CHAPTER 5
RIFLE PLATOON

		Paragraphs
SECTION I.	General	100-105
II.	Attack	106-110
III.	Defense	111-126
IV.	Security missions	127-132

SECTION I
GENERAL

100. COMPOSITION.--A rifle platoon consists of a command group and three rifle squads. The command group consists of a platoon leader, a platoon sergeant, a platoon guide, messengers, and basic privates.

101. DUTIES OF COMMAND GROUP.--

     1. The platoon leader is responsible for the training, discipline, control, and tactical employment of the platoon. It must be trained to accomplish its combat mission decisively and to function as an effective unit in the military team.

     2. The platoon sergeant is second-in-command. He assists the platoon leader in controlling the direction and rate of movement in the advance. During all operations he takes post as directed by the platoon leader so as best to assist in the control of the platoon. He replaces the platoon leader when the latter is not with the platoon or becomes a casualty.

     3. The platoon guide (a sergeant) prevents straggling and enforces orders concerning cover, concealment, and discipline. His position is usually in rear of the platoon, where he observes the situation on the flanks and rear. He checks ammunition expenditure and takes advantage of every opportunity to have ammunition replenished.

     4. When the company begins its development one messenger reports to the company commander and one remains with the platoon leader. (See par. 8b (8).)

     5. Basic privates are used as replacements.

102. CONTROL AND COMMUNICATION.--The platoon leader controls the action of the platoon by oral orders or by arm-and-hand

signals. Communication with company headquarters is usually by messenger.

103. ROUTE MARCH.--During the advance in route column, the platoon marches in column as directed by the company commander. The platoon leader prescribes the order of march of the squads.

104. SPECIAL OPERATIONS.--The conduct of a rifle platoon in special operations is similar to that in offensive and defensive combat. Details involving specific changes are prescribed by the company commander. (See chs. 1, 2, and 3, and FM 7-5.)

105. AMMUNITION SUPPLY IN COMBAT.--See paragraph 201.

     SECTION II
     ATTACK

106. APPROACH MARCH.--

     1. Dispositions.--

        1. In approach march, by day or night, the platoon moves as a part of the company under orders issued by the company commander. (See pars. 11, 12, and 13.) The platoon dispositions most frequently used are shown schematically in figure 18 (1) and (2): platoon column; line of squads; two squads forward, one squad back; and one squad forward, two squads back. The initial dispositions of the squad may be prescribed by the company commander; ordinarily, however, he allows the platoon leader to determine which formation best suits the ground and the hostile situation.

        2. "Platoon column" is vulnerable to fire from the front, and requires a change in disposition to employ the weapons toward the front; however, it is easily controlled and maneuvered. It is especially suitable for narrow, covered routes of advance, for maneuvering through gaps between areas receiving hostile artillery fire, and for moving through woods, and in fog, smoke, or darkness. The depth of a platoon column averages 150-200 yards.

        3. "Line of squads" enables the platoon leader to develop the maximum fire power to the front in the shortest time. It is more difficult to control, and lacks maneuverability; but it is less vulnerable to fire from the front. It is suitable for

rapidly crossing an area exposed to hostile long-range machine-gun or artillery fire which cannot be avoided.

4. 1. "Two squads forward, one squad back" and "one squad forward, two squads back" are formations which provide security to both front and flanks, favor maneuver and control, and also provide flexibility in meeting new tactical

Figure 18 (1)
Rifle platoon formations in approach march.

situations. The factors usually determining which of these formations is to be employed are the terrain, the frontage which the platoon must cover, and the proximity and actions of the enemy.

2. A formation with squads echeloned to the right or left rear may be used to protect an exposed flank and permits maximum fire to be delivered promptly toward that flank.

Figure 18 (2)
Rifle platoon formations in approach march--Continued.

2. Direction and rate of advance.--

   1. The company commander usually designates a base platoon. He may direct it to guide on a specified element of another company. The platoon leader of the base platoon is responsible for the direction and rate of advance. A uniform rate should be maintained.

The platoon halts only on orders from the company commander or when hostile resistance stops the advance.

2. Each platoon leader designates a base squad on which other squads regulate their movements. He indicates the direction of advance by pointing or moving in the desired direction, or by indicating to the leader of the base squad the route, unit, or magnetic azimuth to be followed. Any combination of these methods may be used. The platoon leader makes minor deviations from his assigned route or zone of advance to avoid prominent points on which hostile artillery may have registered or other dangerous areas and obstacles. To escape observation in daylight, the platoon takes advantage of cover and concealment provided by ravines, draws, and woods.

