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FM 17-10
WAR DEPARTMENT
ARMORED FORCE FIELD
MANUAL
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
FM 17-10
ARMORED FORCE FIELD
MANUAL
TACTICS, AND TECHNIQUE
Prepared under direction of the
Chief of the Armored Force
UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
WASHINGTON ; 1942
For sale bj- the Superintendent, of Documents, Washington, D. C.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, March 7, 1942.
PM 17-10, Armored Force Field Manual, Tactics and Tech-
nique, is published for the information and guidance of all
concerned.
[A.G.0B2.11 (7-n-40).]
By order op the Secretary op War:
G. C. MARSHALL,
Chief of Staff.
Official :
J. A. ULIO,
Major General,
The Adjutant General.
Distribution :
D 2, 7 (5) ; IR 2, 7 (5) ; Bn and H 17 (5) ; IBn 2, 5-10 (3) ;
C 17 (20) ; IC 2, 5-11 (5).
(For explanation of symbols, see PM 21-6.)
n
TABLE OP CONTENTS
Chapter i. Doctrine and organization. Paragraphs Page
Section I. Genera! 1-12 1
II. Individual and unit training 13-15 9
III. Relation with other arms 16-24 11
Chapter 2. Tactical employment.
Section I. General 25-27 15
II. Reconnaissance 28-31 20
III. Security 32-45 38
IV. Offensive combat 46-51 85
V. The defensive 52-56 120
VI. Special operations 57-64 133
Vll. Marches 65-66 147
Chaptes 3. Scouting and patrolling, mounted.
Section 1. General 67 149
11. Mounted scouting 68-70 149
111. Mounted patrolling 71-90 153
Chapter 4. Reconnaissance platoon and company,
armored.
Section 1. General 91-99 163
II. Reconnaissance platoon 100-109 166
111. Reconnaissance company 110-118 185
Chaptrb 5. Armored company and armored bat-
talion, tank, light and medium.
Section I. General 119-133 192
II. Individual tank 134-136 198
III. Tank section and platoon 137-143 205
IV. Tank company, light and medium.- 144-150 211
V. Tank battalion, light and medium. 161-167 226
Chapter 6. Maintenance company, armored regi-
ment 166-173 252
Chapter 7. The armored regiment.
Section 1. Armored regiment 174—184 256
II. Tactical employment 185-193 262
III. General 194-197 274
Chapter 8. Reconnaissance battalion, armored.
Section I. General 198-206 277
U. Reconnaissance 207-215 281
III. Security 216 285
IV. Movement 217-218 285
V. Combat 219 2B7
VI. Evacuation 220 288
VII. Bivouac _ 221 289
VHI. Supply and maintenance 222 289
Chafteh 9. Headquarters company, armored.
Section I. General 223-235 291
II. Headquarters and headquarters
company, armored battalion,
light and medium 236-241 303
HI. Headquarters and headquarters
company, armored regiment 242-248 306
IV. Headquarters and headquarters
company, reconnaissance bat-
talion . 249-254 308
m
TABLE OP CONTENTS
Paragraphs Page
Chapter 9. Headquarters company, armored — Continued.
Section V. Headquarters and headquarters
company, armored division 255-262 310
VI. Combat command 263-264 311
VII. Division artillery headquarters
and headquarters detachment. 265-266 314
VIII. Headquarters company, armored
corps 1 267 315
IX. Headquarters and headquarters
company, GHQ reserve tank
group 268-270 316
Chapter 10. Service company, armored regiment
and division.
Section I. Service company, armored regi-
ment 271-279 323
n. Service company, armored divi-
sion. 280-289 327
Chapter II. Division trains, armored.
Section I. General 290-291 331
II. Train headquarters and head-
quarters company 292-293 332
III. Tactical operation of division
train 294-298 333
Chapter 12. GHQ reserve tank battalion, light
and medium.
Section I. General 299-308 340
II. Coordination and cooperation 309-315 348
ni. Control, communications and
liaison 316-318 348
IV. Reconnaissance 319-323 350
V. Security 324-328 354
VI. Offensive combat 329-335 355
VII. Defensive combat 336-340 358
Chapter 13. GHQ reserve tank, group.
Section I. Bole and organization 341-343 361
II. Control combat ' order and
liaison 344-346 362
m. Reconnaissance and security 347-350 363
IV. Offensive combat 351-355 365
V. Use of GHQ reserve tank group
with infantry divisions, mo-
torized infantry, armored, and
cavalry divisions 356-359 369
VI. Defensive combat and retrograde
movements 360-363 370
Appendix I. Glossary of military terms 372
II. Radio channels of communication and radio
nets 414
INDEX 451
rv
FM 17-10
1-2
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
CHAPTER 1
DOCTRINE AND ORGANIZATION
Paragraphs
Section I. Genera]
II. Individual and unit training.
III. Relation with other arms..,
1-12
13-15
Section I
GENERAL
■ 1, Role. — The role of the Armored Force and Its com-
ponents is the conduct of highly mobile ground warfare, pri-
marily offensive in character, by self-sustaining units of great
power and mobility, composed of specially equipped troops
of the required arms and services. Combat elements of "the
Armored Force operate in close cooperation with combat avia-
tion and with large units of ground troops in the accomplish-
ment of a mission.
■ 2. Tactical Organization. — a. The Armored Force consists
of armored corps, armored divisions, and GHQ reserve tank
battalions. It is composed of troops from more than one arm
or service, transported in armored or other type motor
vehicles.
!>. The amored corps consists of a headquarters and head-
quarters company, two or more armored divisions, and certain
organic and auxiliary units termed corps troops.
c. The armored division is a self-contained unit of the sev-
eral arms and services organized tactically and administra-
tively for independent action. It may be attached for
operation with an infantry or a cavalry corps,
d. The GHQ reserve tank group contains a headquarters
and headquarters detachment and three GHQ reserve tank
battalions of either light or medium tanks or both.
1
2-5
ARMOJIED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
e. The GHQ reserve battalions are self-contained units, of
either light or medium tanks, organized tactically and admin-
istratively for employment by battalion or by group to furnish
additional striking power to other ground forces including
amored divisions and corps. Trained as units, they are im-
mediately adaptable to Inclusion in larger groupings of other
ground troops.
■ 3. Characteristics. — The characteristics of Armored Force
units are:
a. Mobility. — All combat units are mounted in armored
motor vehicles.
b. Fire power. — Through a multiplicity of weapons mounted
on the vehicles.
c. Armor protection. — All combat vehicles are protected by
armor of varying thickness, capable of withstanding at least
rifle fire.
d. Shock action. — Accomplished by the combination of the
other characteristics and by the weight and crushing power
of the major vehicles.
■ 4. Methods of Employing Elements of Armored Force. —
Operations of components of the Armored Force may, at
various times or simultaneously, involve —
o. The attachment of GHQ tank battalions and groups to
infantry, cavalry, and armored divisions or corps.
b. The grouping of armored divisions, corps, or GHQ tank
groups with other corps or field armies for combined
operations.
c. The employment, by the field or theater commander, of
armored divisions and corps on independent or semi-
independent missions without reinforcing logistical means, or
additional supporting troops other than combat and recon-
naissance aviation.
d. Operation as task forces wherein armored divisions or
corps or, at times GHQ reserve tank units, are teamed with
motorized divisions, antitank battalions, antiaircraft auto-
matic weapons battalions, and GHQ engineer, maintenance,
and supply units, closely supported by combat aviation, para-
chute, and other troops transported by air.
■ 5. General Considerations. — Larger units of the Armored
Force properly utilized, either separately or In combination
2
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
5
with other means, can achieve rapid decisive results in the
area of employment. They are to be employed on decisive
missions. They must not be frittered away on unimportant
objectives. A mission far in advance of other main forces is
justified when the operation will obtain decisive results, but
must be closely supported by other equally mobile troops.
Their proper utilization necessitates a definite appreciation
and a careful consideration of the several characteristics of
the Armored Force units.
a. The conditions which should exist or be created for their
successful action are air superiority in the decisive area of
employment, surprise, favorable terrain, and absence of or
neutralization of massed defensive means.
b. The mobility of armored units permits great latitude in
the choice of direction and the method of attack. The de-
cision as to whether the attack will be executed as a turning
movement, envelopment, or penetration will be determined
largely by the time factor involved, by the terrain, and by
the hostile dispositions, including hostile rear installations.
The most suitable areas for the employment of Armored Force
units are on the open flanks or through existing gaps created
by penetrations of the enemy's positions,
c. The assignment of missions or objectives to armored
units must be preceded by a careful consideration of the more
important factors which affect the operation of the armored
and other units associated in the operations. These factors
are: weather, terrain throughout the entire area of contem-
plated operation, nature of the enemy and his methods of
combat, availability of other supporting troops, and especially,
adequate space and road net for the operation of the units
concerned. The axis of advance of the major armored and
motorized units will be along roads.
d. The most decisive results will be gained from the group-
ing of overpowering masses of armored units and launching
them against vital objectives deep in the hostile rear. The
armored mass must be supported by sufficient means to main-
tain its momentum until the objective has been attained-
e. The most effective and decisive application of the mo-
bility and power of large armored and motorized combina-
tions will often necessitate the decentralization of control to
the appropriate commanders who will be guided only by the
broad general plan of the higher headquarters. After the
3
5—6 ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
initiation Of the operation, however, the superior commander
must keep the armored unit commanders constantly informed
of the situation,
/. The maximum development of the demoralizing power
of the larger armored formations will be dependent in a large
measure on the continuous support of adequate reconnaissance
and observation aviation, and timely assistance of combat
aviation in overcoming critical ground resistance beyond the
ability of available artillery. This should be assured by direct
arrangement between air and armored unit commanders and
by adequate air-ground signal communication nets. Higher
commanders can enhance the effectiveness of supporting
aviation by habitually assigning the same air and ground units
to work together as a task force or team.
fir. The sustained mobility of armored and motorized units
is dependent upon adequate timely replenishment of required
supplies, especially fuel, and, to a lesser degree, oil and lubri-
cants. Regular vehicle maintenance must be continued.
When operations are to be prolonged for several days, it must
be appreciated that armored and motorized units must have
opportunity for daily maintenance.
ft. Because of their mass employment, armored and motor-
ized units are difficult to conceal during approach and develop-
ment. Elaborate measures for deception and surprise will be
required often and may involve variously: advance stockage
and concealment of essential supplies; improvising and con-
centrating dummy armored vehicles or marked activity of
actual units in localities distant from that of contemplated
employment; extensive camouflage work; and rapid shifting
of armored masses to the area of decisive attack.
■ 6. A Task Force. — A task force is a temporary tactical
grouping composed of one or more arms or services formed
for a specific mission or operation. The operation of large
armored formations will frequently dictate the organization
of task forces. The composition of such forces will be decided
only after a careful estimate of the associated means which
will be required to accomplish the projected mission or opera-
tion. This estimate must consider the nature of the expected
resistance, the distance to which operations are projected, the
terrain to be traversed, and the troops available for the
operation. The additional means to be associated with
4
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
6-7
armored elements will vary with each situation but may
comprise appropriately: infantry divisions, foot or motorized
or components thereof; cavalry units; engineers; combat avia-
tion; parachute troops; other troops transported by air; anti-
tank battalions; antiaircraft units; and additional main-
tenance and supply facilities, especially for GHQ groups.
■ 7. Methods of Operation. — a. Offensive operations of
armored units, acting either alone or as part of a combined
force, are characterized by rapid thrusts into vital parts
Qf the hostile rear followed by immediate exploitation to
complete enemy demoralization. Armored division com-
manders coordinate and control the movement of subordi-
nate units by appropriate assignment of routes, zones, ob-
jectives, or phase lines. Phase lines are prescribed only
when required to insure coordinated action or movement of
two or more units and must not involve prolonged halts
thereon. The attack is massed initially, but is extended
promptly in frontage and depth by the armored reconnais-
sance and combat elements after the hostile position is pene-
trated. As the operation gains momentum, reconnaissance
agencies will precede combat elements at the earliest oppor-
tunity to seek out and develop soft spots through which com-
bat elements may pass rapidly. The more time allowed
for this reconnaissance, the more effective it will be. Con-
tact once gained must be maintained.
b. Maximum advantage is taken of speed and terrain
barriers to prevent or neutralize enemy countermeasures.
Reconnaissance agencies provide information on which to
base security measures. Other combat detachments provide
immediate advance, flank, and rear security. Closely sup-
porting motorized units protect the immediate rear and lines
of communication of the armored elements. Other motor-
ized units should relieve the armored unit commanders of
concern for extended lines of communication and assure con-
tinuous logistical support. When armored units are oper-
ating as task forces, the security of the immediate supporting
motorized elements will be enhanced by their following the
armored combat elements as closely as possible.
c. Following the advance of armored units, other elements
of task forces operate to overcome remaining hostile re-
sistance, occupy ground gained, keep gaps open, extend and
5
7-8
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
protect the flanks, and relieve armored units temporarily
checked in order to permit their employment in a more
remunerative direction. Whenever practicable, other less
mobile troops will follow motorized task units as closely as
possible to wipe out the last vestige of resistance, meet
counterattacks, and relieve the more mobile elements for
close support of the armored units.
d. In. addition to establishing and maintaining local con-
trol of the air, supporting combat aviation is directed against
hostile antitank dispositions, artillery and reserves, espe-
cially armored, in the immediate zone of advance. Con-
currently, if available aviation suffices, it may be directed
against hostile command and supply installations, targets
of opportunity such as more distant reserves, and other
formed bodies of troops, especially armored units.
e. In an envelopment, the support units of armored di-
visions and task forces may, when the situation demands,
attack or contain enemy elements on the Sank while tank
units make the main attack.
/. Troops transported by air may be suitably employed in
advance of armored units to seize critical points or to create
opportunity for immediate exploitation by armored forces
operating alone or as task forces.
g. Highly organized areas should be avoided. Where their
attack is necessary, it will usually be advisable for other
specially equipped infantry and engineer troops to breach
the enemy defenses in advance or concurrently with the
advance of the armored units unless heavy tanks are avail-
able to lead the attack.
h. Against equal or superior hostile armored forces, friendly
armored, units will avoid frontal assault and maneuver to cut
off or destroy armored units supply facilities, followed by
blows against the rear of enemy detachments.
■ 8. Exploitation and Pursuit. — a. Large armored formations,
operating separately or as part of task forces, are especially
suited for exploitation and pursuit. They should be launched
boldly against vital areas deep in the hostile rear. The
exploitation and pursuit phase must be anticipated to insure
that appropriate plans are made and timely orders issued in
all echelons. There must be no relaxing of pressure on the
shaken or beaten enemy. Objectives for armored units should
6
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
8-10
be those which will halt hostile rearward movement until less
mobile friendly troops can close with the enemy. Con-
currently, some armored elements operate to destroy, disrupt,
and paralyze enemy communication and supply.
b. Pursuit by large armored units, operating alone or as
major elements of. task forces, is rapid and continuous, even
during hours of darkness.
c. When the operations of armored units are likely to carry
them beyond practicable operating radius of organic supply
means, special provision must be made by the higher com-
manders to place necessary supplies within operating radius
of the units. Likewise, special arrangements must be made
by higher headquarters for rapid communication with the
widely dispersed elements of armored formations.
■ 9. Defensive Situations. — Large armored units, as part of
other major forces on the defensive, are held in readiness for
the counteroffensive or major counterattack. The employ-
ment of the armored units must be carefully timed and co-
ordinated with the attack objectives of the other forces.
Local air superiority during the period of the counteroffensive
or major counterattack is a prerequisite to success of the
operations. Usually the armored attack should be delivered
to disrupt the continuity of the hostile offensive and not
merely to restore the defensive position.
■ 10. Logistical Considerations. — a. Where prolonged opera-
tions of armored divisions and corps or GHQ tank units are
contemplated, adequate arrangements must be made by the
higher headquarters to insure timely replenishments of sup-
plies required by the armored units. Where the armored units
are required to operate at great distances from their base of
supply, when continuity of supply is interrupted by enemy
action, and in other emergency situations, delivery of urgent
supplies may be made by air.
b. Where several armored divisions or GHQ tank units are
under control of one headquarters, consideration should be
given to retaining one or more division or GHQ tank units in
reserve either for the purpose of extending combat opera-
tions or of relieving similar units to permit necessary main-
tenance and replacement operations. In this manner, con-
tinuity of the operation and necessary maintenance, rest, and
replacement will be assured.
7
11-12
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
■ 11'. "Orders. — a,. Orders follow the general form prescribed
in I'M 101-5. Mission type orders will be frequent. Warning
and fragmentary orders in the form of messages, overlays,
and oral instructions are freely used to give early instructions
to subordinates so they will have adequate time to make their
reconnaissance and prepare their plans. Orders of this
type, together with ojjeratlon maps, aerial photographs, and
standing operating procedure will reduce the scope of orders
of execution to a minimum.
&. Save in the beginning of an operation, the use of formal
written orders will be exceptional. Orders will normally be
dictated or oral, and often fragmentary in units smaller than
the corps. All commanders must be trained not only to be
able to give brief clear oral orders but also to be able to act
intelligently on receipt of any such orders.
e. Orders for combat must be thoroughly understood by all
subordinate commanders and their units. They must be
timely to permit necessary dissemination and reconnaissance
by various affected echelons.
■ 12. Communications . — a. The usual methods of communica-
tion used within armored units are visual signals, motorcycle
messengers, liaison officers, radio, and command airplanes.
b. Visual signals are used within the battalion and lower
units and between air and ground troops.
c. Motorcycle messengers are most efficient over short
distances and are used to a maximum to reduce the amount
of radio traffic.
d- Liaison officers are the most satisfactory means for
transmitting instructions where time is vital or the situation
is hazy. For Qualifications and duties of liaison officers and
their methods, see FM 101-5.
e. Radio communication is available down to include
vehicle commander in platoons of armored units. In order
to derive the maximum use of this agency, strict radio
discipline is essential. Only essential sets are operated and
the maximum use is made of a simple system of prearranged
code messages.
/. Command and liaison airplanes are utilized to transmit
orders, overlays, and staff officers, when the situation
warrants.
8
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
13-14
Section n
INDIVIDUAL AND UNIT TRAINING
■ 13. The Soldier. — a. Man is the final and decisive element
in war. Victory is gained through the application of tech-
nique and employment of materiel by troops with high
morale, discipline, and the will to overcome all obstacles to
attain their objectives. (See FM 21-50 and 21-100.) The
following requirements are essential in developing armored
units whose individuals are capable of superior performances
and confident of their ability to accomplish any mission
assigned.
b. A high standard of individual training attained by
painstaking and meticulous attention to the smallest details
is necessary to make the soldier mechanically perfect in
handling his weapon, vehicle, and equipment, under all cir-
cumstances. Proficiency in these details may mean the
difference between success and failure of an operation and
life and death of the individual.
c. Emphasis on calisthenics and other forms of physical
exercises is essential to develop the high degree of physical
fitness and stamina necessary for withstanding the pro-
longed strain of active campaign.
d. Each individual must be kept constantly informed of
the purpose of training and of the tactical situation in which
he is engaged. Simulation of battle casualties among subor-
dinate leaders in combat training to allow the soldier to carry
out the mission of the combat team teaches him to accept
similar responsibility in actual warfare. Realism in train-
ing, including all field exercises, must be constantly stressed
by visualization of battle conditions and impressing upon
all the significance of such conditions.
e. Every opportunity during training will be utilized to
create enthusiasm and interest, to stimulate alertness, pride
in personal appearance, sense of responsibility, and to develop
initiative and esprit de corps.
