A column is a type of marching formation of an army. In this configuration, soldiers march together in one or more files in which the file is significantly longer than the width of ranks in the formation. Honour guards and processions can also adopt this formation.
Description[]
A military column can generally be separated into three groups:
- Vanguard: Called the van for short, it is the leading part of the advancing army.
- Main column: Sometimes refer to as the center column, it is the central part of the marching army. The baggage train is usually located in the main column. The train uses vehicules such as carts, wagons, and wains to transport the army's provisions and supplies.
- Rearguard: Called the rear for short, it is the part of the army that protects it from attack from the rear during the march.
A column can stretch several miles. Scouts are sent to explore ahead of the column. They report back to the column about enemies movements and give information on the terrain the column is about to encounter. Some gryphonriders have used their gryphons for scouting missions.
Culture[]
The column formation is widespread in Tamriel. Even the Atmorans from the northern continent, who are not known for their military discipline, used it while marching on campaigns.