by an officer, will be exercised, on suitable
ground near the firing ground, in estimating distances. When estima-
ting distances greater than -400 yards, the two classes may be united,-
in which case the detachment will be commanded by an officer. The
officer superintending the firing will order his class to load at will, and
then bring them to a " support arms," or "order arms," and rest.
Before a man fires, a roll on the drum, or note on the bugle, will be
sounded. At this signal the markers will take their places. At the
command "Commence firing," the man on the right will take the position
in front of the squad that has been pointed out to him, and fire, retiring,
as soon as he has fired, three paces in rear of his first position; and so
on with the rest. When a class has fired, it will reload at the commands
" Load at will," " Load," and thus continue until the four shots have
been expended. Three shots will be fired standing, the fourth kneeling.
The firing of the other classes will be conducted in the same manner.
178 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
OfBcers should retire a short distance from the soldier who is about to
fire, and be careful not to speak to him when in the act of firing.
OfiScers will pay particular attention that all the principles arc followed
which have been laid down in the foregoing articles.
Balls which strike within the black lines will have no greater value
on the "record-book" than those which strike any other part of the
target.
An intelligent non-commissioned officer, assisted by a man, will place
themselves in a hole dug at the foot and in front of the target, protected
by a breastwork of earth thrown up on that side from which the firing
takes place. This non-commissioned officer will mark the shots which
strike the target. He will be provided with a small flag, and a rod
about six feet long, on one end of which will be nailed a circular disk
of wood, or other material, six or eight inches in diameter, painted on
one side white, on the other black. When a ball strikes outside the
black, he will cover the shot-hole with the disk, presenting the black
side to the detachment; when inside the black, the white side will be
presented to view. Firing will only be permitted when the flag is down.
The marker should be provided with a pot of paste, a brush and patches
of paper, when the target covered with muslin is used. After five shots,
the marker will paste patches over the ball holes, or otherwise deface
them. When cast-iron targets are used, the marker should be pro-
vided with black and white paint.
Should it not be possible to obtain the greatest range laid down, the
entire number of shots will nevertheless be fired. The shots, in that
case, will be divided equally between the 150 yard range and the great-
est available range.
When the first class has nearly completed firing its four rounds, the
drummer will be directed to sound a roll, or the bugler the signal
'' Commence firing."
The second class will then be marched to the position occupied by
the first, and execute what has been laid down above.
During the remainder of the drill, the first class will be exercised
in estimating distances. It will be found to economise time, and the
record of shots can be better kept by keeping the same non-commis-
sioned officer superintending the marking of shots during the entire
drill. ^
Firing as Skirmishers.
294. The company will now be exercised in firing as skirmishers.
Three drills will be given to this exercise. Ten cartridges will be fired
per man at each drill. When firing as skirmishers, the men will be
TARGET PRACTICE. 179
permitted to take that position which suits them best. The line of
skirmishers will fire first advancing, then retreating, conforming to the
principles laid down in the instruction for skirmishers. The targets
will be six feet high and twenty-two inches wide, placed upon a line
parallel to the line of skirmishers and six yards apart.
As many targets will be used as the nature of the ground and a due
regard to economy will permit. A line will be staked off parallel to
the line of targets and 350 yards distant. The line of skirmishers,
formed a suitable distance from this line, will advance upon it, and
when on the line the command will be given, *' Commence firing;" the
line of skirmishers will advance and fire five rounds; the remaining
five will be fired retreating.
The firing during the second drill will be executed as laid down for
the first. The surface fired at will be double ; the targets placed six
yards apart. The firing will commence when the skirmishers arrive
on a line 600 yards from the targets. The number of targets will not
bo limited. Five cartridges will be fired advancing and five retreat-
ing.
Tiring during the third drill will commence when the skirmishers
reach a line 800 yards from the line of targets. Four targets will bo
used, placed 12 yards apart. The dimension of each target will be 6
feet by 88 inches.
Firing by Company or Rank, and by Platoon.
295. The exercises in firing will terminate with firing by file, by
company or rank, and by platoon. At each drill, six cartridges per
man will be fired by file, two by rank or company, and two by platoon.
The distances at which the several firings take place will be 300, 400,
and 500 yards. The target used will be six feet high and 176 inches
broad. The vertical and horizontal stripes on this target will be 12
inches in width.
The firings by file, by company or rank, and by platoon, will be exe-
cuted in three drills ; at the first, the firing will commence at 300 yards;
the second at 400, and the third at 500 yards. At each drill, the firing
will commence by file, then by company or rank, and will end by firing
by platoon. When firing at 300 yards, whether by file, by company or
rank, or platoon, bayonets will be fixed.
As the position of soldiers firing by file, company or rank, and by
platoon, is different from that taken when firing as a skirmisher, it will
be necessary, before executing the above firings, to habituate the men
to the positions which they should take by simulated firings.
The simulated firing will first be by allowing the hammer to fall upon
180 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
the cone. The men will be made to take the positions as laid down in
the school of a soldier as ai:)iilicable to those diflferent firings. They
will be accustomed to regulate the hansse in ranks, putting in practice
as much as possible, when firing in ranks, what has been prescribed fur
individual firing.
During the first part of the first drill, ten caps per man will be ex-
ploded— six in file firing, two in company or rank, and two in platoon.
During the second part of the same drill, ten blank cartridges will be
fired — six by file, two by company or rank, and two by platoon. The
front rank will be made frequently to change positions with the rear
rank. Firing with ball cartridges will then take place, preceding each
real fire by simulated firings, when the hammer will be allowed to fall
upon the cone. The proper execution of platoon and company firing
depends in a great degi'ee upon the commands of the ofiicer. If he
does not allow a sufficient interval between the commands ''Aim " and
" Pire," the men will not have time to aim. To obey the command in
time, the trigger will be pulled suddenly. The result will be that
much of the efficiency of the fire will be lost, and a simultaneous fire,
upon which a great deal depends, will not be obtained; for experience
and reason demonstrate the fact, everything else being equal, that pla-
toon-firing is more effective in proportion as it is executed together.
When the officer leaves a suitable interval between the commands
"Aim " and "Fire," the men have time to adjust the piece to the shoul-
der, to place the finger in front of the trigger, and to exercise a slight
pressure on the trigger when awaiting the command "Fire." They
are then ready to fire the moment the command is given, thus obtain-
ing a simultaneous and efi'ective fire. But, if the officer superintending
the firing should be careful to leave a sufficient interval between the
commands "Aim" and "Fire," he should no less avoid the opposite
extreme. If he keeps the men aiming too long, they will become
fatigued, will lose their aim, and will not be prepared to obey the com-
mand when given. It is only by commanding, and seeing platoon and
company firing executed with ball and cartridge, and judging of its
effect by the number of balls put in the target, that officers can appre-
ciate the influence of a command promptly given, and acquire the habit
of thus giving their commands.
When firing by file, by company or rank, or by platoon, the officers
will indicate the distance which separates the company from the object
to be fired at. Men in ranks are necessarily more or less constrained
in their movements. Occupied, moreover, in loading their pieces, sol-
diers will not be able to judge the distance which separates them from
from the enemy.
The most suitable moment to indicate the distance will be imme-
1 Q1
TARGET PRACTICE. ^^^
diately before the command "Aim" i« given. The men will then be in
a otmon to regnlate the hausse. To direct the fire of a platoon upon
an enemy, for example, at 400 yards, the officer will command :
Fire by platoon. Platoon-UK AiyY-at 400 yards- Am-YiRK
— Load.
The above observations are applicable to firing by company or rank
When firing by file, the distance will be announced immediately
beZ the command "Commence firing," and after the command
" Ready."
Inaccuracy of fire may arise from very different causes.
I3t. From ignorance of, or failing to apply the principles which
frovern good marksmen when firing. , ^ , , f,.^,„ Us
2d. A ball, when fired, may be, and generally is deflected from its
course when describing the trajectory.
The first causes may be obviated in a great degree by practical and
tViporptical instruction. ^.
Th end i« ».tn.,u,ablo ,o .he piece, and ex.erio. influence, aCng
upon the ball. Some of ,he canse, cannot be mo.Me.l by he mo t
Ikilfnl mark.man . while other,, to a great extent, may be counteracted.
It luld be unreasonable to eM-C comparative perfeet.on ,„ ...,■,,„..
Led from our large manufactories Our rifled musUet . be ,eved «
be as perfect an arm of its kind as has ever been made. A perfect ,„m
clu oily exist i„ theory. A soldier always firing the same p>cce w.U
Worn acquainted with its defects, and will be able to make such
allowances when firing as experience teaches him to be neces.sary
Among the exterior influences which affect the aecura y of a^ gun
the principal one is the wind. If the wind blows from he r,gh, the
Wl will .e deflected to the left ; to the right, if it blows from the If
ra ed f from the rear; and lowered, if from the front; ra.scd and o
he e . if it blows from the rear and right. The dcv.at.on produced
by the ; nd will be increased in proportion as the distance mcreases ;
t ilcreles even more rapidly than the distance. Expertence alone
'a . each :be soldier the allowance he must -'■^/"^•i;;;" „ J°
only does the wind affect accuracy of fire by defleetmg the ball from
course but it prevents a person from holding his piece steady.
The temperature and dampness of the atmosphere influence the ball
inls mgM. It has been remarked that in dry weather longer ranges
have been obtained than in damp weather.
When firing at an object in motion, allowance must "f -de f„ th
motion For instance, when firing at a horseman galloping m a dnec
Uotp rpendicular to the plane of fire, it is necessary that the hue of
182 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
sight should move in proportion as the horseman moves, and should be
directed in advance of him in proportion as he is farther oflF.
In opening a fire upon an enemy, particular attention should be paid
to discover where the first balls fired strike. It would be better that
the balls fall short of, rather than pass over, the enemy. In the first
case, we stand a chance of a ricochet ball taking effect; from wliich
we naturally deduce that a soldier should be impressed with the neces-
sitj of firing too low rather than too high.
TARGETS.
296. The difficulty of procuring any specified material for targets at
many posts precludes the adoption of any particular target.
The surface fired at, at the different distances, will alone be fixed by
regulation.
The following suggestions are offered :
The best targets, and those recommended for permanent posts, are
of cast-iron — by far the cheapest and most durable. The different
surfaces required could be obtained by having four cast-iron targets
of the following dimensions: one target 6 feet by 22 inches; one 6
feet by 44 inches; one 6 feet by 66 inches; and one 6 feet by 132
inches.
When cast-iron targets cannot be had, the next best are targets
formed of wrought-iron frames with muslin stretched upon them.
Four frames of the following dimensions, by combination, would ena-
ble us to obtain the surfaces i-equired : one 6 feet by 22 inches ; one 6
feet by 44 inches; one 6 feet by 88 inches; one 6 feet by 110 inches;
and all the parts could be carried in a wagon-body.
By carefully covering the ball-holes with patches of paper pasted
on, we strengthen and thicken the target ; and one of these targets
will last longer than one would suppose.
The next best targets are wooden frames composed of four pieces, 6
inches wide and 1 inch thick, bolted together; the ends of the vertical
sides projecting about a foot below, and sharpened, the frame covered
with muslin, and held in position by four guys fastened to the top and
attached to pins in the ground in front and rear.
Every target will be marked by a vertical and a horizontal stripe,
dividing it into four equal parts, and varying in width according to the
distance, as follows :
0
8
12
16
20
it 150
and 225
" 250
" 300
" 325
" 350
" 400
450
'' 500
" 550
600
" 700
*' 800
900
•• 1000
SCHOOL OF TOE BATTALION, 183
Article VI.
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION.
To form the Regiment or Battalion.
297. At the signal, called the adjutant's call, the companies are
marched from the company parades by their captains, the music play-
ing. The color company serves as the basis of the formation, and is
the first to form; the color-guard being at the point where the centre
of the line is to rest, one marker is placed in front of it, his elbow
touching the right corporal of the color guard, and another on the line
at a little less than company distance from him, on his right, and facing
toward him ; the color company is halted three paces behind this line,
faced to the front, and dressed up upon the line by the captain, who
aligns it to the left.
The company on the left of the color is the next to take its post; it
is halted three paces behind the line, its right nearly behind the left
file of the color-guard, and faced to the front ; as soon as it halts the
left guide of the company throws himself out, so as to be opposite one
of the three left files of the company, faces to the right, and aligns
himself upon the two markers; the captain then places himself on the
left of the color-guard, on a line with its front rank, and aligns the
company to the right. The company on the right of the color forms
next upon the same principles ; the right guide posts himself upon
the line opposite one of the three right files of the company, and
faces to the left; the captain places himself on the right of the color
company, and aligns his company to the left.
The remaining companies take their posts on the left and right in
succession, and when the formation is complete, the adjutant commands,
gtiides, 2)08ts; at this command the guides on the line retire to their
places by passing through the intervals between the companies, and
those captains who are on the left of their companies, shift to the right.
184 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Opening and closing ranks, and the execution of the different fires.
To open and to close ranks.
29S. The colonel, wishing the ranks to be opened, will command:
1. Prepare to open ranks.
At this command, the lieutenant-colonel and major will place them-
selves on the right of the battalion, the first on the flank of the file-
closers, and the second four paces from the front rank of the battalion.
These dispositions being made, the colonel will command :
2. To the rear, open order. 3. March.
At the second command, the covering sergeants, and the sergeant on
the left of the battalion, will place themselves four paces in rear of
the front rank, and opposite their places in line of battle, in order
to mark the new alignment of the rear rank ; they will be aligned by
the major on the left sergeant of the battalion, who will be careful
to place himself exactly four paces in rear of the front rank, and to
hold his piece between the eyes, erect and inverted, the better to
indicate to the major the direction to be given to the covering ser-
geants.
At the command march, the rear rank and the file-closers will step
to the rear without counting steps ; the men will pass a little in rear of
the line traced for this rank, halt, and dress forward on the covering
sergeants, who will align correctly the men of their respective compa-
nies.
The file-closers will fall back and preserve the distance of two
paces from the rear rank, glancing eyes to the right j the lieutenant-
colonel will, from the right, align them on the file-closer of the left,
who, having placed himself accurately two paces from the rear rank,
will invert his piece, and hold it up erect between his eyes, the better
to be seen by the lieutenant-colonel.
The colonel, seeing the ranks aligned, will command :
4. Front.
At this command, the lieutenant-colonel, major, and the left ser-
geant, will retake their places in line of battle.
The colonel will cause the ranks to be closed by the commands pre-
scribed for the instructor in the school of the company.
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 185
THE FIRINGS.
299. The colonel will cause to be executed the fire by company, the
fire by wing, the fire by battalion, the fire by file, and the fire by rank,
by the commands to be herein indicated.
The fire by company and the fire by file will always be direct; the
fire by battalion, the fire by wing, and the fire by rank, may be either
direct or oblique.
When the fire ought to be oblique, the colonel will give, at every
round, the caution right (or left) oblique, between the commands ready
and aim.
The fire by company will be executed alternately b3' the right and
left companies of each division, as if the division were alone. The
right companies will fire first; the captain of the left will not give his
first command till he shall see one or two pieces at a ready in the right
company ; the captain of the latter, after the first discharge, will
observe the same rule in respect to the left company; and the fire
will thus be continued alternately^
The colonel will observe the same rule in the firing by wing.
The fire by file will commence in all the companies at once, and will
be executed as has been prescribed in the school of the company. The
fire b}'^ rank will be executed by each rank alternatelj'.
The color-guard will not fire, but reserve itself for the defence of
the color.
The Jive hy comjmny.
The colonel, wishing the fire b}- companj'^ to be executed, will com-
mand :
1. Fire hy company. 2. Commence firing.
At the first command, the captains and covering sergeants will take
the positions indicated in the school of the company.
The color and its guard will step back at the same time, so as to
bring the fi-ont rank of the guard in a line with the rear rank of the
l)attalion. This rule is general for all the different firings.
At the second command, the odd numbered companies will commence
to fire ; their captains will each give the commands prescribed in the
school of the company, observing to precede the command company by
that of f rut, third, fifth, or seventh, according to the number of each.
The captains of the even numbered companies will give, in their turn,
the same commands, observing to precede them by the number of their
respective companies.
IG
186 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
In order that tlie odd numbered companies may not all fire at once,
their captains will observe, but only for the first discharge, to give the
command yZre one after another ; thus, the captain of the third com-
pany will not give the command jire ixntil he has heard the fire of the
first company ,• the captain of the fifth will observe the same rule with
respect to the third, and the captain of the seventh the same rule with
respect to the fifth.
The colonel will cause the fire to cease by the sound to cease firing;
at this sound, the men will execute what is prescribed in the school of
the company ,• at the sound, for ofiicers to take their places after firing,
the captains, covering sergeants, and color-guard, will promptly re-
sume their places in line of battle. This r^ile is general for all the
firings.
The fire hy wing.
When the colonel shall wish this fire to be executed, he will com-
mand :
I. Fwehywing. 2. Right wing. 3. Ready. 4. Aim. 5. Fire.
6. Load.
The colonel will cause the wings to fire alternately, and he will
recommence the fire by the commands : 1. Right uing; 2. Aim.;
3. Fire; 4. Loab. 1. Left wing ; 2. Aim; 3. Fire; 4. Load; in con-
forming to what is prescribed in the school of the company.
The fire hy battalion.
The colonel will cause this fire to be executed by the commands last
prescribed, substituting for the first two: 1. Fire hy battalion; 2. Bat-
talion.
The fire hy file.
To cause this to be executed, the colonel will command :
1. Fire hy file. 2. Battalion. 3. Ready. 4. Commence firing.
At the fourth command, the fire will commence on the right of each
company. The colonel maj-, if he thinks proper, cause the fire to com-
mence on the right of each platoon.
The fire hy rank.
To cause this fire to be executed, the colonel will command :
4
SCHOOL OP THE BATTALION. 187
1. Fire hy rank. 2. Battalion. 3. Rkady. 4. Rear rank. 5.
Aim. 6. Fire. 7. Load.
This fire will be executed as has been explained in the school of the
company, in following the progression prescribed for the two ranks
which should fire alternately.
To fire hy the rear rank.
When the colonel shall wish the battalion to fire to the rear, he will
command :
1. Face hy the rear rank. 2. Battalion. 3. Ahout — Face.
At the first command, the captains, covering sergeants and file-
closers will execute what has been prescribed in the school of the com-
pany ; the color-bearer will pass into the rear rank, and for this pur-
pose,, the corporal of his file will step before the corporal next on his
right to let the color-bearer pass, and will then take his place in the
front rank ; the lieutenant-colonel, adjutant, major, sergeant-major,
and the music will place themselves before the front rank, and face to
the rear, each opposite his place in the line of battle — the first two j^ass-
ing around the right, and the others around the left of the battalion.
At the third command, the battalion will face about; the captains
and covering sergeants observing what is prescribed in the school of
the company. No. 230.
The battalion facing thus by the rear rank, the colonel will cause it
to execute the dift'erent fires by the same commands as if it were faced
by the front rank.
The colonel, after firing to the rear, wishing to face the battalion to
its propei*front, will command:
1. Face hy the front rank. 2. Battalion. 3. Ahout — Face.
At these commands, the battalion will return to its proper front by
the means prescribed, No. 230,
Different modes of passing from the order in hattle to the order in
column.
To break the rigid or left into column.
300, Lines of battle will habitually break into column by company;
they may also break by division or by platoon.
188 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
It is here supposed that the colonel wishes to break by company to
the right J he will command:
1. By company^ right wheel. 2. March (or double quick —
March).
At the first command, each captain will place himself rapidly before
the centre of his company, and caution it that it has to wheel to the
right; each covering sergeant will replace his captain in the front rank.
At the command march, each company will break to the right,
according to the principles prescribed in the school of the company ;
each captain will conform himself to what is prescribed for the chiefs
of platoon; the left guide, as soon as he can pass, will place himself on
the left of the front rank to conduct the marching flank, and when he
shall have approached near to the perpendicular, the captain will com-
mand :
1. Such com-pany. 2. Halt.
At the second command, which will be given at the instant the left
guide shall be at the distance of three paces from the perpendicular, the
company will halt; the guide will advance and place his left arm lightly
against the breast of the captain, who will establish him on the align-
ment of the man who has faced to the right; the covering sergeant will
place himself correctly on the alignment on the right of that man,
which being executed, the captain will align his company by the left,
command Front, and jjlace himself two paces before its centre.
The captains having commanded Front, the guides, although some
of them may not be in the direction of the preceding guides, will stand
fast, in order that the error of a company that has wheeled too much or
too little may not be propagated; the guides not in the direction will
readiljr come into it when the column is put in march.
A battalion in line of battle will break into column by company to
the left, according to the same principles, and by inverse means.
When the colonel shall wish to move the column forward without
halting, he will intimate his intention, and when the companies have
nearly completed the wheel, command:
3. Forward. A. March. 5. Guide left.
To break to the rear, by the right or left, into column.
301. When the colonel shall wish to cause the battalion to break to
the rear, by the right, into column by company, he will command :
1. By the right of companies .^ to the rear into column. 2. Battalion^
right — Face. 3. March (or double quick — March).
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 189
At the first command each captain will place himself before the
centre of his company, and caution it to face to the right ; the cover-
ing sergeants will step into the front, rank.
At the second command, the battalion will face to the right : each
captain will hasten to the right of his company, and break two files to
the rear; the first file will break the whole depth of the two ranks;
the second file less ; which being executed, the captain will place him-
self so that his breast may touch lightly the left arm of the front rank
man of the last file in the company next on the right of his own.
The captain of the right company will place himself as if there were a
company on his right, and will align himself on the other captains.
The covering sergeant of each company will break to the rear with the
right files, and place himself before the front rank of the first file to
conduct him.
At the command march, the first file of each company will wheel to
the right; the covering sergeant, placed before this file, will conduct
it perpendicularly to the rear. The other files will come successively
to \^heel on the same spot. The captains will stand fast, see their
companies file past, and at the instant the last file shall have wheeled,
each captain will command :
1. Such conijmmj. 2. Halt. 3. Front. 4. Left — Dress.
At the instant the company faces to the front, its left guide will
place himself so that his left arm may touch lightly the breast of his
captain.
At the fourth command, the companj'^ will align itself on its left
guide, the captain so directing it that the new alignment may be per-
pendicular to that which the company had occupied in line of battle;
and, the better to judge this, he will step back two paces from the
flank.
The company being aligned,, the captain will command: Front, and
take his place before its centre.
302. The battalion marching in line of battle, when the colonel shall
Avish to break into column by company, to the rear, by the right, he
will command :
1. By the right of companies, to the 7'ear into column. 2. Battal-
ion, hy the right flank. 3. March (or double quick — March).
At the first command, each captain will step brisklj' in front of the
centre of his company, and caution it to face iy the right Jiank.
At the command march, the battalion will face to the right; each
captain will move rapidly to the right of his company and cause it to
190 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
break to the right; the first file of each company will wheel to the
right, and the covering sergeant placed in front of this file will con-
duct it perpendicularly to the rear ; the other files will wheel succes-
sively at the same place as the first. The captains will see their
companies file past them ; when the last files have wheeled, the
colonel will command:
3. Batlalion, hy the left Jiank — March. 4. Guide left.
At the command march, the companies will face to the left, and
march in column in the new direction. The captains will place them-
selves in front of the centres of their respective companies.
To break to the rear by the left, the colonel will give the same com-
mands as in the case of breaking to the rear by the right, substituting
the indication left, for that of right.
The battalion may be broken by division to the rear, by the right or
left, in like manner.
To ploy the battalion into close column.
303. This movement may be executed by company or by division,
on the right or left subdivision, or on any other subdivision, right or
left in front.
To ploy the battalion into close column by division in rear of the
first, the colonel will command :
1. Close column, hy division. 2. Oti the frst division, right in
front. 3. Battalion, right — Face. 4. March — (or double
quick — Ma r c h) .
At the second command, all the chiefs of division will place them-
selves before the centres of their divisions; the chief of the first will
caution it to stand fast ; the chiefs of the three others will remind them
that they will have to face to the right, and the covering sergeant of
the right company of each division will replace his captain in the front
rank, as soon as the latter steps out.
At the third command, the last three divisions will face to the right;
the chief of each division will hasten to its right, and cause files to be
broken to the rear, as indicated, No. 301 ; the right guide will break at
the same time, and place himself before the front rank man of the first
file, to conduct him, and each chief of division will place himself by
the side of this guide.
The moment these divisions face to the right, the junior captain in
each will place himself on the left of the covering sergeant of the left
SCHOOL OP THE BATTALION. 191
company, who will place himself in the front rank. This rule ts general
for all the ployments hi/ division.
At the command march, the chief of the first division will add, guide
left; at this, its left guide will place himself on its left, as soon as the
movement of the second division may permit, and the file-closers will
advance one pace upon the rear rank.
All the other divisions, each conducted by its chief, will step off
together, to take their places in the column; the second will gain, in
wheeling by file to the rear, the space of six paces, which ought to
separate its guide from the guide of the first division, and so direct its
march as to enter the column on a line parallel to this division ; the
third and fourth divisions will direct themselves diagonally toward,
but a little in rear of, the points at which they ought, respectively, to
enter the column; at six paces from the left flank of the column, the
head of each of these divisions will incline a little to the left, in order
to enter the column as has just been prescribed for the second, taking
care also to leave the distance of six paces between its guide and the
guide of the preceding division. At the moment the divisions put
themselves in march to enter the column, the file-closers of each will
incline to the left, so as to bring themselves to a distance of a pace from
the rear rank.
Each chief of these three divisions will conduct his division till he
shall be up with the guide of the directing one; the chief will then
himself halt, see his division file past, and halt it the instant the last
file shall have passed, commanding:
1. Such division. 2. Halt. 3. Front. 4. Left — Dress.
At the second command, the division will halt; the left guide will
place himself promptly on the direction, six paces from the guide which
precedes him, in order that, the column being formed, the divisions may
be separated the distance of four paces.
At the third command, the division will face to the front; at the
fourth, it will be aligned by its chief, who will place himself two paces
outside of his guide, and direct the alignment so that his division may
be parallel to that which precedes — which being done, he will command,
Front, and place himself before the centre of his division.
The lieutenant-colonel, placing himself in succession in rear of the
left guides, will assure them on the direction as they arrive, and then
move to his place outside of the left flank of the column six paces
from, and abreast with the first division. In assuring the guides on
the direction he will be a mere observer, unless one or more should
fail to cover exactly the guide or guides already established. This rule
is general.
192 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
To ploy the battalion iu front of the first division, the colonel will
give the same commands, substituting the indication left for that of
riglit in front.
At the second and third commands, the chiefs of divisions and the
junior captains will conform themselves to what has been prescribed
above ; but the chiefs of the last three divisions, instead of caus-
ing the first two files to break to the rear, will cause them to break
to the front.
At the fourth command, the chief of the first division will add :
guide riglit.
The three other divisions will step oS" together to take their places
in the column in front of the directing division ; each will enter in
such manner that, when halted, its guide may find himself six paces
from the guide of the division next previously established in the
column.
Each chief of these divisions will conduct his division, till his right
guide shall be nearly up with the guide of the directing one; he will
then halt his division, and cause it to face to the front; at the instant
it halts, its right guide will face to the rear, place himself six paces
from the preceding guide, and cover him exactly — which being done,
the chief will align his division by the right.
The lieutenant-colonel, placed in front of the right guide of the
first division, will assure the guides on the direction as they succes-
sively arrive.
The movement being ended, the colonel will command :
Guides^ about — Face.
At this, the guides, who are faced to the rear, will face to the
front.
304. To ploy the battalion in rear, or in front of the fourth division,
the colonel will command :
1. Close column, by division. 2. On the fourth division {left or
riglit), in front. 3. Battalion, left — Face. 4. March (or
double quick — March).
These movements will be executed according to the principles of
those which precede, but by inverse means: the fourth division on
which the battalion ploys will stand fast; the instant the movement
commences, its chief will command, guide right (or left).
.305. The foregoing examples embrace all the principles : thus, when
the colonel shall wish to ploy the battalion on an interior division, he
will command :
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 193
1. Clofie column,, hy division. 2. On such division, right (or left) in
front. 3. Battalion, imcard — Face. 4. March (or double
quick — March).
The instant the movement commences, the chief of the directing
division will command, <jnide left (or right).
The divisions which, in the order in battle, are to the right of the
directing division, will face to the left j those which are to the left will
face to the right.
To march in column at full distance.
306. When the colonel shall wish to put the column in march, he
will indicate to the leading guide two distant objects in front, on
the line which the guide ought to follow. This guide will immedi-
ately init his shoulders in a square with that line, take the more distant
object as the point of direction, and the nearer one as the intermediate
point. The colonel will then command:
1. Column, forward. 2. Guide left (or right). 3. March (or
" double quick — March).
At the command march, briskly repeated by the cbiefs of subdivis-
ion, the column will put itself in march, conforming to what is pre-
scribed in the school of the company. No. 244.
The leading guide may always maintain himself correctly on the
direction by keeping steadily in view the two points indicated to him,
or chosen by himself; if these^ points have a certain elevation, he may
be assured he is on the true direction, when the nearer masks the more
distant point.
The following guides will preserve with exactness both step and dis-
tance; each will march in the trace of the guide who immediately
precedes him, without occupying himself with the general direction.
The lieutenant-colonel will hold himself, habitually, abreast with
the leading guide, to see that he does not deviate from the direction,
and will observe, also, that the next guide marches exactly in the trace
of the first.
' ** To change direction in column at full distance.
307. The column being in march in the cadenced step, when the colo-
nel shall wish to cause it to change direction, he will go to the point
at which the change ought to be commenced, and establish a marker
17
194 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
there, presenting the breast to the flank of the column ; this marker,
no matter to which side the change of dii'ection is to be made, will be
posted on the opposite side, and he will remain in position till the
last subdivision of the battalion shall have passed. The leading sub-
division being within a few paces of the marker, the colonel will
command :
Head of column to the left (or rigJit^.
At this the chief of the leading subdivision will immediately take
the guide on the side opposite the change of dii-ection, if not already
there. This guide will direct himself so as to graze the breast of the
marker; arrived at this point, the chief will cause his subdivision to
change direction by the commands and according to the principles
prescribed in the school of the company. When the wheel is com-
pleted, the chief of this subdivision will retake the guide, if changed,
on the side of the primitive direction.
The chief of each succeeding subdivision, as well as the guides, will
conform to what has just been explained for the leading subdivision.
When the column is at half distance, the pivot man will take a pace
of fourteen inches instead of nine.
The column being in march, the colonel will frequently cause the
about to be executed while marching; to this effect, he will command:
1. Battalion, right about. 2. March. 3. Guide right.
At the second cnmmand the companies will face to the right about,
and the column will then march forward in the opposite direction; the
chiefs of companies will remain behind the front rank, the file-closers
in front of the rear rank, and the guides will place themselves in the
same rank.
To halt the cnlumn.
308. The column being in march, when the colonel shall wish to halt
it, he will command :
1. Column. 2. Halt.
At the second command, briskly repeated by the captains, the col-
umn will halt ; no guide will stir, though he may have lost his distance
or be out of the direction of the preceding guides.
The column being in march, in double quick time, will be halted by
the same commands. At the command half, the men will halt in their
places, and will themselves rectify their positions in the ranks.
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 195
The column being halted, when the colonel shall wish to form it into
line of battle, he will move a little in front of the leading guide, and
face to him; this guide and the following one will fix their eyes on the
colonel, in order promptly to conform themselves to his directions.
If the colonel judge it not necessary to give a general direction to
the guides, he will limit himself to rectifying the position of such as
may be without, or within the direction, by the command (jniden of
(such) roDipnuy, or ynides of (such) compame«. to the rujht (or to tire
lef();^iit this command, the guides designated will place themselves on
the direction ; the others will stand fast.
If, on the contrary, the colonel judge it necessary to give a general
direction to the guides of the column, he will place the first two on the
direction lie shall have chosen, and command:
Guides, cover.
At this, the following guides will promptly place themselves on the
direction covering the first two in file, and each precisely at a distance
equal to the front of his company, from the guide immediately pre-
ceding ; the lieutenant-colonel will assure them in the direction, and
the colonel will command :
Left (or right) — Dress.
At this command, each company will incline to the right or left, and
dress forward or backward, so as to bring the designated flank to rest
on its guide; each captain will place himself two paces outside of his
guide, promptly align his company parallelly with that which precedes,
then command Front, and return to his place in column.
To close the column to half distance, or in mass.
.309. A column by company being at full distance right in front, and
at a halt, when the colonel shall wish to cause it to close to half dis-
tance, on the leading company, he will command :
1. To half distance, close column. 2. I^Iahch {or double quick —
March).
At the first command, the captain of the leading company will cau-
tion it to stand fast.
At the command march, which will be repeated by all the captains,
except the captain of the leading company, this company will stand
fast, and its chief will align it by the left; the file-closers will close
one pace upon the rear rank.
196 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
All the other companies will, continue to march, and as each in suc-
cession arrives at platoon distance from the one which precedes, its
captain will halt it.
At the instant that each company halts, its guide will place himself
on the direction of the guides who precede, and the captain will align
the company by the left; the file-closers will close one pace upon the
rear rank.
No particular attention need be given to the general direction of the
guides before they respectively haltj it will suffice if each follow in the
trace of the one who precedes him.
The colonel, on the side of the guides, will superintend the execution
of the movement, observing that the captains halt their companies ex-
actly at platoon distance the one from the other.
The lieutenant-colonel, a few paces in front, will face to the leading
guide and assure the positions of the following guides as they success-
ively place themselves on the direction.
The major will follow the movement abreast with the last guide.-
If the column be in march, the colonel will cause it to close by the
same commands.
If the column be marching in double quick time, at the first com-
mand, the captain of the leading company will command quick time;
the chiefs of the other companies will catttion their companies to con-
tinue the march.
At the command march, the leading company will take quick, while
the other companies continue to march in double quick timej and as
each arrives at platoon distance from the preceding one, its chief Avill
cause it to march in quick time.
When the rearmost company shall have gained its distance, the
colonel will command :
Double quid: — March.
When the colonel shall wish to halt the column marching at double
quick, and to cause it to close to half distance at the same time, he will
notify the captain of the leading company of his intention, who, at the
command march, will halt his company and align it to the left.
If the column be marching in quick time, and the colonel should not
give the command double quick, the captain of the leading company
will halt his company at the command march, and align it to the left.
In the case where the colonel adds the command double quick, the
leading company will continue at quick, while all the others, at the
command march, take double quick time.
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 197
Tu close the column on the eighth, or rearmost company. \
310. The column being at a halt, if. instead of causing it to close to
half distance on the first company, the colonel should wish to cause it
to close on the eighth, he will command :
1. On the eighth company, to half distance close column. 2. Bat-,
talion, almut — Face. 3. Column, forivard. 4. Guide right.
' 5. March (or double quick — March).
.A.t the second command, all the companies, except the eighth, will
face about, and their guide will remain in the front rank, now the rear.
At the fourth command, all the captains will place themselves two
paces outside of their companies on the side of the guide.
At the command nKtrchy the eighth comp-any will stand fast, and its
captain will align it to the left; the other com])anics will put them-
selves in march, and as each arrives at platoon distance from the one
established before it, its captain will halt it and face it to the front. At
the moment that each company halts, the left guide, remaining faced to
the rear, will place himself promptly on the direction of the guides
already established. Immediately after,, the captain will align his
company to the left, and the file-closers will close one pace on the rear
rank.
If this movement be executed in double quick time, each captain, in
turn, will halt, and command :
Such company, right about — Halt.
At this command, the company designated will face to the right
about, and halt.
All the companies being aligned, the colonel will cause the guides,
who stand faced to the rear, to face about.
The lieutenant-colonel, placing himself behind the rearmost guide?
will assure the position of the other guides in succession ; the major
will remain abreast with the rearmost company.
311. The column being in march, when the colonel shall wish to
close it on the eighth company, he will command :
1. On the eighth cotnpany, to half distafice, close column. 2. Bat-
talion, right about. 3. March (or double quick — March).
4. Guide right.
At the first command, the captain of the eighth company will caution
his company that it will remain faced to the front j the captains of the
198 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
other companies will caution their companies that they will have to
face about. At the command march, the captain of the eighth company
will halt his company and align it to the left; the file-closers will close
one pace upon the rear rank.
The captains of the other companies, at the same command, will
place themselves on the flank of the column ; the subdivisions will face
about, and as each arrives at platoon distance from the company im-
mediately preceding it, its chief will face it to the front, and halt it.
The instant each company halts, the guide on the directing flank,
remaining faced to the rear, will quickly place himself on the direction
of the guides already established. After which, the captain will align
the company to the left, and the file-closers will close one pace upon the
rear rank.
The lieutenant-colonel will follow the movements abreast of the first
company. The major will place himself a few paces in rear of the
guide of the eighth company, and will assure the position of the other
guides in succession.
.312. A column by division at full distance will close to half distance
by the same means and the same coipmands.
A column by company, or by division, being at full or half distance,
the colonel will cause it to close in mass by the same means and com-
mands, substituting the indication column, close in mnim, for that of to
half distance, close column.
In a column, left in front, these various movements will be executed
on the same principles.
Being in column at half distance^ or closed in mass, to take
distances.
To take distances by the head of the column.
313. The column lieing by company at half distance and at a halt,
when the colonel shall wish to cause it to take full distances by the
head, he will commaAd :
Bi/ the head of column, take wheeling distance.
At this command, the captain of the leading company will put it
in march ; to this end, he will command :
I. First company, forward. 2. Guide left. S.March {or double
quick — March).
When the second shall have nearly its wheeling distance, its captain
will command :
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 199
!. Second company, for icnrd. 2. Guide left. 3. March Cor
double quick — March).
At th? command mrirch, which will be pronouucecl at the instant
that this company shall hare its wheelin,^ distance, it will stop oflf
sraartly, takinf^ the step from the preceding company. Each of the
other compaiiles will successively execute what has just been pre-
scribed for the second.
The colonel will see that each company put itself in march at the *
instant it has its distance. The lieutenant-colonel will hold htmself
at the head of the column, and direct the march of the leading guide.
The major will hold himself abreast with the rearmost guide.
If the column, instead of being* at a halt, be in march, the colonel
will give the same commands, and add:
March (or double quick — March).
If the column be marching in quick time, at the command march,
the captain of the leading company will cause double quid: time to
Vte taken ; which will also be taken by the other companies as they
successively attain their proper distance.
If the column be marching in double quick time, the leading com-
pany will continue to march at the same gait. The captains of the
other companies will cause quick time to be taken, and as each com-
pany gains its proper distance, its captain will cause it to retake the
double quick step.
To lake diatanceft on the rear of the column.
314, If the colonel wish to take distances on the rearmost company,
he will establish two markers on the direction he shall wish to give to
the line of battle, the first opposite to the rearmost company, the
second marker toward the head of the column, at company distance
from the first, and both facing to the rear ; at the same time, the right
general guide, on an intimation from the lieutenant-colonel, will move
rapidly a little beyond the point to which the head of the column
will extend, and place himself correctly on the prolongation of the two
markers. These dispositions being made, the colonel will command :
1. On the eighth company, take wheeling distance. 2. Column, for-
ward. 3. Guide left. 4. M.xncu {ov double quick — March).
At the third command, the captains will place themselves two paces
outside of the directing flank ; the captain of the eighth company will
caution it to stand fast.
200 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
At the command march, rei:)eated by all the captains, except the
captain of the eighth company, this latter company will stand fast;
its chief will align it to the left on the first marker, who is opposite to
this company, and place himself before its centre, after commanding,
Front. At this command, the marker will retire, and the left guide
will take his place.
All the other comi^anies will put themselves in march, the guide of
the leading one directing himself a little within the right general
guide ; when the seventh company has arrived opposite the second
marker, its captain will halt, and align it on this marker, in the man-
ner prescribed for the eighth company.
When the captain of the sixth company shall see that there is,
between his company and the seventh, the necessary space for wheeling
into line, he will halt his company; the guide, facing to the rear, will
jilace himself promptly on the direction, and the moment he shall be
assured in his position, the captain will align the company by the left,
and then place himself two paces before its centre; the other compa-
nies will in succession conform to what has been prescribed for, the
sixth company.
The colonel will follow the movement, and see that each company
halts at the prescribed distance ; he will promptly remedy any fault
that may be committed, and as soon as all the companies shall be
aligned, he will cause the guides, who are faced to the rear, to face
about.
The lieutenant-colonel will assure the left guides on the direction in
succession, placing himself in their rear, as they arrive. The major
will hold himself at the head of the column, and will direct the march
To take distances on the head of the column.
.315. The colonel, wishing to take distances on the leading company,
will establish two marches in the manner just described, one abreast
with this comj)any, and the other at company distance in rear of the
first, both facing to the front; the left general guide, on an intimatidu.
from the lieutenant-colonel, will move rapidly to the rear, and place
himself correctly on the prolongation of the two marches, a little
beyond the point to which the rear of the column will extend; these
dispositions being made, the colonel will command :
1. On the first company, take wheeling distance. 2. Battalion,
about — Face. 3. Column, forward. 4. Guide right. 5. March
(or double quick — March).
' SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 201
At the second command, all the companies, except the one desig-
nated, will face about, the guides remaining in the front rank now
become the rear. At the fourth command, the captains will place
themselves outside of their guides.
At the command march, the captain of the designated company will
align it on the marker placed by its side.
The remaining companies will put themselves in march, the guide of
the rearmost one will direct himself a little within the left general
guide ; when the second company shall have arrived opposite the
second marker, its captain will face it about, halt it, and align it as has
just been prescribed for the first company.
The captains of the remaining com])anies will each, in succession,
conform himself to what has just been prescribed for the captain of
the second.
The colonel, lieutenant-colonel, and major, will conform to what is
prescribed in No. 314.
To change direction in column closed in mass.
To change direction in marching.
316. A column by division, closed in mass, being in march, will
change direction by the front of subdivisions.
Whether the change be made to the reverse or to the pivot flank, it
will always be executed on the principle of wheeling in marching; to
this end, the colonel will first cause the battalion to take the guide on
the flank opposite to the intended change of direction, if it be not
already on that flank.
A column by division, closed in mass, right in front, having to
change direction to the right, the colonel, after having caused a
marker to be placed at the point where the change ought to com-
mence, will command :
1. Battalion, right wheel. 2. March.
At the command inarcli, the leading division will wheel as if it were
part of a column at half distance.
The instant that this division commences the wheel, all the others
will, at once, conform themselves to its movement ; to this end the
left guide of each, advancing slightly the left shoulder, and length-
ening a little the step, will incline to the left, and will observe, at the
same time, to gain so much ground to the front that there may con-
stantly be an interval of four paces between his division jiud that
202 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
which precedes it; and as snon as he shall cover the preceding guide,
he will cease to incline, and then march exactly in his trace.
Each division will conform itself to the movement of its guide ;
the men will feel lightly the elbow toward him and advance a little
the left shoulder the instant the movement commences ; each file,
in inclining, will gaiin so much the less ground to the front, as the
file shall be nearer to the pivot, and the right guide will gain only so
much as may be necessary to maintain between his own and the
preceding division the same distance which separates their marching
flanks.
The colonel, seeing the wheel nearly ended, will command :
1. Forward. 2. March.
At the second command, which will be given at the instant the
leading division completes its wheel, it will resume the direct march ;
the other divisions will conform themselves to this movement; and
if any guide find himself not covering his immediate leader, he will,
by slight degrees, bring himself on the trace of that guide, by ad-
vancing the right shoulder.
Tn change direction from a halt.
317. A column by company, or by division, closed in mass, being at
a halt, when the colonel shall wish to give it a new direction, and in
which it is to remain, he will cause it to execute this movement by the
flanks of subdivisions, in the following manner :
The battalion having the right in front, when the colonel shall wish
to cause it to change direction by the right flank, he will indicate to
the lieutenant-colonel the point of direction to the right; this ofiicer
will immediately establish, on the new direction, two markers, distant
from each other a little less than the front of the first svibdivision, the
first marker in front of the right file of this subdivision ; which being
executed, he will command :
1. Change direction hy the right Jiank. 2. Battalion^ right — Face.
3. March (or double quick — March).
At the second command, the column will face to the right, and each
chief of subdivision will place himself by the side of his right guide.
At the command march, all the subdivisions will step oS" together ;
the right guide of the leading one will direst himself from the first
step, parallelly to the markers placed in advance on the new direction ;
the chief of the subdivision will not follow the movement, but see it
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 208
file past, and as soon as the left guide shall have passed, he will com-
mand :
1. First companji (or first division). 2. Halt. 3. Front.
4. Left — Dress.
At the fourth command the subdivision will place itself against the
two markers, and be promptl.y aligned by its chief.
The right guide of each of the following subdivisions will conform
himself to the direction of the right guide of the subdivision preceding
his own in the column, so as to enter on the new direction parallelly
to that subdivision, and at the distance of four paces from its rear
rank.
»<
Each chief of subdivision will halt in his own person on arriving
opposite to the left guides already placed on the ntw direction, see his
subdivision file past, and conform himself, in halting and aligning it,
to what is prescribed above.
If the change of direction be by the left flank, the colonel will canse
markers to be established as before, the first in front of the left file of
the leading subdivision, and then give the same commands, substi-
tuting the indication left for right.
Being in column by company, closed in mass, to form divisions.
.318. The column being closed in mass, right in front, and at a halt,
when the colonel shall wish to form divisions, he will command :
1. Form divisions. 2. Left companies, left — Face. 3. March
(or double quick — March).
At the first command the captains of the left compaiiies will caution
them to face to the left. At the second command the left companies
will face to the left, and their captains will place themselves by the
side of their respective left guides.
The right companies,- and their captains, will stand fast ; but the
right and left guides of each of these companies will place themselves
respectively before the right and left files of the company, both guides
facing to the right, and each resting his right arm gently against the
lu-east of the front rank man of the file, in order to mark the direction.
At the command march, the left companies only will put themselves
in march, their captains standing fast: as each shall see that his com-
pany, filing past, has nearly cleared the column, he will command :
1. Such- company. 2. Halt. 3. Front.
204 iMANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The first command will be given when the company shall yet have
four paces to march j the second the instant it shall have cleared its
right company ; and the third immediately after the second.
The company having faced to the front, the files, if there be intervals
between them, will promptly incline to the right; the captain will place
himself on the left of the right company of the division, and align
himself correctly on the front rank of that company. The left guide
will, at the same time, place himself before one of the three left files of
his company, face to the right, and cover the guides of the right com-
pany correctly ; the moment his captain sees him established on the
direction, he will command :
Right — Dress.
At this, the left company will dress forward on the alignment of the
right company; the front rank man, who may find himself opposite to
the left guide, will, without preceding hiss rank, rest his breast lightly
against the right arm of this guide; the captain of the left company
will direct its alignment on this man, and the alignment being assured,
he will command Front ; but not quit his position.
The colonel seeing the divisions formed, will command :
Guides — Posts.
At this the guides, who have marked the fronts of division, will
retvirn to their places in column, the left guide of each right company
passing through the interval in the centre of tlie division, the senior
captain of each division will take his post two paces in front of the
division, and the junior captain will place himself between the two
companies.
.319. If the column be in march, instead of at a halt, when the colo-
nel shall wish to form divisions, he will command :
1. Fonn divisions. 2. Left co7npanies, hy the left Jiank. 3.
March (or double quick — March).
At the first command, the captains of the right companies will com-
mand, inai-k time, the captains of the left comi^anies will caution their
companies to face % the left faiik. At the third command, the right
companies will mark time, the left companies will face to the left, the
captains of the left companies will each see his company file past him,
and when it has cleared the column, will command :
Such company^'Jjij the right fank — March.
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 205
As soon as the divisions are formed, the colonel will command:
4. Forward. 5. March.
At the fifth command, the column will resume the gait at which it
was marching previous to the commencement of the movement. The
guides of each division will- remain on the right and left of their re-
spective companies; the left guide of the right company will pass into
the line of file-closers, before the two companies are united; the right
guide of the left company will step into the rear rank.
Being in column at full or half distance to form divisions.
320. If the column be at a halt, and, instead of being closed in mass,
is at full or half distance, divisions will be formed in the same manner;
but the captains of the left companies, if the m,ovement be made in
quick time, after commanding Front, will each place himself before
the centre of his company, and command :
1. Such company^ forward. 2. Guide right. 3. March.
If the movement be made in double quick time, each will command,
as soon as his company has closed the column :
1. Such company^ by the right flank. 2. March.
If the left be in front, the movement will be executed by inverse
means.
Countermarch of a column at full or half distance.
321. In a column at full or half distance, the countermarch will be
executed by the means indicated, school of the company ; to this end,
the colonel will command :
1. Countermarch. 2. Battalion., right for left) — Face. 3. By
file left (or right). 4. March (or double quick — March).
2o countermarch a column closed in mass.
If the column be closed in mass, the countermarch will be executed
by the commands and means subjoined.
The column being supposed formed by division, right in front, the
colonel will command :
1. Countermarch. 2. Battalion^ rigid and left — Face. 3. By
file, left and right. 4. March (or double quick — March).
206 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
At the first commaud, the chiefs of the odd numbered divisious will
caution them to face to the right, and the chiefs of the others to face to
the left.
At the second command, the odd divisions will face to the right, and
the even to the left ; the right and left guides of all the divisions will
face about; the chiefs of odd divisions will hasten to their right and
cause two files to break to the rear, and each chief place himself on the
left of the leading front rank man of his division ; the chiefs of even
divisions will hasten to their left, and cause two files to break to the
rear, and each chief place himself on the right of his leading front
rank man.
At the command march, all the divisions, each conducted by its chief,
will step off" smartly, the guides standing fast; each odd division will
wheel by file to the left around its right guide ; each even division will
wheel by file to the right around its left guide, each division so direct-
ing its march as to arrive behind its opposite guide, and when its head
shall be up with this guide, the chief will halt the division, and cause
it to face to the front.
Each division, on facing to the front, will be aligned by its chief by
the right ; to this end, the chiefs of the even divisions will move
rapidly to the right of their respective divisions.
The divisions being aligned, each chief will command, Front ; at
this, the guides will shift to their proper flanks.
In a column with the left in front, the countermarch will be executed
by the same commands and means ; but all the divisions will be aligned
by the left : to this end, the chiefs of the odd divisions will hasten to
the left of their respective divisions as soon as the latter shall have
been faced to the front.
Different modes of passing frt.m the order in column to the order
in battle.
Manner af determining the line of battle.
322. The line of battle may be marked or determined in three dili'er-
ent manners : 1st, by placing two markers eighty or one hundred paces
apart, on the direction it is wished to give to the line ; 2d, by placing
a marker at the point at which it may be intended to rest a flank, and
then choosing a second point toward or beyond the opposite flank,
and thei-e posting a second marker, distant from each other a little less
than the leading subdivision ; 3d, by choosing at first the points of
direction for the flanks, and then determining, by intermediate points,
the straight line between those selected points, both of which may
sometimes be beyond reach.
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 207
Column, at full distance, right in front, to the left into line of
battle.
323. A column, right in front, being at a halt, when the colonel shall
wish to form it to the left into line, he will assure the positions of the
guides by means previously indicated, and then command :
1. Left intii line, icheel. 2. March (or double quick — March).
At, the first command, the right guide of the leading company will
hasten to place himself on the direction of the left guides of the
column, face to them, and place himself so as to be opposite to one of
the three right files of his company, when they shall be in line: he will
be assured in this position by the lieutenant-colonel.
At the command march, briskly repeated by the captains, the left
front rank man of each company will face to the left, and rest his
breast lightly against the right arm of his guide; the companies will
wheel to the left on the principle of wheeling from a halt, conforming
themselves to what is prescribed, school of the company : each captain
will turn to his company, to observe the execution of the movement,
and, when the right of the company shall arrive at three paces from
the line of battle, he will command :
1. Such company. 2. Halt.
The company being halted, the captain will place himself on the line
by the side of the left front rank man of the company next on the
right, align himself correctly, and command:
3. Right — Dress.
At this command, the company will dress up between the captain
and the front rank man on its left, the captain directing the alignment
on that man ; the front rank man on the right of the right company,
who finds himself opposite to its right guide, will lightly rest his
breast against the left arm of this guide.
Each captain, having aligned his company, will command, Front,
and the colonel will add :
Guides — Posts.
At this command, the guides will return to their places in line of
battle, each passing through the nearest captain's interval ; to permit
him to pass, the captain will momentarily step before the first file of
208 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
his company, and the covering sergeant behind the same file. This ruin-
is (jeneral for all the formations into line of battle.
When companies form line of battle, file-closers will always place
themselves exactly two paces from the rear rank, which will sufficiently
assure their alignment.
The battalion being correctly aligned, the colonel, lieutenant-colonel,
and major, as well as the adjutant and sergeant-major, will return to
their respective places in line of battle. This rule is yeiieral for all
the formations into line of battle.
A column, with the left in front, will form itself to the right into line
of battle, according to the same principles.
At the command guides, i^osts, the captains will take their places in
line of battle as well as the guides. This rule- is general for all forma-
tions into line of battle in which the companies are aligned by the left.
324. A column by division may form itself into line of battle by
the same commands and means, observing what follows : if the right
be in front, at the command halt, given by the chiefs of division, the
left guide of each right company will place himself on the alignment
opposite to one of the three files on the left of his company; the left
guide of the first company will be assured on the direction by the lieu-
tenant-colonel ; the left guides of the other right companies will align
themselves correctly on the division guides ; to this end, the division
guides (already on the line) will invert, and hold their pieces up per-
pendicularly before the centre of their bodies, at the command, left into
line, wheel. If the column by division be with the left in front, the
right guides of the left companies will conform to what has just been
prescribed for the left guides of the right companies.
325. A column in march will be formed into line, without halting,
by the same commands and means. At the command march, the guides
will halt in their places, and the lieutenant-colonel will promptly
rectify their positions.
If, in forming the column into line, the colonel should wish to move
forward, without halting, he will command:
1. By companies, left wheel. 2. March (or double quick —
March).
At the command march, repeated by the captains, ea«h company will
wheel to the left on a fixed pivot, as i:)reseribed in the school of the
company, the left guides will step back into the rank of file-closers
before the wheel is completed, and when the right of the companies
shall arrive near the line, the colonel will command :
3. Forward. 4. March. 5. Guide centre.
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 209
At the fourth command, given at the instant the wheel is completed,
the companies will march directly to the front. At the fifth command,
the color and the general guides will move rapidly six paces to the
front. The colonel will assume the direction of the color; the cap-
tains of companies and the men will, at once, conform to the principles
of the march in line of battle, to be indicated, No. 343.
By inversion to the right (or left^ into line of battle.
326. When a column, right in front, shall be under the necessity of
forming itself into line faced to the reverse flank, and the colonel shall
wish to execute this formation by the shortest movement, he will com-
mand :
1. By inversion^ right into line, wheel. 2. Battalion, guide right.
At the first command, the lieutenant-colonel will place himself in
front, and facing to the i-ight guide of the leading subdivision ; at the
second command, he will rectify, as jDrornptly as possible, the direction
of the right guides of the column; the captain of the odd company, if
there be one, and the column be by division, will promptly bring the
right of his company on the direction, and at company distance from
the division next in front; the left guide of the leading subdivision will
place himself on the direction of the right guides, and will be assured
in his position by the lieutenant-colonel ; which being executed, the
colonel will command :
s
3. March (or double quick — March).
At this, the right front rank man of each subdivision will face to the
right, rest his breast lightly against the left arm of his guide, and the
battalion will form itself to the right into line of battle, according to
the principles prescribed.
Successive formations.
327. Under the denomination of successive formations are included
all those formations where the several subdivisions of a column arrive
one after another on the line of battle ; such are formations on the
right, or left, forward and faced to the rear into line of battle, as well
as deployments of columns in mass.
The successive formations which may be ordered when the column is
marching, and is to continue marching, will be executed by a combina-
tion of the two gaits, quick and double quick time.
In all the successive formations, every captain will always observe
18
210 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
before dressing his company, to place himself correctly on the line
either on the left or right of the company which precedes his in line,
and sec that his guide has been assured on the direction by the lieuten-
ant-colonel.
Column at full distance, on the right (or on the left) into line of
battle.
328. A column by company, at full distance, and right in front, hav-
ing to form itself on the right into line of battle, the colonel will indi-
cate to the lieutenant-colonel a little in advance, the point of appui, or
rest, for the right, as well as the point of direction to the left; the
lieutenant-colonel will hasten with two markers! and establish them in
the following manner on the direction indicated:
The first marker will be jjlaced at the point of ajipui for the right
front rank man of the leading company; the second will indicate the
point where one of the three left files of the same company will rest
when in line ; they will be placed so as to present the right shoulder to
the battalion when formed.
These dispositions being made, the colonel will command :
1. On the right, into line. 2. Battalion, guide right. i
At the second command, the right will become the directing flank,
and the touch of the elbow will be to that side; the right guide of the
leading company will march straight forward until up with the turning
point, and each following guide will march in the trace of the one
immediately preceding.
The leading company being nearly up with the first marker, its cap-
tain will command :
1. Right turn,
and when the company is precisely up with this marker, he will add:
2. March.
At the command march, the company Avill turn to the right; the right
guide will so direct himself as to bring the man next to him opposite to
the right marker, and when at three paces from him, the captain will
command:
1. First company. 2. Halt.
At the second command, the company will bait; the files, not yet in
line, will form promptly; the left guide will retire as a file closer ; and
the cai^tain will then command:
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 211
3. Rigid — Dress.
At this command, the comjiany will align itself; the two men who
find themselves opposite to the two markers will each lightly rest his
breast against the right arm of his marker; the captain, passing to the
right of the front rank, will direct the alignment on these two men.
These rules are general for all successive forwations.
The second company will continue to march straight forward; when
arrived opposite to the left flank of the preceding company, it will turn
to the right, and be formed on the line of battle, as has just been pre-
scribed; the right guide will direct himself so as to come upon that
lino by the side of the man on the left of the first company.
At the distance of three paces from the line of battle, the company
will be halted by its captain, who will place himself briskly, by the side
of the man on the left of the preceding company', and align himself
correctlj' on its front rank.
The left guide will, at the same time, place himself before one of the
three left files of his company, and, facing to the right, he will place
himself accurately on the direction of the two markers of the preced-
ing company.
The captain will then command:
Right — Drp:ss.
At this command, the second company will dress forward on the line ;
the captain will direct its alignment on the front rank man who has
rested his breast against the left guide of the company.
The following companies will thus come successively to form them-
selves on the line of battle, each conforming itself to what has just been
prescribed for the one next to the right ; and when they shall all be
established, the colonel will command:
Guides — Posts.
At this command, the guides will take their places in line of battle;
and the markers placed before the right company will retire.
If the column be marching in quick time, and the colonel should
wish to cause the movement to be executed in double quick time, he will
add the command :
Double quick — March.
At the command inarch, all the companies will take the double quick
step, and the movement will be executed as prescribed above.
The colonel will follow up the formation, passing along the front, and
212 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
being always opposite the company about to turn ; it is thus that he
will be the better able to see and correct the error that would re-
sult from a command given too soon or too late to the preceding com-
pany.
The lieutenant-colonel will, with the greatest care, assure the direc-
tion of the guides ; to this end, the instant that the markers are estab-
lished for the leading company, he will move a little beyond the point
at which the left of the next company will rest, establish himself cor-
rectly on the prolongation of the two markers, and assure the guide of
the second company on this direction; this guide being assured, the
lieutenant-colonel will place himself farther to the rear, in order to
assure, in like manner, the guide of the third company, and so on, suc-
cessively, to the left of the battalion. In assuring the guides in their
positions on the line of battle, he will take care to let them first place
themselves, and confine himself to I'ectifying their positions if they do
not cover accurately, and at the projjer distance, the preceding guides
or markers. This rule is general for all successive formations.
When the direction of the line of battle forms a sensible angle
with that of the march of the column, the colonel, before beginning
the movement, will give the head of the column a new direction
parallel to that line.
A column, left in front, will form itself on the left into line of battle
according to the same principles.
Each captain will cause his company to support arms, the instant
that the captain, who follows him, shall have commanded front. This
rule is general for all successive formations.
When, in the execution of this movement, the colonel shall wish
to commence firing, he will give the order to that effect to the captain
whose company is the first on the line ; this captain will immediately
place himself behind the centre of his company, and as soon as the
next captain shall have commanded front, he will commence the fire
by tile. At the command fre by file, the marker at the outer flank
of this company will retire, and the other will place himself against
the nearest man of the next company. The captain of the latter
will commence firing as soon as the captain of the third company
in line shall have commanded front; the marker before the right
or left file retiring, and the gviide before the opposite flank taking post
before the nearest file of the third company, in line ,• and so on to the
last company.
Column at fall distance, forward into line of battle.
329. A column being by company, at full distance, right in front,
and at a halt, when the colonel shall wish to form it forward into line,
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 213
he will conform to what is prescribed in the first part of the last num-
ber, and then command :
1. Forward, into line. 2. By company, left half wheel. 3. March
(or double quick — March).
At the first command, the captain of the leading company will add,
guide right, put the company in march, halt it three paces from the
markers, and align it against tlie latter by the right.
At the command march, all the other companies will wheel to the
left on fixed pivots ; and, at the instant the colonel shall judge, accord-
ing to the direction of the line of battle, that the companies have
sufiiciently wheeled, he will command :
4. Forioard. 5. March. 6. Guide right.
At the fifth command the companies ceasing to wheel will march
straight forward ; and at the sixth, the men will touch elbows toward
the right. The right guide of the second company, who is nearest to
the line of battle, will march straight forward ; each succeeding right
guide will follow the file immediately before him at the cessation of the
wheel.
The second company having arrived opposite to the left file of the
first, its captain will cause it to turn to the right, in order to approach
the line of battle; and when its right guide shall be at three paces
from that line, the captain will command :
1. Second company. 2. Halt.
At the second command, the company will halt: the files not yet in
line with the guide will come into it promptly, the left guide will place
himself on the line of battle, so as to be opposite to one of the three
files on the left of the company; and, as soon as he is assured on the
direction by the lieutenant-colonel, the captain, having placed himself
accurately on the line of battle, will command :
3. Right — Dress.
At the instant that the guide of the second company begins to turn
to the right, the guide of the third ceasing to follow the file imme-
diately before him, will march straight forward: and, when he shall
arrive opposite to the left of the second, his captain will cause the
company to turn to the right, in order to approach tli€ line of battle,
halt it at three paces from that line, and align it by the right, as pre-
scribed for the second company.
Each following company will execute what has just been prescribed
214 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
for the third, as the preceding company shall turn to the right in order
to approach the line of battle.
The formation ended, the colonel will command :
Guides — Posts.
The colonel and lieutenant-colonel Avill observe, in this formation,
what is prescribed for them on the right into line.
A column left in front, will form itself forward into line of battle
according to the same principles and by inverse means.
330. When a column by company at full distance, right in front,
and in march, has arrived at company distance from the two markers
established on the line, the colonel will command :
1. Forward, into line. 2. By company, left half wheel. 3. March
(or double quick — March).
At the first command, the captain of the first company will com-
mand, guide right, and caution it to march directly to the front,
the captains of the other companies will caution them to wheel to
the left.
At the command march, briskly repeated by the captains, the move-
ment will be executed as in the last case.
If the colonel should wish to form the column forward into line, and
to continue to march in this order, he will not cause markers to be
established: the movements will be executed in double quick time, by
the same commands and means, observing what follows:
At the fir:-t command, the captain of the first companj'^ will add
quick time after the command (juide rigJit. At the second command,
the first company will continue to mai'ch in quick time, and will take
the touch of elbow to the right; its chief will imniediate'y place him-
self on its right, and to assure the march will take points of direction
to the front. The captain of the second company will cause his com-
pany to take the same gait as soon as it shall arrive on a line with the
first, and will also move to the right of his company; the captains of
the third and fourth companies will execute in succession what has
just been prescribed for the second. The companies will preserve the
touch of elbows to the right, until the command, ynide centre.
When the color company shall have entered the line, the colonel
will command, guide centre. At this command the color-bearer and
right general gtiide will move rapidly six paces in advance of the line.
The colonel will assure the direction of the color-bearer, the lieutenant-
colonel and right companies will immediately conform to the prin-
ciples of the march in line of battle. The left companies and the
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 215
left general guide, as tbey arrive in line, will also conform to the
same principles.
1. Column^ at full distance, faced to the rear, into line of battle.
331. A column being by company, at full distance, rigbt in front,
and at a halt, when the colonel shall wish to form it into line faced to
the rear, he and the lieutenant-colonel will conform themselves to what
is prescribed in the first part of No. 328, and the colonel will then com-
mand :
1. Ifito line, faced to the rear. 2. Battalion, right — Face. 3.
March (or double quick — March).
At the first command, the captain of the leading company will cause
it to face to the right, and put it in march, causing it to wheel by file
to the left, and direct its march toward the line of battle, which it will
pass in rear of the left marker; the first file having pas.^ed three paces
beyond the line, the company will wheel again by file to the left, in
order to place itself in rear of the two markers; being in this position,
its captain will halt it, face it to the front, and align it by the right
against the markers.
At the second command, all the other companies will face to the
right, each captain placing himself by the side of his right guide.
At the command march, the companies will put themselves in move-
ment; the left guide of the second, who is nearest to the line of battle,
will hasten in advance to mark that Hue; he will place himself on it
as prescribed above for successive formations, and thus indicate to his
captain the point at which he ought to pass the line of battle, by three
paces, in order to wheel by file to the left, and then to direct his com-
pany parallelly to that line.
As soon as the first file of this company shall have arrived near the
left file of the preceding one already on the line of battle, its captain
will command :
1. Second company. 2. Halt. 3. Front. 4. Right— Dress.
The first command will be given when the company shall yet have
four paces to take to reach the halting point.
At the second command, the company will halt.
At the third, the company will face to the front, and if there be
openings between the files the latter will promptly close to the right;
the captain will immediately place himself by the side of the man on
the left of the preceding company, and align himself on its front rank.
216 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The fourth command will be executed as prescribed, No. 328.
The following companies will be conducted and established on the
line of battle as just prescribed for the second, each regulating itself
by the one that precedes it; the left guides will detach themselves in
time to precede their respective companies on the line by twelve or
fifteen paces, and each place himself so as to be oj)posite to one of the
three left files of his company, when in line. If the movement be
executed in double quick time, the moment it is commenced, all the left
guides will detach themselves at the same time from the column, and
will move at a run, to establish themselves on the line of battle.
The formation ended, the colonel will command:
Guides — Posts.
The colonel and lieutenant-colonel, in this formation, will each
observe what is prescribed for him in that of on the right, into line of
battle.
A column, left in front, will form itself faced to the rear into line of
battle, according to the same principles and by inverse means.
3.32. If the column be in march, and nearly at company distance from
the two markers established on the line, the colonel will command:
1. Into line, faced to the rear. 2. Battalion, by the right flank.
3. March (or douhle quick — March).
At the first command, the captains will caution their companies to
face by the right flank.
At the command march, briskly repeated by the captains of com-
panies, all the companies will face to the right, and the movement will
be completed as in the last case.
Formation in line of battle by tioo movements.
333. If a column by company, right in front, and at a halt, find itself
in part on the line of battle, and the colonel should think proper to
form line of battle before all the companies enter the new direction,
the formation will be executed as follows :
It will be supposed that the column has arrived behind the line of
battle, and that five companies haA^e entered the new direction, the
colonel having assured the guides of the first five companies on the
direction, will command:
1. Left into line, wheel. 2. Three rear companies, forward into
i line.
SCHOOL OF THT: BATTALION. 217
At the second commanrl. the chief of each of the rear companies
Avill command: B;/ conipnn^, left hdlf-irheel ; and the colonel will add:
3. March (or double quick — March).
At this command, rci)eated hy the captains, the first five companies
will wheel to the Uft into line, and the last three will execute forward
into line, by the means pi'escrihed for this fm-mation ; each captain
of the three rear companies will, when his company shall have suffi-
ciently wheeled, command:
1. Forivard. 2. March. 3. Guide right.
If the column be in march, the colonel will command :
1. I'o tlie left^ and foricard into line. 2. March (or double
quick — Marc n) .
If the colonel should wish, in formiuo- the battalion into line, to
march immediately forward, he will command:
1. By company, to the left, and forward into line. 2. March.
And when the right of the companies which wheel shall arrive on
the line, he will command:
3. Forward. 4. March. 5. Guide centre.
If the battalion be marching in double quick time, the colonel will
cause quick time to be taken before commencing the movement.
334. If, instead of arriving behind, the column should arrive before
the line of battle, so that a portion is on the line, and the remaining
portion still in front of it, the colonel will command:
1. Left into line, ivheel. 2. Three rear companies irito line,
faced to the rear.
At the second command, the captain of each of the three rear com-
panies will command:
1. Such company. 2. Right — Face.
The colonel will then add :
3. March (or double quick — March).
At this command, repeated by the captains, the first five com-
panies will form to the left into line, and the three last into line, f(iced
to the rear.
19
218 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
If the column be in march, the colonel will command :
1. To the left, and into line, faced to the rear. 2. March (or
double quick — March).
Different modes of passing from column at half distance into line
of battle.
Column at half distance, to the left (or right^ into line of battle.
335. A column at half distance having to form to the left (or
rio'ht) into line, the colonel will cause it to take distance by the means
prescribed, No. 313 ; which being executed, he will form the column
into line to the left or right, No. 323.
If a column by company, at half distance, be in march, and it
is necessary to form rapidly into line, the colonel will command :
1. By the rear of column, left (or right) into line, wheel.
2. March (or double quick — March).
At the first command, the right general guide will move rapidly
to the front, and place himself a little beyond the point where the head"
of the column will rest, and on the prolongation of the guides. The
captain of the eighth company will command : Left into line, wheel; the
other captains will caution their companies to continue to march to the
front. At the command march, repeated by the captain of the
eighth company, the guide of this company will halt, and the com-
pany will wheel to the left, conforming to the principles laid down for
wheeling from a halt; when its right shall arrive near the line, the
captain will halt the company, and align it to the left. The other cap-
tains will place themselves briskly on the flank of the column ; when
the captain of the seventh sees that there is sufficient distance between
his company and the eighth to form the latter into line, he will
command : Left into line, wheel — March ; the left guide will halt, and
facing to the rear, will place himself on the line ; the company will
wheel to the left, the man on the left of the front rank will face to the
left, and place his breast against the arm of the guide ; the captain
will halt the company when its right shall arrive near the line, and
will align it to the left. The other companies will conform in suc-
cession to what has been prescribed for the seventh. Each cap-
tain will direct the alignment of his company on the left man in
the front rank of the company next on his right.
The lieutenant-colonel will see that the leading guide marches accu-
rately on the prolongation of the line of battle, and directs himself
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 219
on the right general guide. The major, placed in rear of the left guide
of the eighth company, will, as soon as the seventh company is es-
tablished on the direction, hasten in rear of the guides of the other
companies, so as to assure each of them on the line in succession.
Column^ at half distance^ on the right (or left) info line of battle.
336. A column at half distaiicc will form itself on the right (or left)
into line, as prescribed for a column at full distance.
Column at half distance, forward, into line of battle.
337. If it be wished to form a column at half distance forward
into line of battle, the colonel will first cause it to close in mass
and then deploy it on the leading company.
Colum?! at half distance, into line, face to the rear.
338. A column at half distance will be formed into line of battle,
faced to the rear, as prescribed for a column at full distance.
Deployment of column closed in mass.
339. When a column in mass, by division, arrives behind the line on
which it is intended to deploy it, the colonel will indicate, in advance,
to the lieutenant colonel, the direction of the line of battle, as well as
the point on which he may wish to direct the column. The lieutenant-
colonel will immediately detach himself with two markers, and estab-
lish them ou that line, the first at the point indicated, the second
a little less than the front of a division from the first.
Deployments will always be made upon lines parallel and lines per-
pendicular to the line of battle; consequently, if the head of the
column be near the line of battle, the colonel will commence by estab-
lishing the direction of the columu perpendicularly to that line, if it
be not already so. If the column be in march, he will so direct it that
it may arrive exactly behind the markers, perpendicularly to the line
of battle, and halt it at three paces from that line.
The column, right in front, being halted, it is supposed that the colo-
nel wishes to deploy it on the first division ,• he will order the left
general guide to go to a point on the line of battle a little beyond that
at which the left of the battalion will rest when deployed, and place
himself correctly on the prolongation of the markers established before
the first division.
220 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
These dispositions being made, the colonel will command :
1. On the first division^ deploy column. 2. Battalion^ left — Face.
At the first command the chief of the first division will caution it to
Btand fast; the chiefs of the three other divisions will remind them
that they will have to face to the left.
At the second command the three last divisions will face to the left;
the chief of each division will place himself by the side of its left
guide, and the junior captain by the side of the covering sergeant of
the left company, who will have stepped into the front rank.
At the same command the lieutenant-colonel will place a third
marker on the alignment of the two first, opposite to one of the three
left files of the right company, first division, and then place himself on
the line of battle, a few paces beyond the point at which the left of the
second division will rest.
The colonel will then command :
3. March (or double quick — March).
At this command the chief of the first division will go to its right
and command :
RigJit — Dress.
At this the division will dress up against the markers; the chief of
the division and its junior captain will each align the company on his
left, and then command :
Front.
The three divisions, faced to the left, will put themselves in march;
the left guide of the second will direct himself paralielly to the line of
battle ; the left guides of the third and fourth divisions will march
abreast with the guide of the second ; the guides of the third and
fourth, each presei-ving the prescribed distance between himself and
the guide of the division which preceded his own in the column.
The chief of the second division will not follow its movement ; he
will see it file by him, and when its right guide shall be abreast with
him, he will command :
1. Second division. 2. Halt. 3. Front.
The first command will be given when the division shall yet have
seven or eight paces to march ; the second, when the right guide shall
be abreast with the chief of the division, and the third immediately
after the second.
At the second command, the division will halt ; at the third, it will
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 221
face to the front, and if there be openings between the file?, the chief
of the division will cause them to be promptly closed to the right ; the
left guides of both companies will step upon the line of battle, face to
the light, and place themselves on the direction of the markers estab-
lished before the first division, each guide opposite to one of the three
left files of his company.
The division having faced to the front, its chief will place himself
accurately on the line of battle, on the left of the first division ; and
when he shall see the guides assured on the direction, he will com-
mand :
Right — Dress.
At this, the division will be aligned by the right in the manner indi-
cated for the first.
The third and fourth divisions will continue to march ; at the com-
mand halt, given to the second, the chief of the third will halt in his
own person, place himself exactly opposite to the guide of the second,
after this division shall have faced to the front and closed its files ; he
will see his division file past, and when his right guide shall be abreast
with him he will command :
1. Thii'd division. 2. Halt. 3. Front.
As soon as the division faces to the front, its chief will place himself
two paces before its centre, and command:
1. Tldrd division^ forward. 2. Guide right. 3. March.
At the third command, the division will march toward the line of
battle; the right guide will so direct himself as to arrive by the side of
the man on the left of the second division, and Avhen the division is at
three paces from the line of battle, its chief will halt it and align it by
the right.
The chief of the fourth division will conform himself (and the chief
of the fifth, if there be a fifth) to what has just been prescribed for the
third.
The deployment ended, the colonel will command:
Guides — Posts.
At this command, the guides will resume their places in line of bat-
tle, and the markers will retire.
340. If the column be in march, and the colonel shall wish to deplo}'
it on the first division without halting the column, he will make the
222 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
necessary dispositions, and when the first division shall have arrived at
three paces from the line, he will command :
1. On the first division, deploy column. 2. Battalion, hy the left
flank. 3. March (or douUe quick — March).
At the first command, the chief of the first division will caution it to
halt, and will command, first division; the other chiefs will caution
their divisions to face by the left flank.
At the command march, briskly repeated by the chiefs of the rear
divisions, the chief of the first division will command, Halt, and will
align his division by the riglit against the markers; the other divisions
will face to the left, their chiefs hastening to the left of their divisions.
The second, third and fourth divisions will execute what is prescribed.
No. 338; but the chief of each division will halt in his own person at
the command march, given by the chief of the division which precedes
him, and when the right of his division arrives abreast of him, he will
command :
Such division, hy the right flanh — March.
If the colonel should Avish to deploy the column without halting it,
and to continue the march, the markers will not be posted ; the move-
ment will be executed by the same commands and means as the fore-
going, but with the following modifications ;
At the first command, the chief of the first division will command:
1. Guide right. 2. Quick time. At the command, Double quick —
March, given by the colonel, the first division will take quick time,
and touch elbows to the right; the captains will place themselves on
the right of their respective companies ; the captain on the right of
the battalion will take points on the ground to assure the direction of
the march. The chief of the second division will allow his division to
file past him, and when he sees its right abreast of him, he will com-
mand: 1. Second dwision, by the right flank. 2. March. 3. Guide right;
and when this division shall arrive on the alignment of the first, he will
cause it to march in quick time. The third and fourth divisions will
deploy according to the same principles as the second.
The colonel, lieutenant-colonel, major, and color-bearer, will conform
to what is prescribed, No. 330.
341. The column being at a halt, if, instead of deploying it on the
first, the colonel shall wish to deploy it on the rearmost division, he
will cause the dispositions to be made indicated. No. 338 ; but it will be
the right general guide whom he will send to place himself beyond the
point at which the right of the battalion will rest when deployed.
The colonel will then command :
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 223
1. On the fourth (or sucJi) division, deploy column. 2. Battalion,
right — Face.
At the first command, the chief of the fourth division will caution it
to stand fast ; the chiefs of the other divisions will caution them that
they will have to face to the right.
At the second command, the first three divisions will face to the
right; and the chief of each will place himself by the side of its right
guide.
At the same command, the lieutenant-colonel will place a third
marker between the first two, so that this marker may be opposite to
one of the three right files of the left company of the division : the
lieutenant-colonel will then place himself on the line of battle a few
paces beyond the point at which the right of the third division will
rest when dcploj'ed.
The colonel will then command :
3. March (or double quick — March).
At this command, the three right divisions will put themselves in
march, the guide of the first so directing himself as to pass three paces
within the line marked by the right general guide. The chief of the
third division will not follow its movement; he will see it file past, halt
it when its left guide shall bo abreast with him, and cause it to face to
the front ; and if there be openings between the files, he will cause
them to be promptly closed to the left.
The chief of the fourth division, when he sees it nearly unmasked
by the three others, will command :
1. Fourth division., forward. 2. Guide left. 3. March.
At the command march, which Avill be given the instant the fourth is
unmasked, this division will approach the line of battle, and when at
three paces from the markers on that line, its chief will halt it, and
command :
Ze/]:-^DRESS.
At this command, the division will dress forward against the mark-
ers; the chief of the division and the junior captain will each align
the company on his right, and then command :
Front.
The instant that the third division is unmasked, its chief will cause
224 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
it to approach the line of battle, and halt it in the manner just pre
scribed for the fourth.
The niomont the division halts, its right guide and the covering ser-
geant of its left company will step on the line of battle, placing them-
selves on the prolongation of the markers established in front of the
fourth division ; as soon as they shall be assured in their positions,
the divisions ■will be aligned as has just been prescribed for the fourth.
The second and first divisions which will have continued to march,
will, in succession, be halted and aligned by the left, in the same man-
ner as the third; the chiefs of these divisions will conform themselves
to w^hat is prescribed, xS^o. 339. The second being near the line of bat-
tle, the command will not be given for it to move on this line, but it
Avill be dressed up to it.
The deployment ended, the colonel will command:
Guides — Posts.
342. To deploy the column on an interior division, the colonel will
cause the line to be traced by the means above indicated, and the
general guides will move briskly on the line. This being executed,
the colonel will command :
1. On such (Iwision, deploy colvmn. 2. BatiaUoiu outward —
Face. 3. March (or double quick — March).
Whether the column be with the right or left in front, the divisions
which, in the order in battle, belong to the right of the directing one,
will face to the right; the others, except the directing division, will
face to the left.
The directing division, the instant it finds itself unmasked, will ap-
proach the line of battle, taking the guide left or right, according as
the right or left of the column may be in front. The chief of this
division will align it by the directing flank, and then step back into
ihe rear, in order momentarily to give place to the chief of the next
division
To advance in line ofhatUe.
343. The battalion being correctly aligned, and supposed to be the
directing one when the colonel shall wish to march in line of battle, he
will give the lieutenant-colonel an intimation of his purpose, place
himself about forty paces in rear of the color-file, and face to the
front.
The lieutenant-colonel will place himself a like distance in front of
the same file, and face to the colonel, who will establish him as cor-
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 225
rectly as possible, by signal of the sword, perpendicularly to the line
of battle opposite to the color-bearer. The colonel will next, above the
heads of the lieutenant-colonel and color-bearer, take a point of direc-
tion in the field beyond, if a distinct one present itself, exactly in the
prolongation of those first two points.
The colonel will then move twenty paces farther to the rear, and
establish two markers on the prolongation of the straight line passing
through the color-bearer and the lieuteuaut-colouel; these markers
will face to the rear, the first .placed about twenty-five paces behind
the roar rank of the battalion, and the second at the same distance
from the first.
The color-bearer will be instructed to take, the moment the lieuten-
ant-colonel shall be established on the perpendicular, two points on the
ground in the straight line which, drawn from himself, would pass be-
tween the heels of that ofliccrj the first of these points will bo taken
at fifteen or twenty paces from the color-bearer.
These dispositions being made, the colonel will command:
1. Battalion, forward.
At this, the front rank of the color-guard will advance six paces to
the front; the corjiorals in the rear rank will place themselves in the
front rank, and these will be replaced by those in the rank of file-
closers; at the same time the two general guides will move in advance,
abreast with the color-bearer, the one on the right, opposite to the
captain of the right compan}^, the other opposite to the sergeant who
closes the left of the battalion.
