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WAR DEPARTMENT FIELD MANUAL

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CANNON COMPANY,INFANTRY REGIMENT

WAR DEPARTMENT - 28 MARCH 1944

WAR DEPARTMENT FIELD MANUALFM 7-87

This manual supersedes War Department Training Circular No. 121,9 November 1943.

CANNON COMPANY,INFANTRY REGIMENT

WAR DEPARTMENT 28 MARCH 1944

United States Government Printing OfficeWashington: 1944

WAR DEPARTMENT,Washington 25, D. C., 28 March 1944.

FM 7-37, Infantry Field Manual, Cannon Com-pany, Infantry Regiment, is published for the infor-mation and guidance of all concerned.

[A.G. 300.7 (9 Mar 44).]

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 7(5); IC 7(10).

(For explanation of symbols see FM 21-6.)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Paragraphs PageCHAPTER 1. General.

Section I. Composition, armament, equip-ment, and transport ........ ..... 1-5 1

II. Tactical employment ................ 6-11 14III. Protective measures ................ 12-17 20

CHAPTER 2. Supply, medical service, andevacuation.

Section 1. Supply ........................................ 18-21 30II. Medical service and evacuation 22-26 38

CHAPTER 8. Marches and bivouacs.Section I. Marches ................................... 27-30 41

II. Bivouacs .................................... 31 44

CHAPTER 4. Offensive combat.Section 1. Approach march and assembly

area ........................................ 82-33 45II. Employment in the attack ........ 34-37 46

III. Special operations .................... 88-45 50

CHAPTER 5. Defensive combat.Section I. General ...................................... 46 63

II. Employment in defense ............ 47-49 64III. Retrograde movements ............ 50-54 68IV. Special operations .................... 55-60 72

APPENDIX I. Stream crossing expedients forhowitzers and vehicles. 76

II. Directives for tactical training ofcannon company, infantry regi-ment. 88

INDEX . ..................................... ....... .......... 127

iii

This manual supersedes War Department Training Circular No. 121,9 November 1943.

Chapter 1

GENERAL

Section I. COMPOSITION, ARMA-

MENT, EQUIPMENT, AND

TRANSPORT

1. COMPOSITION. The cannon company of the in-fantry regiment consists of a company headquartersand three cannon platoons. (See figure 1.) The com-pany headquarters is composed of a command groupand an administration group.

a. The command group. The command groupincludes the company commander (regimental how-itzer officer), reconnaissance officer (second-in-

NOTE: For definilion of military terms not defined In this manual,see TM 20-205.

CN

-41 05

105 4 105 -4 105

l l I

·- ;o 5

Figure 3. Composition of the cannon company.

command), 1st sergeant, reconnaissance sergeant,communication sergeant, transportation sergeant,radiotelephone operators, automobile mechanic,bugler, messengers, truck driver (who drives thecompany headquarters 1½/2-ton cargo truck), andbasic privates. The company commander employsthe command group primarily to assist him in mak-ing the necessary preparations for employing thecompany in combat and in controlling it during com-bat. Duties of individuals are as follows:

(1) (a) The company commander is responsiblefor the training, discipline, control, administration,and supply of his company. He is also responsible

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for its tactical employment in conformity with or-ders received from the regimental commander.

(b) Through timely reconnaissance, he assists theregimental commander in the development of theplan for employing the weapons of the company,and is usually required to submit recommendationsto the regimental commander for their employment.Thereafter, he issues the necessary orders to hisplatoon leaders for the employment of their platoons.

(c) During combat the company commanderalso-

1. Maintains liaison with the regimental com-mander; keeps him informed of the situa-tion insofar as it pertains to the employ-ment of the cannon company; and keepshimself prepared to submit recommenda-tions for changes required in its employ-ment or disposition.

2. Exercises initiative of a high order in bring-ing about the proper employment of thecannon company, and encourages the pla-toon leaders to do likewise, by advisingthe supported unit commanders appropri-ately, and by seeking and proposing mis-sions when none are assigned or requested.

3. Establishes an observation post near thatof the regimental commander in orderthat he may effectively employ the pla-toon (s) held under his control, and makestimely recommendations to the regimentalcommander for changes in the employmentof the company.

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4. Maintains contact with his platoons.

5. Makes, or causes to be made, the reconnais-sance required for new position areas, sec-tors of fire, and routes of displacement forweapons and vehicles. (See par. 11.)

6. Orders and supervises the displacement ofweapons in accordance with the regimentalplan of action.

7. Insures the maintenance of an adequate sup-ply of ammunition.

(2) The reconnaissance officer, who is second-in-command of the company, keeps abreast of the tacti-cal situation as it affects the company. His primaryduty is reconnaissance for initial and subsequentfiring position areas, targets, and routes for dis-placement and ammunition supply. He is assisted bythe reconnaissance sergeant, messengers, and suchother personnel as the company commander maydesignate.

(3) The first sergeant is the principal enlistedassistant of the company commander. Under thesupervision of the latter, he establishes and operatesthe company command post. His duties will varywidely during combat, from administrative and sup-ply matters to actual command of a platoon, if casu-alties necessitate such replacement. When the com-munication sergeant is performing duties away fromthe company command post, the first sergeant maybe required to operate or supervise the operation ofthe company message center.

(4) The reconnaissance sergeant performs such

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reconnaissance as may be assigned to him by thecompany commander or reconnaissance officer. Hemay assist in the establishment of the observationpost, and may also act as a guide.

(5) The communication sergeant is responsiblefor the establishment and operation of the unit mes-sage center at the company command post, and theoperation and maintenance of communication equip-ment throughout the company. In performing thismission, he is assisted by the bugler, messengers, andsuch other personnel as the company commandermay direct. He is charged with the training of thepersonnel engaged in the installation, operation, andmaintenance of the communication equipment issuedto the company.

(6) The transportation sergeant is in charge ofthe company transport. He supervises the operationand maintenance of the motor vehicles of the com-pany. During combat he assists the supply sergeantand controls the movement of vehicles engaged inammunition supply between the regimental ammuni-tion supply point and platoon areas. (See par. 21.)He supervises the camouflage and concealment ofvehicles and takes steps to insure their maximumprotection against enemy air and mechanized attack.

(7) The radiotelephone operators are responsiblefor the operation and maintenance of their sets.

(8) The automobile mechanic performs companymaintenance of company transportation under thesupervision of the transportation sergeant. He drivesthe S/4-ton weapon carrier.

(9) The bugler is trained to act as a signalman,foot or motor messenger, and observer. He drives oneof the company headquarters l/4-ton trucks.

(10) The messengers may be employed as foot ormotor messengers, observers, guides, and assistantsto other personnel at the company command post.Each drives one of the company headquarters 1/4-tontrucks.

(11) Basic privates are trained as replacementsand as messengers. Until assigned as replacements,they are employed as directed by the company com-mander.

(12) The bugler, messengers, automobile mech-anic, and driver of the company headquarters 11/2-ton truck are responsible for the habitual camou-flage, concealment, and driver maintenance of theirindividual vehicles.

b. The administration group. The administrationgroup consists of the supply sergeant, mess sergeant,company clerk, armorer-artificer, two cooks and twocooks' helpers. Personnel of the administration groupare employed by the company commander to assisthim in the execution of the supply and administra-tive functions of the company. Their duties are asfollows:

(1) The supply sergeant is responsible for receiv-ing, checking, and distributing supplies, except ra-tions and water, and for supervising the activities ofthe armorer-artificer. He keeps the company com-mander informed of the needs of the company. Dur-ing combat he will usually be in the forward area

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assisting the company commander in matters relat-ing to supply, or at the company ammunition supplypoint supervising the supply of ammunition. Thearmorer-artificer will usually be located in the trainbivouac, where he assists in the checking and dis-tribution of supplies, executes minor repairs onweapons, and performs simple carpentry tasks.

(2) The mess sergeant is responsible for receiv-ing and checking the rations and water issued to thecompany, the division of rations into meals, the su-pervision of the cooks and cooks' helpers in the prep-aration of meals, and the preparation and distribu-tion of meals to the company. Except while distrib-uting meals in the forward area, he and his assistantsare usually in the regimental train bivouac, workingunder the direct supervision of the service companycommander.

(3) The company clerk keeps the company rec-ords. As a member of the regimental personnelsection, he functions under the military personnelofficer. In combat, the personnel section may be sep-arated from the regiment, and operate and move withthe rear echelon of the division or corps; otherwise,it operates in the regimental train bivouac.

.2. COMPOSITION OF CANNON PLATOON.Each platoon is composed of a command group(headquarters) and two sections. The commandgroup consists of a platoon leader, platoon sergeant,agent corporal, instrument operator, radiotelephoneoperator, artillery mechanic, ammunition handler,messenger, and ammunition truck driver.

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a. Each section consists of a sergeant chief ofsection, corporal gunner, seven cannoneers, anddriver of the prime mover.

b. The platoon leader is responsible for the train-ing, discipline, control, and tactical employment ofhis platoon. He receives his orders from the com-pany commander, except when the platoon is at-tached to another unit. Assisted by his commandgroup, he controls the action of the platoon throughtimely orders and instructions. For communicationhe employs foot messengers, vehicle drivers, tele-phone equipment, radiotelephones, and visual signals.He executes fire missions specifically assigned tothe platoon or required by mission-type orders, andcoordinates the action of the platoon with that ofthe supported unit.

c. The platoon sergeant is second-in-command ofthe platoon. He takes charge when the platoon leaderis absent, and commands the rear elements of theplatoon during displacements. He supervises ammu-nition supply and communication within the platoon.When the platoon fires as a unit, he supervises theaction at the firing position and controls the firingthrough transmission of orders from the observer.

d. The agent corporal is the liaison agent for theplatoon. He maintains liaison between the platoonand the unit which it supports or to which it is at-tached, or between the platoon and the companycommander. He also assists the platoon leader in

.reconnaissance, and is trained to assume the dutiesof the instrument operator.

e. The instrument operator has charge of and

$

operates the fire control instruments of the platoon.He assists the platoon leader in reconnaissance, pre-paring firing data, the search for targets, surveil-lance of the progress and safety of friendly troops,and fire control. He establishes platoon observationposts as directed, and assists in liaison duties.

f. The radiotelephone operator operates the pla-toon radiotelephone set and is responsible for themaintenance and operation of signal equipment with-in the platoon. He accompanies the platoon leaderand maintains communication with the companycommander and the company command post.

g. The artillery mechanic performs and super-vises such maintenance and service operations forthe howitzers as may be performed by the usingarm. He is furnished with tools and spare parts,which are usually transported on the ammunitiontruck.

h. The ammunition handler ordinarily remainswith the platoon ammunition truck. He, assisted bythe driver, loads and unloads ammunition. He assiststhe platoon sergeant in maintaining the supply ofammunition to the sections.

i. The messenger drives the 1/4-ton truck assignedto platoon headquarters and is charged principallywith the transmission of oral or written messages.He is responsible for driver maintenance of hisvehicle and for its concealment and camouflage whenhalted. In addition, he will often act as a guide forthe sections, operate telephones and other signalequipment, and act as an observer or liaison agent.

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He may also perform security missions when sodirected.

j. The truck driver drives the platoon ammuni-tion truck and trailer and is responsible for drivermaintenance, concealment, and camouflage of hisvehicle. He assists the platoon sergeant and theammunition handler in supplying ammunition to thesections.

3. ARMAMENT. a. General. The armament of thecannon company includes crew-served and individualweapons.

(1) The crew-served weapons are the 105-mmhowitzer, the antitank rocket launcher, and the cali-ber .50 machine gun.

(2) The individual weapons are the carbine andrifle.

b. Crew-served weapons.

(1) THE 105-mm HOWITZER. For a descrip-tion of this weapon, see FM 23-105 and TM 9-326.

(2) ANTITANK ROCKETS, 2.36 INCH. (a)Rocket launchers and high explosive rockets are pro-vided primarily for close-in protection against tanksand other armored vehicles; secondary targets arecrew-served weapons, embrasures, pillboxes, andgrouped personnel. Ammunition must be conservedto insure effective use against primary targets.

(b) Rocket launchers, issued to the company onthe basis of one to company headquarters and oneto each platoon, are normally carried on organic

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transportation. For necessary assistance in loadingand reloading, they are normally operated by teamsof two men each. Four men per launcher are trainedto fire the weapon. A practice rocket is provided forinstruction in mechanical use, marksmanship, esti-mation of leads, and technique of fire. The rocketmay be fired from the prone, standing, sitting, orkneeling positions; it may also be fired from thepit-foxhole and pit-type emplacements (figs. 5 and6). (See also FM 23-30.)

(c) The rocket has a maximum range of 650yards. It is reasonably accurate against moving tar-gets at ranges up to 300 yards. In order to achievesurprise, fire against moving targets should be with-held until the last practicable moment.

(d) Higher-numbered cannoneers or other per-sonnel not required for service of the piece will bedesignated as rocket teams by platoon leaders. Theywill normally function in their primary duties untila threat of mechanized attack becomes imminent oruse against a secondary target is indicated. Timelywarning must be received in order that rocket teamsmay secure their launchers and ammunition andmove to their assigned positions (see par. 12). Inboth offensive and defensive combat, likely avenuesof approach for armored vehicles should be reconnoi-tered and firing positions for rocket teams selectedand prepared as soon as practicable after occupationof howitzer positions. Positions for rocket teamsshould be selected with. particular attention to thenecessity for protecting the howitzers against attackfrom the flanks and rear.

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(3) MACHINE GUN, HB, CALIBER .50, M2,FLEXIBLE. A caliber .50 machine gun is mountedon the 1/4-ton truck in each platoon. Its primary useis the antiaircraft defense of the platoon transport;its secondary use is the local protection of suchtransport from ground attack. All personnel aretrained to fire the weapon. For conditions governingantiaircraft fire, see paragraph 13.

c. Individual weapons. (1) CARBINES ANDRIFLES. These weapons are employed for theemergency defense and local protection of individu-als, groups, howitzers, and company installations.When elements of the company are operating in ex-posed positions, it is imperative that additional rifle-men be detailed for their close-in protection.

(2) RIFLE GRENADES. (a) The antitank riflegrenade is used against tanks and armored vehicles.(See FM 23-30.) This grenade is fired from suchrifles and carbines in the company as are equippedwith grenade launchers. Within its effective range,approximately 75 yards, this high explosive grenadeis effective against all known light and mediumtanks; it may also be used as an antipersonnel gre-nade, employing high-angle fire, at ranges up to 260yards. With the use of the auxiliary grenade cart-ridge, ranges up to 380 yards are possible.

(b) The reconnaissance sergeant, communicationsergeant, bugler, and messengers are each armedwith a carbine and grenade launcher, and the auto-mobile mechanic and truck drivers .with a rifle andgrenade launcher. Chiefs of section may utilize thetruck drivers, when not required with the vehicles or

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engaged in their defense, to assist in protecting thehowitzers and crews against mechanized attack.

(c) Pyrotechnic ground signals may also be firedfrom the grenade launchers. These signals are par-ticularly valuable in acknowledging calls for deliver-ing or lifting of supporting fires, in identifying aunit's location, and in air-ground liaison.

4. EQUIPMENT. For equipment of the cannon com-pany, see Table of Organization and Equipment.

5. TRANSPORT. a. The company transport com-prises the vehicles organically assigned to the com-pany. These vehicles are used for command, commu-nication, and maintenance; as prime movers; and fortransportation of ammunition, equipment, and cqm-pany personnel.

b. Whenever the terrain is suitable and hostilefires permit, howitzers and ammunition are movedby prime movers. When effective hostile fire pre-vents movement by vehicles, the howitzers and am-munition are moved for short distances, by hand.Individual arms, except those of truck drivers, arehabitually carried by the individuals to whom as-signed.

c. One truck and trailer of the transportation pla-toon, service company, are allotted to the company asthe cannon company section of the regimental kitchenand baggage train.

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Section II. TACTICALEMPLOYMENT

6. CHARACTERISTICS. The cannon company ischaracterized by tactical mobility and flexibility offires. Mobility results from the use of a prime moverpermitting rapid movement of the howitzer overconsiderable distances; manhandling is practicablefor short distances. Flexibility results from thehowitzer's suitability for direct or indirect laying,for the engagement of targets at long or shortranges, and for the rapid shifting of fires. Theproper exploitation of these capabilities necessitatesadequate observation, careful selection of firingpositions, and an efficient communication system.

7. MISSIONS. a. The general mission of the can-non company is to provide close and continuous firesupport to the regiment. This is accomplished by themaintenance of close liaison with supported units,and the rapid delivery of fires, either on call or onthe initiative of platoon or section observers, againsthostile targets immediately opposing the regiment.Fire plans are coordinated with those of other sup-porting weapons within the regiment and with thecombat team artillery commander or the commanderof the direct support artillery. The artillery comman-der is promptly notified of any changes in the plansor dispositions of the cannon company.

b. The company's weapons are employed primarilyto destroy or neutralize hostile troops and weapons

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which at the time offer the greatest threat to the ac-complishment of the regimental mission, and whichcannot be engaged as readily by the supporting ar-tillery. Exceptionally, units of the cannon companymay engage area-type targets; however, artillery isusually employed against such targets, while cannoncompany elements are employed principally againstpoint targets. Appropriate targets for the howitzersof the cannon company are automatic weapons, anti-tank guns, mortars, infantry howitzers, troop con-centrations, road blocks, pillboxes, strongly fortifiedbuildings, and armored vehicles. (See fig. 2.) Excep-tionally, the company may be employed to supple-ment the antimechanized defense of the regiment orother supported unit. The cannon company comman-der coordinates with the regimental antitank officer(who is responsible to the regimental commanderfor the antimechanized defense of the regiment) inorder that he may be informed of the antimechanizeddefense plans whenever cannon units are directed tosupplement such defense. Because of the high trajec-tory and low muzzle velocity of the infantry how-itzer, and the difficulties of tracking a moving vehi-cle, cannon units may best be employed during anenemy mechanized attack to destroy or neutralizetanks temporarily halted, or accompanying gunswhich are supporting advancing tanks.

c. The infantry howitzer is primarily a weapon ofopportunity for prompt action against transient tar-gets. It is not intended that it take the place of fieldartillery, but rather that it supplement, when neces-sary, the fires of other heavy weapons of the regi-ment.

