Polish Infantry Tactics on Team Platoon and Company Level

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Polish army manual for infantry, 1934

Infantry tactics on a team, platoon and company level

Translated and transcribed from Polish to English by Alexander Kawczynski

Original, reprinted text in Polish by: Mariusz Szkup, Michał Miazga

Re-enactment group “Cytadela” www.cytadela1939.prv.pl

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Table of contents

General infantry guidelines and tactics

4 Infantry weapons

5 General guidelines for use of weapons

6 Fire discipline

Conserving ammunition

Riflemen during fire and advance

Opening fire and combat

7 Cooperation with tanks

Digging in

Assaults

8 Night assaults

Riflemen during defense

9 Defense against cavalry

Reconnaissance

10 Guard post duty

Eavesdropping

11 Alarm post

Runners

Observers

12 Marksmen (elite riflemen)

Ammunition carriers

Removing wounded from the frontline

The team

13 Team composition

Team commander

14 Second in command

Private first class

15 Team fire modes

Opening fire

16 Picking targets

Directing the fire

17 Conserving ammunition

Advancing under fire

18 Preparing for an assault

19 Signaling friendly planes

Cooperation with tanks

Covering fire

20 Advancing at night

Assaults

21 Combined assault

21 Assaults at night

Behavior after a failed assault

During the assault

22 Fighting inside enemy lines

When the assault is stopped

23 Defending

24 Entrenching

Opening and controlling the fire

25 Repulsing an assault

Reacting to enemy armor

26 Withdrawing from battle

Patrols

27 Duties of the patrol commander

Movement within the patrol

The patrol

28 Approaching and crossing terrain

29 Conduct towards the enemy

Patrols at night

30 Patrol reports

Runners

Light mortar section

31 Light mortar section

Section commander


32 During combat

During an attack

When defending

The platoon

33 Platoon composition

Platoon commander

34 Second in command

The observer

Platoon formations

35 Loose formation

Opening fire

Directing the fire

36 Cooperation with artillery and air

support

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36 Conserving ammunition

Combat – when attacking

37 Preparing for an assault

38 How to behave during an attack

39 Cooperation with tanks

Attacking at night

40 The assault

After the assault

41 Halting the attack

Pursuit

42 Reserve platoon

Defense

43 Combat readiness

44 Opening and directing defensive fire

Repulsing an assault

45 Reserve platoon during defense

Withdrawing from battle

46 Ambushes

Platoon on reconnaissance missions

47 Spearhead

The company

48 Company composition

The company commander

49 Senior sergeant

Weapons NCO

Administrative NCO

Company command retainers

Applying various formations

50 Combat - advancing

Combat – preparing to attack

51 Behavior during the attack

52 Combat - assaults

After the assault

53 Pursuit

Reserve company

54 Combat - defending

55 Field fortifications

Opening and directing fire


56 Helping neighboring units

56 Fighting tanks

Prolonged defense

Reserve company during defense

57 Loosening the defense


Delaying rearguard

58 Company on reconnaissance

59 Guard post duty

60 On the march

61 The resting area

Additional notes

62 Polish army ranks 1925-39

63 Polish army service regulations for the

year 1938-1939

66 Additional notes about this translation

Ministry of defense

Department of infantry Nr. 2800-22. Warsaw, January 26th, 1934.

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Infantry weapons

Rifle: A single rifle is a good weapon when firing at single targets at close range. Elite

riflemen (marksmen) should be able to perform effective fire at up to 800 meters. At the range

of 800 meters massed rifle fire may also provide tactical fire. A soldier should not only be

familiar with his rifle but in fact be one with his weapon.

Bayonet/Knife: A bayonet should be used in a fight with the opponent when there is no time

to fire the weapon. The bayonet, when fighting in woods or during night time, should be the

main weapon of choice since fire is less effective, gives away your position and easily

disorients everyone. The knife should be looked upon when fighting in trenches, in urban

environment and during special missions where a rifle would be in the way.

Grenade: Grenades are used at the closest possible range, and good for fighting an enemy in

a defensive position, buildings and trenches. When defending, grenades are good for stopping

assaults or attacking an enemy out in the open in front of your defensive position. Hand

grenades have a great impact on enemy morale especially if they are taken by surprise or

during dark.

Trench tool: Used for improving defensive positions, digging in but may also be used as a

weapon in hand to hand combat.

RKM (Light machinegun/BAR): The light machinegun should be looked upon to provide

massed and accurate fire, especially when targeting larger targets. It should be looked upon to

fight charging enemy cavalry, especially at close range. If used during night the terrain should

be scouted so that the machinegun can provide an uninterrupted field of fire. Every riflemen

should be able to handle and fire the machinegun if needed. It is not allowed for the riflemen

belonging to the machinegun crew to bunch up near the weapon and it is forbidden to leave

the weapon behind on the battlefield. If a member of the machinegun crew is killed another

regular rifleman should take his place.

Granatnik (Light mortar): Light mortars are used by the platoon commander in such a way

that it impacts on the tide of battle when operating at short range. Light mortars may also be

used up to their effective range in order to fight key enemy targets such as enemy

machineguns in order to clear the way for the infantry at such short ranges that friendly

artillery or mortars are unable to. Such fire is valuable in front of an infantry assault.

Since the light mortar is meant to be used during key moments of the battle, ammunition

should be conserved and not wasted away when firing at longer ranges. Every riflemen should

be familiar with the weapon and able to use it if needed.

