Element.—One of the component subdivisions of a command. As used in these regulations the term element is a general one and may mean a single trooper, a set of twos, a four, section, platoon, or larger unit, according to the command and formation that are being considered. The expression elements of the column refers to the several troopers, fours, platoons, or other units that are placed successively, one behind another, in any column formation.
Evolutions.—Movements by which a command changes its position or passes from one formation to another.
File closers.—Officers or noncommissioned officers placed out of ranks, whose duty it is to supervise the men in ranks and see that the orders of the commander are carried out. For convenience, this term is applied to any man posted as a file closer.
Flank.—The right or left of a command in line or column. In speaking of the enemy the term right flank or left flank is used to designate the flank that would be so designated by him.
Flank guard.—An element of a command disposed with a view to protecting a flank.
Foragers.—Mounted troopers distributed in line in extended order; also the formation in which the troopers are so distributed.
Formation.—The arrangement of the elements of a command in line, column, or echelon.
Gait.—One of the special movements of the horse, as the walk, the trot, or the gallop.
Gait of march.—The gait at which the base of the command in question is moving at the instant considered.
Horse length.—A term of measurement. For convenience in estimating space, a horse length is considered as 3 yards; by actual measure it is about 8 feet.