Training Circular TC 3-21. 5 Drill and Ceremonies MAY 2021

Book excerpt: This United States Army manual, Training Circular TC 3-21.5 Drill and Ceremonies MAY 2021, provides guidance for Army-wide uniformity in the conduct of drill and ceremonies. (Ceremonies are formations--the arrangement of elements of a unit in a prescribed manner--and movements in which a number of troops execute movements in unison and with precision just as in drill; however, their primary value is to render honors, preserve traditions, and stimulate esprit de corps.) It includes methods of instructing drill (movements by which a unit or individuals are moved in a uniform manner from one formation to another, or from one place to another, with movements executed in unison and with precision), teaching techniques, individual and unit drill, manual of arms for Infantry weapons, and various other aspects of basic drill instruction. The principal audience for TC 3-21.5 is all members of the profession of arms. Commanders--the Soldiers in charge--and staffs of Army headquarters serving as joint task force or multinational headquarters should also refer to applicable joint or multinational doctrine concerning the range of military operations and joint or multinational forces. Trainers and educators throughout the Army will also use this publication. Since all situations or eventualities pertaining to drill and ceremonies cannot be foreseen, commanders may find it necessary to adjust the procedures to local conditions. However, with the view toward maintaining consistency throughout the Army, the procedures prescribed herein should be followed as closely as possible. Personnel preparing to give drill instruction must be thoroughly familiar with chapters 3 through 7 before attempting to teach material in chapters 8 and 9.