1. To take charge of this post and all government property in view.

Discussion: You are responsible for your post and everything that takes place on it. Check your post thoroughly when posted-windows, doors, standing lights etc.. Watch for violations and unusual activity on and off your post during your tour. Now you have “taken charge of your post”.

2. To walk my post in a military manner, keeping always on the alert and observing everything that takes place within sight or hearing.

Discussion: Your attention to duty while a sentry on post is reflected in your general appearance, carriage and alert attitude. Don’t let boredom get the better of you. Find ways to stay alert and DO observe everything that takes place on your post.

3. To report all violations of orders I am instructed to enforce.

Discussion: Your actions will be guided by the 11 general orders, the special orders for your post, and any additional instruction given by the commissioned and non-commissioned officers of the guard. Report all violations of any of the orders that guide your actions while on duty to the Petty Officer of the Watch.

4. To repeat all calls from posts more distant from the guardhouse than my own.

Discussion: If you hear any call, you will pass it on to the guardhouse. You will often find that your post is equipped with a telephone or radio. Sometimes the sentry on a post will not be able to get to his telephone or radio. You will have to use your judgment to determine if you should use your telephone or simply repeat the call.

5. To quit my post only when properly relieved.

Discussion: You may quit your post only if relieved by a member in the guard chain of command. If you become sick or for some other reason need to be relieved, you must remain at your post until a proper relief arrives.

6. To receive, obey, and pass on to the sentry who relieves me all orders from the Commanding Officer, Command Duty Officer, Officer of the Deck, and Officers and Petty Officers of the Watch only.

Discussion: Upon being relieved, you must pass on all orders you were given prior to or during your tour of duty. As a sentry, you will receive orders pertaining to the conduct of your post only from members of the guard.

7. To talk to no one except in the line of duty.

Discussion: You may be tempted to talk to people who are on or near your post. DON’T. Keep your mind on your duties. Line of duty means government business pertaining to your job as sentry on your post. Conversations with all personnel will be short, concise and official.

8. To give the alarm in case of fire or disorder.

Discussion: This part of the order is the key to your action. Sound the proper alarm immediately by the fastest and most effective means available.

9. To call the Officer of the Deck in any case not covered by instructions.

Discussion: AS a sentry on duty, you are to call the guardhouse for instructions or Assistance when you are in doubt concerning the proper action to take. You will usually have special orders and instructions pertaining to the conduct of your post. When an incident not covered occurs, you must call the Officer of the Deck.

10. To salute all Officers and all colors and standards not cased.

Discussion: Which officers? All officers of the U.S. Armed forces and U.S. allies are to be saluted by you while a sentry on post. You must remain alert to the military courtesy required of a sentry. You will salute encased colors or standards.

11. To be especially watchful at night and during the time for challenging, to challenge all persons on or near my post, and to allow no one to pass without proper authority.

Discussion: Be aware of the limits of your post and its problem areas and watch for intruders. Challenge and check all persons on or near your post to determine their business on your post. Detain anyone attempting to pass without authority. Allow no one to pass if you are in doubt about him.]]>