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-The Project Gutenberg EBook of Elements of Trench Warfare, by William Waldron
-
-This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and
-most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
-whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms
-of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
-www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll
-have to check the laws of the country where you are located before using
-this ebook.
-
-
-
-Title: Elements of Trench Warfare
-
-Author: William Waldron
-
-Release Date: February 6, 2020 [EBook #61330]
-
-Language: English
-
-Character set encoding: UTF-8
-
-*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ELEMENTS OF TRENCH WARFARE ***
-
-
-
-
-Produced by Brian Coe, Christian Boissonnas and the Online
-Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
-book was produced from images made available by the
-HathiTrust Digital Library.)
-
-
-
-
-
-----------
-
-Elements of Trench Warfare
-
-Waldron
-
-
-
-
- Elements of
- Trench Warfare
-
- _By_
-
- Captain William H. Waldron
-
- 29th U. S. Infantry
-
- DISTINGUISHED GRADUATE INFANTRY AND
- CAVALRY SCHOOL, 1905
-
- GRADUATE ARMY STAFF COLLEGE, 1906
-
- GRADUATE ARMY WAR COLLEGE, 1911
-
- ASSISTANT DIRECTOR ARMY WAR
- COLLEGE COURSE, 1911-12
-
- _Author of_
-
- “Scouting and Patrolling”
-
- “Tactical Walks”
-
- Price 60 cents
-
- Washington
-
- 1917
-
-
-
-
- Copyright, 1917, by
-
- WILLIAM H. WALDRON
-
- NATIONAL CAPITAL PRESS, INC., WASHINGTON, D. C.
-
-
-
-
-Agencies
-
-
-This book may be purchased from any one of the following agencies:
-
- The Book Department
- ARMY AND NAVY REGISTER
- Washington, D. C.
-
- The Book Department
- U. S. INFANTRY ASSOCIATION
- Union Trust Building
- Washington, D. C.
-
- The Book Department
- ARMY SERVICE SCHOOLS
- Fort Leavenworth, Kansas
-
- EDWIN N. APPLETON
- No. 1, Broadway, New York City
-
- THE ARMY AND NAVY CO-OPERATIVE CO.
- 721 17th Street N. W.
- Washington, D. C.
- or
- 16 E. 42d Street, New York City
-
- =The price is 60 cents, postage paid=
-
- _See “Tactical Walks” advertisement in the back
- of this book._
-
-
-
-
-NOTICE
-
-
-There is a wealth of material in this little book that will interest
-the soldier. From the illustrations alone he will be able to obtain a
-good general idea of the subject.
-
-It is essentially a soldier’s book, written in language that he can
-understand. The price has been kept within the limits of his pocketbook.
-
-With a view to securing a wide distribution of the book I desire to
-secure a representative in every organization in the Army. I have an
-attractive proposition to make to competent parties.
-
-A letter will bring particulars. My address will be found in the Army
-List and Directory. If this is not available, a letter addressed as
-follows will be forwarded to me:
-
- Captain W. H. Waldron,
- 29th Infantry,
- Care of “Infantry Journal,”
- Washington, D. C.
-
- (Signed) W. H. WALDRON.
-
-
-
-
-CONTENTS
-
-
- Page
-
- Chapter I.—The Organization of a Section of the Position 1
-
- Chapter II.—Obstacles. Construction, repair. Wire entanglements,
- barricades, land mines, inundation 4
-
- Chapter III.—Lookout and Listening Posts: Types. Construction,
- service 18
-
- Chapter IV.—Field Trenches: Traversed trenches. Types of trenches.
- Drainage. Communication trenches. Dugouts. Penetration of
- projectiles. Communication. Trench mortar positions. Machine
- guns. Supporting points 24
-
- Chapter V.—Use and Improvement of Natural Cover 50
-
- Chapter VI.—Revetments: Sandbags. Fascines. Hurdles. Gabions 64
-
- Chapter VII.—Working Parties: Details of organization. Laying out
- tasks. Operations 80
-
- Chapter VIII.—Grenade Warfare: Organization and tactics of
- grenadiers. Offensive operations. Clearing fire trenches.
- Clearing communication trenches. Night operations. Grenade
- patrols. Notes on grenade warfare 86
-
- Chapter IX.—Gas Warfare: Methods of dissemination of gas. Gas
- helmets, care and use of. Sprayers 105
-
- Chapter X.—Service in the Trenches: Preparations for entering.
- Inspection of trenches. Tactical dispositions. Going into the
- trenches. Information routine. Observation field glasses.
- Snipers. What to fire at. Use of rifle grenades. Scouting and
- patrolling. Care of arms. Care of trenches. Latrines. Maps.
- Frost bite. The trench soldier’s creed 114
-
- Chapter XI.—The Attack in Trench Warfare 146
-
-
-
-
-INTRODUCTION
-
-
-This little book has been prepared with a view to placing before the
-soldier a store of information on the subject of Trench Warfare as
-it has been developed on the battle fronts of Europe, and giving him
-some idea of the nature of the service that he will be called upon to
-perform when the time arrives for him to do his “bit.”
-
-The illustrations have been carefully prepared and arranged to the end
-that the soldier may gain a fair knowledge of the subject from them
-alone. The text is intended to treat the subject in a purely elementary
-manner that the soldier may be able to understand.
-
-The size of the book is such that it may be conveniently carried in the
-pocket and referred to as occasion requires. The price has been kept
-down to the point where it is available to the soldier.
-
-If the book assists in his preparation for the front and, by reason
-of the knowledge that he has gained from it, helps to make him more
-efficient when he gets there, it will have served its purpose.
-
- THE AUTHOR.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER I
-
-Organization
-
-
-The normal organization of an intrenched position includes the
-following elements from front to rear:
-
-1. In front of the position and at a variable distance from the first
-line fire trench there is a line of wire entanglements. (See Obstacles,
-p. 4.)
-
-2. Close up to the wire entanglements there is an intrenched post known
-as the “listening post,” which is connected with the first line fire
-trench by a zigzag communicating trench. (See Listening Posts, p. 18.)
-
-3. Then comes the first line fire trench with attached machine-gun
-emplacements at convenient points. (See Fire Trench and Machine-Gun
-Emplacements, pp. 24 and 44.)
-
-4. The fire trench is so narrow that lateral communication along it
-is effected only with difficulty. In order to provide a passageway a
-communication or supervision trench is provided a few yards in rear of
-the fire trench. Passageways lead from this communication trench to the
-fire trench and to the dugouts located along it.
-
-5. At a variable distance in rear of the fire trench (100 to 200 yards)
-the emplacements for bomb-throwing apparatus and trench mortars are
-located. These are connected up laterally by a communication trench
-which joins with the main communication trench running from front to
-rear through the position. (See Emplacements for Trench Mortars, p. 41.)
-
-6. From 100 to 400 yards to the rear of the first line fire trench, and
-generally parallel to it, is the supporting trench or cover for the
-supports. This trench is invariably provided with strong overhead cover
-and a system of dugouts for the protection of the troops. (See Cover
-for Supports, p. 48.)
-
-7. This whole arrangement of trenches is connected throughout from
-front to rear, and laterally, by a system of zigzag communication
-trenches.
-
-Take this brief description together with Plate 1, the drawing that
-accompanies this volume, and study the two until you get the entire
-system fixed firmly in your mind; that is, until you get a mental
-picture of all the elements included in the system.
-
-After you have done this, study on through the book in order that you
-may know the purpose of each of these elements and how one links up
-with the other.
-
-[Illustration: _PLAN OF THE ORGANIZATION OF AN INTRENCHED POSITION_
-
-PLATE 1]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 2]
-
-This is the typical system now in use in the European war theaters.
-Circumstances at certain places may render some variations necessary,
-and it must not be inferred that the trace of the works is the same
-throughout. As a rule the types of trenches (altered when necessary to
-meet local conditions) illustrated herein are the ones in actual use on
-the war fronts.
-
-All of these trenches and their accessories constitute what is known as
-the first line. At a distance of from 2,000 to 5,000 yards in rear of
-this first line a second line, organized in a similar manner, is to be
-found.
-
-At intervals of from 800 to 1,500 yards along the first line-centers of
-resistance, or what we know as “supporting points,” are located. These
-consist of fortified villages, or a network (labyrinth) of trenches,
-provided with every defensive device known to modern warfare. The
-object of these supporting points is to bring a flanking fire to bear
-on the intervals between them, with the idea that an attacking force
-cannot advance beyond them without capturing them.
-
-Plate 2 shows the general scheme of the occupation of a sector of the
-line by a field army of two divisions.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER II
-
-Obstacles
-
-
-The element of the defensive line nearest the enemy is a line or series
-of lines of obstacles which are designed for the purpose of:
-
-1. Protecting the lines from surprise.
-
-2. Reducing the momentum of the attack, by breaking up the unity of
-action and cohesion.
-
-3. Holding the enemy under the effective fires of the defenders.
-
-The conditions that obstacles should fulfil are as follows. They must—
-
-1. Be close to the defender’s position. As a rule on the western front
-they are not more than from 50 to 100 yards distant. If they are too
-close it may be possible to throw hand grenades from the far edge of
-them into the defender’s trenches.
-
-2. As far as practicable, be sheltered and screened from the enemy.
-Shell fire is the most effective method of destroying obstacles. If
-they are not concealed they may furnish aiming points for the enemy’s
-fire against the first line fire trench by his being able to estimate
-its location with reference to the obstacle.
-
-3. Afford no cover or screen to the enemy.
-
-4. Be so placed that the enemy will come upon them as a surprise.
-
-5. Be so constructed as to be difficult of removal under fire and
-impracticable to negotiate while still reasonably intact.
-
-6. Be arranged so as not to interfere with a counter attack. The
-obstacles may have occasional gaps left in them which may be mined.
-
-The different classes of obstacles are: Abatis, low wire entanglements,
-high wire entanglements, barricades, mines, fougasses, crows feet,
-military pits with wire entanglements, inundations, etc.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 3.—Abatis.]
-
-Abatis (pronounced _abatee_) consists of branches of trees lying
-parallel to each other, butts pointing to the rear, and the branches
-interlaced with barbed wire. All leaves and small twigs should be
-removed and the stiff ends of branches pointed. The butts are staked or
-tied down of, anchored by covering them with earth. When more than one
-row is used the branches overlap the butts of those in front so as to
-make the abatis about 5 feet high. An abatis formed by felling trees
-towards the enemy, leaving the butt hanging to the stump, is called
-_slashing_.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 4.—Slashing.]
-
-[Sidenote: Wire Entanglements]
-
-Barbed wire is the material most employed in the construction of
-obstacles. It may be used in the following manner:
-
-1. As a simple trip, for giving the alarm. It is stretched just above
-the ground and attached to some object that will cause a noise to be
-made if molested.
-
-2. A simple wire fence, to cause delay and confusion to the enemy in
-his advance.
-
-3. As an adjunct to tree and brushwood entanglement.
-
-4. As a wire entanglement.
-
-5. As a covering for portable cylinders.
-
-The advantages of the barbed wire entanglement are:
-
-1. It is easily and quickly made,
-
-2. It is difficult to destroy.
-
-3. It is difficult to get through.
-
-4. It offers no obstruction to the view and fire of the defense.
-
-The low wire entanglement is constructed as follows:
-
-1. Drive stakes in the ground until they project about 18 inches. The
-stakes should be about 6 feet apart, those in each row being opposite
-the intervals in adjacent rows,
-
-2. The wire is then passed loosely from the head of one stake to
-another, wound around each and stapled.
-
-3. Where two or more wires cross they should be tied together.
-
-A more useful and efficient modification of the low wire entanglement
-is made by stapling the wire down the sides of the stakes, allowing
-five or more feet of slack wire between stakes. Drive the stakes in
-the ground until the top is flush. This results in a loose network of
-tangled wires difficult to get through, easily concealed, and difficult
-to remove.
-
-The high wire entanglement is made by driving stakes so that they
-protrude from 4 to 6 feet above the ground. They are placed at
-irregular intervals 5 to 8 feet apart. The head of each stake is
-connected with the foot of adjoining stakes with the wire loosely
-drawn, wound around the stakes and stapled fast. Each center post
-should be stayed by four wires. There should be a trip wire about 9
-inches from the ground all the way across the front and another about
-a foot from the top of the center posts. Barbed wire may then be
-hung in festoons throughout the entanglement, with no fixed pattern.
-To increase the entanglement wire may be stapled to the foot of the
-posts, as indicated in the paragraph above, before they are driven.
-Large nails should be driven in the tops of the posts with half their
-length protruding. A number of the wires in the entanglement should be
-fastened together where they cross. The wire should be passed through
-paint, if practicable, to take away the bright color. The posts should
-be painted the color of the surrounding country. Under the conditions
-encountered on the western front this work has to be done hastily. It
-is best, therefore, to limit the first stage of construction to just
-so many strands as will form a nucleus for the whole entanglement, in
-order that the area may be covered by an obstacle before interruption
-occurs.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 4a.—Plan of wire entanglement.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 5.—High wire entanglement.]
-
-_Tight wires help the enemy’s advance by forming supports for hurdles.
-It must be constantly borne in mind that the wires must not be
-stretched taut._
-
-A portable wire entanglement is constructed by stretching wire loosely
-around a wooden framework, either circular or square or made on a knife
-rest, and rolling it into position to close up gaps that may have been
-made in the entanglement. The illustration shows the wooden framework.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 5a.—Alarm trap.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 6.—Portable entanglement. Constructed in the
-trenches and rolled into position.]
-
-The ordinary repairs to entanglements are made under cover of darkness
-by working parties detailed for the purpose. Iron posts that can be
-quickly placed in position are advantageous, their disadvantage being
-that they may retard bullets that would go through the ordinary wooden
-posts, thus furnishing just that much cover and protection to attacking
-parties.
-
-In the construction and repair of entanglements care must be taken to
-see that they are firmly fastened into the ground with numerous stay
-posts or “deadmen.” This is to prevent the enemy from pulling them
-to pieces with grappling hooks connected to ropes that lead to his
-trenches and are attached to powerful windlasses or capstans.
-
-[Sidenote: Barricades]
-
-Barricades are employed for the defense of streets, roads, bridges,
-etc. They may be made out of any available material such as furniture,
-vehicles (overturned or with wheels removed), carts filled with stones,
-bales of goods, etc.
-
-Where trees grow along the roadside they may be felled across the road.
-If necessary, barbed wire may be run through the branches to make the
-passage more difficult.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 7.—Plan of barricade for blocking a road.]
-
-Barricades should not as a rule close the road entirely to traffic.
-Passages are required to allow the defenders to pass through when it
-is necessary to do so. Hence they should be made in two parts, one
-overlapping the other, as shown in the illustration.
-
-A _fougass_ is a mine so arranged that upon explosion a large mass of
-stones is projected against the enemy. An excavation is made in the
-shape of a frustum of a cone, inclining the axis in the direction of
-the enemy so as to make an angle with the horizon of about 45 degrees.
-The sides splay outward slightly. A box of powder is placed in a recess
-at the bottom. This is covered with a platform of wood several inches
-thick, on which the stones are piled.
-
-The fuse is placed in a groove cut at the back of the excavation, or
-the mine may be exploded by means of electricity.
-
-The line of least resistance for the charge must be arranged so that
-the powder will act in the direction of the axis and not vertically.
-This is accomplished by throwing the excavated earth on the crest
-towards the defender’s side and ramming it well.
