How many steps should separate platoons when a company is formed?

When a company is formed, the established drill and formation regulations indicate that there should be a separation of 5 steps between platoons. This spacing allows for effective movement and coordination during drills, ensuring that each platoon can operate independently while maintaining cohesion with the other elements of the company. Proper spacing is crucial for facilitating commands, maintaining visual contact between the units, and ensuring that maneuvers can be executed smoothly without interference.

The standard of 5 steps, or approximately 10 feet, strikes a balance between closeness needed for unity and the distance required for operational effectiveness. This spacing helps leaders to observe their formations without obstruction and enables platoons to integrate into company formations during both practice and official ceremonies. Maintaining this separation is part of instilling discipline and orderliness within the ranks, which is essential for military operations.