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w'v-/ O
DRILL REGULATIONS /5c)
FOR
VIACHINE-GUN PLATOONS
INFANTRY
UNITED STATES ARMY
1909
OB
WASHINGTON
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
1909
• • •
* •
• •
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Document No. 348.
OFFICB OF THB CHIBF OF STAFF.
Wab Department,
Office of the Chief of Staff,
Waahingtont August 10 ^ 1909.
The following Drill Regulations for Machine-Gun Platoons of
Infantry Regiments are approved and herewith published for the
information and guidance of the army and the organized militia
of the United States.
By order of the Secretary of War :
W. W. Wothebspoon,
Brigadier-Oeneral, U. 8» Armyj Acting Chief of Staff.
3
291228
ORDER OF SUBJECTS.
Par.
rganization of the section 1-6
rganization of the platoon 7-8
uties of the gun squad &-63
aties of the ammunition squad 64-78
Jties of the pack squad 79-92
rill of the section 93-121
•ill of the platoon 122-153
Tangement of equipment 154-160
irches 161-177
mps 178-187
le platoon in action 188-191
Temonies 192-193
mg 194-226
5
DRILL REGULATIONS,
• • •
MACHINE-GUN PLATOONS, INFANTRY,
1909.
OBG^OTZATION*
THE SECTION.
»:
1. The organization ot a detad^ent of men for ihe service
of machine guns begins naturally with that for ^ single piece.
This is the unit upon..w)iijyc*^ the organization is.!hased». ^nd., it
is called " the Section." , ,
2. With reference to the service of the piece, the section- is
naturally resolved into three elements:
(a) The gun squad, for the service of the piece.
(&) The ammunition squad, for the service of ammuni-
tion and water.
(c> The pack squad, for the care of the animals and for
service as pacls^ers.
To supervise the operations of these three elements a corporal
is necessary. He is designated as " Chief of Section.*'
3. The gun squad consists of:
Four privates, one of whom acts as " Pointer."
4. The ammunition squad consists of:
Three privates.
5. The pack squad consists of:
Two packers, privates.
7
8
ORGANIZATION OF THE SECTION.
6. With reference to the tactical operations of the section, i\
is naturally resolved into two divisions :
(a) The Combat Division, consisting of the gun, the anuni^
nition squad, the gun squad, one packer, two leading mules, an^
an emergency supply of ammunition. This division is always
held in readiness for instant action.
(h) The Supp^ Division,^ constBtUg of one nicker and the
three rear mules' of the section. This division is relied upon tij
caipi^y impedimenta, seek a new supply of ammunition, «and re-
fill ^e .water boxes fromwliaidv-Ar.sotfrce of supply may be
available. It goes after rations, brings firewood, if necessary,
and in general provides all the^ pecessaries for the combat
division, to enable that division to perform its proper duties.
Working in platoon, this gives two packers and six mules
with pack equipment constantliy available to supply all neces-
sities for the two guns and for the men and animals with them
TRK PIjATOON.
7. A platoon consists biP' two complete sections and the follow
ing in addition :
One lieutenant, to' command the platoon.
One platoon sergeant, to act in the executive capacity ol
first sergeant, and to supervise the supply of ammuni
tion in action.
S. The following Is the organisation prescribed for machine
gun platoons of the infantry regiments of the Regular Army ii
time of peace :
One lieutenant.
One sergeant.
■ Two corporals:
Eighteen privates.
'* 1
Chapter II.
THE GUN SQUAD.
9. The cun squad is composed of foqr privates, oxk^ Qt wl»om
acts as " Pointer." They are referred to as ** gunmen."
10. The object of the trapping of the gun squad i^ twofold :
(a) The gunmen must he taught their individual duties
and be practiced in them until their performance
becomes a matter of second, nature even under the
stress and ejccit^ment of combat. , .
(ft) The gun squad miist be trained as a unit so that its
individual membei^s work together smoothly and
quietly for the efficient service of their gun. All
privates of the platoon receive this instruction;
out the permanent gun squad is composed of men
who are selected for their special aptitude.'
I. DtTTIKS OF INDIVIDUALS IN THB SSmVICE. OF THB PIBC^K.
■ t"
DUTiES IN GENERAL
11. Pointer:
Commands gun squad.
Sets sights.
■ Aims piece.
Packs and unpacks gun.
Shifts trail.
Fires piece.
Operates foliar handle in unloading.
Reduces Jams; if any. ' - ' '
No.l: .■.•".'•
• • Leectis gim mule. - '■'' < ■
• Xjoads ^iece.
Unloads piece.
Assists In packing and unpacking gun. . •^.
Assists pointer to reduce jams, if any. . * : :
K6s.2and3: . .
Pack and unpack tripod.
Serve ammunition and water. *
9
lO
mrrxs m betmu
ID TJiT THK
T2L Pirfn? tiata will b** o^jnuntniicated to tl» QointEr as
follows:
1. Tan^ i "rluit aqnad <)f infiintry it Z o' :Iodfe) .
2. Ran?e > tifteen hmnIi>Hl yarrls » .
3. Defleetion right ' '.eJft i se^ea >r ?r!ier n.iimber> pointSL
If the caraet does act !ie witiLin ttie arc >f tnt v e rai* , the
pointer commands : TffAiL fff&fT {L£FT\ \z tills oommBnil be
strnddles the traiL ?ra^s the seat w-.tii b«»th. hAnd& and lifts
the trail a few inches tr^jni the j^r^Miud. and x» ^'es the trail to
the right • left"* tmtli the tarjet is apr'n)xiniiiti?Lj- at the center
of the arc of traverse, when lie o»jmmaudij HULT, it whii±. com-
mand he lowers the trail to the gn^iind.
The poLQt^ now takes his seat: raises his- s^dit sod. sets it
at dae indicated cuuoe and daitH.'tioa: artu&cs> uie line oit aa^bt
npon the lower element -if the tar-jet jy aieaiis jf ^he traveismg
and elevating gears: »»?«nnMr chJe^ piece: calls^ BEAUT, wimst tiie
piece Ls laid and t>}«m|Tii»i
TO FIBS tmf inWlT_
IX, The piece bein? loaded and laid, tiud^ iaaanietinr inforiiis
^he pointer what kind of nre it i» dsfiired. cu oai^ ami coin-
While the izustmetor is ^riniz^ his •iireetioos as iii> tiie kind of
ire. the pointer zrasps ttie hHn«ti>> OLodSi wttk bocb liauids» places
both thumbs on the trijiiger. and at the o>maiiuid QO0tn£MC£
FIRIItS, presses tlie trigger and continnes the kind vrf lire di-
rected by the inscmcror ontll the e>>iiBBaiHi CEASf F/AMW is
glveo, when he reieases the trt^ser and resMmj^ 4ii& Aliutii& trmn.
the handle bioek.
']#. At the «!f>mmand (HtLQAa the pointer tte«w;S' the roHer
handle twl4?e forward, allowing it to tiy toiidfc «iidL qbm with, the
*an force of cbe recoil spi
DtTTTEB OP TbE GTJN SQt^AB. 11
number 1.
WHEN THE TRAIL IS SHIFTED.
16. 1. Traii right (leH), 2. HALT. At the first command he
picks up the ammunition box from which the belt is engaged in
the feed box, and at the command HALT replaces th.e box in Its
proper position.
TO EGAD THE PIECE.
* •
ff
16. LOAD. He places an ammunition box oo iha ground on
the right of the piece opposite the feed box, latch toward the
piece ; opens the ammunition bex, and, standing in front of the
box and facing to the rear, passes the belt through the feed box
from right to left, drawing it to the left with the riglit hand
until the first cartridge is engaged by the lower feed4)ox pawls.
Still grasping tbie belt on tibue left of the feed box with the right
band, he pulls the roller handle twice foiTnrard with the left
hand ; each time when he has puUed the roller handle forward
to the position of extreme recoil, he ihei^ puUs the belt to the
left as far* as it will go. and fW releases the roller handle,
allowing it to fly back to place <iW#ib ib^ full force of tfie recoil
epring. The piece i»aow loaded for continuous fire;.
To load the piece so that it will fire single shots only, he
proceeds as above, except thathis does not p«ll the. .belt to the
left the necsond time the roller handle is in tiie forward position.
To reload^ when firing single >«hot8 the roller handle is thrown
forward once and allowed to- fly back to place with the full
force of die recoil spring.
nUBIZTO J'IBINCU
17. The.dutiee of No. 1 dnrtng the firing are:
(«> To see that the belt feedB freely. :.
(&) To assist the pointer to redueei jams, ff any.
(c) Te immediately reload the piece, in ease of misfire
or failure of the meciiaiiism tx>. function properly.
id) When a belt is exhausted, unless he receives specific
infllruetion0 to ^be Dontrary^ to pass the empty
ammunition box to the left side of tibe piece, receive
a filled belt and immediately reload the piece.
19 T>V!£1MB OF THE-aUK S^fJAJ>.
(e) He observes the action of the roller handle while
the piece is actually firing, for, by noting its action,
he may in nearly every ca«e immediately tell the
cause of the minor jams Und quickly reduce them.
• > • .
TO UNLOAD. . . ., '
18. UNLOAD. When the pointer has thrown" the roller handle
forward, No. 1 grasps the belt on the right side of th^ piece
with the left hand, disengages the lower feed-box pawls, and
pulls the belt through the feed box to the right, folds it in the
ammunition box and closes the box.
Humber 2.
19. The duties of No. 2 are:
{a) When the trail is shifted : To see that the^tooi box is
within reach of the pointer's left hand.
<&) At preliminary commands for firing: To see that the
wing nuts are screwed fast.
(e) During firing : To receive the belt as it is fed through
the gun, and when it is exhausted to fold it and
place it In its box, passing the box to such member
of the ammunition squad as comes to receive It^ or
to Na 3. i • :
{d) When the pointer directs No. 2 to fill water jacket or
at other times when necessary. No. 2 fills the
filling cup with water, removes the cap from the
filling valve (and condenser tube, if used, from
steam escape), places the nozzle of cup in filllBg
valve, handle of cup to the right, cup canted
slightly to the right, empties contents of cup
into water jacket, and repeats the operation
until the jacket is full. Water can not be intno<
duced into the jacket when ther« has been sufilcient
firing to make an ap|M*eciable pressure of steam,
although it is not essential, per se, that firing be
suspended while the jacket is being filled. The
jacket being filled. No. 2 replaces cap on filling
valve (and condenser tube^ if used, In steam
escape).
\
Plate i.
Pointer
OUN SQUAD WITHOUT PACKS. PAR. 21.
DtTTIBS OF THE QITN SQUAB. 13
ie) When piece Is being unloaded : To see tliAt the free
end of the belt does not become entangled or
twisted before passing through the feed box.
(/) When the ammunition squad or gun squad, becomes
reduced : To supply No. 1 with ammunition arid to
procure for himself an ample supply of water to
cool the barrel. ^
(flr) To assist In moving the piece by hand.
Number 3.
20. The duties of No. 3 are r
(o) When trail Is shifted * To replace aikmittnition within
reach of Nd. 1, and water and flUlng cup within
reach of No. 2.
(b) At prellmitfary commands for firing: To procurt' a
. full box cfl 'ammunition, open it, and hand It to
No. 1.
(c) During firing : To see that Nos. 1 and 2 have an un-
interrupted supply of ammunition and water, No. 3
going to procure this supply himself should the
ammunition squad be unable, from any cause, to
keep the gun properly supplied.
(tf) To assist In ntOFving the piece by hand; ' , '
n. THE GUN BQUAD AS A UNIT. '
2 1. The gun squad is formed in double rank in the following
order from right to left; the pointer on the right of the front
rank, covered by No. 1 ; No. 2 on the left of the pointer,. covered
by No. 5. (Plate I.) • .
22. In the preliminary Instruction of recruits, or whea the
men are not assigned to permanent positions, the instructor may
cause the gun sqpad to CALL OFF. The pointer eaU»-off Pointed,
his rear rank man One, the man on the left of the pointer Two,
etc.
23. The posts of the gun squad with the piece in pack are as
follows :
Pointer : On the ne^r side of the gun muie opposite and in
reach of the handle block, facing to the f uont
No. 1 : Ou the near side of the ^n mule. opposite its head ;
leads gun mule.
14 DUTIES or TK£ QUN SQUAD.
N9. 2 : On off side of gun mule opposite and witmn reach
of tbe front lashing of tlie tripod.
No. 3 : On off side of gun mule opposite and witliin reach
of tlie fear lashfng of the tripod. (Plate U.)
'24. The posts of the gun squad with the piece unpacked are as
tollows :
Pointer : Seated on trail seat, facing to the front
No. 1 : Kneeling on right side of piece, slight^ forward of
feed bos, within reach of and facing it
No. 2: Kneeling on left side of piece, opposite feed box,
within reach of and facing it
No. 3 : Kneeling about 20 inches to the ri^t and abreast
of the pointer, facing to the front (Plate III.)
In seeking cover, the gun squad may take their posts prone.
25. On occasions of ceremony, the merabers ef the gun squad
take posts as prescribed in the preceding paragraph, exc^t that
all stand at their i^H>sts in the iK>sition of the soldier, the pointer
standing directly in retir of the trail.
MO¥£M£MT Of TUB Pi£CS BY MAM.
26. The instructor Gommands 1. fmwwd (im tk^ rf«r; by thi
Hgkt §wfk: bf tb0 l9H Htmk), 2. mARCM. At the prelimUiary comj
mand the pointer riees^ collects the tool bois and intrmchinjB
tools, and stands roady to carry them. (He throws the rolled
handle forward twice If the plec^ Is loaded). Nou 2 siMings to
the mnnl€w and. fsciui; the piece, places both hands nnd«> th^
water jacket near the miixxle and f^Huniands UFf. At this comj
mand he raises the water jacket, and. fiicin^ to the front, places
It on bis shoulder. He then |Tas|i« the lees with his hands xi
steady the piec«'« N<v 3 spring to the trail, gmsps the seat ^ritli
both handSk and when >Co. 2 calls UFT, lifi« the i4eee from tiM
IPNUind,
NiV 1 picks up the aw munition boxes sind tiIUii|r cup (allowrlnj
end of belt to remain in feed box), and stands ready to can?
tbem.
^t the command JMMMf Xa 2 stefM off in the Indicated dt
'41. N«x 3 follows in hts trace, and the pointer and Xo. 1
ain tifear relatiTe pofitaJoDs. (See Plate X<k IV.)
Plate II.
C
Pointer
Gun
mule
QUN 8QUAD WITH PIECE IN PACK. PAR. 28.
Plate 111.
No.2
Pointer
No. 3
o
QUN SQUAD WITH PIECE UNPACKED. PAR. 24.
DUTIES OF THE QITN SQUAB. 15
To Halt the Squatf.
27. 1. Squad, 2. MALT. All halt, lower their loads to the
ground, and then move quickly to their posts.
To Change Direction when Moving by Hand.
28. 1. Co/umn Right (Left, Half Right, Half Left), 2. HHARCH.
No. 2 moves in the Indicated direction on the arc of a circle
of about 2 yards radius, the other members of the squad main-
taining their relative positions.
To March to the Rear when Moving by Hand.
29. 1. To the Rear, 2, MARCH. No, 2 moves to the left about,
marching on the arc of a circle of about 2 yards radius, the
other members of the squad conform to his movements.
30. If these movements are often repeated during a drill
period No. 2 should be frequently relieved, as his duties are
much more fatiguing than those of the other members of the gun
squad.
Longer Distances,
3 1. The instructor commands 1. By parts, 2. forward (to the
rear), or 2. Forward, Column Right (Left, Half Right, Half Left),
3. MARCH,
The gun is dismounted from the tripod as prescribed in para-
graph 37. At the preliminary command (if in pack. It is un-
packed at the preliminary command), and the equtpniHit is
then carried by the squad in column, as follows: >
(a) No. 2 at the head of the column carrying the tripodi
dliis is easiest carried by allowing the legs to remsin
in place, with the wing nuts screwed fast, tiie trail
extending down the back, one 1^ supported. on each
Bfaonlder, the hands grasping the legs near their ends;
(b) No. 1 follows No. 2, carrying the gun on his siiould^.
(c) No. 3 follows No. 1, carrying two or more boxes of
ammmiition.
(4) The pointer follows No. 3, carrying the tool twx and
intrenching tools.
10 mmzs cxF the qjtm sqitab.
ftt 9hU$ UftmsktUm tlMe^ isqaad f« ibarcLed as a sqiuid of inCantry
fi^ i'^Anttm */t Iki^atr M Uie eominarid MmH all knds aie lowered
TUa ffffUiUff arjid So, % and also Xa& 2 and 3; sbonld freqn^itly
t$2. To hrUtt; tfur pUifce into actioa in anj direction ACTtOM
FBOMT (HIOHT; LEFT; HEAR). Tbe gnn is mounted on the tripod
MM StVim'tWiisd iu uarnf^mih M^ and all uioye quickly to their
To Form for Mcthti, the Piece being in Pack,
H», T\m inirtruetor coiiimands FOFM FOB AOTIOIL
^V\w iHiUiiiiV r(*I(!aHeH the laKhlngg of the gun and then springs
uiiinm\i0 \Uit hroe(fh, removeii the elevating pin, gri^sps the handle
\i\iH\i, wtlh hoth hiiuilii, and standi re^dy to lift.
No. I piUH thu blind on the gun njule, secures it, drops the
)(Midlti|f i'<ifu to tiK* ground, springs to the muzzle of tbe piece,
MrilNpH 1( with both huiulH, and stands ready to lift
No, ii rolciiHi^M the jHuhlngs of the tripod, springs to tbe front,
tfi'WNpw till) top carriage with both hands, and stands ready to
lift.
