How many general orders must a sentry learn?

• A. Eleven
• B. Ten
• C. Nine
• D. Twelve

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that a sentry follows a fixed, complete set of duties that guide every post. In Army training, there are eleven general orders a sentry must learn and be ready to perform. These orders provide a compact framework for guarding duties—from taking charge of the post and staying alert, to reporting violations, passing on orders to the relief, staying off post for non-duty talk, giving the alarm for fire or disorder, and saluting officers and colors. Memorizing eleven ensures you have all essential instructions in one clear list, so you act consistently in any situation. If you memorize fewer than eleven, you’d miss an important duty; memorizing more would include items not part of the standard list. So eleven is the standard number to learn.