1951: Chapter 15 – Battle Procedure - The Vickers Machine Gun

INTRODUCTORY NOTES

1. Machine gun fire will normally be required as part of a co-ordinated fire plan. The preliminary arrangements to bring sections into action, therefore, will usually be made by the machine gun platoon commander.

In the event of a section being placed under command of a rifle company commander, the section commander will be responsible for the deployment of his section in accordance with the rifle company commander’s requirements.

2. The following lessons are designed to teach battle procedure for every role in which machine guns are likely to be employed. Machine guns may be employed as single sections under command of rifle companies or as two or more sections under command of the machine gun platoon commander or second-in-command.

3. In order to avoid having two procedures for each role, i.e. one for a single section, and one for two or more sections, these procedures are based on two sections under the command of the platoon commander. It should not be assumed however that this is necessarily the normal method of employment. Machine gun sections will as frequently be employed singly and section commanders must be trainined to undertake the additional duties entailed when operating indepedently.

4. The following procedures give roles for the platoon commander and platoon 2 IC by do not give any special roles to the platoon sergeant. The role of the platoon sergeant will be mainly administrative but he must be trained and able to take over the duties of the platoon 2 IC if necessary.

5. The normal fire unit is the section. Under certain circumstances however (e.g. defence where fields of fire are restricted to 500-600 yards or less), it may be necessary to sight guns singly. There is no separate battle procedure in this event. Guns should be placed under the direct command of the rifle company or platoon commander in whose area they are sited and owing to the limited fire effect of single guns will be suitable only to assist in the immediate company fire plan.

The section commander, in these circumstances, may assist the rifle company or platoon commander in the siting of the guns, but will not be able to exercise any control over their fire.

LESSON 83 – RECONNAISSANCE OF PLATOON AND SECTION AREAS

1. The platoon area will be selected by the platoon commander, who will satisfy himself that the task can be carried out from that area. The detailled reconnaissance will normally be the platoon commander’s responsibility. However, the time factor may make it necessary for him to decentralize this responsibility, in some measure, to section commanders.

2. The platoon reconnaissance group.

This will normally consist of:-

Platoon commander’s carrier.
Platoon commander.
2 dirver operators.
Driver mechanic.
Platoon orderly (motor cycle).
Each section commander’s carrier.
Section commander.
Rangetaker.
Section commander’s driver mechanic.
Section commander’s driver operator.

This may entail the use of up to four vehicles and a motor cycle, and will necessitate very careful control by the platoon commander. Under certain circumstances a small number of vehicles may have to be taken. However, it should be borne in mind that this may seriously impede the mobility of the section commanders, consequently affecting the speed with which the platoon comes into action.

3. The reconnaissance of a platoon area must be carefully planned, and, in this connection, the following points must receive consideration.

(a) Time plan.- The thoroughness which which an area can be reconnoitred will depend to a great extent on the time available. Thus, as shown in the battle procedure duties (Lesson 84), a time plan must be made, which will include a certain time to be allotted to the reconnaissance.

(b) Reconnaissance plan.- Before carrying out a particular reconnaissance, careful consideration must be given to the actual ground as a whole. From this, and with due consideration to the time available, and enemy observation, a plan will be devised for movement during the reconnaissance.

(c) Dismounted or carrier action.- The universal carrier is mobile across country. It affords little protection against any form of armour piercing bullet, and it is vulnerable to plunging fire. It should, therefore, be used primarily as a means of conveying the gun from place to place, and in no circumstances must it be employed as an armoured fighting vehicle.

(i) Dismounted action. – Guns will normally be fired from positions on the ground, as far greater concealment and protection can be obtained.

(ii) Carrier action. – When the ground is suitable and speed into and out of action is a primary consideration, it may be desirable to fire the guns from carriers in “hull down” positions. In this case, the crosshead mounting may be used, or, at short range, the emergency mounting. It should be realized that a carried cannot cover and arc of fire from a hull-down position.

(d) Direct fire or indirect fire.

(i) Direct fire.- This is the normal tupe of fire employed as it is the more simple, more effective and more flexible means of engaging targets.

(ii) Indirect fire.- Indirect fire positions provide good concealment for the gun line from ground observation but limit flexibility and prevent short range targets from being engaged. This type of fire is particularly suited for harassing tasks by day or night, or when cover and concealment are scarce.

4. Direct fire positions – Dismounted action.

(a) The platoon commander reconnoitres the platoon area and decides on the following:-

Section areas and section rendezvous.
Platoon observation post.
Platoon headquarters.
Position for vehicles.
Local protection – Brens, 3.5-inch RL and 2-inch mortar.
Position from which to give out his orders.

The following are the requirements of:-

(i) Section areas:-

Suitability for the task.
Ability to observe the movement of own troops.
Covered approaches.
Concealment for guns.
Safety for own troops.
Approximately 100 yards – 300 yards apart.

The means of communication at the disposal of the platoon commander for directing the fire of his platoon is the 31 set, telephone (if carried), orderly or signal. This imposts almost no limitations, but, as a guide, it is considered that for control, sections should not be further apart than about 300 yards, and, to minimize the chances of more than one section being neutralized by enemt fire at the same time, not closer together than 100 yards.

(ii) Section RVs:-

As near the section areas as possible.
Covered approach for vehicles.
Easily recognizable points.

(iii) Platoon OP:-

Good command of the arcs of fire.
Ability to observe positions, and movement of own troops.
Cover from fire and enemy observation, both from ground and air.
Covered approach.
Accommodation for the required number of men.
Whenever possible, sited near one section commander’s control post. This will enable the platoon commander to give fire direction orders to one section by voice.

(iv) Positions for vehicles:-

Either grouped together in one platoon position or separate as section vehicle positions behind the section areas. The course adopted will naturally be dependent on the situation. Cover from fire and enemy observation, both from ground and air.

(v) Local protection.

The Brens are primarily for the defence of the vehicle positions.
The 3.5-inch RLs will be sited where the need for them is greatest.

(vi) Position from which to give out his orders:-

This should, if possible, be in one of the section areas, and at a point from which the whole arc of fire can be seen.

(b) The section commander reconnoitres the section area and decides on the following:-

Two gun positions.
Control post.
Organization of the arcs of fire.

The following are the requirements of:-

(i) Gun positions:-

Suitability for task.
Cover from fire and enemy observation, both from ground and air.
Ability to observe positions, and movement of own troops.
Covered approach.
Distance apart approximately 10-20 yards.

(ii) Control post:-

Good command of the arc of fire.
Ability to observe positions and movement of own troops.
Cover from fire and enemy observation, both from ground and air.
Covered approach.
Accommodation for the required number of men.
Sufficient concealment to enable fire control signals to be made.
Within voice control and preferably to the left of the guns.

(iii) Organization of the arc of fire:-

This will be carried out as shown in Chapter 12, Lesson 66.

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(c) Communications.- The communications which can be used within the platoon when direct fire, dismounted action is being employed are as follows:-

31 set between platoon OP and each section area.
Telephone as an alternative to the 31 set if line equipment is carried.
31 set to battalion headquarters.
88 set to rifle company. (The 88 sets in the platoon are NOT for internal communication).

