What command is issued to align a Company or platoon in a column formation?

The command to align a company or platoon in a column formation is "Cover." This command instructs soldiers to adjust their distances in a column so that they are directly behind the soldier in front of them while maintaining proper spacing. This is crucial for maintaining good order and appearance in formation, ensuring each member of the unit is properly aligned and visible from the front.

In this context, "Cover" emphasizes the importance of ensuring that everyone in the formation is positioned correctly, which is vital for both discipline and aesthetics during a drill or inspection. Proper alignment in formations not only reflects the unit's readiness and professionalism but also facilitates effective movement as a cohesive group.

The other commands serve different purposes; for example, "Dress Right" is used to align troops side by side, while "Attention" is a position command and "Ready Front" resets the attention of the troops after they have turned to a different direction. These commands do not apply specifically to aligning a unit in a column formation.