[103.] The corporal is the squad leader, and when absent is replaced by a designated private. If no private is designated, the senior in length of service acts as leader.
The corporal, when in ranks, is posted as the left man in the front rank of the squad.
When the corporal leaves the ranks to lead his squad, his rear rank man steps into the front rank, and the file remains blank until the corporal returns to his place in ranks, when his rear rank man steps back into the rear rank.
[104.] In battle officers and sergeants endeavor to preserve the integrity of squads; they designate new leaders to replace those disabled, organize new squads when necessary, and see that every man is placed in a squad.
Men are taught the necessity of remaining with the squad to which they belong and, in case it be broken up or they become separated therefrom, to attach themselves to the nearest squad and platoon leaders, whether these be of their own or of another organization.
[105.] The squad executes the halt, rests, facings, steps and marchings, and the manual of arms as explained in the [School of the Soldier].
To Form the Squad.
[106.] To form the squad the instructor places himself 3 paces in front of where the center is to be and commands: FALL IN.
The men assemble at attention, pieces at the order, and are arranged by the corporal in double rank, as nearly as practicable in order of height from right to left, each man dropping his left hand as soon as the man on his left has his interval. The rear rank forms with distance of 40 inches.
The instructor then commands: COUNT OFF.