■ 14. Tun Leader. — a. The qualities of command leadership
must be developed to a high degree in all grades. The ability
to analyze situations basically and quickly, to reach sound
decisions, and to give expression thereto in concise and
clear orders will be developed in all leaders through frequent
tactical exercises.
9
14-15
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
b. Initiative must be demanded in all grades. Mentai
alertness and aggressiveness, and ability to think, act, and
quickly take advantage ■ of tactical opportunities must be
developed to the highest degree. In the absence of orders,
each individual must use his judgment and act in accord-
ance with the tactical situation in furtherance of the general
mission.
c. A sense of duty which subordinates personal considera-
tion to the welfare of the unit or group and a will to accept
personal hazards and prolonged intensive effort in the execu-
tion of orders must be demanded.
d. Leaders must always be well forward to receive early
information of the situation, make their estimate, announce
their decision, and issue orders personally to the subordinate
commanders.
e. Leaders must understand and appreciate the thoughts
and problems of their troops. They must make every effort
to provide timely necessities, insure rest, and protect their
troops from unnecessary hazards.
/. Leaders must require strict and complete obedience and
demand the maximum measure of sacrifice from their units
when necessary to insure victory.
■ 15. The Unit. — a. The primary training objective of each
unit will be the early development of an efficient, hard-
striking unit which is prepared to take the field at short
notice, at existing strength, and capable of conducting com-
bined operations against an enemy equipped with modern
means of warfare.
b. Success in battle depends upon the coordinated employ-
ment of all available arms and technique applicable to the
situation. This coordination is only obtained through pains-
taking combined training of highly trained individuals and
units. Tactical flexibility is based on the ability to exact
definite and rigid standards of performance from individuals
and units committed to action.
c. Men are grouped into units with a view to their training
for and use in combat. Individuals constantly trained,
quartered, and fed together develop a feeling of solidarity,
which must be furthered by the greatest degree of perma-
nence being given to sciuad and platoon assignments. <See
PM 100-5.) '
10
TACTICS AHD TECHNIQUE
16-17
Section HI
RELATION WITH OTHER. ARMS
■ 16. Artillery, — a. The role of the artillery of armored
units, its characteristics, arid tactical and technical employ-
ment are given in FM 100-5 and 6-20,
b. The division artillery composed of a headquarters and
headquarters detachment and three artillery battalions of
105-mm howitzers is an organic part of each armored di-
vision. Each battalion has three firing batteries of six
105-mm howitzers each, a headquarters battery, and a service
and ammunition battery. The. battalion normally furnishes
general support fires and may be attached to or support the
infantry regiment in the execution of particular missions.
c. Armored artillery is organized and equipped to facilitate
its employment in support of highly mobile units.
d. Observers in radio-equipped armored vehicles accom-
pany supported units to obtain and adjust artillery fire. Air
observers supplement ground observation in the adjustment
of fire.
e. Antiaircraft units, equipped with weapons suitable for
both air defense and antitank employment may be attached
to large armored force units to provide protection of routes,
particularly critical points, areas, and installations vital to
armored operations.
■ 17. Aviation. — o. The role of aviation attached to or oper~
ating in support of armored force units, its characteristics,
and tactical and technical employment are given in FM 1-5,
1-20, and 100-5.
to. Corps headquarters contain an aviation section that acts
in an advisory and technical capacity for the corps com-
mander and coordinates operations of attached or supporting
observation and combat aviation.
c. (1) An observation squadron is attached to the armored
division. It is equipped both with airplanes of high speed
and sufficient range to reconnoiter the area essential to ar-
mored operations and with airplanes capable of operation
from advanced landing fields.
(2) Observation aviation performs distant and battle re-
connaissance (including artillery adjustment), liaison, com-
mand, and photographic missions.
11
17-18
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
d. Combat aviation is made available by GHQ. It is em-
ployed against targets which cannot be engaged effectively
by available ground weapons within the time required and
supplements or extends the range of available artillery. Its
chief missions in support of large armored force units are:
(1) Neutralization of hostile aviation.
(2) Neutralization of enemy artillery.
(3) Neutralization of hostile defensive installations, includ-
ing antitank.
(4) Direct support of the attack.
(5) Neutralization of counterattacks, especially of armored
units.
(6) Destruction, harassing, or delaying of hostile concen-
trations, reinforcing, pursuing, or retreating forces, and rear
installations and centers of communication.
e. Transport aviation will be furnished by GHQ for the
supply of elements of armored units when operating beyond
the sources of normal supply or when no land communica-
tions are available.
/. Either parachute troops or air-borne troops may be
employed in conjunction with the operations of armored units
to secure terrain objectives on the routes of march or to seize
vital points in rear of the hostile front. They may establish
support groups and supply bases for a break-through.
■ 18. Chemical Troops. — a. Chemical regiments (motorized),
organically a part of GHQ reserve, are attached to armored
units for tactical employment as needed. For details of their
employment see FM 3-5 and 100-5.
b. The armored corps headquarters includes a section of
chemical warfare personnel that acts in an advisory and
technical capacity in the planning, execution, and supervision
of gas defense measures and with decontamination, of
equipment.
c. Chemical weapons within the division, intended princi-
pally for smoke missions, are the 81-mm and 60-mm mortar
subordinate units in the armored and infantry regiments.
d. Smoke is employed to screen troop movements from
hostile observation, to reduce the effectiveness of hostile fire,
to protect a flank exposed to enfilade Are, and- to blind anti-
tank guns and machine gun nests. In defense it is employed
to blind hostile observation, cover a withdrawal, and aid in
counterattacks.
12
TACTICS ABB TECHNIQUE
19-21
■ 19. Engineers. — a. The role of the engineers with armored
force units, its characteristics, and tactical and technical em-
ployment are given in FM 5-5 and 100-5.
b. An armored engineer battalion is an organic part of each
armored division. It includes four combat (pioneer) com-
panies and a bridge company. The latter is equipped with
assault boats, portable ferries, and ponton and steel bridge
equipage.
c. Their duties include: making bridge, water, road, and
bivouac reconnaissance; strengthening, repairing, and con-
structing bridges; providing means for crossing streams in
the presence of the enemy; reproduction and issue of maps;
establishing and operating water supply points; removal of
or assisting in the passage of tank obstacles and mines; and
supervising and assisting in the construction of obstacles, and
preparation and execution of demolitions.
■ 20. Infantry. — a. The role of the infantry with armored
force units, its characteristics, and tactical and technical
employment are given in FM 100-5.
b. An armored infantry regiment is an organic part of each
armored division. Its combat element consists of three infan-
try battalions of three rifle companies each.
e. The infantry regiment rnay attack to drive In hostile
covering forces, to develop a situation, and to seize terrain
from which to launch the tank attack. It may follow closely
the tank attack to wipe out remaining hostile resistance, cover
the flanks of the division against a hostile threat, occupy and
hold ground gained, and cover the reorganization of the tank
units. It is used to establish bridgeheads and outposts. It is
employed in a similar manner to that prescribed for the
infantry rifle regiment in FM 7—40.
■ 21. Medical Service. — a. The role of medical troops with
armored force units and their employment are given in the
training regulations for that service. See FM 8-5 and para-
graph 47 this manual.
b. A medical battalion is an organic part of each armored
division. It includes three medical companies.
e. The medical company makes battlefield collection of
casualties and establishes collecting points for the division.
It is equipped for emergency surgery and first aid treatment.
439995° — 42 2
13
22-24
ARMOKED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
■ 22. Ordnance Department. — a. The functions of the ord-
nance with armored force units and their employment are
given in FM 9-5.
b. An ordnance battalion, maintenance, is an organic part
of each armored division. It includes three maintenance
companies.
c. It provides spare parts for the upkeep of ordnance ma-
teriel throughout the division. It is capable of accomplishing
artillery, automotive, instrument, and small arms repairs as
well as ordnance vehicular maintenance. It establishes
divisional ammunition distributing v or control points as
required.
d. Heavy maintenance elements from GHQ reserve units
furnish similar services to a GHQ reserve tank group.
■ 23. Quartermaster Corps. — a. The functions of the quarter-
master troops with armored force units and their employment
are given in FM 10-5 and 100-5.
b. A battalion is an organic part of each armored division.
It includes a headquarters company and two truck companies,
maintains a labor poo], and is the basis of the transportation
pool.
c. It operates the division railhead and gasoline and oil
supply point.
d. The truck company supplements the unit trains in trans-
porting and replenishing supplies, including ammunition.
■ 24, Signal Corps. — a. The role of signal troops with ar-
mored force units arid their employment is set forth in
FM 11-17.
b. A signal battalion and signal company are organic parts
of an armored corps and division respectively.
c. The signal battalion includes a radio operation company,
a wire operation company, and two construction companies-
d. The division signal company consists of a headquarters
platoon, an operating platoon, and a radio platoon.
e. Within their respective units, they provide signal equip-
ment and parts and perform radio repair and maintenance.
They operate message centers and radios at the forward and
rear echelons of corps and division command posts. They
install, maintain, and operate telephones, telegraph, and tele-
graph printers.
14
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
25
CHAPTER 2
TACTICAL EMPLOYMENT
Paragraphs
Section I. General 25-27
II. Reconnaissance 28-31
HI. Security _ . 32-45
IV. Offensive combat 46-51
V. The delensive 52-56
VI. Special operations 57-64
VII. Marches 65-66
Section I
GENERAL
■ 25. General Doctrine. — a. The tactical employment of ar-
mored force units is based upon the doctrine set forth in
FM 100-5 and chapter 1 of this manual. Their character-
istics favor the striking of quick, hard blows.
b. Armored units should be assigned missions which their
Characteristics are designed to accomplish and, except in
emergencies, should not be assigned missions that other
available troops can perform satisfactorily.
c. Since tanks furnish the striking power of armored units
it is necessary to understand and keep constantly in mind
their capabilities and limitations in the assignment of mis-
sions. (See ch. 5.)
d. The capabilities are —
<1) High road speed: 35 to 40 mph.
(2) Ability to move cross country at speeds up to 25 mph
in especially favorable terrain.
(3) Ability to cross small obstacles, ditches, and shallow
streams.
(4) Ability to pass through thin woods and brush.
(5) Great fire power.
(6) Crushing ability to overrun personnel, materiel, and
equipment.
(7) Armor protection for crew.
e. The limitations are —
(1) Cannot cross deep or soft-bottomed streams, marshy
ground, or swamps.
(2) Cannot cross wide ditches or other large obstacles.
15
25-26
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
(3) Cannot pass through dense woods.
(4) Heavier vehicles must avoid roads having bridges and
culverts of light construction.
(5) Operations in mountainous country are generally lim-
ited to roads.
(6) Observation and control is difficult when vehicles are
operated with all ports and doors closed.
(7) Vulnerable to Are of artillery and antitank weapons.
(8) Noise of engine:; indicates the presence of tanks which
may affect the element of surprise.
(9) Fire from moving vehicles is limited in its casualty
effect.
(10) Difficulty of fuel and ammunition supply.
(11) Necessity for periodic maintenance.
■ 26. Terrain and Weather. — a. The terrain exercises an
important and often decisive Influence in tactical situations.
It may be the determining factor in the decision to employ
armored Units on a specified mission or not. Generally the
terrain will determine the tactical form of an attack and the
ground over which the main attack will be launched.
b. A thorough appreciation of terrain and its effect on
operations is essential to the proper command and employ-
ment of all armored units. Areas most favorable for their
employment are determined from: the study of maps, recon-
naissance agencies, higher and adjacent units, troops already
in contact with the enemy, and personal reconnaissance by
the leader or his staff.
c. Gently rolling, open terrain with occasional lightly
wooded areas, affording some cover and facilities for observa-
tion, is the most favorable for operations of armored units.
Desirable terrain is that which provides covered routes of
approach, positions for supporting units, and permits the
maximum use of the speed and maneuverability of armored
vehicles.
d. Terrain broken by natural obstacles, such as unfordable
streams, ravines, or streams with steep banks, marshes, cliffs,
dense woods, closely spaced boulders or stumps, forces ar-
mored units either to make long detours, or follow canalized
routes, limiting their maneuverability, choice of direction,
and method of attack.
e. Rough, hilly, or mountainous terrain reduces the speed
16
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
26-27
of armored troops to almost that of dismounted troops, or
else restricts their movements to roads. Armored troops
when restricted to roads and defiles, unless frequent "turn-
arounds" are available, are particularly vulnerable to attack
by hostile aircraft and to antitank weapons.
f. Armored units avoid defended towns or cities when pos-
sible except when they can be surprised. Such localities
are attacked by motorized infantry or other closely following
troops.
g. Unfavorable weather may materially affect operations
of armored force units. Rain, mud, ice, and snow may im-
pede, limit, or prevent the employment of armored units.
Extremes of temperature adversely affect both materiel and
personnel. However, inclement weather may prove advan-
tageous to the troops inured to hardships.
■ 27. Cover and Concealment. — a. The discovery of unusual
numbers of tank units in a given area is an indication of
a probable major operation in that vicinity. The conceal-
ment of vehicles, therefore, is important at all times, par-
ticularly from aerial observation and photography. Partial
concealment is of little or no value. Every practicable effort
must be made to provide complete concealment.
b. Camouflage is work done to provide concealment of
materiel, troops, or military works from enemy air or ground
observers. To be effective, camouflage must be supervised by
personnel thoroughly familiar with its principles and methods.
The means employed are nets, paulins, paint, earth, branches,
and grass. The fundamental rules of camouflage are covered
in detail in FM 5-20 and 21-45.
C. Personnel of armored units must be thoroughly in-
structed in the use of natural means of camouflage available
and be required to apply habitually these means to conceal
themselves and vehicles.
d. The following rules governing concealment should be
known and understood by all:
(1) Natural concealment should be sought before resorting
to camouflage; It is simpler, requires less time, skill, and
material, and is more effective. Concealment of bivouacs
is much simpler In woods and villages than in the open.
Vehicles are best concealed by placing them under heavy
natural cover as in dense woods. In partly open country,
17
27
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
they should be driven into thin woods or clumps of trees or
brush.
(2) Camouflage should not be overdone. A small amount
of material, judiciously employed, is frequently more effective
than a mass of material. Branches of trees, brush, weeds,
leaves, grass, or dirt are usually available to cover tents and
vehicles that are partially or wholly exposed. Irregular
patches of different material are better than solid blankets
of any one kind.
(3) The worst enemies of concealment are straight lines,
regularity of pattern, angles, and shadows. Therefore, in-
genuity must be exercised to change or break the outline or
regularity of the pattern of the object being camouflaged.
Shelter tents in bivouacs, and vehicles in parks or assembly
areas should always be placed in scattered, irregular forma-
tions.
(4) An aerial observer cannot see an object within a
shadow; neither will an aerial photograph of the locality
reveal it. Even a partial shadow crossing the object makes
recognition difficult from the air. Therefore, natural con-
cealment can be obtained by halting vehicles within shadows.
(5) Care should be taken that track imprints do not
disclose the location of vehicles. Tracks may be obliterated
by covering them with brush, leaves, or dirt, or by dragging
over them with branches or some other means. The enemy
may be further deceived by running one or more vehicles
beyond the true entrance to the area and obliterating the
actual entrance. In entering woods, fewer tracks will have
to be obliterated if vehicles enter in column and scatter after
getting under cover. Also, ■ in dense woods, care should be
taken not to knock down any more trees than absolutely
necessary and then straighten up those that have been
knocked down.
(6) Making paths within bivouac to concealed vehicles
should be avoided, unless such paths are concealed from air
observation,
(7) When foliage is used to cover vehicles and other equip-
ment, it should be renewed daily. Wilted leaves -and
branches will appear different in color from natural sur-
roundings when observed or photographed from the air.
Care should also be taken in gathering natural camouflage,
to avoid denuding the ground in the immediate vicinity of
18
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
27
the object being camouflaged. Fresh dirt should be cov-
ered with brush, leaves, or grass.
(8) No rubbish of any kind should be allowed to accumu-
late about a bivouac.
(9) Fire or smoke should not be permitted near vehicles.
(10) Ruins provide one of the best means of concealment.
(11) At night necessary lights are concealed.
(12) If natural concealment is not available, vehicles
halted in the open should seek very broken ground, folds in
the ground, etc, ■ Natural or artificial means available should
be used to disguise their characteristic profile.
(13) Bright or shining parts of material should be cov-
ered with mud or grease.
e. Concealment in snow is much more difficult than at
other times. The following points should be kept in mind:
Trails get tracked with mud and melt out early, leaving a
black line; snow falls through camouflage material and the
holes show dark; the heat of engines and of kitchen ranges
cause early melting of snow. This can be remedied by keep-
ing activity at a minimum when snow first falls; and by
covering trails, vehicles, etc., with fresh snow, replacing it
as often as needed.
/. The noise of running engines, particularly those of
tanks, can be heard at a considerable distance and will dis-
close the presence of concealed tanks to ground observers.
Engines, therefore, should always be stopped as soon as ve-
hicles have been placed under cover or concealed. This
should likewise be done whenever practicable, as a means
of conserving fuel.
g. The following precautions should be observed while
moving to attack or in close proximity to the enemy:
(1) Use all available natural cover, whether stationary or
moving.
(2) Halt preferably under trees, in thickets, or in the
shadow of buildings or trees. -
(3) Choose routes of approach which provide the most
cover and concealment, such as ravines, draws, gulleys, or
folds in the ground; avoid skylines.
(4) Avoid bottoms where vehicles may be bogged down,
and clumps of bushes where sink holes, stumps, etc., may be
encountered. ■,
(5) Avoid dense woods; travel along .the edges.
19
27-28
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
(6) Approach the crests of hills and ridges slowly and
look over.
(7) Avoid crossing ridge lines; back down and go around
if possible.
(8) If forced to cross over open ground or ridges, move
speedily.
(9) When under observation, avoid halting and exposing
personnel or tops of vehicles.
(10) Avoid massing of vehicles.
(11) Avoid following the tracks of preceding vehicles when
passing over soft ground, stream crossings, ditches, or similar
obstacles.
(12) If time permits, and if considered essential, obliterate
tank tracks by dragging suitable objects over them.
(13) When approaching the enemy, if the presence of tank
units has been disclosed, deception as to direction of attack
and numbers of vehicles may be obtained by running several
tanks back and forth off to a flank.
Section II
RECONNAISSANCE
■ 28. General. — a. The purpose of reconnaissance is to gain
information upon which to base strategical maneuvers or
tactical operations.
b. Information desired may be of the enemy or of the ter-
rain. Information concerning the enemy may include his
location, disposition, strength, organization, capabilities,
movements, attitude, equipment, and morale. Information
concerning the terrain may include character of roads,
streams, cover and concealment, positions, bivouac areas, and
suitable areas for employment of obstacles.
c. Responsibility. — The commander of each unit is responsi-
ble for maintaining reconnaissance for information that influ-
ences his own operations, or which is required of him by the
higher commander. The detailed preparation of plans and
orders for reconnaissance is the function of the staff. Plans
for the employment of armored force units should be based
on the most careful and detailed reconnaissance practicable
in the time available. Every effort must be made to obtain
the information of greatest importance, i. e., the essential
elements of information.
20
TACTICS AMD TECHNIQUE
28
d. Essential elements of information. — (1) (See FM 30-5.)
The essential elements of information are those which the
commander deems necessary or highly desirable to:
(a) Make a sound decision.
(b) Conduct a maneuver.
(c) Avoid surprise.
(d) Form details of a plan of operation.
(e) Permit him to revise or make a new decision,
(/) Accomplish his mission.
(2) To obtain this information, reconnaissance missions
should be expressed in specific questions stating the informa-
tion desired such as:
(a) Enemy.
