Part 5/8:
As the day progressed, the men were engaged in various assigned duties. Watch shifts would rotate in four-hour increments, during which soldiers monitored the perimeters for enemy activity or patrolled the surrounding area. The protocol for maintaining vigilance was strict, with severe penalties for falling asleep on duty.
Training and Maintenance
The maintenance of not only the fort but also the soldiers themselves was crucial for military readiness. Troops were expected to repair equipment, maintain their arms and armor, and engage in regular training exercises. Some larger forts also provided spaces for physical training, including areas for weapon drills and even recreational facilities like bathhouses.