Sgt. Major

There is no command "Load and Hold". The proper command is "Cease Fire". At this command the soldier will reload and come to the ready, giving you the same result. The echoing of commands other than while in combat also falls under the heading of reenacting dogma. Only the company commander or Battalion commander should be heard. While in Battalion formation, the Company commanders only should softly repeat the Colonels orders. This also applies to the company level as well. Only the Captain should be heard to give orders, the First Sergeant should not repeat his commands. When the First Sergeant is in command, his orders should not be repeated and so on. The use of sabres to change direction or signify some other action is also inaccurate. Only "Shoulder Arms, Present Arms and Parade Rest" are recognized. The ever - present "without doubling" is another incorrect command. Though it has been seen in a few period letters, the actual command is not found in any period manual. The correct command would be for example "in two ranks, right face".