CHAPTER X. MAP READING AND SKETCHING....................... 309
Section 1. Military map reading.......................... 309
Section 2. Sketching..................................... 322
CHAPTER XI. MESSAGE BLANKS................................. 325
CHAPTER XII. SIGNALS AND CODES............................. 326
CHAPTER XIII. FIRST-AID RULES.............................. 338
CHAPTER XIV. LAWS AND REGULATIONS.......................... 350
Section 1. General provisions............................ 350
Section 2. The Army of the United States................. 351
Section 3. Rank and precedence of officers and
noncommissioned officers...................... 351
Section 4. Insignia of officers and noncommissioned
officers...................................... 353
Section 5. Extracts from the Articles of War............. 353
CHAPTER XV. ENGLISH-FRENCH VOCABULARY...................... 371
APPENDIX. FORM FOR LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT................. 389
MANUAL
FOR
NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICERS AND PRIVATES Of CAVALRY
OF THE
ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES.
CHAPTER I.
MILITARY DISCIPLINE AND COURTESY.
=Section 1. Oath of enlistment.=
Every soldier on enlisting in the Army takes upon himself the
following obligation:
"I, ----, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will bear true faith
and allegiance to the United States of America; that I will serve them
honestly and faithfully against all-their enemies whomsoever; and that
I will obey the orders of the President of the United States, and the
orders of the officers appointed over me according to the Rules and
Articles of War." (109th Article of War.)
=Section 2. Obedience.=
The very first paragraph in the Army Regulations reads:
"All persons in the military service are required to =obey strictly=
and to =execute promptly= the lawful orders of their superiors."
Obedience is the first and last duty of a soldier. It is the
foundation upon which all military efficiency is built. Without it an
army becomes a mob, while with it a mob ceases to be a mob and becomes
possessed of much of the power of an organized force. It is a quality
that is demanded of every person in the Army from the highest to the
lowest. Each enlisted man binds himself, by his enlistment oath, to
obedience. Each officer, in accepting his commission, must take upon
himself the same solemn obligation.
Obey strictly and execute promptly the lawful orders of your
superiors. It is enough to know that the person giving the order,
whether he be an officer, a noncommissioned officer, or a private
acting as such, is your lawful superior. You may not like him, you may
not respect him, but you must respect his position and authority, and
reflect honor and credit upon yourself and your profession by yielding
to all superiors that complete and unhesitating obedience which is the
pleasure as well as the duty of every true soldier.
Orders must be strictly carried out. It is not sufficient to comply
with only that part which suits you or which involves no work or
danger or hardship. Nor is it proper or permissible, when you are
ordered to do a thing in a certain way or to accomplish a work in a
definitely prescribed manner, for you to obtain the same results by
other methods.
Obedience must be =prompt and unquestioning=. When any soldier (and
this word includes officers as well as enlisted men) receives an
order, it is not for him to consider whether the order is a good one
or not, whether it would have been better had such an order never been
given, or whether the duty might be better performed by some one else,
or at some other time, or in some other manner. His duty is, first, to
understand just what the order requires, and, second, to proceed at
once to carry out the order to the best of his ability.
"Officers and men of all ranks and grades are given a certain
independence in the execution of the tasks to which they are assigned
and are expected to show initiative in meeting the different
situations as they arise. Every individual, from the highest commander
to the lowest private, must always remember that inaction and neglect
of opportunities will warrant more severe censure than an error in the
choice of the means." (_Preface, Field Service Regulations._).
=Section 3. Loyalty.=
But even with implicit obedience you may yet fail to measure up to
that high standard of duty which is at once the pride and glory of
every true soldier. Not until you carry out the desires and wishes of
your superiors in a hearty, willing, and cheerful manner are you
meeting all the requirements of your profession. For an order is but
the will of your superior, however it may be expressed. Loyalty means
that you are for your organization and its officers and
noncommissioned officers--not against them; that you always extend
your most earnest and hearty support to those in authority. No soldier
is a loyal soldier who is a knocker or a grumbler or a shirker. Just
one man of this class in a troop breeds discontent and dissatisfaction
among many others. You should, therefore, not only guard against doing
such things yourself but should discourage such actions among any of
your comrades.
=Section 4. Discipline.=
"1. All persons in the military service are required to obey strictly
and to execute promptly the lawful orders of their superiors.
"2. Military authority will be exercised with firmness, kindness, and
justice. Punishments must conform to law and follow offenses as
promptly as circumstances will permit.
"3. Superiors are forbidden to injure those under their authority by
tyrannical or capricious conduct or by abusive language. While
maintaining discipline and the thorough and prompt performance of
military duty, all officers, in dealing with enlisted men, will bear
in mind the absolute necessity of so treating them as to preserve
their self-respect. Officers will keep in as close touch as possible
with the men under their command and will strive to build up such
relations of confidence and sympathy as will insure the free approach
of their men to them for counsel and assistance. This relationship may
be gained and maintained without relaxation of the bonds of discipline
and with great benefit to the service as a whole.
"Courtesy among military men is indispensable to discipline; respect
to superiors will not be confined to obedience on duty, but will be
extended on all occasions.
"5. Deliberations or discussions among military men, conveying praise
or censure, or any mark of approbation, toward others in the military
service, and all publications relating to private or personal
transactions between officers are prohibited. Efforts to influence
legislation affecting the Army or to procure personal favor or
consideration should never be made except through regular military
channels; the adoption of any other method by any officer or enlisted
man will be noted in the military record of those concerned." (_Army
Regulations._)
"The discipline which makes the soldier of a free country reliable in
battle is not to be gained by harsh or tyrannical treatment. On the
contrary, such treatment is far more likely to destroy than to make an
army. It is possible to impart instruction and give commands in such
manner and in such tone of voice as to inspire in the soldier no
feeling but an intense desire to obey, while the opposite manner and
tone of voice can not fail to excite strong resentment and a desire to
disobey. The one mode or the other of dealing with subordinates
springs from a corresponding spirit in the breast of the commander. He
who feels the respect which is due to others can not fail to inspire
in them regard for himself, while he who feels, and hence manifests,
disrespect toward others, especially his inferiors, can not fail to
inspire hatred against himself." (_Address of Maj. Gen. John M.
Schofield to the United States Corps of Cadets, Aug. 11, 1879._)
When, by long-continued drill and subordination, you have learned your
duties, and obedience becomes second nature, you have acquired
discipline. It can not be acquired in a day nor a month. It is a
growth. It is the habit of obedience. To teach this habit of obedience
is the main object of the close-order drill, and, if good results are
to be expected, the greatest attention must be paid to even the
smallest details. The troop, platoon, or squad must be formed promptly
at the prescribed time--not a minute or even a second late. All must
wear the exact uniform prescribed and in the exact manner prescribed.
When at attention there must be no gazing about, no raising of hands,
no chewing or spitting in ranks. The manual of the rifle, the pistol,
the saber, and all movements must be executed absolutely as
prescribed. A drill of this kind teaches discipline. A careless,
sloppy drill breeds disobedience and insubordination. In other words,
discipline simply means efficiency.
=Section 5. Military courtesy.=
In all walks of life men who are gentlemanly and of good breeding are
always respectful and courteous to those about them. It helps to make
life move along more smoothly. In civil life this courtesy is shown by
the custom of tipping the hat to ladies, shaking hands with friends,
and greeting persons with a nod or a friendly "Good morning," etc.
In the Army courtesy is just as necessary, and for the same reasons.
It helps to keep the great machine moving without friction.
"Courtesy among military men is indispensable to discipline; respect
to superiors will not be confined to obedience on duty, but will be
extended on all occasions." (_Par. 4, Army Regulations, 1913._)
One method of extending this courtesy is by saluting. When in ranks
the question of what a private should do is simple--he obeys any
command that is given. It is when out of ranks that a private must
know how and when to salute.
=Section 6. Saluting.=
In the old days the free men of Europe were all allowed to carry
weapons, and when they met each would hold up his right hand to show
that he had no weapon in it and that they met as friends. Slaves or
serfs, however, were not allowed to carry weapons, and slunk past the
free men without making any sign. In this way the salute came to be
the symbol or sign by which soldiers (free men) might recognize each
other. The lower classes began to imitate the soldiers in this
respect, although in a clumsy, apologetic way, and thence crept into
civil life the custom of raising the hand or nodding as one passed an
acquaintance. The soldiers, however, kept their individual salute, and
purposely made it intricate and difficult to learn in order that it
could be acquired only by the constant training all real soldiers
received. To this day armies have preserved their salute, and when
correctly done it is at once recognized and never mistaken for that of
the civilian. All soldiers should be careful to execute the salute
exactly as prescribed. The civilian or the imitation soldier who tries
to imitate the military salute, invariably makes some mistake which
shows that he is not a real soldier; he gives it in an apologetic
manner, he fails to stand or march at attention, his coat is
unbuttoned or hat on awry, or he fails to look the person saluted in
the eye. There is a wide difference in the method of rendering and
meaning between the civilian salute as used by friends in passing, or
by servants to their employers, and the MILITARY SALUTE, the symbol
and sign of the military profession.
=To salute with the hand=, first assume the position of a soldier or
march at attention. Look the officer you are to salute straight in the
eye. Then, when the proper distance separates you, raise the right
hand smartly till the tip of the forefinger touches the lower part of
the headdress or forehead above the right eye, thumb and fingers
extended and joined, palm to the left, forearm inclined at about 45°,
hand and wrist straight. Continue to look the officer you are saluting
straight in the eye and keep your hand in the position of salute until
the officer acknowledges the salute or until he has passed. Then drop
the hand smartly to the side. The salute is given with the right hand
only.
=To salute with the rifle=, bring the rifle to right shoulder arms if
not already there. Carry the left hand smartly to the small of the
stock, forearm horizontal, palm of the hand down, thumb and fingers
extended and joined, forefinger touching the end of the cocking piece.
Look the officer saluted in the eye. When the officer has acknowledged
the salute or has passed, drop the left hand smartly to the side and
turn the head and eyes to the front. The rifle salute may also be
executed from the order or trail. See paragraph 94, Infantry Drill
Regulations, and paragraph 111, Cavalry Drill Regulations, 1916.
=To salute with the pistol when drawn=, assume the position of =Raise
Pistol=, muzzle up, the hand holding the stock with the thumb and last
three fingers, forefinger outside the guard, barrel to the rear and
inclined to the front at an angle of 30°, hand as high as the neck and
6 inches in front of the point of the right shoulder. The pistol is
carried in the holster, except when about to be used. It will not be
drawn for the purpose of saluting. When armed only with the pistol in
the holster, salute with the hand.
=To salute with the saber=, bring the saber to carry saber if not
already there, carry the saber to the front with arm half extended
until the thumb is about 6 inches in front of the chin, the blade
vertical, guard to the left, all four fingers grasping the grip, the
thumb extending along the back in the groove, the fingers pressing the
back of the grip against the heel of the hand. Look the officer
saluted in the eye. When the officer has acknowledged the salute or
has passed, bring the saber down with the blade against the hollow of
the right shoulder, guard to the front, right hand at the hip, the
third and fourth fingers on the back of the grip and the elbow back.
Always stand or march at attention before and during the salute. The
hat should be on straight, coat completely buttoned up, and hands out
of the pockets.
=Section 7. Rules governing saluting.=
=912.= (1) Salutes shall be exchanged between officers and enlisted
men not in a military formation, nor at drill, work, games, or mess,
on every occasion of their meeting, passing near or being addressed,
the officer junior in rank or the enlisted man saluting first.
(2) When an officer enters a room where there are several enlisted men
the word "attention" is given by some one who perceives him, when all
rise, uncover, and remain standing at attention until the officer
leaves the room or directs otherwise. Enlisted men at meals stop
eating and remain seated at attention.
(3) An enlisted man, if seated, rises on the approach of an officer,
faces toward him, stands at attention, and salutes. Standing, he faces
an officer for the same purpose. If the parties remain in the same
place or on the same ground, such compliments need not be repeated.
Soldiers actually at work do not cease work to salute an officer
unless addressed by him.
(4) Before addressing an officer an enlisted man makes the prescribed
salute with the weapon with which he is armed, or if unarmed, with the
right hand. He also makes the same salute after receiving a reply.
=913.= (1) In uniform, covered or uncovered, but not in formation,
officers and enlisted men, salute military persons as follows: With
arms in hand, the salute prescribed for that arm (sentinels on
interior guard duty excepted); without arms, the right-hand salute.
