Drill

Place of Drill in B.B.

It is important that the real aim of drill in the B.B. should be realised by all Officers. Drill is not an end in itself, but together with Christian education and other Company activities, is a means of furthering the B.B. Object. Nevertheless, the value of drill in the Brigade must not be overlooked or minimised.

Purpose

Drill basically has a threefold purpose of:

1. Promoting habits of :

(a) Obedience and Discipline. These habits are essential in the training of members, and they can be almost subconsciously acquired by means of good drill.

(b) Self-Respect. This is necessary in many ways. Drill and uniform are among the finest methods of promoting it.

(c) Self-Control. Through drill, a member is helped to become master of his own eyes, tongue and hands, and eventually his whole body, mind and spirit.

(d) Concentration. Good drill requires absolute concentration, and this can be of great value in later life.

(e) Physical Bearing. Although drill is not intended to replace Physical Education and Recreation, it is a valuable help in promoting an erect and upright bearing.

2. Developing Leadership

The young squad leader/assistant squad leader/member often finds it difficult to exercise leadership and gain respect. With the natural leadership which is encouraged at drill, discipline can become easier. Drill can also provide a valuable opportunity for the member to step up and develop their leadership, if this opportunity is rightly and wisely used.

3. Encouraging The Company

Esprit-de-Corps, This expression has been defined as “Pride in a unit, which makes a member ashamed to bring discredit to it, and makes him/her ready to sacrifice for it.”

Drill helps to build up this spirit. It is not an individual activity, in that no one member can shine at drill, but one individual can, however, spoil the whole Company. In drill, there is no personal satisfaction for a member except the knowledge that he/she has done his/her best for the Company - and that is enough.