What are the 36 commands in a parade
So you're asking about the 36 commands in military drill. Honestly, it's this sequence of verbal instructions they hammer into new recruits so they can pull off basic parade movements. Used during basic training to build discipline, get everyone moving together, and make people respond instantly. Every branch might tweak it a little, but this core set? It's basically the foundation of ceremonial drill. No question.
What is the official list of the 36 drill commands?
These 36 commands split into two big buckets: stuff you do standing still (facing movements, standing at attention) and stuff you do moving. Here's the full sequence, pretty much how they teach it in most military basic training programs. Take a look:
| Command Number | Command | Type |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fall In | Formation |
| 2 | Attention | Stationary |
| 3 | Parade Rest | Stationary |
| 4 | At Ease | Stationary |
| 5 | Rest | Stationary |
| 6 | Dress Right, Dress | Alignment |
| 7 | Ready, Front | Alignment |
| 8 | Hand Salute | Stationary |
| 9 | Order Arms | Stationary |
| 10 | Present Arms | Stationary |
| 11 | Order Arms | Stationary |
| 12 | Left Face | Facing |
| 13 | Right Face | Facing |
| 14 | About Face | Facing |
| 15 | Forward, March | Marching |
| 16 | Half Step, March | Marching |
| 17 | Route Step, March | Marching |
| 18 | Mark Time, March | Marching |
| 19 | Halt | Marching |
| 20 | Right Step, March | Marching |
| 21 | Left Step, March | Marching |
| 22 | To the Rear, March | Marching |
| 23 | Column Right, March | Marching |
| 24 | Column Left, March | Marching |
| 25 | Column Half Right, March | Marching |
| 26 | Column Half Left, March | Marching |
| 27 | Change Step, March | Marching |
| 28 | Counter March, March | Marching |
| 29 | Right Flank, March | Marching |
| 30 | Left Flank, March | Marching |
| 31 | Column of Files, March | Marching |
| 32 | Column of Twos, March | Marching |
| 33 | Open Ranks, March | Alignment |
| 34 | Close Ranks, March | Alignment |
| 35 | Count Off | Formation |
| 36 | Dismissed | Formation |
Why are there exactly 36 commands?
The number 36? Not random at all. It's this standardized curriculum that covers every basic movement a soldier needs for drill. Came from the U.S. Army Drill and Ceremonies manual (TC 3-21.5) and a bunch of other branches just adopted it for consistency. Makes sure a recruit can go from initial formation to dismissal without any gaps. No guesswork.
How are the 36 commands used in basic training?
In basic training, drill instructors use these 36 commands like a script. They run through them dozens of times until it's automatic. They break it into blocks:
- Phase 1 (Commands 1-14): Stationary drill, facing movements, saluting. Builds posture and respect. That's the start.
- Phase 2 (Commands 15-30): Marching, flanking, column movements. Learning to move as one unit.
- Phase 3 (Commands 31-36): Advanced formation changes, opening ranks for inspection, dismissal stuff.
This way, recruits master simple stuff before trying to do the whole parade sequence. Makes sense, right?
What is the difference between a preparatory command and a command of execution?
Every drill command has two parts. The preparatory command (like "Forward") tells you what's coming. The command of execution (like "March") tells you when to do it. So "Forward, March" – "Forward" is the prep, "March" is the go. This two-part thing is key for synchronization, especially when you've got a bunch of people. Without it, chaos.
Are the 36 commands universal across all military branches?
Not exactly. But they're close. The Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force all have their own drill manuals. The core 36 are almost identical, but you'll find small differences in wording or sequence. For instance, the Marine Corps does "Parade Rest" a bit differently. Still, a soldier from any branch can usually follow along with the 36-command framework. Minimal adjustment needed.
Expert checklist for mastering the 36 commands
- Memorize each command exactly. Don't swap words around.
- Practice the preparatory command with a rising inflection. The command of execution should be sharp and decisive.
- Rhythm matters: keep the pause between prep and execution consistent.
- Use a mirror to check your posture during facing movements.
- Use a metronome to keep a steady 120 steps per minute for marching.
- Record yourself giving commands – listen for clarity, volume.
- Learn the rifle movements that go with commands like "Present Arms."
Frequently asked questions about the 36 commands
Can I learn the 36 commands without being in the military?
Yeah, you can. ROTC programs, JROTC units, even civilian drill teams teach them. Or just grab the official drill manual (TC 3-21.5) – it's public. Practice with a group or solo in front of a mirror. Works fine.
What happens if a command is given incorrectly?
In training, the drill instructor corrects it right away. In a formal parade, the commander might yell "As you were" to cancel the last command and start over. Precision matters for safety and uniformity. No shortcuts.
Do the 36 commands include rifle movements?
Not directly. The 36 commands are for foot and body movements. Rifle manual commands like "Port Arms" or "Inspection Arms" are separate, but they get used alongside the 36 during ceremonies.
Why is "Halt" always given on the left foot?
In drill, "Halt" is given when the left foot hits the ground. Then one more step with the right, bring the left foot up, stop. Clean, uniform. That's the idea.
