For the first century and a half of our nation’s existence, the ability to protect American lives and interests around the world was accomplished by landing parties composed of Navy and Marine Corps personnel. Virtually every Sailor had to know the essentials of infantry tactics and fighting on land as thoroughly as his shipboard duties. This heritage remains with us today in the form of close order drill.
As much as the uniform, close order drill is at the very core of one’s identity as a Sailor. It is a cornerstone of military discipline, professionalism, and leadership. Throughout your service in the Navy, you will participate in military formations for events ranging from the routine, like morning muster, to the exceptional, like ceremonies to honor individuals or commands. The need to execute close order drill with snap and precision will be a skill that will not disappear after recruit training.
Close order drill also teaches the practice of obeying orders immediately and exactly upon command. It visibly demonstrates leadership and followership, and it reinforces the concepts of unit cohesion and teamwork.
Some of the basics of close order drill will be discussed in this chapter, but the Navy’s standard for close order drill is the Marine Corps Drill and Ceremonies Manual (MCO P5060.20), a descendant of the joint Navy-Marine publications governing landing party operations.
FORMATIONS
Various kinds of formations are used for different purposes throughout the Navy. Some, like Navy construction battalions, follow the basic structure of a Marine Corps unit:
Squad—A unit formed in a single rank, typically 8–13 personnel
Platoon—Two or more squads
Company—Two or more platoons
Battalion—Two or more companies
Regiment—Two or more battalions
In other naval activities, you may come across terms to denote partial units or small groups assembled for a specific task or purpose, like “detail” or “section.”
At the Naval Academy, the midshipmen are organized into a “brigade,” which is further subdivided into two regiments of three battalions, each with five companies.
“Division,” as used in the Navy, is a shipboard work unit (subordinate to a “department”) and not actually a military unit for drill purposes, although its personnel are often formed for daily musters. To avoid confusion, you should know that for a land military unit—such as in the Army—a “division” is composed of several regiments and has thousands of personnel.
At times aboard ship, you will likely be part of military formations used for morning quarters, for personnel inspections, to welcome dignitaries, and for many other reasons.
The two basic structures of all military formations are “ranks” (in which personnel are lined up side by side) and “files” (in which personnel are uniformly lined up one behind the other). There can be a single rank or a single file, or they can be combined.
In a formation with several ranks and files, the front rank is referred to as simply the front or first rank. Subsequent ranks are called the second rank, third rank, and so on. There are a number of other terms associated with formations that you should know:
Guide. In a formation, someone must serve as the reference point on which the others align themselves. This person is called “the guide.” In a single file, the guide must be the person in the very front because it would be impossible for you to guide on an individual behind you (unless you have the proverbial “eyes in the back of your head”). In a single rank, the guide is usually (though not always) on the extreme right of the line. In a formation with several ranks and files, the guide is usually the person on the extreme right of the front rank.
Interval. The lateral space between individuals who are standing on the same line in a rank, from shoulder to shoulder, is called the interval. “Normal interval” is one arm’s length. Close interval is the horizontal distance between shoulder and elbow when the left hand is placed on the left hip. This is used when space is limited and is determined by the individuals in the rank placing their left hand on their hip, fingertips down, then closing up to the elbows.
Distance. The space between ranks, which is 40 inches from the chest of a person in one rank to the back of the person directly in front.
![[2.1] A military formation...](../images/f0026-01.jpg)
[2.1] A military formation on a ship
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Commands
The difference between a command and an order is in timing. Both must be carried out if given by a superior in a military organization, but a command is to be carried out at a precise moment, whereas an order need not be instantaneously executed. For example, if your recruit division commander in boot camp calls “Attention on deck” because the base commander has just entered the auditorium to deliver an address, this is a command, and you must jump to your feet and assume the position of attention the instant you hear the words. If you are standing watch as a messenger aboard ship and the OOD tells you to sweep down the quarterdeck, this is an order, and while you certainly would not dawdle in carrying out the OOD’s instructions, you would not be expected to begin sweeping instantaneously.
In close order drill, there are four types of commands.
Preparatory Command. Alerts the unit to an upcoming change in direction, position, or posture such as “Forward,” “Right,” or “Parade.” (In our discussion, they are indicated by italics.)
Command of Execution. This command tells the unit to execute the order, such as “MARCH” or “FACE.” (In our discussion, they are indicated by capitalizing all letters.)
Combined Commands. In combined commands, the preparatory command and command of execution are combined, such as “AT EASE” and “FALL OUT.” (These are also indicated by capitalizing all letters.)
