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FM 1-75
UNCLASSIFIED
WAR DEPARTMENT
ARMY AIR FORCES
FIELD MANUAL
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UNCLASSIFIED
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UNCLASSIFIED
FM 1-75
ARMY AIR FORCES
FIELD MANUAL
COMBAT ORDERS
UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
WASHINGTON : 1942
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, June 16, 1942.
PM 1-75, Army Air Forces Field Manual, Combat Orders,
is published for the information and guidance of all con-
cerned.
[A. G. 062.11 (5-13-42).]
By order of the Secretary of War :
G. C. MARSHALL,
Chief of Staff.
Official:
J. A. ULIO,
Major General,
The Adjutant General.
Distribution:
Bn and H 1 (10) ; C 1 (5).
(For explanation of symbols see FM 21-6.)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section I. General. Paragraph Page
Purpose 1 1
Scope 2 1
Responsibility of commander 3 1
Steps involved in military action 4 1
Assistance by staff 5 3
II. Some fundamental principles governing
employment of air units.
General 6 4
Air force mission 7 4
Employment of offensive force 8 4
Employment of defensive force 9 6
Air support of ground force units. _ 10 9
III. Air estimate of situation, decision, and
plan.
General 11 10
Outline for offensive estimate of
situation 12 11
Outline for defensive estimate of
situation 13 12
Notes on preparation of estimate-. 14 14
Decision 15 15
Plan 16 15
IV. Combat orders, general.
Definition 17 16
Classification 18 17
Details covered 19 17
Period covered 20 17
V. Field order.
Definition 21 17
Scope 22 17
Preparation 23 17
Amount of detail 24 18
Independent authority of subor-
dinates 25 18
Formulating order 26 18
Details of technique 27 18
VI. Formal written field order.
General 28 22
Preparation 29 23
Annexes 30 30
VII. Method of issuing orders.
Selection of method 31 32
Fragmentary field orders 32 32
Oral and dictated field orders 33 33
VIII. Transmission of orders by teletype.
Necessity for teletype method 34 34
General principles 35 35
Technique of preparation 36 35
Application to other type orders 37 36
HE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section IX. Administrative order. Paragraph Page
Definition 38 36
Object 39 37
Staff section charged with prepa-
ration 40 37
Basis 41 37
How issued 42 37
When issued 43 37
Amount of detail 44 38
Technique 45 38
Form for complete written order. 46 38
X. Other types of combat orders.
General 47 41
Letters of instruction 48 41
Warning orders 49 41
Movement orders 50 42
Supervision 51 42
Appendix I. Abbreviations 43
II. Distribution list 48
IV
FM 1-75
RESTRICTED
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
COMBAT ORDERS
Section I
GENERAL
■ 1. Purpose. — This manual is intended to supplement FM
101-5 and to provide a suitable text on combat orders for
the instruction of Army Air Forces personnel. It will be
found useful as a guide in the preparation of combat orders
in the various Army Air Forces combat organizations.
■ 2. Scope. — In order to meet the requirements of air force
personnel for a text and reference guide, this manual em-
braces the following subjects:
a. Principles necessary for an understanding of the use
of combat orders.
b. A brief review of the fundamental principles governing
the employment of combat aviation.
c. The air estimate of the situation, the decision, and the
plan.
d. Combat orders, their preparation and issuing.
e. Teletype orders.
/. Other types of combat orders.
■ 3. Responsibility op Commander. — The commander of each
unit of an air force is responsible to the next higher com-
mander for all policies, plans, or decisions which affect the
morale, training, supply, or tactical employment of his com-
mand. He is responsible that the orders and wishes of the
higher commander are carried out. This responsibility of
a commander is one that cannot be delegated or shifted to
another. All orders or actions performed by a staff officer
are given or performed in the name of and with the consent
or approval of the commander. (See flg. 1.)
■ 4. Steps Involved in Military Action. — Before taking any
action of a military nature there is a definite mental process,
outlined in figure 2, which a commander should follow in
1
4
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
order to arrive at the best possible solution under the par-
ticular circumstances. Behind all orders there is basically
a mission to be accomplished, and with this mission in mind
the commander first makes an estimate of the situation.
Having made an analysis of the situation as it is affected by
General
Staff
General
Staff
General
Staff
> H
Air Force
Commander
« -<
-> >-
-<-
->
Special
Staff
T
I
Air Force
Wing
Commander
T
t
t
< - <
>-
Special
Staff
Air Force
Group
Commander
< - < H
-> >-
Special
Staff
General
Staff
- >
~ ■> -
Air Force
Squadron
- <-
— < -
<r-
<
Commander
— >-
—
Special
Staff
Direction of responsibility ^ «^
Direction of command ^ ^
Figure 1. — Responsibility and chain of command.
his own set-up and that of the enemy, he arrives at a decision
as to the proper action to take. The next logical step is to
evolve a plan of action that will put the decision into effect.
This plan of action is then conveyed to subordinate com-
manders by means of orders. The final phase is one of super-
vision to see that the orders are understood and properly
2
COMBAT ORDERS
4-5
executed. In some instances this process may be very rapid
and may be completed on the spur of the moment, while in
other instances it may require extensive and prolonged
preparation.
■ 5. Assistance by Staff. — The commander is usually re-
lieved of many of the details in the exercise of his command
responsibilities by members of his staff. The amount of
Mission
Estimate
of the
Situation
Pec is ion
Plan
Orders
Supervision
FrarmE 2. — Steps involved in military action.
assistance rendered is dependent upon many factors, such as
size of the command and size of the staff, the extent of
training of the staff, the capabilities of the commander, time
and space factors, and availability of staff members. Staff
members should train themselves in the functions of their
own particular offices and learn the characteristics and
3
5-8
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
policies of the commander in order to develop teamwork and
coordination of effort. Regardless of the amount of assist-
ance rendered by the staff, the commander makes the
decision.
Section n
SOME FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES GOVERNING
EMPLOYMENT OF AIR UNITS
■ 6. General. — This section is a brief review of some of the
important principles of the employment of combat aviation
and should be kept constantly in mind when making an
analysis of an air situation.
■ 7. Air Force Missior. — The broad strategic decisions for
the employment of units of the Army Air Forces are trans-
mitted to the commander of those air force units in the field
in the form of orders or instructions which set forth a
mission to be accomplished. The air force commander in
the field is thus confronted with the problem of tactically
employing his available force for the accomplishment of his
prescribed mission. The problem is normally approached by
the selection of lines of action or tasks and the allocation of
such tasks to subordinate units. These missions fall into one
of the following general classifications: offensive, defensive,
or support missions.
■ 8. Employment of Offensive Force. — There are three fac-
tors to be considered in the selection of tasks for the em-
ployment of the offensive force. (See fig. 3.)
a. Objective. — The task selected for the air offensive must
accomplish the mission or effect the maximum contribution
toward its accomplishment. Only such tasks as will meet
this requirement and can be completed within the specified
time should be considered. Once the task has been selected,
sufficient concentration of effort must be expended to effect
the maximum lasting result.
b. Capacity. — The selected task should approximate but not
exceed the maximum capacity of the force. The capacity
of the force is based on the following factors:
(1) Characteristics of the aircraft — offensive fire power,
speed, and range.
(2) Number of airplanes available.
4
COMBAT ORDERS
8
463184°— 12 2
5
8-9
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
(3) Distance of the objective from the air base.
(4) Availability of physical objectives. An offensive force
will have a greater capacity against a fixed objective than
against a fleeting objective.
(5) Vulnerability of the physical objectives. Vulnerability
will vary with the degree of —
(a) Concentration.
(b) Resistance to destruction.
(c) Degree of protection (active, passive).
(d) Maneuverability.
(e) Dispersion.
(/) Size.
(6) Weather.
(7) Efficiency of air base facilities.
(8) Personnel — availability of replacements or reserves,
degree of training.
(9) Knowledge of the objective.
(10) Time. If sufficient time is available, a small air force
may by cumulative effect have the capacity to perform a
larger task.
c. Conservation. — The selected task should produce the
maximum effect upon the enemy with the minimum loss to
the air force. The results expected should be commensurate
with the risk of loss involved. A correct evaluation of these
factors will result in the most efficient use of the striking
force in accomplishing the prescribed mission.
■ 9. Employment of Defensive Force. — a. Air defense. —
(1) Air defense includes all measures necessary to prevent,
interfere with, or reduce the effectiveness of hostile air action,
effective after hostile aircraft have left their own airdromes
or carriers. These measures include both active and passive
air defense measures. (See fig. 4.)
(2) Active air defense takes place in the air space through
which enemy aircraft move and is provided by aircraft, prin-
cipally pursuit; projectiles fired from the ground, principally
by antiaircraft artillery; and obstacles, principally barrage
balloons.
(3) Passive air defense includes all other measures taken
to minimize the effects of hostile air action.
(4) Interceptor pursuit aviation, antiaircraft artillery, and
barrage balloons are employed to provide a coordinated and
6
COMBAT ORDERS
9
complementary active air defense. All are served by an
aircraft warning service which places before interceptor and
regional commanders timely and usable intelligence of hos-
tile aircraft and information of friendly aircraft. The same
intelligence and information is used to inform civil and
other military and naval establishments of the air situation,
and as the basis for orders for the restriction of lighting and
radio emissions which may aid the enemy in a given situation.
Air Defense
Defense Service Aviation
Figure 4. — Air defense.
b. Pursuit aviation. — (1) Interceptor pursuit may be em-
ployed in general or local defense. In a pursuit general de-
fense the pursuit is disposed on airdromes over a broad front
so as to be able to meet hostile aviation approaching to attack
any of a large number of objectives. In a local defense
the pursuit is disposed on airdromes to meet hostile aviation
approaching to attack one objective or a group of objectives
included within a small area. When the enemy has a choice
of objectives extending over a wide area, the general defense
is indicated. When the situation is such that the enemy
aviation will direct his efforts toward a small area, a local
pursuit defense of that area is indicated. (See fig. 5.)
