Couvi's Blog

Saddlers' Tools

2007-09-16T16:17:00.001-07:00

These are scans from the Handbook for Quartermasters, 1930.

Plate 148. – Saddlers’ tools, set

Plate 148. – Saddlers’ tools, set list

Plate 148. – Saddlers’ tools, kit

Plate 148. – Saddlers’ tools, kit list

SADDLE, RIDING, MULE, M1913

2007-09-16T13:56:00.000-07:00

The mystery of the usage of the Saddle, Riding, Mule, M1913 is finally solved! In the Handbook for Quartermasters, 1930, Plate 105.-- Harness, pontoon, 6-mule, wheel (near set of double harness).

Detail view of the M1913.

Plate 106.-- Harness, pontoon, 6-mule, swing (half of double set)

HANDBOOK FOR QUARTERMASTERS-1930

2007-09-16T12:14:00.000-07:00

Handbook for Quartermasters,

Parts I to V, Quartermaster General, GPO, 1930

I. Administrative
II. Supply
III. Transportation
IV. Construction
V. Miscellaneous Information

These scans are from the Handbook for Quartermasters, 1930:

Plate 119. Cantle bag, M-1917.

Plate 120. Cavalry bridle, M-1909

Plate 121. Field Artillery Bridle (for individual mounts), M-1914.

Plate 122. Bridle and martingale, M-1920.

Plate 123. Riding bridle, quartermaster.

Plate 124. Halter, complete, M-1904.

Plate 125. Halter, headstall, quartermaster.

Plate 126. Leading harness, veterinary (half of a set).

Will some knowledgeable person please explain what this is for?

Plate 127. Pommel Pockets, M-1917.

Plate 128. Saddlebags, M-1904.

Plate 129. Quartermaster saddlebags.

Plate 130. Officers’ field saddle, M-1917.

Plate 131. Cavalry McClellan saddle, M-1904.

Plate 132. Cavalry McClellan saddle, M-1904 modified.

Note that it is not yet called the M-1928.

Plate 133. Field Artillery McClellan saddle, M-1904.

Plate 134. Riding saddle, mule, M-1913.

Plate 135. Riding saddle, packers’, full rigged.

Plate 136. Riding saddle, packers’, skeleton rigged.

Plate 137. Training saddle, M-1916.

Plate 138. Training saddle, M-1926.

Plate 139. Watering tank, M-1925.

The watering tank is one of the loads carried on the Phillips Pack Saddle (Cavalry type).

My Grandfather’s Syrup Mill

2007-09-09T07:52:00.000-07:00

The enclosed are photographs of my Grandfather, Ulysses Samuel Couvillion’s syrup mill on Yellow Bayou in Central Louisiana. He is the one in the middle with the white apron, a neighbor, Joe Voiselle, is to his left. The rollers are used to crush the sugar cane, fed into the machine by the small boy in the middle of the photograph. Note one cane is going through the crusher. The mule, or mules, walks around the mill to provide power for the crusher.

From the left: Lyman Voiselle; Unknown, possibly Albert Moreau; Lester E. Couvillion; Henry “Guy” Couvillion leaning on his crutch and Joe Voiselle.

The caption on the back reads: “U.S. Couvillion, Jr. (Brother), Huey Riche, (Neighbor) and Joseph Bordelon (neighbor) at Syrup Mill.”

The juice from the crushed cane goes through a pipe to a holding barrel and is let into a baffled pan. The fire under the pan was maintained by Jules “Sweet Papa” DuFour at about 1,000°. As the juice traveled through the pan the water was boiled off and thickened. Using a hygrometer and a lot of experience Papa Sam drained the syrup. It was canned by Henry “Guy (pronounced “Gee”) Couvillion.

No More Horses

2007-07-24T18:36:00.000-07:00

240mm Howitzer, Model of 1918

The 240mm Howitzer, Model of 1918, was of French design and American manufacture. The weights of the various loads made transportation by horse traction a practical impossibility. The advent of mechanical traction, not tied to railroads, made moving the larger artillery weapons more practical.

The platform was sunk into a pit and required considerable labor to install it. The weight of the entire unit was 41,296 lbs (18,771 kilos). The weights of each load ranged from 12,545 lbs to 16,320. The recoil system was hydro-pneumatic and its action was described as that of taking a railroad locomotive traveling at 105 miles per hour, stopping it in 36 inches and returning it to its point of origin without damage. Impressive in any era.

Maximum elevation is 60 degrees (1066 mils) and traverse is 10 degrees (178 mils) left or right of center. There is a lot of that bad boy in the ground.

Range was 16,000 yards or 14,770 meters.

DEAD MEN'S GUNS

2007-06-09T18:13:00.000-07:00

Dead Men’s Guns and Other Patton Stuff

The M1909 Colt .45 that once belonged to General Julio Cardenas, the head of Villa's bodyguard. Cardenas was Captain of the "Doradoes" the Golden Ones, the "bodyguard" for Francisco Villa. In accordance with typical Mexican Revolutionary decorum, he was called "General" Cardenas. General Cardenas and another Villista were killed by 2LT Patton using the single-action Colt he had purchased in March, 1915.

The M1909 Colt was taken from Cardenas’ body by Patton,

a nice new pistol for which the Colt Revolving Arms Co. has no records.

Cardenas' spurs, another "battlefield" pick up.

This broom-handle Mauser pistol taken from a dead German officer in 1918.

The saddle of Colonel George S. Patton, Commander of the 22nd Virginia Infantry, which was modified in the late 1800s with "new" stirrups. The saddle was commercially made in Philadelphia just prior to the Civil War.

All photographs courtesy of the Patton Museum of Cavalry and Armor, Ft Knox, KY.

MORE PATTON PISTOLS

2007-06-06T17:58:00.000-07:00

The Remington single shot was Patton's very first pistol - gotten around 1902.

The 1905 was Patton's first automatic pistol purchase.

The Colt .45 belonged to a good friend of Patton's in the 15th Cavalry during the expedition to Mexico. When he died (about 1925), he left it to Patton in his will.

The Walther PP was a presentation to Patton from the 90th Division - one of two they gave him (a "pair") - the other is at VMI. The 90th Division had captured a Walther factory and had a pistol engraved for every General officer in the Third Army. Patton was the only one to get two.

The Tokarev was a presentation from the Russian General that Patton drank under the table in May of 1945. The inscription basically thanks Patton for helping beat those *#%&@ Germans and was presented at Amstettin GE.

The little colt needs no explanation - the grips have the stars of a General and "GSP" in the grips. They are made from US silver quarters.

Patton's .38 cal Colt used for the Olympics of 1912.

All photographs courtesy of the Patton Museum of Cavalry and Armor, Ft Knox, KY.

PATTON PISTOLS

2007-05-31T17:47:00.000-07:00

All photographs courtesy of the Patton Museum of Cavalry and Armor, Fort Knox, KY.

GEN George S. Patton pistols and holster.

Above: GEN George S. Patton pistols.

Above: The lower pistol is the authentic Patton SAA. The upper pistol is a prop used in the movie “Patton” and carried by George C. Scott. The grips on the prop gun are painted wood with crude initials carved in. One can only wonder what other actors carried this gun in other films.

Above: The lower pistol is the authentic Patton S&W .357.