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TROOP CONCENTRATION MORTARS NFATR

ANTI-TANK GUN HOWITZER

CARRIER

STATIONARYTANK

(HULL DEFILADE) TANKTEMPORARILY HALTED

OR DISABLED

Figure 2. Appropriate targets for the infantry howitzer.

8. ASSIGNMENT OF COMPANY MISSIONS BYREGIMENTAL COMMANDER. The regimentalcommander assigns general missions to the cannoncompany and designates its initial position areaswithin the regimental zone of action or sector. Fre-quently, he will direct that each cannon platoon sup-port a designated infantry unit. Exceptionally, hemay direct that one or more cannon platoons be at-tached to an infantry unit or to an attached artilleryunit. He anticipates, plans, and orders any changesrequired in the employment of the cannon companyin order to meet changes in the tactical situation.

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9. ASSIGNMENT OF PLATOON MISSIONS BYCOMPANY COMMANDER. a. In accordance withthe regimental commander's order, the company com-mander assigns each platoon its mission and initialposition area, unless the platoon is attached to a sub-ordinate unit of the regiment.

b. A platoon may be directed to provide close sup-port to a particular unit of the regiment. In thiscase, it is not usually assigned a sector of fire ortarget areas. However, if two platoons are assignedthe mission of furnishing close support to the sameunit, the company commander will ordinarily fix theresponsibility of each platoon.

c. One or more platoons may be directed to sup-port the action of the regiment as a whole. In suchcases the company commander usually designates theunit of the regiment or the sector of fire (or targetarea) which will receive priority in supporting fires.The company commander may change this priorityas the situation changes, or he may from time to timedesignate specific targets to be engaged.

d. The detailed fire control connected with thepreparation and actual delivery of fire on a targetis ordinarily exercised by platoon leaders or chiefsof section.

10. ORDERS OF COMPANY COMMANDER. a.Whenever possible, the company commander shouldpersonally issue orders to platoon leaders, or to eachplatoon leader individually, at a location from whichterrain features referred to in the orders can be

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pointed out. Frequently, orders will be issued in frag-mentary form.

b. The regimental zone of action, or sector, nor-mally covers such a large area that it is rarely pos-sible for the company commander to :retain central-ized control of all his platoons. In most situations,mission-type orders are issued to platoons furnish-ing close support to particular units of the regimentand, in some situations, to the platoon (s) supportingthe action of the regiment as a whole.

c. Mission-type orders assign a definite missionto a subordinate unit, but leave some or all of the de-tails of execution to the judgment of the unit leader.By issuing mission-type orders the company com-mander decentralizes control to the platoon leader.However, even when the company commander hasissued such an order, he may restrict the platoonleader's freedom of action by prescribing some orall of the following details:

(1) The earliest time or conditions for, openingfire.

(2) Limits on ammunition expenditure.

(3) Conditions under which displacements are tobe made.

(4) The position area to which the platoon is todisplace.

11. RECONNAISSANCE. a. General. Reconnais-sance prior and subsequent to entry into combat isa responsibility of the company commander and pla-toon leaders. It must be timely, carefully planned,

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continuous and progressive throughout the action,and so conducted as to take full advantage of coverand concealment.

b. Initiation of reconnaissance. Upon receipt ofthe regimental field order, or on the basis of priorinstructions of the regimental commander, the com-pany commander should analyze all parts of theorder or instructions which affect the cannon com-pany ;; briefly consult with other appropriate officersconcerning details of cooperation and fire support;plan the reconnaissance; issue early instructions forany preparatory movement or dispositions of thecompany; and inform the second-in-command or thesenior platoon leader, of his route of reconnaissanceand the place and time subordinates are to assembleto receive the company field order, if such assemblyis practicable. Platoon leaders take similar stepsupon receipt of the company order, or, if attached toa unit, the order Of the unit commander.

c. Examination of terrain. Reconnaissance exe-cuted by cannon company personnel includes theexamination of the terrain for locations of obser-vation posts; locations of initial and subsequentposition areas as well as primary, supplementary,and alternate howitzer positions and routes thereto;locations of targets or of areas in which targets arelikely to appear; locations of elements of other sup-porting units and of nearby friendly troops and in-stallations; locations of command posts, communi-cation routes, and initial and subsequent ammunitionsupply points.

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Section III. PROTECTIVEMEASURES

12. WARNING SYSTEM. a. General. The regi-mental antiaircraft-antimechanized warning system'includes an intelligence system and a signal commu-nication system, both coordinated to insure earlyand continuing information of the presence and ac-tion of hostile air, armored, and motorized forces.(See FM 7-40.)

b. Regimental antiaircraft-antimechanized warn-ing system. (1) The regimental S-2 is responsiblefor the establishment and supervision of the regi-mental warning system, and for its coordination withthe observation system of the supporting artilleryand the warning systems of adjacent and higherunits.

(2) The regimental warning system includes allreconnaissance and security detachments operatingunder regimental control, all observation facilitieswithin the regiment, and air-antitank guardsequipped with means for giving the alarm. All ele-ments in the system make immediate report of airand mechanized threats by the most expeditiousmeans available. All warning messages are classifiedas urgent.

c. Local warning systems. Air units and motorreconnaissance elements usually give the first warn-ing of the presence of hostile tanks in the vicinityof the regiment. However, the cannon company com-

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mander is responsible that an effective local warningsystem is constantly in operation within the com-pany. He insures that air-antitank guards are postedby each section and that warnings received from theregimental warning system and from such guardsare promptly transmitted to all elements of the com-pany.

d. Warning signals. To give warning of the ap-proach or presence of hostile aircraft or mechanizedvehicles, the following standard warning signal isprescribed: three long blasts of a whistle, vehicularhorn, siren, or klaxon, repeated several times; orthree equally spaced shots with a rifle, carbine, orpistol; or three short bursts of fire from an auto-matic weapon. In daylight, the individual giving thesignal indicates, by pointing, the direction of theimpending danger. At night, the alarm signal will besupplemented by voice to indicate the direction. Inaddition to the standard signals, other availablemeans, such as radio and pyrotechnics, may be em-ployed.

13. ACTION IN CASE OF AIR ATTACK.a. Regardless of the effectiveness of the security

measures taken by higher command through the of-fensive action of combat aviation, all units must con-sider the probability of air attack and reconnais-sance, and employ appropriate security measures.Passive measures include dispersion, concealment,and camouflage. Active measures comprise firing atattacking airplanes.

b. Fire will not be delivered on any aircraft unless

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it is clearly recognized or positively identified ashostile, or unless it attacks with bombs or gunfire.Concealment and camouflage are used whenever pos-sible to prevent detection. If concealment is believedto have been achieved, no weapons are fired at ap-prdaching enemy airmft.

e. (1) On the mareSi, upon receipt of warning ofhostile air attack, prime movers and other vehiclesare driven off the road ; whenever terrain and timepermit, they are driven off the road far enough toclear the probable impact area. Maximum use ismade of any available cover and concealment. Allmen, except those designated as crews for the cali-ber .50 machine guns, dismount and take cover, butremain close enough to their vehicles to resume move-ment as soon as the attack has passed.

(2) In other situations, upon warning of air at-tack, personnel of the cannon company disperse andtake cover.

(3) Caliber .50 machine guns and individualsarmed with rifles and carbines open fire upon attack-ing planes only upon command or prearranged sig-nal of the company commander or responsible unitleader, as soon as the planes are within effectiverange.

14. CLOSE-IN DEFENSE AGAINST MECHA-NIZED ATTACK. Elements of the cannon companymust be continually prepared to defend themselvesagainst mechanized attack by the fires of the how-itzers and employment of antitank rifle grenades androckets provided for this purpose. If tanks succeed

22

in approaching within 300 yards of a howitzer posi-tion, personnel not engaged in operating and servingthe howitzer, or in firing at accompanying foottroops, employ rockets and individual weaponsagainst the tanks. Doors and turrets, if open, offerparticularly favorable targets to small-arms fire,as do also vision slits and periscopes. Should tankssucceed in approaching close enough to warrant suchaction, incendiary grenades, antitaink bombs, andsmoke grenades may be used. Personnel forced totake cover to avoid the crushing action of tanks re-turn to their firing positions as soon as the tankshave passed and continue their fire on these vehiclesor on other approaching tanks or accompanying in-fantry.

15. INDIVIDUAL PROTECTION. a. Full advan-tage should be taken of available cover and conceal-ment, both while in movement and while halted.

b. Whenever troops are halted in a combat zone,individual protection will be sought and improved, orexcavated. When the halt is expected to be brief,troops will take advantage of such natural protec-tion as is afforded by the terrain. When the halt isexpected to be for a longer period, as, for example,a halt in an assembly area, foxholes will be dug. Fulladvantage will be taken of natural cover and conceal-ment in the construction of foxholes.

16. EMPLACEMENTS. Emplacements for howitz-ers and rocket launchers are dug and concealed when-ever time permits.

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a. Howitzer. The emplacement for the howitzer(fig. 3) is a circular pit with parapet, and per-mits all-around fire. A ramp for the movement ofthe weapon into and out of the emplacement is dugto the rear. One or more ammunition shelters are dugin the forward wall of the pit deep enough to besecure against surface explosions. Foxholes for mem-bers of the crew are dug in the immediate vicinityof the emplaceinent. The circular type emplacementcan be developed from a hastily-prepared shallowgun pit, in which the spoil is thrown up as a frontalparapet only (fig. 4).

Figure 3. Circular emplacement for howitzer. The pit is 19feet in diameter and 2 feet deep. In this and succeedingfigures of emplacements the camouflage net is omitted forpurposes of clarity.

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Figure 4. Development of circular emplacement for howitzer.

b. Rocket launcher. The two types of emplace-ment for the rocket launcher are the pit-foxhole typeand the pit type.

(1) PIT-FOXHOLE TYPE (fig. 5). This em-placement is a circular pit, with parapet, 3 feetin diameter and about 31/2 feet deep. It is largeenough for two men. It permits the assistant rocketgunner to rotate as the rocket gunner traverses theweapon so that the former may avoid being in rearof the weapon when it is fired. Its depth is such thatthe rear end of the rocket launcher at maximumelevation in any direction will be clear of the parapet,thus insuring that the back blast from the rocket willnot be deflected into the emplacement and burn theoccupants. Except in firm soil, this requirement canbe met only by an emplacement which is too shallowto give protection against the crushing action of

25

tanks; in such a case, foxholes for the rocket gunnerand assistant rocket gunner are dug nearby. As theantitank mission of the rocket launcher requires thatit be kept in action against hostile tanks until thelast possible moment, these foxholes 'wil be occupiedonly as a last resort when a tank is about to overrunthe emplacement.

..L. -;C · C: ·r I~I.~. - .' ~ ~iS,

;,7·.t·-,-`!j ,l 01 i

PERSPECTIVE VIEW

NO FIRESTEP

EMPLACEMENTf SO FROMWAIST DEEP SFPOXL FHOM

AOUT ';-_ I I '

NNO PFIREtSTE P L

AND EMPLACEMENT

PLAN

Figure 5. Pit-foxhole type emplacement for rocket launcher.

26

NOTE.SPOILREMOVED

PLAN

SECTION

Figure 6. Pit-type emplacement for rocket launcher.

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(2) PIT TYPE (fig. 6). In firm soil, the pitof the pit-foxhole type emplacement can be enlargedfrom 3 to 4 feet in diameter, with an additional cir-cular pit 2 feet deep and. 2 feet in diameter excavatedin the center. This provides a circular fire step 1 footwide and about 31/2 feet below the surface. Whentanks appear about to overrun the position, the rocketgunner and assistant rocket gunner crouch with therocket launcher in the lower pit. When the tankshave passed, the rocket launcher is promptly re-turned to action.

17. CONCEALMENT AND CAMOUFLAGE. a.Concealment and camouflage are of prime import-ance in constructing defensive works. Measuresfor concealment from aerial observation must beplanned from the beginning and maintained continu-ously. From both the area to be excavated and thaton which spoil is to be piled to form a parapet, allturf, sod, leaves, or forest humus are removed care-fully, set aside, and replaced over the spoil whenthe emplacement is finally completed.

b. In order to prevent discovery of the work dur-ing the process of excavation of howitzer emplace-ments, garnished camouflage nets should be sus-pended from stakes or trees before any excavation isundertaken. Excavation should be confined to thearea beneath the camouflage net. The net is sus-pended at such a height above the ground as to per-mit the workers to excavate the emplacement with-out snagging equipment or intrenching tools on thenet. After the excavation has been completed and the

28

spoil covered with sod or other natural camouflagematerial, the net should be lowered close to theground so as to be inconspicuous from ground ob-servation. Nets are kept in position so as to concealthe emplacement when the weapon is not being fired.Arrangements must be made to lift or withdraw thenet during action in order not to interfere withfiring.

c. Personnel, weapons, and equipment are camou-flaged whenever this will assist in concealing themfrom the enemy, or misleading him as to their truenature.

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Chapter 2

SUPPLY, MEDICAL SERVICE,

AND EVACUATION

Section I. SUPPLY

18. RESPONSIBILITY. Supply is a responsibilityof command which cannot be delegated. The com-pany is the basic unit with administrative functions.The company commander is responsible for the ini-tial supply and, except as indicated below, the re-plenishment of all classes of supply to the companyand any attached units. Requisitions must be for-warded sufficiently in advance to enable the regi-mental supply officer to make supplies available fordistribution in time to meet the requirements of thecompany.

19. MEANS. a. To effect supply, the companycommander is assisted by the supply sergeant, trans-portation sergeant, mess sergeant, armorer-artificer,

30

and such additional personnel as 'he may designate.(See par. 1.)

b. Transportation for supplying the companyother than by organic company vehicles is furnishedby the regimental train.

20. CLASS I, II, III, AND IV SUPPLY. a. Defini-tions and methods. For definitions and methods re-lating to class I, II, III, and IV supply, see FM 7-30.

b. Feeding of distant elements of the company.When elements of the company are employed at aconsiderable distance from the company mess loca-tion, it will often be impracticable for them to be fedby their own company. In such instances, they willbe fed either by the units to which they are attached,or, if not attached, by nearby supported or otherunits. In either instance, the cannon company com-mander will insure, by careful planning and coordi-ation with the regimental S-4 and appropriate com-manders, that men are fed adequately and on time.If, through lack of time, or for any other reason, itis impracticable to establish such measures in ad-vance, leaders of cannon company elements attachedto or supporting other units will themselves contactthe commanders of these units, and insure that theirpersonnel are fed.

21. CLASS V SUPPLY. a. General. (1) Class Vsupplies include all classes of ammunition, antitankmines, chemicals, antitank rockets, grenades, andpyrotechnics.

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(2) Sufficient howitzer ammunition to enable thecannon company to initiate combat is carried for eachhowitzer on its prime mover and on platoon ammuni-tion vehicles. Ammunition for other weapons withinthe company is carried by individual soldiers, onprime movers, and on platoon and company head-quarters vehicles.

b. Replenishment during offensive combat.

(1) During route marches the platoon vehiclesusually move under control of the company com-mander with the regimental motor column, asdirected by the regimental commander. When com-bat is imminent, these vehicles are released to pla-toons. During combat, platoon ammunition vehiclesusually remain under platoon control and are held inplatoon position areas as close to the firing positionsas the terrain permits, except when engaged in theresupply of ammunition, or when control is reas-sumed by the company commander. Section primemovers are refilled from platoon ammunition trucksor from platoon reserves established in the vicinityof the platoon or section firing positions. When aplatoon ammunition truck is emptied, the trailer(with a full load of ammunition) may be kept in theplatoon position area, and the emptied truck dis-patched by the platoon leader to the company ammu-nition supply point.

(2) When the situation warrants, the platoon1/4-ton truck may be used in replenishing the supplyof a section. This truck may also be used to tow theammunition trailer for short distances.

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(3) The company commander is responsible forthe initial supply and resupply of ammunition forthe company, except when a platoon is attached toa unit operating separately from the regiment, inwhich case the commander of that unit is responsi-ble. He maintains a record of ammunition expendi-ture to insure continuous accurate information as tothe status of ammunition supply within the company.He selects and establishes the company ammunitionsupply point. (See g, below.) He may also assumecontrol of platoon ammunition vehicles at any time.When a platoon is confronted with emergency am-munition requirements or has lost an ammunitionvehicle, the company commander may divert ammu-nition to such platoon from another platoon whoseammunition requirements are less pressing.

(4) When an emptied platoon ammunition vehiclereports to the company ammunition supply point, itis directed or conducted to the regimental ammuni-tion supply point. (See fig. 7.) At this point am-munition may be replenished by refilling the vehiclefrom a reserve which has been dumped previously,or by exchange of the emptied vehicle for a filledone. If no ammunition is available at the regimen-tal ammunition supply point, the emptied vehiclemay be conducted to the army ammunition supplypoint under regimental control, refilled, returned tothe regimental ammunition supply point, and re-leased with all or part of its load to the platoon fromwhich it was dispatched.

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.105 - 105

4105

Figure 7. Ammunition supply. (Schematic) Platoon ammuni-tion vehicles are routed through the company am-munition supply point to the regimental ammunition sup-ply point, where they are either refilled, exchanged forfilled vehicles, or dispatched to the army ammunition sup-ply point for refill.

