Hello, I am a cadet currently trying to figure out company formations, we are moving a company in mass formation from point A to point B. What to do up to point B is clear, FM 3-21.5 is clear up to that point. However, once the company reaches point B how does the First Sergeant split the platoons back into their respective positions. We assume, that the Platoon Sergeants take their places, the company is ordered to "right face", First Sergeant orders 2nd platoon sergeant to take control of the platoon, then 2nd platoon sergeant orders a "left face" moves the platoon five spaces and order a halt. Or should he just do a left step for six paces.

That is the main question, the next question the FM isn't clear about is what the Platoon Leaders do when the platoon sergeants fall in on the back. Does the PL stay put or move to the back as well.

Are you an adult cadet as in West Point?

If so, I suspect that if I were you, I would ask my First Sargent, how he wants to deploy the company.

If it sounds workable to you then let him take care of it. Sargents tend to run either the Army or Marines.

If you are a cadet at the High School level, ask your instructor.

Also, just a reminder, the book, does not contain all the answers. It contains the standard way to do things.

Also, just to let you know, I was in the Navy and the Chiefs did all the officer thinking for us.