In this side by side comparison the authentic Patton weapons are on the left.

Pay Tables for 1917

2007-04-14T19:07:00.000-07:00

Field Service Pocket Book, United States Army,
1917, Washington, GPO, 1917

Chapter VII

PAY.

520. Table of Monthly Pay of Enlisted Men Serving in
Enlistment Periods as Indicated:

Private; private, second class; and bugler:
--First----------$30
--Second------- 33
--Third--------- 36
--Fourth-------- 37
--Fifth---------- 38
--Sixth---------- 39
--Seventh------ 40

Corporal (Artillery, Cavalry, Infantry), saddler, mechanic (Infantry, Cavalry, Field Artillery, Medical Department), and wagoner;
--First----------$36
--Second------- 39
--Third--------- 42
--Fourth-------- 45
--Fifth---------- 48
--Sixth---------- 51
--Seventh------ 54

Corporal (Engineers, Ordnance, Signal Corps, Quartermaster Corps, Medical Department); mechanic, Coast Artillery, Field Artillery; and musician, third class (Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery, Engineers):
--First----------$36
--Second------- 39
--Third--------- 42
--Fourth-------- 45
--Fifth---------- 48
--Sixth---------- 51
--Seventh------ 54

Sergeant (Artillery, Cavalry, Infantry); stable sergeant (Field Artillery, Cavalry, Infantry); mess sergeant (Field Artillery, Cavalry, Infantry); cook, horseshoer; radio sergeant; fireman; band corporal; musician, second class (Field Artillery, Cavalry, Infantry, Engineers); musician, third class, Military Academy:
--First----------$38
--Second------- 41
--Third--------- 44
--Fourth-------- 47
--Fifth---------- 50
--Sixth---------- 53
--Seventh------ 56

Sergeant, Engineers, Ordnance, Signal Corps, Quartermaster Corps, Medical Department); stable sergeant, Engineers; supply sergeant, Engineers; mess sergeant, Engineers; color sergeant; electrician sergeant, second class; band sergeant; musician, first class I(Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery, Engineers); musician, second class, Military Academy:
--First----------$44
--Second------- 48
--Third--------- 52
--Fourth-------- 56
--Fifth---------- 60
--Sixth---------- 64
--Seventh------ 68

Battalion sergeant major (Field Artillery, Infantry); squadron sergeant major; sergeant major, junior grade; master gunner; sergeant bugler; assistant band leader:
--First----------$48
--Second------- 52
--Third--------- 56
--Fourth-------- 60
--Fifth---------- 64
--Sixth---------- 68
--Seventh------ 72

Regimental sergeant major; regimental supply sergeant; sergeant major, senior grade; quartermaster sergeant, Quartermaster Corps; ordnance sergeant; first sergeant; battalion sergeant major, Engineers; battalion supply sergeant, Engineers; electrician sergeant, first class; sergeant first class (Quartermaster Corps, Engineers, Signal Corps); assistant engineer; musician, first class, Military Academy:
--First----------$51
--Second------- 55
--Third--------- 59
--Fourth-------- 63
--Fifth---------- 67
--Sixth---------- 71
--Seventh------ 75

Sergeant, first class, Medical Department; sergeant, field musician, Military Academy:
--First----------$56
--Second------- 60
--Third--------- 64
--Fourth-------- 68
--Fifth---------- 72
--Sixth---------- 76
--Seventh------ 80

Hospital sergeant; master engineer, junior grade; engineer:
--First----------$71
--Second------- 75
--Third--------- 79
--Fourth-------- 83
--Fifth---------- 87
--Sixth---------- 91
--Seventh------ 95

Quartermaster sergeant, senior grade, Quartermaster Corps; band leader; master signal electrician; master electrician, senor grade; master hospital sergeant; band sergeant and assist and leader, Military Academy:
--First----------$81
--Second------- 85
--Third--------- 89
--Fourth-------- 93
--Fifth---------- 97
--Sixth---------- 101
--Seventh------ 105

521. Notes.—(a) Privates, Medical Department, who had the grade of private, Hospital Corps, on June 2, 1916, are entitled to initial pay of $16 per month during the remainder of their current enlistment (Dec. Comp.; June 9, 1916). Men enlisted in the grade of private, Medical Department, or men transferred to that grade on or after June 3, 1916, are entitled to initial pay of $15.

(b) Each aviation enlisted man, while on duty requires him to participate regularly and frequently in aerial flights, or while holding the rating of aviation mechanician, shall receive an increase of 50 per cent in his pay.

(c) The base or initial pay of mess sergeants, Corps of Engineers, is $36 per month, and no more. The base or initial pay of mess sergeants of Infantry, Cavalry, and Artillery is $30 per month, and no more. Men properly detailed as mess sergeants in the arms of the service for which the grade of mess sergeant is not provided are entitled to the pay of the grades actually held by them, plus $6 per month, as provided in the act of May 11, 1908.

(d) Packmaster (sergeant, first class), assistant packmaster (sergeant), and cargador (corporal) of battery of mountain artillery or mountain artillery headquarters company; when no enlisted men of the Quartermaster Corps are attached for such positions, are entitled to initial pay at rate of $45, $36, and $24 monthly, respectively.

(e) “Commencing June one, nineteen hundred and seventeen and continuing until the termination of the emergency, all enlisted men of the Army of the United States in active service whose base pay does not exceed $21 per month shall receive an increase of $15 per month; those whose base pay is $30, $36, or $45 or more, increase of $6 per month, Provided, That the increases of pay herein authorized shall not enter into the computation of continuous-service pay.” (Act approved May 18, 1917)
Increase of twenty per centum for foreign service under act of June 30, 1902, not payable on increases of pay authorized under the act of May 18, 1917. (Dec. Comp., May 29, 1917)

522. Additional pay per month: Mess sergeant, $6; casemate electrician, $9; observer, first class, $9; plotter, $9; coxswain, $9; chief planter, $7; chief loader, $7; observer, second class, $7; gun commander, $7; gun pointer, $7; surgical assistant, $5; expert first-class gunner, Field Artillery, $5; expert rifleman, $5; nurse (first-class private), $3; sharpshooter, $3; first-class Gunner, $3; second-class gunner, $2; marksman, $2; dispensary assistant, $2; certificate of merit, $2.

UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT FOR FIELD SERVICE.

2007-04-09T18:31:00.000-07:00

Field Service Pocket Book,

United States Army,
1917, Washington, GPO, 1917

Uniform and Equipment for Field Service.

528. For all officers, acting dental surgeons, and veterinarians:

When Dismounted. When Dismounted– continued.
“A.” “A.” – Continued.

1. Service hat, with hat cord sewed on 8. Olive-drab woolen gloves, when prescribed
(peaked, four indentations.) (optional, when not on duty).
2. Olive-drab shirt. 9. Identification tag.
3. Service coat. 10. Haversack (containing meat can, knife,
fork, and spoon).
4. Service breeches. 11. Canteen (with canteen cover).
5. Russet-leather shoes (high). 12. Cup
6. Russet leather, pigskin, or canvas 13. First-aid packet (with pouch).
leggings, or woolen puttees. 14. Watch
7. Ribbons, but those entitled thereto 15. Notebook and pencils.
(if coat is worn).