Does the enemy occupy position? If so, in what
strength? What are his approximate dispositions?
Where is the enemy's reserve?
What is the strength and location of the enemy's advanced
columns?
What supporting weapons does the enemy have?
(b> Terrain.
Are certain roads passable for all armored vehicles?
Are certain bridges intact? What is their capacity?
Are certain terrain features capable of defense by hostile
or friendly troops?
Are obstacles present which affect the plan of attack or
defense?
e. Routine information. — In addition to the essential ele-
ments of information prescribed by the commander, ground
reconnaissance units obtain and report, at specified times or
at most practicable time, as a matter of routine without addi-
tional orders and in conjunction with the execution of specific
missions, information covering the following items:
(1) Route and bridges. — Type, condition, load, and traffic
capabilities.
(2) Landing fields. — Location and suitability.
(3) Utilities (water, sewage, electric power, communica-
tion, railroads, docks) . — Condition, and repair necessary.
(4) Supplies. — Amounts, location, type, and condition, par-
ticularly fuel, lubricants, and food.
(5) Prepared obstacles, demolitions, mines, and contami~
nated areas. — Location, extent, means of avoiding.
(6) A continuing brief estimate of terrain. — Fordability of
21
28
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
streams; marshy and wooded areas; clear areas suitable for
tank employment; areas unsuited for tank employment;
commanding terrain; cover and concealment.
(7) Hostile aircraft. — Number of, location, time, type, alti-
tude, direction of flight.
(8) Hostile ground forces. — Location and time of all hostile
contacts giving strength, composition, and movements, with
particular attention to location and movements of hostile
mechanized forces.
(9) Friendly troops and miscellaneous. — Includes friendly
troops within the sphere of action of the reconnaissance unit
and other intelligence data not included in other items per-
tinent to the operation, such as weather, visibility, etc.
/. Sources of information. — The sources of information are
varied and include reports from reconnaissance agencies,
actual observation of terrain or physical objects, informa-
tion or intelligence reports procured from other units, exami-
nation of inhabitants, prisoners, documents, aerial photo-
graphs, maps, spies, or identifications, and summaries from
higher and lower echelons.
g. Reconnaissance agencies. — (1) The execution of the
commander's plan for reconnaissance is the task of the re-
connaissance agencies;. The reconnaissance agencies and
personnel available to the armored division and its elements
are:
(a) The attached observation squadron.
(b) The division reconnaissance battalion, which includes
three armored reconnaissance companies and a light armored
(tank) company.
(c) An armored reconnaissance company in each armored
(tank) regiment.
(d) The reconnaissance platoon in the headquarters com-
pany, engineer battalion, and reconnaissance and liaison
section in each engineer company.
(e) The personal reconnaissance by the commander, staff
officers, and subordinate commanders.
(/) Artillery reconnaissance elements,
(ff) Scouts and patrols.
(2) The reconnaissance agencies and personnel available
to the GHQ reserve tank groups and battalions are:
(a) Reconnaissance platoon in the group and battalion
headquarters companies.
22
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
28
(b) Personal reconnaissance by the commander, stafi
officers, and subordinate commanders.
(c) Scouts and patrols.
ft. Classification. — Reconnaissance is usually classified in
accordance with the location of the objective and the phase of
operations as distant, close, or battle reconnaissance.
(X) Distant reconnaissance is the function of the aviation
and the division reconnaissance battalion. It seeks to locate
the advanced elements of the enemy forces, and maintain con-
tact with them. It procures the information upon which the
strategical and operative decisions and the plans of the high
command are based. Distant reconnaissance is dealt with
in FM 100-5.
(2) Close reconnaissance is the function of the regimental
reconnaissance companies. It seeks to gain more detailed
information for tactical operation, such as the location,
strength, composition, and movements of the enemy and a
reconnaissance of the terrain.
(3) Battle reconnaissance is a function of all echelons of
the command and must be continuous. It includes observa-
tion of all enemy forces engaged in the action and those whose
contact with our principal forces is imminent. Both air and
ground troops should seek the location of hostile flanks,
changes In hostile dispositions, location of hostile artillery,
movement of hostile reserves, preparation for counterattacks,
and indications of a withdrawal.
i. Plans for the employment of tank units require, in ad-
dition to the usual classes of reconnaissance, a special type
of battle or tank reconnaissance to determine when, where,
and how tanks can best be employed. Tank reconnaissance
is of particular importance to all commanders of tank units.
It is always made prior to an operation and when possible
before ortlers are issued. Information may be obtained by the
regular reconnaissance agencies, but will normally be obtained
by personal reconnaissance Or by scouts or patrols dispatched
from the tank units in the area over which tanks are to
operate. Information of this type must be obtained by GHQ
reserve tank battalions when attached to cavalry or infantry
divisions.
J. Reconnaissance in force. — When hostile resistance is en-
countered which cannot be brushed aside, flanked, or out-
flanked by the reconnaissance agencies, a reconnaissance in
23
28
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
force may constitute the best method of clearing up an un-
certain situation. Troops assigned to this mission may vary
in strength from an armored (tank) company to a reinforced
armored regiment, but must be sufficiently strong to accom-
plish the mission. Their action will usually consist of a local
attack on a limited objective. The commander who orders a
reconnaissance in force must consider the possibility that his
intentions or those of the higher commander may thereby'
be disclosed. He must also be prepared for the eventuality of
the reconnaissance in force bringing on a general engagement.
k. Zones, routes, and localities. — (1) To avoid duplication
of effort, reconnaissance agencies must be assigned a zone, an
axis or route, or a locality or area for reconnaissance. The
boundaries thereof aire not to be construed as limiting the
movements of the units, but rather as definite guides as to
areas of responsibility for reconnaissance. The maximum
liberty of movement that the situation warrants should be
allowed.
(2) When the enemy is disposed on a broad front, or
when his location is in doubt, a zone of reconnaissance may
be assigned. Factors to be considered in determining the
width of the zone of action are the terrain; the road net;
strength of forces to be employed; strength, disposition, and
activity of the enemy; facilities for communication; and the
time available.
(3) When information indicates the enemy's advance is
by a definite route (or routes), a route (or routes) for recon-
naissance is generally designated.
(4) When accurate information has disclosed the presence
of the enemy in a definite area, then that locality or area
is assigned for reconnaissance.
(5) In large forces, such as a division or larger, a recon-
naissance line is designated marking the limit of reconnais-
sance between the higher and lower unit. The subordinate
unit reconnOiters outward to this line, the superior unit be-
yond it. Either may cross the line if necessary. During
an advance, the reconnaissance line is advanced from day
to day so that prior to the commencement of each march
stage, reconnaissance by the division has explored in advance
to a distance equal to at least a day's march.
(6) Advance of reconnaissance elements will be regulated
by designation of successive phase lines or objectives which
24
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
28
may be crossed or passed only on orders or in accordance with
a time schedule. Lateral communications between reconnais-
sance elements is maintained by contact, normally on phase
lines, or at designated objectives.
(7) Reconnaissance phase lines should include easily iden-
tified terrain features such as roads, streams, railroads, or
towns,
(8) Observation aviation should know in advance the limits
of reconnaissance for the reconnaissance battalion and the
route of the battalion command post.
i. Coordination. — The commander coordinates the employ-
ment of reconnaissance agencies at his disposal. He regu-
lates their employment in such manner that they will
supplement and assist one another. Duplication of effort
is avoided by the assignment of reconnaissance missions and
objectives and by informing subordinates concerning recon-
naissance to be executed by agencies of other commanders.
tn. Aggressiveness. — Reconnaissance agencies must be active
and aggressive. Such missions generally require secrecy of
movement. As a rule combat is avoided which is not neces-
sary for gaining essential 'information. Essential informa-
tion can frequently be obtained only through attack. Re-
connaissance units do not hesitate to attack when their
mission requires it.
n. Reserves. — Commanders initiating reconnaissance should
arrange for reserve reconnaissance elements which can be
employed to reinforce or extend reconnaissance to the front
or flanks.
o. Communications.- — (1) To insure the prompt and reliable
transmission of the results of reconnaissance, the com-
mander must regulate the establishment and maintenance of
signal communication, including the coordination of com-
munication to be used between air and ground reconnaissance
agencies. When there is danger of hostile interception he
may sharply restrict or prohibit the use of radio In the interest
of secrecy.
(2) In the employment of ground reconnaissance agencies,
the distance they are sent out, and the front to be covered,
consideration must be given to the sending range of radios.
Frequently reconnaissance units, particularly divisional re-
connaissance, will be out beyond direct radio communication
with their commanders. Under such circumstances informa-
25
28
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
tion will have to be transmitted by airplane through pick-up
messages, or relayed by radio through air-ground nets or
reconnaissance nets of lower units.
(a) A liaison type airplane working with the division recon-
naissance, if practicable, will speed up transmission without
interfering with missions of other agencies or utilizing their
radio sets which are needed for transmitting information
that they have obtained.
(E>) Shuttling of command cars until they are within radio
range, or even dispatching motorcycle messengers, may be
used as expedients, but have obvious disadvantages. Motor-
cycle messengers may, however, be utilized expeditiously for
short distances between elements of the divisional or regi-
mental reconnaissance units.
(c) Provision should be made in the regimental reconnais-
sance unit for listening in on the divisional reconnaissance
net.
p. Instructions. — (1) Instructions for the execution of re-
connaissance in large units may be issued in the form of an
intelligence annex (see PM 30-5 and 10 1-5 J. In small units
they may be included in the field order or be Issued separately,
in complete or fragmentary form, as instructions for recon-
naissance.
(2) Instructions to reconnaissance agencies should include,
in addition to the mission and essential elements of informa-
tion, the following:
(a) Time of departure.
(t>) Zone, areas, or route.
(c) Objectives and time to be reached.
(cZ) Duration.
<e) Reconnaissance phase lines and time to be crossed.
(/) Instructions concerning adjacent reconnaissance units.
(ff) Instruction for the transmission of reports, or time
reports are desired.
(ft) Instructions about communication with observation
aviation.
(z) Time of departure, route, and objectives of main force.
(3) In the absence of instructions, each unit executes the
reconnaissance necessary to its own operations Within its own
zone of action and toward any exposed flanks.
26
TACTICS AKD TECHNIQUE
29
■ 29. Execution of Reconnaissance. — a. Distant reconnais-
sance. — The speed and mobility of armored troops and of a
mobile enemy requires air and ground reconnaissance forces
to operate at great distances from the main body. (See fig. 1.)
(1) Air. — (a) Distant reconnaissance by air will be wide
and deep and is usually conducted beyond the sphere of action
of friendly ground forces. It will never be less than the oper-
ating range of hostile armored forces, or the equivalent of
a day's march for the division, that is from 100 to 150 miles.
It will normally be initiated prior to the establishment of
contact between ground forces and is. under control of the
commander of the armored force unit.
(£>) Time, the ever increasing depth of zone to be observed,
and the fact that available aircraft are seldom adequate to
perform all the missions desired, precludes detailed recon-
naissance of areas off the main roads. Initially, "search"
missions to locate the enemy concentrations and to provide
early information of the enemy's dispositions and movements
are the most important. Primarily, they should be confined
to the main routes or probable localities. The commanders
of armored units also need information as to the condition
of roads, bridges, defiles, and general terrain feature's many
miles ahead in order to guide their fast moving columns and
to direct their reconnaissance elements in the right direction
avoiding unnecessary detailed reconnaissance. This is known
as route reconnaissance. Other missions, i. e. surveillance,
tracking, or photographic, may be assigned. It is important,
however, that the priority of missions be specified in the orders
or instructions.
(c) The tactics and technique of air reconnaissance and
, observation are contained in PM 1-20.
(2) Ground. — (a) Since effective reconnaissance cannot be
made at the rate of march of the division, reconnaissance
elements should be pushed out sufficiently far in advance of
the division to insure the timely receipt of information by the
division commander. In an initial advance, prior to contact
with the enemy, the divisional reconnaissance may precede
the division by as much as 100 miles and usually is sent out
1 to 2 days in advance* of the main body.
(b) When the division is moving undsr cover of darkness,
reconnaissance should be pushed out during daylight hours
to a line beyond the expected bivouac location of the division.
27
29
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
T
.3 oo
f
OO
30-50 mit«
OO T
ED Ren
jSjftai I^lfl™ lolR cn
Division" Reconnaissance" Un« T
A|o|Rcn
|q|rcii
jOJ Ren
D[0]Rcn
Tn \t ^ cn
B|Q|Rcn
lOlRen
1 9.
•e
H
15 miles
Rcnfpl
RcnjQl
RcnlOl
— 15 mifes
Rm[Q]
RcnKZ2
Rc>1
Renl
Advance Q Guards
4
Plonk
Main
Bodies
u
Plonk
D
Rcn^
Guard
Figure 1. — Schematic diagram of reconnaissance in an initial advance
of division.
28
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
29
A line of observation is established during the hours of dark-
ness to warn of the movement of hostile troops that might
interfere with the march or bivouac of the division.
(c) In other situations reconnaissance should be sent out
sufficiently early to gain their distance in front of the main
body and have at their disposal the time necessary for
reconnaissance.
(d) The divisional reconnaissance battalion may be re-
quired to cover a perimeter of as much as 150 miles. Detailed
reconnaissance of such a large area is usually impracticable.
The usual objectives are principal terrain features, critical
points or areas, and hostile main forces previously indicated
by observation aviation. The assignment of broad frontages
for reconnaissance necessarily will restrict in detail the infor-
mation that can be expected and may result in gaps between
adjacent elements.
(e) In general the breadth of zone for the battalion should
not exceed from 30 to 50 miles. It is determined by the situa-
tion, location, strength, and composition of the enemy, the
road net and terrain, and the mission of the main body.
(/) Each reconnaissance platoon can reconnoiter in average
terrain a front of abouljS to 7Vfe miles in width while advanc-
ing at the rate of approximately 12 to 15 miles per hour.
Assigning two platoons to reconnaissance and one to reserve
in each reconnaissance company will enable the battalion to
reconnoiter on a 30-mile front while the division is moving.
Initially one reconnaissance company may be held in reserve.
If the rate of advance is decreased the width of reconnais-
sance can be correspondingly increased.
(gO When contact is gained, the divisional reconnaissance
battalion seeks to locate enemy dispositions, including his
flanks, and favorable ground for an assembly position for the
attack. The methods used by the reconnaissance platoon and
company are discussed in chapter 4.
(h) The ground reconnaissance agencies work in close co-
operation with the aviation which will furnish some positive
Information and a very large amount of negative information.
Ground agencies will develop the Information that requires
verification, and verify and amplify ' the positive informa-
tion. When the aviation is prevented from getting informa-
tion because of weather conditions or; hostile air superiority,
the ground reconnaissance must be prepared to extend its
439995° -^2 3 29
29
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
reconnaissance. Each arm supplements and assists the other.
Team play is essential.
(t) The successful operation of an armored unit will be
materially impeded, if not stopped, unless there is a constant
flow of information from the reconnaissance agencies to the
commander. Communication from air to ground is usually
accomplished by radio or dropped messages; from ground to
air by radio, pick-up messages, or by a prearranged system
of panel signals. Information by radio from the aviation is
received by the ground reconnaissance agencies at the same
time it is received by the armored unit commander. In this
way advantage is taken of important and vital information
and reconnaissance directed accordingly. Ground elements
use motorcycles to augment or replace radio communication.
(J) In order to give power and drive to the reconnaissance
battalion and sufficient combat power to overcome minor
opposition, an armored (tank) company is provided. This
company will normally remain with the battalion headquar-
ters, in a central location if the road net permits. It may
be dispatched in detachments or as a unit to furnish sup-
port for reconnaissance companies when required. Where
the front to be covered is so broad that prompt assistance
cannot be rendered; or where critical points must be reached
and held temporarily; or where hostile resistance is expected
to be encountered, detachments of the armored (tank) com-
pany may be attached initially to the reconnaissance com-
pany elements. When the necessity for the attachment no
longer exists, the tank elements revert to battalion control.
(ft) Platoons and sections of the armored (tank) company
execute reconnaissance over terrain that is unsuitable for
wheeled vehicles. They may also be used to reduce resist-
ance that is delaying the advance of the more lightly armored
units of the battalion.
(/) Normally it will be desirable and necessary to attach
engineers to the battalion. Elements from this detachment
accompany the reconnaissance units and furnish detailed
road information, with particular reference to condition of
bridges and fords. The engineer detachment locates and
makes initial preparations for stream crossings.
(m) The principal function of the battalion is reconnais-
sance. It should not be assigned security or combat missions
that will interfere with the performance of reconnaissance.
30
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
29
<ti) Provisions must be made for replenishment of rations,
fu3l, and ammunition and for maintenance of vehicles.
b. Close reconnaissance. — When contact with the enemy is
imminent, reconnaissance is intensified. More detailed in-
formation will be required on points of decisive importance
near the probable or actual zone of contact of the ground
forces. Air and ground reconnaissance agencies by contin-
uous reconnaissance endeavor to determine the contour and
identification of the enemy's leading elements, the frontage
and depth of the enemy's movement, his assembly position,
his measures for antiaircraft defense, the location of his
airdromes, detraining stations, principal supply establish-
ments, and any changes when they occur.
(1) Air. — The primary mission of the air reconnaissance
is to extend in depth the zone under observation by ground
reconnaissance and to secure information which will enable
ground units to give effective direction to their reconnais-
sance activities. The principal objectives are roads, com-
munication centers, and exits of woods and villages. These
objectives are closely observed both day and night with a
view to discovering the location of the enemy's main forces
and their direction of movement. Plights made shortly after
dawn and before dark offer a favorable opportunity for dis-
covery of night movements. The missions for the observa-
tion aviation include: route reconnaissance, march liaison,
surveillance, search, tracking, and photographic missions.
(2) Ground. — (a) Regimental reconnaissance is conducted
under the direction of the regimental commander by the
methods set forth in chapter 4. The reconnaissance ele-
ments precedes the main body of the regiment by 3 to 4
hours and covers the entire width of the regimental zone.
The regiment follows on one or more axial roads. The ex-
tent of the front or area covered by this reconnaissance
depends upon the mission, amount, and kind of resistance
expected, the available road net, and front covered by the
regiment. A reconnaissance company under normal condi-
tions can reconnoiter a zone about 15. miles in width, con-
taining three or four axial roads and frequent lateral roads,
at the rate of from 9 to 12 miles per hour.
(b) Reconnaissance operations at night are generally re-
stricted to movements of elements to initial positions from
which they may continue or commence operations at dawn.
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29
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
Night reconnaissance limits observations and requires slower
speeds and mare extensive dismounted observation. Move-
ment by armored reconnaissance vehicles at night is limited
to roads, except for short periods over favorable terrain or
during bright moonlight.
(c) Detailed reconnaissance of important areas not cov-
ered by elements from reconnaissance units may be executed
by patrols from the main body or at times by motorcycle
scouts. The details of employment of scouts and patrols are
set forth in chapter 3.
(d) Frequently, reconnaissance elements will be required
to attack to obtain exact information of hostile dispositions,
or they may encounter hostile mechanized eounterreconnais-
sance units. When this is anticipated, tank elements may
be attached to reinforce the reconnaissance platoons. Nor-
mally, tank elements are not used for other than battle
reconnaissance.
(e) Engineer and artillery reconnaissance personnel ac-
company the regimental reconnaissance company.
(/) The length of missions is dependent upon the ability
to supply gasoline and oil, endurance of personnel, and re-
servicing and maintenance of vehicles.
C. Battle reconnaissance. — Battle reconnaissance begins
when units initiate development for combat.
