DISTRIBUTION OF TROOPS
The proximity and conduct of the enemy control, to a large extent, the
formation of a rear guard. When it is not necessary to withdraw in
deployed lines, the greater part of the rear guard marches on the road
in column of route, taking up a formation resembling that of an advanced
guard faced to the rear. The distribution of troops is therefore similar
to that of an advance guard, namely:
Reserve.
Support.
Rear cavalry.
The rear cavalry is that portion of the rear-guard cavalry following the
support. The support, as in an advance guard, is divided into two parts;
that part nearest the enemy is called the rear party and marches with a
rear point.
DISTANCES
The distance of the rear guard from the main body and between the
fractions of the rear guard are about the same as in the case of an
advance guard. If marching at night, the rear guard draws nearer the
main body.
REAR GUARD OF AN ADVANCING FORCE
If there is a possibility that the rear of the column may be attacked, a
rear guard of suitable strength and composition is provided, its conduct
is practically the same as that of the rear guard of a retreating force.
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