When Mounted. When Mounted– continued.
“B.” “B.” – Continued.

Same as for dismounted officers, omitting 7. Saddlecloth.
“8. Olive-drab woolen gloves,” etc., and 8. Saddlebags or pommel pockets (containing
“10. Haversack (containing meat can, meat can, knife, fork, and spoon).
etc.,) and adding: 9. Surcingle or cooling strap.
1. Regulation riding gloves. 10. Nosebag to feed bag.
2. Spurs. 11. Horse brush.
3. Saddle. 12. Currycomb.
4. Halter (with old model equip.) 13. Lariat.
5. Bridle. 14. Picket pin.
6. Saddle blanket., 15. Ration bags (new model equip.)

For officers entitled to horse equipment, see par. 1520, A.R. 1917.

529. For all officers, except officers of the Medical Department and chaplains:

When Dismounted. When Mounted.
Add to “A.” Add to “B.”.

1. Pistol (with holster and 21 rounds of 1. Pistol (with holster and 21 rounds of
ammunition.) ammunition.)
2. Pistol Belt (to be worn over the coat) 2. Pistol Belt (to be worn over the coat)
3. Field glass. 3. Field glass.
4. Compass. 4. Compass.
5. Saber.
NOTE.—Company officers and battalion NOTE.—Medical officers on duty with
commanders of Infantry will carry whistles. sanitary units of the mobile army will Dispatch cases for staff officers. carry field glasses and compass.

Under par. 1522, A.R., 1917, items 1 and 2 may be drawn from the organization with which the officers is serving.

The field glasses issued to organizations by the Signal Corps are not issued for the personnel use of officers, and will not be used in lieu of the officers’ personal field glasses. This does not prohibit the use of high-power glasses by battery and machine-gun company commanders.

530. Notes.—(1) Whenever necessary for personal protection, the personnel of the Medical Department may carry pistols.

(2) Veterinarians when in the field will carry pistols and ammunition.

(3) General officers, officers of the staff corps and departments, and Cavalry officers will wear the officer’ leather waist belt with magazine pocket and necessary leather slides—for first-aid packet pouch, for canteen, and for pistol holster. Officers of Infantry, Field Artillery, Engineers, Coast Artillery, and Signal Corps will wear the web pistol belt, model of 1912.

531. For enlisted men:

When Dismounted.

1. Service hat, with hat cord sewed on (peaked, four indentations.)
2. Olive-drab shirt.
3. Service coat.
4. Service breeches.
5. Russet-leather shoes (high).
6. Leggings.
7. Identification tag.
8. Brassards, by those entitled to wear them.
9. Ribbons by those entitled thereto. (Ribbons
will not be worn on the olive–drab shirt).
10. Olive-drab woolen gloves, when
prescribed (optional when not on duty).
11. Field belt.,

When Mounted.

Same as dismounted, omitting “10. Olive-drab
woolen gloves,” and adding:

1. Regulation riding gloves, when prescribed.
2. Spurs.

532. The personnel equipment of enlisted men will be as prescribed in orders and regulations.

533. Notes.—(1) There are two kinds of service uniform, the woolen olive-drab and cotton olive-drab. The woolen olive-drab uniform will be prescribed for habitual wear when the climate or weather does not require the cotton olive-drab.
(2) When under arms, every enlisted man will carry the arms pertaining to his grade and branch of service.
(3) When dismounted service uniform, in the field, non-commissioned staff officers ill carry the pistol instead of the saber.
(4) When troops are traveling by rail, the train commander may cause arm and equipments not required for the necessary guard duty en route to be properly secured and stored in a property or baggage car. (Par. 393, F.S.R., 1914)

Clothing Component of the Field Kit and the Surplus Kit.

534. The field kit, clothing component, for all arms and branches of the service, mounted and dismounted, in addition to the clothing worn on the person, is composed of the following articles: One blanket; 1 comb; 1 drawers, pair; 1 poncho (dismounted met); 1 slicker (mounted men; for all enlisted men of the Quartermaster Corps, both mounted and dismounted; also drivers and ambulance orderlies); 1 soap, cake; 2 stockings, pairs; 1 toothbrush; 1 towel; 1 undershirt; 1 housewife (for 1 man of each squad). The foregoing field kit, which is carried on the person by dismounted men and on the saddle by mounted men, is supplemented by the surplus kit, the two together making up the clothing component of the service kit.

535. The surplus kit consists of 1 breeches, pair; 1 drawers, pair; 1 shirt, olive-drab; 1 shoes, russet leather, pair; 2 stockings, pairs; 1 shoe laces, extra pair; 1 undershirt. The surplus kit pertains to equipment “B” as part of the permanent camp equipment, to be forwarded to troops when service in instruction, maneuver, mobilization, or concentration camps, or when in active service a temporary suspension of operations permits the troops to refit. In peace-time maneuvers and marches the surplus kit may accompany the troops if so directed in the orders prescribing the movement. The vehicles and animals of the combat train and those representing the divisional supply train will be utilized to transport them.

536. Surplus kit bags will be issued to each organization at the rate of one to each squad, one for the sergeants, and one for the cooks and buglers, and one for every eight men of detachments.
Each bag will be marked with the letter of the company and the number of the regiment, as provided in paragraph 295, Army Regulations, for haversacks, and the proper designation of the squads to which the bags belong, both markings to be in the center of the front cover flap.

537. The kit bag for sergeants and that for the cooks and buglers will be marked, “Sergeants,” “Cooks and buglers,” respectively. Similarly the kit bags for detachments will be appropriately marked.

538. The kit of each man will be packed as follows: Stockings to be rolled tightly, one pair in each shoe; shoes placed together, heels at opposite ends, soles outward, wrapped tightly in underwear, and bundle securely tied around the middle by the extra pair of shoe laces, each bundle to be tagged with the company number of the owner. These individual kits will be packed in the surplus-kit in two layers of four kits each, the breeches and olive-drab shirts to be neatly folded and packed on the top and sides of the layers, the jointed cleaning rod and case provided for each squad being attached by the thongs on the inside of the bag.

Clothing Allowance for Enlisted Men

539. The aggregate cost of the allowance of clothing in kind is the basis of the annual money allowance to the soldier during his term of enlistment.

Money Allowance for Clothing Drawn by Enlisted Men of
the Army Except Philippine Scouts.

Initial allowance - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - $43.05
Monthly share of initial allowance - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - -- - - - - - - 7.18
Daily share of initial allowance - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - --- - - - - - .24
Semiannual allowance- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - 12.40
Monthly allowance - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2.07
Daily allowance - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - .07
Total money allowance for 4 years - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - 142.26

The above allowance is subject to change.

540. Chevrons, stripes, badges, and identification tag are issued gratuitously. Overcoats, ponchos, slickers, blankets, brassards, oilskin and rubber clothing, as well as certain special clothing provided for troops in Alaska, are issued on memorandum receipt and form no part of the soldier’s allowance.

