PREFACE TO THIRD EDITION
Reading edition
The cordial reception that has been accorded this volume by the Army, the Marine Corps, the National Guard, Military Schools, Training Camps, etc., has made necessary a second and third editions. The present edition embodies the essential modifications contained in the 1914 F. S. R., and the act of June 3, 1916.
The chief reason leading to the publication of the volume in the first instance was the authors’ belief that the excellent instruction given at the Leavenworth Schools should be disseminated to the widest extent practicable among all those in the United States who are charged with preparation for the active physical defense of the nation. To assist in such an extension of military education, there seemed a need for a volume which would collect and make available within a small compass, the fruits of the study, observation, and experience of those officers who have unceasingly devoted themselves to the improvement of American tactical training.
It is well that the traditional indifference of the American people toward military preparedness is in this day being rudely disturbed. Fate has hitherto been lenient to the growing American nation. It has not demanded the full or the logical forfeit proportionate to the laxity displayed by us in meeting former crises. In the Revolution, fate was indeed kind to the Colonists. In the War of 1812 it awarded us greatly more than our efforts merited, and seemed to overlook the pitiful inefficiency of our land forces. At sea the brilliant series of naval exploits was made possible only by the unfaltering determination of the naval chieftains serving under a supine administration that desired to lock up the navy in home ports. In the Mexican War, in permitting us to conduct two campaigns without the loss of a single battle, and in spite of a woeful deficiency in men, in equipment, and in administrative support, fate was more than indulgent.
In the Civil War fate did not assess the full retribution of disruption of the Union, which it might logically have done, but it did exact for our neglect of preparation an immense payment in blood and treasure. This indulgence of fate may be not wholly a kindness. To the extent that it violates justice, it merely postpones the final reckoning and tends to lull its recipient into a false sense of national security, resulting from unearned success. The nation has not yet experienced the chastening discipline of defeat. In the future, therefore, we must not be surprised when full compensation is exacted if, as an adult people, we continue to misread the true import of history and persist in our traditional negligence.
A people may not logically assume great responsibilities without making timely provision for the discharge of those responsibilities. Sooner or later an exact accounting will be had. History shows many examples of nations which have paid the price of their neglect. Despite the hopes of Utopians history shows that human nature undergoes no progressive change, and it shows to the present day no substantial diminution in the frequency of wars.
That our people are beginning to manifest an intelligent interest in the condition of the National defense cannot fail to be gratifying to those whose lives are consecrated to such defense. Such interest is a vital support and an inspiration to the defenders. It is hoped that this volume may be of assistance in guiding to some extent the awakening interest.
In the first edition the subjects of air craft and motor vehicles were not treated, because although it was recognized from the outset that these machines would exert a very great influence upon the conduct of war, their tactics was at the time largely speculative. Such is not the case today.
CONTENTS
CHAPTER PAGE
Introduction 5
Organization of the U. S. Army.
Road distances and camp areas 10
I The preparation and solution of tactical problems.
Bibliography 19
II Field orders 37
III Patrolling 45
IV Advance guards 56
V Rear guards. Flank guards 70
VI Marches, Change of direction of march,
Camps and bivouacs 83
VII Convoys 95
VIII Artillery tactics 109
IX Cavalry tactics 144
X Outposts 170
XI Combat. Attack and defense 204
XII Organization of a defensive position 248
XIII Combat-Attack and defense of a river line, Withdrawal
from action, Rencontre or meeting engagement,
Delaying action, Pursuit, Night attacks,
Machine guns 277
XIV A position in readiness 308
XV Sanitary tactics 318
XVI The rifle in War 324
XVII Division tactics and supply 337
XVIII Air craft and Motor vehicles in War 381
Glossary 393
Index 405
LIST OF PLATES
Figure Facing Page
I Diagrammatic analysis of tactical problems 31
II Typical arrangements of a convoy on the march 104
III Typical arrangements of a convoy on the march 107
IV Battery of artillery on the march 126
V Trajectories and cones of dispersion of shell
and shrapnel 134
VI Heavy field artillery in action 135
VII Cavalry mounted attack diagrams 163
VIII Diagram of an outpost 195
IX Infantry attack diagrams 219
X Standard field trenches 265
XI Illustrating Problem No. 1, Field Fortification 274
XII Illustrating Problem No. 2, Field Fortification 276
XIII Regimental sanitary troops in battle 320
XIV Diagram illustrating the evacuation system of
the medical department 322
XV A division on the march 342
XVI Camp of a division 358
XVII Diagram showing movements of the supply and
ammunition trains of a division during a march 368
XVIII Outline of the system for supplying an army
in the field 375
Page
INTRODUCTION 5-9
ORGANIZATION OF THE U. S. ARMY.
ROAD DISTANCES. CAMP AREAS 10-17
CHAPTER I
THE PREPARATION AND SOLUTION OF
TACTICAL PROBLEMS 18-36
PRINCIPLES GOVERNING THE SOLUTION OF
TACTICAL PROBLEMS (table) 18
THE APPLICATORY SYSTEM OF MILITARY INSTRUCTION 19
Kinds of problems. Map problems, terrain exercises, war games,
tactical walks and rides, field maneuvers 19-20
Problems of decision 19
Troop leading problems 19
Limitations of terrain exercises 19
General form and details of tactical problems 20-21
General and special situation 20
Estimate of the situation 21-22
The mission 21-22
General and special assumptions 22-23
Use of maps 23
Visibility problems 24
Principles of the Art of War 24
Military responsibility and the peace training of officer 24-25
Mental processes and methods in the solution
of tactical problems 25-28
Independent solutions. Personality of the author 26-27
Simplicity of plan 27
Advantages of the initiative 27
Reviews of solutions 27-28
Apparatus required 28
DIAGRAMMATIC ANALYSIS AND SYNTHESIS 29-31
SUGGESTIONS FOR THE PREPARATION OF PROBLEMS 31-33
BIBLIOGRAPHY 33-36
CHAPTER II
FIELD ORDERS 37-44
Forms for orders. Verbiage of orders, how acquired 37-38
Administrative and routine matters 38
What to include in orders 38-39
Detailed instructions usually inadvisable 38
KINDS OF ORDERS—verbal, written, dictated,
individual, combined 39
STRUCTURE OF ORDERS 39-40
The 5 paragraph form. Contents of numbered paragraphs 39-40
Marginal distribution of troops 40
Map references. Signature 40
Transmission of orders. Receipts for orders 40