The captains of the left wing will shift, passing before the front
rank, to the left of their respective companies ; the sergeant on the left
of the battalion will step back into the rear rank. The covering ser-
geant of the company next on the left of the color-company will step
into the front rank.
The lieutenant-colonel, having assured the color-bearer on the line
between himself and the corporal of the color-file, now in the front
rank, will go to the position which will be hereinafter indicated.
The major will place himself six or eight paces on either flank of
the color-rank.
The colonel will then command :
2. March (or double quick — March).
At this command, the battalion will step off with life ; the color-
bearer, charged with the step and direction, will scrupulously observe
the length and cadence of the pace, marching on the prolongati(m of
226 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
the two points previously taken, and successively taking others in
advance by the means indicated in the school of the company; the
corporal on his right, and the one on his left will march in the same
step, taking care not to turn the head or shoulders, the color-bearer
supporting the color-lance against the hip.
The two general guides will march in the same step with the color-
rank, each maintaining himself abreast, or nearly so, with that rank,
and neither occupying himself with the movement of the other.
The three corporals of the color-guard, now in the front rank of the
battalion, will march well aligned, elbow to elbow, heads direct to
the front, a$id without deranging the line of their shoulders ; the cen-
tre one will follow exactly in the trace of the color-bearer, and maintain
the same step, without lengthening or shortening it, except on an inti-
mation from the colonel or lieutenant-colonel, although he should find
himself more or less than six paces from the color-rank.
The covering sergeant in the front rank, between the color-company
and the next on the left, will march elbow to elbow, and on the same
line, with the three corporals in the centre, his head well to the front.
The captains of the color-company, and the company next to the
left, will constitute, with the three corporals in the centre of the front
rank, the basis of alignment for both wings of the battalion ; they will
march in the same step with the color-bearer, and exert themselves to
maintain their shoulders exactly in the square with the direction. To
this end, they will keep their heads direct to the front, only occasion-
ally casting an eye on the three centre corporals, with the slightest
possible turn of the neck, and if they perceive themselves in advance
or in rear of these corporals, the captain, or two captains will, almost
insensibly, shorten or lengthen the step, so as, at the end of several
paces, to regain the true alignment, without giving sudden checks or
impulsions to the wings beyond them respectively.
The lieutenant-colonel, jjlaced twelve or fifteen paces on the right of
the captain of the color-company, will maintain this captain and the
next one beyond, abreast with the three centre corporals ; to this end,
he will caution either to lengthen or to shorten the step, as may be
necessary, which the captain, or two captains AvilL execute as has just
been explained.
All the other captains will maintain themselves on the prolongation
of this basis; and, to this end, they will cast their eyes toward the
centre, taking care to turn the neck but slightly, and not to derange
the direction of their shoulders.
The captains will observe the march of their companies, and prevent
the men from getting in advance of the line of captains ; they will not
lengthen or shorten step except when evidently necessary; because, to
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 227
correct, with too scrupulous attention, small faults, is apt to cause the
production of greater— loss of calmness, silence, and equality of step,
each of which it is so important to maintain.
The men will constantly keep their heads well directed to the front,
feel lightly the elbow toward the centre, resist pressure coming from
the flank, give the greatest attention to the squareness of shoulders,
and hold themselves always very slightly behind the line of the cap-
tains, in order never to shut out from the view of the latter the basis of
alignment; they will, from time to time, cast an eye on the color-rank,
or on the general guide of the wing, in order to march constantly in
the same step with those advanced persons.
Pending the march, the line determined by the two markers will be
prolonged by placing, in proportion as the battalion advances, a third
marker in ihe rear of the first, then the first marker will quit his place
and go alike distance in rear of tlie third; the second marker will, in
his turn, do the like in respect to the first, and so on, in succession, as
long as the battalion continues to advance; each marker, on shifting
position, taking care to face to the rear, and to cover accurately the
two markers already established on the direction. A staff officer, or
the quartermaster-sergeant, designated for the purpose, and who will
hold himself constantly fifteen or twenty paces from and facing the
marker farthest from the battalion, will caution each marker when
to shift place, and assure him on the direction behind the other two.
To halt the battalion, marching in line of battle, and to align it.
344. The battalion, marching in the line of battle, when the colonel
shall wish to halt it, he will command :
1. Battalion. 2. Halt.
At the second command, the battalion will halt; the color-rank and
the general guides will remain in front; but if the colonel should not
wish immediately to resume the advance in line, nor to give a general
alignment, he will command:
Color and general guides— Fosts.
At this command, the color-rank and general guides will retake their
places in line of battle, the captains in the left wing will shift to the
right of their companies.
If the colonel should then judge it necessary to rectify the align-
ment, he will command :
228 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Captains, rectify the alignment.
The captains will immediately cast an eye toward the centre,
align themselves accurately, on the basis of the alignment, which the
lieutenant-colonel will see well directed, and then promptly dress
their respective companies. The lieutenant-colonel will admonish such
captains as may not be accurately on the alignment by the command:
Captain of (such) company^ or captains of (such) companies, move up
or fall back.
But when the colonel shall wish to give the battalion a general
alignment, eiiber parallel or oblique, instead of rectifying it as above,
he will move some paces outside of one of the general guides (the right
will here be supposed) and caution the right general guide and the
color-bearer to face him, and then establish them by signal of the
sword, on the direction which he may wish to give to the battalion. As
soon as they shall be correctly established, the left general guide will
place himself on their direction, and be assured in his position by the
major. The color-bearer will carry the color-lance perpendicularly
between his eyes, and the two corporals of his rank will return to their
places in the front rank the moment he shall face to the colonel.
This disposition being made, the colon-jl will command :
1. Guides — On the line.
At this command, the right guide of each company in the right
wing, and the left guide of each company in the left, will each place
himself on the direction of the color-bearer and the two general guides,
face to the color-bearer, place himself in rear of the guide who is next
before him, at a distance equal to the front of his company, and align
himself upon the color-bearer and the general guide beyond.
The captains in the right wing will shift to the left of their com-
panies, except the captain of the color-company, who will remain on
its right, but step into the rear rank ; the captains in the left wing will
shift to the right of their companies.
The lieutenant-colonel will promptly rectifj^, if necessary, the posi-
tions of the guides of the right wing, and the major those of the other,-
which being executed, the colonel will command :
2. On the centre — Dress.
At this command, the companies will move up in quick time against
the guides, where, having arrived, each captain will align his company
according to prescribed principles, the lieutenant-colonel aligning the
color-company.
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 22^
If the alignment be oblique, the captains will take care to conform
their companies to it in conducting them toward the line.
The battalion being aligned, the colonel will command :
3. Color and guides — Posts.
At this command, the color-bearer, the general and company guides,
and the captains in the right wing, will take their places in the line of
battle, and the color-bearer will replace the heel of the color-lance
against the right hip.
To march in retreat^ in line of batde.
Mb. The battalion being halted, if it be the wish of the colonel to
cause it to march in retreat, he will command :
1. Face to the rear. 2. Battalion, about — Face.
At the second command, the battalion will face about ; the color-
rank and the general guides, if in advance, will take their places in
line; the color-bearer will pass into the rear rank, now leading ; the
corporal of his tile will step behind the corporal next on his own right,
to let the color-bearer pass, and then step into the front rank, now
rear, to re-form the color-file , the colonel will place himself behind
the front rank, become the rear ; the lieutenant-colonel and major will
place themselves before the rear rank, now leading.
The colonel Avill take post forty paces behind the color-file, in order
to assure the lieutenant-colonel on the perpendicular, who will place
himself at a like distance in fi'ont, as prescribed for the advance in
line of battle.
If the battalion be the one charged Avith the direction, the colonel
will establish markers in the manner indicated, No. 343, except that
they will face to the battalion, and that the first will be placed twenty-
five paces from the lieutenant colonel. If the markers be already
established, the officer charged with replacing them in succession will
cause them to face about the moment that the battalion executes this
movement, and then the marker nearest to the battalion will hasten to
the rear of the two others.
These dispositions being made, the colonel will command :
3. Battalion, forward.
At this command, the color-bearer will advance six jtaces beyond the
rank of file-closers, accompanied by the two corporals of his guard of
that rank, the centre corporal stepping back to let the color-bearer
230 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
pass ; the two file-closers nearest this centre corporal will unite on him
behind the color-guard to serve as a basis of alignment for the line of
file-closers ; the two general guides will place themselves abreast with
the color rank, the covering sergeants will place themselves in the line
of file-closers, and the captains in the rear rank, now leading ; the cap-
tains in the left wing, now right, will, if not already there, shift to the
left of their companies, now become the right.
The colonel will then command :
4. March (or double quick — March).
The battalion will march in retreat on the same principles which
govern the advance in line.
To halt, the battalion marching in retreat^ and to face it to the
front.
346. The colonel having halted the battalion, and wishing to face it
to the front, will command :
1. Face to the front. 2. Battalion^ about — Face.
At the second command, the color-rank, general guides, captains and
covering sergeants, will all retake their habitual places in line of battle,
and the color-bearer will repass into the front rank.
347. The battalion marching in line of battle by the front rank, when
the colonel shall wish to march it in retreat, he will command:
1. Battalion, right about. 2. March.
At the command march, the battalion will face to the rear and move
off at the same gait by the rear rank. If the colonel should wish
the battalion to march again by the front, he will give the same com-
mands.
Passage of obstacles, advancing and retreating.
348. The battalion advancing in line will be supposed to encounter
an obstacle which covers one or more companies; the colonel will cause
them to ploy into column at full distance, in rear of the next company
toward the color, which will be executed as follows : It will be sup-
posed that the obstacle only covers the third company, the colonel will
command :
Third company, obstacle.
At this command, the captain of the third company will place him-
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 231
self in its front, turn to it, and command : 1. Third compa7u/, hy the left
JJank. to the rear into column. 2. Double quick. 3. March. He will
then hasten to the left of his company.
At the command march, the company will face to the left in march-
ing ; the two left files will promptly disengage to the rear in double
quick time; the left guide, placing himself at the head of the front
rank, will conduct it behind the fourth company, directing himself par-
allelly with this company; the captain of the third will himself halt
opposite to the captain of the fourth, and see his company file past ;
when its right file shall be nearly up with him, he will command : 1.
Third company. 2. By the right Jiank. 3. March. 4. Guide riyht,
and place himself before the centre of the compan3\
At the command march, the company Avill face to the right, preserv-
ing the gait, but the moment it shall be at the prescribed distance, the
captain will command :
1. Quick time. 2. March.
This company will follow in column that behind which it finds itself,
and at wheeling distance, its right guide marching exactly in the trace
of the captain of that company.
As soon as the third company shall have faced to the left, the left
guide of the second will place himself on the left of the front rank of
his company, and maintain between himself and the right of the fourth,
the space necessary for the return into line of the third.
The obstacle being passed, the colonel will command :
Thii'd company, forward into line.
At this command, the captain, turning to his company, will add :
1. By company, right half wheel. 2. Double quick. 3. March.
At the command march, the company will take the double quick step
and execute a half wheel; its captain will then command:
1. Forward. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the command march, the company will direct itself straight for-
ward toward the line, and retake its position in it according to the
principles prescribed for the formation forward into line.
34:9. It will be supposed that the obstacle covers several contiguous
companies (the three companies on the right, for example), the colonel
will command:
232 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
1. Three right companies^ obstacle. 2. Bi/ the left Jiank^ to the
rear, mto column. 3. Double quick. 4. March.
At the first command, the captains of the designated companies will
each place himself befoi-e the centre of his company, and caution it
that it has to face to the left.
At the command march, the designated companies will face to the
left in marching, and immediately take the double quick step ; each
captain will cause the head of his company to disengage itself to the
rear, and the left guide will place himself at the head of the front
rank ; the captain of the third company will conform to what has been
prescribed for him in the last number; the captains of the other com-
panies vv'ill conduct their companies by the flank in rear of the third,
inclining toward the head of the column ; and as the head of each
company arrives opposite to the right of the one next before it in
column, its captain will halt, see his company file past him, face it by
the right flank, take guide right, and place himself before its centre.
When the last company in column shall have passed the obstacle,
the colonel will command :
1. Three right companies., forward into line.
At this command, the captain of each of these three companies will
command : By company, right half wheel. The colonel will then add :
1. Double quick. 2. March,
At this, briskly repeated by the captains of the three companies,
each company will execute the movement on the principles laid down
in the movement of forward into line without halting.
350. If the companies belong to the left wing, they will execute the
passage of an obstacle according to the same principles, but by inverse
means.
If the battalion is marching at double quick, and it becomes neces-
sary to break off" several companies in the passage of an obstacle, the
colonel will first bring it to march in quick time.
When the color-company shall be obliged to execute the movement
of passing an obstacle, the color-rank will return into line the moment
the company shall face to the right or left; the major will place himself
six paces before the extremity of the company behind which the color
company marches in column, in order to give the step and the direc-
tion ; he, himself, first taking the step from the battalion.
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 233
To pass a defile, in retreat, hy the right or left flank.
351. When a battalion, retiring in line, shall encounter a defile which
it must pass, the colonel will halt the battalion and face it to the front.
It will be supposed that the defile is in rear of the left flank, and
that its width is sufficient to give passage to a column by platoon;
the colonel will place a marker fifteen or twenty paces in rear of the
file-closers at the point around which the companies will have to
change direction in order to enter the defile ; he will then command :
To the rear, hy the right flank, pass the defile.
The captain of the first company will immediately command:
1. First company, right — Face. 2. March (or double quick —
March).
At the command march, the first company will commence the move-
ment; the first file will wheel to the right, march to the rear till it
shall have passed four paces beyond the file-closers, when it will wheel
again to the right, and then direct itself straight forward toward the
left flank. All the other files of this company will wheel in succession
at the same place where the first had wheeled.
The second company will, in its turn, execute the movement, by
the commands of its captain, who will give the command march, so
that the first file of his company may immediately folloAV the last of
the first, without constraint; the first file of the second company will
wheel to the right on its ground; all the other files of this company
will, in succession, wheel at the same place. The following companies
will execute, each in its turn, what has just been prescribed for the
second.
When the whole of the second company shall be on the same direc-
tion with the first, the captain of the first will cause it to form, by
platoon, into line, and the moment that it is in column, the guide of the
first platoon will direct himself on the marker around whom he has to
change direction in order to enter the defile.
The second company will continue to march by the flank, directing
itself parallelly with the line ; and it, in its turn, will form by platoon
into line, when the third company shall be wholly on the same direc-
tion with itself. The following companies will execute in succession
what has just been prescribed for the second.
The first platoon of the leading company having arrived opposite to
the marker placed at the entrance of the defile, will turn to the left,
20
234 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
and the following platoons will all execute the same movement at the
same point. As the last company will not be able to form platoons
before reaching the defile, they will so direct themselves, in entering it,
as to leave room to the left for this movement.
The battalion will thus pass the defile by platoon ; and, as the two
platoons of each company shall clear it, companies will be formed. The
head of the column having cleared the defile, and having reached the
distance at which the colonel wishes to re-form the line faced to the
defile, he may cause the leading company to turn to the left, to pro-
long the column in that direction, and then form it to the left into
line of battle; or he may halt the colvimn, and form it into line faced
to the rear.
If the defile be in rear of the right flank, it Avill be passed by the
left; the movement will be executed according to the same principles,
and by inverse means.
If the defile is too narrow to receive the front of a platoon, it will be
passed by the flank.
To march hy the flank.
352. The colonel, wishing the battalion to march by the flank, will
command :
1 Battalion. 2. Right i (or left) — Face. 3. Forward. 4.
March (or double quick — March).
At the second command, the captains and covering sergeants will
place themselves as prescribed in the school of the company.
The sergeant on the left of the battalion will place himself to the
left and by the side of the last file of his company, covering the
captains in file.
The battalion having to face by the left flank, the cay tains, at the
second command, will shift rapidly to the left of their companies,
and each place himself by the side of the covering sergeant of the
company preceding his own, except the captain of the left company,
who will place himself by the side of the sergeant on the left of the
battalion. The covering sergeant of the right company will place
himself by the right side of the front rank man of the rearmost file of
his company, covering the captains in file.
At the command march, the battalion will step oft" with life ; the
sergeant, placed before the leading file (right or left in front), will
be careful to preserve exactly the length and cadence of the step,
lOr, in two ranks — right — Face.
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 285
and to direct himself straight forward; to this end, he will take points
on the ground.
Whether the battalion march bj' the right or left flank, the lieu-
tenant-colonel will place himself abreast with the leading file, and the
major abreast with the color-file, both on the side of the front rank,
and about six paces from it.
The adjutant, placed between the lieutenant-colonel and the front
rank, will march in the same step with the head of the battalion, and
the sergeant-major, j^laced between the major and the color-bearer, will
march in the same step with the adjutant.
The captains and lile-closers will carefull}' see that the files neither
open out nor close too much, and that they regain insensibly their
distance?, if lost.
353. The colonel wishing the battalion to wheel by file, will com-
mand :
1. By file right (or left). 2. March.
The files will wheel in succession, and all at the place where the first
had wheeled, in conforming to the principles prescribed in the school
of the company.
The battalion marching by the flank, when the colonel shall wish
it to halt, he will command :
1. Battalion. 2. Halt. 3. Fkont.
These commands Avill be executed as prescribed in the school of the
company.
If the battalion be marching by the flank, and the colonel should
wish to cause it to march in line, ^ther to the front or to the rear, the
movements will be executed by the commands and means prescribed in
the school of the company.
To form the battalion on the right or left, hy file, into line of
battle.
354. The battalion marching by the right flank, when the colonel
shall wish to form it on the right by file, he will determine the line of
battle, and the lieutenant-colonel will place two markers on that line,
in conformity with what is prescribed in No. 327.
The head of the battalion being nearly up with the first marker, the
colonel will command:
1. On the right, by file into line. 2. March (or double quick —
March).
236 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
At the command march, the leading company will form itself on the
right, by file, into line of battle, as indicated in the school of the com-
pany, No. 240 ; the front rank man of the first file will rest his breast
lightly against the right arm of the first marker; the other companies
will follow the movement of the leading company; each captain will
place himself on the line at the same time with the front rank man of
his first file, and on the right of this man.
The left guide of each company, except the leading one, will place
himself on the direction of the markers, and opposite to the left file of
his company, at the instant that the front rank man of this file arrives
on the line.
The formation being ended, the colonel will command :
Guides — Posts.
The colonel will superintend the successive formation of the bat-
talion, moving along the front of the line of battle.
The lieutenant-colonel Avill, in succession, assure the direction of the
guides, and see that the men of the front rank, in placing themselves
on the line, do not i)ass it.
Changes of front.
Change of front j^erpendicularly fortoard.
355. The battalion being in line of battle, it is supposed to be the
wish of the colonel to cause a change of front forward on the right
company, and that the angle formed by the old and new positions be
a right angle, or a few degrees more or less than one; he will cause
two markers to be placed on the new direction, before the position to
be occupied by that company, and order its captain to establish it
against the markers.
The captain of the right company will immediately direct it upon
the markers by a wheel to the right on the fixed pivot; and after
having halted it, he will align it by the right.
These dispositions being made, the colonel will command :
1. Change front forward, on first company. 2. By company,
right half wheel. 3. March (or double quick — March).
At the second command, each captain will place himself before the
centre of his company.
At the third, each company will wheel to the right on the fixed
jiivot; the left guide of each will place himself on its left as soon as
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 237
he shall be able to pass ; and when the colonel shall judge that the
companies have sufficiently wheeled, he will command :
4. Forward. 5. March. 6. Guide right.
At the fifih command, the companies ceasing to wheel will march
straight forward; at the sixth, the men will touch elbows toward the
right.
The right guide of the second company will march straight forward
until this company shall arrive at the point where it should turn to
the right; each succeeding right guide will follow the file immediately
before him at the cessation of the wheel, and will march in the trace
of this file until this company shall turn to the right to move upon
the line; this guide will then march straight forward.
The second company having arrived opposite to the left file of the
first, its captain will cause it to turn to the right; the fight guide
will direct himself so as to arrive squarely upon the line of battle,
and when he shall be at three paces from tlia'; line, the captain will
command :
1. Second company. 2. Halt.
At the second command, the company will halt; the files not yet in
line with the guide will come into it promptly, the left guide will place
himself on the line of battle, and as soon as he is assured in the
direction by the lieutenant-colonel, the captain will align the company
by the right.
Each following company will conform to what has just been pre-
scribed for the second.
The formation ended, the colonel will command :
Guides — Posts.
356. If the battalion be in march, and the colonel shall wish to
change front forward on the first company, and that the angle formed
by the old and new positions be a right angle, he will cause two mark-
ers to be placed on the new direction, before the position to be occupied
by that company, and will command :
1. Change front fonmrd, on first company. 2. By company,
right half ivheel. 3: March (or double quick — March).
At the first command, the captains will move rapidly before the
centre of their respective companies; the captain of the first company
will command: 1. Rif/ht turn. 2. Quick time; the captains of the
other companies will caution them to wheel to the right.
238 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
At the command march, the first company will turn to the right,
according to the principles prescribed in the school of the soldier, its
captain will halt it at three paces from the markers, and the files in
rear will promptly come into line. The captain will align the com-
pany by the right.
Each of the other companies will wheel to the right on a fixed pivot;
the left guides will place themselves on the left of their respective
companies, and when the colonel shall judge they have wheeled
sufficiently, he will command :
4. Forward. 5. March. 6. Guide right.
The colonel will cause the battalion to change front forward^ on the
eighth company according to the same principles and by inverse
means.
Change of front perpendicular to the rear.
357. The colonel, wishing to change front to the rear on the right
company, will impart his purpose to the captain of this company.
The latter will immediately face his company about, wheel it to the
left on the fixed pivot, and halt it when it shall be in the direction
indicated to him by the colonel ,• the captain will then face his com-
pany to the front, and align it by the right against the two markers,
whom the colonel will cause to be established before the right and left
files.
These (]ispoi^itions being made, the colonel will command :
1. Change front to the rear., on frst company. 2. Battalion.,
about — Face. 3. By company, left half wheel. 4. March
(or double quick — March).
At the second command, all the companies, except the right, will
face about.
At the third, the captains whose companies have faced about, will
each place himself behind the centre of his company, two paces from
the front rank, now the rear.
At the fourth, these companies will wheel to the left on the fixed
pivot by the rear rank ; the left guide of each will, as soon as he is
able to pass, place him.-^elf on the left of the rear rank of his company,
now become the right; and when the colonel shall judge that the
companies have sufiiciently wheeled, he will command :
5. Forward. 6. March. 7. Guide left.
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 289
At the sixth coiumanrl the companies will cease to wheel, march
straight forward toward the new line of battle, and, at the seventh,
take the touch of the elbow toward the left.
The second company, from the right, having arrived opposite to the
left of the first, will turn to the left; the guide will so direct himself
as to arrive parallelly with the line of battle, cross that line, and when
the front rank, now in the rear, shall be three paces bej'ond it, the
captain will command :
1. Second Company. 2. Halt.
At the second command, the company will halt ; the files which may
not yet be in line with the guide, will promptly come into it; the
captain will cause the company to face about, and then align it by the
right.
All the other companies will execute what has just been prescribed
for the second, each as it successively arrives opposite to the left of the
company that precedes it on the new line of battle.
The formation being ended, the colonel will command:
Guides — Posts.
The colonel will cause a change of front on the left company of the
battalion to the rear, according to the same principles and by inverse
means.
To ploy the battalion info column doubled on the centre.
358. This movement consists in ploying the corresponding companies
of the right and left wings into column at company distance, or closed
in mass in rear of the two centre companies.
The colonel, wishing to form the double column at company distance
(the battalion being in line of battle), Avill command:
1. Double column, at half distance. 2. Battalion, inward — Face.
3. Makch (or double quick — March).
At the first command, the captains will place themselves two paces
in front of their respective companies; the captains of the two centre
companies will cauticm them to stand fast, and the other captains will
caution their companies to face to the left and right respectively. The
covering sergeants will step into the front rank.
At the second command, the fourth and fifth companies will stand
fast; the others of the right wing will face to the left, and the others
of the left wing- will face to the right; each c:iptain whose company has
240 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
faced, will hasten to break to the rear the two files at the head of his
companj'; the left guide of each right company, and the right guide of
each left company, will each place himself at the head of its front
rank, and the captain by the side of his guide.
At the command march, the fourth and fifth companies, which are to
form the first division, will stand fast; the senior captain of the two
will place himself before the centre of the division, and command:
Guide right; the junior captain will place himself in the interval be-
tween the two companies, and the left guide of the left company will
place himself in the front rank on the left of the division, as soon as he
shall be able to pass.
All the other companies, conducted by their captains, will step ofi"
with life to arrange themselves in column at company distance, each
company behind the preceding one in the column of the same wing, so
that, in the right wing, the third may be next behind the fourth, the
second next to the third, and so on to the right company; and, in the
left wing, the sixth may be next behind the fifth, the seventh next to
the sixth, and so on to the left company of the battalion.
The corresponding companies of the two wings will unite into divis-
ions in arranging themselves in column ; an instant before the union,
at the centre of the column, the left guides of right companies will pass
into the line of file-closers, and each captain will command: 1. >S'((c/i
company. 2. Halt. 3. Front.
At the second command, which will be given at the instant of union,
each company will halt; at the third, it will face to the front. The
senior captain in each division will place himself on its right, and
command. Right — Dress, and the junior captain will place himself in
the interval between the two companies. The division being aligned,
its chief will command. Front, and take his position two paces before
its centre.
The column being thus formed, the divisions will take the respective
denominations of Jiiat, second, third, etc., according to position in the
column, beginning at the front.
The lieutenant-colonel, who, at the second command given by the
colonel, will have placed himself at a little more than company dis-
tance in rear of the right guide of the first division, will assure the
right guides on the direction as they successively arrive, by placing
himself in the rear.
The music will pass to the rear of the column.
359. The battalion being in march, to form the double column at
company distance Avithout halting the battalion, the colonel will com-
mand:
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 241
1. Double column^ at half distance. 2. Battalion., by the right
and left fianks. 3. March (or double quick — March).
At the first commaud, each captain will move briskly in front of the
centre of his company; the captains of the fourth and fifth will caution
their companies to march straight forward ; the other captains will
caution their companies to face to the right and left.
At the commaud march, the fourth ami fifth companies will continue
to march straight forward; the senior captain will place himself before
the centre of his division and command, Guide, ri(jht ; the junior cap-
tain will place himself in the interval between the two companies.
The left guide of the fifth company will place himself on the left of the
front rank of the division. The men will take the touch cf elbows
to the right. Tlie color and general guides will retake their places.
The three right companies will face to the left, and the three left com-
panies will face to the right. Each captain will ))reak to the rear two
files at the head of his company; the left guides of the right companies,
and the riglit guides of the left co<npanies will each place himself at
the head of the front rank of his compau}^, and the captain by the side
of his guide.
The third and sixth companies will enter the column and direct
themselves parallelly to the first division. Each of the other com-
panies will, in like manner, place itself behind the company of the
wing to which it belongs, and will be careful to gain as much ground
as possible toward the head of the column.
The corresponding companies of each wing will unite into divisions
on taking their positions in column, and each captain, the instant the
head of his company arrives at the centre of the column, will com-
mand : 1. Such company, bij the riijht (or left) JIank. 2. Mauch. The
senior captain of the two companies will place himself in front of the
centre of his division, and command. Guide right; the Junior captain
will place himself in the interval between the two companies. The two
companies thus formed into a division will take the touch of elbows to
the right, and when each division has gained its proper distance,
its chief will cause it to march in quick time.
The double column, closed in mas?, Avill be formed according to the
same principles and by the same commands, substituting the indica-
tion, closed in mass, for that of at half distance.
Deployment of the double column^ faced to the front.
.360. The colonel wishing to deploy the double column, will place
21
242 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
a marker respectively before the right and left files of the first aivision,
and a third before the left file of the right company, same division ;
which being done, he will cause the two general guides to spring out
on the alignment of the markers a little beyond the points at which
the respective flanks of the battalion ought to rest; he will then com-
mand :
1. Deploy column. 2. Battalion, outward — Face. 3. March
(or double quick — March).
The column will deploy itself on the two companies at its head,
according to the principles prescribed for the deployment of columns
in mass. The captain of these companies will each, at the command
march, place himself on the right of his own company, and align it by
the right; the captain of the fourth will then place himself in the rear
rank, and the covering sergeant in the rank of file-closers, at the
moment the captain of the third shall come to its left to align it.
The deployment being endid, the colonel will command:
Guides — Posts.
361. The battalion being in double column and in march, if the
colonel shall wish to deploy it Avithout halting the column, he will
cause three markers to be posted ou the line of battle, and when the
head of the column shall arrive near the markers, he will command :
1. Deploy column. 2. Battalion, hy the i-iyht and le/tjlanks. Z. Mauch
(or douhle quick — March). The column will deploy on the two lead-
ing companies, according to the principles prescribed for the deploy-
ment of a close column ; at the command march, the chief of the first
division will halt it, and the captains of the fourth and fifth companies
will align their companies by the right.
362. If the column be in march, and it is the wish of the colonel to
deploy the column, and to continue on the march in line of battle, he
will not cause markers to be established at the head of the column. At
the first command, the chief of the first division will command, quick
time; at the command march, the first division will continue to march
in quick time ; the colonel will command, guide centre. The captains
of the fourth and fifth companies, the color, and the men, will imme-
diately conform to the principles of the march in line. The companies
will take the quick step by the command of their captains, as they
successively arrive in line. The movement completed, the colonel may
cause the battalion to march in double quick time.
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 243
s
To form the double column into line of battle, faced to the right or
left.
3fi3. The double column being at company distance, and at a halt,
may be formed into line faced to the right or left; when the colonel
shall wish to form it faced to the right, he will command :
1. Right into line, wheel, left companies on the right into line. 2.
Battalion, guide right. 3. March (or double quick — March).
At the first command, each captain will place himself before the
centre of his company^ ; the right companies will be cautioned that
they have to wheel to the right, the left companies that they will have
to move straight forward.
At the second command, the left guide of the fourth company
will place himself briskly on the direction of the right guides of the
column, face to them, and opposite to one of the three last files of
his company when in line; the lieutenant-colonel will assure him in
that position.
At the command march, briskly repeated by the captains, the right
companies will form to the right into line, the left companies will put
themselves in march in order to form on the right into line; the lieu-
tenant-colonel will assure the guides of the left wing on the line as
they in succession come upon it.
Du^positions against cavalry.
364. A battalion being in column by company, at full distance,
right in front, and at a halt, when the colonel shall wish to form it
into square, he will first cause divisions to be formed ; which being
done, he will command :
1. To form square. 2. To half distance, close column. 3. March
(or double quick — March).
At the command march, the column will close to company distance,
the second division taking its distance from the rear rank of the first
division.
At the moment of halting the fourth division, the file-closers of each
company of which it is composed, passing by the outer flank of their
companies, will place themselves two paces before the front rank oppo-
site to their respective places in line of battle, and face toward the
head of the column.
At the commencement of the movement, the major will place himself
244 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
on the right of the column abreast with the first division ; the buglers
formed in two ranks will place themselves at platoon distance, behind
the inner platoons of the second division.
These dispositions being made, the colonel may, according to circum-
stances, put the column in march, or cause it to form squares; if he
wish to do the latter, he will command :
1. Form square. 2. Right and left into line, lolieel.
At the first command, the lieutenant-colonel, facing to the left guides,
and the major, facing to those of the right, will align them, from the
front, on the respective guides of the fourth division, who will stand
fast, holding up their pieces, inverted, perpendicularly,- the right
guides, in placing themselves on the direction, will take their exact
distances.
At the second command, the chief of the first division will caution it
to stand fast: all the captains of the second and third divisions will
place themselves before the centres of their respective companies, and
caution them that they will have to wheel, the right companies to the
right, and the left companies to the left into line of battle.
The color-bearer will step back into the line of file-closers, opposite
to his place in line of battle, and will be replaced by the corporal of his
file who is in the rear rank ; the corporal of the same file who is in the
rank of file-closers will step into the rear rank.
The chief of the fourth division will command: 1. Fvurth dictsiou,
forward; 2. Guide left, and place himself at the same time two paces
outside of its left flank.
These dispositions ended, the colonel will command :
March (or double quick — March).
At this command, briskly repeated, the first division will stand fast;
but its right file will face to the right, and its left file to the left.
The companies of the' second and third divisions will wheel to the
right and left into line, and the buglers will advance a space equal to
the front of a company.
The fourth division will close up to form the square, and when it
shall have closed, its chief will halt it, face it about, and align it by the
rear rank upon the guides of the division, who will, for this purpose,
remain faced to the front. The junior captain will pass into the rear
rank, now becomethe front, and the covering sergeant of the left com-
pany will place himself behind him in the front rank, become rear.
The file-closers will, at the same time, close up a pace on the front rank,
and the outer file on each flank of the division will face outward.
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 245
The square being fonncd, the colonel will command :
Guides — Posts.
At this command, the chiefs of the first and fourth divisions, as well
as the guides, will enter the square.
The captains whose companies have formed to the right into line,
will remain on the left of their companies; the left guide of each of
those companies will, in the rear rank, cover his captain, and the cover-
ing sergeant of each will place himself as a file-closer behind tlie right
file of his company.
The field and stafl" will enter the square, the lieutenant-colonel
placing himself behind the left, and the major behind the right of the
first division.
If the battalion present ten, instead of eight companies, the fourth
division will make the movements prescribed above for the second and
third divisions, and the fifth, the movements prescribed for the fourth
division.
The fronts of the square will be designated as follows: the first
division will always be the first front; the last division, the fotirth
front; the right comjDanies of the other divisions will form the second
front; and the left companies of the same divisions the third front.
365. If the battaliof^, before the square is formed, be in double col-
umn, the two leading companies will form the first front, the two rear
companies the fourth; the other companies of the right half battalion
will form the second, and those of the left half battalion the third
front.
The first and fourth fronts will be commanded by the chiefs of "the
first and fourth divisions; each of the other two by its senior captain.
The commander of each front will place himself four paces behind its
present rear rank, and will be replaced momentarily in the command
of his company by the next in rank therein.
366. If the column by division, whether double or single, be in
mass, and the colonel shall wish to form it into square, he will first
cause it to take company distance; to this efi"ect, he will command:
1. To form square. 2. By the head of column, take half distance.
The colonel will halt the column the moment the third division shall
have its distance, and as soon as the necessary dispositions are made,
form it into square.
367. The battalion being formed into square, when the colonel shall
wish to cause it to advance a distance less than thirty paces, he will
command :
246 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
1. By (such) fro7it, forward. 2. March.
If it be supposed that the advance be made by the fii::3t front, the
chief of this front will eounnand :
1. First front, forward. 2. Guide centre.
The chief of the second front will face his front to the left. The
captains of the companies composing the front will place themselves
outside, and on the right of their left guides, who will replace them in
the front rank; the chief of the third front will face his front to the
right, and the captains in this front will place themselves outside, and
on the left of their covering sergeants ; the chief of the fourth front
will face his front about, and command: 1. Fourth front, forward. 2.
Guide centre. The captain who is in the centre of the first front, will
be charged with the direction of the march.
At the command march, the square will put itself in motion ; the
companies marching by the flank will be careful not to lose their dis-
tances. The chief of the fourth division will cause his division to
keej) constantly closed on the flanks of the second and third fronts.
This movement will only be executed in rjuick time.
The lieutenant-colonel will place himself in rear of the file of direc-
tion, in order to regulate his march.
If the colonel should wish to halt the square, he will command :
1. Battalion. 2. Halt.
At the second command, the square will halt: the fourth front will
face about immediately, and without further command; the second and
third fronts will face outward; the captains of the companies will re-
sume their places in square.
In moving the square forward by the second, third or fourth fronts,
the same rule will be observed.
368. The battalion being formed into square, when the colonel shall
wish to cause it to advance, he will command :
* 1. Form column.
The chief of the first front will command : ^
1. First division, forward. 2. Guide left.
The commander of the fourth front will caution it to stand fast: the
commander of the second front will cause it to face to the left, and
then command: By comjictny, hy file left. The commander of the third
w
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 247
front will cause it to face to the right, and then command : By com-
pani/, h}i file right. At the moment the second and third fronts fa-ce to
the left and right, each captain will cause to break to the rear the two
leading files of his company.
These dispositions being made, the colonel will command :
3. March (or double quitk — March J.
At this command, the first front will march forward; its chief will
halt it when it shall have advanced a space equal to half its front, and
align it by the left.
The corresponding companies of the second and third fronts will
wheel by file to the left and right, and march to meet each other behind
the centre of the first division, and the moment they unite the captain
of each company will halt hi?? company and face it to the front. The
division being re-formed, its chief will align it by the left.
The commander of the fourth front will cause it to face about; its
file-closers will remain before the front rank.
The column being thus re-formed, the colonel may put it in march ;
the rio-ht guides will preserve company distance exactly as the direct-
ing guides.
When the colonel shall wish to re-form square, he will give the
necessary commands.
369. To cause the square to march in retreat, the colonel will first
cause column to be formed, and, when formed, he will cause it to face
by the rear rank ; to this end, ho will command :
1. To march in retreat. 2. Face by the rear rank. 3. Battalion,
about — Face.
At the second command, the file-closers of the interior divisions will
place themselvc$, passing by the outer flanks of their respective com-
panies, behind the front rank opposite to their places in line of battle ;
the file-closers of the other divisions will stand fast.
At the third command, the battalion will face about: each chief of
division will place himself before its rear rank, become front, passing
through the interval l^etwecu its two companies; the guides will step
into the rear rank, now front.
The column being thus disposed, the colonel may put it in march,
or cause it to form square as if it were faced by the front rank. The
square being formed, its fronts will preserve the same designations they
had when faced by the front rank.
The battalion being in square by the rear rank, when the colonel
shall wish to march it in retreat or in advance, he will conform to what
248 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
is prescribed above ; otherwise, he will re-form the column, by march-
ing forward the fourth front.
If the square is to be marched to the front, the colonel will face the
column by the front rank ; to this end he will command :
1. To march in advance. 2. Face hy the front rank. 3. Battalion,
about — Fi^CE.
370. If the column be marching in advance, and the colonel shall
wish to march it in retreat, he will command :
1. To march in retreat. 2. Battalion, right about. 3. March (or
double quick — March).
At the second command, the file-closers of the second and third
divisions will place themselves rapidly before the front rank of their
respective divisions. At the command march, the column will face
about and move off to the rear.
If the column be marching in retreat, and the colonel shall wish to
march it in advance, he will command :
\. To march in advance. 2. Battalion, right about. 3. March
(or double quick — March).
At the second command, the file-closers of the second and third
divisions will place themselves before the rear rank of their respective
divisions ; at the third, the column will face by the front rank.
To reduce the square.
.371. The colonel, wishing to break the square, will command :
1. Reduce square. 2. March (or double quick — March).
This movement will be executed in the manner indicated, No. 368;
but the file-closers of the fourth front will i^lace themselves behind
the rear rank the moment it faces about ; the field and staff, the color-
bearer and buglers, will, at the same time, return to their places in
column.
To form square from line of battle.
372. To ploy the battalion into column upon one of the flank divisions,
the colonel will command :
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 249
1. To form square. 2. Column at half dbitance^ by division. 3.
On the Jirst (or fjurth) division. Battalion, right (or lefi^ —
Face. 5. March (or double quick — March).
This movement will be executed according to the principles already
prescribed.
373. To ploy the battalion into double column, the colonel will com-
mand :
1. To form square. 2. Double column at half distance. 3.
Battalion, inward — Face. 4. March (or double quick —
March.
374. The battalion being in march, to ploy it into double column to
form square, the colonel will command:
1. To form square. 2. Form double column. 3. Battalion., by
the right and left flanks. 4. March (or double quick —
March).
The chief of the leading division will halt his division at the com-
mand march.
Squares in four ranks.
375. If the squares formed in two rants, according to the preceding
rules, should not be deemed sufficiently strong, the colonel may cause
the square to be formed in four ranks.
The battalion being in column by company at full distance, right in
front, and at a halt, when the colonel shall wish to form square in four
ranks, he will first cause divisions to be formed, which being executed,
be will command:
1. To form square in four ranks. 2. To half distance, close
column. 3. March (or double quick — March).
At the first command, the chief of the first division will caution the
right company to face to the left, and the left company to face to the
right. The chiefs of the other divisions will caution their divisions to
move forward.
At the command march, the right company of the first division will
form into four ranks on its left file, and the left company into four ranks
on its right file. The formation ended, the chief of this division will
align it by the left.
250 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The other divisions will move forward and double their files march-
ing ; the right company of each division will double on its left file, and
the left companj^ on its right file. The formation completed, each chief
of division will command: Guide left. Each chief will halt his division
when it shall have the distance of a company front in four ranks from
the preceding one, counting from its rear rank, and will align his divis-
ion by the left. At the instant the fourth division is halted, the file-
closers will move rapidly before its front rank.
The colonel will form square, re-form column, and reduce square in
four ranks, by the same commands and means as prescribed for a bat-
talion in two ranks.
376. If the square formed in four ranks be reduced and at a halt,
and the colonel shall wish to form the battalion into two ranks, he will
command :
1. In two ranks, unduuhle files. 2. Batlalion, outward — Face .
3. March.
At the first command, the captains will step before the centres of
their respective companies, and those on the right will caution them to
face to the right, and those on the left to face to the left.
At the second command, the battalion will face to the right and
left.
At the command march, each company will undovible its files and
re-form iuto two ranks as indicated in the school of the company.
Each captain will halt his company and face it to the front. The
formation completed, each chief of division will align bis division by
the left.
.377. To form square in four ranks on one of the flank divisions, the
colonel will command :
1. To form square, in four ranks. 2. Column at half distance,
hy division. 3. On the first (or fourtli) division. 4. Battalion,
right (or left) — Face. 5. March (or double quick — March).
At the second command, each chief of division will place himself
before the centre of his division, and caution it to face to the right.
At the fourth command, the right guide of the first division will
remain faced to the front, the battalion will face to the right.
At the command march, the first file of four men of the first division
will face to the front, remaining doubled. All the other files of four
men will step off together, and each in succession will close up to its
proper distance on the file preceding it, and face to the front, remaining
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 251
doubled. When the last file shall have closed, the chief of division
will command : Left, Dhess.
The other divisions will ploy into column in the same manner as
with a battalion in two ranks, observing what follows: the chiefs of
divisions instead of allowing their divisions to file past them, on enter-
ing the colnmn will continue to lead them, and as each division shall
arrive on a line with the right guide of the first division, its chief will
halt the right guide, who will immediately face to the front; the first
file of four men will also halt at the same time and face to the front,
remaining doubled. The second file will close on the first, and when
closed, halt, and face to the front, remaining doubled. All the other
files will execute successively what has just been prescribed for the
second. When the last file shall have closed, the chief of division will
command: Left, Dress.
378. If the colonel should wish to form a perpendicular square in
four ranks by double column, he will command :
1. To form square^ in four ranks. 2. Double column, at half
distance. 3. Battalion, inward — Face. 4. March (or double
qu ick — Ma r c h ) .
At the second command the captains of companies will place them-
selves before the centres of their respective companies, and caution
those on the right to face to the left, and those on the left to face to the
right. The captain of the fifth company will caution his covering ser-
geant to stand fast.
At the third command the battalion will face to the left and right;
at the command march, the left file of the fourth, and the right file of
the fifth company, will face to the front, remaining doubled. The
fourth company will close successively by file of fours on the left file,
and the fifth company, in like manner, on the right file; the files will
face to the front, remaining doubled. The formation completed, the
chief of division will command : Rit/ht, Dress. The junior captain
will place himself in the interval between the two companies.
The other companies will close as prescribed for the double column
in two ranks, observing what follows: Each captain will halt the lead-
ing guide of his company the moment the head of his company arrives
on a line with the centre of the column. In the right companies, the
left guides will step into the line of file-closers, and the left file of four
men will face immediately to the front, remaining doubled, and by the
side of the right guide of the left compaiiy. The companies will each
form into four ranks, the right companies on the left file, and the left
companies on the right file. The formation completed, the junior cap-
252 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
tain will place himself between tbe two companies, and the senior will
command: Eight. Dress.
Column against cavalry.
379. When a column closed in mass has to form square, it will begin
by taking company distance; but if so suddenly threatened bj'^ cavalry
as not to allow time for this disposition, it will be formed in the follow-
ing manner:
The colonel will command :
1. Column against cavalry. 2. March.
At the first command, the chief of the leading division will caution
it to stand fast and pass behind the rear rank; in the interior divisions
each captain will promptly designate the number of files necessary to
close the interval between his company and the one in front of it. The
captains of the divisions next to the one in rear, in addition to chjsing
the interval in front, will also close up the interval which separates
this division from the last; the chief of the fourth division will caution
it to face about, and its file closers will pass briskly before the front
rank.
At the command march, the guides of each division will place them-
selves rapidly in the line of file-closers. The first division will stand
fast, tbe fourth will face about, the outer file of each of these divisions
will then face outward ; in the other divisions the files designated for
closing the intervals will form to the right and left into line, but in the
division next to the rearmost one, the first files that come into line will
close to the right or left until they join the rear division. The files of
each company which remain in column will close on their outer files,
formed into line, in order to create a vacant space in the middle of the
column.
If the column be in march, the column against cavalry will be form-
ed by the same commands and means. At the command march, the
first and fourth divisions will halt, and tbe latter division will face
about; the interior divisions will conform to what has been prescribed
above.
The battalion being no longer threatened by cavalry, the colonel will
command :
1. Form column. 2. March.
At the command march, the files in column will close to the left and
right and make room for those in line, who will retake their places in
column by stepping backward, except those closing the interval be-
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 253
tween the two rear divisions, who will take their places in column by
a flank movement. The fourth division will face about, the guides will
resume their places.
To deploy the battalion as skirmishers , and to rally this battalion.
To deploy the battalion as skii'inishers.
380. A battalion being in line of battle, if the colonel should wish to
deploy it on the right of the sixth company, for example, holding the
three right companies in reserve, he will signify his intention to the
lieutenant-colonel and adjutant, and also to the major, who will be
directed to take charge of the reserve. He will point out to the lieu-
tenant-colonel the direction he wishes to give the line, as well as the
point where he wishes the right of the sixth company to rcst,-££nd to
the commander of the reserve the place he may wish it established.
The lieutenant-colonel will move rapidly in front of the right of the
sixth company, and the adjutant in front of the left of the same com-
pany. The commander of the reserve will dispose of it in the manner
to be hereinafter designated.
The colonel will then command :
1. First (or second) platoons — as skirmishers. 2. On the right of
the sixth company — take intervals. 3. March (or double quick
— March).
At the second command, the captains of the fifth and sixth companies
will prepare to deploy the first (or second) platoons of their companies,
the sixth on its right, the fifth on its left file. The captain of the
fourth company will face it to the right, and the captains of the
seventh and eighth companies will face their respective companies to
the left.
At the command march, the movement will commence, the platoons
of the fifth and sixth companies will deploy forward (see No. 294); the
right guide of the sixth will march on the point which will be indicated
to him by the lieutenant-colonel.
The company which has faced to the right, and also the companies
which have faced to the left, will march straight forward. The fourth
company will take an interval of 100 paces, counting from the left of
the fifth, and its chief will deploy its first platoon on its left file. The
seventh and eighth companies will each take an interval of 100 paces,
counting from the first file of the company which is immediately on its
254 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
right; and the chiefs of these companies Avill afterward deploy their
first platoons on the right file.
The guides who conduct the files on which the deployment is made,
should be careful to direct themselves toward the outer man of the
neighboring company, already deployed as skirmishers; or if tlie com-
pany has not finished its deployment, they Avill judge carefully the
distance which may still be required to place all these files in line, a,nd
will then march on the point thvis marked out. The companies, as
they arrive on the line, will align themselves on those already deployed.
The lieutenant-colonel and adjutant will follow the deployment, the
one on the right, the other on the left; the movement concluded, they
will place themselves near the colonel.
The reserves of the companies will be established in echelon in the
following manner. The reserve of the sixth company will be placed
150 paces in rear of the right of this company ; the reserves of the
fourth and fifth companies, vinited, opposite the centre of their line of
skirmishers, and thirty paces in advance of the reserve of the sixth
company; the reserves of the seventh and eighth companies, also
united, opposite the centre of their line of skirmishers, and thirty
paces farther to the rear than the reserve of the sixth company.
The major commanding the companies composing the reserve, on
receiving an order from the colonel to that effect, will march these
companies thirty paces to the rear, and will then ploy them into col-
umn by company, at half distance; after which he will conduct the
column to the point which shall have been indicated to him.
The colonel will have a general superintendence of the movement;
and when it is finished, will move to a point in rear of the line, whence
his view may best embrace all the parts, in order to direct their move-
ments.
If instead of deploying forward, it be desired to deploy by the flank,
the sixth and fifth companies will be moved to the front ten or twelve
paces, halted, and deployed by the flank, the one on the right, the
other on the left file, by the means already indicated. (See No. 265.)
Each of the other companies will be marched by the flank ; and as soon
as the last file of the company, next toward the direction, shall have
taken its interval, it will be moved upon the line established hj the fifth
and sixth companies, halted and deployed.
In the preceding example, it has been supposed that the battalion
was in order of battle ; but if in column, it would be deployed as
skirmishers by the same commands and according to the same prin-
ciples.
If the deployment is to be made foncard, the directing company, as
soon as it is unmasked, will be moved ten or twelve paces in front of
SCHOOL OF THE BATTALION. 255
the head of the column, and will be then deployed on the file indicated.
Each of the other companies will take its interval to the right or left,
and deploy as soon as it is taken.
If the deployment is to be made by the J? an k, the directing company
will be moved in the same manner to the front, as soon as it is unmask-
ed, and will then be halted and deployed by the flank on the file indi-
cated. Each of the other companies will be marched by the flank, and
when its interval is taken, will be moved on the line, halted, and de-
l^loyed as soon as the company next toward the direction shall have
finished its deploj'^ment.
AYhen the color-company is to be deployed as skirmishers, the color,
Avithout its guard, will be detached, and remain with the battalion
reserve.
The rally.
3S1. The colonel may cause all the movements prescribed for a com-
pany to be executed by the battalion, and by the same commands and
the same signals. When he wishes to rally the battalion, he will cause
the rally on the battalion to be sounded, and so dispose his reserve as to
protect this movement.
The companies deployed as skirmishers will be rallied in squares on
their respective reserves (see No. 280) ; each reserve of two contiguous
companies will form the first front of the square, throwing to the rear
the sections on the flanks; the skirmishers who arrive first will com-
plete the lateral fronts, and the last the fourth front. The oflUners and
sergeants will superintend the rally, and as fast as the men arrive,
they will form them into two ranks, without regard to height, and
cause them to face outward.
The \-aX\j being efi"ected, the commanders of squares will profit by
any interval of time the cavalry may allow for putting them in safety,
either by marching upon the battalion reserve, or by seizing an
advanced position ; to this end, each of the squares will be formed into
column, and march in this order; and if threatened anew, it will halt,
and again form square.
As the companies successively arrive near the battalion reserve, each
will re-form as promptly as possible, and, without regard to designation
or number, take place in the column next in the rear of the companies
already in it.
The battalion reserve will also form square, if itself threatened by
cavalry. In this case, the companies in marching toward it will place
themselves in the section without fire (/. e., march on the angles), and
thus march on the squares.
256 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Article VII.
SCHOOL OF THE TEOOPEE.
382. The object of this school is to make troopers skilful in the
management of their horses and arms, in all directions, and at all
gaits. To accomplish this, the instructor must attend particularly,
from the commencement, to placing the men well on horseback, and to
habituating them in the application of correct principles.
The instruction should always commence at a walk, in order to give
the troopers the facility of seating themselves well, and of calming
their horses, as they are generally more restive on first being brought
together. The instruction should also terminate at a tvalk.
At the commencement, it is generally necessary to make the troopers
march repeatedly on the same track, at a walk, and at a trot; when,
however, they already have some skill in the management of their
horses, which is almost invariably the case with volunteer cavalry, this
exercise is less necessary, and the instructor may proceed almost at
once to the changes of direction, and other movements.
When the instructor wishes to rest the men, he commands :
Rest.
At this command, the trooper is no longer required to remain
immovable.
When the instructor wishes to resume the drill, he commands :
Attention.
When the trooper resumes his immovable position, and fixes his
attention.
In the first part of the instruction but a very few men should be
under the same instructor, or small squai-es should be formed as in
infantry.
To conduct the horses to the drill ground.
383. The horses having the bridle reins near the neck, each trooper
takes hold of the reins with the right hand, six inches from the mouth
of the horse, the back of the hand up, the hand elevated and firm, to
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. 257
prevent the horse from jumping, and leads his horse to the ground,
where under the direction of the instructor, he places it in such posi-
tion that all the horses shall be on the same line, or in one rank.
The squad being formed, the instructor commands:
Count by fours.
At this command, the men count from right to left, one, two, three ,
four, according to the place which each one occupies.
The troopers should be without arms or spurs.
Position of the trooper before mounting. *
384. On the left side of the horse, abreast of the lower jaw ; the
reins in the right hand six inches from the mouth of the horse, the
back of the hand up. Heels upon the same line as nearly as the con-
formation of the man will permit, the feet at a little less than a right
angle, and equally turned out; the knee straight without being stiff;
the body perpendicular upon the haunches and slightly inclined for-
ward; the left hand hanging by the side, the palm a little turned out,
the little finger along the seam of the pantaloons; the head erect
without being constrained, the chin drawn in, and eyes to the front.
To mount.
385. The instructor commands :
Prepare to Mount.
One time and two motions.
First motion. Nos. 1 and 3 move forward six paces, stepping off with
the left foot, keeping opposite their intervals. Place the right foot
three inches in rear of the loft ; make a face and a half to the right on
both heels, the right toe to the front; let go the right rein; slip the
right hand along the left rein ; take two steps, stepping off with the
right foot, and face to the left on the toe of the left foot, the right side
toward the flank of the horse; carry back the right heel three inches
in rear of the left; the right hand seizing the end of the reins is placed
upon the cantle of the saddle.
Second motion. Place a third of the left foot in the stirrup, support-
ing it against the forearm of the horse ; rest upon the point of the
right foot, and seize a lock of the mane with the left hand over the
reins as far forward as possible, the extremity of the lock passing out
of the hand on the side of the little finger.
22
258 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Mount.
One time and two motions.
First motion. At the command mount, spring from the right foot,
holding firmly to the mane, at the same time pressing the cantle with
he right hand to prevent the saddle from turning; the body erect.
Second motion. Pass the right leg stretched over the croup of the
horse, without touching him; sit down lightly in the saddle, placing
the right hand at the same time, without quitting the reins, upon
the right holster, the palm of the hand resting upon it, the lingers on
the outside of it, and take one rein of the bridle (if a snaffle) in each
hand.
If the trooper is using the curb bridle, he will pass the reins into
the left (or bridle hand), the little finger between the reins, the other
fingers well closed, and the thumb upon the second joint of the first
finger; the elbow slightly detached from the body, the hand four
inches above the pommel of the saddle, the fingers six inches from,
and turned toward the body ; the right hand at the side.
The instructor should alloAv but a short interval between the first
and second motion, because were the trooper to remain a long time
on the stirrup, the horse would become restive, and move out of place,
then command :
Form — Rank.
Nos. 1 and 3 raise the Avrists (or the bridle hand), and h«ld the legs
close to the body of the horse to keep him quiet; Nos. 2 and 4 enter
the intervals without jostling and without precipitation.
After mounting, the instructor causes the stirrups to be crossed upon
the neck, the left stirrup over the right.
Position of the trooper, mounted.
386. The buttocks bearing equally upon the saddle, and as far for-
ward as possible; the thighs turned upon their flat side, or knees turned
in, without effort, embracing the horse equally, and stretched only by
their own weight and that of the legs; a supple bend of the knees;
the legs below the knee free, and falling naturall}'^ ; the toes falling in
like manner; the loins supported without stiflness; the upper jiart of
the body at ease, free and erect; the shoulders square; the arms free,
the elbows falling naturally; the head erect, at ease, and not drawn in
between the shoulders; when the snaffle is worn, one rein in each
hand, the fingers closed, the thumb along each rein, the wrists as high
I
1^ SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. 259
as the elbow, at six inches from each other, the fingers turned toward
each other, the upper extremity of the reins leaving the hand on the
side of the thumb.
The instructor then commands :
1. Eyes Right (or Left). 2. Front.
At the word right, the head is turned gently to the right, so that the
corner of the left eye, next the nose, may be in a line with the buttons
of the jacket.
At the command/ron^, the head is gently turned to the front.
The use of the reins.
387. The reins serve to prepare the horse for the movements he is
required to execute, to direct him, and to stop him. Their action
should be progressive, and in accordance with that of the legs.
When the trooper makes use of the reins, the arras should act with
suppleness, and their movements ought to extend from the waist to the
shoulder.
The use of the legs.
388. The legs serve to urge the horse forward, to siipport him, and
to aid him in turning to the right or left. Whenever the trooper
wishes his horse to move forward, he should close the legs by degrees
behind the girths, causing their cD'ects to correspond with the sensi-
bility of the horse, taking care neither to open or elevate the knees, of
which the bend should be always pliaut. The trooper relaxes the legs
by degrees, as he closed them.
The effect of the reins and legs combined.
389. In elevating the wrists, or the bridle hand, a little, and closing
the legs, the trooper ^'gathers his horse :" in elevating the wrists, or
bridle hand, he slackens the pace ; in repeating this movement of the
wrists, or bridle hand, he stops the horse, or he " reins back." The
trooper ought to elevate the wrists Avithout curving them, at the same
time drawing them slightly toward the body.
In opening the right rein, and closing the right leg, the trooper
turns his horse to the right. To open the right rein, the right wrist
is carried, without turning it, more or less to the right, according
to the sensibility of the horse. When the curb is worn, move the
bridle hand forward and to the right.
260 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
In opening the left rein, and closing the left leg, the trooper turns
his horse to the left. The left rein is opened upon the same principle
as that on which the right is opened. When the curb is worn, move
the bridle hand forward and to the left.
By lowering the wrists, or bridle hand slightly, the horse is at liberty
to move forward; the closing of the legs puts him in motion.
. To march.
390. The instructor commands :
1. Squad, forward. 2. March.
At the command squad, forward, elevate the wrists, or bridle hand,
slightly, and close the legs, in order to gather the horse.
At the command inarch, lower the wrists, or bridle hand, slightly,
and close the legs moi'e or less, according to the sensibility of the
horse. The horse having obeyed, replace the wrists, or bridle hand,
and the legs by degrees.
After some steps the instructor commands :
1. Squad. 2. Halt.
At the first command, the trooper gathers his horse without slacken-
ing his pace.
At the command halt, the trooper braces himself in tbe saddle ; ele-
vate the wrists, or bridle hand, at the same time, by degrees, and close
the left to prevent the horse from backing. The horse having obeyed,
replace the wrists and the legs by degrees.
To turn to the right or left.
391. The instructor commands :
1. Squad, to the right (or left). 2. March. 3. Halt.
At the command squad, to the right, gather the horse.
At the command march, open the right rein, or move the bridle band
to the right, and gradually close the right leg. In order not to turn
the horse too short, perform the movement on the fourth of a circle
three paces in length. The movement being almost completed, dimin-
ish the effect of the rein and the right leg, supporting the horse at the
same time with the left rein and leg to terminate the movement.
At the command halt, elevate the wrists or bridle hand slightly, and
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. 261
hold the legs near, in order to keep the horse straight in the new di-
rection ; replace the wrists and the legs by degrees.
To turn about to the right, or left.
392. The instructor commands :
1. Squad, to the iHght (or left), about. 2. March. 3. Halt.
This command is executed on the principles prescribed for the turn
to the right or left, with this difference, that the horse should pass over
a semicircle of six paces and face to the rear.
To make a quarter turn to the right or left.
393. The instructor commands :
1. Squad, right (or left) oblique. 2. March. 3. Halt.
At the command )-t</ht ohlique, gather the horse.
At the command march, open the right rein a little, or move the
bridle hand slightly to the right, and close the right leg slightly, in
order to make the horse execute a quarter turn to the right; cause the
horse to feel, almost at the same time, the effect of the right rein and
the left leg. to terminate the movement without increasing the degree
of obliquity.
At the command halt, elevate the wrist, or bridle hand, and close the
legs slightly, to keep the direction of the quarter turn to the right; re-
place the wrists and legs by degrees.
The instructor commands halt, almost immediately after the com-
mand march; he does not require great exactness in this movement,
the object of which is to give the trooper the first idea of the oblique
march.
To rein back, and to cease reining hack.
39Jr. The instructor commands :
M 1- Squad, backward. 2. March. 3. Squad. 4. Halt.
At the Command backward, gather the horse. At the command
march, keep a firm scat, elevate the wrists, or bridle hand, and close
the legs. As soon as the horse obeys, lower and elevate the wrists or
bridle hand, in regular succession, which is called yielding and check-
ing. If the horse throws the haunches to the right, close the right leg;
if to the left, close the left leg. If these means are not sufiicient to
262 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
replace the horse in his proper position, open the rein on the side to-
ward which the horse throws the haunches, causing him to feel slightly,
at the same time, the effect of the opposite rein.
At the command squad, the trooper prepares to stop. At the com-
mand halt, lower the wrists, or bridle hand, and close the legs. The
horse having obeyed, replace the wrists, or bridle hand, and the legs by
degrees.
To dismount.
395. The instructor causes the stirrups to be let down, and the feet
put in them. He then commands :
1. Prepare to Dismount.
One time, and two motions.
First motion. Nos. 1 and 3 move forward six paces, and keep them-
selves opposite their intervals. Pass the right rein of the snaffle (when
it is worn) into the left hand, the extremity of the reins leaving the
hands on the side of the thumb.
Second motion. Seize the reins of the snaffle (or of the ctirb bridle)
above and near the left thumb with the right hand, the back of the
hand up, and place this hand upon the right holster. Disengage the
right foot from the stirrup, and seize with the left hand a lock of the
mane over the reins.
2. Dismount.
One time, and two motions.
First motion. At the command c?/8niOM?jf, rise upon the left stirrup;
pass the right leg extended over the croup of the horse, without touch-
ing him, and bring the right thigh near the left, the body well sus-
tained; at the same time place the right hand on the can tie of the
saddle, slipping it along the reins without letting them go; descend
lightly to the ground, the body erect, the heels on the same line. Let
go the mane with the left hand.
Second motion. Make a face and two steps to the left, stepping off
with the left foot; slip the right hand along the left rein, seize both
reins with the same hand six inches from the mouth of the horse, back
of the hand up, and take the position of the trooper dismounted.
To file off.
396. The instructor commands :
1. By the right (or left) — File off. 2. March.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. 263
At the command march, the trooper of the right (or left) steps off
with the left foot, leading his horse to the front; he takes four steps,
turns to the right (or left), and marches, in the new direction, at the
same time holding the hand high and firm to keep the horse from
jumping. Each trooper executes, in succession, the same movement,
when the one who precedes him has moved four paces to the front.
Exercises in (he riding house.
397. In the instruction which follows, the squad is supposed to be
exercising in a riding house whose sides are about ninety, and ends
thirty yards in length, or on a riding ground which is bounded by lines
corresponding to the walls of the riding house.
Two of the best instructed troopers are designated to be conductors;
they are placed on the right and left of the squad, and use their
stirrups.
To march to the right (or left) hand.
398. The squad being drawn up in the riding house, or on the
ground, parallel to its length, the instructor commands:
1. Squad, to the right (or left). 2. March. 3. Forward.
At the command march, the troopers conform to what is prescribed
in order to execute a turn to the right from a halt, as directed in
No. 391.
At the command fvrward, the troopers, in lowering their wrists and
closing the legs, march straight forward, and follow the conductor.
At the extremity of the riding house, the conductor turns to the
right, when the troopers march to the right hand, having between them
the distance of four feet from head to croup.
The trooper marches to the right hand, when he has the right side
toward the interior of the riding horse. He marches to the left hand,
when it is the left side.
* To turn to the right (or left) in marching.
399. The troopers follow the conductor, and make a turn to the right
(or left), in marching, or arriving at the angles of the riding house.
The instructor directs the trooper to advance the outer hip and shoul-
der, without inclining inward, in order to conform to the movement of
the horse.
261 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
To halt, and to step off.
400. The troopers marching in column on one of the long sides, the
instructor commands :
1. Squad. 2. Halt.
The troopers stop as prescribed in No. 390.
To recommence the march, the instructor commands :
1. Squad, forward. 2. March.
To pass from the walk to a trot, and from the trot to a walk.
401. The troopers becoming habituated to the movement of the horse,
the instructor causes them to pass to the trot. When they are in cpl-
umn on one of the long rides, he commands :
1. Trot, 2. March.
At the command trot, gather the horse, without increasing his gait.
At the command march, lower the wrists a little, and close the legs
more or less, according to the sensibility of the horse. As soon as the
horse obeys, replace the wrists and the legs by degrees.
The instructor should employ this gait cautiously at first, and at a
moderate trot, that the men may not lose their position.
To pass from the trot to the walk, the instructor commands :
1. Walk. 2. March.
At the command walk, gather the horse without aflfecting the gait.
At the command march, elevate the wrists, or bridle hand, by de-
grees, and hold the legs near, in order to prevent the horse from stop-
ping. As soon as the horse obeys, replace the wrists and legs by
degrees.
Changes of hand.
402. When the troopers have marched some time to the right (or left)
hand, to make them change hands in the breadth of the riding house,
or ground, without stopping, the instructor commands :
1. Right (or left) — Turn. 2. Forward.
At the word turn, the leading file turns to the right. At the com-
mand forward, he moves straight forward and crosses the riding house
or ground, in its breadth, followed by the other troopers.
*".'.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. 265
The leading tile being at two paces from the opposite track, the
instructor commands :
1. Left (or right) — Turn. 2. Forward.
At the command turn, the leading file turns to the left; and at the
command foncard, be follows the track. All the troopers turn in suc-
cession on the same ground.
The instructor causes these changes of hand to be made at a nuilk,
and at a trot.
To turn to the right (or lejV) hy trooper., in marching.
40;% ihe troopers marching in column, and having arrived about the
middle of one of tlic long sides, the instructor commands :
1. Squad, to the right (or left). 2. March. 3. Forward.
At the command squad, to the right, gather the horse. At the com-
mand march, each trooper executes a turn to the right in marching.
At the command fonvard, each trooper moves straight to the front.
The troopers being two paces from the opposite track, the instructor
commands :
1. Squad, to the right (or left). 2. March. 3. Forward.
At the command march, each trooper executes a turn to the right, fol-
lowing the same principles ; and at the command foncard, all return
to the track.
The same movements are repeated to resume the order in which the
troopers were originally.
To turn about to the right (or left) by troopers, in marching on the
same line.
404. The troopers having made a turn to the right as has just been
explained, and having arrived near the opposite track, the instructor
commands :
1. Squad, to the right (or left) about. 2. March. 3. Forward.
At the command, squad, to the right about, gather the horse. At the
command march, each trooper executes a turn to the right about in
marching, following the principles laid down in No. 392. At the com-
mand/orwarrf, each trooper moves directly to the front.
The instructor gives the command march at the moment the troopers
266 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS A^^D MILITIA.
are within two paces of the track ; the troopers are then re-formed in
column upon the opposite track, by the movement of squad, to the right
(or left).
To turn about to the right (or left) by trooper, in marching in
column.
405. The troopers marching in column, and the leading file having
arrived near the end of one of the long sides of the riding house or
ground, the instructor commands :
1. Squad, to the right (or left) about. 2. March. 3. Forward.
At the command squad, to the right ahoiit, gather the horse. At the
command march, each trooper executes a turn to the right about in
marching. At the command march, each trooper moves forward.
On arriving at the short side opposite, the leading file turns to the
left without command 5 the squad returns to the original order, by
executing the inverse movement.
406. To rest the squad, the instructor causes the troopers to turn to
the right (or left), when they are about the middle of one of the long
sides of the riding house or ground, and gives the command hah, when
they are out of the track. The instruction is recommenced by a turn
to the right (or left).
To terminate the drill, the stirrups are let down, and the feet placed
in them, when the instructor commands the troopers to dismount, and
file off.
During the rests, the instructor exercises the troopers in vaulting on,
and /ro?H their horses, without commands.
To leap to the ground.
The trooper, holding the reins as in dismounting, seizes a lock of the
mane firmly with the left hand; places the right hand upon the pom-
mel, raises himself upon his wrists, brings the right thigh by the side
of the left, remains an instant in this position, and descends lightly to
the ground.
To leap on the horse.
The trooper seizes the mane with the left hand, places the right hand
which holds the reins upon the pommel of the saddle, springs lively,
raising himself upon the two wrists, remains an instant in this position,
and places himeelf lightly in the saddle.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. 267
The instructor sometimes gives the command to rest in marching, in
order to calm the horses after quick pace, and to relieve the troopers.
During the rent in vtarching, the troopers relax themselves, but without
changing the pace, and without losing their distance.
Exercises in two ranks.
407. The troopers arc placed in two ranks opened, with a distance of
six paces between the ranks, and the horses at one foot from each other.
In this instruction from twelve to sixteen troopers may be united. The
stirrups are crossed as in the preceding case; the men wear spurs.
The instructor commands :
In each rank — count Fours.
At the last part of the command, the men count in each rank, from
right to left, pronouncing in a loud and distinct voice, in the same tone,
without hurry, and without turning the head; one, two, three, /our, ac-
cording to the place which each one occupies.
At the command :
Prepare to Mount.
Nos. 1 and 3 of each rank move six paces to the front; stepping off
with the left foot, keeping opposite their intervals, and regulating
by the right. The troopers then execute the first motion of prepare to
mount as directed for a single rank.
After the troopers are mounted, the instructor commands :
Form — Ranks.
At the command ranks, Nos. 1 and 3 raise the wrists (or bridle-
hand), and hold the legs close to the body of the hoi-se to keep him
quiet; Nos. 2 and 4 enter the intervals without jostling and without
precipitation.
The rear rank being formed, closes to the distance of two feet from
the front.
Of the spu7's.
408. The instructor explains to the troopers the use and the effect of
the spur.
If the horse does not obey the logs, it is necessary to employ the
spur. The spur is not an aid, it is a means of chastising. It is only
necessary to use it occasionally, but always vigorously, and at the
moment the horse commits the fault.
268 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
In order to use the spurs, it is necessary to keep steady the body, the
waist and the wrists; to cling to the horse with the thighs and the
calves of the legs; turn the toes a little out; lower the wrists a little
press the spurs close behind the girths, without moving the body, and
let them remain there until the horse obeys; then replace the wrists
and legs by degrees. In using the spur, the troopers should not bear
too much upon the rein, as this would counteract the effect of the spur.
409. To conduct the squad to the riding house or ground, the
instructor commands :
1. By fie to the right (or left). 2. March.
At the command J)y file to the right, gather the horse. At the com-
mand march, the trooper on the right of each rank executes a tarn to
the right, and moves forward, the trooper of the rear rank approaching,
in marching, to within one foot of the front rank. This movement is
executed by all the other troopers in succession.
To march to the right (or left) hand.
410, In entering the riding house or ground, the instructor marches
his squad parallel to the long sides, and when the head of the column
arrives toward the middle, he commands:
1. Right and left — Turn. 2. Forward.
The leading file of the front rank turns to the left, the one of the
rear rank turns to the right; when these files have arrived within two
paces of the track, the instructor commands:
1. Right — Turn. 2. Forward.
The two columns then march to the right hand, and at the same
pace.
The troopers preserve the distance of four feet from head to
croup.
The leading files regulate the pace of their horses so as to arrive
•at the same time at the opposite angles of the riding house or
ground, the leading file of the rear rank regulating himself on him
of the front.
To pass a corner to the right, a tarn to the right is executed; to
pass a corner to the left, a turn to the left is made in marching;
the movement of each one should be independent of the trooper who
has gone before, their hands and legs alone should determine the
horse to go to the right or to the left.
SCHOOL OF. THE TROOPER. 269
To pass from the walk to the trot, and from the trot to the walk.
411. The troopers inarching in column upon the long sides, the
instructor causes them to commence the trot.
Whenever the change is made from a slow gait to one more rapid,
as from a walk to the trot, it is necessary to commence slowly, and
increase it gradually to the degree prescribed.
The troopers marching in column at a trot upon the long sides,
the instructor causes them to pass to the ualk.
Whenever the change is made from a lively gait to one more slow,
as from the trot to the mo Ik, it is necessary to commence the last
gait as gradually as possible, and to reduce it by little and little to
the degree indicated.
Change (f direction in the breadth of the riding house or ground.
*' 412. The instructor causes the change of direction in the breadth
of the riding house or ground, as directed for the changes of hand,
taking care to give the command in sufficient time to prevent the
columns from meeting at the end of the change of direction.
The change of direction ought to be executed so as neither to
stop nor check the rear of the column ; the troopers, and particularly
the leading files, ought to turn without slackening the pace, aiding
' themselves not only with their hands but also with their legs.
Change of direction in the length of the riding house or ground.
413. This change of direction is executed oil the same principle as
that in the breadth of the riding house, or ground, the instructor
observing, in order to commence it, to command ri<jht or left, at the
instant the leading files arrive at the first angle, and to command turn,
when, having past the corner, they are at three paces from the middle
of the short side.
The troopers then cross the riding house or ground, in its length
in a right line, without touching each other, passing to the left, and
re-enter upon the track at the commands :
1. Right (or /e//)— Turn. 2. Forward.
Change of direction diagonally.
414. When the leading files have passed the second corner, and have
270 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
arrived upon the long sides, the instructor causes a diagonal change of
direction to be executed at the commands :
1. Right (or left) — Turn. 2. Forward.
At the command turn, the leading files make a half-turn to the right.
At the command forward, they move straight forward, cross the riding
house or ground, diagonally, pass each other to the left, and re-enter
upon the track at the commands :
1. Left (or right). 2. Turn. 3. Forward.
All the other troopers execute the same movement in succession, in
turning upon the same ground that the leading files have turned.
Change of direction obliquely hy the trooper.
415. The squad commences a change of direction in the length of
the riding house, or ground; as soon as all the troopers have turned,
and are in th^ same direction, the instructor commands :
1. Column. 2. Halt.
The troopers stop at the same time, keeping their horses straight, and
at their distances.
The instructor causes the troopers to make a quarter-turn to the right
(or left) from a halt. This movement being executed, he assures him-
self of the exactness of the directions and intervals, and then commands :
1. Squad, forward. 2. March.
The troopers march at the same gait, each in the direction he has
taken. When they arrive one foot from the track, the instructor com-
mands :
Forward.
At this command, make a quarter-turn to the left in advancing, with
the hand light and leg near, to follow the track.
The instructor causes these movements to be repeated without halt-
ing; for this purpose, after having commenced the change of direction
in the length of the riding house or ground, as soon as the two ranks
are in column, he commands :
1. Squad, right (or left) ohlique. 2. March. 3. Forward.
At the command, right oblique, gather the horse. At the command
march, execute a quarter turn to the right; having taken this direction,
fe
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. 271
keep the legs equally neai', and march straight forward at the same
gait. At the command forward, return upon the track, or return to
the original direction.
To march in a circle.
416. When the leading files have passed over about one-third of the
long sides, the instructor commands :
1. In circle to the right (or left). 2. March.
At the command in circle to the right, the leading files, and in succes-
sion the troopers, gather their horses. At the command viareh, the
leading files describe a circle between the two tracks ; they are followed
by the other troopers, who march exactly in the same direction.
To change hand on the circle.
417. The instructor commands:
1. Right (or left)— Turn. 2. Forward.
At the command tnni, the leading files turn to the right. At the
command forward, they move straight forward, directing themselves,
in passing the centre, toward the opposite point of the circumference.
When the leading files are two feet from this point, the instructor
commands :
1. Left (or right)— Tmi^. 2. Forward.
\
At the command turn, the leading files turn to the left. At the com-
mand forward, they re-enter upon the circle at the new hand. All the
other troopers follow the leading files.
When the instructor wishes to resume the exercise upon the right
line, he takes care that the leading files are at opposite points of the
circumference; and when they are on the track of the long sides, he
commands :
Forward.
At this command the leading files straighten their horses and re-enter
on the track, followed by the other troopers.
418. To reunite the troopers in order to conduct them to the quar-
ters, the instructor causes them to close to the distance of two feet; he
then orders a change of direction in the breadth of the riding house
or ground, at the moment the leading files are opposite each other.
272 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
When the leading files, in the act of meeting each other, ain*ive
toward the middle of the space, the instructor commands :
1. Left and right — Turn. 2. Forward.
The leader of the front rank turns to the left, that pf the rear rank
to the right, the two columns thus reunite, the troopers of the rear
rank approaching to within one pace of those of the front.
The column having arrived on the ground where the squad was
formed, the instructor commands:
1. Front. 2. Halt.
At the command front, the first trooper of each rank turns to the
left and moves straight forward. At the command hult, the trooper of
the front rank stops; and when the rear rank trooper finds himself at
two feet from the front rank he stops also.
All the other troopers execute a turn to the left, in succession, when
they are nearly opposite the place they are to occupy in the rank, and
halt ahreast of this rank.
419. To terminate the exercise, the instructor gives the command to
dismount in two ranks, as follows : at the command *
Prepare to Dismount,
Nos. 1 and 3, of the front rank, move forward six paces ; Nos. 2 and 4,
of the rear rank, rein back four paces, and keep themselves opposite
their intervals, dressing by the right.
After the troopers have taken these positions they go through the
first motion^- of jjre^jffre to dismount, as directed for a single rank, fol-
lowed by the dismount.
After the dismount, the instructor commands :
Form — Ranks.
At the word ranks, Nos. 1 and .3, of each rank, elevate the right hand
slightly, to keep the horse quiet; Nos. 2 and 4 return quietly to their
intervals.
Exercises with stirrups.
420. The stirrup should support only the weight of the leg; the foot
ought to be inserted one-third of its length, the heel lower than the
toe. The stirrups are of proper length, if, when the trooper raises
himself on the stirrups, there is a space of six inches between the fork
and the saddle.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. 27'^
To turn to the right (or /e//), hy the trooper, in marching.
421. The instructor causes this movement to be executed as already
pi'escribed (No. 398). at the commands:
1. Squad, to the right. 2. March. 3. Forward.
He will observe that, the troojiers marching in two columns, the com-
mand march ought to be given at the moment the leading files arrive
opposite the last trooper but one of the other column.
Immediately after the command /orH;or</, the troopers move straight
forward, preserving their gait and direction, so that each one may find
before him the interval and the place he is to occupy in the column on
the opposite track. In passing into the intervals, the logs should be
kept near, to prevent the horse slackening his gait.
To pass in succession from the head to the rear of the column.
422. This movement is executed in succession in the two columns, at
a simple warning from the instructor, by two right (or le/f) about turns.
The trooper designated to pass to the roar of the column gathers his
horse and executes the movement in advancing, so as not to retard
those who are behind him. He holds the outer leg near, in order to
describe a semicircle of more than six paces; he marches then parallel
to the column, and when he has re-entered upon the track by a second
turn, he closes to the (^stance of four feet from the last trooper. The
trooper who follows, and who becomes the leader, should gather his
horse, and direct him with the outer rein and the inner leg, to prevent
his following the horse which has left the column.
Being at a halt, to commence the move at a trot.
423. The troopers being in column upon the long sides, the instructor
commands :
1. Column, forward. 2. Trot. 3. March.
At the command trot, gather the horse. At the command march,
lower the wrists and close the legs by degrees ; as soon as the horse
obeys, replace the Avrists and legs slowly.
Marching at a trot, to halt.
424. The troopers marching at a trot, and in column on the long
sides, the instructor commands :
274 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MTLTTIA.
1. Column. 2. Halt.
At the command coluvm, gather the horse. At the command halt,
elevate the wrists by degrees until the horse stops, and hold the legs
always neai*, to keep him straight, and to prevent his stepping back.
The horse having obeyed, gradually replace the wrists and legs.
The instructor should require all the troopers to set off freely at the
trot at the command march, and to stop altogether, without jostling, at
the command halt.
To pass from the trot to the trot-out^ and from the trot-out to
the trot.
425. The troopers marching at the trot, and in column upon the long
sides, the instructor commands :
Trot-out.
At this command, lower the wrists a little, and close the legs gradu-
ally ,: as soon as the horse obeys, replace the wrists and the legs by
degrees.
This gait should be executed only during one or two turns toward
each hand ; in continuing it longer, the horses lose their steadiness,
and the equality of their gaits is destroyed.
426. To pass from the trot-out to the trot, the instructor commands :
Slow trot
At this command, elevate the wrists by degrees, and close the legs,
to prevent the horse from taking the walk; as soon as the horse obeys,
replace the wrists and legs by degrees.
To pass from the trot to the gallop.
427. Before commencing this exercise, and when the rear rank
arrives opposite one of the short sides of the riding house or ground,
it is formed by causing the troopers to front and halt, as directed,
No. 391, paying attention to make them move forward six paces from
the track.
The troopers of the front rank continue to march, take between them
the distance oi four paces, pass to the trot and commence the yallop, in
succession, at the indication of the instructor, as follows :
On approaching the corner, Ictir/then the trot, and gather the horse,
feeling the left rein slightly, in order to keep back the left shoulder,
and leave the right perfectly free.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. 275
At the moment of passing the corner, close the legs equally, but not
suddenly. The horse having taken the f/allop, hold a light hand and
the legs near, to keep him at his gait.
