FM 28-5 Basic Field Manual, The Band 1941-03-31 "Military bands provide a powerful means to commanding officers for stimulating and maintaining the morale of their units. In addition, good bands contribute directly to the contentment and well-being of the troops. It follows, therefore, that bands, as military units, must maintain high standards of military efficiency, and that their musical performance must be characterized by its excellence and by its spirit. Specifically, the mission of the band is twofold- to participate in and to furnish the desired music at military formations, and to furnish musical entertainment for the command on such occasions as may be prescribed by the commanding officer. This field manual details organization and duties, the dismounted and mounted band, and musical instruction of the band." Digitized by the Combined Arms Research Library Digital Library, US Army Combined Arms Center. http://cgsc.cdmhost.com/cdm/, At head of title: Basic field manual