16 February 2005: No 06/05

COMPULSORY INSTRUCTIONAL DRILL PERIODS FOR UNIFORMED MEMBERS IN THE SANDF TO IMPROVE APPEARANCE IN THE SANDF

The Chief of the South African National Defence Force, Gen Siphiwe Nyanda, has instructed the Sergeant Major of the Defence Force, WO1 J.J. Jacobs, to compile a comprehensive annual drill programme for all uniformed members.

The instructional drill periods are aimed at improving military appearance, and upholding the standard of display discipline in the South African National Defence Force.

The Services and Divisions ought to institute monthly compulsory drill periods for all ranks, including those of generals and flag officers, as stated in the instruction.

The object of drill is to develop in an individual soldier a sense of instinctive obedience to carry out orders. It has been proved that the foundation of discipline is based on drill.

A well rehearsed and closely supervised drill demanding the highest precision is an exercise in obedience and alertness. Good drill sets the standard for the execution of duty, for the individual and the unit. Drill builds a sense of confidence between commanders and subordinates which is vital for purposes of morale.

Good drill and high standards are to be incorporated in the everyday life of a soldier. Therefore it is the duty of those in command to insist on professional standards under all circumstances, on and off parade. We should guard against the lowering of professional standards anywhere in the SANDF.

The drill instructors must use the WOSANDF drill complimenting & saluting website for guidelines and assistance for their drill periods.

February programme is as follows:

The squad drill without arms, which entails basic foot drill movements.

·        These movements include the following: form up in three ranks, stand at ease, stand easy, attention, dressing right or left, with elbow intervals right or left dress,

·        Dressing automatically, numbering and proving, paces forward and to the rear and, lastly, open and close order march.

Monthly programmes will be published in a bulletin every last week of the month.