Simple English. Short sentences. Arguments and
discussions. Ambiguity 40
Abbreviations. Description of localities 41
Amount of information contained in an order 41-42
Plan of the commander. Good and bad news 41
Trespassing upon the province of a subordinate 42
Division of responsibility with a subordinate 42
Equivocal language 42
Discussion of contingencies 42
Advantages of combined orders 42
Copies of dictated orders 42
Proper time for the issue of orders 42-43
PRELIMINARY OR PREPARATORY ORDERS. Assembly orders 43
Time required for preparation and circulation of orders 43-44
Motor cars and motorcycles 44
Consonance of orders and plans. Minor details 44
Duty of staff officers in the preparation of orders 44
CHAPTER III
PATROLLING 45-55
CLASSIFICATION OF PATROLS 45
COMPOSITION AND STRENGTH. Commander 45
Mounted and dismounted patrols. Auto patrols 45-47
Functions of mounted orderlies 46
Cavalry and aeronautical services 47
Motor cars for patrolling 47
INSTRUCTIONS GIVEN PATROL LEADER
BEFORE THE START 47-48
ACTION TAKEN BY THE LEADER BEFORE THE START 48-49
Preliminary arrangements, equipment, inspection of patrol, etc. 48-49
CONDUCT OF PATROL 49-55
Formations. Gaits 49-50
Routes. Reconnoitering 50
Advance by “successive bounds” 50
Woods and defiles 50
Detachments from the patrol 50
Houses, villages and inclosures. Rendezvous 50
Corrections to maps 50
Watering the horses 50
Civilians preceding patrol 50
Combats—when justifiable 51
Prisoners 51
Lookout points. Halts. March outposts 51
Hostile patrols. Conduct in case of attack, etc. 51
Exchange of information with friendly patrols 51
Signs of the enemy 52
Accomplishment of the mission 52
Main and secondary roads 52
Interviewing inhabitants. Bivouac of patrol 53
Hearsay evidence 53
MESSAGES. How transmitted. Relay posts 53-54
Form and contents of messages 54
WHAT TO REPORT 54-55
Prompt transmission of information 54
First certain information of enemy 54
Final reports 55
Negative messages 55
Use of telegraph and telephone 55
CHAPTER IV
ADVANCE GUARDS 56-69
STRENGTH AND COMPOSITION 56-58
Advance guards of various organizations 56
Machine guns 56
Mounted men. Advance guard cavalry. Duties 56
Engineers. Signal and sanitary troops 56-58
Artillery. Field trains 57-58
Splitting organizations to form advance guard 57
Leading troops 57
Removal of obstacles to the march 58
THE START—DETAILS OF. Initial point 58
Route of advance guard 58
Outpost troops and cavalry 58
Assembly of field trains 58
Assembly in column of route. Elongation 59
ASSEMBLY ORDER 59
Calculations of times of starting for various organizations 59
Interference of routes 59
Subdivisions of advance guard 60
DISTANCES. How regulated 60
Cavalry advance guards 60-63
RECONNAISSANCE 60-62
Duty of cavalry. Independent and advance cavalry 60-62
Parallel roads 61
Flank guards 61
Mounted point 61
Method of “offset patrolling,” by infantry 61
Connecting files 61
Operations of advance cavalry 61-62
Communication with neighboring troops 62
Important features of the terrain 62
Places of advance guard and supreme commanders 62
March outposts 62
Control of means of communication 62
Civilians not to precede advance guard 63
Conduct of advance guard on meeting the enemy 63
Passage of bridges and defiles 63
OUTLINE OF SOLUTION OF SMALL ADVANCE
GUARD PROBLEMS 64
EXAMPLES OF ADVANCE GUARD ORDERS 65-69
CHAPTER V
REAR GUARDS. FLANK GUARDS 70-82
STRENGTH AND COMPOSITION OF REAR GUARDS
IN RETREAT 70-72
Rear guard on a forward march and in retreat 70
Delaying actions 70
Reinforcements of rear guard 70
Outpost troops 70
Infantry. Cavalry. Artillery 70-71
Use of motor cars in retreat and pursuit 71
Engineers—duties in retreat 71
Machine guns. Signal and sanitary troops 71
Field trains 71
Subdivisions of rear guard 71
Tactical employment of cavalry 72
DISTANCES—HOW REGULATED. Progress of main body 72
CONDUCT OF REAR GUARD 72-75
Contact with enemy. Observation of routes adjacent to line
of march or retreat 72
Covering the main body 72-73
Delaying actions of a rear guard 73
Reinforcement of rear guard 73
Requirements of a delaying position 73-74
Use of cavalry, artillery and machine guns in delaying the enemy 73-74
Withdrawal of outpost 73
Masking the fire of the delaying position 73
Use of flank positions for delaying the enemy 73
Security of line of retreat from delaying position 73
Advantages of a single determined stand 74
Keeping rear guard in hand. Simplicity of movements 74
Latitude allowed rear guard commander 74
Special patrols from main body 74
Flank detachments 74-75
Retreating upon the front of a defensive position 75
Offensive tactics by rear guards 75
Supreme commander with rear guard 75
EXAMPLE OF RETREAT ORDER 75-77
STRENGTH AND COMPOSITION OF FLANK GUARDS 78-79
Movements in two columns 78-79
Cavalry, artillery, machine guns, signal and sanitary troops
and field trains with a flank guard 78
Wagon trains, routes and escorts. Double column 78-79
FLANK GUARDS-WHEN REQUIRED 79-80
Considerations influencing the decision as to use of a flank guard 79
Examples of use of flank guards 80
Flank guards with large and small forces 80-81
Distance between flank guard and main body, obstacles and
communicating routes 80-82
Convoys, armored autos, auto transport for escort 80
Cavalry flank guards 81
CONDUCT OF FLANK GUARDS 81-82
Formation 81
Reconnaissance on exposed flank. Contact with enemy 81
Duty of cavalry with a flank guard 81
Bringing on a decisive engagement 81
Communication with other troops.
Relation of flank guard to rear guard 81-82
Reinforcement of flank guard 82
Latitude allowed flank guard commander 82
CHAPTER VI
MARCHES. CHANGE OF DIRECTION
OF MARCH. CAMPS AND BIVOUACS 83-94
ARRANGEMENT OF TROOPS ON THE MARCH 83-84
Marches in peace time 83
Intermingling of foot and mounted troops 83
Auto truck trains 83
Artillery and trains. Protection of long columns of wagons 83
Handling of trains on the march 83-84
Separation of trains and troops 84
Passage of defiles 85
Alternation of organizations in column on successive days 85
Advance guards, rear guards and leading troops 85
Distribution of troops in camp. Camping in column 85
Independent mission for cavalry. Prospects of combat,
and tactical use of cavalry 85
Place of the supreme commander 85-86
Distances between elements in a flank march 86
TIMES OF STARTING FOR FOOT AND MOUNTED
TROOPS AND TRAINS 86-87
Early starting 86
Late arrivals in camp 87
Night marches 87-89
Movements by rail 87
Movements by motor car 87
TABLE OF TIMES OF SUNRISE AND SUNSET 88
MANNER OF STARTING THE MARCH 88-89
Initial point 88
Regulation of march. End of a day’s march 89
LENGTH AND SPEED OF MARCHES 89-90
Forced marches. Marches by green troops.
Progressive increase in length of marches.
Marches by large and small bodies 89
Halts 89
Days of rest 89
Speed of infantry, mixed troops, artillery and trains 90
TABLE OF RATES OF MARCH OF DIFFERENT ARMS 90
Elongation 90
Limiting depths of fords 90
Selection of route 90
Effects of temperature on marching troops 91
Artillery and trains in double column 91
CHANGE IN DIRECTION OF MARCH 91-92
Reasons for change of direction.