(2) In civilian dress, covered or uncovered, officers and enlisted men
salute military persons with the right-hand salute.
(3) Officers and enlisted men will, render the prescribed salutes in a
military manner, the officer junior in rank or the enlisted men
saluting first. When several officers in company are saluted all
entitled to the salute shall return it.
(4) Except in the field under campaign or simulated campaign
conditions, a mounted officer (or soldier) dismounts before addressing
a superior officer not mounted.
(5) A man in formation shall not salute when directly addressed, but
shall come to attention if at rest or at ease.
=914.= (1) Saluting distance is that within which recognition is easy.
In general, it does not exceed 30 paces.
(2) When an officer entitled to the salute passes in rear of a body of
troops, it is brought to attention while he is opposite the post of
the commander.
=915.= In public conveyances, such as railway trains and street cars,
and in public places, such as theaters, honors and personal salutes
may be omitted when palpably inappropriate or apt to disturb or annoy
civilians present.
=925.= Soldiers at all times and in all situations pay the same
compliments to officers of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and
Volunteers, and to officers of the National Guard as to officers of
their own regiment, corps, or arm of service.
=918.= Sentinels on post doing interior guard duty conform to the
foregoing principles, but salute by presenting arms when armed with
the rifle. They will not salute if it interferes with the proper
performance of their duties. Troops under arms will salute as
prescribed in drill regulations.
=919.= (1) Commanders of detachments or other commands will salute
officers of grades higher than the person commanding the unit by first
bringing the unit to attention and then saluting as required by
subparagraph (1), paragraph 913. If the person saluted is of a junior
or equal grade, the unit need not be at attention in the exchange of
salutes.
(2) If two detachments or other commands meet, their commanders will
exchange salutes, both commands being at attention.
=920.= Salutes and honors, as a rule, are not paid by troops actually
engaged in drill, on the march, or in the field under campaign or
simulated campaign conditions. Troops on the service of security pay
no compliments whatever.
=921.= If the command is in line at a halt (not in the field) and
armed with the rifle, or with sabers drawn, it shall be brought to
=present arms= or =present saber= before its commander salutes in the
following cases: When the National Anthem is played, or when =to the
color= or =to the standard= is sounded during ceremonies, or when a
person is saluted who is its immediate or higher commander or a
general officer, or when the national or regimental color is saluted.
=922.= At parades and other ceremonies, under arms, the command shall
render the prescribed salute and shall remain in the position of
salute while the National Anthem is being played; also at retreat and
during ceremonies when to the color is played, if no band is present.
If not under arms, the organizations shall be brought to attention at
the first note of the National Anthem, =to the color= or =to the
standard=, and the salute rendered by the officer or noncommissioned
officer in command as prescribed in regulations, as amended herein.
=910.= Whenever the National Anthem is played at any place when
persons belonging to the military service are present, all officers
and enlisted men not in formation shall stand at attention facing
toward the music (except at retreat, when they shall face toward the
flag). If in uniform, covered, they shall salute at the first note of
the anthem, retaining the position of salute until the last note of
the anthem. If not in uniform and covered, they shall uncover at the
first note of the anthem, holding the headdress opposite the left
shoulder and so remain until its close, except that in inclement
weather the headdress may be slightly raised.
The same rules apply when =to the color= or =to the standard= is
sounded as when the National Anthem is played.
When played by an Army band, the National Anthem shall be played
through without repetition of any part not required to be repeated to
make it complete.
The same marks of respect prescribed for observance during the playing
of the National Anthem of the United States shall be shown toward the
national anthem of any other country when played upon official
occasions.
=917.= Officers and enlisted men passing the uncased color will render
honors as follows: If in uniform, they will salute as required by
subparagraph (5), paragraph 759; if in civilian dress and covered,
they will uncover, holding the headdress opposite the left shoulder
with the right hand; if uncovered, they will salute with the
right-hand salute.
The national flag belonging to dismounted organizations is called a
color; to mounted organizations, a standard. An uncased color is one
that is not in its waterproof cover.
Privates do not salute noncommissioned officers. =Prisoners are not
permitted to salute;= they merely come to attention if not actually at
work. The playing of the National Anthem as a part of a medley is
prohibited in the military service.
=Section 8. Courtesies in conversation.=
In speaking to an officer, always stand at attention and use the word
"Sir." Examples:
"Sir, Private Brown, Company B, reports as orderly."
"Sir, the first sergeant directed me to report to the captain."
(Question by an officer:) "To what company do you belong?"
(Answer:) "Company H, sir."
(Question by an officer:) "Has first call for drill sounded?"
(Answer:) "No, sir;" or "Yes, sir; it sounded about five minutes ago."
(Question by an officer:) "Can you tell me, please, where Major
Smith's tent is?"
(Answer:) "Yes, sir; I'll take you to it."
Use the third person in speaking to an officer. Examples:
"Does the Lieutenant wish," etc.
"Did the Captain send for me?"
In delivering a message from one officer to another, always use the
form similar to the following: "Lieutenant A presents, his compliments
to Captain B and states," etc. This form is not used when the person
sending or receiving the message is an enlisted man.
In all official conversation refer to other soldiers by their titles,
thus: Sergeant B, Private C.
=909.= In rendering personal honors, when the command _present arms_,
officers and men in uniform who are not in formation and are in view
and within saluting distance shall salute and shall remain in the
position of salute until the end of the ruffles and flourishes, or, if
none, until _order arms_. (_Cavalry Drill Regulations, 1916._)
This extract covers the conduct of officers and soldiers who may be in
the vicinity of troops rendering honors to the President or other
persons entitled to personal salutes.
CHAPTER II.
ARMS, UNIFORMS, AND EQUIPMENT.
=Section 1. The rifle.=
The rifle now used by the Army of the United States is the United
States magazine rifle, model of 1903, caliber .30.
It is 43.212 inches long and weighs 8.69 pounds.
The bayonet weighs 1 pound and the blade is 16 inches long.
The rifle is sighted for ranges up to 2,850 yards.
The maximum range, when elevated at an angle of 45 degrees, is 4,891
yards (389 yards less than 3 miles).
The smooth bore of the rifle is 0.30 inch in diameter. It is then
rifled 0.004 inch deep, making the diameter from the bottom of one
groove to the bottom of the opposite groove 0.308 inch. The rifling
makes one complete turn in each 10 inches of the barrel.
The accompanying plate shows the names of the principal parts of the
rifle.
The only parts of a rifle that an enlisted man is permitted to take
apart are the bolt mechanism and the magazine mechanism. Learn how to
do this from your squad leader, for you must know how in order to keep
your rifle clean. Never remove the hand guard or the trigger guard,
nor take the sights apart unless you have special permission from a
commissioned officer.
The cartridge used for the rifle is called the .30-caliber model 1906
cartridge. There are four types of cartridges.
=The ball cartridge= consists of the brass case or shell, the primer,
the charge of smokeless powder, and the bullet. The bullet has a sharp
point, is composed of a lead core and a jacket of cupro nickel, and
weighs 150 grains. The bullet of this cartridge, when fired from the
rifle, starts with an initial velocity at the muzzle of 2,700 feet
per second.
=The blank cartridge= contains a paper cup instead of a bullet. It it
dangerous up to 100 feet. Firing blank cartridges at a represented
enemy at ranges less than 100 yards is prohibited.
=The guard cartridge= has a smaller charge of powder than the ball
cartridge, and five cannelures encircle the body of the shell at about
the middle to distinguish it from the ball cartridge. It is intended
for use on guard or in riot duty, and gives good results up to 200
yards. The range of 100 yards requires a sight elevation of 450 yards,
and the range of 200 yards requires an elevation of 650 yards.
=The dummy cartridge= is tin plated and the shell is provided with six
longitudinal corrugations and three circular holes. The primer
contains no percussion composition. It is intended for drill purposes
to accustom the soldier to the operation of loading the rifle.
All cartridges are secured five in a clip to enable five cartridges to
be inserted into the magazine at one motion. Sixty ball cartridges in
12 clips are packed in a cloth bandoleer to facilitate issue and
carrying. When full the bandoleer weighs about 3.88 pounds. Bandoleers
are packed 20 in a box, or 1,200 rounds in all. The full box weighs 99
pounds.
=Section 2. Care of the rifle.=
Every part of the rifle must be kept free from rust, dust, and dirt. A
dirty or rusty rifle is a sure sign that the soldier does not realize
the value of his weapon, and that his training is incomplete. The
rifle you are armed with is the most accurate in the world. If it gets
dirty or rusty it will deteriorate in its accuracy and working
efficiency, and no subsequent care will restore it to its original
condition. =The most important part of the rifle to keep clean is the
bore.= If, after firing, the bore is left dirty over night, it will be
badly rusted in the morning; therefore your rifle must be cleaned not
later than the evening of the day on which it was fired. The fouling
of the blank cartridge is as dangerous to the bore as the fouling of
the ball cartridge.
Never attempt to polish any part that is blued. If rust appears,
remove by rubbing with oil. Never use emery paper, pomade, or any
preparation that cuts or scratches, to clean any part of the rifle.
To beautify and preserve the stock rub with raw linseed, oil. The use
of any other preparation on the stock is strictly forbidden.
Always handle your rifle with care. Don't throw it around as though it
were a club. Don't stand it up against anything so that it rests
against the front sight. Don't leave a stopper or a rag in the bore;
it will cause rust to form at that point. It may also cause the gun
barrel to burst if a shot is fired before removing it.
Guard the sights and muzzle carefully from any blow that might injure
them. The front sight cover should always be on the rifle except when
rifle is being fired. This is especially necessary to protect the
front sight while rifle is being carried in scabbard by a mounted man.
In coming to the "order arms," lower the piece =gently= to the ground.
When there is a cartridge in the chamber the piece is always carried
locked. In this position the safety lock should be kept turned fully
to the right, since if it be turned to the left nearly to the "ready"
position and the trigger be pulled, the rifle will be discharged when
the safety lock is turned to the "ready" position at any time later
on.
Cartridges can not be loaded from the magazine unless the bolt is
drawn fully to the rear. When the bolt is closed, or only partly open,
the cut-off may be turned up or down as desired, but if the bolt is
drawn fully to the rear, the magazine can not be cut off unless the
top cartridge or the follower be pressed down slightly and the bolt
pushed forward so that the cut-off may be turned "off."
In the case of a misfire, don't open the bolt immediately, as it may
be a hangfire. Misfires are often due to the fact that the bolt handle
was not fully pressed down. Sometimes in pulling the trigger the
soldier raises the bolt handle without knowing it.
Unless otherwise ordered, arms will be unloaded before being taken to
quarters or tents, or as soon as the men using them are relieved from
duty.
=Keep the working parts oiled.=
In every troop there should be at least one copy of the Manual of the
Ordnance Department entitled "Description and Rules for the Management
of the U. S. Magazine Rifle." This manual gives the name and a cut of
every part of the rifle, explains its use, shows how to take the rifle
apart and care for the same, and also gives much other valuable and
interesting information.
=Section 3. Cleaning the rifle.=
"=Cleaning the rifle.=--(_a_) The proper care of the bore requires
conscientious, careful work, but it pays well in the attainment of
reduced labor of cleaning, prolonged accuracy life of the barrel, and
better results in target practice. Briefly stated, the care of the
bore consists in removing the fouling, resulting from firing, to
obtain a chemically clean surface, and in coating this surface with a
film of oil to prevent rusting. The fouling which results from firing
is of two kinds--one, the products of combustion of the powder; the
other, cupro-nickel scraped off (under the abrading action of
irregularities or grit in the bore). Powder fouling, because of its
acid reaction, is highly corrosive; that is, it will induce rust and
must be removed. Metal fouling of itself is inactive, but may cover
powder fouling and prevent the action of cleaning agents until
removed, and when accumulated in noticeable quantities it reduces the
accuracy of the rifle.
(_b_) Powder fouling may be readily removed by scrubbing with hot soda
solution, but this solution has no effect on the metal fouling of
cupro-nickel. It is necessary, therefore, to remove all metal fouling
before assurance can be had that all powder fouling has been removed
and that the bore may be safely oiled. Normally, after firing a barrel
in good condition the metal fouling is so slight as to be hardly
perceptible. It is merely a smear of infinitesimal thickness, easily
removed by solvents of cupro-nickel. However, due to pitting, the
presence of dust, other abrasives, or to accumulation, metal fouling
may occur in clearly visible flakes or patches of much greater
thickness, much more difficult to remove.