3. For night movement, unless the platoon follows another unit, the platoon leader usually reconnoiters in daylight and plots the route, by compass bearings, on a sketch or map. A circuitous route which follows easily distinguishable terrain features is often preferable to one more direct but less clearly marked.
3. Contact.--When a platoon follows another unit at night, contact is maintained by connecting files unless the tail of the preceding unit is clearly visible. In daylight, contact is similarly maintained whenever the intervening terrain makes visual contact difficult. The use of double connecting files increases the certainty of maintaining unbroken contact.

4. Movement to successive objectives.--In the daylight approach march the platoon is assigned an initial march objective by the company commander. When this objective cannot be pointed out to the base squad, movement to it must be made in a series of bounds to intermediate platoon march objectives. The platoon leader indicates each march objective to the leader of the base squad in time to prevent any unavoidable halt. The platoon leader precedes the platoon at a sufficient distance to reconnoiter the zone of advance. He detours the platoon around a heavily shelled area or takes advantage of lulls in the hostile fire to cross the area by rushes. The squads reform in a designated area as prescribed by the platoon leader. Gassed areas are avoided. Areas exposed to hostile observation are crossed rapidly, often in a single rush.

5. Action when enemy is encountered.--When fire is opened on any element of a platoon the remainder of that platoon, and adjacent platoons continue to advance toward their march objectives, taking every advantage of concealment and cover and assuring necessary security of their flanks. From favorable positions on the hostile flanks, they assist by fire, or fire and movement, the unit held up. In case of mechanized or air attack, action is taken as prescribed in paragraph 9c.

6. Zone of reconnaissance.--In a daylight approach march, the commander of a leading company assigns his leading rifle platoon(s) zones of reconnaissance. These zones may be 300 yards or more in width. A leading platoon covers its zone with scouts or patrols. Frequently it is reinforced by a 60-mm mortar squad. The platoon leader regulates the movement of scouts and patrols so as to insure security of the platoon against hostile fire from points within midrange (400-600 yards). This movement may be regulated in three different ways, depending upon the imminence of contact with the enemy:

   1. The platoon leader may hold the platoon under cover and await reconnaissance of the assigned march objective by the platoon scouts. When the scouts signal "forward," the platoon leader advances the platoon to the line of scouts and again sends the scouts forward to the next objective. This method affords the best security but is the slowest and ordinarily the least desirable of the three methods. (See par. 142d.)

   2. The platoon may be held under cover while the scouts are sent forward to the next objective with the platoon leader following close behind. When the scouts have reconnoitered the objective, the platoon leader by signal sends them forward to the next objective and signals the platoon to come forward. This method insures the security of the platoon by having it under cover until the next objective has been reconnoitered, but requires long and careful training to attain the desired speed and proficiency.

   3. The platoon leader may direct the platoon scouts to precede the platoon at midrange (400-600 yards) while he follows behind the scouts. This method permits the platoon

to advance rapidly without being exposed to enemy small-arms fire within midrange, and is appropriate for an advance over terrain lacking suitable march objectives, for example, over level, open terrain.

7. Duties of platoon scouts.--See paragraph 142d and e.

8. Termination.--The approach march for the platoon terminates when the fire fight commences.

9. Preparation for attack.--When extra ammunition is issued and rolls are disposed of prior to or during the approach march, the platoon may attack directly from the approach march. Since this procedure affords little opportunity for reconnaissance and coordination of plans, it is adopted only when the situation demands an immediate attack. Otherwise, the platoon halts in a designated portion of the company assembly area. Here, while the platoon and higher commanders make their reconnaissances and issue orders, extra ammunition is issued, rolls (if not previously disposed of) are dropped, and the men prepare for the attack. The platoon leader requires that each man's physical condition, ammunition, and equipment is checked by his immediate superior, and, if time permits, personally supervises this inspection.
107. RECONNAISSANCE, PLANS, AND ORDERS.--

     1. General.--The company order prescribes whether a platoon is to be initially in the attacking (leading) or support echelon. If his platoon is in the attacking echelon, the platoon leader is given a line or area of departure, a direction of attack, and a specific terrain objective to be captured. For details concerning the support platoon, see paragraph 110.

     2. Reconnaissance.--Upon receipt of the company attack order, the leader of a platoon assigned to the attacking echelon makes the necessary preparations to have his platoon ready to attack in conformity with the company order. His reconnaissance is so arranged as to permit him and his noncommissioned officers to reconnoiter the terrain prior to the attack. This may frequently require the movement forward of the platoon while the platoon leader and his subordinate leaders are reconnoitering and the attack orders are being issued. During his reconnaissance the platoon leader formulates his plan of attack.