After one or two turns, the troopers pass from the gallop to the trot,
and from the trot to the walk. The instructor makes them change hand
in the breadth of the riding ground, and recommence the same exercise
to the left hand. The troopers of the front rank are then formed as
those of the rear rank, upon the other short side, and tho troopers of
the rear rank go through with the same exercise.
To passage to the right or left. ^
428. The two columns marching at a tcalk upon the long sides, the
instructor causes the movement squad, to the right (or left) to be exe-
cuted, No. 398, and, having halted the troopers, he commands :
1. Right (or left) pass. 2. March. 3. Squad. 4. Halt.
At the command 7-iyht pass, bear the shoulders of the horse to the
right in opening the right rein a little, and closing the right leg. This
movement is one of preparation ; it indicates to the trooper that the
shoulders of the horse should always commence the march, and pre-
cede the movement of the haunches. At the command march, open
the right rein to incline the horse to the right, closing the left leg at
the same time that the haunches may follow, without leaning the body
to the left : make use of the left rein and the right leg to support the
horse and moderate his movement.
After some steps upon the side, the instructor halts the squad.
At the command halt, cause the effect of the right rein and left leg
to cease instantly, employing the opposite rein and leg; straighten the
horse, and replace the wrists and legs by degrees.
To passage to the left, employ the same principles and inverse
means.
The instructor causes this movement to be executed in the com-
mencement by each man separatety, and then by all at the same time.
To passage to the rights or left, bring in column.
The troopers being on the track, and marching to the right (or left
hand, the instructor orders a change of direction in the length of the
riding house or ground; and when the two columns are by the side of
each other, he halts them, and causes them to execute passage to the
right (or left). When the troopers have nearly arrived at the track,
the instructor halts them.
276 JMANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILTTIA.
Principles of the gallop.
430. A horse gallops on the riglit foot, when the right fore and hind
leg move in advance of the left fore and hind leg. This gait is gene-
rally divided into three distinct times or treads. The first time is
marked by the left hind foot which reaches the ground first; the
second by the left fore and right hind foot which touch at the same
instant, and the third by the right forefoot.
A horse gallops on the left foot when the left fore and hind leg move
in advance of the right fore and hind leg. In this case, the riglit hind
foot first reaches the ground, then the right fore and left hind foot, and
lastly the left forefoot.
A horse gallops true when he gnllops on the right foot, in exercising
or turning to the right hand, and on the left foot, in exercising or turn-
ing to the left hand.
A horse gallops false when lie gallops on the left foot, in exercising
or turning to the right hand, and on the right foot, in exercising or
turning to the left hand.
A horse is ''disunited" when he gallojis with the near fore-leg
followed by the off !iiud-leg, »>r with the off fore-leg followed by the
near hind-leg.
When the horse gallops on the right foot, the rider experiences a
sensible movement in his position from right to left, and when he
gallops on the left foot, the rider experiences a sensible movement in
his position from left to right.
When the horse is disunited, the trooper experiences irregular move-
ments in his position; the centre of gravity of the horse is deranged,
and his strength ini]iaired.
To gallop on right lines.
431. After the troopers of the rear rank are formed as directed,
No. 427, the instructor causes the men of the front rank to take the
distance of four paces from each other: these troopers marching at the
trot, and to the ri(j[ht hand upon one of the long sides, the instructor
commands :
1. Galli.p. 2. March.
At the command gallop, gather the horse and keep him perfectly
straight. At the command march, carry the bridle hand slightly
forward and to the left, to enable the right shoulder to move in
advance of the left, and close the legs behind the girths in order to
urge the horse forward, causing him to feel the effect of the left leg
i
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. 277
lightly. The horse having obeyed, hold a light hand and the legs
near, to keep him at his gait.
To preserve the movement of the horse true, it is necessary for the
trooper to accommodate himself to all his motions, par'i-utarly in
passing corners, when the slightest derangement in the seat would
render the action of the horse irregular.
When a horse gallops false, or is disunited, the trooper is ordered to
take the trot and pass to the rear of the column, taking care not
to interfere with those who follow. When he arrives at the rear, he
resumes the gallop.
The troopers should make but a turn or two at the gallojj to each
hand, and should always be required to pass to the trot in order to
change hand.
When the troopers manage their horses well, the distance between is
generally reduced to four feet.
The rear rank is carried through the same exercise, and then both
ranks at once.
2a gallop on the circle.
432. When the troopers have been sufficiently exercised at the gallop
on straight lines, the instructor causes them to make a few turns.on the
circle, following the principles laid down in No. 416.
This exercise is commenced on very large circles : the diameter is
diminished as the troopers become more skilful.
WHEELINGS.
433. There are two kinds of wheels : the wheel on a fixed pivot, and
the wheel on a movable jnvot. The wheel is always on a fixed pivot, ex-
cept when the command is right (or left)— turn. The troopers should
execute this movement without disuniting, and without ceasing to ob-
serve the alignment.
In every kind of wheel, the conductor of the marching flank should
measure with his eye the arc of the circle he is to pass over, so that it
may not be necessary for the files to open or close. He turns his head
occasionally toward the pivot; if. he perceives that the troopers are
too much crowded, or too open, he increases or diminishes the extent of
his circle gradually. Each trooper of the. front rank should describe
his circle in the ratio of the distance at which .he may be from the pivot.
During the wheel, the troopers should ttirn the head slightly toward
the marching flank, to regulate the rapidity of their march and to keep
themselves aligned ; they should also feel the boot lightly on the side
278 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
of the pivot, in order to remain closed to that side. They should yield
to pressure coming from the pivot, and resist that from the opposite
direction. The horses are slightly turned toward the pivot, in order
to keep them on the circular line they have to pass over.
The wheel on a fixed pivot.
434. The object of the wheel on a fixed pivot is to pass from the
order of battle to the order of column, and from the order of column
to the order of battle. The trooper who forms the pivot of the wheel
turns upon his own ground, without advancing or reining back, and
without passing to the right or left.
The wheelings are executed at first in single rank ; for this purpose
the front rank is marched forward, and halted when arrived at a dis-
tance from the rear rank equal to double its front. The ranks being
aligned, the instructor commands:
1. Squad, in circle right (or lefl^) wheel. 2. March.
At the command march, the troopers put themselves in motion, turn-
ing the head toward the marching flank ; the flank file conducts the
flank at a umlk, measuring with the ej'e the extent of the circle he is to
pass over, that neither opening nor closing may be caused in the rank,
and that the troopers may keep aligned. The pivot man turns upon
his own ground, regulating himself upon the marching flank.
When the squad has executed several wheels, to halt it, the instructor
commands :
1. Squad. 2. Halt. 3. Left (or right^ — Dress. 4. Front.
At the command halt, the troopers straighten their horses and halt
with steadiness. At the command left (or right) — dress, they align
themselves to the side indicated. At the command/ro«f, turn the head
to the front.
The two ranks are then marched forward, preserving between them
the same distance, and made to recommence the w^leel. When the in-
structor wishes the squad to take the direct march, he commands :
1. Forward. 2. Guide left (or right).
At the command /o;-«;o;rf, the pivot resumes the gait at which it was
previously marching. All the other troopers straighten their horses,
and the two flanks move forward at the same gait, conforming to the
principles of the direct march. At the command guide left (or right),
the troopers regulate their movements toward the side indicated.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. 279
If tbe squad is wheeling to the right, and the instructor wishes it
to change the wheel to the left without halting, he commands :
1. Squad, in circle, left wheel. 2. March.
At the command march, the left flank halts, and becomes the, pivot.
The right flank, assuming the gait at which the left flank was march-
ing, moves forward, and describes a circle proportionate to the extent
of the front. All the other troopers straighten their horses, and guide
them so as to pass new circles in the inverse sense.
435. The troopers being suflBciently exercised at the wheels in single
rank at the iralk and the trot, the ranks are closed and the wheels exe-
cuted in double ranks. The instructor commands:
1. Squad, in circle, right (or kft) icheel. 2. March.
At the command march, the troopers of the front rank execute the
movement as prescribed above. The troopers of the rear rank turn
the head and carry the hand toward the marching flank, so that each
one may bo out of the direction of his file-leader by two troopers. For
this purpose, the moment the wheel commences, each rear rank man
executes a quarter turn to the left, sustaining the haunches of his horse
with the right leg, when the wheel is to the right, or a quarter turn to
the right, when the wheel is to the left, keeping during the wheel in
the direction of his new file-leader, and remaining at the distance of
two feet from the front rank.
To stop the wheel, the instructor commands:
1. Squad. 2. Halt. 3. Left (or right) Dress. 4. Front.
At the command squad, the rear rank men straighten their horses, and
return to the direction of their file-leaders. All tbe troopers halt at
the command. At the command left (or right) dress, they align them-
selves toward the side indicated. At the command front, turn the
head to the front.
When the instructor wishes the squad to resume the direct march,
he commands:
1. Forward. 2. Guide left (or right).
At the command forward, the rear rank men replace themselves
behind their file-leaders, and march straight forward.
The squad wheeling to the right, to wheel to the opposite side with-
out halting, the instructor commands :
1. Squad, in circle, left wheel. 2. March.
280 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND ' MILITIA.
At the command in circle, left wheel, the rear rank men return
to the direction of their file-leaders. At the command march, the
troopers conform to what has already been laid down.
The squad being halted, to place it in a direction jjerpendicular to
the original front, the instructor commands :
1. Squad, right (or left) wheel. 2. March. 3. Halt. 4. Left
(or right) — Dress. 5. Front.
AVhicli is executed on the same principles as the wheel on a fixed
pivot.
436. The squad being at the halt, to face it to the rear, the instructor
commands :
1. Squad, right (or left) about, icheel. 2. March. 3. Halt.
4. Left — Dress. 5. Front.
Which is executed as in circle to the riijht or left, the squad passing
over a half circle.
437. The squad being at a halt, to place it toward its right in a
direction oblique to the original, the instructor commands:
1. Squad, rnght (or left) half wheel. 2. March. 3. Halt. 4.
Left (or right) — Dress. 5. Front.
Which is executed on the principles of the wheel on a fixed pivot.
The squad being on the march, the same movements are executed at
the commands: 1. Squad, ritjht (or left) tcheel, right (or left) about, wheel,
right half (or left half) irheel. 2. March. 3. Forward. 4. Guide
right (or left).
At the command vuxrch, the wheeling flank wheels at the gait at
which the platoon was marching; the pivot flank halts. At the com-
mand forward, the pivot resumes its original pass, and the two flanks
move forward at the same gait.
To wheel on a movable pivot.
43S. The wheel on a movable pivot is employed in the successive
changes of direction in column. The conductor of the marching flank
should measure his gait, and describe his arc of circle so as to cause
the files neither to open or close. The pivot describes an are of five
2)aces, in slackening the gait. The centre men preserve the gait at
which the squad was marching. At the end of the wheel, the march-
ing flank and the pivot resume the gait at which they originally
marched.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. 281
The squad being on the march, to cause it change direction, the
instructor commands:
1. I.efl (or rigliC) — Turn. 2. Forward.
At the command left (or right) the pivot prepares to slacken, and the
marching flank to augment the gait. At the command turn, the squad
turns to the left, or to the right, the pivot slackening its gait, in de-
scribing an arc of five paces ; the marching flank augments its gait, and
regulates itself by the pivot during the whole of the wheel. At the
command forward, all the troopers straighten their horses, the pivot
and marching flank move forward in the gait at which the squad was
originally marching.
SABKE EXERCISE.
439. For instruction in the use of the sabre the men of the squad are
on foot, and in one rank about nine feet apart.
The right side of the gripe is the side opposite the guard.
The left aide of the gripe is the side next the guard.
Tierce is the position in which the edge of the blade is turned toward
the right, the nails downward.
Quarte is the position in which the edge of the blade is turned to the
left, the nails upward.
440. The squad being in position, the instructor commands :
Draw — Sabre.
Tivo times and two motions.
First motion. At the first part of the command, which is draiv, turn
the head slightly to the left, without changing the position of the body ;
unhook the sabre with the left hand, and bring the hilt to the front;
run the right wrist through the sword-knot; seize the gripe, draw the
blade six inches out of the scabbard, pressing the scabbard against the
thigh with the left hand, which secures it at the upper ring, and turn
the head to the front.
Second motion. At the last part of the command, which is sabre,
draw the sabre quickly, raising the arm to the full extent ; make a
slight pause, carry the blade to the right shoulder, the back of it
against the hollow of the shoulder, the wrist resting against the hip,
the little finger on the outside of the gripe. This position is the same
when mounted, except that the wrist then naturally falls upon the
thigh.
24
282 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Present — Sabre.
One time and one motion.
441. At the last part of the command, which is sabre, carry the sabre
to the front, the arm half extended, the thumb opposite to, and six
inches from the neck, the blade perpendicular, the edge to the left, the
thumb extended on the right side of the gripe, the little finger by the
side of the others.
Carry — Sabre.
442. At the command sabre, carry the back of the blade against the
hollow of the shoulder, the wrist resting against the hip, the little fin-
ger on the outside of the gripe.
Return — Sabre.
Two timcn and two motions.
443. First motimi. At the command return, execute the first motion
of return sabre.
Second motion. At the command sabre, carry the wrist opposite to,
and six inches from, the left shoulder j lower the blade and pass it
across and along the left arm, the point to the rear ; turn the head
slightly to the left, fixing the eyes on the opening of the scabbard;
return the blade, free the wrist from the sword-knot, turn the head to
tho front, drop the right hand to the side, and hook up the sabre with
the hilt to the rear.
Guard.
One time and one motion.
444. At the command yuard, carry the right foot two feet from the
left, the heels on the same line ; place the left hand, closed, six inches
from the body, and as high as the elbow, the fingers toward the body,
the little finger nearer than the thumb {jiosition of the bridle hand); at
the same time, place the right hand in tierce at the height of, and three
nches from the left hand, the thumb extended on the back of the
gripe, the little finger by the side of the others, the point of the sabre
inclined to the left, and two feet higher than the hand.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. 283
In tierce — Point.
One time and three motions.
445. Fii-fit motion. At the command i^oint, raise the hand in tierce
as high as the eyes, throw back the right shoulder, carrying the elbow
to the rear, the point of the sabre to the front, the edge upward.
Second motion. Thrust to the front, extending the arm to the full
length.
Third motion. Return to the position of guard.
In quarte — Point.
One time nnd three motions.
446. First motion. At the command jyoint, lower the hand in quarte
near the right hip, the thumb extended on the right side of the gripe,
the point a little higher than the wrist.
Second motion. Thrust to the front, extending the arm the full
length.
Third motion. Return to the position of guard.
Left — Point.
One time and three motions.
447. First motion. At the corama.nd point, turn the head to the left,
draw back the hand in tierce toward the right, at the height of the
neck, the edge upward, the point directed to the left.
Second motion. Thrust to the left, extending the arm to its full
length.
Third motion. Return to the position of guard.
Right — Point.
One time and three motions.
448. First motion. At the command ji:)o?/t^, turn the head to the right,
carry the hand in quarte near the left breast, the edge upward, the
point directed to the right.
Second motion Thrust to the right, extending the arm to its full
length.
Third motion. Return to the position of guard.
284 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Rear — Point.
One time and three motions.
449. First motion. At the command point, turn the head to the right
and rear, bring the hand in quarte opposite to the right shoulder, the
arm half extended, the blade horizontal, the point to the rear, the edge
upward.
Second motion. Thrust to the rear, extending the arm to its full
length.
Third motion. Return to the position of guard.
Against infantry., left — Point.
One time and three motions.
450. First motion. At the command point, turn the head to the left,
raise the hand in tierce near the neck, the point of the sabre directed
to the height of the breast of a man on foot.
Second motion. Thrust down in tierce.
Third motion. Return to the position of guard.
Against infantry., right — Point.
One time and three motions.
451. First motion. At the command j^oint, turn the head to the right,
carry the hand in quarte near the right hip, the point of the sabre di-
rected at the height of the breast of a man on foot.
Second motion. Thrust in quarte.
Third motion. Return to the position of guard.
Fiymt — Cut.
One time and three motions.
452. First motion. At the command cut, raise the sabre, the ai'm half
extended, the hand a little above the head, the edge upward, the point
to the i-ear, and higher than the hand.
Second motion. Cut, extending the arm to its full length, and give a
back-handed cut, horizontally to the rear.
Third motion. Return to the position of guard.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. 285
Right in tierce and carte — Cut.
One time and four motions.
453. Firit motion. At the command cut, execute the first motion of
right cut.
Second motion. Execute the second motion of right cut.
Third motion. Turn the hand in quarte, and cut horizontally.
Fourth motion. Return to the position of guard.
Left in quarte and tierce — Cut.
One time and four motions.
'J 54. Firnt motion. At the command cut, execute the first motion of
teft cut.
Second motion. Execute the second motion of left cut.
Third motion. Turn the hand in tierce, and cut horizontally.
Fourth motion. Return to the position of guard.
In tierce — Parry.
One time and two motions.
455. First motion. At the command jiarry, carry the hand quickly
a little to the front and right, the nails downward, without moving the
elbow; the point inclined to the front, as high as the eyes, and in the
direction of the right shoulder : the thumb extended on the back of the
gripe, and pressing against the guard.
Second motion. Return to the position of guard.
In quarte — Parry.
One time and two motions.
456. First motion. At the command ^ja/vy, turn the hand and carry
it quickly to the front and left, the nails upward, the edge to the left,
the point inclined to the front, as high as the eyes, and in the direction
of the left shoulder; the thumb extended on the back of the gripe, and
resting against the guard.
Second motion. Return to the position of guard.
For the head — Parry.
One time and tu^o motioits.
457. First viofion At the command parry, raise the sabre quickly
286 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
above the bead, the arm neirly extended, the edge upward, the point
to the left, and about six int ! es higher Ihan the head. The hand is
carried moi-e or less to the right, left, or rear, according to the position
of the adversary.
Second motion. Return to the position of guard.
Against infantry^ right — Parry.
One time and three motions.
458. First motion. At the command 2^C''>'>'y> turn the head to the
right, throwing back the right shoulder, raise the sabre, the arm
extended to the right, and rear, the point upward, the hand in tierce,
the thumb extended on the back of the gripe, the edge to the left.
Second motion. Describe a circle quickly on the right, from rear to
front, the arm extended; turn aside the bayonet with the back of the
blade, bringing the hand as high as the head, the point upward.
Third motion. Return to the position of guard.
Against infantry^ left — Parry.
One time and three motions.
459. First motion. At the command parry, turn the head to the left,
raise the sabre, the arm extended to the front and right, the point
upward, the hand in tierce, the thumb extended on the back of the
gripe, the back of the blade to the front.
Second motion. Describe a circle quickly on the left, from front to
rear along the horse's neck, the arm extended ; turn aside the bayonet
with the back of the blade, bringing the hand, still in tierce, above the
left shoulder.
Third motion. Return to the position of guard.
460. When the troopers begin to execute the above cuts, thrusts and
parries correctly, the instructor requires them to make the application
of them by combined motions, as follows :
In tierce — Point and front cut.
In quarte — Point anp fuont cut.
Left — Point and cut,
Iii(jht — Point and cut.
Bear — Point and cut.
Against infantry, right — PoiNT AND CUT.
Against infantry, left — Point and cut.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. -J87
Inspection of Sabre.
One iiinc and seven motions.
461. First motion. At the word sahre, execute the first time of drain
Hahre.
Second motion. Execute the second time of drarr sabre.
Third motion. Present sabre.
Fourth motion. Turn the wrist inward to show the other side of the
blade.
Fifth motion. Carry the sabre to the shoulder, as is prescribed in
carry sabre.
Sixth motion. Execute the first time of return sabre.
Seventh motion. Execute the second time of return sabre.
MANUAL FOR A BREECH-LOADING CARBINE, OR RIFLE,
THE TROOPERS MOUNTED.
462. Whenever the troopers are not exercising with the carbine, or
rifle, it is slung by a belt, which passes from the left shoulder to the
right side, the muzzle down, and in such a position that it may be
seized by the right hand at any moment, and at the same time be
entirely out of the way when the trooper is exercising with the sabre
or pistol.
The trooper, in conducting his horse to the ground before mounting,
has the carbine passed over the right shoulder, the muzzle in the air.
After mounting, let the carbine fall by the side.
At the first command to dismount, seize the carbine with the right
hand a little above the band, and pass it over the right shoulder, the
muzzle in the air.
463. The trooper being mounted, with the carbine hanging by his
right side, the instructor commands :
Advance — Carbine (or Rifle).
Tico times.
At the command advance, seize the carbine at the small of the stock
with the right hand. At the command carbine (or rijie), elevate it, and
place the butt upon the thigh, the muzzle at the height of the eye and
opposite to the right shoulder, the lock to the front.
288 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
To load.
464. The squad being in the position of advance carbine (or rijie),
the instructor commands : Load in four times.
1. Load.
One time and two motions.
First motion. At this command, place the carbine (or rifle) in the
left hand, which seizes it a little below the band, the thumb along the
stock, the muzzle elevated, at the height of, and opposite to the left
shoulder, with the right hand move back the catch, and seize the lever
with the thumb and first two fingers.
Second motion. Spring open the chamber, and carry the hand to the
cartridge box and open it.
2. Charge — Cartridge.
One time and two motions.
First motion. At the command cartridge, draw a cartridge and insert
it in the barrel, and seize the lever with the thumb and first two fingers.
Second motion. Draw back the lever to its place, half-cock, remove
the old cap, and carry the hand to the cap box, and open it.
3. Prime.
One time and one motion.
At the command prime, place a cap on the nipple, press it down with
the thumb, let down the cock, and seize the piece by the small of the
stock with the right hand.
4. Advance — Carbine.
One time.
As prescribed above.
To fire.
465. The squad being in the position of advance carbine, the instructor
commands :
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. 289
Ready.
One time.
At this command let fall the carbine in the left hand as in the first
motion of the load, cock it, and return to the position of advance carbine.
Aim.
One time.
At this command, carrj' the butt to the shoulder with the right hand,
support the piece with the thumb and first finger of the left hand, a
little below the barrel, the others closed in order to hold the reins with-
out slacking them ; place the face against the stock, shut the left eye,
direct the right along the barrel to aim,- and place the forefinger of the
right hand on the trigger.
Fire.
At the command fire, pass the forefinger against the trigger and fire,
without lowering the head or turning it, and remain in this position.
If, after firing, the instructor wishes to load, he commands:
Load.
At the command load, bring down the carbine to the first motion
of load; load at will, and take the position of advance carbine.
If, after firing, the instructor does not wish to load, he commands :
A dvance — Carbine.
Which is done as already prescribed.
^To drop the carbine, the instructor commands :
Drop — Carbine.
One time.
At the command carbine, lower the muzzle of the carbine, and cast
the butt to the rear.
Inspection of arms.
466. The instructor commands :
Inspection — Carbine.
One time and two motions.
First ^notion. At the command carbine, take the position of advance
carbine.
Second motion. Drop the carbine.
•2b
290 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
MANUAL FOR COLT'S REYOLVERS.i
467. The troopers being mounted, the pistol either in the holster
or pistol case, the instructor commands:
Draw — PiSTOL.2
Troo times and tiro motions.
First motion. At the first command, unbuckle the holster or pistol
case, seize the pistol by the handle with the right hand, holding it
between the palm of the hand and the three last fingers, the forefinger
resting on the guard, the thumb on the handle.
Second motion. At the socorid command, draw out the pistol and
elevate it, the guard to tlie front; the wrist at the height of, and
six inches from the right shoulder.
Load in six times.
1. Load.
One time and one motion.
Place the pistol in the bridle hand, holding it by the handle in front
of the body, the hammer between the thumb and forefinger, and turned
to the left, the muzzle jjointing upward. Carry the right hand to the
cartridge box and open it.
2. Handle — Cartridge.
One time and one motion.
Seize the cartridge with the thumb and the first two fingers, and
carry it to the mouth.
3. Tear — Cartridge.
One time and one motion.
Bite oflf the end and carry the cartridge opposite the chamber nearest
the lever, or, if the cartridge is furnished from the manufactory with
the pistol, seize the end of the cord, which projects from one end
of the cartridge, between the teeth, tear open the outer case, and
take out the cartridge.
1 With very little modification this manual will serve for Colt's Carbine and
Rifle.
2 If it is a carbine or nfle. the command will be. odtHince — carbine (or rijlf^..
SCHOOL OF THE TROOPER. 291
4. Charge — Cartridge.
One time and txco motions.
First motion. Empt}' the powder into the chamber, and insert the
ball, pressing it down as far as possible with the thumb and fore-
finger ; or, if it be a cartridge furnished from the manufactory, simply
insert it in the chamber, pressing the ball down as before.
Second motioji. Turn the pistol with the left hand, bringing the
hammer toward the body, and cock it with the thumb of the right
hand.
5. Ram — Cartridge.
One time and two motions.
First motion. Seize the lever with the catch, with the thumb and
forefinger of the right hand ram down the ball, and replace the lever.
Second motion. Let down the hammer with the right hand, and
carry the hand to the cartridge box.
Repeat as above directed until all the chambers are loaded.
6. Prime.
One time and tiro motions.
First motion. Lower the muzzle toward the right side by turning
the wrist of the bridle hand, the muzzle pointing downward, the ham-
mer to the front, the left wrist resting against the stomach ; half-cock
the pistol with the left thumb ; turn the cylinder with the thumb and
forefinger of the right hand until it clicks. Take a cap and press it on
the cone. Turn the cylinder agaiu until it clicks, and so on until all
the cones arc capped, the hammer resting on the safety notch.
Second motion. Seize the pistol at the handle with the right hand,
and bring it to the position of draw pistol.
468. The instructor wishing to fire, will command :
Ready.
One time and two motions.
First motion. Place the pistol in the left hand, the little finger
touching the key, the barrel nearly vertical, the muzzle a little inclined
to the left and front, the guard to the front, the thumb on the head of
the hammer, the forefinger along the guard.
Second motion. Cock the pistol, and bring it to the position of draw
pistol.
292 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Aim.
One time.
Lower the pisfol, the arm half extended, and place the forefinger
lightly on the trigger, the muzzle directed to the height of a man's
waist.
Fire.
One time.
Press the forefinger steadily on the trigger, fire, and retake the
position of dratc pistol.
The men being at a ready, and the instructor witching to fire all the
barrels in quick succession, will give intimation to that eflFect, and
command :
1. Aim. 2. Fire.
The men will aim and fire, come to the first position of ready, cock,
aim, fire again, and so continue until the pistol is discharged; then
take the position of draw pistol.
469. The instructor wishing to reload, commands :
Load at will.
Load.
One time.
Load the six chambers as heretofore directed, and take the position
of draw pistol.
Return — Pistol.
One time.
Lower the muzzle of the pistol, and return it to the muzzle, or
pistol-case.
SCHOOL OF TUE TROOP. 293
Article YIII. '
SCHOOL OF THE TEOOP.
470. The troopers being suflSciently instructed to manage their
horses and use their arms, are passed to the school of the troop. The
object of this school is to teach them to exercise properly together,
and to execute all the movements of the troop, whether in column of
platoons or in line.
Each movement, after having been correctly executed b}^ the right,
is repeated by the left.
When the movements are all executed at the walk, the instructor
causes them to be repeated at the trot, requiring always the same
simultaiieiius action and the same precision. This gradation is also
followed for exercise at the gallop ; but the horses should not be
kept long at this gait.
The troop is composed of all the troopers of a single company:
for exercising it is formed in two ranks, and divided into two pla-
toons.* The troop is one half of the squadron, and when it forms
a part of the squadron constituting one of the divisions, the officers
and non-commissioned officers are posted as directed for a squadron
in line; but where the troop acts singly, as will be supposed in the
school of the troop, the officers and non-commissioned officers take posts
as directed for a company acting singly. (See No. 17.)
For the school of the troop, the troopers are under arms; if armed
with the carbine it is always slung.
471. The troop being formed in two ranks, at open order, the trooper
and file-closers at the head of their horses, the chiefs of platoon
mounted, facing the platoon, at ten paces from and opposite the centre,
the captain commands :
1. Attention. 2. RigJil — Dress. 3. Front.
He then commands :
/n each platoon — and in each rank — Count hy fours.
At this command, the troopers count off in both platoons at once,
commencing on the right of each rank.
1 If the platoons are small, or if the instructor wishes to exercise the tioop in
the school of the squadron, he may cause it to be formed in a single rank.
294 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The captain then gives the command mount, which is executed as
explained in the school of the trooper, No. 407.
At the command form — Ra\ks, the chiefs of platoon move forward,
face to the front by tuniintj to the right about, "and place themselves
before the centre of their platoon, the croup of their horses one pace
from the head of the horses of the front rank. The file-closers follow
the rear rank.
General principles of alignment.
472. The troopers, in order to align themselves, should regulate
their shoulders upon those of the men on the side of the alignment, and
fix the eyes upon the line of the eyes, so as to perceive the breast
of the second trooper of their rank on the alignment j for this pur-
pose, they should turn the head, remaining square upon their horses,
feel lightly the boot of the man on the side of the alignment, and
keep the horses straight ia the ranks, that all may have a parallel
direction.
The troopers of the rear rank, independently of the alignment,
should be exactly behind tlieir file-leaders, and in the same direction,
taking care to preserve the distance of two feet from head to croup.
Successive alignment of tlie files in the troop.
473. The two files of the right (or left) are moved forward ten
paces, and aligned parallel to the troop by the commands:
1. Two files from the right (or lef)^ forward. 2. M.\RCH.
3. Halt. 4. Right (or left) — Dress. 5. Front.
The captain then commands :
1. By file right (or left) — Dress. 2. Front.
At the command dress, each file moves forward in succession and
steadily, the troopers turning the head to the right, and taking the
last steps slowly, in order to arrive abreast of the files already formed
without passing beyond the alignment, observing then to halt, give
the hand, relax the legs, and keep the head to the right until the
command front.
Each file executes the same movement when the preceding one has
arrived on the base of alignment, so that only one file may align itself
at the same time.
At the command front, turn the head to the front. The captain
gives the eomnjand front when the last file is aligned.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOP. 295
When the troopers execute these alignments, this instruction is
repeated in giving the two files of the right an oblique direction.
For this purpose, the two files having marched forward four paces, as
has been prescribed, execute a half turn to the I'iyht (or left), and
march six paces in this new direction.
The troop being unmasked, the remainder of the movement is
executed by the same command and on the same principles as in the
last case ; each file, as it arrives nearly opposite the jjlace it is to
occupy, executes a linlf turn to the riijht (or left), so that, having left
the troop by one straight line, it arrives upon the new alignment by
another.
474. The two files of the right, or left, are made to rein back four
paces, and align themselves parallel to the troop, and opposite the
place they occupied in it, by the commands :
1. Tuoo files from rir/ht (or leff), backward. 2. March.
3. Halt. 4. Right (or left) — Dress. 5. Front.
The captain then commands :
1. By Jile, right (or left), backward — Dress. 2. Front.
At the command dresx, each file reins back in succession, keeping
perfectly straight, the troopers turning the head to the right, and
passing a little to the rear of the files already formed, in order to come
up abreast of them by a movement to the front, which renders the
alignment more easy.
The troopers of the front rank rein back slowly, those of the rear
rank regulate themselves upon their file-closers, preserving always
their proper distance.
At the command front, turn the head to the front.
475. The alignment is then executed by twos (or by fours). For
this purpose, the two or four files of the right move forward as has
been prescribed, and the captain commands :
1. By twos (or by fours), right (or left) — Dress. 2. Front.
At the command dress, the files align themselves in succession by
twos (or by fours), following the principles prescribed for the align-
ment by file, being particular to set out and arrive upon the align-
ment together.
At the command front, turn the head to the front.
296 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Alignment of the troop.
476. The captain, after having placed the right guide, so that no
trooper will be compelled to rein back, commands :
1. Right — Dress. 2. Front.
At the command rir/ht — dress, all the troopers, align themselves
steadily but promptly to the right.
The troop being aligned, the captain commands: '
Front.
The captain causes three difTerent alignments to be executed by the
left, following the same principles, but by inverse means.
To open and close the ranks.
477. To open the ranks, the captain commands :
1. Rear rank, open order. 2. March. 3. Pdght — Dress.
4. Front.
At the command march, the front rank remains immovable, the rear
rank reins back six paces, each trooper preserving the direction of his
file-leader. The file-closers reign back until they are six paces from
the rear rank. The chiefs of platoon move forward six paces, and face
the centime of the platoons by tnniiug to the left about.
At the command right — dress, the rear rank dresses to the right. At
the command front, the head is turned to the front.
To close the ranks, the captain commands :
1. Rear rank, close order. 2. March. 3. Right — Dress.
4. Front.
At the command march, the rear rank closes upon the front to the
distance of two feet, each trooper taking care to preserve the direction
of his file-leader. The chiefs of platoon resume their places by a turn
about to the right, and the file-closers take their proper distances from
the rear rank.
At the command right — dress, the troop is aligned to the right. At the
command front, the head is turned to the front.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOP. 297
To reign hack the troop.
478. The troop being at a halt, the captain commands :
1. Troop, backward. 2. Guide right (or left). 3. March.
At the command march, all the troopers reign back at once, regula-
ting their movements by those of the right guide.
When the troop has reigned back some stops, the captain commands :
1. Troop. 2. Halt. 3. Eight (or left) — Dress. 4. Front.
To break the troop by fie.
479. The troop being in line, the captain commands :
1. By file. 2. March.
At the command by file, the troopers of the first file (front and rear
rank) gather their horses, and the others in succession as soon as the
file on the right is in motion. The chief of the first platoon, followed
by the first sergeant, or guide of the right, posts himself in front of
the first file.
At the command march, the chief of the platoon, the guide, and the
first file on the right moves straight to the front; they are followed by
the next file; each file' moves off when the haunches of the horses of
the rear rank man, which has broken, arrives at the head of the horses
of the front rank; each file marches six paces straight to the front,
makes a quarter turn to the right, and marches in the new direction
until it reaches its place in the column, when it makes a quarter turn to
the left.
The chief of the second platoon breaks with his first file, keeping
abreast with, and one pace to his left. The first lieutenant is in the
rank of file-closers, opposite the centre of the column, and the second
sei'geant or guide of the left, follows the last file.
To break the platoon by the left, the movement is executed following
the same principles, but by inverse means, at the commands :
1. By the left file. 2. March.
Direct march in column by file.
480. The troopers should keep their horses straight, and march at a
free and equal gait; they should keep their eyes to the front, and con-
298 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
tinue in the direction of the column, so as to perceive only the trooper
who marches before them, to march at the same gait with him, preserv-
ing always the distance of two feet from head to croup, that his own
horse may not tread upon the heels of the horse in front. This dis-
tance should be recovered gradually when lost.
The column changes direction to the right or left, as prescribed, No.
410.
To halt the column, the captain commands:
1. Column. 2. Halt.
At the command halt, the troopers stop together in the direction of
their file-leaders and at their distances, taking care to prevent the horses
from stepping back.
To move off, the captain commands :
1. Column^ forward. 2. March.
At the command march, the troopers move off together.
The column being at a halt, if the captain wishes to commence the
move at a trot, he conforms to what is prescribed, No. 423. In this
case the chiefs of platoons move off promptly at the trot, that the troop-
ers in their rear may take this gait at once, without marching first at a
walk.
Individual oblique march.
481. The column marching b^' file, the captain commands :
1, Left (or right) oblique. 2. March.
At the command march, each trooper executes a quarter turn to the
left, and moves forward in his new direction, all following parallel lines,
and regulating themselves toward the right, in order to keep on the
same line and to preserve their distances on that side.
To return to the primitive direction the captain commands:
Forward.
At this command, the troopers return to the original direction, by a
quarter turn to the right, in advancing, and move forward in the direc-
tion of their file-leaders.
The troop marching in column by fie., to form it to the front, to
the left, or on right, into line.
482. The column marching right in front, to form it to the front into
line, the captain commands :
SCHOOL OF THE TROOP. 299
1. Front into line. 2. March. 3. Right — Dress. 4. Front.
At the command march, the fii'st file continues to march :<traight for-
ward. The others immediately commence obliquing to the left, march
in their new direction, aiKl each file makes a quarter turn to the riyht on
coming opposite to the place he is to occupy in the troop. When the
first file has marched twenty paces, the chief of the first platoon com-
mands halt. At this command, it halts square to the front, the guide
on the right of the front rank man; the other files come up in succes-
sion on the left of the first, and dress to the right.
At the command front, turn the head to the front.
The captain gives the command riyht — dress, immediately after halt,
and commands front when the last file is aligned.
The column marching left in front, the movement is executed follow-
ing the same principles, but by inverse means.
483. The column marching right in front, to form it into line upon
its left flank, the captain commands :
1. Left into line. 2. March. 3. Left — Dress. 4. Front.
At the command march, the first file turns to the left, and moves
straight forward; the other files continue to march on, and at two
paces before arriving opposite the place they are to occupy in the troop,
they turn in succession to the left.
When the first file has marched twenty paces, the chief of the
first platoon commands half. At this command it halts — the guide on
the right of the front rank man ; the other files come up and form
in succession on the left of the first, and dress to the right.
At the command front, turn the head to the front. The captain
gives the command right — dress, immediately after halt, and front
when the last file is aligned.
A column marching left in front is formed into line on the right
flank by inverse means.
484. The column marching right in front, to form in line upon
the prolongation aud in advance of its right flank, the captain com-
mands :
1. On right into line. 2. March. 3. Right — Dress. 4. Front.
At the command march, the first file turns to the right and moves
straight forward; the other files continue to march on, and each turns
in succession to the right, at one pace beyond the point where the
one preceding turned.
When the first file has marched twenty paces, the chief of the first
300 MAXUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
platoon commands halt. At this command it halts; the guide taking
his place on the right of the front rank, the other files come up and
form in succession on the left of the first, and dress to the right.
A column marching left in front, is formed into line on the left
by inverse means.
To break the troops hy twos or hy fours.
485. The troop being in line, the captain commands:
1. By twos (or by fours). 2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the first command, the chief of the first platoon places himself in
front of the two or four files of the right; the right guide places him-
self on his right. At the command murch, the first two or four files of
the right move straight to the front; they are followed by the other
files, who move ofi" when the haunches of the horses of the rear rank
are on a line with the heads of the horses of the front rank. These
files march straight forward six paces, execute a quarter tarn to the
riyht by troopers, and march in this direction until they meet the
column, when they take their places in it by making a quarter tarn
to the left.
The chief of the second platotm breaks with the first two or four files
of his platoon, keeping abreast with them and at one pace from the
flank of the column on the side of the guide, each rank of two or four
preserving between them the distance of two feet.
The captain assures himself that the ofiicers, the file-closers, and
guide are properly placed.
The trooper on the left of the first rank of twos (or fours) is guide of
the column ; he keeps his eyes to the front, moves straight forward, and
marches so that the troopers of his rank may be at one pace from the
croup of the horse of the chief of the first platoon. The trooper on the
left of each of the other ranks, who is guide of his rank, preserves the
head direct, and keeps at the distance of two feet from his file-leader,
and in the same direction ; the other troopers of each rank look occa-
sionally toward the guide, in order to align themselves and regulate
their march upon him. They feel the boot lightly toward that side,
and yield to all pressure coming from it. When the march is by fours,
they resist all pressure coming from the side opposite the guide.
The column marching by twos or by fours, the captain commands:
1. Trot. 2. March.
At the command march, the troopers take the trot, taking care not to
fret their horses.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOP. 301
When the column has marched a sufficient distance at the trot, the
captain commands :
1. Walk. 2. March.
^486. The column marching in column of twos or fours, right in front,
to change direction, the captaiu commands:
Head of the column to the left (or right').
At this command, the chief of the first platoon commands:
1. Left — Turn. 2. Forward.
At the command loft, the left trooper, who is pivot, prepares to turn
at the same gait, the trooper of the opjiosite side to lengthen his.
At the command turn, the first rank of twos or fours turns to the
left. The pivot turns without changing his gait, describing an arc of
a circle of fire paces. The trooper on the opposite side turns in length-
ening the gait; the other troopers turn the head toward the marching
flank, to regulate their rate of march, feeling lightly the boot on the
side of the pivot. At the command forward, the troopers who had
increased the gait, resume the precise pace at which they were before
moving, and the head of the column marches straight forward in the
new direction. Each rank executes the same movement, on arriving
upon the ground where the first has turned.
The column marching by twos or by fours, the captain halts it, as
prescribed, school of the trooper.
To recommence the march, he commands:
1. Column., forward. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
487. The column marching by twos or by fours, the captain com-
mands :
1. Left (or right) oblique. 2. March.
At the command march, each trooper executes a quarter turn to the
left. The trooper on the left of the first rank, who is guide of the
column, moves straight forward in the new direction, and parallel to
the chief of the first platoon. The trooper on the left of each of the
other ranks, who is guide of his rank, moves forward also in the new
direction, observing the guide of the column so as to keep on the same
line, and in a parallel direction with him.
The other troopers move forward, looking occasionally to the left, so
as to align themselves upon their guide. Each one places the left
302 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
knee behind the right l^nee of the man on the left, and the head of
his horse opposite the lower part of the neck of the horse on his left.
To return to the primitive direction, the captain commands :
Forward.
At this command, the troopers return to the original direction, by
a quarter turn to the right.
The troop mar chin rj in column hy tivos or hy fours., to form it to
the front., to the left., or on right into line.
488. The troop marching in column by twos or by fours, right in
front, the captain commands :
1. Front into line. 2. March. 3. Right — Dress. 4. Front.
At the command march, the first two (or four) files continue to
march straight forward; when they have marched thirty paces, the
chief of the first platoon commands:
Halt.
At this command, the first two (or four) files halt square to the
front, the guide of the right returns to the right of the troop. All
the other files of twos or fours oblique to the left, march in this
direction, and come up in succession by a quarter turn to the right
on coming opposite their places, and without command of the chiefs of
platoon.
The captain, who moves to the right flank after the command march,
commands the alignment when the chief of the first platoon com-
mands halt.
As soon as the chiefs of platoon arrive upon the line, they place
themselves at the centre of their platoons and align themselves. The
guide of the left returns to the left of the troop, when the last two (or
four) files arrive upon the line. The first lieutenant superintends the
alignment of the rear rank, and then takes his post in rear of the
centre.
489. The column marching right in front, to form it into line on its
left flank, the captain commands :
1. Left into line. 2. March. 3. Right — Dress. 4. Front.
At the command march, the four leading files turn to the left and
move straight forward; when they have marched thirty paces, the
chief of the first platoon commands :
SCHOOL OF THE TROOP. 303
Halt.
At this command, the two (or four) leadinc: files halt, and the guide
placoi? himself on the right of the troop. All the other files continue
to marcli on. and at three paces hefore arriving opposite the place they
are to occupy in the troop, turn in succession to the left, without the
command of the chiefs of platoon.
The captains, the first lieutenant, the chiefs of platoon, and the
guide of the left, conform exactly to what is prescribed for the front
into line.
490 The column marching right in front, to form line upon the
prolongation and in advance of its right flank, the captain commands:
1. On the right into line. 2. March. 3. Right — Dress.
4. Front.
At the command innrch, the four leading files turn to the right, and
march straight forward; when they have marched thirty- paces, the
chief of the first platoon commands halt.
At this command, the four leading files halt, and the right guide
takes his place on the right of the troop. All the other files continue
to march forward, each turning to the right in succession, and without
the commands of the chiefs of platoon, at the distance three paces
beyond the point where the preceding rank has turned, forming to the
left, and upon the alignment of the first.
The captain, the first lieutenant, the chiefs of platoon, and the left
guide, conform exactly to what is prescribed for the front into line.
491. The troop is broken by the left, at the commands :
1. By twos (or by fours) from the left. 2. March. 3. Guide
righ t.
The column is exercised at the march in column, the changes of
direction and the individual oblique marches. It is also exercised
at the different formations, which are executed, following the same
principles, but by inverse means, at the commands : 1. Front [right or
left) into line. 2. March. 3. Left — Dress. 4. Front.
492. When the troop has acquired precision and regularity in the
formations at the ditfercnt gaits, the captain exercises it in breaking
by fours from a halt at tlte trot, and at the galloj).
To form the troop to the left in one rank.
493. The troop being formed into two ranks, the captain com-
mands :
304 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
1. Left into single rank. 2. March. 3. Front. 4. Halt.
5. RigJit — Dress. 6. Front.
At the command march, the front rank moves forward six paces,
dressing by the right; the trooper on the left of the rear rank turns to
the Uft and moves forward; he is followed by all the other troopers of
that rank, who executes the same movement in succession.
At the command front, the troopers of the left of the rear rank
turn to the right, and the other troopers in succession, when they
have arrived nearly opposite the place they are to occupy in the
rank.
At the command halt, the trooper on the left halts, and so do the
others in succession, on arriving abreast of him.
At the command right — dress, all the troopers of the rear rank dress
to the right.
At the command //'ojtf, turn the head to the front.
To form the troop to the right in two ranks.
494. The troop being in one rank, the captain designates the trooper
who is to be on the left of the front rank, also the one to be the right
of the rear rank, and commands :
1. Right into two ranks. 2. March. 3. Right — Dress.
4. Front.
At the command march, the front rank moves forward six paces,
dressing by the right; the trooper on the right of the rear rank turns
to the right as soon as the front rank has passed, and moves forward
obliquely to the right ; when he is nearly in rear of the trooper on the
right of the front rank, he fronts by turning to the left. All the other
troopers execute the same movement in succession, placing themselves
exactly behind their file-leaders and at their proper distances.
At the command right — dress, all the troopers align themselves
to the right.
At the command/ron(, turn the head to the front.
To form twos and fours at the same gait.
495. The troop marching in column by file, right in front, to form
twos the captain commands :
1. Form twos. 2. March.
At the command march, the first file continues to march on, and
SCHOOL OF THE TROOP. 305*
halts when it has marched ten paces; the second file ohliques to tho
left, and comes up abreast of the first; on arriving there, it halts and
dresses to the right. All the other files continue to march straight
forward, Nos. 2 and 4 executing their movement in the same manner
but in succession, and when Nos. 1 aixl 3, upon which they should
form, have nearly arrived at their proper distance, and are about
to halt.
496. The troop marching in column by twos, right in front, to form
fours the captain commands :
1. Form fours. 2. March.
At the command march, the first two files continue to march on, and
halt when they have gone ten paces : the two following files oblique to
the left, and come up abreast of the first two ; on arriving there, they
halt, and dress to the right. All the other files continue to march
straight forward, Nos. 2 and 4 of each rank executing their movement
in the same manner, when Nos. 1 and 2, upon which they should form,
have nearly arrived at their jiroper distance, and are about to halt.
497. When a column is at a trot, the leading file or files pass to the
u-alk ; at the command march, the others continue to march at the trot,
until they have arrived abreast of those on which they should form :
then they pass to the walk.
When the column is at a (/alloj), the leading file or files pass to the
trot at the command march; the others continue a^ the galloj), until
they have executed their formation, when they pass to the trot.
When twos or fours arc formed at the trot, or at the gallop, the guide
is announced as soon as the first files have doubled. In executing the
same movements at a walk, as the head of column halts, the guide is
not announced.
In a column marching left in front, these movements are executed
by inverse means.
To break hy twos and by file at the same gait.
498. The troop marching in column by fours, right in front, to
break by twos the captain commands :
1. By twos. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the command by tiros, all the troopers prepare to halt except
Nos. 1 and 2 of the leading files. At the command march, Nos. 1 and 2
of the leading files continue to march at the same gait; all the others
halt. Files Nos. 3 and 4 of the leading rank oblique to the right at
20
306 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
the moment they are passed by the croup of the horses of the rear
rank of Nos. 1 and 2, and place themselves in column behind them.
Each rank of four executes the same movement in regular suc-
cession, files Nos. 1 and 2 breaking as soon as files Nos. 3 and 4 of the
rank which precedes them have commenced obnquing, in order to
enter the column.
Files Nos. 1 and 2, which break to the front, regulate their gait so
as to preserve their distances ,• and files Nos. 3 and 4 keep their horses
straight, so as not to constrain the movements of files Nos. 1 and 2.
499. The troop marching in column by twos, right in front, to break
by file, the captain commands :
1. By file. 2. March.
At the command hy file, all the troopers prepare to halt except the
right file of the leading rank of twos. At the command march, the
right file of the leading rank of twos continues to march at the same
gait; all the others halt. The left file of this same rank obliqyies to
the right the moment it is passed by the croup of the rear rank horse
of No. 1, and places himself in column behind the first file. The
guide of the right takes his place in rear of the chief of the first
platoon.
Each rank of twos executes the same movement in succession, files
No?. 1 and 2 breaking as soon as files Nos. 2 and 4, who precede them,
have commenced obliquing, in order to enter the column.
Files 1 and 3, which break to the front, regulate their gait so as to
haA^e their distances. Files 2 and 4 keep their horses straight, so as
not to constrain the movements of files 1 and 3.
AVhen the column is at a trot, the right files of the leading rank
continue at that gait, all the others take the walk at the command
march, and resume the trot on entering the column. When the column
is at the (jallop, the files which are to break take the trot at the com-
mand march, and resume the gallop on entering the column.
The column marching left in front, the movement is executed by
inverse means at the command : 1. By twos {or hy file), from the left,
march. If the column marches by twos, the guide is indicated to the
right, immediately after the command march.
To form twos and fours in doubling the gait.
500. The troop marching by file right in front, to form twos, the
captain commands :
SCirOOL OF THE TROOP. 307
I
1. Form twos, trot. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the command form fiios, trot, all the troopers prepare to trot, ex-
cept the leading file, and take it at the command march. The second
file -obliques to the left, and comes up abreast of the first, and on
arriving there tstkes the walk; all the other files continue to move at
the trot. Files 4 and 2 execute the movement in the same manner,
when 3 and 1, upon Avhom they are to form, have nearly arrived at
their distance, and are about to pass to the walk.
501. The troop marching in column of twos, right in front, to form
fours, the captain commands :
1. Form fours, trot. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the command form fortrs, trot, all the troopers, except the two
leading files, prepare to take the trot, and take it at the command march.
The two files following the first two oblique to the left, and come up
abreast of these two, resuming the walk as they do so ; all the other
files continue to march forward at the trot. Files 1 and 2 of the next
file of fours close up upon the leading file, and pass to the walk, when
Nos. 2 and 4 of the same file oblique to the left, and come up abreast
of them, taking the iralk, and so do all the remaining files in succes-
sion.
When the column is at the trot, the movement is executed on the
same principles. At the command march, all the troopers, except the
files at the head of the column, pass to the gallop, and resume the trot
when the formation is executed.
The column marching left in front, the movement is executed by
inverse means.
To break hy twos and by file in doubling the gait.
502. The troop marching in column by fours, the captain commands :
1. By twos, trot. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the command 6y ticon, trot, files 1 and 2 of the leading rank of
fours prepare to trot. At the command march, they commence the trot;
all the other files continue to march at the iralk; files 3 and 4 take the
trot in succession and oblique to the right, in order to place themselves
in column l)chind files 1 and 2.
The movement being terminated the captain orders the icalk.
308 MANUAL FOR VOLUxNTEERS AND MILITIA.
503. The troop marching in column of twos, right in front, to break
by file the captain commands :
1. By file, trot. 2. March.
At the command hy file, trot, the right file of the leading rank of
twos prepares to trot. At the command march, it commences the trot,
all the other files continue at the ivalk; files 2 and 4 assume the trot in
succession and oblique to the right, in order to place themselves behind
files 1 and 3 in the column. <
When the column is at the trot, to break in doubling the gait, the
captain commands : 1. By twos {or by file), galloj). 2. March.
504. The column marching left in front, the movement is executed
by inverse means, at the commands : 1. By twos (or hy fi.le),frovi the
left. 2. March. If the column is to march by twos, the guide is in-
dicated to the right, immediately after the command march.
SABRE EXERCISE.
505. The captain causes the sabre exercise to be executed at a halt;
for this purpose he opens the ranks, and commands :
1. By the left for right)., open files. 2. March. 3. Right (or
lefit) — Dress. 4. Front.
At the command march, the right trooper of each rank moves for-
ward six paces; the one on tbe left of each -rank turns to the Ze/V, and
moves forward,- he is followed by all the other troopers of his rank, who
execute the same movement as soon as they have the necessary space to
put themselves in file at their proper distances. The second trooper
from the right of each rank, after having marched three paces, turns
and dresses to the right ; each of the other troopers look occasionally to
the rear, and perform the same movement in succession when at three
paces from the one who follows him, and dresses upon those already
formed; the troopers of the rear rank place themselves exactly behind
their file-leaders.
After the command march, the captain moves to the right of the front
rank, and when the second trooper from the I'ight has turned to the
front, he commands, right — dress. After having rectified the alignment
and the distances in the two ranks, he commands, front.
506. When the captain wishes to re-form the troop, he commands:
1. To the right for left), close files. 2. March.
At the command march, the right trooper of each rank moves forward
SCHOOL OF THE TROOP. 309
six paces; all the other tx-oopers execute a turn to the right, and move
forward.
Each trooper, on arriving within two paces of the place he is to
occupy in line, turns to the left, and places himself on the left of the
troopers already formed, and dresses to the right. The captain closes
the ranks as soon as they are formed.
JDirecl march of the troop in line.
507. The most important point in the direct march being to keep the
horses straight in the ranks, it is indispensable that the trooper should
preserve the head direct.
To keep themselves aligned, the trooi)ers should feel lightl}'^ the boot
of the man on the side of the guide, and march at an equal gait. They
sliould 3'icld to all pressure coming from the side of the guide, and
resist that coming from the opposite side.
The guide should always march at a free and steady gait, and change
it with steadiness in order to avoid irrcgularitj' in the ranks. If the
troopers are in front or in rear of the alignment, too near or too far from
the man on the side of the guide, they move from or approach him
gradually. When the guide feels himself thrown out of his direction,
he extends his arm to the front to indicate that there is too much
pressure toward him. When the troopers carry the hand toward the
opposite side, give a glance to the guide, and straighten their horses as
soon as the guide is relieved.
The guide should be alternately to the right and to the left, that the
troopers may acquire the habit of dressing equally well toward either
direction.
50S. To march the troop forward, the captain commands :
1. Troop, forward. 2. Guide right (or lef). 3. March.
At the command march, all the troopers move straight forward, at
the same gait with the men on the side of the guide.
The troopers march straight forward, feeling the l)oot lightly on the
side toward the guide.
To halt the troop, the captain commands:
1. Troop. 2. Halt. 3. Rir/ht (or left) — Dress. 4. Front.
At the command halt, the troopers stop.
At the command ri(/ht — drcs-fi. they align themselves, and at the com-
mand front, turn the head to (be front.
After the troop has been exercised sufficiently in the direct march, at
310 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
the irnlk, it will be practiced at the trot, and afterward at the gallo]);
wheu marching fr^ a gallop, the troop should habitually pass to the trot
and the icalk, before being- halted: but when the troopers are masters of
their horses it may be halted from the galloj).
Countei'march.
509. The troop having arrived at the extremity of the ground, in
order to change the direction, the captain commands :
1. Countermarch, hy the right Jiank. 2. By file to the right.
3. March.
At the command countermarch, hi/ the right flank, the chiefs of pla-
toon turn to the right, the chief of the first platoon placing himself in
front of his first file ; the file-closers turn tv the left, and pass to the
left of the troop, ])lacing themselves abreast of the rear rank.
The guide of the right places himself promptly behind the guide of
the left, facing to the rear, the croup of his horse at six paces from the
rear rank.
At the command march, the trooper on the right of each rank turns
to the right, the rear rank man joining the front rank man; they then
wheel together to the right, the latter lengthening his gait a little ;
they pass very near the croup of the horses of the rear rank, and are
followed by the other troopers, who execute the same movement in suc-
cession, taking care to pass over the same ground.
When the first file is two paces from the right guide, who indicates
the place where it is to form, the captain commands :
1. Front. 2. Halt. 3. Eight — Dress. 4. Front.
The file-closers follow the movement, and resume their places as they
arrive at them.
Afler having commanded march, the captain moves rapidly to the
flank by which the movement is executed, in order to direct the head
of the column, and to re-form the troop to the rear upon a line parallel
to the one it at first occupied.
The troo[) being aligned, the captain commands, /ro»f. At this com-
mand, the chiefs of platoon face to the front, by a turn to the left.
The countermarch should generally be executed at the trot. For this
purpose, after the second command, the captain indicates the gait.
This movement is executed ))y the left flank, by inverse means.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOP. 311
The troop being in line, (o form if in column loith distance.
510. The captain commands :
1. Platoons, right wheel. S. March. 3. Halt.
At the first command, the left file of each platoon prepares to step off
promptly, and the pivot to turn upon its own j^round.
At the command march, each platoon executes its wheel to the right,
following the principles of the wheel on a fixed pivot, the marching
flanks taking care to step off and wheel together.
At the command halt, the marching flanks and all the troopers halt
at the same instant, those of the rear rank resuming their places behind
their file-leaders.
The captain commands halt, when the platoons have nearly com-
pleted the wheels.
The chiefs of platoon, without leaving their platoons, observe that
the movement is correctly executed.
During the movement, the guide of the left passes as file-closer be-
hind the second file from the left of the second platoon.
To march in column with distance.
511. In this order of column the guides should preserve between
them a distance equal to the front of their platoons, and regulate their
gait upon that of the preceding guide.
The chiefs of platoon are responsible for the preservation of the dis-
tance, which should be half of the front of the platoon, assuming it to
contain twelve files, measured from the croup of the horses of the rear
rank of the leading platoon, to the head of the horses of the front rank
of the rear platoon.
The troop being in open column, right in front, the captain com-
mands :
1. Column, forward. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the command march, both platoons put themselves in motion at
the same time.
Before the column commences the march, the captain gives the guide
of the first platoon a point of direction.
Changes of direction.
512. In the open column, the changes of direction are executed by
successive wheels on a movable pivot, so that the march of the column
312 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
may not be retarded. The arc of a circle described by the pivots
should be five j^accs.
The column being in march, to change the direction, the captain
commands :
■>■
Head of column to the left or half-left (or to the right or half-right).
At this command, the chief of the first platoon commands : 1. Left
— Turn. 2. Forward ; which is executed on the principles of the
wheel upon a movable pivot.
The chief of the second platoon gives the same commands in time
for his platoon to turn upon the same ground.
In this change of direction while marching, the guide of the right,
at the command head of column to the left, moves rapidly to the side of
the pivot, and places himself so that'the head of his horse will mark
the centre point of the arc described by the pivot.
Both platoons commence their wheel at two and a half paces before
arriving abreast of the head of the horse of the guide of the right, so
q,s to prevent the column from being thrown out. The guide resumes
his place when the second platoon has completed its wheel.
Individual oblique march.
513. The troop marching in column, with distance, right in front, to
cause it to gain ground toward one of the flanks, without changing the
front of the columns, the captain commands :
1. Left (or right) oblique. 2. March.
At the command march, the troopers all execute, at the same time, a
quarter turn to the right, so that the head of each horse may be opposite
the extremity of the neck of the horse on his right, and that the right
knee of each trooper may 1ft in rear of the left knee of the trooper on
his right. This first movement being executed, the troopers move for-
ward in the new direction, regulating themselves upon the guide.
The guide of the second platoon pays attention to march on the same
line, to preserve his distance, and to keep in a direction exactly parallel
to that of the guide of the first platoon.
To resume the primitive direction, the captain commands :
Forward.
At this command, the troopers straighten their horses, and move
forward, regulating themselves upon the guide.
In the oblique march, the guide is always on the obliquing side.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOP. 318
without being indioated : and after the commund fonrard, the guide
retarus, without indication, to the side on which it was before the
oblique.
To break hij fours, hy twos and hj file; to form twos, fours and
platoons at the same gait.
614. The troop marching in column with distance, right in front, to
break by fours at the same gait, the captain commands :
1. Bf/ fours. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the command by fours, repeated by the chief of the first platoon,
this officer places himself in front of the first four files on the right ;
the right guide places himself on his right.
At the command march, which is also repeated by the chief of the
platoon, this platoon breaks by fours as prescribed, No. 485, and the
chief of the second platoon commands halt.
The chief of the second platoon commands by fours, in sufficient
time to command march, the moment the last four files of the
first platoon commence the oblique movement in order to enter the
column.
515. The troop marching in column by fours, right in front, to break
by twos, at the same gait, the captain commands :
1. By twos. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
The chiefs of platoon conform to what is prescribed in order to break
bj'^ fours, and give the commands, halt; and then, 1. B>/ twos. 2.
March; so as to cause no confusion in the column.
516. The troop marching in column by twos, right in front, to break
by file at the same gait, the cai:)tain commands :
1. By file. 2. March.
Which is executed as prescribed for breaking by twos, the guide of
the right placing himself behind the chief of the first platoon.
517. The troop, marching in column with distance, at the trot,
right in front, to break by fours at the same gait, the captain
commands :
1. By fours. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the first command, repeated by the chief of the first platoon, this
ofiicer and the guide of the right place themselves as prescribed. No.
514, and the chief of the second platoon commands, walk.
27
'614 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
At the command march, repeated by both the chiefs of platoon, the
first platoon breaks bj^ fours, as prescribed, No. 514, and the second
platoon takes the walk.
The chief of the second platoon commands, by fours, trot, in
suflScient time to command march, when the last four files of the
first platoon commence the oblique movement in order to enter the
column.
The same principles are applicable to breaking by twos, and by
file.
When the column is at the gallop, these movements are executed on
the principles just prescribed, the whole column except the first four
files, passing to the trot, and resuming the gallop, as the files break in
order to enter the column.
518. The troop marching in column by file, right in front, to form
twos at the same gait, the captain commands :
1. Form, twos. 2. March.
At the commands form tu-os, and march, repeated by the chief of the
first platoon, this platoon executes the movement as prescribed. No.
500; the guide of the right moves to the right of the chief of the
first platoon, who commands hah, after having marched ten paces.
The other platoon continues to march by file, and executes the move-
ment at the command of its chief, who does not command march,
until the first files of his platoon has arrived at its proper dis-
tance.
519. The troop marching in column by twos, right in front, to form
fours, at the same gait, the captain commands :
1. Form fours. 2. March.
Which is executed as is prescribed for forming twos.
520. The troop marching in column of fours, right in front, to form
platoons at the same gait, the captain commands:
1. Form platoons. 2. March.
At the first command, the chief of the first platoon commands, /orm
platoon.
At the command march, repeated by the chief of the first platoon,
the guide of the right places himself on the right of this platoon, which
forms as \n front into line. No. 488; the chief of the platoon commands
halt, after having marched twenty paces.
The other platoon continues to march in column by fours, and forms
at the command: 1. Form platoon — 'March; given by its chief in suf-
SCHOOL OF THE TROOP. 315
ficient time to command halt, when the first four files of the platoon
arrives at six paces from the platoon which precedes.
521. When the column is at the trof, the same principles are con-
formed to, except that instead of halting, the first two or four files of
the first platoon pass to the a-nlk, at the command march given by their
chief. The second platoon continues to march at the trot, and execute
the movement at the same gait, the first two or four files of the platoon
passing alsu to the iralk, at the command march, given by the chief of
the platoon when they arrive at their proper distances.
When the column is at the cjalloj), to form twos, fours, etc., the same
principles are observed, the first two or four files of each platoon pass-
ing to the trot at command march, given by their chief.
When these formations are executed at the trot, and at the gallop, the
guide is announced by the captain as soon as the first files have
doubled, or the first platoon is formed; in the last case only each
chief of platoon repeats the command of the guide as soon as his pla-
toon is formed.
To break bi/ fours, bij twos, ayid by file ; to form twos, fours, and
platoons, in doubling the gait.
522. The trooper marching in column with distance, right in front,
to break by fours, in doubling the gait, the captain commands :
1. By fours, trot. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the first command, repeated by the chief of the first platoon, this
officer and the guide of the right, place themselves as prescribed, No.
514.
At the command march, repeated by the chief of the first platoon,
this platoon breaks by fours, as prescribed. No. 514.
The other platoon continues to march at the icalk ; its chief com-
mands, by fours, trot, in sufiicient time to command march, the mo-
ment the last four files of the first platoon commences the oblique
movement in order to enter the column.
These principles are applicable to breaking by twos and by file.
When the column is at the trot, to bi'cak at the gallop, the same prin-
ciples are observed at the commands :
1. By fours, gallop. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
523. The troop marching in column by files, to form twos in doubling
the gait, the captain commande :
316 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
1. Form twos, trot, 2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the commands form twos, trot, and march, repeated by the chief
of the first platoon, this platoon executes its movement as prescribed.
No. 500, and the guide of the right moves to the right of the chief of
the first platoon.
• At the first command, the chief of the second platoon commands, trot.
At the command march, repeated by him, the second platoon takes the
trot. He commands, form twos, in sufficient time to command march
the moment the first file of the platoon is nearly at its proper distance;
the first file then passes to the ir.allc.
524. The troop marching in column of twos, to form fours, in
doubling the gait, the captain commands :
1. Form fours., trot. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
Which is executed as prescribed for forming twos.
525. The troop marching in column by fours, to form platoon, in
doubling the gait, the captain commands:
W
1. Form platoons, trot. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the first command, the chief of the first platoon commands, /ojvh
platoon, trot.
The chief of the second platoon commands, trot.
At the command march, repeated by these officers, the first platoon
forms as prescribed, No. 520, and the guide of the right j^laces himself
on the right of this platoon. The second platoon takes the trot. The
chief of this platoon gives the command, form twos, in sufficient time
to command march the moment the first file of his platoon is nearly
at its proper distance ; the first file then passes to the walk.
526. The troop marching in column by twos to form fours, in
doubling the gait, the captain commands :
1. Form fours, trot. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
Which is executed as prescribed for forming twos.
627. The troop marching in column by fours, to form platoons, in
doubling the gait, the captain commands :
1. Form platoons, trot. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the first command, the chief of the first platoon commands, form
platoon, trot.
The chief of the second platoon commands, trot. At the command
SCHOOL OF THE TROOP. 317
march, repeated by these oflBcers, the first platoon forms as prescribed,
No. 520, and the guide of the right places himself on the right 0$. this
platoon.
The second platoon takes the trot, and forms at the command for7n
platoon, given by its chief in sufficient time to command march, when
the first four files arrive at their proper distance from the first platoon;
then these four files take the walk.
The captain commands guide left when the first platoon is formed,
and gives a point of direction.
The chief of the second platoon commands the guide as soon as his
platoon is formed.
When the column is at the trot, these formations are executed at the
gallop, following the same principles, at the commands: 1. Form ticoa
or form fours, or form 2iltttoons, gallop. 2. March.
The Iroop niarchimj in column lulth distance, to face it in the
opposite direction, and to face it to the front again.
528. The troop marching in open column, right in front, the captain
commands :
1. Platoons, left about ivheel. 2. March.
At the first command, the trooper on the left of each platoon, who
becomes the pivot, prepares to halt, without, however, slackening his
pace.
At the command march, the pivots halt, and the marching flanks
wheel at the gait in which the column was marching, regulating them-
selves upon the outer flank of the platoon at the head of the column,
so as to complete the first half of the movement at the same instant.
The movement being nearly finished, the captain commands :
1. Forward. 2. Guide right.
During this movement, the guide of the left places himself on the
left of the second platoon; the guide of the right takes his place as
file-closer in rear of the second file from the right of the first platoon,
and the other file-closers pass to the side opposite the guide.
To cause the troop to resume its primitive direction, the captain
commands :
1. Platoons, right about ivheel. 2. March. 3. Forward.
4. Guide left.
529. The column being on the march, to halt it, the captain com-
mands :
318 MANUAL FOR VOLUiNTEERS AND MILITIA.
^ 1. Column. 2. Halt. -
m
At the first command, both platoons prepare to halt, and at the
command halt, halt at the same time.
To form line to the left.
530. The troop being in column with distance, right in front, to
form it in line on its left flank, the captain commands :
1. Left into line, wheel. 2. March. 8. Halt. 4. Right —
Djress. 5. Front.
At the first command, the guide of the right moves upon the prolon-
gation of the guides of the column, at the distance of the front of a
platoon, facing the side toward which the line will be formed.
At the command march, the troop wheels into line, the trooper on
the left wing of each platoon serving as pivot, and turning upon his
own ground.
The captain commands halt the moment the marching flanks have
nearly completed their movement, and then right — dress.
At this command, both jilatoons align themselves.
The troop being aligned, the captain commands, front.
During the wheel, the guide of the left resumes his place in line.
531. The formation of the troop into a column with distance, left in
front; the march of this column; the changes of direction in a col-
umn ; left in front ; etc., etc., are executed upon the same principles as
a column right in front, but by inverse means.
To form line to the right hy inversion.
532. The troop marching in open column, right in front, to form it
in line upon its right flank by inversion, the captain changes the
guide ; for this purpose, he commands :
Guide right.
The captain passes by the head of the column to the side of the
new guides, rectifies their direction, then halts the column, and
commands :
"1. By inversion, right into line, wheel. 2. March. 3. Halt.
4. Left — Dress. 5. Front.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOP. 319
"Which is executed as prescribed for wheeling into line by the left,
but by inverse means.
To put the troop in column again, right in front, the captain
commands : 1. Platoons, left wheel. 2. March. 3. Halt (or For-
ward). 4. Guide left.
To form on right into line.
5.33. The troop marching in column with distance, right in front, to
form it in line on the prolongation and in advance of its right flank,
the captain commands :
1. On right into line. 2. March. 3. Guide — Right.
4. Front.
At the first command, the chief of the first platoon commands right,
and at the command march, he commands tarn ; the platoon turns to
the right and moves forward : when it has marched thirty paces, its
chief commands halt, and then riijlit — dresn.
The second platoon continues. to march forward, without approaching
the line; as soon as it arrives abreast of the fourth tile from the left of
the first platoon, its chief commands : 1. Riijht — Turn. 2. Forward.
The platoon then directs itself toward the place it is to occupy in line,
and on arriving abreast of the file-closers, its chief commands halt, and
then left — dress.
When the troop is aligned, the captain commands, front.
To form on left into line hy inversion.
534. The troop marching in column with distance, right in front, to
form it in line upon the prolongation and in advance of its left flank,
the captain commands:
1. Bg inversion on left, into line. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
4. Front.
At the first command, the chief of the first platoon commands, left.
At the command inarch, he commands tiirn ; the platoon turns to the
left, and moves forward at the commanid forward ; when it has marched
thirty paces, its chief commands halt, and then left — dress.
The second platoon continues to march forward, without approaching
the line; when it arrives abreast of the fourth file from the right of the
first platoon, its chief commands: I. Left — Turn. 2. Forward; this
platoon directs itself toward the place it is to occupy in line, and on
320 MANUxlL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
arriving abreast of the file-closers, its chief commands halt, and then
left — dress.
To form front into line.
535. The troep being in column with distance, right in front, to form
it in line upon the head of the column, the captain commands :
1. Front into line. 2. March. 3. Guide right. 4. Front.
At the first command, the chief of the first platoon commands, pla-
toon, forward, and the chief of the second comvawadiS, platoon, left half
tvheel.
At the command march, repeated by these officers, the first platoon
moves forward ; its chief repeats the indication of the guide, and
when it has marched thirty paces, he commands : 1. Halt. 2. Right
— Dress.
The chief of the second platoon, when the left half wheel is exe-
cuted, commands : 1. Forward. 2. Guide right ; and marches straight
forward. When the right of his platoon arrives opposite the left of
the first platoon, he commands : 1. Right half wheel. 2. Forward :
and when he arrives abreast of the file-closer : 1. Halt. 2. Right —
Dress.
The troop being aligned, the captain commands, front.
To form line faced to the rear, on the rear into column.
536. The troop being in column with distance, right in front, to form
line faced to the rear, the captain commands :
1. Platoons, left ahout wheel. 2. March. 3. Front into line.
4. March. 5. Guide left. 6. Front.
At the second command, each jDlatoon executes its wheel to the left
about.
At the fourth command, the chief of the second platoon, now in
front, when its wheel is nearly completed, commands, forward, guide
left; and when it has marched thirty paces: 1. Halt. 2. Left —
Dress.
The chief of the second platoon, on completing three-fourths of his
wheel, commands : 1. Forward. 2. Guide left, and directs it toward
the place it is to occupy in line, conforming in other respects to what
is prescribed for front info line, when the column is left in front.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOP. 821
To form line faced to the rear on the head of the column.
537. The troop being in column with distance, right in front, to form
line faced to the rear upon the head of the column, the captain com-
mands :
1. By inversion^ front into line. 2. Makcii. 3. Guide left.
At the first command, the chief of the first platoon commands, ^>Za-
toon, forward ; and the chief of the second, p/afoo«, ri(jht half icheel.
At the command march, repeated by these officers, the movement is
executed as prescribed for front into line, but by inverse means.
The captain without rectifying the alignment, commands:
1. Platoon^ left about wheel. 2. March. 3. Halt. 4. Right —
Dress. 5. Froj^t.
Movements by fours, the troop being in column with distance.
538. The troop being in column with distance, right in front, to
cause it to gain ground toward its left flank, the captain commands :
1. By fours, left icheel. 2. March. 3. Forward. 4. Guide right.
At the command march, each rank of fours executes its wheel to the
left, according to the principles of the wheel on a fixed pivot; Nos. 4
turn upon themselves, sustaining with the left leg the haunches of their
horses, in order not to constrain the movement of the rank immediate-
ly behind them ; all the troopers regulate themselves toward the march-
ing flanks.
539. To take a direction parallel to the first, and return to column
with distance, the captain commands :
1. By fours, right wheel. 2. March. 3. Halt.
Which is executed on the same i^rinciplos, but by inverse means.
If, instead of halting, the captain wishes the column to march
forward, he commands : 1. Forward. 2. Gidde left.
540. The troop being in column with distance, right in front, it is
caused to gain ground toward its right flank by the Commands : 1. By
fours, rUjht icheel. 2. March. 3. Forward. 4. Guide left; and to
resume the primitive direction at the commands: 1. By four h, left
wheel. 2. March. 3. Halt (or Forward). 4. Guide left.
541. The troop being in column with distance, right in front, to
cause it to march to the rear, the captain commands :
322 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
1. By fours, left about wheel. 2. March. 3. Forward.
4. Guide right.
At the command march, the movement is executed in each rank by
fours, so as to throw the rear rank before the front rank, and the ranks
of fours are inverted throughout the column.
If, instead of moving forward after the wheel to the left nhout by
fours, the captain wishes to halt the column, he commands, halt.
To return to the primitive direction, the captain commands :
1. By fours, right about wheel. 2. March. 3. Halt.
Which is executed as just prescribed, but by inverse means.
If the captain wishes the column to march forward, he commands :
1. Forward. 2. Guide left.
542. In all the movements to the left and to the right bij fours, the
chiefs of platoon move up abreast of the first rank of their platoons,
on the side of the guide.
The captain, the file-closers, and the guides of the right and left,
will preserve their places after the wheel to the left or ricjht hy fours
is completed, facing in the new direction.
In the wheel to the left or ri.(jht about by fours, the chiefs of platoon
march behind the centre of their platoons, and the file-closers in
front. The guide of the right is on the left of his platoon, and the
guide of the left in front of his.
WHEELINGS.
543. During the wheel, the chiefs of platoon keep at the centre of
their platoons, and correctly aligned, keeping their horses upon the
arc of a cii'cle, more or less great, in proportion to their distance from
the pivot. The files on the flanks of platoons close upon each other,
all observing the progression of the marching flank, and keeping upon
the arcs they should describe.
To wheel on a fixed pivot.
544. The troop is exercised in wheeling on a fixed pivot, first at the
walk, then at the trot, also at the gallop.
The troop being halted and correctly aligned, the captain com-
mands :
1. Troop in circle, to the right. 2, March.
Which is executed on the principles prescribed, Nos, 434 and 435.
\
SCHOOL OF THE TROOP. 323
To halt the troop during the wheel, the captain commands :
1. Troop. 2. Halt. 3. Left— Dress. 4. Front.
At the first command, the troopers of the rear rank straighten their
horses, and resume their places behind their file-leaders.
At the second command, all the troopers halt.
At the third command, the troop dresses to the left.
The troop being aligned, the captain commands front.
If, instead of halting, the captain wishes to resume the direct march,
he commands :
1. Forward. 2. Guide left.
At the first command, the troopers of the rear rank straighten their
horses, and place themselves behind their file leaders, and the whole
troop moves forward at the gait in which it was marching before the
wheel.
545. The troop wheeling to the right, at the walk, or at the trui, the
captain commands :
1. Troop in circle, left wheel. 2. March.
Which is executed as prescribed, Nos. 434 and 435. •
546. The troop being halted, the captain commands :
( right (or left) wheel.
1. Troop, -j right about (or left about) wheel. \- 2. March.
( 7ight half (or left half) wheel. )
3. Troop. 4. Halt. 5. Left (or right) — Dress. G. Front.
To exercise the troop while marching at the wheels on a fixed pivot,
the captain commands :
( right (or left) ivheel. ')
1. Troop, < right about (or left about) wheel. > 2. March.
( right half (or left half) wheel. )
3. Forward. 4. Guide left (or guide right).
To wheel on a movable pivot.
647. The troop marching in line, to change direction to the right,
the captain commands :
1. Right — Turn. 2. Forward.
Which is executed as prescribed, No. 438, the pivot describing an
arc of a circle of fifteen pacen.
324 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Movements hy fours.
548. The troop being in line, to cause it to gain ground toward its
right flank, the captain commands:
\. By four s^ right luheel. 2. March. 3. Forward. 4. Guide
left.
Which is executed as prescribed, No. 540. The chiefs of platoon
march on the side of the guide, at one pace from and abreast of the
leading files of their platoon.
The guide of the right marches in front of the column, at one pace
from the leading rank of eight, the guide of the left behind the last
rank of eight of the second platoon.
To put the troop in line again, the captain commands :
1. By fours ^ left wheel. 2. March. 3. Halt. 4. Right —
Dress. 5. Front.
Which is executed as prescribed. No. 540, the guides resuming their
place's in line.
The troop marching in line, to break it hy platoons, to the right,
and to form it again into line.
549. The trooji marching in line, to cause it to gain ground toward
its right flank, the captain commands :
1. Platoons, right wheel. 2. March. 3. Forward.
4. Guide left.
Which is exercised as prescribed. No. 510. the pivots halting short,
and the left file of each platoon stepping out promptly, so as to arrive
together in column.
To put the troop in line again, the captain commands :
1. Platoons, left ivheel. 2. March. 3. Forward.
4. Guide right.
The marching flanks regulate their movements so as to arrive to-
gether in line.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOP. 325
The troop marching in line, to break it to the front by platoons,
and to re-form it.
550. The captain commands :
1. By platoon, to the front. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the command march, the first platoon continues to march forward;
its chief repeats the command, r/nide left. At the first command, the
chief of the second platoon commands : Platoon, right half wheel,
which is commenced at the command march; when it is executed, the
chief of the platoon commands: 1. Forward. 2. Guide hft ; and
marches it straight forward. When the left of his platoon arrives in
the direction of the first platoon, he commands: 1. Left half wheel. 2.
March. 3. Forward ; in order to take his position in column.
The movement is executed in the same manner at the trot, and at
the yallop.
651. The troop marching in column with distance, right in front,
to form it at the same gait, the captain commands :
1. Fo7'77i troop. 2. March. 3. Guide right.
Which is executed in the same manner as front into line, No. 535,
except that, as the troop is on the march, the chief of the first platoon
does not command platoon forivard, or march, but repeats the com-
mand for the guide.
The troop marching at the trot, this movement is executed on the
same principles, except that the chief of the first platoon commands :
1. Walk. 2. March; the guide of the right moving up on the line
with the chiefs of platoon, and the chief of the second platoon com-
mands : 1. Walk. 2. March ; on arriving in line. When the column
is at the gallop, the platoons take the trot in succession.
The troop marching in line it is broken by the left by inverse
means, at the commands : 1. By the left, by platoons to the front. 2.
March. 3. Guide right.
The same movement may be performed by doubling the gait, at the
commands : 1. By platoons to the front, trot. 2. March. 3. Guide
left. At the first command, the chief of the first platoon commands,
trot ; the chief of the second commands, platoon, right half wheel,
trot.
At the command march, the movement is executed as before.
The line may be r^-formed at the commands: 1. Form troop, trot.
2. "March. 3. Guide right. At the first command, the chief of the
second platoon commands, platoon, left half wheel, trot. The first
326 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
platoon continues to march at a tralk, and its chief repeats the com-
mand for the guide. When the second platoon arrives in line, its
chief commands : I. Wall-.. 2. March.
THE CHARGE.
652. The troop is exercised at the charge : 1. In line. 2. In column.
3. Ah foragers.
The charge in line, executed by the troop when in line ; it should
be as short as possible, so as to arrive in good order, and without
fatiguing the horses.
Tlie charge in column is exercised by the troop when broken into
column of platoons with distance.
To execute the charge as foragers, all the troopers of the troop
disperse, and direct themselves each upon the point he wishes to
attack, observing not to lose sight of their officers, who charge with
them.
553. The troop being in line, the captain orders the sabres to be
drawn, and the platoons to charge in succession.
For this purpose the captain advances 240 paces to the front, taking
a ti'umpeter with him; and when he wishes the movement to com-
mence, he causes a signal to be given.
The first platoon then moves forward at the commands: 1. Platoon,
forward. 2. Guide right (or left). 3. March ; b}^ its chief. It passes,
in succession from the walk to the trot, from the trot to the gallop, and
from the gallop to the charge.
When the platoon has moved some sixty paces at the charge, the
chief of platoon commands : 1. Attention. 2. Platoon. 3. Halt. 4.
Right — Dress. 5. Front.
At the command attention, the troopers carry the sabre to the
shoulder. At the command platoon, they take the trot. At the com-
mand halt, they stop. At the command right — dress, they align
themselves to the right. At the command front, turn the head to the
front.
