Basic Drill

• 112 to 120 steps per minute

• 30-inch steps 

• Executed when halted at attention, marking time, marching forward at double time, or marching at half step. 

• The commands are “Forward, MARCH” or “Quick Time, MARCH.”

• 180 steps per minute 

• 36-inch steps 

• Executed when halted at attention, marking time, double timing in place, or marching forward at quick time.

• The command is “Double Time, MARCH.” 

*When given while marching, the command “MARCH” may be given as either foot strikes the deck.*

• 15-inch steps 

• Executed when halted at attention or marching forward at quick time.

• *it may be given as either foot strikes the deck *

• The command is “Half Step, MARCH.” 

• 12-inch steps 

*move your right (left) foot 12 inches to the right (left), then place your left (right) foot smartly beside your right (left) *

• The command “Right (Left) Step, MARCH” is given only when you are at a halt. 

• Hold your arms at your sides as in the position of attention.

• 15-inch steps 

*take 15-inch steps at quick time *

• The command “Backward, MARCH” is given only when you are at a halt.

• Swing your arms 6 inches to the front and 3 inches to the rear 

• The command is “At Ease, MARCH.” 

*given as either foot strikes the deck and only while marching at quick time. *

• After “MARCH,” you are no longer required to march in cadence but must keep interval and distance. Do not talk. 

• The command is “Route Step, MARCH.” 

*given as either foot strikes the deck and only while marching at quick time. *

• After “MARCH,” you are no longer required to march in cadence but must keep interval and distance. You may talk but in a low voice.