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General guidelines for use of weapons

The most important aspect of fighting with ranged weapons is accuracy and being able to

perform accurate fire. This immediately provides a higher and lowers the spirit of the enemy.

Inaccurate fire increases the spirit of your opponent, encourages him and is a waste of

ammunition

Open and cease fire.

Weapons should be fired at the direct order by an officer or by individual soldiers when

predetermined situations arise. Opening fire without an order is only allowed when suddenly

making contact with the enemy and in order to alarm the rest of the unit. Fire should cease

immediately when the target is out of line of sight, or when the ordered to cease fire.

Orders during combat

Orders during combat should be repeated loud and clear by everyone, and on top of that it

must be mentioned to whom the order is directed.

Directing fire

After receiving the order, every rifleman within a team should pick a target designated to that

team – often located directly in front of the team position. Fire should be accurate and the

targets should be eliminated one by one. Fire should always be directed at high value targets

and by making judgments about the probability of hitting a target. When conducting massed

fire, riflemen should target a single object and direct their fire at this target individually.

Light machineguns (BAR) should have as their first and foremost priority to fire at enemy

machineguns. The team commander should instruct the “Karabinowy” (a Private First Class

ranked soldier) and his light machinegun crew on their target, and use binoculars to observe

its efficiency – and if needed correct their fire. The Karabinowy should always care to

preserve ammunition, to have water available to cool the gun and to have a direct chain of

command to the team commander.

Members of the light machinegun crew may rotate their tasks so that members get a chance to

rest. One of the ammunition carriers should always be ready to supply the gun with

ammunition and occupy himself by loading clips and if need be run between positions to

provide ammunition.

When the light machinegun isn’t firing it must be removed from its current position and

protected. The crew of the light machinegun must also make sure to be spread out.

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Fire discipline

During battle the fire discipline of each soldiers requires that he uses the terrain in such a way

to maximize the potential of his weapon, that the soldier follows instructions and orders, that

the soldiers conserves ammunition, that the soldier passes along orders, that the soldier opens

fire in a calm and accurate way. Firing without aiming isn’t allowed and results in a

reprimand. Operations during nighttime requires a lot of care and consideration, a nervous

shot may reveal the position of an entire unit.


It is important to conserve ammunition during battle, especially during long battles. Each

soldier should aspire to spend his ammunition in such a way that after the battle he is able to

recount every target he was firing at with each bullet. During battle the soldier must inform

his commanding officer as soon as he has spent half of his ammunition. Heavily wounded or

dead soldiers must be stripped of all their ammunition. Lightly wounded soldiers leaving the

frontline should hand out his ammunition among his fellow soldiers, only saving 5 bullets for

his personal use.

Riflemen during fire and advance

The strength of each attack is based upon the willingness of each soldier to getting into hand

to hand combat with the enemy. Movement up to the enemy can be performed in smaller

groups or with whole teams depending on the terrain and strength of the enemy position.

Assaults should be performed in such a way that advantage is taken of terrain, ideally all the

way up to the enemy position. If not possible, and the assault must be performed in the open

under the field of fire of the enemy assaults should be performed in quick jumps forward, the

range of which depends on the enemy accuracy and volume of fire. The distance covered in

each jump forward should be longer at long range from the enemy if the fire is inaccurate.

If enemy fire is accurate soldiers should move in such a way to prevent enemy aim, the

preparation before a jump forward should also be discreet and happen very suddenly and fast

to prevent the enemy from preparing his fire. Every bit of depression in the ground should be

used for cover, crawling along even the smallest cover increases the probability of reaching

the enemy position and may even allow a soldier to move up to the enemy seemingly unseen.

Opening fire and combat

The first fire is only opened when given the order from an officer. Soldiers should take up

positions when given the order “Form line”. Taking up positions, when moving forward,

should be performed with caution not to reveal oneself to the enemy. If moving between

positions the soldier should be able to reach them in a couple of jumps, only stopping to catch

his breath.

Taking up a position should offera clear line of fire and cover. The position should if need be

allow for improved defenses performed by the soldier. The closer a soldier is to the enemy,

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the higher his personal responsibility for providing accurate fire. Soldiers shooting at an

active enemy should use their imagination how to best use each opportunity given to them in

order to deliver an accurate shot.

After opening fire a soldier should also be aware of his surroundings, and be ready to work

together with his team mates in order to conduct fire and maneuver. Soldiers should be guided

by faith in themselves and their friends, when leading others forward. A soldier advancing

should know that he is being covered by his friends, but should make sure not to disrupt their

fire or the fire of the light machinegun.


Riflemen should make sure to follow tanks and exploit every weakness inflicted upon the

enemy position by the friendly tank. Soldiers must be quick to occupy abandoned positions,

and not allow the sight of friendly tanks stopping or falling back from having them finish their

task – the push forward must continue even without tanks by their side. It is the duty of

nearby riflemen to protect and cover a nearby tank from enemy infantry attempting to assault

it.

Digging in

Soldiers should always look to use existing cover. If there is no natural cover a soldier should

use his own initiative, or when given a order, to dig in. When digging in during enemy fire,

and especially during a firefight, soldiers should work in pairs so that one digs and one

provides covering fire. Digging in must not weaken the combat efficiency of an attack, and

every attempt of digging in must be put aside in the case of further onwards movement. Every

occasion to advance must be taken, even at the expense of good cover.