(_c_) In cleaning the bore after firing it is well to proceed as
follows: Swab out the bore with soda solution (subparagraph _j_) to
remove powder fouling. A convenient method is to insert the muzzle of
the rifle into the can containing the soda solution and, with the
cleaning rod inserted from the breech, pump the barrel full a few
times. Remove and dry with a couple of patches. Examine the bore to
see that there are in evidence no patches of metal fouling which, if
present, can be readily detected by the naked eye, then swab out with
the swabbing solution--a dilute metal-fouling solution (subparagraph
_j_). The amount of swabbing required with the swabbing solution can
be determined only by experience, assisted by the color of the
patches. Swabbing should be continued, however, as long as the wiping
patch is discolored by a bluish-green stain. Normally a couple of
minutes' work is sufficient. Dry thoroughly and oil.
(_d_) The proper method of oiling a barrel is as follows; Wipe the
cleaning rod dry; select a clean patch and thoroughly saturate it with
sperm oil or warmed cosmic, being sure that the cosmic has penetrated
the patch; scrub the bore with the patch, finally drawing the patch
smoothly from the muzzle to the breech, allowing the cleaning rod to
turn with the rifling. The bore will be found now to be smooth and
bright so that any subsequent rust and sweating can be easily detected
by inspection.
(_e_) If patches of metal fouling are seen upon visual inspection of
the bore the standard metal fouling solution prepared as hereinafter
prescribed must be used. After scrubbing out with the soda solution,
plug the bore from the breech with a cork at the front end of the
chamber or where the rifling begins. Slip a 2-inch section of rubber
hose over the muzzle down to the sight and fill with the standard
solution to at least one-half inch above the muzzle of the barrel. Let
it stand for 30 minutes, pour out the standard solution, remove hose
and breech plug, and swab out thoroughly with soda solution to
neutralize and remove all trace of ammonia and powder fouling. Wipe
the barrel clean, dry, and oil. With few exceptions, one application
is sufficient, but if all fouling is not removed, as determined by
careful visual inspection of the bore and of the wiping patches,
repeat as described above.
(_f_) After properly cleaning with either the swabbing solution or the
standard solution, as has just been described, the bore should be
clean and safe to oil and put away, but as a measure of safety a patch
should always be run through the bore on the next day and the bore
and wiping patch examined to insure that cleaning has been properly
accomplished. The bore should then be oiled, as described above.
(_g_) If the swabbing solution or the standard metal-fouling solution
is not available, the barrel should be scrubbed, as already described,
with the soda solution, dried, and oiled with a light oil. At the end
of 24 hours it should again be cleaned, when it will usually be found
to have "sweated"; that is, rust having formed under the smear of
metal fouling where powder fouling was present, the surface is puffed
up. Usually a second cleaning is sufficient, but to insure safety it
should be again examined at the end of a few days, before final
oiling. The swabbing solution should always be used, if available, for
it must be remembered that each puff when the bore "sweats" is an
incipient rust pit.
(_h_) A. clean dry surface having been obtained, to prevent rust it is
necessary to coat every portion of this surface with a film of neutral
oil. If the protection required is but temporary and the arm is to be
cleaned or fired in a few days, sperm oil may be used. This is easily
applied and easily removed, but has not sufficient body to hold its
surface for more than a few days. If rifles are to be prepared for
storage or shipment, a heavier oil, such as cosmic, must be used.
(_i_) In preparing arms for storage or shipment they should be cleaned
with particular care, using the metal-fouling solution as described
above. Care should be taken, insured by careful inspection on
succeeding day or days, that the cleaning is properly done and all
traces of ammonia solution removed. The bore is then ready to be
coated with cosmic. At ordinary temperatures cosmic is not fluid. In
order, therefore, to insure that every part of the surface is coated
with a film of oil the cosmic should be warmed. Apply the cosmic first
with a brush; then, with the breech plugged, fill the barrel to the
muzzle, pour out the surplus, remove the breechblock, and allow to
drain. It is believed that more rifles are ruined by improper
preparation for storage than from any other cause. If, the bore is not
clean when oiled--that is, if powder fouling is present or rust has
started--a half inch of cosmic on the outside will not stop its
action, and the barrel will be ruined. Remember that the surface must
be perfectly cleaned before the heavy oil is applied. If the
instructions as given above are carefully followed, arms may be stored
for years without harm.
(_j_) Preparation of solutions:
_Soda solution._--This should be a saturated solution of sal soda
(bicarbonate of soda). A strength of at least 20 per cent is
necessary. The spoon referred to in the following directions is the
model 1910 spoon issued in the mess outfit.
Sal soda, one-fourth pound, or four (4) heaping spoonfuls.
Water, 1 pint or cup, model of 1910, to upper rivets.
The sal soda will dissolve more readily in hot water.
_Swabbing solution._--Ammonium persulphate, 60 grains, one-half
spoonful smoothed off.
Ammonia, 28 per cent, 6 ounces, or three-eighths of a pint, or 12
spoonfuls.
Water, 4 ounces, or one-fourth pint, or 8 spoonfuls.
Dissolve the ammonium persulphate in the water and add the ammonia.
Keep in tightly corked bottle; pour out only what is necessary at the
time, and keep the bottle corked.
_Standard metal fouling solution._--Ammonium persulphate, 1 ounce, or
2 medium heaping spoonfuls.
Ammonium carbonate, 200 grains, or 1 heaping spoonful.
Ammonia, 28 per cent, 6 ounces, or three-eighths pint, or 12
spoonfuls.
Water, 4 ounces, or one-fourth pint, or 8 spoonfuls.
Powder the persulphate and carbonate together, dissolve in the water
and add the ammonia; mix thoroughly and allow to stand for one hour
before using. It should be kept in a strong bottle, tightly corked.
The solution should not be used more than twice, and used solution
should not be mixed with unused solution, but should be bottled
separately. The solution, when mixed, should be used within 30 days.
Care should be exercised in mixing and using this solution to prevent
injury to the rifle. An experienced noncommissioned officer should mix
the solution and superintend its use.
Neither of these ammonia solutions have any appreciable action on
steel when not exposed to the air, but If allowed to evaporate on
steel they attack it rapidly. Care should, therefore, be taken that
none spills on the mechanism and that the barrel is washed out
promptly with soda solution. The first application of soda solution
removes the greater portion of the powder fouling and permits a more
effective and economical use of the ammonia solution. These ammonia
solutions are expensive and should be used economically.
(_k_) It is a fact recognized by all that a highly polished steel
surface-rusts, much less easily than one which is roughened; also that
a barrel which is pitted fouls much more rapidly than one which is
smooth. Every effort, therefore, should be made to prevent the
formation of pits, which are merely enlarged rust spots, and which not
only affect the accuracy of the arm but increase the labor of
cleaning.
(_l_) The chambers of rifles are frequently neglected because they are
not readily inspected. Care should be taken to see that they are
cleaned as thoroughly as the bore. A roughened chamber delays greatly
the rapidity of fire, and not infrequently causes shells to stick.
(_m_) A cleaning rack should be provided for every barrack. Rifles
should always be cleaned from the breach, thus avoiding possible
injury to the rifling at the muzzle, which would affect the shotting
adversely. If the bore for a length of 6 inches at the muzzle is
perfect, a minor injury near the chamber will have little effect on
the accuracy of the rifle. The rifle should be cleaned as soon as the
firing for the day is completed. The fouling is easier to remove then,
and if left longer it will corrode the barrel.
(_n_) The principles as outlined above apply equally well for the care
of the barrel of the automatic pistol. Special attention should be
paid to cleaning the chamber of the pistol, using the soda solution.
It has been found that the chamber pits readily if it is not carefully
cleaned, with the result that the operation of the pistol is made less
certain." (_Par, 134, Small Arms Firing Manual, 1913._)
=Section 4. Uniforms.=
Uniforms and clothing issued to enlisted men must not be sold, pawned,
loaned, given away, lost, or damaged through neglect or carelessness.
Any soldier who violates this rule may be tried by a military court
and punished.
All uniforms and articles of clothing issued to enlisted men, whether
or not charged on their clothing allowance, remain the property of
the United States and do not become the property of the soldier either
before or after discharge from the service. Under the law a soldier
honorably discharged from the Army of the United States is authorized
to wear his uniform from the place of his discharge to his home within
three months after the date of such discharge. To wear the uniform
after three months from the date of such discharge renders such person
liable to fine or imprisonment, or both.
The =dress uniform= dismounted (the blue uniform) consists of the
dress cap, dress coat, dress trousers, and russet-leather shoes. The
straight, standing, military, white linen collar, showing no opening
in front, is always worn with this uniform, with not to exceed
one-half inch showing above the collar of the coat. Turndown,
piccadilly, or roll collars are not authorized.
When under arms, white gloves and the garrison belt are worn. The
dress uniform mounted is the same as dismounted, except that riding
gloves, leggings, and spurs are worn, and the saddle cloth, showing
regimental number and troop letter, is placed over the saddle blanket.
The =full-dress uniform= is the same as the dress uniform, with the
breast cord added.
The =service uniform= is either cotton (summer) or woolen (winter)
olive drab.
For duty in the field it consists of the service hat, with cord sewed
on, service coat or sweater, service breeches, olive-drab flannel
shirt, leggings, russet-leather shoes, spurs, riding gloves, and
identification tag. In cold weather olive-drab woolen gloves may be
prescribed.
In warm weather the coat, sweater, and riding gloves may be omitted
when authorized by the commanding officer.
When not in the field, the service cap is worn instead of the campaign
hat. Under arms, dismounted, white gloves and the garrison belt (or
russet-leather belt and cartridge box) are worn.
Spurs and riding gloves are worn on all mounted duty or when on
mounted pass.
Wear the exact uniform prescribed by your commanding officer, whether
you are on duty or off duty.
Never wear a mixed uniform as, for instance, a part of the service
uniform with the blue uniform.
Never wear any part of the uniform with civilian clothes. It is very
unsoldierly, for example, to wear a civilian overcoat over the uniform
or to wear the uniform overcoat over a civilian suit.
Keep the uniform clean and neat and in good repair.
Grease spots and dust and dirt should be removed as soon as possible.
Rips and tears should be promptly mended. In taking the field always
wear new clothing as it may be some time before you are again
supplied, and old clothing on field service goes to pieces rapidly.
Missing buttons and cap and collar ornaments should be promptly
replaced.
There is but one correct and soldierly way to wear the cap. Never wear
it on the back or side of the head.
The service hat should be worn in the regulation shape, peaked, with
four indentations, and with hat cord sewed on. Do not cover it with
pen or pencil marks. The chin cord should always be in order and fit
for long field service.
Never appear outside your room or tent with your coat or olive-drab
shirt unbuttoned or collar of coat unhooked. Chevrons, service
stripes, and campaign medals and badges are a part of the uniform and
must be worn as prescribed.
When coats are not worn with the service uniform olive-drab shirts are
prescribed.
Suspenders must never be worn exposed to view.
Never appear in breeches without leggings.
Leather leggings should be kept clean. Saddle soap should be used to
clean _all leather_. Should the shoes, leggings, or leather equipment
be soaked by rain or swimming they will not become hard if covered
with a light coat of neat's-foot oil applied just before they dry out.
All new leather should be oiled before being placed in service.
Leather can be preserved for years by the use of saddle soap and
neat's-foot oil, but once it becomes hard and cracked nothing will
make it serviceable. Canvas leggings should be scrubbed when dirty.
Russet-leather (tan) shoes should be kept clean. Leather cleaned with
saddle soap can be polished by rubbing with a flannel cloth.
The overcoat when worn must be buttoned throughout and the collar
hooked. When the belt is worn it will be worn outside the overcoat.
=Section 5. The service kit.=
The service kit is composed of two parts--(_a_) the field kit, which
includes everything the soldier wears or carries with him in the
field, and (_b_) the surplus kit.
The field kit consists of--
(1) The clothing worn on the person.
(2) Arms and equipment, consisting of--
(_a_) Arms and equipments of all enlisted men (except buglers
and members of bands and machine-gun troops):
1 brush and thong.[1]
1 canteen, cavalry.[2]
1 canteen strap, cavalry.[2]
90 cartridges, ball, caliber .30
21 cartridges, ball, pistol, caliber .45.
1 cartridge belt, caliber .30, cavalry.
1 cartridge-belt suspenders, pair.
1 cup
1 fork.
1 front-sight cover
1 gun sling.
1 knife.