-
-To ascertain the powder charge for any fougass, divide the number of
-pounds of stone in the charge by 150. This gives the number of pounds
-of powder in the powder charge. Thus a fougass charged with about 70
-pounds of powder will throw about 5 tons of stone over a surface about
-160 yards long and 120 yards wide.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 8.—Fougass.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 9.—Vertical fougass.]
-
-When broken up a cubic foot of stone weighs about 100 pounds.
-
-A vertical type of fougass is also shown. A charge of 25 pounds of
-powder should scatter a cubic yard of stones over an area about 200 by
-100 yards.
-
-
-Small Land Mines
-
-Land mines are placed in the line of the advance of the enemy and
-exploded either by electricity or fuse from the defense. They are
-made by digging holes from 2 to 3 yards deep, either by excavation or
-by boring. In the former case the charge is placed in a recess which
-extends into the solid earth at the side of the hole, which is then
-refilled and tamped. In the latter case the charge is placed in the
-bottom of the hole, which is then refilled and solidly tamped. In
-common earth the powder charge for a 2-yard hole is 25 pounds. That for
-a 3-yard hole is 80 pounds. The diameter of the crater formed will be
-about twice the depth of the charge.
-
-The mines may be arranged in one or more rows. The intervals between
-mines should be such that the craters will nearly but not quite join.
-The position of the mines should be concealed as much as possible and
-further sophisticated by disturbing the ground slightly at points
-where there are no mines and so situated as to suggest a systematic
-arrangement.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 9a.—Land mine.
-
-_F_, Line from powder charge to battery.
-
-_P_, Powder charge.]
-
-
-Inundation
-
-Backing up the water of a stream so that it overflows a considerable
-area forms a good obstacle, even though of fordable depth. If shallow,
-the difficulty of fording may be increased by irregular holes or
-ditches dug before the water comes up, or by constructing wire
-entanglements in the water. It may be employed with advantage when the
-drainage of a considerable area passes through a restricted opening, as
-a natural gorge, culvert or bridge.
-
-Open cribs filled with stones, or tighter ones filled with gravel, may
-form the basis of the obstruction to the flow of the water. The usual
-method of tightening spaces or cracks between cribs is by throwing in
-earth or alternate layers of straw, hay, grass, earth, or sacks of
-clay. A continuous construction, as shown in the illustration, may be
-employed. The ends of the dam must be carried well into the solid earth
-to prevent the water from cutting around them. This type of dam is
-easily destroyed by artillery fire, and cannot be depended upon.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 10.—Dam construction.]
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER III
-
-Lookout and Listening Posts
-
-
-Except when the garrison are actually required to man the parapet, they
-will be kept under cover, with the exception of a few lookouts, whose
-duty it is to give timely warning of the movements of the enemy.
-
-When the opposing forces are in close proximity to each other mining
-operations are generally resorted to by both sides to compass the
-destruction of the opposing works and open the way for an attack.
-
-Lookout and listening posts serve the double purpose of having a few
-men at the most advantageous places for observation at the front and
-flanks and providing points at some distance to the front of the first
-line fire trenches from which listeners may be able to discover the
-location and direction of enemy mining operations before they really
-menace the fire trench.
-
-In the normal case there will be some natural cover available. Such,
-however, is not always the case, and specially constructed observation
-stations have to be provided.
-
-The posts should be placed in advance of the first line trench, the
-distance depending upon circumstances which have to be determined in
-each particular instance. They must be fully protected from reverse
-fire so that there will be no chance of the observer masking the fire
-of his comrades manning the fire trench.
-
-Unless the ground is very favorable it will be found difficult to
-provide for observation above ground. Where there are natural features
-such as embankments, mounds, hedgerows, ruins of buildings, etc., it
-may be possible to make provision for observation even by day.
-
-Where a loophole is used, the type having the narrower end outward
-should be provided.
-
-In the open type of post the observation directly to the front may be
-greatly facilitated by the use of the periscope. (Plate 11.)
-
-A good, strong parapet thrown up and chopped off at the corners will
-enable the observer to cover areas from an oblique direction from the
-post and protect him from fire from the front.
-
-In the covered type the observer is provided loopholes having the splay
-towards him. These may also be constructed to the oblique rather than
-to the front. When this is done, provision must be made to cover the
-entire front of the position from the several posts. (Plate 12.)
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 11.—Open type of listening post.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 12.—Covered type of listening post.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 13.—A listening and observation post.]
-
-The post may be connected with the first line fire trench by a narrow
-zigzag trench or by an underground passage. If the former, it must be
-thoroughly concealed and have no excavated earth visible. If it can be
-located along a hedge or some other natural feature its location may
-remain unknown to the enemy for a considerable length of time. Where
-a communication gallery is constructed the roof and walls must be
-suitably shored up by casing and supports.
-
-The sentinel in the listening post carries no accouterments. It has
-been found that the creaking noise made by equipment when the sentinel
-moves has been taken for mining operations of the enemy by his comrades.
-
-Listening galleries should never be left without a sentinel. There
-should be a depot of arms and hand grenades near the entrance to the
-gallery in case men are attacked while on duty from either above or
-below ground.
-
-Listening will be conducted at specified times, or on some prearranged
-signal, and for a definite period. During this time all within the
-listening area, including the trenches, must remain absolutely
-motionless.
-
-Infantry manning a trench can assist listening by digging a small pit,
-6 feet deep below the trench, and running a bore-hole out 20 feet or
-more.
-
-The enemy is always listening for indications of the direction and
-position of gallery heads. Work must therefore be carried on with a
-minimum of noise. Shouting down the shafts of galleries is absolutely
-forbidden.
-
-When the mining operations of the enemy are detected a report should be
-made at once to the officer in charge of that section of the trench.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER IV
-
-Field Trenches
-
-
-The next element of the defensive position is the _first line fire
-trenches_. These are located so as to have a good field of fire to
-the front for several hundred yards and so constructed as to give the
-greatest cover and protection from the fire of the enemy.
-
-An unbroken, continuous trench would be exposed to enfilade fire. A
-shell, shrapnel or grenade bursting therein would have widespread
-effect. To overcome these elements the trench is constructed in short
-lengths, with traverses between them, and technically known as the
-_traverse type_.
-
-Better defilade is thus secured and the material effect of any burst is
-confined to narrow limits.
-
-The trench interval between the traverses is known as the “bay,” which
-should not ordinarily be longer than 18 feet. Longer bays invite heavy
-casualties in case the trench is enfiladed or a high explosive shell
-finds its mark.
-
-The illustration, Plate 14, shows a trace of the traversed type of fire
-trench.
-
-[Illustration: _PLAN OF TRAVERSED TYPE OF FIRE TRENCH_
-
-_PLATE 14._
-
- 1. Length of bay, 18 feet.
- 2. Width of traverse, 5 feet.
- 3. Length of traverse, 5 feet.
- 4. Overlap of traverse, 3 feet.
- 5. Height of traverse depends upon defilade required and
- practicability of concealment.
-]
-
-
-Type of Trench
-
-Formerly, protection from the enemy’s fire was obtained by thickness of
-parapet. In the trench warfare of today it is obtained by completely
-concealing the riflemen in a deep, narrow trench with a very low
-parapet.
-
-The height over which the average man can fire is about 5 feet or about
-five-sixths of his own height. This factor determines the height of the
-parapet above the firing banquet of the trench or the height of bottom
-of loophole above the same point, when the latter is employed.
-
-The type of trench in general use today is the simple standing trench
-shown in Plate 15.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- PLATE 15.—Simple standing trench. 1. Width at top, 3 feet 4 inches.
- 2. Width at bottom, over all, 2 feet 8 inches. 3. Width of firing
- banquet, 1 foot 4 inches. 4. Height of parapet above firing banquet, 5
- feet. 5. Height of parapet above bottom of trench, 6 feet 4 inches.
- ]
-
-[Illustration: _PLATE 15a._
-
-_Type of_
-
-_INSTRUCTION FIRE TRENCH AT VALCARTIER CANADA_
-
-_Used in the instruction of Canadian Troops._]
-
-
-Drainage
-
-If a trench is to be occupied for any length of time, especially if
-much ground or falling water is to be encountered, drainage becomes
-of prime importance. Many years ago a celebrated military authority
-asserted that “nothing so saps the courage of a soldier as to wet the
-seat of his breeches.” This may be accepted as a true maxim, especially
-in cold weather. The trench should therefore be made as dry as
-possible. The floor of the trench should be given a sufficient slope to
-the rear where an intercepting drain should carry the water to prepared
-sumps or to a point from which it can be disposed of by drainage.
-Provision should also be made to exclude surface drainage from the
-trenches.
-
-A scheme for trench drainage is shown in the illustrations (Plates 16,
-17 and 18).
-
-Overhead cover may be provided as shown in Plates 19 and 20.
-
-Loopholes are made wherever head cover is provided. Where the enemy’s
-trenches are close, there is considerable danger in using them.
-Collective firing takes place over the parapet. When loopholes are used
-they should face half-right or half-left and not directly to the front.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 16.—Method of draining trench.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 17.—Details of trench drainage.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 18.—Detail of trench drainage.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 19.—Overhead cover.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 19a.—Overhead cover.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 20.—Overhead cover.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 20a.—Overhead cover.]
-
-The disadvantages of loopholes are:
-
-1. The difficulty of concealing firing points. Loopholes give the
-enemy’s snipers an easy mark.
-
-2. They lessen the number of rifles that can be used at a given point.
-
-3. The necessary head cover makes it difficult to get out of the trench
-quickly.
-
-4. Damaged head cover often spoils a good firing point.
-
-The three types of loopholes are:
-
-1. Narrowest point of the opening nearest the marksman. This type is
-most difficult to conceal, much of the parapet thickness is cut away
-and, if of hard material, tends to deflect the bullets into the firer’s
-face. This defect may be remedied somewhat by stepping the surface of
-the loophole.
-
-2. Narrowest point to the front. Easiest to conceal but gives a limited
-field of view.
-
-3. Narrowest point midway between the front and rear. A compromise
-between the first two types.
-
-The following general remarks on the construction of loopholes are
-taken from a work based upon the experience gained during the war in
-Europe:
-
-1. The angle of splay is usually 60 degrees. The thicker the parapet
-the smaller must be the angle of splay.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 21.—Types of loopholes.]
-
-2. The marksman holds his rifle in a line connecting the right
-shoulder, the eye and the object, hence most of the body lies to the
-left of the rifle. The loophole should be made to the right, with a
-niche in the wall of the parapet from the hip to the armpit, to bring
-the left shoulder well forward. It will be found that this permits the
-right elbow to be placed on the edge of the parapet.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 22.—Methods of constructing loopholes with
-sandbags.]
-
-3. Box loopholes with screens or blindage may be used, but should be
-placed by a skilled marksman. The great disadvantage is that the enemy
-notes these parapet alterations. Steel loophole plates are now provided
-for this type of loophole, As the Germans sometimes use a steel bullet
-with great penetrating power, it is advisable to place two plates
-together to insure protection.
-
-4. With every precaution that may be taken it is difficult to conceal a
-loophole. A good plan is to deceive the enemy by using painted sandbags
-and preparing plenty of dummy loopholes.
-
-5. The minimum width of loopholes should be 2-1/2 inches. If narrower
-than this, it is impossible to use both eyes to judge distances
-correctly.
-
-6. The parapet should be so sloped that there is a maximum grazing fire
-when the rifle is fired as it lies on the parapet.
-
-To insure that the bullet will not graze the parapet, although the
-sights are clear, look through the barrel with the bolt removed.
-
-[Sidenote: Communication Trench]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 23.—Type of communication trench.]
-
-In the first line fire trenches there are so many crooks and turns and
-the trench itself is so narrow that passage along the same is very
-difficult. To provide for this lateral communication a trench known
-as the communication or supervision trench is dug. It runs generally
-parallel to and a short distance in rear of the fire trench and is
-connected therewith by zigzag approaches. The factor that determines
-the distance between the fire trench and the communication trench is
-that it should be at such a distance that a shell bursting in one of
-the bays would not destroy the communication trench.
-
-The location of the communication trench with respect to the fire
-trench and the arrangements of the approaches is shown in detail in
-Plate 1.
-
-The profile of the ordinary communication trench is shown in Plate 23.
-
-[Sidenote: Dugouts]
-
-During the artillery bombardment few men are left in the fire trenches.
-The remainder of the garrison is held under cover a short distance
-to the rear. This cover is provided by a system of dugouts connected
-with the fire trench through underground passageways that lead to the
-communication trench. This arrangement is shown in Plate 1.
-
-A profile of the latest type of dugout is shown in Plate 24.
-
-The solid earth cover is from 12 to 18 feet thick, which gives
-protection from all but the very largest caliber shells.
-
-Effective resistance is supplied by roofing materials as follows:
-
-1. From shrapnel bullets: 2-inch planks covered with 12 inches of earth.
-
-2. From 3-inch shells: 4-inch planks supporting 4 feet of earth with a
-top layer of heavy stones to cause an early shell burst.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 24.—Type of dugout.]
-
-3. From howitzers of less than 6 inches caliber: 12-inch beams or logs
-covered with 8 feet of earth.
-
-4. From the largest caliber guns: 15 to 25 feet of earth.
-
-The following table shows the penetration of the German S bullet at a
-range of 200 yards:
-
- _Inches_
-
- Steel plate 3/8
-
- Broken stone 6
-
- Brickwork, cement and mortar 9
-
- Brickwork, lime and mortar 14
-
- Sandbags 24
-
- Sand, loose 30
-
- Hardwood, oak, etc. 38
-
- Earth 50
-
- Soft wood, poplar, etc. 58
-
- Clay 60
-
- Dry turf 80
-
-In addition to the regular “dugouts” for the supports, the latest
-type trenches have squad dugouts just in rear of the bays of the fire
-trench. These provide shelter during bombardment for the members of the
-squad not actually required on duty in the trench bay.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 24a.—Section of traversed type of fire trench
-showing entrance to squad dugout.]
-
-[Sidenote: Communications]
-
-The fire trench is connected with the cover for supports by a system of
-zigzag trenches having the profile shown in Plate 23. The arrangement
-is shown in Plate 1.
-
-[Sidenote: Trench Mortar Positions]
-
-Somewhere between the first line fire trench and the cover for the
-supports is a line of emplacements for the trench mortars. Plate 25
-shows a profile of the emplacement.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 25.—Profile of trench mortar emplacement.]
-
-The arrangement of the position is shown in Plate 1.
-
-These trench mortars are used to hurl charges of high explosives
-varying from 25 to 100 pounds into the enemy’s lines. They have a range
-of from 300 to 1,800 yards.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 25a.—Trench mortar.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 25b.—Improvised catapult.]
-
-[Sidenote: Cover for Supports]
-
-At a variable distance to the rear of the first line fire trench is
-located the cover for supports, which is organized much in the same
-manner as the first line system of trenches and affords a second
-position in the system to fall back to in case of necessity. These
-trenches are provided with overhead cover and numerous dugouts for the
-protection of the men.
-
-[Sidenote: Machine Guns]
-
-At every available place throughout the defensive position machine guns
-are located, typical positions of which are shown in Plate 1.
-
-The typical types of cover are shown in Plates 26 and 27.