The second platoon follows when the first has halted.
554. To execute the charge by the troop, the captain places himself
in front of the centre of his troop, and commands:
1. Troop, forward. 2. Guide right (or left). 3. March.
When the troop has marched twenty paces, he comxnands :
1. Trot. 2. March.
SCHOOL OF THE TROOP. 327
At sixty paces farther, he commands:
1. Gallop. 2. March.
At eighty paces farther, he commands :
Charge.
At this command, repeated by the chiefs of platoons, the troopers
of both ranks take the position of raine, sahre. They give hand
and lengthen the gallop, without losing control of their horses or dis-
uniting.
When the troop has passed over sixty paces to the charge, the cap-
tain commands :
1. 4.ttention. 2. Troop. 3. Halt. 4. Right — Dress.
5. Front.
At the command attention, repeated by the chiefs of platoon, the
troopers prepare to slacken the pace, and carry the sabre to the
shoulder.
At the command troop, the chiefs of platoon command platoon, and
the troojiers pass to the trot.
At the command halt, repeated by the chiefs of platoon, the troopers
halt.
At the command right — dress, they align themselves to the right.
The troop being aligned, the captain commands //•o>l^
When the troop executes the charge cori'ectly, instead of halting
when the charge is finished, the captain commands :
1. Attention. 2. Trot. 3. March.
555. At these commands, repeated by the chiefs of platoon, the troop
passes to (he trot, and he commands :
1. First (or second) platoon, as foragers. 2. March.
At these commands, repeated by the chief of the platoon designated,
the platoon moves forward at the gallop, and disperses as foragers. A
trumpeter follows the chief of the platoon.
The other platoon follows at a trot ; when it has passed over 150
paces, tlie captain causes the rally to be sounded. At this signal, re-
peated by the trumpeter of the platoon dispersed as foragers, the latter
rally upon the other platoon by wheeling to the left about, and resum-
ing their places in rank by the shortest line, the troopers entering the
328 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
ranks by the rear. When three-fourths of the platoon have rallied
and are in line, the captain commands :
1. Attention. 2. Gallop. 3. March. 4. Charge.
The troop again executes the charge in line ; the troopers who have
not been able to rally, charge upon the flanks of the troop.
556. The troop marching in column with distance, at the trot, the
captain commands :
1. To the charge. 2. March.
At the first command, the chief of the first platoon commands galloj].
^i the command march, repeated by the chief of the first platoon,
this platoon commences the galloji.
The other platoon follows at a trot, taking the gallop, when the first
platoon has gotten 50 paces in front of it.
When the first platoon has passed over 80 paces at the gallop, its
chief commands charge. At this command the platoon executes the
charge ; and when it has passed over 60 paces, its chief causes it to
pass to the trot, by the commands : 1. Attention. 2. Trot. .3. March.
The other platoon pays attention to the movements of the first, so as
to change the gait in time, and to resume the ordinary distance ; the
captain halts the column when he. thinks proper. These charges are
executed, each platoon in turn taking the head of the column.
557. The troop marching in column with distance, at the trot, the
captain commands :
1. First platoon., as foragers. 2. March.
At the command march, repeated by the chief of the first platoon,
this platoon disperses as foragers. The troop continues to march at
the trot, and when it has passed over 100 or 150 paces, the captain
causes the rally to be sounded.
At this signal, the platoon rallies and re-forms in the rear of the
second.
RALLYING.
558. To give the troopers the habit of rallying promptly, after hav-
ing been dispersed as foragers, the captain places the troop at the ex-
tremity of the drill ground ; and after giving notice to the files on the
flanks of platoons, the file-closers and the trumpeters, to remain upon
the line with him, he causes the disperse to be sounded. At this sig-
SCHOOL OP THE TROOP. 329
nal, the troopers disperse and charge as foragers; when they are at the
distance of 100 or 200 paces, the captain causes the ralhj to be sounded.
The captain causes the troopers to disperse without confusion, and in
rallying, see that they direct themselves to the right and left of the
troop, in order to unmask the front of the troop, and to re-form in
passing to the rear.
When the troopers rally without confusion, this movement is re-
peated without requiring the flank files, etc., to remain on the line of
the troop. At the signal; the troop disperses in every direction to the
front.
When the troop is dispersed, the captain causes the rally to be
sounded.
At this signal, the officers, the non-commissioned officers, and the
troopers, rejoin rapidly; the officers align themselves promptly upon
the captain, and the non-commissioned officers promptly mark the
flanks of the platoons.
As soon as the captain has rallied two-thirds of the troop he moves
forward, charges again, and halts.
These movements are first executed at the trot, and then at the
yallop.
Light cavalry should be particularly exercised in charging as for-
ay em and in raUying.
SKIRMISHING.
559. The troop being in line, the captain commands :
1. First (or second) platoon^ as skirmishers. 2. March.
At the first command, the chief of the^first platoon orders the sabres
to be returned, and the arms to be loaded ; he then commands : 1.
Platoon, forward. 2. Guide right. 3. Trot.
At the command march, repeated by the chief of the platoon, this
platoon moves forward at the trot. After marching 100 paces to the
front, the chief of the platoon commands : 1. Six files from right (or
left), as sJcirmishers. 2. March. 3. Guide right (or left).
At the first command, the senior file-closer places himself in front of
the files of the left who are intended to support the skirmishers, and at
the command march, cause them to halt and draw sabre.
At the command march, the six files of the right continue to move
forward; after going ten paces they disperse as skirmishers, extending
themselves so as to cover the exposed part of a troop in passing beyond
each of its flanks. The right trooper obliques to the right, the left
28
330 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
trooper to the left. The troopers of the rear rank come up as soon as
possible, abreast of the front rank, each one placing himself on the
left of the file-leaders, and as soon as they are in line, all take the posi-
tion of advance, carhine, or raise, pistol. They continue to march
until the signal to halt.
The chief of platoon causes the halt to be sounded when the skir-
mishers are at 100 or 150 paces from the reserve.
The troopers keep at five paces apart, regulating themselves toward
the guide during the time they act as skirmishers.
The chief of platoon places himself in rear of the skirmishers, in
order to superintend their movements.
When the captain wishes the skirmishers to re-enter the troop, he
causes the rally to be sounded. At this signal, the chief of the platoon
employed as skirmishers rallies his platoon, and then rejoins the troop
at a gallop.
SCHOOL OF THE SQUADRON. 331
Article IX.
SCHOOL OF THE SQUADEON.
560. The object of the nchool of the squadron is to instruct four pla-
toons to execute together what has been taught to two, and to prepare
the squadron to perform what it will be required to do when a part
of the regiment.
To make the formations in line better understood, they are executed
at first from a halt. Each movement, after having been correctly
executed by the right, is repeated by the left.
The troopers are made to mount and dismount by the times, but
without explanation.
The captain commanding requires the distance between the platoons
to be preserved exactly in all the movements ; he sees that the troop-
ers are not constrained, and that the rear rank men are not only
in the direction of their file-leaders, but that there is always two
feet between the head of their horses and the croup of those of the
front rank.
The second captain is charged wit)i the alignment of the rear rank
and the rank of file-closers; he resumes his place in line at the com-
mand,/ro»^
The captain commanding moves wherever his presence is most
required; the troopers are required to observe absolute silence, and
all ratifications arc done by signs or in a low voice.
A large majority of the movements are the same, and are executed
by the same commands as those already laid down in the school of the
troop; the only difference being that what is laid down as applicable
to two platoons, must now be made to apply to four. All the move-
ments of the squadron are indicated in the following number, those
marked in italics not having been already described in the school
of the troop, are described farther on; for all the other movements
a simple reference to corresponding movements in the school of the
troop will be sufficient to make them all perfectly intelligible.
For the manner of forming the squadron, and the posts of the
officers, see No. 18.
382 MANUAL ¥0K VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
MOVEMENTS OF THE SQUADKON.
561. Successive alignment of 2:)latoons in the squadron.
Alignment of the squadron.
To open and close ranks.
To break the squadron by fours.
Direct march in column by fours.
Change of direction.
Individual oblique march.
The squadron marching in column by fours, to form it to the front,
to the left, or on right into line.
To regulate the rapidity of the gaits.
To form the squadron in one rank, and to form it in two ranks.
The squadron being in line, to form it in column with distance.
To march in column with distance.
Changes of direction by successive wheels.
Individual oblique march.
Change of gait, being in column with distance.
To break by fours, by twos and by file ,• to form twos, fours and pla-
toons, at the same gait.
The squadron marching in column with distance, to face it to the
opposite direction, and to face it again to the front.
To halt the column.
To form line on the left.
To break by the right to march to the left.
To form line to the right by inversion.
To break to the rear by the right to march to the left.
To form on right into line.
To form on left into line, by inversion.
To break by platoons to the front.
To form front into line.
To break by platoons to the right^ and to inove forward after the
wheel.
To form line to the front by inversion.
To break by i^latoons to the rigid, head of column to the left or half
left.
To form line faced to the rear, on the rear of the column.
To form line faced to the rear, by inversion, on the rear of the
column.
To break by jilutoons to the right, head of column to the right or half
right.
To form line faced to the rear, on the head of the column.
To form line faced to the rear, by inversion, on the head of the column.
SCllUUL UF THK SQUADRON. 888
Movements by fours, the squadron being in column with distance'
Direct march of the squadron in line.
Countermarch.
Wheelings.
To wheel on a fixed pivot.
To wheel on a movable pivot.
Individual oblique march.
Oblique march by plnfoonn.
Movements by fours.
The squadron being in line, to cauxc it to ffain ground to the rear, and
to face it again to the front.
The squadron marching in line, to break by platoons to the right,
and to form it again in line.
The squadron marching in line, to march it to the rear by irherling the
platoons about.
The squadron marching in line, to break it to the front by platoons,
and to re-form it.
The squadron marchi)ig in line, to break it to the front by platoons, in
doubling the gait, and to re-form it.
Passage of obstacles.
Charge.
Rallying.
Skirmishing.
The column by divisions.
Successive alignment of platoons in the squadron.
562. The squadron being in line, the captain commanding places the
two non-commissioned officers, principal guides of the right and left,
upon a line parallel to the front of the squadron, at thirty paces from
the front rank, and facing each other.
On receiving notice from the captain commanding, the chief of
the first platoon commands: 1. Platoon, forward. 2. Guide right.
3. March. At the command march, the platoon moves forward; at
one pace from the point which marks the new alignment, the chief of
the platoon commands : 1. Halt. 2. liighf — Dress. At the com-
mand halt, the chief of the platoon and guide of the right establish
themselves immediately, the latter bringing the head of his horse
against the boot of the principal guide of the right.
The first platoon being correctly aligned, the first captain com-
mands :
1. By platoon, right — Dress. 2. Front.
834 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
At the first command, the chief of the second platoon commands :
1. Platoon, forward. 2. Guide right. 3. March. Having arrived
abreast of the file-closers of the platoon which forms the base of the
alignment, he commands: 1. Halt. 2. Bight — Dress, and at the
same time moves forward on the line of the chief of that platoon. At
the command halt, the platoon stops. At the command right — dress,
all the troopers move forward together upon the alignment.
Each chief of platoon executes the same movement, commanding
march, when the one who precedes him has commanded halt. The
guide of the left, at the command halt, from the chief of the fourth
platoon, brings up the head of his horse against the boot of the prin-
cipal guide of the left. The squadron being aligned, the first captain
commands, front.
This alignment being correctly executed, it is repeated, giving the
new base of alignment a direction oblique to the front of the squadron.
For this purpose the chief of the first platoon, on receiving notice
from the captain commanding, moves his j)latoon twenty-four paces to
the front, causes it to execute a half wheel to the right at the com-
mands : 1. Right half wheel. 2. Forward ; and after marching at six
paces in the new direction, he halts and aligns it. The first platoon
being correctly aligned, the first captain commands :
1. By platoon, right — Dress. 2. Front.
The movement is executed by the platoons in succession • each chief
of platoon moves straight forward and commands: 1. Bight half—
Wheel. 2. Forward ; in time to complete the wheel at the moment
the right arrives opposite the left of the platoon which precedes it.
Th'j squadron being aligned, the first captain commands, /;■o«^
To break by the right., to march by the left.
563. The squadron being in line, the first captain commands :
1. Platoons., break by the right., to march to the left. 2. March.
At the first command, the chief of the first platoon commands : 1.
Platoon, forward. 2. Guide left. At the command inarch, repeated by
the chief of the first platoon, this platoon marches ten paces to the
front, turns to the left, and moves forward at the commands : 1. Left —
Turn. 2. Forward.
The'chief of the second platoon, and successively those of the third
and foi.rth, command : 1. Platoon, forward. 2. Guide left; when the
chief of the platoon on the right commands march; and they command
SCHOOL OF THE SQUADRON. 335
march, when the chief of that platoon, after having turned to the left,
commands, /or wofrrf.
To break to the rear by the right, to march to the left.
5H4. The squadron being in lind, the first captain commands :
1. Platoons, break by the right to the rear, to march to the left.
2. March,
At the first command, the chief of the first platoon commands, ja^a-
toon, right about wheel. At the command march, repeated by the chief
of the first platoon, this platoon executes its wheel to the right about;
when nearly terminated, its chief commands : 1. Forward. 2. Guide
left; and sSftev marching ten paces straight forward, he commands : 1.
Eight — Turn. 2. Forward. The chief of the second platoon, and
those of the third and fourth in succession, commands, 2^iatoon, right
about wheel, when the chief of the platoon on their right commands
march, and they command inarch when that platoon has passed over
three-fourths of its first wheel.
To break by platoons to the right, and to move forward after the
wheel.
565, The squadron being in line, the captain commanding com-
mands :
1. Platoon, right wheel. 2. March. 3. Forward. 4. Guide
left.
At the first command, the left file of each platoon prepares to step
oflF promptly, and the pivot to turn upon itself. At the command
march, each platoon executes its wheel to the right, following the prin-
ciples of the wheel on a fixed pivot. At the third command, the
platoons march straight forward.
To form line to the front by inversion.
566. The squadron being in open column, right in front, to form
line by inversion upon the head of the column, the first captain com-
mands :
1. By inversion, front into line. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
4. Front.
88(1 MANUAL FOK VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
At the first command, the chief of the first platoon commands, pla-
toon, forward; and then the other chiefs of platoons command, jpZatoon,
right half wheel. At the command march, repeated by these officers,
the movement is exOTuted as prescribed, No. 535, but by inverse means.
This formation is executed in the same manner when the column is
marching 5 in this case the chief of • the first platoon does not cova-
mand, platoon, fortcard, nor march, but repeats the indication of the
guide.
To break hy platoons to the right, head of column to the left or half
left.
567. The squadron being in line, the first captain commands :
1. Platoons, right' wheel — head of column to the left (otlkalf left) .
2. March. 3. Forward. 4. Guide left.
At the command march, each platoon executes its wheel to the right.
At the third command, the chief of the first platoon commands: 1.
Left — Turn. 2. Foravard ,• the other platoons move on and turn in
succession at the command of their chiefs, on the ground upon which
the first had turned.
The first captain commands forward, when the wheels are nearly
completed, and gives a point of direction.
To form line faced to the rear hy inversion, on the rear of the
column.
568. The squadron being in column with distance, right in front, and
obstacles are presented on its left flank, to form line faced to the rear,
the first captain commands :
1. Platoons, right about loheel. 2. March. 3. By inversion,
front into line. 4. March. 5. Guide right. 6. Front.
At the second command, each platoon executes its wheel to the right
about. At the fourth command, the chief of the fourth platoon, which
becomes the head of the column, when its wheel is nearly completed,
commands: 1. Forward. 2. Guide right; and when it has marched
thirty paces: L Halt. 2. Jiight — Dress. The chiefs of the other
platoons, at three-fourths of the wheel, command: 1. Forward. 2.
Guide right; and direct themselves toward the place they are to occupy
in line, conforming, in other respects, to what is prescribed for by inver-
sion, front into line, when the left is in front.
SCHOOL OF THE SQUADRON. o87
To break by platoons to the rights head of column to the right (or
half right).
569. The squadron being in line, the first captain commands :
1. Platoons right ivheel — head of colujun to the right (or half
right). 2. March. 3. Forward. 4. Guide left.
At the command march, each phitoon executes its wheel to the right.
At the third command, the chief of the first platoon commands : 1.
liicfht — Turn. 2. Forward. The other platoons move on, and turn
in succession at the commands of their chiefs, on the same ground.
The first captain commands fonrard, when the wheels are nearly com-
pleted.
To form line faced to the rear., by inversion on the head of the
column.
570. The squadron being in column with distance, right in front, and
obstacles are presented on its right flank, to form line upon the head of
the column, faced to the rear, the first captain commands:
1. Front into line. 2. March. 3. Guide right.
Which is executed as prescribed for front into line, right in front,
No. 535, but without rectifying the alignment.
The squadron being formed, the first captain immediately commands :
1. Platoons, right about wheel. 2. March. 3. Halt. 4. Left
— Dress. 5. Front.
The movement is executed in the same manner, when the column is
marching.
Individual oblique march.
571. The squadron marching in line, to cause it to gain ground
toward the right flank, without changing the front of the squadron,
the fix'st captain commands :
1. Right oblique. 2. March.
To resume the primitive direction, the first captain commands;
29
388 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Forward.
This movement is executed at a walk, or at a trot, but never at a
gnlloj).
Oblique march by platoons.
572. The squadron being in line, to cause it to gain ground toward
its right flanli, by the oblique march by platoons, the first captain com-
mands :
1. Platoons, right half loheel. 2. March. 3. Forward.
4. Guide right.
At the command march, each platoon executes its half ivheel to the
right, on a fixed pivot. At the third command, each platoon moves
forward, conforming to the principles of the direct march.
To cause the squadron to resume the primitive direction, the first
captain commands :
1. Platoons, left half wheel. 2. March. 3. Forward.
4. Guide right.
Which is executed as just prescribed, but by inverse means.
During this march, the right guide of the first platoon marches di-
rectly upon the point which has been indicated to him. The guides of
the other platoons preserve their distances, take for file-leader the
fourth trooper from the left of the platoon which precedes them, and
keep it two paces from him. The second captain places himself behind
the guide of the first platoon, in order to superintend his direction.
The squadron being in lijie, to cause it to gain ground to the rear,
and to face it again to the front.
573. The squadron being in line, to face it in the opposite direction,
the first captain commands :
1. By fours, right about wheel. 2. March. 3. Forward.
4. Guide left.
Which is executed as prescribed, No. 541. The chiefs of platoon,
the file-closers, and the guides, ivheel about individually, and march,
the chiefs of platoon behind the centre of their platoons, the file-closers
in front, and the guides of the right and left of the rear rank, now be-
SCHOOL OF THE SQUADRON. 339
Cvome the front. At the fourth command, the file-closer nearest the
guide passes to the left, in order to place himself in front of the guide,
the first captain gives him a point of direction, which is also indicated
to the guide of the right or left, who, in this movement, remains on the
flank of the squadron.
The squadron is faced arjain to the front, by a movement similar to
the one just stated.
The squadron marching in line^ to march it to the rear hy wheeling
the platoons about.
574-. The squadron inarching in line, guide right, the first captain
commands :
1. Platoons, right about loheel. 2. March. 3. Forward.
4. Guide left.
At the command vinrch, the pivots halt short, and turn upon them-
selves, the marching flanks step off" at the same instant, regulating
themselves by the right during the first half of the wheel, so as to
arrive together in column, and by the left during the second half, so as
to arrive together in line. In each platoon, the rear rank and the file-
closers carry the band toward the marching flank, in order to facilitate
the movement. At the third command, the squadron resumes the di-
rect march. At the fourth command, the indicated guide moves up on
the line of the officers ; he is immediately replaced, and a point of di-
rection given.
In this moA-ement, the guide of the right turns to the rif/ht, moves
straight forward the extent, of the front of a platoon, and tamH ar/aiu
to the right, in order to place himself on the left of the squadron. The
guide of the left executes the same movement, to place himself on the
right of the right of the squadron. '
The squadron marching in line, to break it to the front by platoon,
in doubling the gait, and to reform it.
bib. The first captain commands:
1. B^j platoons, to the front, trot. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the first command, the chief of the first platoon commands trot ;
and those of the other platoons command, jilaioon, right half wheel,
trot. At the command march, repeated by these officers, the movement
is executed as prescribed, No. 550.
340 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA,
The squadron marching in line at the. trot, the movement is executed
at the gallop, on the same principles.
The squadron marching in column with distance, right in front, to
form it in doubling the gait, the first captain comnitands :
1. Form squadron^ trot. 2. March. 3. Guide right.
At the first command, the chiefs of the three last platoons command,
platoon, left half toheel, trot. At the command tnarch, repeated by the
chiefs of the three last platoons, the first platoon continues to march
straight forward at the ivalk, and its chief repeats the indication of the
guide. The three other platoons execute their half loheel to the left at
the trot, on a fixed pivot. The half wheels being nearly terminated,
Ihe chiefs of these platoons command : 1. Forward. 2. Guide right;
they move straight forward, and as soon as the right file of their pla-
toon is in the direction of the left file of the platoon which precedes,
they command: 1. Jiight half irheel. 2. March. 3. Forward; and
then walk, in suflBcient time to command inarch, when their platoon
arrives in line; then the troopers resume the walk, and align themselves
in marching. Each platoon after its half wheel to the left, moves straight
forward on the point where it is to turn, and without obliquing toward
the platoon which precedes it.
Passage of obstacles.
676. The squadron marching in line, to execute the passage of ob-
stacle, the first captain commands :
1. Obstacle. 2. Fii^st platoon. 3. Halt.
At the command halt, repeated by the chief of the first platoon, this
platoon halts, and its chief immediately commands : 1. Left oblique,
trot. 2. March ; and this platoon doubles on the second. When the
platoon which has aligned, is in rear of the one upon which it has
doubled, its chief commands : 1. Forward. 2. Guide right. 3. Walk.
4. March.
To cause the platoon which has obliqued to return to its place, the
first captain commands :
1. First platoon. 2. Into line.
At the command into line, the chief of the platoon commands : 1.
Right oblique, trot. 2. March ; when opposite the ground the platoon
is to occup3% he commands : 1. Forward. 2. Guide left. 3. Walk ;
and when the platoon is in line, march. The chief of the platoon com-
SCHOOL OF THE SQUADRON. 841
mtinda forward, a litHe before its left file has passed beyond the right
file of the platoon on which it is to form.
The second platoon executes the same movement, in obliquing to the
right, behind the first platoon : the third in obliquing to the left behind
the fourth, and the fourth in obli([uing to the right behind the third;
each platoon should always double upon that with which it forms the
division.
577. Tlie squadron marching in line, to execute the passage of ob-
stacle upon the head of each platoon, the first captain commands :
1. In each platoon J by faurs (or hij twos), trot. 2. March.
3. Guide right.
At the first command, tlio chiefs of platoon commands by fourn (or
by tiros, trot. At the command march, repeated by three officers, each
])latoon breaks by fours ; the chiefs of platoon march at the head of
their platoons : the guide of the right, who marches on the line of
officers, places himself on the right of the chief of the first platoon ; the
guide of the left, in rear of the fourth platoon, and the file-closers on
the right Hank of their platoons. Each platoon having thus broken in
column, should assume a direction parallel to that one which is the
guide, keeping on the same line, and always at the distance of its front,
to be able at any moment to re-form line.
To re-form the squadron, each platoon having broken by fours, or by
twos at the trot, right in front, the first captain commands:
1. Form platoons. 2. March. 3. Guide right.
At the first command, the chiefs of platoon command, /orwi platoon.
At the command march, repeated by their officers, each platoon forms.
If the ground does not permit all the platoons to form at once, the one
before which the obstacle is presented, forms in the rear of the other
platoon of its division, and retakes its place in line as soon as prac-
ticable.
8 K I R iM I S H I N G .
578. When the squadron is in sight of the skirmishers, the first cap-
tain orders no signal except the rally. The chief of the skirmishers
observes the movements of the squadron he covers, and conforms to
them as soon as practicable, requiring his trumpeter to sound the ne-
cessary signals.
When the squa<lron changes front, the chief of the skirmishers moves
342 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
upon the new front, unless the first captain gives orders to the contrary.
If the squadron is out of sight of the skirmishers, the first captain
causes the signals which correspond to the movements he executes to
he sounded, in order to give notice to the chief of the skirmishers,
who conforms to them as soon as practicable. The trumpeter who fol-
lows the chief of the skirmishers should give the signals only upon the
order of that ofiicer. The skirmishers should execute their movement,
only by the signals of the trumpeter who accompanies the officer who
commands them.
The squadron being in line, the first captain commands :
1. First (or fourth) 'platoon, as skirmishers. 2. March.
At the first command, the chief of the first platoon orders the sabres
to be returned, the holsters to be uncovered, and the arms to be loaded;
he then commands : 1. Platoon, forward. 2. Guide right. 3. Trot. At
the command march, repeated by the chief of the platoon, this platoon
moves forward. After marching 100 paces to the front, the chief of
the platoon commands : 1. Six files from right (or left), as skirmishers.
2. Makch. 3. Guide right (or left); which is executed as prescribed,
No. 559. When the first captain wishes the skirmishers to re-enter the
squadron, he causes the rally to be sounded. At this signal the chief
of the skirmishers rallies his platoon, as prescribed. No. 559, and then
rejoins the squadron at a gallop, directing himself upon one of the
flanks to resume his place in line.
579. When the first captain wishes to relieve a platoon which is skir-
mishing, the chief of the new platoon moves forward upon the reserve
of the platoon which is acting as skirmishers. On coming up abreast
of it, he orders out six files as skirmishers ,• the remaining files halt
and draw Sabres. As soon as the new skirmishers have passed five
paces beyond those they are to relieve, the latter turn about and rally
upon their reserve. The platoon having rallied, is conducted back to
the squadron at a trot.
580. When the entire squadron is to act as skirmishers, the first cap-
tain orders the sabres to be returned, the holsters to be uncovered, and
the arms to be loaded ; he then commands :
1. Squadron, forward. 2. Guide right. 3. Trot. 4. March.
H'aving arrived at the point where the reserve is to be established,
about 100 paces from the front of the body to be covered, and more if
it has been commanded, the first captain commands :
1. Three first (or last) platoons, as skirmishers. 2. March.
SCHOOL OF THE SQUADRON. 343
At the command march, the chief of the platoon which is to support
the skirmishers, halts that platoon, and causes sabres to be drawn.
The chiefs of the three other platoons continue to march on, each di-
recting himself by the shortest route, 100 paces to the front toward the
part of the line his platoon is to occupy, and having reached it, he dis-
perses his platoon as skirmishers. The right platoon covers the right
of the regiment, aud extends 30 or 40 paces beyond it; another platoon
covers the centre, and the left platoon covers the left, extending also
30 or 40 paces beyond. The chiefs of these platoons remain 25 paces
in rear of the line of skirmishers, and pass over the extent occupied by
the troopers of their platoons. The reserve remains in rear of the
centre of the line of skirmishers.
The first captain, followed by the first sergeant, keeps habitually
half-way between the reserve and the skirmishers, to direct the move-
ments. The second captain, followed by the second sergeant, passes
the line, and gives notice to the first captain of everything that it is
important for him to know.
581. If the first captain wislies to rally the skirmishers upon them-
selves, he causes the ralhj of .skirmwhers to be sounded. At this signal
each platoon rallies as rapidly as possible on its chief. If the first
captain then wishes to rally the squadron, he moves upon the point
where he intends it shall form, and causes the raUy to be sounded
where three-fourths of each platoon has rallied. At this new signal,
the reserve and each platoon of skirmishers move at a yallop upon the
point where the captain commanding is placed. The troopers who did
not rejoin their platoon when it rallied upon itself, direct themselves
toward the squadron.
The squadron being dispersed as skirmishers, if the first captain
wishes it to rally immediately, he orders the ralbj to be sounded ; at
this signal, the ofiicers, the skirmishers, and the reserve, rally upon the
point occupied by the first captain.
The troopers being dispersed as skirmishers, if the first captain
wishes them to charge as foragers, he orders them to cease firing, and
causes the disperse to be sounded. At this signal, the chiefs of platoon
move forward in line, and the skirmishers draw sabres; they charge
immediately. The reserve follows at the trot, or at the f/allnp, as may
be necessary. After the charge, the first captain orders the ralli/ to be
sounded, when the troopers rally in rear of the reserve.
The' skirmishers being rallied by platoons, if the first captain wishes
to charge, he orders the charge to be sounded. At this signal, each
cbicf of platoon conducts his platoon to the charge, in good order,: the
reserve supports the mowcmcnt nt the trot ov ynllop. The first captain
places himself so as to be able to direct the general movement. The
844 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
second captain charges with the platoon nearest to him. The platoons
rally behind the reserve ; the first captain moves upon that point at the
same time that he orders the rally to be sounded.
The Column by Divisions. '
582. The squadron being in line, if the first captain wishes to form it
into coh;mn by divisions, he commands :
1. Divisions, right (or left) tvheel. 2, March. 3. Halt (or
Forward). 4. Guide left (or right).
Which is executed in the same manner as the breaking of the troop
or squadron into a column of platoons, either to halt or move forward
without halting. The same movement may be executed when the
squadron is marching in line.
The principles prescribed for the column of platoons are applicable to
the march in column by divisions, the difierent modes of passing from
line into column, and from" column into line.
To gain ground toward its flank or to the rear, employ the means
prescribed for the column by platoons. The wheels about can be also
executed by divisions. The distance measured from the croup of the
horses of the rear rank of one division, to the head of the horses of the
division which follows, should be equal to the front of the division, less
the depth of the two ranks. In the wheels on a movable pivot by
divisions, the ninth file of the platoon, upon which the wheel is exe-
cuted, is the middle point of the radius of the wheel. The pivot des-
cribes an arc of circle of ten paces.
583. The squadron marching in column by platoons, right in front,
to form the divisions at the same gait, the first captain commands:
1. Form divisions. 2. March.
At the first command, the chiefs of the second and fourth platoons
command, jjlafuon, left half wheel. At the commaud march, repeated
by the same ofi&cers, the second and fourth platoons execute a half-
icheel to the left on a fixed pivot. The first and third platoons continue
to march straight forward, and after having marched thirty paces, their
chiefs command, halt. The chiefs of the second and fourth platoons,
when the half wheel to the left is nearly terminated, command : 1. For-
ward. 2. Guide ri(/ht. They move straight forward, and as soon as
the right of their platoon arrives in the direction of the left file of the
platoon which precedes, they command: 1. Jiiyht half wheel. 2.
March. 3. Forward. They move forward, and command halt, on
SCHOOL OF THE SQUADROV. ' 345
arriving abreast of the platoon belonging to the same division. The
lieutenants commanding the divisions then command, left dress, move
to the left of the division, rectify the alignment, command front, and
return to the centre of their platoons.
684. The squadron marching in column by divisions, right in front,
to break the divisions by platoons, the first captain commands:
1. By platoons. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the first command, the chiefs of the second and fourth platoons
command, platoon, right half irheel. At the command march, repeated
by the same ofl&cers, the second and fourth platoons execute a half
wheel to the right on a fixed pivot, and the first and third platoons con-
tinue to march on. The chiefs of the second and fourth platoons, the
half wheel to the right being nearly terminated, command: 1. Forward.
2. Guide left ; they move straight forward, and as soon as the left file
of their platoons arrives in the direction of the left file of the platoon
which precedes, they command: 1, Left half irhecl. 2. March. 3.
Forward; and move forward in taking their proper distances.
The divisions are broken by platoons, on the same principles, in
marching at the (rot or gal/op.
585. The squadron marching in column by platoons, right in front,
to form divisions in doubling the gait, the first captain commands :
1. Form divisions J trot. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
Which is executed as prescribed above, the first and third platoons
continuing to march at the same gait, and the chiefs of the second
and fourth platoons commanding: 1. Platoon, left half wheel, trot.
2. March. 3. Forward. 4. Guide right; and: 1. Right half wheel.
2 March. 3. Forward. 4. Wall:. When they arrive abreast of the
platoon on which they form, they command : 5. Mauch.
586. The squadron mprehing in column by divisions, right in front,
to break the division by platoons, in doubling the gait, the first captain
commands :
1. By platoons., trot. 2. March. Z. Guide right.
At the first command, the chiefs of the first and third platoons com-
mand, trot : those of the second and fourth platoons command, platoon,
right half wheel, trot. At the command mareh, repeated by the chiefs
of platoon, the first and third platoons move forward at the trot. The
second and fourth execute their half uheel to the right on a fixed pivot,
at the trot, and the movement is completed as described above.
346 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
587. The squadron being in line, to break it by division hj the right
to march to the left, the first captain commands:
1. Divisions, break by the right — to march to the left. 2. March.
Which is executed as prescribed for a column by platoons.
To break the squadron by divisions to the rear by the right, to march
to the left, the first captain commands :
1. Divisions, break by the right to the rear — to march to the left.
2. March.
Which is executed as prescribed for the column of platoons.
EVOLUTIONS OF THE REGIMENT. 347
Article X.
EA^OLUTIONS OF THE R E (I I M E N T
588. When the regiment is iu line, tlie squadrons are drawn up
on the same line, with intervals of twelve paces between them, and
the field and staff of the regiment are posted as indicated, No. 18.
When it is in column right in front, and on the march, the guide
is habitually to the left, and as constantly to the right when the left is
in front; in the march of the column the colonel does not indicate the
guide, except in cases where he sees proper to depart from the principle
just laid down. Whenever the guide is indicated by the colonel, the
captains commanding all repeat it.
Successive alignment of the squadrons in the regiment.
589. The regiment being in line, the colonel causes the right general
guide and the principal guide of the left of the first squadron to be
placed thirty paces in front of the squadron opposite the right and left,
and facing each othei*. The left general guide immediately places
himself on the same line in front of the extreme left of the regiment,
facing the right general guide.
The captain commanding the first squadron, on an intimation from
the colonel, commands: 1. Squadron, forward. 2. Guide right. 3.
March. The squadron having arrived within one pace of the new
line, the captain commands halt. At this command the squadron halts,
the captain, and the guides of the right and left advance and align
themselves; the first captain commands ritjht — dren>f; and when the
alignment is complete, front.
The colonel then commands:
1. Attention. 2. By squadron., right — Dress.
At the second command, the captain commanding the second squad-
ron commands: 1. Squad, forward. 2. Guide right. 3. March. The
squadron having reached the rank of file-closers of the first squadron,
348 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
the first captain commands: 1. Squadron. 2. Halt. The principal
"•uide of the left throws himself out opposite the left of the squadron,
faces to the right,, and aligns himself on the guides in front of the first
squcidron : the oificers and guides of the right and left align themselves
correctly; the first captain throws himself to the left wing, and com-
mands, right — dress. The squadron being aligned, the captain com-
mands front.
Each captain commanding causes the movement to be executed in
succession, and commands march as soon as the one preceding him
commands halt. The regiment being aligned, the colonel commands
front.
Alignment of the regiinent.
590. The regiment being in line, the colonel causes the general
guides to be fixed on the new line, facing each other, and the guides
of the left to be placed on intermediate points, facing to the right;
he then commands :
1. Attention. 2, Pdght — Dress.
At the second command, repeated by the captain commanding, the
squadrons are aligned in such manner that the men of the front rank of
each squadron may have the heads of their horses on the line of the
guides. The regiment being aligned, the colonel commands front.
To break the regiment by fours.
591. The regiment being in line, the colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. By fours. 3. March.
The second commaud is repeated by the captain commanding the
first squadron. At the command march, repeated by the captain, the
first squadron breaks by fours as in the school of the squadron. The
first captain of the second squadron commands Iji/ fours, in time to
command inarch at the instant the fourth platoon of the squadron
which precedes it, commences its movement. When the half of the
second squadron has broken, the captain changes direction in order to
join the column. The other squadrons break in succession in the same
way, and change direction as directed for the second.
To form platoons at the same gait.
592. The regiment marching in column by fours, the right in front,
the colonel commands :
EVOLUTIONS OF THE REGIMENT. 349
1. Attention. 2. Form platoons. 3. March.
The second command is repeated by the captain commanding the
first squadron. At the command march, also repeated by the captains,
platoons are formed in the first squadron, as prescribed in the school of
the squadron. The other squadrons continue to march, and platoons
are formed in succession, in the same manner as in the first, at the
commands: 1. Form pldtooiis. 2. March.
To break the platoons hy fours at the same gait.
593. The regiment marching in column by platoons, right in front,
the colo)iel commands :
1. Attention. 2. By fours. 3. March.
At the second command repeated by the captain commanding the
first squadron, the first captains of the other squadrons command,
column. At the command march, repeated by the captain command-
ing the first squadron, the captains commanding the other squadron,
command halt. The first captain of the second squadron, and in
succession those of the other squadrons, commands : 1. Bij fours 2.
March ; in sufficient time for the head of the squadron after it is
broken to be at its proper distance from the rear of the squadron which
precedes.
If the column is marching at a trot, the chiefs of squadron, except
the first, take the walk at the command march, and at the proper
time for breaking the squadrons, command: 1. By fours, trot. 2.
March.
To form platoons in doubling the gait.
694. The regiment marching in column of fours, right in front, the
colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. Form platoons^ trot. 3. March.
At the second command, repeated by the captain commanding the
first squadron, the chiefs of the other squadrons command trot. At
the comiuand march, repeated by all the chiefs of squadrons, platoons
are formed in the first squadron. The other squadrons take the trot,
and form in succession at the command: 1. Form platooux. 2.
March ; given by each chief the nearest the head of his squadron,
at its proper distance from the squadron which precedes.
350 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
To break the platoons in doubling the gait.
595. The regiment marching in column of platoon, right in front
the colonel commands:
1. Attention. 2. By fours., trot. 3. March.
The second command is repeated by the chief of the first squadron,
and at the command march, this squadron breaks by fours. The other
squadrons continue to march at a icolk, and the chiefs command in
succession: 1. Bi/ fourfi, trot. 2. March; at such time as to pre-
serve their distance.
To form the regiment to the front, to the left, or upon the right
into line.
596. The regiment marching in column by fours, the right in front,'
to form line to the front the colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. Front, into line. 3. March.
At the second command, repeated by the chief of the first squadron,
the chiefs of the other squadrons command, head of column to the
half left. At the command march, repeated by the chiefs of squadron,
the first squadron forms front into line as directed for a single squad-
ron. The other chiefs command, guide right, throw themselves at the
head of their squadron, and direct it by the shortest line to a point
100 paces behind the point the right of the squadron is to occupy
in line; as soon as the head of each squadron reaches this point, the
chief commands, head of column to the half right, and when the third
platoon of his squadron is in the new direction, he commands, front
into line, in time to give the command march, at the moment the head
of bis column arrives within thirty paces of the line of battle. The
regiment being aligned, the colonel commands /ror*?.
597. The regiment marching in column by fours, the right in front,
to form line to the left flank, the colonel commands:
1. Attention. 2. Left, into litie. 3. March.
The second command is repeated by the chief of the first squad-
ron. At the command march, repeated by him, the first squadron
is formed into line to the left, as prescribed in the school of the
troop, No. 489. The other chiefs throw themselves to the head of
their squadrons, and each, in succession, commands left into line,
in time to command march the moment their first four files get to
EVOLUTIONS OF THE REGIMENT. 351
tbe proper turning point. The regiment being aligned, the colonel
commands front.
598. The regiment marching in column by fours, the right in front,
to form the line on the prolongation of the right flank, the colonel
commands :
1. Attention. 2. On the right., into line. 3. March.
The second command is repeated by the chief of the first squad-
ron. At the command march, also repeated by him, he forms his
squadron into line on the right, as prescribed school of the troop,
No. -190. The other chiefs of squadron command gtiide right, throw
themselves to the hea<l of their squadrons, and each commands
njjoii the right into line in time to command march, at the proper
point for turning to the right, in order to take its proper place in
line. The regiment being obliqued the colonel commands, yVo///.
To form the regiment into column tvith distance.
599. The regiment being in line, to break to the right by a general
movement, the colonel commands:
1. Attention. 2. Platoons., right loheel. 3. March.
The second command is repeated by all the captains command-
ing. At the command march, also repeated by them, the move is
executed at the same time in all the squadrons, as prescribed in the
school of the troop, No. 510. At the moment the platoons have
nearly completed the wheel, the captains commanding command
halt. The chiefs of squadron see that the chiefs of platoon, guides,
etc., take their proper posts. If the colonel wishes to put the column
in march without halting, he commands, when the wheel lacks about
one-fourth of its completion :
4. Forward.
This command is repeated by the chiefs of squadron.
To break hy the right to march to the left.
600. The regiment being in line, to break by successive movements
from the right to pass before the front of the line, the colonel com-
mands :
1. Attention. 2. Platoons^ break by the right, to march to the left.
3. March.
352 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
At the second command, repeated by the captain commanding the
first squadron, the chief of the first platoon commands : 1. Platoon,
forward; 2. Guide left. At the command march, repeated by the chief of
the first squadron, and by the chief of the first platoon, the movement
is executed in the first squadron, as it is prescribed, school of the
squadron, No, 563. The chiefs of the other squadrons repeat the sec-
ond command in succession, in time to command march when the
fourth platoon of the squadron which is on their right is opposite the
centre of the second platoon of their squadron.
7^0 break to the I'ear by the rigid, to march to the left.
6U1. The regiment being in line, to break by successive movements,
the right to pass by the rear of the line, the colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. Platoons., break to the rear by the right., to march
to the left. 3. March.
At the second command, repeated by the captain commanding the
first squadrou, the chief of the first platoon commands, platoon, rujht
about wheel. At the command march, repeated by both these ofiicers,
the first squadron executes the movement as prescribed, school of the
squadron, No. 564. The chiefs of the other squadrons repeat the com-
mands in succession, in time to command march at the instant the
fourth platoon of the squadrou on their right, after having finished its
right about and advance, has executed three-fourths of its change of
direction to the right.
To form the regiment into close column.
602. The regiment being in line, if it be the desire of the colonel to
form it into a close column, faced to the right, he commands:
1. Attention. 2. Squadrons., right wheel — form close column.
3. March.
At the second command, the captains commanding squadrons com-
mand, squadron, right wheel. At the command march, repeated by the
chiefs of squadrons, all the squadrons wheel to the right. The wheel
being nearly completed, the chief of the first squadron throws himself
to its left, and commands: 1. Squadron. 2. Halt. 3. Left — Dress.
4. Front. The chiefs of the other squadrons command : 1. Forward.
2. Guide left; and at twelve paces from the squadron which precedes:
1. Squadron. 2. Halt. 3. Left — Dress. 4. Frokt.
EVOLUTIONS OF THE REGIMENT. 353
603. The regiment beiug in line, to form a close column without
changing the front, the colonel commands : 1. Attention. 2. Upon the
third squadron, form close colnm I}. 3. March.
At the second command, the chief of the third squadron throws him-
self to its left, and commands: 1. Left — Drkss. 2. Front. The
chief of the second squadron commands, p/atooiis, ritjht loheel — -fourth
platoon, left half wheel. The chief of the first squadron commiands,
platoons, right rvheel — h<^ad of column to the half right. The chief of
the fourth squadron commands, platoons, right wheel — first 2^l<^t<)on,
right about wheel. The chief of the fifth squadron commands, platoons,
right loheel — head of column to the half right.
At the command march, repeated by all the chiefs of squadrons
except that of the third, all the other squadrons break bij jjlatoons to
the left and right; and when the wheels are nearly completed, each
chief on the right commands : 1. Forward. 2. Guide right; those on
the left command : 1. Forward. 2. Guide left. Each one throws
himself at the head of his column to direct it.
The chief of the fourth platDon, second squadron, after having exe-
cuted the half wheel to the left, moves forward and commands: 1. Left
— Turn. 2. Forv^ard; so as to enter the column in a direction pai'al-
lel to the front of the third scjuadron, passing near the heads of the
horses of the ofiiccrs. The other platoons of this s(ii1adron change
direction on the same ground, and by the same commands from their
chiefs. The chief of the squadron continues to march at the head of
his squadron, and commands, p/a^>o»s, right icheel, in time to command
inarch when its fourth platoon has arrived opposite the right of the
fourth platoon of the third squadron. The platoons having executed
the wheul, he commands : 1. Halt. 2. Left — Dress. 3. Front.
The chief of the fourth platoon of the first squadron, after having
executed his wheel to the left, commands: 1. Right — Turn. 2. For-
ward; and directs himself diagonally to the front in such manner as
to turn to the left on a line parallel to the front of the second squadron
at the command, head of column to the half left, given by the chief of
the squadron when the fourth platoon arrives opposite the right flank
of the squadron already formed. The rest of the movement is per-
formed in precisely the same manner as has been laid down for the
second squadron.
The chief of the first platoon of the fourth squadron, after having
executed his right about u-heel, moves forward, and commands : 1. Left
— Turn. 2. Forward ; so as to enter the column in a direction paral-
lel to the third squadron, at the command, head of column to the left,
given by the chief of squadron, when this platoon has gained a
distance of twelve paces in rear of the third siiuadron. The three
30
354 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
other platoo-ns execute a right turn on the same ground on which the
first platoon made its right about, and left turn on the same ground
that the first did. As soon as the chief of the squadron finds himself
opposite the left of the third squadron, he halts, allows his column to
pass him, and gives the command, i^latooiis, left wheel, in time to
command march as soon as the fourth platoon gets opposite its place.
The platoons having executed the wheel, he commands: 1. Halt. 2.
Left — Dress. .3. Front.
The chief of the first platoon of the fifth squadron, after having
executed the wheel to the right, commands: 1. Eight— Tvrn. 2.
Forward ; and directs himself diagonall}', in such manner as to turn
to the left on a line parallel to the fourth squadron, at the command,
head of column to the half left, given by the chief of the squadron
when the first platoon reaches the left flank of the squadrons already-
formed. The sciuadron is then brought to its proper position in the
column by the same commands and means as for the fourth squadron.
604. The regiment being in line, to form in close column, with the
left in front, without changing the front," the colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. Upon the third Squadron^ form close column^
the left in front. 3. March.
The commands are repeated, and the movements executed in accord-
ance with the principles laid down above, with this diff"erence, that the
squadrons on the right form in rear of the squadron which serves as
the basis of the formation, while those on the left form in advafltje of
this same squadron; and that the alignment is to the right.
605. The regiment marching in line, if the colonel wishes to form a
close column, faced to the right, without halting, he commands:
1. Attention. 2. Squadrons^ right ivheel, from close column.
3. March.
At the second command, the captains commanding command,
squadrons, right wheel, trot. At the command march, repeated by the
captains commanding, a movement is executed. The wheel being
nearly completed, the chief of the first squadron commands : 1. For-
ward. 2. Guide left. 3. Walk. 4. March; the other chiefs of
squadron command: 1. Forward. 2. Guide left; and at twelve
paces from the preceding squadron : 1. Walk. 2. March.
To march in column.
606. The principles of the march in column wi h dit^tauce, as pre-
EVOLUTIONS OF THE REGIMENT. 355
scribed for the troop or squadron, are applicable to the march of the
regiment ; the squadrons are separated by a distance equal to the
front of a platoon, plus twelve paces the interval between squadron
in line.
The regiment being in column with distance, right in front, the
colonel indicates to the adjutant the direction he wishes the column to
take; he commands:
1. Attention. 2. CoIujwt, forward. 3. March.
The second command is repeated by the chiefs of squadron. At the
command march, also repeated by these officers, the movement is
executed as for a single troop or squadron.
To halt the column, the colonel commands ;
1. Attention. 2. Column. 3. Halt.
The second command is repeated by the chiefs of squadron, and at
the command halt, all the platoons halt at once.
To change the direction of the column luith distance.
007. The regiment marching in column with distance, with the right
in front, to change the direction, the colonel commands:
Head of column to the left.
At this command, repeated by the chief of the first squadron, this
squadron executes the movement as is prescribed for the change of
direction of a column of platoons, school of the troop, No. 512. Each
of the chiefs of squadron, in succession, gives the same command
when the head of his column reaches the point where the first squadron
changed its direction. The principal guide of each squadron places
himself at the wheeling point, and remains there until the last platoon
of his squadron has commenced the wheel, when he is relieved by the
guide of the succeeding squadron.
608. The regiment marching in column with distance, with the right
in front, to cause it to face in the opposite direction, the colonel
commands :
1. Attention. 2. Platoon^ lef about ivheel. 3. March.
4. Forward.
The last three commands are repeated by the chiefs of squadron; the
movement is executed in all the squadrons, as prescribed for a single
squadron, No. 574.
356 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
609. The regiment being in column with distance, at a halt or on the
march, in order to gain ground in the direction of one of the flanks, the
colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. By fours to the left (or right). 3. March.
4. Forward.
The last three commands are repeated by the chiefs of squadron, and
the movement is executed in all the squadrons, as prescribed for a single
troop, No. 528.
610. The regiment being in column with distance, at a halt or on the
march, to cause it to face in the opposite direction, the colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. By fours, left (or rir/hf) about ivheel. 3. March.
4. Forward.
The last three commands are repeated by the chiefs of squadrons,
and the movement is executed as for a single troop or squadron, No.
573.
Gil. The regiment marching in column with distance, to cause it to
gain ground to the left or right, without changing the front, the colonel
commands :
1. Attention. 2. Left (or right) oblique. 3. March.
The last two commands are repeated by the captains commanding,
and the movement is executed in each squadron as prescribed for a
single troojD or squadron.
The column having obliqued -sufficiently, the colonel commands:
Forward.
This command is repeated by the chiefs of squadron, and the move-
ment is executed as in a single troop.
To form the regiment into line upon one of its fanks, or on the
prolongation of one of its flanks.
612. The regiment being in column Avitb distance, Avitli the right in
front, to form in line upon its left flank, the colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. Left into line, wheel. 3. March.
The second command is repeated by the captains commanding
squadrons. At the command march, repeated by the chiefs of squad-
EVOLUTIONS OF THE REGIMENT. 357
ron, the movement is executed in each squadron as prescribed, No. 530.
The regiment being aligned, the colonel commands, front.
613. The regiment marching in column with distance, the right in
front, to form into line on the prolongation of the right flank, the
colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. On the right into line. 3. March.
The second command is repeated 1)y the chief of the first squadron.
At the command march, also repeated by him. the movement is executed
in the first squadron as prescribed for a single troop, Xo. 530. The
chiefs of the other squadrons command ynide riijht, throw themselves
to the head of their columns, and in succession command, on the ri<jht
into line, in time to command march, when the first platoon is twelve
paces beyond the left of the one which precedes. The regiment being
aligned, the colonel commands, front.
To form the regiment into line to the front.
611. The regiment being in column with distance, the right in front,
in order to form it into line upon the head of the column, the colonel
commands :
1. Attention. 2. Front into line. 3. March.
At the second command, repeated by the captains commanding the
first squadron, the chiefs of the others command, column., forward — head
(f cotumn to the half left. At the command march, repeated by all the
chiefs of squadron, the first squadron is formed as prescribed for a troop.
No. 535. The chiefs of the other squadrons place themselves at the
head of their column. The first platoon of each squadron having made
a half wheel, is moved forward in a diagonal direction by command of
its chiefs, the others following in regular succession. The chiefs of
squadron command f/uide right as soon as the first platoon has changed
its direction to the left. When the head of the second squadron gets
within sixty paces of the line, the chief of the squadron commands,
head of cotumn to the haff rit/ht ; the chief of sfjuadron commands,
front into fine, in time to command march, when the third platoon has
turned to the right, and the fourth plat<»on is marching toward its
l)lace in the line. The other s<|uadrons are brought up uixm the line
ill the same manner as the second. The regiment being aligned, the
colonel commands front.
615. The regiment being in column with distance, the right in front,
if it be the wish of the colonel to bring it into line faced to the rear, he
commands:
358 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
1, Attention. 2. Into Ime, faced to the rear. 3. March.
At the second command, repeated by the chiefs of the first squadron,
the chiefs of the other squadrons command, column, forward — head of
column to the half right.
At the command march, the first squadron performs the movement as
directed for a single troop or squadron, No. 537. The second squadron,
and the others in succession, march in a diagonal direction toward the
line, the chief of squadron at its head ; when at the distance of sixty
paces from the line, he commands, head of colmnn to the half left, fol-
lowed by the command, into line faced to the rear, just as the third
platoon has taken the new direction, and before the fourth has com-
menced the half-wheel. The squadron is then formed into line in the
same manner as the first, by the commands: 1. Platoon, left about
wheel. 2. March. 3. Halt. 4. JRight — Dress. 5. Front. The
regiment being, aligned, the colonel commands front.
To form a column ivith di.^tance into line by the union nf two
^ movements.
616. The regiment marching in column with distance, the right in
front, and a portion of the column having changed its direction to the
right, if it is desired to come into line faced to the front, the colonel
halts the column, a: the moment the fourth platoon of the squadron
which last entered upon the new direction has marched forward twelve
paces after turning to the right, and commands:
1. Attention. 2. To the left — and front into line. 3. March.
At the second command, repeated by the field officers, the chiefs of
squadron who are in the new direction command, left into line, uheel.
The chief of the squadron immediately in rear of the one which
entered the new direction last, commands, front into line. The chiefs
of the other squadrons command, column, forward, head of column to
the half left. At the command march, repeated by the field offi,cers
and by the chiefs of squadron, the portion of the column in the new
direction forms to the left into line, which the rear portion forms to the
front into line. The regiment being aligned, the colonel commands,
front.
The column marching left in front, and having changed direction to
the left, is brought into line to the front upon the same principles, but
by inverse means.
617. The regiment marching in column with distance right in front,
EVOLUTIONS OF THE REGIMENT. 359
and one portion having changed direction to the left to form it into
line faced to the rear, the colonel halts the column the moment the
fourth platoon of the squadron which last entered the new direction
has turned to the left, and commands :
1. Attention. 2. To the left — and upon the head of the third (or
other) squadron — into line, faced to the rear. 3. March.
At the second command, repeated by the field officers, the chiefs of
squadron whose squadrons are in the new direction (first and second)
command, left info line, wheel. The chief of the squadron in rear of
the last which is in the new direction (say the third), commands : hi/
inversion, front into tine. The chiefs of the remaining squadrons
command : 1. Column, forioard. 2. Head of column to the half right.
At the command march, repeated by the field officers and by the chiefs
of squadrons, the squadrons arc brought into line; those on the new
line are brought to the left into line, while those in rear, after having
been brought l>y ijirerxion, front into line, complete the movement by
platoons, left about, wheel. The regiment being aligned, the colonel
commands front.
The column marching left in front, having changed direction to the
right, a portion still being in the old direction, is brought into line
upon the same principles, but by inverse means.
618. The regiment being in column with distance, the right in front,
to form front into line upon a line that the head of the column has
passed, the colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. Upon the third (or other) squadron, front into
line. 3. March.
At the second command, repeated by the field officers, the chiefs of
squadrons which are in front of the designated squadron, command,
platoons, right about wheel. The chief of the third squadron com-
mands, front into line. The chiefs of tlie fourth and fifth squadrons
command: 1, Column, forward. 2. Head of column to the half left.
At the command march, repeated by the field officers and by the
chiefs of squadron, the third squadron, and those in its rear, perform
the movement front into line with the right in front. The chiefs of the
first and second squadrons, after having wheeled about by platoons,
conform to what is i)resiTil)ed for into line, faced to the rear, upon the
head of the column, except that they complete the movement by a left
about wheel by platoons.
The regiment being aligned, the colonel commands front.
To form a close column into line upon one of its flanks^ or upon
the prolongation of one of its flanks to the front.
619. The regiment being in close column, the right in front, to form
it into line upon the left flank of the column, the colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. By the rear of the column — left into line, wheel.
3. March.
At the second command, the chief of the fifth squadron commands,
squadron, left wheel. The chiefs of the other squadrons command :
1. Sqtiadrons, forward. 2. Guide left. At the command march,
repeated by the chiefs of squadron, the first four squadrons move
forward; the fifth executes its wheel to the left; when it is nearly
completed, the chief commands : 1. Forward ; and afterward :
2. Squadron. 3. Halt. 4. Left — Dress. 5. Front. The chief of
the fourth squadron commands, squadron left wheel, in time to com-
mand march, when the fifth squadron has made two-thirds of its wheel
to the left, completing the movement as directed for the fifth squadron.
The chiefs of the other squadrons conform in succession to what has
been prescribed for the fovirth. The regiment being aligned, the
colonel commands front.
620. The regiment marching in close column, the right in front, to
form it into line on the prolongation of the right flank to the front, the
colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. On the right into line. 3. March.
At the second command, the chief of the first squadron commands,
riyht. At the command march, he commands turn; when the wheel is
nearly completed, he commands: 1. Foimvard. 2. Guide right; and
when the squadron reaches the new line : 1. Squadron. 2. Halt. 3,
liif/ht — Dress. 4. Front. The chiefs of the other squadrons com-
mand, guide right, throw themselves to the right of their squadrons,
and command in succession, right, in time to give the command turn,
when their squadron has gone the proper distance beyond the left of
the squadron which precedes; the rest of the movement is executed as
directed for the first squadron. The regiment being aligned, the colo-
nel commands yVoH^.
To deploy a close column.
621.^ The regiment being in close column, the right in front, to deploy
it in advance of the head of the column, on one of the interior squad-
rons, the colonel commands :
EVOLUTIONS OP THE REGIMENT. 361
1. Attention. 2. Upon the third squadron — deploy column.
3. March.
At the second command, the chiefs of the first and second squadrons
command, ^j^o^oo/fs, riffht wheel; the chiefs of the fourth and fifth com-
mand, p/a^ooHs, left toheel. The chief of the third squadron commands:
1. Squadron, forwnrd; 2 Guide ri'jht. At tlie command «irf/-c7<, repeated
by all the chiefs of squadron, except that of the third, their squad-
rons break by platoons to the ri(jht and left, when the wheels are nearly
complete, the chiefs of the first and second squadrons command : 1.
Forward. 2. Guide left; those of the third and fourth command : 1.
Forward. 2, Guide rifjht. They all throw themselves to the head of
their column. The chief of the third squadron giA-es the command
march, when his front is unmasked; halts his squadron one pace be-
hind the line, and commands: 1. Eiyht — Dress. 2. Front.
The chiefs of the other squadrons march at the head of their respect-
ive columns, until they have reached the point on the right or left that
the left or right of their squadron should be from the squadron which
precedes them on the left or right ; they then halt in their own persons,
allow their sqviadrons to march past them, and command, platooiin, left
wheel, if they are on the right, a.n^, platoons, right wheel, if they are on
the left of the third squadron, in time to give the command march, the
moment the rear platoon has gotten its proper interval ; the wheels
being nearly completed, the chiefs on the right command : 1. For-
ward. 2. Guide left; those on the left : 1. Foravard. 2. Guide right.
When the squadrons reach the rank of file-closers of the squadron on
the left or right, the chiefs command : 1. Squadron. 2. Halt. ?>.
Left (or right) — Dress. 4. Front. The regiment being aligned, the
colonel commands, /roH^
622. The squadron on the march in close column, right in front, to
deploy forward without halting, the colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. On the first squadron — deploy column.
3. March.
At the second command, the chief of the first squadron commands
Guide right, and throws himself ir^front of the centre of his squadron;
the other chiefs command, p^o^oojts, left irheel, trot. At the command
march, repeated by the chiefs of the last four squadrons, the first squad-
ron continues to march ; the others break by platoons, left xoheel, trot,
and when the wheel is nearly completed, each chief of squadron com-
mands : 1. FoRAVARD. 2. Guide right. After reaching the point the
right of bis squadron ought to occupy, he halts, allows his squadron to
31
862 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
march past him, and commands, ^^a^oo7is, right wheel, in time to com-
mand march, when his first platoon has its proper place; the wheels
being nearly completed, he commands : 1. Fokward. 2. Guide riyht;
throws himself in front of the centre of his squadron, and when he.
reaches the line on which the first is marching, commands : 1. Walk.
2. March.
March in line.
623. The regiment being in line, to march it to the front, the colonel
commands :
1. Attention. 2. Squadrons^ forward. 3. The right (or left')
squadron^ the squadron of direction. 4. March.
The second command is repeated by the field oflficers, the chiefs of
squadrons; at the third command, repeated by the field officers, the
chiefs of squadron command, (/jn'rfe ri<jht (or left); and the adjutant
indicates the direction to be taken by the guide of the right of the fii'st
squadron. At the command march, repeated by the field officers, and
the chiefs of squadron, the regiment moves ofi", and the first squadron
conforms to what is prescribed for the march of a single troop or squad-
ron. No. 507 ; the others are careful to preserve the alignment and their
intervals on the side of the guide.
The regiment marching in line is halted at the command :
1. Attentiofi. 2. Squadrons. 3. Halt. 4. Right (or left) —
Dress.
The last three commands are repeated by the field officers and the
chiefs of squadron. The captains align their squadrons, and command
front. The regiment being aligned, the colonel commands front.
624. The regiment marching in line, Avith the guide right, to cause it
to gain ground to the front and ^ank at the same time, the colonel
commands :
1. Attention. 2. Platoons, right half wheel. 3. March.
4. Forward.
When the colonel wishes to renew the march to the front, he com-
mands :
1. Attention. 2. Platoons, left half wheel. 3. March. 4. For-
ward.
EVOLUTIONS OF THE REGIMENT. 363
625. To gain ground to the right without at the same time gaining
to the front, the colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. Platoons^ right wheel. S.March. 4. Forward.
The regiment having gained sufficient ground to the right, the colo-
nel commands :
1. Attention. 2. Platoons^ left wheel. 3. March. 4. Forward.
626. The regiment marching in line with the guide right, to cause it
to march in retreat, the colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. Platoons^ right about wheel. 3. March.
4. Forward.
To cause it to resume the march to the front, the colonel commands:
1. Attention. 2. Platoons^ left about wheel. 3. March.
4. Forward.
• The last three commands are repeated by the field officers and chiefs
of squadron.
To change the front of the line.
627. The regiment being in line, if it is wished to change the front
of the line so that it shall face to the right, the colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. Change front on the right wing. 3. March.
At the second command, repeated by the field officers, the chiefs of
squadron command, platoons right tnhecl. At the command march, re-
peated by the field officers and chiefs of squadron, all the scjuadrons
break by platoons to the right; when the wheels are nearly completed,
the chief of the first squadron commands : 1. Front into line. 2.
March. 3. Guide right. The chiefs of the other squadrons command :
1. Forward. 2. Head of columm to the half left, the rest of the
movement is executed as prescribed for coming front into line, the right
being in front. No. 535. The regiment being aligned, the colonel com-
mands front.
628. The regiment being in line, to cause it to change its front
to the left, at the same time gaining ground to the rear, the colonel
commands :
1. Attention. 2. Change front to rear on the right wing.
3. March.
364 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
At the second command, repeated by the field officers, the chiefs of
squadrons command, 2^f<^foo)}s, right wheel. At the command march,
repeated by the field officers and chiefs of squadron, all the squadrons
break by 2'>l<^toon8 to the right ; when the wheels are nearly completed,
the chief of the first squadron commands: 1. By inversion, front into
line. 2. March. 3. Guide left; the chiefs of the other squadrons
command: 1. Forward. 2. Head of column to the half right ; the
remainder of the movement is executed upon the principles for coming
into line, faced to the rear. The regiment being aligned, the colonel
commands front.
To j)ass a defile.
629. The regiment being in line, and it is proposed to pass a defile
in front of some point of the line, say the interval between the third
and fourth squadrons, and the defile is wide enough to admit the front
of a division, the colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. On the fourth platcon of the third squadron^
and the first of the fourth^ pass the defile in front.
3. March.
At the second command, repeated by the field officers, the chief of
the third squadron commands, platoons, left wheel — fourth platoon
forward ; that of the fourth squadron commands, platoons, right wheel
first jylatoon, forward. The chiefs of the first two squadrons command,
platoons, left wheel ; and the chief of the fifth, platoons, right tcheel.
At the command march, repeated by the field officers and the chiefs of
squadron, the two platoons designated march forward, and obliquing
to the right and left, unite; all the others break to the left and right,
and the wheels being nearly completed, the chiefs of the squadron on
the right command: 1. Forward. 2. Guide left; those of the
squadrons on the left: 1. Forward. 2. Guide right. The platoons
of the right and left columns so regulate their march as that those of
the same number coming from the head of the column shall reach the
turning-point at the same time, so that when the turn is completed
they may march through the defile abreast each other. The column
thus formed passes the defile presenting the front of a division, and
preserving the distances prescribed for a column of platoons.
When the two squadrons at the head of the column have cleared the
defile, the colonel commands:
1. Attention. 2. Front into line. 3. March.
The second command is repeated by the field officers and the chiefs
EVOLUTIONS OF THE REGIMENT. 365
of the third and fourth squadrons. At the command march, repeated
by these same officers, these t\vo squadrons form froiit into line, the
head of the columns of platoons obliquing to the right and left, in
oi'der to regain the interval which should separate squadrons. The
chiefs of the other squadrons continue to march forward, and com-
mand, those on the right, head of column to the right ; those on the left,
head of column to the left. The columns move parallel to the line of
battle, and when the heads of squadrons reach the proper points, those
of the right column are brought on the left into line, and those of the
left on the right into line. The regiment being aligned, the colonel
commands front.
630. The regiment being in line, to pass a defile in rear of the line,
the colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. By platoons from the icings., to pass the defile
in rear of the interval betioeen the third and fourth squadrons.
3. March.
At the second command, repeated by the field officers, the chief of
the first squadron commands, platoons break to the rear by the right,
to jnarch to the left. At the command march, repeated by these same
officers, the first squadron breaks as directed, school of the squadron,
No. 564, and the column marches toward the defile in a direction
parallel to the regiment, until its head reaches the defile, when it turns
to the left. The chief of the second squadron repeats these commands
time enough to follow the first squadron at its proper distance; the
chief of the fifth squadron at the same time commands : I. Platoons,
break to the rear by the left, to march to the right. 2. March ; so that
the two columns may reach the defile at the same time, and join after
turning into it, presenting the front of a division. The third and
fourth squadrons break by the same commands, and pass through the
defile in the same Ava}- as has been prescribed for the second and fifth.
When the squadrons, after having passed the defile, reach the new line
established in rear of the defile, the first turns to the left, and when
the double column i-eaches it, the second turns to the left, and the fifth
to the right. When the last platoon of each column has turned into
the line, and the two are separated by the interval between squadrons,
tlie colonel, who marches in rear, commands :
1. Attention. 2. Column. 3. Halt. 4. To the left and right
into line. 5. March. 6. Right — Dress.
All these commands, except the first, are repeated by the field officers
366 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILTTTA.
and chiefs of squadron. The regiment being aligned, the colonel
commands front.
The charge.
631. The regiment marching in line, the colonel commands :
1. Attention for the charge. 2. Draw — Sabre. 3. Trot.
4. March.
The third command is repeated by the field officers, and by the
chiefs of squadron. At the command march, repeated by these same
officers, the squadrons take the trot. After having gone 150 paces at
this gait, the colonel commands :
1 Gallop. 2. March.
The first command is repeated by the field officers, and by the
chiefs of squadron; and at the command march, also repeated *by
them, the squadrons take the gallop. After having gone about one
hundred paces at this gait, and being only about sixty paces from
the supposed line, the colonel causes the charge to be sounded. At
this sound, repeated by all the trumpets, all the officers command
charge. The men of the front and rear ranks place their sabres in
the positions for the charge (see school of the troop. No. 554).
The colonel wishing to arrest the charge, commands :
1. Attention. 2. Squadrons. 3. Halt. 4. Right (or left^ —
Dress.
At the command attention, repeated by all the officers, the squadrons
prepare to change the gait, and the troopers return sabres. At the
command squadrons, repeated by the field officers and chiefs of squad-
ron, the chiefs of platoon command jilatoon, and the squadrons take
the trot. At the command halt, repeated by the field officers, ttie chiefs
of squadron and chiefs of platoon, the squadrons halt.
At the command right (or left) — dress, repeated by the field officers
and by the chiefs of squadron, the squadrons are aligned. The regi-
ment being aligned, the colonel commands front.
At the sound of the charge, the officers remain in their places in
line; the colonel and other field officers place themselves upon the
officers' line.
Charge in column.
632. The charge in column is employed against infantry formed in
EVOLUTIONS OF THE REGIMENT. 367
column or in square. For this purpose the regiment is formed in close
column, and the squadrons take in succession a distance equal to double
their front, so that the first squadron having charged, it is promptly
followed by the second, which, if the first has made an opening in the
square, throws itself into it, and completes its overthrow. In case the
first squadron is repulsed, it retires by the right and left, to re-form in
the rear, disengaging the front of the second squadron; this squadron
renews the charge ; if it does not succeed, it clears the ground for the
third; and thus they continue until the charge may have completely
failed.
Such charges, made in rapid succession, ought to finish by breaking
the square, if they are directed as they ought to be, against the angles,
which are the weakest points, unless guarded by artillery.
o68 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Article XI.
LIGHT AETILLEEY TACTICS.
.SCHOOL or THE PIECE.
633. Light artillerymen should, before receiving instruction in their
duties at the piece, be familiar with the first part of the school of the
soldier, as laid down in Infantry Tactics, and with the Manual of
the Sabre, No. 440, and following. If intended for horse artillerymen,
they should also be instructed in the duties of the trooper, No. 382,
and following.
The drivers — one to every pair of horses — should have experience
in the management of horses in harness.
634. The cannoneers of a piece, when united, constitute a gun
detachment, which is composed ordinarily of nine men in mounted
artillery, and eleven in horse artillery ; two of whom — the gunner who
commands the detachment, and the chief of caisson — should be
corporals.
The detachment is formed by the gunner, who causes the cannoneers
to form in two ranks, eighteen inches between them, elbows slightly
turning. He tells the detachment off from the right. No. 1 being on
the right of the rear rank, No. 2 on the right of the front rank. No. 3
on the left of No. 1, No. 4 on the left of No. 2, and so on, the even
numbers being in the front, and the odd numbers in the rear rank.
The chief of caisson is told off as No. 8. When the detachment is
composed of more or less than eight men, the chief of caisson should
be the highest even number. When the detachment, from any cause,
consists of less than nine men, the higher numbers are left out, and
additional duties are imposed upon the cannoneers present.
When the chief of the piece, who should be a sergeant, is present,
and is not acting as the instructor, he performs the duties and takes
the position of the gunner, who then takes post one yard in rear of the
right file, and acts as file-closer, except when the chief of piece is out
of ranks, when he resumes his post.
For purposes of instruction, each detachment should be halted in
front of and facing the piece, the latter beiug unlimbered, and the
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 369
flifferent numbers called upon successively, to perform their respective
duties in detail, while the rest of the detachment are required to
attend to the instruction, and to the manner in which the motions are
performed.
Posts of the cannoneers. Piece U7ilimbercd.
635. The gunner is at the end of the trail handsi)ikc; Nos. 1 and 2
are about two feet outside the wheels, No. 1 on the right, and No. 2 on
the left; with howitzers, they are rather in ri-ar of the muzzle; with
guns, in line with the front part of the wheels. Nos. 3 and 4 are in
line with the knob of the cascable, covering Nos. 1 and 2; No. 5 five
yards in rear of the left wheel : No. 6 in rear of the limber, which is
turned about so as to face toward the piece (see No. 29); and No. 7 on
his left, covering No. 5 ; No. 8, the chief of the caisson, is four yards
in rear of the limber, and on its left: all face to the left, which is the
direction in which the muzzle of the piece is pointing.
The chief of the piece is opposite the middle of the trail handspike,
outside of, and near the left cannoneers. In actual firing, he places
himself where he can best observe the effect of the shot.
Loading and firing.
636. The piece is supposed to be on the drill ground, unlimbered,
and ready for action ; the limber is in position behind the piece, and
facing toward it, the end of the pole six j^ards from the end of the trail
handspike; and the detachment in front of and facing the piece.
Before commencing the individual instruction of the cannoneers, the
instructor should enter into an explanation of the different kinds of field
guns, their names, and the names and uses of the different parts of the
gun and carriage before them. This done, he commences the instruc-
tion with the gvmner, who commands and points the piece in action.
637. Cowmmidivg and j^ointiiuj. — The gunner is responsible for the
manner in which the numbers discharge their duty. He communicates
the orders which he receives for the kind of ammunition to be fired ;
sending to No. 6 (who is charged with preparing the fuze) the time of
flight or the distance for each round, when firing shells or spherical
case shot. He should, when the firing is slow, see that each fuze is
properly prepared, and make such corrections as are necessary; for
this purpose, he, as well as No. 6, should be provided with a fuze-
gouge.
On receiving the command, or signal to commence firing, he gives
the command loud ; takes hold of the handspike at the end with the
370 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
right hand, and at the centre with the left ; places his left knee against
the left hand, bending over it, the right knee being slightly bent; looks
over the top of the piece, and gives the direction. He then steps to
the breech to give the elevation, which he does by placing the hausse
(see No. 665) on its seat, taking hold of a handle of the elevating
screw, drawing back his right foot, bending over his loft knee, and
sighting through the slit in the hausse.
When the piece is loaded and pointed, he removes the hausse, gives
the command ready, and stepping clear of the wheel to that side where
he can best observe the effect of his shot, gives the command fire. As
soon as the piece has been fired, he causes it to be run up to its former
place, if the recoil has made it necessary.
When the instructor, instead of giving the command commence firing,
gives that of load, the guuner repeats it, and performs the same duties
as before, except that he does not command fire until the firing is or-
dered to commence. After the command to commence firing is given >
the action is continued by the gunners without further command from
the instructor, until the firing is ordered to cease. When the com-
mands are all given by the instructor, as in loading by detail, the gun-
ner performs the same duties, but without repeating the commands.
638. Sj^onging and ramming. — Until the command load. No. 1 stands
faced to the front, in line with the front of the wheels, holding the
sponge about the middle of the staff in his right hand, and trailing it
at an angle of 45°, sponge head up.
The instructor commands :
Bi/ detail — Load.
Three pauses and four motions.
First motion. At the command load, No. 1 faces to the left, steps
obliquely to the right with his right foot, without moving his left, and
at the same time brings the sponge to a perpendicular position by
drawing his right hand up in line with the elbow. The sponge is grasp-
ed firmly in the hand, the rammer head held over the right toe, and the
elbow kept close to the side.
Second motion. He steps obliquely to the left with his left foot,
planting it about half-way between the piece and the wheel, and oppo-
site the muzzle, bringing the sponge at the same time across his body
to the left, so that his right hand may be opposite the middle of the
body, the sponge staff being inclined at an angle of 45° across the
front of it.
Third motion. He takes a side step to the right of thirty inches with
the right foot, and bending the right knee, brings the sponge to a hori-
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 371
zoiital position, extending the hands to the ends of the staff, the sponge
head to the left, the back of the right hand up, and that of his left
down, the sponge head pressing against the face of the piece.
Fourth motion. Ho inserts the sponge head, drops his left hand
behind his thigh, shoulders square, feet equally turned out, straightens
the right knee, bends the left, and, leaning over it, forces the sponge
home.
SrONGE.
Three j)au'ics and four motions.
First motion. At the comniand sponye, No. 1 fixes his eye on the vent
to see that it is closed, gives two turns to the sponge, pressing it at the
same time against the bottom of the bore.
Second motion. He draws out the sponge, at the same time straight-
ening his left knee and bending his right, seizes the staff near the
sponge head with his left hand, back of the hand down, and places the
sponge against the face of the piece.
Third motion. He turns the sponge by bringing his hands together in
the middle of the staff, giving a cant with each hand, throwing the
sponge head over, at the same time turning his wrists, so as to bring
the staff to a horizontal position ; he then extends his hands to the
ends of the staff, the back of the left up. that of the right down.
During the whole time of sponging, No. 1 keeps his eye on the vent.
If at any time it is not closed, he will discontinue the manoeuvre, and
command, stoj) rent.
Fourth motion. He introduces the rammer head into the muzzle as
soon as No. 2 has inserted the charge, and joins his left hand to his
right, casting his eyes to the front.
Ram.
^jdH^ Two ].)an>iex and three uiotionti.
Firfit motion. At the command ram, No. 1 rams home, throwing
the weight of his body with the rammer ; bending over his left
knee, and passing his left arm, with the elbow slightly bent, and
back of the hand up, in a horizontal position over the knee, until it
points in the direction of the left trunnion ; the right shoulder
thrown back, and the eyes cast toward the front until the cartridge
is home.
Second motion. He jerks the sponge out with his right hand, al-
lowing it to slide through the hand as far as the middle of the staff,
372 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
when he grasps it firmly, and seizing it close to the rammer head with
the left hand, back of the hand up, places the rammer hand against the
face of the piece, straightens his left knee and stands erect; eyes to his
own front.
I'liird motion. He then draws the sponge close to his body, and
immediately steps back outside the wheel, first with the right, then
with the left foot; so that when the right foot is brought to it, the
right hip may be on a line with the front of the wheel. In draw-
ing the right foot to the left, he gives the sponge a cant with his
left hand, at the same time quitting it, and brings the sponge to a
perpendicular position in the right hand, the rammer head resting on
the right toe.
Ready. At this command, which is given as soon as the piece is
loaded, or the firing about to commence. No. 1 breaks well off to the
left with his left foot, bending the left knee and straightening the right
leg, drops the end of the sponge staff into the left hand, back of
tlie hand down, and fixes his eyes on the muzzle. The heels should
be parallel with the wheel, the body erect on the haunches, and the
sponge and rammer held in both hands in a horizontal position, the
sponge head to the left.
The piece having been fired. No. 1 rises on his right knee, and
returns to his position as in the third motion of ram.
At the command load, he steps in and performs his duties in the
same manner as before.
When the loading is not by detail. No. 1 goes through all his
duties at the command load, returns to his position outside the
wheel, as given in the third motion of ram ; breaks off at the com-
nigmd ready, and at the firing of the gun rises, steps in, and performs
his duties as before. This he continues until the command cease
firiiuj is given, at which command he resumes the position he had
before the first command load. If the sponging has been commenced
when the command cease firing is given, it is completed before No. I
resumes his post.
In sponging and ramming, if the length of the piece req^iires it, the
sponge and rammer are to be pressed home in two motions, No. 1
extending his right hand to the end of the staff as soon as it reaches
the muzzle.
In sponging howitzers, No 1 presses the sponge to the bottom of the
chamber, which should be well sponged out; he wipes the bore by
rubbing its whole surface, without allowing the sponge to turn in his
hands.
639. Loading.— Th.Q instructor places No. 2 on the left of the piece,
where he remains faced to the front until the command loud. At this
m^
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 373
command, he faces to his right, and by two oblique steps, correspond-
ing to those of No. 1, the first with his left foot, the second with his
right, at the command two, he places himself near the muzzle of the
piece. At the command three, he brings up his left foot to the side of
the right, and faces to the right, bringing his hands together to receive
the ammunition from No. 5 ; the cartridge in the right, the shot in the
ott hand. As soon as the sponge is withdrawn by No. 1, he faces to
the left, and puts the ammunition into the muzzle, taking care that the
seam of the cartridge does not come under the vent, and then steps
back, commencing with his left foot, to his position outside the wheel,
in the same manner that No. 1 does.
At the command read;,, he breaks off well to the right with his rio-ht
foot, bending the right knee, and straightening the left knee; the
body erect on the haunches, the eyes fixed on the muzzle.
The piece having been fired, No. 2 raises on his left leg, remains
facing the piece until he hears the oomman.l /nad, or the firing of the
gun; then steps in, and performs his duty as before. At the command
cea,e firin.j, he resumes his position outside the wheel, and faces to the
Iront.
With the hoioltzcr, No 2 puts in the charge so that the fuze may rc^t
against the rammer head, and No. 1 rams it home very carefully.
(UO. Serving the t;e«f.— The instructor places No. 3 on the right of
the piece, on a line with the knob of the cascable, and covering No. 1 ;
he holds the priming wire in his right hand, thumb through the rin-'
the thumbstall on the left thumb, and the tube pouch fastened to his
waist.
At the command load, he steps to his left, wipes the vent field (.,r
surface around the vent) with the thumbstall, which he then holds
pressed upon the vent, keeping his elbow raised; his fingers on the left
side of the piece, so as to allow the gunner to point over his thumb ;
the right hand on the tube pouch. When the piece is sponged, and
the charge inserted by No. 2, he jumps to the end of the trail hand-
spike, and, seizing it with both hands, prepares to move it to the right
or left, on a signal from the gunner, who taps the right of the trail for
a movement to the left, and the left of it for a movement to the right.
As soon as the piece is pointed, the gunner raises both hands 1^ a
signal to No. 3, who then resumes his post.
At the command ready, he steps to the piece, pricks the cartridge,
taking care not to move the charge, and covers the vent with his left
hand as soon as the friction tube is inserted. At the command fire, ho
steps to his right, clear of the right wheel, and at the firing of 'the
gun, or at the command load, serves the vent as before.
374 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
No. 3 must keep the vent closed from the time the sponge enters the
muzzle, until the charge is inserted by No. 2.
641. Firing. — The instructor places No. 4 on the left of the piece,
opposite No. 3, and covering No. 2 ; he is equipped with a tube pouch
and lanyard.
At the command load, No. 4 inserts the lanyard hook into the ring
of a primer, and stands fast.
At the command ready, he steps in with the right foot, drops the
tube in the vent, takes the lanyard in his right hand, moves to the rear
so far as to keep the lanyard slack, but capable of being stretched,
without altering his position, which should be outside the wheel, the
left foot broken to the left and rear.