2 magazines, pistol, extra.
1 magazine pocket web, double
1 meat can
1 oiler and thong case.[1].
1 pistol
1 pistol holster.
1 pouch for first-aid packet.
1 rifle scabbard.
1 rifle, United States, caliber .30.
1 saber and scabbard, cavalry.
1 saber knot.
1 saber straps, pair.
1 spoon.
1 spurs, pair.
1 spur straps, set.
(_b_) Members of bands and buglers:
1 canteen, cavalry.[2]
1 canteen strap, cavalry.[2]
21 cartridges, ball, pistol, caliber .45.
1 cup.
1 fork.
1 knife.
2 magazines, pistol, extra.
1 meat can.
1 pistol belt without saber ring.
1 pistol.
1 pistol holster.
1 pouch for first-aid packet.
1 spoon.
1 spurs, pair.
1 spur straps, set.
(_c_) In addition to (_b_) first sergeant of headquarters troop (drum
major) will have:
1 saber and scabbard, cavalry, 2 saber straps.
1 saber knot.
(_d_) For members of machine-gun troops, except that buglers attached
to machine-gun troops (only) will have 1 pistol belt without saber
ring in lieu of 1 cartridge belt, 1 cartridge-belt suspenders, pair,
and 1 magazine pocket, web, double:
1 bolo.
1 bolo scabbard.
1 canteen, cavalry.[4]
1 canteen strap, cavalry.[4]
21 cartridges, ball, pistol, caliber .45.
1 cartridge belt, caliber .30, cavalry.
1 cartridge-belt suspenders, pair.
1 cup.
1 fork.
1 knife.
2 magazines, pistol, extra.
1 magazine pocket, web, doubles.
1 meat can.
1 pistol.
1 pistol holster.
1 pouch for first-aid packet.
1 spoon.
1 spurs, pair.
1 spur straps, set.
(_e_) Horse equipments for each enlisted man individually mounted on a
horse:
1 bridle, cavalry, model of 1909
or 1912, or curb bridle, model
of 1902.
1 bridle, watering, if curb bridle
model of 1902 is issued.
1 currycomb.
1 halter headstall.
1 halter tie rope.
1 horse brush.
1 lariat.
1 lariat strap.
1 link
1 nose bag, or feed bag (with
grain bag).
1 picket pin.
1 saddle, cavalry, complete.[3]
1 saddlebags, pair.
1 saddle blanket.
1 surcingle.
[Footnote 1: To be omitted if rifle is provided with
spare-part container.]
[Footnote 2: In lieu of these the canteen, model of 1910,
with canteen cover, dismounted, may be issued.]
[Footnote 3: One saddle for each troop and the saddles for
the 2 color sergeants are to be provided with a guidon
stirrup.]
[Footnote 4: In lieu of these the canteen, model of 1910,
with canteen cover, dismounted, may be issued.]
=Care of saddlery.
(Cav. Drill Reg. 1916.)=
=975.= The saddlery and equipment must always be cleaned after use.
This duty, like the care of the horse, is to be regarded as part of
the mounted duty itself; thus a drill is not over until horse,
saddlery, arms, and equipments have been put again in condition.
According to need, the leather is simply wiped off with a damp sponge
or fully taken apart and well soaped and cleaned. In no case must it
be soaked in water.
If the soap used does not contain a sufficient amount of free oil the
leather must be oiled to keep it pliable. A mixture of one-half
neat's-foot oil and one-half mutton tallow, well rubbed in, keeps
leather in good condition. Special care is taken to keep the underside
of the skirts of the saddle and the parts which do not come in contact
with the clothing well oiled. The seat and outside of the skirts will
rarely require oil.
Metal parts are kept clean and free from rust; they may require oiling
if not regularly used.
The saddle blanket must be kept clean and soft and free from wrinkles.
After use it must be dried and then well shaken (unfolded). It must
never be folded wet and left thus with the saddle. Provision will be
made in the saddle room or stables for hanging it up to dry.
When necessary the blanket should be thoroughly cleansed by repeated
immersions in tepid soapsuds and hung over a pole or line to dry
without wringing or pressing it.
=Section 6. The surplus kit.=
The surplus kit for each man consists of--
1 breeches, pair.
1 drawers, pair.
1 shirt, olive drab.
1 shoes, russet-leather, pair.
2 stockings, pair.
1 undershirt.
1 shoe laces, extra, pair.
Each surplus kit bag contains 1 jointed cleaning rod and case.
Squad leaders are responsible that surplus kit bags are kept in order
and fully packed in the field.[5] Men are allowed access to them for
the purpose of making substitutions.
The surplus kits are packed in surplus kit bags, one for each squad,
one for sergeants, and one for cooks and buglers.
The kit of each man will be packed as follows:
Stockings to be rolled tightly, one pair in the toe of each shoe;
shoes placed together, heels at opposite ends, soles outward, wrapped
tightly in underwear, and bundle securely tied around the middle by
the extra pair of the shoe laces, each bundle to be tagged with the
company number of the owner. These individual kits will be packed in
the surplus kit bag in two layers of four kits each, the breeches and
olive drab shirts to be neatly folded and packed on the top and sides
of the layers, the jointed cleaning rod and case, provided for each
squad, being attached by the thongs on the inside of the bag.
When overcoats or sweaters are not prescribed to be worn on the person
they will be collected into bundles of convenient size and secured by
burlap or other suitable material, or will be boxed. They will be
marked ready for shipment to be forwarded when required.[5]
[Footnote 5: In campaign or simulated campaign, when an
organization is restricted to its prescribed field-train
transportation, surplus kits, overcoats, and sweaters are
stored on the line of communications or other designated
place with the permanent camp equipment of the organization.]
=Section 7. Assembling equipment.=
TO MAKE THE BLANKET ROLL.
Spread the shelter half, triangular part to the right, buttons
underneath. Fold triangular part across shelter half, making a
rectangle.
Fold blanket through center, parallel to stripes; fold again through
center perpendicular to stripes. Lay folded blanket on shelter half,
longer side of blanket parallel to and 1 inch from edge of shelter
half opposite straps and equidistant from sides. Place tent,
pole, folded, close to and parallel to near edge of blanket, end of
pole flush with left side of blanket; pins and tent rope to be
similarly placed at right side of blanket, occupying about the same
space as pole. Arrange the clothing and toilet articles on right and
left sides of blanket, leaving center space clear.
Fold the free portions of the right and left sides of shelter half
over the blanket. Fold the far edge of the shelter half 6 inches
toward the blanket, making a pocket.
With hands and knees roll the blanket and shelter half toward and into
the pocket. Buckle straps around roll, strap buckles on line with
shelter half buttons.
ROLL THE OVERCOAT AND SLICKER.
Turn the garment inside out, collar extended, and fold once the long
way. Roll tightly from the front edge, making roll the full length of
garment.
TO PACK THE McCLELLAN SADDLE.
Put saddle pockets on saddle; fasten straps to cincha rings. Place
articles pertaining to the man in near pocket, those pertaining to the
horse in off pocket.
The overcoat, slicker, or both, to be strapped on pommel, collar to
left.
Blanket roll to be strapped on cantle. Feed bag, if empty, neatly
folded on top of roll, "U. S." up. If grain is carried, the grain bag
is tied inside the feed bag, which is strapped on top of the pommel
roll, above the overcoat or slicker.
Lariat, in uniform coils of about 10-inch diameter, fastened to near
cantle ring by lariat strap fastened to one ring and passing through
the other; coil secured by two outside straps of saddle pocket flap.
To prevent flapping and injuring adjacent troopers and horses the
picket pin may be inserted through the saddlebag strap ring, point
downward, or it may be placed horizontally under the flap straps of
the near saddlebag, point to the rear.
Canteen snapped into off cantle ring, canteen strap passing through
handle of cup, except the cup model 1910, which is fitted over the
bottom of the canteen, model 1910, inside the cover.
Rifle on near side; saber on off side, attached to pommel ring.
The surcingle is buckled over the saddle. The two extra fitted
horseshoes, one front and one hind, may be wired, one on bottom of
each stirrup, or they may be fastened together with a nail and carried
in off saddle pocket. To prevent rust the horseshoe nails should
always be well oiled and wrapped in canvas or leather. They are
carried in the off saddle pocket.
The two reserve rations, extra ammunition, and other extra articles
should be so distributed between the two pockets as to balance the
weight on the horse.
[Illustration: McCLELLAN SADDLE.
Full pack, near side.]
[Illustration: McCLELLAN SADDLE.
Full pack, off side.]
[Illustration: EQUIPMENT ARRANGED FOR INSPECTION.
The arrangement should be uniform in each regiment.]
[Illustration: SHELTER TENT AND EQUIPMENT ARRANGED FOR INSPECTION.
The arrangement should be uniform in each regiment.]
[Illustration: PLATE A.]
[Illustration: PLATE B.]
CHAPTER III.
RATIONS AND FORAGE.
=Section 1. The ration.=
A ration is the allowance of food for one man for one day.
In the field there are three kinds of rations issued, as follows:
The _garrison ration_ is intended to be issued in kind whenever
possible. The approximate net weight of this ration is 4.5 pounds.
The _reserve ration_ is the simplest efficient ration, and constitutes
the reserve carried for field service. It consists of--
Ounces.
Bacon 12
Hard bread 16
Coffee, roasted and ground 1.12
Sugar 2.4
Salt .16
------
Approximate net weight pounds 2
The _field ration_ is the ration prescribed in orders by the commander
of the field forces. It consists of the reserve ration, in whole or in
part, supplemented by articles requisitioned or purchased locally or
shipped from the rear.
In campaign a command carries as a part of its normal equipment the
following rations:
(_a_) On each man: At least two days' reserve rations.
(_b_) In the ration section of the field train, for each man:
Two days' field and one day's reserve, and for each
animal two days' grain rations.
(_c_) In the supply train:
Of an infantry division, two days' field and grain
rations.
Of a cavalry division, one day's field and grain
rations.
In addition to the foregoing, commanders will require each man on the
march to carry the unconsumed portion of the day's ration issued the
night before for the noonday meal. In the same manner, cavalry and
field artillery carry on their horses a portion of their grain ration
issued the night before for a noonday feed. Reserve rations are
consumed only in case of extreme necessity, when other supplies are
not available. They are not to be consumed or renewed without an
express order from the officer in command of the troops who is
responsible for the provision of supplies, namely, the division
commander or other independent-detachment commander. Every officer
within the limits of his command is held responsible for the
enforcement of this regulation. Reserve rations consumed must be
replaced at the first opportunity.
=Section 2. Individual cooking.=
Sometimes rations for several days are issued to the soldier at one
time, and in such cases you should be very careful to so use the
rations that they will last you the entire period. If you stuff
yourself one day, or waste your rations, you will have to starve later
on.
Generally the cooking for the troop will be done by the troop cook,
but sometimes every soldier will have to prepare his own meals, using
only his field mess kit for the purpose.
The best fire for individual cooking is a small, clear one, or, better
yet, a few brisk coals. To make such a fire, first gather a number of
sticks about 1 inch in diameter. These should be dry. Dead limbs
adhering to a tree are dryer than those picked up from the ground.
Split some of these and shave them up into kindling. Dig a trench in
the ground, laid with the wind, about a foot long, 4 inches wide, and
6 inches deep. Start the fire in this trench gradually, piling on the
heavier wood as the fire grows. When the trench is full of burning
wood, allow it a few minutes to burn down to coals and stop blazing
high. Then rest the meat can and cup over the trench and start
cooking. Either may be supported, if necessary, with green sticks. If
you can not scrape a trench in the soil, build one up out of rocks or
with two parallel logs.
The following recipes have been furnished from the office of the
Quartermaster General, United States Army:
_Coffee._--Fill the cup two-thirds full of water and bring to a boil.
Add one heaping spoonful of coffee and stir well, adding one spoonful
of sugar if desired. Boil five minutes and then set it to the side of
the fire to simmer for about 10 minutes. Then, to clear the coffee,
throw in a spoonful or two of cold water. This coffee is of medium
strength and is within the limit of the ration if made but twice a
day.
_Cocoa._--Take two-thirds of a cupful of water, bring to a boil, add
one heaping spoonful of cocoa, and stir until dissolved. Add one
spoonful of sugar, if desired, and boil for five minutes.
_Chocolate._--Take two-thirds of a cupful of water, bring to a boil,
add a piece of chocolate about the size of a hickory nut, breaking or
cutting it into small pieces and stirring until dissolved. Add one
spoonful of sugar, if desired, and boil for five minutes.
