The position of attention is the basic military position from which most other drill movements are executed. There are no counts, however, there are seven steps in describing the position:

1. Smartly bring your left heel against the right.

2. Turn your feet out equally to form an angle of 45 degrees. Keep your heels on the same line and touching.

3. Your legs should be straight, but not stiff at the knees.

4. Keep your hips and shoulders level and your chest lifted.

5. Your arms should be straight, but not stiff at the elbows; thumbs along the trouser seams, palms facing inward toward your legs, and fingers joined in their natural curl.

6. Keep your head and body erect. Look straight ahead. Keep your mouth closed and your chin pulled in slightly.

7. Stand still and do not talk.

8. The movement may be executed when halted, at any position of rest, or while marching at route step or at ease. The commands are “FALL IN” and “ATTENTION.” On the command “FALL IN,” you would assume your position in ranks at the position of attention. The command “ATTENTION” is always preceded by a preparatory command designated by the size of the unit, such as “Squad, Platoon,” or “Company.” For example, when drilling a squad the command to bring them to attention would be

“Squad, ATTENTION.” Thereafter, they move only as ordered until given “AT EASE,” “REST,” “FALL OUT,” or they are dismissed.

9. When at a position of rest or while marching at route step or at ease and the command “ATTENTION” is given, the following applies:

a. When given at parade rest, come to attention.

b. When given at ease or rest, assume the position of parade rest on the preparatory command “Squad.” When “ATTENTION” is given go to that position.

c. When given while marching at route step or at ease, get in step as soon as possible and continue to march at attention.