“Marching to the sound of the guns” 91
“Containing” a hostile force 91
Manner of changing direction. Use of a flank guard 91-92
Safety of trains in changing direction 92
EXAMPLE OF ORDER FOR CHANGE OF DIRECTION
OF MARCH 92-93
CAMPS AND BIVOUACS 93-94
When to bivouac 93
Time of issue of halt order.
Arrangements for distribution of troops in camp 93
Requirements of a camp site 93-94
Assignment with reference to convenience of arrival
and departure. Camping in column 94
Use of buildings for shelter. Billeting 94
CHAPTER VII
CONVOYS 95-108
Definition of convoy 95
Vulnerability of a convoy. Limit of size. Straggling 95
Flank marches by convoys. Moving trains on separate road 95
General rule for position of covering troops 95
Subdivisions and dispositions of escort 95-96
Motor convoys 96
ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE MARCH 96-97
Division of wagon train into sections 96
Classification of wagons-army, hired, impressed 96
Teamsters and wagonmasters 96
Order of march 96
Field train of escort 96
Police guards, infantry and cavalry 96-97
Duties of quartermaster in charge of wagons 96-97
THE ESCORT 97-100
Commander. Duty of escort 97-98
Strength and composition of escort 98-100
Infantry, cavalry, artillery, machine guns, engineers 98
Motor transport for escort. Armored cars.
Motor cars in pursuit of a convoy 98
DISTRIBUTION AND DUTIES OF TROOPS 98
Subdivisions and relative strengths 98-99
Reconnaissance. Dispersion of fighting force 99
Position of main body of escort 99
Infantry in middle of a long column of wagons 99
Police guards 99
Advance cavalry and scouting parties 99
Mounted and dismounted point 99
Establishing contact with friendly troops in direction of march 99
Selection of defensive positions and camp sites 99
Engineers 99
Flank guards 99-100
Method of employing the cavalry of the escort 100
Rear guards. Strength, position, duties 100
Routes available for the march. Considerations governing the
selection of route. Topography 100-101
Rate of progress and halts 101
Position and movements of the enemy 101
Defensive measures to be adopted. Lines of retreat.
Alternative routes 101
Localities favorable for the attack of a convoy 101
Change of direction of march. Precautions 101-102
Parking the convoy for the night. Measures for the
security of the camp 102
Change of route in moving back and forth 102
CONDUCT ON ENCOUNTERING THE ENEMY 102-103
Halting or parking the convoy prematurely 102
Localities favorable for defense 102
Details of defensive operations. Messages to
adjacent friendly troops 102-103
ATTACK OF A CONVOY 103
Cavalry, armored cars 103
Obstacles. Ambuscades 103
Usual method of attack 103
Damaging the convoy by long range fire 103
CONVOYS OF PRISONERS. Strength of escort. Conduct 104
EXAMPLE OF ORDER FOR THE MARCH OF A CONVOY 107-108
CHAPTER VIII
ARTILLERY TACTICS 109-148
MATERIEL OF LIGHT FIELD ARTILLERY, U. S. ARMY 109-110
Subdivisions of a battery 109
Signal equipment. Ammunition 109
Description of carriage and sights. Weights behind the teams 109-110
Front covered by fire of a battery 110
DISPOSITIONS OF ARTILLERY ON THE MARCH.
Combat trains. Field trains. Protection of long columns 110
Usual dispositions of battery and combat trains in action 110
Concealment from hostile observation 110-111
DUTIES OF ARTILLERY PERSONNEL. Artillery commander.
Regimental commander. Battalion commander.
Battery commander. Lieutenants. Reconnaissance officer.
Sergeants and corporals. Scouts, signalers, agents
and route markers 111-113
Artillery officers with supreme commander and with advance guard 113
KINDS OF FIRE. Masked and unmasked fire. Defilade. Fire for
adjustment, demolition, registration and effect. Direct
and indirect laying. Salvo fire, continuous fire, volley
fire and fire at will. Time fire and percussion fire.
Area of burst of shrapnel. Fire at single and at successive
ranges, sweeping fire 113-116
Individual and collective distribution. Adjustment 116
Firing data. Aiming point 116
OBSERVATION AND CONTROL OF FIRE 117-118
Post of officer conducting the fire 117
Battery commander’s station and auxiliary observing
stations. Location 117
Aiming points. Location 117-118
TACTICAL EMPLOYMENT OF FIELD ARTILLERY 118-128
Covering the front of a defensive position 118
Considerations governing the dispositions of artillery in attack 118-120
Position in interval between frontal and enveloping attack.
Position on the flank 120
Ranges in attack and defense 120
Mission of the artillery 120-121
Operations of attacker’s artillery during the combat 120-121
Dispositions and employment of artillery in defense.
Dagger batteries 121-122
Advantages enjoyed by defense 121-122
Firing over heads of friendly troops 122
Movements to position 122
Supports for the artillery. Machine guns 122
Positions and duties of artillery. By whom prescribed 122
Positions “for immediate action,” “in observation,” and
“in readiness.” Subdivision for action 122-124
Positions of field and combat trains. Communication 123
Subdivision of battalions and batteries 123
Grouping of artillery. Fire control 124-125
Artillery “reserves.” Number of guns to place in action 123-124
Positions of ammunition trains 124
Special tasks and duties of artillery. Counter batteries,
infantry batteries, etc. 124
“Prepare for action.” “March Order” 125
Changes of position during action. Why, how and when made.
Economy of ammunition 125-126
Co-operation of artillery and other arms 126
Dummy emplacements 126
Horse artillery 126
Ranges, targets, ammunition employed, etc. 126
Oblique, enfilade and frontal fire 127
Moving across country to position 127
Supports for the artillery 127
Ranging and bracketing 127
ARTILLERY WITH ADVANCE GUARDS,
REAR GUARDS AND OUTPOSTS 127-128
PROBLEM INVOLVING A BATTERY IN POSITION.
(Duties of personnel. B. C. and auxiliary observing
stations. Limbers and combat trains. Field trains.
Communication. Moving to position, etc., etc.) 128-130
BATTALION OR LARGER UNIT IN ACTION 130-132
EMPLOYMENT OF HEAVY FIELD ARTILLERY 132-136
Heavy field ordnance of U. S. Army. Description, ranges, etc. 132-133
Organization and methods of fire 133-135
Tactical employment. Heavy artillery on the march 133-136
Motor transport 136
EMPLOYMENT OF MOUNTAIN ARTILLERY 136-138
Description of materiel. Tactical employment 136-138
ANTI-AIRCRAFT ARTILLERY 138-139
Types of guns 138
Effective ranges 138
Observation and fire control 139
Function of anti-aircraft artillery 139
REMARKS CONCERNING THE TACTICAL EMPLOYMENT
OF LIGHT FIELD ARTILLERY 139-143
Subdivision of battalions 140
Positions for artillery and combat trains 140
Concealment and covered approach to position 140-141
Positions between frontal and enveloping attacks 140
Positions for direct fire 140
Flash defilade 140
Ranges 141
Movements of artillery daring an action 141
Elimination of “dead space” 141
Reconnaissance 141
Battery commander’s station 141
Use of shrapnel and shell. Ranging 141
The artillery duel. Firing over heads of infantry 141
Proper targets for artillery. Co-operation with other arms 141
Place of artillery commander 142
General positions for artillery in attack and defense 142
Orders and instructions to artillery.