-
-Machine guns are a very potent factor in trench warfare. They are
-now being employed to a far greater extent than ever before, and the
-number is increasing on all the battle fronts as fast as they can be
-manufactured. The machine-gun positions are carefully concealed from
-the enemy, and fire is not opened until it is certain that it will be
-effective.
-
-The selection of the sites for the emplacements should be made with a
-view to bringing a powerful enfilade or oblique fire on the attacking
-enemy at effective range, to provide a flanking fire for supporting
-troops, and to sweep gaps in the line of obstacles.
-
-[Illustration:
-
- _From World’s Work._
-
-PLATE 26.—Profile of type of cover for machine gun.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27.—Type of cover for machine guns.]
-
-Their fire should come as a surprise to the attacking party.
-
-In the construction of cover for machine guns the following points
-should be observed:
-
-1. They must have a platform for the gun and gunner. This may be
-provided for in the construction of the emplacement or built up with
-sandbags. The platform should be 3 feet wide and 6-1/2 feet in length.
-
-2. If head cover is provided, it should not differ in appearance from
-that constructed elsewhere in the trenches. The loopholes must be
-blinded with gunny sacks.
-
-3. The front of the emplacement should be cut under to receive the
-leg of the tripod, thus bringing the gun up closer to the parapet and
-furnishing more cover for the gunner.
-
-4. Splinter-proof shelters should be provided near at hand for the
-members of the gun detachment.
-
-5. Where the enemy’s trenches are near, the position for the
-emplacement should be selected by day and the actual work done under
-cover of darkness.
-
-6. The guns should be located so that they support each other by their
-fire. Alternate positions should be constructed.
-
-7. When located to enfilade straight lines of trenches, special
-capioniers should be constructed.
-
-[Sidenote: Supporting Points]
-
-At intervals from 800 to 1,500 yards along the first line, supporting
-points are established. They may consist of a fortified village or
-a specially prepared position having a “labyrinth” of trenches and
-rendered well nigh impregnable to infantry assault by every defensive
-device known to modern warfare. They are designed to bring a flanking
-fire to bear upon the intervening intervals with the idea that troops
-cannot pass beyond them until they are reduced.
-
-[Sidenote: Village Defense]
-
-The following was the actual scheme employed for the defense of a
-French village, and exemplifies the thoroughness with which defenses
-must be organized.
-
-The village was about 700 yards in rear of the front line, and had
-three keeps surrounded with wire entanglements and independent of each
-other, but with an elaborate system of communication trenches. Water
-and four days’ rations were stored in each keep, and wells dug. Each
-of the keeps held about one company. The communication trenches were
-about 6 feet deep, used as far as possible as fire trenches, and well
-traversed. Firing platforms were revetted with brushwood, and shelters
-made all over the village. In addition to keeps, a series of lines
-existed in the rear of the front line, intercommunicating and provided
-with barbed wire. A small wood on one point of the front was defended
-by a network of low wire entanglements and a line of high wire netting.
-
-Every officer had to know all about his section and its communications
-with right and left. Telephone wires were laid low down in
-communication trenches and fastened a few inches from ground with
-wooden pickets.
-
-Machine guns were placed so as to flank salients. A 65-mm. field gun
-was placed in the front line to sweep the village, and an observation
-station placed in a tree. The observer wore a green mask and green
-sheet.
-
-Great use was made of brushwood and undergrowth to revet steps of
-firing platform.
-
-All work was carried out by regimental officers and men without help
-from the engineers, who were fully employed in mining. The garrison of
-the village and the front line trenches in the vicinity was about one
-battalion, but the fire trenches were sufficient for three battalions.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER V[1]
-
-[1]: This chapter reprinted from _Infantry Journal_.
-
-Use and Improvement of Natural Cover
-
-
-_A screen or mask_ consists of hedges, crops, underbrush, etc., which
-hide the rifleman without, however, protecting him from fire.
-
-_Cover or shelter_ consists of walls, earthworks, etc., which protect
-the rifleman from fire.
-
-On the battlefield, natural features that screen and shelter should be
-utilized as much as possible, as they possess the following advantages
-over artificial works:
-
-(_a_) Their organization demands less work.
-
-(_b_) Concealment is easier.
-
-(_c_) From their nature, it is difficult for the enemy to estimate, for
-a given length, the number of men sheltered.
-
-They possess, however, certain disadvantages:
-
-(_a_) The protection is sometimes so excellent that, morally as well
-as materially, it becomes difficult to leave the shelter. Example:
-quarries with obstructed exits. Therefore, good judgment must be
-exercised in the selection.
-
-(_b_) Some of them are too visible. Example: large hedges. In this case
-their range can be easily found.
-
-As a general rule, do not occupy them uniformly and do not change the
-appearance of the organized parts.
-
-Organization of the cover:
-
-To organize the cover which protects troops from fire, construct
-suitable positions for firing and resting. To utilize the screens which
-merely hide the troops without protecting them from fire, dig trenches
-behind these screens in the following manner:
-
-(_a_) Choose the points which give the best field of fire.
-
-(_b_) Construct cover for firing.
-
-(_c_) Construct a shelter.
-
-The constructions are usually “individual” in the first period of work;
-afterwards, they are organized “collectively.” The covers are: (1)
-for riflemen lying down, (2) for riflemen sitting down, and (3) for
-riflemen standing up.
-
-
-Individual Organization of Natural Cover
-
-Examples of hasty individual cover behind trees, bushes, or branches:
-
-(_a_) Fallen tree (logs or branches), the height of which is at a
-maximum of 1 foot above the ground:
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27a.—Use of the cover without improvement.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27b.—First period.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27c.—Second period.
-
-Progressive improvement of the cover.]
-
-(_b_) Fallen tree, the top of which is more than 1 foot above the
-ground.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27d.—First period.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27e.—Second period.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27f.—Third period.]
-
-Wood which does not afford sufficient protection against bullets must
-be reinforced by earth at the right and against the cover 1 foot
-behind. Plates 27d, 27e, and 27f show the progressive improvement of
-the cover.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27g.—Sharp ridges, furrows, or top of a crest at
-the end of a gentle slope.]
-
-Examples of hasty individual covers behind a furrow, a crest, a heap of
-sand or earth:
-
-Dig the ground as near as possible to crest _A_ of the furrow in the
-manner indicated for the cover installed behind a fallen tree more than
-1 foot high.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27h.—Narrow furrows.]
-
-Use the earth excavated between furrows _A_ and _B_ to build up the
-earth between furrows _B_ and _C_ and fill up furrow _C_; continue
-afterwards as for the sharp ridge.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27i.—Low wall of earth, or earth and sand heaps,
-more than 2 feet high (two methods, _A_ or _B_).]
-
-(_A_) Lower the height about 8 inches; throw the earth forward. Dig a
-trench as indicated in the figure.
-
-(_B_) Make a loophole in the pile of earth, showing oneself as little
-as possible. Improve the firing position by making a place for the
-right leg and an elbow rest.
-
-Examples of hasty shelters (individual) arranged behind a large stone
-or heap of stones:
-
-A heap of stones, the top of which is 1 foot at a maximum above the
-ground:
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27j.—First period.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27k.—Second period.]
-
-
-General Organization of Natural Cover
-
-This consists in connecting up and coordinating the individual work
-under the direction of the squad commander. The work should be carried
-out on the lines adopted for the individual work; and the rules
-prescribed for the construction of artificial cover (profiles, depths,
-various shelters) should be followed as far as possible. In arranging
-the cover, the squads should utilize the natural features of the
-terrain.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27l.—Arrangement for a mound of earth.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27m.—Arrangement for a dry ditch.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27n.—Arrangement for a sunken road defended on the
-side towards the enemy.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27o.—Arrangement for a sunken road defended from
-the rear.]
-
-Ditches full of water, drains, streams:
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27p.—Arrangement of a large ditch.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27q.—Arrangement of a ditch full of water.]
-
-Ordinary roads, road and railroad embankments, and sunken roads:
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27r.—Arrangement of an ordinary road defended on
-the side toward the enemy.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27s.—Same defended from the rear.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27t.—Road embankment, defended from the rear.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27u.—Arrangement of a railroad embankment.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27v.—Arrangement of a sunken road.]
-
-Hedges and woods:
-
-Dig a trench behind the hedge and throw the earth against it; make
-openings in the hedge to facilitate view and fire (Plate 27w). If the
-hedge is low, deepen the trench, but make the parapet lower than the
-hedge which masks it.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27w.—Arrangement of a hedge.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27x.—Arrangement of the edge of a wood.]
-
-Avoid destroying the natural appearance of the wood; do not cut
-the trees and brush on a certain depth, but cut off branches where
-necessary to obtain a field of fire. Behind this strip cut the brush
-and small trees so as to make a path 3 to 4 yards wide. Construct a
-trench behind the mask of trees. The parapet can be raised up to 2 or
-even 3 feet. Construct abatis on the parts of the border of the wood,
-where it will not interfere with the fire.
-
-Walls:
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27y.—Arrangement of a wall 2 feet 8 inches high.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 27z.—Arrangement of a wall 8 feet high.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 28.—Arrangement of a wall more than 8 feet high
-without making loopholes.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 28a.—Arrangement of an iron fence built on a low
-wall.]
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER VI
-
-Revetments
-
-
-A _revetment_ is a covering or facing placed upon an earth slope to
-enable it to stand at an inclination greater than it would naturally
-assume. Some revetments also increase the tenacity of slopes and
-diminish the injury by fire. The upper parts of revetments that may be
-struck by projectiles which penetrate the cover of earth must not be
-made of materials of large units which will splinter when struck. The
-upper part of the revetments is technically known as _crowning_.
-
-[Sidenote: Sandbags]
-
-Sandbags are made of coarse canvas or burlap. They are 33 inches long
-and 14 inches wide. They are filled loosely with earth or sand about
-1/2 cubic foot to a bag. Having been placed in position they are
-pounded down with a shovel to a rectangular form when they will fill a
-space about 20 by 13 by 5 inches.
-
-The sandbag revetment is constructed by laying alternate rows of
-headers and stretchers, breaking joints. The tied ends of the headers
-and seams of the stretchers are put into the parapet. Men working in
-pairs lay the bags and set them firmly in place with a spade or mallet.
-
-The advantages are:
-
-1. The portability of the empty bags. Only 62 pounds per one hundred
-bags.
-
-2. They may be filled with any kind of soil.
-
-3. They are rapidly filled and easily placed in position.
-
-4. They are invaluable in making repairs.
-
-5. They will not splinter.
-
-The only disadvantage is that they are not durable. The cloth soon goes
-to decay and the filling material crumbles away.
-
-Plate 29 shows the appearance of a sandbag revetment as seen from the
-front and from the end.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 29.—Sandbag revetment.]
-
-A squad of six men with two shovels and one pick should fill 150 bags
-in an hour. One man uses the pick, two shovel the dirt into the bag,
-one holds the bag open and two men tie the bags. Having the filled bags
-ready to hand ten men will lay 75 square feet of revetment in an hour.
-Four men lay the bags and flatten them out while six carry them.
-
-[Sidenote: Brush]
-
-Brush is used in many forms for revetting. Almost any kind will serve
-the purpose. For weaving, it must be live and is most pliable when not
-in leaf. It should not be more than 1 inch in diameter at the butt.
-When cut it should be assorted in sizes for the different class of
-revetments. Poles 2-1/2 inches in diameter are cut for the supports.
-
-[Sidenote: Fascines]
-
-A _fascine_ is a cylindrical bundle of brushwood tightly bound. The
-usual length is 18 feet, the diameter 9 inches, and the weight normally
-about 140 pounds. Lengths of 6 and 9 feet, which are sometimes used,
-are most conveniently obtained by sawing a standard fascine into two or
-three pieces.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 29a.—Fascine.]
-
-Fascines are made in a cradle which consists of five trestles, the
-outer ones being 16 feet apart. The trestle is made by driving two
-sticks about 6-1/2 feet long and 3 inches in diameter in the ground and
-lashed at the intersection as shown in Plate 29a. In making the cradle,
-plant the two end trestles first. Stretch a line from one to the other
-over the intersection. Place the others 4 feet apart and lash them so
-that each intersection comes fairly to the line.
-
-_To build a fascine_, straight pieces of brush, 1 or 2 inches at the
-butt, are laid on, the butts projecting at the end 1 foot beyond
-the trestle. Leaves should be stripped and unruly branches cut off,
-or partially cut through, so that they will lie close. The larger,
-straighter brush should be laid on the outside, butts alternating in
-direction, and smaller stuff in the center. The general object is to so
-dispose the brush as to make the fascine of uniform size, strength, and
-stiffness from end to end.
-
-When the cradle is nearly filled, the fascine is compressed or _choked_
-by the _fascine choker_ (Plate 30), which consists of two bars, 4 feet
-long, joined 18 inches from the ends by a chain 4 feet long. The chain
-is marked at 14 inches each way from the middle by inserting a ring or
-special link. To use, two men standing on opposite sides pass the chain
-under the brush, place the short ends of the handles on top and pass
-the bars, short end first, across to each other. They then bear down on
-the long ends until the marks on the chain come together. Chokers may
-be improvised from sticks and rope or wire.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 30.—Method of using the fascine choker.]
-
-_Binding_ will be done with a double turn of wire or tarred rope. It
-should be done in twelve places 18 inches apart, the end binders 3
-inches outside the end trestles. To bind a fascine will require 66 feet
-of wire.
-
-Improvised binders may be made from rods of live brush; hickory or
-hazel is the best. Place the butt under the foot and twist the rod to
-partially separate the fibers and make it flexible. A rod so prepared
-is called a _withe_. To use a withe, make a half-turn and twist at
-the smaller end. Pass the withe around the brush and the large end
-through the eye. Draw taut and double the large end back, taking two
-half-hitches over its own standing part.
-
-_A fascine revetment_ is made by placing the fascines as shown in Plate
-31. The use of headers and anchors is absolutely necessary in loose
-soils only, but they greatly strengthen the revetment in any case. A
-fascine revetment _must always be crowned_ with sod or bags.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 31.—Fascine revetment.]
-
-In all brush weaving the following terms have been adopted and are
-convenient to use:
-
-_Randing._—Weaving a single rod in and out between pickets.
-
-_Slewing._—Weaving two or more rods together in the same way.
-
-_Pairing._—Carrying two rods together, crossing each other in and out
-at each picket.
-
-_Wattling._—A general term applied to the woven part of brush
-construction.
-
-A _hurdle_ is a basket work made of brushwood. If made in pieces the
-usual size is 2 feet 9 inches by 6 feet, though the width may be varied
-so that it will cover the desired height of slope.
-
-A hurdle is made by describing on the ground an arc of a circle of
-8-foot radius and on the arc driving ten pickets, 8 inches apart,
-covering 6 feet out to out. Brush is then woven in and out and well
-compacted. The concave side of a hurdle should be placed next the
-earth. It warps less than if made flat.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 32.—Method of laying out hurdle.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 33.—Hurdle.]
-
-In _weaving the hurdle_, begin randing at the middle space at the
-bottom. Reaching the end, twist the rod as described for a withe but
-at one point only, bend it around the end picket and work back. Start
-a second rod before the first one is quite out, slewing the two for a
-short distance. Hammer the wattling down snug on the pickets with a
-block of wood and continue until the top is reached. It improves the
-hurdle to finish the edges with two selected rods paired. A pairing
-may be introduced in the middle, if desired, to give the hurdle extra
-endurance if it is to be used as a pavement or floor. If the hurdle
-is not to be used at once, or if it is to be transported, it must be
-_sewed_. The sewing is done with wire, twine or withes at each end and
-in the middle, with stitches about 6 inches long, as shown in Plate
-33. About 40 feet of wire is required to sew one hurdle. No. 14 is
-about the right size, and a coil of 100 pounds will sew forty hurdles.
