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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/cadet-one-step-between-commands

For a flight, about how long should the pause be between the preparatory command and the command of execution?

About one step, measured in the beat of the cadence.

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  1. No pause at all
  2. About two steps
  3. About one step ✔

Why: One step between the two parts gives the best result. A leader can stretch it a little so cadets understand the movement, or so subordinate leaders can give supplementary commands.

Huh, didn't know that: For a squadron or bigger unit, the commander allows three steps between the two parts.

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Why did the drill leader pause for one step? Any longer and it's a commercial break.
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References

Answer: About one step. One step between the two parts gives the best result. A leader can stretch it a little so cadets understand the movement, or so subordinate leaders can give supplementary commands.

  1. CAPP 60-33, Civil Air Patrol Drill and Ceremonies (Nov 2025), 2.7.1 Cadence www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/P_6033_2217FEEE8C89F.pdf
    allows one step between the preparatory command and the command of execution.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. CAPP 60-33, 2.7.3 www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/P_6033_2217FEEE8C89F.pdf
    allow the marching elements to take three steps between commands.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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