What is the difference between Attention and Parade Rest?

• A. Attention is a rigid, formal stance; Parade Rest is a relaxed stance with hands behind the back.
• B. Parade Rest is a rigid, formal stance; Attention is relaxed with hands behind the back.
• C. Both are rigid with hands clasped behind the back.
• D. Attention and Parade Rest have the same posture.

Answer: (A)

Posture in drill focuses on readiness and control. Attention is a rigid, formal stance: the body stands erect, with minimal movement and a strict, disciplined bearing, and the hands are kept at the sides in a controlled position. Parade Rest loosens that formality, so the body remains upright but not stiff, and the hands are clasped behind the back. This combination signals respect and composure while allowing a more relaxed, at-ease feel than attention. The contrast is why this option is correct: it accurately describes attention as stiff and formal and parade rest as a relaxed posture with hands behind the back. The other descriptions either swap the hand positions or misstate the level of rigidity, which doesn’t align with how these postures are used in drill.