-Three men should make a hurdle in two hours, two wattling and the third
-preparing the rods.
-
-_Continuous Hurdle._—If conditions permit the revetment to be built
-in place, the hurdle is made continuous for considerable lengths.
-The pickets may be larger; they are driven further apart, 12 or 18
-inches, and the brush may be heavier. The construction is more rapid.
-The pickets are driven with a little more slant than is intended and
-must be anchored to the parapet. A line of poles, with wire attached
-at intervals of two or three pickets, will answer. The wires should
-be made fast to the pickets after the wattling is done. They will
-interfere with the weaving if fastened sooner. Two men should make 4
-yards of continuous hurdling of ordinary height in one hour.
-
-_Brush Revetment._—Pickets may be set as above described and the brush
-laid inside them without weaving, being held in place by bringing the
-earth up with it. In this case the anchors must be fastened before
-the brush laying begins. The wires are not much in the way in this
-operation.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 34.—Gabion.]
-
-_Gabion Making._—A _gabion_ is a cylindrical basket with open ends,
-made of brush woven on pickets or stakes as described for hurdles. The
-usual size is 2 feet outside diameter and 2 feet 9 inches height of
-wattling. On account of the sharp curvature somewhat better brush is
-required for gabions than will do for hurdles. The _gabion form_ is
-made of wood, 21 inches diameter, with equidistant notches around the
-circumference, equal in number to the number of pickets to be used,
-usually eight to fourteen; less if the brush is large and stiff, more
-if small and pliable. The notches should be of such depth that the
-pickets will project to 1 inch outside the circle. The pickets should
-be 1-1/2 to 2 inches in diameter, 3 feet 6 inches long, sharpened, half
-at the small and half at the large end.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 35.]
-
-_To Make a Gabion._—The form is placed on the ground. The pickets
-are driven vertically in the ground, large and small ends down,
-alternately. The form is then raised a foot and held by placing a
-lashing around outside the pickets, tightened with a rack stick. (See
-Plate 36.)
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 36.—Forming the gabion supports.]
-
-The wattling is randed or slewed from the form up. The form is then
-dropped down, the gabion inverted, and the wattling completed. If
-the brush is small, uniform, and pliable, pairing will make a better
-wattling than randing. If not for immediate use, the gabion must
-be sewed as described for hurdles, the same quantity of wire being
-required.
-
-The gabion, when wattled and sewed, is completed by cutting off the
-tops of the pickets, 1 inch from the web, the bottom 3 inches. The
-latter are sharpened after cutting and driving a pairing picket through
-the middle of its length and a little to one side of the axis. Three
-men should make a gabion in an hour.
-
-Gabions may be made without the forms, but the work is slower and not
-so good. The circle is struck on the ground and the pickets driven
-at the proper points. The weaving is done from the ground up. The
-entire time of one man is required to keep the pickets in their proper
-positions.
-
-If brush is scarce, gabions may be made with 6 inches of wattling at
-each end, the middle being left open. In filling, the open parts may be
-lined with straw, grass, brush, or grain sacks to keep the earth from
-running out.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 37.—Methods of use of gabion.]
-
-_Gabion Revetment._—The use of gabions in revetment is illustrated in
-Plate 37. If more than two tiers are used, the separating fascines
-should be anchored back. Gabion revetment should be crowned with sod or
-sandbag.
-
-The advantages of gabion revetment are very great. It can be put in
-place without extra labor, faster and with less exposure than any
-other. It is self-supporting and gives cover from view and partial
-cover from fire quicker than any other form. Several forms of gabions
-made of material other than brush have been used. Some of them are
-sheet iron, empty barrels and hoops. The disadvantages of iron are that
-it splinters badly, is heavy, and has not given satisfaction. If any
-special materials are supplied, the methods of using them will, in view
-of the foregoing explanation, be obvious.
-
-_Timber or Pole Revetment._—Poles too large for use in any other way
-may be cut to length and stood on end to form a revetment. The lower
-end should be in a small trench and have a waling piece in front of
-them. There must also be a waling piece or cap at or near the top,
-anchored back. Plate 38 shows this form.
-
-_Miscellaneous Revetments._—Any receptacles for earth which will make a
-stable, compact pile, such as boxes, baskets, cans, etc., may be used
-for a revetment. Canvas or burlap stretched behind pickets is being
-used to a great extent on the battle fronts of Europe. If the soil will
-make adobe, an excellent revetment may be made of them, but it will not
-stand wet weather.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 38.—Timber revetment.]
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER VII
-
-Working Parties
-
-
-The infantryman will always be called upon to construct the trench
-which he is to occupy. Each company is provided with portable tools,
-which the men carry, and each infantry regiment is provided with tools
-for the purpose. The digging tools consist of picks and shovels.
-
-When it has been decided to locate fire trenches along a certain
-line officers will lay out the cutting lines and mark them with tape
-or otherwise. A company will be assigned for the construction of a
-definite section of the trench.
-
-Let us work out the procedure, assuming that the work may go on
-unmolested by the enemy. Such, however, is not usually the case. The
-enemy will do anything in his power to prevent construction work. If,
-however, we are familiar with the details of the work and know how
-to go about it in an orderly and systematic manner under conditions
-of noninterference by the enemy, we will be able to carry out these
-details of organization and procedure under more or less trying
-conditions when the time comes.
-
-Officers have established the trace of the trench and marked the
-cutting lines. It is the ordinary traversed type, 18 feet bays with
-traverses 5 feet wide and 5 feet deep, as shown in Plate 14.
-
-The company is composed of, say twelve squads organized into three
-platoons of four squads each. Six bays of the trench have been assigned
-to the organization for construction. This gives a task to each platoon
-of two bays, including one complete traverse and a half traverse on
-each flank.
-
-Tools have been issued to the first and third squads of each platoon,
-the front rank men carrying picks and the rear rank men shovels.
-
-The company is marched in column of squads to the site of the trench,
-approaching it from the rear, and halted with the head of the column
-fifteen paces in rear of and opposite the right of the section
-assigned; that is, in rear of the first bay of the section. The second
-platoon is then conducted by the platoon commander and halted with
-its head opposite the third bay. The third platoon is in like manner
-conducted to the rear of the fifth bay. Each platoon commander then has
-the two rear squads of his platoon, conducted to a point behind the
-bay on his left, _i. e._, the second, fourth and sixth respectively.
-This allows two squads for the work in each bay, the leading squad
-furnishing the first relief and the rear squad the second.
-
-The leading squad of each column is then marched to a point two paces
-in rear of the rear cutting line of the trench, where they take off
-their packs and lay their rifles on them. The corporal and his rear
-rank man fall out. The corporal assigns tasks, number ones to the first
-2-yard section, number twos to the second and number threes the third.
-
-The tasks are shown in Plate 39. The corporal superintends the work.
-Number 4 rear rank marks out the cutting lines with his shovel around
-the traverses and starts work on them.
-
-Experience has shown that the best method of dividing up the work is to
-group the men in pairs, one man with a pick and one with a shovel and
-to prescribe that they relieve each other.
-
-The leading squads assigned to each bay work at top speed for 30
-minutes. At the end of the twenty-eighth minute the corporal of the
-rear squad brings his men up and deploys them. At a signal from the
-platoon commander the men of the first and third squads drop their
-tools, get out of the trench, and proceed to the rear, where they rest.
-The men of the second and fourth squads jump into the trench and take
-up the task. At the end of another 30 minutes this procedure is again
-carried out.
-
-[Illustration: _PLATE 39._
-
-_ORGANIZATION OF A WORKING PARTY_]
-
-This scheme of assigning tasks and procedure was given an exhaustive
-test in 1915 in the course of testing out various types of intrenching
-tools. It worked to perfection.
-
-The bays are first completed, after which the traverses begun by No.
-4 rear rank are finished up. Great care should be taken to make the
-dimensions of the trench as accurate as possible. The squad leader is
-held responsible for this. He should provide himself with two sticks.
-On one the following lengths are laid off: 1 foot, width of berms, and
-height of parapet; 1 foot 4 inches, width of firing banquet, height of
-firing banquet above bottom of trench, and width of bottom of trench.
-The other stick has the following lengths measured on it: 4 feet, depth
-of trench from ground surface to the top of firing banquet; 5 feet 4
-inches, depth of trench from ground surface to bottom of trench. (See
-Plate 15 for dimensions of standing trench.)
-
-When the circumstances are such that the work of trench construction
-is interfered with by the enemy, a modification of the system outlined
-here will have to be made, but the details should be adhered to as
-closely as possible.
-
-When night work is necessary the trace should be staked out before
-complete darkness sets in. If the trace can only be made after dark,
-visible reference points needed with white paper, white tape or
-screened flashlights may be utilized. Stick to the details of the
-deployment, the laying out of tasks and the procedure as indicated for
-day work as closely as possible. Avoid making any more noise than is
-absolutely necessary; allow no smoking and require such conversation as
-is necessary to be made in whispers. Protect the workers by a system of
-patrols to the front.
-
-Noncommissioned officers are held responsible for a systematic and
-orderly execution of the work being performed by their units. The
-captain cannot be everywhere along the line. He has to depend upon the
-platoon and squad leaders in the work. That is why you should study it
-and know about it so as to be able to make good when the time comes.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER VIII
-
-Grenade Warfare
-
-
-The use of hand grenades as an implement of warfare dates back many
-centuries. History records their use as far back as 1536. Up to the
-close of the eighteenth century soldiers were trained in the throwing
-of hand grenades, and for this reason were called “grenadiers.” At
-first there were a few in each regiment, later entire companies
-were formed, and finally each infantry unit that corresponds to our
-battalion of today had its own grenadier unit.
-
-Then there was a period of time when more open formations were adopted,
-when there was less opportunity for the employment of grenades and
-their use was practically eliminated from the battlefield and confined
-to sieges, where they have been used more or less since the dawn of
-military history.
-
-With the advent of the Russo-Japanese War came the extensive use of
-trenches on the battlefield, and with the trenches came the hand
-grenades which were used in large quantities by both sides. This was
-especially the case when the fighting lines came to close quarters and
-in the assaults against the forts at Port Arthur.
-
-When the European war resolved itself into trench warfare, such as it
-is today, the use of hand-thrown projectiles assumed an importance
-heretofore never attained, and today we find ourselves employing hand
-grenades in every phase of the conflict.
-
-
-Employment of Grenadiers
-
-Grenadiers are employed on both the offensive and defensive. They
-accompany the attacking lines in the advance on the enemy’s positions,
-they clear the fire trenches and communication trenches after parts
-of the enemy’s lines have been taken, and on the defense they assist
-the riflemen in repelling attack and engage the enemy whenever he has
-obtained a lodgment in the trenches.
-
-[Sidenote: Organization]
-
-While every infantryman receives a certain amount of instruction in
-grenade throwing, there should be a grenadier squad in each platoon
-specially instructed and trained in this most effective auxiliary
-method of trench warfare. Not all men possess the temperament and
-qualifications necessary to make efficient grenadiers. Hence the
-personnel of the grenadier squad should be carefully selected. Strong
-physique, personal courage and steadiness in emergencies are the
-qualifications that count. Men fond of outdoor sports, other things
-being equal, will be found the best.
-
-The grenadier squad is organized as follows:
-
-_Front Rank._
-
- No. 1. First bayonet man.
- No. 2. Second bayonet man.
- No. 3. Grenade thrower.
- No. 4. Squad leader, observer and director.
-
-_Rear Rank._
-
- No. 1. First carrier.
- No. 2. Second carrier.
- No. 3. Barricader.
- No. 4. Barricader.
-
-[Sidenote: Duties]
-
-The duties of the several members of the squad vary under different
-circumstances of their tactical employment which will be fully
-explained below. In general they are as follows:
-
-_Bayonet Men._—The bayonet men move in advance of the grenade throwers.
-When the grenade thrower has thrown his grenades into the objective
-trench the bayonet men must be ready to take instant advantage of the
-temporary demoralization of the enemy caused by the explosions and
-clear the way for a repetition of the operation.
-
-_Grenade Thrower._—The grenade thrower must be ready and able to throw
-a grenade at once whenever the bayonet men or squad leader may direct.
-
-_Squad Leader._—The squad leader directs the operations of the squad.
-He goes wherever his presence is necessary. He keeps a close watch to
-the flanks. He replaces casualties and attends to the forwarding of
-grenades to the thrower. He acts as a grenade thrower whenever he can
-assist the operations in that capacity.
-
-_Carriers._—The carriers carry as many grenades as possible, and when
-their supply is exhausted they go to the reserve depots and replenish.
-They are responsible for a continuous supply of grenades to the
-throwers.
-
-_Barricaders._—The barricaders are charged with the construction of
-barricades. They carry sandbags and tools for filling them. In addition
-they carry as many grenades as possible. They hold themselves in
-readiness to go forward and construct a barricade or cover at any point
-designated by the squad leader.
-
-_General._—All the men of the squad must be trained and prepared to
-take over the duties of any other member. Before undertaking any
-operation each man of the squad should thoroughly understand the part
-he is to play in it.
-
-_Formation._—The formation for the several classes of tactical
-employment will be explained when each is considered below.
-
-
-Offensive Operations
-
-When it has been decided to attack a certain sector of the enemy’s
-position a detailed reconnaissance is made with a view to locating and
-developing every element of the position, detailed plans are made and
-imparted to all concerned. (See Chapter XI.)
-
-The phases of the attack consist of: (1) The artillery preparation;
-(2) the infantry assault; (3) the occupation and organization of the
-captured position, and preparation to meet a counter attack.
-
-During the course of the artillery preparation grenadier squads work
-their way across “no man’s land” and establish themselves sufficiently
-close to throw grenades into the fire trenches. Failing in this they
-accompany the assaulting troops.
-
-When they are able to work up close they cover the advance of the
-infantry assaulting lines by showering grenades into the enemy’s fire
-trenches after the curtain of artillery fire has been extended back
-into his position to prevent the supports and reserves from coming up
-to the front.
-
-All men of the squad carry as many grenades as possible and such number
-as the squad leader may designate act as throwers, while the others act
-as carriers and prepare the grenades for throwing. Accurate throwing,
-properly observed and distributed, will greatly assist in preparing for
-a successful assault.
-
-
-Clearing Fire Trenches
-
-No matter how well the infantry assault on the enemy’s fire trenches
-may be conducted, it rarely succeeds in occupying the hostile position
-throughout its entire length. Casualties, loss of direction, and
-unexpected obstacles encountered are bound to break up the assaulting
-line more or less, thereby leaving gaps in the captured position.
-Furthermore the attack on a line of trenches takes place on a
-relatively small front by a large number of men. When the trenches
-are finally reached and a lodgment effected there will be great
-overcrowding. Provision must be made immediately for extending the
-line, otherwise the casualties at these points will be exceedingly
-heavy.
-
-It is the particular duty of the grenadier squads to clear these “gaps”
-of the enemy as quickly as possible. For this purpose an efficient and
-well-organized storming party must be immediately available.
-
-Let us say that, after careful artillery preparation, the assault has
-reached the enemy’s fire trench. There is much overcrowding at the
-points where lodgments have been effected. There is a gap in the line
-between two adjacent elements. How is this cleared of the enemy?