3. Plan of attack.--

   1. In the brief time available for planning his attack, the platoon leader must consider the following items:

      1. The terrain as it affords the enemy observation and fields of fire against his own and nearby friendly troops, and concealment from which to launch surprise counterattacks. Since his knowledge of the enemy's strength and exact dispositions usually will be incomplete or even nonexistent, he must determine not only where enemy guns and men are located but also where others might reasonably be located.

      2. The terrain as it affords opportunity for the movement of his squads. He endeavors to locate a favorable approach (ditch, wooded draw, brush) leading toward, or past, his objective.

      3. The situation on his flanks. He must determine whether his flanks will be exposed, or protected, by the location or action of friendly troops.

      4. The localities where smoke or supporting fires, to be provided by higher units, are to be placed.

      5. The localities where he must be prepared to place the fire of his rifles and automatic rifles (and of any attached mortars or light machine guns) in order to coordinate their fires with the fires provided by higher units, and in order to support the advance of any part of the platoon.

      6. The terrain as it affords firing positions from which these fires can be delivered, and covered routes to these positions.

   2. The above items form a picture of the situation as it exists on the ground over which the platoon must attack. With this picture in mind the platoon leader considers possible methods of attack (see d below) and makes his plans by answering the following question:

      "How can I use my weapons and men to best advantage in order to accomplish my assigned mission with the least practicable delay and with the fewest casualties?"

4. Methods of attack.--

   1. Unless the platoon zone of action and the strength of the enemy immediately in its front are so great that all the platoon's fire power is required at the start of the attack, the platoon leader should initially hold one rifle squad in support as a maneuvering element.

When the attack is over open, level ground, or when the maximum fire power is desired initially, the platoon may attack straight to the front in line of squads.

2. Frequently the most effective method of attack is to have a small group work close to the target under cover while the remainder of the platoon's attacking echelon attacks straight to the front. A few riflemen can often work close to an enemy position, without being seen, over ground which affords insufficient cover for a larger group. An automatic rifleman may be included in the group.

3. In other situations, the ground and character of the resistance may favor an attack straight to the front with either two squads or a single squad, while the other(s) maneuver to a suitable position on the flank. From this flank position, the maneuvering squad(s) may assist by fire the advance of the other squad(s) or may close with the enemy.

4. When the terrain and situation will permit, it is often desirable to attack against a flank of the enemy with the entire attacking echelon of the platoon.
5. Attached weapons.--When a 60-mm mortar squad is attached to a rifle platoon, the platoon leader employs it as described in paragraph 17h. When a light machine-gun squad is attached to a rifle platoon, the platoon leader employs it to reinforce the rifle and automatic rifle fires of the platoon in a manner similar to that described in paragraph 17h.

6. Platoon attack order.--Having decided on his plan of attack, the platoon leader issues his order at the previously selected point. He orients his subordinates by pointing out important terrain features within the area of operations. He informs them of any new enemy information; the company objective; missions of adjacent units; support by the company weapons platoon, battalion heavy weapons, and artillery; the platoon objective; and the hour of attack. He outlines his scheme of maneuver, including the initial and subsequent platoon objectives; the line (point or area) of departure for each squad; the mission or target(s) of each squad; and security measures. He informs the squads of the location of the battalion aid station and of his own position and expected movement. He makes certain that all

squad leaders understand his order, having them repeat it back when necessary. Upon receipt of these instructions, the squad leaders return to their squads and issue their own orders, and the platoon moves to the attack at the appointed hour or on a prearranged signal.

108. ATTACK.--

     1. Movement across line of departure.--The movement of the platoon from the assembly area across the line of departure should be conducted so as to preserve secrecy for the attack. Scouts from the leading squad(s) precede the platoon to protect its advance; the formation is determined by the terrain and the likelihood of coming under hostile observation and fire. Before arriving at the line of departure, the platoon takes up its attack formation. The squads, however, continue across the line of departure in squad column or wedge formation and do not deploy further until compelled to fire on the enemy.

     2. Conduct of attack.--

        1. Location of platoon leader.--The platoon leader follows his attacking echelon closely. He goes wherever he can best observe developments and influence the action of his platoon.

