The 1st platoon is deployed on the line of departure—one section in the leading wave in a line of skirmishers, with intervals of 5 yards. The second section is about 100 yards to the rear in line of squad columns. The platoon scouts have worked their way forward to _______ (indicate).
The supporting troops are in position ready to open fire.
At this moment Captain C signals “Forward March”. The supporting weapons open fire on the enemy strong point and shots are heard off to the right indicating that the 2nd platoon has launched its attack.
You, Lieutenant M, commanding the 1st platoon, are at this point when the signal is received.
The Director reads over the situation and indicates the position of the troops on the ground. Any points that may be in doubt are cleared up at this time.
_The Director_: “Lieutenant Baker, I wish you would explain to the class, just what you think takes place.”
_Lieutenant Baker_: “During the preparation process my platoon scouts would have worked their way forward to (indicate on the ground). I assume that they have kept under cover and have drawn little fire from the enemy. The instant I give my signal to advance they will start forward to get to (indicate) where they can open an effective fire on the enemy and thus establish the first firing position.
“When our supporting weapons open their first burst of fire on the enemy strong point it will come as a surprise and his men will naturally seek cover. I will take advantage of this fact to advance my line as far as possible to the front. If he opens effective fire I will have to take cover. If not I will keep on my rush with the platoon until he does and thus take advantage of the few moments when the enemy is surprised from the sudden burst of fire from our supporting weapons. When he recovers and opens fire I will take cover.
“I will then advance my men by filtration up to the line established by the scouts, each man opening fire as soon as he arrives on the line. The scouts will indicate the target to the men by the use of tracer bullets. By this process of fire and movement, I will build up my firing line and keep up a well directed fire on the enemy position.”
_The Director_: “What kind of fire will your automatic riflemen employ?”