Assaults

The closer to the enemy the more aware should the soldier be to an imminent assault. Before

the assault bayonets are mounted. The moment to assault is when the enemy hesitates or has

his fire decreased thanks to friendly covering fire. Everyone should rush the enemy

simultaneously and soldiers should be drilled in such a way so that they yell “Hura!” in order

to create the impression of a crushing wave washing towards the enemy. Soldiers entering

hand to hand combat should use every weapon available to them; bayonets, rifle butts, knifes,

fists and trench tool.

Every opponent who does not surrender must be killed, and should the enemy turn and flee

soldiers should take up positions and cut down the fleeing enemy with accurate fire. In the

event of a failed assault soldiers should drop to the ground and defend themselves with fiercly

and with stubbornness. It is not allowed to fall back.

How to react to the appearance of enemy armor will be discussed later on.

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Night assaults

Night assaults require quiet and order from soldiers, the soldiers should also look towards his

officers and be ready for instructions. During movement the soldier must know the direction

of the target, and the location of his friends. In case a source of light appears soldiers

immediately drop to the ground. In case the enemy opens fire soldiers should not hesitate, but

continue the advance in the decided upon direction. Upon reaching the enemy position

soldiers should throw themselves over the enemy with the use of bayonets but without yelling

out “Hura!”. Without the given order, no one is allowed to open fire. Soldiers should be

drilled in night time operations so that they are confident during such circumstances.

Riflemen during defense

The soldier should do his best to hide his position from the enemy, and should most

importantly have a clear field of fire, estimate the distance to terrain features and other objects

should be measured and then dig in. In the event of defense during nighttime the soldier

should be familiar with the terrain and his surroundings.

A soldier should adhere to the given orders, and be ready for battle. Every soldier should

know the emergency signals for enemy assaults, appearance of enemy armor, enemy air attack

and gas. Everyone should have his gasmask ready and at hand, likewise the soldiers weapon

should be within reach. A soldier tasked with guard duty should be especially alert during

nights, dawn and when there is fog.

Soldiers during defense must endure until victory is achieved and the enemy attack is

repulsed. The soldier is not allowed to fall back. When the warning signal is heard everyone

should prepare themselves for the attack. A soldier should make it his duty to not allow the

enemy to surprise him unprepared and unarmed. Soldiers open fire when given the order, or

may fire at their own will in case of a sudden attack at close range acting on their own

initiative.

Riflemen should not allow even the heaviest of fire, gas or enemy aircraft to disrupt their

defensive operations. The more severe the conditions are, and the harder it is to receive direct

orders, the more the soldier must rely on himself to put of a stubborn fight – not allowing the

enemy to overrun ones position.

Opening fire with rifles at an enemy plane is not allowed unless given permission by the

officer. The defensive fire should be as calm and accurate as possible in order to inflict as

high a casualty ratio on the approaching enemy. If the enemy reaches friendly positions use of

grenades a counter assault with bayonets should be performed

If the attack happens during the night, the soldier must keep a cool head and keep his eyes

open. It is allowed to open fire at short range even if the target has not been identified. Firing

discipline should ensure that there is no wild shooting that wastes ammunition. Riflemen

should be drilled in such a way that the sudden appearance of armor doesn’t make them

hesitate or prevent them from fulfilling their task.

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In case tanks are approaching on their own, it is up to everyone to help out fighting them off

by firing at the command cupola and viewing slits. In the event of tanks backed up by

infantry, riflemen should concentrate on the enemy infantry so that they are cut off from their

tanks support and prevented from reaching friendly positions while the marksmen concentrate

their fire on the enemy tanks.

Defense against cavalry

Riflemen should be familiarized with cavalry and their way of operating on the battlefield so

that they are not scared or surprised by the sudden appearance of enemy cavalry. Every

soldier must possess the knowledge that fleeing from cavalry is very dangerous.

Against mounted cavalry, calm and accurate fire from rifles and light machineguns is used.

Riflemen should target the chest of the approaching horse, a favored firing position in this

case is while lying down as this increases the accuracy of the soldier as well as the faith in

himself. Lying down also decreases the chance of being hit by sabers. Firing from a kneeling

or standing position should only be conducted from behind cover.

When cavalry appears it is crucial that soldiers can open fire as soon as possible, in such case

soldiers take up whatever position being convenient. All kinds of terrain that makes it harder

for the cavalry to move or hit with sabers – or simply being run over by the horse - should be

used by the rifleman.

In case that the enemy cavalry is starting to dismount it should be attacked with grenades and

rifle fire. If the enemy cavalry is fast approaching grenades can be thrown when the enemy

closes in at around 80 meters. If the soldier runs out of ammunition he must use his bayonet or

even rifle to hit the approaching cavalryman. Standing up in order to fight in close combat or

standing in small groups should be avoided as this makes it easier for the attacking cavalry to

hit.

Reconnaissance

A good scout is distinguished by good endurance, patience, bravery and ability to adapt.

Keeping calm and quiet is crucial. Conducting reconnaissance at night or in forests this is

extra important as the soldier is guided more by his ears than his eyes. In forests it is

important to look out for dry twigs and leafs, avoid keeping an even pace or make noise with

ones equipment. Extra care should also be taken when approaching enemy positions so that

conversations can be overheard. In the event of a silent attack on a scouted target, soldiers

with great physical strength and who can crawl silently should be picked for the job.

Each reconnaissance patrol must have a security section, providing protection to the rear,

especially when conducting reconnaissance in enemy territory, at night or in fog. The security

section is made up by two riflemen, one of which is the commander. These soldiers should

have loaded weapons and mounted bayonets, and be on the lookout for enemy troops but also

keep an eye on their own patrol so that they remain within range. They communicate with

normally or with hand signals depending on the situation. They should not be further than 400

meters away from the main patrol during daytime, and keep closer during night or fog.

