Title: Mastering Close Order Drill in the JLBC Cadet Corps: A Step-by-Step Guide
Introduction
Close order drill is a fundamental aspect of military training and discipline focusing on precise and synchronized movements as a group. Within the JLBC Cadet Corps, compact order drill serves various purposes, from building unit cohesion and demonstrating organizational competence to developing leadership and attention to detail. This article will explore some critical maneuvers within close-order drills – Forward March, Right/Left Flanks, Quick Time, and Double Time.
Forward March
The Forward March is the first and most basic movement. To execute a proper Forward March:
Stand at the position of attention: heels together, feet at a 45-degree angle, hands curled into a fist and placed at the seam of your trousers, chest lifted, and eyes forward.
Upon the command "Forward, MARCH," lift the left foot first and march forward.
Each step should be about 30 inches long, measured from heel to heel, and cadets should march with a rhythmic, coordinated motion.
Right/Left Flanks
The Right and Left Flanks are maneuvers used to change the direction of movement by 90 degrees. Here's how to perform them:
Begin from a marching position.
Upon the command "Right (or Left) Flank, MARCH," the cadet takes one more step with the foot in the direction of the flank (right foot for the right side, left foot for the left flank).
On the next step, pivot on the ball of the trailing foot and step off in the new direction with the leading foot. The pivot should be so smooth and sharp that the cadet instantly faces the new direction.
Quick Time
Quick Time is a normal pace used during marches. In JLBC Cadet Corps, this is performed as follows:
The command "Quick Time, MARCH" is given from a halt.
Upon the order, the cadet steps off with the left foot, taking 30-inch steps at 120 steps per minute.
Keep the body erect, swing the arms naturally, and maintain coordinated, rhythmic movements.
Double Time
Double Time is a faster pace used for quick movements or physical conditioning. Here's how to perform Double Time:
The command "Double Time, MARCH" is given from a Quick Time march.
Upon the command, the cadet takes one more step in Quick Time, then steps off with the left foot at an increased pace, taking 30-inch steps at 180 steps per minute.
Unlike Quick Time, cadets do not swing their arms. Instead, they bend their arms at the elbows and hold their forearms horizontally at the waist level.
Conclusion
Mastering close-order drill maneuvers requires practice, precision, and discipline. It's crucial to remember that these drills are not just about following commands; they are about fostering unity, accuracy, and teamwork. The Forward March, Right/Left Flanks, Quick Time, and Double Time are some of the basic yet critical maneuvers in the JLBC Cadet Corps. Practice them diligently, and your skill and confidence will improve over Time.