The Major: Does the duties of the colonel in the absence of the colonel. Assists the colonel as required otherwise. According to Hardee's Tactics, "The major will generally be abreast with the last subdivision; he will see that each guide marches exactly in the trace of the one immediately preceding; if either deviate from the direction, the major will promptly rectify the error, and prevent its being propagated; but he not need not interfere, in this way, unless the deviation has become sensible, or material." In line of battle, the major's position is in the rear center of the left wing, eight paces to the rear of the file closers.
The Adjutant: Handles battalion paperwork, receives company morning reports at events where consolidated morning reports are required. Produces daily schedule and posts it on battalion bulletin board. Reviews guard mount when formal guards are required. Sees that battalion gets into formation, open order, for formal reviews. Places company markers for formal reviews as directed by reviewing officer. Attends to the colonel in the field, doing duty at his pleasure as battalion marker, messenger, and overall assistant. Assists in battalion drills as needed.