Command Voice

[Jakemiller31u]

So at my squadron I have started to be placed as the flight sergeant more often. When the staff observe me they keep saying that I need to call the cadence with a monotone voice. I've even noticed myself not saying it right. I keep going ONE two three four ONE two three four.

If that makes any sense. What I am getting at is that I inflect the first count of the cadence instead of saying it monotone. I've been trying to not inflect my voice but I keep doing it.

Does anyone have any tips or tricks for when calling cadence?

[Eaker Guy]

To be honest, I think that a lot of cadets(including myself) do that to.

First a resource. Check out AFMAN 36-2203, chap 2B. You may already have done so. If not, it will help you.

As for solving your immediate problem, I would practice outside of CAP, so that you can master it while at CAP. That helped me. Be very aware of not just what you do, but how you do it. It sounds like you are already doing so. Make a special effort to call the cadences in a monotone manner. Ask one of your cadet staff to help you as well.

I'm sure the more experienced members will have more to say, but I hope this helps.

Best of luck,

[lordmonar]

+1 on reading 36-2203.

Also....Cadence is called HUP, Two, Three, Four.   Saying Hup will help.

Also you should not use a mono-tone....you should inflect your voice when is should be inflected. 

Also....look at some of these videos....they do some things wrong...but for the most part they are pretty good.

The command voice of the flight leader is pretty low...but you can hear how he inflects his voice during the commands.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1fkTIcFy2DiPZysLmEQPw

Good luck.

[coudano]

Monotone is actually /WRONG/

This is probably being told to you by someone who is using their drill experience from another service, or has been watching too many movies.

There are five (six) characteristics of the command voice, which you can read about in AFMAN 36-2203 2.3 (and 2.4). They are:  Loudness, Projection, Distinctness, Inflection, Snap (and Cadence)
I remember them as LPDISC (not that cadets these days have any idea what an LP DISC is...)(was)

The one that addresses the 'monotone' issue is Inflection,
http://www.capmembers.com/media/cms/afman3622031_7A853B1DF6091.pdf

Inflection. This is the change in pitch[/u] of the voice. Pronounce the preparatory command—the command that announces the movement--with a rising inflection near or at the end of its completion, usually the last syllable. When beginning a preparatory command, the most desirable pitch of voice is near the level of the natural speaking voice. A common fault is to start the preparatory command so high that, after employing a rising inflection, the passage to a higher pitch for the command of execution is impossible without undue strain. A properly delivered command of execution has no inflection. However, it should be given at a higher pitch than the preparatory command. Some commands are portrayed graphically in Figure 2.2.

I added the emphasis there...
But the point is that there is a change in pitch,
which is the absolute definition of the opposite of monotone (one tone) (one pitch)

Monotone is this guy:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxPVyieptwA
(actually that's not straight up monotone, because he actually raises pitch on the interrogatives (anyone?  anyone?)
Incidentally, the look those students are giving the professor there is the same look your cadets will give you, if you talk to them in a monotone voice in ANY setting (classroom, squadron van trip, or even out on the drill pad).  (drool)

Check out this pretty cool video uploaded by some drill nerd... (doof) It demonstrates textbook command voice.  Note that the preparatory command starts at an even pitch, and rises toward the end of the command, and then the command of execution is an even tone, that is at a higher pitch than the end of the preparatory command.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7sdLl2V2sII

//warning: this thing is 'old', like I just noticed it references full steps as 30" and half steps at 15".  Sometime since then, it has been changed to 24" and 12" respectively.  However, for the most part, the majority of this stuff (command voice in particular) hasn't changed.

[Brad]

Agreed, AFMAN 36-2203 section 2B is a great asset and as others said, monotone is wrong.

I remember learning command voice from a former USMC 1stSgt and Parris Island Drill Instructor back in NJROTC at Leadership Academy. 1stSgt Hamm, that guy was crazy! Our PT instructor for that week too.