As soon as No. 3 is clear of the wheel after the command ftre is
given. No. 4 pulls the lanyard briskly and firmly, passing the hand,
back up, in a downward direction to the rear, so as to keep the lanyard
hook from flying back in the direction of the face. Should the tube
fail to explode the charge, the gunner immediately commands, don't
advance, the primer has failed. Upon which No. 2 steps inside the
wheel, close to the axletree, receives a priming wire over the wheel
from No. 3, and a prepared primer from No. 4, pricks, inserts the
primer, and resumes his post. At the command cease firing, No. 4
secures his lanyard.
In the absence of No. 4, No. 3 discharges his duties ; after pricking
the cartridge, he prepares and inserts a friction tube, steps to his post,
faces the vent, breaks to his rear with his left foot, and at the command
fire, discharges the piece. He then resumes his post, and tends the
vent as before.
642. Serving Ammunition. — The instructor stations No. 5 five yards
in rear of the left wheel, and covering it, No. 7 in the rear of and near
the left limber wheel, and No. 6 in rear of the limber chest to issue
ammunition. He is provided with a fuze-gouge, and prepares the shells
or spherical case shot, according to the distance or time ordered, before
delivering them to No. 5.
To cut the Fuze. — Place the projectile between the knees, fuze upper-
most, and support it with the left hand. Holding the fuze-gouge in the
right hand, place the left corner of its edge close to, and on the right
of the graduated mark indicating the time desired; then cut away
gradually until the composition is exposed for a length about equal to
the width of the gouge. Care must be taken not to cut the fuzes more
rapidly than the demand for shells or case shot requires.
At the command loud, No. 5 runs to the ammunition chest, receives
from No. 7 or No. 6 a single round, the shot in the right hand, the car-
tridge in his left; takes it to the piece and delivers it to No. 2; returns
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 375
immediately for another round, and then halts at his post until the
piece is fired. In firing shell or spherical case, he exhibits the fuze to
the gunner before delivering it to No. 2.
Ammunition pouches are worn by Nos. 5 and 7, hung from the left
shoulder to the right side; the round is so placed in the pouch that the
cartridge will be to the front. When it is brought up, No. 6 holds open
the pouch, and No. 2 takes out the round with both hands. In rapid
firing with round shot and canister, Nos. 5 and 7 may alternate in
delivering the charges. At the command cease firing, No. 5 carries the
round back to No. 6. No. 6 should keep the lid of the ammunition
chest closed as much as possible. At the command cease firing, he
carefully replaces the ammunition in the chest, and secures the lid.
643. Loading by detail. — For the instruction of the cannoneers united
for the service of the gun, the exercise is first conducted by detail, the
instructor giving all the commands. IJis commands are: Load hy
detail — LOAD J TAVO, THREE, FOUR : SrONGE ', TWO, THREE, FOUR ; RAM ]
TWO, THREE : READY J FIRE ', CEASE FIRING.
When the- men are sufficiently instructed to go through the manual
without detail, the commands of the instructor for that purpose are :
load; commence firing ; cease firing ; or simply, commence firing, and
cease firing. After the command commence firing, the action is con-
tinued as laid down for loading without detail, until the command
cease firing is given, which is repeated by the chief of the piece and
the gunner.
Moving the piece hy hand. Piece unlimhered.
644. To the front. — The cannoneers being at their posts, the instructor
commands :
1. By hand to the front. 2. March. 3. Halt.
At the first command, the gunner seizes the end of the handspike,
and Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 4, the spokes of the wheels. No. 1 with his left
hand; Nos. 2, 3 and 4, with both hands; No. 1 holds the sponge with
his right hand, the staff resting upon his right shoulder, sponge head
down. At the second command they move the piece forward, the gunner
raising the trail until the command halt is given, when all resume their
posts.
645. To the rear. — The instructor commands;
1. By hand to the rear. 2. March. 3. Halt.
At the first command, the gunner, lacing to the rear, seizes the hand-
spike with his right hand; Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 4, seize the wheels as
376 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
before, except that No. 1, holding the sponge in his left hand, uses his
ri"ht hand at the wheel. At the command march, they move the piece
to the rear, the gunner raising the trail, until the command hrdt is given,
when all resume their posts.
Changing posts. ,
646. In order to instruct the men in all the duties at the piece, the
instructor causes them to change posts.
For this purpose he commands :
1. Change posts. 2. March.
At the command chanrfe jiosts, the men on the right of the piece face
to the rear ; those who have equipments lay them down ; No. 1 resting
the sponge head on the nave of the wheel. At the command march,
each man takes the place and equipments of the man in his front.
No. 1 takes the place of No. 3.
No. 3
No. 8.
No. 8 «
No. 6.
No. 6 "
No. 7.
No. 7
No. 5.
No. 5 "
No. 4.
No. 4
No. 2.
No. 2
No. 1.
The gunner changes with one of the numbers, by special direction
of the instructor.
647. Equipments. — The gunner, who is responsible for the equip-
ments, either distributes them from the limber chest, or they may be
hung on the neck of the cascable, and distributed by him to the proper
numbers, at the command, take equijinients, from the instructor. He
receives them again at the command, replace equipments, making such
disposition of them as may be directed.
Limbering.
648. To the front. — The instructor commands :
Limber to the front.
At this command. No. 1 steps up between the muzzle and the wheel,
by the oblique steps indicated for loading ; turns the staflF, seizing it
with the left hand, at the same time shifting his right, the back of the
right up, that of the left down, and passes the sponge on its hook;
tilGrtT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 377
rammer head to the rear, to No. 3, who receives the head, secures it
against the stop, and keys it up. The piece is then brought about by
the cannoneers, and the limber, inclining to the right, passes to its
place in front of it, be ng drawn, when the horses are not attached,
by Nos. 6 and 7, who take hold of the end of the pole for the purpose.
To bring the piece about, the gunner and No. 5 pass to the right of
the handspike, and, facing toward the left, seize it, the gunner near
the end, and No. 5 at the middle, and on his right, raise the trail and
carry it round to the leftj Nos. 1 and 2 bear down upon the muzzle,
and Nos. 3 and 4, each using both hands, bring the wheels around ;
No. 3 turning the right wheel to the rear, and No. 4 the left wheel to
the front. When the piece is brought about, the trail is lowered; Nos.
3 and 4 step within the wheels to avoid the limber ; Nos. 1 and 2 re-
main at the muzzle, and the gunner and No. 5 step up between Nos. 3
and 4 and the trail, the gunner first taking out the handspike, and
passing it to No. 4, by whom it is put up.
As soon as the limber is in front of the piece, the gunner commands,
halt, limber ujj; upon which the limber halts, the gunner and No. 6
raise the trail by means of the handles, and, assisted by Nos. 3 and 4
at the wheels, and Nos. 1 and 2 at the muzzle, run the piece forward,
and place the lunette upon the pintle; the gunner then puts in the
key, and all take their posts; when necessary, Nos. 6 and 7 assist at
the trail in bringing the piece about, and in limbering up.
649. To the right (or left). — The in.structor commands :
Limber to tlie right (or left).
The trail is turned to the right (or left), and the piece limbered
up as before; the limber inclining to the right (or left), and taking its
place by a right (or left) wheel.
650. To the rear. — The instructor commands:
Limber to the rear.
The limber inclines to the right, and takes its place l)y wheeling
about to the left; the piece is then limbered up as before.
Posts of the cannoneers. Piece limbered.
051. Nos. 1 and 2 opposite the muzzle; Nos. 3 and 4 o^jposite the
knob of the cascable ; the gunner and No. 5 opposite the rear, and
Nos. 6 and 7 opposite the front parts of the limber wheels; No. 8
is on the left, and opposite the limber chest of the caisson. Al^ face
to the front, which is now in the direction of the pole instead of the
32
378 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
muzzle, and cover each other in lines one yard from the wheels ;
the even numbers on the right, the odd on the left. The chief of the
piece is on the left, and, if not mounted, opposite the end of the polej
if mounted, he is near the leading driver, and on his left.
To form the detachment.
652. To the front. — The instructor commands : ♦ -
Detachment — Front.
The gunner commands, cannoneers, forward, march; the even num-
bers move directly to the front ; the odd numbers closing to the right
upon them when clear of the piece. The gunner files them to the left,
halts the detachment in front of the piece, and faces them to the front.
No. 8 moves directly forward, and takes his place in the detachment.
663. To the rear. — The instructor commands :
Detachment — Rear.
The gunners command, cannoneers, rear face, march. At the com-
mand march, the odd numbers move directly to the rear, the even,
numbers closing to the right upon them after passing the piece, the
detachment is filed to the left at the proper distance, halted by the gun-
ner opposite the i)iece and faced to the front. No. 8 taking his proper
place in the detachment.
In forming the detachments in line, they are always, after halting,
dressed to the right by the gunner.
Posts of the detachments at their pieces.
654. In front. — The detachment is in line facing to the front, two
yards from the end of the pole or the leading horses.
Li rear. — The centre of the detachment in two yards, behind the
muzzle, and facing it.
On the right or left. — The detachment is in line opposite the axle-
tree of the limber, and thi"ee yards from it. In horse artillery, it is
in line with, and three yards from the leading horses. In all cases it
faces to the front.
Change of posts of detachments at their pieces.
655. From front to rear. — The detachments being in line, in front
of their pieces, to post them in rear, the instructor commands:
\
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 379
Detachments — Rear.
The gunner commands, cannoneers, rear face, march. At the
command march, Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 4 oblique sufficiently to the left,
and Nos. 5, 6, 7 and 8 to the right, move along the sides of their
piece j reutfite as soon as they have passed it, and are halted at the
proper distance, faced to the front, and aligned to the right by the
gunner, t
From rear to front. — The instructor commands:
Detachments — Front.
The gunner repeats the command, and adds march. At this com-
mand, the cannoneers oblique; Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 4 to the right, Nos.
5, 6, 7 and 8 to the left; pass their piece, reunite in front, and are
halted and aligned to the right by the gunner.
From rear to riyht (or left). — The instructor commands:
Detachments — right (or left.)
The gunner commands, right (or left) oblique, march, and afterward
forward, and halt, in time to bring the detachment to its post on the
right or left. He then aligns it to the right.
In horse artillery, to change from front to rear, the gunners com-
mand, left reverse, March; Forward; left reverse, March; Halt.
The left reverse is executed on the same principle as the left about wheel
in cavalry tactics.
From rear to front. — The gunners command, right oblique, March;
Forward. Left oblique, march ; FoRAVARD; Halt.
From rear to right (or left). — The gunners command, right (or left)
oblique; MARCH ; Forward; Halt.
From right (or left) to rear. — The gunners command, right (or left)
reverse; March; Forward; right (or left) reverse, March; Halt.
If the piece is moving when the last change of post is ordered, the
gunner halts, or slackens the pace until it passes, and then commands^
left (or right) obliqxie. MARCH ; Forward.
The commands of the instructor in all these cases are the same as in
mounted artillery. The movements ai'e executed in the same manner
when the detachments are dismounted.
To post the cannoneers at the piece limbered.
656. The detachment being formed in line in front or rear, on the
right or left, the instructor commands :
380 MANUAL FOR VotitJNTEERS AND MILITIA.
CANNONEbtiS, TO YOUR POSTS.
From tlie front. — The gunner passes the detachment to the right, and
commands, to your jJosts, march. At this command, the cannoneers,
Nos. 1 and 2, turning to the right, and opening out, file to their posts;
halt at their ]Droper places, and face to the front.
From the rear, right or left. — At the command cannoneers, to your
posts, the gunner, in each case, faces the detachment to the left, and
marches the cannoneers by that flank to their posts. »
Moving the piece hy hand. Piece Umbered.
657. To the front. — The instructor commands :
1. Forward. 2. March. 3. Halt.
At the first command, Nos, 6 and 7 seize the end of the pole with
both hands, the gunner and No. 5, facing toward the pole, seize the
splinter-bar with one hand, and the pole with the other. Nos. 3 and 4
seize the spokes of the hind wheels with both hands, and Nos. 1 and 2
apply both hands at the head of the carriage. At the second com-
mand, all acting together, urge the piece forward until the command
halt is given, when all resume their posts.
To the rear. — The instructor commands:
1. Backtvard. 2. March. 3. Halt.
At the fii'st command, all face to the rear; Nos. 6 and 7 seize the end
of the pole with both hands; No. 5 and the gunner seize the spokes of
the limber, and Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 4, those of the hind wheels. At the
command march, all moving together, move the piece to the rear, Nos.
6 and 7 keeping it straight by the use of the pole. At the command
halt, all resume their posts.
UnlijJibering, and coming into action.
To the front. — The instructor commands:
Action — Front.
658. At this command, the gunner takes out the key, and assisted by
No. 5, raises the trail from the pintle, and then commands drive on,
upon which Nos. 6 and 7 reverse the limber, and proceed with it to the
rear. Again reverse to the lefc, and halt so that the limber shall cover
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 381
the piece, with the end of the pole six yards from the end of the trail
handspike. At the same time that the limber moves oflF, the piece is
brought about in all respects as in limbering to the front, except that
the gunner and No. 5, without lowering the trail, carry it about, each
by means of the handle on his own side. Nos. 6 and 7, when neces-
sary, assist at the trail, after placing the limber in position.
As soon as the piece is brought about, and the trail lowered, No. 4
takes out the handspike and passes it to the gunner, who fixes it in the
trail. No. 1 takes out the sponge, No. 3 unkcying it, and No. 4 pre-
pares his lanyard. All then take their posts as required when the
piece is unlimhered.
To the ritjht (or left). — The instructor commands :
Action, right {or left).
659. The piece is unlimhered in the same manner as for action, front,
and placed in the required direction; the limber wheels to the left
(or right), and takes its place in rear, by reversing to the left (or
right).
To the rear, — The instructor commands :
1. Fire to the rear. 2. In battery.
660. At the command in battery, the piece is unlimhered as before ;
the trail immediately lowered, and the gun prepared for action; the
limber moves directly forward at the command drive on, from the
gunner, and takes its place by coming to the left about.
Movements with the prolonge.
661. The piece being in battery, to fix the prolonge to fire retiring,
the instructor commands :
Fix prolonge to fire retiring.
At this command, the limber inclines to the right, wheels to the left
about, and halts four yards from the trail. No. 5 uncoils the prolonge
and passes the toggle to the gunner, who fixes it in the trail by
passing it upward through the lunette, whilst he attaches the other
end to the limber by passing the ring over the pintle and keying it.
At the command retire, the cannoneers face about and all march on
the left of the piece, except Nos. 1 and 3. They keep the implements
in their hands, and, at the command halt, face about, resume their
posts, and go on with the firing.
Should the piece be loaded at the command retire, No. 3 puts in the
priming wire. At the command halt, ho takes it out again, and No. 1
382 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
rams home. If the command load be given when the piece is in
motion, No. 5 puts in the charge, and No. 2 serves vent, receiving from
No. 3 the necessary implements for that purpose.
The piece being in action, to fix the prolonge to fire advancing, the
instructor commands:
Fix prolonge to fire advancing.
At this command, the limber passes its piece on the right and halts
when in front of it, Nos. 1 and 3 stepping within the wheels to avoid
the limber. No. 5 uncoils the prolonge, carries it to the front, gives
the toggle to No. 2, who puts it in the lunette of the axle-strap, whilst
he places the ring over the jjintle and keys it.
In advancing, the men retain their implements and march at their
posts. At the command halt, No. 2 takes out the toggle and com-
mands drive on, upon which the limber takes its place in rear, and
the firing is renewed.
When the piece is limbered, to fix the prolonge to fire retiring or
advancing, the same commands are given. The piece is unlimbered,
and the prolonge attached as before.
To fix the prolonge passing a ditch, or for any other purpose, the
command is, Jix liroloncje. The prolonge is then fixed to the trail as
before.
In moving with the prolonge, the gunner attends the handspike,
and in changes of direction, is careful to circulate the trail round in
proper time to prevent the prolonge being cut by the wheels. No. 7
clears the prolonge from the limber wheels, and Nos. 1 and 2 from the
gun wheels. In wheeling about the limber first backs a little and
then describes a small circle. In passing a ditch the gunner takes out
the handspike.
In fixing the prolonge for any purpose, the caisson wheels or
reverses, if necessary, so that the horses of the limber and caisson
may face in the same direction.
To detach the prolonge from the limber and coil it up, the instructor
commands :
Coil prolonge. ^^
At this command, the gunner takes out the toggle, and No. 5 takes
ofi" the ring and coils the prolonge, first passing the ring over the upper
prolonge hook.
To coil the prolonge and limber the piece, the instructor commands,
coil prolonge — limber to the rear. The prolonge is detached and coiled
as before, the piece is run toward the limber, which reins back on re-
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 383
ceiving the command rein hack from the gunner, and is limbered up.
To hmber to the front, right or left, the instructor commands, coil
prolongc-limher to the front, right or left; which is executed as al-
ready described, the gunner commanding drive on, as soon as the pro-
longe is detached.
Service of the gun with diminished numbers.
662. Disabled men are replaced as soon as possible by the highest
numbers, or, if men are selected to replace them, the highest numbers
will be reduced to fill the vacancies thus created. During action, Nos.
] and 2 may occasionally change places and numbers; the duties of
No. 1 arc very fatiguing.
Service of the piece hy two »»e».-The gunner commands, points,
serves the vent, and fires; No. 1 sponges, loads, and serves ammuni-
tion.
Three .»en.-The gunner commands, points, serves the vent, and
fires; No. 1 sponges; No. 2 loads and serves ammunition.
Fo«r vH^n.— The gunner commands and points; No. 1 sponges; No.
2 loads and serves ammunition; No. 3 serves the vent and fires.
Five «ien.— The gunner commands and points; No. 1 sponges; No. 2
loads ; No. 3 serves the vent and fires ; No. 4 serves ammunition.
Six men.—'^^.Q gunner commands and points; No. 1 sponges; No
2 loads; No. 3 serves the vent and fires; No. 4 and 5 serve ammuni-
tion.
Seven ;»e„._The gunner commands and points; No. 1 sponges; No.
2 loads ; No. 3 serves the vent, and attends to the trail ; No. 4 'fires '
No. 6 is at the limber, and serves ammunition to No. 5, and occasion^
ally changes with him.
Eight v»eH.— No. 7 assists No. 6 ; the other numbers as before.
Suij-ply of ammunition when in action.
663. When it can be done without inconvenience, ammunition will
be served direct from the rear chest of the caisson, No. 8 performing
the duties prescribed for No. 6 at the limber chest. At convenient mo-
ments, the ammunition served out by No. 6 will be replaced from the
rear caisson chest. If the ammunition chest on the limber of the piece
IS exhausted, the limber is replaced by that of the caisson, and the
empty chest exchanged for the centre one of the caisson.
As a rule, the limber chests, and especially that of the piece, will be
kept full at the expense of the others, so that in case of a sudden move-
1
384 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
ment on the field, there shall always be a siiflBcient supply of ammuni-
tion at hand.
Pointing and ranges.
66-i. To 2ioint a piece, is to place it in such a position that the shot
may reach the object it is intended to strike. To do this, the axis of
the trunnions, being horiv.ontal, the line of metal, called also the natu-
ral line of sight, must be so directed as to pass through the object, and
then the elevation given to the piece to throw the shot the required dis-
tance. The direction is given from the trail, and the elevation from the
breech; the trail being moved to the right and left by a handspike, and
the breech raised or depressed by an elevating screw.
The axis of the piece coincides with that of the, cylinder of the bore.
The line of sight in pointing is the line of direction from the eye to
the object. It lies in a vertical plane, passing through, or parallel to
the axis of the piece.
The angle of sight is the angle which the line of sight makes with the
axis of the piece.
The natural line of sight is the straight line passing through the
highest points of the base ring, the swell of the muzzle, muzzle sight, or
muzzle band.
The natural angle of sight is the angle which the natural line of sight
makes with the axis of the piece.
By range is commonly meant the distance between the piece and the
object which the ball is intended to strike; or, the first graze of the
ball upon the horizontal plane on which the carriage stands. Point-
blank range is the distance between the piece and the point-blank.
Extreme range is the distance between the piece and the point where
the ball finally rests.
665. Theory of 2ioi»tiiig. — The ^Jti//*?-i/«»A; is the secdnd point of
intersection of the trajectory or curve described by the projectile in
its flight with the line of sight. As the angle of sight is increased,
the projectile is thrown farther above the line of sight, and the trajec-
tory and poiift-blank distance becomes more extended.
The point-blank range increases with the velocity, the diameter, and
the density of the ball.
A piece is said to bo aimed point-blank when the line of metal,
which is the natural line of sight, is directed upon the object. This
must be the case when the object is at point-blank distance. When
at a greater distance, the pendulum hausse, or the tangent scale, is
raised upon the breech until the sight is at the height which the
degree of elevation for the distance may require. An artijicial line of
LTPxHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 385
sight, and an arfijiria/ point-lilaiik aro thus obtained, and the piece is
aimed as before.
Pei}ch(hti>i hausxr. — The instrnnieiit at present in most general use in
pointing field guns at objects beyond the natural point-blank, is called
a pendnlitm hanasc, of which the component parts are denominated the
scale, the slider, and the seat. The scale is made of sheet brass ; at
the lower end is a brass bulb filled with lead. The slider is of thin
brass, and is retained in any desirable position on the scale by means
of a brass set screw with a milled head. The scale is passed through a
slit in a piece of steel, with which it is connected by a brass screw, form-
ing a pivot on which the scale can vibrate laterally; this slit is made
long enough to allow the scale to take a vertical position in any
ordinary cjises of inequality of the ground on which the wheels of the
carriage may rest. The ends of this piece of steel form two journals,
by means of which the scale is supported on the seat attached to the
piece. The scat is of iron, and is fastened to the base of the breech
by three screws, in such manner that the centres of the two journal
notches shall be at a distance from the axis equal to the radius of
the base ring.
A mmzle sight of iron is screwed into the swell of the muzzle of
r/wns, or into the middle of the muzzle ring of howitzers. The height
of the sight is equal to the dispart of the piece, so that a line from the
top of the muzzle sight to the j)ivot of the scale is parallel to the axis
of the piece. Consequently, the vertical plane of sight passing through
the centre line of the scale and the top of the muzzle sight will be also
parallel to the axis in any position of the piece; the scale will therefore
always indicate the angle which the line of sight makes with the axis.
The hausse, when not in use, is carried by the gunner in a leather
pouch, suspended by a shoulder strap.
On pointing.
666. As it is impossible to point a piece correctly without knowing
the dista7ice of the object, artillery men should be frequently practised
in estinmting distances by the eye alone, and rectifying the estimate
afterward, cither by pacing the distance, or by actual measurement
with a tape-line or chain, until they acquire the habit of estimating
them correctly.
«^Ac/^« are intended to burst t»i the object aimed at; spherical case
shot are intended to burst from fifty to eeventy-five yards short of it.
Shell or spherical case firing, for long ranges, is less accurate than
that of solid shot.
At high elevations, a solid shot will range farther than a shell or
3.3
1«
386 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
spherical case shot, of the same diameter, fired with an equal charge.
But at low elevations, the shell or spherical case will have a greater
initial velocity, and a longer range. If, however, the charges are pro-
portioned to the weights of the projectiles, the solid shot will, in all
cases, have the longest range.
The velocity or range of a shot is not affected in any appreciable
degree by checking the recoil of the carriage, by using a tight wad, or
by diiferent degrees of ramming.
The principal causes which disturb the true flight of the projectile
are as follows :
1st. If the wheels of the carriage are not upon the same horizontal
plane, the projectile will deviate toward the lowest side of the carriage.
2d. If the direction of the wind is across the line of fire, deviations
in the flight of the projectile will be occasioned, and in proportion to
the strength of the wind the angle its direction makes with the line of
fire and the velocity of the projectile.
3d. If the centre of gravity of the projectile be not coincident with
the centre of figure, the projectile will deviate toward the heaviest side^
that is, in the same direction that the centre of gravity of the projec-
tile, while resting in the piece, lies with regard to the centre of figure.
Therefore, if a shot be placed in the piece so that its centre of gravity
is to the right of the centre of the ball, the shot will deviate to the
right; and vice versa. If the centre of gravity be above the centre of
fio-ure, range will be increased: if below, it will be diminished.
Solid shot should be used from 350 yards upward ; the use of
canister should begin at 360 yards, and the rapidity of the fii-e in-
creases as the range diminishes. In emergencies, double charges of
canister may be used at 150 or 160 yards, with a single cartridge.
Spherical case should not, as a general rule, be used for a less range
than 500 yards; and neither spherical case nor shells should be fired
at rapidly advancing bodies, as, for instance, cavalry charging.
The fire of spherical case and of shells on bodies of cavalry in line
or column, and in position, is often very effective. To the destructive
effects of the projectile are added the confusion and disorder occa-
sioned amongst the horses by the noise of their explosion ; but neither
shells nor spherical case should be fired so rapidly as solid shot.
In case of necessity, solid shot may be fired from howitzers.
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 387
SCHOOL OF THE BATTERY.
Composition of the battery, and the officers and men necessary to
man it.
667. Tho battery is composed of four, six or eight pieces ; six pieces
will be supposed. It is divided into three sections of two pieces each,
denominated the rifjht, centre and left sections, according to their posi-
tion in line. The battery is cominanded by a captain ; each section is
commanded by a lieutenant, called the chief of section, and an addi-
tional lieutenant is necessary to command the line of caissons. Each
piece is commanded by a sergeant, as chief of the piece, while the gun-
ner and chief of caisson are corporals. The officers and men necessary
to man the battery constitute a company, which is divided into as
rasiny platoons as there are pieces. Each platoon is composed of the
drivers and cannoneers of a single piefee, and is commanded by the
chief of the piece; the cannoneers of a piece, as already stated in the
school of the piece, constitute the gun detachment. When the drivers
and cannoneers form together, the drivers form ox\ the left.
Two platoons constitute a section.
In addition to the platoons, there sbould be a, fist (or orderly) ser-
geant attached to the company ; a. qnartemiaster-serf/eant; two buglers
or trumpeters; one guidon; and as many artificers as may be necessary
to keep the guns, carriages, harness, etc., in order.
When the company is formed, the platoons form in line in the order
of their pieces.
Posts of the officers, non-commissioned officers, etc.
668. The captain commanding goes where his presence may be neces-
sary, or his commands best heard. His position, in the order in line, is
four yards in front of the centre of the company ; in the order in col-
umn, or when the company is faced by a flank, four yards outside
the flank in the tirst case, and from the company in the second, and
opposite the centre.
The lieutenants commanding sections in line, or in column of sec-
tions, are two yards in front of the centres of their respective sections;
in columns of platoons or of detachments, or when faced by a, flank,
they are two yards outside the marching flank, and opposite the
centres of their respective sections ; except that when faced by « flank,
888 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
the chief of the leading gection takes his place at the side of the lead-
ing file.
The chief of the line of caissons, is four yards in rear of the centre of
the company when it is hi line; when it is in column, or faced by a
flank, he is four yards outside the pivot flank, and opposite the centre
of the company.
The chiefs of pieces, when the company is in line, in column of sec-
tionn, or faced by a jiank, are on the right of the gun detachments of
their respective platoons, in the front rank. In column of jilntjoiis, ov of
detachments, they are one yard in front of the centre of their platoons
or of their gun detachments.
The gunners, when the company is in line, or in column of sections,
are one yard behind the right files of their respective gun detachments.
In column of platoons, or detachments, they are on the right of the gun
detachment. When faced by a flank, they face with the company, and
retain their relative positions.
The chiefs of cannons are in their places in the ranks as No. 8
of the gun detachments, or as the front rank men on the left of their
platoons.
The first sergeant, when the company is in line, is on the right of
the front rank, and one yard from it; when it is in column, he is on the
marching flank, one yard outside the section, platoon, or detachment
nearest him when in line. When the company faces by n flank, he faces
with it.
The quartermaster-sergeant is on the left of the company, and
occupies positions corresponding to those of the first sergeant on the
right.
When the company is in line, the buglers are on the right of the first
sergeants, in one rank, and two yards from line ; i)i cohuan, they are six
yards in front or rear of the subdivision next them in line, according
as that subdivision forms the head or rear of the column. When the
company is faced by a flank, they face also.
The artificers occupy positions on the left of the company, correspond-
ing to those of the musicians on the right.
The guidon forms with the musicians, or takes such position as the
captain prescribes.
Manning the Battery.
699. The gun detachments and teams, having been probably tolled
off", are marched to the battery or park, with the teams in front.
The chiefs of pieces and caissons, when mounted, march with the
teams ; when the teams reach the battery, they are hitched by the J
drivers.
L
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 389
In forming the detachments they are formed in line, touching each
other, and in positions corresponding to the positions of their pieces in
the battery. The chiefs of section, etc., are at their posts as directed
for the company in line.
The detachments are marched to the battery, either in column or in
line, as circumstances may require.
Each detachment is halted by its gunner when opposite its piece,
and wheeled into line.
If approaching from the front or rear, the detachments are formed
in line facing the battery, in the same order as their pieces, and the
captain commands :
Detachments, opposite your pieces.
At this command, each detachment is wheeled or faced in the
proper direction by i(s gunner, marched opposite its piece, and formed
in line.
The captain, after all the detachments have been halted in front or
roar of their pieces, commands :
Cannoneers, to your posts.
At this command the gunners face their detachments, and all take
their posts, as directed in No. 656.
The position of the detachment in hovse artilhrij, is habitually two
paces in rear of the muzzle of the piece, but its position may be
changed hy the means laid down in No. 655,
During the manoeuvres of mounted artillery, the cannoneers are
seated on the ammunition chests as follows : The gunner and Nos.
5 and 6, on the limber chest of the piece, the gunner on the right,
and No. 5 on the left; Nos. X, 2 and 7, on the limber chest of the
caisson, No. 2 on the right, and No. 1 on the leftj Nos. .3, 4 and
8 on the middle chest of the caisson, No. -i on the right, and No. 3 on
the left.
When circumstances require it, Nos. 6 and 7 may be directed to
mount the rear chest of the caisson. They sit with their backs to the
front, No. 6 on the right.
To mount and dismount the Cannoneers.
670. To iiiovnt. — The captain halts the battery, if not already at a
halt, and commands:
1. Cannoneers, prepare to mount. 2. Mount.
390 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
At the first command, the cannoneers run to their respective places,
and stand facing the chests which they are to mount. The gunner
and No. 5 in rear of the gun limber ; No. 6 on the right of the
gunner; Nos. 1 and 2 in rear of the caisson limber; No. 7 on the
left of No. 1 ; Nos. 3 and 4 in front of the middle chest of the caisson ;
No. 8 on the right of No. 3. The gunner and Nos. 2 and 3 seize the
handles with the right hand, and step upon the stocks with the left
foot, and Nos. 5, 1 and 4, seize the handles with the left hand, and step
upon the stocks with the right foot.
At the command mounts the gunner and Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, spring
into their seats. The gunner and Nos. 5, ) and 2, seat themselves in
their places with their backs to the front, and immediately face about,
by throwing their legs outward over the handles.
No. 8 then springs into his scat in the same manner as No. 3; Nos. 6
and 7 step in rear of their chests, place their hands upon them, step
upon the stocks with their nearest feet, spring up, step over the boxes
and take their seats, placing their hands on the shoulders of the men
already seated in order to steady themselves.
When the command caniio)ieer.s, nunint, is given by itself, the men
run to their places and spring into their scats at once, No. 8 taking his
seat before No. 3.
671. To- dismount. — The captain halts the carriages as before, and
commands :
1. Cannoneers., prepare to dismount. 2. Dismount.
At the first command, the cannoneers stand up in their places, except
the gunner and No. 5, who face about. At the second command, the
whole jump oS" and run to their posts.
When the command cannoneers, dismount, is given by itself, the men
jump from their chests in the sam§ manlier.
The cannoneers always dismount at the command, action front, right
(or left). They also dismount at the command in battery, as soon as
the carriage on which they are mounted halts.
In horse artillery, the gunner dismounts the cannoneers when the
command action front, right or left, or in battery, is given, and all
move to their posts in double quick time, and unlimber as rapidly
as possible.
The object of mounting the cannoneers on the ammunition chests, is
generally to enable the battery to make quick movements.
To unpark.
672. Everything being prepared for manoeuvring, if the captain
wishes to unpark by the right, he commands :
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 391
1. By piece — -from the right — -front into column. 2. March.
At the command mnrrh, the right piece, followed by its caisson,
marches direct to the front, and the caj^tain indicates the direction it
should take. The other pieces and caissons follow the movement of
the right piece, each so regulating its march by that which precedes it,
as to march in the same direction, and two yards behind. Each chief
of section directs the march of his carriages, which are so conducted
by their chiefs as to enter the column by the most simple movement.
The column of pieces is thus formed with a distance of two yards be-
tween the carriages ; and in horse artillery with the same distance
between the carriages and detachments.-
The captain goes wherever his duty may require, but generally re-
mains on the left flank, opposite the centre of the column.
The chief of the leading section places himself near the chief of
the leading piece, and on his left; the other chiefs of sections four
yards from the left flank, abreast the centres of their respective sec-
tions.
The chief of the line of caissons is in rear of the chief of the centre
section.
Each chief of piece and caisson, when mounted, is near his leading
driver, on the left.
The trumpeter is near the captain.
When the battery is parked with the caissons in front, the captain
causes it to unpark by the right by the same commands ; the move-
ments being executed in the same manner.
The battery may be unparked by the left according to the same
principles and by inverse means.
The column of pieces is not to be considered a column of manoeuvre.
It will be changed into a column of sections as soon as the nature of
the ground will permit. But the exigencies of service sometimes re-
quire that formations into line and battery should be made directly
from the column of pieces. In such cases, the principles and com-
mands laid down for similar formations from the column of sections,
will govern. In the formations to the right or left, the pieces must
close up, and wheel successively when opposite their proper places.
To halt.
To halt the battery, when marching in column of pieces, the captain
commands :
392 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
1. Column. 2, Halt,
At the second command, repeated by the chiefs of sections, all the
carriages are immediately halted.
Change of gait.
673. The changes of gait, in column of pieces, arc executed by the
following commands from the captain:
To pass from the walk to a trot.
1. Trot. 2. March.
To pass from a trot to a walk.
1. Walk. 2. March.
At the first command, repeated by the chiefs of sections, all the
drivers and others on horscbaA prepare to change the gait; and at
the second, repeated in like manner, they pass at once to the gait indi-
cated by the first command.
To form sections.
674. When the battery is marching at a walk in column of pieces,
to form sections at the same gait by gaining ground to the left, the
captain commands :
1. Form sections, left oblique. 2. March. 3. Guide right.
The chief of the leading section repeats the commands, Form sec-
tion, left oblique, march; guide right, in succession after the captain.
At the command march, the two first carriages, piece and caisson, con-
tinue to march, and halt when they have advanced five yards. The
two following gain their interval of fourteen yards by obliquing to the
left, and place themselves abreast and parallel with the other two.
The other sections continue to march in column of pieces, and are
formed successively by their chiefs; each commanding, /br/n section,
left oblique, in time to command viarch, when the leading carriage of
his section has arrived within five yards of its distance. The chief of
section then commands, guide right.
AVhen the column of pieces is marching at a trot, the formation is
executed according to the same principles and by the same commands.
But the leading carriages, instead of advancing five yards and halting
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 893
as before, pass to a walk as soon as the command mnrch is repeated by
the chief of section. The other sections continue to march at a trot,
and execute the movement at that gait; the two leading carriages of
each section passing to a walk at the command march, which must be
given when they have closed to their proper distance.
When the column of pieces is at a halt, the formation is executed as
prescribed for the column at a walk. In this case the carriages all
move at the command, march, and the leading ones halt after advanc-
ing five yards.
When the column of pieces is marching at a walk, to form sections
at a trot gaining ground to the left, the captain commands:
1. Form sections, left oblique, trot. 2. March. 3. Guide right.
The chief of the leading section repeats the commands, /orm section,
left oblique, trot; march; fjnifh riyht, in succession, after the captain.
At the command march, the two leading carriages continue to march in
the original direction at a walk. The two following oblique to the left,
gain their interval at a trot, and resume the walk when opposite the
leading carriages.
At the first command, the chiefs of the other sections command trot ;
and at the second, which they repeat, their sectiotis commence the trot.
The chiefs of the second and third sections command, form section,
left oblique, in time to command march, when the leading carriage of
each section has nearly gained its distance. The leading carriage then
resumes the walk, and the chief of section commands, guide riyht.
The chiefs of sections superintend their carriages, and take the posts
assigned them in the order in column as soon as their sections are
formed.
Sections are formed by gaining ground to the right according to the
same principles and by inverse means.
The lattery being in column of pieces, to form the caisso?is on the
flank.
675. When the battery is in column of pieces with the caissons in
rear, to form the pieces and caissons into separate columns, as in the
flauk march of a battery in line, the captain commands:
1. Caissons left (or caissons lefi, trot). 2. March. 3. Guide
light.
These commands are repeated by the chiefs of sections, the caissons
oblique at once to the left, gain the interval of fourteen yards, and
394 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
place themselves opposite their pieces,- the pieces closing upon each
other at the same time to the usual distance. The gait is regulated as
in the formation of sections; and when the movement is performed at
a walk, the leading carriage halts after advancing its own length.
The chiefs of sections take their places as in column of sections.
The caissons are formed on the right according to the same princi-
ples and by inverse means.
When the pieces are in rear, they are formed on the right or left of
their caissons in the same manner and by corresponding commands.
To march in column.
676. The battery being in column at a halt, to advance, the captain
commands :
1. Column,, forward. 2. March. 3. Guide left (or right).
The commands /br?co?*f/, march; (juiiJe left (or right), are repeated
by the chiefs of sections. At the command march, all the carriages
advance, the guide maintains the direction, and the carriage.*, as well
as the detachments of horse cannoneers, preserve their intervals and
distances.
To march by a flank.
677. The battery being in column, in march or at a halt, to gain
ground to the left, the captain commands :
1. Column,, by the left flank. 2. March.
The 3ommands, hi/ the left flank, march, are repeated by the chiefs of
sections. At the command march, each carriage wheels at once to the
left.
When the wheel is nearly completed, the captain commands:
1. Forward. 2. Guide right.
These commands are i-epeated by the chiefs of sections. At the
command forward, all the carriages march direct to the front.
The line is regulai-ly established, and the carriages aligned in each
rank, with their distances of two, and intervals of fourteen yards.
The chiefs of sections take their place.« between the leading carriages
as in line.
To cause the V>attery to resume its original direction, the captain
commands :
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 895
1. Battery, hy the right flank. 2. March. 3. Forward.
4. Guide left.
The commands, i?/ the ri(/ht /tank, luarch ; foncard ; guide left, are
repeated and executed according to the principles before d-escribed.
After the flank march, to march the battery in a direction opposite
to the original one, the captain commands:
1. Battery, by the lejl flank. 2. March. 3. Forward.
4. Guide right.
In hor/<e arfillenj the flank march is executed according to the
same principles and by the same commands. The line formed by
the flank movement is established, and the carriages aligned in each
rank, with distances of five and intervals of fourteen or twenty-one
yards, according to the relative position of the pieces and caissons.
The detachments wheel in the same direction as their pieces; and,
after following them during a part of the movement, place them-
selves by their sides, two yards from the wheels, with the heads of
their leading horses on a line with the axle-trees of the limbers.
In marching by the left flank they are on the left of their pieces,
and the reverse when marching by the right. When sufficient ground
ha» been gained to the flank, and the battery resumes its formation
in column by marching in the original direction, the detachments
wheel in the same direction as their pieces and place themselves
in their rear. But when the march in column is in the opposite
direction, they resume their places by allowing their pieces to pass
them and then falling in their rear.
The flank march, to gain ground to the right, is executed according
to the same principles and by inverse means.
In each ease the captain and the chief of the line of caissons change
their direction to the left or right, and conform to the movements of
the battery.
Oblique r)iarch.
678. The battery being in column, in march or at a halt, to cause
it to march obliquely to gain ground to the front and left, the captain
commands :
1. Column, left oblique. 2. March. 3. Guide right.
The chiefs of sections repeat the commands, left oblique; march;
yuide right. At the command march, all the carriages oblique at
396 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
once to the left, and marcli direct to the front in the new direction;
moving in pai-allel lines, dressing by the right, and preserving their
intervals from that flank.
In obliquing, the heads of the horses in ea«h rank are on a line
parallel to the original front of the column. The interval between
the carriages is fourteen yards, measured parallel to the front; and
only ten if measured perpendicularly to the oblique direction. Each
carriage of the right file marches in the prolongation of the left
carriage of the rank which precedes its own, and at a distance of nine
yards.
The officers conform to the movement and preserve their relative
positii.ns.
To resume the original direction the captain commands:
Forward.
This command is repeated by the chiefs of sections, and the car-
riages resume the original direction by oblicjuing to the right.
If the caittiiin wishes to halt the column for the purpose of recti-
fying its alignments, intervals, or obliquity, he commands:
1. Column. 2. Halt.
And to resume the march in the oblique direction :
1. Column. 2. March. 3. Guide right.
The commands halt; mardi; guide viylit, are repeated by the chiefs
of sections.
The right oblique is executed according the same principles and
by inverse means.
Passage of carriages in column.
679. When ihe battery is marching in column at a walk, to change
the relative positions of the front and rear ranks, without altering the
gait, the captain commands :
1. Pieces pass your caissons (or caissons pass your pieces).
2. March.
These /jommands ai'e repeated by the chiefs of sections; and at the
command march, the leading carriages of each section halt. Those
of the rear rank execute the passage without changing the gait, and
halt as soon as they have reached their positions in front.
To continue the march without halting the carriages of the rear
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 397
rank, the captain commands forward, when the passage is nearly-
completed and the command is repeated by the chiefs of sections.
When the column is marching at a trot, the passage is executed
according to the same principles and by the same commands, except
that the carriages of the front rank move at a walk instead of halting
at the command march. The carriages of the rear rank execute tlie
passage at a trot, and then change the gait to a walk.
When the column is at a halt, the passage is executed according
to the same principles and by the same commands. If the captain
wishes to put the column in march immediately after the movement,
he commands fonoarrf, when the passage is about being completed,
and then guide left (or right). These commands arc repeated by the
chiefs of sections.
When the column is marching at a walk, to execute the passage
at a trot, the captain commands :
1. Pieces pass your caissons, trot (or caissons pass your pieces,
trot). 2. March.
These commands are repeated by the chiefs of sections. At the
command march, the carriages of the front rank in each section con-
tinue to march at a walk. Those of the rear rank execute the passage
at a trot, and resume the walk as soon as the passage is completed.
About in column.
680. The battery being in column, in march or at a halt, to face it
to the rear, the captain commands:
1. Pieces and caissons, left about. 2. March.
These commands are repeated by the chiefs of sections ,• and at the
second all the carriages execute the about. When the movement is
about being completed the captain commands, column, halt; or for-
ward, guide right (or left); the commands, halt, or forward, guide
right (or left), are repeated by the chiefs of sections.
Countermarch in column.
681. The battery being in column, in march or at a halt, to execute
the countermarch in each section, the captain commands :
1. Countermarch. 2. March.
These commands are repeated by the chiefs of sections, and at the
898 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
second, each piece and its caisson execute the countermarch. When
the movement is about being completed, the captain commands, rolunni,
halt ; or forward ; guide right (or left).
These commands are repeated as in the preceding paragraph.
To change direction in column.
682. The battery being in column, in march or at a halt, to cause it
to change direction to the left, the captain commands :
Head of column to the left.
The chief of the leading section commands, left v:heel — March; and
afterward, forward. At the command march, the pivot carriage exe-
cutes the wheel without changing the gait. The carriage on the wheel-
ing flank wheels in such a manner as to conform to its movement;
increasing the gait, and preserving -the intervals. At the command
forward, the pivot carriage moves direct to the front, and the other
resumes its original gait after completing the wheel and arriving upon
the same line. The carriages of the rear rank preserve their distance
and follow those of the front rank.
Each of the other sections, on arriving at the point where the first
wheeled, executes the same movement, and by the same commands
from its chief.
Each chief of section must give the command tcft wheel in time to
command march, when the heads of his leaders arc three yards from
the wheeling point. And the command forward must be given as soon
as the leading pivot carriage has entered the new direction.
The change of direction to the right is executed according to the
same principles and by inverse means.
To diminish the front of a column on the march.
683. The battery marching at a walk in column of sections, to form
column of pieces from the right, at that gait, the captain commands:
1. By the right., break sections. 2. March.
The chief of the leading section commands, successively, after the
captain, by the right, break section ; march. At the command march,
the two right carriages of the leading section continue to march at a
walk, and all the other carriages halt The left carriages of the lead-
ing section remain halted, until the leaders of the leading carriage are
passed by the wheel horses of the rear carriage on the right. They
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 399
then oblique to the right, take their places in column, and follow the
two leading carriages. The other sections are broken in succession by
the same commands from their chiefs ; the command march being given
when the wheel horses of the left carriages of the next preceding
seetion enter the right oblique.
When the column is marching at a trot, the column of pieces is form-
ed according to the same principles and by the same commands. But
in this f^ase the carriages which halted before slacken the gait to a
walk, and resume the trot to oblique, and enter the column.
When the column is at a halt, the movement is executed as pre-
scribed for a column marching at a walk : the two right carriages of
the leading section moving forward at a walk at the command march.
The battery marching at a walk in column of sections, to form col-
umn of pieces from the right at a trot, the captain commands :
1. By the rightj break sections, trot. 2. March.
The chief of the leading section commands successively, after the
captain, by the right, break section, trot; march; and at the right car-
riages of the leading section move forward at a moderate trot. The
left carriages of the same section commence the trot on obliquing to
enter the column.
The other sections are broken successively by the same commands
from their chiefs ; and the carriages are regulated by each other, as in
breaking sections at a walk.
This formation is executed from the left, according to the same prin-
ciples and by inverse means.
Jn column with the caissons on thejlank, to replace them in front
or rear.
684. The battery being in column with the caissons on the flank, to
re-establish them in rear of their pieces, the captain commands :
1. Caissons, rear (or caissons, rear, trot). 2. March.
Each chief of section repeats the commands in time to command
march, when the leading piece of his section is to commence the move-
ment. The piece at the head of the column moves forward with the
required gait, and its caisson places itself in rear by an oblique. The
other pieces move forward in succession, and are followed by their
caissons in like manner.
All the carriages preserve the usual distance in column.
400 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
This movement is performed with the different gaits, and according
to the principles prescribed for breaking sections.
The formation for placing the caissons in front is executed by the
commands, caissons, front (or caissons, front, trot); march, the caissons
obliquing successively in front of their pieces.
To pas$ from the order in column to the order in line, and the
reverse.
In all formations in line or column, the movements are the same
whether the pieces or caissons lead.
Forward into line.
685. The battery being in column at a halt, to form it into line on
the head of the column, gaining ground to the left, the captain com-
mands :
1. Forward into line, left oblique. 2. March. 3. Guide right.
4. Front.
At the first command, the chief of the leading section commands,
section, forward, and those of the other sections, section, left oblique.
At the command march, repeated by the chiefs of sections, the leading
section moves to the front, and its chief repeats the command for the
guide. After advancing eighteen yards, or for horse artiller}^ twenty-
two, he commands, section, halt; right, dress.
Each of the other chiefs of sections repeats the command for the
guide, and conducts his section by a left oblique, until by the direct
march it may gain its proijer interval from the section immediately on
its right. He then commands, /o^toarrf, and when within four yards of
the line, section, halt; right, dress.
When the battery is aligned, the captain commands //-on^
The movement is executed on the opposite flank, according to the
same principles, and by inverse means.
In this case the commands are, forward into line, right oblique,
march: guide left, front.
The formation forward into line by a right or left oblique, executed
in a similar manner when the column is in march. In this case the
chief of the leading section gives no command except for the guide,
until he has advanced the distance before prescribed. He then halts
his section as before.
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACT'ICS. 401
To form line faced to the rear.
686. The battery being in column at a halt, to form it into line faced
to the rear, on the head of the column gaining ground to the left, the
captain commands :
1. Into line, faced to the rear, left oblique. 2. March.
3. Guide right. 4. Front.
At the first command, the chief of the leading section commands,
section, forward; and those of the other sections, section, left oblique,
At the command march, repeated by the chiefs of sections, the move-
ment is executed as in No. 685, with the exception of the alignment,
When the leading section has advanced eighteen ^^ards, or for horse ar-
tillery twenty-two, it is halted by its chief until the centre section
arrives upon the same line. He then commands, countermarch — march;
and when the countermarch is nearly completed, section, halt; left
dress.
The centre section is halted upon the line, in like manner, until the
left section comes up, and is then countermarched and aligned by the
same commands.
When the left section arrives upon the line, it is countermarched
before halting, and then aligned like the rest.
When the centre and left sections are countermarched, the com-
mands, halt; left dress, should be given, if possible, when they are four
yards in rear of the line on which the leading section is established.
When the battery is aligned, the captain commands /roH^
The movement is executed on the opposite flank, according to the
same principles and by inverse means.
The formation into line, faced to the rear, by a right or left oblique,
is executed in a similar manner when the column is in march. In this
case, as the leading section is already in motion, its chief only repeats
the command for the guide as in No. 685,
To form line to the 7'ight or left.
687. The battery being in column, in march or at a halt, to form it
into line to the left, the captain commands :
1. Left into line, wheel. 2. March. 3. Battery— Rai^t. 4. Left
— Dress. 5. Front.
At the first command the chiefs of sections command, section, left
wheel; and at the second, which they repeat, all the sections wheel to
34
4()2 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
the left. Eiich chief of section commands, forward, guide left, as
soiin as his leading pivot carriage has taken the new direction.
When the rear carriages have completed the wheel, and the sections
arc in line, the captain commands, hatUrry, halt; lift dreaa.
Tlie commands, halt, left dress, are repeated by the chiefs of sec-
tioiit^, and when the alignment is completed the captain commands
front.
The battery is formed into line to the right according to the same
principles and by inverse means.
To form line on the right or left.
688. The battery marching in column, to form it into line on the
right, the captain commands :
1. On the right into line. 2. March. 3. Guide right. 4. Front.
At the first command, the chief of the leading section commands,
section, right wheel; and at the second, which he repeats, the section
wheels to the right. As soon as the leading pivot carriage enters the
new direction he conim-And^, forward, guide right; and as the section
completes the wheel and unmasks the column, he commands, section,
halt; right dress.
The chiefs of the other sections repeat the command for the guide,
and their section continues to move forward. As each section passes
the one preceding it in the formation, its chief establishes it on the
line, with the proper interval, by the same commands. The commands,
section, halt; right dress, are given when the section is four yards in
rear of the line.
When the battery is aligned, the captain commands /Vo»f.
The line is formed on the left according to the same principles and
by inverse means. The commands are, on the left into line, via'rch;
guide left; front.
When the column is at a halt, the line is formed on the right or left
in the same manner. In this case, the chiefs of the two I'car sections
command, section, fonoard, and afterward repeat the commands, )narch;
guide right (or l<ft).
To break into column to the front.
689. The battery being in line at a halt, to break into column to the
front from the right, the captain commands :
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 403
1. By section fro7n the rights front into column. 2. March.
3. Guide left.
At the first command, the chief of the right section commands, sec-
tion, foncard; and those of the other sections, section, right oblique.
At the command march, repeated by the chief of the right section,
that section moves forward, and its chief repeats the command for the
guide.
Each of the other chiefs of sections repeats the commands, march,
yiiide left, after the section on hia right has commenced the movement,
and when the leaders of its rear carriages are in line with him. After
obliquing sufliciently to gain the rear of the preceding sections, he com-
mands/or««rr/.
The movement is executed from the left according to the same prin-
ciples and by iiiver>-e means.
To break into column to the rear.
The battery being in line, in march or at a halt, to break into column
to the rear from one of the flanks, the captain executes an about or a
countermarch, according to the kind of carriage he may wish in front,
then halts the battery, and breaks it into column to the front by the
preceding manoeuvre.
To break into column to the right or left.
690. The battery being in line, in march or at a halt, to break it into
columns to the left, the captain commands:
1. By section, left wheel. 2. March. 3. Forward. 4. Guide
left.
,At the first command, the chiefs of sections command, section, left
icheel ; and at the second, repeated by those chiefs, all the sections
wheel to the left. When the wheels are nearly completed the captain
commands, f'onrnrd, yinde Irft, and the chiefs of sections repeat the
commands.
When the column is not to advance, the command, column, halt, is
substituted for foncard, guide Irft.
The battery is broken into column to the right according to the same
principles and by inverse means.
404 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
To break into columns to the front from one fiank^ to march
toward the other.
691. The battery being in line at a halt, to break from the right to
march to the left, the captain commands :
1. By section, break from the right, to march to the left.
2. March. 3. Guide left.
At the first command, the chief of the right section commands, sec-
tion, forward; and at the second, which he repeats, the section moves
forward, and he commands, guide left. After advancing eleven yards
he changes the direction to the left by the commands, section, left wheel;
march; forward.
Each of the other chiefs of sections command, section, forward, in
time to command march, when the limber wheels of the rear carriages
in the section preceding his own arrive in front of him. He then con-
ducts the section to the front, changes its direction to the left, and
places it in rear of the preceding section by the commands already pre-
scribed for the section on the right.
The battery is broken from the left to march to the right, according
to the same principles and by inverse means.
To break into column to the rear from one flank, to march toiuard
the other.
692. The battery being in line at a halt, to break to the rear from
one flank to march toward the other, the captain first executes an
about or countermarch, according to the kind of carriage he may
wish in front. He then halts the battery and executes the preceding
manoeuvre.
To break into column to the front when the battery is marching in
line.
69.3. The battery marching in line at a walk, to break into column
to the front from the right, and at the same gait, the captain com-
mands :
1. By the right, break into sections. 2. March. 3. Guide left.
The chief of the right section repeats the command for the guide,
and his section continues to move at the same gait. At the command
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 405
march, the other sections are halted by the command, section, halt, from
their chiefs. '
The halted sections are put in motion successively by their chiefs;
each commanding, section, ritjht oblique, in time to command march,
when the leaders of the rear carriages in the section on his right arrive
opposite to him. The sections obli(pio and enter the column as de-
scribed in No. 689.
When the battery is marching at a trot, the movement is executed
according to the same principles. But the sections which halted in the
preceding case slacken the gait to a walk at the commands, walk,
march, from their chiefs. They again trot and enter the column by the
commands, section, right oblique, trot; march; forward.
When the battery is marching in line at a walk, to break into column
from the right at a trot, the captain commands :
1. By the right, break into sections,, trot. 2. March. 3. Guide
left.
At the first command, the chief of the right section commands trot;
and at the second, which he repeats, the section changes its gait to a
trot. He afterward repeats the command guide left.
Each of the other sections continues to march at a walk until required
to enter the column, when its chief conducts it, as alread}^ described,
by the commands, section, right oblique, trot; march; forward.
The battcr^^ is broken into column from the left, according to the
same principles and by inverse means.
To form line advancing.
694. When the battery is marching in column at a walk, to form it
into line at a trot, gaining ground to the left, and continue the march,
the captain commands :
1. Form line advancing,, left oblique,, trot. 2. March. 3. Guide
right.
The chief of the leading section repeats the command for the guide,
and his section continues to move at a walk.
At the first command, tlie chiefs of the other sections command, sec-
tion, left oblique, trot. The command march is repeated by the same
chiefs ; and when the obliiiue movement is commenced, they repeat the
command, guide right. Each chief commands forward, as soon as his
section has obliqued sufficiently to the loft, and u-alk, in time to com-
manil march, as it arrives on the line.
406 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
When the battery is marching in column at a trot, the movement is
executed according to the same principles. In this case the captain
does not command trot ; and the chief of the leading section com-
mands xoalk, march, successively, after the first and second commands
of the cajitain. The chiefs of the other sections give the same com-
mands as their sections arrive on the line.
The movement is executed so as to gain ground to the right, accord-
ing to the same principles and by inverse means.
To form double column on the centre section.
695. The battery being in line at a halt, to form double column on
the centre section, the cajatain. commands:
1. Double column on the centre. 2. March. 3. Guide right
(or left).
At the first command, the chief of the centre section commands,
section, foricard ; the chief of the right section, section, left oblique ;
and the chief of the left section, section, right ohlique. At the com-
mand march, repeated by the chief of the centre section, that section
marches to the front, and its chief repeats the command for the guide.
When the wheel horses in the rear rank of the centre section have
l^assed the leaders in the front rank of the other sections, the chiefs of
those sections repeat the command march, and the sections commence
the oblique.
When the piece nearest the column is about entering it, in each of
these sections, the chief of the right section commands, hy the left,
break section, march ; and the chief of the left, by the right, break sec-
tion, march. The right and left sections, without change of gait, then
form into columns of pieces in rear of the right and left carriages of
the centre section.
The chiefs of the flank sections are careful to make their i^icces enter
the column at the proper time. And when the column is formed they
place themselves outside of it, four yards from the centres of their
respective sections.
The chief of the line of caissons follows the movement, sees that his
carriages do not enter the column too soou, and, when the column is
formed, places himself four yards in rear of the centre.
When the battery is marching at a walk, to form the double column
at the same gait, the captain commands:
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 407
1. Double columii on the centre. 2. March. 3. Guide right
(or left).
The chief of the centre section repeats the command for the guide,
and the section continues to advance.
At the command march, the other sections are halted by the com-
mand, section, halt, from their chiefs. They are afterward formed
into column by the commands and means prescribed for forming
double column from a halt.
When the battery is marching at a trot, the double column is formed
according to the same principles. In this case the flank sections pass
to a Avalk, instead of halting as before, and resume the trot to oblique,
and enter the column. The commands from their chiefs ai*e, loalk ;
nmrch ; section, left (or right) oblique, trot; march, and, bi/ the left (or
riyht), break section ; march.
When the battery is marching at a walk, to form the double column
at a trot, the captain commands :
1. Double column on the centre., trot. 2. March. 3. Guide
right (or left).
At the first command, the chief of the centre section commands trot.
At the second, which he repeats, the section moves forward at a mode-
rate trot, and he repeats the command for the guide.
The flank sections continue to walk until the centre has advanced
sufficiently to allow them to oblique, and are then foi-med into column
as already prescribed; their chiefs commanding, section, left (or right)
oblique, trot ; march, and, by the left (or right), break section; march.
To form the double column with a battery of four pieces, the captain
gives the same commands as with a battery of six. The right section
is broken into column of pieces by the left, and the left section by the
right. The chiefs of sections place themselves on the outer flanks of
the column, abreast the loading drivers of the leading carriages. The
senior chief repeats the command for the guide, and gives such other
commands as are required for the head of the column; the leading car-
riages moving as a section for the time being.
\
To deploy the double column into line to the front.
The battery being in double column at a halt, to form it into line to
the front, the captain commands:
408 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
1. Forward^ into line. 2. March. 3. Front.
At the first command, the chief of the centre section commands,
section, forward ; the chief of the right section, section, into line, right
oblique; and the chief of the left section, section, into line, left oblique.
At the command march, repeated by these chiefs, the cenire section ad-
vances five yards, and its chief commands, section, halt; right (or
left) — dress.
The flank sections oblique to the right and left ,■ and as their pieces
arrive in rear of their proper places on the line, they move forward,
halt, and dress toward the centre without command.
As soon as the battery is aligned, the captain commands front.
AVhen the column is marching, the movement is executed in the same
manner. In this case the chief of the centre section does not com-
mand, section, forward ; march ; but halts and aligns his section after
advancing five yards.
When the column is raarching at a trot, to deploy it into line to the
front at the same gait, without discontinuing the march, the captain
commands :
1. Form line advancing. 2. March. 3. Guide right (or left).
At the first command, the chief of the centre section commands,
toalk ; the chief of the right section, section, into line, right ohliqne ;
and the chief of the left section, section, into line, left oblique. At the
command march, repeated by these chiefs, the centre section slackens
its gait to a walk, and the flank sections deploy. As each piece arrives
upon the line, its gait is changed to a walk without command. The
movement is executed as in the preceding cases ; but when the line is
formed it continues to advance: the captain commanding guide right
(or left), which command is repeated by the chiefs of sections.
When the column is marching at a walk, to deploy it into line to
the front at a trot, without discontinuing the march, the captain com-
mands :
1. Form line advancing, trot. 2. March. 3. Guide right (or left) .
At the first command the chief of the right section commands, section,
into line, right oblique, trot; and the chief of the left section, section
into line, left oblique, trot. At the command march, repeated by these
chiefs, the flank sections deploy at a trot; the centre section continues
to march at a walk ; and, the line having been formed as in the pre-
ceding case, the captain gives the commi^nd for the guide.
When the battery consists of four pieces, the double column is de-
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 409
ploj-ed into line to the front by the same commands from the captain
as when it consists of six. The chiefs of sections give the same com-
mands as in the other case, and then tlieir sections are formed as in No.
674. When the line is to be halted, as in forming foru:ard into line, the
senior chief commands, halt \ right (or left) dress, as soon as the leading
carriages have advanced five yards; and the alignment is made upon
the central carriages.
To form the double column info line to the right or left.
607. The battery being in double column at a halt, to form it into
line on the right, the captain commands :
1. To and on the right into line. 2. March. 3. Front.
At the first command, the chief of the leading section commands,
section, right wheel ; and the other chiefs of sections, forward. At the
second, repeated by those chiefs, the leading section wheels to the right
and is established on the line as in No. 687. The other pieces advance
under the direction of their chiefs and of the chiefs of sections, wheel
to the right in succession as they arrive opposite their places, establish
themselves on the line, and dress upon the pieces already aligned.
AVhen the alignment is completed, the captain commands front.
When the column is marching, the line is formed to the right in the
same manner, except that the chiefs of the flank sections omit' the
commands, fnrnutrd,, march. The line is formed to the left according
to the same principles and by inverse means.
When the battery consists of four pieces, the double column is de-
ployed into line to the right or left by the same commands from the
captain, as when it consists of six. In this case the leading pieces are
wheeled to the right or left, as a section, and established on the line.
For this purpose the senior chief of section commands, right (or left)
wheel; march ; forward : gidde right (or left); halt; right (or left)
dress. The other pieces move forward, wheel in succession as they
arrive opposite their places, and form on the line as already des-
cribed.
To advance in line.
698. The battery being in line at a halt, to cause it to advance, the
captain indicates to the guide the points on which he is to march, and
commands:
1. Battery, forward. 2. March. 3. Guide right (or left).
^5
410 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The commands, /oru-arrf; march; griide right (or ?e//), are repeated
by the chiefs of sectioDS. At the command march, all the carriages
move forward at a walk, and the chiefs of sections preserve the align-
ment toward that chief of carriage who serves as guide of the line. The
guide marches steadily in the given direction, and the chiefs of car-
riages regulate their intervals and alignment by him.
The carriages of the rear rank follow those in front at their appro-
priate distance of two yards. The chief of the line of caissons super-
intends the march of the rear rank of carriages, and moves wherever
his presence may be necessary for that purpose.
In horse artillery the detachments preserve their alignments, and
follow their pieces at the proper distance.
To halt the battery and align it.
699. When the battery is marching in line, to halt and align it, the
captain commands :
1. Battery — Halt. 2. Pdght (or left) — Dress. 3. Front.
The commands, halt; right (or left) — dress, are repeated by the
chiefs of sections. At the first command, the carriages and detach-
ments halt, and at the second align themselves by the right (or left) in
their respective ranks ; the carriages dressing by the drivers of their
wheel horses. The carriages are placed as squarely on the line as
possible without opening or closing the intervals. The captain super-
intends the alignment of the front rank of carriages, and the chief of
the line of caissons that of the rear ,• each placing himself for that
purpose on the flank of the guide. When the battery is aligned, the
captain commands /roni!.
When the battery is halted, if it cannot be aligned by slight move-
ments, the captain causes one or two carriages from one of the flanks
or centre to advance four yards, or to a greater distance if necessary,
and then causes the alignment to be made by the right, left, or centre,
by the command, right, left, or, on the centre, dress. At this command,
the carriages and detachments move forward and align themselves
according to the principles just explained; the drivers halting a little
in rear of the line, and dressing forward so as to place the carriage as
squarely upon it as possible.
To change direction in line.
700. The battery being in line at a halt, to wheel it to the right, the
captain commands :
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACT1C8. 411
1. Battery^ right ivheel. 2. March. 8. Forward. 4. Bat-
tery— Halt. 5. Right — Dress. 6. Front.
The coinraaLTids, right wheel; march ; forward ; halt; ru/ht — drean,
are repeated by the chiefs of sections.
At the command march, the pivot carriage moves at a walk, and des-
cribes a quadrant (twenty-two yards) of a circle, whose radius is four-
teen yards. The other carriages move at a trot and preserve their
intervals from the pivot. They regulate their gaits according to their
distances from the pivot, so as to remain as short a time as possible in
rear of the line, without urging their horses injuriously, and so as to
arrive upon it in succession. The carriages of the rear rank follow at
the proper distance in the tracks of those in front.
At the command forward, which is given when the leading pivot
carriage has described its arc of twenty-two yards, that carriage moves
direct to the front; and when the rear pivot carriage is in the new
direction, the captain commands, battery; htdt ; rir/ht dress. The
commands forward; half; riyht dress, are repeated by the chief of the
right section immediately after the captain; and by the other chiefs in
time to be applicable to their sections; the pivot carriages halting at
the command halt, and the others hj^lting and dressing toward the
pivot as they arrive in succession on the line.
When the battery is aligned, the captain commandsyVo»^.
The battery is wheeled to the left according to the same principles
and by inverse means.
When the battery is at a halt or marching in line^ to wheel it to the
right and continue the march, the captain commands:
1. Battery, right wheel. 2. March. 3. Foravard.
The movement is executed as already described, except that the
pivot carriage, after wheeling, continues to march in the new direction,
and the others conform to its gait and direction as they arrive on the
line.
The direction is changed to the left according to the same principles
and by inverse means.
FORMATIONS IN BATTERY.
In line with pieces in front to form in battery to the front.
701. When the battery is in line at a halt, with the pieces in front, to
form in battery to the front, the captain commands:
412 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
1. In battery. 2. Guide left. 3. March.
These commands are repeated by the chiefs of sections. At the
command in hattery, the caissons stand fast, and the pieces advance.
The intervals and alignment are preserved, and the chiefs of pieces
and sections march at their places in line. At the command march,
which is given as soon as they have advanced seventeen yards, the
chiefs of pieces and sections halt, and the pieces execute an about.
As soon as the about is completed, the pieces are halted, unlimbered,
and prepared for firing: the limbers being taken to their places in bat-
tery by an about.
When the cannoneers are marching by the sides of their pieces, they
-halt at the command march, allow their pieces to pass them, change
sides, and move forward to the posts they are to occupy, when their
pieces have completed the about. They are not required to observe
any particular order during this movement.
When the cannoneers are mounted on the ammunition chest, those
on the caissons dismount and run to their posts at the command in bat-
tery. Those on the pieces dismount after the about.
The chiefs of pieces and sections take their posts in battery as soon
as the formation is completed.
In horse artillery, the movement is executed in the same manner, and
by the same commands. But the pieces advance only ten yards before
executing the about. The horses of the detachments do not advance.
But at the command in hattery, the cannoneers dismount and run to
their posts.
After the formation, the captain rectifies the alignment, if necessary.
When the battery is marching in line with the pieces in front, it is
formed in battery to the front, according to the same principles, and by
the commands, in hattery, march. The caissons halt at the command
in hattery J and in horse artillery the detachments do the same; the
cannoneers dismounting and running to their posts.
To form in battery to the front hy throwing the caissons to the
rear.
702. When the battery is in line at a halt, with the pieces in front, to
form in battery to the front liy throwing the caissons to the rear, the
captain commands :
Action front.
At this command, repeated by the chiefs of sections, the pieces are
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 413
unliuaberea and wheeled about by hand; the limbers reversing to the
left at the same time, and taking their places in battery, as described
in the school of the piece No CV,^ TV.. • ucM^noea
Pi*'^^' ^^>- (>J«- The caissons reverse to the left,
Tattery ""' """" '^"" '' ''^ ^'^''^ '-^"^^ *^^- ^^-^ places in
When the cannoneers are mounted on the ammunition chests, they
dismount and run to their posts, at the command action front
to i^rZrT''': "'" ''" "^'^ ^' "''""^= ^"^« -^-«^ - -sorted
latterv ^ ^ T "'" '' ''' ^"^^^ '^^^^'^^^"^^ *« ^^-^ horses in
smal , that they may be led to the roar by the horse holders. In this
case the captain commands ai.nount ; immediately after. .cW front.
^ ben he detachments conduct their horses to the rear, they dismount
without command from the captain. ^^mount
The battery is generally in line at a halt, when this mo<le of coming
nto action is resorted to. It may also be used in successive forma
ions by giving the command action front, when a part of the battery
:i T: f '' .'" '''' ^^"" ^"^ -^^^ ^-1 g-"-l or heavy pieces
this mode of coming into action should not be used.
In line with caissons in front, to form in battery to the front.
703. When the battery is in line at a halt, with the caissons in front,
to form in battery to the front, the captain commands :
1. Pieces, pass your caissons. 2. March. 3. In battery.
4. Guide left. 5. March.
These commands are repeated by the chiefs of sections; the pieces
pass their caissons, and at the command in lattery, given as soon as
he pieces have passed their caissons, the formation is executed as
prescribed in No. 702.
In horse artillery, the command in hatter,^ is given when the detach-
ments have passed the caissons.
When the battery is marching in line, with the caissons in front, it
s .ormed in battery to the front according to the same principles, and
by the commands, piece., pass your caissons (or pieces, pass your
caissons, trot) ; march ; in lattery; guide hft, march.
In line with pieces in front, to form in battery to the rear.
704. When the battery is in line at a halt, with the pieces in front,
to iorm in battery to the rear, the captain command.. :
414 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MTLTTTA.
1. Fire to the rear. 2. Caissons, pass your pieces, trot.
3. March. 4. In battery.
The three last commands ai'e repeated by the chiefs of sections. At
the third, the caissons pass their pieces at a brisk trot. And, at the
fourth, which is given as soon as the caissons have pat^sed, the can-
noneers unlimber and prepare for firing.
The caissons advance seventeen yards beyond their pieces, execute
an aboiit together, and take their places in batter^'.
When the cannoneers are mounted on the ammunition chests, the
caissons advance seventeen yards beyond their pieces, and then halt
to allow the cannoneers to dismount before executing the about. As
soon as the caissons halt, the cannoneers dismount and run to their
posts. When the battery is at a halt, as in the present case, it is
considered better to dismount the cannoneers before commencing the
movement. The chief of the line of caissons precedes the movement
of his carriages, and places himself on the line to be occupied by
their leaders, when the about is commenced. He takes his place in
battery as soon as the about is completed and the carriages ai'e on the
line.
The chiefs of pieces and sections take their places in battery as
soon as the formation is completed.
In horse artiller)/, at the command in battery, the detachments
incline to the right, pass their pieces at a brisk trot, and take their
places in battery by a left about. The cannoneers then dismount, run
to their posts, unlimber, and prepare for firing.
When the battery is marching in line, with the pieces in front, the
formation in battery to the rear is executed according to the same
principles and by the same commands. At the command in battery,
which is given as soon as the caissons have passed their pieces, the
latter halt, the detachments in horse artillery pass them, and the
movement is completed as already described.
In line with caissons in front, to form in battery to the rear.
705. When the battery is in line at a halt, with the caissons in front,
to form in battery to the rear, the captain commands :
1. Fire to the rear. 2. In battery.
At the command in lattery, which is repeated by the chiefs of sec-
tions, the cannoneers unlimber and prepare for firing.
The chiefs of pieces and sections take their places in battery.
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 415
The caissons move at a brisk trot and take their places in battery,
under the superintendence of their chief.
In horse <irtillcrji, at the command in battery, the detachments pass
their pieces at. a trot, move to their places in battery, dismount, and
run to their posts.
When the batter}'- is marching in line, with the caissons in front,
the formation in battery to the rear is executed according to the same
principles and by the same commands.
In hattery, to form in line to the front.
706. Being in battery, to form in line to the front with the caissons
in rear, the captain commands :
Limber to the front.
This command is repeated by the chiefs of sections, and the pieces
are limbered as described in No. 648 ; the caissons closing at the same
time to the proper distance without further command.
When the captain wishes to place the caissons in front, he com-
mands, limber to the front; and while the pieces are limbering, caissons,
pass 1/our pieces, trot ; march. The caissons pass and halt in front of
their pieces ; or, if the captain wishes the battery to advance, he
commands, forward ; (/uide right (or left), as the caissons are complet-
ing the passage, and the battery moves forward at a walk.
In horse artilleri/, when the, pieces arc limbered to the front, the
horse holders advance within two yards of their pieces ; and there
the cannoneers mount.
The captain rectifies the alignment, if necessary, and commands
front.
When the battery is to advance immediately, the captain commands,
forward; guide right (or left), instead of battery, halt; and the caisson,
close on the march.
When the captain wishes to place the caissons in front, he may cause
the pieces to be limbered to the rear, and command:
1. Caissons pass your pieces, trot, pieces left about. 2. March.
3. Battery — Halt, or Forward — Guide right (or left).
These commands are repeated and executed as already prescribed ;
the pieces executing the about as soon as the ground has been un-
masked by the caissons, and the battery halting or advancing as soon
as the passage is completed.
In horse artillery, when the pieces are limbered to the rear, the can-
noneers run to their horses, mount, and rejoin their pieces.
416 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
In hatleri/, to form in line to the rear.
707. When in battery, to form in line to the rear, the captain causes
the pieces to be limbered to the rear; and then, if he wishes to place
the caissons in front, commands:
1. Caissons^ left about ; pieces^ forward. 2. March. 3. Bat-
l^ry — Halt, or Forward — Guide right (or lefl^.
The two first commands are repeated by the chiefs of sections; the
caissons execute the about; and the pieces close to their^roper distance.
The third command, which is given at the moment the about is finished,
is repeated and executed as prescribed.
The captain rectifies the alignment if necessary, and commands
front.
In home artillery, the detachments oblique to the left to facilitate the
movement of the caissons. And then if the battery halts, they place
themselves at once in rear of their pieces; or if it advances, they wait
and do the same by wheeling to the right as they pass.
If the formation in line to the rear is to be executed by placing the
pieces in front, the captain, after causing the pieces to be limbered to
the rear, commands :
1. Pieces, pass your caissons; caissons, left about. 2. March.
3. Battery — Halt, or Forward — Guide right (or left).
The first two commands are repeated by the chiefs of sections;
the pieces pass their caissons; and the caissons execute the about as
soon as the ground is unmasked. The third command is repeated and
executed according to the principles prescribed in No. 698.
The captain rectifies the alignment if necessary, and commands
front.
In horse artillery, the detachments place themselves behind tbeir
pieces as soon as they are passed by them.
In forming line to the rear, either with pieces or caissons in front,
the caissons may be placed at once in front of their pieces for greater
convenience in mounting the cannoneers. For this purpose, as soon as
the captain has commanded, limber to the rear, he commands:
1. Caissons, in front of your pieces (or caissons, in front of your
pieces, trot). 2. March.
These commands are repeated by the chiefs of sections; and while
the pieces are limbering, the caissons oblique to the right, move forward
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 417
near the middle of the interval between the leaders of the pieces, place
themselves iu front of them by two successive wheels to the left, and
halt.
In hoy^se artillery, when the caissons are ordered to the front of their
pieces, the horse holders oblique to the left at the command march, and
halt between the leading drivers of the pieces. As soon as the can-
noneers are mounted, the detachments take their posts in rear of their
pieces.
In column luiih pieces in fronts to form in battery to the front.
708. When the batter}' is in column at a halt, with the pieces in front,
to form in battery to the front by gaining ground to the left, the captain
commands :
1. Forward^ into battery^ left oblique. 2. March. 3. Guide
right.
At the first command, the chief of the leading section commands,
section, forward; and those of the other sections, section, left oblique.
The chief of the line of caissons moves quickly to the right of the
leading section, to cause the caissons to halt at the proper time and to
superintend their alignment. At the command inarch, repeated by the
chiefs of sections, the movement is executed as pi'cscribed in No. 085,
for forming line to the front. But as each section arrives on the
line, instead of halting, its chief forms it in battery to the front by
the commands, in battery ; march, which are executed as prescribed in
No. 701.
The formation in battery to the front, by gaining ground to the
right, is executed according to the same principles and by inverse
means.
When the battery is marching in column, it is formed in battery to
the front by applying the principles of No. 701.
In column^ with caissons in front, to form in battery to the front.
709. When the battery is in column at a halt, with the caissons in
front, to form in battery to the front by gaining ground to the left, the
captain commands :
1. Forward, into battery, left oblique. 2. March. 3. Guide
right.
At the first command, the chief of the leading section commands.
418 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
section, forward ; and those of the other sections, section, left oblique.
The chief of the line of caissons moves quickly to the right of the
leading section, to halt the caissons at the proper time and to super-
intend their alignment. At the command inarch, repeated by the chiefs
of sections, the movement is executed as prescribed in No. 701, for
forming line to the front. But as each section arrives on the line,
instead of halting, its chief forms it in battery to the front by the
commands, j:>i"ece«, j^ass your caissons; march; in battery; march,
which will be executed as prescribed in No. 703.
The formalion in battery to the front, by gaining ground to the
right, is executed according to the same principles and by inverse
means.
When the battery is marching in column, it is formed in battery to
the front by applying the principles laid down in the latter part of
No. 70;5.
In column^ with pieces in fronts to form in battery to the rear.
710. When the battery is in column at a halt, with the pieces in
front, to form in battery to the rear by gaining ground to the left, the
captain commands :
1. Into hatter y, faced to the rear, left oblique. 2. March.
3. Guide right.
, At the first command, the chief of the leading section commands,
section, forward; and those of the other sections, section, left oblique.
The chief of the line of caissons goes to the right of the leading
section, to direct the about of the caissons, and to superintend their
alignment. At the command march, repeated by the chiefs of sections,
the movement is executed as prescribed in No. 685, for forming line to
the front. But as each section arrives on the line, instead of halting,
its chief forms it in battery to the rear by the commands, caissons, pass
your pieces, trot ; march; jh 6o«e/7/, which are executed as prescribed
in No. 704.
The formation in battery to the rear, by gaining ground to the
right, is executed according to the same principles and by inverse
means.
When the battery is marching in column, it is formed into battery to
the rear by aijplying the principles prescribed in the latter part of
Nos. 685 and 70i.
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 419
In column, with caissons in front, to form in battery to the rear.
711. The battery being iu column at a halt, with the caissons in
front, to form in battery to the rear by gaining ground to the left, the
captain commands :
1. Into battery, faced to the rear, left oblique. 2. March.
3. Guide right.
At the first command, the chief of the leading section commands,
section, foricard; and those of the other sections, section, left oblique.
The chief of the line of caissons goes to the right of the leading sec-
tion, to direct the about of the caissons, and to superintend their
alignment. At the command march, repeated by the chiefs of sections,
the movement is executed as prescribed in No, 685 for forming line to
the front. But as each section arrives on the line, instead of halting,
its chief forms it into battery to the rear by the command in battery,
which is executed as prescribed in No. 704.
The formation in battery to the rear, by gaining ground to the right,
is executed according to the same principles and by inverse means.
When the battery is marching in column, it is formed into battery to
the rear by applying the principles of Nos. 6S5 and 704.
In column, with pieces in frojit, to form in battery to the right or
left.
712. When the battery is in column, in march, or at a halt, with the
pieces iu front, if the captain wishes to form it in battery to the left, by
gaining ground to the right, he commands :
1. Fire to the left, by section, right luheel. 2. March. 3. Cais-
sons, pass your pieces, trot. 4. March. 5. In battery.
At the first command, the chiefs of sections command, section, right
wheel; and at the second, which they repeat, all the sections wheel to
the right. The caissons follow their pieces at the proper distance.
At the commands, caissons, i^a^'^ your pieces, trot; march, which are
given before the completion of the wheel, and repeated by the chiefs
of sections, all the caissons pass their pieces at a trot.
At the command in battery, which is given and repeated in like man-
ner as soon as the caissons have passed, and the pieces are square on
the new line, all the sections form at once into battery to the roar, as
prescribed in No. 704.
420 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
When the captain wishes to form in battery to the left, by gaining
ground to the left, he commands :
1. Fire to the left, by section, left ivheel. 2. March. 3. In
BATTERY. 4. MaRCH.
At the first command, the chiefs of sections command, section, left
wheel; and at the second, which they repeat, all the sections wheel at
once to the left.
At the command in hatter}^, which is given and repeated as soon as
the caissons have completed the wheel, all the sections form at once
into battei'y to the front, as prescribed in No. 703.
The two formations in battery to the right, by gaining ground to the
left or right, are executed according to the same principles and by in-
verse means.
In column, ivith caissons in front, to form in battery to the right or
left.
713. When the battery is in column, in march or at a halt, with the
caissons in front, to form it in battery to the left, by gaining ground
to the right, the captain commands :
1. Fire to the left, by section, right wheel. 2. March. 3. In
BATTERY.
At the first command, the chiefs of sections command, section, right
wheel; and at the second, which they repeat, the sections wheel at once
to the right, and move to the front at the commands, forward, guide
right, from their chiefs.
At the command in battery, which is given and repeated as soon as
the pieces are square on the new line, all the sections form at once into
battery to the rear, as prescribed in No. 704.
To form in battery to the left, by gaining ground to the left, the
captain commands :
1. Fire to the left, by section, left wheel. 2. March. 3. Pieces,
pass your caissons. 4. March. 5. In battery. 6. March.
At the first command, the chiefs of sections command, section, left
wheel; and at the second, which they repeat, the sections wheel at once
to the left. The third and fourth commands are given and repeated
just before the completion of the wheel: and the fifth is given when
the pieces have passed their caissons, and the latter are square upon
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 421
the new line. The sections are then formed in battery to the front as
prescribed in No. 703.