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(5) The regimental commander is responsible formaking howitzer ammunition available at the regi-mental ammunition supply point in adequateamounts for the replenishment of the platoons ofthe cannon company. Procurement of this ammuni-tion is effected by the use of available regimentaltrain vehicles and cannon platoon ammunitionvehicles.

(6) The tonnage involved in the supply of am-munition for the cannon company is so great thatrequirements must be anticipated. When the regi-ment develops for combat, the munitions officer,on the basis of recommendations of the cannon com-pany commander, takes the necessary steps to estab-lish a reserve of ammunition for release to the pla-toons of the cannon company. When a loaded vehicleis available at the regimental ammunition supplypoint, it is dispatched to the platoon from which anempty platoon vehicle reports. When the regimentuses vehicles other than those assigned to cannonplatoons for hauling howitzer ammunition from thearmy ammunition supply point, these vehicles areusually released to the cannon company commanderuntil their loads have been distributed in order toavoid transloading.

(7) When a platoon is attached to a battalionoperating separately from the regiment, its emptiedammunition vehicles are dispatched for refill to thebattalion ammunition supply point or to the cannoncompany ammunition supply point, whichever offersthe greatest facility for resupply.

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c. Replenishment during defensive operations.(1) In the defense, platoon ammunition vehicles

will be employed for the establishment of small dis-persed section or platoon ammunition reservesdumped in concealed and defiladed locations closeto and readily accessible to the firing positions ofthe howitzers.

(2) After ammunition has been dumped, platoonammunition vehicles revert to control of the companycommander, at which time they are dispatched tothe regimental ammunition supply point for refill.Since it will be exceptional for the regiment to have aresupply of howitzer ammunition available at the be-ginning of any operation, these vehicles generallywill be dispatched under regimental control to thearmy ammunition supply point. Upon return to theregimental ammunition supply point, they will be re-leased to the control of the company commander. Thenumber of trips necessary will be determined by theamount of ammunition to be placed on the position.After the required amount of ammunition has beenplaced on the position, the platoon ammunition ve-hicles will be refilled, and guided or conducted tothe regimental train bivouac. The ammunition onthese vehicles will then constitute a part of the regi-mental mobile ammunition reserve.

d. Replenishment during rapidly moving situa-tions. In a rapid forward movement, such as withan advance guard or in pursuit, the system of am-munition supply is similar to that in attack. Whendistances from army ammunition supply points areso great as to make replenishment difficult, require-

86

ments are determined and additional quantities ofammunition and transportation secured from higherheadquarters.

e. Replenishment in retrograde movements. Dur-ing retrograde movements, sufficient amounts ofammunition for the contemplated action are retainedwith each unit. Resupply may be effected by re-leasing regimental ammunition carrying vehicles tothe platoons on rear positions or by the establish-ment of reserves by higher headquarters on rear-ward positions or enroute thereto. The regimentalcommander will inform the company commander asto the location of such reserves.

f. Records and reports. (1) An accurate recordof expenditures and receipts of howitzer ammuni-tion will be maintained at all times as follows:

(a) By the chief of section.

(b) By the platoon sergeant under the super-vision of the platoon leader.

(c) By the supply sergeant under supervision ofthe company commander.

(2) Platoon leaders will render daily reports tothe company commander. The company commanderwill make a daily ammunition report to the regimen-tal commander.

g. Company ammunition supply point. (1) T h ecompany ammunition supply point is selected andestablished by the company commander. It may belocated near the company command post in order totake advantage of the company communication net.

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Vehicles proceeding to and from the company am-munition supply point will be routed so as to avoidpassing close to the company command post. Desir-able characteristics of a company ammunition supplypoint are:

(a) Location at or in rear of the point wherecovered routes diverge to platoons.

(b) Facility of motor movement to the rear.

(c) Concealment from air and ground obser-vation.

(d) Defilade from enemy flat-trajectory fire.

(e) Difficulty of enemy identification by day ornight.

(f) Ease of identification for friendly troops.(2) The company ammunition supply point is

operated by the supply sergeant or other personneldesignated by the company commander.

Section II. MEDICAL SERVICEAND EVACUATION

22. REGIMENTAL MEDICAL DETACHMENT.For composition and duties of the regimental medi-cal detachment, see Table of Organization andEquipment and FM 7-30.

23. AID STATIONS. a. Elements of the cannoncompany utilize the aid stations of battalions inwhose areas they are operating. If not operating in

38

battalion areas, they utilize the regimental or near-est battalion aid station,

b. At the beginning of an action, the cannoncompany commander contacts the regimental sur-geon to insure a clear understanding as to which aidstations are to be utilized by the elements of thecompany; thereafter, he keeps the surgeon informedof changes in the location of these elements, sincesuch changes may require corresponding changesin designation of aid stations which they are toutilize.

24. COMPANY AID MEN AND LITTER BEAR-ERS. a. Company aid men. The three Medical De-partment enlisted men serving with the cannon com-pany are known as /company aid men. They areattached to the company when it is on the march, inbivouac, and in combat, and may in turn be at-tached to platoons of the company. Each of thesemen carries two pouches containing medical equip-ment such as bandages, dressings, tourniquets, etc.Their duties are:

(1) To administer emergency treatment whenneeded.

(2) To maintain contact with the cannon com-pany.

(3) To inform walking sick and wounded of theroute to, and the exact location of, the battalion orregimental aid station.

(4) To send information to the aid stations bylitter bearers and walking wounded. This informa-

39

tion includes the location of cannon company ele-ments and the approximate number and location ofcasualties in the areas occupied by such elements.

(5) To place all seriously wounded in\defiladelocations along the axis of advance.

b. Litter bearers. Leaders of cannon elements de-siring litter evacuation of wounded personnel con-tact appropriate aid stations and request suchevacuation.

25. ORDERS. The cannon company order will in-clude the designation and locations of aid stationsto which casualties will be evacuated. All membersof the company will be informed of these designa-tions and locations. If, during the course of theaction, the casualties of any element of the companyare to be evacuated to a different aid station fromthat originally announced, or any other changes inthe system of evacuation are to be made, the com-pany commander issues the necessary additionalinstructions.

26. SANITATION. The cannon company comman-der is responsible for the sanitation within hiscompany and the area which the company occupies.He is also responsible for the formation of an anti-malaria detail, to consist of a minimum of two en-listed men, including a noncommissioned officer.The detail will be made up of nonmedical person-nel, and will be trained and will function as outlinedin War Department directives. Medical Departmentpersonnel act as advisers in the technical aspects ofsanitation and malaria control.40

Chapter 3

MARCHES AND BIVOUACS

Section I. MARCHES

27. ROUTE MARCH. In the route march, the can-non company, less any detachments on security mis-sions, normally marches well forward in the regi-mental motor column. The company commander,together with the reconnaissance sergeant, com-munication sergeant, a radiotelephone operator, andmessenger, usually accompanies the regimental com-mand group. The reconnaissance officer (second-in-command) conducts the march of the company (lessdetachments). Contact is maintained between thecompany commander and the reconnaissance officerby radiotelephone or motor messenger.

28. ADVANCE GUARD. a. Elements of the can-non company may be attached to the regimentaladvance guard. (See FM 7-20.) Ordinarily not morethan one carnnon platoon is attached to an advanceguard consisting of one battalion. During the march.

41

the platoon leader, together with the agent corporal,radiotelephone operator, and messenger, usually ac-companies the advance guard commander. He isresponsible for continuous reconnaissance for theselection of firing position areas, observation posts,and routes thereto. He is frequently assisted in thisreconnaissance by a detail (reconnaissance sergeantand one or more messengers) from the companycommand group; this detail is also employed toguide the sections into successive position areas. Inaddition, the company commander will usually furn-ish the platoon leader with additional transportationand communication facilities (particularly radio-telephones), to assist in reconnaissance and in con-trolling the fire of the platoon.

b. The platoon advances by bounds in the intervalbetween the rear of the advance guard and the headof the main body. Its movement is supervised by theplatoon sergeant, who maintains communicationwith the platoon leader by radiotelephone or motormessenger.

c. As soon as the advance guard encounters enemyresistance which is apparently of sufficient strength

.to warrant the employment of the howitzers, theplatoon leader directs the platoon to occupy selectedfiring positions. Guided by members of the recon-naissance detail, the platoon then moves into positionand executes any required fire missions.

29. FLANK GUARD. a. A flank guard consistingof an infantry battalion is usually the smallest unit-to which a cannon platoon is attached.

42

b. A cannon platoon attached to a flank guardmoves by bounds to successive firing position areas,prepared to furnish close support in the accomplish-ment of the flank guard mission.

30. REAR GUARD. a. As part of an adrancingforce. Elements of the company are not normallyemployed to reinforce the rear guard of an advanc-ing force.

b. As part of a retiring force. (1) Cannon com-pany units are well suited for reinforcing the rearguard of a retiring force. (See FM 7-20.) Dependingupon the strength and composition of the rearguard, one or more cannon platoons may be attachedthereto.

(2) Howitzers are employed from positions per-mitting long-range fires and affording coveredroutes of withdrawal. The primary mission of can-non company units attached to a rear guard is toslow down the 'enemy pursuit. Fire is opened atlong ranges and may frequently be used to coverroad blocks and other obstacles. Withdrawal to suc-cessive positions will be made in accordance with in-structions from the rear guard commander; thewithdrawal being timed, first, on the rate of with-drawal of the main body, and second, on the rate ofadvance of the enemy force. Close combat is avoidedwhenever the main body retires rapidly enough tomake this possible.

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Section II. BIVOUACS

31. BIVOUAC. a. The regimental commander as-signs an area for the bivouac of the company. Thecompany commander in turn allots portions of thearea to the respective platoons and designates thelocation of the command group. Chief reliance forantiaircraft security in bivouac is placed upon con-cealment and the digging of foxholes for individualprotection; advantage is taken of all natural protec-tion afforded by the terrain.

b. Elements of the company may be attached tothe bivouac outpost established by the regimentalcommander. The cannon company, less any elementsattached to the outpost, is located so as to permit thedelivery of effective defensive fires and to supple-ment the antitank defense of the bivouac area.

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Chapter 4

OFFENSIVE COMBAT

Section I. APPROACH MARCH

AND ASSEMBLY AREA

32. APPROACH MARCH. a. From route marchthe cannon company enters the approach march asdirected by the regimental commander. (See FM7-40.) His development order prescribes the marchobjective, or the successive march objectives; thezone or axis of advance; the base unit (if any), andthe units to be supported by the cannon company orelements thereof. The cannon company, less unitsattached to or assigned missions of supporting theleading battalion(s), usually moves by bounds inrear of the foot elements of the regiment, availablefor prompt employment as the situation develops.

b. A night approach march is executed at re-duced distances along routes which have been rec-onnoitered and marked in daylight. The cannon

6IM4,i; l II 2 45

company usually marches as a unit with the regi-mental motor elements.

33. ASSEMBLY AREA. During occupation of anassembly area, elements of the cannon companymay be attached to, or placed in support of thecovering force, while the remainder of the companyusually is assigned the mission of supplementingthe antimechanized defense of the area.

Section II. EMPLOYMENT IN

THE ATTACK

34. MISSIONS. a. The howitzers of the cannoncompany are employed principally against targetsimmediately opposing the advance of supportedunits. Targets may also include those within ef-fective range in rear of enemy front-line elementsor in adjacent zones of action.

b. Exceptionally, the cannon company may beassigned the mission of supplementing artillerypreparatory fires. Determining factors which mayjustify such a mission are:

(1) An existing deficiency in artillery support.

(2) The ability of the cannon company to pro-vide its normal close supporting fires to the at-tacking battalion(s) at the proper time..

(3) The availability of an extra supply of am-munition at the positions from which the prepara-

46

tory fires are to be delivered, thus insuring to theplatoons their full organic supply of ammunitionfor the subsequent accomplishment of their normalmissions.

c. When tanks are attached to an infantry regi-ment or are operating in its zone of action, thecannon company may be employed principally todestroy enemy antitank guns discovered during theattack. For employment of artillery in support ofinfantry-tank action and support of tank attack byinfantry, see FM 17-36.

35. RECONNAISSANCE PRIOR TO ATTACK.Prior to the attack, the regimental commander maydirect the company commander to accompany himon reconnaissance or to meet him at a designatedtime and place, prepared to submit recommenda-tions for the employment of the company. (Seepar. 11:)

36. LOCATION OF PLATOON POSITION AREAS.a. The position area assigned to each of the can-non platoons usually should be well forward, nearobservation, and yet not so far forward as to in-volve undue exposure. (See fig. 8.) Such positionareas must permit the selection of firing positionsfrom which fire can be placed on all assigned tar-gets, sectors of fire or target areas. In general,suitable firing positions can usually be found be-tween battalion and regimental reserves. Wheneverpracticable, firing positions should permit concen-tration of the fires of both howitzers of the pla-toon on a single target.

47

ORGANIZED TACTICAL LOCALITIES

Figure 8. Initial support of an attack. (Schematic)

48

b. The position area assigned each platoonshould provide cover from flat-trajectory fire and,if possible, concealment from aerial observation forhowitzers, crews, and vehicles.

c. Suitable sites for observation posts must beavailable for the conduct of fire and for observa-tion of the advance of friendly troops. Observationposts must be located so that adequate and con-tinuous communication may be maintained withthe firing positions. Normally, such communicationwill be by telephone within each platoon.

37. CONDUCT OF THE ATTACK. a. During theattack, one cannon platoon is usually directed tofollow and provide close support to each forwardbattalion, while'the remainder of the company, (ifany) is placed in support of the regiment as awhole. To support the initial phase of the attack,each platoon is normally placed in a defiladed fir-ing position from which fires may be delivered in-to any part of the zone of action of the supportedunit.

b. In order to assure continuing close supportof the attacking rifle units, the platoon leader, whenthe progress of the attack warrants, prepares forthe forward displacement of his platoon. The com-pany commander may order the displacement ormay delegate this decision to the platoon leader. Ineither case, the platoon leader plans ahead for thetimely displacement of the platoon by constant ob-servation of the progress of supported units, byclose liaison with the company commander, and by

49

reconnaissance to the front, executed by the pla-toon leader himself or by designated personnel fromthe platoon or company command group. Displace-ment by platoon is normal.

c. During the attack, the company commanderremains with the regimental commander, exceptwhen combat duties require his presence elsewhere.During such absence he designates his reconnais-sance officer or other available member of the com-mand group to maintain liaison with the regimentalcommander and the combat team or direct supportartillery commander. Similarly, a platoon leadermaintains liaison with the commander and artilleryliaison officer of the unit which his platoon is sup-porting or to which it is attached, or with the can-non company commander when the platoon is sup-porting the regiment as a whole. Such liaison ismaintained by the platoon leader personally or bydirecting the agent corporal to perform this duty.

d. During the progress of the attack, cannonelements engage appropriate targets on call fromsupported units or on the initiative of cannon ob-servers.

Section III. SPECIAL

OPERATIONS

38. ATTACK IN WOODS. a. The conduct of theattack against the near edge of a woods is similarin its early stages to that described in paragraph

50

37. Howitzer fires are delivered against hostilesupporting weapons located in the near and lat-eral edges. Special attention is devoted to the de-struction or neutralization of enemy automaticweapons located outside the woods in positions fromwhich flanking fires can be delivered against theattacking forces.

b. The effective employment of the howitzers ofthe cannon company in woods is limited by thefollowing factors: difficulty in maintaining direc-tion, contact, and control; short and obstructedfields of fire; scarcity of suitable routes for themovement of vehicles; lack of adequate observa-tion; difficulty of adjusting fire on targets with-out endangering friendly troops; difficulty of am-munition supply; and vulnerability of howitzers toby-passed enemy ground elements.

c. Every effort should be made to locate succes-sive firing positions affording adequate mask clear-ance for the howitzers. Such positions may be foundin the edges of existing clearings while, at times,it may be necessary to clear openings from whichfires can be delivered. At other times, the actionof howitzers may be restricted to the delivery ofdirect fires across clearings or along roads andtrails for the engagement of targets of opportunity.

d. During the advance through the woods, ele-ments of the cannon company may be attached todesignated infantry units in order to' facilitate con-trol and to insure local protection of the cannonunits by rifle troops.

e. The exit from the woods, and the continuance

51

of the attack is conducted generally as an attack inany other open terrain. Since the edge of the woodsis a favorable target for enemy artillery, cannoncompany howitzers should be emplaced as far with-in the woods as is practicable, and should displacerapidly to new positions outside the woods as soonas the tactical situation permits.

39. ATTACK OF TOWNS. a. In the attack oftowns, a large proportion of the supporting weap-ons of an infantry regiment will ordinarily beattached to battalions. (See FM 31-50.) The de-termining factor in the decision will be whethercontrol and close support can best be obtained bysuch attachment. Steps must be taken to insurethat the attached weapons are provided with close-in rifle protection.

b. The employment of the cannon company dur-ing the attack of the near edge of a town and dur-ing the exit from the town, is similar to that de-scribed for an attack in woods and the exit there-from.

c. During the advance toward the town, howitzerfires are delivered against the near edge, with par-ticular attention to enemy automatic weapons oc-cupying positions which permit flanking fires. Con-centrations of fire are also placed on predeterminedkey points of the hostile defenses within the town,thereby neutralizing or destroying enemy support-ing weapons and emplacements and driving enemytroops into dugouts and other shelters. The howit-zers will also be prepared to deliver fires to the

52

flanks of the attacking force for protection againstenveloping counterattacks by enemy reserve units.Fires are lifted on prearranged signals or othermeans of communication. Cannon units displacepromptly in order to continue their close support ofthe leading friendly elements.

d. Within the town, neutralization of hostile fireis of paramount importance. Due to the proximityof forces in fighting within built-up areas, muchof the close fire support will be furnished by infan-try cannon, using direct fire. Howitzers furnishingsuch close support deliver fires to destroy or neu-tralize emplaced automatic weapons, strongly for-tified buildings, and stationary or slowly-movingarmored vehicles. They may also employ high-tra-jectory fire against targets sheltered behind dis-tant buildings. Because of its low silhouette, thehowitzer may take advantage of cover afforded bythe walls of partially demolished buildings or pilesof debris. Fields. of fire and observation are ob-tained along streets or across open areas such asparks and squares. Observation may also be ob-tained from upper stories or roofs of buildings. Con-trol and the provision of close support will oftenbe facilitated by the attachment to designated unitsof such cannon platoons or sections as were hotattached to battalions prior to the attack of thenear edge of the town. In order to afford protec-tion from attack by enemy groups which may havebeen by-passed during the advance through thetown, local security for howitzers and crews shouldbe provided by friendly riflemen.