What to include and what to omit 142-143
CHAPTER IX
CAVALRY TACTICS 144-169
USES OF CAVALRY IN CAMPAIGN SUMMARIZED 144
Improper uses of cavalry. Division of the cavalry forces 144
Conservation of energies of men and horses. Night work 144
Wagons and pack trains with cavalry 144-145
Artillery, signal troops and mounted engineers with cavalry 145
Discretionary powers of the cavalry commander and nature
of the instructions to be given him 145-146
Cavalry in masses seeks hostile cavalry 146
ARMY AND DIVISIONAL CAVALRY. Duties 146
Cavalry with advance, rear and flank guards,
outposts and detachments 147
Cavalry in delaying actions 147
Independent cavalry. When employed 147-148
Principal duties of the independent cavalry.
Range of its operations.
Return to main camp at night 148
Contact with the enemy. Reports 148
Functions of cavalry and aeronautical services 149
Overthrow of hostile cavalry. How accomplished 149
Cavalry screen 149
Contact squadrons and strategic patrols 149-150
Means of transmitting information. Relay and collecting stations,
etc. Field wireless equipment, automobiles, motorcycles, etc. 150
CAVALRY IN COMBAT 150-160
Methods of offensive action. Mounted charge,
mounted and dismounted fire action 150-151
Dismounted fire action, when employed 151
Advantages of remaining mounted. Mounted reserve 151-152
Mounted reconnaissance 152
Horse holders. Mobility and immobility of horses. Coupling 152
Time required to dismount and to mount 152
Horse artillery, machine guns and mounted engineers
with cavalry. Functions 152-153
Training of cavalry for pioneer work 153
CAVALRY vs. INFANTRY 153-155
Mounted attack on infantry, when practicable 153
The element of surprise 153
Dismounted action 153
Turning movements by cavalry. Delaying actions. Successive
positions. Harrassing the flanks of a pursuing enemy 153
Mounted reserves and combat patrols 154
Security of led horses 154
Requirements of a delaying position 154
Time to withdraw. How close enemy may be allowed to
approach. Provisions for withdrawal 154-155
CAVALRY vs. CAVALRY 155-160
Mounted action and element of surprise 155
Recall of detachments 155
Preparations for the charge 156
Ground scouts and combat patrols 156
Protection of the flanks 156
Dismounted fire action in support of mounted action.
Machine guns and artillery fire 156-157
Division of troops for mounted action. Formations and gaits 157-158
Approach to position 157-158
Formation for and delivery of charge. The rally 158
Duties of support, reserve and dismounted troops 158-159
Distance at which charge should be launched 159
Wheeled vehicles and pack trains during combat 159
Carriage of extra ammunition and rations 159
Most favorable times for attacking cavalry, mounted 159-160
SOLUTION OF PROBLEMS IN CAVALRY COMBAT, FOR
SMALL FORCES. Procedure and orders 160-164
THE CAVALRY SCREEN 164-165
Position and duties of cavalry screen 164-165
Offensive and defensive screens 165
Front covered by screen 165
Daily marching rates of cavalry and patrols 165
CAVALRY PATROLS 165-166
Classification and functions 165-166
Reconnoitering and screening patrols.
Tactical and strategical patrols 165-166
Nature of information gathered. Distances from supporting
troops, radii of action 165-166
Combat by patrols 166
Strength of patrols 166
LESSONS IN CAVALRY TACTICS FROM
THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR 166-169
CHAPTER X
OUTPOSTS 170-203
DUTIES OF THE OUTPOST 170
Outpost in advance and retreat, how detailed 170
STRENGTH AND COMPOSITION 170-174
General rule for strength of outpost 170
Considerations influencing the decision as to the strength
of an outpost 170-171
Front covered by a battalion as a support 171
Outposts in close and in open country. Influence of roads 171
Cavalry and other mounted troops on outpost.
Effect on strength of infantry outpost 171-172
Proportions of cavalry and infantry on outpost 172
Apportioning the burden of outpost duty 172
Duties and assignments of mounted troops on outpost 172
Artillery, machine guns, engineers, signal and sanitary troops
on outpost 172-173
Distribution of the elements of a large command in camp 173
Outposts of small commands 174
Use of cavalry for the security of a stationary command 174
Organization of a cavalry outpost 174
INTEGRITY OF TACTICAL UNITS, how preserved 175
Strength of supports, pickets, sentry squads and cossack posts 175
Assignment of patrols 175
LOCATION OF OUTPOST 176-177
Selection of camp site and outpost line 176
Distance at which enemy must be held 176
Line of resistance. Obstacles in front of position.
Security of the flanks 176
Outpost on the line of a river 176
Influence of roads on disposition of outpost.
Rule for general guidance 176-177
Contact with enemy 177
Special mounted patrols 177
Regimental sectors of an outpost line 177
LIMITS OF FRONT OF AN OUTPOST 177-178
Line of resistance 178
Security of the flanks. Detached posts 178
Interior guards 178
DISTANCES AND INTERVALS IN AN OUTPOST 179-180
Relative positions of reserve, supports and outguards 179
Position of outpost or advance cavalry 179
Depth of the outpost 179
Intervals between adjacent groups 179-180
Bivouac in line of battle 180
Guarding the line of a stream. Bridge heads 179-180
THE RESERVE. Post. Camping arrangements.
Cavalry and mounted men. Artillery. Field trains 180-181
Field trains of the supports 181-182
THE SUPPORTS. Strength and composition 181
Patrolling. Assignment of the cavalry of an outpost 181-182
Stations of supports. Influence of roads 182
Support sectors 182
Selection and preparation of defensive positions 182-183
Machine guns. Company wagons of supports 182
Fires, tent pitching, meals, etc. 183
Number of supports from one reserve 183
Numerical designation of supports 183
OUTGUARDS AND SENTINELS 183-184
Disposition of outguards. Influence of roads 183
Classification of outguards. Numerical designation 183
Strength of outguards 183
Intrenching, meals, concealment 184
Reliefs for sentinels and patrols 184
Examining posts 184
Communications within the outpost. Clearing and marking routes 184
OUTPOST PATROLS 184-187
The cordon and patrol systems of outpost 184
Reconnoitering patrols. Strength and composition.
Radius of action. Functions 185
Special information patrols 185
Visiting patrols. Strength. Radius of action 185-186
Reliefs for patrols 186
Patrolling during the day 186
Patrols from the reserve 186
Patrolling by supports. Mounted men 186-187
Patrolling by pickets 187
Night signals 187
DAY AND NIGHT POSITIONS AND DUTIES OF
ELEMENTS OF AN OUTPOST 187-189
Posting of reserve, supports, outguards and sentinels.