The formations in battery to the right, by gaining ground to the
right or left, are executed according to the same principles and by in-
verse means.
In column^ with pieces in fronts to form in battery on the right or
left.
714. When the battery is marching in column, with the pieces in
front, to form in battery on the right, the captain commands :
1. On the rights into battery. 2. March. 3. Guide right.
At the first command, the chief of the leading section commands, sec-
tion, right wheel; and the chief of the line of caissons goes to that sec-
tion. At the command march, repeated by the chief of the leading
section, that section wheels to the right, and its chief conducts it to the
line by the commands, forward, (juidc riyht. And then, without halting,
it is formed into battery to the front, as prescribed in No. 703, by the
commands, in battery, march, from its chief.
The other sections continue to advance; and as each arrives opposite
its place in battery, after passing the one preceding it in the formation,
it is formed into battery by its chief, by the commands, section, right
wheel; march; forward; guide right; in battery; march; the command
in battery being given as the caissons arrive in line with those already
established.
The formation in battery on the left is executed according to the
same principles and by inverse means.
When the battery is in column at a halt, it is formed in battery on
the right or left according to the same principles. In this case, the
chiefs of the two rear sections command, section, forxoard, immediately
after the first command of the captain, and then repeat the commands,
march; guide right (or left).
In column, with caissons in front, to form in battery on the right or
left.
715. When the battery is marching in column, with the caissons in
front, to form in battery on the right, the captain commands :
1. On the right, into battery. 2. March. 3. Guide right.
At the first command, the chief of the leading section commands,
422 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
section, right ivheel; and the chief of the line of caissons goes to that
section. At the command march, repeated by the chief of the leading
section, that section wheels to the right, and is conducted to the line
by the commands, forvard, guide right, from its chief; as soon as it
reaches the line, the section is formed in battery to the front by the
commands, piecea, 2:>a8n your cais>iou8j march; in battery; march, from
its chief.
The other sections continue to advance, and as each arrives opposite
its place in battery, after having passed the one preceding it in the for-
mation, it is wheeled to the right, and formed into battery by its chief,
in the same manner as the leading section.
The formation in battery on the left, is executed according to the
same principles and by inverse means.
When the battery is in column at a halt, it is formed in battery on
the right or left, according to the same principles; the chiefs of the
two rear sections giving the additional commands prescribed in No.
714.
7o deploy the double column info battery to the front or rear.
716. The battery being in double column at a halt, to deploy it into
battery to the front, the captain commands :
1. Forward into battery. 2. March.
At the first command, the chief of the centre section commands, sec-
tion, forroard; that of the right, section into line, right oblique; that of
the left, section into line, left oblique; and the chief of the line of cais-
sons goes to the leading section. At the command march, repeated by
the chiefs of sections, the centre section advances five yards, and with-
out halting, is formed into battery to the front as prescribed in No. 701
or 703, according to the kind of carriage in front.
The pieces of the flank sections are brought upon the line by obliqu-
ing, and placed successively in battery without command ; regulating
by the centre section.
When the battery is marching in double column, it is deployed
into battery to the front in the same manner, except that the chief
of the centre section does not command, section, foncard ; march.
When the battery is in double column, marching or at a halt, it
is deployed into battery to the rear according to the principles pre-
scribed in this No. and in No. 704 or 705, according to the kind of
carriage in front. The commands are:
1. Into battery, faced to the rear. 2. March.
f
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 423
When the battery consists of four pieces, the double column is
deployed into battery to the front or rear, by the same commands
from the captain as when it consists of six. The sections are formed
into battery as prescribed for the flank sections in this number. The
senior chief of section, besides superintending the formation of his
own, gives the commands required for the centre section, and the
leading pieces conform to the movements of that section.
To deploy the double cohimn into lattery to the right or left.
717. When the battery is in double column, marching or at a halt, to
form it in battery to the right, the captain commands :
1. To and on the right, into battery. 2. March.
The centre section is formed in battery on the right, as prescribed for
the leading section in No. 712 or 713, according to the kind of carriage
in front.
The other pieces are brought into lino as prescribed in No. 697, and,
without halting, are formed successively in battery to the front without
commands ; regulating by the centre section.
The deployment into battery to the left is executed according to the
same principles and by inverse means.
When the battery consists of four pieces, the double column is
deployed into battery to the right or left, by the same commands
from the captain as when it consists of six. In thi^ case the lead-
ing pieces are wheeled to the right or left as a section, and conducted
to the line by the senior chief of section. And then, without halt-
ing, they are formed into battery to the front by the same chief.
The other pieces move forward, wheel in succession as they arrive
opposite their places, and form in battery on the alignment of those
already established.
To pass from the order in battery to the order in column.
718. Being in battery, to form column, the captain first causes
the line to be formed as prescribed in Nos. 706 or 707, and then
forms column by one of the manoeuvres for passing from the order
in line to the order in column.
. FIRINGS.
719. When everything is prepared for firing, the captain com-
mands :
424 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA,
Commence Firing.
This command, given by itself or after load, is repeated by the
chiefs of sections, and the firing immediately commenced.
The firing is discontinued by the command or signal, cease firing,
which is repeated by the chiefs of sections and pieces.
When the battery is formed for action, the pieces are not loaded
until the command load or commence firing is given by the captain.
In successive formations, when this command is given, it is repeated
in succession by the chiefs of sections, as their sections are formed
on the line.
At the command cease firing, such pieces as are loaded must be
discharged.
To fire advancing.
720i When the battery is firing, to advance by half batteries, the
captain commands :
1. Fire advancing, hy half battery. 2. Right half battery —
Advance.
At the second command, the chief of the right half battery discon- •
tinues firing, causes his pieces to be limbered to the front, and com-
mands, forward, march; guide left. Or, he may cause them to be
limbered to the rear, and after executing the about, command, for-
ivard, guide left. The half battery advances, and the caissons preserve
their distance in battery.
As soon as the right half battery reaches the new position, previous-
ly indicated by the captain, its chief places it in battery, by the com-
mands, halt; action, front; or in battery; march; the two last commands
being given in quick succession. The caissons halt at these com-
mands; and as soon as the pieces are unlimbered, the firing is renewed
by command from the chief of half battery.
The fire of the left half battery is continued during the movement
of the right, care being taken to direct the pieces so that their fire
shall not injure the half battery in advance.
As soon as the right half battery commences firing, the left moves
forward with the guide to the right; and, after passing the right half
battery as far as the latter has advanced, is formed into battery and
the firing commenced. The movements of the left half battery are
effected by commands and means corresponding to those of the right.
The right half battery again advances as soon as the left commences
firing ; and the two continue to advance alternately until the captain
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 425
causes the firing to cease. The battery is then aligned, or formed into
line, to the front or rear, by the proper commands from the captain.
While advancing by half battery, the captain places himself habitu-
ally with the most advanced portion of the battery, and is accom-
panied by the chief of the centre section. The chief of the line of
caissons remains haliitually with the rear half battery.
In horse avtillerj, while advancing by half battery, the detachments
preserve their distance in battery. When the pieces are limbered to
the front, the horsc-holdcrs advance to enable the cannoneers to mount
more readily ; but as soon as the pieces advance, the detachments
resume their distance in battery.
To fire advancing by half battery, commencing with the left, is exe-
cuted according to the same jDrinciples and by inverse means.
The movement may also be executed by sections ; the sections ad-
vancing in succession, according to their positions in the batterj'.
To Jive in retreat.
721. When the battery is firing, to retire by half batteries, the cap-
tain commands :
1. Fire retiring^ by half hattery. 2. Right half battery — Retire.
At the second command, the chief of the right half battery discon-
tinues firing, limbers to the real*, and commands, caissons, left about,
march. As soon as the about is completed, he QommAwiX?,, forward,
guide riyht; and conducts the half battery to the ground previously
indicated by the captain ; the pieces preserving their distance in bat-
tery by marching nineteen j'ards in rear of the caissons. As soon as
the ground has been reached, tlie chief of half battery commands,
halt; in battery, and commences firing; taking care not to injure the
other half battery. The limbers and caissons remain facing toward
the rear, as long as the firing in retreat continues.
As soon as the right half battery commences firing, the left retires
with the guide to the left; and, after passing the right half battery as
far as the latter has retired, it is formed into battery, and the firing
again commenced. The movements are executed in a manner corres-
ponding to those of the other half battery.
The half batteries continue to fetire alternately, until the captain
causes the firing to cease. The battery is afterwards aligned, or
formed into line to the frf)nt or rear, by appropriate commands from
the captain.
While retiring by half battery, the captain remains habitually with
36
426 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
the portion of the battery nearest the enemy, and is accompanied by
the chief of the centre section. The chief of the Hne of caissons ac-
companies the other half battery.
In horse artillery, the detachments moves to the left to facilitate the
about of the caissons. They afterward place themselves behind and
follow them during the retrograde movement at the distance of two
yards; remaining faced to the rear as long as the firing in retreat con-
tinues.
To fire retiring by half battery, commencing with the left, is exe-
cuted according to the same principles and by inverse means.
The movement may also be executed by sections; the sections retir-
ing in succession according to their positions in the battery.
Movements for firing in echellon.
722. When the battery is in line at a halt with pieces in front, to ad-
vance in echellon of pieces, the captain commands :
1. Bij piece from the right, front into echellon. 2. March.
At the first command, the right piece moves forward, followed by its
caisson. The next piece moves forward in like manner as soon as its
leaders are abreast the wheel horses of the rear carriage on the right ;
and the other pieces commence the movement in succession according
to the same rule.
The officers preserve the same relative positions as in line.
When the battery is marching in line at a walk or trot, the echellon
is formed according to the same principles and by the same commands ;
the gaits being regulated as in breaking sections.
The battery advances in echellon of jiieces from the left according to
the same principles and by inverse means.
When the caissons are in front, the battery advances in echellon of
pieces from the right or left according to the same principles and by
the same commands.
When the battery is in echellon, marching or at a halt, it may be
formed into battery to the front, rear, right or left.
When firing in echellon to the front or rear, the direction of the fire
may be changed to the right or left. For this purpose the captain
orders the firing to cease, and commands, action, right (or left). At
this command, the trails of the pieces are turned to the left (or right),
and the limbers and caissons take their places in rear of the pieces.
But if retiring with the prolonge fixed, the caissons stand fast, and th^
limbers back to allow the trails to be turned in the proper direction.
LIGHT ARTILLERY PRACTICE. 427
The prolonge must be suflBciently slack to allow the recoil of the guns.
This last method is only applicable to firing to the right when retiring
by the right, and to the left when retiring hj the left.
To fire to the rear.
723. When the battery is firing, to fire to the rear, the captain causes
the firing to cease, and commands:
1. Fire to the rear. 2. Limbers and caissons, pass your pieces,
trot. 3. March.
These commands are repeated by the chiefs of sections. At the
command march, the pieces are wheeled about by turning the trails to
the left; and the limbers and caissons oblique to the right, pass them,
and take their places in liattery by a left reverse.
In horse artillery, the horses follow their limbers, pass them, and
take their places by wheeling about to the left.
CHANGES OF FRONT IN BATTERY.
Change of front to fre to the right, left wing forward, and the
reverse.
724. When the battery is firing, if the captain wishes to make a per-
pendicular change of front, to fire to the right, throwing forward the
left wing, he discontinues firing, and commands :
1. Fire to the right. 2. Change front forward on the right piece.
3. March.
At the second command, the chief of the right section places the
right piece in the new direction, by causing the trail to be moved to the
left. lie also causes the left piece of his section to be moved forward
by hand, and established on the new line. When the ground is un-
masked, the limbers and caissons of these pieces oblique to the left,
move forward, and take their places in battery by wheeling to the
right; the caissons aligning themselves by the chief of the line of cais-
sons established on the right.
The other chiefs of sections cause their pieces to be limbered by the
command, limber to the front; the caissons, and in horse artillery the
horse holders, also, closing upon the pieces while they are limbering.
As soon as they are limbered the chiefs of sections command forward.
At the second command, the chief of the line of caissons places him-
428 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
self on the left of the right piece of the centre section, facing to the
front, to mark the right of the new line of caissons.
At the command march, repeated by the chiefs of the centre and left
sections, these sections move to the front: and when each has arrived
opposite its place on the new line, its chief commands; section, right
wheel; march; forward; and afterward, in battery, march, so as to
form upon the alignment of the right section. When the caisson of the
right piece of the centre section reaches the point where its piece
wheeled, it wheels to the left, takes its distance in rear, wheels about
and dresses to the right upon the line of caissons.
The other caisson of the same section obliques to the left when its
piece commences the wheel ,: and, after gaining its distance establishes
itself on the line by wheeling and dressing to the right.
The pivot piece commences firing again, as soon as it is in position,
and the others as they arrive oa the line.
The change of front to fire to the left, right wing forward, is executed
according to the same principles and by inverse means.
In horse artillery, the detachments follow their pieces and halt at their
proper distance from the line. That of the left piece of the right sec-
tion, when limbered, wheels to the left when its piece wheels to the
right, allows its caisson to pass it, and takes its place by wheeling about
to the left. The horse holders of the pieces not limbered oblique to the
left, with their limbers, and, like them, take their places in battery by
wheeling to the right. When it is deemed advisable, the captain may
retain the cannoneers at their pieces, and allow all the horse holders to
conduct their horses to the new line. The same may be done in the
other changes of front.
Change of front to fire to the left, left wing forward^ and the
reverse.
725. When the battery is firing, if the captain wishes to make a
perpendicular cliange of front to fire to the left, throwing forward the
left wing, he discontinues firing and commands :
1. Fire to the left. 2. Change front forward on the right piece.
3. March.
At the second command, the chief of the right section causes the
right piece to be placed in the new direction at once, by moving
the trail to the right; and the limber and caisson of that piece will
oblique to the right, and take their places in its rear by wheeling to
the left; the caisson dressing upon the chief of the line of caissons.
LIGHT ARTILLERY TACTICS. 429
He also causes his left piece to be moved to its place and established
on the line by hand; the limber of this piece, passing it on the right,
takes its place by wheeling to the left, its caisson obliques to the right,
passes on the right, and in rear of the right caisson, and takes its place
also by wheeling to the left.
The chiefs of the other sections cause them to be limbered to the front;
and while limbering they command ; caiHuons pass your 2)ieres, trot;
march. When this is executed the chief of the centre section com-
mands section, right wheel, and that of the left forward.
At the command march, repeated by the chiefs of the centre and
left sections, these sections move as ordered, with the caissons leading.
The centre section is conducted to the line by its chief and formed by
the commands, forward and in battery. The left section advances five
yards and is conducted to the line by two successive right half wheels.
It is there formed in like manner upon the alignment of the right
section.
At the second command from the captain, the chief of the line of
caissons places himself in prolongation of the line, thirty-two yards on
the right of the right piece, and faces to the front, to mark the left of
the new line of caissons.
The pivot piece recommences firing as soon as it is unmasked; and
the others when they arrive on the line.
The change of front to fire to the right, right wing forward, is exe-
cuted according to the same principles and by inverse means.
In horse artillery, the horse holders of those pieces, which are placed
on the line by hand, conduct the horses to their positions in battery by
followina; their limbers.
Change of front to fire to the left, left wing to the rear, and the
reverse.
726. When the battery is firing, if the captain wishes to make a per-
pendicular change of front to fire to the left, throwing the left wing to
the rear, he causes the firing to cease, and commands:
1. Fire to the left. 2. Change front to the rear on the right piece.
3. March.
At the second command, the chief of the right section places the
right piece in the new direction, by causing the trail to be moved to
the right. He also causes the left piece of his section to be moved
to the rear by hand, and established on the new line. The limbers and
caissons of these pieces move at once to the right, obliquing sufficiently
430 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
to place themselves in rear of their respective pieces, and take their
places by wheeling to the left or left about.
The other chiefs of sections command, Umber to the rear, and imme-
diately afterward, caissons in front of your pieces, trot; march. The
caissons place themselves in front of their pieces, while they are lim-
bering, and halt as prescribed in No. 707. The chiefs of these sections
then command forward.
The chief of the line of caissons places himself in the prolongation
of the line, thirty-two yards on the right of the right piece, and faces to
the rear to mark the right of the new line of caissons.
At the command march, given by the captain, and repeated by the
chiefs of the centre and left sections, the chiefs of these sections com-
mand (jaide left, and afterAvard in succession, section, left wheel;
march; forward; in battery. The carriages dress toward the pivot as
they arrive on the line.
The pivot piece recommences firing as soon as it is unmasked; and
the others when they arrive on the line.
The change of front to fire to the right, right wing to the rear, is
executed according to the same principles and by inverse means.
In horse artillery, the detachments pass their pieces at the command
march, place themselves two yards in rear of the muzzles, follow them,
and, at the command in battery, take their places. The horse holders
of those pieces which are moved by hand, follow their limbers and
conduct the horses to their positions, by movements corresponding to
those (jf their caissons. When the left piece of the right section is
limbered, the horses of the detachment are conducted to their places
in the same manner as though the piece were unlimbered, except that
the detachment mounts.
Change of front to fire to the right, left icing to the rear, and the
reverse.
727. When the battery is firing, if the captain wishes to make a
perpendicular change of front to fire to the right, tlirowing the left
wing to the rear, he discontinues firing and commands :
1. Fire to the right. 2. Change front to the rear on the right
piece. 3. March.
At the second command, the chief of the right section commands,
limbers and caissons, in rear of your jiieces, trot; march. The limbers
and caissons oblique to the right, and pass their pieces with the
limbers leading. As soon as the limbers have passed, they wheel
LIGHT ARTILLERY PRACTICE. 431
twice to the left and cover their pieces. The caissons pass their
limbers and cover thcra in like manner. The chief of the section
causes the trail of his right piece to be moved to the left, and his left
piece to be placed upon the new alignment by hand.
The chiefs of other sections command, limber to the rear, and
caissons in rear of your jii^ccs, trot; march. When this is executed
they command forxcard.
At the second command, the chief of the line of caissons places
himself on the left of the right piece of the centre section, facing to
the rear, to mark the left of the new line of caissons.
At the command march, from the captain, repeated by the chiefs of
the centre and left sections, those sections, as Avell as the limbers and
caissons of the first, are established upon the new line as described in
No. 724.
The pivot piece recommences firing as soon as it is placed in the new
direction ; and the others as they arrive on the line.
The change of front to fire to the left, right wing to the rear, is
executed according to the same principles and by inverse means.
In horse artillery, the mounted detachments pass their pieces with
the caissons at the command march, and take their places in rear of
the muzzles by successive wheels to the left. The horse holders of
the pieces which are moved by hand follow their limbers and wheel
into their places in like manner. The remainder is executed as in
No. 724.
To pass a defile in front.
728. When the battery is firing, to pass a defile in front of the right
section, the captain commands:
1. Ti) the front, by the right section, pass the defle. 2. March.
At the first command, the chief of the -fright section discontinues
firing, limbers his pieces to the front, and commands fonvard. At the
command march, repeated by this chief, who also commands guide left,
the section moves forward, passes the defile, and is again established
in battery, and the firing commenced by his command.
As soon as the right section commences tiring, the centre is put in
motion in like manner. Its chief conducts it through the defile by
successive wheels, and, forms it into battery in line with the first.
As soon as the centre section commences firing, the left passes in
like manner.
While one section is passing the defile, the others continue firing;
oare being taken not to injure the section in advance.
432 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
When the defile is in front of the left section, it is passed according
to the same principles, commencing with that section.
When the defile is in front of the centre section, it is passed accord-
ing to the same principles, commencing with that section, and by the
commands, to the front, hy the centre section, pass the defile ; march.
Unless there is some reason to the contrary, the right section will pass
before the left.
When the flank or oblique march is better suited to the nature of the
ground, the chiefs of sections will give the required commands.
When the defile will admit but one piece at a time, the sections are
broken by their chiefs in such a manner as to cause the nearest piece
to enter first. The sections are re-formed by their chiefs immediately
after passing the defile.
To pass a defile in rear.
729. When the battei-y is firing, to pass a defile in rear of the centre
section, the captain commands:
1. To the rear, hy the right section, pass the dejile. 2. March.
At the first command, the chief of the right section discontinues
firing, limbers to the rear, and commands, caissons, left about, 23icce8,
forioard. At the command march, repeated by the chief of the right
section, the caissons of that section execute the about, and the pieces
close to their proper distance at a trot. As soon as the about is com-
pleted, the chief commands forirurd, </iiide left, conducts the section
through the defile by successive wheels, and forms it into battery in
rear of its first position.
The left section is put in motion as soon as the right commences
firing. It is conducted through the defile by its chief, and formed into
battery in rear of its first position, by the principles already described.
The centre section moves as soon as the left commences firing. It is
formed into batterj' in rear of its first position, and in line with the
other two sections.
The passa.ge of the defile may be executed, commencing with the left
section, according to the same principles and by inverse means.
^Vhen the defile is in rear of one of the flanks, the movement should
commence with the other. It should always end by passing the section
or piece covering the defile.
When the defile will admit but one piece at a time, the sections are
broken by their chiefs in such a manner as to cause the piece farthest
from the defile to enter first; and the sections are again formed as soon
as possible after leaving the defile.
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 433
Article XII.
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS — INSPEC-
TIONS—REVIEWS, ETC.
HONORS TO BE PAID BY THE TROOPS.
730. Whenever a person eulitlcd to compliments from the troops
visits any camp or military post, and the commanding oflicer has official
notice of his presence, the troops are paraded to salute him.
The President or Vice-President of the United States and the Gov-
ernor of the State to which the troops belong, are to be saluted with
the highest honors — all standards and colors drooping, officers and
troops saluting, drums beating and trumpets sounding.
A General commandiny-in-chief is to be received — by cavalry, with
sabres presented, trumpets sounding the march, and all the officers
saluting, standards drooping; by infantry, with drums beating the
march, colors drooping, officers saluting and arms presented.
A Major-General is to be received — by cavalry, with sabres pre-
sented, trumpets sounding twice the trumpet-flourish, and officers salut-
ing; by infantry, with three ruffles, colors drooping, officers saluting,
and arms presented.
A Brigadier-General is to be received — by cavalry, with sabres pre-
sented, trumpets sounding once the trumpet-flourish, and officers salut-
ing; by infantry, with two ruffles, colors drooping, officers saluting,
and arms presented.
An Adjutant-General or Inspector-General, if under the rank of a
general officei-, is to be received at a review or inspection of the troops
Under arms — by cavalry, with sabres presented, officers saluting; by
infantry, officers saluting and arms presented. The same honors to be
paid to any field officer authorized to review and inspect the troops,
When the inspecting officer is junior to the officer commanding the
parade, no compliments will be paid : he will be received only with
swords drawn and arms shouldered.
All guards are to turn out and present arms to general officers as
37
434 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
often as they pass them, except the personal guards of general offi-
cers, which turn out only to the generals whose guards they are, and to
officers of superior rank.
To commanders of regiments, garrison, or camp, their own guard
turn out, and present arms once a dayj after which, they turn out
with shouldered arms.
To the 3/emhers of the Cahinet ; to the Chief Justice, the President
of the Senate, and Speaker of the House of Representatives of the
United States; and to Governors within their respective States and
Territories the same honors will be paid as to a general commanding-
in-chief.
Officers of a foreign service may be complimented with the honors
due to their rank.
American and Foreign Envoys or Ministers will be received with the
compliments due to a major-general.
731. The colors of a regiment passing a guard are to be saluted, the
trumpets sounding, and the drums beating a march.
When general officers, or persons entitled to salute, pass in the rear
of a guard, the officer is only to make his men stand shouldered, and
not to face his guard about, or beat his drum.
When general officers, or persons entitled to a salute, pass guards
while in the act of relieving, both guards are to salute, receiving the
word of command from the senior officer of the whole.
All guards are to be under arms when armed parties approach
their posts; and to parties commanded by commissioned officers
they are to present their arms, drums beating a march, and officers
saluting.
No compliments by guards or sentinels will be paid between retreat
and reveille^ except as prescribed for grand rounds.
All guard and sentinels are to pay the same compliments to the
officers of the navy, marines and militia, in the service of the United
States, as are directed to be paid to the officers of the army, according
to their relative ranks.
It is equally the duty of non-commissioned officers and soldiers,
at all times and in all situations, to pay the proper compliments to
officers of the navy and marines, and to officers of other regiments,
when in uniform, as to officers of their own particular regiments and
corps.
Courtesy among military men is indispensable to discipline. Respect
to superiors will not be confined to obedience on duty, but will be
extended to all occasions. It is always the duty of the inferior to
accost or to offer first the customary salutation, and of the superior to
return such complimentary notice. v
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 435
Sergeants, with swords drfiwn, will salute by bringing them to a
present; with muskets, by bringing the left hand across the body,
so as to strike the musket near the right shoulder. Corporals out
of the ranks, and privates not sentries, will carry their muskets at a
shoulder as sergeants, and salute in like manner.
When a soldier without arms, or with side-arms only, meets an
officer, he is to raise his hand to the right side of the visor of his cap,
palm to the front, elbow raised as high as the shoulder, looking at the
same time in a respectful and soldier-like manner at the officer, who
will return the compliment thus offered.
A non-commissioned officer or soldier being seated, and without
particular occupation, will rise on the approach of an officer, and
make the customary salutation. If standing, he will turn toward
the officer for the same purpose. If the parties remain in the same
place or on the same ground, such compliment need not be re-
peated.
Artillery Salutes.
732. The President of the United State's and the Governor of the
State to which the troops belong, to receive a salute of twenty-one
guns.
The Vice-President is to receive a salute of seventeen guns.
The Heads of the great Executive Dcjyartmcnts of the National Gov-
ernment ; the General commandintj the army ; the Lieutenant-Governor or
the State to which the troops heloa<j ; the Governors of other States and
Territories, fifteen guns.
A Major-Gcncral, thirteen guns.
A Brigadier-General, eleven guns.
Foreign ships-of-war will be saluted in return for a similar compli-
ment, gun for gun, on notice being officially received of such intention.
If there be several posts in sight of, or within six miles of each other,
the principal only shall reciprocate compliments Avith ships passing.
Officers of the Navy will be saluted according to relative rank.
Foreign Officers invited to visit a fort or post may be saluted accord-
ing to their relative rank.
Envoys and Ministers of the United States and foreign powers are to
be saluted with thirteen guns.
A general officer will be saluted but once in a year at each post, and
only when notice of his intention to visit the post has been given.
Salutes to individuals are to be fired on their arrival only.
A national salute will be fired at meridian on the anniversary of the
Independence of the United States, at each military post and camp
provided with artillery and ammunition.
436 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Escorts of Honor.
733. Escorts of honor may be composed of cavalry or infantry, or
both, according to circumstances. They are guards of honor for the
purpose of receiving and escorting personages of high rank, civil or
military. The troops for this purpose will be selected for their soldierly
appearance and superior discipline.
The escort will be drawn up in line, the centre opposite to the place
where the personage presents himself, with an interval between the
wings to receive him and his retinue. On his appearance, he will be
received with the honors due to his rank. When he has taken his
place in the line, the Avhole will be wheeled into platoons or companies,
as the case may be, and take up the march. The same ceremony will
be observed, and the same honors paid, on his leaving the escort.
When the position of the escort is at a considerable distance from
the point where he is expected to be received, as, for instance, where
a court-j'ard or wharf intervenes, a double line of sentinels will be
posted from that point to the escort, facing inward, and the sentinels
will successively salute as he passes.
An officer will be appointed to attend him, to bear such communica-
tions as he may have to make to the commander of the escort.
Funeral Honors.
734. The funeral escort of a General commanding-in-chief, shall con-
sist of a regiment of infantry, a squadron of cavalry, and six pieces of
artillery.
That of a Major-General, a regiment of infantry, a squadron of cav-
alry, and four pieces of artillery.
That of a Brigadier-General, a regiment of infantry, one company
of cavalry, and two pieces of artillery'.
That of a Colonel, a regiment.
That of a Lieutenant-Colonel, six companies.
That of a Major, four companies.
That of a Captain, one company.
Thafof a Subaltern, half a company.
The funeral escort shall always be commanded by an officer of the
same rank with the deceased j or, if none such be present, by one of
the next inferior grade.
The funeral escort of a non-commissioned staff officer shall consist
of sixteen rank and file, commanded by a sergeant.
That of a sergeant, of fourteen rank and file, commanded by a ser-
geant.
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 437
That of a corporal, of twelve rauk and file, commanded by a corpo-
ral; and
That of a private, of eight rank and file, commanded by a corporal.
The escort will be formed in tAvo ranks, opposite to the quarters or
tent of the deceased, with shouldered arms and bayonets unfixed; the
artillery and cavalry on the right of the infantry.
On the appearance of the corpse, the officer Commanding the escort
will command:
Present — Arms;
when the honors due to the deceased will be paid by the drums and
trumpets. The music will then play an appropriate air, and the coffin
will then be taken to the right, where it will bo halted. The com-
mander will next order:
1. Shoulder — Arms. 2. By company (or platoon), left wheel.
3. March. 4. Reverse — Arms. 5. Column, forward.
6. Guide right. 7. March.
The arms will be reversed at the order by bringing the firelock under
the left arm, butt to the front, barrel downward, left hand sustaining
the lock, the right steadying the firelock behind the back; swords ar«
reversed in a similar manner under the right arm.
The column will be marched in slow time to solemn music, and on
reaching the grave, will take a direction so that the guides shall be
next to the grave. When the centre of the column is opposite the
grave, the commander will order:
1. Column. 2. Halt. 3. Right into line, ivheel. 4. March.
The coffin is then brought along the front, to the opposite side of the
grave, and the commander then orders:
1. Shoulder — Arms. 2. Present — Arms.
And when the coffin reaches the grave, he adds:
1. Shoulder — Arms. 2. Rest on — Arms.
The rest on arms is done by placing the muzzle on the left foot, both
hands on the butt, the head on the bands or bowed, right knee bent.
After the funeral service is performed, and the coffin is lowered into
the gi'ave, the commander will order:
1. Attention. 2. Shoulder — Arms. 3. Load at loill. 4. Load.
438 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
When three rounds of small arms will be fired by the escort, taking
care to elevate the pieces.
This being done, the commander will order :
1. By company (or platoon)^ right wheel. 2. March. 3. Col-
umn, forward. 4. Guide left. 5. Quick — March.
The music will not begin to play until the escort is clear of the
inclosure.
When the distance to the place of interment is considerable, the
escort may march in common time and in column of route, after leav-
ing the camp or garrison, and till it approaches the burial-ground.
The pall-bearers, six in number, will be selected from the grade of
the deceased, or from the grade or grades next above or below it.
At the funeral of an officer, as many in commission of the army,
division, brigade, or regiment, according to the rank of the deceased,
as can conveniently be spared from other duties, will join in procession,
in uniform, and with side-arms. The funeral of a non-commissioned
officer or private will be attended, in like manner, by the nourcommis-
sioned officers or privates of the regiment or company, according to the
rank of the deceased, with side-arms only.
Persons joining in the procession follow the coffin in the inverse
order of their rank. J
The usual badge of military mourning is a piece of black crape
around the left arm, above the elbow, and also upon the sword-hilt;
and will be worn when in full or in undress.
As family mourning, crape will be worn by officers (when in uniform)
only around the left arm.
The drums of a funeral escort will be covered with black crape, or
thin black serge.
Funeral honors will be paid to deceased officers without military
rank, according to their assimilated grades.
INSPECTIONS OF THE TROOPS.
735. The inspection of troops, as a division, regiment, or other body
composing a garrison or command, not less than a company, will
generally be preceded by a review.
Form of inspection for infantry.
The present example embraces a battalion of infantry. The inspect-
ing officer and field and staff officers will be on foot.
211^.
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 439
The battalion being in the order of battle, the colonel will cause it
to break in open feolumn of companies, right in front. He will next
order the ranks to be opened, when the color-rank and color-guard,
under the direction of the adjutant, will take ten paces in front, and
the band ten paces in rear of the column.
The colonel, seeing the ranks aligned, will command:
1. Officerft and sergeants^ to the front of your companies.
2. March.
The oflBcers will form themselves in one rank, eight paces, and the
non-commissioned officers in one rank, six paces in advance, along
the whole fronts of their respective companies, from right to left, in the
order of seniority; the pioneers and music of each company, in one
rank, two jjaces behind the non-commissioned officers.
The colonel will next command:
Field and staff, to the front — March.
The commissioned officers thus designated Avill form themselves in
one rank, on a line equal to the front of the column, six paces in front
of the colors, from right to left, in the order of seniority; and the
non-commissioned staff, in a similar manner, two paces in rear of the
preceding i-ank. The colonel, seeing the movement executed, will take -
post on the right of the lieutenant-colonel, and wait the approach of
the inspecting officer. But such of the field officers as may be superior
in rank to the inspector will not take post in front of the battalion.
The inspector will commence in front. After inspecting the dress
and general appearance of the field and commissioned staff under arms,
the inspector, accompanied by these officers, will pass down the open
column, looking at ever^- rank in front and rear.
The colonel will now command :
1. Order aims. 2. Rest;
when the inspector will proceed to make a minute inspection of the
several ranks or divisions, in succession, commencing in front.
As the inspector approaches the non-commissioned staff, color-rank,
the color-guard, and the band, the adjutant will give the necessary
orders for the inspection of arms, boxes and knapsacks. The colors
will be planted firm in the ground, to enable the color-bearers to display
the contents of thci4' knapsacks. The non-commissioned staff may be
dismissed as soon as inspected; but the color-rank and color-guard will
remain until the colors are to be escorted to the place from which they
were taken.
440 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
As the inspector successively approaches the companies, the captains
will command :
1. Attention. 2. Company. 3. Inspection — Arms.
The inspecting oflBicer will then go through the whole company, and
minutely inspect the arms, accoutrements, and dress of each soldier.
After this is done, the captain will command :
Open — Boxes ;
when the ammunition and the boxes will be examined.
The captain will then command :
1. Shoulder — Arms. 2. Close order. 3. March. 4. Order —
Arms. 5. Stack — Arms. 6. To the rear., open order. 7.
March. 8. Front rank — About — Face. 9. Unsling —
Knapsacks. 10. Open — Knapsacks.
The sergeants will face inward at the second command, and close
upon the centre at the third, and stack their arms at the fifth command;
at the sixth command they face outward, and resume their positions
at the seventh. When the ranks are closed, preparatory to take arms,
the sergeants will also close upon the centre, and at the word, take their
arms and resume their places.
The knapsacks will be placed at the feet of the men, the flaps from
them, Avith the great-coats on the flaps, and the knapsacks leaning on
the great-coats. In this position the inspector will examine their con-
tents, or so many of them as he may think necessary, commencing with
the non-commissioned officers, the men standing at attention.
When the inspector has passed through the company, the captain
will command :
Repack, knapsacks ;
when each soldier will repack and buckle up his knapsack, leaving it
on the ground, the number upward, turned from him, and then stand
at rest.
The captain will then command :
1. Attention. 2. Company. 3. Sling, knapsacks.
At the word sllnrj, each soldier will take his knapsack, holding it by
the inner straps, and stand erect : at the last word he will replace it on
.his bask. The captain will continue :
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 441
I. Fro7U rank — About — Face. 5. Close order. 6. March.
7. Take — Arms. 8. SJwuJder — Arms. 9. Officers and Ser-
geants to your posts. 10. March.
And will cause the company to file off to tbeiv tents or quarters, except
the company that is to re-escort the colors, which will await the further
ordci s 6f the colonel.
In an extensive column, some of the rearmost companies may, after
the inspection of dress and general appearance, be permitted to stack
arms iintil just before the inspector approaches them, when they will
be directed to take arms and resume their position.
The inspection of the troops being ended, the field and staff will next
accompany the inspector to the hospital, magazine, arsenal, quarters,
sutler's shop, guard-house, and such other places as he may think prop-
er to inspect. The captains and subalterns repair to their companies
and sections to await the inspector.
The hospital being at all times an object of particular interest, it will
be critically and minutely inspected.
The men will be formed in the company quarters in front of their
respective bunks, and on the entrance of the inspector the word atten-
tion will be given by the senior non-commissioned oflScer present, when
the whole will salute with the hand, without uncovering.
The inspector, attended by the company officers, will examine the
general arrangement of the interior of the quarters, the bunks, bedding,
cooking and table utensils, and such other objects as may present
themselves; and afterward the exterior.
The adjutant will exhibit to the inspector the regimental books and
papers, including those relating to the transactions of the Council of
Administration. The company books and papers will also be exhibited,
the whole together, generally at the adjutant's office, and in the pres-
ence of the officers not otherwise particularly engaged.
The inspector will examine critically the books and accounts of the
administrative and disbursing officers of the command, and the money
and property in their keeping.
Inspection of cavalry.
736. The regiment being in line as prescribed for a review, the
colonel causes the companies to wheel to the right. Ho then orders
the ranks to be opened ,• at which the standard-bearer, under the
direction of the adjutant, is posted about twenty paces ahead of the
column.
442 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The colonel seeing the ranks aligneil, commands : 1. Officers and non-
comniissioned officers. 2. To the front, of jour companies — March ; on
which the officers form themselves in one rank, twelve paces, and the
non-commissioned officers in one rank, six paces, in advance, along the
whole front of their respective troops, in the order of rank, the highest
on the right, and the lowest on the left; the trumpeters of each com-
pany, at the same time, take post on the alignment of the front rank,
six paces from the right.
Seeing the last order in a train of execution, the colonel commands :
1. Field and staff. 2. To the front — March. The commissioned offi-
cers thus designated, form themselves in one rank, twelve paces in front
of the standards, in the following order, beginning on the right; lieu-
tenant-colonel, major, adjutant, quartermaster, etc. The non-commis-
sioned staff in a similar manner, six paces in rear of the preceding
rauk. The band is formed in one rank, ten paces in rear of the col-
umn, the chief musici.an four paces in front of it.
The colonel, if a higher officer inspects the column, now takes his
post on the right of the lieutenant-colonel.
The inspection commences in front. After inspecting the dress and
general appearance of the field and commissioned staff, the inspector,
accompanied by these officers, passes down the column, looking at
every rank, in front and in rear, with a view to the same object. He
afterward, in a like manner, passes and inspects the arms. As he
successively approaches each company for this purpose, its captain
commands : 1. Attention. 2. Inspection of — Arms.
The inspector then dismounts with the field and commissioned staff,
for the purpose of inspecting horse furniture, and valises, preparatory
to which, the colonel causes the column to dismount. The men being
then in the position of stand to horse, the colonel commands rest, for
the whole column ; when the inspector proceeds to make a minute in-
spection of the several ranks, in succession, commencing in front.
On approaching the non-commissioned staff and the band, the adju-
tant gives the necessary orders for the inspection of boxes and valises;
and in like manner as to the standard-bearer. The non-commissioned
staff may be dismounted as soon as inspected.
As the inspector successively approaches the companies, each captain
commands: 1. Attention. 2. Unstraji valises. 3. Oj^en boxes; when
the valises are placed at the feet of the men, with the flaps from them.
In this position the inspector may examine the contents of the whole,
boxes and valises, or of as many as he may think necessary.
As the inspector passes each company, the captain orders the valises
to be repacked and restrapped, and the men to file off to their tents or
quarters, except the company which is to escort the standard, which
awaits the orders of the colonel.
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 443
FORMS OF PARADE.
737. On all parades of ceremony, such as Reviews, Guard Mounting,
at Trorq^ or Retreat parades, instead of the word rent, which allows the
men to move or chanfre the position of their bodies, the command will
be parade, rent. At the last word of this command, the soldier will
carry the right foot six inches in rear of the left heel, the left knee
slightly bent, the body upright upon the right leg ; the musket resting
against the hollow of the right shoulder, the hands crossed in front, the
backs of them outward, and the left hand uppermost. At the word
attention, the soldier will resume the correct position at ordered arms.
In the positions here indicated, the soldier will remain silent and mo-
tionless; and it is particularly enjoined upon all officers to cause tho
commands above given, on the part of the soldier, to be executed whh
great briskness and spirit.
Officers on all duties under arms are to have their swords drawn,
without waiting for any words of command for that purpose.
Dreas jmrade.
738. There shall be daily one dress parade, at troop or retreat, as the
commanding officer may direct.
A signal will be beat or sounded half an hour before troop or retreat,
for the music to assemble on the regimental parade, and each com-
pany to turn out under arms on its own parade, for roll call or inspec-
tion by its own officers.
Ten minutes after that signal, the Adjutant's call will be given, when
the captains will march their companies (the baud playing) to the reg-
imental parade, where they take their positions in line as directed, No.
297. When the line is formed, the captain of the first company on
notice from the adjutant, steps one pace to the front, and gives to his
company the command order arms; parade, rest; which is repeated
by each captain in succession to the left. The adjutant takes post two
paces on the right of the line ; the sergeant-major two paces on the left-
The music will "be formed in two ranks on the right of the adjutant.
The senior officer present will take the command of the parade, and
will take post at a suitable distance in front, opposite tho centre, facing
the line.
When the companies have ordered arms, the adjutant will order tho
music to heat off, when it will commeuco on the right, beat in front of
the line to the left, and back to its place on the right.
When the music has ceased, the adjutant will stop two paces to the
front, face to tho left, and command :
444 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
1. Attention. 2. Battalion. 3. Shoulder — Arms. 4. Prepare
to open ranks. 5. To the rear, open order. 6. March.
At the sixth command, the ranks will be opened according to the
system laid down in the Infantry Tactic^, the commissioned officers
marching to the front, the company officers four paces, field officers
six paces, opposite to their positions in the order of battle, where they
will halt and dress. The adjutant, seeing the ranks aligned, will
command :
Front,
and march along the front to the centre, face to the right and pass the
line of company officers eight or ten paces, when he will come to the
right about, and command :
Present — Arms ;
when arms will be presented, officers saluting.
Seeing this executed, he will face about to the commanding officer,
salute, and report, "Sir, the parade is formed." The adjutant will
then, on intimation to, that eflFect, take his station three paces on
the left of the commanding officer, one pace retired, passing round his
rear.
The commanding officer, having acknowledged the salute of the line
by touching his hat, will, after the adjutant has taken his post, draw
his sword, and command :
1. Battalion. 2. Shoulder — Arms;
and add such exercises as he may think proper, concluding with :
Order — Arms ;
then return his sword, and direct the adjutant to receive the reports.
The adjutant will now pass round the right of the commanding
officer, advance upon the line, halt midway between him and the line
of company officers, and command :
1. First sergeants, to the front and centre. 2. March.
At the first command, they will shoulder arms as sergeants, march
two paces to the front, and face inward. At the second command,
they will march to the centre, and halt. The adjutant vdll then
order :
1. Front — Face. 2. Report
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 445
At the last word, each in succession, beginning on the right, will
salute by bringing the left hand smartly across the breast to the
right shoulder, and report the result of the roll call previously made
on the company parade.
The adjutant again commands:
1. First sergeants^ outward — Fack. 2. To your posts — March;
when they will resume their places, and order arms. The adjutant
will now face to the commanding officer, salute, report absent officers,
and give the result of the first sergeant's reports. The commanding
officer will next direct the orders to be read, when the adjutant will
face about, and announce :
Altention to Orders.
He will then read the orders.
The orders having been read, the adjutant will face to the com-
manding officer, salute and report ; when, on an intimation from the
commander, he will face again to the line, and announce :
Parade is dismissed.
All the officers will now return their swords, face inward and close
on the adjutant, he having taken position in their line, the field officers
on the flanks. The adjutant commands :
1. Front — Face. 2. Forward — March;
when they will march forward, dressing on the centre, the music play-
ing, and when within six paces of the commander, the adjutant will
give the word :
Halt.
The officers will then salute the commanding officer by raising the
hand to the cap, and there remain until he shall have communicated
to them such instructions as he may have to give, or intimates that the
ceremony is finished. As the officers disperse, the first sergeants will
close the ranks of their respective companies, and march them to the
company parades, where they will be dismissed, the band continuing
to play until the companies clear the regimental parade.
All field and company officers and men will be present at dreits
parades, unless especially excused, or on some duty incompatible with
such attendance.
A dress parade once a day will not be dispensed with, except on
extraordinary and urgent occasions.
446 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Review of a battalion of infantry.
739. Preparatorj'^ to a review, the adjutant will cause a camp color
to be placed 80 or 100 paces, or more, according to the length of the
line, in front of, and opposite to where the centre of the battalion will
rest, whei'e the reviewing officer is supposed to take his station : and,
although he may choose to quit that position, still the color is to bo
considered as the point to which all the movements and formations are
relative.
The adjutant will also cause points to be marked at suitable dis-
tances, for the wheelings of the divisions ; so that their right flanks,
in marching past, shall only be about four paces from the camp color,
where it is supposed the reviewing officer places himself to receive the
salute.
The battalion being formed in the order of battle, at shouldered
arms, the colonel will command:
1. Battalion^ prepare for review. 2. To the rear., open order.
3. March.
At the word march, the field and staS" officers dismount; the company
officers and the color-rank advance four paces in front of the front
rank, and place themselves opposite to their respective places in the
order of battle. The color-guard replace the color-rank. The staff
officers place themselves, according to rank, three paces on the right of
the rank of company officers, and one pace from each other; the
music takes jjost as at a parade. The non-commissioned staff take
post one pace from each other, and three paces on the right of the
front rank of the battalion.
When the ranks are aligned, the colonel will command :
Front ;
and place himself eight paces, and the lieutenant-colonel and major
Avill place themselves two paces, in front of the rank of company
officers, and opposite to their respective places in the order of battle,
all facing to the front.
When the reviewing officer presents himself before the centre,
and is fifty or sixty paces distant, the colonel will face about, and
■command:
Present — Arms ;
and resume his front. The men present arms, and the officers salute,
so as to drop their swords with the last motion of the firelock. The
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 447
non-commissioned staff salute by bringing the sword to a ^jo/se, the
hilt resting on the breast, the blade in front of the face, inclining a
little outward. The music will play, and all the drums beat, accord-
ing to the rank of the reviewing officer. The colors only salute such
persons as, from their rank, and by regulation (see No. 730), are
entitled to that honor. If the reviewing officer be junior in rank to
the commandant of the parade, no compliment will be paid to him. but
he will be received with arms carried, and the officers will not salute
as the column passes in review.
The reviewing officer having halted, and acknowledged the salute
of the line by touching or raising his cap or hat, the colonel will face
about and command :
Shoulder — Arms ;
when the men shoulder their pieces; the officers and non-commis-
sioned staff recover their swords with the last motion, and the colonel
faces to the front.
The reviewing officer will then go toward the right, the whole
remaining perfectly steady, without paying any further compliment,
while he passes along the front of the battalion, and proceeds round
the left flank, and along the rear of the file-closers, to the right.
AVhile the reviewing officer is going round the battalion, the band
will play, and will cease when he has returned to the right flank of
the troops.
When the reviewing officer turns off, to place himself by the camp
color in front, the colonel will face to the line, and command:
1. Close order. 2. March.
At the first command, the field and company officers will face to the
right about, and at the second command, all persons, except the colonel,
will resume their places in the order of battle; the field and staff offi-
cers mount.
The reviewing officer having taken his position near the camp color,
the colonel will command :
1. By company, right icheel. 2. Quick— Mxncn. 3. Pass in
review. 4. Column, forward. ' 5. Guide right. 6. March.
The battalion, in column of companies, right in front, will then, in
common time, and at nlunddered arms, be put in motion ; the colonel
four paces in front of the captain of the leading company; the lieu-
tenant-colonel on a line with the leading company ; the major on a line
with the rear company ; the adjutant on a line with the second com-
448 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
pany ; the sergeant-major on a line with the company next preceding
the rear — each six paces from the flank (left) opposite to the reviewing
officer; the staft' ofiicers in one rank, according to the order of prece-
dency, from the right, four paces in rear of the column ; the music,
preceded by the principal musician, six paces before the colonel ; the
pioneers, j^receded by a corporal, four paces before the principal musi-
cian ; and the quartermaster-sergeant two paces from the side opposite
to the guides, and in line with the pioneers.
All other officers and non-commissioned officers will march past in
the places prescribed for them in the march of an open column. The
guides and soldiers will keep their heads steady to the front in passing
in review.
The color-bearer will remain in the ranks while passing and saluting.
The music will begin to play at the command to march, and after
passing the reviewing officer, wheel to the left out of the column, and
take a position opposite and facing him, and will continue to play until
the rear of the column shall have passed him, when it will cease, and
follow in the rear of the battalion, unless the battalion is to pass in
quick time also, in which case it will keep its position.
The officers will salute the reviewing officer when they arrive within
six paces of him, and recover their swords when six paces past him.
All officers, in saluting, will cast their eyes toward the reviewing
officer.
The colonel, when he has saluted at the head of the battalion, will
place himself near the reviewing officer, and will remain there until
the rear has passed, when he will rejoin the battalion.
The colors will salute the reviewing officer, if entitled to it, when
within six paces of him, and be raised when they have passed by him
an equal distance. The drums will beat a march, or ruffle, according
to the rank of the reviewing officer, at the same time that the colors
salute.
When the column has passed the reviewing officer, the colonel will
direct it to the ground it marched from, and command :
Guide left;
in time for the guides to cover. The column having arrived on its
ground, the colonel will command ;
1. Column. 2. Halt ;
form it in order of battle, and cause the ranks to be opened. There-
view will terminate by the whole saluting as at the beginning.
If, however, instructions have been previously given to march the
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 449
troops pait in qtiick time also, thb colonel trill, instead of changing the
guides, halting the colunin, and wheeling it into line, as above directed,
give the command :
1. Quick time. 2. March.
In passing the reviewing officer again, no salute will be offered by
either officers or men. The music will have kept its position opposite
the reviewing officer, and at the last command will commence playing,
and, as the column approaches, will place itself in front of, and march
off with the column, and continue to play until the battalion is halted
on its original ground of formation. The review will terminate in the
same manner us prescribed above. ^
The colonel will afterward cause the troops to perform such exercises
and manoeuvres as the reviewing officer may direct.
When two or more battalions are to be reviewed, they will be formed
ih parade order, with the proper intervals, and will also perform the
same movements that are laid down for a single battalion, observing
the additional directions that are given for such movements when ap-
plied to the line. The brigadier-general and his staff, on foot, will
place themselves opposite the centre of the brigade; the brigadier-
general two paces in front of the rank of colonels; his aid two paces
on his right, and one retired; and the other brigade staff officers, those
having the rank of field officers, in the rank of lieutenant- colonels and
majors ; and those below that rank, in the rank of company officers.
In passing in review, a major-general will be four paces in front of
the colonel of the leading battalion of his division; and the brigadier-
general will be on the right of the colonels of the leading battalions of
their brigades; staff officers on the left of their generals.
When the line exceeds two battalions, the reviewing officer may cause
them to march past in quick time only. In such cases the mounted
officers only will salute.
A number of companies, less than a battalion, will be reviewed as a
battalion, and a single company as if it were with the battalion. In
the latter case, the company may pass in column of platoons.
If several brigades are to be revicAved together, or in one line, this
further difference will be observed : the reviewing personage, joined by
the general of the division, on the right of his division, will proceed
down the line, parallel to its front, and when near the brigadier-gene-
rals respectively, will be saluted by their brigades in succession. The
music of each, after the prescribed salute, will play while the review-
ing personage is in front, or in rear of it, and only then.
1 Or the battalion may pass a third time at the double quick, and then re-form;
38
450 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
In marching in review, with several battalions, in common time, the
music of each succeeding battalion will commence to play when the
music of the preceding one has ceased, in order to follow its battalion.
When marching in quick time, the music will begin to play when the
rear company of the preceding battalion has passed the reviewing
officer.
The reviewing officer or personage will acknowledge the salute by
raising, or taking off his cap or hat, when the commander of the troops
salutes him; and also when the colors pass. The remainder of the
time occupied by the passage of the troops he will be covered.
Review of a regiment of cavalry.
740. The regiment being in line, the captains one pace in advance of
the centre of their companies, the lieutenants commanding platoons
one pace in advance of the centre of their platoons, the colonel com-
mands :
1. Attention. 2. Prepare for review. 3. Rear rank^ open order.
4. March. 5. Right — Dress. 6. Front.
At the fourth command the ranks are opened, all the officers in the
rank of file-closers advancing to the front, and placing themselves on
the line of officers opposite to the position they before occupied. The
staff officers place themselves on the right of the rank of company
officers, according to their relative rank, one pace from each other.
The quartermaster-sergeant and the sergeant-major are on the right of
the front rank of the regiment.
The colonel, lieutenant-colonel, major and adjutant are posted as in
order of battle.
The music is formed, at the same time, in one rank on the right of
the regiment, and ten paces from it.
After the ranks are opened, the colonel commands :
1. Attention. 2. Draw — Sabre.
In this parade order, the regiment awaits the approach of the
personage who is to review it; for whose guidance a camp color will
have been placed eighty or one hundred and fifty paces in front of
the centre, according to the extent of the line and the plain in front
of it.
When the reviewing personage is midway between the camp color
and the colonel, the latter turns his horse to the right about on his
ground, and commands :
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 451
1. Attention. 2. Present — Sabre ;
and resumes his proper front. The oflScers all salute.
When the reviewing personage, who has halted until the proper
compliments are paid, advances, the colonel brings his sabre to a
carry, turns about as before to the line, and commands:
1. Attention. 2. Carry — Sabre.
When the whole line remains perfectly steady, except the colonel,
who resumes his proper front.
The reviewing personage now turns off to the right of the regiment,
passes thence, in front of all the officers, to the left, around the left,
and behind the rank of file-closers, to the right again. While he is
pas^sing around the regiment, no matter what his rank, the music will
play ; and when he turns off to take his station near the camp color,
the music will cease.
When the music ceases, the colonel turns about, and commands:
1. Attention. 2. Rear rank, close order. 3. March.
At the command march, all the officers from the rank of file-closers
return to their position in that rank.
The reviewing personage having taken a position near the camp
color, previously placed at a proper distance, the colonel causes the
regiment to break into column of companies, right in front, and
commands :
Pass in review.
At this command, the band and trumpeters repair to the head of the
regimental column, six paces in front of the colonel. The quarter-
master-sergeant places himself ten paces in front of the colonel, two
paces from the flank opposite to the guides.
The quartermaster, surgeon.'etc, in one rank, in the order in which
they are named, four paces in rear of the last division.
The colonel is six paces in front of the captain of the leading
company.
The lieutenant-colonel on a line with the first company, six paces
from the flank opposite to the guide.
The major on a line with the last company, six paces from the side
opposite to the guide.
The adjutant on a line with the second company, six paces from the
flank opposite to the guide.
The sergeant-major on a line with the company next to the rear,
six paces from the flank opposite to the guide.
452 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Captains, two paces in advance of the centre of their companies.
Chiefs of platoons, two paces in advance of the centre of their
platoons.
Officers of the rank of file-closers, on the side opposite the guide, on
a line with the chiefs of platoons.
The column is then put in march, at a walk, with the guide on the
side next to the reviewing jiersonage.
The column first passes at a walk, and afterward, if required, at a
trot.
When the head of the column arrives within fifty paces of the
reviewing personage, the music commences to play.
The band having passed, the chief musician causes it to wheel out
of the column and take position opposite to the reviewing personage;
the music continues to play until the last company has passed, when
it ceases, and follows in the rear.
Passing at a walk, all the officers salute with the sabre as they
successively arrive within six paces of the reviewing personage, turn-
ing their heads toward him.
If more than one regiment passes, the different regiments will
march with intervals of about forty paces between them.
Review of a battery of artillery.
741. The battery being in line, with the trumpeters on the right, the
captain commands :
1. Attention. 2. Prepare for revieiv. 3. To the rear, open order.
4. March. 5. Right — Dress. 6. Front.
At the third command, the chief of the line of caissons commands,
caissons, left reterse, and places himself on the right flank sixteen
yards in rear of the line of pieces, facing to the left, to mark the point
where the right of the line of caissons is to rest. In horse artillery,
the distance is twenty yards.
At the same command, the gunners face the detachments to the rear,
in foot artillery by the command about — face; and in horse artillery,
they command bncA-ward.
At the command march, repeated by the chief of the line of caissons,
the caissons reverse to the left, move to the rear, reverse again to the
left, and align themselves by appropriate commands from the chief of
the line of caissons. As soon as the ground is unmasked, the gunners
repeat the command march, at which the cannoneers in foot artillery
march forward, and are formed six yards in rear of their pieces ; the
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 453
chiefs of caissons joining their detachments at the same time. In
horse artillery, the cannoneers rein back and are halted by the
gunners at the same distance.
At the fifth command, the battery is aligned; the pieces and detach-
ments by the captain, and the caissons by the chief of the line of cais-
sons. At the sixth command, given by the captain when the alignment
is completed, the chief of the line of caissons takes his post as in line.
The captain then commands :
Draw — Swords.
This is executed by the officers, non-commissioned officers, and
detachments only, and the captain takes his post as in line.
In this order, the battery awaits the approach of the reviewing
officer. When he is midway between the camp color and the captain,
the latter turns his horse to the right about and commands :
Present- - Swords.
He immediately resumes his front and salutes. The officers, non-
commissioned officers, and detachments, all salute as in cavalry ; and
the music plays according to the rank of the reviewing officer.
The reviewing officer having halted and acknowledged the salute,
the captain brings his sword to a carry, turns about to the line as
before, and commands :
Carry — Swords.
He immediately resumes his front, the reviewing officer turns off to
the right of the battery, passes along its front, and returns to the right
by passing between the files of carriages or in rear of the caissons.
While the reviewing officer is passing around the battery, the music
plays. It ceases when he turns off to take his post at the camp
color.
When the music ceases, the captain turns about and commands :
1. Detachnents. 2. Return — Swords. 3. Battery. 4. Close
order. 5. March.
In horse artillery, the first and second commands are not given.
At the fourth command, the gunners in foot artillery command
left face, and in horse artillery, forward.
At the command march, repeated by the gutiners, the cannoneers in
mounted artillery take their posts as prescribed in the school of the
piece. The caissons, and in horse artillci'y the cannoneers, close to
their proper distances in line.
454 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The reviewing officer having taken a position near the camp color,
the captain causes the cannoneers to mount, if in foot artillery, and
breaks the battery into column of sections to the right by the usual
commands. He then commands :
Pass in review;
and puts the column in march, at a walk, with the guide to the right.
The captain then places himself at the head of the column, four yards
in advance of the chief of the leading section. The trumpeters march
four yards in advance of the captain ; and the chief of the line of
caissons outside the column, opposite the centre, and four yards from
the left flank.
"When the head of the column has arrived within forty yards of the
reviewing officer, the music begins to play; and as soon as the latter.
has passed, it wheels out of the column to a position in front of the
reviewing officer, where it faces him, and continues to play until the
column has passed. It then ceases, follows in rear of the battery, and
resumes its place at the head of the column after the next change
of direction.
All the officers salute in succession as they arrive within six yards of
the reviewing officer; casting their eyes toward him at the same time,
and bringing their swords to a carry after having passed him six yards.
As soon as the captain has saluted, he places himself near the reviewing
officer, remains until the rear has passed, and then rejoins his battery.
The column is so conducted as to march parallel to the line on which
the battery is to form, and far enough in its rear to enable the column
to wheel into line. It is then wheeled into line, the ranks opened, and
the review terminated by a salute as at the beginning.
AVhen instructions have been previously given to pass a second time,
either at a trot or gallop, it will be done before wheeling into line; the
officers passing the second time without salute. ^
When artillery has been passing in review with other troops, and is
marching in prolongation of the line on which the different corps are to
form, it may be wheeled by sections to the right, and, after gaining the
necessary distance, countermarched and established on the line.
When a battery is to march past in line, or in column of half
batteries, it will be done according to the principles already described.
In line the officers will be at their usual posts. In column of half
batteries the captain will be two yards in advance of the chief of the
leading half battery- : each chief of half battery two yards in front of
the centre of his command; the chief of the centre section on the left
of the leading half battery, four yards from the leading driver; and
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 465
the chief of the line of caissons in the same position with respect
to the rear half battery.
In all cases the trumpeters are four yards in front of the captain.
When the battery is to be minutely inspected, the captain will
cause the ranks of the detachments to be opened, if required, by the
commands :
1. Detachments. 2. To the rem', open order. 4. MAiicn.
Which will be executed as in infantry or cavalry, as the case may
require.
GUARD MOUNTING.
742. At the first call for guard mounting, the men warned for duty
turn out on their company parades for inspection by the first sergeants;
and at the second call, repair to the regimental or garrison parade,
conducted by the first sergeants. Each detachment, as it arrives, will,
under the direction of the adjutant, take post on the left of the one that
preceded it, in open order, arms shouldered and bayonets fixed ; the
supernumaries five paces in the rear of the men of their respective
companies ; the first sergeants in rear of them. The sergeant-major
will dress the ranks, count the files, verify the details, and when the
guard is formed, report to the adjutant, and take post two paces on the
left of the front rank.
The adjutant then commands front, when the officer of the guard
takes post twelve paces in front of the centre, the sergeants in one rank,
four paces in the rear of the ofiicers,- and the corporals in one rank, four
paces in the rear of the sergeants — all facing to the front. The adju-
tant then assigns their places in the guard.
The adjutant will then command :
1. Officer and non-commissioned officers. 2. About — Face.
3. Inspect your guards — March.
The non-commissioned oflBcers then take their posts. The com-
mander of the guard then commands:
1. Order — Arms. 2. Inspection — Arms ;
and inspects his guard. AVhen there is no commissioned officer on the
guard, the adjutant will inspect it. During inspection the band will
play.
The inspection ended, the officer of the guard takes post as though
the guard were a company of a battalion, in open order under review ;
456 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
at tlie same time, also, the oflBcers of the day will take post in front
of the centre of the guard; the old officer of the day three paces on
the right of the new officer of the day, one pace retired.
The adjutant will now command :
1. Parade — Rest. 2. Troop — Beat off;
when the music, beginning on the right, will beat down the line on
front of the officer of the guard to the left, and back to its place in
the right, where it will cease to play.
The adjutant then commands :
1. Attention. 2. Shoulder — Arms. 3. Close order — March.
At the word close order, the officer will face about; at march, resume
his post in line. The adjutant then commands:
Present — Arms.
At which he will face to the new officer of the day, salute and report,
"Sir, the guard is formed." The new officer of the day, after acknowl-
edging the salute, will direct the adjutant to march the guard in
review, or by flank to its post. But if the adjutant be senior to
the officer of the day, he will report without saluting with the sword
then, or when marching the guard in review.
In review, the guard mafrch past the officer of the day, accord-
ing to the order of review, conducted by the adjutant, marching on
tL.e left of the first division; the sergeant-major on the left of the last
division.
When the column has passed the officer of the day, the officer of
the guard marches it to its post, the adjutant and sergeant-major re-
tiring. The music, which has wheeled out of the column, and taken
post opposite the officer of the day, will cease, and the old officer
of the day salute, and give the old or standing orders to the new
officer of the day. The supernumeraries, at the same time, will be
marched by the first sergeants to their respective company parades,
and dismissed.
In bad weather, or at night, or after fatiguing marches, the ceremony
of turning off may be dispensed with, but not the inspection.
Grand guards, and other brigade guards, are organized and mounted
on the brigade parade by the staff officer of the parade, under the
direction of the field officer of the day of the brigade, according to the
principles here prescribed for a police guard of a regiment. The
detail of each regiment is assembled on the regimental parade, verified
by the adjutant, and marched to the brigade parade by the senior
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC 457
officer of the detail. After inspection cand review, the officer of the day
directs the several guards to their respective posts.
The officer of the old guard, having bis guard paraded, on the ap-
proach of the new guard, commands :
Present — Arms.
The new guard will march, in quick time, past the old guard, at
sJwnklcrcd nrwii, officers saluting, and take post four paces on its right,
where, being aligned with it, its commander will order:
Present — Arms.
The two officers will then approach each other, and salute. They will
then return to their respective guards, and command :
1. Shoulder — Arms. 2. Order — Arms.
The officer of the new guard will now direct the detail for the
advanced guard to be formed and marched to its post, the list of
the guard made and divided into three reliefs, experienced soldiers
placed over the arms of the guard and at the remote and responsible
posts, and the young soldiers in posts near the guard for instruction
in their duties, and will himself proceed to take possession of the
guard-house, or guard-tent, and the articles and prisoners in charge of
the guard.
During the time of relieving the sentinels and of calling in the small
posts, the old commander will give to the new all the information and
instructions relating to his post.
The first relief having been designated and ordered two paces to the
front, the corporal of the new guard will take charge of it, and go to
relieve the sentinels, accompanied by the corporal of the old guard,
who will take command of the old sentinels, when the whole are re-
lieved.
If the sentinels are numerous, the sergeants are to be employed, as
well as the corporals, in relieving them.
The relief, with arms at a support, in two ranks, will march by a
flank, conducted by the corporal on the side of the leading front-rank
man; and the men will be numbered alternately in the front and rear
rank, the man on the right of the front rank being No. 1. Should an
officer approach, the corporal will command carry arms, and resume
the 8uj)port arms when the officer is passed.
The sentinels at the guard-house or guard-tent will be the first re-
lieved and left behind ; the others are relieved in succession.
When a sentinel sees the relief approaching, he will halt and face to
39
458 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
it with bis arms at a shoulder. At six paces, the corporal will com-
mand :
1. Relief. 2. Halt.
When the relief will halt nnd carry arms. The corporal will then
add, "No. 1/' or ''No. 2," or "No. 3," according to the number of the
post.
Arms — Port.
The two sentinels will, with arms at port, then approach each other,
when the old sentinel, under the correction of the corporal, will whis-
per the instructions to the new sentinel. This done, the two sentinels
will shoulder arms, and the old sentinel will pass, in quick time, to his
place in rear of the relief. The corporal will then command:
1. Support — Arms. 2. Forward. 3. March.
And the relief proceeds in the same manner until the whole are re-
lieved.
The detachments and sentinels from the old guard having come in,
it will be marched, at slwuldered arms, along the front of the new
guard, in quick time, the new guard standing at ^jreseH/eo? arms; officers
saluting, and the music of both guards beating, except at the outposts.
On arriving at the regimental or garrison parade, the commander of
the old guard will send the detachments composing it, under charge of
the non-commissioned officers, to their respective regiments. Before
the men are dismissed, their pieces will be drawn or discharged at a
target. On rejoining their companions, the chiefs of squads will ex-
amine the arms, etc., of their men, and cause the whole to be put away
in good order.
When the old guard has marched oflF fifty paces, the officer of the
new guard will order his men to stack their arms, or place them in the
arm-racks.
The commander of the guard will then make himself acquainted
with all the instructions for bis post, visit the sentinels, and question
them and the non-commissioned officers relative to the instructions
they may have received from other persons of the old guard.
Method of escorting and receiving the color of an infantry regi-
ment.
743. When the regiment turns out under arms, and the color is
wanted, one of the flank companies in its tour, or, if both be absent, a
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 459
battalion company, other than that of the color, will be put in march
to receive and escort the color.
The march will be in the following order, in quick time and without
music: the drum-major and field music, followed by the band; the
escort in column by platoon, right in front, with arms shifted to the
right shoulder (see No. 76S), and the color-bearer between the pla-
toons.
Arrived in front of the tent or quarters of the colonel, the escort
will form line, the field music and band on the right, and arms will be
carried.
The moment the escort is in line, the color-bearer, preceded by the
first lieutenant, and followed by a sergeant of the escort, will go to
receive the color.
When the color-bearer shall come out, followed by the lieutenant and
sergeant, he will halt before the entrance; the escort will present arms,
and the drums will beat to the color.
After some twenty seconds, the captain will cause the beat to cease,
arms to be shouldered, and then break by platoon into column; the
color-bearer will place himself between the platoons, and the lieuten-
ant and sergeant will resume their posts.
The escort will march back to the battalion to the sound of music in
quick time, and in the same order a^ above.
Honors paid to the color.
Arrived at the distance of twenty paces from the battalion, the escort
will halt and the music cease; the colonel will place himself six paces
before the centre of the battalion, the color-bearer will approach the
colonel, by the front, in quick time; when at the distance of ten paces
he will halt: the colonel will cause arms to be presented, and to the
color to be played, which being executed, the color-bearer will take his
place in the front rank of the color-guard, and the battalion, by com-
mand, shoulder arms.
The escort, field music, and band, will return in quick time to their
several places in line of battle, marching by the rear of the battalion.
The color will be escorted back to the colonel's tent or quarters in
the above order.
Method of escorting and receiving the standard of a cavalry
regiment.
744. The squadrons of a regiment, commencing with the first, furnish
in turn the escort of the standard.
460 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The captains commanding and the second captain, alternate in com-
mand of the escort.
The escort is composed of two platoons (a troop).
The first platoon of the escort furnishes the advanced guard, com-
posed of two men in front, with the carbine or rifle ach-anced or pistol
raised; a corporal and four men, with drawn sabres, march ten paces
from them.
The trumpeters, formed by fours, and conducted by the adjutant,
march ten paces from the four men who precede.
The rest of the platoon, with drawn sabres, having the lieutenant at
its head, marches by fours, ten paces from the trumpeters.
The standard-bearer follows immediately after, between two ser-
geants.
The second platoon, with drawn sabres, having the second lieutenant
at the head, follows the standard-bearer, marches by fours, and fur-
nishes the rear guard, composed of a corporal and two men, who march
with drawn sabres, ten paces in rear of the second platoon.
Two other men, with the carbine or rijle advanced, or pistol raised,
march ten paces in rear.
The captain marches four paces from the left flank, opposite to the
standard-bearer.
The detachment having arrived where the standard is kept, without
sounding the trumpets, is there formed into line.
The adjutant dismounts, takes the standard, and gives it to the
standard-bearer.
Reception of the standard.
As soon as the standard appears, the captain orders sabres to be pre-
sented; the trumpets sound to the standard.
After this signal has been twice repeated, the captain orders the
sabres to be carried, and breaks in the same order in which he came;
the trumpets sound the march.
When the standard arrives in front of the right or left wing of the
regiment, the colonel orders the sabres to be drawn; the trumpets cease
to sound, and, with the escort, take their ijlace in line, passing behind
the regiment.
The standard-bearer, accompanied by the two sergeants, moves to-
ward the centre of the regiment, parallel to the front, and halts before
the colonel, fronting the regiment; the colonel then orders the sabres
to be pi'esented, and the trumpets to sound to the standard ; he salutes
with the sabre. The standard-bearer then takes his place in line, and
the colonel orders the sabres to be carried.
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 461
The field officers salute with the sabre when the standard passes be-
fore tbem.
The standard receives the same honors on its departure as on its ar-
rival, and is escorted to the colonel's quarters in the order prescribed
above.
Reception of one hothj of troops by another.
745. The commanding officer of the receiving corps, having notified
the commander of the other body of his intention, brings his command
into line, so that it shall be on the riyht of the route which it is in-
tended the other shall take. The commander of the body receiving
the compliment, should have his command in column right in front;
and when he sees the other body in line, or receives an intimation from
its commanding officer that he is ready to receive him, he puts his
column in motion ; when its head is within six paces of the left of the
line on its right, the latter will be brought to a present, and will con-
tinue in that position until the rear of the column has passed the right
of the line. The column passes ni shouldered arwfs-, each officer saluting
as soon as he comes within six paces of the left of the line. When the
rear of the column has passed some twenty-five or thirtj' paces beyond the
right of the line, the column is brouuht into line, on the same side with
the first line. As soon as this is done, the first line breaks into column
right in front, and marches past the second, receiving the same compli-
ments that it extended when the other body passed. After marching
past, it may be formed into line again as it was at first, when both com-
mands may be brought to an order, the officers advancing and being
presented; or the column may halt long enough to allow the other com-
mand, now in line, to re-foi-m column, when both take up the march,
the leading column serving as an escort for the other.
ORDERS.
746. The orders of commanders of armies, divisions, brigadiers and
regiments, are denominated orders of such an army, division, etc. And
all orders are either general or special. Orders are numbered, general
and special, in separate series, each beginning with the year.
General orders provide for the organization, discipline, instruction,
and movement of the troops ; announce the hours for roll-calls and
duties; the number and kind of guards, and the time when they shall
be relieved; police regulations, and the prohibitions required by cir-
cumstances and localites ; returns to be made, and their forms; laws
and regulations for the forces ; promotions and ajjpointments; eulogies
or censures to corps or individuals, and generally, whatever it may be
important to make known to the whole command.
462
MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND jMTLTTTA.
Special orders are such as do not concern the troops generally, and
need not be published to the whole command ; such as I'elate to the
march of some particular corps, the establishment of some post, the de-
taching of individuals, the granting requests, etc.
An order will state, at tlie head, the source, place and date, and at
the foot, the name of the commander who gives it, followed by the sig-
nature and title of the staff officer by whom it is written, for example :
For an army —
General (or Special) Orders,
No. 1.
For a division —
General (or Special) Orders,
No. — .
Head-quarters, Army of Occupation,
Corpus Christi, Texas.
Seiit., 18—.
By order of General Z. T.,
W. S. B., Adft General.
Head-quarters, ?>d D., Va. M.
Winchester. Va., Dec, 18 — .
By order of Major-General A. B.,
C. D., AHHiHtant AdJ'f General,
i)T Diri8lo}i Inspector.
For a brigade-
General (or Special) Orders,
No.—.
For a regiment —
Orders (or Special Orders),
No. — .
Head-qnarterfi, 9th Brigade, ]'«. M.,
Camp near . Jan. 18 — .
By order of Brigadier-General F. G.
H. I., Assistant Adft General,
or Brigade Inspector,
Head-quarters, 20th Regiment, Va. M.
C — N., August 18 — .
By order of Colonel 0. P. Q.,
R. S., Adjutant.
Orders are ordinarily transmitted through all the intermediate com-
manders in the order of rank. When an intermediate commander is
omitted, the officer who gives the order shall inform him, and he who
receives it shall report it to his immediate superior.
The orderly hours being fixed at each liead-quarters, the staff officers
and chiefs of the special services, either attend in person, or send their
assistants to obtain the orders of the day; and the first sergeants of
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 463
ompanies repair for that purpose to the i-egimental or garrison head-
quarters.
During marches and active operations, and when the regular orderly
hours cannot be observed, all orders will be either sent direct to the
troops, or the respective commanders or corps will be informed when to
send to head-quarters for tliem.
MUSTERS.
747. Musters of the volunteers and militia are made at least once a.
year, b}' the brigade inspectors. Where troops are in actual service
musters are made every two months ; usually on the last day of every
second month. In, this case they arc made by an inspector-general, if
present, otherwise by an otficer specially designated l)y the commander
of the army, division, or l)rigade ; and in the absence of the inspector-
general or officer specially designated, the muster is made by the com-
mander of the post.
When one inspecting officer cannot inspect all the troops himself on
the day specified, tlie commanding officer will designate such other
competent officers as may be necessary, to assist him. All stated mus-
ters of the troops should be preceded by a minute and careful in-y)ection
in the prescribed mode; and if the command be more than a company,
by a review, before inspection.
The mustering officer having inspected the companies in succession,
beginning on the right, returns to the first company to muster it. The
company being at ordered arms, with open ranks, as when inspected,
the captains will, as the mustering officer approaches, command :
1. Attentim. 2. Company. 3. Shouldei^ — Arms. 4. Support
— Arms.
The mustering officer will then call over the names on the roll, and
each man, as his name is called, will distinctly answer here, and bring
his piece to a carri/, and to an order.
After each company is mustered, the captain will order it to be
marched to the company parade, and there dismissed tc quarters, to
await the inspector's visit. After mustering the companies, the mus-
tering officei-, attended bj"^ the company commanders, will visit the
guard and hospital, to verify the presence of the men reported there.
The muster and pay rolls are made on printed forms in accordance
with the directions on them. On the muster rolls companies are desig-
" nated by the name of the captain, whether present or absent. The pay
roll is left blank to fill up by the paymaster.
464 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
THE ROSTER, OR DETAILS FOR SERVICE.
748. The duties performed by detail are of three cl .asses. The frst
class comprises, first, grand guards and outposts ; second, interior
guards, as of magazine, hospital, etc.; third, orderlies; fourth, police
guards.
The second class comprises, first, detachments to protect labor on
military works, as field works, communications, etc.; second, working
parties on such works; third, detachments to protect fatigues.
The third class are all fatigues, without arms, in or out of camp.
In the cavalry, stable guards form a separate roster, and count before
fatigue.
The rosters are distinct for each class. Officers are named on them
in the order of rank. The details are taken in succession in the order
of the roster, beginning at the head. Lieutenants form one roster, the
first and second lieutenants are entered on it alternately. The senior
first lieutenant is the first on the roster; the senior second lieutenant
is the second, etc. The captains form one roster, and are exempt from
fatigue, except to superintend issues. A captain commanding a bat-
talion temporarily, is exempt from detail, and duty falling to him
passes. Lieutenant-colonels and majors are on one roster. They may
be detailed for duties of the first and second classes, when the impor-
tance of the guards and detachments requires it. Their roster is kept
at division and brigade head-quarters. The rosters of the captains
and lieutenants are kejit at regimental head-quarters, and those of the
companies by the first sergeants. In the company, sergeants, corpo-
rals and privates form distinct rosters.
Ofiicers and non-commissioned officers, and soldiers, take duties of
the first class in the or^er stated, viz., the first lor the detail, takes
the grand guards ; the next, the interior guards ; the last, the police
guard; and the same rule in regard to the details and duties of the
second class. In the details for the third class, the senior officer takes
the largest party. The party first f«ir detail takes the service out of
camp.
When the officer whose tour it is, is not able to take it, or is not
present at the hour of marching, the next after him takes it. When a
guard has passed the chain of sentinels, or an interior guard has
reached its post, the officer whose tour it was cannot then take it. He
takes the tour of the officer who has taken his. When an officer is
prevented by sickness from taking his tour, it passes. These rules
appl,y equally to non-commissioned officers and soldiers.
Duties of the first and second class are credited on the roster when •
the guards or detachments have passed the chain of sentinels, or an
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 465
interior guard has reached its post; fatigue duties when the parties
have passed the chain or begun the duties in camp.
Every officer, non-commissioned officer, or soldier, on duty of the
first class, or who is of the next detail for such duty, takes, when
relieved, the duty of the second or third class that has fallen to him
during that time, unless he has marched for detachment of more than
twenty-four hours.
Soldiers march with knapsacks for all duties of the first class; and
with arms and equipments complete on all working parties out of camp,
unless otherwise ordered. In the cavalry, horses are packed for all
mounted service; and dismounted men, and those whose horses are not
in order, are preferred for the detail for dismounted service. Those
who arc mounted are never employed on those services, if the number
of the other class are sufficient.
Every non-commissioned officer and soldier in the cavalry detailed
for dismounted service must, before he marches, take to the first ser-
geant of his troop, or sergeant of his squad, his horse equipments
and valise ready packed. In case of alarm, the first, sergeant sees
that the horses of these men are equipped and led to the rendezvous.
In the field, artillerymen are not called upon for any duty outside
their own batteries or camps.
These rules in regard to the roster apply also to service in garrison.
DUTIES OF GUARDS.
749. Sentinels will be relieved every two hours, unless the state of
the weather, or other causes, should make it necessary or proper that
it be done at shorter or longer intervals.
Each relief, before mounting, is inspected by the commander of the
guard or of its post. The corporal reports to him, and presents the
old relief on its return.
The countersign, or watchword, is given to such i)ersons as are
entitled to pass during the night, and to officers, non-commissioned
officers, and sentinels of the guard. Interior guards receive the
cojintersign only when ordered by the commander of the troops.
The imrole is imparted to such officers only as have a right to visit
the guards, and to make the grand rounds ; and to otfic^rs command-
ing guards.
As soon as the new guard has been marched off, the officer of the
day will repair to the office of the commanding ofiicer and report for
orders.
The officer of the day must see that the officer of the guard is fur-
nished with the parole and countersign before retreat.
The officer of the day visits the guards during the day, at such times
466 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MTLTTTA.
as he may deem necessary, and makes his rounds at night at least once
after twelve o'clock.
Upon being relieved, the officer of the day will make such remarks
in the report of the officer of the guard as circumstances require, and
present the same at head-quarters.
Commanders of guards leaving their posts to visit their sentinels, or
on other duty, are to mention their intention, and the probable time of
their absence, to the next in command.
The officers are to remain constantly at their guards, except while
visiting their sentinels, or necessarily engaged elsewhere on their proper
duty.
Neither officers nor soldiers are to take off their clothing or accou-
trements while they are on guard.
The officer of the guard must see that the countersign is duly com-
municated to the sentinels a little before twilight.
When a fire breaks out, or any alarm is raised in a garrison, all
guards are to be immediately under arms.
Inexperienced officers are put on guard as supernumeraries, for the
purpose of instruction.
Sentinels will not take orders, or allow themselves to be relieved,
except by an officer or non-commissioned officer of their guard or
party, the officer of the day, or the commanding officer ; in which case
the orders will be immediately notified to the commander of the guard
by the officer giving them.
Sentinels will report every br''ach of orders or regulations they are
instructed to enforce.
Sentinels must keep themselves on the alert, observing everything
that takes place within sight and hearing of their post. They will
carry their arms habitually at support, or on either shoulder, but will
never quit them. In wet weather, if there be no sentry-box, they
will secure arms.
No sentinel shall quit his post or hold conversation not necessary to
the proper discharge of his duty.
All persons, of whatever rank in the service, are required to observe
respect toward sentinels.
In case of disorder, a sentinel must call out the guard ; and if a fire
take place, he must cry — "Fire!" adding the number of his post. If,
in either case, the danger be great, he must discharge his firelock
before calling out.
