QM report
One of the first orders You will issue is getting QM Report. You will do it like this:
I call for my Quartermaster Lt. Jackson. "Suh, I wish to see detailed report of my brigade. I want names of regiments, number of men, type of weapons and amount of supply. This should be done ASAP. You can go!"
As every other order You will send this to Your commanding officer and War Department in Richmond (law10c@yahoo.com).
Cadet, the most important task at hand once you receive your command will be to make sure your brigade is properly prepared to meet the enemy on the battlefield. The ability of your men to execute your orders will be directly related to how well you take care of your men.
The importance of a continuous supply line is critical. Logistics - getting food, clothes, and spare parts to the front - is often what makes or breaks a conflict.
Supply depots have been strategically placed to insure a constant flow of food and supplies reach your men (Depots). Your brigade must be able to trace a direct route back to one of these supply depots. The brigade may be able to live "off the land" for a short period of time only if they do not remain in the same place for any extended period of time. In most cases it will be the duty of the division commander to make sure your men are properly supplied. If for any reason you are ordered to move to an area where you are not assured of receiving a steady flow of supplies it will be your duty to make sure your supply wagons are fully stocked before you move.
Training
Brigade commanders are to order their regimental commanders to establish a "school of instruction" and any officer who fails to master the tactics will have a short stay in the officers rank of the regiment. Brigade commanders will see to it that the regimental commanders receive the appropriate texts for instruction. You can find some great books at VMI library (http://www.usregulars.com/).
Respect to senior officers and proper uniforms are essential for the beginnings of a quality brigade. The first duty of a soldier is a prompt and cheerful obedience to all lawful orders, and no one is fit to command, in any capacity, that is not himself willing to obey. Every officer should be addressed by his proper military title, and the men by their surname.
Impress upon your regimental commanders that the only way to prepare their regiments is to drill, drill, and more drill. Colonels will be instructed to assemble their field-grade officers twice daily to study the tactics, and company, squadron, and regimental drills, to be conducted under their watchful eyes. Only under their competent handling will the regiments become very well trained organizations. The evolutions are first the school of the soldier and then the school of the company so the men will attain the utmost familiarity with the movements necessary to maneuver their regiments in the field.