Anyway, one of the best things he taught us was to open your mouth and enunciate, and practice/warm-up the same way. Yawn or let out a well-enunciated "OHHH!" or "AHHHH!" about 2-3 seconds long, this will help you get the feel for calling commands from your diaphragm and not your throat.

Eventually you reach the point where you do it naturally and can move seamlessly from your normal voice to your command voice with varying intensity as needed for the situation.

[Jakemiller31u]

I think I'm fine with calling commands, it's just calling cadence I am iffy about.

The cadet who was saying that I should be monotone in cadence is a C/SMSgt and he is considered staff at our squadron. The way he said it was to stop inflecting my voice on the first count of the cadence. He said that there are other branches that do so, but the Air Force does not use inflection in cadence.

[Brad]

I think I'm fine with calling commands, it's just calling cadence I am iffy about.

The cadet who was saying that I should be monotone in cadence is a C/SMSgt and he is considered staff at our squadron. The way he said it was to stop inflecting my voice on the first count of the cadence. He said that there are other branches that do so, but the Air Force does not use inflection in cadence.

Ah ok. Yea he's correct in that regard, look at the diagram in section 2B with the graphic of the airman calling various commands with the words enunciated out over differing amounts of time across 4 counts. The higher they are in that chart, the higher inflection is given, like how "To the Rear, MARCH!" starts low and the word literally ramps up, then the word "MARCH" itself is placed higher up. Compare that with actually hearing the command called and you see how it represents the change in inflection. Now, notice the one for calling cadence, each word is spoken at the same inflection. So, still give the count with a crisp command presence, but don't emphasize one particular count over the other three, no.

[Jakemiller31u]

Also, when drilling a flight, is there a certain place to stand when drilling them?

[Гугл переводчик]

Also, when drilling a flight, is there a certain place to stand when drilling them?

This answer also lies in AFMAN 36-2203

[Flying Pig]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRjSQRaSNfk

I couldnt help it......    Still sends chills up my spine!

[Brad]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRjSQRaSNfk

I couldnt help it......    Still sends chills up my spine!

Love that video, never gets old!

[dwb]

Also, when drilling a flight, is there a certain place to stand when drilling them?

Let me just say that I am thrilled you're asking this question. The fact that you're asking means you are curious, and aren't going to just "wing it" or trying to learn by oral tradition.

You've had a few people suggest that you consult the AF D&C manual. That is what you should do. We can describe it for you here, but reading it for yourself is going to give you a much deeper understanding.

Here is an approach that worked for me when I was learning to teach drill:

1. Read all of Chapters 1 and 2. At the end of each chapter, try to recall a few facts about what you learned. For example, after reading chapter 1 you might think "okay, to execute commands one step at a time I say BY THE NUMBERS before the preparatory command. Then to execute the second part of the movement I say Ready, TWO." Recalling shortly after reading helps you retain the material.

2. Each week before your CAP meeting, read how to do 3-5 different commands from Chapters 3 and 4. Then practice teaching those commands or leading a flight or element with those commands. Carry a hardcopy of the D&C manual with you if you can, or at least try to keep a digital copy close by.

Watch drill videos on YouTube, and check out http://capmembers.com/drill for more links and movies.

If you're told something that contravenes what the manual says, respectfully point it out. Don't do wrong things because other people are doing wrong things.

Good luck! If you can conduct drill in accordance with AFMAN 36-2203 you'll be in the 90th percentile of all cadets in D&C!

[Eaker Guy]

Also, when drilling a flight, is there a certain place to stand when drilling them?

I echo the sentiments of dwb. You have showed great initiative.

In response to your question, look at the AF D&C manual. There are a number of diagrams in chap 5, but I find these confusing.

Here is the quote from the good book: "5.6.  The Squadron in Column.  The squadron moves from one place to another in column of flights as shown in Figure 5.4  The guidon bearer is one pace to the rear and two paces to the left of the squadron commander.  To view and control the squadron, the squadron commander may take a position on the flank.  When this occurs, the guidon bearer is at the head of the column."

