The Drill Pad
Instructional Resource Library



Instructional Formation

STEP I: Platoon, ATTENTION. AT EASE.

1. The next formation, which I will name, explain, and which you will conduct practical work on is the instructional formation.

2. This formation is used for teaching marching movements, squad and platoon drill.

3. The command for this formation is Instructional formation, MARCH. The command to return the formation back to its original configuration is FALL IN.

4. Instructional formation, MARCH is a two part command, Instructional formation is the preparatory command, and MARCH is the command of execution. FALL IN is a combined command.

5. When said in its entirety, the will sound as follows: Instructional formation, MARCH. FALL IN.

STEP II: Platoon, ATTENTION.

6. I use the talk-thru method of instruction to teach you this formation.

7. On the command of execution MARCH of Instructional formation, MARCH, the first rank kneels on their right knee, the second rank stands fast, the third rank takes one step to the right, the fourth rank takes one step to the left.

8. NOTE: The instructor may adjust the fourth rank as necessary to ensure they are uncovered

9. To return the platoon to its original configuration, the command is FALL IN.

10. On the command FALL IN, the fourth rank takes one step to the right, the third rank takes one step to the left, the second rank stands fast, and the first rank stands up, and obtains exact interval. The platoon must then align themselves on the person to their front.

11. NOTE: FOR RISK ASSESSEMET

12. On the command of execution MARCH of Instructional formation, MARCH, the first rank sits down, the second rank takes one step to the left and sits down, the third rank stands fast, the fourth rank takes one step to the left.

13. To return the platoon to its original configuration, the command is FALL IN.

14. On the command FALL IN, the fourth rank takes one step to the right, the third rank stands fast, the second rank stands up and takes one step to the right, and the first rank stands up, and obtains exact interval. The platoon must then align themselves on the person to their front.

STEP III: Platoon, ATTENTION.

15. At normal cadence

16. Instructional formation, MARCH. FALL IN. AT EASE.

17. What are your questions pertaining to this stretch with or without the talk-through method of instruction?