_Tea._--Take two-thirds of a cupful of water, bring to a boil, add
one-half of a level spoonful of tea, and then let it stand or "draw"
for three minutes. If allowed to stand longer the tea will get bitter,
unless separated from the tea leaves.
MEATS.
_Bacon._--Cut slices about five to the inch, three of which should
generally be sufficient for one man for one meal. Place in a meat can
with about one-half inch of cold water. Let come to a boil and then
pour the water off. Fry over a brisk fire, turning the bacon once and
quickly browning it. Remove the bacon to lid of meat can, leaving the
grease for frying potatoes, onions, rice, flapjacks; etc., according
to recipe.
_Fresh meat_ (to fry).--To fry, a small amount of grease (one to two
spoonfuls) Is Necessary. Put grease in the meat can and let come to a
smoking temperature, then drop in the steak and, if about one-half
inch thick, let fry for about one minute before turning, depending
upon whether it is desired it shall be rare, medium, or well done.
Then turn and fry briskly as before. Salt and pepper to taste.
Applies to beef, veal, pork, mutton, venison, etc.
_Fresh meat_ (to broil).--Cut in slices about one inch thick, from
half as large as the hand to four times that size. Sharpen a stick or
branch of convenient length--say, from two to four feet long--and
weave the point of the stick through the steak several times, so that
it may be readily turned over a few brisk coals or on the windward
side of a small fire. Allow to brown nicely, turning frequently. Salt
and pepper to taste. Meat with considerable fat is preferred, though
any meat may be broiled in this manner.
_Fresh meat_ (to stew).--Cut into chunks from one-half inch to one
inch cubes. Fill cup about one-third full of meat and cover with about
one inch of water. Let boil or simmer about one hour, or until tender.
Add such fibrous vegetables as carrots turnips, or cabbage, cut into
small chunks, soon after the meat is put on to boil, and potatoes,
onions, or other tender vegetables when the meat is about half done.
Amount of vegetables to be added, about the same as meat, depending
upon supply and taste. Salt and pepper to taste. Applies to all fresh
meat and fowls. The proportion of meat and vegetables used varies with
their abundance, and fixed quantities can not be adhered to. Fresh
fish can be handled as above, except that it is cooked much quicker,
and potatoes and onions and canned corn are the only vegetables
generally used with it, thus making a chowder. A slice of bacon would
greatly improve the flavor. May be conveniently cooked in meat can or
cup.
VEGETABLES.
_Potatoes_ (fried).--Take two medium-sized potatoes or one large one
(about one-half pound), peel and cut into slices about one-fourth inch
thick and scatter well in the meat can in which the grease remains
after frying the bacon. Add sufficient water to half cover the
potatoes, cover with the lid to keep the moisture in, and let come to
a boil for about 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the cover and dry as
desired. Salt and pepper to taste. During the cooking the bacon
already prepared may be kept on the cover, which is most conveniently
placed bottom side up over the cooking vegetables.
_Onions_ (fried).--Same as potatoes.
_Potatoes_ (boiled).--Peel two medium-sized potatoes (about one-half
pound) or one large one, and cut in coarse chunks of about the same
size--say, 1-1/2-inch cubes. Place in meat can and three-fourths fill
with water. Cover with lid and let boil or simmer for 15 or 20
minutes. They are done when easily penetrated with a sharp stick. Pour
off the water and let dry out for one or two minutes over hot ashes or
light coals.
_Potatoes_ (baked).--Take two medium-sized potatoes (about one-half
pound) or one large one cut in half. Lay in a bed of light coals and
cover with same and smother with ashes. Do not disturb for 30 or 40
minutes, when they should be done.
_Canned tomatoes._--One 2-pound can is generally sufficient for five
men.
_Stew._--Pour into the meat can one man's allowance of tomatoes and
add about two large hardtacks broken into small pieces and let come to
a boil. Add salt and pepper to taste, or add a pinch of salt and
one-fourth spoonful of sugar.
_Or_, having fried the bacon, pour the tomatoes into the meat can, the
grease remaining, and add, if desired, two broken hardtacks. Set over
a brisk fire and let come to a boil.
_Or_, heat the tomatoes just as they come from the can, adding two
pinches of salt and one-half spoonful of sugar, if desired.
_Or_, especially in hot weather, eaten cold with hard bread, they are
very palatable.
_Rice._--Take about two-thirds of a cupful of water, bring to a boil,
add 4 heaping spoonfuls of rice, and boil until the grains are soft
enough to be easily mashed between the fingers (about 20 minutes). Add
two pinches of salt and, after stirring, pour off the water and empty
rice out on meat can. Bacon grease or sugar may be added.
_Corn meal, fine hominy, oatmeal._--Take about one-third of a cupful
of water, bring to a boil, add 4 heaping spoonfuls of the meal or
hominy, and boil about 20 minutes. Then add about two pinches of salt
and stir well.
_Dried beans and peas._--Put 4 heaping spoonfuls in about two-thirds
of a cupful of water and boil until soft. This generally takes from
three to four hours. Add one pinch of salt. About half an hour before
the beans are done add one slice of bacon.
HOT BREADS.
_Flapjacks._--Take 6 spoonfuls of flour and one-third spoonful of
baking powder and mix thoroughly (or dry mix in a large pan before
issue, at the rate of 25 pounds of flour and 3 half cans of baking
powder for 100 men). Add sufficient cold water to make a batter that
will drip freely from the spoon, adding a pinch of salt. Pour into the
meat can, which should contain the grease from fried bacon or a
spoonful of butter or fat, and place over medium hot coals sufficient
to bake, so that in from 5 to 7 minutes the flapjack may be turned by
a quick toss of the pan. Fry from 5 to 7 minutes longer, or until by
examination it is found to be done.
_Hoecake._--Hoecake is made exactly the same as flapjacks by
substituting _corn meal_ for _flour_.
_Emergency rations._--Detailed instructions as to the manner of
preparing the emergency ration are found on the label of each can.
Remember that even a very limited amount of bacon or hard bread, or
both, consumed with the emergency ration makes it far more palatable,
and generally extends the period during which it can be consumed with
relish. For this reason it would be better to husband the supply of
hard bread and bacon for use with the emergency ration when it becomes
evident that the latter must be consumed rather than to retain the
emergency ration to the last extremity and force its exclusive use for
a longer period than two or three days.
=Section 3. The forage ration.=
"_1077, Army Regulations._--The forage ration for a horse is 14 pounds
of hay and 12 pounds of oats, corn, or barley, and 3-1/3 pounds of
straw (or hay) for bedding; for a Field Artillery horse of the
heavy-draft type, weighing 1,300 pounds or over, 17 pounds of hay and
14 pounds of oats, corn, or barley, and 3-1/3 pounds of straw (or hay)
for bedding; for a mule, 14 pounds of hay and 9 pounds of oats, corn,
or barley, and 3-1/3 pounds of straw (or hay) for bedding. To each
animal 3 pounds of bran may be issued in lieu of that quantity of
grain.
"The commanding officer may, in his discretion, vary the proportions
of the components of the ration (1 pound of grain, 1-1/2 pounds of
hay, and 2 pounds of straw being taken as equivalents), and in the
field may substitute other recognized articles of forage obtained
locally, the variation or the substitution not to exceed the money
value of the components of the ration at the contract rates in effect
at the time of change.
"_1078, Army Regulations._--Where grazing is practicable, or when
little work is required of the animals, commanding officers will
reduce the forage ration. When, on the other hand, conditions demand
it, they are authorized to increase the ration, not in excess,
however, of savings made."
In the field the authorized allowances must often be reduced and
supplemented by grazing and other kinds of food, such as green forage,
beans, peas, rice, palay, wheat, and rye. Wheat and rye should be
crushed and fed sparingly (about one-fourth of the allowance). For
unshelled corn, add about one-quarter weight.
On the march the grain ration is the only forage carried. It consists
of 12 pounds of grain for each horse and 9 pounds of grain for each
mule. Recourse must be had to grazing if it is not possible to procure
long forage in the country traversed.
In campaign a command carries as a part of its normal equipment the
following forage:
(_a_) For each draft animal: On each vehicle a _reserve_ of one day's
grain ration for its draft animals.
(_b_) On animals and vehicles: A portion of their grain ration issued
the night before, for a noonday feed.
(_c_) In the ration section of the field train, for each animal, two
days' grain rations.
(_d_) In supply train of an Infantry division two days' grain
rations, and of a Cavalry division one day's grain ration.
CHAPTER IV.
PERSONAL HYGIENE AND CARE OF THE FEET.
PERSONAL HYGIENE.
History shows that in almost every war many more men die of disease
than from wounds received in battle. Much of this disease is
preventable and is due either to the ignorance or carelessness of the
person who has the disease or of other persons about him. It is a
terrible truth that one man who violates any of the great rules of
health may be the means of killing many more of his comrades than are
killed by the bullets of the enemy.
=It is therefore most important that every soldier should learn how to
take care of his health when in the field and that he should also
insist that his comrades do not violate any of the rules prescribed
for this purpose.=
A great many diseases are due to germs, which are either little
animals or little plants so very small that they can only be seen by
aid of the microscope. All diseases caused by germs are "catching."
All other diseases are not "catching."
There are only five ways of catching disease:
(_a_) Getting certain germs on the body by touching some one or
something which has them on it. Thus, one may catch venereal diseases,
smallpox, measles, scarlet fever, chicken pox, mumps, boils, body
lice, ringworm, barber's itch, dhobie itch, and some other diseases.
Wounds are infected in this manner.
(_b_) Breathing in certain germs which float in the air. In this way
one may catch pneumonia, consumption, influenza, diphtheria, whooping
cough, tonsilitis, spinal meningitis, measles, and certain other
diseases.
(_c_) Taking certain germs in through the mouth in eating or drinking.
Dysentery, cholera, typhoid fever, diarrhea, and intestinal worms may
be caught in this manner.
(_d_) Having certain germs injected into the body by the bites of
insects, such as mosquitoes, fleas, and bedbugs. Malaria, yellow
fever, dengue fever, and bubonic plague may be caught in this way.
(_e_) Inheriting the germ from one's parents.
Persons may have these germs sometimes without apparently being sick
with any disease. Such persons and persons who are sick with the
diseases are a great source of danger to others about them. Germs
which multiply in such persons are found in their urine and excretions
from the bowels; in discharges from ulcers and abscesses; in the spit
or particles coughed or sneezed into the air; in the perspiration or
scales from the skin; and in the blood sucked up by biting insects.
Those who have taken care of their health and who have not become
weakened by bad habits, exposure, and fatigue are not only less liable
to catch disease, but are more apt to recover when taken sick.
Knowing all these things, the soldier can understand the reasons for
the following rules and how important it is that they should be
carried out by each and every person:
Stay away from persons having "catching" diseases.
If you have any disease, don't try to cure it yourself, but go to the
surgeon. Insist that other soldiers do likewise.
Typhoid fever is one of the most dangerous and common camp diseases.
Modern medicine has, however, discovered an effective preventative for
this disease in the typhoid prophylactic, which renders the person
immune from typhoid fever. The treatment consists in injecting into
the arm a preventative serum. The injection is given three times at
10-day intervals.
Association with lewd women is dangerous. It may result in disabling
you for life. It is the cause of a disease (syphilis) which may be
transmitted by a parent to his children. Soldiers with venereal
diseases should not use basins or toilet articles used by others, as
the germs of these diseases if gotten into the eye very often cause
blindness. Likewise, if they use the same drinking cup used by others
they may give others the disease. They should promptly report their
trouble to the surgeon, that they may receive the best medical advice
and attention.
Should a soldier expose himself to infection by having intercourse
with an unknown woman, he should report as soon as possible afterwards
to the regimental infirmary for prophylactic treatment, which, if
taken within a few hours after intercourse, will prevent to a large
degree the liability of contracting any disease.
Cooked germs are dead and therefore harmless. Water, even when clear,
may be alive with deadly germs. Therefore, when the conditions are
such that the commanding officer orders all drinking water to be
boiled, be careful to live up to this order.
Use the latrines and don't go elsewhere to relieve yourself. In open
latrines cover your deposit with dirt, as it breeds flies and may also
be full of germs.
Flies carry germs from one place to another. Therefore, see that your
food and mess kit are protected from them.
All slops and scraps of food scattered about camp soon produce bad
odors and draw flies. Therefore do your part toward keeping the camp
free from disease by carefully depositing such refuse in the pits or
cans used for this purpose.
