Question

Describe the action of a squad which is about to perform a drill with arms on the word of command “Squad, Parade Par”.

Hint:

The command “Squad, Parade Par” is the formal entry of the squad into the active training environment. Precision, synchronization, and automatic dressing (Saj) are the defining elements of this movement.

Answer 1

Step 1: The Cautionary Command Phase:
When the squad is standing at ease (Vishram) with rifles at the order arms (Baju Shastra) position outside the formal parade ground, the instructor gives the cautionary command: “Squad, Parade...”.
• Upon hearing this cautionary command, all cadets immediately snap to the attention (Savdhan) position with high alertness, maintaining perfect body alignment and holding their weapons firmly in the right hand.

Step 2: The Executive Command Phase (“...Par”):
On the executive command “...Par” (Parade On), the squad executes the following coordinated steps:
• The entire squad, led by the right-hand marker (Dahina Darshak), marches forward onto the designated parade ground in quick time (Tej Chal), holding their rifles steadily.
• They march to their pre-allocated positions, taking the standard number of paces (typically $15$ paces or as instructed by the parade commander).
• Upon reaching their respective coordinates, the squad halts in perfect synchronicity.

Step 3: Alignment and Sizing (Dressing):
Immediately after halting, the squad automatically performs the dressing-up action (Saj Drill) to align their ranks and files:
• The cadets snap their heads to the right (except the right-hand marker) and extend their left arm to maintain the correct lateral distance ($30$ inches).
• They adjust their positions with rapid, light-footed steps until the alignment is pristine.
• Once aligned, they return their heads and hands to the standard front-facing position, holding their rifles at the order arms position, standing absolutely static and silent.