Before I answer your question, there are a couple factors I must note. 1) In your case, the squadron commander noted in the AF D&C manual is, in your case, whoever is in control of the flight. 2) The position that the guidon bearer would be in would have to be modified slightly to compensate for the fact that you are drilling the flight.

That being said, the manual makes it clear that the commander(of any drill unit), can take a position on the left flank or side, of the drill unit. Now, I may be wrong, and if anyone notices that I am, please call me out.

Hope this helps,

[Jakemiller31u]

Also, when drilling a flight, is there a certain place to stand when drilling them?

I echo the sentiments of dwb. You have showed great initiative.

In response to your question, look at the AF D&C manual. There are a number of diagrams in chap 5, but I find these confusing.

Here is the quote from the good book: "5.6.  The Squadron in Column.  The squadron moves from one place to another in column of flights as shown in Figure 5.4  The guidon bearer is one pace to the rear and two paces to the left of the squadron commander.  To view and control the squadron, the squadron commander may take a position on the flank.  When this occurs, the guidon bearer is at the head of the column."

Before I answer your question, there are a couple factors I must note. 1) In your case, the squadron commander noted in the AF D&C manual is, in your case, whoever is in control of the flight. 2) The position that the guidon bearer would be in would have to be modified slightly to compensate for the fact that you are drilling the flight.

That being said, the manual makes it clear that the commander(of any drill unit), can take a position on the left flank or side, of the drill unit. Now, I may be wrong, and if anyone notices that I am, please call me out.

Hope this helps,

At my squadron when we do drill practice or even opening and closing, we do not march with a guidon bearer. Never have in the time I've been at my squadron. That isn't mandatory is it to have one?

[Eaker Guy]

Also, when drilling a flight, is there a certain place to stand when drilling them?

I echo the sentiments of dwb. You have showed great initiative.

In response to your question, look at the AF D&C manual. There are a number of diagrams in chap 5, but I find these confusing.

Here is the quote from the good book: "5.6.  The Squadron in Column.  The squadron moves from one place to another in column of flights as shown in Figure 5.4  The guidon bearer is one pace to the rear and two paces to the left of the squadron commander.  To view and control the squadron, the squadron commander may take a position on the flank.  When this occurs, the guidon bearer is at the head of the column."

Before I answer your question, there are a couple factors I must note. 1) In your case, the squadron commander noted in the AF D&C manual is, in your case, whoever is in control of the flight. 2) The position that the guidon bearer would be in would have to be modified slightly to compensate for the fact that you are drilling the flight.

That being said, the manual makes it clear that the commander(of any drill unit), can take a position on the left flank or side, of the drill unit. Now, I may be wrong, and if anyone notices that I am, please call me out.

Hope this helps,

At my squadron when we do drill practice or even opening and closing, we do not march with a guidon bearer. Never have in the time I've been at my squadron. That isn't mandatory is it to have one?

I'm not in a position to answer that, since my squadron doesn't either. However, I don't think that it is required. Will double check.

[Eaker Guy]

Again from the good book:

"5.12.  The Guidon.  The guidon is carried at ceremonies and on other occasions when prescribed by the commander.  The guidon bearer is a specially selected airman designated by the squadron commander."

In summary, no, unless your staff(adult or cadet) tells you it is. Also, note that the "airman" reference in the AF D&C manual is a general reference. All AF personnel are "airmen."(I think?) A C/NCO could fill the position. It doesn't have to be a C/Amn.

Best of luck!

[lordmonar]

Note....there is a difference between the "guidon bearer"  and the flight guide (who often carries a guidon).

You "should" drill with a guide, but if you don't have enough people to fill out the flight it is a little redundant.

However....your senior cadets who already know drill should be given the opportunity to pull guide duty.    You have to be sharp and on your A Game to do it right.

