ral of the base squad the point on
which the squad is to march; the corporal habitually looks to the
captain for such directions.

The base squad is deployed as soon as it has sufficient interval. The
other squads are deployed as they arrive on the general line; each
corporal halts in his place in line and commands or signals, as
skirmishers march; the squad deploys and halts abreast of him.

If tactical considerations demand it, the squad is deployed before
arriving on the line.

Deployed lines preserve a general alignment toward the guide. Within
their respective fronts, individuals or units march so as best to secure
or to facilitate the advance but the general and orderly progress of
the whole is paramount.

On halting, a deployed line faces to the front (direction of the enemy)
in all cases and takes advantage of cover, the men lying down if
necessary.

The company in line or column of squads may be deployed in an oblique
direction by the same commands. The captain points out the desired
direction; the corporal of the base squad moves in the direction
indicated; the other corporals conform.

To form skirmish line to the flank or rear the line or the column of
squads is turned by squads to the flank or rear and then deployed as
described.

The intervals between men are increased or decreased as described in the
School of the Squad, adding to the preparatory command, guide right
(left or center), if necessary.

THE ASSEMBLY

The captain takes his post in front of, or designates, the element on
which the company is to assemble and commands: 1. Assemble, 2. MARCH.

If in skirmish line the men move promptly toward the designated point
and the company is re-formed in line. If assembled by platoons, these
are conducted to the designated point by platoon leaders, and the
company is reformed in line.

Platoons may be assembled by the command: 1. Platoons, assemble, 2.
MARCH.

Executed by each platoon as described for the company.

One or more platoons may be assembled by the command: 1. Such
platoon(s), assemble, 2. MARCH.

Executed by the designated platoon or platoons as described for the
company.

Wherever it is necessary in campaign to deploy troops there is often so
much noise and confusion that it is impossible for the officers and
noncommissioned officers to make themselves heard. Signals must be used
instead of verbal commands.

WHISTLE SIGNALS

There are only two kinds of whistl