Drill and Ceremonies
TC 3-21.5 is the Army's drill and ceremonies manual: individual and unit drill, the manual of arms, and the sequence for formations, reviews, and ceremonies. It is the single most quoted publication at promotion boards after the leadership doctrine. The May 2021 edition supersedes the January 2012 version.
Open the official record- Type
- TC
- Edition verified
- May 2021
- Used in
- TrainingBoard Prep
What to take from it
- Quick time is 120 steps per minute; double time is 180 steps per minute.
- The length of a full step in quick time is 30 inches.
- The four rest positions are parade rest, stand at ease, at ease, and rest.
- Covers the manual of arms, unit drill, and the sequence of ceremonies and reviews.
- Supersedes TC 3-21.5 dated 20 January 2012.
These points are our summary, written for recall. They are not a substitute for the publication and they will not cover everything a board can ask. Read the source.
Board questions from this publication
What does a unit in formation do during retreat and To the Color?
At the first note of retreat, the leader commands parade rest and the formation holds it. The leader then calls the formation to attention, and at the first note of To the Color commands present arms. The formation holds present arms until the last note, then the leader commands order arms.
AR 600-25; TC 3-21.5
What are the two parts of a drill command?
The preparatory command, which states the movement to be carried out and mentally prepares the Soldier for it, and the command of execution, which tells when to carry it out.
TC 3-21.5
What are the four types of drill commands?
Two-part commands, which have a preparatory command and a command of execution. Combined commands, where the two parts are combined into one, such as FALL IN, AT EASE, and REST. Supplementary commands, which subordinate leaders give to reinforce or complete the leader's command. Directives, which are oral orders that direct subordinate leaders to put their elements into motion.
TC 3-21.5
What command revokes a preparatory command?
AS YOU WERE. It cancels a preparatory command, but it cannot cancel a command of execution once that command has been given.
TC 3-21.5
What are the four rest positions executed at the halt?
Parade rest, stand at ease, at ease, and rest.
TC 3-21.5
What is the cadence for quick time and for double time?
Quick time is 120 steps per minute. Double time is 180 steps per minute. Both use a 30-inch step.
TC 3-21.5
Which marching steps are 15 inches?
The half step, the right step, the left step, and the back step. All of them are executed for short distances only.
TC 3-21.5
What is the difference between distance and interval?
Distance is the space between elements front to rear. The distance between ranks is 40 inches. Interval is the lateral space between Soldiers side by side, measured from shoulder to shoulder.
TC 3-21.5