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The security section should scout over hills and obstacles to ensure the safety of the patrol.

During night patrols the security section should be close enough to the main patrol so that

they can communicate their observations if needed. When the patrol stops moving the security

section immediately takes up observation positions. If the enemy is spotted by the security

section is tasked with informing the patrol commander about the character of the enemy

(infantry, tanks, cavalry, artillery etc).

Guard post duty

Guards are tasked with observing a specific stretch of land, a road or any other terrain feature

leading up to the position of the main unit and they are to sound the alarm if the enemy

appears. Guard posts are composed of 2 riflemen, one of them is always acting as the

commander, and they should always have loaded weapons and bayonets and gas masks ready

at hand. Guards should be positioned so close to each other that they can communicate

silently during the day and by whispering during the night. Smoking and regular conversation

is forbidden, neither are they required to salute. If engaged in conversation by others they

should not let their eyes from the frontline.

It is forbidden for the guard to lie down so that his hearing is reduced, it is allowed for one

soldier to lie down or sit in order to rest – but the other soldier must remain standing and on

his guard. Guards should have an increased awareness during the early hours before dawn. If

something suspicious is observed, or the enemy is sighted, the guard should immediately relay

the information to the commanding officer of the main unit and in such cases also inform

about the enemy troop type.

Guards are allowed to fire accurate fire at the enemy in case they can’t alarm nearby friendly

troops any other way. Guards are allowed to open fire at someone who doesn’t respond to

“Halt, who’s there” if asked twice and the person keeps walking. If the person stops, the

commanding officer is informed, guards should not lose sight of the person stopped. If

identified as an enemy the guards should order the person to throw down all his weapons.

If at any point the person doesn’t listen or obey he is to be shot by the guards.

Guards are allowed to fall back from their posts and towards their parent unit in case of being

in danger from an enemy attack or by following predetermined arrangements.

Eavesdropping

Eavesdropping is conducted by a 2-3 man rifle team, their goal is to learn from the enemy

about their movement, situation and other valuable information without revealing themselves.

These soldiers are deployed in secret in locations where their task is most likely to be fruitful.

They are not allowed to talk, smoke or communicate in other way than by hand signals. They

do not stop anyone, and only fire their weapons if friendly troops are at risk of being attacked

as a way of warning them.

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Alarm post

Alarm posts are tasked with raising the alarm at any sign of danger. Placed in various

locations they are following orders given to them by the commander. The alarm post is to be

highly aware of his surroundings, to the sound and sight of enemy troops. As soon as the

alarm post notices something he should inform his commander through speech or hand signs.

In case of imminent danger he is allowed to alarm the unit by firing his weapon. All alarm

posts should be aware of the signals and passwords to avoid confusion when passing along

their observations.

Runners

Runners are used to send orders and instructions between units and their commanding officer.

A runner must be clever and have a high degree of personal initiative and able to act

independently. He must also have a great endurance and have a high sense of duty.

A runner is given the following instructions: To whom and where he is to give the message (if

needed also know the message), the way (a sketch may be drawn to help him), at what speed

he should proceed and finally where he is meant to return or go after he has delivered the

message.

Before being sent off the runner has to repeat everything to show that he understands, if not

he should ask for clarifications. The message should be tucked away so that he doesn’t lose it,

or in case of capture, be able to quickly destroy it. If the runner is stopped by officers on his

way they should verify his order and sign the message. Moving along dangerous paths the

runner should have his weapon ready at hand

Arriving at his destination the runner should loudly announce himself and ask for the intended

recipient, if that person cannot be found the runner should get ask officers for the location of

the recipient. The runner is not allowed to salute or otherwise act in such a way that he may

give away the a friendly headquarter to enemy observers. After handing over the message the

runner should get a receipt. Returning back to the sender the runner should again repeat the

message and hand over the receipt.

Observers

Several types of observers are used, each specializing in a specific area.

The command observers are observers located nearby their officers. Their task is to watch the

front and report on the situation, if the enemy uses anti tank weapons, gas, or the movement.

The observer should know the location of friendly troops and neighboring units, have a good

knowledge of the surrounding terrain. The way of communicating with the commanding

officer is through speech. Should the observer for some reason be located apart from his

commanding officer it is his duty to report about every fact that may be of interest such as

enemy and friendly movement. In case of drawn out defensive battles the observer should

keep a notebook and write down everything of importance.

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Air observers are tasked with watching for enemy aircraft, these observes should have

excellent sight and hearing, and should know the shape and types of aircraft used by their own

and by the enemy army. They should know that in the open, a pilot may spot a target up to 8

kilometers away. These observers are equipped with binoculars and alarm equipment. They

should prevent themselves from starting false alarm. When the unit is stationary the observer

should take up a designated location from where he can observe the sky. If the unit is on the

move the observer should move along the column, but not far away from the machineguns

designated for air defense. He should only warn them if there is a significant amount of planes

approaching, during battle the observer should likewise be located near these machinegun

teams.

Marksmen (elite riflemen)

The task of marksmen is to kill enemy officers and observers, crews manning machineguns

and artillery and all other high value targets that may appear briefly in their line of vision.

The marksman fires only after the order to open fire has been given, or if given the order to

fire at will. Marskmen should be able to hit a target at very long range, at up to 800 meters

without a scope, and up to 1200 meters with a scoped rifle.