        2. Fire and movement.--

           1. When the platoon comes under effective small-arms fire, further advance is usually by fire and movement. The enemy is pinned to the ground by frontal (and flanking) fire, under cover of which other elements of the platoon maneuver forward, using all available cover to protect themselves against hostile fire. In turn, the original maneuvering elements may occupy firing positions and cover the advance of the elements initially firing. The platoon leader hits weak spots in the enemy position by having his support attack against the point of least resistance, or by maneuvering his support around a flank to strike the enemy with surprise fire on his flank or rear.

           2. When fire from other hostile positions situated to the flank or rear makes it impossible to launch a flanking attack against a particular area, an assaulting force is built up by infiltration close to the hostile resistance. This force is protected by the fire of the remainder of the platoon and of supporting weapons. One or more automatic rifles may be employed to neutralize the fires of the hostile flank or rear elements. For this purpose, the platoon leader may detach

the automatic rifle teams temporarily from one or more rifle squads. The position is then taken by assault.

3. When opposed by weak resistance, the platoon drives rapidly ahead until the company objective is captured regardless of the lack of progress on its flanks.
3. Flanking movements.--

   1. The platoon is essentially a driving unit. Wide flanking movements by any part of the platoon are rarely practicable. However, maneuvering in the zone of an adjacent platoon is often the only feasible method for a squad or small group to approach the enemy position. A platoon leader utilizes such a route without hesitation provided it does not interfere with the action of the adjacent unit.

   2. When nearby platoons are advancing approximately abreast, and it is necessary to maneuver in one of their zones, the platoon leader sends a messenger to the adjacent platoon leader advising him of the contemplated action.

4. Contact with adjacent units.--The platoon protects its flanks by providing connecting groups of two or three men on each flank to maintain contact with adjacent units. When a considerable gap between his platoon and an adjacent platoon develops, the platoon leader verifies the facts by personal reconnaissance. He reinforces the connecting group and reports the facts and his actions to the company commander promptly. (See pars. 17i and 157f and g.)
3. Assault.--The assault may take place either on the orders of the platoon leader or as a part of a general assault ordered by the company or battalion commander. The attacking echelon of the platoon works its way as close as it can get to the hostile position without masking friendly supporting fires (machine-gun, mortar, artillery, and sometimes aircraft). For a platoon assault, the prearranged signal for the lifting of supporting fires is given by the platoon leader. A general assault is delivered at an hour fixed by the company or battalion commander or on his signal. Frequently in the heat of battle the assault is started on the initiative of a squad or even of a few individuals. Wherever and whenever the assault begins, it should receive the immediate cooperation of every individual and unit within sight. When the assault is launched, assault fire may be employed on the defender's position in order to keep it under fire and prevent the enemy

from manning his defenses. For definition of assault fire see paragraph 146.

4. Advance through hostile position.--Upon capture of the initial objective, the platoon leader makes a quick personal reconnaissance and promptly issues his orders for renewal of the attack. A platoon in the attacking echelon does not delay its advance to clean up isolated points of resistance, but leaves them to be reduced by succeeding echelons. Every effort is made to press the attack without pause.

5. Reorganization.--

   1. As the attack progresses the platoon leader effects reorganization as casualties occur. Leaders and scouts are replaced; ammunition from dead and wounded is collected and redistributed; a message is sent to the company commander stating the effective strength of the platoon and the status of ammunition supply. Prisoners are sent to the company command post. A squad greatly reduced in strength may be combined with another squad or its personnel distributed among the other squads. However, even a squad of 5 men, including a competent leader, an automatic rifleman, and a rifle grenadier, may constitute an effective fighting unit.

   2. Unless the attack is to be resumed almost immediately, the platoon should dig in to be prepared to meet a hostile counterattack.

   3. After issuing his orders for reorganization, the platoon leader makes a brief personal reconnaissance to the front and flanks to observe the area over which his platoon may be ordered to advance, in order to select the best available routes for moving his squads forward.

6. Resuming attack after reorganization.--When the company objective is captured, orders for the further employment of the rifle platoon will be issued by the company commander. The attack upon new objectives is made in a manner similar to that described for the initial attack. If other troops are used to continue the attack by passing through the platoon, any elements of the platoon exposed to hostile flat-trajectory fire remain in position and support the new attack by fire until it has progressed far enough to permit them to be assembled without extensive losses.

7. Action when halted.--When the advance of the platoon is stopped by hostile fire and the platoon leader has employed

all means at his disposal to continue the advance, he notifies the company commander. The platoon holds the ground it has gained and starts digging protective trenches or foxholes. (See fig. 19 and FM 5-15 and 21-45.) In the meantime, the advance of adjacent units may force the enemy to withdraw. The platoon leader watches for the first change in the situation permitting his advance to be resumed, and plans ahead so as to be prepared to issue orders promptly when such an opportunity occurs.