Arms and Equipment of the Infantry

541. (a) For mounted orderlies (privates of headquarters company) and corporal of supply company: 1 can, bacon; 1 can, condiment; 1 brush and thong (to be omitted if rifle has spare-part container); 1 canteen; 1 canteen cover, dismounted; 100 cartridges, ball, rifle, caliber .30; 21 cartridges, ball, pistol caliber .45; 1 cartridge belt, caliber .30; 1 cup; 1 fork; 1 front sight cover; 1 gun sling; 1 knife; 2 magazines, pistol, extra; 1 magazine pocket, web, double; 1 meat can; 1 oiler and thong case(to b omitted if rifle is provided with spare-part container); 1 pistol; 1 pistol holster; 1 pouch for first-aid packet; 1 rifle scabbard; 1 spoon; 1 pair spurs; 1 set spur straps; 1 United States rifle, caliber .30; 1 wire cutter; and 1 wire-cutter carrier (for mounted orderlies only).

(b) For sergeants major, regimental supply sergeants, color sergeants, and also the first sergeant of supply company, same as (a) except rifle and accessories thereto, substituting pistol belt for cartridge belt.

(c) For members of machine gun company, same as (a) except rifle and accessories thereto, adding 1 bolo and scabbard for each man and 4 wire cutters and carriers for the company , substituting the pistol belt for cartridge belt.

(d) For mess sergeants, supply sergeants, sergeants, corporals, cooks, mechanics, and privates of a company; mess sergeants, supply sergeants, stable sergeants, sergeants, cooks, and horseshoers of headquarters company; and mess sergeants, stable sergeants, cooks, saddlers, and horseshoers of supply company, same as (a) except pistol and accessories thereto, rifle scabbard, spurs and straps; adding 1 bayonet and scabbard, 1 haversack, and 1 pack carrier.

Seventeen privates in each rifle company are designated to carry wire cutters in carriers.

The following intrenching tools are carried by designated members of each rifle company; 8 hand axes and carriers, 34 pick mattocks and carriers, 68 shovels and carriers.

(e) For first sergeants and members of band of headquarters company and first sergeants and buglers of a company, the same as (a) except rifle and accessories thereto, spur and straps, adding 1 haversack and 1 pack carrier, substituting pistol belt for cartridge belt; wire cutters and carriers are carried by company buglers (1 each).

(f) Horse equipment of reach man mounted on a horse: 1 bridle curb, model of 1902, and 1 bridle watering (or 1 bridle Cavalry, model of 1909); 1 currycomb; 1 feed bag and 1 grain bag (or 1 nose bag); 1 halter headstall; 1 halter tie rope; 1 horse brush; 1 lariat; 1 lariat strap; 1 link; 1 picket pin; 1 saddlebags, pair; 1 saddle blanket; 1 saddle, Cavalry; 1 surcingle.

(g) Horse equipment for each man mounted on a mule: 1 currycomb; 1 feed bag and 1 grain bag; halter bridle; model of 1910; 1 horse brush; 1 lariat; 1 lariat strap; 1 link; 1 picket pin; 1 saddle, mule; 1 saddlebags, pair; 1 saddle blanket; 1 surcingle.

(h) For men armed with rifle: For every 8 rifles 1 cleaning rod, 1 cleaning rod case, 1 screw driver.

(i) For each squad of a company: 1 hand ax or 1 bolo, and 1 hand-ax carrier or 1 bolo scabbard, to be carried by privates; 2 pick mattocks, 2 pick-mattock carriers, to be carried by privates; 4 shovels, 4 shovel carriers, to be carried by privates, 1 wire cutter, 1 wire-cutter carrier, to be carried by corporal.
Each odd-numbered squad of a company will have 1 bolo and 1 bolo scabbard.
Each even-numbered squad of a company will have 1 hand ax and 1 hand-ax carrier.

(j) For wagoner (Infantry) with each authorized wagon of field and combat train, same as (a) except rifle and accessories thereto, spurs, spur straps, wire cutter and carrier, adding haversack, pack carrier, and substitution pistol belt for cartridge belt.

Miscellaneous Equipment

542. Each supply company (troop) carries the following engineer property:

(a) One hundred twenty compasses, watch; 8 for each company or troop and 24 for assignment by regimental commander.

(b) Four reconnaissance equipment sets, 1 set for regimental headquarters and one set for each battalion or squadron.

(c) One intrenching equipment set carried on wagon, tool, escort type. (When regiment is serving in a division this wagon belongs to the Divisional Engineer Train).

543. Each supply troop carries demolition equipment and demolition supplies carried on 3 mules, identically loaded. 1 mule for each squadron.

544. Note.—For items of the above equipment and supplies see Unit Accountability Manuals.

545. Each company carries the following signal property: 2 field glasses, type A or B; 3 field glasses, type EE; 2 kits, flag, combination, Infantry.

546. Each machine-gun company carries 2 field glasses, type C; 4 field glasses type EE; three kits, flag, combination, standard.

547. Each headquarters company carries 4 field glasses, type C; 4 field glasses, type EE; 16 kits, flag, combination, standard; 4 kits, Artillery, signal.

548. The following ordnance property is held on “unit accountability” (equipment A): 2 telescopic sights with screw driver wrench for each company; 2 pouches for telescopic sights; 2 rifles for telescopic sight; 30 pouches of adhesive tape and foot powder {emphasis mine. LTC}; 15 pouches for adhesive tape and foot powder for machine-gun company; 10 pouches for adhesive tape and foot powder fro headquarters company; 1 stencil, personal equipment, each company, machine-gun company, headquarters company, and supply company; 1 range finder, 80 c. m. base, for each battalion; 1 arm repair chest, headquarters company only; blacksmiths’ tools for machine gun company and supply company; saddlers’ tools for machine gun company and supply company; arm locker, model of 1903 rifle, 1 each for company, headquarters company and supply company; arm locker, automatic pistol, caliber .45, 1 for machine-gun company, marking outfit, for stamping metal, for machine gun company; seal stamp, for machine-gun company; stencil outfit, for machine-gun company; arm repair chest, complete, model of 1910, 3 to be carried by headquarters company for use of each battalion.

Arms and Equipment for the Cavalry.

New Model Equipment.

549. (a) Arms and equipment of all enlisted men, except buglers and members of bands and machine-gun troops; 1 bandoleer, cavalry; 1 brush and thong (to be omitted if rifle is provided with spare-part container); 1 canteen; 1 canteen cover, dismounted; 90 cartridges, ball, caliber .30; 21 cartridge, ball, pistol, caliber .45; 1 cartridge belt, cavalry; 1 cup; 1 fork; 1 front-sight cover; 1 gun sling; 1 knife; 2 magazines, pistol, extra; 1 meat can; 1 oiler and thong case (to be omitted if rifle is provided with spare-part container); 1 pistol, caliber .45; 1 pistol holster; 1 pouch for first-aid packet; 1 ration bag; 1 rifle cover; 1 rifle, United States, caliber .30; 1 saber; 1 saber knot; 1 saber scabbard; 1 spoon; 1 spurs, pair; 1 spur straps, set; 1 stock cover {emphasis mine. LTC}; 1 wire cutter.

(b) For members of band: 1 canteen; 1 canteen cover, dismounted; 21 cartridge, ball, pistol, caliber .45; 1 cup; 1 fork; 1 knife; 2 magazines, pistol, extra; 1 meat can; 1 pistol, caliber .45; 1 pistol holster; 1 pouch for first-aid packet; 1 ration bag; 1 spoon; 1 spurs, pair; 1 spur straps, set.
(c) For first sergeant of headquarters troop (drum major) {emphasis mine. LTC}, in addition to

(b): 1 saber, 1 saber knot; 1 saber scabbard.