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40. ATTACK OF A RIVER LINE. a.: In;support-ing the attack of a river line during daylight, suchpreparations as are possible in the time available,and as can be concealed from enemy observation, arecompleted on the day of the attack.

b. If the crossing is to be made at or just beforedawn, all preparations, except the forward move-ment of weapons, are completed during daylight ofthe previous day. Howitzers are moved into firingpositions immediately prior to the hour of attack,but do not open fire until the attack is discovered,and then only upon appropriate targets. (See par.7.) Cannon company elements are placed as nearthe river as possible in order to cover effectivelythe principal crossing, but not so far forward thatthe noise made by the prime movers destroys theelement of surprise. Position areas and observationposts are located with particular reference to theactual or probable locations of enemy supportingweapons, reserves, and observation posts on the farside of the river.

c. The wide crossing front of the regiment fre-quently requires wide separation of cannon pla-toons, and precludes effective control by the com-pany commander. This difficulty is offset by theissuance of mission-type orders to platoons to pro-vide close support to designated units, or by theattachment of cannon platoons to leading infantrybattalions. Orders and instructions are issued inminute detail.

d. Reconnaissance elements of the company crossthe river with the attacking echelon. Howitzers

54

should be transported across the stream as soon asthe attacking echelon has seized the first objective.This objective is a position the occupation of whichwill secure the crossing against effective directsmall-arms fire. (See FM 7-40.) When ponton fer-ries or bridges are not in operation, howitzers mayfrequently be crossed by improvised means. (SeeAppendix I.)

e. After the crossing is effected, the howitzersprovide close support to infantry units during theadvance to the second objective. If attached toinfantry units, they remain attached until the sec-ond objective is captured, at which time they usuallyrevert to company control and support the attackagainst the next objective as in any other coordi-nated attack.

f. Throughout the crossing, one platoon is usuallyheld under company control in support of the regi-ment as a whole. After this platoon has crossed,its primary mission is to engage targets in the zoneof action of the battalion making the main effort.

g. At the time of crossing, howitzers must havefull organic loads of ammunition on prime movers;provision for early replenishment must be made inadvance.

41. ATTACK OF A FORTIFIED POSITION. a.When the isolation of a fortified position by aninitial enveloping maneuver is impossible, it mustbe reduced by a direct attack against a weak point.The attack may be divided -generally into fourphases:

55

(1) Reducing the enemy outpost system and de-veloping the main position.

(2) Breaking through the fortifications at themost favorable point.

(3) Extending the gap by isolating and reducinghostile emplacements on its flanks.

(4) Completing the action by moving mobile re-serves through the gap to complete the encirclementand isolation of the remaining emplacements, whilecontinuing the attack against them from the front.(See FM 31-50.)

b. In the attack against a fortified position, as-sault battalions are usually reinforced. Each as-sault infantry battalion may include cannon com-pany elements which are employed to provide closesupport to the attack. Each weapon is initially givena specific mission.

c. The indirect-fire missions of the cannon com-pany include destruction or neutralization of sup-porting weapons in areas between fortified em-placements, and interference with movements ofhostile reserves. By using smoke shell, cannon com-pany howitzers may also be employed at times forscreening enemy observation.

d. Direct-fire missions may include the deliveryof fires against loopholes or openings in embrasuresfor the neutralization of weapons and the breachingof steel embrasure doors. Normally, direct-fire po-sitions should be within 1,500 yards of the targets.In the ideal position, the howitzer is defiladed, orat least screened, from all works other than thoseon which it is to fire.

56

e. All means of communication must be employedto insure that howitzer fires can be opened or liftedas required. Fire is usually lifted as soon as theattacking infantry is ready to assault the targetupon which a howitzer is firing.

f. Positions should be prepared before occupa-tion. They will normally be occupied under cover ofdarkness, smoke, fog, artillery fire, or any com-bination thereof. Concealed routes to positionsshould be used. Every precaution must be taken toprevent premature discovery of weapons by theenemy.

42. RAIDS. a. For classification of raids, and theorganization and conduct of raids by the infantrybattalion or elements thereof, see FM 7-20.

b. The cannon company or cannon elements sup-porting a raid may be assigned either or both ofthe following general missions:

(1) Participation in artillery preparatory fireson the objective to be raided, with particular atten-tion to the neutralization of known and suspectedenemy supporting weapons.

(2) Delivery of fires on adjacent or rear enemypositions and on avenues of enemy approach to theobjective, for the purpose of assisting in isolatingthe objective, both during the raid and during thesubsequent withdrawal. During the withdrawal,smoke may be employed to assist in screening theoperation. Cannon units will be alert to engage en-emy weapons capable of rendering support to theraided position.

57

c. The targets to be engaged and the time orsignals for commencing and lifting fires are pre-scribed either by the commander ordering the raidor by the commander of the raiding force.

d. Unless the raid is to be conducted by a. verysmall force, heavy weapons participate in the prep-aratory fires and in-those fires delivered to isolatethe objective: The fires of all cannon company ele-ments will,be closely coordinated with those of other.supportingl weapons and with the fires and ma-neuver of. the raiding force.

e. Prior registration, preferably from one ormore positions other than those which howitzers areto occupy for support of the raid, should be effectedwhenever possible. To preserve secrecy, registrationshould be spread out over a considerable period oftime, and should include fires on points other thanthe assigned targets.

f. Firing positions occupied for the support of theraid should permit the rapid shifting of fires forthe engagement of widely dispersed targets of op-portunity, as well as the delivery of preparatoryand protective fires.

43. DESERT OPERATIONS. a. Deserts vary great-ly in character. The surface may consist of loosesand and dunes over which the movement of motorvehicles is greatly impeded, or it may be hardenough to permit free movement of mechanicaltransport at considerable speed. There are sel-dom any well-defined roads, but trails often existbetween water sources. Owing to the scarcity of

58

distinctive landmarks, maintenance of direction isoften difficult. Mirage is a constant source of error.Distances are deceptive and are frequently under-estimated.

b. When the surface consists of loose sand, opera-tions in deserts will probably involve chiefly theuse of foot troops, animals, and tracklaying vehicles.In such operations, use of the cannon company maybe restricted because of reduction in the speed ofits vehicles and added difficulties of movement.

c. Operations in deserts with a hard surface willpermit the employment of all types of vehicles. Insuch operations, weapons of the cannon companycan furnish powerful support because of their mo-bility and the flexibility of their fires.

d. Enemy air operations are very effective unlessthe most vigorous defensive measures are employed.While on the march, the fire of every available rifle,carbine, and machine gun should be brought to bearupon attacking enemy aircraft. (See par. 13.) Whilehalted, vehicles and howitzers should be well- dis-persed. Foxholes and emplacements should be dug;garnished camouflage nets should be used, as well asany available natural camouflage materials.

e. The tactical employment of the cannon com-pany in desert terrain is similar to that in othertypes of terrain, except that the requirements forcover and concealment may require the occupationof.firing position areas at greater distances in rearof the forward elements of supported units.

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44. TACTICAL EMPLOYMENT IN THE ESTAB-LISHMENT OF A BEACHHEAD. a. Since am-phibious warfare takes on the characteristics ofland warfare once the landing has been effected,cannon support for infantry troops attacking inlandbecomes an important factor in landing operations.Reduction df shore defenses prior to and during theinitial stages of a landing constitute a separate phaseof the landing, executed by naval gunfire and bom-bardment aviation. The mission of cannon companyelements is to provide timely and effective fire sup-pdrt in close liaison with attacking infantry units toassist them in extending the beachhead inland oncethe landing has been effected.

b. Cannon units should.be landed as soon as prac-ticable in order that they may take over the close-up support missions that are not within the ca-pabilities of naval gunfire, and to supplement thesupporting fires of artillery units. Plans should pro-vide for the landing of a cannon platoon with eachinfantry assault battalion, after the assault echelonhas secured the beach and the first terrain mask, orhas moved inland a sufficient distance to removesmall arms fire from the beach. Cannon elementslanding with reserve infantry battalions should beprepared to fire without delay in support of theassault battalions.

c. A reconnaissance party consisting of personneldetailed from company and platoon headquartersshould precede the landing of the platoons them-selves. This party, under control of the reconnais-sance officer, may be subdivided into two or threegroups in order to select observation posts and fir-

60

ing position areas for each platoon. As the platoonsare landed, they are guided into their respective po-sitions by members of the reconnaissance party, whoalso assist in the establishment of wire communica-tion between observation posts and firing positions.

d. Full organic loads of, ammunition are landedwith each platoon; arrangements are made in ad-vance for additional ammunition to be unloaded atthe earliest practicable moment.

e. While control of individual platoons is neces-sarily decentralized to platoon leaders during land-ing operations and during the initial stages of theattack inland, the company commander mustpromptly establish and maintain contact with allelements of the company. While the platoons willfrequently be operating under mission-type orders,the company commander will retain such control asmay be necessary in order to provide the maximumsupport to the regimental plan of action.

45. MOUNTAIN OPERATIONS. a. Mountain war-fare is characterized primarily by the difficultieswhich the terrain offers to movement and obser-vation. The inaccessibility of certain regions re-stricts areas in which units are able to operate. Thetactical employment of the cannon company inmountain warfare corresponds to that in other typesof operations, with the necessary modifications andrestrictions necessitated by the terrain.

b. Mountain warfare usually requires a decentral-ization of operations. Tactical groups frequently op-erate semi-independently within terrain compart-

61

ments in order to carry out the plan for the forceas a whole. Control of the cannon company is de-centralized; the attachment of calinon elements toinfantry units is frequently necessary in order toinsure the most effective support and control.

c. The infantry howitzer attains increased im-portance as a close-support weapon because of itscapabilities of clearing masks and of delivering firesagainst defiladed targets.

d. Lack of adequate observation and communica-tion facilities will often require extensive recon-naissance. Personnel in the company commandgroup must be utilized to the maximum to assistthe platoons in the selection of observation posts,firing positions, and routes for the movement ofhowitzers and vehicles.

e. Howitzers will be emplaced near existing roadsand trails, if practicable, in order to minimize thedifficulty of movement to and from position andto facilitate the supply of ammunition.

f. In addition to the more usual missions of en-gaging enemy supporting weapons, cannon unitsmay also be assigned the missions of neutralizingenemy observation posts and delivering interdictionfires. The effectiveness of interdiction fires is in-creased because of the number of definite pointswhich the enemy is compelled to pass.

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Chapter 5

DEFENSIVE COMBAT

Section I. GENERAL

46. GENERAL. a. In the defense, the combataction of the cannon company is not static in thesense that the howitzers remain constantly in oneposition, or that sections prepare to expend all oftheir power on a single target area or sector offire. Platoons take full advantage of the flexibilityand mobility of the howitzers.

b. In supporting the defensive action of the regi-ment, cannon company howitzers are capable ofdelivering long-range, mid-range, and close-protec-tive fires by indirect laying from defiladed positionsin the regimental sector. They may also be em-ployed to engage appropriate targets by direct lay-ing. In the usual situation, targets should be mainlyclose-in targets of opportunity.

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Section II. EMPLOYMENT INDEFENSE

47. MISSIONS. a. The principal mission of thecannon company in defense is to provide close sup-port to front-line infantry units by destroying orneutralizing hostile troops and weapons whichthreaten the friendly defensive position. This mis-sion involves, primarily, the engagement of targetsof opportunity which are not being effectively en-gaged by other supporting weapons. (See FM 7-40.)In addition, the platoons must be prepared to de-liver concentrations of fire, on call, from prepareddata on predetermined localities. Such concentra-tions are planned in order to permit the rapid plac-ing of howitzer fires on areas likely to be occupiedby enemy troops or supporting weapons, the cover-ing of road blocks and demolitions, the blocking ofnarrow defiles, or the denial to the enemy of cer-tain critical areas for short periods of time. Con-centrations should also be prepared for the purposeof supplementing the close-defensive fires of the81-mm mortars and supporting artillery. (See par.7.)

b. As a secondary mission, the regimental com-mander may direct that elements of the cannoncompany be employed to supplement or add depthto the antimechanized defense of the regiment. Toaccomplish this mission, the howitzer officer, afterconsultation with the anti-tank officer, selects sup-

64

plementary positions to which howitzers may bemoved, if necessary, to engage penetrating enemyarmored vehicles. (See FM 7-35.)

48. DISTRIBUTION OF CANNON ELEMENTS.The howitzers of the cannon company are distrib-uted within the regimental sector of the battle posi-tion. One platoon is usually placed in support ofeach front-line battalion, while the remainder ofthe company, if any, is placed in support of the regi-ment as a whole. (See FM 7-20.) Whenever theterrain permits, howitzers are initially emplaced incarefully concealed or camouflaged firing positions,prepared to deliver indirect fires either by platoonor by individual section; or the howitzers are heldin cover positions from which they may be movedquickly by hand into firing positions in partialdefilade for the delivery of direct fires. Observa-tion posts are installed and telephone communica-tion established with the howitzer firing positionsfor the control and conduct of fire. Whenever thetactical situation permits, the data for prearrangedfires should be corrected by registration on a basepoint. Platoon leaders prepare overlays for theirplatoons. Copies are submitted to the company com-mander and combined to show the fire plan of thecompany. This fire plan is submitted to the regi-mental commander.

49. CONDUCT OF THE DEFENSE. a. Duringthe enemy's approach to the battle position, cannonobservers are alert to discover and engage appro-priate targets for the purpose of assisting in delay-

65

MLR

x

0S

Figure 9. Support of a regiment in the defense. (Schematic)Flat-trajectory weapons cover gaps in concentrations infront of the main line of resistance. Howitzer concentra-tions other than those in front of the main line of resistancecover points likely to be occupied by supporting weapons orobservation posts of the enemy when he launches his co-ordinated attack. Figure to the left of the dash in concen-tration symbol indicates number of cannon platoon; that tothe right, number of concentration for that platoon.

66

ing the advance of the enemy, disorganizing hisformations, and forcing him to deploy prematurely.This may be accomplished by' the interdiction ofroutes of approach to the battle position along whichenemy movement is detected; by the delivery ofconcentrations of fire against known or suspectedassembly areas; or by the neutralization or destruc-tion of hostile long-range supporting weapons. (Seefigs. 2. and 9.) Cannon company elements may alsobe employed to provide close support to combat out-posts or to cover their withdrawal.

b. During the course of the enemy's coordinatedattack against the battle position, the principal mis-sion of cannon company elements is the neutraliza-tion or destruction of weapons supporting the hostileattack. Fires against such targets of opportunitymay be delivered upon call from the commandersof supported units or upon the initiative of indi-vidual cannon observers. A cannon platoon leaderor a liaison agent from the platoon is, usually withthe commander of each front-line battalion for thepurpose of providing close liaison and insuring theprompt delivery of fires which may be requestedby the battalion commander. The cannon companycommander also maintains close liaison with theregimental commander and the artillery command-er, either personally or by designating some mem-ber of the company command group as a liaisonagent.

c. If the enemy succeeds in effecting a close ap-proach to the main line of resistance, the primarymission of cannon company elements is still the

67

neutralization or destruction of hostile supportingweapons. However, they should be prepared to de-liver concentrations of fire rapidly on call for thepurpose of supplementing the prearranged close de-fensive fires of 81-mm mortars and supporting ar-tillery. (See fig. 9.) Such concentrations are de-livered from fire data which has been previouslycomputed and recorded within each platoon and co-ordinated with that delivered against primary targetareas by the mortars, and with the normal artillerybarrages. (See par. 7.)

d. In the event of a counterattack against en-emy elements which may have penetrated the bat-tle position, cannon company units will normallysupport such a counterattack by the rapid deliveryof a heavy concentration of fire on remunerativetargets within the penetrated area, and the promptlifting or shifting of such fire upon signal or requestfrom the counterattacking force. Such support re-quires careful advance planning and coordinationbetween reserve infantry units and supporting ar-tillery, and the cannon elements which are to pro-vide the fire support.

Section III. RETROGRADEMOVEMENTS

50. GENERAL. For the fundamental doctrinesgoverning retrograde movements, see FM 100-5. Forprinciples and methods applied by the infantry regi-ment and battalion, see FM 7-40 and FM 7-20.

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51. NIGHT WITHDRAWAL. During a night with-drawal, elements of the cannon company will fre-quently be attached to the covering force. Cannonelements located in the areas of front-line battalionswill usually be attached to such battalions for with-drawal to battalion assembly areas. Further with-drawal will be under cannon company control. Can-non elements not attached to the covering forcewill withdraw with the remainder of the regiment.

52. DAYLIGHT WITHDRAWAL. a. During adaylight withdrawal, the regiment may be assignedin whole or in part to the general covering force,or it may be required to break contact with the en-emy and withdraw, protected either by the generalcovering force or solely by designated elements ofthe regiment.

b. The covering force for a regiment will or-dinarily not be larger than a reinforced battalion.One cannon platoon will frequently be attached tothe battalion executing the covering mission inorder to provide close support to the battalion inits initial delaying position and in such successivedelaying positions as it may occupy.

c. When the regiment acts as the general cover-ing force of a larger unit, one cannon platoon willnormally be attached to each battalion occupyingdelaying positions, while the remainder of the com-pany will support the action of the regiment as awhole. Particular attention will be devoted to cov-ering the withdrawal of troops in forward delayingpositions, and to the support of counterattacks. When,

69

a counterattack is executed by the regimnent as awhole, the cannon company is employed as indicatedin paragraph 37.