It is the duty of a sentinel to repeat all calls made from posts more
distant from the main body of the guard than his own, and no sentinel
Avill be posted so distant as not to be heard by the guard, either direct-
ly or through other sentinels.
Sentinels will halt, come to 'attention, and present arms to general
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 467
and field officers, to the officer of the day, and to the commanding offi-
cer of the post. To all other officers they will carry arms.
When a sentinel, in his sentry-box, sees an officer approaching, he
will stand at attention, and as the officer passes will salute him by
bring the left hand briskly to the musket, as high as the right shoulder.
The sentinel at any post of the guard, when he sees any body of
troops, or an officer entitled to compliment approach, must call : " Turn
out the (/Hard ;" and announce who approaches.
Guards do not turn out as a matter of compliment after sunset; but
sentinels will, when officers in uniform approach, pay them proper
attention, by facing to the proper front, and standing steady at shoul-
dered arms. This will be observed until the evening is so far advanced
that the sentinels begin challenging.
After retreat (or the hour appointed b}' the commanding officer),
until broad daylight, a sentinel challenges every person who approaches
him, taking, at the same time, the position of arms jiort. He will suffer
no person to come nearef than within reach of his bayonet, until the
person has given the countersign.
A sentinel, in challenging, will call out — "-Who comes there?'' If
answei'cd — ^^ Friend, uith the countersign," and he be instructed to pass
persons with the countersign, he will reply — '^ Advance, friend, with
the countersign." If answered — "Friends," he will reply — ''Halt,
friends ; advance, one, with the conntersiyn." If answered — ''Relief,"
"Patrol," or "Grand ro»?irfs," he will reply — "Halt. Advance, ser-
geant (or corporal), with the countersign," and satisfy himself that the
party is what it represents itself to be. If he have no authoi'ity to
pass persons with the countersign, if the wrong countersign be given,
or if the persons have not the countersign, he will cause them to stand,
and call — " Corjjoral of the guard."
In the daytime, when the sentinel before the guard sees the officer of
the day approach, he will call — " Turn out the guard, officer of the
day."''* The guard Avill be paraded, and salute with presented arms.
When any person approaches a post of the guard at night, the
sentinel before the post, after challenging, causes him to halt until
examined by a non-commissioned officer of the guard. If it be the
officer of the day, or any other officer entitled to inspect the guard and
to make the rounds, the non-commissioned officer will call — '' Turn out
the guard," when the guard will be paraded at shouldered arms, and
the officer of the guard, if he thinks necessary, may demand the coun-
tersign and parole.
The officer of the day, wishing to make the rounds, will take an
escort of a non-commissioned officer and two men. When the rounds
are challenged by a sentinel, the sergeant will answer — " Grand
468
MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITTA.
rounds," and the sentinel will reply — "Halt, grand rounds." Advance,
sergeant, with the coiintersiffn" Upon which the sergeant advances and
gives the countersign. The sentinel will then cry — "Advance, rounds,"
and stand at a shoulder until they have passed.
When the sentinel before the guard challenges, and is answered —
"Grand rounds," he will reply — "Halt, grand rounds. Tur)i -out the
guard ; grand rounds." Upon which the guard will be drawn up at
shouldered arms. The officer comuiauding the guard will then order a
sergeant and two men to advance; when within ten paces, the sergeant
challenges. The sergeant of the grand rounds answers — "Grand
rounds." The sergeant of the guard replies — " Adrance, sergeant, with
the countersign." The sergeant of the rounds advances alone, gives
the countersign, and returns to his round. The sergeant of the guard
calls to his officer — " 'J'/ie countersign is right" on which the officer of
the guard calls — "Advance, rounds." The officer of the rounds then
advances alone, the guard standing at shouldered arms. The officer of
the rounds passes along the front of the guard to the officer, who keeps
his post on the right, and gives him the parole. He then examines the
guard, orders back his escort, and. taking a new one, proceeds in the
same manner to other guards.
All material instructions given to a sentinel on post by persons en-
titled to make grand rounds, ought to be promply notified to the
commander of the guard.
Any general officer, or the commander of a post or garrison, may
visit the guards of his command, and go the grand rounds, and be
received in the same manner as prescribed for the officer of the day.
FORM OF GUARD REPORT.
Kepoit of a Guard uiouuteJ at , on the , aud relieved on the .
1
^
•
PAROLE.
'
Articles in
CHARGE.
Received the
foregoing ar-
ticles.
1
Countersign.
OD
X
a
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o
OD
QQ
.1
.2
3
1^
o
>
IS
o
fcC
2
be
-
A. B ,
Lieut. 1st In-
fantry.
2
cc
6
^\
H
<
1
1
1
1
Detail.
1
1
1 1
1
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC.
469
LIST OF THE GUARD.
Reliefs, axd when Posted.
l8t Relief.
' 2d Relief.
3d Relief.
00
Fr
om — to — and
— to—.
From — to —
and — to — .
From — to —
and — to — .
Where Posted.
as
No.
Name.
Co.
A
Et.
Ist
Name.
Co.
D
Rt.
3d
Name.
Co.
G
Rt.
8th
1
CD.
I.J.
O.P.
Guard House.
2
E. F.
B
4th
K. L.
E
2d
Q.R.
H
9th
Magazine.
3
G. H.
C
6th
M.N.
F
5th
S. T.
I
10th
Quar. Store.
1
Sergeant W. V.. Co. A, Ist Artillery.
Serg't Guard.
2
Corporal W. X., Co. B, 1st Infantry.
Corp'l "
3
Corporal Y. Z., Co. C, 3d Infantry.
<k a
LIST OF PRISONERS.
Names.
a
1
'bo
»
(4
Confined.
Charges.
Sentences.
No.
When.
By whom.
Remarks.
1
2
3
4
5
A. B. C,
Lieut.
— , Regiment ,
Commanding the Guard.
GUARDS.
750. Guards, in time of war, are bodies of men whose duties are to
secure an army or place from being surprised by an enemy.
By a proper disposition of the guards and by a faithful discharge of
the duties imposed upon them, a whole army can at all times, and
470 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
under all circumstances, be kept in readiness for action; the larger
part of the army, even in the pursuit of an enemy, and momentarily
expecting to meet him, may with safety seek that repose which is so
necessary' to keep up the physical energies of the forces; and as the
guards generally constitute but a comparatively small portion of the
command, and are frequently relieved, no soldier is likely to be called
upon to endure an amount of fatigue greater than a man in his vigor
ought to bear.
In order that the guards of an army may protect it properly, they
must be so posted as to cover both the front aad flanks of the position,
and at the same time have possession of all the avenues of api)roach
to it. The ordinary arrangement of guards is such, that no matter
how far the outer line maj' lie from the main body, it may rally from
point to point, if driven in by an advancing enemy, gaining strength^
each time, until it finally reaches the main body. Thus even the most
advanced posts need never be cut off, while it would be impossible for
an enemy to surprise the main body.
The usual arrangement consists of two or three lines of posts, within
i-elief of each other, and extending around the main body as a centre,
the exterior line throwing out a chain of sentinels in its front, and
so distributed as to prevent the approach of any one without being
seen.
751. The inner line consists of what are denominated police fjiiardti ;
there is a police guard for each regiment, which is posted within the
regimental camp (see camp of an infantry regiment). These guards
are of sufficient strength to supply a chain of sentinels along the front
and rear of the regiment, connecting it with the regiments on the right
and left, thus forming a chain of sentinels close to and all around the
camp.
The next line consists of a number of strong detachments, termed
jyickeis ; they are posted upon the main avenues of approach to the
position, and serve as supports to the exterior lines, upon which they
rally when driven in by the enemy.
Next beyond the pickets is the line of grand guards, and of course
occupying a wider circumference; they are posted in the most favor-
able position for observing the enemy, and throw out the extreme line,
called the line of outposts. The line of grand guards, while supported
by the pickets, in turn furnishes support to the outposts when neces-
sary.
Beside these various Ymas, patrols are kept up between the various
posts, to keep the one informed of the condition of the other; and,
also between the outposts and the extreme line of sentinels, to see that
the duties of the latter are properly performed.
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 471
This arrangement pecures positions favorable for observation and
mutual support.
" The duties of the outposts, and of the grand guards which form
their supports, are strictly those of observation. If attacked, they
offer no resistance further than to enable them to feel the enemy per-
fectly, and never lose sight of him. The task of holding the enemy
in check by a vigorous resistance, so as to procure sufficient time for
the main body to make its disposition for battle, is consigned to the
pickets." (Mahan.)
Police guards.
752. The police guard is detailed every day from each regiment, and
consists of two sergeants, three corporals, two musicians, and men
enough to furnish the necessary sentinels and patrols. The men are
taken from all the companies, from each in proportion to its strength.
The guard is commanded by a lieutenant, under the supervision of a
captain as regimental officer of the day. It furnishes ten sentinels at
the camp ; one over the arms of the guard : one'at the colonel's tent;
three on the color front ; one of them over the colors; three, fifty paces
in rear of the field officer's tents ; and one on each flank, between it
and the next regiment. If it is a flank regiment, one more sentinel is
posted on the outer flank.
An advanced post is detached from the police guard, composed of a
sergeant, a corporal, a drummer, and nine men to furnish sentinels and
the guard over the prisoners. The men are the first of the guard roster
from each company. The men of the advanced post must not leave it
under any pretext. Their meals are sent to the post. The advanced
post furi^shes three sentinels ; two a few paces in front of the post,
opposite the right and left wing of the regiment, posted so as to see as
far as possible to the front, and one over the arms.
In the cavalry, dismounted men are employed in preference on the
police guard. The mounted men on guard are sent in succession, a
part at a time, to groom their horses. The advanced post is always
formed of mounted jaen.
In each company, a corporal has charge of the stable guard. His
tour begins at retreat, and ends at morning stable-call. The stable
guard is large enough to relieve the men on post every two hours.
They sleep in their tents, and are called by the corporal when wanted.
At retreat he closes the streets of the camp with cords, or uses other
precautions to prevent the escape of loose horses.
The officer of the day is charged with the order and cleanliness ot
the camp : a fatigue is furnished to him when the number of prisoners
472 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
is insufficient to clean the camp. He has the calls beaten by the drum-
mer of the guard.
The police guard and the advanced po^t pay the j<ame honors as
other guards. They take arras when an armed body approaches.
The sentinel over the colors has orders not to permit them to be
moved except in the presence of an escort ; to let no one touch them
but the color-bearer, or the sergeant of the police guard when he is
accompanied by two armed men.
The sentinels on the color front permit no soldier to take arms from
the stacks, except by order of some officer, or a non-commissioned offi-
cer of the guard. The sentinel at the colonel's tent has orders to
Avarn him, day or night, of any unusual movement in or about the
cam]).
The sentinels on the front, flanks, and rear, see that no soldier leaves
camp with horse or arms unless conducted by a non-commissioned
officer. They prevent uon-commissioned officers and soldiers from
passing out at night, except to go to the sinks, and mark if they re-
turn. They arrest, at any time, suspicious persons prowling about the
camp, and at night, every one who attempts to enter, even the soldiers
of other c<irps. Arrested persons are sent to the officer of the guard,
who sends them, if necessary, to the officer of the daj'.
The sentinels on the front of the advanced post have orders to per-
mit neither non-commissioned <»fficers nor soldiers to pass the line,
without reporting at the advanced post ; to warn the advanced post of
the approach of any armed Viody, and to arrest all suspicious persons.
The sergeant sends persons so arrested to the officer of the guard, and
warns him of the approach of any armed body.
The sentinel over the arms at the advanced post guards the prisoners
and keeps sight of them, and suflFers no one to converse with Acm with-
out permission. They are only permitted to go to the sinks one at a
time, and under a sentinel.
If any one is to be passed out of camp at night, the officer of the
guard sends him under escort to the advanced post, and the sergeant of
the post has him passed over the chain.
At retreat, the officer of the guard has the rolFof his guard called,
and inspects arms, to see that they are loaded and in order; and
visits the advanced posts for the same purpose. The sergeant of the
police guard, accompanied by two armed soldiers, folds the colors and
lays them on the trestle in rear of the arms. He sees that the sutler's
stores are then closed, and the men leave them, and that the kitchen
fires are put out at the appointed hour.
The officer of the day satisfies himself frequently during the night of
the vigilance of the police guard and advanced post. He prescribes
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 473
patrols and rounds to be made by the officer and non-commissioned
officers of the guard. The officer of the guard orders them when he
thinks necessary. He visits the sentinels frequently.
At reveille, the police guard takes arms ; the officer of the guard
inspects it and the advanced post. The sergeant replants the colors
in place. At retreat and reveille the advanced post takes arms; the
sergeant makes his report to the officer of the guard when he visits the
post.
When necessary, the camp is covered at night with small outposts,
forming a double chain of sentinels. These posts are under the orders
of the commander of the police guard, and are visited by his patrols
and rounds.
The officer of the guard makes his report of his tour of service,
including the advanced post, and sends it, after the guard is marched
off, to the officer of the day.
When the regiment marches, the men of the police guard return
to their companie.*?, except those of the advanced post. In the cavalry,
at the sound " boot and saddle," the officer of the guard sends one half
the men to saddle and pack ; when tlie regiment assembles, all the men
join it.
When the camping party precedes the regiment, and the new police
guard marches with the camping party, the guard, on reaching the
camp, forms in line thirty paces- in front of the centre of the ground
marked for the regiment. The officer of the guard furnishes the senti-
nels required by the commander of the camping party. The advanced
posit takes its station.
The advanced post of the old police guard takes charge of the pris-
oners on the march, and marches, bayonets fixed, at the centre of the
regiment. On reaching camp, it turns over the prisoners to the new
advanced post.
PICKETS.
753. The detail for the picket is made daily, and is composed of a
lieutenant, two sergeants, four corporals, a drummer and about forty
privates for each regiment. For a smaller force, the picket is in pro-
portion to the strength of the detachment. The duty of the pickets is
to hold the enemy in check, and the points which they take up should,
if possible, be susceptible of good defence; such as villages, defiles,
etc.; when these advantages do not present themselves, temporary ob-
stacles, such as abatis, etc., sliould be resorted to. The points occupied
by the pickets should be about midway between the line of outposts
and the position of the main body.
40
474 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Small posts should be thrown forward by the pickets, between them
and the line of grand guards. These give greater security to the pick-
ets, and furnish support to the grand guard.
GRAND GUARDS AND OUTPOSTS.
754. The numbers, strength and position of grand guards are regu-
lated by the commanders of brigades ; in detached corps, by the com-
manding officer. When it can be done, the grand guards of infantry
and cavalry are combined, the cavalry furnishing the advanced senti-
nels. When the cavalry is weak, the grand guards are infantry, but
furnished with a few cavalry soldiers, to get and carry intelligence of
the enemy.
The strength of the grand guard of a brigade will depend on the
strength of the regiments, the nature of the country, the position of
the enemy, and the disposition of the inhabitants. It is usually com-
manded by a captain.
Un<ler the supervision of the generals of division and brigade, the
grand guards are especially under the direction of a field officer of the
day in eaih brigade. In case of necessity, captains may be added to
the roster of lieutenant-colonels and majors for this detail.
Grand guards usually mount at the same time as the other guards,
but may mount before daybreak if the general of brigade thinks it
necessary to double the outposts at this time. In this case they assem-
ble and march without noise, and during the march throw out scouts;
this precaution should always be taken in the first posting of a grand
guard. The doubling of guards weakens the corps and fatigues the
men, and should seldom be resorted to, and never when preparing
to march or fight.
755. A grand guard is conducted to its post in the first instance by
the field officer of the day, guided by one of the staff oflBcers who
accompanied the general in his reconnoissance. After the post has
been established, the commander sends to the field officer of the dfty,
when necessary, a soldier of the guard to guide the relieving guard
to the post. He also sends to him in the evening a corporal or trusty
man of the guard, for the note containing the parole and countersign,
and sends them before dark to the outposts. He will not suS'er his
guard to be relieved except by a guard of the brigade, or by special
orders from competent authority.
If there is no pass to be observed or defended, the grand guards are
placed near the centre of the ground they are to observe, on sheltered,
and, if possible, high grouud. the better to conceal their strength and
observe the enemy: they ought not to be placed near the edge of a
wood. When, during the day, they are placed very near, or in sight of
the enemy, they fall back at night on parts selected farther to the rear.
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 475
After a granrl guard is posted, the first care of the commander and of
the fiell officer of the day is to get news of the enemy: then to recon-
noitre bis position, and the roads, bridges, fords and defiles. This
reconnoissance determines the force and position of the outposts and
their sentinels day and night. These posts, when of infantry, should
be about 200 paces in front of the line of grand guards, and of cavalry
from 600 to 800 : and are commanded by officers or non-commissioned
officers, according to their importance. Cavalry posts may be relieved
every four or eight hours.
The commander of a griuid guard receives detailed instructions
from the general and field officers of the day of the brigade, and
instructs the commanders of the outposts as to their duties, and the
arrangements for the defence or retreat. The commanders of grand
guards may, in urgent cases, change the positions of the outposts.
If the outposts are to change their position at night, they wait until
the grand guard has gotten its position, and darkness hides their
movements from the enemy; then march silently and rapidly under
charge of an officer.
In detached corps, small posts of picked men are at night sent for-
ward on the roads by which the enemy may attack or turn the position.
They watch the forks of the roads, keep silence, conceal themselves,
light no fires, and often change place. They announce the approach of
an enemy by signals agreed upon, and retreat, by routes examined
during the day, to places selected, and rejoin the guard at daybreak.
Grand guards have special orders in each case, and the following in
all cases: to inform the nearest posts and the field officer of the day, or
the general of brigade, of the march and movements of the enemy, and
of the attacks they receive or fear; to examine every person passing
near the post, particularly those coming from without; to arrest suspi-
cious persons, and all soldiers and camp-followers who try to pass
out without permission, and to send to the general, unless otherwise
directed, all country people who come in.
756. All out-guards stand to arms at night on the approach of patrols,
rounds, or other parties ; the sentinel over the arms will call them out.
The sentinels and videttes are placed on points from which they can
see farthest, taking care not to break their connection with each other
or with their posts. They are concealed from the enemy as much as
possible by walls, or trees, or elevated ground. It is generally even of
more advantage not to be seen than to see far. They should not be
placed near covers, where the enemy may capture them. A sentinel
should always be ready to fire ; videttes carry their carbines or pistols
in their hands. A sentinel must be sure of the presence of an enemy
before he fires ; once satisfied of that, he must fire, though all defence
476 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
on his part be useless, as the safety of the post may depend on it.
Sentinels fire on all persons deserting to the enemy.
If a sentinel's post must be where he cannot communicate with tjie
guard, a corporal and three men are detached for it, or the sentinels
are doubled, that one may communicate with the guard. During the
day communication may be made by signals, such as raising a cap or
handkerchief. At night sentinels are placed on low ground, the better
to see objects against the sky.
To lessen the duty of rounds, and keep more men on the alert at
night, sentinels on outposts are relieved every hour. To prevent senti-
nels from being surprised, it is sometimes well to precede the counter-
sign by signals, such as striking the musket with the hand, striking
the hands together, etc.
On the approach of any one at night, the outpost sentinel orders —
"Halt .'" If the order is not obeyed, after being repeated once, he fires.
If obeyed, he calls — "Who goes there t" If answered — "Rounds," or
"Patrol," he says — "Advance trt'th the countersign." If more than one
advance at the same time, or the person who advances fails to give the
countersign or signal agreed on. the sentinel fires and falls back on his
guard. The sentinel over the arms, as soon as hin hail is answered,
turns out the guard, and the corporal goes to reconnoitre. When it is
desirable to hide the position of the sentinel from the enemy, the hail
is replaced by hi'i/iki/h ; the sentinels give the signal, and those ap-
proaching the counter signal.
With raw troops, or when the li,:i^ht troops of the enemy are numer-
ous and active, and when the country is broken or wooded, the night
stormy or dark, sentinels should be doubled. In tljis case, while one
watches, the other, called a Jlying sentinel, moves about, examining the
paths and hollows.
The commanders of grand guards visit the sentinels often ; change
their position when necessary ; make them repeat their orders : teach
them under what circumstances and at what signals to retire, and par-
ticularly not to fall back directly on their guard, if pursued, )jut to
lead the enemy in a circuit.
757. At night half the men of the grand guard off post watch under
arms, while the rest lie down, arms by their side. The horses are
always bridled: the horsemen hold the reins and must not sleep. An
hour before break of day, infantry grand guards stand to arms, and
cavalry mount. At the outposts some of the infantry are all night
under arms, some of the cavalry on horseback.
The commander of a grand guard regulates the numbers, the hours,
and the march of patrols and rounds, according to the strength of his
CQjnmand and the necessity for precaution : and, accompanied by those
HONORS PAID BY THE TROOPS, ETC. 477
who are to command the patrols and rounds during the night, he will
reconnoitre all the routes they are to follow. Patrols and rounds
march slowly, in silence, and with great precaution: halt frequently to
listen and examine the ground. The rounds consist of an officer or
non-commissioned officer, and two or three men. Toward the break of
day the patrols ought to be more frequent, and sent to greater dis-
tances. They examine the hollow ways and ground likelj' to conceal
an enemy, but with great caution, to avoid being cut off or engaged in
an unequal combat; if they meet the enemy, they fire and attempt to
stop his march. While the patrols are out, the outposts are under
arms.
Cavalry patrols should examine the country to a greater distance
than infantry, and report to the infantry guard everything they ob-
serve. The morning patrols and scouts do not return until broad day-
light; and when they return the night sentinels are withdrawn and
the posts for the day resumed.
Ou their return commanders of patrols report in regard to the
ground and everything they have observed of the movements of the
enemy or of his posts, aud the commander of the grand guard reports
to the field officers of the day. The fires of grand guards should be
hidden by a wall, ditch, or other screen. To deceive the enemy, fires
are sometimes made on unoccupied ground. Fire are not permitted at
small pt^s liable to surprise.
If a body of troops attempt to enter the camp at night, unless their
arrival has been announced, or the commander is known to, or is the
hearer of a written order to the commander of the grand guard, he
stops them, and sends the command under escort to the field officer of
the day, and at the same time warns the posts near him.
Bearers of flags are not permitted to pass the outer chain of senti-
nels : their faces are turned from the post or army ; if necessary, their
eyes are bandaged ; a non-commissioned officer stays with them to
prevent indiscretion on the part of sentinels.
Tlie commander of the guard receipts for dispatches, and sends them
to the field officer of the day or general of brigade, and dismisses the
bearer : but if he has discovered what ought to be concealed from
the enemj', he is detained as long as necessary.
Deserters are disarmed at the outposts, and sent to the commander
of the grand guard, who gets from them all the information he can
concerning the enemy. " If many come at night, they are received
cautiously, a few at a time. They are sent in the morning to the field
officer of the day, or to the nearest post or camp, to be conducted to
the general of the brigade. All suspected persons are secreted by the
commanders of the outposts.
478 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
^•
Article XIII.
DUTIES OF CAPTAINS — COMPANIES — DUTIES IN
CAMP AND GARRISON, ETC.
758. Captains or commaudevs of companies fill one of the most
important stations in the service, when thej' arc viewed in relation to
the direct influence they exercise upon the soldiery ; to them attaches
the hifrh responsibility of the instruction, jjood order, efficiency, and
discipline of their companies ; and no one should be willing to accept
the post who is not qualified, or ready to qualify himself, for a faithful
discharsre of all the duties of the office.
It is the duty of every ca])tain to make himself familiar with tactics,
at least so much of it as will enaVilc him to command his company
properly in every situation: and to become perfectly acquainted with
its interior management.
In the case of a vacancy in the office of captain, or in his absence,
the command of the company devolves on the officer next in rank.
Captains should require their lieutenants to assist them in the per-
formance of all duties, the knowledge thus acquired being essential to
every company officer.
In the volunteers and militia, the captain and lieutenant are elected
by the company after its organization ; the non-commissioned officers
are cither elected in the same way : or are selected by the captain.
759. Arms and accoutrements are issued by order of the adjutant-
generaf to volunteer companies after their organization, and to such of
the militia as the Governor may deem it proper to arm. Before a vol-
unteer company can receive its arms, the captain mast procure the
following certificate from the colonel of the regiment to which he is
attached :
Form of Inspection Return to enable a Volunteer Company to
receive Public Arms.
I, A. B., commandant of the Regiment of Virginia Militia,
do hereby certify, that on the day of , I mustered and in-
spected the (troop of cava'ry, companj' of artiller}', company of light
DUTIES OF CAPTAINS, COMPANIES, ETC. 479
infantry or riflemen, as the fact may be) commanded by Captain
, (attached to or belonging: to, as the fact may be) the
said regiment ; at which muster and inspection there were of the said
company men, fully and completely uniformed, in the mode pre-
scribed by law.
Given under my hand th'iH dtty of , 18 — .^
760. The militia laws of many of the States permit volunteer com-
panies to choose their own uniforms ; all experience proves that the
plainest and simplest uniform is the best for service. It is a mistake
to suppose that handsome and expensive uniforms are to be preferred ;
the best uniform is that which combines comfort, appropriateness and
durability.
Plain and sul)stantial overcoats, with ca]>es, should always form a part
of the uniform; and some simple fatigue dress, to be worn when off
duty, or on fatigue, will always be found to be a great saving to the
uniform.
Each man of the company should be provided with a knapsack for
his clothing, a haversack for his rations, and one or two thick blankets.
In addition, there should be one bedsack for every two men, to be made
of substantial linen or cotton goods ; it should be made about six and
a half feet long, by three and half feet wide, sewed up at both ends,
and having a slit in the centre, provided with strings to tic it close, so
as to ])revent the straw working out. The haversack is made of white
linen or cotton duck; it is worn from the right shoulder to the left side
it should be large enough to contain at least three day's rations of bread
and meat, and would be much improved by having a small tin box in
it large enough to contain the meat ration. The company should at all
times be supplied Avith tents, etc., for service in the tield : together with
the requisite number of camp kettles, tin table furniture, etc.
761. There are several forms of tents — the common tent, covering an
area of about seven feet square, and capable of accommodating from
five to six men ; the wall tent, usually used by officers, about nine feet
square, and having its roof protected by a second piece of canvas,
known as the ",/^3/;" the Sibley tent, which is conical in shape, has
but a single central pole, with an arrangement at the top to admit of a
fire in the centre for cooking purposes, or for comfort in cold weather,
and sufficiently large to accommodate from twelve to fifteen men ; and
the shelter tent of the French. The Sibley tent is in general use in the
U. S. service.
A new invention has been lately introduced into the U. S. service,
1 This is the Virp;inin form ; each State has its own form.
480 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
which promises to be very useful ; it is called the tent knapsack, and
serves the purpose of a knapsack on the march, and a shelter tent when
in camp. It is a piece of gutta-])erchii, five feet three inches long, and
three feet eight inches wide, with double edges on one side, and brass
studs and button holes along two edges, and slraps and buckles on
the fourth ; with two sticks, three feet eight inches long, by one and
a half inches in diameter, and a small cord. When used as a knap-
sack, the clothing is packed in a cotton bag, and the gutta-perch sheet
is folded around it, lapping at the ends. The clothing is thus protected
by two or three thicknesses of gutta-percha; the knapsack adapts itself
to the size of the contents, so that a compact and portable bundle cau
be made, whether the "kit" be entire or not; and with the cotton bag,
it forms a convenient, commodious, and desirable receptacle for all a
soldier's clothing and necessaries.
The studs and eyelets along two edges of the tent knapsack arc for
the purpose of fastening a number of them together, and thus making
a large sheet which may be used as a shelter tent. When used, the
sheet is to bo stretched on a cord supported by two sticks, or by two
rillcs, muskets, or carbines, and pinned down at the sides with small
pins. The sheet of four knapsacks is ten feet six inclies lung, and seven
feet four inches wide, and when pitched on a rope four feet four inches
above the ground, covers a horizontal space of six feet six inches wide,
and seven feet four inches long, which will accommodate from five to
seven men. Or four of these knaj^sacks may be united, an edge pinned
to the grountl. and the opposite one secured to a pole facing a lire, form-
ing a half-fuvtd cdinji.
762. Every man should be ]iruvided with the following articles at all
times, such as are not on the person to be kept in the knapsack :
Two woollen undershirts.
Two ])air thick cotton drawers.
Four pair woollen socks.
Two pair stout shoes, with broad, thick soles, for footmen.
One pair boots, and one pair shoes, for horsemen.
Towels, handkerchiefs, comb and brush, and tooth-brush. Stout
linen thread, large needles, a bit of wax. a few buttons, paper of pins,
and a thimble, all contained in a small buckskin or stout cloth bag.
In addition, every man should be supplied with a tin plate ; quart
cup with the handle well riveted on, so as to serve the soldier for
making his coffee, etc., in case of necessity, as well as for an ordinary
drinking cup : knife, fork, and spoon. The plate may be carried in
the knapsack, or on the outside of it under the straps, or all the plates
of the company may be packed in the camp-kettles ; the cup may be
carried on the waist belt or on the kmipsack strap, and the knife, fork,
DUTIES OF CAPTAINS, COMPANIES, ETC. 481
and spoon should be carried in a leathern gheath which slips on to the
waist bcdfi, to be worn in front, and on the left of the centre of
the body.
Every company should be provided with a small chest, partitioned oflF
into several compartments, and large enough to contain a week or ten
dajrs' issue of the small rations, such as beans, rice, coffee, sugar, salt,
etc. The issues of bread, pork, etc., should be transported in the
original packages.
When a militia company is called into service, the captain should, at
the earliest possible moment, have it properly uniformed and equipped,
and taught how to take care of its arms, clothing, etc.; each man
should be provided with his knapsack, haversack, blanket, knife and
fork, spoon, tin plate, and cup.
Canteens are also necessary in most cases; they are worn over the
haversack.
76.3. The captain shall cause the men of his company to be num-
bered in a regular series, including the non-commissioned officers, and
divided into several squads, each to be put under the charge of a non-
commissioned officer. As far as practicable, the men of each squad
are quartered together.
Each of the lieutenants is charged with a squad for the supervision
of its order and cleanliness ; and captains should require their subal-
terns to assist them in the performance of all company duties.
The utmost attention should be paid by captains to the cleanliness
of their men. as to their persons, clothing, arms, accoutrements, and
also as to tlicir quarters or tents.
The name of each soldier should be labelled on his bunk in quarters,
and his company number should be placed against his arms and accou-
trements.
The arms are placed in arm-racks, the stoppers in the muzzles, the
cocks let down, and the bayonets in their scabbards, the accoutrements
suspended over the arms, and the swords or sabres, when these are
worn, hung up by the belts on pegs.
The knapsack of each man should be placed at the foot of his bunk
when he is in quarters, packed with his effects, and ready to be slung ,•
the overcoat rolled, strapped, and placed under the knapsack; the cap
on a shelf, and his boots well cleaned. Dirty clothes should be kept in
an appropriate part of the knapsack ; nothing to be put under the
bedding.
Cooking utensils and table furniture should be clean, and fn their
appropriate places ; blacking and brushes out of sight ; the fuel in
boxes.
The cleaning up should take place at least once a week. The chiefs
41
482 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
of squads should cause bunks and bedding to be overhauled, floors
cleaned, and arms, accoutrements, etc., all put in order.
Non-commissioned officers, in charge of squads, should be held im-
mediately responsible that their men observe vrhat is prescribed above :
that they wash their hands and faces daily; that they brush or comb
their heads and beards; that those who go on duty put their arms,
accoutrements, dress, etc., in the best order.
Commanders of companies should see that the arms and accoutre-
ments in possession of the men are always kept in good order, and
that proper care is taken in cleaning them.
Arms should not be taken to pieces without permission of an officer.
Bright barrels should be kept clean and free from rust without polish-
ing them; care shovild be taken not to bruise or bend the barrel.
After firing, wash out the bore, wipe it dry, and then pass a bit of
cloth, slightly greased, to the bottom. In these operations, a rod of
wood with a loop on one end is to be used instead of the rammer.
The barrel, when not in use, should be closed with a stopper. For
exercise, each man should keep himself provided with a piece of sole
leather to fit the cap or countersink of the hammer, to prevent break-
ing the nipple.
All field pieces in the possession of artillery companies should be
kept clean and dry ; their vents frequently examined to sec that
they are clear ; the elevating screw wiped clean, worked and oiled.
When tarpaulins are placed over them, they should occasionally be
removed, the guns and carriages brushed off, and, if damp, allowed
to dry.
The implements should all be kept clean and under cover; the
harness and leather articles should be brushed and greased with
neat's-foot oil as often as their condition requires it, and if they have
a reddish hue, mix a little lampblack with the oil. First brush the
leather, then pass over it a sponge wet with warm water, and apply the
oil before the leather is quite dry.
Arms should not be left loaded in armories, quarters, or tents, or
when the men are off duty, except by special orders. The ammunition
in the possession of the men should be inspected frequently, and any
damaged, wasted, or lost by neglect, should be paid for.
Knapsacks should be black ; they should be marked on the outside
with the number of the regiment, and on the inside with the letter of
the company, and the number of the soldier, on such part as will
readily be seen at inspections.
Haversacks should be marked on the flap with the number and
name of the regiment, the letter of the company, and the number of
the soldier.
DUTIES OF CAPTAINS, COMPANIES, ETC. 483
Both officers and meu should wear the prescribed uniform in camp or
garrison.
In camp or quarters, the officers should visit the kitchen daily and
inspect the kettles, food, etc., and at all times carefully attend to the
messing and economy of their companies.
The company rations are usually taken charsre of by the orderly
sergeant, and issued daily to the cooks by whom they are i)repared
and served to the company. The men of the company serve in turn
as cooks, two being the usual number serving at once. When iu camp,
the men present tliemselves at meal times to the cooks, who issue to
each man in turn his proper allowance ; in garrison or quarters the
tables arc set out, and the cooks place each man's ration on his plate,
and in his cup, before the company is marched in.
When not actually in the field the ration is in most cases more than
sufficient, so that by care on the part of the orderly sergeant and cooks,
there is more or less saved on the rations of the company ; this saving
is sold for the benefit of the company, and constitutes what is denomi-
nated the Conipniiif Fund.
DUTIES IN CAMP AND GARRISON.
764. The duties in camp and garrit^on are to be conducted, as far as
practicable, in the same manner and on the same principles.
The Rereille is the signal for the men to rise, and the sentinels to
leave off challenging. It is usually sounded at dawn of day, except
when the troops are on the march, when the signal may be sounded at
a much earlier hour. The men form on their company parade grounds,
and as soon as the reveille ceases the rolls are called by the orderly
sergeants, Kuj^eriniendcd hy <i conuniHKioued offi,rer.
Immediately after the roll call (after stable duty in the cavalry and
light artillery), the tents or quarters should be put iu order by the
men of the companies, superintended by chiefs of squads ; the parades,
streets of the camp, etc., are cleaned by the iwUce party of the day,
in charge of a non-commissioned officer, and superintended by the
officer of the day, and the guard house or guard tent by the guard or
the prisoners, if there are any.
Breakfast call is sounded at — o'clock in the morning, and is the
signal for breakfast.
The Troop sounds at — o'clock in the morning for the purpose of
assembling the men for duty, inspection at guard mounting, and
morning dress parade, when the commanding officer commands it.
The Sunjeonh call is to sound or beat at — o'clock in the morning,
when the sick, able to go about, are conducted to the hospital by the
484 MANUAL rOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILTTIA.
first sergeants of companies, who hand to the surgeon a list of all the
sick in the company.
After the surgeon has passed upon the sick, the first sergeants
proceed to make off" the morning reports of their companies, which,
after being signed by their captains, are taken to regimental head-
quarters at first sergeant's call.
The morning report of the company is made off in a book kept for
that purpose, called the morning rrqinrt Jiook, and in accordance with
Form No. 1. The rulings extend across both pages of the book when
open; the report occupies but a single line each morning, so that if
the number of lines are sufficient, a single heading will sufiice far the
reports of an entire month.
The Dinner call is sounded at — o'clock, and is the signal for
dinner.
The Retreat is sounded at sunset, when there is a roll call and the
orders for the day are read. When the weather permits, there is a
dress parade at retreat, and the orders are read out at the close of it.
Each regiment or battalion has an independent parade, commanded
by the colonel.
The Tattoo is sounded at — o'clock in the evening, when the rolls
are called ; no soldier is allowed to be out of his tent or quarters after
this hour, without special permission.
In the cavalry. Stable calls are sounded immediately after reveille,
and an hour and a half before retreat; Water calls at the hours
directed by the commanding officer.
The Drummers' call is beaten by the drums of the police guard five
minutes before the time of beating the stated calls, when the field
music assembles before the colors of their respective regiments, and as
soon as the beat begins on the right is taken up along the line.
Calls for drills are sounded at such hours as the commanding oflficer
may designate.
765. Daily duties must be announced in order, and the oflicers to
perform them are detailed according to the rules of the roster.
The number and rank of the officers for daily duty, are to be regu-
ulated by the strength and circumstances of the camp or garrison;
the officers detailed for duty should remain in or about the camp or
garrison during their tours of duty.
Besides the officers detailed for guard duty, the officers for daily
duties in large commands are as follows :
A General officer of the dai/ for each division : a field officer of the
day for each brigade; and a regimental officer of the day for each
regiment.
In camps or garrisons of one regiment or less, the officers are as
follows ; officer of the day and officer of the guard.
DUTIES OF CAPTAINS, COMPANIES, ETC. 485
The General, of the <friy is to superintend the regularity and disci-
pline of the camp of the division, visit the guards and outposts, call
out and inspect the guards as often and at such times as he thinks
proper ; to receive all reports of guards, and make immediate commu-
nication of any extraordinary circumstances to his commanding
officer, or to the General-in-chief.
The Field offlfer of the day has the immediate superintendence of
the camp of the brigade; he is to be present at the mounting and
dismounting of the brigade or grand guards,* he is to call them out
to inspect them; to order such patrols, posts and outposts as may be
necessary ; to see that the grand guard is vigilant, that none are
absent, and that their arms and accoutrements are in order; that the
officers and non-commissioned officers are acquainted witli their duty,
and that the sentries arc properly posted, and have received proper
orders.
The Jlct/iiiieittal o/firer of the dai/ in each regiment, and in commands
less than a regiment, is charged with the order and cleanliness of the
camp or garrison ; he has the calls beaten by the drummer of the police
guard; he attends the parading of the guards, and orders the roll to be
called frequently' and at unexpected periods, and reports everything
extraordinary to the commander of the garrison or camp; he is to visit
the hospital at various liours, and make a report of its state to the
commanding officer. He should satisfy himself frequently during the
night, of the vigilance of the police guard, and prescribe patrols and
rounds to be made by the officer of the guard. He should give atten-
tion to the condition of the sinks, the regulation of the camp fires, the
removal of rubbish, etc., and for these purposes a fatigue party will be
furnished him when necessary.
CAMPS.
Camps of infantry.
766. Each company has its tents in two files, facing on a street per-
pendicular to the color line. The width of the streot depends on the
front of the camp, but should not be less than five paces. The interval
between the ranks of tents is two paces; between the files of tents of
adjacent companies, two paces ; between regiments, twenty-two paces.
The color line is ten paces in front of the front rank of tents. The
kitchens are twenty paces behind the rear rank of company tents ; the
non-commissioned staif and sutler, twenty paces in rear of the kitch-
ens ; the company otficers, twenty paces farther in rear: and the field
and statf, twenty paces in rear of the company officers.
486 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The company officers are in rear of their respective companies ; the
captains on the right.
The colonel and lieutenant-colonel are near the centre of the line of
field and stafFj the adjutant, a major and surgeon, on the right; the
quartermaster, a major and assistant surgeon, on the left.
The police guard is at the centre of the line of the non-commissioned
staff, the tents facing to the front, the stacks of arms on the left.
The advanced post of the police guard is about 200 paces in front of
the color line, and opposite the centre of the regiment or on the best
ground ; the prisoners' tent about four paces in rear. In a regiment of
the second line, the advanced post of the police guard is 200 paces in
rear of the line of its field and staff.
The horses of the staff officers and of the baggage train are twenty-
five paces in rear of the tents of the field and staff; the v^agons are
parked on the same line, and the men of the train camped near them.
The sinks of the men are 150 paces in front of the color line — those
of the officers 100 paces in rear of the train. Both are concealed by
bushes. When convenient, the sinks of the men may be placed in rear
or on a flank. A portion of the earth dug out for sinks to be thrown
back occasionally.
The front of the camp of a regiment of 1,000 men in two ranks will
be 400 paces, or one-fifth less paces than the number of files, if the
camp is to have the same front as the troops in order of battle. But
the front may be reduced to 190 paces by narrowing the company
streets .to five paces; and if it be desirable to reduce the front still
more, the tents of companies may be pitched in single file — those of a
division facing on the same street.
Camp of cavalry.
767. In the cavalry, each company has one file of tents — the tents
opening on the street facing the left of the camp.
The horses of each company are placed in a single file, facing the
opening of the tents, and are fastened to pickets planted firmly in the
ground, from three to six paces from the tents of the troops.
The interval between the file of tents should be such that, the regi-
ment being broken into column of companies, each company should be
on the extension of the line on which the horses are to be picketed.
The streets separating the squadrons are wider than those between
the companies by the interval separating squadrons in line ; these in-
tervals are kept free from any obstruction throughout the camp.
The horses of the rear rank are placed on the left of those of their
file-leaders.
DUTIES OF CAPTAINS, COMPANIES, ETC. 487
The horses of the lieutenants are placed on the right of their pla-
toons; those of the captains on the right of tl>e company.
Each horse occupies a space of about two paces. The number of
horses in the company fixes the depth of the camp, and the distance
between the files of tents; the forage is placed between the tents.
The kitchens are twenty paces in front of each file of tents.
The non-commissioned officers are in the tents of the front rank.
Camp-followers, teamsters, etc., are in the rear rank. The police
guard in the rear rank, near the centre of the regiment.
The tents of the lieutenants are thirty paces in I'car of the file of
their company ; the tents of the captains thirty paces in rear of the
lieutenants.
The colonel's tent thirty paces in rear of the captains, near the centre
of the regiment; the lieutenant-colonel on his right; the adjutant on
his left; the majors on the same line, opposite the second company on
the right and left; the surgeon on the left of the adjutant.
The field and staflf have their horses on the left of their tents, on the
same line with the company horses; sick horses are placed in one line
on the right or left of the canip. The men who attend them have a
separate file of tents; the forges and wagons in roar of this file. The
horses of the train and of camp-followers are in one or more files
extending to the rear, behind the right or left squadron. The advanced
post of the police guard is two hundred paces in front, opposite the
centre of the regiment: tlie horses in one or more files.
The sinks for the men are one hundred and fifty paces in front — those
for officers one hundred paces in rear of the camp.
Camp of artillery. ^
768. The artillery is encamped near the troops to which it is
attached, so as to be protected from attack, and to contribute to the
defence of the camp. Sentinels for the park are furnished by the artil-
lery, and, when necessary, by the other troops.
For a battery of six pieces the tents are in three files — one for each
section; distance between the ranks of tents fifteen paces; tents open-
ing to the front. The horses of each section are picketed in the file,
ten paces to the left of the file of tents. In the horse artillery, or if
the number of horses makes it necessary, the horses are in two files on
the right and left of the file of tents. The kitchens are twenty-five
paces in front of the front rank of tents. The tents of the officers are
in the opposite files of company tents, twenty paces in rear of the rear
rank — the captain on the right, the lieutenants on the left.
The park is opposite the centre of the camp, forty paces in rear of
488 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
the officers* tents. The carriages in files four paces apart; distance
between ranks of carriages sufficient for the horses when harnessed to
them; the park guard is twenty-five paces in rear of the park. The
sinks for the men one hundred and fifty paces in front; for the officers
one hundred paces in rear. The harness is in the tents of the men.
BIVOUACS.
769. A regiment of cavalry being in order of battle, in rear of the
ground to be occupied, the colonel breaks it by platoons to the right.
The horses of each platoon are placed in a single row, and fastened as
prescribed for camps; near the enemy they remain saddled all night,
with slackened girths. The arms are at first stacked in rear of each
row of horses; the sabres, with the bridles hung on them, are placed
against the stacks.
The forage is placed on the right of each row of horses. Two stable-
guards for each platoon watch the horses.
A fire for each platoon is made near the color line, twenty paces to
the left of the row of horses. A shelter is made for the men around
the fire, if possible, and each man then stands his arms and bridle
against the shelter.
The fires and shelter for the officers are placed in rear of the line of
those for the men.
The interval between the squadrons must be without obstruction
throughout the whole depth of the bivouac.
The interval between the shelters should be such that the platoons
can take up a line of battle freely to the front or rear.
The distance from the enemy decides the manner in which the horses
are to be fed and led to water. When it is permitted to unsaddle, the
saddles are placed in the rear of the horses.
In infantry, the fires are made in rear of the color line, on the
ground that would be occupied by the tents in camp. The companies
are placed around thet^, and, if possible, construct shelters. When
liable to surprise, the infantry should stand to arms at daybreak, and
the cavalry mount until the return of the reconnoitering parties. If
the arms are to be taken apart to clean, it must be done by detach-
ments, successively.
CANTONMENTS.
770. The cavalry should be placed under shelter whenever the dis-
tance from the enemy, and from the ground where the troops are to form
for battle, permit it. Taverns and farm-houses, with large stables and
free access, are selected for quartering them.
DUTIES OF CAPTAINS, COMPANIES, ETC. 489
The colonel indicates the place of assembling iu case of alarm. It
should generally be outside the cantonment; the egress from it should
be free; the retreat upon the other positions secure, and roads leading
to it on the side of the enemy obstructed.
The necessary orders being given, as in establishing a camp, the
picket and grand guards are posted. ,A sentinel may be placed on a
steeple or high house, and then the troops are marched to the quarters.
The men sleep in the stables, if it is thought necessary.
The above applies in the main to infantry. Near the enemy, com-
panies or platoons should be collected, as much as i)ossiblc, in the same
houses. If companies must be separated, they should be divided by
platoons or squads. All take arms at daybreak.
When cavalry and infantry canton together, the latter furnish the
guards by night, aiid the former by day.
Troops cantoned in presence of the enemy should be covered by
advanced guards and natural or ai'tificial obstacles. Cantonments
taken during a cessation of hostilities should be established in rear
of a line of defence, and in front of the point on which the troops
■would concentrate to receive an attack. The general commanding-in-
chief assigns the limits of their cantonments to the divisions, the
commanders of divisions to brigades, and the commanders of brigades
post their regiments. The position for each corps, in case of attack,
is carefully pointed out by the generals.
MARCHES.
771. For marching, the force, if a large one, is divided into as many
columns as circumstances permit, without Aveakening any one too much.
The object of the movement and the nature of the ground determine the
order of march, the kind of troops in each column, and the number of
columns. They ought to preserve their communications and be within
supporting distance of each other. The commander of each column
ought to know the strength and direction of the others.
The advance and rear guards are usually light troops; their strength
and composition depend on the nature of the ground and the position
of the enemy. They serve to cover the movements of the army, and to
hold the enemy in check until the general has time to make his arrange-
ments.
The "general," sounded one hour before the time of marching, is the
signal to strike tents, to load the wagons, pack horses, etc., and send
them to the place of assembling. The fires are then put out, and care
taken to avoid burning straw, etc., or giving the enemy any other indi-
cation of the movements.
490 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILTTTA.
The "mai'cb" beats in the infantry, and the "advance" is sounded
in the cavalry, in succession, as each is to take its place in the column.
The infantry forms in column of companies or platoons; the cavalry in
column of twos, fours, or of platoons; and the artillery by sections.
When the army should form suddenly to meet the enemy, the " lony-
roli" is beat, and "to horse" soupded. The troops form rapidly in front
of their camp.
Batteries of artillery and their caissons move with the corps to which
they are attached; the field train and ambulances march at the rear of
the column ; and the baggage with the rear guard.
Cavalry and infantry do not march together, unless the proximity of
the enemy makes it necessary.
In cavalry marches, when distant from the enemy, each regiment,
and, if possible, each squadron, forms a separate column, in order to
keep up the same gait from front to rear, and to trot, when desirable,
on good ground. In such cases, the cavalry may leave camp later, and
can give more rest to the horses, and more attention to the shoeing and
harness.
After the march has commenced, the troops habitually take the route
step. The men should not be allowed to straggle, or leave the ranks
for any but a necessary purpose, and then but for a few moments at a
time.
The general and field ofiicers frequently stop, or send officers to the
rear, to see that the troops march in the prescribed order, and keep
their distances.
In approaching a defile, the colonels are warned ; they close their
regiments as they come up; each regiment passes separately, at an ac-
celerated pace, and in as close order as possible. The leading regiment
having passed, and left room enough for the whole column in close
order, halts, and moves again as soon as the last regiment is through.
In the cavalry, each squadron, before quickening the pace to rejoin the
column, takes its original order of march.
When a march is to be continued from day to day, the daily march
should commence at a very early hour; the rate of going should be as
regular as possible, not more than two and a half miles an hour; and
the guides should be careful to preserve their distance, so as to prevent
oscillations in the rear of the column, Avhich are very fatiguing to the
men. At the expiration of every hour, or a little more, the halt is
sounded, when the men are allowed to take their ease for about ten
minutes, when the march is resumed. In this way a day's march of
twenty miles or more may be made by mid-day, or a little later; the
men get their dinners after getting into camp, have the afternoon to
DUTIES OF CAPTAINS, COMPANIES, ETC. 491
rest, wash their clothing, clean theii' arms, etc., and are fresh for an
early start on the following day.
In forced marches, or where the march is a long one, the halt at noon
may he from an hour to an hour and a half, when the men may loosen
their belts, take a lunch, smoke, and take their ease in any way they
choose, until the hour for resuming the march ; the march may be con-
tinued until the middle of the afternoon, and still the men will have
time to get their cup of hot coffee for supper, and make themselves
comfortable for the night. The march of the first two days should he
short, after that it may be increased to the required number of miles ;
the march from day to day should be as nearly of equal length as the
convenience of fuel and water, etc., for camping purposes will admit.
772. A (■(iininnff pnrti/, headed by the quartermaster of the command,
precedes the column for the purpose of selecting and marking off the
camp before the arrival of the troops. The camp is marked by placing
camp colors on the line intended for the color line of the command.
When the column reaches the camp ground, the infantry comes into
line on the color line ; the cavalry in rear of its camp.
The number of men to be furnished for guards, pickets, and order-
lies ; the iatigue parties to be sent for wood and water for the cook,
etc. ; the hour of marching, etc., are then announced by the brigadier-
generals to the colonels, and by them to the field officers — the adjutant
and captains formed in front of the regiment, the first sergeants taking
post behind their captains. The adjutant then makes the details, and
the first sergeants warn the men. The regimental officer of the day
forms the picket, and sends the guards to their posts. The colors are
then jilantcd at the centre of the color line, and the arms are stacked
on the line. The fatigue parties proceed to their duties, and the men
of the company not on detail pitch the tents.
In the cavalry, each troop moves a little in rear of the point at which
its horses are to be secured, and forms in one rank; the men then dis-
mount ; a detail is made to hold the horses ; the rest stack their arms
and fix the picket rope ; after the horses are attended to the tents are
pitched, and each horseman places his arms at the side from the
weather.
Artillery is brought into line, and the picket ropes fixed ; the drivers
unhitch, take off harness, secure their horses to the picket ropes, etc.,
whils the cannoneers pi'oceed to pitch the tents.
492 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Article XIY.
THE STAFF. -
A djutant-generaV s departm en t.
773. The general duties of the adjutant-general and of the assistant
adjutant-generals have heen laid down under the head of army organ-
ization.
The adjutant-generals of the several States are required to make
annual returns of the strength and condition of the militia, the state
of the arms, etc., applicable to military purposes, to the governor or
commander-in-chief of the State, and to forward a consolidated return
of the militia, arms, etc., to th« President of the United States, through
the adjutant-general of the United JBtates army, agreeable to a form
furnished by him.
Assistant adjutant-generals, in addition to the duties already speci-
fied in general terms, attend to the formation of their divisions or
brigades, publish all orders received at division or brigade head-quar-
ters ; issue all orders proceeding from the general commanding the
division or brigade ; prcirerve the records of the division or brigade ;
iuspcct and form division or brigade guards ; prepare and keep the
necessary rosters of the officers of the division or brigade; and regu-
late all details for duty depending upon the rosters.
774. It is the duty of the assistant adjutant-general of each brigade
to jDrepare a morning report of the brigade every morning after the
receipt of the regimental morning reports (see Form No. 2), in accord-
ance with Form No. 3, which is signed by him and (he general com-
manding the brigade and forwarded to division head-quarters. The
assistant adjutant-general of the division prepares, in like manner, a
consolidated morning report of the division, to be transmitted to the
adjutant-general of the army corps, or army of which the division
forms a part. (See Form No. 4.)
Thus the commanding general is from day to day kept advised as to
the exact strength and condition of his command.
The assistant adjutant-general of a detached brigade, division or
THE 8TAFF. 493
army in the field, has to prepare a monthly return of the command, to
be signed by himself and his commanding general, to be forwarded to
the adjutant-general at general head-quarters.
775. When orders are received at. or emanated from the head-
quarters of an army or army corps, the adjutant-general, or assistant
adjutant-general, as the case may be. transmits copies to each of the
assistant adjutant-generals at division head-quarters : the assistant
adjutant-generals at division head-quarters in turn transmit copies to
the assistant at eaf'h of the brigade head-quarters, and from brigade
head-quarters they go to the adjutants of regiments, by whom they are
read to the troops on parade. When troops are on a campaign, the
orders are given to officers of the staff", who report for them daily at
the different head-quarters. See article '* Orders.''
776. The parole and eoimtersign emanate daily from head-quarters,
in the form of " special orders;" copies of both, under seal, are trans-
mitted to division head-quarters ; from them to brigade head-quarters,
and from brigade head-quarters to regimental head-quarters, provided
there is any officer of the regiment who is entitled to the pd,role; if
not, the countersign only is sent. Copies of one or both are sent to
such persons of the division, brigade, or regiment, as may be entitled
to them.
The parole is only sent to the field and regimental officers of the
day, officers of guards, and to such other officers as may be entitled to
visit and inspect guards. •
The parole and countersign are usually sent out on small pieces of
paper, so folded as to make jt impossible to discover either without
breaking the seal.
777. By the militia laws of Virginia, and most of the other States,
the division and brigade inspectors are the chiefs of staff" of their
respective divisions and brigades, and they discharge the duties of
assistant adjutant-generals in the divisions and brigades with which
they serve.
778. The adjutants of regiments are the chiefs of the regimental
staff's, and perform within their regiments the various duties required
of them in the formation of their regiments, in all parades, inspec-
tions, manoeuvres, formation of guards, etc. The adjutant publishes
all orders received at regimental head-quarters, and issues all orders
emanating from the head-quarters of the I'egiment; keeps a roster of
the officers of the regiment, and makes all details for duty from the
roster; has charge of the field-music, band, and pioneers: and dis-
charges such other duty as his colonel may require.
At the first sergeant's call, the orderly sergeants of companies
present the morning reports of their companies, made off" in conformity
494 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
with the requirements of Form No. 1, and signed by their captains.
The adjutant then proceeds to make off the morning report of the
regiment, as required in Form No. 2, which is signed by himself and
the colonel, and transmitted to brigade head-quarters.
On receiving the parole and countersign from brigade head-quarters,
he sends a copy of both to the colonel and to the regimental officer of
the day, and copies of the countersign to the surgeon, and such other
of the staff officers of the regiment as, from the nature of their duties,
may require it.
The Quartermaster's department.
779. This department has to provide quarters and transportation for
the troops; storage and transportation for all supplies; clothing;
camp and garrison equipage ; cavalry and artillery horses ; fuel ;
forage; straw; and stationery. Its duties, when troops are in actual
service, are very important, and embrace such a wide range of subjects
that a large number of agents, and thorough organization, are indis-
pensable.
780. Under the head of quarters are included all buildings for the
use of an army; as quarters for men and officers, hospitals, store-
houses, offices, and stables. When quarters are to be occupied, they
are allotted by the quartermaster at the station, under the control of
the commanding. officer.
The number of rooms, and amount of fuel for officers and men, are
as follows :
THE STAFF.
Fuel for officers and men.
495
Rooms.
A Miijor-Gencral
A Brigadier-General or Colonel
A Lieutenant-Colonel or Major
A Captain or Chaplain
Lieutenant
Military store-keeper
The General commanding the army
The Commanding officer of a division or department, an
Assistant or Deputy Quartermaster-General
The Commanding officer of a regiment or post, Quarter-
master, Assistant Quartermaster, or Commissary of
Sul>sistenre
An acting Assistant Quartermaster when approved by
the Quartermaster-General
AVagon and Foi'age master, Sergeant-Major, Ordnance-
Sergeant, or Quartermaster-Sergeant
Each Non-commissioned officer, musician, private, officer's
servant and washerwoman
Each necessary fire for the sick in hospital to be regu-
lated by the surgeon and commanding officer, not ex-
ceeding
Each guard-fire to be regulated by the commanding offi-
cer, not exceeding
A Comnnssary or Quartermaster's store-house, when ne-
cessary, not exceeding
A regimental or post mess
To every six non-commissioned officers, musicians, and
privates, servants and washerwomen, 225 square feet
of room north of .38° N., and 256 square feet south of
that latitude
Cords of
wood per
month.*
o o
1 -z
^5,
5
4
3
No officer shall occupy more than his proper quarters, except by-
order of the commanding officer, when there is an excess of quarters at
the station. But the amount of quarters shall be reduced pro rata by
the commanding officer when the number of officers and troops makes it
necessary.
A mess room, and fuel for it, are allowed only when a majority of
the officers of a post or regiment unite in a mess. Fuel for a mess room
should not be used elsewhere, or for any other purpose.
Fuel issued to officers or troops is public property for their use, and
what is not actually consumed should be returned to the quartermaster's
department. Fuel is issued only in the month when due.
* Or coal, at the rate of 1.500 lbs anthracite or 30 bushels bituminous to the
cord.
496
MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
In allotting quarters, officers have choice according to rank; hut the
commanding officer may direct the officers to he stationed convenient to
their troops. An officer may select quarters occupied hy a junior; hut
having made his choice, he must ahide hy it, and shall not again at the
post displace a junior, unless himself displaced by a senior.
An officer arriving at a station should make requisition on the quar-
termaster for his quarters and fuel, accompanied by a copy of the order
putting him on duty at the station. If in command of troops, his re-
quisition should be for the whole, and designate the number of officers
of each grade, of non-commissioned officers, soldiers and servants.
781. When troops are moved, or officers travel with escorts or stores,
the means of transport provided shall be for the whole command.
Proper orders in the case, and an exact return of the command, includ-
ing officers' servants and company women, will be furnished to the
quartermaster who is to furnish the transportation. The baggage to be
transported is limited to camp and garrison equipage and officers' bag-
gage. Officers' baggage should not exceed (mess-chest and all personal
effects included) as follows :
General Officers
Field Officers . .
Captains
Subalterns . . . .
In the Field.
125 pounds.
100 "
80 "
80 "
Changing Stations.
1000 pounds.
800 "
700 "
600 "
These amounts may be reduced pro rata by the commanding officer
when necessary, and may be increased on transports by water, when
proper, in special cases.
All the books, papers, and instrumeuts necessary for the duties of
staff officers ; also regimental and company desks, and the medicine
chests of medical officers, must be transported.
Estimates of the medical director, approved by the comrfianding
officer, for the transportation of the hospital service, and the sick, will
be furnished to the quartermaster.
The baggage trains, ambulances for the sick and wounded, and all
the means of transport, continue in charge of the proper officers of the
quartermaster's department, under the control of the commanding
officers.
When supplies are turned over to the quartermaster for transporta-
tion, each package must be directed, and its contents marked on it.
On transports, cabin passage is provided for the officers, and reason-
able and proper accommodation for the troops, and, when possible, a
separate apartment for the sick.
TjHE STAFF.
497
782. The forage ration is fourteen pounds of hay, and twelve pounds
of oats, corn, or barley. Forage is issued to officers only in the month
when due, and at their proper stations, and for the horses actually
kept by them in service, not exceeding in number as follows : In time
of war, major-general, seven horses; brigadier-general, five ; colonels
who have the cavalry allowance, five; other colonels, four; lieutenant-
colonels and majors who have the cavalry allowance, four; other lieu-
tenant-colonels and majors, three; captains who have the cavalry
allowance, throe; all other officers entitled to forage, two: and in time
of peace, general and field officers, three horses; officers below the
rank of field officers in the regiment of cavalry, etc., two horses ; all
other officers entitled to forage, one horse.
No officer is allowed to sell forage issued to him. Forage issued to
public horses or cattle is public property; whatever is not consumed is
accounted for.
783. Issues of stationery are made quarterly, in amount as follows :
o ,^
se
Ph Ah
Commander of an army, department, or division
(what may be necessary for himself and stafi"
for their public duty)
Commander of a brigade, for himself and staff . .
Officer commanding a regiment or post of not less
than five companies, for himself and staff"
Officer commanding a post of more than two and
less than five companies
Commanding officer of a post of two'"companies. .
Commanding officer of a post of one company or
less, and commanding officer of a company. . . .
A Lieutenant-Colonel or Major not in command
of a regiment or post
Officers of the luspeetor-General's, Pay, and
Quartermaster's Department (the pre'scril)ed
blank books and printed forms, and the sta-
tionery required for their public duty)
All officers, including Chaplains, not enumerated
above, when on duty and not supplied by their
respective departments 1^^
42
498
MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Steel pens, with one holder to twelve pens, may be issued in place of
quills, and envelopes in place of envelope paper, at the rate of 100 to
the quire.
To each officer is allowed an inkstand, one stamp, paper-folder, sand-
box, wafer-box, and as many lead pencils as may be required.
Necessary stationery for military courts and boards will be furnished
on the requisition of the recorder, approved by the presiding officer.
Regimental, company, and post books, and printed blanks for the
officers of quartermaster and pay departments, will be procured by
requisition on the quartermaster-general.
Postage and despatches by telegraph on public business, paid by an
officer, will be refunded to him on his certificate to the amount, and to
the necessity of the communication by telegraph.
784. Supplies of clothing and camp and garrison equipage will be
sent by the quartermaster-general to the officers of his department sta-
tioned with the troops. The contents of each package, and the sizes of
the clothing in it, will be marked on it.
The allowance of camp and garri^pn equipage is as follows :
CO
CO
CO
OP
X
o
CO
v
o
cS
to
<o
a;
a
CO
a
to
CO
A General
3
2
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
2
2
1
1
1
1
2
Field and staff officer above the
rank of captain
Other staff officers and captains..
Subalterns of a company, to every
two
To every fifteen foot and thirteen
mounted men
2
5
4
Bed sacks and straw are provided for troops in garrison. Requi-
sitions will be sent to the quartermaster-general for the authorized
flags, colors, standards, guidons, drums, fifes, bugles and trumpets.
Commanders of companies draw the clothing of their men, and the
camp and garrison equipage for the officers and men of their company.
The camp and garrison equipage of other officers is drawn on their
own receipts.
When clothing is needed for issue to the men, the company com-
mander will procure it from the quartermaster on requisition, approved
by the commanding officer.
THE STAFF. 499
Commanders of companies take receipts of their men for the cloth-
ing issued to them, on a receipt roll, witnessed by an officer or non-
commissioned officer. Each soldier's clothing account is kept by the
captain in a company book, the account setting forth the money value
of the clothing received and receipted for.
785. Every separate command should have its quartermaster; if it
is a regiment, or less, one of the subalterns may discharge the duty by
order of the commanding officers; if a brigade or division, an officer
of the quartermaster department is assigned by the quartermaster-
general. In the volunteers and militia, quartermasters are appointed
by the colonels, brigadier-generals, or major-generals of regiments,
brigades, or divisions; but while quartermasters so appointed must
obey the directions of their commanding officers, their accountability
as officers of the quartermaster's department is just the same.
All requisitions for supplies, for transportation, forage, etc., are made
upon the quartermaster of the command requiring them; if it is in his
power to fill the requisition, he does so; if not he makes his requisition
upon the next higher officer of the department, and so on.
In order to facilitate the operations of the department, depots of sup-
l)lies, in charge of dejiot (/iiartcnnasterti, are established at convenient
points, and from wliich quartermaster's supplies are drawn upon proper
requisition.
In order to secure a proper accountability on the part of the officers
of the quartermaster's department, the quartermaster-general should
institute a proper system of returns, accounts, etc., requiring all officers
of the department to conform strictly to their requirements, and in the
settlement of their accounts to present satisfactory vouchers for all
money or public property expended. For the necessary forms see the
general regulations of the United States army.
Suhsutence department. ^
786. Every command should have its commissary or assistant com-
missary; when the command is less than a regiment, the same officer
may, and usually does discharge the duties of both commissary and
(luartermaster.
Subsistence supplies are issued on requisitions approved by the com-
manding officer, in the same way that quartermaster's supplies are
issued. The commissary must, however, so regulate his own requi-
sitions upon purchasing or depot commissaries, as to keep on hand a
sufficient supply to meet the wants of the troops.
Good and sufficient store-room for the subsistence stores will be pro-
cured by the commissary from the quartermaster.
500 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
787. The ration is three-fourtlis of a pound of pork or bacon, or one
and a fourth pounds of fresh or salt beef; eighteen ounces of bread
or flour, or twelve ounces of hard bread, or one and a fourth pounds
of corn meal, and at the rate, to one hundred rations, of eight quarts
of peas or beans, or, in lieu thereof, ten pounds of rice ,• six pounds of
coffee; twelve pounds of sugar; four quarts of vinegar; one and a
half pounds of tallow, or one and a fourth pounds of adamantine, or
one pound sperm candles; four pounds of soap, and two quarts of
salt.
On a campaign, or on marches, or on board transports, the ration of
hard bread is one pound.
Fresh beef, when it can be procured, should be furnished at least
twice a week ; the beef to be procured, if possible, by contract.
788. Company provision returns are usually made every week or ten
days, in accordance with Form No. 12 ; the return must be signed by
the commanding oflBcer of the regiment, or post, when the command is
less than a regiment.
When it is practicable, a consolidated return for the regiment or
post is made and signed by the commanding officer (see Form 13); but
the return must state the allowance for each companj'^, in order to
prevent any confusion in the issues.
Issues to the hospital are made on returns by the medical officer,
for such provisions only as are actually required for the sick and the
attendants. The cost of such parts of the ration as are issued is
charged to the hospital at contract or cost prices, and the hospital is
credited by the whole number of complete rations due through the
month at contract or cost prices; the balance, constituting the hospital
fund, or any portion of it, may be expended by the commissary, on the
requisition of the medical officer, in the purchase of any article for the
subsistence or comfort of the sick.
An extra issue of fifteen pounds of candles per month may be made
to the principal guard of each camp or garrison, on the order of the
commanding officer. Extra issues of soap, candles and vinegar are
permitted to the hospital when the surgeon does not avail himself of
the commutation of the hospital ration, or when there is no hospital
fund; salt in small quantities is issued for public horses and cattle.
When the officers of the medical department find anti-scorbutics
necessary for the health of the troops, the commanding officer may
order issues of fresh vegetables, pickled onions, sauer-kraut, or
molasses, with an extra quantity of rice and vinegar. Potatoes are
usually issued at the rate of one pound per ration, and onions at
the rate of three bushels in lieu of one of beans. Troops at sea
are recommended to draw rice and an extra issue of molasses in lieu
of beans.
THE STAFF. 501
When a soldier is detached on duty, and it is impracticable to carry
his subsistence with him, it will be commuted at seA-enty-five cents
a day, to be paid by the commissary, when due, or in advance,
on the order of the commanding officer. The ration of a soldier
stationed where he has no opportunity of messing, is commuted at
forty cents.
789. As in the case of the quartermaster's department, the commis-
sary-general should organize such a system of returns, accounts, etc.,
Jton the part of the officers of the department, as to ensure a proper
accountability on their part. See the army regulations for the neces-
sary forms.
Medical department.
790. The senior medical officer, on duty with any body of troops in
the field, will, unless otherwise sj^ecially ordered, be ex officio the
medical director; and will have the general control of the medical
officers, and the supervision of the hospitals under their charge.
The senior medical officers of a hospital distribute the patients,
according to convenience and the nature of their complaints, into
wards or divisions, under the particular charge of the several assistant
surgeons, and should visit them himself each day, as frequently as
the state of the sick may require,
His prescriptions of medicine and diet are written down at once in
the proper register, with the name of the patient and the number of his
bed; the assistants fill up the diet table for the day, and direct the
administration of the prescribed medicine.
He should enforce the proper hospital regulations to ])romote health
and prevent contagion, by ventilated and not crowded rooms, scrupu-
lous cleanliness, frequent changes of bedding, linen, etc.
791. At surgeon's call, the sick then in the companies will be con-
ducted to the hospital by the first sergeants, who will each hand to the
surgeon, in his company book, a list of all the sick of the company, on
which the surgeon shall state Avho are to remain or go into hospital ;
who are to return to quarters as sick or convalescent; what duties the
convalescents in quarters are capable of; what cases are feigned; and
any other information in regard to the sick of the company he may
have to communicate to the captain. He will then make a morning
report of the sick to the commanding officer (Form No. 17).
Pay department.
792. The troops should be paid in such manner that the arrears
shall at no time exceed two months, unless the circumstances of the
502 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
case render it unavoidable. The paymaster-general should take care,
by timely remittances, that the paymasters have the necessary funds to
pay the troops.
The payments, except to officers and discharged soldiers, are made
on muster and pay rolls; those of companies and detachments are
signed by the company or detachment commander; those of the hos-
pital are signed by the surgeon ; and all muster and pay rolls are
signed by the mustering and inspecting officer.
Copies of the necessary blank forms for muster and pay rolls may
always be obtained from the office of the Adjutant-General U. S. Army,
Washington. These blanks are too large to be properly represented in
a work like this.
When a company is paraded for payment, the men should be called
to the pay table one at a time, commencing with the non-commissioned
officers, who are paid according to rank ; the privates are called in
alphabetical order. Every member of the company, or detachment,
must, on receiving his pay, sign his name opposite his name in the pay
roll, and his signature must be witnessed by the captain, or some other
officer of the company, or detachment, whose duty it is to be present
when the company, or detachment, is paid.
Officers are paid on certified accounts, as in Form 5.
L
ItlOFning Reports of Captain 's Company
FOBM No. 1.
Reeimeiit of , Stationed at
the JMontU of , 1»-
PRESENT. _. •Ij
ABSENT.
<
1
f
<
1
1
i
PlRBT SEHQE-INt's
RlOX.lTUBE.
ZZi.
REMARKS.
%
For Duty. Si
Special
Duty.
In I
Arrest.
1
1
Sice.
With 1] Without Detached '
Leave. Leave. Service.
DATE.
.1
S
i
Lieutenants
Sergeants
Corporals
ilusiciana
Privates
Officers
N.C. Officers
■r 3
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JMorniiig Tteiiort of the
FORM No. 2.
Res'unent of ^ Commanded by Colonel
PRESENT.
ABSENT.
^'1
Pbksbst 1 J.
AND '11 S
.■\iterati0ss since
Yesterday.
|l
1
Extra || I.v
Detached
With j Without! Ia,„„ 1
AnsEST.
g
C 0 M >I A N B .
a ,
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-
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Le.we. I Leave.
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Colonel Cumniandiiin Hi'!/
utent of .
t
(Signed) A. B.
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idj,
it
nt.
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1
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JMoming HeiJort ot
Brigade
FORM No. 3.
IJivision, Ajnay of , Commanded by Brigadier-CS-eneral
»
_
__
_
_
_
-^
PRESENT.
ABSENT.
Presbnt
AND
Alterations since
Yesterday.
For DniY.
Extra
In
Dbtach'd
With
"Without
Sick.
COMMAND.
UUTV.
Arrest.
Sebtici.
Lbavs.
_: u 1
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Station,
(Signed) C. D.
Hrigndiei'-Genernl Cn-m.mandinq Jiriqfide.
(SiKnpd) A. B.
A sniatn.nt Adji^ta.nf- Genern.l.
K
^
jn:
jMoriiins; TJei>ort ot
FORM No. 4.
!• -Army, CoiTimanded l>y ^Major-Oem-rivl
General Staff of Division. ...
First Itrig.ide
Second "
; lipgiment Cavalry...
'cnpt. 1! 's Hultcry of
Artillery ]
;Ciipi. f 's Battery of
Ariillery..
PRESENT
i5i
,5? 'o) «
-!"l|is'e-
ABSENT.
PltE.SBNT
^ AND
Absent.
Altekatioxs singe
Yesterdai.
K E .M A U K .S .
Station,
1^
D,VTE,
(Signed);^©.
Major-Ocncrnl Cutninniidiiii/ Division.
ilumn includes Non-Ooniis-'ioned fSio-ned) A. B.
loi-s, Musiciiins. and Privates.^ ^ f
omo^
t Thi.s column incUidps tlie entire force.
Assistant Adjutant-General.
I
^
i
The
FORM No. 5.
To
iJr
ON WHAT ACCOUNT.
PAY.
Foi- inysolf
Fur private ssvvaiit not soldier
CLOTHING.
For private servunt not soldier
FOEAGE.
For horses
SUBSISTE.VCE.
For myself for .year scrviee
For private servant not soldier
comjMencement and expiration.
the
the
TERM OF SERVICE
CHARGEn.
I'AY PER MONTH.
Xo;OfRa- Total No- of j Post or Place
per day. Ration'. Where due.
^^
AMOUNT.
i^
I HEREKY CERl'IFY.
or reoeivod nion^y in lieu o
that I(Iid not dmin-lho tp
! foro^'iing aeeount is correct and just; thafci have not heen .absent without leave durii
t thereof, for any part of the time therein iffliarHed: that 1 actually owned, and kept in
any part of the time charged for; that I iiave not received pay, nor dra^n rations, forage or elothin" in Idiid,
! the horses, and employed the priiv ate servants for which I charge, for the whole «f the tinio (diarj;ed and
or any part thereof keep or employ a soldier as a waiter or servant; tliatthe annexed is an accurate description of my servant; that for the whole period eh.arKOd for my atalfappointme
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516 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Article XY.
BATTLES.
793. A battle is a general action between two armies ; if only a small
portion of the forces are engaged, it is usually denominated a combat,
an affair, a skirmish, etc., according to the character of the engage-
ment. Battles are of three kinds : 1st. Defensive battles, or those
fought in a chosen position by an army which awaits the attack of an
enemy. 2d. Off^eiisive battles, or those made by an army which attacks
the enemy drawn up, in position and awaiting the attack. 3d. The
mixed or unforeseen battles, which occur between two armies meeting
on the march.
794. When an army awaits the attack, it takes its position and forms
its line of battle according to the nature of the ground, and the sup-
posed character and strength of the enemy's forces. When some im-
portant position is to be protected by an army, such as when a siege is
to be covered, a capital to be protected, depots of supplies guarded, or
some point important to the operations of the campaign is to be held,
such battles are usually given.
795. The first condition to be satisfied by a position is, that the open-
ings shall be more favorable for falling on the enemy when he has ap-
proached to the desired point, tbau those which he can have for attack-
ing our line. Second, the artillery should be posted as to command all
the avenues by which the e*iemy can approach. Third, we should, if
possible, have good ground upon which to manoeuvre our troops unseen
by the enemy. Fourth, we should have a full view of the enemy as he
advances to the attack. Fifth, the flanks of our line should be well
protected b}^ natural or artificial obstacles. Sixth, we should have the
means for effecting a retreat in the event of a defeat, without exposing
the army to destruction.
It is seldom that all these conditions can be satisfied at the same
time; sometimes the very means of satisfying one may be in viola-
tion of another. A river, a forest, or a mountain, which secures the
iiank of an army, may become an obstacle to a retreat; again, the
BATTLES. 517
position may be difficult of attack in front, or on the wings, and at
the same time unfavorable for retreat.
We may sometimes be obliged to make the attack at all hazards
to prevent the junction of two of the enemy's corps to cut off forces
that are separated from the main body by a river, etc. As a general
rule, the attacking force has a moral superiority over the defensrve, but
this advantage is frequently counterbalanced by other conditions.
796. When we are acting on the offensive, the main thing is to
seize upon the decisive point of the field. This point is determined
by the configuration of the ground, the position of the contendino-
forces, the object to be attained by the battle; or by a combination
of these.
797. It frequently happens that battles result from the meetiu"-
of armies in motion, both parties acting on the ofiensive. Indeed"
an army that is acting on the defensive may, on the approach of the
enemy, advance to meet him while on the march. Battles of this
kind may partake of the mixed character of offensive and defensive
actions, or they may be in the nature of a surprise to both armies.
798. An order of battle is the particular disposition given to the
troops for a determined manoeuvre on the field of battle. A lin,- of
battle is the general name applied to troops drawn up in their usual
order, without any determined manoeuvre ,• it may apply to defensive
positions or to offensive operations, where no particular object has
been decided on. Military writers lay down twelve orders of bat-
tle, viz :
Lst. The simple parallel order, in which the two armies occupy
parallel lines. This is regarded as the worst possible position for a
battle, for the two parties here fight with equal chances, and the
combat must continue until accident, superior numbers, or mere
physical strength decides the day; skill can have but little influence
in such a contest.
2d. The parallel order with a crotchet, in which one of the wings
is thrown forward or back, giving the line this form. This order is
sometimes used in defensive position, and in the offensive with the
crotchet thrown forward. Wellington, at Waterloo, formed the parallel
order with the retired crotchet on the right flank.
3d. The parallel order reinforced on one or both wings. This order
may in certain cases secure the victory, but it has many objections.
The weak part of the line is too near the enemy, and may, notwith-
standing the efforts of the general to the contrary, become engaged,
and run the risk of defeat, thereby counterbalancing the advantages
gained by having a strong point. Neither will the reinforced part of
the line be able to profit by any success it may gain, and take the
518 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
enemy's line in flank and rear, without endangering its connection
with the rest of the line.
4th. The parallel order reinforced ou the centre. The same objec-
tions are applicable to this as to the last.
5th. The simple oblique order, in which the two lines are oblique
to each other.
6th. The oblique order reinforced on the assailing wing. This is
suited to an inferior army attacking a superior, for it enables the
general to carry the mass of his force on a single point of the en-
emy's line, while the weaker wing is out of reach of inimediatc
attack, and holds the remainder of the enemy's line in check by
acting as a reserve ready to be concentrated on the favorable point
as occasion may require.
7th. The perpendicular order on one or both wings, in which the
attacking force occupies one or more lines perpendicular to the de-
fensive, and on one or both of its flanks. A battle may begin with
this order, but soon it must change to the oblique. An attack upon
both wings can only be made with safety when the attacking force
is vastly superior.
8th. The concave order, in which the army occupies a curve con-
cave to the enemy ; in this order the wings are in advance of the
centre. It may be used with advantage in some cases and in par-
ticular localities.
9th. The convex order, in which the army is disposed in a curve
convex to the enemy, the centre being thus thrown in advance of
the wings. This order is sometimes formed to cover a defile, to
attack a concave line, or to oppose an attack before or after the pas-
sage of a river.
10th. The order by echelon on one or both wings, in which the army
is arranged in echelon from right to left, or from left to right. This
order on one wing may be frequently employed with advantage j but
if it be made on both wings, there is the same objection to its use as to
the perpendicular order on both wings.
11th. The order by echelon on the centre, in which the centre is in
the advance, and the wings are disposed in echelon to the right and left.
This order may be employed with success against an army formed in a
thin or too extended line of battle, for then it would penetrate and
break the line.
The echelon order possesses many advantages. The several corps
composing the army may manoeuvre separately, and, consequently,
with greater ease. Each echelon covers the flank of the one which
precedes it; and all may be combined to eff"ect a given object, and
extended without weakening any part too much.
BATTLES. 519
12th. The combined orders of attack in columns on the centre and
one wing at the same time. This is better suited than either of the
others for attacking a strong line.
799. No general rule can be laid down as to which of these orders of
battle should be employed, or whether either should be exclusively fol-
lowed throughout the battle. The question must be decided by the
general himself on the ground, whore all the circumstances may be
duly considered. An order well suited to one position might be the
worst possible in another.
Whatever the plan adopted by the attacking general, he should
endeavor to dislodge the enemy, hy piercing or turning his line. If he
can conceal his real intentions and deceive the enemy respecting the
true point of attack, success will be more certain.
800. We will now discuss the particular manner of arranging the
troops on the line of battle, or the manner of employing each arm,
beginning with the infantry, as this is the most important.
Position and formation. — On the field of battle, whether the object
be to attack or defend, the infantry is divided into three bodies — an
advanced guard, the main body, and a reserve. Their relative propor-
tion will depend upon the total force and the Character of the position
occupied. The advanced guard must be of sufficient strength to hold
the enemy in check, but at the same time, the main body, upon which
the brunt of the action should fall, must. not be left of insufficient force,
by unnecessarily increasing the advanced guard; and the reserve
should be strong enough to repair any disaster that may befall the
main body, or to profit by its success in accomplishing the complete
overthrow of the enemy.
These three bodies are separated from each other by intervals which
will depend upon the nature of the ground. The advanced guard
occupying the front; the main body at a distance from one hundred
and fifty to three hundred paces in its rear; and the reserve at a like
interval in rear of the main body. Where the ground, for example, is
undulating, and therefore favorable to masking the troops from the
enemy's fire, these intervals may, if requisite, be reduced to eighty or
one hundred paces.
The troops composing these three bodies will be formed either in
columns of battalions, or be deployed, according to the circumstances
under which they may be placed. For an attack, for evolution, or for
defence against cavalry, the formation of columns of battalions is best.