Urinate only in the latrines, or in the cans set out for this purpose,
never on the ground around camp, because it not only causes bad smells
but urine sometimes contains the germs of "catching" diseases.
Soapy water thrown on the ground soon produces bad odors. Therefore in
camps of several days' duration this water should be thrown in covered
pits or in cans used for this purpose.
As certain mosquitoes can transmit malaria and yellow fever, use your
mosquito bar for this reason as well as for personal comfort.
Keep your mouth clean by brushing your teeth once or twice a day. It
helps to prevent the teeth from decaying. Decayed teeth cause
toothache. They also lead one to swallow food without properly chewing
it, and this leads to stomach troubles of various kinds. Food left
around and between the teeth is bad for the teeth and forms good
breeding places for germs.
Keep the skin clean. Through the pores of the skin the body gets rid
of much waste and poisonous matter. Therefore remove this and keep the
pores open by bathing once every day, if possible. If water is scarce,
rub the body over with a wet towel. If no water is at hand, take a dry
rub. Wash carefully the armpits, between the legs, and under the
foreskin, as this will prevent chafing.
The skin protects the sensitive parts underneath from injury and helps
to keep out germs. Therefore when blisters are formed don't tear off
the skin. Insert a needle under the skin a little distance back from
the blister and push it through to the opposite side. Press out the
liquid through the holes thus formed. Heat the needle red hot first,
with a match or candle, to kill the germs.
When the skin is broken (in cuts and wounds) keep the opening covered
with a bandage to keep out germs and dirt; otherwise the sore may
fester. Pus is always caused by germs.
Keep your hair short. Long hair and a long beard in the field
generally means a dirty head and a dirty face and favors skin
diseases, lice, and dandruff.
=Don't let any part of the body become chilled, as this very often is
the direct cause of diarrhea, dysentery, pneumonia, rheumatism, and
other diseases.=
Wet clothes may be worn while marching or exercising without bad
results, but there is great danger if one rests in wet clothing, as
the body may become chilled.
Don't sit or lie or sleep directly on damp ground, as this is sure to
chill the body.
When hot or perspiring or when wearing damp clothes, don't remain
where a breeze can strike you. You are sure to become chilled.
Every day, if possible, hang your blanket and clothing out to air in
the sun; shake or beat them with a small stick. Germs and vermin don't
like this treatment, but damp, musty clothing suits them very well.
Wash your shirts, underwear, and socks frequently. The danger of blood
poisoning from a wound is greatly increased if the bullet passes
through dirty clothes.
Ditch your tent as soon as you can, particularly a shelter tent, even
if you camp for one night only. Otherwise a little rain may ruin a
whole night's rest.
Always prepare your bed before dark. Level off the ground and scrape
out a little hollow for your hips. Get some straw or dry grass if
possible. Green grass or branches from trees are better than nothing.
Sleep on your poncho. This keeps the dampness from coming up from the
ground and chilling the body. Every minute spent in making a good bed
means about an hour's good rest later on.
Avoid the food and drink found for sale in the cheap stands about
camp. The quality is generally bad, and it is often prepared in filthy
places by very dirty persons.
The use of intoxicating liquor is particularly dangerous in the field.
Its excessive use, even at long intervals, breaks down one's system.
Drinking men are more apt to get sick and less liable to get well than
are their more sober comrades. If alcohol is taken at all, it is best
after the work of the day is over. It should never be taken when the
body is exposed to severe cold, as it diminishes the resistance of the
body. Hot tea or coffee is much preferable under these circumstances.
CARE OF THE FEET.
A soldier can not march with sore feet, and marching is the main part
of an infantryman's daily duty in the field. _All soldiers_ should be
familiar with the proper methods of caring for the feet. Sore feet are
generally due to carelessness, neglect, or ignorance on the part of
the soldier.
The most important factor in the care of the feet and the marching
ability of the soldier is the shoe. Civilian shoes, particularly
light, patent leather, or low shoes, are sure to cause injury and in
time will ruin a man's foot. Only the marching shoe issued by the
Quartermaster Corps should be worn, and they must be properly fitted
to the individual. It will not suffice to order a marching shoe of the
same size as one's ordinary civilian shoes, for it must be remembered
that a soldier may have to march many miles daily over rough roads and
carrying a heavy pack. The pack itself causes the foot to spread out
to a larger size, and the rough roads give so much exercise to the
muscles of the feet that they swell greatly through the increased
blood supply. (For directions as to measuring the foot for the
marching shoe, see General Order No. 26, War Department, 1912, a copy
of which should be on hand in each company.)
Do not start out on a march wearing new shoes. This is a frequent
cause of sore feet. New shoes should be properly broken in before
beginning a march by wearing them for several hours daily for a week
before the march, and they should be adapted to the contours of the
feet by stretching them with shoe stretchers with adjustable knobs to
take the pressure off painful corns and bunions. Such stretchers are
issued by the Quartermaster Corps, and there should be one or more
pair in every company of infantry. Should this be impracticable, then
the following is suggested:
The soldier stands in his new shoes in about 2-1/2 inches of water for
about five minutes until the leather is thoroughly pliable and moist;
he should then walk for about an hour on a level surface, letting the
shoes dry on his feet, to the irregularities of which the leather is
thus molded in the same way as it was previously molded over the shoe
last. On taking the shoes off a very little neat's-foot oil should be
rubbed into the leather to prevent its hardening and cracking.
If it is desired to waterproof shoes at any time, a considerable
amount of neat's-foot oil should be rubbed into the leather.
Waterproof leather causes the feet of some men to perspire unduly and
keeps them constantly soft.
Light woolen or heavy woolen socks will habitually be worn for
marching. Cotton socks will not be worn unless specifically ordered by
the surgeon. The socks will be large enough to permit free movement of
the toes, but not so loose as to permit of wrinkling. Darned socks, or
socks with holes in them, will not be worn in marching.
Until the feet have hardened they should be dusted with foot powder,
which can be obtained at the regimental infirmary, before each day's
march. Clean socks should be worn daily.
As soon as possible after reaching camp after a day of marching the
feet should be washed with soap and water, and the soldier should put
on a dry pair of socks and his extra pair of shoes from his surplus
kit. If the skin is tender, or the feet perspire, wash with warm salt
water or alum water, but do not soak the feet a long time, as this,
although very comforting at the time, tends to keep them soft. Should
blisters appear on the feet, prick and evacuate them by pricking at
the lower edge with a pin which has been passed through the flame of a
match and cover them with zinc oxide plaster applied hot. This plaster
can be obtained on request at the regimental infirmary. If serious
abrasions appear on the feet, or corns, bunions, and ingrowing nails
cause trouble, have your name placed on sick report and apply to the
surgeon for treatment. Cut the toenails square (fairly close in the
middle, but leaving the sides somewhat longer), as this prevents
ingrowing nails.
CHAPTER V.
EXTRACTS FROM CAVALRY DRILL REGULATIONS.
UNITED STATES ARMY, 1916.
=Section 1. Definitions.=
=Alignment.=--The placing of several troopers or units on the same
straight line; also the line on which such adjustment is made.
=Assembly.=--The grouping =in order=, and in a close-order formation,
of the elements of a command. The special arrangement and condition
that constitute =order= for each unit are explained in the
corresponding part of the text. The purpose of the assembly is to
bring about a close-order formation in order.
=Base.=--The element on which a formation or movement is regulated.
The base may be a trooper, two, four, section, platoon, or larger
unit. When the base is a single trooper in ranks, he may also be
termed the =guide=.
=Center.=--The middle point or element of a command. If the number of
elements considered be even, the right center element will be meant
when the center element is referred to.
=Column.=--A formation in which the elements of a command are placed
one behind the other. The elements here referred to may be troopers,
twos, fours, sections, platoons, or larger units. When used in these
regulations as a =word of command=, without qualifying words
indicating the kind of column (as =of twos=, =of platoons=, etc.),
=column= signifies =a column of fours=. In all other cases the word is
to be understood in its general sense unless the context indicates
the contrary.
=Deployment.=--An evolution in which the command extends its front, as
in forming line from column or in passing from close order to extended
order.
=Depth.=--The space from front to rear of any formation, including the
front and rear elements.
=Directing leader.=--The leader of a subordinate unit who temporarily
conducts the march when the commander is not leading in person. A
trooper in the rank of a platoon or smaller unit who similarly
conducts the march is termed =a directing guide=.
=Direction of march.=--The direction in which the base of the command
in question, whether actually in march or halted, is facing at the
instant considered.
=Disposition.=--The distribution of the elements of a command, and the
formations and duties assigned to each for the accomplishment of a
common purpose.
=Distance.=--The space between men or bodies of troops measured in the
direction of depth. Distance is measured--mounted, from the croup of
the horse in front to the head of the horse in rear; dismounted, from
the back of the trooper in front to the breast of the trooper in rear.
=Dress.=--The act of taking a correct alignment.
=Drill.=--The exercises and evolutions, taught on the drill ground and
executed in accordance with definitely prescribed methods.
=Echelon.=--A body of troops is in _echelon_ with reference to another
when it is more advanced or less advanced and unmasks or uncovers the
other body, wholly or in part; units thus placed are called
_echelons_.
=Element.=--One of the component subdivisions of a command. As used in
these regulations the term _element_ is a general one and may mean a
single trooper, a set of twos, a four, section, platoon, or larger
unit, according to the command and formation that are being
considered. The expression =elements of the column= refers to the
several troopers, fours, platoons, or other units that are placed
successively, one behind another, in any column formation.
=Evolutions.=--Movements by which a command changes its position or
passes from one formation to another.
=File closers.=--Officers or noncommissioned officers placed out of
ranks, whose duty it is to supervise the men in ranks and see that the
orders of the commander are carried out. For convenience, this term is
applied to any man posted as a file closer.
=Flank.=--The right or left of a command in line or column. In
speaking of the enemy the term right flank or left flank is used to
designate the flank that would be so designated by him.
=Flank guard.=--An element of a command disposed with a view to
protecting a flank.
=Foragers.=--Mounted troopers distributed in line in extended order;
also the formation in which the troopers are so distributed.
=Formation.=--The arrangement of the elements of a command in line,
column, or echelon.
=Gait.=--One of the special movements of the horse, as the walk, the
trot, or the gallop.
=Gait of march.=--The gait at which the base of the command in
question is moving at the instant considered.
=Horse length.=--A term of measurement. For convenience in estimating
space, a horse length is considered as 3 yards; by actual measure it
is about 8 feet.
=Interval.=--The lateral space between the elements or fractions of a
command. Interval is measured: Mounted, from the left knee of the man
at the right of the open space to the right knee of the man at the
left of the open space; dismounted, interval is measured on similar
principles, but from elbow to elbow.
=Line.=--A formation in which the different elements are abreast of
each other. When the elements are in column the formation is called a
line of columns.
=Maneuvers.=--Operations against an outlined or actual force under a
separate commander, who, within the limits of the assumed situation,
is free to adopt any formations and make any movements he chooses.
=Order.=--An indication of the will of the commander in whatever form
conveyed. An order may be given orally, by signal, or in any manner
that is intelligible to those for whom it is intended. The
expression, =in order=, has no reference to this definition, but is
used to indicate a special arrangement and condition of the elements
of a command.
=Order, close.=--This includes formations in which the intervals and
distances between elements are habitually based upon those required
for forming the normal line formation of each unit of the formation.
=Order, extended.=--The formation in which the troopers, or the
subdivisions, or both, are separated by intervals or distances greater
than in close order.
=Pace.=--Used with reference to gait, pace signifies the rate of speed
of the gait. Used as a unit of measure, pace signifies a step of 30
inches.
=Patrol.=--A group detached from a command and operating with specific
mission, usually related to security or information. The term is
ordinarily applied to groups varying in size from two men to a
platoon. They are frequently designated by special names connected
with their principal mission or their composition; as, =reconnoitering
patrols=, =combat patrols=, =visiting patrols=, =officer's patrols=.
=Ployment.=--An evolution in which the command diminishes its front,
as in passing from line to column, or from extended order to close
order.
=Rally.=--The rapid grouping behind the leader of the elements of a
command, without reference to their previous situation or formation.
The object of the rally is to reestablish cohesion with a view to
immediate action, or to form line in a new direction when the regular
method of forming line would be slow or complicated. It is executed in
the order of arrival of the elements of the command without regard to
their normal order. The formation in which each unit is rallied is
fixed in the drill instructions of that unit.