53. RETIREMENT. a. If a regiment in contactwith the enemy is to execute a, retirement, it mustfirst execute a withdrawal from action. During thewithdrawal, the cannon company is employed asindicated in paragraphs 51 and 52.

b. After contact is broken, the regiment is re,-grouped in assembly-areas and the march columnformed.

c. During the retirement, elements of the: can-non company will usually be attached to the regi-mental rear guard, and will engage appropriatetargets at long ranges in order to force the enemyto deploy and thus delay his advance.

54. DELAYING ACTION. a. The purpose of de-laying action is to gain time while avoiding decisiveaction. It is characterized by a maximum of long-range fire action and a minimum of close combat.

b. When the regiment is conducting a delayingaction on one position, the employment of the can-non company is not materially different from thatin a sustained defense, except that cannon elementswill normally be attached to designated units of theregiment, especially when a withdrawal over widelyseparated routes is contemplated.

c. (1) When successive positions are to be oc-cupied, and a portion of the company remains underdirect control of the company commander, he. erm-

70

ploys his reconnaissance personnel to reconnoiterthe first delaying position for tentative firing po-sitions. As time permits, this reconnaissance is ex-tended to the rear to include the next delaying posi-tion and routes thereto. When all platoons areattached to subordinate units of the regiment, thecompany commander employs his reconnaissanceand other command group personnel to assist theplatoons in reconnaissance, as guides, in control,and in ammunition supply.

(2) If practicable, position areas should be suchthat firing positions may be located near topograph-ical crests, with nearby cover for prime movers tofacilitate withdrawal. Fire is opened on hostile ele-ments at the longest practicable ranges in order todisorganize and delay the attack. During the with-drawal from one delaying position to another, can-non elements, protected by riflemen, may occupyintermediate positions to harass the enemy, slowdown his advance, and cover road blocks and otherobstacles.

d. In open country, where the hostile forces havegreat freedom of maneuver, cannon company ele-.ments, in-addition to executing long-range fire mis-sions, will also devote particular attention to theinterdiction of any detected enemy movement to-ward the flanks.

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Section IV. SPECIALOPERATIONS

55. DEFENSE IN WOODS. -a. When the regi-ment occupies a defensive position in woods, can-non elements may be attached to forward battalions(see FM 7-20); otherwise, the company is em-ployed under the command of the company 'com-mander in accordance with the regimental plan ofdefense.

b. Facilities for observation, locations affordingmask clearance for indirect fire and those with ade-quate fields of fire for direct fire vary accordingto the density and nature of the woods. Observationmay frequently be obtained from some point oncommanding ground within the woods, from posi-tions in trees, or along the edges of large clearings.Positions both for indirect and direct firing maybe prepared by clearing openings and lanes in thetrees.

c. Adequate local protection against attacks byinfiltrating enemy groups must be provided for allcannon company elements.

56. DEFENSE OF TOWNS. a. In the defense oftowns, cannon company elements may be attachedto battalions. (See FM 31-50.) Elements so attachedmay in turn be attached to rifle companies.

b. Howitzers of the cannon company are em-ployed to cover roads, bridges, defiles, and other

72

avenues of approach toward the edge of the town,as well as streets and open areas within the built-up area. In order to engage attacking enemy ele-ments as they approach the edge of the town, how-itzers may be emplaced initially in positions out-side the town with observation posts located onprominent terrain features or in windows and onroofs of buildings overlooking the approaches. How-itzers may also be employed from positions withinthe town, such as the edges of open parks or squares,or on terrain features affording clearance oversurrounding buildings.

c. After the attacking enemy forces have enteredthe town, howitzers are employed principally inclose support of the defense by direct fires at com-paratively short ranges. These weapons coverbridges, barricades, street intersections, and openareas, and are particularly alert to engage any en-emy supporting weapons located in buildings, behindpiles of debris or rubble, or in the cellars of de-molished buildings.

57. DEFENSE OF A RIVER LINE. a. When theregiment is defending a normal frontage along ariver line, elements of the cannon company are em-ployed as in the normal defense of the regimentalsector of a battle position. (See FM 7-20.) How-itzers and observation posts are located in posi-tions which will permit the engagement of enemytroops and supporting weapons beyond the far bankof the river, and which will also permit the deliv-ery of close defensive fires on the far bank and onthe river itself.'

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b. When wide frontages have been assigned, thenear bank of the river may be lightly held by out-guards. In such defense, the bulk of each front-line battalion is held mobile, prepared to occupyany one of several possible defense areas so as to'block attempted enemy crossings. Cannon companyelements are usually assigned missions with one pla-toon in support of, or attached to, each front-linebattalion and the remainder of the company sup-porting the regimental reserve. Prior to the enemyattack, all cannon elements must carry out exten-sive reconnaissance for the selection of supplemen-tary firing positions and routes thereto, in orderthat their fires may be 'delivered against an at-tempted crossing at any point. (See par. 40.)Counterattacks made by a battalion reserve. willbe supported by the cannon platoon supporting orattached to that battalion. If the enemy threatensto gain a foothold on the near bank and a counter-attack is made by the regimental reserve, thecounterattack may be supported by the fires ofall three cannon platoons.

58. DEFENSE AGAINST AIRBORNE OPERA-TIONS. a. In general, security measures againstall enemy landing forces are designed to isolate anddestroy such forces by immediate attack before theycan be resupplied and reinforced wyith supportingweapons or before they can occupy any critical ter-rain features.

b. When the number and size of probable landingareas for airplanes and gliders are so limited that

74

an effective defense of each area can be established,all troops may be distributed for static defense ofthese areas. When possible landing areas are sonumerous that an effective static defense of eacharea cannot be provided, the entire force may beheld mobile.

c. Elements of the cannon company may be at-tached to any unit of the regiment employed as atask force in defending areas against airborne at-tack. Howitzer targets include airplanes and glidersas they land, and areas defiladed from flat-tra-jectory fire in which enemy landings have beenobserved or reported, or in which enemy airbornetroops are reorganizing preparatory to an attack.(See FM 7-20.) Firing positions should permit thedelivery of observed fires on possible landing areasfor hostile aircraft, and the support of friendlycounterattacks. .

d. Riflemen should be detailed for the local pro-tection of all cannon company elements. When anenemy attack develops, such troops, together with allcannon personnel not immediately required for op-eration of the howitzers, coordinate their fire withthat of the friendly troops in the immediate vicin-ity. Unless otherwise directed, drivers remain withand defend their vehicles.

59. DESERT OPERATIONS. For a discussion ofdesert operations, see paragraph 43.

60. MOUNTAIN OPERATIONS. For a discussionof mountain operations, see paragraph 45.

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Appendix I

STREAM CROSSING EXPEDIENTSFOR HOWITZERS AND VEHICLES

1. GENERAL. It is frequently necessary to crosshowitzers and vehicles to the far bank of an un-fordable stream when no bridges are available, andbefore engineer troops can establish bridges or ve-hicular ferries. The expedients described herein maybe employed in such a situation.

2. FLOTATION OF HOWITZERS - GENTLYSLOPING BANKS (fig. 10). a. The howitzer canbe floated and towed across a stream by the use ofthree brush rafts. The procedure is as follows:

(1) The canvas cover of a 11/2-ton truck is usedfor each of two large rafts. The canvas cover of a3/4-ton truck is used for one small raft. Brush bun-dles are built of sufficient size so that, when laidside by side in the center of the canvas, the canvaswill extend beyond them about 18 inches on all foursides. The sides and ends of the canvas are thenraised to form side walls, and are secured by tieropes. The walls of the canvas should be as nearlyvertical as possible.

(2) It is desirable to tie the brush in separatebundles of such size that each can be convenientlymoved by one man, before placing on the canvas.The bundles should be made the full length of

76

the area to be filled, but not more than 2 feet wideand 16 inches high. To build such a bundle, stakesare driven into the ground to outline the desiredsize of the brush bundle. Either green or dry brushis piled' between the stakes and bound with rope,marline or old telephone wire. The ends of thebrush are trimmed by cutting with a machete orother cutting tool so as to provide a square end tothe bundle.

_/

- Ni-

Figure 10. Flotation of howitzer.

(3) A pole 10 to 12 inches in diameter, and about14 feet long, is cut. The trails of the howitzer arelocked. The firing base is unlocked and lowered

77

until its elbows can be fitted around the center ofthe pole. After they have been so fitted, the muzzleis depressed until the barrel is horizontal, and thebarrel and firing base are lashed to 'the pole (fig.10).

(4) A sandbag ramp should be constructed tofacilitate the movement of the piece into the water(fig. 11). The howitzer is moved into the water

Figure 11. 'loatiato f 4 ovtzerm

'by haina, trail first, and 'the end of the trail placedeoh the Smail waft, with spatdes oIa'r of the raft and

QiWi~t SuS but its eg6. ATd large -afts

are floated into position close to and parallel withthe wheels, and with their centers under the pole. Asthe howitzer is moved into the water, the rafts arekept in the same relative position until they supportthe pole, and with it, the piece. When the howitzeris completely;floated, it-is towed across the stream.

b.. If available, a rubber boat Qf' the five-manreconnaissance type may be used instead' of the,small raft. Otherwise, the arrangement is similar tothe above method. Somewhat higher flotation isthus provided.

c. Ammunition and personnel must be separatelycrossed, utilizing brush rafts or boats, if available.

3. FLOTATION OF ¼-TON TRUCKS-GENTLYSLOPING BANKS. A 1/4-ton truck with three menand its normal load of ammunition and equipmentcan be floated across the stream by the use offour small brush rafts, employing the canvas cov-ers of 3/4-ton or 11/2-ton trucks. (See fig. 12.) Twopoles, each 16 or 18 feet long, are cut. One is se-curely fastened with wire or rope to the frontbumper of the truck so that it projects approxi-mately equally on each side; the other is similarlyfastened to the rear bumper. Two brush rafts arespotted in the water so that the truck can be drivenbetween them. The fan belt of the truck is discon-nected to avoid flooding the motor with water. Thetruck is then moved under its own power until thefront pole rests on.the c'enter offtherafts. This willfloat the front end of the truck. It is :then moved,under its own power, still farther into the streamuntil the other two brush rafts, can be placed in

79

like manner under the ends of the pole fastenedto the rear bumper. If the banks shelve so rapidlyas to make the above method impracticable, thebrush rafts may be lashed to the ends of the sap-lings before the vehicle is moved into the water.With the entire load floating, the truck is towedacross the stream. On arrival at the opposite bank,the brush rafts are removed from the front end ofthe vehicle and the truck is pulled out of the streamor run out under its own power.

Figure 12. Flotation of W-ton truck on brush raft.

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4. FLOTATION OF /4-TON TRUCKS-GENTLYSLOPING BANKS. The 3/4-ton truck can be fer-ried across a stream in a manner similar to thatdescribed for the /4A-ton truck. Brush rafts employ-ing canvas covers of 1l/2-ton or larger trucks areused, constructed as described for the flotation ofthe howitzer. The poles fastened to the front andrear bumpers of the truck must be somewhat longerthan those used for the 1/4-ton truck, and not lessthan 8 inches in diameter.

5. FLOTATION OF LARGER VEHICLES. Flota-tion by' rafts of vehicles larger than the %-tontruck is usually impracticable. However, flotationof such vehicles, as well as s3/-ton trucks, may beeffected by the employment of canvas tarpaulins.Although infantry units are not equipped with tar-paulins of suitable size for this purpose, large tar-paulins, 20 feet 6 inches by 40 feet, are issued toeach field artillery battalion in the division. Thesetarpaulins may be used to float trucks as follows:

a. A launching site is selected which providesaccess to the stream at a point where the drop-offis free from stumps, rocks, and roots, and deepenough under the center of a tarpaulin (placed asdescribed in ,b below) to float the vehicle. Emptyvehicles float with the waterline approximately 6inches below the top of the fender. It may be neces-sary to deepen the stream at the launching andbeaching points.

b. The tarpaulin is spread at the water's edgeand dragged over the water with a few feet of one

81

end resting on the bank. (See fig. 13.) Men shouldbe stationed about every 3 feet around the tar-paulin to hold the edges out of the water.

c. A piece of canvas or a folded truck cover shouldbe stretched underneath the truck from bumper tobumper to prevent U-bolts, spring shackles, andother sharp projections from tearing the tarpaulin.

d. Except with an extremely sharp drop-off, thetruck should be driven onto the canvas front endfirst, using rear drive only. Men hold the sidesand end of the tarpaulin out of the water as thetruck is driven onto it. After the front wheels areafloat and the rear wheels lose traction, the tar-paulin is folded about the vehicle; the corners aretied' diagonally. The tie ropes along the sides andends of the tarpaulin are tied to convenient pointson the body of the vehicle.

Caution.-If the front wheel drive is engaged, andthe front wheels slip, there is danger of tearing thetarpaulin.

e. When wrapped in the tarpaulin, the truck canbe pushed outward by the crew until it floats. Thetruck may then be towed across the stream by atruck winch or by hand.

f. Flotation of the 1/4-ton truck in the cover of a21/2-ton truck may be effected in a manner similarto that described above.

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- K

Figure 13. Flotation of 1%-ton truck with tarpaulin.

6. AERIAL CABLE-WAYS. a. General. When thebanks of a stream are high and steep, it is fre-quently impossible to launch or land heavy flota-tion equipment. For such streams and for ravines,up to widths of 200 feet, an aerial cable-way maybe used to make a crossing. Ordinarily, this is pre-pared by attached engineers or members of bat-talion ammunition and pioneer platoons.

b. Equipment. The following equipment will berequired:

Two 21/2- or 11/2-ton winch trucks.Four 8-inch steel snatch blocks suitable for use

on winch truck cables.300 feet 3/4-inch manila rope.Two towing chains from 21½- or 11/2-ton trucks.

c. Selection of site for an aerial cable crossing. Thebest site for an aerial cable crossing is one in whichthe loads can be taken from a high bank to a low

83

bank, or between banks of equal height. To go froma low bank to a high bank is very difficult, andshould not be attempted unless absolutely necessary.For a double-cable. crossing (the kind describedherewith) the site should have two large trees oneach bank to support the cables. Each pair of treesshould be located approximately 12 feet apart, andin such a place that the cables can be rigged directlyin line with the winches on the trucks. The treeson the near bank should be not less than 30 feet andthose on the far bank not less than 50 feet fromthe edge of the water. The farther away from theedge of the water the cables can be rigged on thefar bank, the easier will be the crossing. If the cen-ter point of the cables is the point at which the

-equipment is to be landed, the crossing will bequickly effected and very easily controlled.

d. Safety precaution. It is possible to overloadthe cables. For this reason, it is essential that theybe properly rigged to keep the loads within theircarrying capacity. To be sure that they are proper-ly rigged to carry loads up to 2,674 pounds (theweight of the howitzer) in double-cable crossings,allow 5 feet of slack for every 100 feet of cable. Thislimit is based upon a cable and winch capacity of7,500 pounds. Slack must always be measured orestimated at the mid-point of the cables. (See fig.14.) Additional slack in the cables will decreasethe load thereon, and increase the factor of safetyfor the crossing. The cables must be in good con-dition, and free from kinks and snarls.

84

Figure 14. Method of measuring slack. Amount of slack, B,is measured or estimated at center of cable.

e. Rigging. (1) Drive the winch trucks into posi-tion so that their winch drums are in line with thecableways. Anchor both winch trucks firmly inplace. Trucks can be anchored by butting themagainst trees, or by installing dead men or other suit-able anchorages. For each cable, place a snatch blockwell up on the two trees on the bank of the streamwhere the trucks are located. These snatch blocksshould be located high enough to allow for the slackrequired for the crossing. Place the cables throughthe snatch blocks, take them to the far bank andfasten them well up on the anchor trees whichhave been selected on that bank.,

(2) To cross the 1/4-ton truck, place one snatchblock on each cable. Take a pole 4 inches in diame-ter, 12 feet long, and notched near each end, andfasten one end to the hook of each snatch block.

85

This is the spreader pole, and should be wired tothe hooks at the notches in order to keep the blocksfrom sliding together. (See fig. 15.) Fasten a, hold-back line to the snatch blocks by tying the ropearound them with a bridle. Fasten another rope ina similar manner and carry the free end to the farbanks, where it is used to pull the load across thestream. A howitzer, in which the weight is dis-.tributed unevenly, will require two pairs of snatchblocks and two spreaders. With this rigging, theholdback line is fastened to the near snatch blocksand the pulling rope is fastened to the far snatchblocks. (See fig. 16.)

I-

Figure 15. Aerial cableway showing movement of ¾-ton truckby double-cable crossing.

86

Figure 16. Aerial crossing of howitzer.

87

Appendix II

DIRECTIVES FOR TACTICALTRAINING OF CANNON COM-PANY, INFANTRY REGIMENT

1. GENERAL. a. The directives which follow aredesigned to assist the commander of the cannoncompany and his subordinates in the preparationand execution of tactical exercises in which thecompany will participate with the regiment as apart of its field training. The directives are basedon the tactics prescribed for the company in thismanual and in FM 7-40. They are to. be consideredas guides only, and may be expanded or modifiedas local situations and the particular needs of indi-vidual units may warrant. However, a cannon com-pany will not be considered as being fully traineduntil it has participated in exercises covering allphases of each type of operation outlined in thesedirectives.

b. In addition to serving as guides for the tacti-cal training of units, the directives stress essentialitems which should be covered by higher com-manders in testing the tactical efficiency of can-non companies.