5. Direct fire positions.- Carrier action.

(a) Should the platoon commander decide to use carrier action, he will carry out his reconnaissance in the same manner as shown for dismounted ation with teh following modifications:-

Section areas:-

To contain suitable “hull-down” positions.
To have cover from observation from any part of the enemy position, not only from the target area.
To have suitable background.
Every effort to be made to avoid clearly defined crests and skylines.

(b) The section commander will reconnoitre his area as for dismounted action with the following modifications:-

2 approximate carrier positions.
Control post.

The following are the requirements of:-

(i) Carrier positions:-

Suitable for the task.
Chosen from gun height, when the gun is mounted on the carrier.
Easy “run in.”
(1) Gun flags will be placed in the ground to indicate the approximate carrier positions).

(ii) Control post:-

This may be on the ground as in dismounted action or on the section commander’s carrier.

(c) Communications:- As speed into and out of action is the main consideration when employing direct fire-carrier action, it is not normal to lay any line communications.

6. Indirect fire.- If the platoon commander decides to employ indirect fire he will reconnoitre the platoon area and decide on the following:-

Gun position.
Platoon OP.
Vehicle position.
Position from which to give out orders.The following are the requirements of:-

(i) The gun position:-

As near the top of the crest as possible, consistent with concealment and safety.
To afford sufficient cover for the carriers to move up to within 10 yards of the gun flags, and for the gun numbers to remain concealed when standing in the carriers.

(ii) The platoon OP:-

Good command of any particular target given and the arc of fire.
Ability to observe positions, and movement, of own troops.
As close to the gun positions as possible to ensure accuracy and not more than 200 yards in front of or behind the guns, nor displaced more than 50 yards to a flank.

(iii) The vehicle position:-

This will conform to to the requirements enumerated in Para 4 sub para (a) (iv).

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Lesson 84 – THE OCCUPATION OF A PLATOON POSITION

DIRECT FIRE – DISMOUNTED ACTION – BY DAY

1. The following are the duties of various personnel of the platoon, from the time that the platoon commander receives the warning order from the battalion commander until the platoon is in action.

2. The platoon commander.

(a) On receipt of the warning order, he will:-
- (i) Send the platoon orderly to collect the platoon 2 IC and the “R” group or call them on the platoon 31 set net.
- (ii) Study the message carefully, and consider the planning.
- (iii) Pass on the contents of the warning order to the platoon 2 IC and “R” group ordering the former to lead the platoon to the RV given in the warning order, while he leads the “R” group to the “R” group RV.
(b) On meeting the battalion commander at the “R” group RV he will ask two questions:-
- (i) “Can I move my platoon further forward at this stage, if so, where?” It will save a great deal of time if the platoon can be moved as far forward as possible as early as possible.
- (ii) “Can I have section commanders up to listen to orders?” This will ensure that section commanders obtain sufficient information to enable them to carry out their tasks even if the platoon commander beings an early casualty. The number of section commanders, if any allowed forward by the battalion commander will naturally depend on the ground, the enemy fire and the number of “R” group present.

(c) On completion of the battalion commander’s orders the platoon commander must appreciate the situation and evolve a time plan on the following lines:-

Time available 35 minutes
Appreciate the situation, make time plan, and write message to platoon 2 IC	5 mins.
After hearing my orders, section commanders will require	15 mins.
My orders will take	5 mins.
Total	25 mins.
Therefore:- Time left for my recce	10 mins.

(d) Platoon commander will send a message to the platoon 2 IC including:-
- Brief information.
- Platoon role.
- Orders to move the platoon to an RV as near the platoon area as possible (incl. route if necessary).
- Time by which platoon has to be in action.
- His own actions and whereabouts.
This message will be sent by means of the platoon orderly, who, after delivering the message will return to the platoon commander, at the same time leading the platoon to its RV, if practicable. The route to be taken by the platoon orderly will be carefully explained to him.
(e) The platoon commander will now move with his “R” group to his platoon area, where he will put his “R” group under cover, make his reconnaissance plan (Lesson 83 para 3 sub-para (b)) and carry out his reconnaissance.
- Section area and RVs.
- Arcs of fire, targets and initial safety problems.
- Position for platoon OP.
- Position for vehicles.
- Siting of the Brens and 3.5-inch RLs.
- Position from which to give out orders.(Details of this reconnaissance are as shown in Lesson 83 para 4(a)(i).)
(f) On completion of his reconnaissance, he will issue orders to his section commanders, which will include as many of the following points as may be necessary:-
- Orientation on the ground and map.
- Information.
  - Enemy.
  - Own troops.
- Intention.
- Method.
  - Direct fire-Dismounted action.
- Each section.
  - Area.
  - RV.
- All sections.
  - Arcs of fire.
  - Targets and timings.
  - Ammunition for various tasks.
  - Factors affecting safety.
  - Vehicle position.
  - Subsequent role.
- Administration.
  - RAP.
  - Replenishment etc.
- Intercommunication.
  - Telephone requirements.
  - Position of platoon OP.
  - Position of platoon HQ.
  - Rifle company HQ (if nearby).
  - Battalion HQ.
  - Success signals (codewords, light-signals, and from where the latter will go up).
  - Synchronise watches.
  - H hour ……… hrs.
  - Any questions No. 1 section? No. 2 section?
(g) He will then move to the platoon RV with his platoon orderly, where the platoon 2 IC and Nos. 1 will be waiting to receive orders. His orders will contain:-
- Information.
  - Enemy.
  - Own troops. (Very briefly).
- Intention.
- Method.
  - Direct fire-Dismounted action.
  - Each section:-
    - Area.
    - RV (route if necessary).
  - Ammunition.
  - Time by which guns have to be in action.
  - Any questions?(Nos. 1 will now move off).
- Additional orders for the platoon 2 IC.
  - Position of platoon HQ.
  - Position of platoon OP.
  - Vehicle position.
  - Local protection (3.5-inch RLs and Brens).
  - Replenishment of ammunition.
  - Any questions.
(h) He will now move to the platoon OP, and at the most convenient time during that move, give orders to the driver operators including:-
- Position of platoon OP.
- Position of platoon HQ.
- Position for carrier.
- Position for 88 set and 31 set.
- Position for rear link 31 set.
- Information re-telephone layout.
(j) On completion of these orders, he will occupy the platoon OP and, when all sections have reported “In Action,” will report the platoon “In Action” to battalion HQ, together with the location of platoon OP in code (This will generally be done by wireless).
(k) As soon as possible, he will pass on full information to the platoon 2 IC at the OP.
(l) In action, the platoon commander will:-
- (i) Keep in touch with the tactical situation, and carry out reconnaissance when necessary.
- (ii) Issue fire direction orders as required.
- (iii) Keep in touch with battalion HQ and if necessary direct with any rifle company HQ.
- (iv) Pass on all available information to the section commanders and platoon 2 IC.
3. The platoon 2 IC (or platoon sergeant).
(a) Having received the contents of the battalion commander’s warning order, he will:-
- (i) Pass on brief information to Nos. 1.
- (ii) Lead the platoon to the RV ordered by the platoon commander.
- (iii) Supervise the order of march, local protection and the dispersion and camouflage of the carriers both on the move and at the RV.
- (iv) Arrange for the Nos. 1 to move to him quickly when signalled.
(b) On receipt of the written message delivered by the platoon orderly, he will:-
- Carry out the same procedure as shown above.
- Arrange for a final check of stores.
(c) On receipt of verbal orders from the platoon commander, he will:
- (i) Supervise the dispersal and concealment of the carriers.
- (ii) Arrange for the siting of the rear link 31 set.
- (iii) Arrange for the siting of the 3.5-inch RLs, Brens, 2-inch mortar, and alarm posts for the drivers.
- (iv) Arrange for the replenishment of ammunition etc, to the sections.
- (v) Report to the platoon commander for full information at the platoon OP.
- (vi) Be prepared to take over the command of the platoon in the event of the platoon commander becoming a casualty, or going out on liaison.
- (vii) Be prepared, if necessary to return to platoon HQ which will be near battalion HQ.
4. The section commander.
(a) He will move forward with the platoon “R” group to the “R” group RV and organize the local protection of the “R” group.
(b) While the platoon commander is receiving orders, he will arrange for him to be kept under observation.
(c) On completion of the battalion commander’s orders, he will ensure that the platoon commander is kept under observation when doing his reconnaissance, pass on as much information as possible to the remainder of the “R” group and study the map and ground.
(d) On completion of platoon commander’s orders (para 2(f)), the section commander will consider the time available, and move to his area in his carrier with his “R” group.
(e) On arrival, he will place his carrier under cover, move forward on foot with the rangetaker and driver mechanic, and make his reconnaissance plan.
(f) He will give orders to his driver mechanic which will include:-
- (i) Area in which he is going to reconnoitre.
- (ii) Position forward of which the carriers must not come.
- (iii) Any necessary orders to be passed on to the Nos. 1 when they arrive.
- (iv) Position for vehicles.The driver mechanic will now be sent to the section RV to await the arrival of the Nos. 1.
(g) He will give orders to his rangetaker including:-
- (i) Arc of fire.
- (ii) Points to which he requires ranges.
- (iii) Time available.
- (iv) Orders to make out a range card if there is sufficient time.
- (v) Probable position of the section control post.
(h) He will give orders to his driver operator including:-
- (i) The unloading of the 31 set.
- (ii) The position of the section control post.
- (iii) Netting the 88 set, if necessary, on a rifle company net.

