"1942 USMC TO&E" Topic

Hello, I'm looking at recreating the fighting on Guadalcanal. The USMC platoon TO&E has a Platoon Guide Sergeant. The platoon already has a Platoon Sergeant so what does a Platoon Guide Sergeant do? Both in theory and practice.

Thank you in advance for any replies.

Here is a link to Bayonet Strength with a listing for various USMC TO & E:

link

Their listing shows both. As you mentioned yourself, is that in theory or actual practice?

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A platoon guide is a position, but not a rank in the United States Army and Marine Corps. The guide sets the direction and cadence of the march.

In an infantry platoon the platoon guide is a non commissioned officer (By TO a sergeant in the US Marine Corps) who acts as an assistant platoon sergeant. The platoon guide is responsible for ensuring the platoon is supplied with ammunition and rations and in combat operations, may be tasked by the platoon commander to take temporary charge of casualties or enemy prisoners of war/detainees until they are evacuated to the rear.

In a basic training unit, the platoon guide is the senior recruit in the platoon chosen by his or her Drill Instructor as a liaison between the Drill Instructor and the platoon and the recruit leadership of the platoon.

The platoon guide also carries the platoon guidon.

This was the US Army definition of the Platoon Guide's role –

THE PLATOON GUIDE – The platoon guide (a sergeant) prevents straggling and enforces orders concerning cover, concealment, and discipline. His position is usually in rear of the platoon, where he observes the situation on the flanks and the rear. He checks ammunition expenditure and replenishes ammunition at every opportunity.

link

I'm pretty sure the USMC role was similar, I've got info on the Squad duties but not the Pl HQ personnel, though aside from the Guide (pretty much unique to US forces) they were self explanatory.

Gary

Thanks for the replies.