Ammunition carriers

The task of the ammunition carrier is to go to the supply point, pick up ammunition and

distribute it to designated pickup points. Ammunition carriers are relied upon to fulfill this

task no matter the hardships, and they should make sure to approach and move away from

friendly units in such a way that enemy observers can’t direct fire at them. The ammunition

carrier should be equipped with bags so that he can crawl and drag the ammunition with him

if it is not possible to move upright between positions.

They should also be ready to fill empty magazines with loose ammunition. If carrying loose

ammunition they should make sure that they do not mix the types of ammunition. As the

ammunition carrier arrives at a designated drop-off point he should announce the quantity and

what kind of ammunition he has brought, as well as announce whether it is loose or already

fitted into magazines.

Removing wounded from the frontline

Lightly wounded soldiers should move to the field hospital by themselves, taking with them

their rifle and only 5 rounds of ammunition. All other ammunition should be distributed

among their friends. Heavily wounded soldiers are to be carried away by field medics, or

designated riflemen. It is forbidden to withdraw from ones post under the pretense to tend to

the wounded, as soon as riflemen encounter anyone who can carry the wounded soldier the

rest of the way they should immediately return to their positions. While returning from the

field hospital soldiers should gather whatever ammunition and supplies they can, without

losing time, and return back to their position. If they come under an enemy attack, soldiers

should look upon it as their duty not leave the wounded to fall into enemy hands by

abandoning him.

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Team composition

The team is the smallest operational unit within the infantry. The team as such must be tied

together by close friendship and its members should be able to depend upon each other with

matters of life and death. In battle the actions, behavior and combat worthiness of single

riflemen reflects upon the whole team. Usually the team fights as one with their platoon, but it

may also operate detached.

The team may also be called upon to detach men when called upon to complete specific tasks.

In these instances it may have the light machinegun (BAR) and its crew, a small group of

riflemen or even a specific rifleman may be detached from the team but always operate on

the same basis as the team whether it has a light machinegun or not.

A rifle team is made up of the following:

Commanding officer “Plutonowy” (Master corporal)

Second in command, “Kapral” (Corporal)

Light machinegun crew (BAR) made up of a “Starszy strzelecz” (Private first class) and two

riflemen carrying ammunition.

13 riflemen of which two are of the “Starszy strzelecz” rank.

The team may be subject to reduction, but its numbers should never drop below 9 men

including the commanding officer. A reduced team must always have a light machinegun and

full crew for that weapon. Teams are numbered 1-9 within the company.

Team commander

The team commander is always setting an example with his behavior for his team. From his

personal character and energy come the results of the teams’ actions. The team commander is

often the only commander who has direct influence on the fighting spirit of every single

subordinate soldier.

The duties of the team commander are:

1) To have the ability to inspire riflemen with his determination and boldness, and in difficult

situations he must be able to support them with his own example. He must make sure that

there is nothing that lowers the belief in him from the riflemen under his command. He must

fulfill an order no matter the difficulty.

2) While fulfilling a task after having been given an order the team commander should issue

short and clear instructions to his subordinates. While doing this he should also always make

sure to keep an eye on his own team, the battlefield and the enemy, make sure that he has a

line of communication with the platoon commander, and make sure to take precautions so that

he does not expose the team to a surprise attack from the enemy – this is especially important

when the team is acting on the flank or on their own.

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3) A team commander must always have his troops close and direct the fire of the light

machinegun and the riflemen. He should also make sure that he can coordinate with his

neighbor teams, the platoon commander and the heavy machineguns.

In particular the team commander must maintain the sense of direction, ensuring that his

riflemen make use of terrain, keeping the fire of the team accurate while conserving

ammunition, make sure soldiers properly use the trench tool and gas mask if needed and

maintain a strict discipline. Outside of battle he should care for the education of his soldiers

and ensure that they care for personal hygiene, and clean and maintain their weapons

properly.

4) The team commander commands his team through the use of his voice or with signals but

his personal behavior in itself is also a signal to the team. The team commander is responsible

for every aspect of the team no matter who within the team is entrusted with a task.

Second in command

The second in command is the aide of the team commander, in essence he should ensure that

orders are followed by the rest of the soldiers when the team commander is further away from

the team and giving orders with signals. His job is also to ensure that there is a line of

communication, and ensure that there is a supply of ammunition. The second in command

should make sure that no one is left behind, and he should always be ready to assume

command if the commanding officer is missing.

In battle the second in command has to ensure that the combat task issued to a detached or

isolated part of the team, which is outside of the direct command of the team commander, is

followed. He may also be given command of such a detached part of the team.

Private first class

The private first class members of the team aid the team commander by influencing the

remaining riflemen within their close proximity. Their specific task is to ensure that the

correct mode of fire is maintained and pointing out targets.

Regulate the speed of the jumps when the unit is advancing as a group, or with single soldiers,

making sure that soldiers are not bunching up in small groups. The private first class is also

tasked with guarding the flanks of the team.

All of these tasks are either moderated by the team commander or performed out of their own

initiative. The private first class must always be ready to assume command over a detached

group, an isolated group and even the whole team if the team commander is missing.

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Team fire modes

A team opens fire according to the following modes during a firefight:

1) Fire from the whole team, light machinegun and riflemen

2) Light machinegun, under the guidance of the officer but under direct of control of the

gunner.

3) Fire from marksmen (elite riflemen).

4) At close range, use of grenades.

During a firefight the team commander is subordinate to the platoon commander. Even during

great hardship he should be able to follow the instructions, he is aided in this task by the team

second in command and the private first class. During firefights soldiers should maintain their

calm and consideration – this is ensured by the team commander leading by example.