9
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
(2) An interceptor commander is prepared to organize and
conduct a general air defense of a space of any size within
the capacity of the pursuit and aircraft warning service forces
available to him. The size of the air space that can be
defended by a given pursuit force is a function of the method
of pursuit operation. The three methods of pursuit opera-
tion in air defense are: ground alert, air alert, and search
patrol.
(a) The ground alert method involves the retention of the
8
COMBAI ORDERS
9-10
defending pursuit force on the ground, on an alert status,
until information is received of the approach of enemy air-
craft. A considerable outward extension of the aircraft
warning service is a prerequisite to the use of the ground
alert method. This method is by far the most economical in
force, as the pursuit does not fly until an enemy is actually
located.
(b) The air alert method involves the maintenance of a
pursuit unit in the air, in a restricted locality, at all times
during which the enemy may approach. Upon receipt of
information of the approach of an enemy, the pursuit unit
in flight proceeds outward to intercept the enemy. The air
alert method requires the continual maintenance of pursuit
aircraft in flight, and is considerably more expensive in force
than the ground alert method. It is estimated that the air
alert method requires between three and four times as much
force as the ground alert method. The air alert method is
resorted to only when the outer limit to which the aircraft
warning service can be extended will not permit the employ-
ment of the ground alert method. An aircraft warning serv-
ice, even though limited, is a prerequisite to the employment
of the air alert method.
(c) The search patrol method is used in the absence of
an effective aircraft warning service, and involves the con-
tinual search for the enemy by pursuit aircraft in flight.
This method possesses all of the disadvantages of the air
alert method and, in addition, requires the continual search
of the vast space through which the enemy may approach.
This method is so costly in force as to be prohibitive in gen-
eral. It is resorted to only in exceptional circumstances
when air superiority is required in a limited area for a limited
time and the aircraft warning service cannot be made
available.
M 10. Air Support of Ground Force Units. — Air force units
assigned missions of supporting ground forces include all
types of bombardment, pursuit, and observation aviation and
are under the direct control of the ground force commander
to whom assigned. Successful air support is dependent to
a great extent upon the following factors (fig. 6) :
o. Neutralization of the hostile air force.
9
10-11
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
b. Direct and continuous communication between sup-
ported and supporting units.
c. Highest proficiency in training to obtain the greatest
degree of coordination and cooperation.
d. Maximum speed, ability to locate and recognize targets,
and ability to distinguish between hostile and friendly troops.
e. Proper assignment of missions. Missions should never
be assigned to air support that can be accomplished by the
available Are power of the ground force.
Air Force
Unit
Neutralization
Degree
Recognition
Proper
of
Effective
of
of
Assignment
Hostile Force
Communications
Training
Targets
of Missions
Figure 6. — Factors contributing to success of air support of ground
units.
Section III
AIR ESTIMATE OP SITUATION, DECISION, AND PLAN
H 11. General. — a. The commanders of air force units,
when confronted with a problem, an emergency, or a special
situation, must go through a certain well-defined mental
process in order to arrive at a sound decision. This process
includes a consideration of the task, the difficulties to be over-
come, and available means for overcoming these obstacles.
b. A commander of a small force or an individual pilot
may be suddenly confronted with an emergency demanding
immediate action. There may be almost no time for de-
liberation; yet before he can reach an intelligent decision
there must flash through his mind certain essential factors
pertaining to the task, the enemy, and his own force. On
the other hand, the commander of a large force may be
given a task that calls for days or even weeks of the most
careful thought and study. The commander utilizing all
of his staff considers everything that may possibly affect
the problem. He foresees all probable contingencies, and
finally reaches his decision. These two examples illustrate
10
COMBAT ORDERS
11-12
the extremes; but the mental process involved is funda-
mentally the same whether the unit be small or large, varying
only in extent of detail. This process is termed the estimate
of the situation.
c. The estimate of the situation has been arranged in a
definite form to insure that proper consideration be given
to all factors that may influence the outcome of an operation
or the success of a mission. The form is set up in five main
paragraphs arranged in the logical order in which it is be-
lieved a commander should consider the factors involved in
making an analysis and in arriving at a decision. With
slight modification the form can be applied in all situations.
d. A number of influencing factors have been included in
the form, but a situation in which all of the factors may be
applied will be rare. Those that have no application should
be discarded from consideration. Any factors that may arise
that are not covered by the form should be given the consid-
eration their importance warrants.
e. Paragraphs 12 and 13 outline estimates of the situation
for both an offensive and a defensive mission.
■ 12. Outline for Offensive Estimate of Situation. — An
outline for an offensive estimate of the situation follows and
is illustrated by figure 7.
1. MISSION. — State the mission of the particular operation, in-
cluding the time in which it is to be accomplished.
2. OPPOSING FORCES.
a. Enemy capabilities.
(1) Size of enemy air force.
(2) Type of planes and their efficiency.
(3) Fire power.
(4) Location of enemy air bases.
(5) Enemy antiaircraft defenses.
b. Own capabilities.
(1) Capacity of the force.
(2) Availability of the force.
(3) Fire power.
(4) Speed.
(5) Weather conditions.
(6) Air base facilities — supply.
3. ENEMY SITUATION.
a. Steps the enemy can take to defeat the accomplishment of
the mission.
b. Possible knowledge the enemy may have of our prior or
contemplated activity.
4. COMPARISON OF OWN LINES OF ACTION.
a. Objectives. — List the objectives which if destroyed will ac-
complish the mission or contribute most to its accompllsh-
11
12-13
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
ment. Discard all tasks which cannot be completed in the
specified time. Under objectives list — •
(1) Distance to the objective.
(2) Availability of the objective.
(3) Vulnerability of the objective.
Conservation of the force. — Consider the tasks in the light
of the relative risks involved, discarding those tasks in which
the risk is not commensurate with the results expected.
Opposing
Forces
estimate
of
Situation
Enemy
""Situation
_Comparison
of own _
Lines of
Action
Enemy
Capabilities
Own
"Capabilities
Steps Enemy
"Can Take
Knowledge
-in Hands of
Enemy
-■Objectives
-Size
-Type Aircraft
— fire Pcwrer
—Enemy Base 9
—Antiaircraft Defenses
-Capacity
-Availability of Aircraft
-Fire Potrer
_ Speed
—Weather
-Air Base FaciUtiOd
Conservation
of _
force
Capacity of
Force
_Li£t all that will j-JMatanea to
accomplish mission I— Availability
in time t— Vulnerability
joiscard tasks
_ [not commensurate
feHh risk
|f)iseard taslcfl
_ jwhich exceed
{capacity
*5* L^^eiMon
Figure 7. — Offensive estimate of situation.
c. Capacity of the force. — Consider the tasks in the light of the
capacity of the force as referred to under own capabilities.
Discard those tasks which exceed the capacity of the force.
5. DECISION. — From an analysis and consideration of all the fore-
going factors, the commander arrives at a decision as to the
best plan of action to be taken and the priority in which tasks
are to be performed by subordinate units.
■ 13. Outline for Defensive Estimate of Situation. — An out-
line of a defensive estimate of the situation follows and is
illustrated by figure 8.
12
COMBAT ORDERS
13
1. MISSION. — State the mission to be accomplished.
a. What is to be defended.
b. Instructions from higher authority or decision as to type of
defense.
(1) Local or general defense.
(2) Concentrated or limited-aim defense.
Enemy Capabilities
_Opposing
Forces
Size
Type Aircraft
Fire Power
_Er L emy Bases
Range
_Own Capabilities
| Extent and Composition
_Availability of Aircraft
"Type Aircraft and Efficiency
_Fire Power
_Location of Bases
~Air Base Facilities
"Antiaircraft Artillery
and Barrage Balloons
Passive Defense Measures
_Enemy
Situation
Ei
Size Formations
Number Penetrating Units
Probable Method of Attack
.Location of Elements
to be Defended
Comparison
of Own
Lines _
of Action
JWethod ol
Employment
.Size Force
Required
_Location of
Airdromes
\
■E
Ground Alert
Air Alert
Search Patrol
_Depth of Aircraft
■Warning Net
_Capacity of Force
^Decision.
Figure 8. — Defensive estimate of situation.
2. OPPOSING FORCES.
a. Enemy, capabilities.
(1) Size of enemy air force operating against us*
463184° — 42-
13
13-14
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
(2) Type planes and their efficiency.
(3) Fire power.
(4) Location of enemy bases.
b. Own capabilities.
(1) Available aircraft.
(2) Type planes and their efficiency.
(3) Fire power.
(4) Location of bases with respect to defended objectives.
(5) Air bases and facilities — supply.
c. Extent of aircraft warning net.
(1) Distance out from bases.
(2) Distance out from defended objectives.
3. ENEMY SITUATION— TACTICS,
o. Size formations in use.
b. Number of penetrating units in use.
c. Probable method of attack.
4. COMPARISON OF OWN LINES OF ACTION.
a. Location of elements to be defended.
b. Methods of employment:
(1) Search patrol.
(2) Air alert.
(3) Ground alert.
c. Size force required for defense of various elements.
d. Location of airdromes with respect to method of employment.
e. Depth of aircraft warning net.
/. Capacity of force to defend the elements specified in the mission.
5. DECISION. — From a consideration of all factors, the commander
makes a decision as to the best method for the employment
of his available air force to accomplish the mission.
■ 14. Notes on Preparation of Estimate. — a. Mission. — The
first and most important step in any estimate is to make sure
that the mission is clear and thoroughly understood and then
to keep it firmly fixed in mind. The mission should be writ-
ten in a clear and concise statement either as given or as it
may be deduced.
b. Opposing forces. — The next logical step in the estimate
is a detailed analysis of the enemy's opposing forces and of
our own forces. The primary purpose of this analysis is to
arrive at an accurate conclusion as to the relative combat
strength of our own and the enemy's aerial forces. All fac-
tors known which may influence the relative strength, espe-
cially those listed in paragraph 13, will be helpful in arriving
at the proper conclusion.
c. Enemy situation. — This section of the estimate is de-
voted to an analysis of the several plans or courses of action
which the enemy may take that will interfere with or pre-
vent the accomplishment of the mission. An important
factor in determining the plans open to the enemy is his
probable knowledge of our aerial situation and intentions,
14
COMBAT ORDERS
14-16
which may have been gained by various means, such as aerial
observation, captured documents, and prisoners.
d. Comparison of own lines of action. — In this section of
the estimate the commander should list all lines of action
open to him, keeping in mind the limitations as developed
by the preceding factors in the estimate and the conditions
which prevail as developed by the subjects in the form. Prom
an analysis of the various plans certain ones will be eliminated
for one reason or another until there remains the one best
plan or the one more feasible than the others.