-
-The grenadier squad immediately forms for action. Two bayonet men are
-in the lead, followed by the grenade thrower, who is in turn followed
-by the two carriers. Further to the rear are the two barricaders, who
-carry a reserve supply of grenades in addition to their sandbags and
-shovels. The squad leader is where he can best direct the operations.
-
-The grenadier squad is formed as shown in the _first position_, Plate
-40.
-
-1. The grenade thrower puts grenades: (1) into bay 1, at _A_; (2) into
-bay 2, at _D_; (3) into bay 1, at _B_; (4) into the traverse leg at _C_.
-
-2. When the four grenades have exploded the bayonet men rush into bay
-1, the leader advancing into the first leg of the traverse trench below
-_B_, while his mate remains in the bay for a moment.
-
-[Illustration: _PLATE 40._]
-
-3. The squad leader rushes around the traverse to _A_, followed by the
-grenade thrower.
-
-4. When the bay and the next traverse passages are all cleared of
-the enemy the word “O. K.” is passed back to the squad leader by the
-bayonet men. The bayonet men get into their proper positions and the
-remainder of the squad rush into the cleared bay 1 and prepare for the
-further clearing of succeeding bays in the same manner as described
-above.
-
-Take the diagram on Plate 40. Study it out in connection with the text
-and you will see how this system works out.
-
-The men work in pairs, the two bayonet men together; the two carriers
-behind the thrower; the two barricaders sufficiently far to the rear
-to be protected by a corner of solid earth. The squad leader must of
-necessity go where his presence is necessary. Usually he stays as near
-the grenade thrower as possible.
-
-When the enemy’s grenadier parties are also very active in the sector,
-the distances between pairs are extended so that no more than two men
-are exposed in any one bay or traverse leg.
-
-The formation of the squad must be preserved as long as possible. You
-will appreciate that when losses occur the squad leader will have to
-replace men and the formation will have to be modified to meet the
-changed conditions. This makes it absolutely necessary that every
-member of the squad be competent to take over the duties of any other
-member.
-
-When the squad has reached the limit of its advance the barricaders
-will come forward and construct a barricade in such position that it is
-well in view from a corner some distance behind.
-
-No passing of bombs forward from man to man is permitted. When the
-first carrier’s supply is exhausted he returns to the rear to secure a
-fresh supply from the reserve grenade carriers who are following the
-grenade squad, and who have by now advanced to a point where their
-supply is available. As soon as his supply is replenished he returns to
-his proper position in the formation. Should the second carrier run out
-of grenades the squad leader may cause one of the barricaders to take
-all the grenades in the possession of the two and replace him while he
-goes to the rear to secure a fresh supply.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 41
-
-_Combat in a Communicating Trench_]
-
-In the meantime other grenadier squads are clearing out the
-communication and supervision trenches, blocking up the exits to
-dugouts and destroying machine-gun detachments that have thus far
-escaped. The assaulting troops have passed on towards the second line,
-covered by the curtain of fire of the artillery.
-
-
-Clearing Communication Trenches
-
-The clearing of communication trenches is effected much in the same
-manner as explained for the fire trench. The grenadier squad is
-organized and formed in the same manner. The squad works its way into
-the communication trench by bombing each leg until they arrive at a
-point where the formation, as illustrated in Plate 41, can be assumed.
-The grenade thrower throws grenades into the trench at _B_ and then at
-_C_. As soon as these have exploded the bayonet men take advantage of
-the confusion to advance into the leg _A-B_ under cover of the shoulder
-_b_, the squad leader and thrower advance to _A_, the carriers to the
-point formerly occupied by the squad leader, and the barricaders to the
-point formerly occupied by the carriers. The thrower then puts grenades
-into the trench at _C_ and then at _D_, after which the whole squad
-advances another notch as formerly explained.
-
-Where island traverses are encountered the thrower puts a grenade on
-each side of the traverse and one in the rear of it. The bayonet men,
-one on a side, assault around the traverse and meet on the far side,
-and the operation proceeds as heretofore explained.
-
-
-Night Operations
-
-The grenadier squads may be called upon at night, to perform any of the
-services that are theirs by day, and in addition may be called upon
-to make night reconnaissances. For this work the men must be able to
-organize and reorganize the squad quickly and noiselessly. The throwers
-must be particularly efficient. There must be the highest order of team
-work.
-
-[Sidenote: Grenadier Patrols]
-
-Grenadier patrols are sent out at night to make reconnaissances of the
-enemy’s lines with a view to getting information which may include:
-
-1. Location and organization of line.
-
-2. The length of line occupied.
-
-3. Numbers and disposition of occupying troops.
-
-4. To get an accurate description of the ground.
-
-5. To locate observation and listening posts or any other advanced
-positions.
-
-6. To locate machine guns.
-
-These patrols may consist of from two men to the entire grenadier
-squad. In a patrol of six or eight men two of them carry rifles and
-belts, bayonets fixed. The remaining members of the patrol carry no
-equipment except a haversack filled with grenades. The grenades are
-used only in case of emergency. It is a reconnoitering patrol charged
-with gaining information and therefore does not enter into an encounter
-with the enemy except as a last resort.
-
-The men move or crawl without noise and take advantage of all cover
-that the ground affords. If they suspect they are observed, they should
-“freeze” to the ground and remain absolutely motionless. On dark
-nights it is easy to lose the direction and for the men to lose one
-another. Every device or scheme to lessen risks in this respect must
-be employed. The men may tie themselves lightly together so they will
-not proceed in a bunch and at the same time retain connection with each
-other.
-
-
-Notes on Grenade Warfare
-
-The first step in the training of a grenadier is to overcome his
-fear of the grenade itself. This is accomplished by first having him
-practice fuse lighting with dummy grenades having live fuses. The
-men will be impressed with the fact that the grenades are dangerous
-weapons and that familiarity in handling them must not be permitted to
-degenerate into carelessness.
-
-The next step towards efficiency is the development of accuracy of
-throwing. For short distances it may be lobbed from the shoulder by
-a motion similar to “putting the shot.” Stick grenades may be thrown
-for a short distance like throwing a dart. In the trenches the grenade
-should be thrown with an overhand motion like the bowler of a cricket
-ball, as there is danger of exploding them by knocking the hand against
-the back of the trench.
-
-The men should be taught to throw from all positions—standing, sitting,
-kneeling and prone.
-
-Should the grenade with a time fuse be dropped in the act of throwing,
-there is time to pick it up and throw it out of the trench before it
-explodes. Under no circumstances must it be allowed to explode in the
-trench.
-
-Communication throughout the squad in action should be maintained at
-all times. System is required to insure the throwers having a supply of
-grenades on hand all the time and that casualties are promptly replaced.
-
-Quick action is essential to success. Crawling and stalking give the
-enemy what he is waiting for.
-
-Arrangements to assist a storming party by rifle and machine-gun fire
-are of the utmost value and should be provided whenever possible. Care
-must be taken to provide a signal which will mark the progress of the
-storming party through the trenches. A helmet held up on a bayonet will
-do this.
-
-All grenadiers must be especially trained in the filling of sandbags
-and making sandbag barricades.
-
-The work of the observer is difficult and requires much practice. He
-must give his directions to the thrower in no uncertain terms. When
-the thrower has missed his objective the observer will give positive
-directions for the next throw. Instead of saying “A yard too much
-to the left,” he will say, “Throw a yard to the right.” Positive
-directions, even if only half heard, are of some use; negative
-directions are certain to be both confused and confusing. The observer
-should be expert in the use of the periscope.
-
-
-Hand Grenades and Petards
-
-The hand grenade used by our allies on the western front is the
-bracelet grenade with automatic firing mechanism and consists of a ball
-of cast iron filled with an explosive and of a leather bracelet which
-is fastened to the wrist. To the bracelet is attached a piece of rope
-about 30 centimeters long, having an iron hook at its end.
-
-Just before the grenade is thrown, the hook is engaged in the ring
-of the roughened wire of the friction primer placed inside the fuse
-plug which closes the cast iron ball. When the grenade is thrown, the
-ring with the primer wire, held back by the hook of the bracelet, is
-wrenched off by a sudden movement of withdrawal from the wrist and the
-fuse is fired. The explosion takes place four or five seconds later.
-
-This grenade is supplied to the fighting zone ready for use. It is
-quite complicated. It can be thrown about 25 meters.
-
-The German grenade is composite; it can be thrown by hand or fired
-from a rifle. As a hand missile, it is used at short distances, 15 to
-20 meters. It is composed of a copper rod to the extremity of which is
-fixed a cast iron cylinder, grooved to facilitate its breaking into
-small pieces at the moment of explosion. The explosive is placed inside
-this cylinder. A copper tube, also containing some explosive, is placed
-in the interior. It is surmounted by a complicated system for closing
-the grenade and for automatic ignition by percussion, which results in
-at least 50 per cent of misfires.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 41b.—British hand grenade No. 1.
-
- _a._ Removable cap.
- _b._ Detonator holder.
- _c._ Detonator.
- _d._ Explosive charge.
- _e._ Wood block.
- _f._ Handle.
- _g._ Safety pin.
- _h._ Firing pin.
- _i._ Cast iron ring.
- _j._ Streamer.
-]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 41c.—The latest type British hand grenade.
-
-_a._ Percussion cap.
-
-_b._ Firing pin.
-
-_c._ Safety pin. When in place prevents firing pin from striking
-primer. It is removed just before throwing the grenade.
-
-_d._ Primer.
-
-_e._ Chamber filled with high explosive.
-
-_f._ Cast iron shell, serrated.
-
-_g._ Wooden handle.
-
-_h._ Streamers, to keep the grenade head-on.]
-
-Used with the rifle, this grenade has a maximum range of 400 meters.
-At the extremity opposite the grenade, the copper rod ends in a copper
-stem about 3 centimeters in length, movable about the axis of the rod.
-This stem is covered with a copper sleeve of slight thickness, which is
-attached to it only at the extremity fastened to the rod. The diameter
-of the exterior of the sleeve must be such that it can be pushed into
-the gun barrel without pressure. To fire the grenade, a blank cartridge
-is placed in the chamber of the rifle; the quantity of powder left
-in the cartridge is regulated according to the distance at which the
-missile is to be thrown. At the moment of firing, the explosive gases
-penetrate between the sleeve and the stem and jam the sleeve against
-the grooves of the barrel. The sleeve and the stem, which is attached
-to it, take a movement of rotation in the grooves of the barrel, which
-insures the direction of the missile and the maximum efficiency of the
-explosive gases of the cartridge.
-
-The bracelet grenade and the German grenade just described have to
-be made in a factory. Attempts have been made to construct similar
-missiles with the explosives which are at hand at the front, cheddite
-and melinite. Several kinds have been made: a primed cartridge and a
-primed hand petard, fitted on a wooden paddle, a preserved meat tin can
-filled with explosive, etc.
-
-The Germans have hand petards similar to those of the Allies but with
-different explosives. These missiles are primed by a detonator and a
-slow match and can be thrown about 30 meters. The discharge takes place
-either automatically or by tinder. They are made on the spot and very
-rapidly. The assaulting troops carry them in baskets or strung on a
-circle of wire carried on the shoulder.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 41d.—Throwing hand grenades.]
-
-Grenades and petards constitute a terrible weapon. These projectiles
-exert considerable moral effect owing to the violence of their
-explosion and the awful wounds they occasion, and they make it possible
-to reach the enemy at points where it is impossible to use the rifle
-and bayonet.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER IX
-
-Gas Warfare
-
-
-Germany first made use of poisonous and asphyxiating gases on the
-field of battle. It has become an accepted element in the present war.
-Every soldier should, therefore, have a knowledge of the various ways
-in which gas is employed in the attack, as well as the measures to be
-taken to counteract its effect in the defense.
-
-The two methods of disseminating the gas over the battlefield are by
-emanation and grenades charged with it.
-
-[Sidenote: Emanation]
-
-This method has for its object to create a poisonous or irritant
-atmosphere. This is accomplished by means of the arsenic and
-phosphorous gas being forced through tubes in the direction of the
-enemy or by means of liquefied chlorine, bromide, phosgene and
-sulphuretted hydrogen gas stored in cylinders under high pressure.
-To be successful the gas attack must be attended by the following
-conditions.
-
-1. The weather must be comparatively calm with a wind blowing in the
-direction of the enemy at about 5 miles an hour. If the wind is too
-strong the gas will be carried over the enemy’s trenches so rapidly
-that it will not settle in them. If the wind is too light the gas will
-be carried up into the air and disseminate or may even be blown back
-into our own trenches, in which case chloride of lime scattered about
-freely will disperse them.
-
-2. There must be no rain, for that would quickly disseminate the gas
-and negative the effect.
-
-3. The attack must come as a surprise. If the elements of surprise are
-missing and the enemy has time to take protective measures, the effect
-is lost. If the surprise is complete, the enemy trenches should be
-emptied very quickly.
-
-4. The gas used must be heavier than the air, so that it will sift into
-the enemy’s trenches as it passes them. It is impracticable to decide
-upon any definite hour for launching the gas attack. Everything depends
-upon the direction and velocity of the wind. If an hour has been
-tentatively designated and the wind changes, the attack will have to be
-postponed.
-
-When an assault follows the gas attack the men should wear the smoke
-helmets for at least 30 minutes after the dissemination has ceased; in
-fact they must not be removed until the order to do so is given by the
-officer commanding the attack. You will appreciate that the enemy’s
-machine gunners may have better protection than the men in the bays of
-the trenches.
-
-[Sidenote: Shell and Grenade Method]
-
-In this method the gas dissemination is effected by means of shells
-or bombs being fired into the enemy’s trenches containing the desired
-substances which are released and give off irritant fumes on explosion.
-The grenades used weigh about 1 pound. They are similar in appearance
-to the ordinary tin can grenade. Their effect in a trench will
-continue for 20 to 30 minutes. In the attack a large number should be
-concentrated in a particular area to produce a large volume of gas.
-They are thrown by hand, trench mortar or catapult.
-
-[Sidenote: Defense]
-
-Surprise must be guarded against in every possible way. The direction
-of the wind must be continually watched, and when its velocity and
-direction are specially favorable the protective measures must be
-kept ready for instant use and special observers posted. Previous to
-an attack the enemy may remain comparatively quiet for several days.
-Noises like the moving of sheet iron may be heard. Preparations may be
-observed along the position. When the attack starts a hissing noise is
-heard; this latter is one of the indications that may be evident at
-night.
-
-[Sidenote: Helmets]
-
-Each man on duty in the trenches is provided with two smoke helmets,
-specially devised and constructed so as to absorb the gas and
-neutralize its effect, and which if properly cared for and used will
-provide complete protection from any substance likely to be used by the
-enemy. They are fitted with a valve tube through which to breathe and
-with goggles to see through. There are certain rules prescribed for
-their care and use.
-
-1. They must not be removed from the protective covering except for
-actual use against an attack.
-
-2. When the helmet has been used once it should be replaced by a new
-one.
-
-[Sidenote: Dummy Helmets]
-
-Dummy gas helmets will be provided in each organization by which the
-men may be practiced in putting them on. The men must be thoroughly
-drilled in the methods to be employed.
-
-The following directions accompany the helmets issued to the British
-Army. When our helmets are issued it is probable that each will
-be accompanied by a complete set of rules for its use and full
-instructions for the method of getting into it and for its care and
-preservation.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 41e.—Gas helmet.]