2. PREPARATION. a. For a general discussion ofthe preparation of field exercises and field ma-

88

neuvers, see FM 21-5. The directives which followshow the definite phases of combat to be coveredin each exercise. Thus, an officer drawing up an ex-ercise need only find terrain suitable for the opera-tion outlined in the directive. In doing so, he visitsthe terrain under consideration, where he makesa detailed reconnaissance by actually going overthe ground and studying it from the point of viewof the participants in the exercise. The locationhaving been decided on, the officer conducting theexercise formulates a situation which will con-front the unit at the beginning of its participation.He also determines the actions to be required ofthose elements which are to represent the enemyand the control measures and safety precautionswhich are essential. A unit should be told no morethan would be known in similar situations in actualcombat. An elaborate background of events leadingup to the initial situation is unnecessary.

b. Prior to the conduct of the exercise on theground, it should be conducted in unit schools eitheras a map exercise, a sand table exercise, or a tacticalwalk, thereby giving subordinate officers and non-commissioned officers a, clear understanding ofwhat is expected of the unit. In addition, this pre-liminary study of the problem will probably resultin less stringent control measures during the con-duct of the exercise on the ground. When the direc-tives are being used to test the tactical efficiencyof the unit, this preliminary study will not be made.

3. CONDUCT. a. For the control and conduct offield exercises and maneuvers, see FM 21-5. The

89

unit should be allowed to solve the problem as itsleader sees fit. The officer conducting the exer-cises should have in mind solutions to the varioussituations that will confront the unit, but must notforce the unit or any parts of it to follow his pre-conceived ideas as to what actions should be taken.Umpires may assess penalties or inject events whichwill cause the units to act in a suitable mannershould the need arise. These control measures, how-ever, must be logical and appropriate.

b. The umpire must strive to make the exerciseas realistic as possible and to provide impressionssimilar to those actually experienced on the battle-field. For the duties and operations of the umpire,see FM 105-5.

4. CRITIQUE. For a discussion of the critique,which is always a part of each exercise, see FM21-5. Critiques may be held at any stage of the exer-cise. The chief umpire and his assistants shouldmake notes for use at the critique held on the groundat the conclusion of the exercise.

5. GENERAL PRINCIPLES. Ample time shouldbe given each unit to solve 'its problems logically.Reconnaissance must be made and orders issued.Full use must be made of such concealment andcover as the terrain provides. If troops are per-mitted to rush through preparatory measures andto move freely over terrain under hostile observa-tion, they will acquire unnatural impressions whichlater may be disastrous.

90

6. DIRECTIVES-CANNON COMPANY (see FM7-20, 7-35, 7-40, and 100-5).

a. Route march.

Scope StandardA problem involving the The company commander

employment of the cannon should immediately designatecompany during a route the personnel and vehicles tomarch by a regiment in one be employed for reconnais-column. The r e g i m e n t a 1 sance and liaison missions.march order attaches one The platoon attached toplatoon to the advance guard the advance guard advancesand one to a motorized flank by bounds in the interval be-guard. One platoon marches tween the rear of the advancewith the motor echelon. guard and the head of the

Situation to be drawn so as main body. Its movementto require: is supervised by the platoon

(1) Disposition of cannon sergeant, who maintainsplatoon elements in relation communication with the pla-to other elements of the regi- toon leader by radiotelephonement participating in the or motor messenger. The pla-march. toon leader, together with

(2) Employment and con- the agent corporal, radiotele-duct of the platoon attached phone operator, and mes-to the advance guard. senger, should accompany

(3) Employment and con- the advance guard com-duct of the platoon attached mander. The platoon leaderto the flank guard. is responsible for continuous

(4) Employment and con- reconnaissance for the selec-duct of the platoon with the tion of firing position areas,motor echelon when attacked observation posts, and routesby hostile aircraft and ar- thereto, and should be as-mored elements. sisted by a reconnaissance

(5) Communication a nd detail from company head-liaison. quarters. His orders to the

chiefs of section should beclear and concise. He shouldenforce march discipline,designate air-antitank

91

Scope Standardguards, and institute protec-tive measures against airand mechanized attack. Heshould maintain contact withthe company commander byradiotelephone or motor mes-senger.

Howitzers of the platoonattached to the flank guardshould occupy successive po-sitions when required to sup-port rifle elements of theflank guard, displacing bysections, and should move inrear of trucks carrying riflepersonnel during movementfrom one position to another.The platoon leader's dutiesare similar to those describedfor support of the advanceguard.

Howitzers of the platoonwith the motor element oft he regiment should movenear the head of the motorechelon. The platoon leader'sduties are similar to thosedescribed for support of theadvance guard.

Air-antitank guards shouldbe designated by unit leadersfor each vehicle. When halt-ed on warning of an attackvehicles so equipped shouldpromptly place caliber .50machine guns in readinessfor action. Passive measuresshould be effected by allpersonnel to include utiliza-tion of all available cover.

92

Scope StandardFire should be delivered onlyon order or signal of the unitleader.

Antimechanized protectionfor vehicles and personnelshould include use of rocketteams.

The company commandershould maintain contact withthe regimental commanderand platoon leaders. Heshould utilize radio and mes-sengers to insure continualliaison.

b. Approach march.

Scope StandardThe regiment is assumed to By clear and concise oral

be an interior unit in the ad- orders the company com-vance of a larger force. Covy- mander s h o u I d prescribeering forces are inadequate initial positions and missionsto prevent delaying action by with respect to supportedsmall hostile elements. An battalions and should informoral regimental order pre- the platoon leaders of thescribes an immediate devel- plan of forward movement;opment for the approach such plan should providemarch and assigns one can- maximum coordination withnon platoon to support the regimental a n d battalionleading battalion, which is to antitank means.advance on a broad front, The platoon supporting theand one platoon to furnish leading battalion should moveprotection of each exterior forward by bounds in rearflank of the other battalions, of the foot elements of thewhich are to advance respec- battalion, p r e p a r e d fortively to the right and left prompt employment by therear of the leading battalion. battalion commander as the

6il.5NiM 0 44 - 3 93

Scope StandardSituation to be drawn so situation develops. The pla-

as to require: toons supporting each of the(1) -Issuance of company other battalions should ad-

commander's orders to the vance by bounds to successiveplatoons. position areas, prepared to

(2) Employment of the provide protection to vulner-platoons during the approach able flanks of the rear bat-march. talions, with particular at-

(3) Reconnaissance of the tention to supplementingzone of advance. their antimechanized de-

(4) Communication a n d fense.liaison. The company commander

and the platoon leadersshould effect continuous re-connaissance for suitable fir-ing positions which will per-mit observed fire in front orto the flanks of the most ad-vanced foot elements .for aslong a period as possible.

Communication b e t w e e nthe company commander andthe platoon leaders-should beregularly maintained; mes-sengers (and radio, if radiosilence is not prescribed)should be employed. Thecompany commander should.maintain personal liaisonwith the regimental and bat-talion commanders.

e. Defense of a regimental assembly area.

Scope StandardA problem involving the Reconnaissance and coordi-

employment, of the cannon nation with antitank ele-company i-n a daylight de- ments and supporting' fires,

94

Scope Standardfense of a regimental assem- of other units should be exe-bly area. (This problem is a cuted by the company com-continuation of the preceding mander immediately upondirective.) receipt of the regimental or-

Situation to be drawn so as der. His recommendationsto require: should include position areas

(1) Recommendations of for any cannon company ele-the company commander for ments to be employed to sup-the employment of his com- port the outpost, as well aspany in the defense of the as- for those which are to sup-sembly area. plement the antimechanized

(2) Movement to and oc- defense of the assembly area.upation of position areas. The company commander

(3) Action and orders of should initiate movement toplatoon leaders upon receipt and occupation of positionof company order. areas by messages to platoon

(4) Inspection by the com- leaders assigning approxi-pany commander. mate position areas and di-

recting them to conduct in-dividual reconnaissance whileplatoons are moving into po-sition.

Platoon leaders should is-sue clear and concise ordersto the platoon sergeants,chiefs of section, and person-nel of the command group,and insure prompt anid or-derly occupation of positions,concealment of howitzers,posting of observers, replen-ishment of ammunition fromplatoon and section trucks ifrequired, and movement ofammunition trucks and trail-ers to a centrally located po-sition in a designated area,properly dispersed and con-cealed.

Scope StandardUpon arrival of the sec-

tions, the platoon leaderinitiates the occupation andorganization of firing posi-tions, digging of foxholes,posting of air - antitankguards, and coordination withnearby rifle elements to pro-vide local security.

The company commandershould inspect the area occu-pied by his units to insurecomplete protection to theassembly area as well asreadiness to support the ini-tial attack by the regiment.

d. Protection of night advance to line of depar-ture, preparatory to daylight attack.

Scope StandardA problem involving the The company commander,

cannon company in protect- assisted by his reconnais-ing the advance of the regi- sance detail, should make ament, at night, from an as- hasty map study, followed bysembly area to the line of de- a ground reconnaissance. Heparture, preparatory to a should select position areasdaylight attack; the attack which permit the occupationto be made by the regiment, of defiladed and concealedas part of a larger force, firing positions and whichagainst a hastily intrenched can be reached by defiladedenemy. The cannon company and concealed routes. Rec-is disposed for defense of the ommendations should be sub-regimental assembly area. mitted promptly to the regi-

Situation to be drawn so mental commander.as to require: Upon receipt of the regi-

(1) Rapid reconnaissance mental attack order, the com-by the company commander pany commander should com-

96

Scope Standardduring daylight and submis- pletb his plan and, fromsion of recommendations, point(s) affording observa-prior to issuance of the regi- tion over the zone of action,mental attack order, for the promptly issue clear andemployment of the cannon concise orders assigning posi-company. tion areas and definite fire

(2) Orders of the com- missions to the platoons. Thepany commander. company order should be is-

(3) Movement to and occu- sued in time to permit pla-pation of position areas by toon leaders to complete theirplatoons prior to attack, and reconnaissance and obtainpreparation of initial firing firing data prior to dark-data. ness.

(4) Communication and Platoon leaders should in-liaison. sure: quiet and orderly move-

ment of their platoons to theassigned position areas priorto the advance of the attack-ing echelon to the line of de-parture; concealment a n dcamouflage; posting of ob-servers; and establishmentof telephone communicationbetween observation postsand the platoon firing posi-tion area.

Prior to the attack, thecompany commander shouldmaintain contact with hisplatoons by messengers. Heshould maintain liaison withthe regimental commander,and should arrange for co-ordination with supportingartillery fires through S-3.

97

e. Daylight attack.

Scope StandardA problem involving the The company commander,

cannon company in support assisted by reconnaissanceof the daylight attack of an personnel f r o m companyinterior regiment. headquarters, should recon-

Situation to be based on noiter the regimental zone ofthe receipt by the regimental action. During this recon-commander of a division or- naissance, the general dis-der requiring the regiment at position and missions of thea given hour to attack a platoons of the cannon com-hastily intrenched enemy. pany should be determined.Situation to begin with the. Upon the basis of his owncannon company in an assem- reconnaissance and the re-bly area. The regimental ports of his assistants, thecommander has informed the company commander shouldhowitzer officer that he submit recommendations forplans to employ two bat- the employment of his com-talions in the attacking eche- pany at the time and placeIon. prescribed by the regimental

Situation to be drawn so as commander.to require: The company commander's

(1) Rapid reconnaissance attack order should assignby the company commander definite missions to each pla-and the submission of his toon. Platoons supportingrecommendations prior to the frontline battalions may beissuance of the regimental assigned mission-type orders.attack order. Platoon leaders should rec-

(2) Orders of the company onnoiter their zones of actioncommander to carry out the and select primary, alternate,missions assigned by the and (where necessary) sup-regimental attack order. plementary positions f o r

(3) Execution of orders to their platoons or sections.include: Observation posts and loca-

(a) Reconnaiss a n c e by tions for platoon vehiclesplatoon leaders for the em- should also be selected.ployment of their platoons. The orders of each platoon

(b) Orders of platoon leader should be clear andleaders to execute missions concise and should assign a

98

Scope Standardassigned in the company or- firing position, a sector ofder. fire, and a definite mission

(c) Movement of platoons for the platoon or for eachfrom assembly area to ini- section.tial firing positions. Each platoon should move

(d) Reconnaissance to fa- from the assembly area to itscilitate displacement to new assigned position area underpositions. control of the platoon ser-

(e) Displacement of pla- geant. F i r i n g positionstoons to provide continuous should be occupied quickly,fire support upon capture of and vehicles disposed near-an objective. by in dispersed, covered, and

(4) Ammunition supply. concealed positions.(5) Communication and When the attack pro-

liaison. gresses to such an extentthat f.rward displacementbecomes necessary, platoonleaders should issue tentativeinstructions to subordinatesand precede their units toreconnoiter routes, positions,and observation posts or tomeet the reconnaissance of-ficer (or other member of areconnaissance detail fromthe company commandgroup) in order that theirpositions may be pointed outto them.

Platoons operating undermission-type orders shoulddisplace at the earliest prac-ticable moment after the mis-sion can no longer be accom-plished from the positions oc-cupied. Such displacementmay be made on the initiativeof platoon leaders; however,the company commander may

99

-Scope Standarddirect and control displace-ment by platoon echelon. Inany case, the company com-mander should issue timelyorders for displacement ofthe platoon(s) held underhis immediate control.

The company commandershould provide for an ade-quate initial supply of am-munition and for replenish-ment during the attack. Pla-toon ammunition vehiclesshould operate under thecontrol of the platoon lead-ers. For purposes of re-sup-ply, they should be dispatch-ed through the company am-munition supply point totheregimental ammunition sup-ply point. During the attack,they should displace with therear echelon of the platoonunder control of the platoonsergeant.

Contact between the com-pany commander and hisplatoon leaders should bemaintained by radio. Liaisonbetween the platoons in sup-port of infantry units andthe commanders of thoseunits should be maintainedby the agent corporal of eachplatoon. Communication be-tween platoon firing posi-tions and observation postsshould be effected by the useof sound-powered telephones.

100

f. Reorganization and continuation of the attack.

Scope StandardA problem involving the The company commander

cannon company during a re- should promptly dispose hisorganization of the regiment platoons to protect the reor-and continuation of the at- ganization of the regiment.tack. The company commander

Situation to be drawn so should replace casualtiesas to require: among his command group

(1) Selection and occupa- and platoon leaders, maketion of firing positions to any necessary adjustmentsprotect the reorganization of of strength among platoons,the regiment. and insure that ammunition

(2) Reorganization of the is promptly replenished. Pla-company. toon leaders should direct the

(3) Reconnaissance, or- necessary reorganization ofders, and occupation of fir- platoons, replace leaders oring positions to protect the key men who have becomeregiment when the attack is casualties, and equalize theresumed. strength of sections, where

(4) Ammunition supply. necessary, by transfer among(5) Communication. sections.

The company commandershould initiate early recon-naissance for new firing po-sition areas to protect theregiment during reorganiza-tion and to support it whenthe attack is resumed. Aftersecuring the regimental com-mander's approval, he shouldissue the necessary ordersand insure that displacementto subsequent positions is soconducted as to maintaincontinuous protection for theregiment. He should makethe necessary provisions for

101

Scope Standardammunition supply duringcontinuation of the attack.He should maintain com-munication with the platoonsby radio-telephone and anyother available means.

Platoon leaders shouldpromptly displace their sec-tions so as to carry out their.assigned missions. T h e yshould initiate an early re-connaissance for new firingpositions from which to sup-port the attacking echelonwhen the attack is resumed,and should issue appropriateorders. Displacement to sub-sequent positions is made asdirected by the companycommander. Platoon leadersare responsible that a suf-ficient amount of ammuni-tion is available at howitzerpositions for completion offire missions

g. Occupation of a regimental sector of a battleposition in daylight.

Scope SlandtwdA problem involving the Following a reconnais-

cannon company during the sance 'of the regimental mec-occupation of the regimental tor of the battle position,sector of a battle position, in either independently, or indaylight, by a regiment which company with the regimen-is part of a larger forcme tal commander as the latter

Situation to be drawn so may direct, and after consul-as to require. tation with the artillery offi-

102

Scope Standard(1) The company corn- cer, the company commander

mander's reconnaissance and should submit recommenda-his recommendations for the tions to the regimental com-employment of the cannon mander covering the employ-company in the occupation ment of the cannon company,and defense of the regimen- in support of the battle posi-tal sector of the battle posi- tion, combat outpost andtion; the employment to in- withdrawal therefrom, andclude coordination with sup- in support of counterattacks.porting artillery, and support The company commanderof the combat outpost and of should issue clear and con-counterattacks. cise orders, frequently 'in

(2) Issuance of orders by fragmentary form to platoonthe company commander. leaders in time to enable

(3) Reconnaissance a n d them to reconnoiter assignedissuance of orders by platoon. position areas, issue orders,leaders. make dispositions, and pre-

(4) Preparation and occu- pare and occupy their firingpation of firing positions. positions.

(5) Establishment of anti- Platoon leaders shouldair-antimechanized warning initiate forward movementsystem. of their platoons, effect a

(6) Preparation of firing prompt reconnaissance ofdata and overlays. position areas, issue orders,

(7) Installation of corn- and commence the work ofmunication net. preparing and occupying the

(8) Ammunition supply firing positions. Emplace-and disposition of platoon ments, foxholes, and ammu-and section vehicles. nition pits should be dug and

camouflaged.Provision should be made

to insure prompt relay ofany antiair-antimechanizedwarning to all elements ofthe company by proper uti-lization of available meansof communication.

'Scope StandardPlatoon leaders should be-

gin the preparation of firingd a t a immediately. Theyshould check this data assoon as time permits. Pla-toon leaders should also pre-pare overlays for their pla-toons. These overlays shouldbe combined by the companycommander to show the fireplan of the company.