■ 15. Decision. — a. The decision, then, is the logical outcome
of the foregoing processes. Its correctness is gaged by the
aptness with which the decision meets the demands of the
mission as affected by all the elements of the situation at
the time that it is to be put into execution.
b. The decision should be expressed in general terms, and
it should be a clear and definite statement of what the com-
mand is going to do as a whole; and where circumstances
permit it should answer the questions as to what, when, where,
how, and why the operation is to be executed. (See fig. 9.)
■ 16. Plan. — a. The plan (see fig. 9) is a detailed and com-
prehensive scheme of operations for putting the decision into
effect. It should furnish instructions as to the tactical em-
ployment of each subordinate unit and cover the intelli-
gence and administrative details of the operation.
b. Two important characteristics of any plan should be
simplicity and flexibility — simplicity to insure ease of execu-
tion and prevent misinterpretation, and flexibility to make
it readily susceptible to changes in a changing situation.
c. In the preparation of the plan the commander usually
issues a directive to his staff, and with that as a basis each
staff section prepares the details pertaining to its particular
part of the plan. Coordination in this respect as in all other
staff functions is required in order to insure a timely and
comprehensive formulation of the tactical, administrative,
and intelligence elements of the plan.
d. The extent to which a commander will participate in the
detailed formulation of the plan is most elastic and is de-
pendent on many factors, such as experience and training
of the staff, availability of staff officers, and available time.
15
16-17
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
e. An important factor in all planning is anticipation,
which in turn includes advance planning. In modern war-
fare, situations change rapidly; and by anticipating and
planning ahead the commander is in a better position to
cope promptly with the changed situation.
Estimate
of
Situation
Decision
of
Commander
What Where TCien How Why
PI
an.
1 1
1 1
Comprehensive Simple Flexible Anticipation Advance
^ " ~ _ Pianni ng
COMBAT ORDERS
Figube 9. — Decision and plan.
Section IV
COMBAT ORDERS, GENERAL
■ 17. Definition. — Combat orders are orders of any type
which contain instructions for subordinate units pertaining
to all phases of combat operations.
16
COMBAT ORDERS
18-23
■ 18. Classification. — Depending upon their form and pur-
pose, combat orders are classified as follows:
a. Letters of instruction.
b. Warning orders.
c. Field orders.
d. Movement orders.
e. Administrative orders.
□ 19. Details Covered. — In general, combat orders give the
situation, the decision of the commander, and the part
that each subordinate unit is to perform in the operation.
H 20. Period Covered. — Anticipation and advance planning
are most important, but the commander must be careful
not to provide in his orders for things too far in advance.
Orders that attempt to give instructions covering all con-
tingencies that may arise will probably have to be changed
before execution, and they will probably lead to misunder-
standing and confusion with regard to the main objective.
Section V
FIELD ORDER
■ 21. Definition. — Field orders are the formal statements
of a commander giving his intentions and the necessary
instructions for putting them into effect. They regulate the
operations and tactical actions of a command.
H 22. Scope. — Air force field orders state the situation, an-
nounce the decision and plan of the commander, and assign
tasks to the subordinate tactical units. They contain all
information and instructions necessary for the tactical and
administrative operation of the command as a whole and
of each subordinate unit. They must be concise so that
the essentials will not be obscured by superfluous informa-
tion or instructions. They must be clear and sufficiently
comprehensive so that each subordinate unit may have an
accurate and exact idea of its assigned task.
H 23. Preparation. — The G-3 or S-3 staff officer is respon-
sible for the actual formulation of the order after the com-
mander has set forth in his plan the essential points of the
contemplated operation. The details pertaining to person-
17
23-27
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
nel, enemy information, supply, etc., are furnished by the
respective staff officers.
H 24. Amount of Detail. — The amount of detail included in
a field order varies greatly and is dependent upon the fol-
lowing factors:
a. Time available.
6. Simplicity or complexity of the operation — the more
complex the operation the more detail necessary.
c. Status of training and degree of experience of the unit.
d. Size and composition of the unit.
■ 25. Independent Authority of Subordinates. — The in-
structions in a field order should not trespass upon the inde-
pendent authority of a subordinate unit commander. The
proper interpretation of the phrase "independent authority"
must be determined on the basis of the existing situation.
The following example illustrates the application of inde-
pendent authority.
o. The time of take-off of squadrons participating in a
group operation will be prescribed by the group commander
if all squadrons are based at the same airdrome. This in-
struction is clearly a function of the group commander in
order to coordinate the movement and avoid confusion.
b. If the squadrons are based at separate airdromes, the
time of take-off will be within the independent authority of
the squadron commanders, as it is their responsibility to have
the squadrons at the assembly point at the proper time.
■ 26. Formulating Order. — The formulation of a good order
is an art acquired by continued practice and application.
The form for preparation of orders should be used as a guide
in order to maintain the proper sequence; but it should not
be followed blindly, as all tactical situations vary in greater
or less detail. Certain portions of the form may quite
properly be omitted, while in other situations the form may
be added to.
■ 27. Details op Technique. — The details of technique have
been developed through past experience and by approved
usage and should be followed at all times. The important
details are listed below.
18
COMBAT ORDERS
27
a. Capitalization. — In writing field orders, all geographical
names must be written or printed in capital letters and the
spelling must be as it appears on the map. Capitalization
makes the place or object mentioned stand out prominently
and minimizes the chance of error. For example :
(1) The town of Bainbridge — BAINBRIDGE.
(2) The Alabama River— ALABAMA RIVER.
(3) The house of J. A. Smith. — J. A. SMITH.
(4) The Baltimore Turnpike— BALTIMORE TURNPIKE.
(5) Martin Lake — MARTIN LAKE.
(6) Jordan Dam— JORDAN DAM.
(7) Wolf Hill— WOLF HILL.
6. Designation of places. — Places or features may be desig-
nated in a variety of approved ways; towns and cities, by
their names. If the town or feature is not prominent, the
additional use of coordinates or reference to another promi-
nent feature is of great help in the rapid location of the
place. This method would also be used if there were more
than one place having the same name. For example:
(1) GEISLER.
(2) GEISLER (359.2-750.2) .
(3) GEISLER (2 miles north of BONNE AUVTLLE ) .
c. Designation of roads and highways. — Roads are desig-
nated by several methods:
(1) The name as shown on the map, for example:
(a) TANEYTOWN ROAD.
(b) STATE HIGHWAY NO. 342.
(2) Two or more points along the road, for example,
UNION MILLS-LITTLESTOWN-BONNEAUVILLE road.
(3) By successive road- junction or cross-road numbers, for
example, Road (CR608-RJ561-RJ570-CR617).
d. Designation of hills. — Hills are usually designated by a
hill number, by the name of the hill, by its location with refer-
ence to some prominent point, or by grid coordinates. For
example:
(1) Hill 207.
(2) GRANITE HILL.
(3) Hill 2 miles north WHITEHALL.
(4) Hill (372.5-750.5).
e. Designation of areas. — Areas are designated by giving
successive points in a counterclockwise direction starting
19
27
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
with the right front, for example, the area (BOWLDER-
HEIDLERSBURG-P LAIN VIE W-NEWCHESTER-BOWL-
DER).
/. Designation of units. — The numerical designation of an
air force or an army is written in full; of corps, in Roman
numerals; and of commands, divisions, and smaller units,
in Arabic numerals. For example:
(1) First Air Force.
(2) First Army.
(3) II Corps.
(4) 1st Interceptor Command.
(5) 2d Pursuit Group.
(6) 3d Observation Squadron,
Units may also be designated by the use of "this" and "our,"
for example, "this group," "our air force."
g. Abbreviations. — Abbreviations authorized for use in com-
bat orders, etc., are listed in paragraph 12, FM 21-30. It is
important in using abbreviations that there be no misunder-
standing of the meaning, and when once used they should be
habitually used. The growing use of teletype for transmit-
ting orders makes the knowledge and use of abbreviations all
the more important.
h. Military expressions. — There are a number of military
expressions and terms which have special significance and are
generally understood by all concerned. Their use will make
for clearer and more simplified orders.
(1) Bight {left) flank. — The flanks of a unit facing in the
direction of the enemy.
(2) Right (left) bank. — That bank of a river or stream
on the observer's right or left when he is facing downstream.
It is also advisable to supplement the description by giving a
compass direction — "the right (north) bank."
(3) The front. — That direction toward the enemy.
(4) Attached to. — The unit attached comes under the direct
orders of the commander of the unit to which attached.
Example : "The 1st Observation Squadron is attached to the
1st Bombardment Group" means that the observation squad-
ron commander will be under the orders of the bombardment
group commander.
(5) In support of (.will support) . — The unit affording the
support assists the supported unit but does not come under
20
COMBAT ORDERS
27
the direct orders of the commander of that unit. Example:
"1st Pursuit Squadron will support the 1st Bombardment
(L) Squadron" means that, while the 1st Pursuit Squadron
remains under the direct orders of the pursuit group com-
mander, its action will assist that of the 1st Bombardment
(L) Squadron.
(6) Special support. — "The 1st Pursuit Group will furnish
special support to the 1st Bombardment Group" means that
the 1st Pursuit Group will prevent hostile pursuit from at-
tacking the 1st Bombardment Group at a time and place
specified.
(7) General support. — "The 1st Pursuit Group will furnish
general support over the area COLUMBIA-HARRISBURG-
CARLISLE-HANOVER" means that the pursuit group will
prevent hostile aviation from interfering with all air and
ground operations in the prescribed area.