-
-
-Direction for Use and Care of Tube Helmets
-
-[Sidenote: Description]
-
-These helmets are the same as the smoke helmet already issued, except
-that stronger chemicals are added and a tube valve provided through
-which to breathe out. The tube valve makes the helmet cooler and saves
-chemicals from being affected by the breath. The wearer cannot breathe
-_in_ through the tube valve; this is intended for breathing _out_ only.
-
-[Sidenote: Directions for Use]
-
-Remove paper cap from mouthpiece of tube valve. Remove service cap.
-Pull helmet over head. Adjust so that goggles are over eyes. Tuck in
-skirt of helmet under coat collar and button coat so as to close in
-skirt of helmet. Hold the tube lightly in lips or teeth like stem of
-pipe, so as to be able to breathe in past it and out through it.
-
-_Breathe in through mouth and nose, using the air inside the helmet.
-Breathe out through tube only._
-
-[Sidenote: Directions for Care of Tube Helmet]
-
-1. Do not remove the helmet from its waterproof case except to use for
-protection against gas.
-
-2. Never use your tube helmet for practice or drill. Special helmets
-are kept in each company for instruction only.
-
-Should the goggles become misty during use they can be cleared by
-rubbing them gently against the forehead.
-
-When lacrimatory gases are used goggles affording mechanical protection
-may be worn, as these gases are not likely to irritate the lungs,
-though they sometimes produce sickness.
-
-[Sidenote: Improvised Methods]
-
-If a soldier does not possess one of the official pattern respirators,
-the following measures will be found useful:
-
-1. Wet and wring out any woolen article, such as a stocking or muffler,
-so as to form a thick pad large enough to cover the nose and mouth, and
-press firmly over both.
-
-2. Place in a scarf, stocking or handkerchief, a pad of about three
-handfuls of earth, preferably damp, and tie it firmly over the mouth
-and nose.
-
-3. A wet cloth pulled down over the eyes will be found useful as
-additional protection, especially against certain gases other than
-chlorine or when the gas is too strong for the ordinary respirator.
-
-4. A stocking, wetted with water and soda solution or tea, folded into
-eight folds and firmly held or tied over the nose.
-
-5. A sock folded fourfold similarly wetted and held or tied. If the
-sock or comforter has been soaked in soda solution it will still act
-efficiently when dry, though, if possible, it should be moist. The
-spare tapes from puttees may be used for tying on the sock.
-
-6. Any loose fabric, such as a sock, sandbag, woolen scarf or
-comforter, soaked in urine, then wrung out to allow of free breathing
-and tied tightly over the nose and mouth.
-
-In the absence of any other cloths, the flannel waistbands issued for
-winter use could be used for this purpose.
-
-[Sidenote: Knapsack Sprayers]
-
-Knapsack sprayers are issued for use to clear gases out of the trenches
-after the cloud has blown over. A man with the sprayer on his back (and
-wearing his smoke helmet) slowly traverses the trench, working the
-spray. If this is not done the heavy poisonous gas may linger in the
-trench for days and be a source of great danger.
-
-If supports or reinforcements enter a trench charged with gas, they
-should be preceded by a man using a sprayer.
-
-Sprayers are charged with sodium thiosulphate—more commonly known as
-“hypo”—6 pounds being dissolved in a bucket of water and a handful of
-ordinary washing soda added.
-
-Garden syringes and buckets may be used if sprayers are not available,
-but these are not so effective. Sprayers should be charged before they
-are taken up to the trenches, and should be kept ready for immediate
-use.
-
-Every officer defending a trench against an enemy gas attack should
-endeavor to collect information whenever possible, to be sent to
-headquarters through the usual channels. Particularly valuable is the
-capture of apparatus used by the enemy either for disseminating gas or
-for protection against it. If a shell attack is made, unexploded shells
-or portions of them should be sent through to headquarters at once. The
-time of day, duration of attack, color, taste or smell of gas used,
-effect on the eyes, breathing, and all other symptoms should be noted.
-New gases may be used at any time, and speedy information greatly
-forwards the adoption of preventive measures.
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER X
-
-Service in the Trenches
-
-
-[Sidenote: Preparations for Entering Trenches]
-
-Preparing to enter upon a period of service in the trenches the company
-commander makes a complete inspection of the company which includes:
-
-1. Inspection of rifles and ammunition.
-
-2. Inspection of equipment, contents of packs, intrenching tools,
-field glasses, wire cutters, first-aid packets, emergency rations, gas
-helmets, identification tags, canteens, clothing, etc.
-
-3. Canteens to be filled with water.
-
-4. Test bayonets, fix and unfix.
-
-5. Have company fill magazines.
-
-[Sidenote: Inspection of Section]
-
-The company commander precedes the company into the trenches and makes
-a tour and inspection of the section assigned, which includes:
-
-1. Layout of the trenches: fire trench, supervision trench,
-communication trenches, machine-gun positions, snipers’ positions,
-listening and observation trenches, dugouts, latrines, etc.
-
-2. Locate telephones, reserve ammunition and munitions depots, water
-supply, gas alarms, tools and any trench accessories and utilities that
-may be included in the section.
-
-3. Get any information of the enemy that may be of value from the
-outgoing company commander.
-
-[Sidenote: Tactical Disposition]
-
-The company commander will then make his tactical dispositions. In
-occupying the trenches a certain section of the line is assigned to
-each company. This section contains so many bays of the trench. The
-following dispositions are suggested as meeting the requirements under
-our organization:
-
-1. The company is organized into four platoons of four squads each.
-
-2. The section of the line assigned to the company contains eight bays.
-
-3. Support No. 1 consists of the first and second platoons.
-
-4. Support No. 2 consists of the third and fourth platoons.
-
-5. From Support No. 1: Two squads of the first platoon occupy bays 1
-and 2; two squads of the second platoon occupy bays 3 and 4.
-
-6. From Support No. 2: Two squads of the third platoon occupy bays 5
-and 6; two squads of the fourth platoon occupy bays 7 and 8.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 41f.
-
-TACTICAL DIS
-
-POSITIONS
-
-ONE COMPANY OF INFANTRY.]
-
-7. Each squad establishes a double sentinel post in the bay assigned to
-it and the remaining members go into the squad shelters just in rear
-of the bays. This gives three reliefs for a double sentinel post and
-allows one extra man to be utilized as “runner,” etc.
-
-8. The remainder of the company is established in the company dugouts.
-
-9. Depending upon the length of the tours of duty of the company in
-the first line trenches, the squads are changed according to a system
-that will have to be varied to suit the occasion, the squads in support
-taking their place in the fire trench and those in the fire trench
-returning to the support.
-
-[Sidenote: Going into the Trenches]
-
-Platoons enter by not more than two squads at one time, thus minimizing
-the danger from shell fire. The platoon commander will explain to his
-squad leaders the extent of trench to be taken over and the action to
-be taken in case they are caught under shell fire or rapid fire while
-going up to the trenches. A second in command in each squad will be
-designated, so that if casualties occur among the squad leaders the
-relief will proceed as previously arranged.
-
-The operation will proceed in silence. Rifles must be carried so that
-they do not show over the parapet. On reaching the fire trench the men
-of the first relief are posted to relieve the old detail and each man
-finds out any points that may be useful from his predecessor on that
-post.
-
-[Sidenote: Information to be Obtained]
-
-The platoon commander confers with the commander of the outgoing party
-and secures all the information possible about the position which
-includes:
-
-1. Behavior of enemy during period preceding relief, and any point in
-their line requiring special information, _e. g._, enemy may have cut
-wire as though preparing to attack.
-
-2. Machine-gun emplacement may be suspected at some particular point.
-
-3. Anything ascertained by patrols about ground between firing lines,
-thus avoiding unnecessary reconnaissance.
-
-4. Any standing arrangements for patrols at night, including point at
-which wire can best be passed, ground to be patrolled, or place where
-they can lie under cover.
-
-5. Any parts of trench from which it is not safe to fire. Such
-positions are apt to occur in winding trenches, and are not always
-recognizable in the dark.
-
-6. Special features of trench, recent improvements, work not completed,
-dangerous points (on which machine guns are trained at night), useful
-loopholes for observation.
-
-7. Places from which food and water can be safely obtained.
-
-8. Amount of ammunition, number of picks, shovels and empty sandbags in
-that section of the line.
-
-Information on these points cannot always be given properly by word of
-mouth. _Written_ notes and plans should therefore be handed over to a
-platoon commander taking over for the first time.
-
-Every man is required to see that he has a good firing position for all
-directions. Section commanders must satisfy themselves that men have
-done this, and report. _The whole line “Stands to Arms” during the hour
-before dawn._
-
-After dark, unless the moon is bright, rifles should be left in firing
-position on the parapet. All men not on sentry should keep rifles, with
-bayonets fixed, in the trench.
-
-[Sidenote: Routine]
-
-1. Double sentinel posts are established in each bay. They are on post
-one hour at a time.
-
-2. When the enemy’s trench mortar detachments are active, special
-sentinels will be posted to give notice of coming bombs.
-
-3. Every man in the platoon is to know:
-
-(_a_) The location of the platoon reserve ammunition and munitions.
-
-(_b_) The location of latrines.
-
-(_c_) The topography of the trenches in the platoon section and the
-adjoining sections, including the approaches. The location of the
-accessory defenses, listening and observation posts, machine-gun
-positions, snipers’ positions, trench mortar positions, etc.
-
-(_d_) The tactical disposition in the sector and the general
-disposition of the company.
-
-(_e_) The location of loopholes.
-
-(_f_) The places of especial danger in order that he may stay away from
-them.
-
-4. Rifles are inspected twice daily. Every precaution is taken to keep
-the rifle and ammunition free from mud.
-
-5. There is a gas helmet parade daily.
-
-6. Accurate sketches are made of the trench and any addition or
-alteration entered on them.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 42.
-
-_Organization of fire of Observers in the Combat Trench_]
-
-7. Loopholes are inspected at dusk.
-
-8. Wire entanglements are inspected and repaired under cover of
-darkness.
-
-9. A log of events hour by hour should be kept which shows every
-item of enemy activity and the measures taken during the tour in the
-trenches. This will be a valuable reference when turning the trench
-over and will make a record of the habits of the enemy that may be most
-valuable as a guide for making plans to circumvent him.
-
-10. The police and sanitation of the trenches will be carefully looked
-after.
-
-11. Platoon commanders may divide the tour of supervision of the
-platoon sector with the squad leaders.
-
-12. The whole company stands to arms during the hour before dawn.
-
-[Sidenote: Observation]
-
-Observation of the enemy’s line should be continuous. The observation
-and firing system will be arranged so that all parts of the enemy’s
-line will be under observation and fire at all times.
-
-Plate 42 shows the arrangement in general. The appliances for carrying
-it out are shown in Plates 43, 44 and 45.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 43.]
-
-The observation is conducted through a small loophole made by a stick
-through the parapet or an iron tube run through and directed toward
-the point to be observed. To conceal the exit a few tufts of earth and
-grass are placed there in an irregular manner. Steel loopholes may also
-be employed for observation and firing purposes. They may be arranged
-a yard or two apart, so that one man observing through one can direct
-his mate using the rifle at the other so that he may bring fire to bear
-upon any member of the enemy’s force that exposes himself at the point
-under observation.
-
-The loopholes, both observation and firing, are arranged slantwise in
-the parapet so that the observer does not look straight to his front
-nor does the firer fire in that direction.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 44.—Observation loophole and rifle firing rack.]
-
-An aiming rack constructed so as to resist the recoil of the rifle and
-not derange its aim on firing may be arranged near the observation
-loophole. When the enemy exposes himself all that is necessary is a
-press on the trigger and the bullet goes straight to its mark. Such an
-aiming rack may be easily constructed, as shown in Plate 44.
-
-Observation of the enemy trenches may also be effected by use of the
-periscope or, in the absence of one of these, by a looking-glass in a
-slanted position fastened to a stick planted at the rear wall of the
-trench and protruding over the parapet, to reflect his trenches. (See
-Plate 45.)
-
-[Sidenote: Field Glasses]
-
-The enemy’s trench usually appears completely deserted, but on
-observing it through field glasses you are astonished by the details
-revealed. You will see, from time to time, the eye of the enemy
-observer who shows himself at the loophole, or any other activity
-that is capable of being observed from the outside. The observer
-watching through the field glasses will soon become so familiar with
-the appearance of the opposing trenches that he will be able to detect
-immediately any alteration in the obstacles, or changes that may be
-made, such as the establishment of new listening or observation posts,
-new sap heads, machine-gun emplacements, etc.
-
-Observers are charged especially with detecting the location of
-machine-gun emplacements. The examination should be so complete and
-detailed as to prevent their existence without their location being
-accurately known.
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 45.—Looking-glass periscope.]
-
-[Illustration: PLATE 45a.—Trench showing wire overhead cover and wire
-trapdoor obstacle. Machicoulis gallery in background.]
-
-Any observations of enemy activities, of any nature whatever, are
-reported immediately so that they may be passed on to the commander
-whose unit is manning the trenches directly opposite the same.
-
-Loopholes should be screened at the rear by a sandbag split and hung
-over them. They should be carefully concealed to prevent their location
-being discovered by the enemy. There must be no alteration in the
-parapet where they are located.
-
-[Sidenote: Snipers]
-
-The enemy’s sojourn in the trenches should be made as disagreeable
-to him as possible. He must be kept continually on the alert. Our
-operations must be made a constant menace to him. It is in this way
-that casualties are effected and he is gradually worn out. One of
-the best methods of accomplishing all of the above is the employment
-of snipers, who are specially selected and trained in this branch of
-trench warfare.
-
-The snipers are on duty all day, but they have their nights in bed.
-They conduct their operations in pairs and are given a definite post
-to occupy and in exceptional cases may be given a roving commission.
-The advantage of having the same men regularly on the same post is that
-they learn thoroughly the appearance of every square foot of the ground
-included in their area of observation and are able immediately to note
-any change that may take place. They soon learn where to look for the
-enemy and in fact learn the habits, etc., of the enemy occupying their
-sphere of observation.
-
-The sniper must be an expert in:
-
-1. The construction of loopholes by day and by night.
-
-2. The use of telescopic sights, field glasses, periscopes and all
-optical contrivances designed for observation purposes.
-
-3. The selection of good positions for sniping.
-
-4. Judging distances and estimating or measuring ranges.
-
-5. Rifle firing. He should be an expert rifleman in order that full
-advantage may be taken of the opportunities to inflict losses on the
-enemy.
-
-6. In trench warfare each pair of snipers will be required to report
-each evening to the company commander the result of their day’s
-operations.
-
-[Sidenote: What to Fire At]
-
-When the enemy makes his attack you will generally fire at those who
-appear in the sector that has been allotted to you to cover. You may,
-however, abandon your target on your own initiative under the following
-circumstances and fire:
-
-1. On officers and noncommissioned officers. These can be recognized by
-their gestures. They are generally in the center of groups and get up
-and start first. They should be disabled, as this is the surest way of
-breaking up the attack.
-
-2. At a group on the move. Fire should be concentrated on an advancing
-group. The time when the group is preparing to start its rush may be
-indicated by rifles being raised and the movements that take place
-along the line. After a rush has started, look out for the late comers
-trying to rejoin their comrades. They make good targets.