=Rank.=--Two or more troopers placed side by side.
=Scouts.=--Individual troopers detached from their commands and
operating with a definite mission related to security or information.
=Skirmishers.=--Dismounted troopers in line in extended order; also
the formation in which the troopers are so placed.
=Successive formation.=--A formation in which the elements take their
places successively.
=Tactical exercise.=--An operation against an outlined or represented
enemy whose movements are restricted with a view to illustrating some
particular tactical principle.
PART I.--INDIVIDUAL INSTRUCTION.
=Section 2. General provisions.=
=34.=[6] Thorough training in the school of the trooper is the basis
of efficiency.
[Footnote 6: The numbers refer to paragraphs in the Cavalry
Drill Regulations, 1916.]
=35.= Short and frequent drills are preferable to long ones, which
exhaust the attention of both instructor and recruit.
=36.= As the instruction progresses, the recruits will be grouped
according to proficiency, in order that all may advance as rapidly as
their abilities permit. Those who lack aptitude and quickness will be
separated from the others and placed under experienced drillmasters.
=37.= The individual dismounted instruction of the recruit is
habitually given by experienced noncommissioned officers, especially
selected for that purpose. All such instruction is under the careful
personal supervision of a commissioned officer, and in the
corresponding mounted instruction it is desirable that the actual
instructor be a commissioned officer when this is practicable. All
lieutenants will be required to instruct recruits in person
sufficiently to acquire skill in such work.
When recruits, upon their arrival at a station, are assigned to their
respective troops for training, the captains prescribe and supervise
the instruction.
=38.= The instructor will always maintain a military bearing and by a
quiet, firm demeanor, set a proper example to his men. A calm and even
temper is indispensable. Unnecessarily loud commands and prolonged
explanations are to be avoided.
As the recruits become somewhat proficient in the school of the
trooper, the officer superintending the instruction may call upon them
in turn to drill the squad in his presence and to correct any errors
that may be observed. This will increase their interest, hasten their
instruction, and facilitate judgment upon their fitness for the duties
of noncommissioned officers.
=39.= A carefully thought out program of instruction, prepared in
advance and based upon the probable time and facilities for
instruction that the case in question may present, is essential to
economy of time and effort and to systematic, thorough instruction.
=40.= The preliminary individual instruction, dismounted and mounted,
should be carried on during different drill hours of the same days.
This preliminary phase should include, in addition to regular drill,
instruction in: The elements of discipline; the names of the various
parts of the arms and equipment; the proper care of arms, equipment,
and clothing; elementary instructions as to the names of those parts
of the horse that are frequently referred to at drill and stable duty;
grooming; a few simple rules regarding the care of the horse; personal
hygiene; and other related subjects.
=41.= As soon as the instruction shall have advanced so far as to
include the few necessary preliminary drills, collective instruction
=in the school of the squad= will be taken up. This instruction may,
like the individual instruction, properly be carried on during
different hours of the same drill days, in both mounted and dismounted
phases. The recruits meanwhile continue their progress in the
individual instruction.
=42.= The progress in =mounted= collective instruction must be
carefully regulated in accordance with the recruit's confidence and
skill in the management of his mount, and must progress no faster than
the recruit's horsemanship justifies; but this restriction need not
affect the =dismounted= collective instruction, and the latter may
properly be carried forward as rapidly as the state of the dismounted
individual instruction will permit. By the time the recruit's
instruction in equitation has progressed so as to prepare him for
mounted drills at the faster gaits, he should have learned the
mechanism of all the movements by executing them at a walk. His course
of dismounted training should meanwhile have included not only the
close-order movements of the squad but the mechanism of extended
order, practice in the use of the saber, a little preparatory range
practice with the rifle and pistol, and work in the nature of minor
field exercises involving dismounted fire action. He should, during
the same period, have learned the mechanism of passing from mounted
action to dismounted action and should have acquired familiarity with
all commands and signals used in the squad. The recruit will thus
ordinarily be ready to enter with reasonable efficiency upon certain
phases of the work in the platoon and troop before his individual
mounted instruction is completed.
=43.= There are two kinds of commands:
The =preparatory= command, such as =forward=, indicates the movement
that is to be executed.
The command of =execution=, such as =MARCH=, =HALT=, or =ARMS=, causes
the execution.
=Preparatory= commands are distinguished by =boldface type=, those of
execution by =CAPITALS=.
The =preparatory= command should be given at such an interval of time
before the command of =execution= as to admit of being properly
understood; the command of =execution= should be given at the instant
the movement is to commence.
The preparatory command is enunciated distinctly, with a rising
inflection at the end, and in such manner that the command of
execution may be more energetic.
On foot, the command of execution is firm in tone and brief.
In mounted movements the preparatory command is usually somewhat
prolonged to insure its being heard, and the command of execution is
always prolonged.
_Commands will be given no louder than is necessary._
Laxness or indifference suggested in the manner of giving a command is
certain to result in corresponding carelessness of execution.
=44.= To revoke a preparatory command, or being at the halt, to begin
anew a movement improperly begun: =AS YOU WERE=. Any movement ceases
and the former position is resumed.
=45.= To stay the execution of a movement when marching, for the
correction of errors, the commands may be given: 1. =In place=, 2.
=HALT=. All halt and stand fast. If executed dismounted, the position
of the rifle is not changed. To resume the movement, the commands are:
1. =Resume=; or, 1. =Resume, trot=; or, 1. =Resume, gallop=. 2.
=MARCH=. The movement is then completed as if it had not been
interrupted.
=46.= Movements that may be executed toward either flank are explained
as toward but one flank, it being necessary to substitute the word
"left" for "right," and the reverse, to have the explanation of the
corresponding movement toward the other flank. The commands are given
for the execution of the movements toward either flank. The substitute
word of the command is placed within parentheses.
=47.= Any movement may be executed either from the halt or when
marching unless otherwise prescribed.
Any movement on foot not specially excepted may be executed in double
time.
If at a halt, or if marching in quick time, the command =double time=
precedes the command of execution.
=48.= As instructors, officers and noncommissioned officers go
wherever their presence is necessary.
=49.= Before beginning work, the instructor always assures himself
that those under his charge are neatly dressed and in proper uniform.
At mounted formations he will also require that horses be properly
groomed and that equipments be in good condition and adjusted as
prescribed.
=50.= The value of recruit drill as an exercise in teaching discipline
must be kept constantly in view by the instructor. No phase of the
instruction is of such great ultimate importance.
=Section 3. School of the trooper, dismounted.=
=51.= The object of this school is to develop the strength and agility
of the trooper, to give him a military bearing, to fix in him the
habit of sustained attention and instant obedience, to prepare him for
instruction in mounted combat with the saber and pistol, and to train
him in dismounted combat with the rifle.
In order to make rapid progress in those exercises which form the
basis of instruction of the trooper, it is necessary that the lessons
should, as far as practicable, be given individually.
=52.= _Cautions to instructors._--The instructor explains briefly each
movement, first executing it himself if practicable. He requires the
recruits to take the proper positions unassisted and does not touch
them for the purpose of correcting them, except when they are unable
to correct themselves. He avoids keeping them too long at the same
movement, although each should be understood before passing to
another. He exacts by degrees the desired precision and uniformity.
Recruits should be allowed to stand at ease frequently. During these
pauses the instructor will not be idle, but opportunity will be taken
to talk to the men, to encourage them to ask questions, and so to
develop their confidence and common sense.
=53.= During the period devoted to preliminary instruction, without
arms, the recruit will be prepared for subsequent instruction with
arms by being taught the names of the principal parts of the different
weapons and the proper methods of cleaning, disassembling, assembling,
and operating the latter.
PHYSICAL TRAINING.
=54.= The physical training of the soldier must receive due attention.
Its direct results are to increase the soldier's strength, agility,
and endurance, and it has indirect results of far-reaching value in
connection with discipline and morale. It should begin with his first
instruction as a recruit and be continued throughout his entire
enlistment. The methods prescribed in the authorized Manual of
Physical Training will be followed with a view to making the soldier's
development thorough and well balanced, and to prevent the instruction
from becoming unnecessarily tedious and monotonous.
=55.= In the earlier phases of the recruit instruction, and under
temporary conditions that do not favor the carrying out of a more
comprehensive scheme of training, special attention will be given to
the =setting-up exercises=. Running, jumping, and swimming are phases
of training of special importance to the soldier.
INDIVIDUAL INSTRUCTION WITHOUT ARMS.
=56.= For this instruction a few recruits, usually not exceeding 3 or
4, are placed (as a squad) in single rank, facing to the front.
=57.= To teach the recruits how to form in ranks the instructor will
first place them in single rank, arranged according to height, the
tallest man on the right, with intervals of about 4 inches between
men, and will explain that the object of these intervals is to give
freedom of movement in marching and in the use of the rifle in ranks.
He will then direct each man singly to place the palm of the left hand
on the hip, fingers pointing downward, and draw attention to the fact
that the indicated interval of about 4 inches may be verified by each
man so placing himself that his right arm, when hanging naturally at
his side, touches the elbow of the man on his right. When this is
understood, he will cause the recruits to fall out and successively to
place themselves as before, each man verifying his interval by causing
his right arm to touch the left elbow of the man on his right, the
latter's hand being on his hip, as already explained. He will then
explain that at the command =FALL IN= the men will, beginning with the
right trooper, successively and quickly take their places in rank,
each man placing the left hand at the hip as above and dropping his
hand to his side as soon as the man on his left has the proper
interval.
=58.= The recruits having had sufficient instruction to understand how
to form by command, the instructor commands: =FALL IN=.
The men assemble as prescribed in par. 57, each taking the position of
=attention= as described below.
As soon as the recruits have had sufficient preliminary instruction
they will habitually be formed as regularly prescribed for a squad.
POSITION OF THE TROOPER, OR ATTENTION (DISMOUNTED).
=59.= Heels on the same line and as near each other as the
conformation of the man permits.
Feet turned out equally and forming an angle of about 45°.
Knees straight without stiffness.
Hips level and drawn back slightly; body erect and resting equally on
hips; chest lifted and arched; shoulders square and falling equally.
Arms and hands hanging naturally, thumb along the seam of the
breeches.
Head erect and squarely to the front, chin drawn in so that the axis
of the head and neck is vertical; eyes to the front.
Weight of the body resting equally upon the heels and balls of the
feet.
THE RESTS.
=60.= Being at a halt, the commands are: =FALL OUT=; =REST=; =AT
EASE=; and 1. =Parade=, 2. =REST=.
At the command =fall out=, the men may leave the ranks, but are
required to remain in the immediate vicinity. They resume their former
places, at attention, at the command =fall in=.
At the command =rest=, each man keeps one foot in place, but is not
required to preserve silence or immobility.
At the command =at ease=, each man keeps one foot in place and is
required to preserve silence, but not immobility.
1. =Parade=, 2. =REST=. Carry the right foot 6 inches straight to the
rear, left knee slightly bent; clasp the hands, without constraint, in
front of the center of the body, fingers joined, left hand uppermost,
left thumb clasped by the thumb and forefinger of the right hand;
preserve silence and steadiness of position.
=61.= Being in march, at the command: 1. =Route order=, 2. =MARCH=; or
1. =At ease=, 2. =MARCH=, the men keep their places in ranks, but are
not required to keep the step; at =route order=, they are not required
to preserve silence. If halted from =route order=, the men stand at
=rest=; if halted from =at ease=, they remain at ease.
Marching at =route order= or =at ease=, rifles are carried at will,
the muzzles elevated.
=62.= To resume the attention: 1. =Squad=, 2. =ATTENTION=.
If at a halt, the men take the position of the trooper, dismounted
(par. 59). If marching, the cadenced step in quick time is resumed,
and rifles, if carried, are brought to the right shoulder.
=63.= To dismiss the squad: =DISMISSED=.
EYES RIGHT OR LEFT.
=64.= 1. =Eyes=, 2. =RIGHT=, 3. =FRONT=.
At the command =right=, turn the head to the right oblique, eyes fixed
on the line of eyes of the man in, or supposed to be in, the same
rank. At the command =front=, turn the head and eyes to the front.
FACINGS.
=65.= To the flank: 1. =Right=, 2. =FACE=.
Raise slightly the left heel and right toe; face to the right, turning
on the right heel, assisted by a slight pressure on the ball of the
left foot; place the left foot by the side of the right. Left face is
executed on the left heel in the corresponding manner.