Patrolling by day and by night 187-188
Preparation of defensive positions. Reconnaissance 187
Times for assuming day and night positions 187
Time of relief of outpost 188
Position and duties of advance cavalry by day and by night 188-189
Independent cavalry 189
Standing patrols 189
Cavalry patrolling on the flanks of an outpost 189
CAVALRY OUTPOSTS. Organization. Patrolling.
Disposition of horses 189-190
MARCH OUTPOSTS. Duties of cavalry 190-191
OUTPOST ORDERS 191-192
Issue of halt order 191-192
Orders of advance guard and outpost commanders 191
ESTABLISHING THE OUTPOST 191-193
Selection of camp site 191
Use of maps 192
Inspection of terrain by advance guard and outpost commanders 192
Inspection of outpost dispositions 193
Demolitions, obstacles, etc. 193
OUTPOST SKETCHES AND TABLES 193-196
OUTLINES OF HALT AND OUTPOST ORDERS 196-199
VERBAL OUTPOST ORDER FOR A SMALL COMMAND 199-200
ADVANCE GUARD COMMANDER’S HALT
AND OUTPOST ORDER 200-202
OUTPOST COMMANDER’S FIRST ORDER 202-203
CHAPTER XI
COMBAT. ATTACK AND DEFENSE 204-247
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS 204-205
Offensive and defensive tactics 204
Raw troops, how utilized 204
Passive defense—when to be adopted 204
Fire superiority keynote of success 204
Dispersion, complicated movements, half-hearted measures 204
Uncovering the line of retreat and main body 204-205
Concentration of forces. Detachments—when permissible 205
Containing and covering forces 205
Night attacks. Night movements—when advisable 205
Examination of terrain preliminary to attack. Use of maps 205
Attacks offering no chance of success 205
Reconnaissance during an action 205
Integrity of tactical units 205
FORMS OF ATTACK 205-209
Advantages and disadvantages of frontal and of
enveloping attacks 206
Considerations influencing the decision as to form
and direction of attack 206-207
Considerations influencing selection of
flank to be enveloped 207
Best dispositions for attacking infantry the
primary consideration 207
Envelopment of both hostile flanks 207
Combined frontal and enveloping attacks 208
Relative strengths of frontal and enveloping attacks 208
Density of firing line in attack 208
Strength of supports 208
Envelopment to be provided for in first deployment 208
Convergence of fire. Separation of frontal and enveloping attacks 209
ADVANCING TO THE ATTACK.
Formation in approaching the position 209
Establishment of fire superiority 209
Conjunction of movement 209
Cover for advancing troops. Contact during advance 209
ASSIGNMENT OF FRONTS 210-211
Covering the defender’s line 210
Landmarks and guiding points. Routes 210
Extension of defender’s line to meet enveloping attack 210
Orders to the attacking columns 210-211
RESERVES 211-212
Need for reserves. The influence of their judicious use
on the course of the action 211
Concentration of force at critical point 211
Relative strength of reserves in attack and in defense 211
Battalion supports. Regimental and brigade reserves 211
Employment of local reserves 211
Supports and reserves in defense. Position of the reserves.
Division of reserves 211
Distances of supports and reserves from firing line 212
PROTECTION OF THE FLANKS 212-214
Necessity for protecting the flanks. Means employed 212
Obstacles and field of fire 212
Cavalry and mounted men on the flanks 212
Infantry flank combat patrols. Strength and duties 212-213
Duty of flank organization in providing protection 213
Supreme commander’s orders for flank protection 213
Reconnaissance to the front 213
Strength of flank combat patrols 213-214
Ammunition in combat trains. When and by whom issued.
Time required for issue. Disposition of empty wagons
of combat trains 214
Ammunition trains 214
Amount of ammunition available. How carried on the march 214
Expenditure of ammunition in attack and defense.
Long range fire in attack and in defense 214-215
Economy of ammunition 215
INTRENCHMENTS, OBSTACLES, ETC. 215-217
Intrenchments in attack and in defense.
Time required for construction.
Objects of intrenchments in defense 215-216
Location and construction of firing and of support trenches.
Communicating trenches 216
Duties of engineers in intrenching, removal of obstacles, etc. 216
Obstacles, nature and effect. Artificial obstacles 216-217
Location of obstacles 217
Obstacles to be covered by fire of defense 217
Measuring and marking ranges 217
FRONTAGES IN ATTACK AND IN DEFENSE 217-219
Density of the firing line. Strength of supports and reserves 219
THE ATTACK OF A POSITION BY A SMALL
INFANTRY FORCE 219-225
Disposal of trains 220
Examination of terrain 220
Orders to subordinates 220
ATTACK ORDER FOR A SMALL FORCE 220-223
Routes to position 223
Issues of ammunition 223
Description of localities 223-224
Hostile artillery fire 224
Hostile reinforcements 224
Designation of enemy’s line 224
Engineers, signal and sanitary troops in attack 224
Dressing stations and slightly wounded stations 224-225
REMARKS CONCERNING AN ATTACK BY A
REINFORCED BRIGADE 225-228
Reconnaissance and preliminary orders of the commander 225
Locating the enemy’s flanks 226
Considerations prior to attack 226
Assignment of regiments 226-227
Conjunction of holding and enveloping attacks 227
Provisions for the protection of the flanks 227
Duties of cavalry prior to and during the action 227
Dispositions of attacking artillery 227-228
Reserve, station and functions 228
Engineers, signal and sanitary troops and trains during the
attack. Dressing stations. Empty ammunition wagons 228
Station of the supreme commander during the action 228
REMARKS CONCERNING ADVANCE GUARD ACTION 228-230
Occasions for committing the advance guard to action 228-229
Considerations influencing the decision as to action to be taken
on meeting the enemy. Mission of the command as a whole 229
Advantages of frontal attack by advance guard 229
Pursuit of a defeated enemy 229-230
Supreme commander with advance guard 230
THE OCCUPATION OF A DEFENSIVE POSITION 230-236
Considerations prior to the occupation of a defensive position.
