How To Set Up Camp (Cont.)

This reduces the size of the camp to 24 feet in width, but still requires the full eighty feet in length. On many occasions, the host unit will not have allotted the necessary space. In this case adjust the camp to meet the space available. The responsibility will reside with those who arrive first. Their job exists as follows:

The first participants on the scene must demarcate where the tents fall. First count off the width of the designated area. Each one of your feet equals one foot (duh). Walk toe to heel the extent of the camp site. Divide this measurement in two and place a stake here at the front of the camp. Repeat this procedure at the rear of the camp. Then string a line at ground level between the two stakes. This will signal where the first ten tents shall be erected back to back.

Next, from the front of the camp, count off twelve feet along the strung wire. This area will be used for the NCO's tent and bell of arms. Begin erecting the first ten tents from this spot, twelve feet in from the front of the camp. No more than three to four people should erect any one tent. More than this makes a mess. If enough people are present, create two tent-erecting teams.

To begin, unroll the first tent with the back flush against the strung wire. Use one of the larger tents as the first tent, otherwise, the doorways will not remain in alignment. Place the bottom edge with the loops/holes towards the front of the camp. This will delineate the front edge of the center tents. Next, stake in the two corners on this edge. Designate one stake pounder, and two tent holders. A fourth member can stand back and sight how straight the tent stands.

Once the first ten tents are in place, erect the flies. No more than eight people are necessary for this. Once again, more than eight creates confusion. First, set out all equipment for erecting the first fly. You should have eight posts, one ridge pole, sixteen ropes, and sixteen stakes, and of course, one fly. Four people need to hold the four corner posts while two others erect the ridge pole and posts.

The seventh and/or eighth members then attach the ropes and pound in the stakes with the fly taught. Finish with the two middle, side posts.

The fire pit will be dug six feet away from the fly or flies. Count it off with your feet, then use a shovel to cut out a four by six foot fire pit. More than one may be necessary. If you are adjusting the camp due to space limitations, remember to still keep the fire pit six feet away from the flies and the rear rope-line. Cut up your 4X6 box into one foot, sections. Remove these with the shovel about a half, foot in depth. Cut these in half and place them around the fire pit, upside down, as a barrier. Cover this with dirt from the pit as you even out the pit bottom.

Following these simple guidelines will make setting up a camp much easier than it has been in the past. Not always will the unit be able to follow these rules. Personnel and space will vary. Equipment, may be unavailable, or the vegetation may inhibit the layout of a proper camp. Work around these challenges as best you can with the above plans, and the effort just might become enjoyable.

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