Order Arms
STEP I
1. First and Second Squads, FALL OUT, U-Formation, FALL IN. RELAX. The next movement, which I will name, explain, have demonstrated, and which you will conduct practical work on, is order arms.
2. Order arms is the position of attention with the rifle. It is the key position for all stationary, facing, and marching movements.
3. The commands for this position are FALL IN and ATTENTION.
4. FALL IN is a combined command. ATTENTION is a two-part command when preceded by a preparatory command such as Squad, Platoon, or Demonstrator. I will use Demonstrator as the preparatory command, and ATTENTION is the command of execution.
5. When given, these commands are as follows: FALL IN. Demonstrator, ATTENTION.
STEP II
6. Demonstrator, POST. I will use the talk-through method of instruction.
7. Assume order arms on the command FALL IN, or from parade rest on the command of execution ATTENTION.
8. At order arms, maintain the position of attention. Place the butt of the rifle on the marching surface, centered on the right foot, with sights to the rear. The toe of the butt touches the foot so that the rear sight and pistol grip form a straight line to the front. Secure the rifle with the right hand in a “U” formed by the fingers (extended and joined) and thumb. Hold the rifle above the front sight assembly with the right thumb and forefinger pointed downward, and on line with flat surface of the hand guard. Keep the right hand and arm behind the rifle so that the right thumb is straight along the seam of the trouser leg.
9. NOTE: Facings, alignments, and short-distance marching movements are executed from order arms or sling arms. When these movements are commanded while at order arms, it is necessary to automatically raise the rifle approximately one inch off the marching surface on the command of execution. When the movement has been completed, automatically return the rifle to order arms.
10. At normal cadence, this position would look as follows: RELAX. FALL IN. RELAX. Demonstrator, ATTENTION. RELAX.
11. What are your questions pertaining to this position when executed at normal cadence or using the talk-through method of instruction?
12. Demonstrator, ATTENTION. You will now become my assistant instructor. FALL OUT.
STEP III
13. Platoon, ATTENTION. I will use the talk-through method of instruction.