Requirements of a position 230-231
Position in readiness, when to be assumed 231
Positions farther to front or rear. Rencontre engagements 231
Time that small forces can maintain themselves against larger 231-232
Effect of improvements in weapons on power of defense 232
Delaying and decisive actions 232
Posts of artillery in defense 232
Obstacles in front of position. Passages for counter attack 232
Probable direction of hostile attack. Posting the reserve 232
Division of defensive line into sections and assignment of troops 232-233
Use of machine guns in defense 232-233
Openings in the line 233
Detailed organization of sectors or sections 233
Density of firing line. Influence of terrain 233
Employment of large reserves in defense 233
Long range fire in defense 233
Delaying actions. Cavalry in delaying actions 233
Marking ranges and clearing field of fire 233-234
Preparation of position for defense 234
Disposal of empty wagons of combat trains 234
Direct fire by artillery in defense 234
Duties of the cavalry 234
Security to the front during the preparation and occupation
of the position 234
Machine guns. “Dagger” batteries 234-235
Flank combat patrols. General and special measures for the
security of the flanks 235
Security of the lines of retreat 235
Employment of reserves and engineers in the preparation
of the position 235
Dressing station 235
Strong reserves characteristic of active defense 235
Advanced posts and advanced positions 235
THE COUNTER ATTACK 236-238
Eventual assumption of offensive 236
Employment of the general reserve 236
Concealment of troops for counter attack 236
Time and manner of delivering the counter attack 236-237
Supporting points in rear of line 237
Artillery of defense 237
Selection of terrain to favor counter attack 237
Suggestions as to the conduct of an active defense 237-238
Aggressive employment of large reserves by defense 237
Most favorable opportunity for a counter-stroke 238
ORDER FOR A FRONTAL ATTACK BY AN
ADVANCE GUARD 238-242
ORDER FOR AN ENVELOPING ATTACK BY
A REINFORCED BRIGADE 243-244
ORDER FOR THE OCCUPATION OF A
DEFENSIVE POSITION 244-247
CHAPTER XII
THE ORGANIZATION OF A DEFENSIVE POSITION 248-276
Field and permanent fortification 248
Defensive principles applicable to portions of an extended line 248
Small forces in intrenched positions 248
PRINCIPAL REQUIREMENTS OF A DEFENSIVE POSITION 248-249
The rôle of field fortifications 248-249
Selection of the general line from a map 249
Study of details on the terrain 249
Reconnaissance by supreme and subordinate commanders 249
Necessity for an examination of the position from
the enemy’s point of view 249-250
Matters to be considered in the organization of a defensive position 250
Field of fire for the infantry 250
Utilization of natural advantages of the terrain 250-251
Thin defensive lines. Dummy trenches 251
Location and disposition of the fire trenches 251
Offsets, re-entrants and salients 251
SUPPORTING POINTS. Location with reference to the terrain 251-252
Closed works and rifle trenches in field fortification 252
Development of frontal and cross fire 252
Covering the foreground with fire. Expedients by which this
may be accomplished 252-253
Cross fire of adjacent supporting points.
Distribution of trenches. Removal of obstructions to
fire. Construction of obstacles to enemy’s advance 252-253
Traverses. Head cover. Grenade nets. Concealment of trenches 253
Intervals in the defensive line. Discontinuity of trenches 253-254
Defensive lines in close country 254
Division of front into sections or sectors 254
Relative strength of firing line, supports and reserves 254
Purpose of field fortifications. Misuse thereof 254-255
Supporting points by whom organized 255
Portable and park tools 255
DETAILS IN THE ORGANIZATION OF A
REGIMENTAL SECTOR 255
DETAILS IN THE ORGANIZATION OF A BATTALION
SUPPORTING POINT 255-256
Relative importance of different tasks 256-257
Relative importance of near and distant fields of fire
under various conditions 257
Distance of battalion supports behind the firing line 257
Natural cover. Support and communicating trenches 257
Utilization of natural features 257
Posts and duties of and cover for reserves 257
Division of reserves 257
Position fire by supports and local reserves 257-258
Study of ground in location of trenches. Avoidance of
unnecessary labor 258
Removal of trees from field of fire. Filling ravines and hollows 258
Blending the works with the terrain for concealment 258
Employment of engineers. Demolitions, obstacles, communications,
measuring ranges, head and overhead cover, observing stations,
splinter-proofs, works in the second line of defense, etc. 258
Division and assignment of engineer troops. Tasks of engineers,
by whom indicated 258-259
Provisions for security to front and flanks during the organization
of the position 259
Location of artificial obstacles. Distance in front of firing line 259
ORGANIZATION OF THE FLANKS 259-260
Protection of the flanks, natural obstacles, fortifications and reserves 259
Flanks “in the air” 259
Refusing the line to provide security for a flank 260
Echeloning trenches to the rear on a flank 260
Concealment of works. Utilization of natural features of the terrain 260
TABLE OF PERSONNEL, TIME AND TOOLS REQUIRED FOR VARIOUS
TASKS IN CONNECTION WITH FIELD FORTIFICATION 261
Character of soils 261
Simple standing and completed standing trenches 261
Size of individual tasks. Reliefs for workers 261-262
BRITISH EXPERIENCES IN TRENCH WARFARE 262-266
Concealment of trenches from hostile artillery 262
Limited field of fire better than loss of concealment 262
Concealment of obstacle 262
Accuracy of modern artillery fire 262
Narrow and deep trenches 262
Position of support trenches 262
Communicating trenches 262-263
Parados. Dummy parapets 263
Recesses under parapet. Ceiling 263
Head and overhead cover. Loopholes 263
Night attacks 263
Frontal and cross fire. Straight trenches 263
Dressing stations. Latrines. Drainage 263-265
Machine guns 265
Cover and concealment for reserves 265
Barbed wire entanglements. Concealment 265
Repair of obstacles. Supports for wire 265
Illumination 265
Echeloned trenches on the flanks 265
Conspicuous features of field fortifications as seen by aeronauts 265-266
Resemblance of modern trench warfare to siege operations 266
Power of defense of modern weapons 266
Need for artillery support 266
The guiding principles of field fortification 266-267
PRACTICAL PROBLEMS IN FIELD FORTIFICATION,
WITH SOLUTIONS 267-276
CHAPTER XIII
COMBAT-ATTACK AND DEFENSE OF A RIVER LINE, WITHDRAWAL FROM ACTION, RENCONTRE, DELAYING ACTION, PURSUIT, NIGHT ATTACKS, MACHINE GUNS 277-307
Mountain ranges, deserts and rivers as obstacles 277
ATTACK AND DEFENSE OF A RIVER LINE 277-288
Use of existing bridges and fords, hasty bridges and ferries 277-278
METHODS OF ATTACK OF A RIVER LINE. Turning movement.
Turning movement combined with holding attack.
Frontal attacks at one or more points 278-279
Object of feint attack 279
Conditions to be fulfilled by feint 279-280
Conditions to be fulfilled by main attack 280-281
Necessity of deceiving the defender 281
Counter attack by the defender 281
CONDUCT OF THE ATTACK 281-283
Reconnaissance. Seizure of bridges 281
Outpost troops, cavalry and artillery 281-282
Time for attack. Night movements 281
Camping prior to attack 281
Artillery positions in attack of a river line 281-282
Machine guns. Position fire by infantry 282
Duties of the outpost 282
Launching the feint and main attack 282
Demonstrations on flank by cavalry. Pursuit 282
Position of reserve 283
Engineer reconnaissance. Construction of crossings 283
DEFENSE OF A RIVER LINE 284
General dispositions for and essential elements of a river line defense 284
Alternative plans for defense. Counter attacks 284
Prompt detection of enemy’s intentions 284
Need of mobile reserves 284
Aerial reconnaissance 284
ORDERS FOR ATTACK OF A RIVER LINE 285-288
WITHDRAWAL FROM ACTION 288-295
Occasions for withdrawal 288
Difficulty of withdrawing troops committed to an action 288-289
Sacrifice of a portion of the command to save the remainder 289
Withdrawal under cover of darkness 289
Intrenching the advanced position in attack 289
Removal of trains, ambulance company and wounded 289
Requirements of supporting position to be occupied by the reserves 289-290
Masking fire of supporting position 290
Flank positions 290
Long range fire. Cover. Getaway 290
Distance to rear of supporting position 290
Artillery fire during withdrawal. Withdrawal of artillery.