(1) Air. — (a) In the assignment of missions during battle,
consideration must be given to the number of missions that
can be effectively executed with the aviation available. Of
especial importance are the reconnaissance of movements
of hostile troops in rear areas and on the flanks of the battle
position and the surveillance of hostile detrucking and de-
training points. Air reconnaissance and surveillance of areas
beyond the zone of reconnaissance of front line troops and
divisional ground reconnaissance will be continuous before,
during, and after battle.
(6) Battle reconnaissance missions report all dispositions
and activities in the immediate battle area with particular
emphasis on the following:
1. Gaps in enemy positions, enemy reserves, Command
posts, railhead, supply and distributing points, and
tank and troop concentrations.
2. Mechanized forces, artillery and antitank guns,
mines and demolitions, road and area blocks.
32
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
29
3, Conditions of routes, bridges, and terrain on. the
projected route of the armored units and between
them and hostile armored forces.
4. Artillery missions, which include the location of
artillery targets, adjustment of artillery fire, re-
port of effect of fire, and general surveillance of
scheduled artillery fires and enemy activity. Air-
planes assigned to artillery missions operate under
direction of the artillery commander,
(c) Priority is given to radio in communicating informa-
tion to command posts, ground reconnaissance elements,
and to the artillery. This method as compared to using
dropped messages expedites the action and quickens the battle
reconnaissance by obviating the necessity for the airplane
returning many miles With each important item of informa-
tion. Moreover, it permits the command post and inter-
ested subordinate elements in the divisions to keep abreast
of the situation. In case of radio failure or silence, drop
messages may be resorted to. This method may cause delay
in locating the various command posts.
((f) A certain amount of battle liaison can be performed
simultaneously by airplanes on battle reconnaissance missions.
However, when enemy aerial and antiaircraft activity per-
mits, battle liaison may be performed satisfactorily by the
slower, liaison type of airplane. Battle liaison is concerned
with: _
1. Visual location of front lines and tactical disposition
of advanced elements.
2. General locations and unusual conditions affecting
adjacent units.
3. Command and liaison missions, including the trans-
mission of information and instructions between
the superior commander and his artillery, infantry
and other subordinate commanders; also all ob-
servation missions executed for special informa-
tion for the superior commander. These missions
may be ordered for the purpose of obtaining or
verifying information as to the tactical situation
of the units engaged, or to obtain other urgent
information.
(e) Radio provides the quickest means of communication
both from air to ground and ground to air. Where other
33
29
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
means are available, they should be utilized, keeping the
net free and available for emergency messages. Such addi-
tional means are; from air to ground: dropped messages,
rocket signals, and simple airplane maneuvers; from ground
to air: pick-up messages, or by prearranged system of panel
or other signals,
(2) Ground. — (a) Immediately preceding combat, as the
enemy main force is approached, detailed reconnaissance of
hostile dispositions and of terrain is intensified by all recon-
naissance agencies.
1. As the regimental reconnaissance companies and se-
curity detachments of the various columns make
contact with the enemy, the reconnaissance bat-
talion may be relieved by them and move to the
flanks and continue reconnaissance against the
hostile flanks and rear.
2. Elements of the reconnaissance battalion in contact
with the enemy maintain contact during combat.
In this case regimental reconnaissance companies
may be attached to the reconnaissance battalion
to continue reconnaissance to the flanks and rear.
(t>) During combat the division reconnaissance ele-
ments gain contact with the enemy by working through gaps
•and around the flanks and rear and ascertain the strength,
composition, and dispositions of the enemy main force and
the approach of enemy reinforcements. When ordered, the
reconnaissance elements avail themselves of every opportunity
to harass enemy command and supply installations, reserves,
or reinforcements without becoming engaged in combat at
the expense of adequate reconnaissance.
1. Where the terrain or the situation prohibits further
reconnaissance to the front during battle, the
divisional reconnaissance battalion may be ordered
to protect an exposed flank or the rear of the
division and give, timely warning of approaching
air and tank attacks. It may be withdrawn into
division reserve to reservice and recuperate pending
further missions.
2. Regimental reconnaissance units when no longer
able to perform reconnaissance to the front pro-
ceed to the flanks of their unit to secure them
34
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
29
during combat and give warning of air and tank
attacks.
(c) After combat, the reconnaissance battalion moves either
around the flanks or through a gap in the hostile front to
determine the routes of withdrawal of the hostile main
column; whether his withdrawal is well organized or in dis-
order; the covering positions with reference to his columns;
and whether or not critical points on his routes are held in
strength. Contact must be maintained.
(d) When the battle results in the withdrawal of our own
forces, contact with the enemy must be maintained. The
delaying force must be constantly informed of the progress
of the hostile troops.
1. Divisional reconnaissance towards the enemy will be
extended to the flanks to obtain information of
the direction of the main threat of the enemy's
pursuit or exploitation.
2. The reconnaissance battalion may be ordered to de-
lay and harass the enemy by action against his
head and flanks while continuing reconnaissance.
3. Reconnaissance in the direction of withdrawal must
be instituted to insure that the routes of with-
drawal are free of enemy and clear of obstacles.
(e) .After combat, the regimental reconnaissance companies
prepare to assist in the exploitation, pursuit, or withdrawal
of their regiment in the same manner as the divisional
reconnaissance units' function with the division. A portion of
the regimental reconnaissance may be attached to rear or
flank guards when necessary to further the mission of these
security detachments. (See sec. in.)
d. Tank reconnaissance. — This type of reconnaissance is
conducted prior to an operation when the use of tanks is
contemplated. It is made to determine: the location, ca-
pacity, concealment, and suitability of positions; the routes
to selected positions; the terrain over which tanks may oper-
ate; and the allotment of tanks.
(1) The items to be considered regarding positions include
in general:
(a) Routes into and within the assembly or intermediate
position.
(b) Available routes to point of probable subsequent
activities.
35
29
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
(c) Available routes to alternate positions.
(d) Water (quantity, quality, and reliability).
(e) Cover and concealment.
(/) Capacity and suitability.
(gO Standings for vehicles under all weather conditions.
(h) Protection from hostile Are.
<i) Suitability for local defense.
(?) Shelter for maintenance activities.
<&) Assignment of areas to subordinate units,
(.1) Tactical soundness of location.
(2) Prior to any movement of tank units, principle routes
and alternate routes should be thoroughly reeonnoitered and
a suitable system established for marking the routes and fur-
nishing guides. In reconnoitering routes, consideration must
be given to the following:
(a) Means of identification day or night; i. e., by land-
marks, sketches, description, map reference, or aerial photo-
graphs,
(b) Critical points and areas for location of guides and route
markers.
(c) Distance over entire route and important parts thereof
and time required to traverse them,
(d> Detailed data on routes, such as kind (road, trail, or
cross country) ; width (one-way or two-way) ; grades; sur-
face (firmness, smoothness); defiles; availability; probable
effect of changes in the weather; and practical speeds day or
night, wet or dry.
(e) Cover and concealment, including defilade.
(/) Fords; whether depth and conditions of bottom and
approaches permit crossing, and whether water level is rising
or falling.
(g) Bridges, including location, size, kind, capacity, condi-
tion, and material required for reinforcement. Also possibility
of detouring around them.
(h) Tank obstacles including mines and contaminated
areas; their location, nature, and possibility of removing,
neutralizing, or avoiding them,
(i) Friendly installations, including steps necessary to pre-
vent destruction of telephone wire, point of crossing field
works, or work and material necessary to insure expeditious
crossing.
(?) Routes for passage through friendly lines.
36
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
29-30
(Jfc) Routes for wheeled transportation forward to the line
of departure.
(/) Comparative desirability of all routes.
e. Personal reconnaissance. — In preparing for combat, per-
sonal reconnaissance of the terrain by the commander, staff
officers, and subordinate commanders, under protection of
leading elements, is conducted whenever possible to supple-
ment and verify reports of reconnaissance agencies.
■ 30. Transmission of Information. — a. All commanders are
responsible that their immediate and lower unit commanders
are promptly and fully informed of the situation.
"b. Neighboring units and reconnaissance agencies when
meeting habitually exchange pertinent information. Recon-
naissance elements in contact with the enemy cooperate with
reconnaissance elements and security detachments that may
be employed in the interval between the main force and the
reconnaissance elements in contact. Information of vital in-
terest to these reconnaissance elements and security detach-
ments is transmitted through "listening in" radio sets, dropped
messages from airplanes, or by messengers.
c. P*irst contact with the enemy and new identifications are
always reported by the most rapid means available. Negative
reports must be submitted with the same promptness as posi-
tive information.
d. Prisoners, inhabitants; messages from patrols, and docu-
ments are examined by the reconnaissance unit or detachment
commander and forwarded to the main body by the quickest
and most reliable means available. Radio, airplanes, scout
cars, motorcycles, or impressed motor transportation may be
used. In friendly or occupied territory commercial wires
should be used whenever practicable.
e. Captured prisoners are evacuated by any available means,
together with a digest of their Individual statements.
./, Units in contact, although closely engaged in combat, are
not relieved of the responsibility of making reports as often
as desired by the higher commander. In order to offset the
failure to receive a report, commanders must make provision
for obtaining prompt information by special reconnaissance
and by sending- liaison agents to higher, subordinate, or
adjacent units.
37
30-32
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
g. Artillery observers and liaison officers transmit to the
higher commander, over their own communication systems,
important information which might otherwise be delayed
in transmission.
■ 31. Summary. — o. The prompt employment of armored
force units necessitates early information of the enemy and
of the terrain in order for the commander to formulate sound
plans and make prompt decisions.
b. All available reconnaissance agencies must be used boldly
to gain and maintain contact and obtain information.
c. Reconnaissance agencies must be dispatched in advance
of the main force in time to allow for proper reconnaissance
of the designated zones, routes, or localities and to get infor-
mation back to the commander in time to be of value.
d. Information must be transmitted by the quickest and
most reliable means available,
e. Prior to combat, personal reconnaissance by the com-
mander, staff officers, and subordinate commanders must
supplement and verify reports of reconnaissance agencies.
/. All reconnaissance personnel must be trained to note
and report on, suitable terrain for the employment of tanks;
possible emergency landing fields; water and gasoline supply
sources; and similar items of vital Importance to armored
force units.
g. The successful operation of an armored force is depend-
ent upon a constant How of information to the commander.
Section in
SECURITY
■ 32. General. — a. Security. — Security embraces all meas-
ures taken by a command to protect itself against annoyance,
surprise, attack, observation, and interference by the enemy.
It includes the special measures taken for protection against
hostile aviation and ground forces, including mechanized and
chemical attacks. Security is always necessary, whether in
movement, at the halt, or in combat. In bivouac and in
movement, security is provided in all directions. Adequate
and timely information is the basis of all security measures.
Continuous reconnaissance is therefore an essential part of
security. Security retains freedom of maneuver for the
commander.
38
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
32-33
b. Responsibility. — The commander of each unit is responsi-
ble for the security of his command. This includes the pro-
tection of his lines of communication, unless such protection
is furnished by the higher commander. The superior com-
mander prescribes security measures for the protection of the
command as a whole or coordinates those adopted by subor-
dinate commanders. He insures that measures adopted are
appropriate to the hostile threat. Subordinate commanders
provide additional security required for their own local pro-
tection. When contact is imminent, security measures are
increased.
c. Warning. — All security measures include an adequate
warning service consisting of observers and the means of
signal communication. In this manner changes in hostile
dispositions and other operations on the ground and in the
air are known early. Special measures are taken to warn
of the approach of hostile mechanized or air forces.
■ 33. Security Against Ground Forces. — The principal secu-
rity measures against ground forces include, reconnaissance,
the employment of security detachments, the distribution,
formation, and mobility of units, and utilization of terrain.
a. Reconnaissance. — While reconnaissance is closely allied
with security, reconnaissance and security forces operate in
accordance with different considerations. Reconnaissance
influences security by indicating to the commander the meas-
ures to be taken to protect his forces. Under certain condi-
tions it may be the only measure employed for security.
Information furnished through reconnaissance Is a guide to
the commander for determining the strength, composition,
and disposition of his security detachments.
b. Security detachments. — (1) General. — Security detach-
ments are elements of a command assigned to protect the
main body. Such detachments are always necessary whether
In movement, at the halt, or in combat. On the march, secu-
rity detachments are called advance guards, rear guards, flank
guards, and march outposts; in camp, in bivouac, or in a
defensive position, they are called outposts; during develop-
ment for combat, covering detachments; and in combat,
combat patrols. (See PM 100-5.)
(2) Missions. — In general, the mission of a security de-
tachment is to furnish the command with information rela-
39
33
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
tive to the enemy, to protect the command against surprise,
observation, and interference by hostile ground forces, and
to maintain the freedom of maneuver for the command by
gaining the time and space it requires to make the necessary
dispositions. The priority given to these missions embodying
reconnaissance, counterreconnaissance, and resistance varies
with the situation and the expressed intentions of fehe
commander.
(a) Information of the enemy in proximity is obtained
by the reconnaissance elements or combat patrols from the
security detachment.
(i>) Protection of the main body from surprise, observa-
tion, and interference is accomplished by preventing the
enemy firing into the main body and from observing the
size, dispositions, and composition of the main body; and by
holding the enemy and gaining time for the main body to
deploy before comini; under effective fire.
(c) Freedom of maneuver of the main body is insured by
the security detachment which, according to circumstances,
attacks, resists, or delays the hostile forces.
(3) Strength. — The strength of a security detachment de-
pends upon the mission assigned it, the terrain, proximity
of the enemy, and the size, composition, and physical condi-
tion of the command. In certain situations security detach-
ments constitute a partial commitment of the strength of a
command to action. They are given sufficient strength to
preserve freedom of action for the main body and no more.
As far as practicable, tactical unity is preserved in the detail
of security detachments.
(4) Formations of security detachments. — There is a sim-
ilarity in the formation of advance, flank, and rear guards
and outposts. Each comprise groups which send out patrols
or post sentinels for observation. These reconnaissance
groups are reinforced by a support, the principal element of
resistance. In large security detachments, a reserve is pro-
vided. The reserve constitutes the principal maneuvering
and reinforcing element for offensive or defensive action as
determined by the mission of the security detachment.
These missions in turn depend upon the plan for the subse-
quent employment of the command as a whole.
(5) Distances or time interval. — (a) The distances or
time interval between the main body and the security de-
40
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
33
tachments and between subdivisions of the security detach-
ments will vary with the size and mission of the security
detachment, visibility and terrain, and strength, composition,
and proximity of the enemy. It should be sufficient to allow
the security detachments time to cope with small hostile
forces, to allow successive elements of the detachment space
to maneuver, and to secure the uninterrupted movement of
the main body.
(b) The normal distances between vehicles and units com-
prising elements of security detachments on the march will
be those prescribed for tactical marches, i (See sec. VTI.)
Fixed or routine distances cannot be prescribed for all move-
ments of detachments as terrain, composition, mission, hos-
tile air activity, and many other factors will influence the
conduct of the movement.
(c) When operating in darkness, fog, or in close country,
distances maintained will be less than when operating in
daylight, clear weather, or in open country. Distances be-
tween the main body and security detachments and between
subdivisions of the security detachments should be reduced
to that consistent with control; between vehicles it should
be reduced to that consistent with visual communication with
the vehicle immediately preceding and following.
(6) Rate of march. — The march order prescribes the rate
of march for the command and the distance between the
security detachments and the main body. The main body
regulates the rate of march whenever the command must
maintain a certain rate of march to reach a designated place
at a prescribed time. When contact is imminent, the ad-
vance guard regulates the march.
(7) Communication, — (a) Communication between the
elements of the security detachment and between the security
detachments and the main body is maintained by the
quickest means available. Radio, except when radio silence
is necessary, or motorcycle messengers are the principal
means employed. The commander and leader of each ele-
ment of the security detachment have radio equipped ve-
hicles. In addition, one or more motorcyclist should accom-
pany the security detachment commander for messenger
service.
(b) Leaders of security detachments send information
41
33
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
promptly. Promptness Is vital because of the mobility of
all units.
(8) Control. — (a) Control is obtained by means of radio,
visual signals, connecting riles, or, the main body commander
may designate phase lines, control points, assembly positions,
or message relay points, when such are necessary to insure
control and facilitate communications.
(b) The normal drill signals for "halt," "forward," and
"assembly," and simple improvised signals to indicate "enemy
in sight" or "all clear" are used.
(c) Contact between elements of security detachments and
between the main body and security detachments is main-
tained by connecting groups or files. (See par. 34.)
(9) Movement. — Security detachments on the march regu-
late their movements so as to give the main body the protec-
tion required by the tactical situation and offered by the
terrain. When contact is imminent, they move by bounds as
outlined in the following subparagraphs. When darkness,
fog, or rapid rate of march of the main body makes the
movement by bounds impracticable or inadvisable, move-
ment is continuous and at a prescribed rate.
(a) An advance by bounds is accomplished by a forward
element gaining distance over the one in rear to reach some
important point which possesses tactical- advantage either
for observation or combat. The smaller the element, the
more easily its speed can be changed, and the shorter and
more frequent are its bounds.
(&) A bound of a forward element should not be so great
as to place it beyond supporting distance of the next suc-
ceeding element.
(c) A bound of a rear element should be under the pro-
tection of the element next in front.
(tf) An advance by bounds has several important advan-
tages. It —
Enables an element to reconnoiter the terrain before the
following element has closed up.
Permits the crossing of terrain that may be under hostile
observation or fire in the shortest time.
Offers opportunities for the interrogation of inhabitants,
and for servicing of vehicles.
Offers opportunities to coordinate the advance.
c. Distribution of units. — The distribution of units in the
42
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
33-34
main body is made in accordance with their probable tac-
tical, employment. Each unit makes provision for prompt
formation and movement to facilitate the command's readi-
ness for action.
d. Utilization of terrain. — Terrain and the road net influ-
ence the commander in his selection of positions or routes
for the main body and for the security detachments, A map
study, supplemented by air and ground reconnaissance, will
disclose terrain which may afford protection to the command
while in movement or at the halt. A consideration of the
road net and terrain will also be a determining factor in the
location of the security detachments with respect to the
main body.
■ 34. Connecting Groups (Piles) . — a. A connecting group
is a detachment detailed by a force to maintain contact
(liaison) with a neighboring force or between units (ele-
ments) of a force on the march. Elements of a connecting
group used within a march column are called connecting
files.
(1) Connecting groups are used to maintain contact with
adjacent forces prior to and during combat.
(2) They are used between units within march columns
where distance limits visual communication.
(3) They are always used during night marches within a
march column.
(4) Within the main body, connecting groups are furnished
from the unit in rear to maintain contact with the preceding
unit.
(5) Within a security detachment, connecting groups are
furnished by the larger element to maintain contact with
the next smaller element. For example, from the main body
to the advance guard (flank or rear guard) , within the
advance guard from the support to the advance party.
(6) Connecting groups are especially useful when:
(a) Observation is limited because of terrain features or
weather.
(b) A march column passes through a city or large town.
(c) The route of march has many changes of direction.
(d) The route of the preceding element is difficult to follow.
(7) Connecting groups are not to be confused with recon-
naissance or combat patrols, although their missions in cer-
tain situations are similar.
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34-35
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
&. Mission. — The primary mission of a connecting group is
liaison. Specifically its duties are to —
(1) Keep the commander of the force from which detailed
informed of the location and progress of neighboring units.
(2) Observe and report any penetrating hostile force and
oppose such force until arrival of reinforcements or until
the threat has ceased.