-
-3. When the enemy attempts to build up his line to the front by a
-process of infiltration. That is, by having single men crawl from one
-point to the other, each man should be fired on during his advance.
-
-4. Fire will be immediately concentrated on any machine gun that comes
-into action. With the German gun prolonged firing heats the water in
-the jacket to the boiling point and puffs of steam are given off. Do
-not be deceived into thinking that this necessarily gives away the
-position of the gun, for this steam has been piped to a distant place
-and allowed to escape so as to draw fire that otherwise might be
-directed on the real position of the gun.
-
-5. On signallers or runners. These are carrying information that will
-probably be of benefit to the enemy’s commander. You will appreciate
-the necessity of preventing this.
-
-6. On an enemy showing a flank. No opportunity must be lost to fire
-upon an enemy that exposes his flank. The fire of a single rifleman
-down the flank may cause a whole line to retreat.
-
-[Sidenote: Use of Rifle Grenades]
-
-Rifle grenades are capable of causing more losses to the enemy than
-bombardment. The rifle grenade arrives at its destination unexpectedly
-without any noise; it explodes before one has even time to get out of
-the way. As it does not arrive at fixed hours like the bombardment, the
-enemy cannot continually avoid it by taking refuge in his dugouts and
-shelters; when he is moving about a trench which is subject to rifle
-grenading he must be continually on the alert. This perpetual menace,
-hour in and hour out, day in and day out, renders his sojourn in the
-trenches extremely disagreeable.
-
-Before rifle grenades are thrown careful observation of the opposing
-trench must have been made to determine the point where the grenade is
-likely to do the greatest damage.
-
-Rifles are placed in the aiming racks and the grenades fired from time
-to time, day and night, at moments when it seems propitious. In this
-way a sentinel may be taken by surprise; a noncommissioned officer or
-officer may be caught unawares.
-
-It should be remembered that we will probably be able to throw twenty
-grenades to the enemy’s one. Advantage should always be taken of this
-munitions superiority. Every man of the enemy we can put out of action
-is one less to kill us in the advance which will eventually come.
-Sometimes the enemy will try to reply. Here is where our munitions
-superiority comes in again. We can fairly shower him with grenades and
-make him take to his shelters.
-
-It may be advisable to execute a sudden burst of grenade fire. This is
-started by a volley and followed by fire at will.
-
-When the artillery has destroyed parts of the enemy’s trenches or makes
-breaches in his obstacles by day he will endeavor to repair them at
-night. He may be considerably annoyed and losses inflicted upon him by
-a well-directed shower of rifle grenades arriving at points where his
-working parties are located. To make this effective the rifle racks
-should be placed in position and secured during the day after trial
-shots have demonstrated conclusively the direction and angle for them.
-
-[Sidenote: Shelling]
-
-You will be impressed by the shells, especially the big ones. The din
-and blast of the explosions are, to say the least, terrifying. But
-you will soon come to know that the shell often makes more noise than
-it does harm and that, after a terrific bombardment, by no means is
-everybody destroyed.
-
-[Sidenote: How to Protect Yourself from Shells]
-
-The big shell, which is so appalling, is only really dangerous if it
-falls on the place where a man is standing, because the splinters rise
-in the air. Fall down flat when the shell bursts. Even if you are quite
-close, there is comparatively little risk. Get up immediately after
-the explosion, especially if you are 200 to 300 yards away from the
-place where it burst. The splinters do not fall for some time after the
-explosion.
-
-The steel helmets and the infantry pack will furnish considerable
-protection from shrapnel fragments and balls.
-
-[Sidenote: During the Combat]
-
-The safest place to avoid the enemy’s shell fire when the attack
-has been launched is close up to the enemy’s position, where the
-artillery fire has to cease for fear of placing shells indiscriminately
-in his own troops and ours. Some men, completely distracted, lie
-down with their face to the ground. They will be crushed where they
-lie. Artillery fire, when it is violent, tends to throw the ranks
-into confusion and disorder. You have only ears for the roar of the
-approaching shell. You slow down and attempt to seek cover where there
-is no cover. The unit breaks up, and runs wild or stops altogether.
-_Disorder and confusion means massacre._
-
-March strictly in place. To the front is your safest haven of refuge.
-Get hold of the frightened ones and keep them in place. You will need
-them to help you when you reach the goal.
-
-[Sidenote: In the Trenches]
-
-Dugouts with strong overhead cover are provided for your protection
-when not actually required to man the trench. In some places it may be
-possible to dig shelter caves and shore up the roofs.
-
-[Sidenote: Scouting and Patrolling]
-
- _To the Reader_: You will find a wealth of information on the
- methods to be employed by scouts and patrols in a little book similar
- to this one in size, entitled “Scouting and Patrolling,” by the author
- of this volume. Published and for sale by the United States Infantry
- Association, Washington, D. C. Price 50 cents, by mail, postpaid. _Get
- your copy now and prepare yourself for these important duties._
-
-Scouting and patrolling to the front is of greatest importance. It is
-kept up both day and night. The units occupying the first line send out
-patrols whenever necessary. They are frequently able to obtain valuable
-information and at the same time serve to counteract the enemy’s
-efforts in this direction.
-
-The patrols generally consist of a junior officer or noncommissioned
-officer and from four to six selected men. Their operations are
-conducted in accordance with the situation and the mission they are
-sent on.
-
-Hand grenades are frequently carried for both offensive and defensive
-operations. Grenade patrols always carry them. The operations of
-patrols may include:
-
-1. Reconnaissance of sectors of the enemy’s position with a view to
-determining his dispositions and arrangement of obstacles.
-
-2. Making sketches of positions.
-
-3. Capturing prisoners.
-
-4. Opposing enemy patrols.
-
-5. Harassing the enemy.
-
-When the patrol goes out every man in the sector of the firing line
-must be informed of such fact and the possibility of its returning
-through his post. It is not sufficient to simply notify the men on post
-at the time the patrol goes out, as a man cannot always be trusted to
-pass the information on to his relief. Word should be quietly taken
-along the line by the noncommissioned officer in charge of the relief
-in person. When the patrol is out, special instructions have to be
-given with respect to firing. To cease firing altogether is very
-undesirable. It arouses the enemy’s suspicions. A few trustworthy
-riflemen are directed to fire high at intervals. No lights are sent up
-while the patrol is out.
-
-If the patrol is to remain stationary, similar to the outguard of an
-outpost, communication may be maintained by means of a string, spelling
-out the messages by Morse code, two jerks meaning a dash and one jerk
-meaning a dot.
-
-Where night patrols have to remain out under trying conditions special
-dugouts should be reserved where they can rest upon their return.
-
-[Sidenote: Care of Arms]
-
-The infantryman’s rifle is his best friend. The personal care that
-he gives to it is indicative of his soldierness and discipline. Your
-rifle must be kept in prime condition, otherwise it may fail you at a
-critical moment. A canvas breech cover that will protect the bolt and
-magazine mechanism will be found a great advantage when the rifle is
-not in use. Care must be taken to exclude mud and dirt from the bolt
-mechanisms. Do not put mud-covered cartridges into the magazine. Wipe
-them off first. Arrange a proper receptacle near your post for the
-storage of your reserve ammunition. Be careful that you do not clog
-the muzzle of the rifle with mud and dirt. If fired in this condition
-it will ruin the rifle. Be careful not to clog up the sight cover with
-mud. Oil the rifle frequently with good sperm oil. Half of the oilers
-in the squad should be filled with oil and the other half with Hoppe’s
-No. 9 Powder Solvent.
-
-Rifles must be carefully inspected daily by platoon commanders and the
-men required to work on them during the periods off post.
-
-[Sidenote: Care of Trenches]
-
-Repairs will have to be made daily. The widening of trenches in the
-making of repairs should be strictly forbidden. Under no circumstances
-must they be altered in any manner except on the order of the company
-commander.
-
-Platoon commanders will go over every part of the trench several times
-daily with the squad leaders of the various sections and decide upon
-the repairs and improvements to be made. A complete and thorough police
-will be made prior to being relieved. All refuse will be removed. Fired
-cartridges will be disposed of, as they might get imbedded in the
-trench floor and hinder subsequent digging.
-
-Each squad leader will be held strictly responsible for the state of
-police of the section of trench occupied by his squad.
-
-[Sidenote: Latrines]
-
-Latrines are located at convenient points in the trenches. For the
-men on duty in the first line they are generally dug to the flank of
-a connecting trench and connected therewith by a passageway. Their
-location is plainly marked.
-
-The rules of sanitation are even more strictly observed in trenches
-than they are in soldier camps. The trenches and passageways must not
-under any circumstances be defiled. Latrines should be kept clean and
-sanitary. They will be carefully protected from flies. The free use of
-chloride of lime daily is an absolute necessity.
-
-[Sidenote: Maps]
-
-A complete detailed plan of our own trenches and as much as is known
-of those of the enemy opposite should be made, and be available for
-study and to refer to in making reports. Every bay of the trench should
-be numbered, every traverse lettered. All junction points of fire and
-communicating trenches, all dugouts, all posts, mortar positions,
-machine-gun positions, observation posts, and any points that it may be
-necessary to refer to in reports should be designated by numbers.
-
-[Sidenote: Frost Bite; Chilled Feet]
-
-The causes are:
-
-1. Prolonged standing in cold water or liquid mud.
-
-2. Tight boots and leggings, that interfere with the blood circulation.
-
-[Sidenote: Prevention]
-
-1. Before going into the trenches wash the feet and legs and dry them
-thoroughly. The British Army has an issue of an anti-freeze mixture
-which will probably be issued to our troops also. The feet and legs
-should be rubbed with it. Put on perfectly dry socks. An extra pair of
-dry socks should be carried.
-
-2. During the period of service in the trenches the feet should be
-treated in this manner from time to time.
-
-3. When the feet are cold, hot water will not be used for washing nor
-will they be held close to a fire.
-
-4. Rubber boots must be worn only in the trenches. On no account must
-they be worn while on reserve.
-
-
-Trench Soldiers’ Creed
-
-To be of the greatest effectiveness in the trench every soldier,
-personally and collectively, must be able to adopt the following creed
-and live up to it:
-
-1. We are here for two purposes, to do as much damage as possible to
-the enemy and to hold our section of the line against all attacks. We
-are doing everything in our power to accomplish these missions. We
-realize that every man of the enemy confronting us that is now placed
-_hors de combat_ will be there ready to shoot us down when the assault
-takes place. We realize also that if the enemy makes a lodgment on
-our section of the line that it endangers others and a costly counter
-attack may be necessary. We _will_ hold on.
-
-2. With the means at hand and those we are able to devise we will make
-the enemy’s stay in his trenches as uncomfortable and disagreeable as
-possible. All of our utilities are being utilized to the fullest extent
-and our various detachments are organized and their tactical operations
-are conducted with this object in view.
-
-3. We have done everything possible to strengthen our line.
-
-4. If, despite all the precautions we can take and the hardest fight
-we are able to make, the enemy succeeds in effecting a lodgment on our
-section of the line, we will meet him with the bayonet and fight to the
-last drop of our blood.
-
-5. We are all familiar with the tactical dispositions in our section
-of the line. Those of us on the flanks connect up with the platoons
-to our right and left. We know the route to company and battalion
-headquarters and know where the nearest support is located. We know
-the position of our machine guns and the sector they cover. We are in
-constant communication with the observing posts that cover our front,
-and our observing posts covering the other platoons are in constant
-communication with them.
-
-6. We know the firing position assigned to us and are familiar with the
-use to be made of the accessories furnished us. We can fire over the
-parapet at the foot of our wire entanglements to repel night attack.
-
-7. We will at all times be careful about needlessly exposing ourselves.
-We appreciate the fact that it is absolutely stupid to get killed or
-wounded in the trench through negligence. By so doing one has served no
-purpose and a soldier cannot be replaced. Our leaders have warned us of
-the especially dangerous places. We know where they are and avoid them
-except when our presence there is necessary as a matter of duty.
-
-8. The sections of the enemy’s line that we are to cover with our fire
-have all been pointed out and each of us is familiar with same. We have
-located the enemy’s loopholes and are doing our best to keep them under
-fire.
-
-9. We know our way and move noiselessly about the trenches. When we
-enter and leave it is with absolute silence.
-
-10. We are doing our utmost to collect information about the enemy,
-his defenses, his activity, his movements, and especially his night
-operations. All of this information we transmit immediately to the
-platoon leader.
-
-11. We know the best way to get over our parapet to reach the enemy.
-
-12. Our appliances for protection from gas attacks are complete and
-ready for instant use. We have our helmets on our persons ready to
-put on. We are familiar with their use and have confidence in their
-effectiveness. We will wait for the signal to don our gas helmets
-(signal is usually made by beating a gong, and care must be taken
-to follow exactly the directions for putting on the gas helmets;
-carelessness may mean your disablement).
-
-13. Our trenches are drained and every precaution is being taken to
-keep the drains and sump holes in condition to perform their functions.
-
-14. We have rendered the parapets and shelters throughout our sector
-bullet-proof, and effective measures are being taken to prevent them
-from caving in.
-
-15. We are keeping our trenches sanitary and clean; our reserve
-munitions are carefully stored in their proper places ready for instant
-use. Refuse is always placed in receptacles when it can be carried
-away. We do not under any circumstances litter up our trench floor. Our
-empty shells are collected and sent to the rear.
-
-16. Our rifles are our best friends. We keep them clean, well oiled,
-and in readiness for instant use. Our bayonets we have with us at all
-times ready to be placed on the rifle. We protect our rifle ammunition
-from the mud, as we realize that muddy cartridges will clog the breech
-mechanism and cause mal-function.
-
-17. We are taking every precaution to prevent “trench feet;” when
-practicable we take off our shoes and rub our feet for 15 minutes each
-day. We do not wear tight shoes and leggings that tend to interfere
-with blood circulation. We each have a pair of dry socks to put on. We
-do not wear rubber boots except when it is absolutely necessary.
-
-18. We observe the orders regarding the wearing of equipment.
-
-19. We do not drink any water except that from authorized sources. We
-replenish our canteens whenever practicable.
-
-In addition to the above the platoon commander must be able to adopt
-the following and· live up to them:
-
-1. My sentries are posted in the proper places. They are posted by
-noncommissioned officers. They have the proper orders. No man is
-ever on duty more than one hour at a time. I visit them at frequent
-intervals.
-
-2. I have a runner ready to carry a message to company headquarters. I
-realize that any information of the enemy that I may secure may be of
-great importance at regimental and other headquarters. I will therefore
-send it back with the utmost dispatch.
-
-3. I am familiar with the methods of communicating with the artillery,
-of giving them information and of asking them for support.
-
-4. My patrols operating to the front at night have been properly
-instructed and are doing their duty effectively. All sentries in the
-trench have been notified when they are out and cautioned to look out
-for their return.
-
-5. I have given complete and detailed instruction covering what to do
-in case of gas attacks and the sending out of the S. O. S. signal. I
-have gas and attack messages already prepared and ready to send after
-inserting the time and place in them.
-
-6. I know the name of every man in my platoon and they all know me.
-
-7. I am here to inflict as much damage as possible on the enemy and to
-hold my part of the line. _I will do it!_
-
-
-
-
-CHAPTER XI
-
-The Attack in Trench Warfare
-
-
-[Sidenote: Objectives]
-
-The objectives which must be dealt with in the attack of an intrenched
-position such as will be found on the western front are:
-
-1. The trenches of the first line.
-
-2. The supporting points.