(d) For members of machine-gun troop, in addition to (b): 1 bolo; 1 bolo scabbard; 1 wire cutter.

(e) For non-commissioned staff officers and first sergeants, in addition to (a): 1 record case, non-commissioned officer’s.

(f) For buglers, in addition to (b): 1 wire cutter {emphasis mine. LTC}.

(g) Horse equipment for each enlisted man individually mounted on a horse: 1 bridle, cavalry; 1 carrier strap; 1 cooling strap; 1 currycomb; 1 feed bag; 1 grain bag; 1 horse brush; 1 intrenching took carrier ( only for men of troop and headquarters troop armed with rifle); 1 lariat; 1 picket pit; 1 picket-pin case (only for men armed with rifle); 1 picket pin carrier, special (only for men without rifle); pommel pockets; 1 ration bag retaining strap,[1] special (for men not armed with saber); 1 rifle carrier (only for men armed with rifle); 1 saber carrier (only for men armed with saber); 1 saddle; 1 saddle blanket.

(h) Horse equipment for each enlisted man individually mounted on a mule: 1 carrier strap; 1 cooling strap; 1 currycomb; 1 feed bag; 1 grain bag; 1 halter bridle; 1 horse brush; 1 lariat; 1 picket pit; 1 picket-pin case; 1 pommel pocket; 1 rifle carrier boot; 1 saber carrier; 1 saddle mule; 1 saddle blanket.

(i) Intrenching tools for members of the troop and headquarters troop (except band): Hatchet and hatchet cover; 1 per sergeant (does not include N.C.S.O. or first sergeant). Pick, cavalry, and pick cover, 1 for every 4 men (except sergeants and buglers). Shovel, 3 for every 4 men (except sergeants and buglers).

(j) For men armed with rifle: For every 8 rifles 1 cleaning rod; 1 cleaning-rod case; 1 screw driver.

(k) For wagoner for each authorized wagon of the field and combat train: 1 canteen; 1 canteen cover, dismounted; 21 cartridges, ball, pistol, caliber .45; 1 cup; 1 fork; 1 knife; 2 magazines, pistol, extra; 1 meat can; 1 pack carrier; 1 pistol belt without saber ring; 1 pistol holster, caliber .45; 1 pouch for first-aid packet; 1 spoon.

Miscellaneous Equipment for the Cavalry.

550. Each troop carries the following ordnance property:
Two pouches, telescopic sights.
Two rifles for telescopic sights.
Two telescopic sights, with screw-driver ring.
Record case, non-commissioned officer: Troop, 1; headquarters troop, 7; machine-gun troop,

1; supply troop, 4.
Stencil, personal equipment: Troop, 1; headquarters troop, 1; machine-gun troop, 1;
supply troop, 1.
Stencil, wagon: Headquarters troop, 1.
Range finder, 80 c. m. base, with carrying piece and tripod: machine-gun troop, 1.
Arms repair chest, complete, model 1910: Headquarters troop, 1.
Pistol-cleaning kit: Machine-gun troop, 1; supply troop, 1.
Troop pannier: Troop, 1; headquarters troop, 1; machine-gun troop, 1; supply troop, 1.
Officer’s horse equipment, sets: Troop, 3; headquarters troop, 7; for staff officers,

veterinarians, and chaplains, machine-gun troop, 4; supply troop, 3.
Intrenching tools:
Hatchets: Troop, 8; headquarters troop, 6.
Hatchet covers: Troop, 8; headquarters troop, 6.
Picks, cavalry: Troop, 24; headquarters troop, 11.
Shovels, Cavalry: Troop, 72; headquarters troop, 33.
Sledge hammers: Troop, 1; headquarters troop, 1; machine-gun troop, 1; supply troop, 1.
Steel tape: 5-foot: Troop, 1.
Wire Cutters: Troop, 105; headquarters troop, 57; machine-gun troop, 91; supply troop, 14.
Marking outfit, for leather: Headquarters troop, 1.
Marking outfit, for metal: Headquarters troop, 1.
Stencil outfit: Headquarters troop, 1.
Saddlers’ and blacksmiths’ tools: These tools are issued complete, boxed for each troop,
headquarters troop, machine-gun troop, and supply troop. Complete list with each box, and
may also be found in the Cavalry Unit Accountability Manual.

Arms and Equipment for the Field, Horse, and Mountain Artillery.

551. (a) For enlisted men individually mounted, including members of band and for drivers: 1 can, bacon; 1 canteen; 1 canteen cover, dismounted; 21 cartridges, ball, pistol; 1 cup; 1 fork; 1 haversack, 1 knife; 2 magazines, extra; 1 meat can; 1 pistol; 1 pistol belt without saber ring; 1 pistol holster; 1 pouch for first-aid packet; 1 spoon; 1 spurs, pair; 1 spur straps, set.

(b) For cannoneers or dismounted men: 1 can, bacon; 1 can, condiment; 1 canteen; 1 canteen cover, dismounted; 21 cartridges, ball, pistol; 1 cup; 1 fork; 1 knife; 2 magazines, extra; 1 meat can; 1 pistol; 1 pistol belt without saber ring; 1 pistol holster; 1 pouch for first-aid packet; 1 spoon.

For dismounted men of the mountain artillery(except members of the band) same as (b), adding 1 bolo and scabbard.

(c) Horse equipment for each man mounted on a horse: 1 bridle, field artillery; 1 currycomb; 1 feed bag; 1 grain bag; 1 halter headstall; 1 halter tie rope; 1 horse brush; 1 link; 1 saddle, McClellan, field artillery; 1 saddlebags, pair; 1 saddle blanket; 1 surcingle.

(d) Horse equipment for each driver: 1 currycomb; 1 horse brush.

(e) For each draft horse in addition to harness: 1 feed bag, 1 grain bag; 1 surcingle.

(f) For each spare horse: 1 feed bag, 1 grain bag; 1 halter headstall; 1 halter tie rope; 1 saddle blanket; 1 surcingle.

(g) Horse equipment for each man mounted on a mule (mountain artillery): 1 currycomb; 1 feed bag; 1 grain bag; 1 halter bridle (with leather reins); 1 horse brush; 1 link; 1 saddle, mule, riding; 1 saddle bags, pair; 1 saddle blanket; 1 surcingle.

(h) For pack mules in addition to pack harness (mountain artillery): 1 currycomb; 1 feed bag; 1 grain bag; 1 halter bridle (with leather reins); 1 horse brush; 1 surcingle.

(i) For bell and spare horses and spare mules (mountain artillery): 1 feed bag; 1 grain bag; 1 halter headstall; 1 halter tie rope; 1 saddle blanket; 1 surcingle.

(j) Under the provisions of paragraph 1522 A. R. 1917 organization commanders may keep on hand a sufficient number of complete sets of pistols and accessories for issue to officers.
The pistol ammunition required will be taken from the ammunition which is held by the organization commander for authorized instructions, firing, or target practice.

Miscellaneous Equipment.

552. For lists of engineer, signal, and ordnance property held on unit accountability, see Unit Accountability Equipment Manuals of the several types and caliber of guns and howitzers.

Arms and Equipment for the Engineers.

