Bearing

Something must be said for appropriate military bearing in Pathfinder drill.
Military bearing is a concept not often taught to Pathfinders but is an essential part of any team wishing to push past mediocrity. It is a essential for effective Drill Instructors.

How should we define bearing? Most of the time it has the word "military" in front of it and that may turn some people off. Don't let that happen. It's simply there because its from the military that we get our most recognizable definition of the type of bearing we want in Pathfinder drill.

Think about what you know of high profile military personnel. Have you seen a Tomb Guard at Arlington National Cemetery? Perhaps a performance of the United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon. Maybe pictures of embassy guards or professional graveside service members. All of these individuals were chosen in some part because of their bearing. There are three main elements that are essential: attitude, discipline, and appearance. Put all these together in an appropriate fashion and you will have Pathfinder bearing.

Attitude
You must exude the proper attitude. This would include confidence, courtesy, and professionalism. They way you interact with others goes a long way to promoting good will; and someone who has those qualities will be respected in their field.

Discipline
Discipline comes in two parts: mental and physical. They go hand-in-hand when it comes to drill.

Physical discipline involves they way you move and the way you carry yourself. This is the quality that people will see from across the room and know who you are that you are in charge. It means always walking with a confident step. A step taken as if you know exactly where you are going, how to get there, and what's going to happen when you arrive. It means that the shoulders are back, your are standing straight and tall, your head is up, and you are always aware of your surroundings ( It sounds like I've just described the look of a nervous prairie dog, but I assure you, you wont look like Timon). This is a quality of all successful people and instructing drill is no different. Avoid slouched postures that close yourself off. This doesn't mean you have to march everywhere you go and sit at attention for every meal, but let that posture and discipline training come out and be noticed.

Mental discipline comes from those hours spent on the drill field practicing, drilling, and perfecting all those movements, positions, and commands. It's the thing that allows you to stand at attention for longer than usual. And it's the quality that allows you to discuss subjects with grace. The exact quality will be a little different for every Pathfinder and Instructor but in order to perfect the physical discipline, you must have that mental component to match.

Appearance
Among the most visual parts of military bearing is ones outward appearance. Essentially this is the clothes he/she is wearing and how they are worn. I don't have to mention the importance of having a perfectly squared away uniform that is above an beyond anything you would expect of your Pathfinders. You will use those "tricks of the trade" to make this happen. Beyond the dress uniform, one should always strive to have appropriate, neat, and professional attire given the circumstances. Your clothing should be clean, well fitted, and free of wrinkles. Noting too difficult here. Footwear should be appropriate. Bear in mind that sandals or flip flops are never appropriate drill attire. Shorts should be reserved for days above 80 degrees or when engaged in activities such and hiking. Leave the bedazzled sunglasses, the wristbands, and neon colored belts at home and opt for a more conservative alternative. Oh, and wear a wristwatch.... your phone is not an appropriate time keeping device.

Bearing takes practice and conscious effort to develop. Done well, it can add a whole new level to your instruction. If you teach it to your Pathfinders, their ability to drill will increase and they will look much better.