No. II rolottHeH the laHhlngit of the top load, springs to the rear,
gntwpM tho trull and logs of the tripod with both, hands, and
«(Mud« rwdy to lift ' '
To Unpack and Prepare for Action.
Il4i At th# (HunmAnd AOTtdit PMMT, the piece being in pack,
tho iruimuMA tirnt (Kirform the duties prescribed in paragraph
HM, \\\\k\ tho iHUutiH* itud No. 1 then lift tJhe gim froim the bang-
iiVM \ Ntu*. *2 Hud H ctirry the tripod to the right and front, and
\\\wi\\ N(K H 4irrlvo8 «t hla proiH^r position be drops tiie trail to
tho kSiHHinU; Nik U« mipiM^rtUig tho trUH)d» raises bteend until the
\\^\>^^\\ MiuudM mi Iho tHAd of tbt^ tnill In a vertical position. No.
I' uaw I'tvWMiKH* hiM bold, gmHiw the legts itear their lower ends,
\viH^ \\\ H^K'^K \vk\\\\x vtU««(^ tht'U) to tlu^ firing position* sbores the
MudM vvt'U bourn luni HUow&t tbt^ trli^od to iAll to tbe front. As
'' 'UkhI twW^ \kk "^ 5iprlujit!» to the left of tbe tripod, and
"^tf oi^lb^iMliv T^H^ v^rritmev witbdnivrs tbe truamlm piot
^ U tuMiu tuui siivwlu^ it hiuiie wbtga tbie pointer and
k\o I'luanl tho ^un In tb^ v*arriH,5{e: he then tigbt»is the
i^* HUd luk^^ hl5i |Kwst While Nivs. 2 and 3 are setting
ip the tripod, the Pointer and No. 1 carry tbe gun iih rear of
lie gun mule^ and, when the tripod falls to the firing position,
hey raise the gun oyer No. 2's head and place- it in^ the car-
lage. When No. 2 has inserted the trunnion pin. No. 1 re-
eases his hold on the muzzle and hastens to his post. The
minter straddles the trail, and, supporting the handle block in
:be pit of lUs stomach, he has both hands free to guide the head
)f the inner elevating screw to Its place, and to insert the de-
rating pin. Having done this, he takes his seat and raises his
iight As soon as No. 3 has dropped the trail of the tripod to
he ground, he hastens to the gun mule and removes the top
oad, first handing an open ammunition box to No. 1 (who in-
lerts the belt in the feed box and draws it through until the
Nt cartrid^ engages the pawls as prescribed in paragraph 16
'To Load"). No. 3 then places the «^*ond ammunition box
)y the side of and just in the rear of the first, places the tool
yox within easy reach of the pointer's left hand, and then takes
lis post.
35. The position of the piece when assembled for action is
^blished by No. 3, who, in setting up the tripod, places the
M of the trail on the ground at a point 2 yards to the right of
lie gun mule's head, or at such point as may be directed.
Tq Fire, to ike Rear (Bight ot Left).
36. The command MCTIOH R€AR (RIGHT OR LEFT) is given.
Phis is executed like Action Front, except that the tripod is
•laced so that the gun will point in the proper direction.
To Roaume the Order for Marching in Paok.
87. 1. Prepare to Pack, 2. PACK.
At the first command :
The Pointer lays down his sight, turns elevating clamp
down, rises, and, supporting the handle block against
the pit of his stomach, disconnects the elevating gear,
replaces the elevating pin, and then, grasping the
handle block with both hands, stands ready to lift He
first throws the r<^ler handle twice forward if the piece
is loaded.
No. 1 unloads the piece (see paragraph 18) if this has
not been done, then springs to the muzzle, and grasping
it with both hands, stands ready to lift
7230—10 2
It MmSi 01^ THE GtCBT BKUA3k.
No. 2 asslgtB Na 1 to unkMid (see pamgmpb 19), tss
serewB tmnnkm pin but does not withdraw it, ui
screws wing nnts, and then ^agps tnmnion pin wif
rigbt hand, crouching on the left o£ the carriage.
No. 3 gathers togi^iher the top load« places it about on
yard to the right of the trail seat, and then tatres pot
on the rigbt of the carriage about one foot from it aii
facing to the front.
The Packer brings tlie mules to the immediate Ticinit
of the gun at a rapid gait, and holds or herds tb
males until the gmi squad has finished the packing an
is ready to move off.
At the second command —
The pointer as soon «s the trunnion pin has been witt
drawn by No. 2, lifts the gun from the carriage am
places it on the hanger, in which he is assisted by Ko. I
He then lashes the gun to the hanger and takes lii
post.
No. 1 assists the pointer to place the gun in the hangei
removes the blind from the gun mule, grasps the leai
Ing rein, and takes his post. |
No. 2 withdraws the trunnion pin, and, as soon a
the pointer and No. 1 have removed, the gun, immed
ately replaces said pin and gives a turn or two \
secure it He tjien springs in. front of the tripod, aM
•grasping .the legs near tlaieir euds, one in each haiu
raises the tripod on its trail to a vertical position, an
allows the legs to fall; grasps the top carriage wit
both hands^ places the tripod in the. hanger with tl
assistance of No. 3, and then secures its lushlngs, tal
ing his post as soon as this is completed.
No* 3, when No. 2 grasps the carriage, grasps the trip(
near the groimd, his right arm passing under and su
porting the legs, his left hand holding the trail sea
He now assists No. 2 to place the tripod in the hang«
. then puts the top .load in place, lashes It, and takes I
post
DtTTISS OB THE GU2C SQXTAI). 19
in. THE SERVICE OF THE PIECE,
GEMEB/iL PROVISIONS.
38. In firing instruction, a target is always designated, the
Iriug data announced, and the operation of setting sights, load-
ng, pointing, and firing the piece are habitually performed Just
IS in jactual firing.
39. The instructor should use every means at his disposal*
luch as dummy cartridges^ miniature targets, stationary and
noving, etc., to simulate service conditions, and where ammu-
iltion is available, the instruction should be held frequently on
ihe range with ball cartridges.
iMyfng the Piece.
40. The Instructor may command, for example:
1. "Target, such an object at such o'clock/'
2. "Bange, so many yards/*
3. "Deflection right (left), so many points."
The piece will be unpacked at the first command, if not already
o, the pointer commanding ACTION FRONT (RIGHT; LEFT;
HAR), depending on the direction of the target (paragraphs
(4 and 36).
The gunmen then proceed to the performance of their duties
IS prescribed in paragraphs 13, 15, 19, 20.
To Fire ih^ Piece,
I- ••
41. Tlie piece being loaded and laid, the jUiatructor In/orms
te Pointer what kind of fire to use, adds such further instruo-
Ions as he may deem necessary, as Fire about 20 — or so many^^
winds, and watch for duet, or Fire single shots for range, and adds
'.OIUMENCE FIRiNG.
42. The Pointer fires the number of rounds directed, and if he
an see where his shot group was placed, corrects his sight and
lim as prescribed in paragraph IT, ** Machine-Oun Firing Regu-
atlons,*^ and then continues the kind of fire directed by the
ttstructor.
43. When he is unable' to locale the point of strikie, t*-^
K)inter, after firing his first shot or string of shotd, will
20
*' uo du8t/' aud wIlJ maafieDC his fire imlil tbt jnstmeiior eitbcj
Ki\**« liiuj ^itjrrnfi^id liriiij^ data or conimaDdfi ff9t€^ ^rben U
uiukeie; \h.*i u«<^»uary currectiooB .aiiA oantlxnieEi tiip fire. I
C^ime^mn 9i Firing
44, Afij^r any sfriug of s!lKyte tike iiointer rerifies his aim aui
If XhAi «JLiot group was property placed, the obserre- tha
43jr<-^*1« \h/tt lutUiUir to ^Z/ff. i
If Ui« fcJiot group wag off the target, the cbserrer gives tW
l>olijter <!orr<^'t«l firing data : '
(a) lif auDoancing a new rauge and deflection as —
1. lian^e. «o manj yard^
2* I><*fl4^'tion right (left) i^ many points.
(b) hy dlrr^'ting the pointer to move tiis sight a certaU
amount, a» — i
1, Tak<* Tjf) yards more elevation. i
2, Take 4 more points right i
Jn eftli^r imne Uie pointer corrects his sight as indicated, brinia
iiitf Hfiii Utu'k onto (li« tiirg^t, calls Ready, and fires the next strin|
o( «hot» wUoii directed to F/R£ by the observer.
To Change Target.
4n* 'Hift tiiBfruptor commands, for example —
1, (*Jmutfe target
2. Door of that white house, at such o'clock. i
8. Hauge, so many yards.
4, Dollwllon right (left) so many points.
At tim jwi'oiul cominimd the pointer shifts the trail to girt
UiH plHi»» tho gonernl dlri^tlou, and then lays his piece on the
now tnrgtit by tlio nipthoils proHcrlbed.
To Dhcontinue and to Reoumo the Fire.
4«, '\\\ diw'ontinno tho flro at any time, CEASE FIRIRG. The
imlnttn* vt^UstHt^*! tho trigger and removes his hands from the
Mock,
uiuo \\\vi firt\ COMMEftCE FiRiM$. Executed as pre
1) imrMgrMph 41,
[lutermittent.
DtrrtES 01? r»HE GXfK SQUAD. 31
Spectdf Methods of Fire.
4 7. The methods employed in machine-guu fire ..may be
issified as follows;
(a) Banging fire (slow or intermittent),
(&) Fire for effect (intermittent or rapid).
Fire for effect may be further subdivided into — , .
(a) Fixed fire „ ^^^
(&) Traversed fire 1-
(c) Zone fire . .. ^
id) Tra versed-zone fire
{€) Fire at moving targets _^,
(/) Sweeping fire Continuous or rapid.
48. Ranging fire. — Even if telemeters enabled ranges to be
rand with perfect accuracy, there would always be changes
ich day, due to light, wind, and atoospheric ccmdttions. These
ould necessitate slight modifications in sight setting for any
ven range. When tiiese modifications are multiplied by the
accuracy of the telemeter, it Is not surprising to find that to
lace the shot group in the target at the first sliot is the ex-
iption rather than the rule. It is to correct the sights quickly-
T weather conditions and inaccuracy of estimates or telem-
ers that ranging fire is used.
40. The piece being loaded and laid the instructor commands
Singie(Qr sa mmy) eltots for raage^ 2. COi^MENCE FfflHie.
The pointer fires the first shot or string of shots as directed,
ttempts to locate the shot group, and. If able to do so, corrects
Is sight as pcesoribed in the '* Macfaine-Ghm Firing Begu-
tions."
50. The Pointer calls Ready wh«3 the piece has been relaid
pon tlie target ; and, wlien the instructor directs him to. FIRE,
fees a second shot or string of shots.
If further corrections are found to be necessary, similar
leans are employed and the process repeated until the shot
roup is properly placed.
5 1. Should the pointer be unable to locate the siiot group on
le first or second shot or string, he will not change his sights,
ut will aim either over ortmder the target, and, by means of
be elevating gear, gradually increase or decrease the elevation
or each shot « or string until he can see tlie point of strike^ He
ben corrects his sight as before and lai^^s his piece upon the
arget.
►■«t-i#*+/ r li*^ JJv^<*5! :fnrii firerrii»i!» is OEurr be niif i iwa_Lj w
^/-.•^^--v-t *p<* 4icriits» -v ;ilm. ami •'•mmantis HUE, Tl^ pointe
,%^. 7-"ir^f"f«fff ^'*9 ^'<lp, ^ta:i:loir Girapr»- — 13ie iiMUiU >r in
f^rnw *»-»,» v>^"*'**r hrt«r many -liinTs to lii^ per string ttils hio
'f I,A (-/.'rrfAr f^TC^f'rytti^ th's fir*? «» pr«9Hrift«i ftr ** Fixed Fire,'
(>rf'Of4 ^h^f f^^ !»tf>narj« ffrft fi:r*H!ted at «»eii cfaBunt of file liu
r»7. fffff^ flr^ (tirtfffm, (\^^%p t»flBPBt»w — Tlie I— trwetar infoi
\Ut* ffhUitt^t h^fW Tfrnny itynffn to lire p«r string ud coBmiia:
f ffttif tlt't^, 'J ilf¥tih (d§pr099) fiftf (9r wo mmf} ymr^; a C09\
M^Hf'P tiniMO. 'Vho fKf»nf*'f f%f^men tbto lire as prescrtbed foi
" MvMJ MM'/' ntt'tf^ii ihni hp rhiinipwi the elevfttfon fbr eac
j'hffii' f»r M'*' ffinnfffif fUMl ft! fli*« tVrfifiUm indicated in Uie com
(ii'HmI, (lit* nftn Mht n^wnpn ftPfft on tlie same element of tb
MM ^rf»^p^•»»»f/ ffifin fft*iii (Wiflw, rt#«»p target).— The instractoi
itthiiitiii Hit* |iMl(if»M- Imw timtiy i«h<^tM to flro per string and coia^
nOTSES QF THB ;QII]r 8CI1XA2IL S8
Executed like ''Traversed &;e^" except that eadl time tine
lointer traverses across the target he increases or deereftses
lis elevation by the amon&t indicated in the cDEomand.
59. Sweeping fire. — The instructor commanfls 1* Stveeping Fhe,
L COMMENCE FIRING.
In this fire the pointer'' firee) ooAtinuou^, pausing only 'to
orrect sights or aim.
The traversing gear is nnclamped and the piece swung slowly
rom side to side, thus covering a given area with a continuous
tream of bullets.
60. Fire at meving targets. — In tliis class of fire the best re-
mits will usually be obtained by aiming a few yards in front of
lie target and commencing to fire just before the leading ele-
nent of the target - crosses the line of sight, continuing the fire
intil the rear elemeift lias also crossed said line of sight The
pointer then suspends the fire, again aims in front of the target
uid fires as before, repeating the operation as long as tbe twrwfit
remains in sight.
Should the target travel beyond the arc of traverse, the
pointer traverses tlie gun to its limit in the opposite direction,
K)iQmands TRAIL RIGHT (LEFT), brmgs the Une of sight again
ihead of the target, and proceeds as before.
61. Night firing. — Fixed fire, traversed fire, zone fire, tra versed-
Bone fire, and sweeping-fire may be used at night, omitting the
feadjustment of the sights after each string. Wh«i practicable
the piece should be laid in daylight on some known element of
the target or the ground to be covered, and the pointer will
endeavor to keep in mind the amount of change made in azimuth
and elevation, so that the piece can l>e returned to approxi-
mately the original aiming point as a point of departure.
The sights may be illuminated by small electric-light bulbs,
it practicable. Night firing is used principally to cover a par-
ticular point, as a path, road, defile, or battery, or to cover the
ground in front of the gun within point-blank range by sweeping
fire. In this case the piece should be laid nearly parallel to
the surface of the ground, the elevation clamped, and the
traverse cast loose. This method of fire is of particular value
on outposts liable to attack or surprise.
Supernumeraries,
®2. Supernumeraries will not be used with the gun squ8<'
while the gun is in action, as they only increase the size of
M
miXilSB OV XHB OCT flaDAH
t«?08t wblch tlie gnn miMUtd pfcwntB to tlie enemy* and tfaeii
pmrnnee give* no beneficial resolts to oiEaet tbis objection. li
flvailflble^ iKmrerer* a memlier of the ammnnidon sqnad may b<
detailed to lead tbe gnu mnte.
60» SmvJ^ of iho Nweo miik R^duc&d ifymbers.
OnnfiMm r«taiii0d.
PutkMi of—
Remark!:.
Pointer,
Polntfir .
.. .do.....
1-
2.
Pointer, Ko«. 1 and 2
PofnterAfid No. 1...
i*olnt«ir.
1
1,2, and 3
2 and 3
Pointer packs and unpacks gun
without assistance, and No. 1
performs the duties of No. 2 a
packing and unpacking tripod
only.
Pointer packs and unpacks gon
without asatetance.
Pointer performs the duties ol
the whoie squad. Applicable
to defensive use in gun pit.
•
* t
Chapteb III.
THE AMMUNITION SQUAD.
64. The ammuiUtlon squad is composed of three, privates.
They are designated as ammunition men.
65. The object of the training of the ammunition squad is to
80 familiarize the men with their specific duties that they will
perform them quickly, accurately, and without confusion.
66. To this end they will be carefully instructed in all that
pertains to tlie supply of ammunition for the gun, in the nomen-
clature, care, and operation of the belt-filling machine, and in
the diatribQti^ of leads.
67. All members of the platoon will receive instruction in the
duties of the ammunition squad* bvt the men who are perma-
nently assigned to this duty will receive the benefit of careful
and painstaking individual instruction, and will be impressed
with the idea that the gun becomes useless unless their duties
are carefully and faithfully performed.
rORMATION OF THB AMMUNITION S^VAD, IVITHOUT PACK.
I
68. The Ammunition Squad is posted on the left of the gvin
dquad, without interval, as follows:
No. 4 in the front rank on the left of No. 2.
No. 5 in the rear rank covering No. 4;
No. 6 in the fW)nt rank on the left of No. 4.
DUTIES IN G£H€RAL
69. No. 4:
(a) Supplies No. 3 with ammunition and water.
(5) Carries empty ammunition and water boies and
hangers back to the ammunition station.
(c) Assists in loading and unloading ammunition mules."
No. 5:
(a) Leads fourth mule.
(5) Assists in supplying ammunition and water to the
gun.
