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"The Plattsburg Manual A Handbook for Military Training"



WITHDRAWAL FROM ACTION

"The withdrawal of a defeated force can generally be effected only at a
heavy cost." (Infantry Drill Regulations.) When a withdrawal is
necessary, make every possible effort to place distance and a rear guard
between you and the enemy. Have one part of your line withdraw under
protection of the fire of the other part and so on. Reorganize your
command as soon as possible.

INTRENCHMENTS

"Ordinarily infantry intrenches itself whenever it is compelled to halt
for a considerable time in the presence of the enemy." (Infantry Drill
Regulations.) Trenches are constructed with a view of giving cover which
will diminish losses, but they must not be so built or placed as to
interfere with the free use of the rifle. A good field of fire is the
first consideration. The construction of a trench is simple, but the
location of it is difficult. If possible, trenches are laid out in
company lengths.
Intrenchments usually take the following form:
(1) Hasty Cover. Constructed by troops with the tools they carry on
their person.


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