Topic: Drill and Training
Notes on Training
Infantry Training, Vol. 1, Provisional, 1922
The aim of all training is to produce:—
i. In the leaders:—
The ability to command—developed by actual practice in the command of men. The ability to command includes readiness of judgment, which can be acquired only as the result of sound military knowledge built up by study and practice until it has become an instinct. It includes the capacity for quick decisions and for giving clear orders, and the will-power to ensure that orders are carried out. It includes initiative, i.e., the ability to see when independent action is required, and the necessary self-confidence to take such action promptly and to assume responsibility for it. It includes the ability to execute an order through subordinate commanders without interference with their personal responsibility. Lastly, it includes tact and knowledge of men so that the best may be got out of them.
ii. In the men:—
(a) The moral attributes of a soldier; including patriotism, loyalty, pride of race and a high sense of honour.
(b) The fighting spirit—resolution to close with the enemy, based on confidence in their own superiority.
(c) Discipline—in ingrained habit of cheerful and unhesitating obedience which controls and directs the fighting spirit. Individually, self-respect and its outward marks, such as cleanliness and a smart bearing; collectively "team work" under the "captain of the team."
(d) Esprit de corps—the pride in his unit which makes a man unwilling to bring discredit on it, and ready at need to sacrifice himself for its success.
(e) Physical fitness—to stand the fatigue and nervous strain of marching and fighting.
(f) Skill at arms—a thorough knowledge by every man of his weapons and their use, and thus absolute reliance upon them to kill the enemy.
These are the qualities which build up a soldier, and they can all be developed by the methods of training described in this manual.
The growth of the moral qualities will be fostered chiefly by environment and it is the duty of all tanks to assist in this object by their conversation and example.
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