[Eaker Guy]

Note....there is a difference between the "guidon bearer"  and the flight guide (who often carries a guidon).

You "should" drill with a guide, but if you don't have enough people to fill out the flight it is a little redundant.

However....your senior cadets who already know drill should be given the opportunity to pull guide duty.    You have to be sharp and on your A Game to do it right.

+1

[abdsp51]

OP a lot of the questions you have about drill in general can be found and answered in AFMAN36-2203.  Dive into, know it and treat like your bible for D&C. 

This should be the only source for D&C and will help you go a long way in the program.  I can't count how many times I have gotten look from cadets especially senior cadets when I tell them to read it and know it.  This tells you the right way to preform drill, call commands, and what your command voice should be.

[coudano]

Got a little ahead of myself in my last reply trying be snarky and didn't quite answer the question that was being asked (sorry)

Let's try to clarify a few things on this one...


I truly understand (and even support) the "go read 36-2203" replies.  There is no way you are going to /master/ drill, without understanding this manual for yourself.  Even if you sat there and learned from someone like me, you are not going to really internalize it for yourself until you go and learn it for yourself.  That said, it can be a very confusing manual to understand, even if you are making the effort to try and understand it.  Asking good questions shows great initiative, I would suggest framing your questions in reference to something that you don't understand out of the manual. That shows that you have your head in the book, which is likely to get you a more professional response, and it also allows people who might be responding to focus their reply better on what is being asked or a particular misunderstanding.


I think a flippant "go RTFM" is basically a way of ostracizing newbies, or basically says "i don't have time to explain it to you".  To that, I say poo poo.  Therefore:


Chapter 5 is aptly titled "Drill of the Squadron"
That doesn't mean, like, the "Poughkeepsie Composite Squadron" at Tuesday night meeting.
The 36-2203 actual definition of a squadron

5.1.1. A squadron consists of two or more flights. Only formations necessary for marches,
drills, and ceremonies are prescribed in this chapter.

99% chance, if you are at a weekly squadron meeting, the thing you are drilling is probably a flight, or smaller, and therefore Chapter 5 does not apply to you.  99.9% if you're a c/SSgt at a tuesday night meeting. Even if you have enough cadets at your local unit to do squadron drill (which is very unlikely), it is even more unlikely that your drill and ceremonies practice after opening formation, and before leadership class starts, is "marches, drills, and ceremonies" in the context of chapter 5.

(you are -probably- going to see chapter 5 stuff for the first time at a place like encampment)

A flight is made up of at least 2 but not more than 4 elements.
An element is at least 3, but usually 8-12 individuals.

So a flight needs to have at least 3x2=6 (+1) == 7 individuals in it.
The 3x2 are the three members of the first and second elements
and the +1 is the guide.

If the thing you are marching has 6 or fewer cadets in it, it is definitely not a "flight" and therefore you don't use a guide.  You might call it a "detail" but that's not in the book.  If you have 7 or more cadets, and you are treating it as a flight, then it SHOULD have a guide.

(although there are places where you might see a 'detail' with more than six members, they could be a 'flight' but they aren't treating themselves that way, on purpose, for some reason or the other)

//By this definition, you need at least two flights (minimum 7 each) (total of 14) plus a flight sergeant and flight commander each (total of 4) plus a first sergeant and a squadron commander and a guidon bearer == grand total of 17 cadets minimum, in order to perform "squadron drill" and even begin to worry about chapter 5 (except for the drill test for, I think, achievement 8, which requires you (a NCO) to do what the squadron commander (supposedly like a Capt or Maj) does during squadron drill... which is...  silly --in my opinion)

--for what it's worth, a single flight can contain 4x12 +1  == 49 individuals, all by itself.



