Every advantage should be taken to utilize the cover available.  The best kind of cover is that which, while it masks the skirmishers from the sight and fire of the enemy, affords favorable conditions for firing and for readily advancing.  In order to allow men to regain their wind, or should the fire of the enemy be so effective as to prevent a further advance without reinforcement, advantage may be taken to lie close in cover, or hasty fire trenches may be thrown up in order to allow the line to maintain its position.  “To go back under fire is to die.”

When a platoon is firing, all noncommissioned officers watch every opportunity to make the fire more effective.  The platoon guide should constantly watch the men to see that they do not become excited, fire too hastily or without aim, that their sights are set at the correct range, that they are obviously firing at the designated target, and that they assume steady firing positions and take advantage of cover.  In performing these duties it may be necessary for the guides to be constantly crawling along the line.  A corporal in like manner supervises his squad, firing with it when he is not actively engaged in controlling it.

Bayonets are fixed preparatory to a charge.  This command is usually given by the bugle.  Only one or two men in each squad should fix their bayonets at the same time, in order that there may be no marked pause or diminution in the fire at this critical stage of the engagement.

In order to be effective in combat, the platoon must be thoroughly trained to work as a team.  Each noncommissioned officer must be conversant with the signals and commands and the proper methods for instantly putting into effect the orders of his platoon commander.  Each private must be trained until he instinctively does the right thing in each phase of the action.

SECTION 3.  PATROLLING.

The designation of a patrol indicates the nature of the duty for which it is detailed, as, for example, visiting, reconnoitering, exploring, flanking, combat, harassing, pursuing, etc.  An Infantry patrol consists, as a rule, of from 3 to 16 men.

Reconnoitering patrols are habitually small and seek safety in concealment or flight, fighting only when their mission demands it.  The most skillful reconnaissance is where patrols accomplish their mission and return without being discovered by the enemy.  When resistance is expected stronger detachments are required.  These cover themselves with small patrols of two to four men, the remainder acting as support.

The commander determines the number and strength of patrols and when they are to be sent out.  It is a cardinal principle to send out patrols of such strength only as will accomplish the object.