(8) Zone of security. — "The 1st Pursuit Group will estab-
lish a zone of security over the MARYSVILLE BUTTES from
0900 to 1000, 1 May 42, for the support of the operations of
the 2d Bombardment Group" means that, in the event the
bombardment group is intercepted by hostile aircraft while en
route to or from its objective, it may proceed via the zone
of security and receive the pursuit support provided therein.
(9) Alert. — This term means that airplanes are fully serv-
iced and loaded with ammunition and bombs for the opera-
tion, that engines are warm, and that flying personnel are
ready to receive final orders. Preliminary orders have been
issued, and the unit is ready to take off within 15 minutes
after the final order.
(10) Assembly. — The assembly is that point in the air to
which all the elements of a command are first assigned.
This term will be preceded by the appropriate unit designa-
tion, for example, "1st Pursuit Group assembly."
(11) Element. — In its general sense, this term means the
next lower subdivision of a formation, for example, a squad-
ron formation within a group formation or the reserve "ele-
ment" of a pursuit formation. In its special sense, this term
means the smallest formation. An element may be spoken
of as "an element," "a two-plane element," or "a three-plane
element."
21
463184°- 42 4
27-28
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
(12) Formation. — A formation is two or more airplanes in
coordinated flight.
(13) Initial point. — This is the position in space at which
the elements (general) of a unit take up the disposition re-
quired for the execution of the task.
(14) Rally. — This is the position in space at which the
elements (general) of a unit assemble upon completion of a
task.
(15) Readiness. — A unit is in readiness when the flying
personnel are at the airdrome, the airplanes are serviced and
loaded with ammunition but not bombs, the engines are
tested, and the unit is otherwise ready to take off within 1
hour after receipt of orders.
(16) Secondary targets or objectives. — Secondary targets
or objectives are those to be engaged in case the primary
target cannot be engaged because of circumstances beyond
the control of the unit commander or the pilot in the case
of airplanes operating singly.
(17) Stations. — Flying personnel are in the airplanes ready
to taxi out on signal.
(18) Time of take-off. — This is that moment at which an
airplane or a unit begins its run on the ground for the sole
purpose of flying.
(19) Time for taxi-out. — This is that moment at which an
airplane or a unit leaves its parking area to perform a mission.
(20) Unit . — The unit is a definite tactical organization pre-
scribed in Tables of Organization, such as a squadron or a
group.
Section VI
FORMAL WRITTEN FIELD ORDER
■ 28. General. — To facilitate the formulation of a field order
and to assure the inclusion of all essential information and
instructions, a standard form arranged in logical sequence has
been developed and should be used as a guide or check list.
If the standard form is always followed, the recipient of the
orders will know just where to look to find any particular
information desired. This is especially desirable in orders
that are lengthy or involved. This formal 5-paragraph field
order is described in detail in FM 101-5 as to the heading,
body, and ending and with slight modification is applicable
22
COMBAT ORDERS
28-29
to all branches. In the succeeding paragraphs, the standard
form is illustrated and discussed in detail with particular
reference to Army Air Forces orders.
S 29. Preparation. — a. Basic form. — There are three main
parts to the form: heading, body, and ending. (See fig. 10.)
(1) Heading.
Name of unit
Place
Date and time of Issue
Field order number
Maps: Full description of map(s) used in operation.
(2) Body.
l.o. (1) Ground information of the enemy.
(2) Air information of the enemy,
b. (1) Information of supporting or supported ground forces.
(2) Information of supporting or supported air forces.
2. The decision of the commander and so much of the plan and
scheme of maneuver as applies to the entire command, in-
cluding where applicable: route out, route back, assembly,
unit initial point, axis of attack, method of attack, maneuver
after attack, and rally. The questions as to what, where,
when, how, and why should be answered.
3. Detailed instructions to each of the next lower subordinate units
of the command, using a separate lettered subparagraph for
each. Include loadings — ammunition, bombs, and chemicals.
a.
b.
x. Instructions applicable to two or more units — may include
where applicable: loadings, secondary objectives, rendering
reports, operation of runways, and preparations for subse-
quent operations.
4. Instructions regarding supply and administration necessary for
the operation, which may include supply, traffic, transporta-
tion, airdromes, personnel, and miscellaneous. If Instruc-
tions are too voluminous, a separate administrative order
may be used.
5. Instructions for:
a. Signal communications — signal operation instructions (SOI)
number, time effective, liaison frequencies.
b. Axes of signal communications — supported ground forces.
c. Command posts.
(1) Ground — state location, when necessary, of supporting
or supported units.
(2) Air-position of commander, designation of deputy.
(3) Ending.
Signature (commanding officer,
executive officer, or staff
officer) .
Authentication
"Official"
Signature of S-3
23
29
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
Annexes :
Operations maps
Objective folders
Administrative orders
Intelligence reports
Distribution :
Those to whom the order is to go (may be by standard listj'
»Headlng_
r— Unit
-Date and Time
--Order Kuraber
—Wops Used.
■ — Paragraph 1-Information
riEtD
ORDER—
. — a. Eiteny
Lb.
Friendly_
-I
. |n> Or
-|(2) Ai
) Ground
2) Air
Ground
-Paragraph 2-Declslon and
Plan
..Paragraph 3- Instructions to
Each Subordinate
Unit
— Paragraph i-Administraticr
end Supply
Paragraph S-Cowander's Plan
of _
Exercising Conwond
■ All instructions for one unit
(not covered by paragraph 2 or
paragraph 3x)
. Ditto
. Ditto
. Ditto
. .Special instructions to two or
more units
. Supply
. Traffic
. Transportation
. Airdromes
. Personnel
. Miscellaneous
_. , r— SOI Nurabar
, 5ignal _|_Tiwe Effective
Communications |_Liaison Fre-
quency
. Axes Signal
Cc-nraunicatlons
•-Ending—
— C« Connand
Posts
EComnanding Officer or
Executive Officer or
Staff Officer
Authentication— H" 16 word "Official"
L_Sigr.nture of 3-3
i — Operations Maps
-Annexes Lobjective Polders
I — Administrative Ordera
■ -Intelligence Reports
{
Supported
"Ground Forces
jround-Supp or ted
or Supporting
Unit*
C Position
CoSfond
Deputy
— Di atr ibut i on.
.Standai-d Lints
duals or Units Rent
Figure 10. — Field order.
-r
I— TnJii
b. Example. — The following complete written field order il-
lustrates how the foregoing form may be used, as a guide and
check list for a particular operation:
24
COMBAT ORDERS
29
1st Bomb Gp
BROAD RUN (305-636) VA
19 Mar 42, 1700
FO 2
Maps : Atlantic Coast, New York, Norfolk and Vicinity, 1 : 500,000.
1. a. (1) (a) Hostile ground situation: No change.
(b) Hostile aircraft and supply depot and airdromes at
READING (470-810) . See Objective Folder No. 8.
(2) Hostile aircraft interception net established south of line
NEW YORK (640-860)— SCRANTON (495-945) —
HARRISBURG (385-800).
b. (1) Friendly ground situation: No change.
(2) (a) 2d Bomb Gp attacks enemy aircraft and munitions
factories at POTTSVILLE (445-855) at 0645 20 Mar
- 42.
(b) 3d Bomb (L) Gp attacks the hostile airdromes at
QUAKERSTOWN (520-930) at 0640 20 Mar 42.
(c) 1st Ren Sq conducts reconnaissance missions and
furnishes weather data.
(d) 2d Pur Gp will furnish protection for the air force
airdrome area commencing 0545 20 Mar 42.
(e) For additional details see G-3 Situation Map No. 5, 19
Mar 42.
2. This Gp will destroy the hostile air depot and airdromes at
READING (470-810) 20 Mar 42.
Take-off: 0520 in order of 1st, 2d, 3d, and 4th Sq.
Route out: LEESBURG (320-660)— FREDERICK (400-767) —
MYERSTOWN (437-816)— ROBESONIA (452-814) —
Objective.
Route back: BIRDSBORO (485-805) — NEW PROVIDENCE
(438-762) — Airdromes.
Gp assembly: LEESBURG, 0600, 12,000 feet, route column.
IP: ROBESONIA.
Axis of attack: 75° mag.
Method of bombing: Individual squadrons from route column
at 16,000 feet. Salvo by squadrons.
Rally: BIRDSBORO, 14,000 feet, group stagger.
S. a. 1st Bomb Sq, leading element of group formation, attack target
"A", Objective Folder No. 8.
b. 2d Bomb Sq, second element of group formation, attack target
"B", Objective Folder No. 8.
c. 3d Bomb Sq, third element of group formation, attack target
"C", Objective Folder No. 8.
tf. 4th Ren Sq, fourth element of group formation, attack target
"D", Objective Folder No. 8.
x. (1) Squadrons will report results of missions to these head-
quarters immediately upon return.
(2) All squadrons will employ 300-lb. bombs with delay fuzes.
4. Administrative and supply details: No change.
5. a. (1) Index No. 2 to Signal Operations Instructions effective
midnight 19-20 Mar 42.
(2) Ren-Bomb in frequencies:
1st Bomb Sq — 6200 KCS.
2d Bomb Sq— 6205 KCS.
3d Bomb Sq— 6210 KCS.
4th Ren Sq— 6215 KCS.
25
29
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
b. (1) Ground: No change.
(2) Air: Gp Comdr in leading airplane 3d Bomb Sq.
Deputy — Maj __, 2d Bomb Sq.
By order of COLONEL SMITH:
(s) J. Jones
J. JONES,
Lt. Col., Air Corps,
Executive.
Official
(s) John Doe
JOHN DOE,
S-3.
Annex: No. 1, Objective Polder No. 8.
Distribution: A.
c. Notes on preparation. — (1) There should be no question
as to the proper method of formulating the heading of the
orders if the few rules and examples given in FM 101-5 and
the example shown above are adhered to.