-
-3. The trenches of the second line.
-
-By a study of the text preceding this you must realize that in the
-defense of these objectives there will be employed artillery, rifles,
-grenades and machine guns.
-
-[Sidenote: Artillery Preparation]
-
-The first phase of the attack is the artillery preparation. In order
-that the infantry may make the attack with a minimum of losses, the
-artillery must have destroyed the wire entanglements and obstacles
-that obstruct the advance, or at least have sufficiently breached them
-to permit their being negotiated. The destruction of these obstacles
-is never complete. It would require too great an expenditure of
-ammunition. The infantry occupying the hostile trenches must be simply
-overwhelmed with artillery fire so that they will be unable to man the
-parapets when the assault is launched. During the artillery preparation
-the hostile infantry does not occupy their firing positions in the
-trenches but remain in their dugouts, which are fully protected from
-all but the heaviest shells. Only a few observers are left in the
-trenches.
-
-When the bombardment against this particular part of the line ceases
-the infantry leave their dugouts and man the firing positions. To
-prevent this is one of the most important as well as most difficult
-tasks of the artillery. This may be effected by a well-directed fire
-on the exits to the dugouts with a view to caving them in and thus
-preventing the egress of the occupants The enemy may sometimes be
-induced to leave his shelter prematurely by the following ruse:
-
-1. Cease the artillery fire.
-
-2. Open a heavy rifle fire; this causes the enemy to believe that the
-assault has begun and he will man his parapets in strength.
-
-3. After waiting for several minutes open the artillery again with even
-increased vigor.
-
-The hostile infantry may be forced out of his dugouts by the use of
-shells and grenades containing suffocating gases which penetrate the
-shelters and make them untenable.
-
-The artillery is also charged with putting the enemy’s artillery out of
-action to prevent them from firing upon the attacking infantry.
-
-If the enemy artillery is left free, it will shell our trenches and
-approaches, causing casualties and confusion and thus interfering with
-the formation for the attack. The location of hostile batteries is
-effected by aerial reconnaissance.
-
-Another task of the artillery is to prevent the hostile reserves from
-coming up to reinforce their firing lines. These reserves will be
-located back in the second line until their presence is required at
-the front. As long as the artillery preparation continues they remain
-in the shelters, but as soon as it ceases they man the trenches.
-The artillery must therefore extend its fire to the second line and
-continue it while the first line is being rushed. Back of the second
-position the enemy holds strong reserves. The entrance of these into
-action must be prevented. This is accomplished by extending the curtain
-of fire still further to the rear. The supporting points must receive a
-lion’s share of attention for, bristling with machine guns and trench
-mortars, they are the really dangerous elements to the infantry attack
-after it passes the first line trenches.
-
-The weapon which inflicts the greatest losses on the assaulting
-infantry is the machine gun, which appears suddenly out of the ground
-and lays low whole units. By a careful reconnaissance these machine-gun
-positions are ferreted out and every possible means are taken to effect
-their destruction.
-
-The effectiveness of the artillery preparation depends simply upon
-superiority of guns and munitions. In this respect we now possess a
-great advantage, for the state of our munition supply is such that our
-artillery may fire several shells to one of the enemy. This is what
-established the superiority.
-
-[Sidenote: Organization of Infantry Attack]
-
-The organization of the attacking infantry corresponds in a general
-way to the organization of the position being attacked. A first line
-of assault is organized. Its mission is the capture of the enemy’s
-first line trenches. A second line follows, having for its mission
-the assault and capture of the second line trenches. A separate
-organization of these two lines is necessary for the reason that the
-first attacking line is generally so disorganized in the fighting that
-it no longer possesses the cohesion necessary to carry it through to
-the second line. It has been found necessary to launch a comparatively
-fresh and intact force against it.
-
-As the first position is organized into several separate lines of
-defense, so also is the first attacking line organized and launched in
-two or more waves, those in rear being in the nature of reinforcements
-to those in front.
-
-[Sidenote: Objectives]
-
-Each unit of the attacking line is assigned a distinct objective.
-Certain units are given the mission of attacking the supporting points
-to prevent their enfilading the units advancing through the intervals
-between them.
-
-The main efforts are made along the lines between the supporting
-points, as to assault the latter would entail a casualty list not
-commensurate with the results. The effort against them is made with a
-view to neutralizing their effect. If the attack is successful in the
-intervals, the supporting points will fall as a result.
-
-The waves of the first line are directed against the first position,
-the second against the second position. The reserves held under the
-orders of the division commander are employed where the development of
-the situation dictates.
-
-Further to the rear, and under orders of the supreme commander, large
-bodies of reinforcements are held ready to be moved rapidly to points
-where progress has been made to such an extent that maneuver operations
-are practicable.
-
-[Sidenote: Preparation for the Assault]
-
-Preparatory to the assault, numerous saps (trenches) are run out to the
-front from the main firing trenches. The night before the attack, a
-parallel is broken out connecting the sap heads. This parallel is amply
-supplied with short ladders and is occupied by the companies composing
-the first wave of the attack. The saps and the main trenches are also
-filled with men assigned to the following waves, who will move into
-the parallel as soon as the first wave leaves it. As the artillery
-preparation ceases, the first waves rush up the ladders in succession
-and move out to the assault.
-
-[Sidenote: The First Wave]
-
-As the artillery preparation against the first line is completed
-and the curtain of fire shifted far into the enemy’s position, the
-infantry of the first wave emerges from the parallel and moves out.
-The formation and gait depend upon the distance to the hostile trench.
-If the artillery preparation has been effective and the distance is
-not more than 100 yards, it is expected that the wave will be able to
-reach the fire trench without firing, except possibly when the wire
-is reached. If the distance is much greater than 100 yards, it is
-necessary to cover the advance with rifle fire. This is accomplished by
-a line of skirmishers deployed at extended intervals, which precedes
-the wave at about 50 yards. The wave starts out at a walk, carefully
-aligned. It afterwards takes up the double time and advances by rushes
-until the wire entanglements are reached.
-
-From this moment the period of the charge and individual combat begins.
-The men can no longer be kept from firing. Each tries to protect
-himself with his rifle. Each man locates his opening in the wire
-through which he is to go and makes for it. The line reforms on the
-other side. With rifles at the high charge (a position to our old head
-parry, but slanting slightly upward from right to left) the line rushes
-upon the enemy. Each man runs straight towards the part of the trench
-in front of him and jumps upon the parapet. By rifle shots and bayonet
-thrusts he destroys everything in his way. Men selected in advance take
-charge of the prisoners. The line is reformed, lying down just beyond
-the fire trench, and fire is opened against the second line. Men are
-positively forbidden to enter the communication trenches. They are most
-inviting for cover, but a man rarely gets out of them.
-
-The grenadier squad proceed to their work of clearing the fire and
-communication trenches.
-
-[Sidenote: The Second Wave]
-
-The second wave of the first line starts forward at the moment the
-first wave reaches the hostile trenches. If it starts sooner, it will
-unite with the first at the entanglement and become involved in the
-fight for the fire trench. It will be broken up prematurely and will be
-unable to take advantage of the developments of the fight of the first
-wave. The reinforcement by the second wave and the disorganization
-produced by the assault lead to a mixture of units in the trenches
-of the first position. Before starting out to the assault of the
-next trench it is necessary that order be restored. When this is
-accomplished the attack is launched against the second line. In front
-of the supporting points the combat rages. The men are barely able to
-hold on the outer edges. In the interval the advance has reached high
-tide and has expanded like a wave and stopped. This is the limit that
-can be expected of the first line.
-
-Hasty cover is prepared and advantage taken of such cover as may exist.
-All elements of the attack open fire on the second position.
-
-[Sidenote: The Second Line]
-
-Under the cover of these operations the second line has come up in a
-series of three lines, where it is built up compact at the position
-of the stopped first line. From this point its attack against the
-enemy’s second line is launched. The lines are worked up to a point
-from which the assault is to be made, and when the time comes the first
-wave dashes out to the attack, followed by the second wave in the same
-manner as the assault against the first position was made.
-
-The action of the two lines of attack may be expected to overwhelm
-the greater part of the two main hostile positions. At certain
-points, however, the resistance will hold out, and, if not overcome,
-will constitute points of support to which the enemy may bring up
-reinforcements and even turn the tide of battle by a counter attack.
-
-To deal with these points that hold out, as well as with hostile
-reinforcements which may arrive, the reserve is launched into action,
-which brings the attack into the open ground beyond the second line
-of defense, and maneuver operations are begun. The mobile units are
-rapidly thrown into action, and large forces from the general reserve
-are hurried to the point where the lines of defense are broken through.
-
-From what has gone before we may deduce that the following conditions
-must prevail to attain success in an attack on a prepared position:
-
-1. The attack must be planned down to the most minute detail.
-
-2. There must be a greatly superior force of artillery concentrated at
-the point of attack, and the artillery preparation must be thorough.
-
-3. The infantry must be sufficient in number, training and morale to
-perform the tasks that will be demanded of them.
-
-4. The arrangements for the supply of ammunition to the firing line
-must be planned and carried out in all its details.
-
-5. Plans for meeting counter attacks must be thorough and complete. The
-capture of a position is often less difficult than its retention.
-
-6. Finally, every officer and man must know exactly what he is to do.
-
-
-
-
-Scouting and Patrolling
-
-By
-
- Capt. W. H. WALDRON
- 29th Infantry
- Cloth Bound—Fits the Pocket
- 3d EDITION
-
-Price, 50 cents postpaid
-
-The best, most complete and practical treatment of the subject that has
-been produced.
-
-What To Do and How To Do It
-
-Just the book needed for the instruction of the enlisted men of your
-organization.
-
-Every soldier in the Army should have a copy and know its contents.
-
-Endorsed by Leading Officers of the Army
-
- Published and for sale by
- The United States Infantry Association
- Union Trust Building
- Washington, D. C.
-
-
-Comment from Leading Officers of the Army
-
-“I have a copy of ‘Scouting and Patrolling’ and wish every other person
-in the military service had one. You have presented an interesting and
-very important subject in a very convenient, readable form and in its
-logical sequence. I commend the book to all soldiers. They will benefit
-by a careful study of its contents.”
-
-“The most complete and valuable treatise on scout and patrol work that
-has been published. The small size and shape of the little volume make
-it a convenient pocket reference book suitable for field work.”
-
-“It covers the duties that will fall to the lot of the soldier in time
-of war better than any work heretofore published. I predict that every
-company commander in the Army will eventually use it as a text-book in
-the instruction of his organization.”
-
-“Your book is excellent. I am amazed at the great amount of information
-you have concentrated in such a small volume. I shall certainly
-recommend it to the captains of my regiment as a book for instruction
-in noncommissioned officers’ schools. I feel that I should congratulate
-you on it as an American text-book on the subject that is far superior
-to any of the foreign publications.”
-
-“I find it be to an excellent work on the subject. It is thorough and
-to the point. Its size, extremely small cost and valuable contents
-ought to recommend it to every soldier in the Army.”
-
-“I cordially endorse it as being wonderfully comprehensive and
-comprehensible in covering the subject.”
-
-“I am impressed with its simplicity and completeness. It is a most
-valuable book for the noncommissioned officer and private.”
-
-“The book is thoroughly practical and the arrangement admirable. It is
-certainly the best book on the subject that I have ever seen.”
-
-
-A few extracts from numerous book reviews
-
-“Devoid of technicalities and written in an interesting and
-understandable style. It is a most instructive book. With unessentials
-eliminated, it gives a store of information in language that any man
-can understand.”
-
-“It covers a wide and difficult ground. The dozen chapters of the
-little book not only instruct the soldier thoroughly in the duties
-of reconnaissance but place at his convenient disposal a valuable
-store of information as to military messages, signaling, map reading,
-reconnaissance reports, first-aid and kindred subjects.”
-
-“It covers very concisely every feature of this most important branch
-of military training: it is entertainingly written and generously
-illustrated throughout.”
-
-
-
-
-TACTICAL TALKS
-
-By Capt. W. H. Waldron, 29th Infantry
-
-
-To the Reader:
-
-The up-to-date method of instruction and training in Minor Tactics is
-this:
-
-1. Prepare a tactical problem covering the subject under consideration.
-
-2. Take the noncommissioned officers out on a TACTICAL WALK and make a
-solution of the various situations.
-
-3. Follow this by taking the company out on a tactical exercise for the
-solving of the identical problem that you solved in the TACTICAL WALK.
-
-This method will bring results that will surprise you. In the Tactical
-Walk, tactical situations are presented to the noncommissioned officers
-for practical solution on the ground and they are firmly impressed on
-the minds of the men. When the same problem is brought up for solution
-with the troops you will see your noncommissioned officers going about
-their various tasks in a business-like manner with a knowledge of what
-to do and how to do it, that they have never had before. This inspires
-the confidence of the men in their noncommissioned officers and as a
-result the entire organization is lifted to a much higher “tactical
-level” than they have been able to attain heretofore.
-
-TACTICAL WALKS is an entirely original work. It was written with a view
-to inaugurating this system of instruction and training throughout the
-Army. The subjects included are:
-
-Outposts, reconnoitering patrols, visiting patrols, advance guards,
-flank guards, detached posts, organization of a small defensive
-position. The largest unit considered is a company and that only
-incidentally. The main element is the platoon and patrol.
-
-For each walk a tactical problem has been prepared in blank. This can
-be adapted to any terrain that is available.
-
-Following the problem there are a number of tactical situations such as
-one would encounter in actual service.
-
-The discussions and explanations cover every phase of the subject under
-consideration in a purely practical manner.
-
-A practical solution is then arrived at and set forth.
-
-At the end of the solution to each situation there is inserted a
-Director’s Key, which gives the complete synopsis of what has gone
-before.
-
-Every officer in the Army should have a copy. It will save a lot of
-time preparing for the conduct of Tactical Walks. Every noncommissioned
-officer should have a copy and study its contents. By so doing he
-prepares himself for the duties that he will be called upon to perform
-in the field.
-
-ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY.
-
-The price is $1.50 per copy, postage paid.
-
-Copies of the book may be had from any one of the agencies enumerated
-on page v of this book.
-
- W. H. WALDRON,
- _Captain, Twenty-ninth Infantry_.
-
-
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- │ Transcriber’s Note: │
- │ │
- │ Minor typographical errors have been corrected without note. │
- │ Others are noted below. │
- │ │
- │ Italicized words are surrounded by underline characters, _like │
- │ this_, Words in bold characters are surrounded by equal signs, │
- │ =like this=. │
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- │ Mid-paragraph illustrations have been moved between paragraphs │
- │ and some illustrations have been moved closer to the text that │
- │ references them. │
- │ │
- │ Other corrections: │
- │ │
- │ p. 13: Frustrom --> frustum (… a frustum of a cone….) │
- │ p. 75: dorm --> form (The form is then raised….) │
- │ p. 78: staple --> stable (… make a stable, compact pile….) │
- │ p. 109: Plate 40a re-numbered to 41e. │
- │ p. 116: Plate 41a re-numbered to 41f. │
- │ p. 120: Plate 41 re-numbered to 42. │
- │ p. 126: machacoulis --> machicoulis (Machicoulis gallery in │
- │ background.) │
- │ p. 127: he --> be (Loopholes should be screened….) │
- │ p. 155: he --> be (… tasks that will be demanded of them.) │
- └───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
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-End of Project Gutenberg's Elements of Trench Warfare, by William Waldron
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