If a higher-ranking Cadet not assigned to guard duty is present, what is their authority to give orders to the guard?

• A. They may give orders
• B. They may only relay orders through a supervisor
• C. They may only speak to the Commander of the Relief
• D. They cannot give orders; the guard on duty has full control

Answer: (D)

Authority for a guard comes from being assigned to that post and the established chain of command. A higher-ranking cadet who is not assigned to guard duty does not have the right to issue commands to the guard. The guard on duty answers to the person officially in charge of that post—typically the Guard Commander or the Duty NCO—and any directives should come through those authorized leaders. If something needs to be conveyed, it should be relayed through the proper supervisor or commander rather than given as a direct order. This keeps the guard’s actions clear, accountable, and consistent with the unit’s procedures.