(j) The section commander will now make his reconnaissane of the section area. He will reconnoitre for and decide on:-

2 gun positions.
Section control post.
Organisation of the arc of fire.(Details of this reconnaissance are as shown in Lesson 83, para 4(b))
(k) When the section arrives in the section area, the section commander will get his guns into action as follows:-He signals up both Nos. 1 and indicates each gun position and the direction in which the guns are required to point, or, if the guns arrive in the section area at different times, he will signal up each No. 1 in turn. He will then control the higher numbers coming into action.
(l) As soon as the guns are mounted, and covering their arcs of fire he will send a No. 3 to the platoon OP to report the section “In Action,” or he will report over the 31 set.
(m) He will then organize the arc of fire and as soon as possible will pass on full information to the section and arrange for the local protection of his section area.
(n) In action, the section commander will:-
- (i) Control the fire of his section.
- (ii) Locate and engage targets within his arc.
- (iii) Solve safety problems as they arise.
- (iv) Make arrangements to continue firing in the event of the target becoming obscured.
- (v) Keep in contact with the platoon commander.
- (vi) Pass on full information to the section.

5. The section commander’s driver mechanic.

On receipt of his orders from the section commander he will:-

(a) Move to the section RV to await the arrival of the Nos. 1.
(b) Pass on any orders to the Nos. 1.
(c) Direct the section up to the section commander.
(d) Unload the spare parts box.
(e) After all the necessary stores have been removed from the section carriers, he will lead them back to the vehicle position.

6. The Nos. 1.

(a) On receipt of the platoon commander’s orders at the platoon RV, they will:-
- (i) Move back to their carriers.
- (ii) Senior Nos. 1 lead their sections to their section RVs.
- (iii) On arrival, contact the section commander’s driver mechanic and obtain all the available information.
- (iv) Move to the section area and contact the section commander.
(b) On receipt of initial orders from the section commanders, they will:-
- (i) Mount their guns in the required position and direction.
- (ii) Be prepared to receive detailed orders from the section commanders.

7. The No. 3 of the even sub-section.

Besides the normal duties as laid down in section drill, the additional duties are as follows in the event of line equipment being carried:-

(a) On receipt of the necessary orders from his section commander, he will:-
- (i) Move to the platoon OP to report the section in action taking with him the drum of cable and cable-laying apparatus and reconnoitering the best and most covered route for laying the line.
- (ii) Report the section “In Action,” secure the end of the wire at the platoon OP, lay line back to his section control post, and connect up the telephone.
(b) On “Cease firing,” he will wind in the cable and replace the telephone equipment on the section commander’s carrier.

8. The platoon commander’s driver operators.

On receipt of orders from the platoon commander, they will:-

(i) Unload the 31 and 88 sets in the area of the platoon OP.
(ii) The carrier will then move to the vehicle position.

9. Throughout the battle procedure the 15-cwt is not take into account. It is intended primarily as an administrative vehicle and as such will more often that not be at the platoon HQ, or battalion “B” echelon.

LESSON 85 – MODIFICATIONS FOR DIRECT FIRE CARRIER ACTION

1. The battle procedure duties of the platoon, when carrier action is to be employed, are similar to those enumerated in Lesson 84 with the following modifications:-

2. His reconnaissance must be carried out as shown in Lesson 83, para 5(a).

3. The section commander.

(a) His reconnaissance must be carried out in accordance with Lesson 83, para 5(b).
(b) On completion of his reconnaissance, he will give brief orders to the Nos. 1 who will have dismounted and moved forward from their carriers. These orders will contain:-
- (i) Target and range if known.
- (ii) Approximate carrier position.
(c) He will position his own carrier so that he can control the fire of his section, or, if he decides to control from the ground, he will occupy his control post.
(d) He will give out his fire order, and carry out his normal battle procedure duties, as shown in Lesson 84.

4. The Nos. 1 and the section commander’s driver mechanic.

Act as shown in Lesson 69.

LESSON 86 – MODIFICATIONS FOR INDIRECT FIRE

1. When it has been decided to occupy an indirect position, there will be certain special modifications to the battle drill duties shown in Lesson 84.