(2) Paragraph 1. — (a) This paragraph is devoted exclu-
sively to information. It should contain no part of the com-
mander's plan and no instructions to subordinate units.
(b) To conduct efficiently the operations with which they
are charged, the subordinate units must be conversant with
the hostile and friendly situation in the area over which they
are to operate; and only such information as has a bearing
on the execution of the mission should be included.
(c) The information given in this paragraph should give
the subordinate units a clear picture of the situation and how
the part they play fits into the picture as a whole.
(d) The sources of information for paragraph 1 are G-2
(S-2), G-3 (S-3) reports, situation maps, objective folders,
etc. If the information has previously been given, it is not
necessary to repeat in detail but to give only that information
which brings the situation up to date.
(3) Paragraph 2. — (a) In paragraph 2 the decision of the
commander and so much of the plan of operation as applies
to the entire command are given. The subordinate units are
informed of the task or mission to be accomplished by the
issuing unit as a whole. As previously stated, the decision
of the commander and the statement of the mission should
answer the questions of what, where, when, how, and why.
The answers to some of these questions may be by implication.
Applying this test to the sample field order, we have:
26
COMBAT ORDERS
29
"This Gp will destroy the hostile air depot and airdromes
at READING (470-810) 20 Mar 42."
What — Destroy the hostile air depot and airdromes.
Where— At READING (470-810).
When — 20 Mar 42 (group assembly given as 0600) .
How — Bombardment action (implied).
Why — To prevent the further use of the air depot and to
destroy hostile aircraft on the ground (implied, as the de-
struction of aircraft on the ground is a normal mission of
bombardment aviation).
(b) It is important that no instruction be given to any
one unit that is not applicable to all.
(c) Paragraph 2 may be written in either the present or
future (imperative) tense, and the form used is more or less
dependent on the length of time between the issuance and
execution of the order.
(d) The tabulation, in column form, of the information
pertaining to route out, route back, assembly, unit initial
point, axis of attack, method of attack, maneuver after at-
tack, and rally makes for a clearer presentation and facilitates
future reference for vital information.
(4) Paragraph 3. — (a) In this paragraph are found the
detailed instructions pertaining to each individual unit. It
contains the assignment of the specific tasks necessary to
carry out the mission of the command as specified in para-
graph 2. A separate lettered subparagraph is devoted to
each of the next lower subordinate units.
(b) The amount of detail in paragraph 3 is dependent on
that contained in paragraph 2. The more instructions given
in paragraph 2 the less will appear in paragraph 3. For in-
stance, if all squadrons of a group have the same objective
and the same time of take-off, these instructions will appear
in paragraph 2; otherwise, they will appear in separate sub-
paragraphs of paragraph 3.
(c) The last subparagraph of paragraph 3 is always let-
tered x. This subparagraph contains special instructions
which apply to two or more units or to the command as a
whole. Nothing pertaining to the scheme of maneuver
should appear here but should be placed in paragraph 2;
or, if pertaining to subordinate units, it should be placed in
the appropriate lettered subparagraph of paragraph 3. The
27
29
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
kind of instructions which may appear in subparagraph x
is as follows: time, bomb loading, directions for reporting
results of missions, secondary objectives to be engaged in
case unforeseen conditions prevent the engagement of the
primary objective, the operation and use of runways, and
preparation for subsequent operations.
(5) Paragraph 4. — (a) This paragraph contains special
instructions and information pertaining to administration
and supply necessary to the proper execution of the air force
mission.
(b) The administrative and supply details of an air force
command must be highly organized and must function
quickly and smoothly. This can best be done by having
a well conceived supply plan and making many of the activi-
ties, as far as supply for combat is concerned, automatic and
according to standard operating procedure (SOP). All sub-
ordinate units should be thoroughly familiar with the plan
and the SOP for supply. For the foregoing reason, it is un-
desirable to include in paragraph 4 any instructions that
would be normal and according to SOP. Paragraph 4 of
the field order would then include those changes in the plan
that may be necessary for the particular operation. If there
are no changes in the plan, the statement "No change" would
suffice. If reference to the administrative and supply plan
is desired, paragraph 4 may read "See Administrative Order
No. ."
(6) Paragraph 5. — (a) In paragraph 5 is found the com-
mander's plan for exercising his command functions during
the operation. This is important information that should
be in the hands of the subordinate commanders. This plan
may include any or all of the following points, each being
given a separate lettered subparagraph:
1. Plan for signal communication.
2. Axes of signal communication.
3. Command posts.
(b) The plans for signal communication are usually is-
sued prior to general operations and are covered in detail
as "Signal Operation Instructions No. — ," usually written
SOI. In referring to the SOI in the order, it would be nec-
essary to state the number and the time they became effec-
28
COMBAT ORDERS
29
tive — for example, "SOI No. 10 in effect 2000 2 Mar 42."
Examples of other pertinent remarks that may be Included
in this subparagraph are: "Bomb Gp liaison frequency 3120
KC" or "Radio silent (period of silence) ."
(c) The axes of signal communication are the successive
points on the ground through which the various command
posts move forward from the initial command post. As air
force units do not normally operate from successive com-
mand posts during a particular operation, the axes of signal
communications are not normally given. However, if an air
force unit is supporting a ground force, it would be well to
specify the axis of the supported ground force. If no axis is
shown in the order, it is not necessary to state that it is
omitted.
(d) The subparagraph on command posts is usually sub-
divided further into two additional subparagraphs — ground
and air. The command post is the place where orders, re-
ports, and messages are sent to the headquarters of a unit
or its commander. In giving the details of a ground com-
mand post, it may sometimes be necessary to give the time
and date of opening or closing. In cases where an air force
unit is supporting a ground force, the command post of the
ground force should be given. The air command post should
designate the position of the unit commander and the desig-
nation and position of a deputy. Example:
Par. 5. a.
b.
c. Command posts — ground:
1st Div BELMORE after 1200 2 Mar 42.
21st Bomb Gp WALKER.
Command posts — air:
Gp Comdr: Maj A leading 2d Bomb Sq.
Dep Gp Comdr: Maj B leading 4th Bomb Sq.
(7) Ending. — The ending of all field orders consists of the
following: signature, authentication, list of annexes, and
distribution list.
(a) The signature is the name of the officer who signed
the original copy of the order. Air force orders are signed
by the commander personally, by the chief of staff, by the
29
29-30
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
executive, or by G-3 (S-3). If the order is signed by the
commander, the grade and arm are both shown if the grade
is less than a brigadier general. Otherwise, the arm is
omitted. If the order is signed by a staff officer, the words
"By order of" or "By command of" precede the signature.
The grade and arm are both omitted in this case, but the
officer's official designation is shown. Example:
By order of COLONEL SMITH:
(s) J. Jones
J. JONES,
S-3.
(b) Authentication consists of the word "Official" followed
by the name and official designation of the authenticating
officer. Authentication is required on all orders signed by a
staff officers and on all copies of orders the original of which
was signed by the commander. Field orders are authenti-
cated by the officer who prepared the order, namely, the chief
of the third staff section (G-3 or S-3).
(c) The list of annexes follows the authentication and
consists of the word "Annexes" followed by the number and
name of each annex which has been referred to in the order.
When the order has no annex, this part of the ending is
entirely omitted.
(e£) The distribution list is a check to insure that every
officer and unit concerned receives a copy of the order.
The distribution list is the last part of the order and con-
sists of the word "Distribution" followed by a reference to
a standard distribution list or by a list of all officers and
units receiving a copy of the order. The sequence usually
followed in listing officers and units is as follows: unit com-
mander, each staff officer, commanders of subordinate units,
commanders of supported or supporting units, commander
of next higher unit, and diary. Authorized abbreviations are
always used in listing the officers and units. (See app. II.)
■ 30. Annexes. — a. Definition. — Anything which accompanies
a field order is called an annex to that order. A map, photo-
graph, objective folder, or any similar document may be
an annex.
30
COMBAT ORDERS
30
b. When used. — It is obvious that such documents as spe-
cial maps or objective folders, when needed by subordinates
for proper understanding and execution of the order, should
receive the same distribution as the order. To insure against
loss or separation, such documents are made annexes to, and
become part of, the order.
c. Preparation. — Annexes are prepared by the appropriate
staff officers and submitted to the commander for approval
prior to issue.
d. Form of annex. — Since any document may be made an
annex to a field order, it is evident that there can be no
standard form for the body of an annex; but every annex,
regardless of its nature, has a standard caption and a
standard form for signature and authentication.
e. Caption. — (1) The caption gives the number of the an-
nex, the number and source of the field order of which it is a
part, and the title of the annex.
(2) The caption is written on two lines, the second line
being devoted exclusively to the title of the annex.
(3) The entire caption is written in capital letters. Ex-
amples:
ANNEX NO. 1 TO FIELD ORDERS NO. 5, 1ST BOMB OP
OBJECTIVE FOLDER
ANNEX NO. 2 TO FIELD ORDERS NO. 5, 1ST BOMB GP
SIGNAL INSTRUCTIONS
/. Signature. — Annexes are signed by the chief of staff or
executive, and all copies are authenticated by the staff officer
concerned. Example:
By order of COLONEL SMITH:
(s) J. Jones
J. JONES,
Executive.
Official
(s) B. Brown
B. BROWN,
S-4.
g. Annex to an annex. — Any document used as an annex
may itself require amplification by means of other documents.
The latter are properly made annexes to the former.
31
31-32
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
Section VII
METHOD OF ISSUING ORDERS
■ 31. Selection of Method. — There are several methods of
issuing an order: in fragmentary or complete form, given
orally, dictated, or written. The particular method used in
each case is a matter for the determination of the commander.
He is influenced by the amount of time available, by the type
of operation, by the degree of training of his staff and sub-
ordinate commanders, and by his personal preferences. The
invariable rule is that an order must reach the lowest sub-
ordinate concerned in its execution in sufficient time to
afford him suitable opportunity to make his own plans, issue
his orders, and effect his dispositions in sufficient time to ac-
complish his assigned task.