Ammunition trains 291
General rule for withdrawal 291
Order of withdrawal of troops and conditions influencing same 291
Rendezvous positions for retiring troops 292
Stream crossings 292
Utilization of several lines of retreat 292
Successive supporting positions to cover withdrawal 292
Formation of and troops for rear guard 292
Cavalry and signal troops 292-293
Transmission of orders 293
EXAMPLES OF VERBAL ORDERS FOR A WITHDRAWAL
FROM ACTION 293-295
RENCONTRE OR MEETING ENGAGEMENT 295-297
Advantages of prompt action. Seizing the initiative 295
Reconnaissance prior to attack 295
Greatest possible force to be launched at enemy 296
Direction of deployment and of attack. Machine guns and artillery 296
General duties of an advance guard. Proper strength and
distance from main body 296-297
Maneuvering zone for main body 296
Place of the supreme commander on the march 297
DELAYING ACTION 297-300
Offensive and defensive tactics in delaying actions 297
Use of long thin lines and weak supports 297
Necessity for a secure line of retreat 297
Delay of enemy, how accomplished 297
Necessity for good field of fire at mid and long ranges 297-298
Occupation of the geographical crest 298
Relative difficulty of withdrawing infantry and cavalry 298
Deceiving the enemy as to the strength of the position.
Risk involved 298
Assumption of the offensive. Obstacles 298-299
Number of successive positions to be occupied 299
Advantages of a determined stand 299
Danger of decisive engagement 299
Selection and preparation of delaying positions 299
Tendency of troops to break straight to rear 299
Flank positions. Distance between positions.
Step by step defensive. Rallying 299
Demolitions. Ambuscades 299
Line of an unfordable stream as a delaying position 300
Seizure of a position well to the front. Orderly occupation
of the position 300
Artillery and machine guns in delaying actions 300
Issue of ammunition for delaying actions 300
PURSUIT 300-302
Energetic pursuit necessary to reap fruits of victory 300
Fresh troops necessary for pursuit 301
Prompt initiation of pursuit 301
Cavalry, horse artillery and motor cars 301
Continuous contact with enemy 301
Gaining the flanks and rear 301
Seizure of bridges and defiles 301
Pursuit on a broad front 301
ORDER FOR A PURSUIT 301-302
NIGHT ATTACKS 302-304
Essential features of night attacks 302-303
Simplicity of plan 303
Importance of preliminary reconnaissance 303
Infantry, cavalry and artillery in night attacks 303
Badges and watchwords 303
Depth of attacking formations. Formed reserves 303
Night attacks by large and by small forces 303
Assembly for attack 303
Precautions to insure surprise of the enemy 303-304
Point of attack. False attacks and demonstrations 304
Rendezvous for assembly after the attack 304
Collection of scattered forces in case of failure 304
Time for delivery of attack 304
Night attack of a bridge head 304
Protection against night attacks. Field of fire 304
Artificial illumination. Alarm signals. Obstacles. Close ranges for fire 304
Use of the bayonet. Machine guns 304
MACHINE GUNS. 304-307
Extensive use in modern warfare 304
Effective ranges and rates of fire. Need for skilled operators 304-305
Pack and motor transport 305
Chief purpose of machine guns 305
Ammunition supply. Most favorable targets 305
Artillery vs. machine guns 305-306
Offensive and defensive use. Mobility 305-306
Immobilization of machine guns 305
Dispersion of guns 306
Supports for machine guns 306
SPECIAL CASES IN WHICH MACHINE GUNS MAY BE
EFFECTIVELY EMPLOYED 306-307
CHAPTER XIV
A POSITION IN READINESS 308-317
When to assume a position in readiness. Examples 308
CONSIDERATIONS PRIOR TO THE OCCUPATION OF A
POSITION IN READINESS 308-309
Cross roads. Cover. Lines of retreat 309
Reconnaissance of enemy and his possible lines of approach 309
Intrenching. “Framework” of position 309-310
Influence of ill-advised intrenchments 309-310
Posts of the artillery and combat trains. Firing data 310
Concentration of the forces. Advanced posts 310
Obstacles in front of the position 310
Duties of the cavalry 311
Security provided by the other arms 311
Issue of ammunition. Field trains and sanitary troops 311-312
Security of lines of retreat 312
Short movements to a position in readiness 312
ORDER FOR A POSITION IN READINESS WHILE
ON THE MARCH 312-314
FIRST ORDER FOR A RETREAT, DELAYING THE ENEMY 314-317
CHAPTER XV
SANITARY TACTICS 318-323
SANITARY PERSONNEL AND MATERIEL WITH
COMBATANT TROOPS 318
GENERAL DUTY OF THE SANITARY UNITS 318
Capacities of ambulance companies and field hospitals 319
SANITARY STATIONS DURING COMBAT.
Battalion collecting stations.
Regimental aid stations. Dressing stations.
Slightly wounded stations. Location, duties, etc. 319-320
POLICE OF THE BATTLEFIELD. Transportation of wounded 321-322
CHAPTER XVI
THE RIFLE IN WAR 324-336
Location of firing line with respect to geographical and military crests 324
The skyline 324
Grazing effect and plunging fire 324
Firing line in retreat or in delaying actions 324
Location of supports with respect to firing line 324
Defilade on reverse slopes. Formations of supports 324-325
Position fire in attack and in defense 325
RELATIVE VULNERABILITIES OF DIFFERENT FORMATIONS
UNDER AIMED AND UNDER SWEEPING FIRE
OF SMALL ARMS 325-326
Effects of oblique and enfilade fire 326
Squad and platoon columns. Successive thin lines 326-327
Formations in approaching combat position. Proper time for deployment 326
Effect of slopes on vulnerability 326-327
Deployment of squad and platoon columns 326-327
ADVANCE UNDER SHRAPNEL FIRE 327-329
Area covered by burst of shrapnel 327
Vulnerability of lines of skirmishers and of squad columns 327-328
Effect of oblique and enfilade fire, errors in range, direction and burst 327-328
Squad columns, when employed 328
Vulnerability of lines of platoon columns 328
Use of successive thin lines, advantages and disadvantages 328-329
Slow, controlled fire. Rapid fire. Volley fire 329
Maximum and minimum rates of fire 329
Tendency of troops to fire rapidly 329
Ranges at which fire is opened in attack and in defense.
Firing on cavalry and artillery 329-330
Number of rounds to fire. Density of firing line 330
Effect of visibility of target and prominent landmarks on
dispersion and distribution 330
Methods of designating and identifying indistinct targets 330-331
Use of combined sights. Battle sights 331
Targets for attacker and for defender 331
Concentration of fire on critical points. How accomplished 331
Assignment of fronts. Covering the enemy’s line with fire 331-332
Overlapping and switching fire. Platoon sectors 331-332
Too great refinement to be avoided 332
DUTIES OF PERSONNEL IN A FIRE FIGHT. Major. Captain.