New Model Equipment (1910).

553. (a) Arms and equipments for all enlisted men, except those specified in paragraphs (d), (e) and (f) below: 1 United States rifle, caliber .30; 1 brush and thong; 1 oiler and thong case; 1 front-sight cover; 1 bacon can; 1 canteen; 1 canteen cover, dismounted; 80 cartridges, ball, caliber .30; 1 cup; 1 condiment can; 1 gun sling; 1 meant can; 1 knife; 1 fork; 1 spoon; 1 pouch for first-aid packet.

(b) Mounted men (except those specified in paragraphs(d), (e) and (f) below) will have in addition to (a): 1 cartridge belt, caliber .30, mounted; 21 cartridges, ball, pistol, caliber .45; 1 pistol, 1 pistol holster; 2 magazines, extra; 1 magazine pocket, web, double; 1 spurs, pair; 1 spur straps, set.

(c) Dismounted men (except those specified in paragraphs(d), (e) and (f) below) will have in addition to (a): 1 bayonet; 1 bayonet scabbard; 1 cartridge belt, caliber .30, dismounted; 1 haversack; 1 pack carrier.

(d) For sergeants major, master engineers, senior and junior grade, regimental and battalion supply sergeants, sergeants, first class, color sergeants, sergeants bugler, company buglers, and members of band: 1 pistol; 1 pistol belt, without saber ring; 1 pistol holster; 2 magazines, pistol, extra; 21 cartridges, ball, pistol, caliber .45; 1 haversack and 1 pack carrier, if dismounted; 1 canteen; 1 canteen cover, dismounted; 1 cup; 1 bacon can; 1 condiment can; 1 knife; 1 fork, 1 spoon; 1 pouch for first-aid packet; 1 meat can; 1 pair spurs and 1 ser spur straps, if mounted.

(e) For first sergeants in addition to (d): 1 pouch for Weldon range finder; 1 steel tape, 60-foot; 1 steel tape 5-foot; 1 Weldon range finder.

See Figure 27, Weldon Range Finder, at http://www.surplusrifle.com/shooting2006/visitria/index.asp.

(f) For wagoner (engineer) with each authorized wagon of field and combat train: 1 pistol; 1 pistol belt, without saber ring; 1 pistol holster; 2 magazines, pistol, extra; 21 cartridges, ball, pistol, caliber .45; 1 haversack; 1 pack carrier; 1 canteen; 1 canteen cover, dismounted; 1 cup; 1 bacon can; 1 condiment can; 1 knife; 1 fork; 1 spoon; 1 pouch for first-aid packet; 1 meat can.

(g) Horse equipment for each enlisted man individually mounted on horse: 1 cavalry bridle, or curb bridle, model of 1902; 1 watering bridle (issued only with model of 1902 curb bridle); 1 currycomb; 1 feed bag; 1 grain bag; 1 halter headstall; 1 halter tie rope; 1 horse brush; 1 lariat; 1 lariat strap; 1 link; 1 picket pin; 1 rifle scabbard (if armed with rifle); 1 saddle, cavalry, complete; 1 pair saddlebags; 1 saddle blanket; 1 surcingle.

(h) For men armed with rifle: Cleaning rod, clearing-rod case; screw driver; 1 for every 8 rifles.

(i) For officers entitled to horse equipment, see par. 1520, A. R., 1917.

(k sic) Pistol equipment for use of officers under A. R. 1522.

Miscellaneous Equipment for the Engineers.

554. In addition to the individual and horse equipment listed above, the following ordnance property is carried, as follows:

Stencil, personal equipment: Band, 1; company, 1; battalion headquarters, 1; regimental
headquarters, 1.
Pistol-cleaning kit: Band 1.
Wagon stencil: Regimental headquarters, 1.
Saddler’s tolls (equipment “A”) for both dismounted and mounted organizations, as per
Engineers Unit Accountability Equipment Manual.

555. The following articles of equipment “B” for both dismounted and mounted organizations is carried in the field by regimental or battalion headquarters as equipment “A”.

Cleaning rods: 20 for company, dismounted; 13 for company mounted.
Marking outfit for leather and marking outfit for metal: 1 each for company and regimental
headquarters, dismounted, and 1 for each company, mounted.
Stencil sets: For dismounted organizations, 2 for regimental headquarters, dismounted,

and 1 for battalion headquarters.
Arms chests complete, model 1910: 2 for regimental headquarters; 1 for battalion

headquarters, mounted.

556. The following signal property is carried by each company of dismounted and

mounted Engineers: Kits, flag, combination, standard, 4; glasses, field, type A (or type B), 2.

Field Battalion, Signal Troops.

557. Officers, arms, and equipment as for officers, mounted.

558. Enlisted men, mounted and dismounted, are armed with pistol.

All Arms.

559. The following equipment of the soldier mounted applies to all arms with slight modifications:

Equipment on person:
1 pistol in holster, strap around leg.
1 cartridge belt and suspenders.
2 pistol magazines, extra.
1 magazine pocket, double.
Round of ammunition, rifle: 90 cavalry, 100 infantry, 80 engineers.
21 rounds of ammunition, pistol.
1 identification tag (worn under the shirt suspended from a cord around the neck).
2 spurs and straps.
Wire cutters: 1 for each trooper; 1 for each infantry squad. {emphasis mine. LTC}
1 Weldon range finder in pouch (By designated bugler on belt. In lieu of this the new 80 C. M. base range finder will be carried on combat trains when issued.) {emphasis mine. LTC}

See Figure 27, Weldon Range Finder, at http://www.surplusrifle.com/shooting2006/visitria/index.asp.

1 steel tape, 60 feet (in left saddle pocket by bugler carrying range finder). {emphasis mine. LTC}
2 pistol belts (worn by buglers).
4 kits, flag, combination (by buglers and 2 designated signalmen, strap over right shoulder).
2 bugles with slings (by buglers, sling over right shoulder).
2 glasses, field, type A or B (by buglers, strap over right shoulder).
6 compasses, watch (by sergeants, in right shirt pocket).
3 glasses, field, type EE (by first sergeant and two senior duty sergeants
(strap over left shoulder).
7 whistles and chains (by sergeants, in left shirt pocket).
1 guidon, service, with case and staff.
1 guidon, silk, with case and staff (occasion for use see par. 235 A. R.)
2 telescopic sights with screw-driver wrench (by designated expert shots).
2 rifles for telescopic sights (by designated expert shots).
2 pouches, telescopic sights (by designated expert shots).
1 horseshoer’s emergency equipment 9carried on horse by horseshoers)---
1 pincers.
1 shoeing hammer.
1 hoof knife.
1 jointed horseshoe, No. 2.
1 rasp.
Horseshoe nails, assorted.
1 4-ounce bottle, chloro-lin or kreso.

Clothing and equipment on horse:
1 bridle, complete, and link.
1 halter and tie rope or strap.
1 saddle, complete.
1 saddle blanket.
1 rifle in scabbard (on near side).
1 gun sling (on rifle).
1 front sight cover (on rifle).
1 oiler and thong case containing thong and brush and sperm oil (in butt of rifle).
1 saber and scabbard with saber knot (on right side, sloping at an angle of 45°).
1 surcingle (passed over saddle and under quarter straps).
1 picket pin and lariat (coiled and fasted to near cantle ring by lariat strap).
1 lariat strap.
1 canteen, strap, cup (strap through handle of cup and snapped in off side cantle tie ring).
1 slicker (rolled and strapped on pommel).
1 saddlebags (straps buckled in cincha rings) containing:

-----Left side---
1meat can.
1 knife.
1 fork.
1 spoon.

