Raise the body on both knees; take the position of kneel.
In double rank, the positions of kneeling and lying down are ordinarily
used only for the better utilization of cover.
When deployed as skirmishers, a sitting position may be taken in lieu of
the kneeling position.
LOADINGS AND FIRINGS
The commands for loading and firing are the same whether standing,
kneeling, or lying down. The firings are always executed at a halt.
When kneeling or lying down in double rank, the rear rank does not load,
aim, or fire.
The instruction in firing will be preceded by a command for loading.
Loadings are executed in line and skirmish line only.
Pieces, having been ordered loaded, are kept loaded without command
until the command unload, or inspection arms, fresh clips being
inserted when the magazine is exhausted.
The aiming point or target is carefully pointed out. This may be done
before or after announcing the sight setting. Both are indicated before
giving the command for firing, but may be omitted when the target
appears suddenly and is unmistakable; in such case battle sight is used
if no sight setting is announced.
The target or aiming point having been designated and the sight setting
announced, such designation or announcement need not be repeated until a
change of either or both is necessary.
Troops are trained to continue their fire upon the aiming point or
target designated, and at the sight setting announced, until a change is
ordered.
If the men are not already in the position of load, that position is
taken at the announcement of the sight setting; if the announcement is
omitted, the position is taken at the first command for firing.
When deployed, the use of the sling as an aid to accurate firing is
discretionary with each man.
TO LOAD
Being in line or skirmish line at halt: 1. With dummy (blank or ball)
cartridges, 2. LOAD.
At the command load each front-rank man or skirmisher faces half right
and carries the right foot to the right, about 1 foot, to such position
as will insure the greatest firmness and steadiness of the body;
raises, or lowers, the piece and drops it into the left hand at the
balance, left thumb extended along the stock, muzzle at the height of
the breast, and turns the cut-off up. With the right hand, he turns and
draws the bolt back, takes a loaded clip and inserts the end in the clip
slots, places the thumb on the powder space of the top cartrid
|