_Captain Hastings_: “Ordinarily the flanks of a column on the march may be protected by small patrols sent out from the advance guard. There are, however, occasions when patrols will not suffice and it is necessary to send out a stronger detachment, to march along a route essentially parallel to and abreast of the force. A detachment so sent out is called a flank guard. In this case our whole battalion is a flank guard sent out to protect the right (left) flank of our brigade in its march towards (_b_).” _The Director_: “What do you understand to be the duties of a flank guard?” _Captain Hastings_: “They are much the same as those of an advance guard, that is, to do everything possible to facilitate the uninterrupted progress of the main body. All other duties are incidental to this and all have this prime object in view.” _The Director_: “Very good. Are there any questions at this time? Now I want each member of the class to consider himself as being Lieutenant W, commanding the first platoon of Company A. Your platoon is right over there (pointing), formed up in line, at the right of the company. You, together with the other officers and non-commissioned officers of the company, have assembled here and have received the verbal orders of the captain for the formation of the company as the advance guard of the battalion. You are now ready to return to your platoon. Just how are you going to do the job that has been assigned to you?” The Director will now conduct the class to the point where the first platoon is supposed to be. Solution _The Director_: “Lieutenant Wallace, we will assume that you are commanding the platoon. Just how do you go about the task of getting started on the day’s work?” _Lieutenant Wallace_: “I should first see if all the men are present, and then I would inspect the platoon to make sure that everything is all right.” _The Director_: “The first part of your problem is simple. All you have to do is to glance down the ranks to determine whether every man is in his proper place. Let us assume that all are present. Now, with regard to the proposition of the inspection. In campaign the platoon commander should inspect his platoon at reveille—check up the appearance of the men and note the condition of the arms and equipment. At this time he should take the steps necessary to remedy deficiencies and make provision for the evacuation of any man that is physically unfit. This should be a matter of routine. Then, when the day’s work is to be started, there is no delay.” _Lieutenant Wallace_: “I see the point and realize the necessity for the procedure you have outlined. There is one other point. When should the rifles be loaded?”