(3) Maintain connections and liaison within a march
column.
c. Strength and composition. — (1) The strength of a con-
necting group depends upon its mission. When its mission
is one of liaison, it may be small; when the distance between
adjacent forces is great and hostile threat exists, it is larger.
It varies from two motorcyclists to a platoon.
(2) For liaison with adjacent units, scout car, half-track,
y 4 -ton truck, or tank elements may be used.
(3) For liaison on the march between armored units, such
groups consist Of two or more motorcyclists or ^-ton trucks.
The number of motorcyclists detailed for this purpose will
depend upon the distance between units, the terrain, visibility,
and the number of motorcyclists available.
d. Formations and methods of operation. — (1) Formations
for connecting groups vary with their mission, terrain, and
hostile situation.
(2) For contact and liaison with an adjacent force, a patrol
formation is used.
(3) For contact and liaison within a march column, a
connecting group usually marches in the interval between
the units to which its mission applies.
(a) Whenever visual contact is broken, connecting files,
preferably in pairs, are detached from the group to maintain
visual contact. When visual contact is regained they close
on the connecting group leader at Increased speed, if in rear
of the leader; or halt and await his arrival, if in front of the
leader.
(b) When the number of connecting files is limited and
visual contact cannot be maintained because of distance or
terrain, connecting files move by bounds.
■ 35, Combat Patrols. — a. Purpose. — (1) Combat patrols are
security detachments sent out to the front, flanks, and rear
to protect the main body or the detachment from which sent
out,
44
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
35-36
(2) Units engaged in combat employ combat patrols for
their protection.
t>. Mission. — The primary mission of combat patrols is
security. Specifically, their duties are to —
(1) Observe the terrain for hostile dispositions and move-
ment.
(2) Gain contact with the enemy in a close situation and
furnish timely information of enemy movements towards or
around the flanks,
<3) Drive off small enemy forces which threaten the front,
flanks, and rear, and contain larger forces until suitable
preparations can be made to oppose them.
C. Strength and composition. — The strength of a combat
patrol depends upon the force from which detailed, the enemy,
and the terrain. It may consist of a pair of motorcyclists,
one or more J A-ton trucks, a section of half-tracks, or a sec-
tion or platoon of tanks.
d. Formation and methods of operation. — Combat patrols
operate under orders from the commander of the force from
which they are detailed. The formation in which they move is
similar to that prescribed for reconnaissance patrols. Their
conduct is different in that combat is usually required for the
accomplishment of their missions. They regulate their move-
ments upon the body from which detached.
■ 36. Advance Guards. — a,. General. — An advance guard is a
security detachment which precedes the main body on the
march.
b. Mission and duties. — The mission of an advance guard
is to insure the uninterrupted advance of the main body and
to protect it against surprise and observation by hostile ground
forces. Specifically, its duties are to —
(1) Guard against surprise and to obtain information by
reconnoitering to the front and flanks.
(2) Push back small parties of the enemy and to prevent
their observing, firing upon, or delaying the main body.
(3) Check the enemy's advance in force long enough to
permit the main body to prepare for action.
(4) Determine the strength and location of the hostile lines
and flanks when the enemy is encountered on the defensive,
but to avoid bringing on a general engagement unless em-
powered to do so.
439995° — 42- 4 45
36
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
36
(5) Remove obstacles, repair roads, and facilitate in every
practicable way the uninterrupted march of the column.
(6) Seize or hold such terrain features as will facilitate the
successful execution of the commander's plan for his command
as a whole.
c. Strength and composition. — (1) The strength of an ad-
vance guard for armored force units varies from a Small
fraction to about one-fourth of the command. Prom front to
rear it consists of a point, advance party, support, and reserve.
In an advance guard consisting of less than a battalion, the
reserve is generally omitted. Figure 2 may be used as a guide
but distances indicated will vary widely, depending upon road
net, terrain, and similar items. The following are suggested
as appropriate advance guards for the forces indicated:
For a platoon — Point One or two solo motorcycles
and ^4-tOn truck, com-
mand; one car, half-track, or
tank.
For a company — Point Two solo motorcycles.
One 54-ton truck.
Advance One section, armored cars
party, (half-tracks, or tanks).
For a battalion — Point Same as for company and one
self-propelled' mount.
Advance One mortar squad,
party. One tank platoon.
One section engineer platoon.
For a regiment — Point Same as for company.
Advance Same as for battalion,
party.
Support One tank company (less 1 or 2
platoons).
One mortar platoon.
One engineer platoon (less sec-
tion with advance party).
One field artillery battery.
For a combat command
group — Point Same as for company.
Advance party Same as for battalion.
Support Same as for regiment.
47
36
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
Reserve One tank battalion (less 1 or 2
companies) .
One engineer company (less 1
platoon) .
One field artillery battery.
For a division — Point Same as for company.
Advance Same as for battalion,
party.
Support Same as for regiment.
Reserve Same as for combat command
group.
(2) At night the advance guard for battalions and larger
units may be composed of infantry and engineer elements.
(3) If any portions of the advance guard are unnecessary,
the rear elements are the first omitted. The point is always
present.
d. Distances. — Within the advance guard the following
are considered satisfactory limits during daylight: (See fig.
2.)
Main body to reserve — 5 to 10 minutes.
Reserve to support— 3 to 5 minutes.
Support to advance party — 1 to 2 minutes.
Advance party to point — V 2 to 1 minute.
e. Rate of march. — When the movement of the main body
is dependent upon information which the- advance guard
obtains or upon the actions of the latter, the advance guard
regulates the rate of inarch. At night it is usual for the
advance guard to regulate the rate of march.
/. Main body commander. — (1) The main body comman-
der issues the order for the movement of his troops, and
prescribes the size and composition of the advance guard
or guards to be employed.
(2) He issues the necessary instructions to insure the
operation of the advance guard in furtherance of his general
plans, and to control its progress and movement.
(3) If the command is marching in two or more columns,
orders to the advance guards may prescribe phase lines, se-
lected with regard to the road net and terrain on which
periodic control is established and necessary instructions
for the coordination of the advance guards.
(4) During the march he may join the advance guard
commander, thus keeping himself Informed of the situation
48
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
36
in his front, and keeping the latter advised of any changes
in his plans he may deem necessary to make.
g. Advance guard commander. — (1) Upon receipt of a
march order the advance guard commander issues the nec-
essary orders for the disposition and movement of the ad-
vance guard.
(2) During the advance he may control the advance guard
from any position. His usual position is in rear of the
advance party:
(3) When. the enemy is encountered he makes a rapid per-
sonal reconnaissance and decision for the employment of
the advance guard as follows:
(a) To employ any part of the advance guard as necessary
to dislodge the enemy in time to prevent delay of the march
of the main body.
(b) To establish a defensive position to cover the approach
inarch and offensive action of the main body.
(c) To contain or delay a hostile force, permitting the
main body to continue its advance,
(4) When the leading elements of the advance guard' en-
gage the enemy, the advance guard commander moves for-
ward close to the axis of movement of the advance guard
to observe the action and to keep the commander of the main
body informed of the situation. When the enemy has been
disposed of he reorganizes the advance guard elements rap-
idly and continues the advance.
h. Point commander. — (1) The point commander is re-
sponsible for the conduct of the point. In large advance
guards, the point commander may be mounted on a y4-ton
truck and ride wherever he deems his- presence necessary.
His usual position is with the self-propelled mount.
(2) He instructs the point en route, and makes sure that
the designated route is followed.
(3) In case the designated route becomes impracticable,
or obstacles are encountered over which the main body
cannot readily move, he notifies the next higher commander
and executes reconnaissance promptly to determine routes
around the obstacle.
(4) In case the enemy is encountered, he will:
(a) Report contact.
(b) Employ the self-propelled mount to drive off hostile
resistance. Send dismounted members of the point to re-
49
36
ARMOKED . FORCE . FIELD MANUAL
connoiter the enemy position, fire on, and mark the hostile
flanks with tracer ammunition, and to signal if the enemy
withdraws.
(c) Send prompt information to the next- higher com-
mander of the hostile strength, composition, and disposition.
Id) Reorganize the point following combat, prepared to
continue the advance.
(5) If the scouts sent out from the point remain out of
view for an unreasonable period, the Point commander will
assume that these scouts have been shot or captured and
will send dismounted (scouts to reconnoiter the place where
they disappeared before permitting the point to proceed.
i. Point. — (1) The point is both a reconnaissance and se-
curity element, (See fig. 2.) Its observation is limited to
the line of march. It pushes forward boldly, by bounds, em-
ploying the self-propelled mount, if attached, closely sup-
ported by the advance party. On winding roads or where
terrain features between definite bounds prevent visual con-
tact, elements within the point maintain visual contact until
the next bound is reached, thus avoiding stopping at inter-
mediate points of no tactical value.
(2) Its principal duties in the advance are to —
(a) Reconnoiter the road on which the column is march-
ing and observe to tile immediate flanks.
(6) Gain rapidly elevations, edges of woods, and other
Points of vantage from whicli a good view to the front can
be obtained or which the enemy might try to occupy.
(c) Give timely warning, to the element next in rear, of
the enemy's presence or of road blocks, mines, traps, or sim-
ilar methods for delaying a marching column.
<cf) Drive back or disperse promptly small hostile patrols.
When the enemy encountered is too strong to be defeated by
the point, the point protects the next element in rear.
Ce) Remove small obstacles blocking the route. When
these obstacles require more manpower and technical equip-
ment than that contained in the point, it proceeds beyond the
obstacle and protects the next element in rear while engaged
in removing 4he . obstacle. When the obstacle is defended,
the point first assists in driving off the enemy.
(/) Push boldly into villages along the line of march and
determine promptly whether or not they are occupied by the
enemy.
50
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
36
Cff) Remain on or near the route of advance in order to
protect the head of the column from surprise.
(3) In the execution of its duties the elements of the point
proceed as follows:
(a) Motorcycle scouts, if available, work as a pair preceding
the rear vehicle OA-ton truck, self-propelled mount, armored
car, half-track, or tank) keeping always a bound ahead. They
move in single column, staggered on either side of the road at
a distance of 35 to 50 yards between scouts. Successive bounds
are made at the maximum speed road conditions permit.
(b) At the .end of each succeeding bound they slow down,
halt short of the crest, bend, etc., . and the leading scout dis-
mounted, moves to reconnoiter the terrain to the front, and
check the route. The remaining scout observes to the flanks.
He also is employed to reconnoiter lateral roads, if necessary
riding out to a position. where he can observe for at least 600
yards (effective rifle range). Motorcyclists maintain contact
within the point.
(e) When an obstacle or enemy is discovered, one scout
reports this information to the point commander, the other
scout remaining in observation.
(d) Scouts do not move forward to the next bound until
they have signalled "all clear" to the remainder of the-point. .
Control is maintained by visual signals.
(e) When fired upon, scouts seek cover, report contact, and
then reconnoiter to determine the direction and nature of
the hostile action. They fire their weapons in self-defense
and to warn elements in rear.
(/) In case a hostile position has been passed without being
observed by the scouts, they will return, dismount, and attack
the enemy. They will especially seek and . bring . under fire
antitank guns or machine guns. If . the enemy withdraws,,
they endeavor to ambush him. The scouts avoid getting in
the line of fire from other elements of the advance guard.
(ff> Upon reaching a terrain feature in rear of the motor-',
cyclists, crew members from the rear vehicle of the point
observe to the immediate flanks. When the terrain, time ele-
ment, and situation warrant, a dismounted reconnaissance
will be made for a short distance to either side of the route
of march.
.(•ft) This vehicle closes on the . motorcyclists on. receipt of'
51"
36
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
signals from the motorcyclists. It coordinates, by bounds,
its movement with that of the advance party.
(i> If the enemy is encountered, the rear vehicle and the
self-propelled mount, if present, will move forward, depending
upon the location of the enemy and place fire on the enemy.
The crew, when necessary, will continue its reconnaissance
dismounted.
. j. Advance party. — (1) The advance party is both a recon-
naissance (maneuvering) and holding (pivot) element. (See
fig. 2.) Its principle duties are to —
(a) Maintain connection with the point and assist it in
overcoming resistance encountered on the line of march.
(ft) Extend flank reconnaissance to a distance of about
800 yards.
(c) Check the enemy's advance until the element next in
rear has time to prepare for action. In case the enemy en-
countered is too strong for the advance party to defeat, the
latter reports the fact to the next element in rear and recon-
noiters the enemy's strength and dispositions.
(2) In the execution of its duties the elements of the ad-
vance party proceed as follows:
(a) Each vehicle commander receives, acknowledges, and
passes signals both from the front and rear and moves by
bounds, coordinating its advance with the rear vehicle of the
point.
(6) When contact is gained, the leading vehicle remains
on or near the axis of march and engages the enemy by fire,
to support the action of the remainder of the advance party.
(c) If subjected to surprise 1 Are the leading . vehicle will
seek. a defiladed firing position if immediately. available; oth-
erwise, unless a tank, the vehicle will be abandoned for a
dismounted position.
(d) Whenever Are is opened on the leading vehicle, the
advance party commander in the next vehicle in column
makes a hasty reconnaissance, mounted or dismounted, de-
pending upon the available cover, and disposes the advance
party initially to protect the next element in-rear.
(e) In larger advance guards, a platoon of tanks, an
engineer section, and .one or more mortar squads, constitutes
the advance party. They perform reconnaissance to the
flanks, either by having a patrol march parallel to theaxis
of movement, where the terrain permits, or by having the
52
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
36
patrol move direct to reconnoiter features of terrain and re-
turn to the axis. Only those terrain features that may afford
possible positions for the enemy should be reconnoitered.
This reconnaissance is continuous when dictated by the
situation and terrain.
(/) When enemy resistance stops the advance the tank
platoon extends reconnaissance to locate the flanks, drive
out the enemy, and develop the situation, reporting results to
the advance party commander.
(p) If the enemy resistance is too strong to be overcome
by the advance party, each element will hold its most ad-
vanced position and cover the approach of rear elements
of the advance guard or of the main body.
(.h) In advance guards, where there is no support, the
tank platoon may be left as a containing force while the
main body bypasses the enemy position.
k. Support. — (1) The support bears the same relation to
the elements in its front and rear as the advance party does
to the point and support. It extends the reconnaissance
(maneuvering) or acts as the holding (pivot) element. (See
fig. 2.) In the absence of a reserve, it is also the principal
striking element. Its principal duties are to —
(a) Maintain connection with the advance party and assist
it in overcoming enemy resistance.
(t>) Extend the flank reconnaissance to a distance of about
1 mile.
(e) Check the enemy's advance until the element next
in rear, or the main body has time to prepare for action.
In case the enemy encountered is too strong to be defeated,
the support reports the fact to the next element in rear,
protects it, and extends reconnaissance.
(2) In the execution of its duties the elements of the sup-
port proceed as follows:
(a) March at the prescribed rate of march maintaining
the time distance in front of the reserve, if present, or the
main body. It should not move on the next bound until the
preceding element has cleared.
(b) Extends the reconnaissance to the flanks in a similar
manner to that of the tank platoon in the advance party.
(c) When the enemy is encountered, it reenforces the action
of the advance party, whether it is combat, reconnaissance,
or both.
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36
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
I. The reserve. -v— The reserve is the striking (main blow)
element of the advance guard. Its employment is based on
the information obtained from the lesser forward elements
and other sources by the advance guard commander.
m. Artillery. — In an advance guard for a regiment or larger
unit it will often be desirable to attach a battery of field
artillery. When attached it will normally march as the
rear unit of the advance guard, with a reconnaissance officer
well forward. If no artillery is attached to the advance guard,
the necessary artillery support for its action is furnished by
the artillery with the main body. When the need for their
employment can be foreseen, supporting antiaircraft artillery
may accompany the advance guard. It occupies critical points
en route.
n. Aviation. — While not normally attached to the advance
guard, available airplanes should be directed to cooperate.
They render valuable assistance by reporting direct to the
advance guard commander the approach of enemy forces, the
location of hostile positions along the axis of advance, perti-
nent information of roads and bridges, and other similar
information.
o. Engineers. — Engineers march at the rear of the support,
or near the head of the reserve. Their principal functions
are to repair or strengthen bridges, remove obstacles, prepare
stream crossings, and repair roads. An engineer detachment
marches at the rear of the advance party; its function is to
furnish early engineer information. Where need for their use
can be foreseen, engineers with bridge building equipment
may be attached to the rear element of an advance guard.
P. Medium tanks. — In the absence of artillery with the
advance guard, or where their use can be foreseen, medium
tanks may be attached to the advance guard composed of
a light tank unit or a regiment or larger unit,
q. Mortars. — In an advance guard for a battalion or larger
unit, the attachment of at least a squad of mortars is desira-
ble. It is used to neutralize enemy observation posts and
screen the movement of advance guard units and later, if
necessary, the development of the main body.
r. Trains. — The unit trains of an advance guard generally
remain with the trains of the main body. A truck to trans-
port gasoline for refueling motorcycles should march at the
rear of the last element in the advance guard. The light
54
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
36-37*
maintenance elements of units performing advance guard
duty march in rear of their units.
5. Advance guard in retrograde movement. — In retrograde
movements an advance guard should be detailed. It will
vary from a point to a larger element, depending on whether
or not there is a possibility of an enemy attack against the
head of the column. If there is no enemy threat, the prin-
cipal missions of the advance guard will be to clear the route
of march, insure the uninterrupted movement of the main
body, and regulate civilian and refugee traffic. For the latter
purpose, military police may be attached.
t. March outposts. — Advance guards are used in forming
march outposts for temporary or prolonged halts. (See par.
40.)
■ 37. Covering Detachments. — a. General. — (1) A covering
detachment is a security detachment used to protect troops
moving in the presence of the enemy.
(2) It is used when early contact with the enemy is ex-
pected and when because of this expectation the main body
is deployed in an approach formation.
(3) A covering detachment is always used In an approach
to a line of departure.
b. Missions. — The missions assigned to covering detach-
ments are similar to those given an advance guard, except in
Situations requiring combat strength. The primary mission
is that of security; the secondary mission is reconnaissance.
Specifically its duties are to —
(1) Guard against surprise and obtain information by ob-
serving -to the front and flanks.
(2) Cover a larger force in the approach to a line of
departure.
(3) Guide a larger force over the best terrain available,
(4) Push aside small enemy' patrols and offer resistance
to larger hostile forces until the main body attacks.
(5) Support the main body in an attack.
e. Strength and composition. — A covering detachment for
a tank company usually consists of a platoon; for a battalion
a platoon reinforced by detachments of the battalion head-
quarters company; for an armored regiment a light tank
company reinforced.
d. Formations. — (1) Formations for covering detachments
55
37-38
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
vary depending upon the terrain. They are generally de-
ployed over a broad front with very little depth.
(2) The interval between vehicles (squads) varies between
150 to 300 yards, depending on terrain and visibility.
e. ComnlunicaUon and control. — (1) Communication and
control are maintained normally by radio or prearranged
visual signals. Exceptionally, motorcycle or other vehicle
messengers may be employed.
(2) Movement of the covering detachment is controlled by
the main force commander from his position in the interval
between the covering detachment and the main force.
/. Methods of operation. — (1) The covering detachment
precedes the unit from which it is detailed.
(2) It moves by successive bounds, the limitations of each
bound being indicated by the force commander and not by
the covering detachment commander.
(3) Upon arriving at each terrain objective, the covering
detachment halts and observes to the front and flanks until
ordered to make another indicated bound. Pull advantage is
taken of available cover.
(4) Covering detachments attack small patrols and offer
resistance to larger forces.