2. The platoon commander.

(a) On arrival in his area, he will:-
- (i) Place his “R” group under cover and make his recce plan. (Lesson 83, para 3(b)).
- (ii) Order a driver mechanic to collect the indirect fire equipment (1) director, zero posts, gun flags from the carriers.
- (iii) Give orders to one of the rangetakers including:-
  - Arc of fire.
  - Points to which he requires ranges.
  - Time available.
  - Orders to make out a range card, if there is sufficient time.
  - Probable position of the OP.
- (iv) Carry out his reconnaissance as shown in Lesson 83, para 6.
(b) On completion of his reconnaissance as shown in Lesson 83, para 6.
- (i) Give orders to the section commanders, and the platoon 2 IC if he has arrived on the position. These orders will include the same items as for direct fire with the exception of the method paragraph, which will be as follows:-
  - Method.
    - Indirect fire.
    - Tasks and timings.
    - No. 1 gun position. (This should be flagged by the platoon commander on his recce).
    - Direction of zero line of pivot line.
    - Ammunition required.
    - Vehicle position.
    - Arrangements for local protection.
- (ii) Give the normal orders to the driver operators.
- (iii) Move to his OP and obtain the necessary data to engage the targets. This will include:-
  - Ranges.
  - Angles of sight.
  - Angular width of targets.
  - Safety of own troops.
- (iv) Give out his fire order and control the fire of his platoon. This is normally done by 31 set or telephone, although voice control is better if the distance is not too great.
- (v) If the platoon 2 IC was not present at the platoon commander’s orders, the platoon commander will give him full orders from the OP as early as possible, with particular reference to:-
  - Vehicle position.
  - Local protection.
  - Ammunition supply.

3. The senior section commander.

(a) On completion of orders from the platoon commander, he will:-
- (i) Align the posts for the pivot gun.
- (ii) Flag the gun positions as ordered by the platoon commander.
- (iii) Parallel the guns on their zero lines.
- (iv) Calculate the MQA, report it to the platoon commander, ensure the guns clear the creat, and pass on full information to his section.
- (v) Take up a position by the pivot gun and relay orders from the platoon commander to the guns.
(b) On “Cease Firing,” he will:-

4. The junior section commander.

(a) On receipt of orders from the platoon commander, he will:-
- (i) Assist the senior section commander in preparing the gun position.
- (ii) Meet the platoon at the RV and direct the gun carriers as near as possible to their gun flags, informing the Nos. 1 that it is indirect fire and numbers of liners required, and indicate the vehicle position to the drivers.
- (iii) Take up a position on the gun line opposite the senior section commander, repeat and acknowledge all signals and orders, and pass on full information to his section.
(b) On “Cease Firing” he will:-

5. The platoon 2 IC.

On receipt of orders from the platoon commander, he will carry out his normal duties as in Lesson 84, para 3(c).

LESSON 87 – MODIFICATIONS FOR REORGANIZATION

1. General. The battle procedure duties in the reorganization will vary according to circumstances which can be summarized as follows:-

(a) The time the pioneer platoon or the REs will take to gap or bridge an obstacle, natural or otherwise, which will prevent vehicles from moving on to the objective.(The movement of vehicles on to a captured objective is of primary importance and strict control of traffic is necessary, especially when an obstacle has to be negotiated. All transport that is required for reorganization purposes, is, therefore, organized into “F” echelons. For details regarding the movement “F” echelon transport see Infantry Training Memorandum No. 5 1945-).
(b) The amount of information about the objective that can be obtained from patrols, air photographs, intelligence reports, distance reconnaissance and map appreciation.
(c) Whether the attack is to be by day or night. In this respect, it will usually be found that, if the obstacle is of any size, the attack will have to be carried out by night.

Phase I – The initial preparation

2. The battle procedure duties for the reorganization remain the same as shown in Lesson 84 until the completion of the battalion commander’s orders. They are then modified as follows:-

(a) The platoon commander.
- (i) On completion of the battalion commander’s orders, he will consider the planning and send off, to the platoon 2 IC, a message containing:-
  - Brief information.
  - Intention.
  - Platoon RV and route (if necessary).
  - All NCOs less one No. 1 per section to come forward to an RV for orders.
  - Own actions and whereabouts.
  This message will be sent off by wireless or by means of the platoon orderly, who will, if practicable, lead the platoon and NCOs to their respective RVs.
- (ii) The battalion commander’s orders will have contained the following:-
  - Information.
    - Enemy
    - Own troops (as much as possible on the ground).
  - Intention.
  - Method.
    - Battalion attack plan.
    - Battalion reorganization plan.
  - Administration.
    - RAP.
  - Intercommunication.
    - Position of battalion HQ on the objective.
    - Success signals.
    - H hour ………hrs.
- (iii) The reorganization plan will contain the task for the machine gun platoon. The platoon commander will then consider the siting of the section positions on the objective.This can be done either from air photographs, the map, or by distant recce.Should it be impossible to site the platoon without close reconnaissance of the ground, the platoon commander will have to contact the battalion commanders on the objective, and the decision will have to be made there.
  However, if the reorganization is to be carried out in darkness, the section positions must be chosen before the move forward from all the information available, because no satisfactory reconnaissance can normally be carried out until first light the following day, and it is essential for the guns to be in position as soon as possible after the rifle companies have reached their objectives.
- (iv) He will also discuss with the battalion commander the move forward of his platoon on to the objective vide para 3 below.
- (v) If it has been possible to decide on the rifle company in which the platoon will be sited, he will contact the company commander and discuss with him the following points:-
  - Company reorganization plan.
  - Position of company headqurters on the objectives.
  - Machine gun tasks and the positions from which he thinks the sections will be able to carry them out. He will also arrange for his driver operator to net his 88 set on the rifle company net.
- (vi) He will contact the “F” echelon commander, and obtain from his the following information:-
  - Location of the “F” echelon RV.
  - Order of march.
  - Serial numbers.
  - Time of assembly.
  - Gap or bridge to be used, or the route.
  - Battalion dispersal point on the objective.
- (vii) He will rejoin his “O” group and give out his orders, and, assuming that it has been possible to decide on the approximate section areas and that the platoon will move forward on to the objective in the battalion “F” echelon, they will include:-
  - Information.
    - Enemy ………
    - Own troops ………
      - The rifle company areas or area in which the sections will operate.
    - Battalion attack plan.
    - Battalion reorganization plan.
    - Any relevant rifle company reorganization plan.
  - Intention.
    - Method.
    - “F” echelon RV and time of assembly.
    - Order of march (both of “F” echelon and platoon).
    - Serial numbers.
    - Route and gap.
    - Battalion dispersal point.
    - Platoon RV on the objective (if necessary).
    - Approximate section areas if known.
    - Tasks (with compass bearing of centre of arc or fixed lines).
    - Vehicle protection.
  - Administration.
    - Battalion RAP.
  - Intercommunication.
    - Approximate platoon OP on the objective if known.
    - Approximate platoon HQ on the objective if known.
    - Battalion HQ on the objective.
    - Success signals.
    - Synchronize watches.
    - H hour ………hrs.
    - Any questions?
- (viii) On completion of these orders, he will return to the platoon and pass on the full information. However, if time is short, this duty may have to be delegated to the NCOs.
- (ix) At the appropriate time he will lead the platoon to the “F” echelon RV and form up in accordance with the orders of the “F” echelon commander or, if stores are going to be manhandled on to the objective, then he will lead the pltoon to the battalion assembly area.
(b) The platoon 2 IC.
- (a) Pass on brief information to the Nos. 1.
- (b) Order a check of stores and digging tools.
- (c) Arrange for sandbags to be filled.
- (d) If necessary, lead the platoon to the RV given in the message.
- (e) Take forward in his jeep the senior Nos. 1 to the platoon commander’s RV for orders.
- (f) On completion of platoon commander’s orders, return to the platoon and pass on the information if necessary.
- (g) Move to the “F” echelon RV or the battalion assembly area at the appropriate time.

