The 30-inch Step from the Halt

To march with a 30-inch step from the Halt, the command is Forward, MARCH.
a. On the preparatory command Forward, shift the weight of the body to the right
foot without noticeable movement. On the command of execution MARCH, step
forward 30 inches with the left foot and continue marching with 30-inch steps, keeping
the head and eyes fixed to the front. The arms swing in a natural motion, without
exaggeration and without bending at the elbows, approximately 9 inches straight to the
front and 6 inches straight to the rear of the trouser seams. Keep the fingers curled as in
the Position of Attention so that the fingers just clear the trousers.
b. To Halt while marching, the command Squad (Platoon), HALT is given. The
preparatory command Squad (Platoon) is given as either foot strikes the marching
surface as long as the command of execution HALT is given the next time that same
foot strikes the marching surface. The Halt is executed in two counts. After HALT is
commanded, execute the additional step required after the command of execution and
then bring the trail foot alongside the lead foot, assuming the Position of Attention and
terminating the movement.

Introduction to Drill and Ceremonies

“Gentlemen: you have now reached the last point. If anyone of you doesn’t mean business let him say so now. An hour from now will be too late to back out. Once in, you’ve got to see it through. You’ve got to perform without flinching whatever duty is assigned you, regardless of the difficulty or the danger attending it. If it is garrison duty, you must attend to it. If it is meeting fever, you must be willing. If it is the closest kind of fighting, anxious for it. You must know how to ride, how to shoot, how to live in the open. Absolute obedience to every command is your first lesson. No matter what comes you mustn’t squeal. Think it over - all of you. If any man wishes to withdraw he will be gladly excused, for
others are ready to take his place.”
Theodore Roosevelt, Remarks to Recruits, 1898