At the command =rest= or =at ease= the men, while carrying out the provisions of the drill regulations, should be cautioned to avoid assuming any position that has a tendency to nullify the object of the position of attention; standing on leg for instance; allowing the shoulders to slope forward; drooping the head; folding arms across chest, etc. The weight should always be distributed equally upon both legs; the head, trunk, and shoulders remain erect and the arms held in a position that does not restrict the chest or derange the shoulders. The positions illustrated here have been found most efficacious. Figs. C. and D.
=828.= The men form in a single or double rank, the tallest men on the right.
At this command, all except the right file execute "=eyes right=" and, beginning on the right, the men in each rank count 1, 2, 3, 4; each man turns his head and eyes to the front as he counts.
The instructor then commands: =1. Take distance, 2. MARCH, 3. Squad, 4. HALT.=
At the command =march=, No. 1 of the front rank moves straight to the front; Nos. 2, 3, and 4 of the front and Nos. 1, 2, 3, and 4 of the rear rank in the order named move straight to the front, each stepping off, so as to follow the preceding man at four paces; the command halt is given when all have their distances.
If it is desired that a less distance than four paces be taken, the distance desired should be indicated in the preparatory command. The men of the squad may be caused to cover No. 1 front rank by command cover.
The instructor then commands: =1. Right (left), 2. FACE, 3. COVER.=
At these commands the men face in the direction indicated and cover in file.
To assemble the squad the instructor commands: =1. Right (left), 2. FACE, 3. Assemble, 4. MARCH.=
After facing and at command march, No. 1 of the front rank stands fast, the other members of both ranks resuming their original positions, or for convenience in the gymnasium they may be assembled to the rear, in which case the assemblage is made on No. 4 of the rear rank.
Unless otherwise indicated, the guide is =always right=.
=829.= In addition to the regular squad or class work instructors should, when they notice a physical defect in any man, recommend some exercise which will tend to correct it.