Phase II – The move on to the objective

3. This will be governed by the time taken to gap or bridge, for vehicles, any obstacles which may be in existence, and whether the attack will be carried out by day or by night.

(a) Plan A.- By day, when there is either no obstacle or an obstacle which can be quickly be gapped or bridged for vehicles:-The platoon under these circumstances will be under the control of the “F” echelon commander. It will form up and move to a battalion dispersal point on the objective in accordance with his orders. It will be normal for the platoon to travel within the “F” echelon, but, under special circumstances, such as the absence of obstacles, it will be possible for the platoon to move forward outside the “F” echelon following a route laid down by the “F” echelon commander.It is essential for the platoon “R” group to arrive on the objective as far ahead of the platoon as possible. By doing this the platoon commander will have a small amount of time in which to make any necessary reconnaissance before the platoon arrives. When travelling within the “F” echelon, this is done by having the “R” group and the platoon as two separate serials, the “R” group having the highest priority it is possible to obtain. On arrival on the objective the platoon commander will move straight away with his “R” group to his area, while the platoon under the platoon 2 IC will remain at the battalion dispersal point or, if ordered, will move to a platoon RV.
(b) Plan B.- By day, when there is an obstacle which will not be quickly gapped or bridged for vehicles.Under this circumstance, it will be necessary for the platoon to move on to the objective on foot, stores being manhandled. The vehicles will remain behind under command of the platoon sergeant and will move forward with the “F” echelon as soon as possible. Again it is essential for the “R” grouo to arrive on the objective as far ahead of the remainder of the platoon as possible, therefore, it will move on foot near tactical battalion HQ. The platoon will move under command of the platoon 2 IC in read of the reserve rifle companies and because of this, the “R” group will hve to be smaller and might consist of platoon commander, one section commander, one rangetaker and the platoon orderly. (If this plan is adopted, careful preparation must be made beforehand). The platoon should be informed of the long carry as soon as possible, to enable the loads to be prepared. Only the essential stores should be carried, and these should, as far as possible, be carried either in the man’s large pack or on the HS man pack carrier. Under certain circumstances the platoon commander may allot higher numbers from other sections to assist with the carrying of stores or assistance may be given from reserve rifle company.
(c) Plan C.- By night, when there may or may not be an obstacle.As previously explain, in this situation the planning will have to be done entirely from air photos, maps and distant recce, as no satisfactory reconnaissance can normally be carried out until first light on the following day.The platoon will normally be led forward in one body by the platoon commander, either in the “F” echelon or on foot, depending on whether there is an obstacle or not, and when there is an obstacle, on how long it will take to gap or bridge that obstacle for vehicles. However, if conditions of bright or artificial moonlight, a machine gun “R” group may be sent ahead at the discretion of the battalion commander.
(According to which one of the three plans is adopted, so the platoon commander will carry out the particular stage in the battle procedure).

Phase III – The procedure on the objective

4. This will be governed almost entirely by the amount of information available about the objective, and whether the reorganization is to be carried out in daylight or darkness.

(a) Procedure A.- By day, when it has been possible to decide in which company areas the platoon will be sited and the full “R” group is available.The platoon commander on arrival on the objective, will:-
- (i) Contact battalion HQ by wireless and ascertain whether the rifle companies have reached their objectives; if so, he will move to his area.
- (ii) Make a quick appreciation and reconnaissance.
- (iii) Give the following confirmatory orders to the section commanders:-
  - Section arcs and RVs.
  - Arcs of fire and temporary fixed lines.
  - Vehicle positions, if required.
  - Platoon OP.
  - Platoon HQ.
- (iv) Move to the platoon RV or the battalion dispersal point and give confirmatoty orders to the Nos. 1 and platoon 2 IC as follows:-
  - Section areas and RVs.
  - Routes.
  - Additional orders for the platoon 2 IC.
  - Platoon OP.
  - Platoon HQ.
  - Vehicle position.
- (v) Give the normal orders to the driver operators.
- (vi) Report the platoon in action, together with the location of platoon headquarters in code.
- (vii) Carry out liaison with rifle company or companies in whose areas the platoon is sited. This must be a quick liaison, its object being to warn them of section areas and arcs of fire.
- (viii) Contact the battalion commander and discuss:-
  - The latest information.
  - Any necessity for resiting the sections in different company areas.
  - The linking up of communications.
- (ix) Carry out a thorough reconnaissance of the company area or areas in which it has been decided to resite the sections, contacting the company commanders concerned, and considering the following:-
  - Resiting of sections.
  - Fixed lines.
  - Mines.
  - Wiring.
  - Digging.
  - Communications.
- (x) Return to the platoon and carry out any necessary resiting. In some cases, if the battalion area is under observation, the movement of the sections cannot be carried out until after dark.
- (xi) Issue orders to the driver operators concerning any additional communications required with the companies.
- (xii) Pass on full information.
The battle procedures for the remainder of the platoon are the same as shown in Lesson 84, but every effort must be made to occupy as quickly as possible, and digging must commence immediately.
(b) Procedure B.- By day, when it has not been possible to decide on the siting of the platoon before the move forward.The platoon commander, on arrival on the objective will:-
- (i) Contact battalion HQ, ascertain whether the rifle companies have reached their objectives, and obtain the latest information.
- (ii) Locate his task on the ground, and decide on the most suitable company area or areas from which to carry it out.
- (iii) Send the platoon orderly to lead up the platoon from the battalion dispersal point.
- (iv) Move to the rifle company area he has selected and carry out the duties as shown in para 4(a)(iii) to (xii).The remainder of the platoon will carry out the normal duties for the occupation of a position by day.
(c) Procedure C.- By night. The platoon commander will:-
- (i) Contact battalion HQ by wireless as soon as he arrives on the objective. He will ascertain whether the rifle companies have reached their objectives and whether the platoon may move forward to its area.
- (ii) Leave the platoon under the command of the platoon 2 IC while he leads the section and platoon OP personnel to their areas. (On certain occasions, it may be possible for the platoon 2 IC to lead one section into position).
- (iii) Peg out the fixed lines for the guns on arrival in the section areas. He will do this as shown in Lesson 107.
- (iv) Give orders to the driver operators.
- (v) Carry out quick liaison with the rifle company commanders.
- (vi) Contact battalion HQ to obtain the latest information.
- (vii) Carry out detailed liaison with the rifle company commanders.
- (viii) Return to his sections and pass on the full information to them.
- (ix) Inspect the section areas at first light and confirm their tasks.
- (x) Contact the battalion commander and consider any necessary resiting of the sections.

Phase IV – The co-ordination of the machine gun fire task

5. The machine gun fire plan will normally be on a battalion level. Thus, the platoon commander should keep this foremost in his mind when siting his sections. At the same time, he should try to co-ordinate the battalion task alloted to him with any tasks desired by the rifle company commanders.

LESSON 88 – MODIFICATIONS FOR DEFENCE

1. The battle procedure duties shown below apply to the occasion when it is desired to occupy two or more section positions – direct fire. Should it be required to occupy and indirect platoon position, the same general principles will apply.
NOTE.- If the time is short the platoon commander may delegate the reconnaissance of one or even two section areas to the platoon 2 IC. In this case the normal duties of the platoon 2 IC will be undertaken by the platoon sergeant.