The difference between the guide and guidon bearer has already been hit,
i'll only add that a lot of encampments, and even USAF basic training, have flight guides (people) haul guidons (flags on a flagpole) around (using the 'manual of the guidon' found in chapter 5). This person carrying the flag winds up getting called a "guidon bearer" which is confusing with the position of "guide" because the two terms look and sound so similar.  Flights don't have guidon bearers, squadrons do...   And guidon bearers in squadron drill do not serve the same function nor march in the same place as a flight guide does in flight drill.

Your flight guide can march with your flight without a guidon, and if the thing you are marching is a flight, there should (must) be a guide, whether he/she is carrying a guidon or not.


Now, where to stand:
The basic rule is found in 36-2203 section 2.2.   Face the flight.

Normally in line formation, the flight commander/sergeant is going to be standing in front of, centered on, and three paces away from the first element, facing the flight.  There are a couple of notable exceptions, particularly in the middle of the open ranks inspection sequence, when commands are given to the flight in line, from the right of the guide.  The person addressing the flight is still facing the flight though.

The flight when marching is normally in column formation, the element leaders should be in front, and the guide should be in front of the "last" element.  So if you have four elements, in column, the guide will be in front of the fourth element leader.  If you have two elements, the guide will be in front of the second element, when in column.

So where does the flight commander / flight sergeant stand/march?
36-2203 doesn't actually specify.

Good practice goes like this:
Off to either side of the flight in column, approximately 2/3-3/4 of the way back, so that the voice is being projected toward "most" of the flight, in front of the person giving the commands.  Generally speaking you are "facing" the majority of the flight, and you want to make your loudness and projection such that the person diagonal across the formation from you can hear your commands well enough to execute them.

If you are marching a flight and you are on the left side, 2/3 of the way back, the person diagonal across the flight from you that you are aiming for with your loudness and projection should be the flight guide.


This can create some dilemmas for you, like:
1. Suppose you do a Left Flank...   Now you are marching one pace in front of the first element, facing away from them.  Oops...   Before you call the movement, you'll want to drag back behind the last person in the flight, so they can turn in front of you.  Maybe even drift back to a position behind the last person in the base file, so after the left flank, you are STILL off to the left side, AND 2/3 of the way back.  But even while you are drifting, you are still facing the majority of the flight (and staying in step).

2. Suppose you do To the Rear March...  If you pivot at the same time as the flight, now you are in the FRONT 2/3 to 3/4 of the flight, and most of the flight is behind you...   I guess you could slowly work your way back from here...  But a cooler way to do it is after you call MARCH, when the flight pivots, you just keep on marching one or two paces (Depending on how long the elements are), and then do your pivot on your right foot.  Now at the end of your pivot, you are still 2/3 of the way back, but you are on the "other side" of the flight.  You should still be in step too...

3. Suppose you do column left...  if you are 2/3 of the way back, it's going to be your turn to pivot when about half the flight has made it around the corner.  If you pivot at that time, you're going to be about halfway back in the flight, or maybe even a little further forward, when everyone finishes the movement.  Good technique here is to march up to where you will pivot, and mark time there, for a few paces, then step off, in step, at the right time to maintain your position in the flight.

4. Suppose you halt the flight, and give them a left face (back into line formation).  You'll want to march yourself back over to a position that is centered on and three paces away from the first element, with you facing them.  (likewise when you are in line and you give them a right face, into column, a lot of places will have you march over to your location 2/3 of the way back on the left side and face the same direction as the flight before proceeding) --you could also just give them a forward march (you are facing the flight, right?)(you should be looking at their left ears), wait a couple paces and then execute a left face in marching such that you wind up in step, and 2/3 of the way back, and then just incline yourself over to your position beside the flight.

//If you have the flight halted in column, and you are giving them close or extend march, or column of files, or column of twos/fours, these commands are typically given from out in front of the flight (in front of the guide and element leaders, and probably off to one side) with the flight commander facing the flight.


Watch the sergeant in the video i posted above, it gives the look and feel pretty well.