Supplementary Commands. Supplementary commands are used after a preparatory command and before the command of execution to direct subordinate units to act individually, such as “Column of Files, From the Right, MARCH.” (Here, underlined.)
To Cancel a Command. If an order was given in error, the person giving the commands will call, “AS YOU WERE.” Personnel in the unit resume their former position. For example, “Second Squad, forward . . . AS YOU WERE.” The members of second squad would do nothing in this case, remaining as they were before the command began.
Using this system, the preparatory command serves to warn you what is coming so that when you hear the command of execution, you will be able to carry it out instantaneously. No two military drill commands begin with the same preparatory command, so once you have learned the various commands you will know what is coming every time you hear a preparatory command. For example, the command to get the members of a squad moving along together is “Forward . . . MARCH.” The word “forward” is the preparatory command, and because this command is the only one that begins with the word “forward,” all members of the squad know that the next word they hear will be the command of execution “MARCH,” and they will all begin marching the instant they hear it. This method ensures the precision that is essential in military drill.
When giving military drill commands, you should always speak in a firm tone loud enough to be heard by everyone under your command. You should also develop the habit of giving the preparatory command, pausing briefly to allow everyone time to anticipate what is coming, and then giving the command of execution with emphasis.
Sometimes the preparatory command will be preceded by the name or title of the group concerned, for example, “First Division” or “Third Squad” or “Platoon,” etc. This is especially important for avoiding confusion if there are a number of groups in the vicinity.
The cadence of commands should be that of quick time, whether stationary or while marching. The pause between the preparatory command and the command of execution should be one count while stationary, or one step between the two commands marching.
Most of the military drill commands you will encounter in the Navy are listed and explained below.
FORMING THE UNIT
Unit leaders should direct their units to begin forming by indicating where they are to form and at what interval. Once a unit is in place and its leader is ready to commence, he or she will bring the unit to attention by using one of the following two commands.
If the unit has been directed to form at normal interval, the (combined) command is:
“FALL IN”
If the unit has been directed to form at close interval, the combined command is:
“AT CLOSE INTERVAL, FALL IN”
(Note: “Fall in” in either form is the correct command to bring a unit to attention at the beginning of a formation. It should not be used to direct people to begin falling into ranks.)
DRESSING THE UNIT
“Dressing” refers to properly aligning the formation. To dress the unit, the leader will give the appropriate command with the direction of dress and the interval used.
If dressing the unit at normal interval, the command is:
“Dress Right (or Left) . . . DRESS”
On the command “DRESS,” everyone except the person at the extreme right of each squad smartly turns his or her head to the right, 90 degrees over the shoulder, looks, and aligns him- or herself.
At the same time, all except the last individual on the left provide the appropriate interval by smartly raising their left arms to shoulder height and in line with their bodies. Fingers are extended and joined, thumb along the forefinger, palm down.
Each person aligns his or her shoulder to the fingertips of the individual to his or her right.
When dressing to the left, the alignment and eyes are to the left and the right arm is extended. The unit leader may come to the end of the squad and direct individuals forward or backward.
In some cases—such as when space is limited—a “close interval” may be ordered. The proper command is:
“At Close Interval, Dress Right (or Left) . . . DRESS”
On the command “DRESS,” all except the person at the extreme right of each squad smartly turn their heads to the right, 90 degrees over the shoulder, looks, and align themselves.
At the same time, all except the last individual on the left provide the appropriate interval by placing the heel of their left hand on their hip with the elbow in line with their body. Fingers are extended and joined and pointing down.
Individuals adjust the interval by moving by very short steps until their right arms are touching the left elbows of the individuals to their left. When dressing to the left, the alignment and eyes are to the left and the right elbow is extended.
To end the dressing sequence, the command is:
“Ready, FRONT”
On the command “FRONT,” all will look to the front and return their arms to the position of attention (see below). This is executed with precision, but the arm is not to make noise by striking the thigh.
To align individual files or a column, the command is:
“COVER”
At this command, members move as necessary to place themselves directly behind the person in front of them, still maintaining a 40-inch distance.
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[2.3] Members of the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard Drill Team formed up at “close interval”
DISMISSING THE FORMATION
If the formation is permanently disbanded, the command is:
“DISMISSED.”
This signals the end of the formation. Everyone will break ranks and go about his or her business.
BASIC COMMANDS
Once you are in a formation, you will need to know a number of basic commands. The position of attention is the basic military position from which most other drill movements are executed.