25
20 DUTIES OP THS AlUtUJIl T I DH SQUAD.
(c) Prepam umniiiiitioii and keeps bc^ipn' supplied
dorins tbe operation of the belt-fiUing machme.
id) Fills anuDonitlon boxes with loaded brits.
(e) Equalizes loads in hangers.
(/) Assists in loading and unloading mnlesw
Ko. 6:
(a) Leads fifth mule.
(h) Assists in supplying ammmdtioR and water to tbe
gnu.
(e) fieta up l>eit*filling machine and operates crank
liandle.
(d) Packs belt-filling machine.
(e) Loads and imloads belt-filling machine.
(/) Assists in loading and unloading mules.
Po9t9 of the Ammunition Squad, Section with Patke.
70. No. 4 : Off side of third mule, within arms reach of am
opi)osite its pack.
No. 5 : Near side of fourth mule, opposite its head.
No. 6: Near side of fifth mule, opposite its head«
To Set Up the Belt Filler.
71. No. 6 removes the belt filler from the fifth mule anj
than* witli tiie assistance of No. 5, s^b it up, as follows :
No. 6 Oldens the l)ox and removes tlie hopper, file and spannerl
then tbe bracket, attaching it to oue end of an empty (original!
ammunition box. He. now removes the body and adjusts it t|
tbe braclcet so that the spring catch in the fcH-mer enters it^
notch in the latter ; slips the handle on the crank and inserts tb|
sfilit pin ; turns the handle until it is horizontal, pointing tl
the left ; and, holding it in that position, Inserts the lug of tli
hopper In its seat, the grooves facing the machine, and press«
It down until entirely seated. He now brings the handle to \
vertical position and swings the belt cover to the left, uncoverinl
i\xt% h<.it passage. No. 5 procures and prepares an empty belt
e brass end through the passage, brass strips pointing ti
No. 6, facing the hopper, grasps the belt near the end
u*ough with his left hand until the first cartridge looi
te the plunger; closes belt cover; grasps the cranl
Ith the right hand, holding the belt with the left ; turn
DUTIES OF THX AMICUITITIOK fStSUAJX. 27
tbe cmnk to the right, clockwise^ watcfaii^ to see that tlie
plunger enters tbe first belt loop. No. 5, sitting astride the en^
munition box and faeing the machine, supplies the hopper with
cartridges by stripping, from the clips director into the hopper»
and sees that they feed properly.
72. A belt haying been filled. No. 5 will load It carefolly into
an empty box, bullets pointing in the direction indicated by the
painted figure in the bottom of the box. No. 6 now prepares
and inserts a new belt while No. 5 is packing the loaded, ona
is soon as No. 5 has finished packing the loaded belt, he returns
to his position at the hopper.
73. To assure accurate and proper filling of the belt. No. 6^
Daay insert about 1 inch of the eid of the screw-driver between
the head of the cartridge and the supporting shoulder, where the
belt leaves the body.
To Form for Action.
74. The section being in pack FORM FBR ACTION.
At this command —
No. 4 springs to the third mule and releases the lashings
which bind the ammunition hangers to the saddle, and
then stands ready to remore the off hanger. ■
No, & links his mule to the. third- mule, and then stands
ready to remove tbe third mule's, near hanger.
No. 6 links his mule to the fourth mnle*. •
To Unpack ttnd Prepare for Aoiions
75. Being fotmed for action, thie command is giten ACTION
^/fONT (RIGHT, LEFT, REAR). At this command Nos. 4 and 5
E^emove the ammunition hangers of the third mule, and place
^em on the ground^ bangers to t±ie front. As ^on as the third
■rule's load of ammunition is removed, the off packer leads his
fanles to the rear at a trot to the point selected by the platoon
Sergeant for the ammunition station. The ammunition squad
*l8o hastens to the ammunition stationv removes tbe loadS/of
i^munition, sets up th« belt fillet*, and prepares such shelter as
^^y be necessary. I ^
No. 4 keeps up a continuous supply of ammunition and water
» the gun. In this duty he is assisted *iy No. S and also by
^08. 5 and 6 when they are not eBg^gea<in Ullihg belts.
•i^f''\fr^ ■* > .r**:,,T» •]\f»v •r.T>t...iip^ *.i 111 .e*ts ;ia .OBs: as rtier*
cf .Ty-»^Mtn4t ;^»n .fM,Mhl<» «n*1 tii^n^ ire *^bmdxv leits to ij*- riilf»»i
;r.vc»ff /,»^ho'»'t"j^ ilir^kft^ .iy iu» >iatt)oa - ittninmrrtr i~ or *^t*
,»i..,j fi<^ .•r.iii*«^i«j» <rj ;)><> <»Trvn\nnitii»a -?raTioa tor .1 new sonpiT
o'i'y Hi'^n ■»> rfiT-M^M^f .>y :h» ^'UiP>t n#" v>9eetiOK. N<iab, ii and. i
nio ■< h^ ;fTnrriMrfifion -itfttjon md4>r rbe <iireetioH int die Dlutxma
77. Tii*^ -'o«"fjf)n h<»1n£r in 3f*tinn T. f^r^fngrm fa Ptmk, 2. P'JtCM.
'l'h'» '^'fV pfi'-V'^r l>ri!><cf» up tlm ammmiitioa males and
proit1^ro'^ fry j^sr^lf^f- in <»nn»li«tni? anif i^lini^iiB^ fiasds;.
V,, > ro|>'*'<"^^ <«^*' third mule'?* load in the- hsai^tfws aud
j,)ofo«i fh^m ^ fb»f t-h^^ mnlft^ may be soaTefumtir led
Vf.. Ti f»inr'r»«« tr^u-i m t>>Alf prftf»fit Mxea amd^ assisted by
f hA nff fm^lr^r, ^rfhimron ftr*A ftf|TjaIiaw» tke loads for the
ffi«fff<j fit f^^ nmmfffilHmi statUm, Then, together with
(fio /»^f fr'f/ *^^f fiff/f >ifh ih fHf filings the ammonition
(MM(l«t hu ff»^ f/»ffrHi /ifi/1 fifth tnnles and proceeds at
nfi. .' f« fff^ f»^''*if wl«<*f<* Na 4 has prepared the load of
N.* M !••<' ♦*'^ <<♦♦* **^^' Htllnn nmohlno and secures it ou
(hr hHH MHilh. MM»1. mHmi' wHtitflni: the ammunition loads,
i,.-u»^i |hh nil |«Milu»i' tn wnMU'ti them. He then gives
\\\v |i'», Im ♦ Hn,^ fMHhiM' nHMtKtunw that may be neces-
vut |M v«MMMi*»« Mh* >*mu|i» <m» animals and proceeds
^^Mi^ ^»*^ ♦t^ Uu^ ^^H\^*\^ wlw^^t* X\\^ third male is to be
\x ^»^ *^ ^.V»^\ R^N^^ '•^*^'^ ^^'cjtjsfttJiiH^ ii* uwiy be Bcoessary
|^\ . 'o *^*. ••'>< *^s^»,".\i ^V X>ad \>t\ tbe -"^^ -
DUTIES OF THE AMMUNITION SQUAD. 29
No. 6 gives such assistance as may be necessary in sling-
ing and securing tlie load on the third mule. He then
unlinks the fifth mule from the fourth and takes his
post.
To Pack the Belt-Filling Machine.
78. No. 6 brings the crank handle to a horizontal position
oward him; removes split pin and crank, placing it in its
roper place in the box, and removes the hopper, laying it on
he cover of the box. He then removes the body with the right
land, places it In the box; then the bracket, unscrewing the
lamp screw to its full extent. After this he places the file
ind spanner in their proper places, and lastly the hopper.
Note. — For detailed description of the belt-filling machine and
ts nomenclature see Ordnance Manual No. 1770.
THK TACK 8QIJAP.
X^% Tt^ IHUclk ^u^a U cvHiit)o^«e>l of two pii^ate^ designated
A^ th«> 9^ hvaI ^f^Nit l^(Cfivor, The nvtiu- yad^er is the senior.
^0* ^VnvkHiK^u \^f ^^e ^uad, without packs:
l'l\o ?«v\\wvl U tv*nxit\l Ui ilv^r^> nuik. the near packer in th«
n\^^ i>x'.r\ \\ tu V. o:irx\ u\l u* vl^ sOw they call off Mear Packn
Jit. IVvts of t!v ^sKWr^:
^A«* *^lv*<s^ \*'v il.o v.*\4r ^^lo v>f &'.:d leading the second mule
<••* t^'^it*'' \\\\ ttv \u\ir 5«.Ulo of 51 ud Vtidmg the third mnle.
#A¥' 9^^it'\ ^o^^ll vs v^r Uv*I\M *>^ i«e moles Gt the comba
f*'^ r^*i^\ tvt\t'.^^ V - tv \' •',: ;V iui:U^ of thesn^Iy diTision
I\^ W'^st \x^uH\ ^tN'^'^;;^ ;^uvl v\^iv toe t^e animals asBagned td
IN* V U\u\ oui v^oU* ?tiH' 5^ ;^tw\ 5^v,vv \K\ ptv*ke« line.
IN* K^v^* ^Ut^ |v^vK?i ,<>5!5. i-'T\l ^* t-.lu.; l:\ ^vid repair, and ti
UUuii tx* Uk^ >HU\^t •.u>t\ of ;:v V ^^-^'^^'^ s*M:$«iut any deficiencies
in^ v\^u not Uuv.*s U ?ir.;^i.,>kv
> *^C!^ «xf :be sxV«? o:f t^^ >':-d :»ir tW end: hold
tbe hil^v^ or b^.TiK- sttjuU: wlzX tb^ ocker hand;
nUTIBS OF 7HB PAQX SQUAB; 31
!arry tte Wnd fully over tbe mule's neck to the off siAe» al-
owing half the blind and tail to hang down ; bring the crown
)f tbe blind well Ito the front and pass it oyer the mule's ears;
lo not raise it too high in passing it over, <»; the mule mjay
luck from under. A restive mule should always be blinded
rhen saddling or packing.
To Put On the Bridle.
85. Take the reins in the right hand, bit in the left ; approaeh
he mttle on the near side ; slip the reins over his head and let
hem rest on his neck ; reach under and engage the snap In tbe
ight baiter, ring, insert tjie thumb of the right hand in the
Qule'8' mouth above the tush and press open the lower Jaw;
nsert the. bit and engage the snap in the left baiter ring. The
)it should iMing so as to touch but not dnLw up the corners <^
lie mouth.
To Fold the PacJc Blaakei- .
86. The blanket, after being well shaken, will be folded into
;Ix thicknesses, as follows : Hold it well up by the two corners,
he short way up and down; double it lengthwise so the fold
vill come across the U. and S*, the folded corner (middle of
blanket) in the left hand; take the folded corner between the
humb.and forefinger of the right hand, thumb pointing to the
eft ; slip tie left hand down the folded edge two-thirds of its
ength .and seize it with the thumb and second finger; r^ise
lie hands to the height of the shoulders, blanket between them
jxtended ; bring the hands together, the double fold falling oul^-
>yard ; pass the folded corner from tbe right hand into the left
liand, between the thumb and forefinger; slip the second finger
>f the riglsit hand between the folds and sei;se the doubte-jfoided
somei;; turn the left (disengaged) corner in, and seiae U witji
Qie thumb and forefinger of the right hand* the seeond finger nk
^e ri^t hand stretching and evening the fold^; aCter evienirvg
the folds, ^asp the corners and shsike the blandket weU in .ordef
bo smooth the folds ; raise the blanket and place hetwe^n the
ehin and breast; s^p the hands down half way, the irat t^r^
fingers inside ; seize the blanket with the thumbs and first twe
fingers, let the part under the chin fall forward; hold the
blanket np, arms extended, even the lower edges, seize "'"
middle points between the thumh? ajid .fweftttg^Bg, ft»4 &
SB DtnriBS OE XBE PACK BQUAOi
oQtside part OTcr the right arm ; the blanket is thrift IxelS before
placing it on the animal.
For the English, pack, the blanket Is folded as described, ex-
cept that it is first held up by the two comers the long way up
and down, so that the first fold will come between the U. and S.
To Put On the BItuiket.
87. Grasp the folded blanket with the thumb and forefinger
of each hand at the middle of an end ; hold it well up in front
of the face and even the lower edges; flirt the outer half of
the blanket back over the right arm; approach the animal on
the near side ; place it well forward on him by tossing the outer
part over the arm to the off side of the animal; still keeping
hold of the middle points, slide the blanket once or twice from
front to rear to smooth the hair, taking care to raise the blanket
in bringing it forward ; place the blanket with the forefinger of
the left hand on the withers and the forefinger of the right
hand on the backbone; blanket smooth.
To Put On the Corona.
88. Grasp the corona with the thumb and forefinger of each
hand at the ends of the center seam, thumbs on the blanket
side, forefingers underneath, left thumb inside the circular
stitch ; without changing the grip, toss the outside of the corona
over the right arm, approach the animal on the near side, and
put on the corona as described for the blanket.
To Turn the Crupper.
89. The near packer places his left hand on the near side ol
the crupper about 15 inches from the dock, and grasps the
lower edge of the crupper at the dock with the right hand.
The off packer takes hold similarly on the off side, but with th^
position of his hands reversed; both push in with the handi^
«Afirer the saddle, at the same time raising the dock and carry-
It forward. The quicker the action, the easier the cruppei
med.
e crupper is turned down in the same manner, the packert
ag down on the dock instead of raising it, and pushing
the hands nearer the saddle.
BtJTIBS OF THB PAOX SQUAD. 33
7o P&t On th0 Saddh.
«
90. («> Aparojo. — Put on by two packers (off andjoear) work-
ng on the- off and near sictoa, respectiYoly.
The near packer pots on tbe bridle and blind, and tbe off
lacker puts on the corona. Each packer, then working on his
)wn Bide, grasps the aparojo by the lower corners, raises it
tigh enough to clear the mule's rnmp, and sets it on the mule's
lack a little in rear of the proper place. The crupper is then
nmed down (par. 89), and the packers place the dock of the
Tupper under the mule's tail ; without allowing the crupper to
dip down» both the packers set the aparejo forward in its
HToper piaoe, taking care to keep it straight. The off packer
mils the gas-pipe end of the cinch toward him, and, guiding it
lown the middle, passes it under tbe belly to the near packer*
rho seizes it with the right hand, at the same time passing
tbe end of the latigo through the eyelets from inside to out,
tbeoce through the rendering ring from outside to in, and back
iround tjbe gas pipe again, the same as before* Meanwhile the
)ft packer sei&ea the rear corner of the boot on his side with
he left hand, pulls the saddle forward, at the same time in-
lerting his right hand between the corona and the withers,
aises the end of the corona, and calls " Settle." The near
Mcker then places his left hand a^inst the aparejo and pulls
he cinch taut with the right. When it is pulled as tight as
lossible, he calls " Cinch." The off packer then withdraws his
land and, if the corona Is clear of the withers, he passes in
ear of tlie mule, sees that the saddle sets squarely, and seizes
he latigo with the near packer ; each puts one foot on the boot
nd, pulling together, cinch the aparejo tight. When cinched,
he gas-pipe end of the cinch should be at the lower edge of
he boot. The near packer holds the slack with the left hand
nd passes the end of the latigo through the frame and the
nger loop and pulls it taut. He then removes the blind.
(b) EngliBh saddle. — The saddle and equipment, being arranged
i prescribed for garrison or field, is put on by the two packers
8 follows :
Tlie near packer puts on the breast strap, bridle, and blind,
lie off packer, working on the near side, puts on the blanket
nd saddle, placing the latter on the mule's back over the loins,
toth packers, now working on their respective sides, turn down
tie breeching and crupper. Near packer grasps lower part
723(^10 3
34 BUTIES or THB PAOK SfiUAB.
breeching with the rigUt tuoidr leiftliftad'at middle of breechini
palm up. Off packer grasps lower edge of breeching wit
thd' left ha-nd; right hand grasps tt'iipper. Off packer call
*/ Break," and the crupper and breeching are broken' out. Oi
packer twists muie*s tatl and adjusts cruiJper; holds It we
up under the dock with the left hand and slips tight hcand unde
center' of off saddle pad, supporting it. Near pack^ faces th
mule'ii head, slips left arm under near saddle pkA, supporting it
right hand grasping rear end of top frames When ertpper 1
adjusted, off packer calls " Set forward." Both packers 111
and set the saddle evenly upon the mule's back.
Near packer throws cincha over to off packer and passes f rot
clncha under to near side. Near packer axijuBts Jatigo strap
and tightens to a half cinch. • In the meantime, off packer place
right hand over the mule^s withers, tinder the blanket, am
clinches his fist so as to rais^ th^ blanket well trp off the mule*
withers. When near packer has tightened it to a half cinct
he calls " Cinch." The off packer fastens breast strap to sad
die and passes in rear of the mule, glances at the saddle to se
that It sets evenly, grasps the free latigo strap and ctncbes th
rear cinch to half a Gln<*h. Both tighten cinches and tie th
latigo straps. Near packer now fastens the Hear breast strai
to saddle.
To Put On the Loads.
91. The loads are placed on. the hangers by four men, an ol
and near pair. The mule being saddled and placed in front c
his load as in saddling, the instructor commands PACK. At th)
command one of the near pair puts on. the blind. Each pal
then procures a hanger containing the load and hangs it o
their side of the saddle, the weight of both loads coming on th
saddle at the same time. If there is a top load, it Is i>laca
on. the top frame. The cargo cinch, if used, is then passe
under the belly and lashed to. the hanger and cargo cincli, til
cinches being so adjusted that the lower edge of the linngc
will not cut the latigo. The lashing is secured by a " Californ^
hitch." One of the near pair then removes the blind.