Opening fire

The team opens fire on the direct order of the team commander. In general fire is opened at

the effective range of a weapon.

The effective range of the rifle is 400 meters, or in case the target isn’t entrenched or on the

move the target may be fired upon at 600 meters if permitted by the team commander.

Marksmen may with the help of a scope fire at targets up to 800 meters away with good

effect, 1200 meters if the target is big.

Combined fire from rifles performed by the entire team can be performed with good effect up

to 1200 meters. If conditions are particularly good and the commanding officer observes

something at even longer range such as columns of infantry or enemy guns, he may direct the

combined fire of the entire team at that target. The commander must remember to supply his

men with the range to the target. In order to avoid confusion the orders should be issued as in

the example below.

Every time the order to fire issued:

- target range

- target object/direction

- code word for opening fire

Example of simple order to fire:

“Target, 400 meters, straight ahead, fire!”

Example of order for combined fire:

“Target, 1200 meters (1100 left side, 1300 meters right side), across from the left, infantry

marching, fire!”

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Sometimes when issuing the order of combined fire the commander should also tell how

many rounds each soldier should fire. Riflemen are then opening fire and stop firing when

they reach that number of spent rounds, or when the order to cease fire is given.

The light machinegun (BAR) opens fire on the direct command from the gunner. Should the

team commander himself want to decide when to open fire with the light machinegun then he

must be clear about this before the team opens fire.

The team commander should never waste any opportunity to open combined fire in order to

cause maximum surprise and effect upon the enemy.

Picking targets

When picking targets their combat value should be determined. In terms of team operation the

target to be chosen should always be the target that prevents the fulfillment of a task or which

is the most dangerous. Aside from that, targets may be picked at will.

While issuing the order to open fire the target should be clearly described in a quick, easy and

understandable manner, complete with target location in the surrounding terrain.

In case of fighting a target that isn’t visible to the naked eye or at long range, fire should be

directed at a point or stretch where the target was last seen. In this case the information about

the target must include both the target range and the targeted object.

Directing the fire

The team commander must be the master of the fire directed from his unit, especially fire

from the light machinegun. His role is to make sure that the fire, in every case, is as effective

as possible.

His own observations of the field should determine the need of target ranges to enemy units

and decide which mode of fire the team should be using. If during combat there is a difficulty

to issue orders using his voice, the orders should be issued with the help of signs, whistles or

by passing along information from soldier to soldier. The team commander issues the targets

and should ensure that by following his directions the fire is calm and steady. He is aided in

this task by the second in command and the private first class within the team.

Orders to cease fire should be given when:

1) The fire has achieved its desired effect.

2) The target disappears or when the fire starts be ineffective.

3) The unit starts firing wildly.

Sometimes it may be necessary to issue the order to cease fire in order to conserve

ammunition, to issue a new order or simply fooling the enemy. The order to cease fire should

always be followed by specific element of the team, such as “Cease – fire, light machinegun”.

To continue firing at the same targets the order is “Continue – fire”.

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The duty of the team commander and the second in command is to ensure that the

ammunition is spent on accurate shots. The team commander must always be fully aware of

the ammunition situation for the riflemen and the light machinegun. As soon as the team has

used up half of their ammunition the team commander should let this be known to the platoon

commander – without any specific order for such sharing of information.

Conserving ammunition is about using the most of the ammunition at deciding moments

during battle. Firing at long range the riflemen are allowed to spend 1/3 of their ammunition.

Each soldier should designate ¼ of his ammunition to be a reserve, this reserve cannot be

touched until the commanding officers gives his permission.

The team commander should ensure that ammunition is taken from wounded and killed, and

make sure that empty magazines should be sent away to be refilled.

When the combat ceases, weapons should be checked and the ammunition should be counted.

Advancing under fire

As soon as the platoon assumes loose formation it is the task of the team commander to

ensure that his team keeps up with the platoon and that the movement of his team doesn’t

interfere with any other neighboring team.

The formation of the team under especially dangerous circumstances such as artillery fire or

enemy air attack, should proceed to have soldiers move in pairs – or in pairs maintaining a

distance. In order to breach a line when the team is under artillery and infantry fire the team

should disperse. Team formations must be secondary to the use of cover and terrain.

Locations under heavy fire in the open must be crossed quickly and in but a couple of jumps

between positions. Locations under indirect fire should be avoided if possible, or treated as

the above mentioned open locations under heavy fire.

The team commander is often called upon to measure the situation by moving forward or to

the flanks. In these cases command of the team is assumed by the second in command. In case

the team must change heading, change formation or the way they are moving he must issue

the correct orders either through speech or by the use of signals. If needed the team

commander may entrust one of the riflemen with the command while he is away.

If possible the team commander should ensure flanking movement around the blocking

enemy element.

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Preparing for an assault

The team commander should make sure that his team has reached a designated starting

position from where they can launch a straight assault upon an enemy position. Awaiting the

correct signal the team should quickly move out from their starting position so fast that they

take the enemy off guard, cover as much ground as possible and close in on the enemy before

he begins firing.

The order to move towards the enemy should be short and clear, it should be enough to point

towards a target and make sure the troops disperse. If there is enough time, each team should

be instructed in their task, additional weapon teams should be instructed in how to provide

fire support and a specific time should be given for the attack.

Before entering the field of fire the team must make sure it is properly dispersed, once it

begins its assault it must maintain movement, taking advantage of terrain features and

covering fire to reach their destination. A constant and determined movement utilizing cover

should be followed by accurate – but not too early – fire in order to demonstrate the

approaching dangerous might to the enemy.