2. The platoon commander.

His duties are the same as in battle procedure (Lesson 84) until he has made his time plan; then they will be modified as follows: He will:-

(a) Write a normal message to the platoon 2 IC except that it will include orders for all NCOs less one No. 1 per section to come to an RV For orders. This message will be sent off by the platoon orderly who, if possible, will lead the platoon and NCOs to their respective RVs.
(b) Move to his area with “R” group, place it under cover and make his reconnaissance plan.
(c) Reconnoitre the area alloted to him for the following items:-
- (i) Exact gun positions and control posts.
- (ii) Section RVs.
- (iii) Platoon HQ.
- (iv) Platoon OP.
- (v) Vehicle position (dependant on battalion commander’s orders.)
- (vi) Arrangements for local protection.
- (vii) Position from which to give out orders.
(d) On completion of his reconnaissance, give out orders to all NCOs less the Nos. 1 left with the platoon. They will include:-
- Information
  - Enemy ………
  - Own troops ……… (As much information as he knows at this stage about own troops near section areas and near where fixed lines will fall).
- Intention.
- Method.
  - Direct fire.-Dismounted action.
  Each section:-
  - Area and RV.
  - Task or tasks.
  - Arc of fire.
  - Approximate area for temporary fixed line.
- All sections:-
  - Rate of fire on fixed lines.
  - Reservation of ammunition for particular tasks.
  - Digging.
  - Arrangements for vehicles.
  - Local protection (3.5-inch RLs, 2-inch mortar, Brens, and rifles).
  - Orders as to when to open fire.
- Administration.
  - RAP.
- Intercommunication.
  - Battalion HQ.
  - Platoon HQ.
  - Platoon OP.
  - SOS signal (if known).
  - Synchronize watches.
    - Be in action by ………hrs.
  - Any questions?
(e) Move to each section area in turn to point out to the section commanders their exact gun positions and control posts, and to confirm their tasks on the ground.
(f) Return to the platoon OP and give orders to the driver operators including:-
- 31 set.
- 88 set.
- Telephones.
(g) Satisfy himself that the platoon is in action and report the fact to battalion HQ together with the location of platoon HQ in code.
(h) Hand over the platoon to the platoon 2 IC and carry out liaison with the companies near the platoon area and near where the fixed lines are to fall. He will find out from where the SOS signal will go up, and discuss the co-ordination of digging, wiring, mining and communications. As he returns to the platoon, he will inspect the section positions from the enemy’s point of view.
(j) Give out further orders to the platoon 2 IC and section commanders including:-
- (i) Detailed disposition of own troops.
- (ii) Areas for permanent fixed lines.
- (iii) Area from which the SOS signal will go up.
- (iv) Location of neighbouring HQ.
- (v) Digging plan.
(k) Give orders to the driver operators concerning extra communications that may be required with the rifle companies.
(l) Organize the digging of the platoon OP and carry out any further liaison and reconnaissance which may be necessary for alternative positions.

4. The platoon 2 IC or sergeant.

(a) Pass on brief information to the Nos. 1.
(b) Lead the platoon to the RV given in the message, and then take forward the senior Nos. 1 to the platoon commander’s RV for orders.
(c) On completion of orders, return to the platoon with the Nos. 1.
(d) Establish platoon HQ.
(e) Arrange for the carriers to be sent to the vehicle position under command of the platoon sergeant (if available).
(f) Arrange for the siting of the 3.5-inch RLs, Brens and 2-inch mortars.
(g) Supervise the digging of the platoon HQ and the OP.
(h) If necessary, carry out local liaison.

5. The section commander.

In addition to the normal duties for the occupation of a position by day (Lesson 84), he will:-

(a) Order the rangetaker to make out a range card.
(b) Order the guns to be mounted to the flank of the permanent positions to enable digging to be carried out, and arrange for them to be laid on temporary fixed lines until the permanent fixed lines are decided upon.
(c) See that all stores are removed from the carriers and send the carriers to the platoon sergeant at platoon HQ.
(d) Arrange for guns and stores to be concealed until they can be dug in.
(e) Organize:-
- (i) Sentries.
- (ii) Alarm signal.
- (iii) Positions for the higher numbers on receipt of the alarm signal or at “Stand To.”
- (iv) Action to be taken on receipt of the SOS signal.
(f) Pass on full information to the section.
(g) Having received further orders from the platoon commander, he will organize the permanent fixed lines, the digging of the permanent position, and pass on full information to the section.
(h) If necessary, carry out local liaison.

6. The senior Nos. 1.

In addition to their normal duties they will be responsible for leading their respective sections from their platoon RV to the section areas.

LESSON 89 – THE INSPECTION OF A SECTION AREA IN DEFENCE

1. The following are some of the points that a platoon commander will check when he inspects a section position in defence. The list is not comprehensive and must be regarded only as a guide.

(a) Is the section commander “In the picture”?
- (i) Does he know the latest information about the enemy?
- (ii) Own troops.
  - Does he know their positions?
  - Has he made contact with those nearest?
  - Has he full information about patrols?
  - Has he arranged for protection by neighbouring troops where necessary?
  - Does he know position of nearest HQ and RAP?
(b) Section personnel.
- (i) Has all information been passed on to every man – especially regarding SOS?
- (ii) Does everyone know his action on alarm signal.
- (iii) Are all administrative instructions fully understood – including sanitary arrangements?
- (iv) Do neighbouring troops know whereabouts of lines of fire and fixed lines, and have arrangements been made to prevent their crossing them?
- (v) Does everybody know position of platoon HQ, platoon OP, and necessary routes to them?
(c) The task.
- (i) Arc.
  - Can both guns cover the arc?
  - Organization of arc.
  - Range cards; areas in which it is unsafe to fire marked in.
- (ii) Fixed line.
  - Location and safety.
  - Aiming posts planted and lensatic sight adjusted.
  - Deflection drums and direction dial at correct settings.
  - Range and angle of sight left on respective drums and recorded.
  - Aiming lamps ready for use.
(d) Stores.
- (i) Everything off the carriers.
- (ii) All ammunition handy for the guns and dug in.
- (iii) Spare parts cases complete.
- (iv) Oil in traversing handles.
- (v) Stores not required at guns concealed in convenient and tidy dumps and dug in.
- (vi) Water; condenser cans full and source of supply reconnoitred.
- (vii) Cases, cans oil, complete.
- (viii) Spare parts box; all breakages replaced.
- (ix) Telephones in good order.
(e) Readiness.
- (i) Sentry (or sentries) posted; gas detectors, binoculars, compass, notebook and pencil.
- (ii) Duty rosters for sentries and digging made out.
- (iii) Digging properly organized and in progress or completed.
- (iv) Guns camouflaged as necessary.
- (v) GUns half loaded and thumb-piece pressed.
- (vi) SOS and place from which it will be sent up.
- (vii) Alarm signal and “Stand-to” position.
- (viii) Routine times for “Stand-to.”
- (ix) All round defence.

