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Foot Drill...
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Modern foot drill shows one aspect of the evolution of battle tactics prior to the invention and
inclusion of modern weaponry (rifle, machine gun, high explosives etc) to the combatants armoury.
In ancient times warriors would group together on the battlefield to provide each other with support
during the general melee which characterised the battles of the time.
The ancient Greek and Roman armies devised a format for placing soldiers in exact positions to maximise
their fighting ability and effectiveness. In order to move these formations of soldiers around the
battlefield a series of evolutions were created. Soldiers would practise these movements until they became
second nature in order to ensure they were victorious. The success of these tactics is shown by the extent
of the Roman Empire at its most powerful.
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With the introduction of firearms, troops were still required to use close formations to maximise the
firepower of their inaccurate, smoothbore weapons. Cavalry also maintained close order formations to
provide the maximum impact when charging.
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The American Civil War is widely regarded as the last war in which close formations were used. In fact
it is said that it was fought using the tactics of the last century with the weapons of the next century.
The proportionally high casualty rates reflect this.
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With the adoption of more open formations on the battlefield, foot drill became a method of moving troops
in an organised manner, of training troops in teamwork and promoting espirit de corps as well as a formal
way for commanders to review their units.
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The ATC uses foot drill for all these tasks. Air Cadets can be seen marching around RAF Stations on most
weekends. On average, cadets on 2499 spend 20 minutes per parade night learning, practising and improving
their foot drill. Initial training for new cadets focuses on the skills needed to pass their First Class
Cadet drill test, which comprises the basic movements.
The drill used for parades and reviews is more correctly referred to as Ceremonial Drill.
2499 Squadron prides itself on a high standard of foot drill from all ranks.
In order to maintain and improve the standard the Squadron practises ceremonial drill at least once a month.
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