-----Right side---
1 horse brush.
1 currycomb.
2 fitted horseshoes (wrapped in cloth).
16 nails, horseshoe (in oiled cloth).

Reserve rations and other extra articles in saddle bags should be so

distributed between the two pockets to balance the weight on the horse.

1 blanket roll (44 inches long, 6 inches in diameter, and ends pressed inward)

containing.
-1 shelter tent, half.
-5 shelter-tent pins.
-1 shelter-tent pole.
-1 shelter-tent rope.
-1 blanket.
-1 comb.
-1 drawers.
-2 pairs stockings.
-1 toothbrush.
-1 towel.
-1 cake soap.
-1 undershirt.
-1 housewife (by squad leader only).

560. Fundamental company equipment, variable with strength, carried on wagons: Two rakes, steel; 1 bag, water, sterilizing; bars, mosquito, single (1 for 2 men); 7 headnets, mosquito (for guard only; if no mosquito bars are furnished, 1 per man); 2 buckets, G.I.; 2 lantern frames combination;2 globes, lantern; 2 wicks, lantern; 1 chest, anvil and block, and 1 chest, forge cavalry (for list of tools, see p. 23 C.U.A.E.M.); shoes, horse, extra, 73 pounds; nails, horseshoe, 15 pounds (in small box packed in forge chest); calks, toe horseshoe, 1 per shoe (supplied when necessary); coal, smithing, 25 pounds; 1 stretcher, shoe, 1 company barber kit; soap, 13 pounds (issued as required); matches, 24 boxes; candles, lantern (as ordered by C.O.); powder, hypochlorite of lime, 50 tubes (issued as required); oil, mineral, 3 gallons (issued as required); salt, rock, 14 pounds.
Forage: on each vehicle, reserve of one day’s grain; in ration section of field train, 2 days’ grain.
Rations: In ration section of train, 2 days’ field, 1 days reserve.
Saddler’s tools, 1 set (for list of tools, see p. 23 C.U.A.E.M.).
One picket line, 250 feet ¾-inch; 5 picket pins; 1 sledge hammer; on pack horse if available.
One stencil, canteen.
One farrier’s field equipment to be used until pannier is furnished (limit of weight, 18 pounds).
Cooking utensils, 1 set: One cake turner; 1 cleaver, meat; 1 flour sieve; 1 fork, meant, large; 1 knife butcher; 1 ladle, soup; 1 fire irons (or grate) set (20 pounds); 3 kettles, camp; 3 pans, bake; 1 pan, dish.
One kit saddler’s supplies, limit of weight, 30 pounds (List of articles not prescribed.)
Three company repair kits and spare parts, rifle. To be used until arm-repair chest is supplied. Carried by headquarters company or troop.
One pistol-cleaning kit and spare parts, pistol. To be used until arm-repair chest is supplied.
One box cleaning material (to be used until arm-repair chest is supplied).

[1] This strap is to be attached to the off cantle hinge by means of the billet and buckle; the depending billet buckles to the carrier strap. The ration bag is secured to the D ring.

1846 Mule Harness

2006-07-12T16:55:00.000-07:00

New information from our friend and ally, Mr. Stephen J. Allie, Director, Frontier Army Museum at Fort Leavenworth, KS. Mr. Allie located this material in the National Archives.

See below on 1846 Mule Harness. Note particularly the saddle illustrated.

2006-01-28T18:38:00.000-08:00

The R.O.T.C. Manual-Cavalry

Chapter VII.

Cavalry Drill and Combat Signals

These images were taken from, The R.O.T.C. Manual-Cavalry, National Service Publishing Co. Washington, 1933, pages 234, 237 and 239. Text is from pages 233, 235, 237 and 239.

General Provisions. Drill and combat signals are for the purpose of transmitting commands and information. They are employed when oral commands are not desirable, or are impracticable.

Signals may be given by whistle, or by arm-and-hand. To render any arm-and-hand signals more visible, the saber or headdress may be carried in the hand during the execution of the signal.

Whistle signals will be made with the whistle prescribed for the leader or commander concerned.

In the list of arm-and-hand signals, signals are prescribed for the right arm and hand, unless specifically stated otherwise; however, any signal may be executed, when necessary with left arm and hand.

Signals must be plainly visible to those concerned in their execution. They should be made with precision, every position taken by the arm and hand during the signal being distinct and clear.

Arm-and-hand signals include both preparatory signals and signals of execution. Whenever the command for any movement includes both a preparatory command and a command of execution, both a preparatory signal and a signal of execution must be used.

Preparatory arm-and-hand signals are made from the position of the hand at the side, and the signal of execution by the return of the hand to the side. Preparatory signals with the saber are made from the position of carry saber, and the signal of execution by the return to carry saber.

Combination arm-and-hand signals (those made-up of two or more elements) should be avoided, unless the component parts are easily recognized; and they should never be used when a single signal will serve the purpose. When used, they should always be made-up in the same sequence as an oral command would be worded; for example, the proper sequence of signals for Line of Troops in Column of fours would be: Line, followed by troops, followed by Column of fours.

Whistle Signals.

Whistle signals other than the two given below are prohibited.

Attention to orders. A short blast of the whistle. This signal is used to fix the attention of the troops, or of their commanders and leaders, preparatory to giving commands, orders, or signals.

Suspend firing. A long blast of the whistle. This signal should be verified at once by an arm-and-hand signal, or by other means.

Arm-and-Hand Signals.

The following general arm-and-hand signals, when appropriate, are applicable to all cavalry units:

Are you ready? or I am ready (execution). Extend the arm toward the leader for whom the signal is intended, hand raised, fingers extended and joined, palm toward the leader.

Assemble (preparatory). Raise the hand vertically to the full extend of the arm, palm to the front, fingers extended and joined, then describe slowly with the arm small horizontal circles about the head.

Attention (execution). Raise the arm vertically to its full extent, palm to the front, and move the arm and hand slowly back and forth several times from right to left and from left to right, in a vertical plane.

Bring up the led horses. Same as prepare to mount.

By the right (left) flank. (preparatory). Extend the hand horizontally, to the full extend of the arm, directly to the right (left).

Cease firing (execution). Raise the forearm as prescribed for suspend firing, and swing it up and down in front of the face.

Change direction (preparatory). Extend the arm horizontally, palm down, in the direction of the marching flank; and then make a wide sweeping movement ( with the arm in a horizontal plane) toward the new direction, and point in that direction.

Column (preparatory). Raise the arm vertically to its full extent; then drop the arm to the rear, and describe circles (in a vertical plane to the right) with the arm fully extended.

Column right (left) Column half right (half left) (preparatory). Same as described for change direction.

Commence firing (execution). Extend the hand horizontally in front of the body to the full extend of the arm, palm down; then move the arm several times through a wide horizontal arc.

Decrease the gait (preparatory). Raise the right elbow to a position above and to the right of the right shoulder, the forearm extending upward and to the left, right hand above the head, palm to the front. Except when the leader’s example indicates otherwise, a decrease in gait of one degree is understood.

