Unit Commands

A selection of commands that might be used in an SCA war.

Dress the Line

The people on the shield wall should reposition so that the front is straight. This positioning helps maintain unit cohesion and allows teammates to guard each other's flanks.

Slow Advance

Walk slowly forward while maintaining a cleanly dressed formation. Usually the first command issued after the lay-on.

On the Break

When the unit commander starts screaming something like "GO GO GO" or "BREAK NOW", you should do what you were told to do.

Flank Right/Left

Run around the enemy line in the direction indicated. If correctly executed, the flank maneuver allows many people on your side to attack few people on the enemy side. See Numerical Superiority at Point of Contact

Slide Right/Left

The whole unit should step to the side until told to stop. Usually use before the fight.

Oblique Right/Left

Each person walks diagonally forward. This is a combination of Slow Advance and Slide Right/Left. The shield wall remains parallel to it's starting line-up.

Echelon Right/Left

The person farthest to the right/left starts advancing. The next person follows one step later. The next 1 step later still. The resulting shield wall is on a diagonal but the direction of movement is forward.

Wheel Right/Left

The line should pivot. Unfortunately this command is not clear. It does not say whether the right should advance or fall back. See Flank Right/Left and Refuse the Right/Left.

Refuse the Right/Left

The indicated side should fall back in an orderly fashion. They are refusing to be flanked.

Reform "Unit Name"

Calls all members of your named unit to find their teammates and reassemble.

Typical Commands for a short battle: "On the break, flank right" "Dress the Line" 'Lay-On!' "Slow advance" "Ready . . Go!" whack Whack Whack "Reform Drunkards!"