The designated company moves forward. The other companies (halting if in march) successively take up the march and follow in column.
Route Step and At Ease.
[288.] The battalion marches in route step and at ease as prescribed in the [School of the Company]. When marching in column of companies or platoons, the guides maintain the trace and distance.
In route marches the major marches at the head of the column; when necessary, the file closers may be directed to march at the head and rear of their companies.
Assembly.
[289.] The battalion being wholly or partially deployed, or the companies being separated: 1. Assemble, 2. MARCH.
The major places himself opposite to or designates the element or point on which the battalion is to assemble. Companies are assembled and marched to the indicated point. As the companies arrive the major or adjutant indicates the formation to be taken.
COMBAT PRINCIPLES.
Orders.
[290.] The following references to orders are applicable to attack or defense.