Disregard (execution). Place the hand against the back at the height of the waist, back of the hand toward the body.

Double time (preparatory). Same as increase the gait.

Fight on foot, action right (left, front or rear) (execution). Strike straight from the shoulder, with the closed fist, several blows in the direction in which the action is desired.

Fire faster (execution). Execute rapidly the signal commence firing.

Fire slower (execution). Execute slowly the command commence firing.

Flock (preparatory). Extend the arm to the side horizontally, fingers extended and joined, and describe small vertical circles with hand and arm.

Follow me (execution). Same as forward.

Forward (preparatory). Raise the hand vertically to the full extend of the arm, palm to the front; then lower the hand and arm in the direction of movement ( until horizontal).

Fours (preparatory). Raise the hand vertically to the full extent of the arm, all fingers extended and separated, thumb closed in the palm of the hand.

Fours left about (preparatory). Same as fours, followed by to the rear.

Fours right (left) (preparatory). From the vertical position of the preparatory signal Fours, the hand and arm are carried smartly to the right (or left) until horizontal, fingers remaining extended and separated in a vertical plane.

Halt (preparatory). Raise the hand vertically to the full extent of the arm, palm to the left, fingers extended and joined (execution drop the arm smartly to the side.)

Increase the gait (preparatory). Carry the hand to the shoulder, fist closed; then, rapidly, thrust upward vertically to the full extent of the arm and back to the shoulder several times. Except when the leader’s example indicates otherwise, an increase in gait of one degree is understood.

Lie down (execution). Turn toward the unit and raise the hand, palm down, in front of the elbow, forearm horizontal; then thrust the hand downward and back to this position several times, holding the wrist rigid.

Line (preparatory). Raise the hand vertically to the full extent of the arm, fingers extended and joined, and wave well down alternately to the right and left several times.

Line of troopers, mounted (preparatory). Extend the arms horizontally to the front, palm down, and move it rapidly from left to right and from right to left in a horizontal plane. When this signal is used, an interval of 5 yards between troopers is to be taken, unless otherwise directed by the leader.

Line of troopers, dismounted (preparatory). Raise both arms laterally until horizontal, arms and hands extended, palms down. When this signal is used, an interval of 5 yards between troopers is to be taken, unless otherwise directed by the leader.

March (execution). Raise the hand vertically to the front, palm down to the left, fingers extended and joined; after a very brief pause in this position, drop the arm smartly to the side.

New Target (execution). Extend the arm and hand to the front, palm to the right (left). Swing the arm to the right (left) and point in the direction of the new target.

Platoons (preparatory). Raise the right elbow to the height of the shoulder, fist closed, forearm vertical.

Prepare to dismount (preparatory). Extend the arm diagonally upward to the right , palm downward, fingers extended and joined, and wave the arm downward, to a horizontal position, several times. The signal for the execution of the movement is the same as the preparatory signal, except that the arm is carried through the horizontal to the side.

Prepare to mount (preparatory). Extend the hand horizontally to the right, palm up, fingers extended and joined; and wave the arm upward several times. The signal for the execution is the same as the signal for March.

Prepare to rush (preparatory). Same as increase gait.

Quick time (preparatory). Same as increase gait.

Rally (execution). Raise the hand vertically to the full extent of the arm, palm down, fingers extended and joined; then describe rapidly with the arm large horizontal circles.

Range (execution). Announce the range by extending the arm to its full extend, with fist closed, toward the leader or men for whom the signal is intended; then open the fist, exposing the palm and fingers to the leader or men, once for 500 yards, twice for 1,000 yards and so on. Move the fist upward, wrist rigid, and back to the range-announcing position once for each100 yards up to 500 and for each additional 100 yards above 500 (or multiple of 500). To add 50 yards, describe a short horizontal line with the arm, fist closed. A change of elevation is accomplished by signaling (completely) the new range.

Right (left turn): right (left) half turn (preparatory). Same as change direction.

Squads (preparatory). Raise the hand vertically to the full extent of the arm, palm to the left, fingers extended and joined; then, holding the arm steady, distinctly move the hand (from the wrist) to the right and left several times.

Suspend firing (preparatory). Raise the forearm to a horizontal position in front of the forehead, palm to the front, fingers extended and joined. Hold the forearm steady until the signal is understood.

Take cover (execution). Same as lie down.

To the rear (preparatory). Turn and point to the rear, arm extended.

Troopers (preparatory). Raise the hand vertically to the full extent of the arm, first finger extended, other fingers closed in the palm of the hand.

Troops (preparatory). Place the palm of the hand against the back of the neck.

Twos (preparatory). Raise the hand vertically to the full extent of the arm, first two fingers extended and separated, other fingers closed in the palm of the hand.

Additional Signals for Various Units

For Rifle Units. In addition to the general arm-and-hand signals, the following arm-and-hand signal is prescribed for rifle units only:

Action front (right, left or rear) (execution). Same as prescribed for Fight on foot.

Down (so many) mils (execution). Extend the arm fully—slightly above the horizontal, palm down, fingers extended and joined—toward the gun or guns for which the signal is intended; and wave downward with a full swing of the arm. Indicate the number of mils by flexing the elbow and thrusting the closed fist to the front once for each 5 mils , and downward once for each single mil. Thus for four mils, thrust downward 4 times; for 6 mils, thrust to the front once and downward once.

Out of action (execution). Strike the closed fist of the right hand rapidly against the palm of the left hand several times.

To the right (left) (so many mils) (execution). Extend the arm to the front with the palm to the right (left), fingers extended and joined; and wave to the right (left). Indicate the number of mils by flexing the elbow and thrusting the closed fist to the front once for each 5 mils, and to the right ( left) once fore each single mil. The change is measured on the windage scale.

Traversing fire (execution). Extend the arm to the front, palm to the left (right) fingers extended and joined; and wave the hand up and down with a chopping motion, at the same time moving the arm and hand right to left (left to right) as it is desired that the fire be distributed.

Up (so many) mils (execution). Extend the arm to the front and downward palm up, fingers extended and joined; and wave upward with a full swing of the arm. Indicate the number of mils by flexing the elbow and thrusting with a closed fist to the front for each 5 mils, and upward for each single mil. The change in measured on the elevating mechanism.

For Transportation Elements. In addition to the appropriate generals arm-and-hand signals, for following arm-and-hand signals are prescribed for transportation elements:

Right (left) by section (execution). Point to the right (left) section with the arm fully extended, palm down; the signal Forward.

Right (left) front into line (preparatory). Signal Line, then Right (left) oblique.

Right (left) into line (preparatory). Point to the right (left); then signal Line.

Sections (preparatory). Raise the hand vertically to the full extent of the arm, fist closed.

Sections column right (left) (preparatory). Signal Sections; then Column right (left).

Special Signals for Scouts and Patrols. In addition to the appropriate general arm-and-hand signals, the following signals are prescribed for scouts and patrols only.

Enemy in site in small numbers. Hold the weapon horizontally above the head , with arms extended as if guarding the head.

Enemy in site in large numbers. Hold the weapon as prescribed for Enemy in site in small numbers; and lower and raise it several times by flexing the arms at the elbows.