(5) Upon, reaching the line of departure the covering
detachment may constitute the leading assault wave; may
halt and support the attack by fire; may afford flank and
rear protection; or follow in support or reserve.
g. Reconnaissance.— Reconnaissance elements may be at-
tached to a covering detachment the size of a company, or
ordered to cooperate 'srith a smaller covering detachment.
When the terrain and road net are favorable, early informa-
tion of hostile dispositions can be obtained by the recon-
naissance elements which enables a covering detachment to
better carry out its mission.
■ 38. Rear Gttards. — a. General. — A rear guard is a security
detachment which follows and covers the main body on the
march. The fundamentals covering rear guards and rear
guard action are contained in FM 100—5.
b. Who map perform. — Armored units are suitable to per-
form rear guard duty because of their mobility and fire power,
-which enable them to withdraw quickly after delaying the
pursuing enemy to the last passible moment. However, this
56
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
38
use is exceptional and sacrifices their offensive power. This
mission should not be assigned armored units when other suit-
able units are available. However, the rear guard covering
the retirement of a combined force often contains armored
units.
c. Mission and duties. — The mission of a rear guard is to
assure an uninterrupted movement of the main body and to
protect it from attack, observation, or interference by hostile
ground forces. Specifically its duties are to —
(1) Guard against surprise and furnish information by
observing to the rear.
(2) Hold back small forces of the enemy and prevent their
observing, firing upon or delaying the main body.
(3) Check an enemy in force until the main body has time
tc prepare for action, march beyond the range of hostile Are,
or occupy a position.
(4) Provide suitable passive measures of opposition, such as
interposing obstacles and destroying or damaging bridges and
roads.
(5) Collect stragglers and lost vehicles and destroy
abandoned property.
d. Strength and composition, — The strength and composi-
tion of a rear' guard for armored units depends upon the
mission, direction of a march, nature of the terrain, and
upon the mobility and strength of hostile forces likely to be
encountered. Its strength, and composition should be such
as to permit the execution of its mission without the inter-
vention of the main body.
(1) Strength. — Its strength varies from a small fraction to
about one fourth of the command.
(2) Composition. — It normally is composed of machine gun
and tank elements. It may be augmented by artillery and
mortar elements to provide greater combat power for recon-
naissance units; and by engineers, chemical, and medical
troops. At night it may be composed of infantry and engineer
elements, and when the situation is obscure it should consist
primarily of armored or motorized infantry.
e. Formation. — The rear guard formation resembles that of
an advance guard reversed. Next behind the main body
marches the reserve, followed in turn by the support, rear
party, and rear point. In general the size of the rear guard
is smaller than an advance guard, except in retrograde move-
57
38
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
ments. When the size makes it impracticable to have all
the elements, they are omitted in order of size beginning with
the reserve. A rear point is always present.
/. Distances or time interval, — On the march, distances or
time intervals between the rear guard and the main body and
between subdivisions of the rear guard vary. In general they
are governed by the size and mission of the rear guard, by
visibility and terrain; and by the strength, composition, mobil-
ity, and proximity of the enemy. The distances and time
intervals previously outlined for advance guards may be taken
as a guide subject to the following:
(1) Support to reserve. — The minimum distance between
the support and reserve is determined by the consideration
that the support must delay the enemy until the reserve can
prepare for action. The maximum distance is that which the
reserve can take without exposing the support to the lia-
bility of being cut off. These distances may be greater in
open country or during daylight than under the opposite
conditions.
(2) Reserve to main body. — The minimum distance between
the reserve and the main body is determined by the considera-
tion that the rear guard must protect, and not be driven back
upon, the main body. The maximum distance is that which
can separate the reserve and the main body without subject-
ing the rear guard to the danger of being cut off by the enemy.
It must not be such as will permit intervention of hostile
forces in strength between the reserve and the main body.
g. Rate of march. — (1) The march order prescribes the rate
of march for the command and the time or distance between
the rear guard and the main body.
(2) The elements of the rear guard usually retire by bounds,
based on the progress of the main body and the time limit
set by the main body commander for holding designated lines.
They may follow the main body at a steady rate of march
when conditions render the movement by bounds impractical
or unnecessary.
ft. Communication and control. — Communication and con-
trol are maintained between the rear guard and the main
body and between subdivisions of the rear guard in the same
general manner as has Been previously outlined for advance
guards.
53
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
38
t. Conduct of rear guard. — (1) When the distance from the
enemy permits, the rear guard retires in march formation.
(2) When in contact with the enemy, therear guard moves
on a broad front and opens fire at long range to force the
enemy to deploy and thus delay his advance. Unless the
security of the main body requires a stubborn resistance, the
rear guard, as far as practicable, avoids close range combat
and withdraws successively from position to position as the
enemy approaches.
(3) The rear guard fights in successive positions.
(4) The • rear guard commander makes timely provision
for preliminary reconnaissance of new positions and routes
thereto.'
(5) The successive positions of the rear guard are chosen
at such distance from each other that the enemy is forced
to renew his preparations for attack, including forward dis-
placement of his artillery, in each instance.
(6) A rear guard position should favor withdrawal by af-
fording covered routes of withdrawal.
(7) When the enemy presses his pursuit closely, greater
resistance is offered. Full use is made of surprise attacks
and ambushes to slow down or halt the hostile advance.
(8) In general, the main efforts of the rear guard, like those
of any delaying force, must be constantly directed toward
barring roads or other avenues of approach, and denying, or
disputing to the limit of available means, their use by the
enemy forces,
(9) -Hostile mechanized elements usually attempt to attack
from the flank. Against such forces, care must be taken to
prevent dispersion of the rear guard in order that it may be
able to repel flank attacks and avoid being cut off from the
main body.
(10) Advantage is taken of favorable opportunities to
punish over-hasty pursuit by counterattacks against the heads
of pursuing columns, or against hostile forces attacking from
the flank, Ambush of leading hostile elements will be effec-
tive in slowing down and punishing a hasty enemy. Such
tactics will cause the enemy to be more cautious and, conse-
quently, slower in action.
(11) A rear guard resorts to such defensive measures for
halting or delaying the enemy as obstructing fords, executing
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ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
demolitions within the capabilities of the rear guard, felling
trees across the road, burning stretches of grass or shrubs,
or by the use of persistent chemicals.
j. Duties of rear guard elements. — (1) (a) In general,
each rear guard element maintains connection with the
next lower element and, by fire action or otherwise, assists
it in effecting withdrawal.
(b) Each element observes or reconnoiters to its own rear
and flanks and furnishes timely information of the enemy
situation to the next higher commander.
(c) Each element covers the retirement and cooperates in
the fulfillment of the mission of its next higher element.
(<2) Each element in. falling back avoids masking the fire
or interfering with the action of the elements covering its
withdrawal. .
(e) Limited flank reconnaissance for their own protection
is performed by elements of the rear guard. When special
flank reconnaissance is necessary, it is performed by recon-
naissance units attached to the rear guard or by patrols de-
tailed for this purpose from the reserve or main body.
(2) The principal duties of the rear guard elements are
as follows:
(a) Rear point. — The rear point is a patrol from the rear
party and follows the rear party en route. It adheres closely
to the route of retirement, observing constantly to the flanks
and rear to detect hostile moves. It discourages pursuit by
firing upon hostile elements.
(b) Rear party. — The rear party, a subdivision of the sup-
port, follows and protects the support. It endeavors to delay
a closely pursuing- enemy by long-range fire. It covers the
withdrawal of the rear point by engaging the enemy by fire
alone or by fire and movement. When necessary it maneu-
vers at distances up to about 800 yards on either side of
the axis of movement.
(c) Support. — The support is the smallest element .of the
rear guard capable of offering the enemy serious resistance.
It follows the reserve en route or the main body when no
reserve is present. When no reserve is present, It performs
the duties that normally devolve upon the reserve. It delays
the enemy, usually by means of long-range fire In successive
positions; It covers the occupation of delaying positions by
the reserve; it covers the withdrawal of the rear party by
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TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
38
fire alone or by fire and movement. It may operate as much
as 1 mile to either side of the route.
Cd) Reserve. — The reserve, normally the strongest element
of the rear guard, constitutes its chief maneuvering force.
It is a duty of the reserve in particular to detect the pres-
ence of any hostile forces attempting an encircling maneuver.
It delays the enemy by means of all available fire power and,
when occasion demands, by offensive action in cooperation,
with the support. In case the situation requires the rear
guard to effect a long delay of the enemy force, the reserve,
under protection of the support, occupies strong delaying
positions. It maneuvers as necessary to either side of the
route.
k. Artillery. — Field artillery may be attached to the rear
guard for a regiment or larger unit. When attached, it gen-
erally marches near the head of the largest element of the
rear guard. Because of its great range, artillery can force
the enemy off roads before he is within range of small arms
fire and can compel him to march across country in deployed
formation, or to use circuitous routes in order to obtain
cover. i-
I. Aviation. — Wliile not normally attached to the rear
guard, observation airplanes operate In close liaison with its
commander. 'They keep him informed of the strength, com-
position, location, and movements of enemy forces. They
assist, whenever necessary, in maintaining liaison between
the main body and the rear guard. Some airplanes usually
are placed at the disposal of the artillery with rear guards
to observe their long-range fires.
m. Chemical troops. — Detachments of chemical troops
may be attached to a rear guard for the purpose of delaying
the enemy by the use of persistent chemicals or other chem-
ical ammunition. Smoke may also be used to assist the ele-
ments of the rear guard in concealing their movements dur-
ing successive withdrawals. When attached, chemical troops
should march with the reserve.
n. Engineers. — When available, engineers should be at-
tached to the rear guard to complete demolitions or the in-
stallation of obstacles which may have been prepared by
preceding engineer troops.
o. Medical troops. — Sufficient medica] troops are attached
439995° — 42
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ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
to the forward elements of the rear guard to care for prob-
able casualties.
V. Medium tanks. — Medium tank units may be attached to
the rear guard for an armored regiment or larger unit when
there is no artillery attached, or when a mechanized threat
exists.
q. Mortars. — In the absence of chemical troops, the attach-
ment of at least a platoon of mortars to the support of a rear
guard for a regiment or larger unit to furnish smoke is
desirable.
r. Reconnaissance units. — (1) Divisional reconnaissance
units are seldom attached to rear guards. In a withdrawal,
divisional reconnaissance units between the enemy and the
rear guard keep the rear guard commander informed of the
strength, composition, location, and movement of enemy
forces, ,
(2) A portion of the regimental reconnaissance company
may frequently be attached. When attached to rear guards,
these units are of great assistance in performing flank recon-
naissance and in obtaining early information of encircling
maneuvers. They generally move abreast of the rear guard,
on parallel roadg'or cross country.
s. Trains. — The unit trains of the rear guard should march
at the rear of main body. In general, maintenance elements
of the rear guard march as far to the rear as is consistent
with the tactical situation. Usually maintenance vehicles
with the reserve will march at the rear of the reserve while
maintenance vehicles of other elements march at the head
of their respective units.
t. March outposts. — Bear guards are used in forming march
outposts, (See par. 40.)
■ 39. Flask Guards. — a. General. — (1) A flank guard is a
security detachment detailed to protect the flank of a march-
ing force. The fundamentals covering flank guards and
flank guard action are contained in FM 100-5.
(2) Because of their high degree of mobility, armored
units are especially suitable to perform flank guard duty.
However, tank units must not be used for that duty when such
employment will materially reduce their offensive power
or when other suitable troops are available for such duty.
(3) When the protection usually afforded by adjacent units
62
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
39
or obstacles is absent, a flank guard may be necessary.
b. Mission. — The mission of a flank guard Is to insure the
uninterrupted advance or retirement of a force and to pro-
tect it from attack, observation, or harassment by hostile
ground forces from the flank. Its duties are similar to those
of advance and rear guards.
c. Strength and composition. — The strength and composi-
tion of a flank guard varies according to the situation, from
a patrol to a force of all arms. When the main body exe-
cutes a flank march in proximity of the enemy, flank pro-
tection assumes great importance; a strong flank guard is
detailed.
d. Distance. — (1) Since the mission of a flank guard is to
protect the flank of a marching column, it is interposed be-
tween this column and the located or anticipated hostile
threats. The distance of operation to the flank will vary
depending upon the enemy composition, terrain, such as
defiles and obstacles, and particularly upon adjacent roads
parallel to the route of the main force.
(2) Large flank guards should be far enough out to the
flank to prevent hostile artillery or antitank weapons from
placing effective fire on the main body. Small flank guard
patrols should be far enough out to protect the command
from enemy machine gun and antitank gun Are.
(3) Distance between elements of the flank guard on the
march may conform to those between elements of an advance
or rear guard. When continuous flank protection is re-
quired, the flank guard is distributed in detachments to give
protection throughout the length of the main body. Critical
areas (key positions) controlling avenues of approach may
be occupied and held until the main body has passed. (See
g below.)
e. Rate of march. — (1) The rate of march of the flank
guard conforms generally to that of the main body.
(2) When movement of the flank guard is by bounds, the
rate of march will be based on the progress of the main body
or the time limit set by the main body commander for hold-
ing specific localities or points.
/. Communication and control. — (1) The communication
facilities afforded by the use of radio, aviation, motor, and
motorcycle messengers enable the flank guard commander to
maintain contact with the main body.
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ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
(2) Where the terrain permits, contact with the main body
may be maintained through connecting groups.
(3) Contact is frequently gained with flank guards and
their movement controlled by the main body commander on
designated phase lines or objectives.
(4) Communication and control are maintained between
subdivisions of the flank guard in the same manner as has
previously been outlined for advance guards.
9. Conduct of flank guard. — (1) Plank guards are conducted
with especial reference to routes or localities which favor
attack against the flanks of a command.
(2) When a route generally parallel to the line of march
of the main body exists and more or less continuous flank
protection is required throughout the depth of the column
during the march, the flank guard marches parallel to the
main body to cover possible routes of hostile attack. Ex-
cept as Indicated below, it is distributed in echelons over
sufficient depth to offer resistance to attack at various points
on the flank of the main body and to prevent Inroads of
small hostile detachments.
(3) When the locality from which an attack is to be ex-
pected is well defined, a flank guard occupies a key position
covering the routes of approach to the main body until the
command has passed.
(4) When sever ai such locations must be passed during
the progress of a march, echelons of the flank guaTd move
by bounds from one position to another.
(5) Upon arrival at a locality, dispositions are made to
hold that position as long as may be necessary to allow the
main body to march out of danger. The flank guard, or
echelon thereof, then moves to the next locality.
(6) When the enemy is encountered, the flank guard may
act offensively, delay in successive positions, or defend a
position, as the situation may require.
(7) In addition to the normal methods of performing flank
guard duties, where considerable doubt exists as to the most
likely avenue of hostile approach, a flank guard may resort
to a position of readiness at some conveniently located point.
If sufficiently strong, it may occupy two or more key positions
covering the most probable routes of approach. In the latter
case, a highly mobile reserve should be held at a convenient
64
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
39-10
location to move rapidly to oppose the enemy when his line
of approach Is known.
h. Artillery. — Artillery is usually attached to flank guards
required to operate beyond effective supporting distance of the
artillery in the main column, or to combat hostile forces
likely to be accompanied by mechanized elements.
i. Medium tanks. — Medium tank units may be attached to
large flank guards for a combat command or division when
there is danger of attack by hostile mechanized elements.
j. Aviation. — Although observation airplanes are not nor-
mally attached to flank guards, they cooperate with them in
the same manner as with advance guards and rear guards.
In some situations, flank guards may be supported by combat
aviation. f
k. Other auxiliary troops. — Other auxiliary troops, such as
engineer, Chemical warfare, and medical units, are attached
in accordance with their need as the situation in each in-
stance may demand.
I. Reconnaissance units. — (1) Divisional reconnaissance
units are seldom attached to flank guards. In a withdrawal
these units cooperate with or may even supplant flank guards.
' (2) A portion of the regimental reconnaissance unit may
frequently be attached. When attached to flank guards, these
units are used to conduct reconnaissance to locate hostile
threats, or to seize and hold critical points prior to their
occupation by the flank guard proper. Exceptionally they
may be employed to delay the enemy from localities too
distant for the flank guard to occupy.
m. Trains. — Unit trains of the flank guard march with the
trains of the main body. The maintenance elements of units
performing flank guard duty accompany their units.
■ 40. Outposts. — a. General. — (1) An outpost is a security
detachment to protect a resting command or a defensive po-
sition against annoyance, surprise, and observation by ground
forces.
(2) The presence of hostile mechanized units necessitates
all-around security.
(3) In order to obtain cover and concealment against air
attack, units may have to disperse over a large area.
(4) When armored force units are attached to other ground
forces, they may depend upon the general security furnished
65
40
ahmored force field manual
by the force to which they are attached. However, they pro-
vide their own local security, including security against hostile
mechanized elements and aviation.
(5) When operating alone, or at too great a distance from
the force to which they are attached to be furnished adequate
security by them, armored force units provide their own all-
around security. This paragraph covers the security of
armored force units when they furnish their own security.
b. Types. — (1) Outposts at halt and in bivouac. — At a halt
during the course of a march the advance guard, or rear
guard, or both, establish a march outpost consisting of obser-
vation posts at commanding points and combat patrols at
critical terrain features. The support usually furnishes this
outpost. In bivouac, while the outpost is being established,
advance, flank, and rear guards provide security.
(2) Combat outposts. — When operations are interrupted by
a halt for reorganization or by nightfall and troops are re-
quired to bivouac in battle formation, companies or battalions
cover their sectors by means of a security detachment termed
a combat outpost. Provision is made for patrolling the fore-
ground and intervals between tactical localities. Contact with
the enemy must be maintained. The action of the several
combat outposts is coordinated by the commander of the
whole force. The flanks and rear must also be covered with
security detachments.
c. Strength and composition. — (1) The strength and com-
position, as well as the disposition, organization, and conduct
of an outpost depend upon the following considerations :
(a) Special mission assigned the outpost, i. e., march, com-
bat, or outpost for a prolonged halt.
(b) Proximity, strength, composition, mobility, and attitude
of the enemy.
(c) Size and composition of the whole command.
(d) Tactical dispositions of the main body.
(e) Front to be covered and the distance of the outpost
from the main body.
(/) Nature of the terrain, especially the road net and
natural obstacles.
(2) Strength. — An outpost is given sufficient strength to
enable it to accomplish its mission, but is made no stronger
than is consistent with reasonable security,
(3) Composition. — Outposts for large armored force units
66
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
40
are composed principally of infantry and machine gun ele-
ments augmented by reconnaissance, artillery, and engineer
elements. In smaller units, such as an armored regiment,
they are normally composed of machine gun elements. For
armored units smaller than a regiment, see chapter 5.
d. Outpost dispositions. — The degree of organization of the
outpost depends upon whether or not contact with the enemy
is remote or imminent, or whether forces are in actual con-
tact. The basic consideration is that a command must not
allow itself to be surprised.
(1> When contact is remote. — The time distance from the
enemy varies with the rate of march of the enemy troops
that may move against the command. When contact is
remote, security is provided by far reaching reconnaissance;
by depth of depositions and location of units in the bivouac;
and by sending out detached posts to hold critical points on
routes of approach from the front, flanks, and rear. These
detached posts, preferably, are along some protective terrain
line that the enemy will be forced to pass in his advance
(defiles, stream crossings). They provide local security by
posting out guards and sending out patrols. Additional out-
guards axe posted near the bivouac area.
(2) When contact is imminent. — When the enemy is so
close that contact can be expected at any moment, a more
highly organized outpost system is prescribed. Combat units
may be assigned sectors for which to furnish security. These
sectors are assigned by the senior commander and include
the bivouac area of the combat unit. When sectors are so
assigned, the dispositions of troops in the bivouac area must
be such that combat units encircle the noncombatant elements
present; and sectors must be contiguous. When necessary,
portions of the main body are held in readiness for immediate
action.
