TC 3-21.5 — Drill And Ceremonies
TC 3-21.5 governs Army-wide uniformity in the conduct of drill and ceremonies, including formations and precise movements.
- Publication number: TC 3-21.5
- Title: DRILL AND CEREMONIES
- Date: 05/03/2021
- Proponent: T2COM
- Status: ACTIVE
View TC 3-21.5 on armypubs.army.mil
TC 3-21.5 covers drill instruction, teaching techniques, individual and unit drill, and the manual of arms for Infantry weapons. It also addresses military music, commands, formations, reviews, parades, funerals, colors, and other ceremonies.
Applies to: TC 3-21.5 applies to the Active Army, Army National Guard/Army National Guard of the United States and United State Army Reserve unless otherwise stated.
Topics covered
- Military music
- Bugle calls
- Command voice
- Individual drill
- Manual of arms
- Squad and platoon drill
- Military ceremonies
- Colors
Questions and answers
What is the purpose of drill according to TC 3-21.5?
The purpose of drill is to enable commanders or noncommissioned officers (NCOs) to move their unit from one place to another in an orderly manner, to aid in disciplinary training by instilling habits of precision and response to the leaders orders, and to provide for the development of all Soldiers in the practice of commanding troops. (paragraph 9)
What can Soldiers do during Route Step March?
Route Step March is executed identically to At Ease March except that Soldiers may drink from their canteens and talk. (paragraph 4-21)
How much time is allowed between commands for a squad or platoon in march?
For the squad or platoon in March, except when supplementary commands need to be given, the interval of time is that which allows one step (or count) between the preparatory command and the command of execution. (paragraph 3-24)
How many riflemen make up a ceremonial firing party?
For ceremonial firing, the firing party consists of not more than eight riflemen and not less than five riflemen with one NCOIC (see figure 14-10 on page 14-22). (paragraph 14-40)
What is the position of the Colors at Parade Rest?
Parade Rest with the Colors is executed with staffs vertical. (paragraph 15-35)