Guarding a Sentry

Guide for Guardsman

Mounting sentry, also known as “Stag” is probably the most common duty that every rank
at some point would have upholded in the group. Typically a guardsman in a bearskin is not
only a representation of the British Army but a representation of something that is
essentially British. Which is why it is essential that this group gets it right every time. This
procedure should be known off by heart.

Guardsman
Ultimately Guardsman will be the most common rank to stand guard while on sentry duty.
In a highly unlikely situation a Lance Corporal may need to take part however we do try to
avoid this eventuality. This document will provide all the information you need to know
while on sentry.

Do’s of a Guard
● Patrol on the marked path that is in front of your sentry. (Make sure you slope arms
before you move)
● Come to attention and Slope Arms when a Non Commissioned Officer approaches
your Box.
● Come to attention, Slope Arms and Butt salute when a Commissioned Officer
approaches your Box.
● When mounted follow any words of Command that the Guard Commander gives
even when you aren’t a part of their Parade. (I.G. when you are on guard and the
Detachment is on the forecourt you will still follow the words of Command that are
given by the Guard Commander. Includes coming to attention and standing at Ease
(Not Standing Easy)
● React to any intruders or trespassers accordingly.
Don’ts of a Guard
● Never Stand Easy
● Never go AFK
● Never march at Shoulder Arms
● Never present arms unless told to
● Never talk unless spoken to first by a Non Commissioned Officer or above.

Reacting to Intruders

Step One
Stand to attention sharply and warn the intruder/trespasser to step back away from you or
the point they are trespassing.

Step Two
If they persist, adopt the High Port position with the rifle and once again sternly tell the
intruder to stand back.

Step Three
Adopt the En-Garde position with the rifle and give a stern final warning for the intruder to
stand back.

Step Four
If they still do not stand back you are firmly authorised to “kill” the intruder by using your
bayonet against them. If they run away, use the !help command and report their name to
whatever admin comes to you.

Appropriate Responses/Orders
“STEP BACK” “GET BACK” “STAND BACK” “STEP BACK FOR THE QUEEN’S GUARD”
“GET AWAY” “MOVE BACK”.
Report, Mission and Execution

While on Guard the Guard Commander and Senior Sergeant may inspect those who are on
sentry duty. There are 3 Questions they can ask you. What is your Mission? What is your
Execution? And finally Report.
Here are the appropriate responses for each.

Report
Response - Nothing to Report Sir/Ma’am, All is well.

What is your Mission?

Response - My mission is to man my post in order to deter any would be aggressor and
show the status of the Royal Family.

What is your Execution?

Response - My execution is to act in a smart and soldier like manner, not to converse with
anyone unless in the course of duty if so as briefly as possible without movement.

B.Carlyle
Warrant Officer Class One BenjaminCarlyle
Regimental Sergeant Major