The attack
which halts to open fire at extreme range (over 1200 yards) is not
likely to ever reach its destination (the enemy). Effort should be made
to arrive within 800 yards of the enemy before opening fire. How can
this be done? How can we pass over a mile or more of ground, swept or
likely to be swept, first by the enemy's artillery fire and finally by
rifle fire? Answer.--By using all the cover the terrain offers (escape
the enemy's view), by using inconspicuous formations, by using such
formations as to minimize the effect of the enemy's fire. Discipline at
this stage of the attack is essential. Each company in the firing line
will probably start its advance upon its objective in column of squads,
but taking advantage of all cover. If thick underbrush is found, squad
columns would probably be used. If the enemy's artillery fire becomes
too effective platoon columns or thin lines are used, dependent upon
terrain, cover and the time element. Every opportunity is taken to
assemble the companies and continue the advance in column of squads when
cover is available.
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