8. Antimechanized defense and antiaircraft security.--

   1. Whenever the platoon is assembled, air-antitank guards are posted to give warning of the approach of hostile aircraft and tanks.

   2. The platoon leader advances his platoon through terrain containing obstacles to tank movement. He insures that exposed flanks and routes by which tanks could approach close to the platoon are covered by the antitank rifle grenadiers. For action to be taken in case of mechanized attack, see paragraph 9c.

   3. For security against air attack, rifle platoons and squads make the maximum use of concealment. They open fire on hostile planes only when their fire is not required on ground targets and the planes actually attack them, or have obviously discovered their location. (See par. 9c.)
109. PURSUIT.--

     1. When the platoon reaches its final objective, the enemy is kept under fire as long as he is within effective small-arms range. Pursuit is taken up only on orders of the company commander.

     2. The actions of a platoon during the pursuit resemble its actions during the approach march and the attack. Formations are changed as necessary to facilitate control and rapid advance, and to develop maximum firepower when the enemy resistance stiffens. Light machine guns and 60-mm mortars frequently are attached to rifle platoons for the pursuit.

110. SUPPORT PLATOON.--

     1. In the early phases of an attack, the rifle company usually retains one or two platoons in support. The support echelon constitutes the company

maneuvering force. The missions which may be assigned to a support platoon include one or more of the following:

1. To envelop, or attack in flank, points of resistance holding up the attacking echelon.

2. To reinforce the attacking echelon by fire.

3. To furnish security to the flanks (connecting groups or flank combat patrols).

4. To assist the progress of adjacent units by fire and movement.

5. To furnish protection against counterattacks during the reorganization of the attacking echelon.

6. To relieve a platoon of the attacking echelon.

7. To mop-up a position overrun and passed by the attacking echelon.

2. 1. The support platoon advances by bounds in accordance with instructions of the company commander. It employs approach march formations until committed to action. (See par. 106a.) The platoon leader prevents it from becoming merged with the attacking echelon.

   2. During the advance the leader of a support platoon constantly observes the action of the attacking echelon and the situation on the flanks. As the situation progresses he makes tentative plans for the employment of the platoon.

3. A support platoon is charged with its own protection, and may be ordered to protect the flanks of the attacking echelon either by sending out flank patrols or by the occupation of positions from which it can fire or maneuver to the flank. It frequently is charged with maintaining contact with adjacent companies; connecting groups send information direct to the company commander. For the platoon leader's instructions to flank combat patrols and to connecting groups, see paragraph 157f and g. If the company commander does not prescribe the strength of the connecting group(s), the platoon leader makes them as small as practicable considering the difficulties of the terrain, the distances they are to operate, and the probable number of messengers required.

Figure 19
Rifle platoon in defense

Explanation of figure 19.

1. Platoon leader.
2. Platoon sergeant.
3. Sergeant squad leaders.
4. Corporal assistant squad leaders.
5. Light machine gun sergeant, section leader.
6. Light machine gun corporal, squad leaders.
7. Light machine gun ammunition bearers.
8. Messengers.
9. Observer, 60-mm mortar squad-beside platoon leader.
10. 60-mm mortar with crew-gunner, assistant gunner, and ammunition bearer.
11. Automatic riflemen.
12. Ditch used as a covered route to individual supplementary foxholes so as to provide for defense to the rear.
13. Adjacent defense area.
14. Squad sector of fire-center squad; inner flanks of other squads indicated by broken lines.
15. Platoon guide.
16. Cache dug to serve as protection for mortar ammunition.

SECTION III
DEFENSE

111. TACTICAL EMPLOYMENT.--

     1. General.--

        1. A rifle platoon of a front-line rifle company may be employed to organize and defend an area on the main line of resistance, or it may organize and defend the company support area. It normally occupies one defense area. When it occupies more than one defense area, each area is independently commanded and operates directly under the company commander. (See fig. 19.)

        2. The rifle platoon of a reserve company organizes a position in the reserve area according to the doctrines applicable to a platoon of a front-line company.

     2. Missions.--

        1. Front-line platoon.--The mission of the front-line platoon is, with the support of other units, to stop the enemy by fire in front of the main line of resistance and to repel him by close combat if he reaches it.

        2. Support platoon.--The mission of the support platoon is to assist the front-line platoon by fire, limit penetrations within the company area, execute local counterattacks, and protect the flanks and rear of the company.