Chief of Platoon. Platoon Guide. Squad leader 332-334
Orders of the Captain 334
A CATECHISM OF THE RIFLE IN WAR 334-336
CHAPTER XVII
DIVISION TACTICS AND SUPPLY 337-380
MARCHES 337-344
Length of a day’s march. Marching rate. Rest days 337
Strength of advance guard. Splitting tactical units 337
Different arms and auxiliary troops with an advance guard 337
Position of division commander 337
Initial point of march and time of departure, in march orders 337
Rotation of units in position in column during a march 337-338
Division cavalry on the march. Time of starting. Duty 338
Distribution of artillery on the march. Artillery with advance guard.
Heavy field artillery. Combat trains of the artillery 338-339
Artillery with flank guards or in two column formation 339
Artillery in rencontre engagements. Right of way for firing batteries 339-340
Engineer troops and bridge trains on the march 340
Road space and capacities of light and heavy bridge equipage 340
Distribution and duties of signal troops on the march.
Telegraph and telephone lines 340-341
Time of starting the march. Details of the start. Assembly of trains.
Escort for trains. March outposts 341
ORDER FOR THE FORWARD MARCH OF A DIVISION 342-344
COMBAT 344-353
Time required for deployment of a division 344
FRONTAL AND ENVELOPING ATTACKS 344-345
Separation of attacks. Coordination. Launching the attack.
Obstacles of terrain 344-345
TURNING MOVEMENTS. Advantages and disadvantages 345
Plan of attack based on best dispositions of the infantry 345
Development and attack orders 346
FRONTAGES FOR DEPLOYMENT OF LARGER UNITS 346
Timing the advance. Signals 346
Distance from hostile line at which brigades deploy 346
Position of reserves 346-347
Depth of deployment. Distribution in depth 347-349
CONSIDERATIONS INFLUENCING DEPTH OF DEPLOYMENT 348
Dispositions of artillery 349
Release of trains on entering combat 349
Posts of artillery and small arms ammunition 349
Sanitary and engineer trains 349
Ambulance companies and field hospitals. Stations and duties 349-350
Messages during combat 350
DUTIES SUBSEQUENT TO COMBAT. Evacuation of wounded.
Police of battlefield. Replenishment of ammunition and rations.
Prisoners. Trains. Instructions to commander of line
of communications 350-351
ORDER FOR A DIVISION ATTACK 351-353
CAMPING 353-360
TACTICAL AND SANITARY REQUIREMENTS OF A CAMP SITE 353-354
EXAMPLE OF A DIVISION CAMP ILLUSTRATED AND DISCUSSED 354-356
Routine orders in connection with camp.
Issues, disposal of empty wagons, etc. 356
ORDER FOR CAMPING AND OUTPOSTING OF A DIVISION 357-360
SUPPLY 360-380
AUTHORIZED TRAINS OF A DIVISION 360-361
Bakery train. Engineer train 361
SOURCES OF SUPPLY FOR ARMIES IN THE FIELD 361
Purchase and requisition. Methods 361-362
Authority of field Commander 362
Living off the country 362
Base depot. Advance supply depot. Means of transportation 362-367
Zone of the advance 364
Multiple lines of communication 364
The supply unit 364
Classes of trains. Ammunition, supply and field trains.
General supply trains. Combat trains 365-368
Access to trains by troops. Excessive size of trains 365
Methods of replenishing trains 366-367
Rations carried by individual soldiers and in trains 366-367
General supply column. Flying depots and refilling points 367
Personnel of field transport service 368
EXAMPLE OF THE SUPPLY OF A DIVISION ON THE MARCH,
WITH DISCUSSION 368-370
Problem of the supply of an advancing division mathematically illustrated 370-372
Refilling points. Location 372
Maintenance of advance supply depot well to the front
Railroads and steamboats 372
Field bakery on line of communications 372
GENERAL RULES FOR GUIDANCE OF SUPPLY OFFICERS 372-373
Supply of Sherman’s army in the Atlanta campaign,
and of Grant’s army in the campaign of '64 373
Protection of supply depot 373
Camping place of division trains. Issues of rations and ammunition 373-375
Access to trains by troops 375
Supplies for the cavalry 375
Arrangement of division trains on the march according to probable needs 376
Stations of trains during combat 376
Rates of march of wagon trains 376-377
Supplies obtained locally 377-378
Miscellaneous data on supply and transportation 378-380
Table of rations, kinds, weights, number of rations to an army wagon,
a railroad car, ship’s ton, etc. 379
CHAPTER XVIII
AIR CRAFT AND MOTOR VEHICLES IN WAR 381-390
History of development 381
Precursors of air craft of today 381
Aeroplanes and airships 381
Development of scope in military operations 381
Tendency to exaggerate importance and minimize limitations 381
CHARACTERISTICS 381-383
Aeroplanes, flying radius, speed, carrying capacity, starting and landing,
susceptibility to hostile fire 381-382
Dependability for immediate service 381
Machine and engine fragile 382
Care and repair of aeroplanes. Need of highly trained personnel 382
Development. Types of craft, destroyers, battleplanes,
artillery spotters, scouts 382
Equipment. Organization. Motor trucks as tenders 382
Airships, flying radius, speed, ability to hover over spot, carrying
capacity, effect of rain and darkness 382-383
Reconnaissance, wireless equipment 383
Target afforded 383
Large crews required 383
Bases of operation 383
Balloons. Hydroaeroplanes 383
Armor and armament of aircraft 383
DUTIES OF AIRCRAFT. Strategic and tactical reconnaissance 383-384
Verification by actual contact 384
Prevention of hostile reconnaissance 384
Direction of artillery fire. Air raids 384
Messenger and staff duty 384
PRACTICABLE HEIGHTS FOR OBSERVATION 384-385
Altitude and speed demanded by reconnaissance 385
Fire of small arms and anti-aircraft artillery 385
Use of field glasses 385
Relative vulnerabilities of airships and aeroplanes 385
DEFENSIVE MEASURES 385-386
Command of the air. Tactics of aircraft 385
Anti-aircraft artillery. Methods of fire 385-386
POWERS AND LIMITATIONS OF AIR CRAFT 386
THE MOTOR CAR IN WAR 387-390
Tactical movements of troops by auto 387
Facility of loading, dispatch and unloading 387
Difficulty of interrupting motor transport 387
Concentration of reserves at critical points 387
Motor cars in retreat and pursuit 387
Motor transport for artillery 387
Armored cars 387
Overseas operations 388
Motor cars for staff transportation 388
Motor trucks for supply. Advantages over animal transport 388
Motor kitchens 388
Effect of motor transport on distance of an army from its base 388
Economic size of motor trucks for supply 388-389
Use of motor trucks on railroads 389
Motor ambulances 389
Service of information. Motor patrols 389
Motors as adjunct to aero service 389
Necessity for motor cars in modern war 389
Employment of motor cars in groups of the same type 389-390
Animal transport for field and combat trains 390