■ 32. Fragmentary Field Orders. — a. Sequence. — When a
field order is issued in fragmentary form, the sequence and
technique of the complete 5-paragraph order are followed as
closely as circumstances permit.
b. How issued. — Fragmentary field orders may be issued
orally, dictated, or written. They may be issued direct to
subordinate commanders or to their representatives; or they
may be transmitted by means of officers, special messengers,
telephone, teletype, radio, or airplane. When transmitted in
a form other than written, the instruction should be followed
as soon as possible by a written confirmation. When condi-
tions permit, officers are used for the delivery of oral frag-
mentary field orders. The unit which has the least time to
initiate its action should be the first to receive the order.
c. Amplification. — A fragmentary order assigns specific mis-
sions to one or more of the respective units comprising the
command. Necessarily such orders are in the form of con-
cise messages. Therefore, they may fail to convey clearly to
all concerned the general scheme of maneuvers and joint
action desired. For this reason, they are amplified as soon
as possible by additional instructions promulgated by means
of conferences with subordinate commanders or their rep-
resentatives or by messages sent by telephone or other means
of communication as circumstances may permit.
d. Confirmation. — When facilities and time permit, a field
32
COMBAT ORDERS
32-33
order issued initially in fragmentary form should be confirmed
by the issuance of the order in complete written form and, if
possible, delivered to the units during the operation. If de-
livery is not possible, the order should still be prepared in
written form for future reference and for the record.
■ 33. Oral and Dictated Field Orders. — a. Method of issue. —
Oral and dictated orders are similar in that both are spoken
orders. Dictated orders are spoken slowly so that the re-
ceivers may write them down verbatim. Oral orders are not
written verbatim, but notes are taken. The commander may
say, "Copy this order," signifying that it will be a dictated
order; or he may say, "Take notes," signifying an oral order.
b. Oral orders. — The greatest advantage of oral orders is
the short time required for their issuance. They have the
disadvantage of depending upon the ear and, to a great
extent, on the memory of the receiver. This may result in
errors and misunderstandings. Oral orders have particular
advantage and application in a rapidly changing situation, and
in many instances the orders will be oral and in fragmentary
form.
c. Dictated orders. — The dictated field order has many ad-
vantages over the oral order. The receiver is required to take
down verbatim all provisions of the order as given. It then
becomes a permanent ready reference for the subordinate's
use, and the chances of subsequent error due to forgetfulness
or misunderstanding on his part are much less than in the
case of oral orders. When time does not permit the issue of
a complete written field order and the commanders can be
readily assembled, the dictated order should be given in
preference to the oral order.
d. Sequence. — A strict adherence to the prescribed sequence
of the standard form for field orders is particularly appli-
cable to oral and dictated orders. Training the mind to fol-
low a logical systematic method of dealing with the situa-
tion is highly important. The written order, before issue,
can be corrected, modified, added to, or otherwise changed,
This can be done also with dictated or oral orders; but the
moment a commander starts changing his dictated or oral
orders he opens the door to confusion and misunderstanding,
to say nothing of the lack of confidence in him as a com-
33
33-34
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
mander that is engendered by his apparent indecision and
vagueness.
e. Technique. — The formulation of a field order which is
to be dictated or given orally is a more delicate task than
that of a written order and requires more practice. Regard-
less of the size of the unit for which issued, dictated and oral
orders should follow the prescribed form, which is the form
for the formal written field order. The smaller the unit the
more this is necessary in order to prevent the omission of es-
sential details. Care and exactitude in the choice of language
are also requisites. Before dictating an order or giving one
orally, the commander must have his plan thoroughly crys-
tallized and must know exactly what he is going to say and the
exact language he is going to use. When he has the time,
he should block out on paper the various headings and para-
graphs of the order, noting the force to be included in each
and the instructions to be given to each unit. When time
does not permit this blocking out on paper, the order should
be completely arranged in his mind before he starts giving
it; that is, the decision must be made and the means for
carrying that decision into effect must be determined upon
before any start is made to issue the order.
/. Confirmation. — When field orders are issued orally by a
headquarters which customarily issues written field orders, a
written copy of the order should follow as soon as practicable.
g. Numbering. — A complete field order, though originally
issued orally or dictated, receives its proper serial number.
Section VIII
TRANSMISSION OP ORDERS BY TELETYPE
■ 34. Necessity for Teletype Method. — Due to present
operating conditions in which airdromes and various head-
quarters are widely dispersed, a necessity has arisen for an
expeditious method of transmitting the written order. The
teletype equipment is the most satisfactory solution to the
problem. As all machines are connected through a central
switchboard, all or any one or more units can be contacted
and the written message be delivered in the time it takes
to type the message at the sending unit headquarters.
34
COMBAT ORDERS
35-36
■ 35. General Principles. — The sequence of the 5-para-
graph field order should be retained when preparing an
order for teletype transmission. The technique of prepara-
tion is slightly different in order that the maximum speed
and value may be obtained from this method of transmittal.
■ 36. Technique of Preparation. — The following standard
procedure and technique will govern in the preparation of
teletype orders:
a. Authorized abbreviations are habitually used.
b. The beginning of each line should be flush with the
left limit of the teletype carriage. No indentions should
be used except for the signature.
c. Due to construction peculiarities of the teletype ma-
chine, all transmission must be accomplished in capital
letters.
d. Paragraph 1 should include only such information as
has not been furnished subordinate units.
e. Paragraphs 4 and 5 should include only such instruc-
tions as have not been furnished subordinate units.
/. If there has been no change in the contents of any
paragraph, the number only of that paragraph should be
transmitted. Such procedure would indicate "No change"
for that paragraph.
g. The signature is the only line which is indented, and
it consists solely of the last name of the commander.
h. Authentication and distribution are omitted.
i. A teletype order is not a "telegraphic order," and the
brevity of a telegram is not adhered to. Reasonable brevity
is desirable but not to the extent of excluding or beclouding
normal essential information and instructions of the field
order.
j. The following exemplifies how the same field order illus-
trated in section VI would be prepared for teletype trans-
mission :
1ST BOMB GP
BROAD RUN (305-635) VA
19 MAR 42 1700
FO 2
MAPS: ATLANTIC COAST, NEW YORK, NORFOLK AND VICINITY,
1: 500,000.
1. A. (1) FOR DETAILS CONCERNING HOSTILE AIRCRAFT AND
SUP DEP AND ADRMS AT READING (470-810) SEE OBJECTIVE
FOLDER NO 8.
35
36-38
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
(2) HOSTILE AIRCRAFT INTERCEPTION NET ESTABLISHED S
OP LINE NEW YORK (640-860) — SCRANTON (49E-945) —
HARRISBURG (385-800).
B. (1)
(2) (A) 2D BOMB GP WILL ATK ENEMY AIRCRAFT AND MU-
NITIONS FACTORIES POTTSViLLE (445-855) 0645 20 MAR 42.
(B) 3D BOMB (L) GP WILL ATK ENEMY ADRMS AT QUAKERS-
TOWN (520-830) 0640 20 MAR 42.
(C) 1ST RCN GP CONDUCTS RCN FOR OUR AF AND FURNISHES
WEATHER DATA.
(D) 2D PUR GP WILL FURNISH PROTECTION FOR THE AF
ADRM AREA COMMENCING 0545 20 MAR 42.
FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS OF FRIENDLY SITUATION SEE G-3
SITUATION MAP NO 5, 19 MAR 42.
2. THIS GP WILL DESTROY THE HOSTILE AIR DEP AND ADRM
AT READING (470-810) 20 MAR 42.
TAKE OFF: 0520 IN ORDER OF 1ST, 2D, 3D, AND 4TH SQ.
ROUTE OUT: LEESBURG (320-660) — FREDERICK (400-767) —
MYERSTOWN (437-816)— ROBESONIA (452-814) — OBJECTIVE.
ROUTE BACK: BIRDSBORO (485-805) — NEW PROVIDENCE (438-
762)— ADRMS.
GP ASSEMBLY: LEESBURG 0600 AT 12,000 FT.
IP: ROBESONIA.
AX OF ATK: 75 DEGREES MAG.
METHOD OF BOMB: INDIVIDUAL SQS, SALVO, FROM ROUTE
CLM AT 16,000 FT.
RALLY: BIRDSBORO, 14,000 FT, GP STAGGER.
3. A. 1ST BOMB SQ, LEADING ELM OF GP FORMATION, ATK
TARGET A, OBJECTIVE FOLDER NO. 8.
B. 2D BOMB SQ, SECOND ELM OF GP FORMATION, ATK TARGET
B, OBJECTIVE FOLDER NO 8
C. 3D BOMB SQ. THIRD ELM OF GP FORMATION, ATK TARGET
C, OBJECTIVE FOLDER NO 8.
D. 4TH BOMB SQ, REAR ELM OF GP FORMATION, ATK TARGET
D, OBJECTIVE FOLDER NO 8.
X. (1) ALL SQS REPORT RESULTS OF MISSION TO THESE
HQ IMMEDIATELY UPON COMPLETION THEREOF.
(2) ALL SQS EMPLOY 300 LB BOMBS WITH DELAY FUZES.
4.
5. A. (1) INDEX 2 TO SOI EFFECTIVE MIDNIGHT 19-20 MAR. 42.
(2) RCN-BOMB IN FREQ.
B. CPS: THE GP COMDR IN THE LEADING AP 3D BOMB SQ.
DEPUTY MAJ 2D BOMB SQ.
JONES
■ 37. Application to Other Type Orders. — The same general
principles of teletype transmittal as applied to field orders
should apply equally well to the other types of combat orders.
Section IX
ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER
■ 38. Definition. — Administrative orders are the formal
orders covering the administrative details and the supply
plan for operations. They will usually be issued by a large
36
COMBAT ORDERS
38-43
unit such as an air force. They may be issued by smaller
units when the volume of detail that would be required in
paragraph 4 of the field order would be too great.
■ 39. Object. — The object of an administrative order is to
outline the operations of the several technical, supply, and
administrative sections; to coordinate their activities; and
to transmit to subordinate units the commander's plan of
administration. An administrative crder may be complete
in itself, or it may be accompanied by annexes.