2. Diagrams of section layout.

LESSON 90 – MODIFICATION FOR THE OCCUPATION OF A POSITION BY NIGHT, WHEN A DAYLIGHT RECONNAISSANCE CAN BE MADE

Platoon position – indirect fire

1. The platoon commander or platoon 2 IC.

(a) On receipt of the warning order from the battalion commander he will proceed within his normal “R” group (Lesson 83, para 2) to the battalion commander’s RV for orders. However, should the platoon be heavily committed, the following minimum “R” group will suffice:-
- Platoon commander or platoon 2 IC.
- 1 Rangetaker.
- 1 Private.
- Platoon orderly.
The essential stores required are as follows:-
- Director.
- 2 gun flags per section.
- 2 zero posts per section.
- 2 direction pegs per section.
- White tape.
- Compass.
(NOTE: Except where stated, it is assumed throughout this lesson that the normal “R” group is available).

(b) On completion of the battalion commander’s orders, he will:-

(i) Make his time plan, which may take the following form:-

Time available before it is dark = 1 hour 30 mins.
Appreciate the situation, make time plan and write message to platoon 2 IC or platoon commander.	5 mins.
Time for “R” group to move to area.	10 mins.
Reconnaissance and pegging the position.	60 mins.
Orders to “R” group.	10 mins.
Spare.	5 mins.
	1 hr. 30 mins.

(It is essential for the platoon commander to allow himself at least one hour’s daylight in his platoon area to complete the pegging of the position and the collection of the necessary data).

(ii) Send off a message to the platoon giving:-
- Brief information.
- Platoon role.
- Time for the move of the platoon from its present position.
- Platoon RV and route, if necessary.
- His own actions and whereabouts.
  This message will be conveyed by wireless or by the platoon orderly, who will return to the platoon commander.
(iii) Move with his “R” group to the platoon area which has been alloted, and make his reconnaissance plan.
(iv) Give orders to one of the rangetakers.
(v) Carry out his reconnaissance and decide on as many of the following items as may be necessary:-
- Gun position, and the placing out of pegs on parallel lines.
- Direction of the zero line for the pivot gun.
- Rendezvous for the platoon as near as possible to the gun position, bearing in mind the noise of carrier movement by night.
- Route from RV to the gun position.
- Position for platoon OP and HQ if the platoon is to remain in action during the following day.
- Position for vehicles.
- Local protection.
(vi) Peg and tape the position and collect the necessary data, assisted by the section commanders.
(vii) Give out orders to the “R” group containing as many of the following points as are necessary:-
- Information.
  - Enemy ………
  - Own troops ………
- Intention.
- Method.
  - Indirect fire.
  - Gun position.
  - Platoon RV.
  - Vehicle position.
  - Local protection.
  - COncealment and digging.
  - Sentries.
- Administration.
- Intercommunication.
  - Platoon OP and HQ if necessary.
  - Battalion and rifle company HQ.
  - Synchronize watches.
  - H hour ………hrs.
  - Any questions?
(viii) Post the rangetakers to act as sentries on the pegs. In addition it may be possible for them to prepare the gun positions.
(ix) Effect liaison with the neighbouring rifle companies.
(x) Return to the platoon with “R” group less the rangetakers.
(xi) Prepare the fire control charts and explain them.
(xii) Issue orders to the platoon.

(c) On carrying out the occupation, he will:-
- (i) Lead the platoon to the platoon RV on carrier, and order section commanders to prepare for night firing.
- (ii) Lead the platoon from the RV to the gun position on foot.
- (iii) If the section commanders were not present on the daylight reconnaissance point out to them the gun flags and direction for the guns to be mounted. (sections will now occupy as in section drill night firing).
- (iv) Move to the rear and centre of the gun position, make the necessary corrections for climatic conditions to the fire control charts, and issue them to the section commanders.
- (v) Direct the fire of the platoon.

Section positions – direct fire

There are certain modifications to the battle procedure shown above should the platoon be required to occupy direct fire positions by night.

They are as follows:-

2. The platoon commander or platoon 2 IC.

(a) Make his reconnaissance plan and carry out a reconnaissance for:-
- Section areas and RVs.
- Gun positions and control posts.
- Arcs of fire and fixed lines.
- Platoon OP and HQ.
- Platoon RV.
- Vehicle positions.
(b) Give orders to the “R” group as shown in Lesson 84, para 2(f), including fixed lines.
(c) Visit each area in turn, give orders to the rangetaker, peg the positions, and collect the necessary data. (If time is short, the platoon commander may have to delegate the pegging of one position to the senior section commander).
(d) The remainder of the platoon commander’s duties conform with those shown above for a platoon position indirect fire.

3. During the occupation, the duties of various personnel are as follows:-

(a) On arrival at the RV, section commanders will lead their sections to the gun positions and get them into action.
(b) If the section commanders were not present during the reconnaissance, the platoon commander, or the platoon 2 IC if he reconnoitred the position, will take forward one section to its gun position, and point out the gun flags and direction pegs to the section commander. He will then return to the RV and do the same for the other sections.
(c) Communications will be laid out as normal.
(d) When necessary, the platoon sergeant will supervise the collection of the vehicles and take them to a pre-arranged place.

LESSON 91 – MODIFICATIONS FOR RELIEFS IN THE LINE

1. The relief of one unit by another is probably the most common operation carried out in the line. It is an operation normally accomplished by night. Therefore, to ensure success and avoid confusion, it is essential to make detailed plans based on a preliminary daylight reconnaissance.

2. Daylight reconnaissance.- An advance party will be sent to the area to be taken over and it will be responsible for all preliminary daylight reconnaissance. It is desirable for this advance party to be identical with the normal “R” group but very seldom will the situation allow this. The platoon commander should endeavour to command the advance party, but again this may not be possible and the platoon 2 IC or sergeant will probably be put in charge. Other personnel should be the platoon orderly and a man from each section. This is the smallest advance party that can work with any degree of efficiency.

3. The duties of the advance party.

(a) Complete dispositions of the enemy and own troops, enemy habits, patrols, danger spots etc.
(b) The disposition of the whole platoon area including alternative positions.
(c) Runners routes and communications plan.
(d) The arc of fire, fixed lines and SOS signal.
(e) Take over range cards and information on maps.
(f) Feeding and sanitary arrangements.
(g) Evacuation of casualties.
(h) Alarm signals.In addition to the above, he will, if necessary to facilitate the relief, take compass bearings, pace distances and lay tape.He will then pass on information to the remainder of the advance party and show them the layout of the platoon area detailing two men to act as guides for the sections from the pre-arranged RV to the gun positions; these guides should be helped by members of the outgoing platoon.

4. The relief.

(a) While the relief is being carried out, both platoon will “Stand To.”
(b) The advance party will meet the incoming platoon at the pre-arranged RV.
(c) Guides found by the outgoing platoon and, if available, duplicated by the incoming platoon, will guide their respective sections into position.
(d) Full communication must be ensured before the relief is complete.
(e) Should an emergency situation develop during the relief, the commander of the outgoing platoon or section will take command.
(f) Absolute silence throughout the operation is essential.(For details regarding the relief of guns see Lesson 74).

LESSON 92 – MODIFICATIONS FOR THE WITHDRAWAL

1. General.- The duties laid down in this lesson refer to the occasion when the withdrawl has been premeditated and the situation allows a comprehensive reconnaissance to be made of the next position in rear.

