THE COMPANY ACTING ALONE.

230.  In general, the company, when acting alone, is employed according to the principles applicable to the battalion acting alone; the captain employs platoons as the major employs companies, making due allowance for the difference in strength.

The support may be smaller in proportion or may be dispensed with.

231.  The company must be well protected against surprise.  Combat patrols on the flanks are specially important.  Each leader of a flank platoon details a man to watch for the signals of the patrol or patrols on his flank.

FIRE.

232.  Ordinarily pieces are loaded and extra ammunition is issued before the company deploys for combat.

In close order the company executes the firings at the command of the captain, who posts himself in rear of the center of the company.

Usually the firings, in close order consist of saluting volleys only.

233.  When the company is deployed, the men execute the firings at the command of their platoon leaders; the latter give such commands as are necessary to carry out the captain’s directions, and, from time to time, add such further commands as are necessary to continue, correct, and control the fire ordered.

234.  The voice is generally inadequate for giving commands during fire and must be replaced by signals of such character that proper fire direction and control is assured.  To attract attention, signals must usually be preceded by the whistle signal (short blast).  A friction of the firing line about to rush should, it practicable, avoid using the long blast signal as an aid to CEASE FIRING.  Officers and men behind the firing line can not ordinarily move freely along the line, but must depend on mutual watchfulness and the proper use of the prescribed signals.  All should post themselves so as to see their immediate superiors and subordinates.

235.  The musicians assist the captain by observing the enemy, the target, and the fire effect by transmitting commands or signals and by watching for signals.

236.  Firing with blank cartridges at an outlined or represented enemy at distances less than 100 yards is prohibited.

237.  The effect of fire and the influence of the ground in relation thereto, and the individual and collective instruction in marksmanship, are treated in the Small-Arms Firing Manual.

RANGES.

238.  For convenience of reference ranges are classified as follows: 

0 to 600 yards, close range. 600 to 1,200 yards, effective range. 1,200 to 2,000 yards, long range. 2,000 yards and over, distant range.

239.  The distance to the target must be determined as accurately as possible and the sights set accordingly.  Aside from training and morale, this is the most important single factor in securing effective fire at the longer ranges.