|Imperial Legion Structure
A legion was divided into 10 cohorts. The first cohort (800 men) was organized into five double centuries. Each of the other 9 cohorts averaged 480 men apiece and were broken down into three two century maniples (160 men). Each century (80 men) consisted of 10 contuburnia (6-10 men). Full strength was rare because frequently men were sick, absent on leave or posted to other duties. There was also a cavalry contingent of 120 men (four turmae) that served as scouts and dispatch riders. When you add in the officers, medics, engineers and clerks a legion totalled roughly 5,500 men.
The commander, a Legate, was of senator status. His second in command was a Tribunus Laticlavius (a senatorial designate). There were five equestrian Tribuni Augusticlavi who typically had prior military experience leading auxiliary units, but they occupied headquarters staff positions. The third in command was the Praefectus Castrorum (a former Primus Pilus, Tribune or Prefect). The forth was the Primus Pilus (first file), the legion's head centurion, and Parker argues that there were actually two primi pili: one led the 1st cohort and the second was attached to the legion headquarters (the Principia). In 5th place was the Princeps (who also handled training).
The legion's orderly room staff, known as the Tabularium Principis, worked out of the principia and was commanded by a cornicularius (clerk). He supervised an array of subordinates who oversaw transfers, furloughs, medical reports, duty rosters, military service records, promotion records, decorations, etc.
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|Membership Rules and Regulations
Members must have a basic knowledge of the Roman legion as well as the minimum required equipment in order to effectively interact with the public. It is your responsibility to provide the most accurate information possible when quizzed. Do not hesitate to admit when you do not know the answer to a question or to ask someone else.
Dress and Deportment
Equipment is to be period correct and as functional as materials and cost permit.
All kit, including weapons and armour, should be inspected for cleanliness and serviceability.
All clothing will be kept clean.Proper dress will be adhered to at all times while in the public.
Absolutely NO modern day paraphernalia is permitted (i.e.: sunglasses, eyeglasses, piercings of any kind, eccentric hair colour, inappropriate visible tattoos, etc.).
Conduct in Public
Members will be polite and respectful to the public. Remember, we are here to promote our unit, and educate people about ancient Roman military life.
Members will be courteous and helpful to anyone hosting the legion.
Encampment areas are to be kept clean. Ensure that upon departure they are left cleaner than when you arrived.
You are reenacting a Roman soldier. Behave like one. Fun is a key component of reenactment, however, ensure that your performance is within the realms of common sense and safety.
When the unit is performing a public demonstration all equipment at the base camp will be secured by at least one member or assistant.
Use of Weapons
Weapons are not to be handled by the public, under any circumstances.
Swords and daggers will be secured at all events, excluding parades and combat demos, with a device to ensure that they cannot be removed from their scabbards by unauthorized personnel.
The use of the warning "Clear" will precede the drawing of weapons in the public or at any events.
The inappropriate use of weapons will not be tolerated.
Disciplinary Actions for Violations of Weapon Usage:
First Offense: Removal of all weapons for the duration of the event.
Second Offense: Immediate expulsion from the event, and discharge from the legion.
Care of Equipment
All steel surfaces must be rust-free and clean. A satin finish is easier to maintain than a high polish. Once clean, coat the metal with either an oil (3-in-1 oil, general purpose oil, etc.), or Vaseline. This will maintain the finish and prevent rust.
Brass must be kept corrosion free; this can be accomplished with a rubbing or polishing compound. Once clean and shining, oil or Vaseline can be applied to maintain the appearance.
Leather should be treatedwith a light coat of neatsfoot oil to maintain water resistance and suppleness. Follow the product instructions for application.
Disciplinary Actions for Violations of Equipment Care:
Non-adherence will result in suspension for an event and/or expulsion from the legion.
Chain of Command
Members will obey and respect the legion's Chain of Command when deployed in the field. Do not expect to be ordered to your death, but remember that ranking members are selected based on their knowledge, integrity and leadership ability.
The key word is constructive. Ideas are always welcome. This applies to events, kit construction, suppliers, the legion itself, etc.
Membership Enrolment Criteria
The primary requirement for membership is interest. If reenacting is something you would like to do, and are serious about it, then by all means, join up! It requires commitment insofar as acquiring/fabricating your equipment and learning the basics of the Roman army. Legionary kit can run anywhere from one to two thousand dollars Canadian/American (especially now that the two currencies are levelling out) depending on whether you construct or purchase what you need. Members must be able to physically perform the role that they portray in a realistic manner.
Military: The typical (historical) legionary recruitment age was 17.
Civilian: Non-combat roles are open to all age groups, so long as the participants are attired appropriately and the roles portrayed are realistic/period correct (an 8 year old senator is not credible!).