One section polices the camp within the company police limits.
One section is available for possible details from regimental headquarters.
Officers and first sergeant supervise the work.
A permanent assignment of squads to these duties lightens the labor and decreases the time necessary for breaking camp.
Boots and saddles should not be sounded before all of the above work has been completed, and without confusion. Don't begin the day by nagging your men, thereby making them "grouchy" during the march.
Always be most careful to groom all parts of your horse that will be touched by the equipment before you begin to saddle up.
Men should not start from camp thirsty, but should drink all the water they want immediately after breakfast. All canteens should be filled before marching.
Section 2. Marches, camps.
GENERAL PROVISIONS.
977. The successful conduct of a march is one of the surest tests of the ability and good judgment, not only of the commander, but of all subordinate officers as well. Certain general principles and some exact rules are laid down to fit the case of a normal march, but tactical considerations as well as the condition of roads and weather, the necessary forage, water and shelter, sanitation, and other circumstances render a march of any considerable body of mounted troops one requiring the most unremitting attention to details on the part of the commander and his subordinates. A successful Cavalry march whether in peace or war is one that places the men and horses at the time and place needed in the best possible condition for the service required. Failure of mounted troops to successfully carry out a mission is due as a rule to exhaustion or injuries to the horses rather than to the men.