To repel the enemy's attack by a fire, and in some cases, to present a
less favorable mark to his artillery, the battalions are deployed. The
battalions, whether dcpl.)yed or in column, preserve the proper inter-
520 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
vals for evolutions; these intervals may be increased in obftructed
ground without weakening the defence.
The battalions composing the main body may be drawn up in one or
two lines. The latter usually obtains only when a large force is present.
In this case the reserve no longer holds the position of a third line, as
in the other j but forms an independent body, to be used according to
the emergency, the second line supporting the battalions of the first,
and, for this purpose, occupying positions to the rear opposite to their
intervals.
801. Defence. — When the position is taken up to receive the enemy's
attack, and there either to remain on the defensive, or to assume the
oflfensive, as circumstances may justify, the advanced guard will be
posted on the ground most favorable to hold the enemy in check, and
so force him, by disputing it with tenacity, to develop his means and
plans. This is best done by a judicious combat of skirmishers, who,
for this purpose, are thrown forward three or four hundred paces to feel
the enemy, and are only reinforced when closely pressed.
Whether the advanced-guard shall maintain its ground obstinately
until reinforced by the main body, or whether it shall fall back, cither
on the flanks or to the rear of the main body, must be determined by
the strength of the position. If this be so strong that the enemy's
loss in carrying it must be great, then it should be pertinaciously
maintained; in the contrary case it must, after a suitable show of
resistance, be abandoned.
As a general rule, troops should be placed as much out of view as
practicable, before they go into action, by taking advantage of covers
offered by the ground. The main body should be kejDt masked in this
way until it is called to engage the enemy. If it advance to support
the advanced-guard, it will usually attack with the bayonet; if the
advanced-guard is called in, the main body will usually receive the
enemy by its fire; the battalions being deployed for this purpose. If
the enemy is staggered by this fire, or, in advancing, shows, by the
wavering or confusion of his line, a want of confidence, the fire may
be followed up either by a charge of the troops in line, or they may be
formed in columns of attack before charging, if the enemy perseveres
in his onward movement. A charge by a column, when the enemy is
within fifty paces, will prove effective, if resolutely made.
The reserve is composed of the most reliable troops. It should be
distinguished for cool courage; acting under all circumstances, either
defensive or offensive, with circumspection and determined resolution.
As the object of the reserve is to infuse greater energy into the action
of the main body, and, if necessary, to strike a last and decisive blow
it should be kept masked from the enemy's fire and view until called
BATTLES. 521
into action. The proper moment for engaging the reserve is either
when the enemy has been shaken in his attack by the resistance offered
by the main body, or when the latter is unable farther to resist the
enemy's efforts. If engaged too soon, the resistance offered to the
reserve may prevent its making a decisive blow; if not engaged in
time, the main body may be too far exhausted and disorganized to
rally.
In cases where the reserve forms a second line, to support the main
body, it should approach the first line when it becomes engaged, to be
ready to replace it when circumstances may render it necessary. The
advanced-guard, in such cases, should retire to the rear, to act as a
reserve.
802. AffacI:. — In the attack of infantry, the same fundamental dis-
positions are made as for the defensive. The advanced-guard will
not throw forward its skirmishers until they are near enough to engage
the encn)y. The line of skirmishers should be strongly supported, and
will press the enemy witli vigor and without relaxation. If the force
engaged be small, the main body will regulate its movements by those
of the line of skirmishers; if considerable, the reverse will obtain.
The main body and reserve follow the advanced-guard in colamu,
preserving the requisite intervals. The columns should take every
advantage of the ground to mask their movements — getting rapidly
over any where the}' are much exposed to fire. So soon as the ad-
vanced-guard is checked, it will fall back either on the flanks of the
columns, or to the rear; and the main body will be immediately
brought into action, either by deploying and ojiening its fire, or by a
vigorous charge with the bayonet. If the main body falters in its
attack, or gives any signs of want of resolution, the reserve should ad-
vance at once through the intervals, and make a vigorous charge with
the bayonet.
If the attack by the main body is made with the bayonet, the inter-
val between it and the columns of the reserve may be lessened to eighty
or one hundred paces. The flanks of the columns of attack, and the
intervals between them, should be occupied by skirmishers. This is an
important precauti<jn; as, by forcing the enemy to deliver his fire
before the columns have reached within a «lestructive range, the main
obstacle to their onward movement will be removed,
80.3. Pursuit. — If the assailed retires, the pursuit may be conducted
with system and in good order. The line nearest the enemy wiJi throw
forward a few troops in pursuit ; which, in most eases, will be preceded
by skirmishers. The line in close order will follow thcce troops until It
attains a good position to receive the enemy, should be make an offen-
sive movement, when it will be halted and formed in readiness for ac-
44
522 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
tion. A pursuit by infantry alone cannot be pushed far, even should
the enemy retire without any order or show of resistance, as the re-
treating force will soon distance their pursuers.
804. Retreat. — When, either in the defensive, or oflFensive, it becomes
necessary to retire, the first point to be attended to is to withdraw the
troops engaged, either to a good position to their rear, where they can
halt and face the enemy, or else behind the line in their rear, which
should hold the assailants in check, and allow the retreating troops to
fall back in good order. Having fairly got disengaged, dispositions
must be promptly made to withdraw from the field. This may be done
by the entire force moving off together, if the enemy shows no disposi-
tion to follow up his success with energy; or, in the contrary case, by
retiring by successive portions; the line which withdraws falling some
150 paces by the rear of the one by which it is covered, whilst falling
back, and then forming, to cover in turn the retreat of the lattei*.
The dispositions made in the retreat will depend entirely upon the
character of the enemy's pursuit and the features of the ground. It
will usually be made in columns, covered by skirmishers, if the pursuit
is made by infantry alone ; if by cavalry, the retreat must be made
with great circumspection ; the troops retiring slowly and in good
order, adopting the formation against cavalry; never hastening the
march, unless near a good position for defence, which should be attain-
ed as rapidly as possible, unless closely pressed by the cavalry.
If it be necessary to continue the retreat for some marches, under the
eye of the enemy, a rear-guard must be formed; selecting from a fourth
to a third of the entire force, for this service. The main duty of the
rear-guard is to hinder the enemy from pressing too closely on the
main body ; and it should, therefore, under no circumstances allow it-
self to be forced back upon the main body. The dispositions adopted
by the rear-guard will depend upon the features of the ground; its. rear
will usually be covered by a line of skirmishers. The rear-guard will
keep within good supporting distance of the main body; and, when
pressed by the enemy, the latter, whenever a favorable position offers,
will halt and form, to cover the former, and force the enemy to greater
circumspection.
805. Measures for protracting an engagement. — In the attack, as in
the defence, it ma}' frequently become an object to protract an engage-
ment, without coming to any decisive result; either for the purpose of
holdin^^ a position for a certain time, to favor other objects, as the arri-
val of reinforcements ; or to occupy an adversary upon one point,
whilst a decisive blow is preparing on another. This game can be
played only upon ground favorable to alterations from the defensive to
the offensive; and should only be intrusted to troops thoroughly con-
BATTLES. 523
versant with the duties of skirmishers. The main body is kept some
two thousand paces to the rear of the skirmishers in such affairs; tak-
ing advantage of the ground, and making suitable dispositions of the
troops to avoid the effects of the enemy's artillery. Small columns are
thrown forward between itself and the troops engaged, which take post
in covered ground, to be on hand to support the skirmishers. The
troops engaged should be promptly reinforced, when the enemy presses
onward ; and attempts should be made, by charging him in flank, to
force Iiim to retire. The troops in action should be frequently relieved,
and the opportunity should be seized, when the fresh troops come up,
to make an onward movement on the enemy, and force him from any
points he may have gained.
806. De/ence'ttgaiHHt cavalry. — When infantry is threatened by cav-
alry, the proper formation to repel its charge is that of squares. If but
one square is formed, it must rely on its own resources to beat off the
enemy; but when there are several they may give mutual support, by
bringing a flank fire from one upon a force advancing, or either of the
two contiguous to it. The safety of infantry against cavalry, will de-
pend upon the preservation of perfect coolness, good order, and connec-
tion in the ranks ; the avoidance of any precipitate movements which
might bring about a surprise ; and the husbanding of its ammunition,
and reservation of its fire, until the enemy is within a deadly range.
Well-disciplined infantry, whilst in position, and when not exposed to
a fire of artillery, may securely trust to its own resources to repulse the
best cavalry, so long as it adopts the proper precautions. If annoyed,
as sometimes may happen, by the fire of a few horsemen, advanced to
draw the fire of the squares, it will be better to throw out some skir-
mishers, ten or twelve paces from the squares, to keep off such attacks,
than to open a fire from the squares.
807. Defence, etc., against ^artiUenj. — Infantry may take advantage,
either of covers presented by the features of the ground, or of occa-
sionally shifting its position, to avoid the fire of artillery. Very
slight undulations, obstructions, like the low banks along the borders
of ditches, will serve to cover troops, by causing the shot to rise above
them. If no covers are at hand, the chances of casualties, when
within point-blank range, may be diminished by moving forward, or
backward, some fifty paces; if the fire be a ricochet, the position
should be shifted some fifty paces to the right or left. The enemy's
batteries may be annoyed, and sometimes be forced to change their
position, by sending out good marksmen, who advance singly to within
some 250 paces of them; when, lying down, they can pick off the ofii-
cers, men and horses.
808. Attack of artillery.— Whenever it is found necessary to carry a
524 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
battery by the bayonet, the troops for this duty are divided into two
detachments; one of which is charged with capturing the guns, and
the other with attacking the supports of the battery.
The dispositions made by the detachment which moves against the
guns will be the usual one of skirmishers ; the line surrounding the
battery, and opening their fire upon it when within about 250 paces,
taking advantage for this purpose of any covers to screen the men.
The supports of the line of skirmishers should be kept well to the
rear, to be ready against a flank movement on the line. If this
manoeuvre succeeds in drawing the fire of the guns, and any confusion
is observed among the men, then a rush must be made immediately
upon them with the bayonet.
The detachment against the supports of the battefy will make its
dispositions according to the kind of troops which composes the sup-
ports. If of infantr}^, the detachment to seize the guns, divided into
two portions, will advance either in line or column, as may be best,
on the flanks of the line of skirmishers ; gradually getting in advance
of it, and closing on the flanks of the battery, so as to attack the sup-
ports in flank ; or else they may keep to the rear of the line of skir-
mishers, in order to tempt the supports to move forward, and thus
mask the fire of their guns. If the supports are of cavah'y, the
detachment, divided into two columns, will follow the line of skir-
mishers, in rear of the flanks, to cover it against a charge of cavalry.
CAVALRY.
809. Position. — This arm is usually placed in the rear of the in-
fantry, on ground favorable to its manoeuvres, and where it will be
masked from fire until the moment arrives to bring it into action ;
here, if acting on the defensive, the cavalry watches its opportunity
to support the other troops, driving back the enemy, by prompt and
vigorous charges, when these are hard pressed; or, if on the offensive,
biding its time, to rush upon the assailant, and <?omplete his destruc-
tion, when his ranks commence to waver, or show signs of disorgani-
zation from the assaults of the other arms.
Formation. — The habitual formation of cavalry for the attack is a
line of two ranks, with a reserve or support in rear. The supports are
indispensably requisite to guard against those chances of danger to
which cavalry is particularly exposed, if attacked in turn, when in a
state of partial disorganization, after a successful charge, or when
threatened by an offensive movement against its flanks. The supports
offer a safeguard against either of these dangers; for, if the front
line is brought up by the enemy, after a successful charge, it can
BATTLES. 525
retire and rally in rear of the supports; and if the enemy makes a
movement against the flanks, the supports, placed behind them and in
column, can form and anticipate the enemy's charge. For the fore-
going reasons, cavalry should not give way to a headlong pursuit after
a successful charge, unless its supports are at hand; and, in cases
where a charge is made without supports, a portion only should engage
in pursuit, the rest being rallied to form a support.
Cavalry is seldom called on to use firearms. When on outpost
service, or acting on the defensive on ground unfavorable to chai'g-
ing, a portion of the force may be dispersed as flankers, to hold the
enemy in check by their fire. In this case their movements Jire
regulated in the same waj' as other skirmishers.
810. Defences. — The defensive qualities of cavalry lie in the offen-
sive. A body of cavalry which waits to receive a charge of cavalry, or
is exposed to a fire of infantry, or artillery, must either retire or be
destroyed. This essential quality of cavalry renders its service in-
valuable in retreats when the enemy pursues with vigor. In such cases
it should be held in constant readiness to take advantage of every spot
favorable to its action ; and by short and energetic charges, force the
enemy to move with circumspection.
811. Attdck ai/ainst iufantry. — So long as infantry maintains its po-
sition firmly, particularly if the ground is at all unfavorable to tlie
movements of cavalry, the chances are against a successful attack by
the latter. Cavalry should therefore wait patiently until a way is pre-
pared for its action, by the fire of artillery on the enemy's infantry ; or
until the infantry has become crippled and exhausted by being kept in
action for some time; or else, watching its opportunity, make a charge
whilst the infantry is in motion, so as to surprise it before it can form
to receive the attack.
Cavalry should direct its charge on that point of the enemy's in-
fantry where it will itself be exposed to the least column of fire. If
the infantry is in line, the charge should be made on one of its
flanks; if in square, on one of the angles of the square; and when
several squares are formed, so as to atlord mutual support by their
fire, selecting the squares on the flanks as most vulnerable, t>oui their
position.
The formation usually recommended for charging against squares,
is that of three squadrons in line at double distance; the leading
squadron being followed by the others, either directly in its rear;
or else the squadrons may be formed in echelon, successively over-
lapping each other, by about the front of a platoon. The angle of
the square is charged by each squadron in succession, if the charge
of the one preceding it fails ; the repulsed squadrons each wheeling to
526 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
the right or left, on retiring, to leave the way clear for its suc-
cessor. A fourth squadron in column follows those in line, to sur-
round the square, and make prisoners if it should he broken by the
charge.
To draw the fire of the infantry before charging, a few skilful
flankers may be thrown forward, to open a fire on the square.
Stratagem may also be tried, by moving along the front of the
infantry, at some 400 paces, and then charging, if it is attempted
to throw away its fire at this distance. In an attack where several
squares are in line, if one fires to second another it should instantly be
changed.
812. Attack against artillery. — In attacks against artillery, the de-
tachment of cavalry should be divided into three bodies ; one-fourth of
the detachment being charged with carrying the guns; one-half to
attack the supports of the battery; and the remaining fourth acting
as a reserve, to cover the parties in advance, from an offensive move-
ment against their flanks or rear.
The party to secure the guns make their attack in dispersed order
and endeavor to gain the flanks of the battery. When the battery has
a fair sweep over the ground along which they must advance, they
should, by manoeuvering and false attacks, try to confuse the artillerist,
and draw their fire before making their charge.
The attack against the support of the battery will be directed in the
usual manner, the party manoeuvering to gain their flanks.
ARTILLERY.
813. Position. — The manner of placing artillery and its employment
must be regulated by its relative importance under given circum-
stances, with respect to the action of other arms. In the defen-
sive, the principal part is usually assigned to the artillery ; and
the positions taken up by the other arms will, therefore, be subordinate
to those of this arm. In ofi"ensive movements the reverse generally
obtains.
814. Defence. — In defensive positions the security of the batteries
is of the last importance. Unless the batteries are on points which are
inaccessible to the enemy's cavalry and infantry, they must be
placed under the protection of the other troops, and be outflanked
by them.
As in the defensive we should be prepared to receive the enemy on
every point, the batteries must be distributed along the entire front of
the position occupied, and on those points from which they can obtain
a good sweep over the avenues of approach to it; the guns being
BATTLES. 527
masked, when the ground favors, from the enemy's view, until the
proper moment arrives for opening the fire.
The distance between the batteries should not be much over 600
paces, so that by their fire they may cover well the ground intervening
between them, and afford mutual support; the light guns being placed
on the more salient points of the front, from their shorter range and
greater facility of manoeuvring; the heavier guns on the more retired
points. Guns of various calibre should not bo placed in the same
battery. A sufficient interval should also be left between batteries of
different calibre, to prevent the enemy from judging, by the variations
in the effect of the shot, of the weight of metal of the batteries.
Those positions for battr^ries should be avoided from which the shot
must pass over other troops to attain the enemy. And those should
be sought for from which a fii'e can be maintained until the enemy has
approached even within good musket-range of them.
When the wings of a position are weak, batteries of the heaviest
calibre should be placed to secure them.
A sufficient number of pieces — selecting for the object in view horse
artillery in preference to any other — should be held in reserve for a
moment of need, to be thrown upon a point where the enemy's progress
threatens danger, or to be used in covering the retreat.
The collection of a large number of pieces in a single battery is a
dangerous arrangement, particularly at the outset of an engagement.
The exposure of so man^^ guns together might present a strong induce-
ment to the enemy to make an effort to carry the battery ; a feat the
more likely to succeed, as it is difficult either to withdraw the guns or
change their position promptly, after their fire is opened; and one
which, if successful, might entail a fatal disaster on the assailed, from
the loss of so many pieces at once.
In all defensive dispositions, the ammunition should be most care-
fully husbanded. A fire should never be opened until the enemy is
within good range, and, when once opened, be continued with perse-
verance and coolness up to the last moment in which it can be made
effective.
815. Attack. — In the outset of offensive movements, good positions
should be selected for the heaviest pieces, from which they can main-
tain a strong fire on the enemy until the lighter pieces and the columns
of attack are brought into action. These positions should be taken on
the flanks of the ground occupied by the assailant, or on the centre, if
more favorable to the end to be attained. In all cases, wide intervals
should be left between the heavy batteries and the other troops, in
order that the latter may not suffer from the return fire which the
assailed will probably open on the batteries. For the same reason,
528 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
care should be taken not to place other troops behind the point occu-
pied by a battery, where they would be exposed to the return fire of
the assailed; when this cannot be avoided, the troops should be so
placed as to be covered by any undulation of the ground, or else be
deployed in time to lessen the effects of the shot.
The artillery which moves with the column of attack should be
divided into several strong batteries, as the object in this case is to
produce a decisive impression upon a few points of the enemy's line,
by bringing an overwhelming fire to bear upon these points. These
batteries should keep near enough to the other troops to be in safety
from any attempts of the assailed to capture them. Their usual posi-
tions will be on the flanks, and near the heads of the columns of
attack ; the intervals between the batteries being sufficient for the fire
manoeuvres of the other troops, in large bodies. The manoeuvres of
these batteries should be made with promptitude, so that no time may
be lost for the action of their fire. They should get rapidly over unfa-
vorable ground to good positions for firing, and maintain these as long
as possible; detaching, in such cases, a few pieces to accompany the
column of attack. In all the movements of the batteries, great care
should be taken not to place them so that they shall in the least
impede the operations of the other troops.
COURTS MARTIAL. 529
Article XVI.
CO URT8 MAETIAL.
816. Courts Martial are military courts instituted for the investi-
gation and punishment of all offences committed by ojicers, soldiers,
sutlers, retainers to the camp, and persons serving ivifh the army, in
violation of military law and the custom of war. Their powers and
duties are laid down in general terms in the Articles of War, from
Article 64 to 91 inclusive.
817. Commissioned officers clothed with military rank, and entitled
to command, are the only persons in the United States service who are
eligible as members of courts martial; this excludes all paymasters,
surgeons, and assistant-surgeons whose rank is only assimilated.
818. Courts martial are of three kinds. General, Recjimental and Gar-
rison.
A general court martial is competent to take jurisdiction over any
oflFence of a military nature that can be committed by military persons;
and its powers to award punishments are coextensive with this right.
Commissioned officers are not amenable to any other than a general
court martial, and it is provided bj^ Article 75 of the Articles of War,
that they shall not be tried by officers of an inferior rank, if it can bo
avoided.
819. A general court martial can only be appointed or assembled by
the President of the United States, by the Governor of a State as com-
mander-in-chief of the forces of the State, by a general commanding
an army, or by a general or colonel commanding a separate military
department. The warrant for assembling the court, or the appointment
of the members thereof, is in the form of an order, and issues directly
from the officer to whom the law has delegated such power.
820. It is provided by Article 64 of the Articles of War, that general
courts martial may consist of any number of members, from five to
thirteen inclusively; but they shall not consist of less than thirteen
when that number can be convened without manifest injury to the
service. It is to be observed, however, that the officer empowered to
appoiut a court ia iuvested with disurotionary authority as to the uuia>
4o
blM) MAM AL FOH VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
ber of officers whicli Hhall oi.mpoBC it, and their rank relatively to that
of the accused.
821. The proceedings and decisions of general courts martial are
subjoct to review or revision by the officer ordering the .-^aine. or the
officer coniinajiding the troops for the time luing. In the United
States service no htntenci- of a general court niar:ial in time of peace,
extending to the loss of life, or the dismission of a coramisaiuncd officer ;
or which fhull, either in time of peace of war, respect a general officer,
cannot l>e carried into execution, until after the whole proceedings
shall have been transmitted to the Secretary of War, to be laid before
the President of the United States tor hi» confirmation or disnpproval,
and orders iu the case. All other sentences may be confirmed and exe-
cuted by the officer onlcring the court, or the commanding officer for
the time being, as the case may be. Every officer authorised to order
a general court martial shall have power to panlon or mitigate any
punishment onlered by such court, except the sentence of death, or of
cashiering an officer.
822. Regimental and garrison courts martial take cognizance of and
punish officers of minor degree. The regimental court martial is or-
dered by the colonel or other commauder uf the regiment, for the trial
of offences in the regiment; it consists of three commis»ioned officers.
(larrison cotirts martial are in like manner composed of three eoni
missioned officers, and appointed by the commanders of garri^on^,
forts, barracks, or other places, where the troops consist of mixed corps.
The proceedings of regimental and garrison courts martial arc sub-
niittod to the olficers ordering them, or to their succes.<'or.s in command,
for revision and decision on the sentences pronounced. The jurisdic-
dictiou of these courts is very limited, and can in no case extend to the
trial of capital cases or commissioned officers.
THE TRIAL.
823. A court martial haviog l>een deemed necessary to investigate
the conduct of an officer ur soldier, against whom a charge has been
preferred, the order appointing the members and judge advocate to
compose the same, as well. as the time and place of meeting, ie duly
promulgated.
When the hour has arrived lor assembling, the members of the court
martial take their places at the table according to rank, on the right
and left of the president, the latter at the head of the table. The
judge advocate is seated opposite to the president. The prisoner and
his council ( if he ha* any ) hMX« a place a»digaed. with the aeoeaaary
roURTS MARTIAL. 531
arcomniodation for writing, on the right band of the judge advocate.
The wirnffu *tand? near the judge advocate, on hi? left hand. In case
a third party, as prosecutor, fihoHld be permitted to appear, be will be
placed to the left of the judge advocate. The court being peafod and
called to order, no mom>>er can leave hi? seat without the ixrinission
of the president.
It jc u?ual for the ju'ige ailvf.cate to prepare a copy of the charges
for the u?e '"f the court, which i.« |)]aced upon the lablc previous to the
arraignment.
The court having been called to order, and any preliminary matter
which may have rcf^uired their attention being dis^pofjcd of, it is pro-
claimed ((pen. The iiarties arc then called, and appear in court.
The pri.«fmer, unle?? there be danger of escape or re?cue, must appear
without fetters, and free from shackleB of any kind .- when the court
adjourn?, the pri?oner, if a soldier, i? remanded to the hands of the
guard.
The judge advocate now read? the order for the afsembling of the
court. It i? proper al?o to read the charges to be investigated, so that
the court may have before them the matter which they are about to
?wear that thej- will "truly try and determine.*'
824. The order for convening the court having been read, the judge
advocate asks the prisoner if he ha? any objection to any member
present, named in the order, or any cau.se of challenge to present.
Peremptory challenge or challenge? arc not permitted, but the pris-
oner must ag?ign hi? reasons in writing, or if brief, the judge advocate
will record them as stated.
In case a member should be challenged (and only one can be chal-
lenged at a time), the reasons therefor, and. when susceptible of such,
the reply or explanation offered, are committed to writing as a part of
the minute? of the court, and make a portion of the proceedings ; and
the court i? cleared in order to deliberate and decide on the objection
assigned. The member objected to always withdraws during the dis-
cussion which follows, and, of course, doe? not vote on the question.
Upon the reopening of the court, the judge advocate (by direction of
the court) makes known the decision, and the challenged member
resumes his seat, or withdraws altogether, as the case may be, and a
member in waiting, or supernumerary, if any be detailed, supplies his
place.
The judge advocate cannot be challenged on any pretence whatever.
825. The judge advocate then proceeds to administer the prescribed
oath; the members of the court, and the judge advocate, stand,- the
person or persons to be sworn lift the right hand, ungloved, when the
judge advocate recites in an audible voice : *' You, Colonel A. B., Major
532 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
B» C, Major B. F., and Captain G. H. (thus naming, with his rank,
each member of the court), do swear that you will well and truly try
and determine," etc., etc. " So help you God." (See 69th Article of
War.)
The presiding officer then administers the oath to the judge advo-
cate, who observes the same form 5 during which time all the members
of the court remain standing, and observe the most decorous silence
and attention.
The same oath pi'escribed to be taken by the members of a general
court martial, is directed to be taken by the members of a regimental
and garrison court martial. No particular oath of secrecy is required
of the recorder, as he is a member of the court.
Whenever several persons are to be tried by the same court martial,
upon different charges, the court must be resworn at the commence-
ment of each trial, and the record of each case made up separately
and signed by the president and judge advocate.
826. The court having been sworn in tlie presence of the prisoner,
the judge advocate read-* the cliarge to the prisoner in open court,
whom the judge advocate arraigns, by addressing by his proper title or
rank, ami name. "You have heard the charges preferred against you;
how say you — guilty, or not guilty?"
The prisoner may plead guilty or not guilty; but it must be made
simply and unqualified, as nothing exculpatory can at this time be
received. No specidf justification can be offered as a plea, as such
would be an anticipation of the defence. He may stand mute, that is,
refuse to answer; or answer foreign to the purpose; or may plead in
bar of trial.
The ordinary plea is "not guilty," upon which the trial proceeds.
The plea being recorded, the judge advocate calls the first witness, and
gives notice that should there be any persons present in court who
have been summoned as witnesses, they will retire until called for, as it
is a rule that the witnesses of neither party can be present during the
examination of other witnesses.
827. The witness is sworn by the judge advocate, and the same form
of administering the oath is observed as was indicated for swearing in
of the members. The words are: "You do swear (or aflfirmj that the
evidence you shall give in the cause now in hearing, shall be the truth,
the Avhole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help you God."
The name, rank, regiment, or corps, or distinctive condition of the
witness is recorded by the judge advocate at length, so that the person
may b}^ the description be easily identified.
The examination of the witnesses is always in the presence of every
member of the court; and the ''countenance, looks and gestures of a
COURTS MARTIAL. 538
witness" are considered of importance as adding to or taking from the
weight of his testimony. The testimony is sometimes given in the
form of a narrative, but more frequently by interrogations. Narration
in many cases is the most natural and easy method to observe, but
interrogation is the more direct and searching means of soliciting evi-
dence, and also the more certain. All evidence received is recorded in
tbe order in which it is given, and as nearly as may be in the very
words of the witness. In case a witness should be too ill to attend the
court, the latter may adjourn to the room or bedside of the former
to receive his evidence. Questions are reduced to writing by the party
originating them, and rea<l aloud by the judge advocate, who writes
them on the proceedings. Should an objection be made to a question
on examination, the court is cleared, and a majority of voices deter-
mines whether it shall be put or not.
A question having been rejected, is not, therefore, expunged from the
record, of which it makes a part, unless by consent of the parties
before the court, but appears on the record, with the decision of the
court. A jiarty before the court cannot object to a question put by the
court, though he may to a question put by a member of it, before the
collective opinion of the court has been expressed in relation to it. All
questions originating with members, and which have been received,
are recorded as "% the court,'' but when made the subject of discus-
sion, and rejection, they are entered upon the record as ^'hy a member."
When a witness is sworn, the party who calls him commences the
examination, which is styled the examination in chief; that being
tinished, the opposite party asks what questions he may deem neces-
sary, and this latter interrogation is called the cross-examination. A
re-examination of the witness, by the first party, follows the cross-
examination, upou such points as the latter may have touched on, and
then the court put sucli ((uestions as they may deem requisite to elicit
the whole truth.
The examination of the witness having been completed, his evidence,
if deemed necessary by the court, or if desired by him, is I'ead over
previous to his leaving, to give him the opportunity of correcting any
errors therein. Aceordingly. any remai'k or explanation, with such a
view, is entered on the proceedings; but no erasure or obliteration of
what has been previousl3' stated can be made.
Should either party perceive, after having concluded his case, that a
material question has been omitted, he submits it to the court, who will
always allow it to be put.
The witnesses called by the prosecutor having been examined, and
all the evidence to substantiate the charges submitted to the court, the
prisoner enters upon his defence. Should it be necessary for prepara-
534 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
tion, the court, at the request of the prisoner, would grant time to
enable him to proceed with more certainty or precision.
Witnesses for the defence are examined in the same order as those
presented on the part of the execution. The prosecutor cross-
examines, and the prisoner re-examines to the same extent jillowod to
the prosecutor.
828. The examination of witnci-ses having been closed, the prisoner
takes his time to address the court, when, by argument and statement
of facts as shown in the evidence, he presents to the court every con-
t-'idoration which may tend to weaken the force of the prosecution.
The greiitc^t liberty consistent with strict propriety, especially in
regard to third persons not before the court, is at all times allowed a
)iris(iner: and he therefore may impeach, by evidence, the character of
witnesses brought against him, aud remark on their testimony and
the m<»tive8 by which they and the prosecutor appear to have been
actuated. C<iarsc and insulting language cannot, however, be tol-
erated.
Should either party, in the course of their examination of the
witnesses, or by bringing forward new ones for that purpose, introduce
new matter, the opposite one has the ri^'ht of calling other witnesses
to rebut such new unitter.
The address (or defence) of the prisoner, prepared subsequent to the
reception of all the testimony, is read by the prisoner, or if any cause
should prevent his s<. doing, it may be, at the retjuest of the prisoner,
rea<i by his counsel, the judge advocate, or a military friend.
The judge advocate, or the prosecutor, can always claim the right of
replying to the defence of the prisoner, and the court will generally
grant a reasonable time for the preparation of it. Whun the reply has
been read, the trial is closed. Should the prisoner have examined
witnesses as to matter nut touched upon in the course of the j^rosecu-
tion : or should he have reflected ujioij the crcilibility of the prosecu-
tor's evidence, the prosecutor is allowed to examine witnesses to the
new matter, and for the re-establishment of the character of his
witnesses.
F I N D I \ (J .
829. The charges having been investigated by the production aud
examination of all the evidence which the parties have deemed neces-
sary, it is now the business of the court to decide upon the question of
guilt.
It is necessury, however, before proceeding to this stage of the trial,
that each and every allegation made against the prisoner should be
fully inquired into; and this, too, entirely without reference to the
COURTS MARTIAL. 535
proof of any one item, which mij^ht even call for the uttermost sen-
tence which a court martial can award, either against the life or the
commission of the oflender: and so, too, must a distinct judgment he
pronounced upon every specification adduced in support of the
charges.
Every member should fullj' satisfy himself of the extent and value
of the testimony- on record : and, for this purpose, a fair copy of the
proceedings is laid upon the table, or read over by the judge advocate,
for the convenience of jeference, and to make certain, while the sub-
ject or particulars of the evidence is still fresh in the minds of the
member,*, that such copy is a faithful transcript of the same.
This is of importance when the case is intricate, or the testimony
voluminous; and it is also a very useful practice for the judge advo-
cate, in such cases, to prepare an index, or short notes of the evidence,
in order that reference to the record may be made more easy.
It is competent for the court at this stage of the proceedings, to call
back a witness for the purpose of asking any particular question
thou;^'ht neceg-sary; but the ])arties must be present during such further
examination. Indcecl. before the finding, the court can recall a witness
at any time.
8:}0. The court having had sufficient time for a re-examination of
the evidence, if neces.sary, and for deliberation and free discussion, the
president, having ascertained that every member is ready to give his
opinion, signifies to the judge advocate to proceed. The latter then
reads, in consecutive order, the specifications to each charge, and
addresses each member, beginning with the youngest: "From the
evidence in the matter now before you, how say you of the specifica-
tion or charge — is the prisoner guilty or not guilty?" The vote upon
each specification of the charge having been given and recorded, the
opinion on the charge is then given, and so on in succession for all the
specifications and charges which have been the subject of investiga-
tion. In order to avoid the exposure of each individual opinion as his
vote is given, the members write upon slips of paper the opinion,
gidlfy or not ffttHty, and hand them to the judge advocate, who, after
receiving every vote, arranges them, and announces the verdict. As
the vote of each member is given, the judge advocate makes a minute
of the same, which should be carefully retained by him, to meet the
possible contingency of proceedings in the common law courts, touch-
ing the legality of the acts of the court martial.
The majority of the voices deftermines the conviction or acquittal of
the prisoner, except in such cases as when (upon conviction) the law
absulutely, and without any discretion in the court, condemns him to
suffer death. In all such cases, a two-third vote is necessary to convic-
536 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
tion, and the record must e.x))lifitly state that two-tbirds of the court
concurred in the finding.
Should it happen, by the organization of the court, or from the acci-
dent of sickness or death of any of the uierabers, that there is an
equality of votes upon the finding, the douht must bo resolved in favor
of the prisoner, and he must have the benefit of acquittal.
831. Tiie degree of guilt of whieh the jirisoner is found, or the extent
to which the charge is proved, ought to be well defined and clearly
expressed," and so, likewise, the mode of duijlaring the prisoner ac-
quitted, is a matter of some importance. Acipiittals which are charac-
terized by the terms, houorabh/,' iiiotit honoruhlif : fidly; or mont fnlli/,
should be employed when the nature of the charge makes them neces-
sary; but ill general, when no circumstances exist which call for
emphatic opininions, a simple verdict of ac<|uittal is the better formula.
To declare that the charges <irc not prond is improper.
In the deliberation of the court upon the finding to be declared,
it is proper to observe the distinctions which may be made lictwccn the
crime as alleged in the charge, and the degree of ofl"encc proved. A
court martial, therefore, may, in some instances, find a prisoner guilty
of the oflVnce in a less degree than that stated. But a court martial,
although empowered to find him guilty in a less degree, cannot find a
higher degree t)f guilt than that alleged in the charge.
The finding declared by a majority, or specifi<- proportion of all the
court, when the law, iu jiarticular oflTcnces, requires such, is the decision
of the court, and the minority are bouud by it.
OF THE SENTENCE.
832. The court, having determined the finding of innocence or guilt
of the prisoner, proceed to the conclusion of their labors by pronouncing
an acquittal, or affixing the punishment, according to the nature and
degree of the offence.
Whatever may have been the opinion of a member as to the finding
of the court, he muf-t. upon a conviction being declared by the legal
number of votes, give his opinion as to the nature and degree of pun-
ishment, and apportion the same according to the degree of crime of
whieh the majority have found the prisoner guilty. The minority then
act independently of their individual opinions, and award punishment
according and adequate to the offence of the accused. If the prisoner
has been convicti.'d of a particular offence, for which punishment is pre-
scribed by law. every member must vote the punishment which the law
has prescribed. In cases not provided for Vjy special penalty, it is
of importance to the court to consider what kinds and degrees of pun-
M
COURTS MARTIAL. 537
isbment are legally applicable to the case, and none should be inflicted
except such as are in accordance with the custom of war in like cases,
or the common law of the land.
833. In passing sentence, courts martial should be careful to employ
clear and unambiguous language, so that the kind and degree of
punishment shall be set forth deiinitely and precisely ; and the mode
of inflicting capital punishment should be designated. The military
laws do not say -how a criminal, oflfending against such laws, shall
be put to death, but leave it to the custom of war. Shooting or hnng-
ing is the method determined by such custom. A spy is generally
banged; and mutiny, accompanied with loss of life, is punished by the
same means. Desertion, disobediewe of orders, or other military
crimes, usually by shooting.
CONFIRMATION OF SENTENCE — REVISION.
8.T4. When the proceedings of a court martial are submitted to the
officer ordering the same, for his confirmation or disapproval and or-
ders, it becomes his duty to peruse, in the most careful manner, the
record of the court, and to ascertain any error which may have been
admitted. Or should the record be found perfect in all its parts, he is
to signify his decision thereon, and give his orders accordingly. But
if any mistake or error in the conduct of the trial be presented to view,
the proceedings of the court may be sent back to them for revision.
The officer who directs the court to reconvene, to reconsider its original
opinion, points out, at the same time, the particular cause which makes
a reconsideration necessary: and the court is therefore bound to re-
examine, with <leliberation and care, the reasons upon which the former
opinions rested. The principal cause for requiring courts martial to re-
vise their judgments is when an insufficient or undue weight has been
given to the testimony, and is supposed to arise from inadvertence,
misconception -of the law, or the custom o4" war; or where an exorbi-
tant, inadequate, or illegal punishment has been awarded.
Every officer having authority to review the proceedings of courts
martial, has power to suspend the execution of the sentence, to pardon
or mitigate any punishment ordered by such court. He cannot, how-
ever, alter or commute the punishment, even with the consent of the
party sentenced.
OF THE JUDGE ADVOCATE.
835. By the laws of the- United States it is made the duty of the
judge advocate to "prosecute in the name of the United States, but
*
538 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
shall so far consider himself as counsel for the prisoner, after the said
prisoner shall have made his plea, as to object to any leading question
to any of the witnesses, or any question to the prisoner, the answer to
which might tend to criminate himself; and administer to each mem-
ber of the court, before they proceed upon any trial, the following oath,
which shall also be taken by all the members of the regimental and
garrison courts martial.''
The charges upon which a prisoner is to be tried having been placed
in the hands of the judge advocate, he is to ascertain what witnesses
or evidence will be necessary, both for the prosecution and defence,
and thereupon summon every person whose testimony may be required.
This duty should be performed at the earliest period possible, to avoid
any delay in the proceedings. He is to furnish the accused party with
a copy of the charges as soon as possible, or ascertain if such has been
transmitted to him from another source; and should any alteration
be made in the charges, the prisoner should be immediately apprized
of it.
Between the adjournment of one daj', and the meeting on the next,
the judge advocate prepares a fair copy of the proceedings, which,
upon the reasscmbliug of the court, is read over.
The business of the court having been concluded, the record of the
proceedings is signed by the president of the court, and countersigned
by the judge advocate.
836. The duties of a judge advocate before a court of inquii'y are in
many respects the same as officiating before a general court martial,
though of limited extent.
A court of inquiry may be composed of from one to three officers,
with a judge advocate, or suitable person as recorder, to reduce the
proceedings and evidence to writing; all of whom are to be sworn ac-
cording to a prescribed oath. (See 95th Article of War.)
The judge advocate prepares the case for investigation. He sum-
mons the necessary witnesses, and gives notice to the parties interest-
ed, as to the place and time of meeting. He swears the witnesses in
the same way as they are sworn before a court martial, and he records
the testimun}^ and keeps the proceedings from day to day-
Tbe business of the coui-t having been completed, the record will be
authenticated b^y the signatures of the president and the judge advo-
cate, and by the latter transmitted to the authority by which the court
Was convened.
COURTS MARTIAL. 589
837. Form of order for conveninr/ a general court martini.
Adjutatit-Geiieral's Office,
Washington, Jan. — , 18 — .
General Orders, )
No. — . )
A general court martial will assemble at , at ten o'clock, A. m.,
the 15th instant, or as soon thereafter as practicable, for the trial of
, and such prisoners as may be brought before it.
Detail for the court.
1. Colonel A. B 1st Regiment of Infantry.
2. Colonel C. D 2d " '' Cavalry.
.3. Major E. F 3d " " Artillery.
4. Major G. H 5th " " Infantry.
5. Captain L, M 1st " " Dragoons.
6. Captain N. 0 4th " " Infantry.
7. Etc., etc., etc
Captain P. S., of the 2d regiment of artillery, is appointed the judge
advocate of the court.
Should any of the officers named in the detail be prevented from
attending at the time and place specified, the court will nevertheless
proceed to, and continue the business before it, provided tlie number of
members present be not less than the juiniinnm prescribed by law — the
above being the greatest number [when the court is coniponed of less
than thirteen members] that can be convened without manifest injury to
the service.
By command of Major-General S.
S. C, Adjutant- General.
838. Form of the procecdinr/s of a general court martial.
Proceedings of a general court martial, convened at , by virtue
of the following order, viz:
{Here iiiscrt the order.)
— o'clock, A. M., Jan. 15th, 18 — .
The court met pursuant to the above order. Present:
Colonel A. B 1 ^t Regiment of Infantry.
ColonelC.D 2d " "Cavalry.
Major E.F 3d " ''Artillery.
MajorG.H 5th " "Infantry.
Captain L. M 1st " '' Dragoons.
Etc., etc
Etc., etc
Captain P. S., of the 2d regiment of artillery, judge advocate.
Captain T. W., 8th regiment of infantry, the accused, also present.
540 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
The judge advocate having read the order convening the court, asked
Captain T. W. if he had any objection to any member named therein,
to which he replied —
{If any chaUeixje is made, it >iinnt be note, and to one memher at a time.)
The court was then duly sworn by the judge advocate, and the
judge advocate was duly sworn by the presiding officer of the court,
in the presence of the accused.
[It is at this .sfaf/e of the proceedings that the accused makes his request
for the privilege of introdacinij his coutisel, and ivill also, if he desires it,
state his reasons for postpo)tcment of the trial. These matters heinrj set-
tled, the court 2>roc€eds.)
The charges were read aloud by the judge advocate. Judge advocate
{addressinfj the accused) : "Captain T. W., you have heard the charge,
or charges, preferred against you ; how say you — guilty or not guilty?"
To which the accused, Captain T. AV., pleaded as follows: — {The
j'ltdi/e advocate here ylves notice, that should there he any persons present
in court, who have been summoned as uritiiesscs, they inust retire and u-ait
until called for.)
Capt. D. N,, second regiment of artillery, a witness on the part of
the prosecution, was duly sworn.
Question by the judge advocate. ?
Answer. .
Question. ?
Answer. — — .
Cross-examined by the accused. ?
Answer. .
Question. — ?
Answer. .
Que.-^tion by the court. ?
Answer. .
Question. ?
Answer. .
Re-examined by the judge advocate. ?
Answer. .
Question. ?
Answer. .
{The examination of the witness beitit/ completed, his testimony is read
over to him, and corrected if necessary — when the next witness is called.
The judge advocate having jiresented all the evidence for the prosecution,
states such fact, and announces that the prosecution is closed — tahen the
accused enters upon the defence.)
Lieutenant A. B., 8d Regiment of Infantry, a witness for the defence,
was duly sworn.
COURTS MARTIAL. 541
Question by the accused. ?
Answer. .
Question. ?
Answer. .
Cross-examined.
Question by judge advocate. v
Answer. .
Question. '>
Answer. .
Question by the court. ?
Answer. .
( The evidence on both aides having been heard, the accused asks for
time to prejyare his defence.)
The court adjourned to meet again at ten o'clock, A. m., on Fhe
inst.
Ten o'clock, a. m., , 18 — .
The court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, Colonel A. B.;
Colonel C. D.; Major E. F.j Major G. IL: Captain J. M., etc., etc.
Captain P. S., judge advocate, and Captain T. W., the accused.
The proceedings of yesterday were read over, when the accused.
Captain T. W., presented and read {or tchich was read by his council)
the written defence (A.) appended to these proceedings.
(Should the judge advocate intend to reply, he would notify the coxirt,
and ask for the requisite time for jJ reparation.)
The statements of the parties being thus in possession of the court,
the court was cleared for deliberation ; and having maturely considered
the evidence adduced, find Captain T. W., of the 8th Regiment of In-
fantry, as follows :
Of the first specification of 1st charge, , Guilty.
Of the second specification of 1st charge, , Not guilty.
Of the third specification of 1st charge, , Guilty.
Of the First charge, , Guilty.
Of the first specification of 2d charge, , Not guilty.
Of the second specification of 2d charge, , Not guilty.
Of the Second charge, , Not guilty.
And the court do therefore sentence the said Captain T. W. of the 8th
Regiment of Infantry, to .
(Signed) A. B.,
Colonel 1st Regiment of Infantry, and President of the C. M.
(Signed) P. S.,
Judge Advocate.
There being no further business before them, the court adjourned
sine die.
(Signed) A. B.,
Colonel 1st Regiment of Infantry, and President of the C. M.
(Signed) P. S.,
Judge Advocate.
ARTICLES OF WAR.
AN ACT FOR ESTABLISHING RULES AND ARTICLES FOR
THE GOVERNMENT OF THE ARMIES OF THE CONFEDE-
RATE STATES.
Section 1. The Congress of the Confederate States of America do
enact, That, from and after the passage of this Act, the following shall
be the rules and articles by which the armies of the Confederates States
shall be governed :
Article 1. Every officer now in the army of the Confederate
States shall, in six months from the passing of this Act, and every
officer who shall hereafter be appointed, shall, before he enters on
the duties of his office, subscribe these rules and regulations.
Art. 2. It is earnestly recommended to all officers and soldiers
diligently to attend divine service; and all officers who shall behave
in<lecently or irreverently at any place of divine worship, shall, if
commissioned officers, be brought before a general court martial, there
to be publicly and severely reprimanded by the President; if non-
commissioned officers or soldiers, every person so offending shall, for
his first offence, forfeit one-sixth of a dollar, to be deducted out of
his next pay ; for the second offence, he shall not only forfeit a like
sum, but be confined twenty-four hours ; and for every like offence,
shall suffer and pay in like manner; which money, so forfeited, shall be
applied, by the captain or senior officer of the troop or company, to the
use of the sick soldiers of the company or troop to which the offender
belongs.
Art. 3. Any non-commissioned officer or soldier who shall use any
profane oath or execration, shall incur the penalties expressed in the
foregoing article : and a commissioned officer shall forfeit and pay, for
each and every such offence, one dollar, to be applied as in the preced-
ing article.
Art. 4. Every chaplain, commissioned in the array or armies of the
Coufederate States, who shall absent himself from the duties assigned
him (excepting in cases of sickness or leave of absence), shall, on
conviction thereof before a court martial, be fined not exceeding one
544 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
month's pay, besides the loss of his pay during his absence; or be dis-
charged, as the said court martial shall judge proper.
Art. 5. Any oflScer or soldier who shall use contemptuous or dis-
respectful words against the President of the Confederate States,
against the Vice-President thereof, against the Congress of the Con-
federate States, or against the Chief Magistrate or Legislature of any
of the Confederate States, in which he may be quartered, if a com-
missioned officer, shall be cashiered, or otherwise punished, as a court
martial shall direct ; if a non-commissioned officer or soldier, he shall
suffer such punishment as shall be inflicted on him by the sentence of
a court martial.
Art. 6. Any officer or soldier who shall behave himself with con-
tempt or disrespect toward his commanding officer, shall be pun-
ished, according to the nature of his offence, by the judgment of a
court martial.
Art. 7. Any officer or soldier who shall begin, excite, cause, or join
in any mutiny or sedition, in any troop or company in the service
of the Confederate States, or in any party, post, detachment, or guard,
shall suffer death, or such other punishment as by a court martial shall
be inflicted.
Art. 8. Any officer, non-commissioned officer, or soldier, who, being
present at any mutiny or sedition, does not use his utmost endeavor
to suppress the same, or, coming to the knowledge of any intended
mutinj', does not, without delay, give information thereof to his
commanding officer, shall be punished by the sentence of a court
martial with death, or otherwise, according to the nature of his
offence.
Art. 9. Any officer or soldier who shall strike his superior officer, or
draw or lift up any weapon, or offer any violence against him, being in
the execution of his office, on any pretence whatsoever, or shall dis-
obey any lawful command of his superior officer, shall suffer death,
or such other punishment as shall, according to the nature of his
offence, be inflicted upon him by the sentence of a court martial.
Art. 10. Every non-commissioned officer or soldier, who shall enlist
himself in the service of the Confederate States, shall at the time of his
so enlisting, or within six days afterward, have the Articles for the
government of the armies of the Confederate States read to him, and
shall, by the officer who enlisted him, or by the commanding officer of
the troop or company into which he was enlisted, be taken before the
next justice of the peace, or chief magistrate of any city or town
corporate, not being an officer of the armj'^, or where recourse cannot
be had to the civil magistrate, before the judge advocate, and in his
presence shall take the following oath or affirmation: " I, A. B., do
ARTICLES OF WAR. 545
solemnly swear, or affirm (as the case may be), that I will bear true
allegiance to the Confederate States of America, and that I will serve
them honestly and faithfully against all their enemies or opposers
whatsoever; and observe and obey the orders of the President of the
Confederate States, and the orders of the officers appointed over me,
according to the Rules and Articles for the g<>vernment of the armies
of the Confederate States." AVhich justice, magistrate, or judge advo-
cate is to give to the officer a certificate, signifying that the man en-
listed did take the said oath or affirmation.
Art. 11. After a non-commissioned officer or soldier shall have
been duly enlisted and sworn, he shall not be dismissed the service
without a discharge in writing ; and no discharge granted to him shall
be sufficient which is not signed by a field officer of the regiment to
which he belongs, or commanding officer, where no field officer of the
regiment is present: and no discharge shall be given to a non-commis-
sioned officer or soldier before his term of service has expired, but by
order of the President, the Secretar}'^ of War, the commanding officer
of a department, or the sentence of a general court martial; nor shall
a commissioned officer be dischai'ged from the service, but by order of
the President of the Confederate States, or by sentence of a general
court martial.
Art. 12. Every colonel, or other officer commanding a regiment,
troop, or company, and actually quartered with it, may give furloughs
to non-commissioned officers or soldiers, in such numbers, and for so
long a time, as he shall judge to be most consistent with the good of
the service; and a captain, or other inferior officer, commanding a
troop or company, or in any garrison, fort, or barrack of the Con-
federate States (his field officer being absent), may give furloughs to
non-commissioned officers and soldiers, for a time not exceeding
twenty days in six months, but not to more than two persons to be
absent at the same time, excepting some extraordinary occasion
should require it.
Art. 13. At every muster, the commanding officer of each regiment,
troop, or company, there present, shall give to the commissary of
musters, or other officer who musters the said regiment, troop, or com-
pany, certificates signed by himself, signifying how long such officers
as shall not appear at the said muster have been absent, and the
reason of their absence. In like manner, the commanding officer of
every troop or company shall give certificates, signifying the reasons
of the absence of the non-commissioned officers and private soldiers;
which reasons and time of absence shall be inserted in the muster
rolls opposite the names of the respective absent officers and soldiers.
The certificates shall, together with the muster rolls, he remitted by
46
546 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
the commissary of musters, or other officer musterinjr, to the Depart-
ment of War. as speedily as the distance of the place will admit.
Art. 14. Every officer who shall be convicted before a general
court martial of having signed a false certificate relating to the
absence of either officer or private soldier, or relative to his or their
pay, shall be cashiered.
Art. 15. Every officer who shall knowingly make a false muster of
man or horse, and every officer or commissary of musters who shall
willingly sign, direct, or allow the signing of muster rolls wherein
such false muster is contained, shall, upon proof made thereof, by two
witnesses, before a general court martial, be cashiered, and shall be
thereby utterly disabled to have or hold any office or employment in
the service of the Confederate States.
Art. 16. Any commissary of musters, or other officer, who shall be
convicted of having taken money, or other thing, by way of grati-
fication, on mustering any regiment, troop, or company, or on signing
muster rolls, shall be displaced from his office, and shall be thereby
utterly disabled to have or hold any office or employment in the service
of the Confederate States.
Art. 17. Any officer who shnll presume to muster a person as a
soldier who is not a soldier, sliall be deemed guilty of having made
a false muster, and shall sufler accordingly.
Art. 18. Every officer who shall knowingly moke a false return to
the Department of War, or to any of his superior officers authorized
to call for such returns, of the state of the regiment, troop, or com-
pany, or garrison, under his command; or of the arms, ammunition,
clothing, or other stores thereunto belonging, shall, on conviction
thereof before a court martial, be cashiered.
Art. 19. The commanding officer of every regiment, troop, or inde-
pendent company or garrison of the Confederate States, shall, in the
beginning of every month, remit, through the proper channels, to
the Department of War, an exact return of the regiment, troop, inde-
pendent company or garrison under his command, specifying the
names of the officers then absent from their posts, with the reasons for
and the time of their absence. And any officer who shall be convicted
of having, through neglect or design, omitted sending such returns,
shall be punished, ax-cording to the nature of his crime, by the judg-
ment of a general court martial.
Art. 20. All officers and soldiers who have received pay, or have
been duly enlisted in the service of the Confederate States, and shall
be convicted of having deserted the same, shall suffer death, or such
other punishment as. by sentence of a court martial, shall be inflicted.
Art. 21. Any non-commissioned officer or soldier who shall, without
ARTICLES OF WAR. 547
leave from his commanding officer, absent himself from his troop,
company, or detachment, shall, upon being convicted thereof, be
punished according to the nature of his oflFence, at the discretion of a
court martini.
Art. 22. No non-commissioned officer or soldier shall enlist himself
in any other regiment, troop, or company, without a regular discharge
from the regiment, troop, or company in which he last served, on the
penalty of being reputed a deserter, and suffering accordingly. And
in case any officer shall knowingly receive and entertain such non-
commissioned officer or soldier, or shall not, after his being discovered
to be a deserter, immediately confine him, and give notice thereof to
the corps in whicli he last served, the said officer shall, by a court
martial, be cashiered.
Art. 23. Any officer or soldier who shall be convicted of having ad-
vised or persuaded any other officer or soldier to desert the service of
the Confederate States, shall suffer death, or such other punishment as
shall be inflicted upon him by the sentence of a court martial.
Art. 24. No officer or soldier shall use any reproachful or provoking
speeches or gestures to another, upon pain, if an officer, of being put
in arrest; if a soldier, confined, and of asking pardon of the party
offended, in the presence of his commanding officer.
Art. 25. No officer or soldier shall send a challenge to another officer
or soldier, to fight a duel, or accept a challenge if sent, upon pain, if a
commissioned officer, of being cashiered: if a non-commissioned officer
or soldier, of suffering corporal punishment, at the discretion of a
court martial.
Art. 20. If any commissioned or non-commissioned officer com-
manding a guard shall knowingly or willingly suffer any person what-
soever to go forth to fight a duel, he shall be punished as a challenger;
and all seconds, promoters, and carriers of challenges, in order to
duels, shall be deemed principals, and be punished accordingly. And
it shall be the duty of every officer commanding an army, regiment,
company, post, or detachment, who is knowing to a challenge being
given or accepted by any officer, non-commissioned officer, or soldier,
under his command, or has reason to believe the same to be the case,
immediately to arrest and bring to trial such offenders.
Art. 27. All officers, of what condition soever, have power to part
and quell all quarrels, frays, and disorders, though the persons con-
cerned should belong to another regiment, troop, or company: and
either to order officers in(u arrest, or non-commissioned officers or sol-
diers into confinement, until their proper superior officers shall be
acquainted therewith; and whosoever shall refuse to obey such officer
548 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
(though of an inferior rank), or shall draw his sword upon him, shall
be punished at the discretion of a general court martial.
Art. 28. Any officer or soldier who shall uphraid another for refus-
ing a challenge, shall himself be punished as a challenger; and all
officers and soldiers are hereby discharged from any disgrace or
opinion of disadvantage which might arise from their having refused
to accept of challenges, as they will only have acted in obedience to
the laws, and done their duty as good soldiers who subject themselves
to discipline.
Art. 29. No sutler shall be permitted to sell any kind of liquors or
victuals, or to keep their houses or shops open for the entertainment of
soldiers, after nine at night, or before the beating of the reveille, or
upon Sundays, during divine service or sermon, on the penalty of being
dismissed from all future sutling.
Art. 30. All officers commanding in the field, forts, barracks, or gar-
risons of the Confederate States, are hereby rec^uired to see that the
persons permitted to sutle shall supply the soldiers with good and
wholesome provisions, or other articles, at a reasonable price, as they
shall be answerable for their neglect.
Art. 31. No officer commanding in any of the garrisons, forts, or
barracks of the Confederate States, shall exact exorbitant prices for
houses or stalls, let out to sutlers, or connive at the like exactions
in others; nor by his own authority, and for his private advantage,
lay any duty or imposition upon, or be interested in, the sale of any
victuals, liquors, or other necessaries of life brought into the garrison,
fort or barracks, for the use of the Sfddiers, on the penalty of being
discharged from the service.
Art. 32. Every officer commanding in quarters, garrisons, or on the
march, shall keep good order, and to the utmost of his power, redress
all abuses or disorders which may be committed by any officer or sol-
dier under his command; if, upon complaint made to him of officers or
soldiers beating or otherwise ill-treating any person, or disturbing fairs
or markets, or of committing any kind of riots, to the disquieting of
the citizens of the Confederate States, he, the said commander, who
shall refuse or omit to see justice done to the oflender or offenders, and
reparation made to the party or parties injured, as far as part of the
offender's pay shall enable him or them, shall, upon proof thereof, be
cashiered, or otherwise punished, as a general court martial shall
direct.
Art. 33. When any commissioned officer or soldier shall be accused
of a capital crime, or of having used violence, or committed any offence
against the person or property of any of the Confederate States, such
as is punishable by the known laws of the land, the commanding officer
ARTICLES OF WAR. 549
and officers of every regiment, troop, or company, to which the person or
persons so accused shall belong, are hereby required, upon application
duly made by, or in behalf of, the party or parties injured, to use their
utmost endeavors to deliver over such accused person or persons to the
civil magistrate, and likewise to be aiding and assisting to the officers
of justice in apprehending and securing the person or persons so ac-
cused, in order to bring him or them to trial. If any commanding
officer or officers shall wilfully neglect, or shall refuse, upon the appli-
cation aforesaid, to deliver over such accused person or persons to the
civil magistrates, or to be aiding and assisting to the officers of justice
in apprehending such person or persons, the officer or officers so offend-
ing shall be cashiered.
Art. 34. If any officer shall think himself wronged by his colonel,
or the commanding officer of the regiment, and shall, upon due appli-
cation being made to him be refused redress, he may complain to the
general commanding in the State or Territory where such regiment
shall be stationed, in order to obtain justice; Avho is hereby required
to examine into said complaint, and take proper measures for redress-
ing the wrong complained of, and transmit, as soon as possible, to the
Department of War, a true state of such complaint, with the proceed-
ings had thereon.
Art. .35. If any inferior officer or soldier shall think himself wronged
by his captain or other officer, he is to complain thereof to the com-
manding officer of the regiment, who is hereby required to summon a
regimental court martial, for the doing justice to the complainant;
from which regimental court martial either party may, if he think him-
self still aggrieved, appeal to a general court martial. But if, upon a
second hearing, the appeal shall appear vexatious and groundless, the
person so appealing shall be punished at the discretion of said court
martial.
Art. .36. Any commissioned officer, store-keeper, or commissary, who
shall be convicted at a general court martial of having sold, without a
proper order for that purpose, embezzled, misapplied, or wilfully, or
through neglect, .sutfered any of the provisions, forage, arms, clothing,
ammunition, or other military stores belonging to the Confederate
States, to be spoiled or damaged, shall, at his own expense, make good
the loss or damage, and shall, moreover, forfeit all his pay, and be dis-
missed from the service.
Art. 37. Any non-commissioned officer or soldier who shall be con-
victed at a regimental court martial of having sold, or designedly, or
through neglect, wasted the ammunition delivered out to him, to be
employed in the service of the Confederate States, shall be punished at
the discretion of such court.
550 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Art. 38. Every non-commissioned officer or soldier, who shall he
convicted before a court martial of having sold, lost, or spoiled,
through neglect, his horse, arms, clothes, or accoutrements, shall un-
dergo such weekly stoppages (not exceeding the half of his pay) as
such court martial shall judge sufficient, for repairing the loss or dam-
age; and shall suffer confinement, or such other corporal punishment
as his crime shall deserve.
Art. 39. Every officer who shall be convicted before a court martial
of having embezzled or misapplied any money with which he may have
been intrusted, for the payment of the men under his command, or for
enlisting men into the service, or for other purposes, if a commissioned
officer, shall be cashiered, and compelled to i-efund the money; if a
non-commissioned officer, shall be reduced to the ranks, be put under
stoppages until the money be made good, and suffer such corporal pun-
ishment as such court martial shall direct.
Art. 40. Every captain of a troop or company is charged with the
arms, accoutrements, ammunition, clothing, or other warlike stores be-
longing to the troop or company under his command, which he is to be
accountable for to his colonel in case of their being lost, spoiled, or
damaged, not by unavoidable accidents, or on actual service.
Art. 41. All non-commissioned officers and soldiers who shall be
found one mile from the camp without leave, in writing, from their
commanding officer, shall suffer such punishment as shall be inflicted
upon them by the sentence of a court martial.
Art. 42. No officer or soldier shall lie out of his quarters, garrison,
or camp without leave from his superior officer, upon penalty of being
punished according to the nature of his offence, by the sentence of a
court martial.
Art. 43. Every non-commissioned officer and soldier shall retire to
his quarters or tent at the beating of the retreat ; in default of which
he shall be punished according to the nature of his offence.
Art. 44. No officer, non-commissioned officer, or soldier shall fail in
repairing, at the time fixed, to the place of parade, of exercise, or other
rendezvous appointed by his commanding officer, if not prevented by
sickness or some other evident necessity, or shall go from the said place
of rendezvous without leave from his commanding officer, before he
shall be regularly dismissed or relieved, on the jienalty of being pun-
ished, according to the nature of his offence, by the sentence of a court
martial.
Art. 45. Any commissioned officer who shall be found drunk on his
guard, party, or other duty, shall be cashiered. Any non-commissioned
officer or soldier so offending shall suffer such corporal pnni?hment as
shall be inflicted by the sentence of a court martial.
ARTICLES OF WAR. 551
Art. 46. Any sentinel who shall be found sleepins; npon his post, or
shall leave it before he shall be regularly relieved, shall .snffer death,
or such other punishment, as shall be inflicted bj'^ the sentence of a court
martial.
AuT. 47, No soldier, belonnjing to any regiment, troop or company,
shall hire another to do his duty for him, or be excused from duty but
in cases of sickness, disability or leave of absence ; and every such
soldier found guilty of hiring his duty, as also the party so hired to do
another's duty, shall be punished at the discretion of a regimental
court martial.
Art. 48. And every non-commissioned officer conniving at such hir-
ing of duty aforesaid shall be reduced; and every commissioned olficer
knowing and allowing such ill practices in the service, shall be pun-
ished by the judgment of a general court martial.
Art. 49. Any officer belonging to the service of the Confederate
States, who, by discharging of firearms, drawing of swords, beating of
drums, or by any other means whatsoever, shall occasion false alarms
in camp, garrison or quarters, shall suffer death, or such other jiunish-
ment as shall be ordered bj' the sentence of a general court martial.
Art. 50. Any officer or soldier who shall, without urgent necessity,
or without the leave of his superior officer, quit his guard, platoon or
division, shall be punished, according to the nature of his offence, by
the sentence of a court martial.
Art. 51. No officer or soldier shall do violence to any person who
brings provisions or other necessaries to the camp, garrison or quarters
of the forces of the Confederate States, employed in any parts out of
the said States, upon pain of death or such other punishment as a
court martial shall direct.
Art. 52. Any officer or soldier who shall misbehave himself before
the enemy, run away, or shamefully abandon any fort, post or guard,
which he or they may be commanded to defend, or speak words induc-
ing others to do the like, or shall cast away his arms and ammunition,
or who shall quit his post or colors to plunder and pillage, every such
off'ender, being duly convicted thereof, shall suffer death, or such other
punishment as shall be ordered by the sentence of a general court
martial.
Art. 53. Any person belonging to the armies of the Confederate
States, who shall make known the watchword to any person who is not
entitled to receive it according to the rules and discipline of war, or
shall presume to give a parole or watchword different from what he
received, shall suffer death, or such other punishment as shall be br-
dered by the sentence of a general court martial.
Art. 54. All officers and soldiers are to behave themselves orderly in
552 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
quarters and on their march; and whoever shall commit any waste, or
spoil, either in walks or trees, parks, warrens, fish-ponds, houses or
gardens, corn-fields, enclosures of meadows, or shall maliciously de-
stroy any property whatsoever belonging to the inhabitants of the
Confederate States, unless by order of the then commander-in-chief of
armies of the said States, shall (besides such penalties as they are lia-
ble to by law), be punished, according to the nature and degree of the
offence, by the judgment of a regimental or general court martial.
Art. 55. Whosoever, belonging to the armies of the Confederate
States in foreign parts, shall force a safeguard, shall suffer death.
Art. 56. Whosoever shall relieve the enemy with money, victuals or
ammunition, or shall knowingly harbor or protect an enemy, shall suf-
fer death or such other punishment as shall be ordered by the sentence
of a court martial.
Art. 57. Whosoever shall be convicted of holding correspondence
with, or giving intelligence to the enemy, cither directly or indirectly,
shall suft'cr death or such other punishment as shall be ordered by the
sentence of a court martini.
Art. 58. All public stores taken in the enemy's camp, towns, forts
or magazines, whether of artillery, ammunition, clothing, forage or
provisions, shall be secured for the service of the Confederate States ;
for the neglect of which the commanding oflScer is to be answerable.
Art. 59. If any commander of any garrison, fortress or post, shall
be compelled, by the officers and soldiers under his command, to give
up to the enemy, or to abandon it, the commissioned officers, non-com-
missioned officers or soldiers who shall be convicted of having so
offended, shall suffer death or such other punishment as shall be in-
flicted upon them by the sentence of a court martial.
Art. 60. All sutlers and retainers to the camp, and all persons what-
soever, serving with the armies of the Confederate States in the field,
though not enlisted soldiers, are to be subject to orders, according to
the rules and discipline of war.
Art. 61. Officers having brevets or commissions of a prior date to
those of the corps in which they serve, will take place, on courts mar-
tial or of inquiry, and on boards detailed for military purposes, when
composed of different corps, according to the ranks given them in
their brevets or former commissions; but in the regiment, corps or
company to which such officers belong, they shall do duty and take
rank, both in courts and on Jjoards as aforesaid, which shall be com-
posed of their own corps, according to the commissions by which they
there mustered.
Art, 62. If, upon marches, guards, or in quarters, different corps
shall happen to join, or do duty together, the officer highest in rank.
ARTICLES OF WAR. 558
according to the commission by which he is mustered, in the army,
navy, marine corps, or militia, there on duty by orders from compe-
tent authority, shall command the whole, and give orders for what is
needful for the service, unless otherwise directed by the President
(if the Confederate States, in orders of special assignment providing
for the case.
Art. (>.*]. The functions of the engineers being generally confined to
the most elevatc<l branch of military science, they are not to assume,
nor are they subject to be ordered on any duty beyond the line of their
immediate profession, except by the special order of the President of the
Confederate States: but they are to receive every mark of respect lo
which their rank in the army may entitle them respectively, and are
liable to be transferred, at the discreti.m of the President, from one
corps to another, regard being paid to rank.
Art. G-4. General courts martial may consist of an}- number of com-
missioned officers; from five to thirteen, inclusively; but they shall not
consist of less than thirteen where that number can be convened with-
out manifest injury to the service.
Art. (ii). Any general officer commanding an army, or colonel com-
manding a separate department, may appoint general courts martial
whenever necessary. But no sentence of a court martial shall be carried
into execution until after the whole proceedings shall have been laid
before the officer ordering the same, or the officer commanding the troops
for the time being; neither shall any sentence of a general court martial,
in the time of peace, extending to the loss of life, or the dismission of
a commissioned officer, or which shall, either in time of peace or war,
respect a general officer, be carried into execution, until after the whole
proceedings shall have been transmitted to the Secretary of War, to be
laid before the President of the Confederate States for his confirmation
or disapproval and orders in the case. All other sentences may be
confirmed and executed by the ofiicer ordering the court to assemble, or
the commanding officer for the time being, as the case may be.
Art. 66. Every officer commanding a regiment or corps may appoint,
for his own regiment or corps, courts martial, to consist of three com-
missioned officers, for the trial and punishment of offences not capital,
and decide upon their sentences. For the same purpose, all officers
commanding any of the garrisons, forts, barracks, or other places where
the troops consist of different corps, may assemble courts martial, to
consist of three commissioned officers, and decide upon their sentences.
Art. 67. No garrison or regimental court martial shall have the power
to try capital cases or commissioned officers; neither shall they inflict a
fine exceeding one month's pay, nor imprison, nor put to hard labor, any
non-commissioned officer or soldier for a longer time than one month.
47
554 MANUAL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND MILITIA.
Art. 68. Whenever it may be found convenient and necessary to tlie
public service, the officers of the marines shall be associated with the
officers of the land forces, for the purpose of holding courts martial,
and trying ofl'enders belonging to either; and, in such cases, the orders
of the senior officer of either corps who may be present and duly author-
ized, shall be received and obeyed.
Art. 69. The judge advocate, or some person deputed by him, or by
the general, or officer commanding the army, detachment, or garrison,
shall prosecute in the name of the Confederate States, but shall so far
consider himself as counsel for the prisoner, after the said prisoner shall
have made his plea, as to object to any leading question to any of the
witnesses, or any question to the prisoner, the answer to which might
tend to criminate himself, and administer to each member of the court,
before they proceed upon any trial, the following oath, which shall also
be taken by all members of the regimental and garrison courts martial :
*'You, A. B., do swear that you will well and truly try and determine,
according to evidence, the matter now before you, between the Confed-
erate States of America and the prisoner to be tried, and that you will
duly administer justice, according to the provisions of 'An Act estab-
lishing Rules and Articles for the government of the armies of the
Confederate States,' without partiality, favor, or affection; and if any
doubt should arise, not explained by said Articles, according to jonr
conscience, the best of your understanding, and the custom of Avar in
like cases; and you do further swear that you will not divulge the sen-
tence of the court until it shall be published by the proper authority;
neither will you disclose or discover the vote or opinion of any par-
ticular member of the court martial, unless required to give evidence
thereof, as a witness, by a court of justice, in a due course of law. So
help you God."
And so soon as the said oath shall ha^e been administered to the
respective members, the president of the court shall administer to
the judge advocate, or person officiating as such, an oath in the follow-
ing words :
**You, A. B., do swear, that you will not disclose or discover the
vote or opinion of any particular member of the court martial, unless
required to give evidence thereof, as a witness, by a court of justice, in
due course of law; nor divulge the sentence of the court to any but the
proper authority, until it shall be duly disclosed by the same. So help
■you God."
Art. 70. When a prisoner, arraigned before a general court martial,
shall, from obstinacy and deliberate design, stand mute, or answer for-
eign to the purpose, the court may proceed to trial and judgment as if
the prisoner had regularly pleaded not guilty.
ARTICLES OF WAK. ;: 555
Art. 71. When a member shall be challenj^ed by «i prisoner, he mu^t
state his cause of challenge, of which the court shall, after clue deliber-
ation, determine the relevancy or validity, and decide accordingly;
and ifb challenge to more than one niember at a time shall bo received
by the court.
Art. 72. All the members of a court martial are to behave with
decency and calmness; and in giving their votes are to begin with the
youngest in commission.
Art. 73. All persons who give evidence before a court martial are to
be examined on oath or affirmation, in the following form:
*'You swear or affirm (as the case may be) the evidence you shall
give in the cause now in hearing shall be the truth, the whole truth.
and nothing but tho truth. So help you God."
Art. 7-i. On the trials of cases not ca}utal. before courts martial, the
deposition of witnesses, not in the line or staff of the army, may be
taken before some justice of the peace, and read in evidence; i)rovided
the prosecutor and person accused arc present at the taking the same,
or are duly notified thereof.
Art. 75. No officer shall be tried but bj' a general court martial, nor
by officers of an inferior rank, if it can be avoided. Nor shall any
proceedings of trials be carried on, excepting between the hours of
eight in the morning and three in the afternoon; excepting in cases
which, in the opinion of the officer appointing the court martial, re-
quire immeiliatc example.
Art. 76. No person whatsoever shall use any menacing words, signs,
or gestures, in presence of a court martial, or shall cause any disorder
or riot, or disturb their proceedings, on the penalty of being punished
at the discretion of the said court martial.
Art. 77. Whenever any officer shall be charged with a crime, he
shall be arrested and confined in his barracks, quarters, or tent, and
deprived of his sword by the commanding officer. And any officer who
shall leave his confinement before he shall be set at liberty by the
commanding officer, or by a superior officer, shall be cashiered.
Art. 78. Non-commissioned officers and soldiers, charged with
crimes, shall be confined until tried by a court martial or released
by proper authority.
Art. 79. No officer or soldier who shall be put in arrest shall con-
tinue in confinement more than eight days, or until such time as a
court martial can be assembled.
Art. 80. No officer commanding a guard, or provost marshal, shall
refuse to receive or keep any prisoner committed to his charge by an
officer belonging to the forces of the Confederate States; provided
the officer committing shall, at tho same time, deliver an account in
55'.) MANUAL F(JH VOLUNTEKKS AND MILITIA.
writinj;, .sigued by himself, of the crime of which the -aid prisoner is
char^^ed.
AuT. 81. No officer commandiiif; a jrnard, or provost marshal, shall
presume to release any person committed to his charge without proper
authority for so doinp, nor shall he suflFer any per.son to escape, on the
penalty of being )»iinished for it by the sentence of a court martial.
AuT. S2. Kvery officer or provost marshal, to whose charge prisoners
shall l)e committed, shall, within twentj'-four hours after such commit-
ment, or as soon as he siiall be relieved fr<im his guar<l, make report in
writing, to the commanding officer, of their names, tlieir crimes, and
the names of the officers vdio committed them, <>n the penalty of being
punished for dis<»bedience <ir neglect, at the discretion nf a court
martial.
AitT. H'^. Any commissioned officer convicted before a general court
martial of contluct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman, shall be
dismissed the service.
AiiT. si. In cases where a court martial may think it proper to sen-
tence a commissioned officer to l)e suspended from command, they shall
have power also to susjiend liis pay and emoluments for the same time.
.Mccording to the nature and hcinousness of the offence.
Aht. S5. In all cases where a <-ommissione4l officer i« cashiered for
cowardice or fraud, it sliall be ad<led in the sentence, that the crime,
name, and place of abode, and punishment of the «lclin(iucnt, be pub-
lished in the newsi>apers in an<l about the camp, and of the particular
State from which the ofTcnder came, or where he usually resides; after
which it shall be deemed scandalous for an officer to associate with
him.
Aht. ST). The ominatiding officer »d' any jjust or detachment, in
which there shall not be a number of officers adequate to form a
general court martial, shall, in cases which require the cognizance of
such a court, report to the commanding officer of the department, who
shall order a court to be assembled at the nearest post or department,
and the party accused, with neee.^^sary witnes>es, to br tr.m-i.ortcd to
the place where the said court shall be assembled.
Akt. ST. No person shall be sentenced to suffer death but by the
Concurrence of two-thirds of the members of a general court martial,
nor except in the cases herein expressly mentione*!; and no officer,
non-commissioned officer, soldier, or follower of the army, shall be
tried a second time for the same <tlfence.
Art. S8. No person shall be liable to be tried and punished by a
general court martial for any offence which shall appear to have been
committed more than two years before the issuing of the order for such
trial, unless the jierson, by reason of having absented himself, or some
ARTICLES OF WAR. 00 <
other maaifest impediment, shall not have been amenable to justice
within that period.
Art. 89. Every officer authorized to order a general court martial
."hall have power to pardon or mitigate any punishment ordered by
such court, except the sentence of death, or of cashiering an officer :
which, in the cases where he has authority (by Article 65) to carry
them into execution, he may suspend, until the pleasure of the Presi-
dent of the Confederate States can be known ; which suspension,
together with copies of the proceedings of the court martial, the said
officer shall immediately transmit to the President for his determina-
tion. And the colonel or commanding officer of the regiment or
garrison where any regimental or garrison court martial shall be held,
may pardon or mitigate any punishment ordered by such court to be
inflicted.
Art. 90. Every judge advocate, or person officiating ns such, at any
general court martial, shall transmit, with as much expedition as the
opportunity of time and distance of place can admit, the original pro-
ceedings and sentence of such court martial to tlie Secretary of War;
which said original proceedings and sentence shall be carefully kept
and preserved in the office of said Secretary, to the end that the per-
sons entitled thereto may be enabled, upon application to the said
officer, to obtain copies thereof.
The party tried by any general court martial shall, upon demand
thereof, made by himself, or by any person or persons in his behalf, be
entitled to a copy of the sentence and proceedings of such court
martial.
Art. 91. In cases where the general or commanding officer may
order a court of inquiry to examine into the nature of any transaction,
accusation, or imputation against any officer or soldier, the said court
shall consist of one or more officers, not exceeding three, and a judge
advocate, or other suitable person, as a recorder, to reduce the pro-
ceedings and evidence to writing; all of whom shall be sworn to the
faithful i^erformauce of their duty. This court shall have the same
]tower to summon witnesses as a court martial, and to (fxamine them on
oath. But they shall not give their opinion on the merits of the case,
excepting they shall be thereto specially required. The parties
accused shall also be permitted to cross-examine and interrogate
the witnesses, so as to investigate fully the circumstances in the
question.
Art. 92. The proceedings of a court of inquiry must be authenti-
cated by the signature of the recorder and the president, and delivered
to the commanding officer, and the said proceedings may be admitted
as evidence bv a court martial, in cases not capital, or extending to the
t558 MANUAL FOR, VOLUNTEERS ANT) MILITIA.
dismissiou of au officer, provided that the circumstances are such that
oral testimony cannot be obtained. But as courts of inquiry may be
perverted to disl)onorable purposes, and may be considered as engines
of destruction to military merit, in the hands of weak and envious
commandants, they arc hereby prohibited, unless directed by the
President of the Confederate States, or demanded by the accused.
Art. 93. The judge advocate or recorder shall administer to the
members the following oath :
"You shall well and truly examine and inquire, according to your
evidence, into the matter now before you, without partiality, favor,
affection, prejudice, or hope of reward. So help you God."
After which the president shall a<lminister to the judge advocate or
recorder, the following oath :
"You, A. B., do swear that you will, according to your best abili-
ties, accurately and impartially record the proceedings of the court,
and the evidence to be given in the case in hearing. So help you
<lod."
The witnesses shall take the same oath as witnesses sworn before a
court martial.
Art. 94. When any commissioned officer shall die or be killed in the
.service of the Confederate States, the major of the regiment, or the
officer doing the major's duty in his absence, or in any post or garrison,
the second officer in command, or the assistant military agent, shall im-
mediately secure all his effects or equipage, then in camp or quarters,
and shall make an inventory thereof, and forthwith transmit the same
to the office of the Department of War, to the end that his exetnitors or
administrators may receive the same.
Art. 95. When any non-commissioned officer or soldier shall die, or
be killed in the service of the Confederate States, the then commanding
officer of the troop or company shall, in the presence of two other com-
missioned officers, take an account of what effects he died possessed of,
above his arms and accoutrements, and transmit the same to the office
of the Department of War, which said effects are to be accounted for,
and paid to the representatives of such deceased non-commissioned
officer or soldier. And in case any of the otFieers, so authorized to take
care of the effects of such deceased non-commissioned otlicers and sol-
diers, should, before they have accounted to their representatives for
the same, have occasion to leave the regiment or post, by preferment or
otherwise, they shall, before they be permitted to quit the same, deposit
in the hands of the commanding officer, or of the assistant military
agent, all the effects of such deceased non-commissioned officers and
soldiers, in order that the same may be secured for. and paid to their
respective rejivesentatives.
AKTlCLt.S OF WAK. 559
Art. 96. All oflacers, conductors', gunners, matrosses, drivers, or
other persons whatsoever, receiving pay or hire in the service of the
artillery or corps of engineers of the Confederate States, shall be
governed by the aforesaid Rules and Articles, and shall be subject to
be tried by courts martial, in like manner with the officers and soldiers
of the other troops in the service of the Confederate States.
Art. 97. The officers and soldiers of any troops, whether militia or
others, being mustered and in pay of the Confederate States, shall, at
all times and all places, when joined or acting in conjunction with the
regular forces of the Confederate States, be governed by these Rules
and Articles of War, and shall be subject to be tried by courts martial,
ill like manner with the officers and soldiers in the regular forces; save
only that such courts martial shall be composed entirely of militia
officers.
Art. 98. All officers serving by commission from the authority of
any particular State, shall, on all detachments, courts martial or other
duty, wherein they may be employed in conjunction with the regular
forces of the Confederate States, take rank next after all officers of
the like grade in said regular forces, notwithstanding the commissions
of such militia or State officers may be elder than the commissions of
the officers of the regular forces of the Confederate States.
Art. 99. All crimes not capital, and all disorders and neglects which
officers and soldiers may be guilty of, to the prejudice of good order
and military discipline, though not mentioned in the foregoing Articles
of War, are to be taken cognizance of by a general or regimental court
martial, according to the nature and degree of the offence, and be pun-
ished at their discretion.
Art. lOU. The President of the Confederate States shall have power
to prescribe the uniform of the army.
Art. 101. The foregoing Articles are to be read and published, once
in every six months, to every garrison, regiment, troop, or company
mustered, or to be mustered, in the service of the Confederate States,
and are to be duly observed and obeyed by all officers and soldiers
who are, or shall be, in said service.
Sec. 2. And he it further enacted, That in time of war, all persons
not citizens of, or owing allegiance to the Confederate States of
America, who shall be found lurking as spies in and about the fortifi-
cations or encampments of the armies of the Confederate States, or
any of them, shall suffer death, according to the law and usage of
nations, by sentence of a general court martial.
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