Depending on the terrain, movement is regulated and soldiers are to move in predetermined

groups according to the situation. Approaching the enemy in the open soldiers should ensure

irregular movement patterns to reduce enemy accuracy.

Crossing terrain that is out of line of sight from the enemy is done in large groups and running

at full speed. Soldiers are only allowed the shortest possible break to catch their breath when

approaching enemy positions. In between movement steps when soldiers still aren’t supposed

to open fire they are called upon to take cover.

The team commander is responsible for maintaining the speed and direction of the forward

movement, the difficulty of one team must not affect the movement of others especially if it is

spearheading the movement of a larger unit.

The closer to the enemy the approaching team is the more important the friendly covering fire

from artillery, heavy machineguns and light mortars. Every measure by opening fire at the

enemy in order to reduce their efficiency should be undertaken and ordered by the team

commander, the second in command or the private first class either by a direct order or by

showing example.

Every time the team stops while approaching the enemy it should be encouraged to improve

cover by digging in, but at the same time this should not slow down the soldiers if they are

called to continue their movement onward.

Blocking artillery fire may be passed during moments when the enemy artillery is reloading

between shots; this can be done with the whole team at once or by single soldiers.

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In the event of flanking fire from enemy heavy machineguns, especially when fired upon at

long range, the only option left is to throw the entire unit at full speed ahead and disregard

everything else.

Should the team be stretched thin upon the approach the team commander should try to

collect his men, even if this requires a short break. If the team comes under a gas attack it

should maintain its normal procedures, and the best way of escaping a gas attack is to

continue onwards. At any sign or threat of gas attacks, gas masks should be equipped.

Signaling friendly planes

At the first sight of friendly planes, regardless of enemy planes in the area, the team

commander either on his own initiative or by direct order from the platoon commander should

unfold the signaling sheet and place it in a location that can be observed from above while

trying to avoid detection from the enemy on the ground. The sheet is unfolded not only as the

plane is approaching, but also as it passes overhead and moving away. The sheet is folded

together as soon as the pilot of the plane signals that he has seen the sheet or when ordered by

the platoon commander.


During forward movement with tanks the team should generally follow the same procedures

as when fighting without tank support. The teams should however make sure that it can

follow the tank closely and quickly take over enemy positions abandoned due friendly armor.

Moving with tanks they should be used for protection and quick movement across open areas

under enemy fire. While the team is operating with a tank they should make sure to keep safe

from the fire that will be directed at the tank. Infantry should always be ready to help out

tanks in destroying enemy anti tank positions.

The stopping or withdrawing of tanks must not have any impact on forward movement of

infantry.

Covering fire

The covering fire provided to a team should first and foremost be provided by the light

machinegun and the marksmen within the team. A whole team may also be called upon to

provide covering fire, the team always follows the predetermined fire modes.

How to proceed during a firefight

The team must be directed by the team commander as soon as they reach their starting

positions, in such a way that they keep up with the heavy weapons and neighboring teams

moving forward. Even with the lack of heavy support the team should do everything to

maintain movement and advance, they are called upon to use the light machinegun to fight the

heaviest opposition that is preventing movement of the team.

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If unable to overcome an obstacle the team commander must inform the platoon commander

so that the obstacle can be destroyed as quickly as possible.

As the team closes in on the enemy, and friendly fire support starts to wane the team

commander must ensure that he maintains fire superiority over the enemy. The fire should

still be accurate and fire discipline should be maintained. The commanding officer is aided in

this by the private first class, so that the unit maintains its fire while moving into hand to hand

combat with the enemy.

The team should conserve its ammunition so that it has enough left at the most crucial

moment just before the assault takes place. If the team commander sees fit for the team to dig

in temporarily during their advance or due to too heavy enemy opposition the digging in

should be performed in such a way so that the rate of fire from the team doesn’t drop so that it

endangers the friendly advance.

Should the enemy deploy smoke to cover their positions it should not slow down the advance

and the team should traverse the smoked area quickly.

Advancing at night

While advancing at night, the teams when part of a platoon must close in and reach the enemy

silently and without opening fire before entering hand to hand combat. Dispersion of the unit

should be smaller than during the day (at an average one step between each soldier).

It is important that the team commander keeps his team together and is in constant contact

with the neighboring teams so that he can maintain the direction of the attack. If the enemy

fires a flare the team should drop to the ground. Should the enemy open fire the team must not

hesitate but push forward.

Assaults

In preparation for the assault the team commander should make sure that his team moves up

as close as possible to the enemy supported by friendly fire. It is sometimes better to risk the

danger of single friendly bullets than beginning the assaults on a enemy position guarded by

devastating heavy machinegun fire.

Before the assault commences the team commander, through direct order or by his own

initiative, should make sure that the team mounts bayonets. The team commander must also

be ready to lead the assault in the event of enemy hesitation or decreased enemy opposition,

as well as to inspire those under his command or nearby neighboring teams. The assault is

started by the team commander either by his direct order or by him leading by example.

When the assault begins every soldier must spring forward, yelling “Hura!” and make sure to

reach the enemy in a single assault step.

The crew of the light machinegun too joins in the assault, the spotter may fire his weapon as

they close in on the enemy.

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Soldiers should hit the enemy in groups to overwhelm him, putting out opposition by opening

fire at close range ,using grenades, bayonets, swinging rifles or even using their fists.

Everyone enemy who doesn’t surrender must be killed.

