Note 261 — THE FORMAL TACTICS OF INFANTRY. (continued 5)
Walter Krueger translation
See Taktik, V, p. 243, et seq.
[262] Hoppenstedt (Schlacht der Zukunft, pp. 134 and 140) draws a graphic picture which is a faithful reproduction of reality.
The procedure outlined by that author (Ibid., p. 122) for indicating, by means of flag signals, points sheltered from hostile fire, seems practicable. He states: “Holding his flag upright, the member of the patrol proceeds steadily on his way to Weyer. Now he has arrived at the point where the road bends slightly toward the south; his flag descends,” etc.
[263] Kunz, Kriegsgeschichtliche Beispiele, 8-9, p. 128, et seq., p. 243.
The necessity for thorough reconnaissance is illustrated by the successful “fire surprises” carried out by the Boers at Modder River on November 28th, 1899, and at Colenso, against Hart’s Brigade advancing in dense masses, on December 15th, 1899.