What is the purpose of the 3rd General Order for a Sentry?

The third General Order for a Sentry is specifically focused on the responsibility of a sentry to report any violations of orders that are enforced within their post. This is fundamental to maintaining security and ensuring that any irregularities or breaches in protocol are addressed promptly. A sentry's role is not only to keep watch but also to communicate any situations that may threaten the safety or effectiveness of the command. By reporting violations, the sentry plays a critical part in maintaining discipline and order, which are essential for the functionality of military operations.

In this context, although maintaining order and discipline is an overall benefit of correctly executing the duties outlined in the General Orders, it is not the specific purpose of the third General Order. Taking charge of posts relates to the responsibilities of a sentry as a whole, while passing on commands does not encapsulate the specific action of reporting violations. Therefore, recognizing the unique duty of reporting violations clarifies why the third General Order is so vital to the effectiveness and security of the watch.