On other circumstances a platoon may have to occupy, at short notice, a series of intermediate positions. The platoon commander and section commanders, may, therefore, have little or no opportunity for any detailled reconnaissance and must act in accordance with the immediate needs of the situation.

The preparation for the withdrawal from the present position

2. The platoon commander.- On receipt of the warning order that a withdrawal is to take place, he will:-

(a) Send it out to the sections and order the “R” group to report to platoon HQ.
- (i) When the platoon is liable to be in contact with the enemy:-
  - Platoon 2 IC or platoon sergeant.
  - 1 rangetaker from one section.
  - 1 man from each of the other sections.
  - Platoon orderly.
  (ii) When the platoon is not liable to be in contact with the enemy:-
  - Platoon commander or platoon 2 IC.
  - Remainder of the normal platoon “R” group.
  (Note.- For the remainder of this lesson, it is assumed that the platoon is already in action, and that the minimum “R” group only is available).
(b) Give orders to “R” group including:-
- Brief information.
- Intention.
- Method, RV, time and route to meet the battalion “R” group commander (normally battalion 2 IC).
- Instructions to reconnoitre the new platoon area, and to send back information to the platoon by meands of wireless or the platoon orderly.This party, with the exception of the platoon orderly, will travel in the platoon 2 IC jeep and trailer or platoon commander’s carrier. Sufficient tools should be taken to enable the reconnaissance party to make hasty emplacements or to improve the existing cover, together with the director, gun flags, zero posts and direction pegs.
(c) Carry out liaison with the rifle company commander under whose command the platoon will be for the final withdrawal (if applicable).
(d) Reconnoitre for and decide on:-
- (i) Platoon RV in rear of the platoon.
- (ii) Route for sections and platoon HQ to the RV.
- (iii) Route to battalion or company RV.
- (iv) The method of withdrawal.
- (v) How the order for the final withdrawal will be given.
- (vi) Time for withdrawal of telephones etc, if laid.
(e) Arrange for the carriers to move forward to the Sections RVs at the appropriate time.
(f) Issues orders to section commanders as follows:-
- Information.
  - Enemy ………
  - Own troops ……… times of withdrawal.
- Intention.
- Method.
  - Method of withdrawal.
  - Timings and routes.
  - Platoon RV on present position.
  - Battalion or company RV on present position.
  - The method by which the order to withdraw will reach the section commanders.
  - Commence thinning out at ………hrs.
  - Platoon HQ will withdraw at ………hrs.
  - Orders re LMGs and 3.5-in. RLs.
  - Battalion RV and platoon RV on new position and route. (If this is known at this stage).
  - Position of the platoon commander during the withdrawal. (Usually with the last section out of the action).
- Intercommunication.
  - Synchronize watches.
  - Any questions?
(g) Move to platoon HQ and arrange for its withdrawal.

3. The section commander.- On receipt of orders concering the withdrawal, he will:-

(a) Ensure that the route to the platoon RV is reconnoitred.
(b) Make arrangements for the removal of any surplus stores to the carriers when the time for thinning out arrives.
(c) Decide on his plan for the withdrawal.
(d) Pass on full information to all ranks.

The reconnaissance of the new position

4. The platoon 2 IC.

(a) On receipt of orders from the battalion second in command on the new position, he will:-
- (i) Make his time plan.
- (ii) Carry out a detailled reconnaissance for:-
  - Section areas and RV.
  - Gun positions and control posts.
  - Arcs of fire and fixed lines.
  - Platoon OP and HQ.
  - Platoon RV.
  - Routes from the platoon RV to the section areas.
  - Vehicle position.(If it is required to use indirect fire or carrier action, the slight modifications will be necessary to the reconnaissance).
- (iii) Send off a message to the platoon commander by wireless or by means of the platoon orderly, containing:-
  - Very brief information about own troops.
  - Intention.
  - Method.
    - Section areas.
    - Platoon RV.
    (All map references should be in code, and every effort should be made to keep the message as short as possible. If time is very limited then the only essential is the platoon RV).
- (iv) Give orders to the “R” group. These orders should as shown in para 4(a)(ii) above and should be noted down on paper.
- (v) Give the normal orders to the rangetaker from each section area in turn. Then point out the gun positions, pegging them as he does so.Note:- If it is anticipated that section areas are likely to be widely separated or that there will be very little daylight left for reconnaissance all rangetakers should be taken in the “R” group.
- (vi) Leave the rangetaker and the other man to prepare the gun positions, and to act as sentries on the gun pegs.
- (vii) Carry out liaison with the neighbouring recce parties.
- (viii) Prepare and dig the platoon OP.
- (ix) Move to the platoon RV to await the arrival of the platoon.
(b) If the platoon 2 IC found from his time plan that little time was available before it became dark, he will modify his battle procedure duties as follows:-
- (i) As soon as possible, make a general appreciation and give orders to the rangetaker or rangetakers to prepare range cards for all sections.
- (ii) Carry out a quick recce for routes to and from the platoon RV.
- (iii) Send a message to the platoon commander by the platoon orderly if time permits.
- (iv) Carry out his detailed reconnaissance, and the other battle procedures enumerated in sub-para (a) above.

The withdrawal

5. The platoon commander.- When the time for the withdrawal arrives, he will:-

(a) Ensure that the order to withdraw reaches the section commanders.
(b) Satisfy himself that the withdrawal has been carried out.
(c) Take charge of the platoon at the platoon RV and lead it to the new position.

6. The section commander.-

(a) When the time for thinning out arrive, he will:-
- (i) Order the carriers to be brought up from the section RV as close as possible to the gun position.
- (ii) Order Nos. 3 and the drivers to take any unnecessary stores back to the carriers.
(b) When the time to vacate the position arrives, he will:-
- (i) Order the guns and remaining stores to be taken back and loaded on to the carriers.
- (ii) Lead the carriers back to the platoon RV.
(c) When the withdrawal is by night, he will:-
- (i) Ensure that carriers are not brought up so close to the position as to jeopardise safety through noise.
- (ii) Allow sufficient time for the unnecessary stores to be taken quietly to the carriers.

D – The occupation of the new position

7. The platoon 2 IC.- On arrival of the platoon at the platoon RV, he will:-

(a) Contact the platoon commander and personally lead into position one section and the platoon OP, while his driver and orderly lead in the other sections.
(b) Give orders to the driver operators re 31 set and 88 set and the position of the platoon commander’s carrier.
(c) Pass on full information to the section commanders and the platoon commander, taking the latter over the complete layout of the platoon.
(d) Hand over the platoon to the platoon commander when the occupation has been completed.

8. The sentries.- On arrival of their sections, they will:-

(a) Contact the section commanders and lead the sections to the gun positions.
(b) Pass on brief information to the section commanders (gun positions, control posts, direction pegs, zero posts, 1st target etc).
(c) Assist the section commanders in getting the guns into action.
(d) Pass on full information to the section commanders.
(e) If necessary, lead the vehicles back to the vehicle position, and report to the platoon 2 IC or platoon sergeant for further orders.

<– Chapter 14

Manual Index

Chapter 16 –>