To Remote the Load, Saddie, Blanket, Brfdfe, and Blind.
92. At the commands UNPACK, VMS AD OLE, the loads ai^
' " equipments are removed, the loads by four men, ti
equipment by two packers, and the whple arrange
Tibed in paragraphs 156 and 158.
Plate V.
Near
packer
6
PTR
^
Off
packer
THE SECTION WITHOUT PACKS. PAR. *7,
I ,
Ohapteb V,
THE SECTION.
93. The section is composed of one corporal, wlio Is Chief of
Section, one gun squads one xinununltion squad,. one pack squad,
the necessary mnles, and equipment, one gun and Its accessories.
94. The Chief of Section commands the section and la. re-
sponsible to th^ Chief of Platoon for the efficiency of the
men and the care of the materlaland animals assigned to his
section. In action he directs the fire of his piece in accordance
with Instructions from higher authority, and, in the absence
of instructions, according to the best of his judgment. He
sapervises the operations of all thfe parts of the section, so far
w they come under his observation, and acts as coach to the
pointer in the conduct of fire.
95. The gun squad serves and cares for the piece and such
articles of equipment as may. be assigned to its members.
96. The ammunition squad serves and cares for the belt
loader, establishes and operates the anununltion sl;atlo»,. pro-
vides an ample supply of amraunitlon and water at the gim ^t
all times, assists In loading and unloading the mules, and cares
tor the articles of equipment assigned to its members,
TO FORM THB SBCTION WITHOUT PACKS,
97. The Chief of Section tulies post ? paces in front of where
the center of the section is to be, and commands: FALL tN,
The section Is formed In the following order from right to
to: Gun squad, ammunition squad, pac^ squad, without In-
terval between squads. The Chief of Section then commands :
^ULOFf.
The squads call off in order from right- to left, as prescribed
In paragraphs 22 and 68, the paclser iu the front rank calling off
^Bttr Packer and his rear ranlj file Off Packer,
Vacancies in the gun squad or. pacl^ sqi^ad ^re supplied from
the ammunition squ&d. The Chief of Section maizes note of
QQy unauthorized absences, and reports at this time, if so
required. (Plate V.)
35
■;: i' tiH TMWCin; H
"i ji* jrewrlbed M
'' ""i-.'r.iTirm Squad.'
■' *'. respect! velj.
"■"I" In front of m
"■H't ntvessarj-. Hi
iwm ^) 9w tftat th(?
Plate VI.
E^
m/\
IHll/\
abbreviations:
C. S. = Chief of Section.
PTR. = Pointer.
N. P. = Near Packer.
O. P. ^ Off Packer.
/\
ED
m/\
THE SECTION WITH PACKS. PAR. 101.
/\
i
Plate VII
/\
/\
/\
Mules
/\
D
00
D
Aparejos
D
OD »-oad3 no
D
00
Ammunition
squad
00
CZDCZ3
Gun
squad
THE LINE UP. PAR. 102.
102. The section being fortned witboot pacfiB, to^form with
packs:
The section baring bJeen marefattd to a point cohyeniently near
Its equlpaeat, the Chief of Section commands : LHII£ VP.
The gun' sqnati and ammunition* squad place the aparejos
and loads In numerical order In line at 4-7ard interTals, each
load strapped in its hanger and placekl 1 yard in rear of the
aparejo on ^hich it is to be packed.
I The packers place the pack mules each in front of and facing
away from its load, and tie or blind them. In tying, and blind-
ing the mules they are asslsted.by.SBeh. members, of the <gun'
and ammunition squads as may be availabte.
The gun squad now tal&es post in; rear oC^the load of the gun
mule, the ainmimition' squad in < rear of tiie^load of the* second
mule, the packers on. their respective sides of the gun mulie!s
aparejo, and the Chief of Section on a Hae with the front of the
aparejo, 2 yards from the gun mule*s aparejo. This fornxation
is designated as the /./^Tf «P. ^ Plate VII.)
10 3. When the equipment ctua Ipe seevi^d for storage in
places from which it can be conveniently taken direct £romv
position and placed on the mnlefi^the preparation for Line Up
consists in securing the mules, placing tbem in. suitable positions
ready to receive their loads,* preparing the loadjs by. remaving
their covers and placing the iQads:in the hangers if not there,
and posting the three squads conveniently near the loads above
designated. In this case the Ctiief of Section takes such posi-
tion as will best enable him to -observe the loading) It has been
found convenient in some cases to secure the eqnipmwits so that
a rigging cover may be used instead of separate paulins, and in
other cases it has been f6tind convenient to secure the equip-
iments on suitable racks from which they can be loaded directly,
in such cases the posts of the squa^Js are assigned according- to
the most convenient disposition, and when the foregoing prepai-a-
tions have been made and these posts* taken, the I/ne dp will be
established In th^se cdsefi.
••' ■ • " • • ' ' .' ' ' I.I ' . . .
BeniG m Line up, ra sMptflE.
■ >
•I . • . , ^
1 4. The' <^ief ot Seeticoi commands : SMDIX^
The packers saddle each -mule in turn, beginntiig witii the gun
mule. I . . .
On tiie completion of sadidUng^ the packers resume their posts.
if^ Ditrcx^ OF
r> ' .>.^. ►,/w}»iMMic» \v'*h rii<»r^omiiat iiivisioDw ami svmce tiieoi.
' ^-. • >/» M.M.nnitw.n ^iinaii t'onsiflts ot ititas> tisui. four ma
'• r^ _'n>^ .rfiT>f< . ;>»#.»>« . j<| v«if»Tirps Tile Hide toaiki 4»iuy« stud un
" '! *" Ti.MKitiirioii ^iotla4l. wnick )iiie«a- atiui j a ciiM
\r\*%, •►"> r'i.i'of .f >ipf*t':on 'nsneett eseii i^aek after it ii
rr^tr 7 z^. .^t.'Ao ••T»«r r^f^np^ftf^Tv MWnsBCtDssixa TO i»e- lomAi^ uasiiQU
( '< — ■ ' "*> 'M Mfth ninU>^ if ii 1 1 —iji •lireetB tiie mfl
\* » .. .r"'">oT>ri f**i^9, *'i*» mni*>« are fonned in cii» nomai
. . " ». .. f r,... .r,iT| 'nnl** in front, and eacH am txioes iiil
M»v. »f»r.'' f ,. n^*»rj ',7.^ vrf^W nRtrnctwi in "heir (iatie» ani
1! f. ;)' •• n's- vr^.n tniii>*»d, t?»p loflfUru^ in detnil us- a i»ye <w
.( "l*/! iinv r><^ «-'hort'm#»r1 bT 4iv!n^ rtie coBmand : SAiWLE AMi
PACft. '
j' ■:-' f"^,TTiTr)rfr»fl mf»v 1>** 8ffr«»n jit the apDroach. of tjw aeetiofl
".' if ;,M/!'.' f/-^ if«i Air(n!nTifv»nt, or after rlie Liim tfp has been
■ 'I * '1 f])/^ oT)^r«tlor>« above pTRseribed are pttrfonsed
: M ili< ri /'i V" .^I'Mii? H» oT>^*<» ?tt tlM»ir respertlve doHea^ TJlisi*
Ml' Fj'.ri(i-i) n\"^uf}f\ of Inf»d1nfir out for a weil-i mknmted aec-
ti-in. 'rht> \v\\f>\o /vfior^tTon of io#id)Tiff oat is compieteA vitlioitf
ftir >ii' r ' "fini'irul. on<>h niMTi f^kfner pofit in the noEnuiI numfiQ^
f olHfirit M i 'Jnori ns his work in eompieted.
i
TO »f9m$$ 7Mt $ger9O0,
hiM. Tlie 'p<'('flnn ?R mnrcli^fl in maneuver coIubui to th^
1I11M "« I- rlml for thp /.//;# ^/5, formort In line to the flank and]
i!illi'<|. riu. (Milof of Soctlon coniuiflfulH: LINE UP, \
I lu» mtilcs nto f-vMiiicd (hllndod or tlt»(l), and tbe loads re-|
juoMMt by tin* i;"fi iiihI MHitnntiMlnti mpiiulH, working in the in-
r tiif* Ijnt'^ttn^, <lin tMuU(ttti(»n( Iwltig placed as pre-
p linr hp !t'j fjml im ii !•« miloiuloil. The mules are
thft pn« ItiM " rt«a f\\ti\ h^ llif* ItMidn «t^ muoved. Th®
•-•'^mimI. tho \'\\\v\ «^f «<mMUM\ hUHNKHs each mole
i>;Ol^. sovo ^rtrK?%, Hx\, $:l\ni'« the necessaiy
, I 1.'
DBlLii OF 9%£ SUCTION. 3^
The packers remove ¥h*^'mirfes and di^A)se of them according
(their instructions. The gun squad and. the ammunition squad
irore the aparejos and loads 1ft si ^prescribed. The Chief of Sec-
b inspects thfe toules^nd equipment, gi\'es such instructions as
ay be necessary to Insure that they are properly secured, and
temands : FALL Hi-'
The section falls in without packs, and is marched to itfs
larters by the Chief of 'Section, where it is dismissed.
109. The equipment is habitually secured a?< pre^jribed'
ger "Ayrai^^Weut . of ea^iI)IUe^t." ., , ^,
When- practicable, *rac^s* in,ay\!)p constructed" for^ storage of
ulpment in positions cotarehient ixit loading, on which racks
e equipment will be covered either with separate.paulinp or
'*^ rigging cpvers. _ ••' '-^'^ •-•••• - .'''''* '
^n camp, art;angemehts will tjlvrays be made, 'tvhen t)rac-
ttWe, to k^tefy tM aparejos and I'oiidsoff the! ground.
When no eeritinel is ported ovef t'he equipment, one df the^
ickers mujrt always be' on duty as watchmen in charge of the
inipment and picket lin^. ' '' " * ' '
MANEUVERS OP THE SECTION, ACTING ALONE?. ;<
110. Unless otherwise ordered fill movements, distance's, and.
tervals will be regulated on the' gun mule.
The intervarbetween pack nju^e^ when the cplumn Js mj\rcti^d
^the flank is 4 yards from hetidto head. ■' • -^ - ^^v
The secUon.a^v^pes, .halts,. ch4\i^§i^4llrQ<?tipn,.Qhliflues, an.d
-sumes the dltetf ijiatich by ,the cbmhiand^ prescribed- In the
irantry Drill Regulations for a Squad hi' column of files, sub-
ituting the word "^gec^lgn '/ ^or.the word," squad."
^«ules are turned* on' the arc 6f a circle whose radius Iff 2
^he mai.vetaJti their original po^ionil relative to the packs
^^ Which <they are posted; .: « ;.i (ji..
111. l.Totherear,2,MARQH, ' ' ■' ^'
Each ifitJlfe^ls led' t^'tiie left' jfbout, individually, the'-men i*e-
ilning theri"' • respedtfve posttions relative to .the packs ' with^
*tch "tlJ^ are • stationed. This mfoveni^ht' is' used for short
^stances only, aid If ^the sfefetlon has ffftt be^ Hfrteed to the
font on the march, it will be faced to the front upon halting.
^ face the section to the front, the same command is used.
40 J>BIIj;i OF THE S£CTIOK«
TO COUNTEfiMARCH,
112. 1. Countermarch, 2. MARCH.
The gun mule is led to the left about. The other mules
the section are turned to the left about successively, eacli ,
time to follow in the trace of the preceding mule. The mi
retain their positions relative to the packs with which they a
stationed. This movement is used when It is intended to cq
tinue the march to the rear.
TO TURM TO THE RIGHT OR LEFT WITHOUT OAIMINO GROUi
TO THE FROHT.
113. 1. SBciion right (left), 2. MARCH. [
The gun mule is turned to the right (left) and halted. T]
other mules are turned out of the column to the left (ri^ht
each one is led to a point slightly in rear of its place in ti
new column, then turned to the right (left) and halted in i
proper position in rear of the preceding mule. The men reta
their positions relative to the packs with which they a;
stationed.
This movement is made use of in the proper handling i
machine gun sections and platoons at combined drill wlj
infantry. The object is to change direction without gainil
ground to the front. (Plate VIII.)
TO FACE THE SECTION TO THE REAR WITHOUT GAINING GROUh
TO THE FRONT OR REAR.
114. 1. Section left (right) about, 2. MARCH.
The gun mule is led to the left (right) about and halte
The other mules are led straight to the front; turned to ti
left (right) about and lialted successively, each in tts in-op
place in rear of the preceding mule.
The men retain their positions ^relative to tlie packs wit
which they are stationed.
This movement is made use of in the proper handling <
machine gun sections and platoons at combined drill with ii
fantry. The object is to face the sectkHi to the rear withoi
aining ground #o the roar (or front), (Plate IX.)
PLATE
vin.
8ECTIOH RIGHT. PA"- ^^
Plate IX.
/-"■■^N
<
4
~«v
2 !
2
4
SECTION LEFT ABOUT. PAR. 114i
^*LXTEX.
\
U
k i
\2i
5
->.
/iqlrlN REAR. PAR. 11B.
V
•2*
I
i.'
I
«
;
*
>-'
/
Jmilj4 Q^ HWSl SEOTIOJfft 41
fO PUC£ TJtS QQM$AT INVWQN iH BEAR $F TK SUPPLY
, 115. 1. Comsat, tiiwiahn, rem; 2. MABQM.
The siiiH>ly dtvisioii continues >th6 march led by'the<yff packer
irith the third mule; The combat dtvMdn executes T^ thu
r, March, aad then' eseoutes CdMite/wiaroh, Martha in thoe to
llow hi the trace of the supply division at noifliAl' dlibtatlce.
y this means the gun mule is placed last in column with the
original fiecead mule immediately !& ifiront of tj^^.^n muj^^ The
post of the ' chief of section is 2 yards in rear of Ine gun
feiule. The men retain their . position^ relative to the packs
Srith which they are stationed. (Plate X.) .' ' , ' ' : '
TO move THi combat ditwom from mliEAB or; to in
FRONT OF Tft£ SUPPLY DIVISION.
1 16. 1. Combat dmahn, Forward, 2. MARCH.
The supply division continues the march. The* combat di-
Tision moving at an increased gait, obliques to the left until
It has uncoveted the supply division, then moves to the ftont,
Bnd the mules are led to their proper place in the normal
column, successively reducing the gait when. their \ proper -po-
4tion9 are reached* The iVt^u. : ceflume. theit . original' pasta
TO UNPACK AND PREPARE FOR A€TJOM.
117. 1. ACTION FRONT (RIOHT, LEFT, BEAR).
At thi8> 0<¥i9i]iSiDfl: the fotsrth suule.is linked to the third,. the
fifth mule is linked to the fourth, the gun scHiad And amsntnlt^''
tion squad . perform the duties prescribed fer them, in pata-
Igraphft 33,i.34, '^4„ 7£i, andiSg.
r In preliminary instruction, to avoid * uti6ue> fotigve, tbe.
bositions of the difl^tent elemeat^ 4if ftheifieetionf may be infli-
'Cated at convenient intervals. « .
TO RESUME THE ORDER FOR MAmtUMB Ni PMN.
118. 1. Prepare to Pack, 2. PACK.
At the first command the gun squad «»cilt6B>/Vflpotr» to Pack.
At the command PACK the gun squad packs the gun mule, V
41»
,1.1 '^K«* poflrt-s .n ^he normal *^»faHi withonr
*V,Mrn n^y^ g ' jwa ry . "he n*^'^ ^ iii«ivetl to "tie r^ar by hi\n,
r.*^ore afiv:nsf "he ^T>miiism«i» f«'ir pbHehis: llii»wtii
'|/»ne wfMn covfrr can he 3*«tired neakr liMt
jThk'h r/> pftirtc ; anrf in 201 ns inu> a<rn€m- mr on
!»e ^vnxmf)»f\ ondcr ei9irer and nwfed. formal 09^
I
The mn1e« are linfe*»<l. The aear oackar proceeds to t&e Y^m
<4 \lfm ^fAnrtvsk and te^irto the son miiie. Tlie off pmsker ^oeiEi t^
fh<^» Vf*fff 6/ the ^'/^iinui arid tiiKe>» Kjajt 'here u/ .jht«erve the n>a<i
«r./1 «<^»e that ♦^hey rifle properly. The gnn and ammiinitiol
^|iia/]f( mar^'h at route step at uie head, reaz^ or Jianfe of tbi
/'Ojumn, a« directed.
f^ nuymi th£ bmmal moeb raoa b^ute mbem.
7 he /'ht^ /^ $>(#<^fc>fi <y)fniiMnid» p99tm, movcff a tittle to on^
ff/f^, half« t/» a)U/w the colnmn to rj^iw by. observes carefully
wh/'OK'f fK^* fwii^<» hfttfh pr*>per!y reMimerl and k»ds are riding
}trff\tt*r\^, ciUiM'n any ner^e5««iry adjiijftments to be made, ani
r/>«rrrrf^f( Mm r><'^t at tbe bea4 of the colmmL
M^ rrrajT frf^^ed^ the cottimaiMl ^tf^fa by girin^ tbe ciHmii&ivl
hUitfiihfi, >/ neeefwary,
Itf I. Th^ ^nri M|tiad ta reaf)o«Mfb]e for the care of flie loal
t'ntf)f'i\ hy Hie $rtif| mule, incloding the hangers, and als& fo^
fff# h«<aTy ftftren^Mng too)««
Tfn* hwwimmnti aritiitd ta raaponaible for:
AiitwuiiUUm hffxpn»
Anirnfinltlmi hfUn.
hUUm. , ,
hoxi»R
|IM(III >tfliif^t*R.