To bring the formation to attention from any position of rest, the command is:
“ATTENTION”
Smartly bring your left heel against the right.
Turn your feet out equally to form an angle of 45 degrees. Keep your heels on the same line and touching.
Your legs should be straight, but not stiff at the knees. In other words, do not lock your knees—keep them flexed slightly forward—to prevent the restriction of your blood-flow, which can cause you to pass out.
Your arms should be straight, but not stiff at the elbows; thumbs along the trouser seams, palms facing inward toward your legs, and fingers joined in their natural curl.
Look straight ahead. Keep your mouth closed and your chin pulled in slightly.
Keep your head and body erect. Keep your hips and shoulders level and your chest lifted.
(To achieve this posture, try this: with your feet and hands in the position of attention, raise your shoulders an inch or so, gently rotate them in an arc upward and backward, and let them drop downward. This will straighten your back and bring your chest out in the manner described above. Practice this posture, as it will enable you to stand at attention for longer periods of time without the discomfort experienced when slouching.)
Stand still and do not talk.
There are four positions of rest: Parade Rest, At Ease, Rest, and Fall Out.
“Parade . . . REST”
On the command of execution “REST,” move the left foot smartly 12 inches to the left of the right foot.
At the same time, clasp your hands behind the back. Your left hand is placed just below the belt and your right hand is placed inside the left. The thumb of your right hand lightly grasps the thumb of the left. All fingers are extended and joined with the palms to the rear.
The elbows will be in line with the body. You must remain silent and not move.
Again, do not lock your knees—keep them flexed slightly forward—to avoid passing out.
The only command that may be given after “Parade, REST” is “Attention.”
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[2.5] Sailors at “parade rest”
“AT EASE”
On this combined command, you may move any part of your body (such as stretching or looking about) except your right foot (this marks your place in the formation). You may not talk.
“REST”
At the command, you may move and talk; however, you must keep your right foot in place just as when at ease. The only command you may receive while at rest is “ATTENTION.”
“FALL OUT”
When this command is given, everyone breaks ranks but remains nearby or proceeds to a predetermined area. When the command “fall in” is given, everyone should return to his or her original position in the formation and stand at attention.
SALUTING
When part of close-order drill, saluting is executed on the command:
“Hand . . . SALUTE”
Raise your right hand smartly in the most direct manner until the tip of your forefinger touches the lower part of your cover above and slightly right of your right eye.
Your fingers should be extended straight and joined with the thumb along the forefinger (not sticking out).
You should be able to peripherally see your entire palm when looking straight ahead.
Your upper arm should be parallel with the deck with your elbow nearly in line with your body (but slightly forward) and your forearm at a 45-degree angle.
Your wrist and hand should be straight, a continuation of the line made by your forearm.
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[2.6] A Navy Drill Team Sailor demonstrates the proper way to execute a “hand salute.”
To terminate the salute, the command is:
“Ready, TWO”
Return to the position of attention. Move your hand smartly in the most direct manner back to its normal position by your side. NEVER flick or chop the hand forward, but bring it down completely to your side in one unbroken motion.
(Note: If you are not armed and the command “Present . . . ARMS” is given, you should execute the hand salute on the command “ARMS.” Stay at that position until the command “Ready . . . TWO” or “Order . . . ARMS” is given.)
(Note: Saluting is covered in more detail in Chapter 3: Navy Customs, Courtesies, and Ceremonies.)
FACING MOVEMENTS
Facing movements are used to turn everyone in the formation to face in a different direction.
To face right or left, the command is:
“Right (Left) . . . FACE”
“Right, FACE” is a two-count movement. On the command “FACE,” execute the first count by raising your left heel and right toe slightly. Turn to the right on your right heel and left toe. Keep your left leg straight but not stiff.
The second count is executed by bringing the left foot smartly beside the right and stand at attention. “Left, FACE” is executed in the same manner substituting left for right and right for left.
To face to the rear, the command is:
“About . . . FACE”
“About . . . FACE” is a two-count movement. At the command “About,” shift your weight to your left leg without noticeable movement.
At the command “FACE,” execute the first count by placing the tip of your right toe half a foot length behind and slightly to the left of your heel. Do not change the position of your left foot. Rest your weight evenly on the left heel and the ball of the right foot.
Execute count two by turning smartly to the right until facing rear. The turn is made on the left heel and ball of the right foot.
The knees remain straight but not locked during the movement. Your thumbs remain on the seams of your trousers.