112. ACTION BY PLATOON LEADER.--Upon receipt of the company defense order, the platoon leader takes such of the steps described in paragraph 59 as apply to a platoon.

113. RECONNAISSANCE.--The method of reconnaissance described in paragraph 60 for the company commander is used insofar as it pertains to the rifle platoon. During the reconnaissance, the platoon leader contacts leaders of supporting weapon units on the ground before determining final locations for rifle squads and for any attached mortars.

114. PLATOON DEFENSE ORDER.--The order should include:

     1. Information of enemy, including probable direction and time of enemy attack.

     2. Information of supporting and adjacent units.

     3. Platoon mission.

     4. Location and missions of each squad, to include locations and principle missions for the automatic riflemen and antitank rifle grenadiers.

     5. Location and missions (primary and secondary target areas) of any attached 60-mm mortar(s).

     6. Security.

     7. Priority of construction.

     8. Ammunition supply, battalion aid station, and other pertinent administrative details.

     9. Command post.

115. AMMUNITION SUPPLY.--See paragraph 201.

116. FRONTAGES.--The company commander assigns frontages in his front-line platoons in accordance with the natural defensive strength and relative importance of their defense areas. Where a platoon occupies a vital area having poor observation and poor fields of fire, such as in heavily wooded or broken terrain, the frontage of its area should not exceed 250 yards. Where the area is more open and affords longer fields of fire, a frontage of 400 to 500 yards may be assigned. Where the terrain is open and flat, or an obstacle across the front renders the area unlikely to be attacked, the frontage assigned to the platoon may exceed this figure. The area physically occupied by the platoon usually will not exceed 300

yards. The platoon covers by fire that part of its front that is not occupied.

117. DISTRIBUTION OF SQUADS.--

     1. Front-line platoon.--

        1. A platoon occupying an area on the main line of resistance disposes the rifle squads to cover the front of the platoon area, the intervals on the flanks, and to furnish mutually supporting fires with adjacent platoons. Where the assigned frontage is so narrow that there are few or no gaps between platoons, the rifle squads may be located generally abreast. When occupying an area with a wider frontage, better fire to the flank and mutual fire support with adjacent platoons are obtained by drawing back the flanks. The exact trace of the platoon dispositions is coordinated with supporting weapons located in its area. This coordination provides the best fields of fire for all weapons. (See fig. 19.)

        2. The automatic riflemen and antitank rifle grenadiers normally remain with their squads.

        3. If a 60-mm mortar is attached, it is located in suitable defilade within arm-and-hand signaling distance (100 yards) of the observer, and is sited to cover the most dangerous covered approaches to the platoon area. The mortar observer posts himself within signaling distance of the platoon leader.

        4. Supplementary positions for all-around defense to the flanks and rear are constructed and provision is made for shifting part of the platoon to these positions. They should be located as close to the forward positions as the terrain permits. On flat terrain riflemen can shift their fire to the rear from their primary individual emplacements. Wherever possible, natural cover, drainage lines, ditches, and other defilade are used for movement to supplementary positions.

     2. Support platoon.--

        1. The support platoon organizes its position in a manner similar to a front-line platoon occupying a wide frontage. It may be required to organize more than one position and then be held mobile in an assembly area, ready to occupy either its prepared position or to counterattack. The general location of the assembly area is prescribed by the company commander. It must afford cover and concealment and be readily accessible to the areas where the platoon is to be used. Areas in which hostile tanks are likely to operate are undesirable as assembly areas. Routes

affording cover and concealment from the assembly area to prepared positions are selected. All men in the platoon area are acquainted with these routes and with their positions and missions in each organized defense area.

2. Within the assembly area, squad areas are allotted; each should be large enough to prevent congestion. Individuals take cover in ditches and other defilade. If no natural cover is available, individual prone trenches are dug for shelter from artillery fire and aerial bombardment. (See FM 21-45 and appendix I.)

3. When he assigns the platoon a counterattack mission, the company commander prescribes the objective and direction of attack. The counterattack is launched against hostile elements which have overrun a front-line defense area, or against hostile elements effecting an infiltration that threatens to envelop a forward area. When a defense area has been lost, the counterattack seeks to regain the position. It should strike hostile forces in flank with the full force of the platoon. The counterattack of a support platoon is a bayonet assault delivered quickly before the enemy has time to reorganize. The platoon does not pursue beyond the main line of resistance, except by fire. The counterattack plan is fully explained to all men of the platoon and, if time permits, is rehearsed.