■ 40. Staff Section Charged with Preparation. — The admin-
istrative order is prepared by G-4 (S-4) staff sections. The
parts of the order pertaining to the first section are coordi-
nated by G~l (S-l) and transmitted to G-4 (S-4) for incor-
poration in the orders. G-3 (S-3) is consulted freely in order
that there may be complete accord between the tactical and
administrative plans. The order may be amended from time
to time by publishing changes, or a new order may be issued.
B 41. Basis. — a. Fundamentally, administrative orders are
based on —
(1) The plan for the employment of the units concerned.
(2) The administrative plans of higher headquarters.
b. To formulate a suitable administrative order, a thorough
understanding of the tactical plan is essential. To this end
the officers charged with the preparation must have the entire
confidence of the commander and must consult frequently
and cooperate constantly with the various staff sections.
c. In general, the group administrative order is based upon
the wing administrative order; and the wing administrative
order is based upon the administrative order issued by the air
force.
■ 42. How Issued. — The administrative order may be issued
as a separate order or to accompany a specific field order.
Like field orders, they may be oral, dictated, or written and
may be either in complete or in fragmentary form.
H 43. When Issued. — New administrative orders are issued
when changes in the administrative details of the plan become
necessary as a result of a change in the tactical or adminis-
trative situation of the command. The administrative order
usually is prepared in time to accompany a field order. It
37
43-46
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
may be delayed. When it is known that the administrative
order will be issued later, certain information contained
therein may be given out orally or by memorandum to subor-
dinate commanders and chiefs of services in order that those
officers may not be delayed in the preparation of their own
orders. This is particularly true in cases where time is
limited.
■ 44. Amount of Detail. — When a command is inexperi-
enced, it may be necessary to include in an administrative
order many details which otherwise might not appear. Such
details may include instructions with reference to replenish-
ing reserve rations, traffic control, use of extra trucks, move-
ment of special units, quartering, posting of signs, etc. In
a well-trained and experienced command it is apparent that
many of the foregoing details may be omitted, as they would
have become routine through training and through standard
operating procedure. Detailed instructions to a service of
interest to that service alone should be given in the form
of a memorandum to the chief of the service concerned
and should not be included in the administrative order.
■ 45. Technique. — The details of technique prescribed in
section V for the preparation of field orders apply as well
to the preparation of the administrative order, except that
no abbreviations will be used in the headings of the para-
graphs or subparagraphs.
H 46. Form for Complete Written Order. — a. A form for the
complete written administrative order follows:
Issuing unit
Place of issue
Date and hour of issue
ADM O to accompany PO (Reference to PO is omitted
if issued separately.)
Maps:
1. SUPPLY.
a. Railheads. — Location, time, and date of opening. Hour of
arrival of daily train.
b. Air bases. — Location and units served.
c. Class I supply (rations, etc.).
(1) Method of distribution. Location of refilling points,
distributing points, and time schedule of distribution
to units drawing supplies (if necessary) .
(2) Other special instructions when necessary.
d. Class II and III supply (individual and organizational equip-
ment; motor transport fuel and lubricants).
38
COMBAT ORDERS
46
(1) Location of refilling and distributing points (by organi-
zation) .
(2) Instructions regarding method of issue.
C. Class III (A) supply (aviation fuel and lubricants).
(1) Location of refilling points.
(2) Instructions regarding method of replacement.
(3) Special instructions when necessary.
/. Class IV supply (construction material, machinery, and other
supplies) .
(1) Location of refilling point.
(2) Method of procurement.
(3) Special instructions when necessary.
g. Class IV (E) supply (aircraft, spares, and supplies for main-
tenance) .
(1) Aircraft — location of refilling point. Instructions re-
garding credits and issue.
(2) Airplane maintenance supplies.
(a) Location of refilling points.
(b) Location of distributing points.
(c) Special instructions when necessary.
h. Class V supply (ammunition, bombs, pyrotechnics, and CWS
chemicals) .
(1) Location of refilling points.
(2) Location of distributing points.
(3) Special instructions when necessary.
i. Water.
(1) Location of distributing points or method of supply.
(2) Special instructions relative to condition of water,
chlorfnation, etc.
j. Replacements. — Location of replacement depot.
2. EVACUATION.
a. Casualties.
(1) Location of collecting station or stations — method of
evacuation.
(2) Location of hospital station or stations.
b. Burial. — Location of cemeteries; burials and reports.
c. Salvage. — Instructions regarding collection and evacuation.
d. Captured air material. — Disposition and reports.
e. Prisoners of war. — Location of collecting points; disposition.
3. TRAFFIC.
a. Circulation.
(1) Reference to appropriate circulation maps.
(2) Restrictions — assignment and use of reserved roads,
limits of daylight traffic, special routes.
(3) Control — instructions to provost marshal relative to
police arrangements on roads, schedule of traffic pri-
ority, disabled vehicles, road distances.
6. Construction and maintenance of routes.
(1) Roads and bridges — construction and maintenance, by
whom.
(2) Direction signs.
(3) Reference to appropriate annex.
4. TRANSPORTATION.
a. Air — location and operation of air transports.
b. Motor — location and operation of supply trains.
5. AIRDROMES.
a. Construction — by whom.
(1) Refilling points for material.
39
46
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
(2) Special instructions to construction units.
6. Maintenance — by whom.
(1) Refilling points for maintenance material.
(2) Special instructions to maintenance units.
6. PERSONNEL.
a. Stragglers. — Collection and disposition.
b. Surplus baggage. — Disposition.
c. Mail. — Method and hour of distribution.
d. Shelter. — Quartering or quartering parties.
7. MISCELLANEOUS.
a. Attachment of service troops. — Attachment to subordinate
units when necessary.
b. Protected areas. — Location and boundaries.
c. Bear echelon of headquarters. — Location and hour of opening.
d. Administrative matters not otherwise covered.
e. Other administrative details. — No change (when applicable ) .
By command (order) of :
(s)
Grade, arm, or branch,
Chief of staff or executive.
Official
(s)
Grade, arm, or branch,
AC of S, G-4.
Annexes :
Distribution:
b. Notes on preparation. — (1) Numbered paragraphs. — The
administrative order is divided into seven numbered para-
graphs. If there are no instructions under a particular para-
graph, it is omitted. For example, if there are no instructions
pertaining to "airdromes," then that paragraph will be omitted
and the next paragraph will take its number (5) .
(2) Number of subparagraphs. — Each paragraph may have
as many or as few subparagraphs as desired or required.
(3) Reference to previous orders. — When there is no
change in a portion of an existing plan, an administrative
order may refer to a previous order; or a subparagraph of
the "miscellaneous" paragraph may state, "other details, no
change."
(4) Signature and authentication. — The ending contains
the signatures and authentication of the order, the list of
annexes, and a statement of the distribution. The order
is signed by the chief of staff or executive; it is made official
by the assistant chief of staff, G-4 or S-4, who is responsible
for the preparation of the order.
(5) Annexes. — The administrative order may be complete
within itself; or, whenever it is necessary to publish, details
40
COMBAT ORDERS
46-4S
too voluminous for inclusion in the order, any paragraph or
subparagraph may be amplified by an annex. These annexes
are listed and referred to in the proper paragraph as in the
case of the field order.
(6) Distribution. — It is important that no agency or offi-
cer to whom special instructions have been given in the
order be overlooked in its distribution. This is likely to occur
unless the order is checked against the distribution list. The
order is distributed through the message center as in the
case of the field order.
Section X
OTHER TYPES OP COMBAT ORDERS
■ 47. General. — Of the five types of combat orders listed in
section IV, the field order and the administrative order have
been discussed in detail. They were thus treated because
of their relative importance. The other three also require
care in preparation and should follow as far as possible the
basic principles used in formulating field orders.
■ 48. Letters of Instruction. — At the beginning of opera-
tions and from time to time thereafter plans of the superior
commanders, such as those from the War Department, a
group of armies, or an army, are communicated in the form
of letters of instruction. These letters regulate operations
over large areas and for considerable periods of time. They
deal with the broader phases of operations and are generally
limited to stating the mission and prescribing the part each
major unit is to play in its attainment. In active campaigns,
commanders of all units may keep their immediate subordi-
nate commanders informed of anticipatory plans to meet pos-
sible changes in the situation and of their intentions over
longer periods of time than are covered in orders. Such in-
formation and plans are transmitted by personal conferences,
messages, or, in case of large commands, letters of
instructions.
■ 49. Warning Orders. — Warning orders are usually issued as
a brief oral or written message giving preliminary notice of
action which is to follow. A warning order usually precedes
more detailed orders, its purpose being simply to give advance
information which will enable commanders to make timely
41
49-51
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
preparations for the contemplated operation. Issue of a
warning order is governed by the rule that it should be sent
whenever time can be saved or energy conserved through its
use. Where a warning order has been given general distribu-
tion, matters fully covered therein need not be repeated in
the subsequent field orders. Where warranted, reference to
warning orders should be made in the field orders which
follow.
■ 50. Movement Orders. — Movement orders, as their name
implies, are the orders issued to cover all details of the move-
ments of units from one point to another. The movement
may be by road, rail, water, or air. The orders should include
march graphs and tables of loadings, detailed instructions
to each unit covering the equipment to be carried and that
to be shipped, time of departure and the order of movement,
messing details, issuance of supplies, refilling points, and re-
fueling points. Movement orders should be closely coordi-
nated, especially with reference to the time factor.
■ 51. Supervision. — a. Necessity. — The responsibility of the
commanders does not end with the issuance of orders. The
ideal order is one which is so clear that it admits of no mis-
understanding. However, the subordinates who are to carry
out the provisions of the orders differ in character and ex-
perience. They do not all think or react alike. Therefore, to
secure proper compliance by subordinates and to assure him-
self that plans of subordinates are in furtherance of his own
plan, the commander must supervise the execution of the
orders which he has issued.
b. Means. — Supervision is exercised by means of confer-
ences and visits to the units by the commander or by staff
officers. Such conferences are not for the purpose of criti-
cizing the orders or plans of the commander or of influencing
his decision. Their object is to promote mutual understand-
ing, the correct interpretation of doubtful or obscure points,
and the development of teamwork. In no other way can
the commander insure to the fullest extent the development
of the action along the lines he has planned.
