Section 2 EO M308.02 – DELIVER WORDS OF COMMAND

A cautionary command shall be given at the beginning of every command to warn the squad that a movement will be performed. It includes additional instructions to the command such as “advance” or “retire”.

The direction of the movements are indicated based on the initial front rank.

The additional instructions are based on the direction a squad falls in (as illustrated in Figure 8-2-1). In general:

An executive command is to signal that the movement is to be carried out.

When written, a dash shall separate the cautionary command from the executive command.

The following are examples of words of command. In these examples, the word “TURN” indicates the executive command.

On the march, the cautionary command should be drawn out over at least two paces of quick time and the interval between the cautionary and executive commands should be two paces.

The order, “As You Were”, should only be given when another word of command cannot be given to have a squad adopt a previous position or to cancel an incorrect order before it has been completed.

A-PD-201-000/PT-000 (p. 3-4)

Figure 1  Advance/Retire and Directing Flanks

The voice used to deliver commands has a strong effect on how others will respond. The following points should be considered:

Volume. The volume used to deliver a command is very important in drill. Often, commands must be presented to a group over a band or over other cadets giving commands to another group. The volume should be adjusted based on the number of individuals, the distance the command must carry and whether there is a band or not.

Projection. The projection of the voice is its ability to reach a desired distance. Erect posture, proper breathing, a relaxed throat and an open mouth will help a voice project.

Distinctness. How clearly and distinctly a command is pronounced will affect how others respond. If a command is not clear and distinct some cadets may not understand the command and perform the wrong movement. Clear enunciation and pronunciation of commands is key in distinctness.

Inflection. Inflection is the change in pitch of the voice. The cautionary command is usually started with a pitch near the level of the normal speaking voice and rising toward the end. The executive command should not have any change in inflection but should be delivered with a higher pitch than the cautionary command.

Snap. The snap of a command is the quality that demands an immediate response. It expresses the confidence and decisiveness of the commander.

Commands must be given with accuracy at all times. Proper use of cautionary commands will alert the cadets to what is coming. The executive command will signal the cadets that the movement is to be carried out. When delivering executive commands on the march, it is important that it be delivered on the correct foot.

All words of command must be given with confidence. This portrays that it is an order that must be promptly and smartly obeyed. A command delivered with confidence will help build a sense of security in the commander from the members of the squad.

Poor posture restricts the ability to breathe deeply as it restricts the movement of the diaphragm. Maintaining good posture will allow a cadet to breathe deeply allowing the command to come deep from the diaphragm instead of from the throat causing less strain on the throat and allowing the command to be given with more volume.

Breathe deeply and relax the muscles in the neck and vocal cords in order to give the voice more control and a higher volume. This will allow the voice to come from deep in the diaphragm instead of higher in the throat.