5-31
always in line, but the squad is marched only for short
distances in this formation. When not at drill, a squad
may be formed in two ranks and marched in a column of
twos. Usually squads, as well as all other units, are
formed at normal intervals.
Figure 5-9.—Squad formations.
MOVEMENTS: Most troop movements requiring
changes in direction are accomplished by reversing
direction or by flanking, oblique, or column movements.
Many maneuvers, however, require a combination of two
or more of these basic movements. For movements that
can be made either to the right or left, you will be given
the commands and descriptions for only those to the
right. Unless indicated otherwise, you may assume that
a movement can be made in either direction.
Preparatory commands for these movements are
given so that the last word of the command is
pronounced when the foot in the direction of the
movement strikes the ground. Commands of execution
also are given as that same foot strikes the ground.
COLUMN RIGHT: The commands are Column
Right, MARCH. At the command MARCH, the first
member in the column takes one more step with the left
foot, pivots 90° to the right on the ball of the left foot,
and at the same time steps out in the new direction on
the right foot (one count). The rest of the column
continues to march along in the original direction. As
each member reaches the point where the first member
changed direction (pivot point), the member executes the
movement as described.
When halted, at the command MARCH, the front
member pivots to the right and steps out with the left
foot. At the same time, other members march forward.
As each member reaches the pivot point used by the
front member, the member changes direction as
described above.
Quick time: On MARCH, take another step with
the left foot in the original direction of march, turn 180°
to the right on the balls of both feet, and step out on the
left foot in the new direction.
Double time: On MARCH, advance two steps
in the original direction, turn to the right while taking
four steps in place and in cadence, and step off on the
left foot.
NOTE: If troops are at a halt and you desire to
march them in the direction opposite from that which
they are facing, give the commands About, FACE and
Forward, MARCH.
TO MARCH TO A FLANK: This movement is
performed only when marching. The commands are By
the Right Flank, MARCH. On the command MARCH,
given as the right foot strikes the ground, take a step
with the left foot, turn 90° to the right on the ball of the
left foot, and step out in the new direction on the right
foot. The turn and the step in the new direction are
performed at the same time. Flank movements are
performed simultaneously by all hands.
TO MARCH AT AN ANGLE: The commands are
Right Oblique, MARCH. Oblique is pronounced to
rhyme with “like.” This movement is executed in the
same manner as the flank movement, except the turn is
45° instead of 90° from the original direction.