42
Appendix I
ABBREVIATIONS
■ 1. General Abbreviations. — The following list contains the
authorized abbreviations most frequently used in the prepara-
tion of combat orders. They are written without spacing or
punctuation. Whenever practicable, abbreviations are
grouped to economize space. In each case the abbreviations
not inclosed in parentheses plus any of those inclosed will
give a proper abbreviation. Example: Bomb (Gp) (Sq),
Bomb Sq. When an abbreviation is not made up by grouping
the abbreviations of the component words, the special abbre-
viation is given separately. Example: DHQ for Division
Headquarters, rather than Div Hq.
Adjutant AdJ
Administrative orders Adm O
Advance Adv
Afternoon (i. e., between 12:00 noon and
12:00 midnight) - PM
Aide-de-camp ADC
Air base AB
Air Corps AO
Aircraft warning service AWS
Airdrome (squadron) (section) (officer) __. Adrm (Sq) (Sec) (O)
Air depot Air Dep
Air force AP
Airplane Ap
Air transport squadron (flight) Air T Sq (Fit)
Ambulance Amt>
Ammunition (company) (train) (distrib-
uting point) Am (Co) (Tn) (DP)
Antiaircraft AA
Antiaircraft artillery AAA
Armament (officer) (section) Arm (O) (Sec)
Armor-piercing AP
Army Air Force AAF
Army aviation A Avn
Army chief of aviation AC of Avn
Army headquarters AHO.
Army medical (service) A Med (Serv)
Artillery (brigade) (liaison officer) Arty (Brig) (Ln O)
Assistant chief of staff AC of S
Attached Atchd
Attack (group) (squadron) Atk (Gp) (Sq)
August Aug
Aviation Avn
Axis or axes of signal communication Ax Sig Com
Balloon (wing) (group) (squadron) Bin (Wg) (Gp) (Sq)
Battalion Bn
Battery Btry
43
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
Bench mark • BM
Bombardment (light) (wing) (group) Bomb (L) (Wg) (Gp)
(squadron) (Sq)
Brigade Brig
Brigadier general Brig Gen v
Caliber cal
Camouflage (company) (battalion) Cam (Co) (Bn)
Captain Capt
Cavalry Cav
Chemical (company) (battalion) (officer). Cml (Co) (Bn) (O)
Chemical warfare officer CWO
Chief of Staff C of S
Class I supplies CI I Sup
Coast Artillery Corps CAC
Collecting (company) (point) Coll (Co) (Pt)
Colonel Col
Column Clm
Combat train C Tn
Command Comd
Commander Comdr
Commanding Comdg
Commanding general CG
Commanding officer CO
Command post (posts) CP (CPs)
Communication (section) (officer) Com (Sec) (O)
Construction Cons
Convalescent (hospital) Conv (Hosp)
Corporal Corp
Corps aviation C Avn
Corps chief of aviation CC of Avn
Crossroads CR
December Dec
Depot (supply officer) (supply section) Dep (Sup O) (Sup Sec)
(commander) (Comdr)
Deputy chief of staff DC of S
Detachment Det
Distributing point DP
Division air officer DAO
Division headquarters DHQ
Dump Dp
Echelon Ech
Element Elm
Engineer (officer) Engr (O)
Engineering (section) (officer) Engr (Sec) (O)
Engineers (combat) (general service) Engrs (C) (Gen Serv)
Enlisted men EM
Evacuation Evac
Exclusive excl
Executive (officer) Ex (O)
February Feb
Field Artillery FA
Field orders FO
Finance Fin
First lieutenant 1st Lt
Flight (commander) (surgeon) Fit (Comdr) (Surg)
44
COMBAT ORDERS
Foot (feet) ft
Forward echelon Fwd Ech
General Gen
General headquarters GHQ
General service Gen Serv
General staff (corps) GS (C)
General staff (first section) (second sec-
tion) (third section) (fourth section) GS (G-l) (G-2) (G-3)
(G-4)
Geological survey Geol' Surv
Group (headquarters) (commander) Gp (Hq) (Comdr)
Guard Gd
Headquarters (squadron) (section) Hq (Sq) (Sec)
Headquarters and headquarters squad-
ron Hq & Hq Sq
Headquarters commandant Hq Comdt
Heavy weapons company Hv W Co
Highway Hwy
Hospital Hosp
Inch in
Inclusive incl
Infantry Inf
Initial point IP
Inspector general IG
Intelligence officer Int O
January Jan
Judge advocate JA
Judge advocate general JAG
Liaison officer Ln O
Lieutenant (colonel) (general) Lt (Col) (Gen)
Lights Lts
Machine gun MG
Maintenance Maint
Major (general) MaJ (Gen)
March Mar
Medical Med
Medical Corps MC
Medical department MD
Message center Msg Cen
Message dropping and pick-up, ground Msg DPU
Messenger section Msgr Sec
Mile(s) mi
Military police MP
Months mos
January Jan
February Feb
March Mar
April Apr
May May
June June
July July
August Aug
September Sept
October Oct
November Nov
December Dec
45
ARMY AIR FORCES FIELD MANUAL
Morning (1. e., between 12:00 midnight and
12:00 noon) AM
Motor transport (company) (officer) MT (Co) (O)
Motor truck company M Trk Co
Noncommissioned officer NCO
November Nov
Number No
Observation (group) (squadron) Obsn (Gp) (Sq)
Observation flash battalion Obsn Fl Bn
Observation post OP
Observer Obsr
October Oct
Officer O
Operations officer S-3
Operations section Opns Sec
Ordnance (depot) Ord (Dep)
Ordnance officer OO
Personnel officer Pers O
Photographic (officer) (section) Photo (O) (Sec)
Pigeon company Pgn Co
Pioneer Pion
Platoon Plat
Point Pt
Private Pvt
Provisional Prov
Provost marshal general PMG
Pursuit (wing) (group) (squadron) Pur (Wg) (Gp) (Sq)
Radio (station) (section) Rad (Sta) (Sec)
Radio and panel section R & P Seo
Railhead detachment Rhd Det
Railhead officer RHO
Railroad RR
Railroad transportation officer RTO
Railway (battalion) Ry (Bn)
Ration distributing point RDP
Reconnaissance officer Ren O
Refilling point RP
Regiment Regt
Regimental Regtl
Regimental headquarters RHQ
Repair squadron Rep Sq
Road Bd
Road junction RJ
Salvage company Salv Co
Searchlight Sit
Second lieutenant 2d Lt
Section Sec
September Sept
Sergeant Sgt
Service (squadron) Serv (Sq)
Signal Sig
Special troops Sp Trs
Squad Sqd
Squadron (headquarters) Sq (Hq)
Staff Stf
46
COMBAT ORDERS
Station Sta
Supply (squadron) (officer) (section) Sup (Sq) (O) (Sec)
Surgeon Surg
Tank Tk
Telegraph and telephone section Tg and Tp Sec
Teletype Tt
Theater of operations T of Opns
Train Tn
Transport (squadron) (officer) T (Sq) (O)
Transportation section T Sec
Troop Tr
Veterinary Vet
War Department WD
Warrant officer WO
Water tank (train) W Tk (Tn)
Weather Wea
Wing (commander) Wg (Comdr)
Wire section Wire Sec
Yard(s) yd(s)
Zone of the interior Z of I
■ 2. Abbreviations Pertaining to Particular Staffs. — The
following list may be used as a ready reference to indicate
the staff officers of combat units who should be recipients
of field orders issued by their particular headquarters, to-
gether with the abbreviations used in a distribution list. The
organization of a particular staff may change from time
to time, and before this list is used in service it should be
brought up to date for the particular unit concerned. It
will be noted that several of the staff posts listed may
be filled by one officer; but usually files will be kept for each
responsibility, and hence each should be included in a dis-
tribution list.
Squadron and group staffs
Commanding officer CO
Executive Ex
Adjutant (administrative or personnel officer) S-l
Operations officer S-3
Intelligence officer S-2
Materiel officer S-4
Engineering officer Engr O
Armament and chemical officer Arm & Cml
O
Communication officer Com O
Supply officer Sup O
Transportation officer TO
Weather officer Wea O
Navigation officer Nav O
Photographic officer Photo O
Flight surgeon Fit Surg
47
Appendix II
DISTRIBUTION LIST
Document: Field Orders No. 22 (Unit) 1st Bombardment Group
Number of copies: 22 (Date and hour) 2 April 3C, 3:00 PM
To MESSAGE CENTER for transmission as checked below.
(s) John Smith, S-3.
Standard distribution
A (check)
No. of
copies
1
1
1
1
2
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Copy
No.
1
2
3
4
5-6
7-8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
No. of
copies
Copy
No.
1
2
3-4
5-«
7-8
9-10
11-12
13
14
15-16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23-24
25-26
27
Special
distribution
No. of
copies
Copy
No.
Organization or office
Commanding officer.
Executive.
S-l.
S-2.
S-3.
S-4.
Engineering officer.
Armament and chemical officer.
Communications officer.
Supply officer.
Flight surgeon.
1st Bombardment Squadron.
2d Bombardment Squadron.
3d Bombardment Squadron.
4th Bombardment Squadron.
Headquarters Squadron.
Commanding officer, air base.
Commanding General, 1st
Wing.
CO 1st Bombardment (L)
Group (supported or support-
ing unit).
CO 1st Pursuit Group (sup-
ported or supporting unit).
Note. — This Is a sample distribution list for one particular unit,
a bombardment group. Distribution lists for other air units will
follow the same form with appropriate additions to and subtrac-
tions from the organizations and officers listed. Also, changes in
staff organization from time to time will necessitate a change
in the "Organization or office" column even la this sample. Care
must be exercised to see that the distribution list for the particular
organization at a particular time and for a particular action Is
complete.
48