If properly executed, you will be at the position of attention facing in the opposite direction.
MARCHING COMMANDS
Military formations are sometimes moved, either to get from one place to another or to put on a parade or what is called a “pass in review.” It will help to remember that all movements except “Right step” begin with the left foot.
![[2.7] “Right face...](../images/f0037-01.jpg)
[2.7] “Right face” and “about face” diagrammed
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[2.8] Beginning an “about face”
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To commence marching to the front, the command is:
“Forward . . . MARCH”
At the preparatory command “Forward,” shift the weight of your body to the right leg.
At the command of execution “MARCH,” step off smartly with the left foot and continue marching with 30-inch steps taken straight forward without stiffness or exaggeration.
Swing your arms easily in their natural arcs, 6 inches straight to the front and 3 inches to the rear. Do not exaggerate movements.
Continue marching straight ahead until another command is given.
To stop the unit, the command is:
“HALT”
The preparatory command is the name of the unit (“Detail,” “Squad,” “Platoon,” etc.) followed by the command of execution “HALT.”
You can give the command of execution as either foot strikes the deck. If you give it on the left foot, each squad member will take one more step with the right foot and then bring up the left foot to stop alongside the right foot, so that all motion stops and everyone is standing at attention.
To take half steps, the command is:
“Half Step . . . MARCH”
Begin taking steps of 15 inches instead of the normal 30 inches. To resume the full step from half step, the command is “Forward, MARCH.”
To side step, the command is:
“Right (or Left) Step . . . MARCH”
At the command “MARCH,” move your right foot 12 inches to the right. Then place the left foot beside the right, keeping your left knee straight. Repeat until the command “HALT” is given. To step to the left, follow the same procedure in opposite form.
“Right (left) step” is ordered from a halt and for short distances only.
To step backward (used for short distances only and always ordered from a halt position) the command is:
“Back Step . . . MARCH”
At the command “MARCH,” take steps of 15 inches straight to the rear until ordered to halt.
To march in place, the command is:
“Mark Time . . . MARCH”
To perform flanking movements (facing an entire unit to the left or right while marching) the command is:
“By the Right (Left) Flank . . . MARCH”
For a right flanking movement, the command “MARCH” will be given when your right foot hits the ground. Take another step with your left foot. Turn to the right on the ball of the left foot. At the same time, step off 30 inches in the new direction with the right foot.
“Left Flank” is executed in the opposite fashion of “Right Flank.”
To march the unit to the rear for a short distance, the command is:
“To the Rear . . . MARCH”
The command of execution “MARCH” is given when the right foot strikes the deck. On the command “MARCH,” take one more step. Turn about to the right on the balls of both feet and immediately step off to the rear with your left foot. This is done without loss of cadence. When turning, the feet should be about 15 inches apart.
When marching to the rear, the only movement that can be given is another “To the Rear, MARCH” in order to bring the individual or unit back to its’ original front.
To change a column’s direction of march, the command of execution is given on the foot in the direction of the turn. The command is:
“Column Right (Left) . . . MARCH”
On the command “MARCH,” the leading member of the squad on the right takes one more 30-inch step to the front and then pivots 90 degrees to the right on the ball of the left foot. He/she then takes one 30-inch step in the new direction before beginning to half step.
At the same time, the leading members of the other squads pivot less than 90 degrees to the right in an amount appropriate to partially make the turn (45 degrees for the squad immediately to the left the first squad, less for the next squad, etc.). They step in this new direction until they are on line with the new line of march (normally two and four steps, respectively) and then execute a second pivot (45 degrees for the second squad, less for the third, and so on).
They then begin to half step as soon as they are aligned with the leading member of the inside squad. When all members of the same rank have come abreast, everyone in that rank resumes a full step.
All successive ranks execute the same pivot movements on the same points and in the same way as those ahead of them.
“Column Left” is executed in the opposite fashion of “Column Right.”
To march while not at attention, the command is:
“Route step . . . MARCH”
After “MARCH,” you are no longer required to march in cadence, but must keep interval and distance. You may talk, but in a low voice. To return to marching at attention, the command will be, “ATTENTION,” upon which you must resume cadence and cease talking.
Although close order drill is no longer a part of the battlefield, it remains an essential component of military culture that promotes good leadership and followership as well as instilling a strong sense of discipline that is essential to military efficiency. It can, in an indirect way, contribute to survivability in a dangerous situation. And it is a point of pride that can contribute to unit cohesion and pride. You should embrace it as one of the many things that makes being a Sailor special.