In double time cadence, how should the guidon be held relative to the body?

• A. Staff across the body with the spearhead to the left; the right hand grasps the same spot as at carry; the right forearm is level with the deck and the elbow against the body; grip the staff with the left hand in front of the point where the neck and left shoulder join; the flat side of the spearhead faces front.
• B. Staff held diagonally across the chest with the spearhead to the right and the right hand near the middle of the staff.
• C. The staff is carried behind the back with the spearhead facing downward and the arms extended.
• D. The staff is held overhead with both hands near the top of the shaft.

Answer: (A)

In double time, the guidon is carried in a specific, standardized position to keep it stable, readable, and aligned within the unit. The staff is held across the body with the spearhead to the left, while the right hand stays at the same carry point. The right forearm is kept level with the deck and the elbow tucked against the body to prevent the staff from swinging or hitting others. The left hand grips the staff in front of the point where the neck and left shoulder join, giving you control near your center of mass. The flat side of the spearhead faces front so the symbol is presented correctly and clearly to the formation.

This setup ensures visibility and uniformity during movement, minimizes interference with teammates, and provides a stable, easy-to-manage position as you march. The other options describe positions that either alter the orientation of the spearhead, place the staff in awkward or unsafe locations, or elevate the staff beyond what’s practical for marching, none of which fit the standard double-time carry.