(3) In close contact with enemy. — When in close contact
with the enemy, a complete outpost is organized as described
in subsequent subparagraphs. Such circumstances will be
exceptional since armored force units, when they pass to the
defensive, should be replaced by other ground forces and
withdrawn to conserve their strength for a resumption of the
offensive. (See ch, 1.) However, when armored force units
in contact with the enemy have outdistanced the ground
forces to which they are attached, it may be necessary to
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ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
bivouac, to assemble, and to reorganize and service the ve-
hicles, pending relief by other ground forces. Either an
organized outpost or combat outposts will then have to be
established, depending upon the hostile situation. The pro-
visions outlined in FM 100-5, pertaining to supports, out-
guards, sentinels, detached posts, and patrols, applicable to
outpost dispositions, are made.
e. Organization of outposts.— -An outpost position should be
selected because of its facilities for observation and its suit-
ability for defense. Two lines are usually established, i. e.,
a line of observation and a line of resistance. The position is
organized in depth in such manner as to place between the
main body and the enemy a series of groups which the enemy
must attack successively as he advances. The closer to the
main body, the stronger the group.
(1) Line of observation. — The line of observation consists
of small groups (outgtiards) charged with observing and re-
porting any hostile advance. This line is extended well to the
front on terrain commanding an unobstructed view of the
front, particularly avenues of approach and of the intervening
terrain.
(2) Line of resistance. — The outpost line of resistance con-
sists of larger groups (supports) posted on the best defensive
ground, encircling the bivouac areas. During the hours of
daylight, the outpost line of resistance for armored force units
of a regiment or larger are usually at some distance from
the main body. Pull advantage is taken of all obstacles. At
night, since it is not practical to build up a line of resistance
in advance of the bivouac by attempting to maneuver heavier
elements of the command forward to that line during the
hours of darkness, the line of resistance may be increased in
strength; or the line of resistance may be established by the
disposition of combat units in bivouac. This may be obtained
by providing close-in protection with the guns of the vehicles
sighted for all-around defense, with personnel bivouacked at
their vehicles.
(3) Subdivisions of outposts. — The usual subdivisions of an
outpost from rear to front are reserve, supports, and out-
guards. In case of attack, the primary duty of each sub-
division in front is to gain time for the element next in rear
to prepare for action. Elements in rear reinforce elements
in front. In occupying their positions and during relief, the
68
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
40
various subdivisions of the outpost conceal their movements
against both air and ground observation. The outpost troops
ordinarily stand relieved when the support of the advance
guard passes the outpost" line of resistance.
(a) Reserve. — The reserve, which constitutes the main
force of the outpost, is held at some central point from
which it can support the troops on the main line of resistance.
It renders support by reinforcement or by counterattack.
In case the outpost is assigned a delaying mission it holds
a rallying position upon which the more advanced elements
may retire in the event of a hostile attack in force. Its
strength varies 'from one-fourth to two-thirds of the outpost
strength. The reserve is marched to its post by its com-
mander, who then sends out such detachments as have been
ordered and places the remainder at rest. He stations sen-
tinels at the post of the reserve. He establishes connection
with the supports and nearby detached posts. Each unit of
the reserve is informed of its place of formation and action
in case of hostile attack and the general action expected
of the reserve.
<b) Supports. — The supports constitute a line of support-
ing and resisting elements. They are usually located on or
near the line of resistance along prominent terrain features
or clearly denned points, such as buildings, bridges, or road
junctions so as to cover likely avenues of approach. Strength
is concentrated at the most important points, the remainder
being covered by small detachments, patrols, and weapons
previously sighted in positions. Supports vary in strength
from a platoon to a company. The strength, armament, ter-
rain, and extent of the outpost sector control the distance
between adjacent supports. Each support is organized as
a defense area. It commands an adequate field of fire to
the front and the intervals between adjacent supports.
Each support is assigned a sector clearly denned by means
of readily distinguishable terrain features. Sector bound-
aries are so arranged and so designated that responsibility
for covering roads, sensitive points, and likely avenues of
hostile approach is never divided. Supports are numbered
consecutively from right to left in the outpost. Each sup-
port commander stations at least one sentinel at the post of
the support, details outguards to cover the front of the sup-
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40
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
port, and makes provision for patrolling including visiting
lateral patrols.
(c) Outguards. — Outguards are detailed from supports to
occupy vantage points on the line of observation. They vary
in strength from four men to a platoon, depending on their
location, distance from the support, and the number of
sentries they are to furnish. An outguard of four men in-
cludes a leader and maintains three reliefs of single sentinels.
A squad posted in observation maintains single or double
sentinels. Larger outguards protect themselves by sentinel
posts of half sauad or squad groups, and patrols, depending
on the situation. At night it is frequently advisable to place
outguards in positions different from those occupied during
the day. Outguards are numbered consecutively from right
to left in each support. The number and size of outguards
employed will depend upon the strength of the support, ter-
rain, and actions of the enemy. Outguards must be ready
for action at all times. In every case the outguard com-
mander must understand what he is to do in an emergency.
Vehicles of the outguard may be with the support or kept
under cover near the outguard.
(d) Sentinels. — SenWneJs are posted from outguards either
singly or in pairs. On sentinel posts from the larger out-
guards it is customary to use one sentinel in the daytime and
two at night. Sentinels are located In concealed positions
which afford an unobstructed view. They must be near
enough to their leader to attract his attention, without leav-
ing their post. They are charged with the observation of a
portion of the foreground of the outpost position, with the
discovery of hostile activity, and with giving the alarm in
case of attack. Sentinels are given the following infor-
mation:
1. Number of their relief, outguard, and support.
2. Direction and probable route of approach of the
enemy.
3. Names of features of military importance, such as
roads, villages, or streams.
4. Location of the support or other units of which the
outguard is an outpost element and the location of
adjacent outguards.
5. What friendly patrols are in advance of the line
of observation.
70
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
40
6. Special signals.
7. Means of identification of friendly vehicles at night.
8. Where prisoners are to be sent.
9. Where messages may be sent.
JO. When he is to be relieved.
(4) Detached posts. — Detached posts are observation and
combat groups detailed for the purpose of 1 occupying points
which possess special importance to the security of the com-
mand but which are too remote to be included in the normal
outpost organization. Detached posts are given sufficient
strength to maintain themselves and to furnish the necessary
observation.
/. Distances. — Because of the mobility, organic fire power,
and facilities for rapid communication of armored force
units, the distance between subdivisions of the outpost may
be considerably greater than in less mobile troops. Armored
force units can quickly support an outpost line of resistance
at a distance from the bivouac of a command. The line of
observation, when practicable, should be at sufficient dis-
tance to keep hostile light artillery beyond the range of the
bivouac area.
g. Communication, and contact. — (1) Communication be-
tween the main body and the outpost and between subdi-
visions of the outpost are maintained In the same general
manner as has been previously described for all security
detachments.
(2) Within the outpost position, contact with advance ele-
ments and with adjacent supports and outguards is main-
tained by patrols.
(3) Visual signals, such as ground projector signals or
improvised alarms, may be utilized in accordance with a pre-
arranged code to warn of the approach of hostile ground or
air forces.
h. Conduct. — The conduct of an outpost depends primarily
on the contemplated employment of the main body. The
plan of action of the main body may require the line of
resistance to be held at all costs, or the outpost and security
detachments may be required to delay in ; order to afford the
main body time to prepare for action or withdrawal. The
course of action to be followed is prescribed by the commander
of the force.
i. Obstacles. — Obstacles (road blocks) constructed from
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40
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MASUAL
material found on the ground are placed on roads In front
of outguards and supports, where they may effectively delay
the enemy advance. Such obstacles must be covered by
fire. Obstacles are placed by the outpost troops with the
assistance of engineers. They are located to take full ad-
vantage of defiles. Mines are used freely. (See PM 5-30.)
j. Terrain. — Terrain feature are utilized to the maximum
extent in providing protection and in making dispositions.
Terrain should be selected for positions that will cover ave-
nues Of approach, provide an adequate field of fire to the
front, and cover the interval between adjacent elements.
Covered routes of withdrawals from positions should be se-
lected and reconnoitered in advance.
k. Vehicles. — The minimum number of vehicles necessary
for patrolling, communication, and transportation of per-
sonnel remain with the subdivisions of the outpost. When
not employed they are concealed. Remaining vehicles are
left with the vehicles of their unit.
I. Identification of friendly vehicles. — Some nieans of iden-
tifying friendly vehicles approaching outguards from the di-
rection of the enemy must be improvised and understood
by all sentinels and the crews of vehicles. A simple pre-
arranged code that can be flashed by a light and seen at a
distance will serve to warn of the approach of friendly ve-
hicles at night. Along routes that are likely to be used by
vehicles it may often be preferable to- Post an additional
sentinel a hundred yards or so in advance of the outguard
to flash a light on ali vehicles to insure identification. If
an enemy vehicle is identified, the outguard is warned by
the sentinel giving a prearranged signal.
m. Artillery. — Support of the outpost troops is usually pro-
vided by the artillery with the main body, or that assigned
to the defense of the main position. Batteries are specially
designated for this purpose in case such action is contem-
plated. If such support is impractical, artillery may be
attached to the outpost.
7i, Aviation. — Observation aviation provides additional sur-
veillance and cooperates with outpost troops in the same
manner as with advance, flank, and rear guards.
o. Engineers. — Engineers are attached to the outpost as
required for the repair or destruction of bridges and roads,
and for the construction of obstacles, mine fields, and other
barriers.
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
40
p. Other auxiliary troops. — Other auxiliary troops, such as
chemical warfare and medical units, are attached to large
outposts in accordance with their needs as the situation in
each case demands.
q. Reconnaissance units. — (1) Divisional reconnaissance
units are seldom attached to outposts. They execute distant
reconnaissance regulated by the higher commander. (See
sec. n.)
<2> A portion of the regimental reconnaissance unit may
be attached to extend the zone of reconnaissance of an out-
post to the front and flanks.
(3) All reconnaissance elements maintain close contact
with the enemy when combat outposts or outposts for the
night aTe established. During the hours of darkness, unless
an emergency calls for other action, reconnaissance elements
not in contact are habitually withdrawn to the bivouac area
of the main body. Elements in contact with the enemy
maintain observation of the enemy with the minimum per-
sonnel required while the remainder of the element rests
in concealed bivouac in the vicinity.
r. Trains. — Trains of outpost elements remain at the service
park of their unit bivouac.
s. Supply and maintenance, — The feeding of personnel and
maintenance of vehicles on outpost duty 'in armored force
units, at a distance from their bivouac areas and service
parks, may offer a difficult problem. The following methods
may, be taken as a guide :
(1) Rations, fuel, and lubricants may be transported in
containers to the various elements. Necessary servicing is
performed by the crews with vehicles concealed at the out-
post position.
(2) In proximity to, or in close contact with the enemy,
feeding and servicing may have to be accomplished prior
to the element being posted, if sufficient warning is given,
or after the element has been relieved from outpost duty and
has been withdrawn. Elements may have to exist on their
reserve rations and carry the necessary fuel and lubricants
in containers with them in the combat vehicles.
(3) When practical and at not too great a distance from
the element in rear, personnel and vehicles may return to
the rear element in relays for feeding and servicing.
(4) Maintenance, other than first echelon maintenance,
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ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
normally is not performed at outpost positions. If such main-
tenance is essential, vehicles requiring it should be replaced
by other vehicles prior to going on outpost duty.
■ 41. Counterreconnaissance. — a. General. — (1) Counterre-
connaissance includes the measures to screen a command
from hostile observation. Armored force units when oper-
ating alone provide, when necessary, their own counterre-
connaissance screen. The screening of other troops by
armored units is usually incidental to other missions.
(2) Counterreconnaissance missions may be assigned
whether the force to be screened is advancing, withdrawing,
moving laterally, or is at a halt.
(3) Air superiority is essential to prevent observation by
hostile aviation.
b. Missions and duties. — Counterreconnaissance missions
may be to screen a force in movement (moving screen) ; or
to screen the disposition or concentration of troops (sta-
tionary screen) . Specifically the duties of counterreconnais-
sance elements are:
(1) To prevent hostile patrols from working through the
screen.
(2) To prevent a hostile penetration in force.
(3) To engage the enemy in such a manner as to prevent
or limit his observation of a certain area or beyond a certain
line.
c. Strength. — The strength of a screening force, as well as
the number of security detachments employed and the front-
age and depth to be covered, depends upon the following
principal factors:
(1) Strength, composition, dispositions, and mobility of
the enemy.
(2) Kind of screen to be established, i. e., moving or sta-
tionary.
(3) Size and tactical dispositions of the force being
screened.
(4) Nature of the terrain, particularly the road net.
d. Composition. — Counterreconnaissance in an armored
division is executed principally by reconnaissance, infantry,
and attached aviation elements, while the remaining combat
elements of the division reinforce, from a central location,
the Screen as necessary. In smaller units, such as an
74
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
41
armored regiment, it Is normally executed by reconnaissance
and tank units. Units smaller than a regiment may have
appropriate elements attached for the purpose.
e. Organization of counterreconnaissance screen. — When a
commander assigns a counterreconnaissance mission to a
force, he may designate a zone or sector to be covered by
the counterreconnaissance screen. This zone or sector is cov-
ered by security detachments known as counterreconnais-
sance detachments which in turn send out counterreconnais-
sance patrols. Reconnaissance to a distance beyond the
screen, under the control of the commander of the counter-
reconnaissance force, is performed by reconnaissance units.
The main body of the counterreconnaissance force marches
or remains in a central location behind the counterrecon-
naissance detachments. It supports the counterreconnais-
sance detachments as the situations may "require.
/. Zones and sectors. — (1) If the mission calls for screen-
ing a moving force, a zone of action Is usually prescribed.
(2) If the mission calls for the establishment of a station-
ary screen, the instructions designate the general line and
sector to be screened. A stationary screen is similar to an
outpost.
g. Frontage and depth. — (1) A counterreconnaissance force
is disposed to cover the entire front and in sufficient depth
to give the commander thereof time to concentrate an ade-
quate force to prevent a hostile penetration of the screen.
Those parts of the front or area most vulnerable to hostile
reconnaissance receive special attention in the disposal of
the counterreconnaissance force.
(2) The following may be taken as a guide for the frontage
that can normally be effectively covered in a moving screen
by units of the infantry or reconnaissance elements of the
armored division:
Infantry
Reconnais-
sance units
Regiment_. _
Battalion
Company (or armored tank company)
Miles
27
MUt.1
13M
3M
15-25
5-7
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ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
(3) In a stationary screen these frontages may be in-
creased by approximately 25 percent.
h. Moving and stationary counterreconnaissance. — (1) In
a moving screen, the elements of a counterreconnaissance
force usually move by bounds. Patrols operating on a broad
front move from one coordinating or phase line at specified
times to another. Counterreconnaissance detachments,
keeping within supporting distance of their patrols, and the
main body, move from one suitable defensive terrain feature
to another. In marches of more than one column the move-
ment of the main body is usually coordinated by the desig-
nation of specific lines to be reached by heads of columns
at specified hours.
(2) In a stationary screen counterreconnaissance elements
are posted to block the advance of the hostile reconnaissance.
Maximum advantage is taken of terrain, obstacles, and de-
fended road blocks. Patrols must be supported promptly to
prevent penetration of the screen.
• i. Counterreconnaissance detachments. — (1) The duties of
counterreconnaissance detachments are primarily to prevent
reconnaissance by the enemy's ground troops and to deny
the transmission of information to the enemy. They are
habitually assigned zones of action or sectors.
(2) The strength of a counterreconnaissance detachment
depends chiefly upon the width of the zone of action or
the frontage assigned, and the number of patrols it must
furnish to accomplish its mission. These in turn depend upon
the strength of the hostile forces likely to be encountered,
the terrain and road net, and the nature of the screen to
be established. The strength may vary from a platoon to
a battalion.
(3) In general, counterreconnaissance detachments will
normally Jbe used to:
(tt) Prevent smaller hostile patrols from penetrating the
zone of action or sector assigned.
(b) Destroy or drive off small hostile detachments. ■
(c) Locate and delay the advance of larger detachments,
(ct) Reinforce, or form rallying points for, their own
patrols.
(e> Maintain liaison within that part of the screen estab-
lished by the detachment as well as with adjacent detach-
ments.
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TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
41
(.f) Reconnolter locally to the front and- flanks of the
detachment.
(fir) Furnish information to the commander of the main
body.
(4) Personnel and weapons are employed in accordance
with the principles of their use in offensive and defensive
action by small units.
if. Counterreconnaissance patrols. — (1) The principle duties
of the patrols are to locate and destroy hostile patrols and
to warn the counterreconnaissance detachments of the pres-
ence and movement of larger hostile detachments that are
beyond the capability of the patrol to destroy. They delay
such detachments. The strength of a patrol varies from half
a squad to a platoon with its organic weapons. Normally,
vehicles operate in pairs.
(2) In general, the conduct of counterreconnaissance pa-
trols, whether in moving or in stationary screens, is similar.
(a) In a moving screen patrols move along routes which
enable them to keep under observation the likely routes of
hostile advance. They patrol laterally to adjacent patrols.
(b) In stationary screens patrols are posted at observation
points from which they can view routes of hostile approach.
Active patrolling between adjoining groups is maintained.
k. Instructions .to counterreconnaissance detachments. —
Instructions to the commander of the detachment include:
(1) Time of starting.
(2) Zone of action (for moving. screen) .
(3) Sector and line' of observation arid defense (stationary
screen) ,
(4) Coordinating lines and time to be passed (for moving
screen) .
(5) Special reconnaissance desired.
(6) Procedure if enemy is met in force.
(7) lines of communication; responsibility for liaison be-
tween detachments.
I. Methods oj operation. — In performing counterreconnais-
sance missions, units seek to defeat or neutralize hostile re-
connaissance forces. In the execution of this mission they
operate offensively, defensively, or by delaying action, re-
sorting to all forms of combat when necessary. Hostile avia-
tion is fired upon within range unless prohibited in orders.
439995" — 42 6 nn
41-42
ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
(1) Counterreconnaissance detachments attack hostile
detachments whenever and wherever found.
(2) When hostile reconnaissance forces are superior in
strength, or the screen must cover a broad front, the screen-
ing force may have to resort to defensive or delaying action
as a means of temporarily impeding the operations of hostile
reconnaissance forces. Defensive action is most effective
when the screen, or an element thereof, can be established
behind an obstacle, such as a stream, deflje, or road block
which must be crossed or passed by the enemy.
m. Artillery. — The artillery with armored force units on a
counterreconnaissance mission is used to support the screen-
ing force. When the screen is moving, artillery generally
accompanies the main body. In cases where the defense of
a screen has become necessary or advisable, all or part of the
artillery may be placed in position for the support of the
screen or may be held with the main body prepared to move
to the support of any part of the screen which may be
threatened.
n. Aviation. — Aviation assists counterreconnaissance forces
by attacking hostile aviation attempting to cross the area
of counterreconnaissance, by reporting hostile ground move-
ments, especially the movement of approaching highly mo-
bile units, and by attacking hostile attempts in force to
penetrate the screen.
o. Trains. — Trains of units composing the counterrecon-
naissance screen remain with the trains of the main force.
■ 42. Security against Hostile Aviation. — a. General. — CO
Hostile aviation presents a menace to operations of armored
force units by attacking them or observing and rendering
reports on their presence, location, and activity to enemy
ground forces.