4. The company commander decides whether the support platoon is to counterattack or to occupy a prepared position.
118. FIRE PLAN.--

     1. The front-line platoon distributes its fire to cover its front and flanks and the fronts of adjacent platoons. Each rifle squad is given a sector of fire. The flanks of the sector are indicated to the squad leader by terrain features. To insure complete coverage of the target, the rifle squad sectors of fire overlap. The area in front of adjacent platoons is included in the sectors of fire of flank squads. Automatic rifles are emplaced to cover the major portion of the squad sector of fire and be able to fire across the fronts of adjacent squads. They are assigned a principal direction of fire to cover specific terrain features or gaps in the close defensive fires of the supporting weapons. They are valuable for covering small draws or other approaches to the position.

2. The support platoon assigns sectors of fire to its squads to cover the flanks of the forward platoons and the gaps between the platoons. It must be capable of shifting its fire to either flank or to the rear to defend against an attempted envelopment of the company.

3. Platoon fire plans are coordinated by the company commander.
119. ANTIMECHANIZED DEFENSE.--See paragraph 71.

120. ANTIAIRCRAFT SECURITY.--See paragraph 72.

121. COMMAND AND OBSERVATION POST.--The platoon leader stations himself where he can best observe the front and flanks of his area and can signal his squad leaders. His position should afford nearby cover for messengers and defiladed routes to the company command post. The platoon sergeant is near the platoon leader.

122. ORGANIZATION OF GROUND.--The extent of organization of the platoon defense area is limited only by the time and facilities available. The order in which this construction is to be executed is expressed in orders in the form of priorities. Simultaneous work is done on several tasks where possible. Automatic weapons are mounted and crews are ready to fire during this organization. Camouflage and other provisions for concealment precede, or are concurrent with, other work. After the locations of weapon emplacements have been fixed, the primary considerations are to get the men dug in, the position concealed to the maximum extent from both air and ground observation, and the foreground cleared sufficiently to permit effective fire.

123. LOCAL SECURITY.--The platoon provides for its own local security by constant observation to the front and flanks. An observer is posted at all times in each subordinate defense area to give warning of any hostile ground or air approach. At night double sentries may be required as listening posts to cover possible avenues of hostile approach. Sentries are regularly relieved, at least every two hours; more frequent relief may be advisable.

124. CONDUCT OF DEFENSE.--

     1. Successful defense is predicated on each subordinate unit holding its area. The platoon holds its position at all costs. It never withdraws except upon the verified order of higher authority. The platoon takes cover during the hostile artillery preparation and assumes firing positions as soon as the artillery fire has lifted. Fire is withheld until the attacker approaches within effective rifle range (500 yards). The accurate fire and close combat of riflemen and automatic riflemen is the deciding issue in battle. As the hostile advance draws nearer, rates of fire are increased. Much depends on the subordinate leaders controlling the fire of their units and directing it against the most threateniing targets. The company commander is kept informed of the situation. If the attacker succeeds in rushing the position, he is met with fire, grenades, and the bayonet. The platoon holds its ground and repulses or destroys the attacker.

     2. When an adjacent defense area is penetrated, fire is directed against that hostile force to prevent him from widening the break in the adjacent area and thereafter enveloping nearby platoons. Should the platoon be threatened with envelopment, its leader makes changes in dispositions of his personnel and of any supporting weapons in his area so as to insure all-around defense of his position.

125. PLATOON AS COMBAT OUTPOST.--The battalion may prescribe that front-line companies establish combat outposts. The battalion order will indicate the location and may prescribe the strength of the outpost. The support platoon will usually perform this mission. While the platoon is engaged on this duty the platoon leader or the platoon sergeant reconnoiters the support area and outlines its defensive position. For details pertaining to the platoon as a combat outpost, see paragraph 98.

126. RETROGRADE MOVEMENTS.--For the rifle platoon in retrograde movements, see section IV, chapter 3.

     SECTION IV
     SECURITY MISSIONS

127. GENERAL.--

     1. The rifle platoon usually performs security missions as a part of the rifle company. In some situations

the platoon performs missions similar to those described for the rifle company in chapter 4.

2. On the march, security missions of the rifle platoon include its employment as an advance party, rear party, flank guard, or march outpost.

3. The platoon may be detailed on outpost duty to protect a bivouac, as part of a general outpost, as a combat outpost of a front-line battalion in defensive operations, or as a flank security patrol.
128. ADVANCE PARTY.--

     1. When the platoon is employed as an advance party it is sent forward from the support. (See figs. 13 and 14.) The mission of the advance party is to provide for the security of the support by firing on any enemy encountered and by moving rapidly to determine the hostile dispositions. The advance party, in turn, sends forward a half-squad or squad as a point. For the duties of a point, see paragraph 157b.

