HISTORY

Instructions for Sergeants and Corporals

When a man of his squad is warned for duty, he will examine him before he carries him to the parade, obliging him to take all his effects with him, unless when specially ordered to the contrary.

They will teach the soldiers of their squads how to dress with a soldier-like air; how to clean their arms and accoutrements; and how to mount or dismount their firelocks; for which purpose, each noncommissioned officer will always be provided with a turn-screw, and will suffer no soldier to take his arms to pieces without his permission.

On a march, the non-commissioned officers will preserve order and regularity; and suffer no man to leave his rank, without permission of the officer commanding the platoon.

A corporal will teach the sentinels to challenge briskly, and every thing else they are to do in their different situations; and when he relieves them, will hear them deliver the orders distinctly. When a guard is relieved, the non-commissioned officers will take the orders from those whom they relieve; when sent to visit the sentinels, they will instruct them in their duty.

When a sergeant is a file-closer in action, he will take care to keep the ranks and files properly closed; and when too much crowded, make the soldiers incline from the centre. When the files of his platoon are disordered by the loss of men, he will exert himself to dress it again with the utmost expedition. He will keep the greatest silence in the ranks, see that the men load well and quick, and take good aim. He will do all in his power to encourage the soldiers; and use the most vigorous means to prevent any from leaving the ranks, unless wounded.