The' company commandershould establish a comm/ni-cation net connecting thethree platoons with the com-pany command and observa-tion posts. He should main-tain contact with the regi-mental commander and ar-tillery commander.

The company commandershould select and establish acompany ammunition supply'point, and provide personnelfor its operation. After thedelivery of the prescribedamount of ammunition onthe position, platoon ammu-nition vehicles should be re-leased to regimental control.Section prime movers shouldremain near the positionarea and be concealed andcamouflaged.

104

h. Occupation of a regimental sector of a battleposition at night.

Scope StandardA problem involving the The company commander

cannon company during the should make a thorough day-occupation of the regimental light reconnaissance of thesector of a battle position, regimental sector of the bat-at night, by a regiment which tie position, either independ-is part of a larger force. ently or in company with the

Situation to be drawn so regimental commander asas to require: the latter may direct. He

(1) Daylight reconnais- should employ personnel fromsance by the company corn- his command group to as-mander, and his recommen- sist in this reconnaissance.dations for the employment He also consults with the ar-of the cannon company co- tillery commander. Uponordinated with the artillery completion of the reconnais-fire plan, in the occupation sance, he should submit rec-and defense of the regimen- omrpendations as outlined intal sector of the battle po- the preceding directive.sition, all to be accomplished The company commanderduring darkness. should issue clear, concise

(2) Orders of the company orders to platoon leaders atcommander issued prior to the earliest practicable mo-darkness, and before contact ment following the issuancewith the enemy has become of the regimental order. Or-imminent.. ders should be fragmentary

(3) Daylight reconnals- whenever essential to permitsance, and preparation of platoon leaders time for day-firing data by platoon lead- light reconnaissance anders. other necessary preparations.

(4) Platoon leader's or- Platoon leaders should re-ders. Daylight reconnais- connoiter assigned positionsance by chiefs of section. areas, and select firing posi-Marking of routes and pri- tions and observation posts.mary, supplementary, and They should issue orders inalternate positions for quick time to permit chiefs of sec-recognition at night. tion to reconnoiter and mark

105

Scope. Sta4ndacrd'

(5) Movement to and the exact positions to be oc-preparation and occupation cupied. Necessary firingof positions during hours of data should be prepared dur-darkness. ing the hours of daylight.

(6) Establishment of an- All routes and firing posi-tiair-antimechanized warning tions should be marked andsystem. guides familiarized there-

(7) Security against local with prior to darkness.attack. The movement to and

(8) Installation of com- preparation and occupationmunication net. of positions should be con-

(9) Ammunition supply ducted quietly and withoutand disposition of platoon lights and in strict compli-and section vehicles. ance with any other meas-

(10) Readiness to meet an ures for secrecy prescribedattack by daylight. by the regimental com-

mander. All positions shouldbe reached without confusionor loss of time. Work on ob-servation posts, emplace-ments, ammunition pits, andfoxholes should be so or-ganized as to accomplish themaximum development ofthe position in the time avail-able. Provision should bemade to insure prompt relayof antiair - antimechanizedwarning to all elements byproper utilization of avail-able means of communica-tion.

Plans should be made tosecure weapons, vehicles, andinstallations against local at-tack by hostile elements.

A communication net con-necting the three platoonswith the company command

Scope Standardand observation posts shouldbe installed. Radio silence,if prescribed, should be en-forced. Communication shouldbe maintained with the regi-mental commander and theartillery commander.

Provisions for ammunitionsupply and disposition ofplatoon and section vehiclesshould" be similar to thoseprescribed in the precedingdirective.

By personal inspection, thecompany commander shouldsupervise the carrying outof his orders and insure thatall elements of' the companyare ready to meet an attackby daylight.

i. Conduct of the defense.

Scope StandardA problem involving the Each cannon unit should

conduct of a cannon company rely chiefly on passive anti-in the defense by the regi- aircraft measures for its ownment of an interior sector of security. Concealment andthe battle position, camouflage should be used

Situation to be drawn so extensively to prevent detec-as to require: tion and attack by enemy

(1) Actiol during air at- aircraft. When a cannontack. unit is actually attacked

(2) Action duramng artil- from thie air, the hostile air-lery bombardment. craft should be met by the

(3) Action against tank controlled fires of all avail-attack, able small caliber weapons.

Scope Standard

(4) Action against attack During an artillery bom-by foot troops. bardment, personnel should

(5) Action in defense of take cover, but should be pre-the main line of resistance. pared to resume'their activi-

(6) Action in support of ties upon cessation of thecounterattack by- hostile artillery fire.

(a) Front-line battalion. During an enemy tank at-(b) Regimental reserve. tack, cannon units should be

employed to destroy or neu-tralize any weapons whichare supporting the advancingtanks. When tanks are dis-abled or temporarily halted,or when they threaten tooverrun howitzer positions,they become suitable targetsfor cannon units. Antimech-apized defense of firing posi-tions should be supplementedby the use of rifle grenadesand antitank rockets.

During an attack of thedefensive position by foottroops, cannon units shouldengage targets of opportuni-ty which are not being effec-tively engaged by other sup-porting weapons. They shouldalso be prepared to deliverconcentrations of fire, on call,from prepared data on pre-determined localities.

In case the enemy makes aclose approach or threatensto break through the mainline of resistance, cannonunits should be prepared todeliver concentrations of firein any gaps which may exist

108

Scope Standardor occur in the prepared closedefensive fires of 81-mmmortars and supporting ar-tillery.

At least one platoon shouldsupport a counterattack bythe reserve company of abattalion, and all three pla-toons should support a coun-terattack by the reserve bat-talion of a regiment.

j. Night withdrawal.

Scope StandardA problem involving the Upon receipt of the regi-

cannon company in a night mental warning order, thewithdrawal by an interior company commander shouldregiment of a larger force, promptly dispatch the recon-from a defensive position to naissance officer and othera new defensive position lo- selected personnel to recon-cated several miles to the noiter the routes of with-rear. drawal, the company assem-

The regimental warning bly area and position areasorder prescribes the location within the rear defensive po-of the company assembly sition. Platoon leaders shouldarea. During the withdrawal also dispatch personnel toone cannon platoon is at- reconnoiter routes to thetached to the battalion acting company assembly area.as a covering force. The other Rearward reconnaissancetwo platoons are attached to should be delegated, sincethe withdrawing battalions. the company commander andPlatoons are to revert to com- platoon leaders must remainpany control when they reach within their units during thethe vicinity of the company defensive battle.assembly area.

109

Scope StandardSituation to be drawn so The company commander

as to require: should be prepared to make(1) Daylight reconnais- tentative recommendations,

sance of routes of withdraw- as a result of a map studyal, the company assembly or of his familiarity with thearea, and position areas terrain, for the employmentwithin the rear defensive po- of the company in the rearsition. defensive position, without

(2) Recommendations by waiting for reports from re-the company commander for connaissance personnel.the employment of the com- The order of the companypany in support of the regi- commander should be issuedment in the rear defensive in time to permit daylightposition. reconnaissance for the night

(3) Issuance of the corn- withdrawal.pany order. Elements of the company

(4) Execution of the with- attached to battalions fordrawal by the company, less withdrawal should withdrawelements attached to the cov- as directed by the command-'ering force. ers of those battalions.

(5) Execution of the with- Elements of the companydrawal by cannon. elements attached to the covering forceattached to the covering should withdraw as directedforce. by the commander of that

(6) Resumption of control force.by company commander. The company commander

(7) Preparation and occu- should regain control of allpation of firing positions in elements of his company. inthe rear position areas be- the company assembly area.fore daylight. Further movement to the

rear should be executed asdirected by the regimentalcommander. In the rear area,the company should be metby reconnaissance personneland guided to previously re-connoitered and marked posi-tion areas. Firing positionsselected by the reconnaissance

110

Scope Standardofficer are indicated to thecompany commander for hisapproval.

Firing positions should beprepared and occupied as pre-scribed in the directive cover-ing the occupation of a battleposition at night.

Provisi6n should be madefor replenishment of ammu-nition for all elements of thecompany.

k. Daylight withdrawal.

Scope StandardA problem involving the Prior to the withdrawal, re-

cannon company in a day- connaissance should be madelight withdrawal by an inter- of zones of withdrawal, phaseior regiment. lines, and position areas

The entire battle position within the regimental sectoris under severe hostile pres- of the new defensive posi-sure, and a counterattack by tion. T h i s reconnaissancethe reserve battalion has should be delegated, since thebeen unsuccessful. The regi- company commanders andment has been ordered to platoon leaders must remainwithdraw to a new defensive with their units during theposition several miles to the defensive battle.rear under the protection of The cannon platoons at-a regimental covering force. tached to the covering force

One battalion has been de- should withdraw as directedsignated as the regimental by the commander of thatcovering force and two can- force. During the withdrawalnon platoons have been at- they should be constantly pre-tached thereto. The third pared to go into action. Incannon platoon has been at- the withdrawal, advantage-tached during the withdrawal ous intermediate firing posi-to the battalion which it was tions should be occupied to

111

Scope Standardsupporting prior to the with- slow down the hostile ad-drawal. vance by maximum effective

Situation to be drawn so fires and to cover barriersas to require: and demolitions. Further

(1) Reconnaissance o f withdrawals should be initi-zones of withdrawal, phase ated before howitzers becomelines, and position areas closely engaged.within the regimental sector The third cannon platoonof the new defensive posi- withdraws as directed by thetion. commander of the battalion

(2) Execution of the with- to which attached.drawal by cannon elements Upon arrival at the newattached to a unit (battalion) defensive position, all cannonof the withdrawing force. elements should revert to

(3) Execution of the with- company control. They shoulddrawal by cannon elements be met and guided to the newattached to the regimental position areas selected by thecovering force. reconnaissance detail. Firing

(4) Preparation and occu- positions should be preparedpation of new firing posi- and occupied without delay.tions. An adequate supply of am-

(5) Ammunition supply. munition should be insuredfor the cannon platoons at-tached to the covering force.Surplus stocks from otherelements should be trans-ferred to such platoons. Anamount of ammunition suf-ficient for estimated needsshould be placed on the rearposition for the use of thewithdrawing platoons whenthey reach this position.

112

1. Delaying action.

Scope StandardA problem involving the The company commander

cannon company of a rein- should make a hasty recon-forced infantry regiment en- naissance and submit to thegaged in delaying action on regimental commander a plansuccessive positions. The sit- for the employment of theuation to be drawn with the cannon company.regiment conducting an inde- This plan should providependent delaying action as a for the attachment of cannongeneral covering force for a elements (platoons or sec-larger unit, and required to tions) to designated riflearrive at the first delaying units. Primary position areasposition approximately one affording the possibility ofhour before the enemy can long rang fire and supple-make contact. mentary position areas pro-

Situation to be drawn so viding protection of theas to require: flanks, and covered routes of

(1) Reconnaissance by the withdrawal should be selec-company commander and his ted.recommendations for the em- Both company and platoonployment of the company on reconnaissance p e r s o n n e Ithe first delaying position. should initiate early recon-

(2) Reconnaissance for naissance for routes of with-covered routes of withdrawal drawal and intermediate de-and intermediate delaying laying positions.positions. Elements of the company

(3) Employment of cannon attached to subordinate unitscompany elements, protected of the regiment should oper-by riflemen, on the first de- ate as directed by the com-laying position and on inter- manders of those units. Theymediate and successive delay- should open fire at maximuming positions. effective ranges.

(4) Ammunition supply. In the withdrawal to suc-cessive firing positions, can-non company weapons, pro-tected by riflemen, should beleft at advantageous inter-mediate firing positions to

113

Scope Standardslow down the hostile ad-vance and to cover barriersand demolitions. They shouldinitiate withdrawal beforebecoming closely engaged.During movement betweenfiring positions, cannon ele-ments should be constantlyprepared to, go into action.

Ammunition should be keptmobile; a sufficient amountfor estimated n e e d s onlyshould be placed at firingpositions. Platoon sergeantsshould supervise the resupplyof ammunition if resupply isrequired. The platoon ammu-nition truck should be usedto effect replenishment tothe sections, and the chiefsof section notified of its lo-cation.

m. Attack in woods.

Scope StandardA problem involving the The company commander,

cannon company of an inter- assisted by reconnaissanceior regiment in an attack in personnel, should reconnoiterwoods.. Two battalions are to the zone of action and submitbe employed in the attacking recommendations for the dis-echelon. position and employment of

Situation to be drawn so elements of the companyas to require: during the initial stage of

(1) Reconnaissance a n d the attack. Depending uponrecommendations for the dis- the difficulties of control,position and employment of cannon elements may be

114

Scope Standardthe cannon company during placed in support of, or at-the initial stage of the attack. tached to, designated rifle

(2) Selection and occupa- units.tion of firing positions. Firing positions which af-

(3) Forward rec.onnais- ford mask clearance or per-sance during, attack through mit firing across clearings orwoods. along roads or trails should

(4) Displacement to for- be selected and occupied. Ob-ward positions. servers may be posted in

trees; forward observers,equipped with radiotelephones(if available), may movewith leading rifle units. Thecompany commander shouldrequest that rifle units fur-nish necessary local security,both during movement andwhen in firing positions.

During the course of theattack, forward reconnais-sance by selected personnelshould be continuous in orderto select new firing positionsfor cannon elements., Firing positions to coverreorganization and exit fromthe woods should be as farwithin the woods as the re-quirements for firing posi-tions p e r m i t. Elements;should be prepared fQri rapiddisplacement, to new firingpositions outside of the woodsas soon as such positions be-come available.

1ts

n. Attack of a town.

Scope StandardA problem involving the The company commander.

cannon company of a regi- assisted by reconnaissancement in an attack of a town personnel, should reconnoiterof considerable size extend- the zone of action and submiting across most of the regi- recommendations for the em-mental zone of action. ployment of the cannon com-

Situation to be drawn so pany during the initial andas to require: subsequent phases of the at-

(1) Reconnaissance a n d tack. Platoons should eitherrecommendations for the em- be attached to battalions ofployment of the cannon com- the attacking echelon or max-pany during the attack of imum control delegated tothe near edge of the town. platoon leaders through the

(2) Occupation of initial issuance of mission-type or-firing positions and execution ders.of fires against hostile wea- Initial f i r i n g positionspons emplaced in the near should be occupied as in anyoutskirts of the town. attack situation. During the

(3) Conduct of the attack initial phase of the attack,during the advance through c a n n o n elements shouldthe town. closely support the attacking

(4) Reconnaissance and echelon by fires against theselection of positions support- edge-of the built-up area ofing the exit of the attacking the town, predetermined keyechelon from the town and points of the enemy defensesfor protection of the flanks within the area, and targetsof the regiment against coun- of opportunity.terattack. After the lifting of the

initial fires, cannon elementsshould be prepared to dis-place promptly in order tofurnish close support to theattacking echelon.

During the advancethrough the town, cannonelements should provide pow-erful fire support by the use

116

Scope Standardof direct fires against em-placed enemy weapons andstrongly fortified buildings.Howitzers should take advan-tage of cover provided bybuildings, side streets, anddebris. Fields of fire and ob-servation should be obtainedalong streets or across openareas such as parks orsquares. Local security shouldbe furnished by rifle troops,both during movement andwhen in firing positions.

Reconnaissance personnelshould closely follow the at-tacking echelon and selectpositions from which fire canbe delivered to cover the ex-its from the town and to pro-vide protection for the flanksof the regiment against coun-terattack.

o. Defense of a town.

Scope Standard

A problem involving the The reconnaissance by thecannon company in the de- company commander shouldfense of a town seized by a be rapid but thorough. Rec-regiment which is unable to ommendations for the em-make further advance. An ployment of the company mayenemy counterattack, sup- include the attachment of oneported by tanks, is expected. or more platoons to rifle

Situation to be drawn so battalions. The fire plan foras to require: platoons retained under com-

(1) F u r t h e r reconnais- pany control should providesance and recommendations for the coordination of pre-

61.5506fi 0-44---4 117

Scope Standarfdby the company commander pared fires with those ofto support the regiment in supporting weapons.defense of the town. The company commander's

(2) Timely orders to pla- orders to leaders of platoonstoon leaders; orders of pla- retained under company con-toon leaders to chiefs of sec- trol should be detailed andtion. complete but may be issued

(3) Oceupattio of eover in fragmentary form. Theypositions which will permit should direct the selection ofrapid movement to firing po- firing positions from whichsitions from which assigned fires can be delivered to cov-fire missions may be accomp- er such likely avenues of ap-lished; preparation of firing proach toward the town asdata. are not covered by fires of

(4) Ammunition supply. battalions or supporting ar-(5) Communication and tillery; positions affording

liaison. fields of fire covering(6) Execution of fires in thoroughfares and key points

the coiducit of'the defense. within the town; and supple-mentary positions coveringthe flanks and rear ap-proaches to the town. Primemovers should be held incovered positions near thehowitzers and routes between,positions reconnoiteredl andcleared.

Orders of platoon leaders'to chiefs of section should'be clear and concise and:should include instructionsfor the. delivery of prepareddefensive fires; engagementof targets of opportunity, in-cluding enemy tanks; andclose-in defense of weaponsand vehicles.

The company commanderand platoon leaders shouldsupervise the preparation and

118

Scope Standardoccupation of positions to in-sure proper use of cover andconcealment.

Ammunition should beplaced at firing positions andreplenished as soon as neces-sary. Arrangements shouldbe made for hand-carryingammunition if streets areblocked.

The company commandershould insure communicationwith all elements of the com-pany. Platoon leaders shouldinsure communication withinplatoons. Liaison betweencannon units and supportedinfantry units should be es-tablished and maintained byplatoon and company com-mand group personnel.