\ \
DRILL OF THE SECTION. 43
The packers are responsible for the care of :
i Tbe mules.
The aparejos.
' Saddles. . . }
I Bridles.
Halters. .'
I Coronas.
\ Blankets. .;.'.:.:•
I MiseellaiieouB mule and hor«eeQuipn>eiitB.
I • ' • . •■ ':.'•-•.•■■,•
I' •
>■ '
t ,
/
I
I i
.1 ,1
« I '
• 1
...') {,.»•
(
' ; . J I - * >
11?^. T'^k V;>*«-./tn 'T.Tr.rriflr.iipr .3 "r-''»>«»n!nbl^ for ii^ m.sa--«
^*"r ,""'"»K"'« »f li<* . >,t«K ii, ;u ^viiiir ins ^sjsrrrK'rioQ. ,h
, '«r 'v ♦♦•/• '••jti^a of -w^r^tion .nsfrripr ^tie •'•moar 'iivigaons - h
;,'"♦' A'l -'/•p/<M»»», .I»^ -^loo'v 'livi.^ionij .»j: tiie ;)ia.tCHHL ' ^
.!<^ jriMy fK' nf*f*'''*'firy, if*» r'^iis*»s "lie aienii>*rs «»f Iiis pia.to«.|- j
.'♦•Kiy ,iT»rt ro/\u» ^i^h ;x>r'W>n« of tlip niae*iiiie-^nin ilrill i:^..»-.^j
plH/'/'jti, >t'i4 ^n\tor'\*¥*i* ti»<* ^ar»* of its auiinals and eqaipm^Qt!i
t*A'-^. Th'* j>lMt<^»/>n iH fomif^ft wirhont packs in line, w-itii ^
jfif/'r ';») of if y>»r^1«< lykt.rorm <v»r-tjoTift.
r/t. T''r forrn tl»A plrtfoon without pocks, tlie pl&tooii s«
ffi'.irtt fnk/'^^ ^K»«t 4 ynnlH in front of and facin;? the point i
\,c (ff^'(*ro^] fry H»^' ^^nf^r of tJw^ platoon anil commands: FMLL ii
'f h^ »'^^tlM»^ ftr^ forr»»M in nnmerical order fn>m.K|gi^t to le|
Wfi/Ti flT^ <•h^^f« ^/f «»^'fkm have v«^il«d tbe fonnatioift of tli^
rcfioriM. fh'\y fn^^ to th^ /r<mt and ttie platoon sergeant eojq
\\u^ ohU^fn tft nK'M/rMH wilnt« and report in order from riei
In \ofi ; /^//y^r (Oft 9UCH) BiCTfOM, PRESENT, or SO^AS^o^
(Ik* ftlMfHMtt fvortfcMtif fn(«(>N nbont^ Mnlutes the platoon con
tliMlMlfi-. iinH li'lMirlHi «/^, THE PLATOON 18 FORMED, or Si
AND Htf UltftfMr.
tlM llioh lMUt«M tHn pttM wtUuMit command In the line of aj
iloMjMM In ti»Hf nf Un» rriitni* of tin* lino.
»i'ita |OMltHin HMnnmndiM* Inkon tH«*ltlon 8 paces in front of th
mil, fnt'intt lln» llni» In tinu* to rwolve the report, inak<
i|»<Mtlon Mw \\\' wM»w \\\ \\\\\\ tnki^ iH>8t 4 imces in front <
ki* iif tht* |\lHtmvn IVivlnir U^ tUi» fr\Mit
■Hii:,
X ^ *,-- -
>^-- 'it
i 4 4 --^
A
ni» M / •' -M 'U I Uir WftMDUT PACK. PAR. 124.
PUtoon eergeant
THE PLATOON IN LINE. PAR. 126.
XII.
2nd sect ion Platoon com«nanaer l5t^ sectior
• XXBII.L OF THE FI#ATOOK. 45
This is the ttonual formation of a mactilne-gnil pMtoon In line
ithout pack, *nd will be refferred to as " The Katoon in Line
[Ithout Pack." ( Plate XI. )
125. A platoon without packs fs maneuTered by the same
anchi and means as a detachment of Infantry, substituting
word " Platoon '' for the word " Detachment," and the word
tion " for the word "Squad " in the Infantry Drill Regula-
8-
THE3 PLATOOlf IW LINB, "WITH PACKS.
126. The sections are formed abreast of each other, the sec-
with the smaller numerical number on the right, each see-
in the normal maneuver column. The interval between
ions is the depth of a section plus 4 yards.
The post of the platoon commander is midway between the
tions and on line with the leading mules, facing the fronts •
The post of the platoon sergeant isnddway between the sec-
foas and on line with the rear mules, facing the front.
,The transportation, under charge of the packers of the supply
tain, takes such position as may •l>e assigned to it, but do^s not
11 in with the platoon. • .
This fonnaticm of the platoon wiUi pack will be referred to as
The Platoon hi Line." (Plate XIL>
127. For action the platoon is formed in line of secttons at
ch interval as may be necessary, each section In tiieforma-
m prescribed for the section in action.
The platQ^Nqi. sergeant supervises the operations of the supply
ivVfilons, and. for that purpose usually consolidates the supply
^vifiions of the two sections, under the two Off packers, tor the
fccessary trips to and from the supply depots. •
IE PLATOON, BEING IN LINES, UTITHOUT PAC]K:S» '9*0
FORM mriTH PACKS*
128. The platoon commander marches the platoon to a point
iveniently near where ^ts e^ulimients are secured and com-
inds : 1. Sections opposite your equipments, 2. MARCH.
At the command MARCH, each chief of section marches his
etion to a point adjacent to its equipments and forms it in line
cing toward the equipments.
The platoon commander may now cause the platoon to saddle
Dd pack in detail by giving the same commands prescribed for
Jt/Vt fjtv*^ I
*-» •' ■**» ♦•••to f M> u«'niM*,i p- til* snu smut rf ^^^fc*- 1
*-"^'' -»' «•'. f»-»- jv»»-. ;i,. I'TriuiLLi'j: a tii* 'lUfTTtHii. m |
* '*•*- • *• '-•'.Ji i^'t:it,t u- ULiv^ .Alt* litis*..
•i-N*! u^t iv>« iijt»v»«/' jo" •!»» (iij't^^M II nil* -viuunH"
J -vii^vv *»k-.fc^„M. V. i*^fr\j fi*j t**ji7r^ fr* -til* "faiisfe »^ s»e<^
>./^^ i,v^>v» vc • -x» juiii,wv> ' viiitii;;uu*^ >#e}#l^ - rMrmr- ^qj. post!
■'■'*' ' '-^ "-^ ' '' ■'■ "J '--t •*»*; * >"■ 'M fr tfX JHT?r«^ *l? -f y
* .' "' ^ '■''■if "^ ■*' "/# ^k-f.^t* -tj-i-jw* ♦cTjf't, j«f|®OflB5
••»
' '' ''Mm/ tH'tt-'h^,* na ihitw$'iuii{t in formation ftw t^
I'j ; ^' " '""^" '**♦*- >-''''0'm/' 0/ MM o« >ii»rwl«e directed bv
' * I.']"*
♦•' |I''Imi m HMM.Miij».t Iftiw.fi lajfiiMni at the bead of
I I > • 4 ,
||.- j»i«u'j.hi„ ,\{ UM»U. m"»t».r htiiifN Mro resumed by
4v^ > -kit ^^ l«l r'H****^
* ^^' i'>v^'-. V. .'., .^,v^lo ^V-.o xxiH^ro its eqi
^ — .^ >. -. .....* ,„.^ .,. ,, .,. ,^, x,^ ^.,, ^^^ comma
Plate XIII.
THE PLATOON IN COLUMN.
PAR. lao.
Ist. section
Platoon commander
2nd- section
D
D
D
D
Q
a
D
Q
Q
Q
D
Platoon sergeant
1.3^ ^jl^^s^ icoi^oana]:^^ w^.be gi7en-,habit^^ in -the fver
ribed order, and inspection will be made habitually by the
ttoon commander «]^Qfe the^platpon^aU^into-he marched to
fcrters \rJt^out packs. The dismissal of the platoon will
I be fib^tened by giving the command as one prder, turning
i platoon over to the platoon sergeant, and leaying the io^
action to be ma^e by him, ..On the contrary, the. line up will
fornied, the eguipm^pts secured, mules and equipment duly
qpectecl in every case by the platoon commander In pej^soa.
le iiBportance of this duty is so great that it must always be
rformed with great care, not merely to prevent the loss of
nipment or fix the responsibility for its loss, but also that
\Si care fdxa^ -be giyepa to tha ammfil9v«n(^ a^ ^^^wses ^^ HMi^
operly treated at once.
Aft^ i^e ^eqpipmeQts are secured the platoon, faXla in without
icks and, may be marched to its; quarters and dismissed by ihe
latoon sergeant. >.. . •
135. The platoon^x in auy forma tion, a.|^vaDC6s, mardiea to
le rear, marches by the fiank, or oblijques and r^^mes th'ei direct
larch, and halts by the same commands and means a& pre^
eribed for the section* substitjuting the wprd "Platoon'' ifor
ke word " Section " in the commands prescribed under " The
lection."
When marching in line the guide will always be announced by
Joe platoon commander.
The principles governing rests,} halts in place to correct misr
takes, execution of movements foom a halt pr at an increa.sed
Kit, and announcement of the guide/ ar^ the same as tho^ pre-
ribed in the Infantry Drill Regulations.
During any change of direction, or snoopsalTe formaticav the
ase element is the guide until the completion dt the movement,
rhen the guide will be announced.
BEING IN LINE, TO MARCH TO THE FRONT, ' '. - .
136. 1. Forward, 2. MARCH, 3. Guide (Right or Left).
The movement is executed by each i^ectipn as prescribed 'for
"The Section."
48 DRILL 07 THE PLATOON.
tfnrs m uȣ. at t halt, to form bommK to the frou
1ST. 1. Rishi (ttft), by atellon, 2. MARCH.
Tlio clil*>r of tL(! rljrht section commandB: Fofwanl.
Tin' Plilef irf tlie othef secllou eommands : 1. Forward, !
COLIIMH RMtHT (leFT). i
.\H olilcra or swUon repent the commanfl : MARCH.
'rho rlglit 9Wtloii moi-es forward. The left section cbang
(tirootltm Hrat to the right and then to the left at the commai
of its clilpf. In tiuie to follow In the trace of the first aectM
ll'Inte XiV.)
tr/m m uite. at a halt, to form coluhh to the flaH
)«». 1, Stctlons. 2. Forward tolamn right (Mt), 3. MARCH.
iiicli clilof tif swtion repeats the commands, which si
f xwnt^il im i>rc»iTil>ed for " The Section."
8tM9 in COLBMH. TO FORM OhE TO THE FROMT.
■ I RA. 1 . LtH (W right) front into lim, 2. MARCH.
tr nt n Unit, the chief of tht* lendiu;; section commands; STAi
FAST.
ir OH tlio march the chief of the first section command
Stttion, In time to odd tht* command HALT, when the platM
"'ARCH.
It section moves his section forwan
cieutly to the left to enable him. 1
:tion lo the rijtht, to reach his prop
id halts bis section upon reaching f
XV.)
'orward column right (Itft), 3. MARd
ecuted by each section as presorlbf
to ftorni line to the flank from coIub
ground, the platoon commander coo
(l«ft), 2. MARCH.
Plate XIV. f\
• I
ii
• >
n
ii
/ n
/ I I
• • »
n
I
/ n
:^ I
Z^'
^HT BY SECTION. PAR. 187.
Q
Q \
Q N
Q ' r
PLATE XV.
n
I i
• (
n
• *
• I
• i
? : 9
IJ
t
%
Q
Q
Q
D
Q
Q
D
Q
,0
LEFT FRONT INTO LINE. PAR. 189.
\. — » ".....
•'i
t^
«
. i
— ;r=rz=?:^c=>i:=y
/
i" /
OBIIiXi OF 7m: PLATOON. 49
The iBovemeat is pertonned- In ea<^ sectt^vL ^as .pr«9crn)ed
nder " The Section." .
me IM CMUMN, TO FORM ON RIGHT OR UFT IHTO UHE,
^
142. 1. On right (/eft) into fine, 2. MARPN, 8. PLATOON HALT.
t the commaod MARCH, the leading sectttMi executes colmnn
t as prescribed for "The Section" and halts at the cam*
and of the platoon commander.
iThe rear section moves forward at ttie conuaand MMCH^
|8ses beyond the ground on whidi tiie leading section changed
^tion» and, when opposite its place in the new line, executes
|iumn right by direction of its chief.
The rear section is halted by the Chlel-Noll. Section when It
»ches its proper position. (Plate XVI,) .
BB/NO IN COLUMN, TO CHANWE iN^QTIQN. \ .
148. 1. Column Right (Left, Half Ri^^Htlf.iM), 2. MANCN^
Executed by the first section as prescribed for **Tto« Section.^'
^e rear section follows in the trace of tl^ first section.
I If at a halt the necessary commands for putting the column
K march f onn part of the preliminary command.
\
m IN UNE, TO CHANGE DIRECTION AND CONTINUE THE
MARCH mi
^ • . ..
144. 1. Platoon Right Turn, 2. MARCH, 3. OUIDE RIGHT (LEFT).
The chief of the pivot section commands: Column Right, and
ts the command MARCH.
The chief of the section on the marching flank gives the neces-
^ command for conducting his section at .an increased gait
its proper place on th^ line and reducing Its gait to- conform
^ the base section after reaching his position;
145. If it be desired to change front to the right witlraut
ainiDg ground the chief of platoon commands : Iv Platoon Ri^ht,
fHKRCH. : F
^he base section ^sefiQIes Soctkn RIfM As prescribed for the
Jrtion. The section on the marching flank is conducted bj the
*ief of section to its proper position and h*ilted.
1230-16 i ■
50 DKXLL 09 9Hfi »I:.A9?00K;
BEMO IM UHE M OBLUMH, TO Clt^MSTHE OmBCTWIt Of TH
MARCH TO THE REAR.
146. fbe C&lef of Platoon ccmmmli!^'. 1. ' O^ontemai^h,
MARCH.
If In line be adds the commattS : Ovfde Rfphf fW Dik).
' The movemeat Is escecHted by each sectfbd as prescribed *
*♦ The Section." '
Bimo III ims OR coluihh, to r ace to the rear wnnn
OAIMIHO OROOHO^
■••••' ■ •"■■ • ■ • •- J
147. The Chief of Platoon commands : 1. S06ti6nm, 2. m
(LbH^ About ». MARtH. -
The movement is executed as preseribed for '* TIi* Section.''i
BEmomimE; to closv on ^rmutiBTBi^tiALs.
14». 1. On '^Skch) Swfhl^ ^ To* (Sb Mwif)' fnr4^ Close (I
i0i9d),S. MARCHv
If at a halt, the ba^ section stands fast. 'The other secti^
Is marched by thef flank, obllqoed to the r«ar, marched to tl
front when at the proper interval, . and halted aboreast of ti
base section.
If on the march, th^base section continues the' tnai^h att
same gait ; the other section changes the direction of the uiar(
toward or from the base section until the head of the coloi
gains the proper interval andthmi marches, to the front. Tl
base section 'is halted by* the platoon- commander at the desi
position by the command : Platoon H^xtfy. The other section h
on rcffl-cliin^ its place on the line.
If the moTement Is to be executed withont a halt, the pin to*
commander puts the platoon' in march and indicates increas
gait in his preparatory command. The ba«e section contina
the march. T^ o^her section takes up the increased gait ai
^con^rms to the gait of the base section on reaching its pU
in line.
FOBMItThm-FOHAOTiOH.
1.40. The platooa.. commander indicates to each chief of ^
I the position to be occupied by his section, and command
ION FRONT (REAR, RIGHT OR LEFT).
DBILL OF THE PLATOON. 51
The movement is executed as prescribed for the section.
150. In all movements wbere elements of the platoon reach a
isition successively the platoon commander may cause the rear
ement to move at an increased gait by giving proper command
r that purpose. The base element stands fast, or continues
le inarch. The rear elements conform to the gait of the base
bment by command of the chief of section, on reaching their
•oper position.
151. All the movements prescribed for the section inay be
lecuted simultaneously by command of the platoon commander,
Kfixing the command Sections to the preparatory command,
id announcing the guide when necessary.
flOnMEMTS OF THE PLATOON COMBINED WITH INFANTRY.
,152. When the infantry is In line:
2'he post of the platoon is in line 24 yards to the left of the
h element of infantry.
when the infantry is In column :
jThe pest of the platoon is in colui^m with the head of the
Pumn 24 yards in rear of the last element of the column of
fantry.
When the infantry is closed in mass:
Jhe post of the platoon is in line 24 yards in rear of the rear
ttient of infantry.
When the battalion is in line of columns at close interval :
The post of the platoon is In column on the flank, at an
terval of 24 yards.
^nMENTS OF THE PLATOON AT DRILL WITH AN INFANTRT
CM HI AND.
*153. The movements of the platoon, when maneuvered with
fentry, conform to the movemenrts of the infantry, and are
tecuted at the command of the platoon commander.