     2. An advance party is disposed in column of twos with one file on each side of the road. The advance party commander usually marches at the head of the advance party or between the point and the advance party. He goes, however, where he can best observe the ground and, if resistance is met, direct the action to be taken. He is responsible that the assigned route or direction of march is followed. He usually is responsible for the rate of march of the advance guard. He prescribes the distance at which the point is to precede the advance party. In open country, this varies between 150 and 250 yards. In wooded country or at night, distances are considerably reduced. The advance party sends forward connecting files to maintain contact with the point.

     3. An advance party the size of a platoon may be called upon to furnish two or three small foot patrols of from two to three men each to provide for patrolling up to 200 or 300 yards to each flank. The support commander prescribes exactly what patrolling is to be done by the advance party. If the support commander fails to state these details, the advance party commander should ask specifically what is desired.

     4. Any resistance which the point is unable to overcome is attacked at once by the advance party, which deploys and

attacks to the front or around a flank, without hesitation or special reconnaissance. Every effort is made to clear the way quickly for the remainder of the column. When the resistance has been overcome, the march is promptly resumed. (See fig. 15.)

5. When the advance guard halts, the advance party forms a march outpost. It immediately sends observers to nearby points affording observation to the front and flanks.

6. A platoon acting as the advance guard of a small force is organized and conducts its action as an advance party.
129. REAR PARTY.--

     1. A company employed as support of a rear guard will ordinarily employ a platoon as rear party to provide security to the rear. The rear party, in turn, sends back a rear point, usually a half-squad; however, a squad may be employed. The platoon also drops back connecting files to maintain contact with the rear point.

     2. When on foot, the rear party is disposed in column of twos with one file on each side of the road. The rear party commander normally marches behind the rear party. From this position he can quickly decide what to do when the rear point is fired on. He states in his orders the distance, or time interval, at which the rear point is to follow the rear party--usually, if on foot, not more than 200 yards in open country and less in close country or, if motorized, a time interval of two minutes. The distance between the rear party and the support is prescribed by the support commander. (See par. 93.)

     3. Patrolling to the flanks by a rear party of the size of a platoon is rarely undertaken. Rear guard patrols which are sent out from the support rejoin the rear party.

     4. When the rear party commander decides that it is necessary to fight in place, he selects a firing position providing long fields of fire and well to the rear of that occupied by the point. He sends a runner to the leader of the point to tell him where the position is and to lead the point back in its withdrawal. The withdrawal of the rear party is covered by the rear support.

     5. When the rear support halts, the rear party forms a march outpost, dismounting if motorized.

6. A platoon acting as rear guard of a small force is organized and conducts its action as a rear party.
130. FLANK GUARD.--See paragraph 95.

131. OUTPOST DUTY.--

     1. Protection of a bivouac.--

        1. Support (or outguard) of an outpost.--See chapters 4 and 6.

        2. Detached post--

           1. The platoon may be detailed as a detached post to hold a terrain feature such as a stream crossing or important road junction outside of the outpost zone. The platoon organizes for all-around defense, posts observers to keep all approaches under observation, and executes such patrolling as is necessary for its own security.

           2. The platoon constructs road blocks and prepares demolitions as specifically ordered. Road blocks and demolitions are kept under constant surveillance. The platoon position is within effective rifle fire of such road blocks, but sufficiently removed to prevent casualities from artillery fire or dive bombing on the road block (200-400 yards). The antitank rifle grenadiers remain with their squads for close antimechanized protection.

     2. March outpost.--See paragraphs 99 and 157h.

     3. Part of general outpost.--See paragraph 97.

     4. Combat outpost.--See paragraph 98.

132. FLANK SECURITY PATROL.--The platoon acting as a flank security patrol conforms, in general, to the doctrines governing the employment of a rifle squad as a flank security patrol. (See par. 157f.) The platoon leader is told to go to a certain place, or to move abreast of the attacking echelon. On the march, the leader sends a point of four to six men 50 to 200 yards to his front. He protects his flanks, if necessary, by small patrols. When the platoon halts, observers are posted in pairs to watch the front, flanks, and rear. The remainder of the platoon is held under cover ready to resist in any direction. Contact is maintained with the group being protected. See paragraph 95 for use of the platoon as a motorized flank patrol.