Line Officer Impression

[LibertyHallVols]

Re: Line Officer Impression

John,

I'm smellin' what yer cookin'! ;)

Both reading and "doing" the manuals are necessary and one must take a balanced approach. I've seen folks who've read a lot have trouble in the field when it comes time to "do"
--and--
I've seen folks who should have pulled out the manual to read it while drilling, but didn't do it (choosing instead to "wing it"), to the detriment of those being drilled.

[Michael Comer]

Re: Line Officer Impression

2 pr. of worsted socks

I'd like to see a pair of those. From my personal experience with worsted (granted, I don't know much) I'm having a hard time visualizing a pair of worsted socks. Were they just cut and sewn from worsted fabric?

[106th PVI]

Re: Line Officer Impression

Okay Gents,
I do have wool socks. So, no problem there.

As for knowing drill... I was 1st Sgt/ captain for my last company and have performed 1st Sgt, 2d Sgt, Color Sgt and company commander duties for our battalion. We drilled whenever we could. Company drill in the morning, battalion drill before lunch and more drill before supper. Specialising in skirmishing. But, know plenty of regular battleline drill...
I have the complete 3 volume set of Casey's. I am no expert but know a good deal. I read them when I get a chance and refer to them alot.
I have a copy of "Company Clerk" and have run a company HQ. My HQ items include a field desk/ table and all paperwork. I have manuals as well... Kautz "Customs of Service" (both volumes), Butterfield's "Camp and Outpost Duty" a manual for staff officer's. Among others.
My research is ongoing...

[erik]

Re: Line Officer Impression

Dean,
You seem to have captured the material and those who have responded have given you guidance on method, but thus far no one has commented on the man.
As far as the material goes what about your canteen and havresack?
What type and what do you carry in your havresack? Do you carry a glass and compass and what type?
Leave the white shirt and shell jacket in your "small valise" allowed by regulation to be carried in the Regimental baggage wagons and try to find it after dark.
And what about the "modest mess kit" under the same regulations?
That being said and asked, what are you doing to be an officer?
Are you a commander or a leader (there is a big difference)?
An officer is not made by the acquisition of kit from the finest tailors, though that helps in image, but rather in his style.
Become a leader. Know your men. Let your NCO's do their job and support them.
Develop an eye for ground and how to use the drills to exploit it.
Think of the AAR on Into the Piney Woods this spring. Two things brought these people through in those extreme times, personal commitment and leadership.
Be a leader.
Nobody cares if your trousers are not quite right if the guy who wears them inspires the company.

Erik Simundson

[RJSamp]

Re: Line Officer Impression

Don't forget them bugle calls.....

[106th PVI]

Re: Line Officer Impression

Eric & RJ,
I have a small carpet bag to keep my sash, extra shirt & socks. I only bring one " dress " coat depending on the temps. My mess kit is my plate, wire handled cup and period knife, fork & spoon. I have a Philadelphia Depot canteen and an officer's haversack. In which I carry my Casey's, some matches in a safe, pertinent paperwork, a pencil and what not while "on the march". Plus my sword, and blanket roll/ knapsack. I have a pair of original glasses I use. I need a compass.
I only use my desk and table when setting up as " in winter quarters" or for garrison duty. I have an "A" frame tent to use for my quarters in these situations. Otherwise I sleep as my men do...
I study the ground and try to use anything I can to protect the men. I take advantage of any cover. I trust my NCO's and let them do thier job. I make sure my men are fed and cared for before I even think of myself. I wish to be a "leader". I could not abide being under the command of an officer who cared only for his image.
Having two ancestors who were leaders I have a lot to live up to...
I know they are watching me.