(2) Armored force units may frequently operate under the
protection of supporting air units, or may even have at-
tached to it combat aviation and antiaircraft artillery for
defense against hostile aircraft. (See PM 100-5.) Regard-
less of the security measures taken or furnished by the
higher command, all armored force units must be alert to
the probability of hostile air attack or reconnaissance and
must provide appropriate security measures for its own pro-
tection.
(3> Antiaircraft protection of a column depends initially
78
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
42
on the efficiency of the concealment in its last bivouac.
Special security measures must be taken during the time of
exit from bivouac, while passing through defiles, at tem-
porary halts, and during movement into assembly areas or
bivouac.
(4) The principal security measures employed by armored
force units against hostile aviation include passive measures
such as night marches, concealment, and dispersion or dis-
tribution into small units or groups; active measures; and
the construction of slit trenches lor all personnel except crews
of turreted vehicles.
b. Warning service. — (1) The first requirement of anti-
aircraft security is an adequate warning service. Warning
of the approach of hostile aviation is provided lor as follows:
(a) By air and ground reconnaissance units whose routine
missions include reports on hostile aircraft. (See sec. II.)
(b) By detailing air scouts from all units. Air scouts con-
sist of designated personnel in each unit whose duty is to
observe for hostile aircraft and give timely warning. On the
march they observe from the vehicle to which they are
regularly assigned. At the halt, they are posted near their
units.
(c) Where observation is limited because of the character
of the terrain, such as in a defile, a flank patrol may be
posted or detailed to march along high ground parallel to
the column for the specific purpose of warning of the approach
of hostile aircraft.
(2) All personnel must be trained in the identification of
hostile aircraft.
(3) The air alarm may be transmitted by radio, improvised
visual signal, prescribed whistle signal, firing weapons (see
PM 17-5) , or voice. Any one or all the methods may be used
depending upon the distance at which the warning is given
from the command and whether or not the engines of vehicles
are running.
(4) Upon receiving the air alarm warning or signal, units
and personnel are governed by the following rules :
(a) While marching, large armored force units cannot
expect to keep from being observed. Since the normal dis-
persion of turreted vehicles renders such units an unfavorable
target for air attack, they continue in motion. However,
if the column consists of open vehicles or these vehicles are
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42
AKMOltED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
intermingled with turreted vehicles, all will halt without
closing up and all possible small arms fire will be brought to
bear on the attacking airplanes. Personnel in open vehicles
not manning antiaircraft weapons will disperse dismounted.
Movement will be resumed as soon as practicable after the
hostile airplanes have passed. Small groups, such as patrols
or trucks moving by infiltration, cease movement in the
open, since they are primarily interested in escaping detec-
tion and are not likely to be subject of an air attack. When
columns halt, vehicles are moved off the road, whenever pos-
sible, to cover and are immediately camouflaged. This is
"done even though the halt is for only a few minutes.
<b) In an assembly position, or in a bivouac area, per-
sonnel remain motionless until the "all clear" signal is given.
If early warning has been received, they may seek cover
and remain motionless. Men are trained not to look up,
as faces are easily detected. At night, it is especially im-
portant that these precautions be observed when hostile
aviation uses flares to illuminate an area. In addition, all
lights not completely concealed should be extinguished dur-
ing the period of the air alarm.
c. Night marches. — Large armored force units in the com-
bat zone can best escape detection from the air by marching
during the hours of darkness. These night marches are
made without lights, or with the use of tactical lights only.
d. Concealment. — The presence and position of troops are
disclosed to an air observer by movement, regular formation
or outline, reflection of light, dust, smoke, or newly made
tracks and installations. Measures taken for concealment
aim to defeat both visual reconnaissance and photography
from the air. These measures and the rules governing con-
cealment are covered in detail in section I. Extensive artir
flcial camouflage rarely will be practicable. (See PM 5-20.)
e. Dispersion. — A command diminishes its vulnerability to
air observation and attack by adopting dispersed formations
and by distribution into small units or groups. Dispersion
may be accomplished by increased width and depth of forma-
.tions; by moving in multiple columns; by distribution in
"assembly or bivouac areas into small units or groups to take
advantage of cover; by halting at extended distances, by
clearing roads, and moving under nearby cover; and by in-
80
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
42
creased speed of movement between successive terrain lines
affording cover.
j. Antiaircraft fire. — All units provide immediate protec-
tion against low flying hostile aircraft by using their own
antiaircraft weapons and other weapons suitable for fire
against aircraft.
(1) All antiaircraft weapons are alerted for antiaircraft
fire at all time. Troops and personnel charged specifically
with the duty of antiaircraft firing are constantly prepared
for immediate action. Organic weapons provided for the
purpose protect trains in movement and in service parks.
(2) Fire is opened promptly upon enemy airplanes within
effective range, except from a concealed position where it is
desirable to maintain secrecy and firing might disclose the
presence of troops.
g. Air-borne troops. — The threat from air-borne troops,
parachute and air-landing, requires that special security
measures be instituted against them. Responsibility for
these measures extends down through all echelons of com-
mand, the measures adopted within each echelon being co-
ordinated in such a way as to provide a unified system over
the entire danger area. In general, the security measures
adopted are designed to gain early information; to attack
incoming enemy transports by combat aviation and antiair-
craft fire; to destroy parachute troops while in the act of
landing, when they are most vulnerable, or immediately
after; to obstruct all possible landing fields (airdromes, open
fields, and straight stretches of level highway) ; and to isolate
and destroy all forces that land by immediate attack before
they can be resupplied and reinforced with supporting
weapons. See FM 100-5 and 100-15.
h. Summary. — In order to provide its own antiaircraft
security armored force units must:
(1) Provide timely warning of the approach of hostile
airplanes.
(2) Rely on dispersed formations or make such appropri-
ate use of cover or concealment as conditions offer.
(3) Keep antiaircraft guns ready for immediate action
at all times.
(4) Be skillful in the antiaircraft use of its own fire
weapons and open fire promptly upon enemy airplanes, except
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ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
when security is to be gained through concealment rather
than fire protection.
(5) Determine when security depends on Are power or on
concealment.
■ 43. Security Against Hostile Mechanized Forces. — a.
General. — The inherent characteristics of armored units (mo-
bility, Are power, armor protection, and shock action) pro-
vide the primary means of protection against hostile mech-
anized attacks. Certain armored force units, however, do
not have this protection and additional means are frequently
necessary for their protection, as well as for the security of
the command as a whole. These additional security meas-
ures are active and passive, generally used in combinations.
They supplement the normal security detachments provided
for the security of the command as a whole.
(1) The active means available to armored force units
include employment of tank destroyer, artillery, chemicals,
and the counterattack. Combat aviation, when attached,
may also be employed. (See FM 100-5J
(2) The principal passive means employed include con-
cealment, natural and artificial obstacles, demolitions, and
antitank mines.
b. Reference. — FM 100-5 covers the methods employed to
warn of mechanized threats and the use of antitank guns,
artillery, and chemicals.
c. Concealment. — The rules set forth in section I govern-
ing cover and concealment apply to all armored force units.
d. Natural obstacles. — Terrain which is unsuitable for the
employment of hostile mechanization is also unsuitable for
the employment of friendly armored force units for offensive
action, Consideration, therefore, must be given to the proba-
ble employment of friendly armored force units. Natural
obstacles, which restrict the offensive operations of these
units, are avoided. However, the defensive possibilities of
terrain must be studied constantiy from the viewpoint of
protection and antimechanized defense in order to utilize
existing natural obstacles to the maximum extent.
(1) A map study, supplemented by air and ground recon-
naissance, may disclose avenues of approach and natural
obstacles such as streams, lakes, marshes, thick woods, and
mountainous country, which will impede or restrict enemy
82
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
43
mechanized operations. During marches, halts, or when in
position, full use is made of those terrain features which
restrict the approach of hostile mechanized vehicles. When
the enemy's approach is limited to a few routes crossing
a natural barrier, protection is obtained by blocking these
crossings.
(2) When approaches are favorable to enemy mechanized
elements and march columns are exposed, chief reliance
must be placed on active means of providing security.
(3) Tank destroyer and artillery units when employed
on antimechanized missions take advantage of local natural
obstacles, including buildings, walls, and stump covered or
rocky areas.
e. Artificial obstacles. — Artificial obstacles such as barri-
cades, demolitions, and antitank mines normally are em-
ployed by armored force units only to block crossings, defiles,
and other routes of approach of hostile mechanized vehicles;
to provide additional security of bivouac areas; and for local
defense of tank destroyer and artillery units and weapons
on antimechanized missions.
(1) Engineers with armored force units are charged with
the placing and construction of major artificial obstacles.
(For details see PM 5-30.) When artificial obstacles are em-
ployed, their location must be coordinated with natural
obstacles and with the fire of antitank and other weapons.
The main effort in the construction of artificial obstacles
is made on those parts of the front possessing natural ob-
stacles which are susceptible of improvement. The bulk of
the antitank guns are placed to cover the avenues favorable
for tank action. A barrier or obstacle loses much of its
defensive value unless covered by fire of supporting troops.
Removal of obstacles can be impeded by contamination with
persistent chemical agents. In general, obstacles, demoli-
tions, mines, and persistent gas contaminations are located
where the enemy will come upon them suddenly and be
unable to avoid them.
(2) Demolitions and mines are useful for quickly blocking
defiles and principal avenues of approach. They constitute
a means for canalizing a hostile mechanized attack. Mines
have the advantage over demolitions in that mines may pro-
duce casualties both of personnel and vehicles. The location
of mines must be coordinated with natural and artificial
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ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
obstacles and with the fire of antitank guns and other
weapons.
(3) Artificial obstacles, demolitions, antitank mines, and
contaminated areas may restrict the movement of troops
which they are designed to protect. A record must be made
of the location and extent of such measures when used so
that the necessary precautions may be prescribed for the
safety of friendly troops.
(4) The construction of road blocks is covered in FM 5-30.
(a) Employment. — A road block is a barrier to block or limit
the movement of hostile vehicles along a road. They are
used to protect the flanks of a marching column or an
encircling force; to delay an enemy to give time and space
for deployment for combat or time to organize the defense;
and as counterreconnalssance measures.
(b) Location. — Road blocks are located in defiles where
they cannot be readily avoided. To be most effective a road
block should be located so that the enemy will come upon
it suddenly. A position immediately around a bend where
vegetation shields it from view Of approaching hostile elements
is preferable. Covered or concealed positions from which
effective machine gun or antitank gun fire can cover the
obstacle are desirable.
(c) Construction. — Road blocks may be constructed by
engineers when available. However, all units must be trained
in the methods of constructing hasty obstacles and in their
removal.
(ci) Defense. — Road blocks must be defended by fire.
Strength of the defense depends upon the means available
and extent of delay desired. The defense may vary from
two riflemen to several riflemen, machine guns, and self-
propelled guns. Guns are so placed that their Are will pre-
vent hostile troops from removing the obstacle or passing
around it. Tank destroyer elements may be used. The em-
ployment of tanks to defend road blocks is unusual. When so
used they should operate by section, taking mutually sup-
porting positions to increase protection against stalking and
to permit rapid withdrawal.
■ 44. Security Against Chemicals. — Security against chemi-
cals is conducted in accordance with the fundamentals pre-
scribed in FM 100-5 and procedure outlined in PM 21-40.
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TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
45-46
■ 45. Summary. — a. All armored force units must provide
themselves with the necessary security to protect themselves
at all times against surprise, observation, and interference by
hostile air and ground forces.
b. Ail security measures include an adequate warning serv-
ice to prevent surprise.
e. Security detachments between the enemy and the main
body are detailed to prevent observation by hostile ground
forces.
d. Protection of the main body against interference is
obtained by making security detachments sufficiently strong
to either defeat the enemy or to hold the enemy until the
main body gains time for deployment to meet the threat.
e. Reconnaissance is an essential element of security.
/. Terrain and the road net are important factors in the
security of a command.
g. A command's readiness for action is facilitated by the
distribution of units in the main body and prior plans to
meet enemy situations.
h. Special measures must be taken for protection against
hostile aviation and mechanized units and enemy chemical
attacks.
i. The use of armored troops on security missions, except
for their own security, when others are available for this
duty, is justified only under conditions of extreme emergency.
It will be remembered that armored units are first, last, and
always offensive troops.
Section IV
OFFENSIVE COMBAT
■ 46. General. — a. Purpose. — Offensive combat has for its
object the attainment of an objective by means of the attack.
The organization and equipment of armored force units are
designed primarily for offensive combat. Units must be im-
bued with the spirit of the offensive and must be always on the
alert to seize the opportunity for offensive action. The at-
tack of armored force units should be characterized by bold-
ness and speed in striking sudden blows in the most favorable
direction,
b. Scope.— Armored force units are employed in accord-
ance with the principles of large numbers, surprise, and ma-
neuver. (See FM 100-5.)
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ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
(1) Large numbers. — They are employed in large numbers
in decisive areas which afford suitable terrain and sufficient
space to utilize fully their mobility and shock action. Pro-
tection against hostile air attack and antitank weapons is
a prerequisite of successful employment.
(2) Surprise. — Surprise is obtained by rapid maneuver,
secrecy, and deception. By prompt delivery of the initial
blow the commander places his adversary at a disadvantage
and forces him on the defensive or prevents him from or-
ganizing his defenses. A rapid, bold attack by a small force
may often accomplish more than a slower carefully coordi-
nated attack by a larger force. By such an attack initiative
is taken from the enemy and his plans for attack or defense
disrupted.
(3) Maneuver. — The maneuver of units rapidly to project
shock action and protected fire power into the vital part of
hostile rear areas from an unexpected direction must be
sought in all attacks.
e. Use of terrain. — Pull advantage must be taken of terrain
favorable for movement, concealment, and use as observa-
tion points. Terrain suitable for operations should provide:
concealed assembly positions (areas) , covered routes of ap-
proach, areas for attack sufficiently free of obstacles to permit
movement to objectives at speed, and suitable positions and
observation for supporting artillery and other ground weap-
ons during the attack. (See par. 26.)
d. Initiative. — Initiative of subordinates plays a great part
in success in any action. Commanders will often be con-
fronted, especially when the situation is obscure, with the
problem of making immediate decision and initiating prompt
action. Time may, but usually will not, permit detailed re-
connaissance. Mission type orders may be given and lead-
ers of small units must be relied upon to make a prompt
estimate of the situation, arrive quickly at a decision, and
promptly and energetically carry out that decision. De-
cisions made must be in conformity with the general mis-
sions and intentions of the commander, hence it is essential
that all commanders be informed of such missions and in-
tentions. Calm and clear, yet rapid, thinking must be com-
bined with a high degree of initiative. Snap judgment must
be avoided.
e. Fire and movement. — (i) The principal means of attack
86
TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
46
for armored force units is a combination of fire and movement
to reduce enemy opposition. By Are and movement is meant
the advance by certain elements or units (maneuvering ele-
ment) protected by the fire of other elements or units (base
of fire) . The object of this form of attack is to advance ele-
ments or units to positions from which stationary fire will
annihilate enemy opposition, or to a point where a swift
assault over a short distance, strongly supported by fire,
can be launched to overrun the enemy position.
(a) This method of attack is applicable in the largest
armored force unit and down to and including the section.
For example, the regiment attacks by fire and movement
when the armored (tank) battalions advance under the
cover of the base of fire established by its machine gun and
mortar units and by supporting artillery.
(t>) Fire and movement is generally employed by the com-
ponents of the maneuvering foTce when enemy fire is en-
countered. For example, a platoon in the maneuvering force,
when held up by fire, furnishes its own base of fire consist-
ing of one of its sections. This section, preferably from a
partially defiladed position, fires while the other section
maneuvers to a forward position from which it in turn estab-
lishes a temporary base of fire to cover the advance of the
former.
(c) Fire and movement is also employed in displacing for-
ward by the force constituting the base of fire. For exam-
ple, the elements of the self-propelled gun platoon and
mortar platoon displace forward to a new position by echelons,
each echelon being protected in its advance by the fire from
the elements remaining in position.
(2) The elements or units constituting the base of fire
deliver fire from either vehicular or ground mounted weap-
ons, depending upon the cover and the field of fire availa-
ble. The vehicles of the maneuvering force advance by cov-
ered routes, where practicable; weapons being fired from
the vehicle when the enemy position is in view. Where
the terrain permits, vehicles move- into a partially defiladed
position, fire a small burst, maneuver to a new position, and
repeat. The 37-mm and 75-mm guns are normally fired
when the tank is halted. Where the terrain is relatively
flat and smooth, a large burst of fire may be delivered while
the vehicle is moving. Even under the most favorable
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ARMORED FORCE FIELD MANUAL
terrain conditions fire will be more effective if the vehicle is
halted a few seconds while a small burst is fired and then
moves on. Firing from moving vehicles should only be at-
tempted where a swift assault over open terrain for a short
distance (not over 200 yards) is desired; casualties can only
be held down when this assault is given the maximum fire
support of supporting weapons.
/. Tactical forms of attack. — The tactical forms of attack
are covered in detail in FM 100-5. The mobility of armored
force units permits great latitude in the choice of direction
and method of attack. Against forces of similar charac-
teristics and against strongly organized positions, the turn-
ing movement is the preferred form.. Against groups or
positions highly vulnerable to armored attack, the attack
may be an envelopment of one or both hostile flanks, pref-
erably the latter. When the mission, time, terrain, and
other factors do not favor an envelopment, an attack against
the hostile front may be by a penetration. A prompt direct
attack may be made to take full advantage of surprise or
of a temporarily favorable situation.
g. Tactical groupings. — In attack the combat command
groups generally are disposed into four parts: a reconnaissance
force (consisting of organic reconnaissance units and attack
units) , a striking force (the striking echelon consisting of
tanks with engineers attached) , a supporting force (consist-
ing of the support echelon, i. e., the infantry, artillery, and
tank destroyer units), and a reserve. Whether the striking
force makes the initla,] attack or main attack will depend on
the terrain and the extent and dispositions of the hostile
antitank defenses.
(1) Striking force. — When terrain is favorable for tank
operation and hostile antitank defenses are not strong, the
striking echelon supported by available combat aviation
makes the initial attack. This attack is usually by envelop-
ment, the supporting echelon being used as a holding force
or base of fire, or a portion of the tank units may be used
for such holding or secondary attack. The striking echelon
will make the initial attack in a penetration only when hostile
defenses are very weak or when given overwhelming air and
artillery support. Engineers are usually attached to the
striking echelon. Infantry may be attached.
(2) Support force. — When the striking force makes the
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TACTICS AND TECHNIQUE
46
initial attack, the support echelon follows to seize and hold
objectives taken by the striking echelon. When terrain is un-
favorable for tank operation or antitank defenses are strong,
the support echelon, supported by medium tank units, may
lead the attack to secure ground from which the striking
echelon may attack. The support echelon usually leads the
attack in a penetration. The support echelon may be used
to make an attack initially to serve as a base of fire for the
striking force in an envelopment. This attack serves to fix
the enemy and may attract his reserves. In this manner it
assists the advance of the enveloping or striking force,
(3) Reserve. — A part of the command, the reserve, is held
out of the combat initially for employment by the commander
of the whole force in furtherance of his plan of attack or for
use according to the development of the action. The reserve
is composed chiefly of tank units. Its strength usually varies
from one-third to a small fraction of the command. A maxi-
mum is held out against an enemy composed of mechanized
troops, or strong in antitank weapons. Its employment will
vary with existing conditions and opportunities. As soon as
the reserve is committed, a new reserve must be constituted
without delay.
(a) The commander of the reserve must be in close com-
munication with the commander of th
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