, . ^ >* .. .. * /«. / .** ' ,«.-*,t 4 «. lif :ii»r ^J 'j**^ ^ -ibe
, ># ,/..',« ,.-t 4 'ii /■/<♦'►!» ♦ill »;.iL 'i»^ "2.»» "Soil*. aLr.J sol
«
■ff, ttffffffff* -yrtfU U'*^*' ff^tf**'* r^^^rer and cmpper atta
^ t ,.,t f,tf tf" fih*f^ti tf*m(^*f Uf UifT r«air; the sa»inpe end of
, in ff i,^t""t,f\ htHfttuU M*** fr»ftM' frora the near to tbe off
(h -'ttt Hfn f*'"l ^Wll^/l >r«''k nrw^^^tblf tram eack side on top
L huhih^ Iff^ ^/fMfM»^ r^uM, rotimlftd edges to tlie front, m
„ f (i|i |il»M»ff MM UiV iif Hut ffttwe, and on it placed the brid
In ii|hI».»I ♦(♦♦•«m fii'lU'lnrt fmm <hmt, etc., the paulin may
(1,1.,. I, H...I H»H» |M»il» imil mMMiml by pn wing the thongs unde
II )|(|| iii(. Mi«MM«l»MUMl h I UK nH» omln of each together.
H,„ |imh,'h»< Willi nmh- loMilw UiHluHl In place, are not nec<
^"' " •iHMmV !illi»*i »"*^»''« «Mi» \»Iw<hM with the loads to which th^
i\m^ >\\\\\ \y\\^ss\^ WW Vi*\vt \w \\w\T iwpective hange^
v^ nw »i.\y>v\^ v>^>M H'^y^wMH. «v^ l«Tt w^th tbe gun pacR
S>S^,.^M \A\-^ \\^\> h X\>M\M WJ^ki^ It *dTl5«b1e to stol
\N,A ^>\\^ ^\>j^\\ ^\^KV\^ fnHV^t^tt^ tt\«i tiie pack&
ABBANGEMEKT OF EQT7IFMSNT. 53
The cargo, and belly cinches should be placed with the load to
lich each belongs.
The number of each pack should be placed above the space
otted to it, and the number of each section placed above the
ftter of the space allotted to it.
The horse equipment of the mounted men should be hung on
itable pegs, each in the immediate vicinity of the packs of the
!tion or platoon to which the men belong.
157. In Camp. — The aparejos of each section should be ar-
iiged in numerical order, fronting the picket line, about 10
tds from and parallel to It; the center aparejo being in rear
! the center of the space allotted to that section ; each load
rectly in rear of its corresponding aparejo; the bridle, etc.,
longing to each aparejo placed on top, as in garrison. If prac-
able, the loads and aparejos should be raised slightly from
fe ground.
E^ch gun should be mounted and placed on the flank of the
ption to which it belongs, adjacent to the gun pack and point-
i toward the the picket line, except during inclement weather
at night, when they should be under cover if practicable.
The horse equipment of tha minted men should be on a line
^ and close to the aparejos of the section to which they
long.
THE KIVGLISH PACK OUTFIT.
fl58. The entire outfit may be stored in the place provided
f that purpose,. laid o^t and carefully arranged in the follow-
Border, viz:
|Prom entrance to rear of -fiitall or oitore roon-r—
first peg. — Blind; hung from top loop, stencil mark to the
I front.
Becond peg, — Halter bridle ; j:«Ans, lead strap, and crowu piece
I on the i)eg, with brow band to the fcont; rings hanging
I evenly.
'^hird peg.^-Fhcki&t line hunip.by the ring; picket pin without
I the coil.
fourth pea*— Load clncha in rear of pack saddle when not
I being used.
fifth peg. — Breast band and pack saddles.
^nimunition boxes and hangers, — On waist-high shelves be-
tween third peg and pack saddle sawhorse, off-side los''
nearest front of stall, hanger loops to the rear.
!<-• ■ vrm.'JLr*! ~ _'...-_
o -.ma a -he- JJ "gny of
' " -* .— • "-„i_ -►-•i ■. .: :r mi-kJiuI :;iuaiii».
'.r.i. ^ "-^r.^.-nifiir : i- 2.v:i adt. 3ia^ "^e- js ft
» • • ■..-.- u "1.- ^r-M.uu r ^2LJtt(i tn. tw»: oro
' ^^ P .'•'• ...:... -Za.-Ii. J "-TT-f+i. 4& ~Op jf tJilS- 131111
;-. '...,., «- v'l' ->#► ^%»',r .r.nimTiF*l rinii ^ff v ifrwl or dft tbe liar
^A^ TfA ST., '','7 Ah/v^ arid orber stoves will be ki^it in t
^«. ; r'.r'rr -, /f ,^'«r'*rf^M 'm Ji r*#mveQieiit and 4)tder|j' mannerJ
>^ ff.',^u<- nff/l ftA/«A4i.«Afy fr»^rf^riAl will be cbtalned fttmi ^
f f / f^iMffff Af/fr* w?M fM» ^rffnifiicd in Tear of tbe top frame
f Mf f f.'t' f' Hf ^f^/ h ««/'ti/m, wb<!re they will be kept at i
iUtU'ti «''•'' ('^ '*'hhti ut UM* l« fh4: fienrice of tbe piece.
iwf»« itill fN> kpft <^i the gana, except wben tbe guj
THE HACHlNE-GrN PLATOON IN THE FIELD.
, 16 1, The pi:ecei5t;s toxmO^ ia.the Drill Kegulations of the three
rms and iu the Field Service Regulations in regard to marches,
imps, and combat may . be accepted as applying with equal
>rce to n>achine-gun organizations. . . :
162. On the march the machine-gun comibandet is confronted
rith an additional problem which is not met with In other
ruis. Part of his command is composed of men on foot, whose
ate of march, if they carry the Infantryman's load, can not
preatly exceed that of infantry, and who should be allowed the
isual ten tnlnutes^ rest per hour.
On the other hand, he has in his coliimn 10 pads ttiules. The
3iit of the well-trained, well-seasoned pack mule is the'run-
ilng walk' and will average over 4 miles per hour..
To lessen the probability of sore bacts, the pack mules should
)e marched at a steady gait and with as few halts as poissible.
To reconcile .these two conflicting requirements is the ma-
9iine-gun commander's problem on the march.
163. Wiien the machine-gun unit is marching with an in-
fantry command and Is assigned a position In the column, It
must of course conform to the gait of the Infantry, ^uch a
gait is very trying to pack animals, as the loads do Mt ride so
^sily as when the mule can travel at the running walk.
In view of this fact, machinergun units should never form an
fcitegral pajt ot an infantry column on ** ordinary marches."
(F. S. R.) '
104. In marches in campaign, and marches )nt6 action, tac-
tical considerations are of paramount importance, and machine
iguns are assigned their place In column solely with a view to
fthelr most effective use in action.
165. The route march will habitually be in column of sec-
tions in route order.
55
.va«- *o»'n»v*»ft ir "ii«- ia<'*iffl» -mil -ttt lai* Tnniis: rn c«>]oi^
*in^«»^ *.i-,iu *<'.aninia». ^ii*- fismnce *7i *fK ^arft trasa an<l b(
•X^AAn. /»nn-rArf»r urrli tiut eieiLy » «5;5«ei3»t4. tkp men wi
ICffpfMl. nv?ttfftfi9i tj ouicfiLni^-sTiii jIa.!:o»?cs wu! more often
fft^tf'U-^ f4 nufUff 10 miUA ra tenstii and will nsiudljr ari
ff/ifrti 0#4^ ft^'i««*tf|r rrf ccenpyiB^ a certain i)M^tioii within
^t'o *^9ftUUr iU(r flijnr»minted men to oorer dkort distances
tf^iftti^^iy hifgtt rzur» of sfjced, thej are not required to c&rry
r\t\i*, fiU(\ th^rJr blanks roll* are carried by the pack moles
Mi^ ^MM»I/ tXMhStm of tbfrfr section.
To fttfthfrf Sxu'taeim their marching ability, the men sbonl
t^4< r«rf*fuUy tauKiJt nnd constantly practiced in the flexio
W«<kf but thi'lr jcalt should never be so fast as to require 1
CMti of »fiy kfnd. '
\\\m\ fill* WJ<'ii become proficient in this method of locoinotiol
llMty will tM« Mbl« to keep up with the pack mule's runnin
W«ll4 wllluMil (tlHfn'KU of wind or limb. !
illti Otio of »1m! most Important duties of the platoon conj
iHiHubM' on llio iiiiirch 1h the strict supervision of the distribii
lion of Uit< pM('l( animals* loads.
KINi M'ho followlnK 1m tho usual distribution of loads, whic^
will lio nttMtinod by order of the platoon commander as ci<
iMinibdnunm I'lMjntiH*:
w
Fintjpule.
Mnbat DivfeioA.
Second mule.
Third mule.
Inpply Division.
Fourth male.
Fifth mule,.
Qqh.
Tripod.
Tool box.
2 eanmunltlon boxes.
Speoe besrels tad caaas.
Filling cup.
7 ammunition boxes.
2 water boxes.
Ibat6liet»
1 wire cutter.
2 shovels.
1 pick mattoek.
4 signal flag, 2-foot kit
^ ammunition boxes.
2 water boxes.
4 blanket tolte.
1 sledge hammer.
6 ammunition boxes.
2 water boxes.
3 blanket rolls.
Platoon sergeant's roll by one section, the
., picket pins by the other.
7 ammunition boxes.
1 belt filler.
3 blanket rolls.
Rigging covers by one section, picket line
by the other.
169. On ordinary marches, i. e., when the machine guns are
irchlng alone, the conduct of the march should be governed
the following:
1. The start should not he made earlier than an hour after
^nrise. This is especially applicable when grazing is depended
l»on.
I As animals will rarely drink freely at an earlier hour, the
tecessity of watering before taking the road will prohibit an
Hrlier start.
In extreme southern or trppical latitudes this will of necessity
^ve to be modified and an earlier start made In order to
|void marching in the heat of the day. In this case advantage
ttust be taken of every opportunity to water the animals during
ihe march.
2. As soon as the column reaches the road the route order is
taken.
If the gun and ammunition squads of the two sections are con-
ioUdated and march together, they are under the immediate
•opervision of the senior chief of section.
The pack train is under the immediate supervision of the
platoon sergeant.
98
The platoon commaiider takes post where he can best super
vise the march of the whole.
3. At the end of the first half or three-quarters of an hour oj
the road, a halt of abont ten minutes is made to allow the men t|
relieve themselves, to permit tightening of cincha8i» and to adjus
the loads if necessary. I
The march Is then resumed, and in each succeeding hour tli
platoon marches fifty-fi%'e minutes and halts for five minute^
Advantage is taken of the halts to tighten cinchas and lashin
and to readjust saddles and loads.
170. In marches over a rugged country the animals mu
be unlinked and, if there is no bell horse provided, a man d
tailed to lead each animal. The gun mule is always I
Animals must not be hurried in making ste^ ascents or d
scents, and, especially in long uphill work» frequent halts niu
be made to enable both man and beast to rejgain their win
These halts are never made at the will of individuals, howevei
but are made by order of the platoon commander, who regulate
them according to his judgment and dtseretion.
In marches over rough country, and also in marches on narro^
trails or through defiles, the platoon commander, with two o|
nloro men dc^tailed to accompany him, usually precedes the eol
nmn In oM^r to take timely note of any bad places in the trail
causes obstructions to be removed, and makes such proTlslons a|
niny l)e necessary to guard against acciderit and also ngaiu^
any lnterrui>tlon of the ttiarch. <. - j
171. In fording streams men should be stationed on tU
downstream side to keep the animals well up and clear of oil
Htacles or i)oor footing.
If the crossing is too deep for fording, the material is take
across on rafts and the animals required to swim.
Men In boats or on rafts should be t>oSted on the downstreai
pide to ket»p the animals clear of obstacles and to aid the weal
swlmmcrB if necessary.
1 72. When streams are crossed on pontoon or flying bridge)
the Animals are unlinked and a leadt&r assigned to e&eh. The
are led on the bridge one at a time, the most docile ones takiri
the lead in order to encourage the more timid.
adjustment of saddles and loads Is done by the tvP
who march in rear of their sections, the packers 1
»t!on alternating In this duty from day to day.
i73. When a pack requires adjustraeut, the packer. In.who^e,
section the animal belongs catls to the other packer, unlink^ the
Qiule, If other than the leading, mule, and tlieu continues the
march, keeping the mule in his place in column.
The second packer leaves his section, and, if the pule be other,
than the first or last, unlinks the nxule in rear and' calls C/ear.
When the second packer calls C/ear, the first packer leads the
mule, whose pack is to be adjusted, quickly out of the coli^mn,
on the near side if practicable, and, if possible, cpntinues. the
tnarch abreast of the section until the.secbnd packer joins hihL
The second packer, as soon as the mule has been cut put of
the column, leads forward the mule that he has unllntoed,sat
an increased gait, and links him to the rear mule of those' In.
front. He then joins the first packer. The two packers now
lead the mule clear of the column so that the march of any
troops in rear may not be delayed, and then adjust the load as
required.
As soon as the load is adjusted they return the mule to his
place in column as quickly as possible and resume their posts.
If it is the first mule that needs attention,, the first packer,
after calling to the packer in the other section, takes the leading
rein from the other packer In his own section, who now falls
back, unlinks the second mule, and calls Char, The first packer
now cuts the mule out of the column and continu.es the march
as before.
Should the last mule be the one that needs attention, the first
packer calls to the second, unlinks the nuile, cuts him out of
column, and continues the march until the second packer joins
him, when they proceed as before.
The following extract from /* f ack Transportation,*' by Mr.
H. W. Daly, Chlet Packer,. XT.' S. Arniy,. is worthy of special
note: ^ . . ./
"Blind the animal, loosen the lash rope,. and straighten the
load as quickly as possible. Dp not detain him a moment
longer than is necessary. The animal knows how far he has
to travel to catch up and work back to plac.e in the train.
Packers should bear this in mind.
" E^ager to get.back to place in the train, the animal will become
unmanageable and be apt to throw his load.* fthould the animal
break away before his load i$ straightened, he is certain to
throw it, and then, running through the train, dragging the lash
60
rope after him, be will scare others in the train and perhap^
cause other packs to fall off.
*'The animal will stand a reasonable time, but no longer
The animal, having once broken away, the 'bell' animal ba^
to be stopped, the animal caught, led back, and its load pul
on ; three packers are needed, one to hold him while the otheH
put on the load. ;
** Certainly no good packer will cause such trouble and delay^
Packers can not be termed first class if loads fall off wbiu
traveling; attention must constantly be given to animals m
their packs."
174. On strategical marches, i. e., *^ marches in campaign'
and ** marches into action," the post of the platoon commanded
is usually with the commander of the force with which lii^
platoon Is acting. He remains with said commander during
his preliminary reconnaissance of the enemy's position unles^
otherwise directed, and rejoins his platoon upon receipt o
orders to conduct it into action.
Before reporting to and accompanying the commanding offi
cer he conducts the platoon to its proper ix>sition in column
at the designated place and hour, transmits to the platoon ser-
geant all orders he may have received relative to the conduct
of the march and the probable r61e to be played by the platoon
during the impending action, and adds such cautions or iuj
structlons as he may deem expedient ,
175. The following additional precautions must be observed
when marching with an infantry column : ,
1. As the Infantry usually makes an earlier start than is besj
for the pack mules, the questions of forage and water beconi^
of great concern. The animals should be kept on herd during
every available moment, and not be brought in to be saddled ana
loaded a minute, earlier than will insure the platoon being i^
its proper place In column at the hour appointed for the start, j
The platoon commander should ascertain in advance, if pn^-
ticable, the best watering places en route, and, with the con-
sent of the commanding officer, should direct the platoon sergeant
when, where, and how to water the train.
2. The slow rate of march will probably cause the animals
to crowd upon each other and, if not constantly held back, to
irfl on the heels of the infantry column.
MABGHBS. Gl
This will usually ziecessitate unlinking the mules and as-
signing men from the gun and ammunition squads as leaders
for each.
The constant holding back on the mules is yery fatiguing
to the men leading them, and they should be relieved at least
every hour, if practicable, as soon as the '^Halt'* is sounded*
in order that they may obtain the benefit of the ten minutes
rest
3. During . the hourly halts special care must be taken to
prevent the mules from rubbing, their packs against each other
and dislodging them, and also to prevent their lying down.
During long marches, or marches in the Tropics in the heat
of the day, it will often be found necessary to remove the side
loads at every halt after tine third hour oil the road, the loads
being replaced and secured in time to move out promptly when
the " Forward '* 1« sounded.
4. If the infantry halts during 'the noon hour the train must
ite parked and the mules allowed to roll and, if practicable, to
graze also.
5. Should any unusual delay occur in the progress of the
march the platoon commander will - ascertain Its probable du-
ration, and, if the time and circasolstances appear to warrant
it, will cause his train to be parked, as prescribed for' the noon
halt.
176. As soon as the day's march is completed, the animals
are unloaded and unsaddled as expeditiously as possible.
The platoon commander makes a minute inspection of all
animals as soon as their backs are bare and directs the platoon
sergeant to detail certain packers to care for any "bunches"
or abrasions that may be ftmnd.
The other packers immediat^y clean the corcmasand place
them to dry.
The platoon commander, having completed his inspection for
"bunches," now inspects the mules' feet, and gives tiie neces-
sary instructions in regard to shoeing or treatment, according'
to the requirements of each case. '
Having seen the mules properly Cared for, the platoon com-
mander proceeds to a thorough inspection of saddles and equip-
ments; causes aparejos to be' replaced, if necessary; and causes
lost or broken parts to be replaced or repaired without delay.