=66.= To the rear: 1. =About=, 2. =FACE=.
Carry the toe of the right foot about a half foot length to the rear
and slightly to the left of the left heel without changing the
position of the left foot; face to the rear, turning to the right on
the left heel and right toe; place the right heel by the side of the
left.
=67.= 1. =Hand=, 2. =SALUTE=.
Raise the right hand smartly till the tip of the forefinger touches
the lower part of the headdress above the right eye, thumb and fingers
extended and joined, palm to the left, forearm inclined at about 45°,
hand and wrist straight; at the same time look toward the person
saluted.
(=TWO=), Drop the arm smartly by the side. The salute for officers is
the same (Fig. 1).
[Illustration: FIG. 1, par. 67.]
STEPS AND MARCHES.
=68.= All steps and marchings executed from a halt, except right step,
begin with the left foot.
=69.= The length of the full step in =quick time= is 30 inches,
measured from heel to heel, and the cadence is at the rate of 120
steps per minute.
The length of the full step in =double time= is 36 inches; the cadence
is at the rate of 180 steps per minute.
The instructor, when necessary, indicates the cadence of the step by
calling =one=, =two=, =three=, =four=, or =left=, =right=, the instant
the left and right foot, respectively, should be planted.
=70.= All steps and marchings and movements involving march are
executed in quick time unless the squad be marching in double time, or
double time be added to the command; in the latter case double time is
added to the preparatory command.
Example: 1. =Forward, double time=, 2. =MARCH=.
=71.= It should be explained to the recruits that in collective drills
and exercises one of the troopers, termed the =guide=, habitually has
to follow a leader or direct himself upon some designated objective,
the other troopers regulating their march so as, in line, to march
abreast of the guide, maintaining their approximate intervals. The
necessity, in this connection, for learning to march steadily in a
given direction without wavering from side to side should further be
pointed out. Each recruit should then be practiced individually in
marching upon a designated objective, selecting for that purpose two
points of direction on the straight line that passes through the
trooper and the objective and keeping constantly in the prolongation
of that line. When the objective is sufficiently distinct it should be
taken as one of the points of direction and another point in line with
the trooper and the objective, and either nearer or more distant than
the latter be selected as a second point to fix the direction of
march.
QUICK TIME AND DOUBLE TIME.
=72.= Being at a halt, to march forward in quick time: 1. =Forward=,
2. =MARCH=.
At the command =forward=, shift the weight of the body to the right
leg, left knee straight.
At the command =march=, move the left foot smartly straight forward 30
inches from the right, sole near the ground, and plant it without
shock; next, in like manner, advance the right foot and plant it as
above; continue the march. The arms swing naturally.
=73.= Being at a halt, or in march in quick time, to march forward in
double time: 1. =Forward=, =double time=, 2. =MARCH.=
If at a halt, at the first command shift the weight, of the body to
the right leg. At the command march, raise the forearms, fingers
closed, to a horizontal position along the waist line, take up an easy
run with the step and cadence of double time, allowing a natural
swinging motion to the arms.
If marching in quick time, at the command =MARCH=, given as either
foot strikes the ground, take one step in quick time and then step off
in double time.
=74.= To resume the quick time: 1. =Quick time=, 2. =MARCH.=
At the command =march=, given as either foot strikes the ground,
advance and plant the other foot in double time; resume the quick
time, dropping the hands by the sides.
TO MARK TIME.
=75.= Being in march: 1. =Mark time=, 2. =MARCH.=
At the command =march=, given as either foot strikes the ground,
advance and plant the other foot; bring up the foot in rear and
continue the cadence by alternately raising each foot about 2 inches
and planting it on line with the other.
Being at a halt, at the command march, raise and plant the feet as
described above.
THE HALF STEP.
=76.= 1. =Half step=, 2. =MARCH.=
Take steps of 15 inches in quick time, 18 inches in double time.
=77.= =Forward=, =half step=, =halt=, and =mark time= may be executed
one from the other in quick or double time.
To resume the full step from half step or mark time: 1. =Forward=, 2.
=MARCH=.
SIDE STEP.
=78.= Being at a halt or mark time: 1. =Right (left) step=, 2.
=MARCH.=
Carry and plant the right foot 15 inches to the right; bring the left
foot beside it and continue the movement in the cadence of quick time.
The side step is used for short distances only and is not executed in
double time.
If at order arms, the side step is executed =at trail= without other
command.
BACK STEP.
=79.= Being at a halt or mark time: 1. =Backward=, 2. =MARCH.=
Take steps of 15 inches straight to the rear.
The back step is used for short distances only and is not executed in
double time.
If at order arms, the back step is executed =at trail= without other
command.
TO HALT.
=80.= To stop the march in quick or double time: 1. =Squad=, 2.
=HALT.=
At the command _halt_, given as either foot strikes the ground, plant
the other foot as in marching; raise and place the rear foot by the
side of the other. If in double time, drop the hands by the sides.
TO MARCH BY THE FLANK.
=81.= Being in march: 1. =By the right (left) flank=, 2. =MARCH.=
At the command march, given as the right foot strikes the ground,
advance and plant the left foot, then face to the right in marching,
and step off in the new direction with the right foot.
This movement is not executed by =signal= except in =foragers=.
TO MARCH TO THE REAR.
=82.= Being in march: 1. =To the rear=, 2. =MARCH.=
At the command =march=, given as the right foot strikes the ground,
advance and plant the left foot, turn to the right-about on the balls
of both feet, and immediately step off with the left foot.
If marching in double time, turn to the right-about, taking four steps
in place, keeping the cadence, and then step off with the left foot.
This movement is not executed by =signal= except in =foragers=.
CHANGE STEP.
=83.= Being in march: 1. =Change step=, 2. =MARCH.=
At the command =march=, given as the right, foot, strikes the ground,
advance and plant the left foot, plant the toe of the right foot near
the heel of the left, and step off with the left foot.
The change on the right foot is similarly executed, the command
=MARCH= being given as the left foot strikes the ground.
TO COUNT FOURS.
=84.= Being in line, at the command, =COUNT FOURS=, all the troopers
in the rank except the right trooper execute =eyes right= and,
beginning on the right, count successively =1=, =2=, =3=, =4=. Each
turns his head and eyes to the front as he counts.
Fours may be counted at the halt or marching, mounted or dismounted,
in line or in column of twos or troopers. In counting fours in column
of twos or troopers the elements count off successively from front to
rear in the column and from right to left in each two. =Eyes right= is
not executed when counting fours from column of twos or troopers.
TO TAKE INTERVALS AND DISTANCES.
=85.= Being in line at a halt: 1. =Take intervals, to the right
(left)=, 2. =MARCH=, 3. =Squad=, 4. =HALT.=
At the command =march=, all face to the right and the leading trooper
steps off; the other men step off in succession, each following the
preceding trooper at four paces.
At the command =halt=, given when all have their intervals, all halt
and face to the front.
=86.= Being at intervals, to assemble the squad: 1. =Assemble to the
right (left)=, 2. =MARCH.= The trooper on the right stands fast. The
other troopers face to the right, close by the shortest line and face
to the front.
=87.= Being in line at a halt and fours having been counted: 1. =Take
distance=, 2. =MARCH=, 3. =Squad=, 4. =HALT.=
At the command =march=, No. 1 moves straight to the front; Nos. 2, 3,
and 4 in the order named, move straight to the front, each stepping
off so as to follow the preceding man at 4 paces. The command halt is
given when all have their distances.
If there be more than one No. 1, all the Nos. 1 move forward together,
guiding on the right trooper. The same principle applies to the other
numbers.
=88.= The normal interval and distance of 4 paces indicated,
respectively, in pars. 34 and 36, may be increased or diminished by
adding to the corresponding preparatory command the indication of the
interval or distance desired; thus: 1. =Take interval to the right at
1 pace=, 2. =MARCH=, etc.; 1. =Take distance, at 2 paces=, 2. =MARCH=,
etc.
=89.= Being at distances, to assemble the squad: 1. =Assemble=, 2.
=MARCH.=
No. 1 of the front rank stands fast; the other numbers move forward to
their proper places in line.
INDIVIDUAL INSTRUCTION WITH ARMS.
MANUAL OF THE RIFLE.
=90.= When the recruit has made fair progress in the instruction
without arms, including that required by par. 53, he is taught the
manual of arms. Instruction without arms and that with arms alternate.
=91.= The following rules govern the carrying of the rifle:
=First.= The rifle is not carried with cartridges in either the
chamber or the magazine except when specifically ordered. When so
loaded, or supposed to be loaded, it is habitually carried locked;
that is, with the =safety lock= turned to the "safe." At all other
times it is carried unlocked, with the trigger pulled.
=Second.= Whenever troops are formed under arms, rifles are
immediately inspected at the commands: 1. =Inspection=, 2. =ARMS=; 3.
=Order (right shoulder, port)=, 4. =ARMS.=
A. similar inspection is made immediately before dismissal.
If cartridges are found in the chamber or magazine they are removed
and placed in the belt.
=Third.= The cut-off is kept turned "off" except when cartridges are
actually used.
=Fourth.= =Fall in= is executed with the rifle at the order arms.
=Fall out=, =rest=, and =at ease= are executed as without arms. On
resuming =attention= the position of order arms is taken.
=Fifth.= If at the order, unless otherwise prescribed, the rifle is
brought to the right shoulder at the command =march=, the three
motions corresponding with the first three steps. Movements may be
executed at =the trail= by prefacing the preparatory command with the
words =at trail=, as, 1. =At trail=, =forward=, 2. =MARCH=; the trail
is taken at the command =march=.
When the facings, alignments, open and close ranks, taking interval,
and assemblings are executed from the order, raise the rifle to the
trail while in motion and resume the order on halting.
=Sixth.= The rifle is brought to the order on halting. The execution
of the order begins when the halt is completed.
=Seventh.= A disengaged hand in double time is held as when without
arms.
=92.= The following rules govern the execution of the manual of arms:
=First.= In all positions of the left hand at the balance (center of
gravity) the thumb clasps the rifle; the sling is included in the
grasp of the hand. (Figs. 6, 12.)
=Second.= In all positions of the rifle "diagonally across the body"
the position of the rifle, left arm, and hand are the same as in port
arms. (Fig. 6.)
=Third.= In resuming the order from any position in the manual, the
motion next to the last concludes with the butt of the rifle about 3
inches from the ground, barrel to the rear, the left hand above and
near the right, steadying the rifle, fingers extended and joined,
forearm and wrist straight and inclining downward, all fingers of the
right hand grasping the rifle. To complete the order, lower the rifle
gently to the ground with the right hand, drop the left quickly by the
side, and take the position of order arms. (Fig. 2.)
Allowing the rifle to drop through the right hand to the ground, or
other similar abuse of the arm to produce effect in executing the
manual, is prohibited.
=Fourth.= The cadence of the motions is that of quick time; the
recruits are first required to give their whole attention to the
details of the motions, the cadence being gradually acquired as they
become accustomed to handling their rifles.
=Fifth.= The manual is taught at a halt and the movements are for the
purpose of instruction, divided into motions and executed in detail;
in this case the command of =execution= determines the prompt
execution of the first motion, and the commands, =two=, =three=,
=four=, that of the other motions.
To execute the movements in detail, the instructor first cautions: =By
the numbers=; all movement divided into motions are then executed as
above explained until he cautions: =Without the numbers=; or commands
movements other than those in the manual of arms.
=Sixth.= Whenever circumstances require, the regular positions of the
manual of arms and the firings may be ordered without regard to the
previous position of the rifle.
Under exceptional conditions of weather or fatigue the rifle may be
carried in any manner directed.
[Illustration: FIG. 2, par. 92.]
[Illustration: FIG. 3, par. 93.]
[Illustration: FIG. 4, par. 93.]
=93.= =Position of order arms, standing=: The butt rests evenly on the
ground, barrel to the rear, toe of the butt on a line with toe of, and
touching, the right shoe, arms and hands hanging naturally, right hand
holding the rifle between the thumb and fingers.
=94.= =Being at order arms=: 1. =Present=, 2. =ARMS.=
With the right hand carry the rifle in front of the center of the
body, barrel to the rear and vertical, grasp it with the left hand at
the balance, forearm horizontal and resting against the body. (=TWO=)
Grasp the small of the stock with the right hand. (Fig. 5.)
[Illustration: FIG. 5, par. 94.]
=95.= =Being at order arms=: 1. =Port=, 2. =ARMS.=