Observers and unit leadersshould exercise the highestdegree of initiative in firecontrol and the prompt de-livery of fires against hostilesupporting weapons. Theyshould be prepared to deliverconcentrations of fire, on call,to supplement the close-de-fensive fires of other sup-porting weapons. If the en-emy succeeds in penetratingthe town, the howitzers shoulddeliver direct fire againsthostile supporting weaponsfiring from openings inbuildings or from behind

119

Scope Standardpiles of debris. Upon comple-tion of such a mission, ahowitzer is moved into a coverposition or to another firing.position.

Particular' attention shouldalso be devoted to the flanksto interdict enemy attemptsto envelop or by-pass thetown.

p. Attack of a river line.

Scope StandardA problem involving the The company commander,

cannon company of an interi- accompanied by reconnais-or regiment in a dawn attack sance personnel and all pla-of a river line, the far side toon leaders, should make aof which is strongly held by detailed daylight reconnais-the enemy. All preparations sance. This reconnaissanceto be completed during day- should include the selectionlight of the previous day. of position areas from which

Situation to be drawn so all principal crossings canas to require: be covered; the determina-

(1) Initial preparations, tion of target areas for eachincluding reconnaissance by platoon which is to supportthe company commander and the initial crossing; the se-his recommendations for the lection of favorable observa-employment of the company. tion posts; selection of cross-

(2) Orders of the company ing points for platoons whichcommander. must make the crossing by

(3) Movement to and oc- rafts; selection of assemblycupation of selected positions. areas on both sides of the

(4) Delivery of support- stream; and the reconnais-ing fires during the attack. sance.and marking of routes

(5) Displacement across from the rear area to thethe river. . final assembly area or posi-

(6) Ammunition supply. tion areas. The company

120

.Scope Standardcommander should then sub-mit to the regimental com-mander his recommendationsfor the employment of thecompany. The wide crossingfront of a regiment will fre-quently preclude effectivecontrol by the company com-mander; when this is thecase platoons may be issuedmission-type orders or at-tached to leading battalions.At least one platoon shouldbe placed in support of theregiment as a whole through-out the crossing.

Upon receipt of the regi-mental order, the companycommander should issue hisdetailed attack o r d e r. Heshould make an inspection todetermine that all necessarypreparations have been com-pleted.

Howitzers should be movedinto firing positions immedi-ately prior to the hour of at-tack, but should not fire untilthe attack is discovered, andthen only upon appropriatetargets. The necessity forcomplete secrecy and thewide front which must becovered usually require that

. the howitzers be fired initi-ally by indirect laying.

During the attack, cannonelements should be preparedto engage any enemy heavy

121

Scope Standardweapons which are firing onfriendly troops crossing theriver.

Reconnaisance elementsshould cross with the attack-ing echelon. Howitzers,whether the platoons are sup-porting or attached to lead-ing battalions, should betransported across the streamas soon as the attackingechelon has seized the firstobjective. Cannon elementsshould be crossed by platoonor section echelon in orderthat one or more howitzersmay be able to cover the ad-vance at all times. The pla-toon(s) furnishing supportto the reginient as a wholeshould be the last to cross.

Cannon elements shouldprovide close support to theadvancing infantry units dur-ing the advance to the sec-ond objective. If attached toinfantry units, they shouldremain attached until thesecond objective is captured.

Howitzers should have fullorganic loads of ammunitionon the prime movers. Provi-sion for early replenishmentshould be made.

122

q. Defense of a river line.

Scope StandardA problem involving the The company commander

cannon company of an interi- and platoon leaders shouldor regiment on a wide front- make a detailed reconnais-age in defense of a river sance of fords or other likelyline. The situation to be points for enemy crossingsdrawn with the near bank of in order to determine suita-the river lightly held by out- ble firing positions fromguards. The bulk of each which to cover these points.front-line battalion is held The reconnaissance shouldmobile, prepared to occupy include supplementary posi-previously prepared positions tions and routes thereto, into block the most likely cross- order that all elements of theing points or to counterat- company may promptly de-tack in order to deny the liver concentrations of fireenemy a foothold on the near on any points where enemybank. The regimental re- crossings may be attempted.serve is held mobile, pre- One cannon platoon shouldp a r e d to counterattack be placed in support of eachpromptly to eject hostile front-line battalion, and oneforces which succeed in es- in support of the regimentaltablishing themselves on the reserve. Wherever possible,near bank. fire support by cannon ele-

Situation to be drawn so ments should be deliveredas to require: from initial primary firing

(1) Reconnaissance by positions; however, all ele-company commander and pla- ments should'be prepared fortoon leaders. , immediate displacement to

(2) Disposition of cannon supplementary firing posi-platoons. tions.

(3) Execution of fires in If a counterattack issupport of the defense. launched by the reserve of a

(4) Communication. battalion, it should be sup-ported by the cannon platoonfurnishing close support forthat battalion.

If the enemy threatens togain a foothold on the near

123

Scope Standardbank, and a counterattack bythe regimental reserve is ex-ecuted, the cannon platoonsupporting the regimental re-serve should provide fire sup-port for the counterattack;other cannon elements shouldassist in such support whenpossible.

Telephone and radiotele-ph6ne communication shouldbe provided. The communica-tion system should insure therapid dissemination of in-formation and transmissionof orders in order to permitthe greatest possible flexi-bility of fires in the defense.

r. Attack of a fortified position.

Scope StandardA problem involving the The company commander

cannon company in an at- should make a thoroughtack of a fortified position. ground reconnaissance sup-The company commander has plemented by a careful studybeen informed of the enemy and interpretation of avail-dispositions and installations, able photomaps. His recom-and of the fire plan of sup- mendations should provideporting a r t ill e r y. Large for coordination of howitzerscale photomaps are avail- fires with those of other sup-able. porting weapons within the

Situation to be drawn so regiment and with the sup-as to require: porting artillery. One or more

(1) Reconnaissance by the platoons may either furnishcompany commander and rec- close support or be attachedommendations for the em- to assault battalions. Xployment of the cannon corn- Orders to platoon leaderspany. should be clear and detailed.

124

Scope Standard(2) Orders of the com- Definite missions should be

pany commander. assigned to those platoons.(3) Occupation of firing employed in close support of

positions and execution of assault battalions. Orders.initial fires against desig- should be issued in time tonated targets. permit platoon leaders to re-

(4) Communication and connoiter prior to the selec-liaison. tion and occupation of initial

firing positions.Platoon leaders should as-

sign specific initial missionsto each section and shouldprovide for a maximum ofcontrol of the fires of theirplatoons. Initial firing posi-tions should be sufficientlydistant from the nearest en-emy position to prevent dis-covery during preparationand occupation of the posi-tions.

Movements to firing posi-tions should be made undercover of darkness, smoke,fog, or artillery fires; thepositions should be preparedbefore occupation, if possible.

Direct fire should be em-ployed against specificallydesignated defensive works,and lifted as soon as the at-tacking infantry is ready toassault the target upon whicha howitzer is firing. Howit-zers should be displaced for-ward as needed and as thesituation permits.

All means of communica-tion should be employed to

125

Scope Standardinsure effective coordinationand the prompt opening orlifting of fires on signal orrequest. Cannon unit leadersshould be continually pre-pared to' engage unexpectedtargets which endanger thesuccess of the attack.

12e~

INDEX

Paragraphs Page

Action in case of air attack ....................................... 13,43 21, 68Administration group ....................................... 1 1Advance guard, employment with . . 28 41Agent corporal ....... ........ 2,28 7, 41Aid men, company .. ................ 23-25 38-40Aid station .................................................................... 23-25 38-40Air attack, action in case of .... ......................... 13,43 21, 58Airborne operations, defense against ....................... ... 58 74Ammunition:

Handler ....................................................................... 2 7Supply ................................ 1,5,18, 19, 21,34,38,40,44, 45 1, 13,30,

31, 46,50, 54,60, 61

Supply point. (See Supply Point.)Antiaircraft-antimechanized warning system ............ 12 20Antimechanized defense .............................. 7,14,15, 33,34,47 14, 22,

23, 46,64

Antitank guns, enemy, destruction of. (See alsoTargets.) ............... ....................... 34 46

Antitank officer ..................................... ........ 7,47 14,64Approach march .................... .................... 32 45Arm am ent .......................................................................... 3 10Armorer-artificer ......................................................... 1 1Army ammunition supply point ........................................ 21 31Artillery:

Commander ............... ......................... 7,49 14, 65Fires .................................. 7, 8, 34, 41, 42, 44, 47, 49 14, 16,

46, 55,57, 60,.64,65

Liaison officer ................................................ : ...... 38 50

127

INDEX (Continued)

Paragraphs Page

Mechanic ............................................................... 1 1Assault battalion, reinforcing ...................................... 41, 44 55, 60Assembly area ........................................ 33 46Assignment of missions .. ...................................... 8,9 16, 17Attachment of cannon elements ..............8, 28-34,38-41, 45 16,41, 46,

50-55,61

Attack:Conduct of ... ...................................... 37 49Employment in the ......... ............................. 34-37 46-49Fires ........................................ 36 47In establishing a beachhead .................................. 44 60In woods ........................................ 38 50Of a fortified position ........................................ 41 66Of a river line .................................................. 40 64Of towns ........................................................... 39 52Raids ...................................................................... 42 57

Battalion, front line or leading,support of ....................................... 32,37, 39-41, 44, 48,57 45, 49,

52-55,60, 65,

73Beachhead, employment in establishment of.

(See Attack.)Bivouac outpost, attachment to .................................. 31 44Bugler .................................................................................. 1 1Camouflage .......................................................................... 17 .28Cannoneers ........................................................................ 2 7Capabilities of weapons ................................................. 6 14Carbine ............................................................................... 3 10Characteristics of weapons ......................................... 6 14Class I, II, III, and IV supply .................................... 20 31Class V supply ................................................................ 21 31

128

INDEX (Continued)

Paragraphs Page

Close support .................... 7,9,10,34, 37, 39-41, 45-47, 56, 57 14, 17,46, 49,52-55,61-64,72, 73

Command group ...........-............................ 1 1Command post ........................................ 1, 11,21 1, 18, 31Communication, maintenance of ...................... 1, 27, 36, 41, 49 1,41,47,

t 655,65Means of ...................................... 2, 3, 5,12, 27, 28, 36, 37 7,10,13,

20, 41,47, 49

Sergeant ............................. ........... 1,27 1, 41Company aid men ......................................... 24 39Company ammunition supply point. (See Ammunition.)Company clerk .................................................................... 1 1Company commander, duties of .................................... 1 1Company headquarters .................................................... 1 1Concealment. (See Cover and concealment.)Conduct of the defense .................................. ...... 49 65Concentrations ........................................ 36,47 47, 64Cooks ................................................................................... 1 1Counterattack ..................... ................... 49 65Cover and concealment............................................... 16, 17,36 23, 28,

47Covering force . ................................... 51-53 69-70

Support of ......................................... 33 46Daylight withdrawal ......................................... 52 69Defense:

Air-borne operations ......................................... 58- 74Ammunition supply .......................... ............. . 21 31Antiaircraft ........................... ............. 13,15 21, 23Antimechanized ........................................ 14, 15 22, 23Attachment of cannon elements ............................ 8 16Bivouac ........................................ ........................... 31 44Camouflage .. ...................................... 17 28

129

INDEX (Continued)

Paragraphs Page

Close-in defense .................................3,38, 39,54, 55, 58 10, 50,52, 70,72, 74

Close support ............................7,9,10,45-47, 56, 57 14, 17,61-64,72, 73

Combat outpost, support of .................... 49 65Conduct of ........................................ 49 65Counterattack, support of .................................... 49 65Delaying action ........................................................ 54 70Distribution of cannon elements .......................... 48 65Fire control ........................................ 9,48 17, 65Fires . .......... ................... ........ 46-49 63-65Front-line battalion, support of ......................... 47, 48 64, 65Missions ........................................ 47 64Retrograde movements ....................................... 50-53 68-70River line ......................................... 57 73Tactics ........................................ 46-60 63-75Targets ........................................ 49 65Towns and villages ............................................. 56 72Withdrawal ........................................ 51,52 69Woods ........................................ 55 72

Delaying action ........................................ 54 70Desert operations ......................................... 43 58Directives, training .................................... Appendix II 88Displacement ................................................... 1, 37-39 1, 49-52Distributing point, ammunition. (See Ammunition.)Distribution of cannon elements .................................. 48 65Emplacements ....................................... 16 23Equipment .......................................................................... 4 13Evacuation ........................................................ 22-26 38-40Expedients, stream crossing ...........................Appendix I 76Fire(s): :

Defensive ........................................................... 14, 46-49 22,63-65

Offensive ....................................... 34-45 46-61

MO.

INDEX (Continued)

ParagrapiA Page

Sector of .......... .............................. 9,48 . 17, 65Supporting .......... .............................. 87, 47 49, 64

Fire control ...................................................... 9,38 17, 60Fire position areas .............................. 1,11, 29, , , 38, 42, 46 1,18, 42,

47, 50,67, 61

First sergeant ................... . ............................................. 1 1Flank guard ........................................................................ 29 42Food. (See Class I Supply.)Fortified position, attack of ........................................ 41 55Grenade, antitank .............................................................. 8 10Guard:

Advance . ... ........................................................... .. 28 41Flank ................................................................................ 29 42Rear ........................................ 30 43

Individual protection ..................................................... 15 23Instrument operator ............................................. 2 7Kitchen and baggage train ........................................ 5 13Liaison. (See also Communication.) .................... 1, 87, 44, 49 1, 49,

60, 65Litter bearers ....... ..................... 24 89Machine gun, caliber .60, antlaireraft ....................... 8 10Marches: (See also advance, flank, and rear guarda.)

Approach ................................... . 82 46Route ................... ..... ............. 27 41

Mechanics:Automobile .. .......... . ......... ...... 1 1Artillery ... ...... -... ........ 7

Medical service ....................................... .... 22-26 38-40Mesa. (See Class I Supply.)Mess sergeant . ...... ,........ ............... 1Message center ................ I 1Messengers, (See also communication.) . ........1, 2,27, 28 1,7,41Missions ....................................... .... 7-9, 41, 47 14-17,

65, 64Mission-type orders .... ......... .... 10,40 17, 64

181

INDEX (Continued)

Paragraphs Page

Motor -vehicles ....................................... .. 5 13Mountain operations................................ ...................... 45 61Night withdrawal ........................................ 51 69Offensive combat ....................................... . 32-45 45-61Observation posts ........................ ................ 1,36-45 1, 47-61Orders ........................................ ............................. 10,25,40 17, 40,

54Organic vehicles ................................................................ 13Outposts, support of ....................................... ............ 49 65Platoon:

Ammunition point. (See ammunition.)Composition ......................... .............. 2 7Leader ......................................................... 9-11,28, 37,44 17-18,

41,49,60

Location of position areas. (See also fire po-sition areas.) ................................ ........ 36,38, 45 47, 50,

61Missions .... ....-... .......... 9,44 17, 60Sergeant ............................................... ................... 2 7

Positions, firing. (See fire position areas.)Preparatory fires ........................................ 34 46Protective fires .............................................................. 46 63Radiotelephone operators ......................................... 1,28 1, 41Raids ............................ ..................................... 42 67Rations. (See Class I Supply.)Rear guard. ................................................................... 30 43Reconnaissance .............................. 1, 11, 28, 35, 37, 40, 44, 45 1, 18,

41, 47,49, 54,60, 61

Reconnaissance officer ................................................ 1, 27, 37 1, 41,49Reconnaissance sergeant ..................................... 1 1Retirement ...................................... ......................... 3 70Retrograde movements ................................................ 50-54 - 68-70Rifle, U.S., caliber .30, M1 ........................................ 3 10

132

INDEX (Continued)

Paragraphs Page

Rifle grenades ............................................ 3 10River line:

Attack ........................................ 40 54Defense ........................................ 57 73

Rocket, antitank 2.36 inch ........................................ 3,16 10, 23Route march ........ 27 ....................... ....... 27 41Sanitation ........................................ 26 40Second-in-command. (See reconnaissance officer.)Section, chief of ....................................... 2 7Sectors of fire ........................................ 9, 48 17, 65Security. (See antiaircraft-antimechanized warning

system and close-in defense.)Signal communication:

Communication sergeant ........................................ 1 1Equipment and agencies ..............................2-5, 12, 27, 28 7-13

20, 41Message center .......................................................... 1Messenger. (See messengers.)Pyrotechnic devices (signals) ................................ 3 10

Signals, warning ........................................ 12 20Stream crossing expedients ...................-................Appendix I 76Supporting fire. (See also close support.) ................ 37,47 49, 64Supply:

Ammunition ...................................... .. 21 31Class I, II, III, and IV ...................................... 20 31Class V ...................................... .. 21 31Means ...................................... .. 19 30Point, ammunition.

Army ...................................... .. 21 31Company .... .................................... 11, 21 1, 18, 31Regimental ..................................... ... 1,21 1, 31

Pyrotechnics. (See Class V Supply.)Rations. (See Class I Supply.)Responsibility for ........................................ . 18 30

Supply sergeant .......................................................... 1 1Tactical employment of cannon company .................... 6-10 14-17

133

INDEX (Continued)

Paragraphs Page

Attack .................................................................... 32-45 45-61Defense .... ........................................... 46-60 63-75

Tanks, defense against. (See antimechanized de-fense.)

Targets. (See also missions.) ............ 7,14, 34, 37, 39, 42, 47 14, 22,46, 49,52, 57,

64Towns (villages):

Attack ......................................... 39 52Defense ......................................... 56 72

Train bivouac ......................................... 6 13Training directives . ...................................ppendix II 88Transportation sergeant ........................................ 1 1Transport. (See motor vehicles.)Truck driver ................... ........... 1 1Warning system ......................... ...................................... 12 20Weapons. (See armament.)Withdrawal:

.Day ........................................................... 52 69Night .. . ...................................... 51 69

Woods:Attack .......................................... 38 50Defense ...................................................................... 55 72

134