I'Zr : , •.<... - . .^ — . :_^..=- -. TraHt «€ 'Sip «dbj€cts
*r * r*j'^i.^i, .' • .;. - .-. -T r-. «-^' n. ■ igyi" ' * ti "ii^iirfi the
l>ftirvAn •.-•Ji^-..^wf*-' > -^ ••::--*L T» * uO - rH?*^iil7* 'tP»A Trans-
j^'c <:»'. • ^' :/*- -.-u"^ i:i»r>-^ iL ^- -.^^ir aiiC l»iaefcse.' War
^ tju«r 4du«x'j>. fijjkiy t^ uu^^ jtju ix?ee n^es if 4dbbbA advisable:
<'>ty '^JLrtr it;.'^ 'y| t«t".te.
I7#» 'i J// M' iJ/<^ ^.»y# tun-** ^'f^ffTM} fcrtnc? <if camp:
<//; VttruMfwnt t^r t0ba»n\H% camp.
</// 'iiui i'fiMiP ^ff* rauUt fujirrrbes wbere space is not
if f ^i'iu* i'«iM|* OH nmfe niarcbes wliere space is re-
'Dim (\v<* I«M4'I» i'uinim un* nuidf* <Hther with coDical-wall or
(ilM.ilii) ImmIh, iHiil iWttttf tmiy III flU9 arrangement of tiie line of
I NO. in |(i<iMMiiii<nl I'MiiipM I'onlcii^wall tents arc used by tbe
IMMi. (Mill hH (imHm Mi'it MfNit'Hil If prnctlaable.
mihih IkiiIh Mill tH'iM liltMl MM MliiOtiM* for tlio men at meals aod
hii Ihii I'ImmIhm Mint rMi'Kii
(i^LM |i)ti)MM Utii) (h hlinhdnHl with pAtillnm and a store tenter
MtmUltMl t»»r (h»» i»Mhlfm« ^^f forninx
(UlttM uf <ho (tM\tM, iMMKttttf, nmt plokot line, the arrange-
i.\\\s\\\\ HUO U\%^ \\\\\\vyi\{n l^\\\^ ttlHtances must be pre-
\\\ \\\k\\\\\^\\ \^\\\\\\\\k\\\\Wv «ftt^* duly <raa8ldertng the
(« «^\HUt^M(\ fiu^ «hH*Mo)U» nf tlie leraond, and tlie
*M\>M^ ii^v«^ fli\\ «>^U^mn<M)UI fMttcisr, Tlie llneoi
CAMPS. es
181* When camped with at infantrj commatid the platooa
vrill usually be assigned to camp ground at the head or rear
>f the column. In either case the camp of the platoon is so
irranged that its line' of tent« is next the infantry camp^ at
nich distance therefrom as the commanding officer may designate.
rhe platoon comnojander's tent is on line with those of the
!ompany officers.
The platoon kitchen is on line -with the company kitchens, and
the platoon sergeant's tent on line with the tents of the first
sergeants.
182. Where space permits^ the camp on route marches will
usually have a' form suitable' lo that for permanent camps. \
The mess tent, gun and rigging-store tent, ^forage tent, shelter
for picket line, and lavatory are not used*
When the platoon is encamped in three lines, the -rigging «ind
cargo are placed between the tents and the picket line' and
arranged by sec*t!on at the **liBe up^' with an interval of 20
yards bet\*^een sections, the lines of rigging being pei^pendlcdlar
to the platoon street.
The space between aparejos, and the position of loads, will be
regulated by the platoon commander according to the space
available and the style of rigging and catgo covers used.
183. When space is restricted' the route camp for the platoon
may be arranged with the rigging In a single lihe, parallel to
the line of tents, and the distances and intervals between the
different parts of the camp reduced as required. '
184. When the platoon bivouacs in the line of battle, the
platoon commander, the chiefs of section, and the gun squads
are in the immediate vicinity of the guns;^ the platoon sergeant
and the ammunition squads at the ammtmlttofl station; the
near packers with" the pack animals of the combat division
under the nearest available cover; the kitchen, the platoon
wagon, and the off packers- with the pack animals of the supply
divisions under such suitable cover in rear" of the line, as clif-
cumstances may dictate or proper aiuttiority direct.
185. In permanent or route camps when it is impracticable
or inadvisable to place the picket line near the camp the
packers are quartered together in the immediate vicinity of the
animals. *. ' .
TO MAKE CAMP: /
18l>. BhortlJ^ beforfe itf riving at the fefte selected- for ""*--
camp, the platoon cpj^mfHider causes the men to resume
fr»4»^^tAii Uw tM pjatMtt mtnfPiOi waere ibe bmb's teals are
^/^ //i*/'?*^, tri^ M^^ti^* of tae t:tci»« te-nt aafca^ ud his owl
i^tt, ftftn tf¥m frt'oeeeds Up m^a^JL^ tlie iDspectifla prescribed ii
If nU*'i^irr t«nU are to be oaed the i^tooa sergeant asseffl
^fk*« flMf pinUjfm smI csimes tiie teots to be pitidied oo tbe Uik
Ut^tU'MiM Iff tbe piaUftm eotsmaiiider,
'/ Afttn are iAU:hed bj tbe eonuDSiids and in tbe maimer pre
Wf\Sit'(\ Su InfHntry LiriU Begalatioiia. Details are tben made
f/r t'4fiupi4iit^ tbe camp*
f f <'oriti'Ml wftil feota are used, tlie wagon is first unloaded, tbi
UU''it^it imihUllMkHilt and tben each section pitches its own teoj
or Imtin uiaiff ^irwiUm of its chief, the platoon sergeant super]
tlMliiM thif whtfia and verifying tlie alignment.
iUtut\i in Hum cmnpleted as before. i
I'lHMi IiIh i'owipUfiUm of bis infi9>ection of animals, etc, tM
pin loon (•ornmaiuU'r Insiiects the camp to see that his instruct
iloMN rMtfHrdlfig it have been carried out
TO BRSAK CAMP.
^, 1'lm piti'UofN r!w« nt mioh a time aei will enable them
wiitnr, Kroom, nud Middle their animals; make up tbeir
nilJH nud dopoMii thorn at the place designated for
' nmrttttHMl si^paratoly at tbe picket Wv^ strife Uieir
TOOa iPXiATOON JXi ACTZOOf. 05'
kmt and toiiiflr.lt tb iiie poiBt wliere tbe wagoo is t9 lie l^ded;
ud have their animals at. tlieir loads ready te pnok and start at
Ihe appointed hour..- . '•
THeorace not tfequired to attend rev^lle roll call.
When tents have been struck, the wa^on loaded* and ttw police
If camp ground •cQinpteted*«a<^:Ph|ef of section assembles his
lection at its^ rigging line, sphere tl^e packers, by. this time, will
liave brought the mules.
The platoon is now formed with packs as prescribe^ in para-
Baph 126, the Chief of Section assigning leaders to each mule»
io that tbe packers may take, up the picket line and loa4 it.
rhis being done, all take their posts. ,,
TH£ PLATOON IM ACTION.
ISS. Machine guns have no independent rOle in action.
Machine-gun fire supplements and augments infantry fire,
and hehce the positions and mbvements of the machine gun
platoon will l)e governed Idrgely by the positions and mpy€^•
^ents of the command with which it is befting. ' '■ •-
The greater vulnerability of machine guns compared to in-
ftntry and the difficulties of ammunition supply within the zone
of effective rifle fire, operate to restrict to some extent the for-
ward movements of machine guns in offensive actions.
, 189. The duty of locating the enemy and of obtaining informa-
^on concerning him usually devolves upon other troops.
When a position has been assigned for occupation by machine
^ns, the platoon commander will make a personal reconnais-
jBance of the ground before advancing his guns, satisfying him-
self of the practicability of the advance so far as the trails are
concerned.
This duty is so important that it should always be performed
by a commissioned officer, who should then act as guide in the
movement to be executed.
When the enemy is near, such reconnaissance should be made
on foot with due regard to concealment from view.
190. The choice of a position is subject to the limitati<Hi8 im-
posed by the front assigned to the command.
In the selection of a position, the following considerations
should govern:
1. The field of fire should be as extensive as possible and
without dead space.
7230—10 5
3. Tlif pnBK miMt )« ao ftamfl m aot te I rtafa * wiUi Uc
opfiitlnnf) nf ottatn- tmopi; of 'dM' nwiiiwiiiil
it. fV)npeu1meiit Trtiai liew aud cover lumt toe Aonld b<
Mitifitit : itut rh«w iHiiHiidererriHH -AhoU aot be iwaw lt t ed ti
Jtmh pffnrtfraooKH «f Br*.
4. FnMllty of-Bonp);^. liiiliiiTlin iliW mtH-, aDd load
G. P^HIlty of movenMOA to chhp (tum^ tf ptarittoD beconid
necessarj-.
191. FtrtiignTff<Tie^ertmif f i l cii a ; Ui wp e te m ■dmtgJbt
]»riic*fliirp, and It tifaniilfl hp Tponiled 1« wfcui th» terniln I
fcvnTBMc and Hie M>nfflttom' tmS rtr«iiM«tan«« of »he «rtl"
demand It
In the chotoe of a position, wiH this end in rtew, ndnmtag
Edtonld be takoi of f^levatmnB md (itm4) d^lade as tbe fn^om
mar admit of to k«acu tbe danger to one's awn troope Id all t!t
stages of tbe action.
As a rule, wben tbe oonunand of tbe position occnpled is bo
great, eucb firing slionld not t>e undHtaksi at a range less tliu
1,000 Tatds from tlie objective.
CB4kFrSB JX
CEREMOJ^IES. .
192. At ceremonies with infantry, th^ post of the platoon is
the same as at dtlll. '
At the command Prepare for inepect ion, or Prepare fbr Reriew,
iy the commander of infantry, the chief of platoon repeats the
commands and adds MCtlOH PHONT at the command of execu-
tion.
In this case, the gun mule only is unpacked. Animals are
act linked unless the platoon I3 working with reducecl numbers.
The gun mule is repacked at the command of the platoon
commander when the commander of infantry gives the com-
mand for closing ranks, or when the Inspection is completed.
The platoon follows the command to which it is attached
when passing In review. It passes the reviewing otPcer in line
when practicable. Only the chief of platoon salutes. Enlisted
men will conform to the requiinements of the Infantry Drill.
Eegulatlons..
193. At Inspections, when the Inspecting officer approaches,
the section oh the right is prepared for inspection as follows :
The pointer raises the cover, withdraws the handle block,
split pin, and the handle-block body, which he retains in his
hands in such a way that they may be seen by the inspecting
officer.
Number 1 throws the roller handle forward, turns the lock out
of the casing, and leaves it lying on top of the side plates.
Number 2 removes the nozzle, which he holds in his hand,
turning it so that the inspecting officer may see the inner and
outer surfaces.
Number 3 removes the top tray of the tool box, which he places
on tlie lid of the tool box in such a way as to expose the interior
of the box to view.
The member of the ammunition squad nearest the pack on
which the belt-flUing machine is carried removes the box, which
he opens and places on the ground at his feet.
The inspecting officer inspects the gun, the tool box, animals,
and equipment of the right section, and then those of the left
section.
6T
r.ic
LS-
.,, .,- ii.«> i»i Hie tool box. aiiu -
I ♦
• ' ' ^ Chafteb 3t.
JAMS.
* • • ' . •
. mSTfiUGJieN OF GUN mJ ADS.
To insure promptness and accuracy on the part of the
.ads in the reduction Of jams, their caused land reduc-
st be thoroughly gone over, both practlcially and theo-
, the' instructor r^^ulring eachi man to state aloud each
1 the reason therefor, and the method of reducing the
is good instruction to derange the adju^ment of the
require the readjustment to be made by separate mem-
.lie gun squad.
The determination of the causes of jams and their re-
are simple matters when intelligently and systematic-
mpted. Tinkering ignorantly with the parts of the
m is criminal carelessness; but maladjustment through
' or neglect is Inexcuflable and liable to cause Jhe
onsequences in action. The use of much force, violent
force the parts to work properly by blows of a ham-
: the like, are sure evidence of ignorance or loss of
machine fun Is a -dellcatfe piece df machinery. It Is
ine,.the moving parts of which vibrate at the rate of
► times per minute under a pressure of some 30,000
' the square Inch. If these parts are accurately ad-
')ricated, and ket)t In pi^per condition they will func-
rly. // ndtf the cause must be found and removed, not by
', bof bf careful, inteff/genf examination and adjustment.
has been fouhd by experience that certain jams are
)cctir while firing the Vlckers Maxim Machine Gun.'
lount of tnterruptioh bf fire that results from these
' depend upon the instruetion of the gun squrfd; With
<tructed or careless men, the results may be so serious
the piece out of action and jeopardize the accompllsh-
its mission in an engagement With well-instru<
69
70 JAHS.
men, Btrictly alert and attentive to their duties, but little lH'
conTenlence will be eaiiBed by JatUB, for they will seldon
occur, and will be quickly reduced.
IDS. A Jam In a macbine gun is the failure of the mechanisni
to function so that the automatic Sre Is uninterrupted as long
as there are cartridges In the belt and the trigger Is pressed.
199. Jams are classified according to their causes as follows'
, (A) Those whose number may be lessened by reasonabli
, care Id :
(a) AdJuBtment of the mechanism and the care of tlie
1 gun.
I (b) Loading of belts and the maimer in which tliei
are fed.
' (c) Cleaning and olllog of the working parts of tb^
I gun before and during firing.
1 (d) Examination of all ammunition before and aFtei
' it is loaded into belts, and the rejection of all
I cartridges that are foul or defective.
' (c) Smoothing (with a fine file or emery) of such roagli
j or projecting surfaces In the meehanlam of tin
I gun as causes undue friction of Its working parMi
(B.) Those caused by the wear or brealtage of parts becauw
of idefectlve material, long usage, accident, or the enemy's fire.
The reduction of Jams comprises three steps :
(a) Determination of the chnrcter.of the Jam by eixunt'
nationJ
I (6) Removal of the immediate obstruction.
' (c) Correction or rempval ,Qf tbe caase which produced
the Jam.
909. The men must be taught that the gun is a dellcatt
properly only when correctlj
are made to fit accurately, ani
is always . unnecessary. If Uw
D properly by use of reasonably
id refnove It.
ry dust, or emery paper ahouW
! direction of a commissioned
71
(a) F4iiltyp«ckingrof barrel J|; l^oloSe;
(A.) Faulty adjustments.
(B.) Faulty loading.
(5) Incorrect tension of recoil spring.
Too strong.
\2. Too weak.
(C. ) fy>ulii^ QC lack of oil .
Defective'
tion
^ ^iy | ^iyiii »
(£.) F^Rultj construc0on.«-
(<y I&cortetitliead i^pacew (J; ^^gSdl.
(d).X]Morie<ttgasipAm ^ t22^U.
Of cartridges in belt.
Of the gun.
Look. '.
hj Chamber, r ■
c± Ejector.tu^.
yf) Oiilde iib&
e) Any^tftermovable pari,
a) Loose bullets.
bS Deformed or corroded shells.
a) Projection of feed-box cartridge spring.
b) Qib-spring plate too thick.
) CkTtffSt gfoetestoo small.
) Insuf&cfent leverage of fusee.
ej Mouth of ejector tube improperly beveled.
Binding bf trigger bar undee^handle blook.
Gib spiing tDo weak.
Qib-spring plate worn thin on edges.
ij Trigger bar sprung or ribs on short (stud) slot
ioothielL
203. James of the second class, especially in action, can not
be iSoreseen or .classified. The only rule that can be laid down
regarding them, ia to repair the dainaged part, if possible, or
replace it from, sjuch. spare paxts a^ are available.
The most usual of these jams, are caused by the breaking of;
(a) Mainaprings; (&) firing pins. The former <ean. be quickly
reooguiiied by tl^e eas^ .with which the Toiler .handle can be;
thrown forward and lack of response to th^ action ^ of the
trigger. . The latter, by repeated snapping of the lock .without
resulting explosion of cartridges. .
REaUCTIpN OF JAJmS OF TH£ FIRST CUSS. ,
: Barrei packed, :i9^, tight - . r '
204. The barrel can be packed so tightly that the roller
handle is prevented*.- by pressure against the roller, from com-
pleting its cycle," aind a portion . of the forward .^end of the "^'^^
is visible Just in front of the crank shaft. Further ex
tion uUawn that the catrticr b»e dropwd imd tniOa « ^rtridge
«ihI ail oiiipty abell, and tliat the belt has not fed forward.
f0 fUBUCM: ReiMCk the barrel so that tt can be moved (wlth-
'•lU the rucoll spring attached) b; a pressure of less than about
n |M)imda.
iiatK — Uae the Earing balance for this purpose^
SMKREL PACKED TOO LOOSE.
QOS. Thia will not ordinarily be the Immediate cause of i
Jam; but, tf great care Is not exercised in cleaning and oiling
the lock and recoil mechanism, the leakage Of the water Jacket
Will ao rust the parts that the; will fall to function properl;.
This trouble will be remoTed by packing ttie barrel ao as to
inevent leakage. ' '
TtMSIOH OF RECOIL SPFIKB OR OAS SPACE TOO OREAT.
90a. Thla can usually be recognized by the Ineqaallty of
liiIervalB between shots Just before the Jam occurs.
An examination of the mechanism vrOl ^ow the carcl^ '
either (a) supported on the upper beveled surfaces of the side
>»iii8. and the roller handle near Its forward position, In '
Which case the cartridge In the carrier will be found pressed
"gntnst a projierly presented cartridge In the feed box, and no '
I'ortlon of the slot will sliow as the barrel has l)een retnmed i
*<* Its firing, position ; or (61 thrown forward abovb the side
(Unm, with the roller handle nearly vertical; In which case the ■
lurtrldge in the carrier will be found forced along the left side
uf the cartrldRe In the feed boi, and a pertlon of the forward
(-■"d of the slot will show. '
The roHson for this Is that the tension of the recoil apHng Ib
so great that It induces a forward movement of the lock btftr* .
it hut eompM»d 'it boetwwJ moramant, the carrier thus rldioj!
^ ' Instead of dropping and peselng under
e tenefon of the retell spring or reduce
mtti the lock can complete a rearward
retnmed to the firing poattioui Tkis
!es of recoil and counter recoil Is beirt
ental firing with eacb fmn.
Nodt^Wi^ tbe spring l>aUii(ce atta<^6d .to the knob of tiie
roller baadl^ tbe proper teuj^lon of tbe recoil spring will usually
Dece8sitatea;pull of from 4. to 6 pounds for the .initial movement
of the roller handiew
RECOIL 4PBIN0 TOO WEAK ok TEHSION TOO UTfLE.
■••<••.•■ - . •. . ■ <
207. Ordinarily this jam will only be found with recpil
iprlngs that have lost. much of their elasticity through long
bsage or abuse.
This Jam is caused by the fact that the recoil spring does not
return the baifrel and lock, or th^ Ibcir, to the firing position. '
This jam, -in so fai* as the lock Is cohcemed, wiH occur most
frequently as the fouling of the working parts increases through
bing. ■ ' ' ^ • ..' ; • -Vi .
TO REDOCEi Use the spring- balancfe -*b prescribed in the pre-^
^ing paragraph. Should the maximum tension flail' to produce
the desired result, the recoil spring should be set aside for con-
Bemnatlon and- be 'r^iatied -by a new spifeg. • » ' ' • '
' 208. In this connection it is thought advisable to emphasize
be necessity of a propet" coadjiistment of the recoil spring and
Ihe recoil of the barrel. The recoil' of tfte baml is f egulated b^
[he barrel fflsk. By" gas 8i)ace Is meant the space betweeil the
^rrel disk and the nozzle ; the greater the gas 'space tlie lesser
p^e force of the recoil, and" conversely. As the gas Bprice is re-
foced the tension of thi^- ^•ecofl spring should be increased, until
I proper balance of the'iJecoil and cOuritef recotl is obtained to
iffoduce tlye greatest rapidity of ire.
HEAD SPACtreO MEMf. •
• .'»
2ofe. This Jain is re^gtHzed by the' fact thftt the base of the
ell is blown olff about' one^hrflt an'ihdh from the cannelure,
he base of the ruptured shell is carried* back tvith the lock
hlle th^ Othet^ part Wn^ains lii ihe chamber. Thfe new car-
dge will be found partially telescoped into this part, the roller
ndlein a vertical pogftlon.
The cause is that the-fearridr does not close tlghHy against
the face of the chaihW; and the cartridge being unsttpporfed
except at the' base,' Is Itiptpted by the- pressure Of the powder
gases. *: '•' •■•'•'.' ■' •*■' ■•- ■"-' '■•
^
,!,*■*■ 'Vturuw the rtller handle forward, wlien a»e nm
■I'.ii l>^ «^st^acted from the chamber, ordlnartlr wtti
..<.<j slMrlK These should be removed from tbe carrier
.' 'W ruptured shell will be automatically ejected.
, il1^ ifwitured shell Is not withdrawn with the atm
, iW (tearing plug (fliould be nsed. Add washers ti
.k.k,A witll the carrier fits saugl; against the face <t.
HEAD SPACE TOO SHALL.
'■i^^^ifM: Remove washers from the crossbead until tin
' ^ ^•M'fc* snugly isgalnst Hie t»e& of Mtt c^nbet, bu^
J„; wrfw frictioa.
<tH$rillDOES IMPROPERLY LOADED III BELT.
^, distance.
;.''/^'^ih» feed box presents cartridges that are not thui
V^^^ following conditions ensue :
'"**' ,«\ " the, cartridge has been inserted too fiir. but ba
entered the feed box. It may not be angaged b;
the carrier, or It may be engaged only on odi
side, thus preventing tlie carrier from rising.
.|) If the cartridge baa been inserted so far that it csi
not enter tAe fe«d:>lMA a .Jmu will result owln
to the Interruption of the feed mechanism ; 1;
some casM tbe cartridge may enijer ^ feed bo:
but cauw tbe next cartridge to feiad qq the rea
the feed box. i. .
i baa not beei^ inserted far enougt
againat tbe rear o(, the feed Ijoj
■uption of t)iei feed mecbanism.
cai^rtdge Ip fee^ box if posaible; i
ear from teed box and r^oad pie«
•f loaded belts soap cauftea the car
;ed, as also does carrying them b.
distance with tlie presatt equipment
JAMB, 75
lience no mQre belts should be ^ept loade4,tban.re<ittl|?^by.the
necessities of immediate supply.
FoduMG AHd LACK QF OIL.
2 Id. Fouling or lack of oil mar manifest itself by : ■
Co) The carrier failing to drop,
(ft) The carrier failing tb rise to the firing position,'
The former is due to gumming or friction between the carrier
and the lock frame, and the latter to gumming or friction be-
tween the side or lifting levers and the lock frame.
TO REDUCE: In either case remove the lock and clean thor-
oughly without taking ftpart. A^ fi;eguent change of locks during
firing is advised, not only to remove foiiling, but to insure both
locks being kept in goo4 working order.
I 213. The Chamber. Fouling of tihe chainber will manifest
'itself by the cartridge being partly inserted tierein^. Bxamlna-
tion will show scratches on the surface of the shell.'
TO REDUCE: Clean the chamber thoroughly, but do not oil
^except when firing iB completed. It is -theii^ oil^. to> prevent
TUSt.
214, The Ejector Tjube. Fouling of the ejector tube. manifests
Itself by the shell. being but partly Inserted therein. .Exam'i-r
inatlon shows scratches on the surface of the shell,
I TO REDUCE: Clean the tube thoroughly and cover the sur-
face with a thin coating of sperm oil. . *
215, The Guide Ribs. This jam i« recognized by the fact that;
the lock travels only a short distance forward and then binds.
Examination will show worn places on the guide ribs and in
the grooves of the recoil plates, caused by undue . friction on
these ^rts. . .-
I TO REDUCE: Clean the parts thoroughly and 611 with thin
lubricating oil. Smooth the surfaces with ci*ocuB cloth If nec-
essary.
LOOSE RULLETS.
• 1 —
216. The Indications of this jam are thesdme as'thode of:
the foul chamber, and further examination will' dlsclcJise' th^
bullet and loose powder grains on the ^or of = the casing. Tlie
empty shell will' show no dfscoloratibn from the ejtplofiiori of
powder, and loose powder t^II' be found In th^ chamber.
I
f§ MMCf •* Remove the bnllet and piDceed an for foul
X<»f«.— t/^ose bullets are usually caused by the hammering
ih^v r«<!^^^ whea carried any distance by pack with the pres-
-«rammonitian box.
FV>r this reason, it is best not to load the belts until a short
time before they are to be fired.; but if transportation of loaded
Mts hy P*^^ *^ imperative, then the belts should be made to fit
^u^ly ^^ ^^ ammunition boxes by the insertion of sheets of
rtirdboai^* felt, or other Suitable material between the cartridges
^^ the Bide of the box.
0£r0/fi»£D 0ff COfnfOD£D SM£US,
21 7. Such shells will not usually enter the chamber and will
ive the same initial manifestations as a foul chamber.
70 Jf£^^^^' ^^^^^^ the defective shell from the carrier and
reload.
pnOJ£C7/Oif or TH£ f££D-BOX CAfftRIDGE SPRIMG.
aid. ^^^ ^^ recognized by the position 6f the roller handle,
falling to complete its rear\vard movement" and remaining a
\Zt distance above the roller. Also if the lock be carried
1 wlv forward, glancing vertically downward between the
SlSTt surfaces of the carrier and the exposed edge of the feed-
< cftftridge spring, it will be noticed that the gib presses
A\\\S a^^°^ ^^^ surface of this, thus preventing the carrier
» rlB**^^ to the firing position. This may cause the breakage
fl^L gprlng near Its base.
^^HiPUCi: Carefully smooth away the projecting edge of
^^fl^ge Spring so that the gib may ride smoothly over it
GIB SPRING PLAT£ TOO THICK.
^ manifests itself by the carrier, when cleaned
d, falling to drop. Examlnattoit of parts of
f bright worn places on. the front face of the
>; the. gibrspring plate.
as down the outer surface of the gib-spring
\ hone, or emery until it rides frejely over
220« Jn this j^m the .roller : bangle wilt be found almost
TerticaL The fired cartridge will b^. found abovQ its position
in the carrier partly over the. gib; The uppcsr edge of the case
will be found upset by having beesa foroed' against the upper
side of the ejector tube.
The gib'Spring plate will be found out of position.
TO REDUCE: Beplace glb-spji^ing plate.
GJB SPRING TOO WEAK.
! . ■ . . .
I 221. The symptoms of this Jam are sihiilar to those of the
Iwom gib-spring plate. The plate will not always, be out of
place In the latter jam.
I TO REDUCE: Replace gib spring.
CARRfER GROOVES TOO SMALL
222. This jam manifest!^ itself by the^ carrier, properly
cleaned and oiled, failing to drop. Elxamination of the parts
of tbe loek discloses bright worn places oit the' flanges of- the
lock frasMBf, and in* the grooves of the 'carriers . : . ;
TO REDMS: Enlarge the grooves of the carrier and dreStf
down the- flanges of the lock frame* with flne emery; thei^'
carefully smooth all surfaces with crocus (doth.
mSUffKiSWr LEfERAW or FOS€E.
223. When the slotted portion of the fusee is cut too deep,
the tension of the recoil spring is insufficient to revolve the
esee beyond a point which seems to be a dead coiter. It is
[»gnlBed both with and without the lock in pla^ The roller
handle remains about 1 inch above its extreme forward position.
TO REDUCE: Fill up the slot of the fusee with a small hard-
wood wedge, so as to give the necessary leverage.
The imperfect fusee should be replaced by a new one as soon
as possible, and th^i be set aside for condemnation.
This Jam is of rare occurrence.
78 JAMRy
MOUTH orrm Hfictonro^e WH^wentr beveled.
22 4« Hils jani i0 recogniise^ by tl^e new cartridge failing to
enter the chamber ;* the sbel) remaining ' entirely exposed and
about one^ixteenth of an 'inch of the bullet visible. The for-
ward moveftient of tiie lo€%c is Interrupted by tbe shell last
fired striking agalust the lower lip of the ejector tube, which
upon examination is found to have been left with a sharp edge,
thus obstructing the free entry of the shell. The end of the
shell win usually be found more or less upset.
TO REDUCE: File a suitable ramp at the mouth of the ejector
tube. '■ ^ ■ ■
. BIMOm OF TRiOOER BAR UMDER BARDIE LOCK,
225. This jam is recognized by the trigger failing to retunij
to its rear position.
TO REDUCE: File away the groove on the under side of the
handle block sufiiclenK^ .to aUowtree ipiov^paeisxt of the trigger
bar.
BEBBIMO OF THE TRiOOER BAR.
926. .Thi9 jam is recognised by the fact that the piece has
failed to fire, although all parts seemed to have functioiied
Bi?operly. The bar will show a worn* mark. The .liendhig of
the ^ar has prevf^nted the front end of the slot engai^g the
hand sear, which rl4es over the top.
TO REDUCE: Straighten the bar. This same jam may be
caused by toq.^reat t1itckiie«a otthetihs on BmoU slot, which
is reduced by dressing down the ribs.
r» ►.
!»
lit
. *«.'.<
INDEX.
• V
Paragraph.
Action, to form for - ----- 3*2, 33, 36, 75
Ammunftloii Squad:
Composition of ' --1 — __- '-- 4
Duties of, in general ; ' ' C9
Establishment of ammunition station '- ^-_*_ — ^-. — 96
Formation of, with pack , — _" — 70
Formation of, without pack '. ^ '. 68
Instruction of i - 66,67
Object of training 65
Organisation of , ,i — ' 64
To pack :-::__ — :_:_-j- — :___ -__,- tt, 78
To unpack and form action __-^ ,__ 75,76
Aparejo, arrangement oiP-1" — ■ '. _. ' — 156
Belt filler, how to operate 1— — 1 71, 72, 73
Csmps:
Bivouacs 1 184
EstabUi^hme^t of--- ,„_ __ 188
Restricted space_^-— — _ , 183
Tentage : 1 1 '— '. 180
To break -— tt [ 187
Various forms of „____^ 1^-,^ 178. 179, 182
With Infantry >— — 181
Cteremonles _-_,_„,_;. ---■_J_— ___ 24, 192, 193
Combat division, constitution of — __; ___lI.!..,^_J__^J^_ * 6
English pack outfit, arrangement oi-1 — ^ j_ — J__._l ' 158
Gquipment; . . ,, . .
Arrniigement of, in camp 1 — ! — l__l_l 157
Arrangement of, in garrison L-i'l !^-_i 15^, 166
tit • ■ - - ' ' ■ ■-•'•-■
At moving targets __1-1 c;_« 60
ClaAtiflcation of- 1 --i--'.l 40
FUted -^-^l:-jl:'i:_::'__^._' 66
For eiRct-.. u:.— _.:.J':lji:,:ii_ ' 64
80 IKBSX.
Paragraph.
Method of 47
Night 61
Ranging 48, 49, 60, 51, 52, 53
Sweeping .V__-._^^__rf_^ 59
Traversed ' -^ 56
Traversed aone 58
Zone 57
Firing, commands for 41, 42, 43, 45, 46
Firing data, corrections of ^_ _ 44
Gun, arrangement of, when not In use '__»»,.! 159
a^n Squad:
Care of Its equipment _ 95, 121
Composition of , , !_ 9
Duties of, in general ., 1 11
How formed , 21
Organization of _ 3
Posts of r. 22, 23, 24, 25
To change direction when moving by hand 28
1-0 halt ^1— : 27
To march to the rear when moving by hand^^ .__, 29, 30i
Training of _^._j___.__^_' 10
Jam^:
Classification of 19^
Enumeration of :_,__^^^_. 202, 203
Instruction of gun squads 194, 195, 196, 197, 200, 201
Barrel packed too tight '. 204
Barrel packed too loose 1 203
Bending of trigger bar ^_ — . 226
Binding of trigger bar -^r— 223
Carrier grooves too small 1 22:]
Cartridges Improperly loaded In belt__-, ._ I__ 21^
Caused by failure of mechanism, ^-- r--- .-* V 198
Deformed or corroded shells L — 'ii-1 ! 21*^
Fouling and lack of oil ^-* 21?, 33^3,' 214, 215
Ulb-Bprlng plate too thick j, — -^ — ^ — -^— \- ,-._ 219
■ plate worn on edges — ! ^1 '. ; ' 220
too weak ^^,^ ,^,^^_ 221
> too great !_1^-^ — !,- . 209
too small -T~T 2^^
leverage of fusee ^^-, , 223
il 1-1 1 — 2ie
IMDBX. M
Paragrapb.
Mouth of ejector tube Improperly beveled—--, ^-,_»-„-f,— 224
Projection of cartridge springs 218
Tension of recoil spring too great— , 206
Tension of recoil spring too little 207, 208
Marches:
Adjustment of loads 173
Crossing streams . 171, 172
Distribution of loads 167, 168
Gaits and distances . 166
In campaign 164, 174
Inspection after 176
Ordinary 169
Over rugged country 170
Problems confronting platoon commander 162
Route 165
With infantry 163-175
Number one, duties of, in detail 15, 16, 17, 18
Number two, duties of, in detail 19
Number three, duties of, in detail 20, 35
Number four, duties of, in general , 69
Number five, duties of, in general , , 69
Number six, duties of, in general 69
Organization, unit of , 1
Packers:
Designation of 79
Posts of, with gun in pack 81
Posts of, with the piece prepared for action 82
Pack Squad:
Care of equipment 121
Constitution of 5
Formation of, without packs - 80
General duties • 83
To fold the pack blanket 86
To put on the blanket 87
To put on the blind , 84
To put on the bridle 85
To put on the corona 88
To put on the loads 91
To put on the saddle ^ dO
To turn the crupper ' 89
To unpack, to unsaddle 1- ' 92
7230^10 6
INDEX. 83
Section: Paragraph.
Chief of sui^errlsion '. 94
Commands and means for maneavering without packs 98
Composition of 93
Division of 2, 6
Formation of, for instruction 99
Formation of, with packs 100, 101
Formation of, without packs 97
Maneuvers of, acting alone 110
Organization of 1,3,4,5
To countermarch 112
To dismiss 108
I To face to the rear without gaining ground to the front
or rear 114
To form for action 74
To "line up" 102,103
To "load out" 105
To march in route order 119
To march to the rear 111
To move comhat division to front of supply division 116
To place comhat division in rear of supply division 115
To resume normal order from route order 120
To resume order for marching in pack 118
To saddle 104
To saddle and pack 107
To secure equipment 108, 109
To take posts 106
To turn to right or left without gaining ground to the
front 113
To unpack and prepare for action 117
Stores, arrangement of 160
Supernumeraries not to he used with gun in action 62
Supply chest, arrangement of 160
Supply division, constitution of . 6
Tripod, arrangement of, when not in use 159
o