Against an enemy located in trenches grenades should be used. Crossing any obstacles in the

way must be performed swiftly and without soldiers bunching up in groups. If needed the

team commander issues wire cutters to specified riflemen.

Combined assault

Combined assaults are undertaken by the team commander, with disregard for his neighboring

teams, as soon as the last couple of shells from friendly artillery or mortars stop falling on the

enemy position. The team should overwhelm the defender before he can regain his senses or

go back to a coherent defense.

Falling behind may mean that the assault fails and must be attempted a second time under

worse conditions with the resulting of heavier casualties.

Assaults at night

Assaults at night depend on silently closing in on the enemy and with the use of bayonets

attack him without yelling “Hura!”. Combat should be limited to use of bayonets and

grenades, against entrenched enemies’ grenades must be used.

Behavior after a failed assault

If the assault fails it is forbidden under any circumstances to fall back as the sight of retreating

troops may embolden the enemy defender. Running away from the enemy also causes more

casualties than attacking under the heaviest of circumstances.

During the assault

The attack does not end after the first assault, but must continue deeper into the enemy line.

Under these circumstances the enemy may counterattack to stop the assault. Officers and

riflemen must maintain a good morale, determination and endurance to continue the fight

until they are completely victorious or reach their designated position.

As soon as the team has torn into the enemy position the light machinegun must set up a a

firing position and open fire at the retreating enemy or prevent an enemy counterassault.

Under the cover of the light machinegun the team commander continues the attack, issuing

directions and information about unit formation to his soldiers. Should the enemy begin to fall

back the team must set up positions in such a way so that they can destroy the enemy with

their fire.

The platoon commander must always be aware of the location of the platoon commander and

the situation on the flanks.

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Fighting inside enemy lines

During the attack into an enemy unit the team must maintain a fierce and continuous

movement deeper into the enemy line. It should not be slowed down by obstacles of

neighboring enemy units. Any enemy unit in the way is to be destroyed with fire and

determined force. Should there be a sudden appearance of enemy heavy weapons such as

heavy machineguns these observations should immediately be passed along to the platoon

commander.

In the case of an enemy counterattack the team is to drop to the ground and begin firing with

all rifles and the light machinegun, it is not allowed to fall back even in the danger of being

flanked.

The team commander, the second in command and the private first class must all act as

examples of inspiration and determination to the team, and every attempt should be made to

prevent the enemy to recapture conquered terrain. By maintaining a cool head they must

maintain control over their team and keep the spirits and ambition of the riflemen high.

The description for how to behave in case of the appearance of enemy tanks is given further

down.

Every effort of the team commander and his riflemen must be supported by the highest belief

in themselves and their friends, in order to deliver them through the most difficult of

situations.

When the assault is stopped

Every time an assault is stopped, either by direct order, by capturing designated targets or

because of heavy enemy opposition the team should take up defensive positions while being

ready to at any moment reassume the assault.

The personal conduct of the team commander is here guiding for how the team should behave

and heavily impacts on their morale. The task of the team commander is to immediately issue

targeting information to the light machinegun and the riflemen, order the men to dig in and if

needed make sure that ammunition levels within the team are equalized or resupplied.

Attempts should be made to immediately assume a line of communication with neighboring

teams, in case of friendly teams being too far away it is the duty of the team commander to

ensure that the flanks are secured.

The team commander should make sure that the platoon commander knows where his team is

located and have a clear line of communication and immediately relay any information about

the enemy attempting to regroup or to break away.

In case of approaching dusk, darkness or fog the team commander should double his efforts to

secure the position of the team and be even more aware of enemy movement.

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Defending

When the platoon is defending each team has a designated position in the frontline, which the

team is supposed to defend fiercely and without any thought of abandoning. The team is

tasked with fighting any enemy appearing in front of their position with fire, and should make

sure to support the efforts of heavy machineguns especially if those weapons have problems

covering certain locations due to obscuring terrain.

In the open field the team should fire at the enemy with combined fire, the use of marksmen

or the light machinegun.

The defenses should be prepared by the team so that it includes, guard posts, observation

posts, measure the range to objects in the field to make fire more accurate, decide the location

where the team commander will be located during battle and make sure that there is a clear

line of communication to and from him. Patrols can also be used if deemed necessary.

The defenders should also prepare ammunition drops and maintain a constant awareness, all

defensive preparations should be conducted in such a way so that they cannot be discerned by

the enemy.

The team commander organizes his team to take up defensive positions in one or multiple

trenches and foxholes. The important thing is to ensure that the entire team can fire together at

the same stretch of the frontline if needed.

The light machinegun should be placed in such a way so that it can cover the entire front of

the team, as well as provide cover for the heavy machineguns.

Marksmen should be deployed so that they can fight enemy units with undisrupted and

accurate fire down their whole field of view, while still being within communication distance.

The rest of the teams’ riflemen should be distributed so that they can cover all flanks of the

defensive line. If the team is split up between multiple foxholes and defensive positions then

each group must have a designated commander to maintain order and control.

Defensive positions may be joined together by a trenchline which allows the team commander

to move among his soldiers and lead them. Soldiers should however avoid being tightly

grouped together in their defensive positions. During nighttime defense the team should have

clearly visible range markers in the field in front of them.

The team commander picks such a place so that he can observe his entire team, the field of

fire in front of the team itself and be within reach to give order to any part of his team during

battle. In general he should be within close proximity of the light machinegun.

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Entrenching

The entrenched position of the team must be created in such a way so that it doesn’t stand out

from the surrounding terrain.

The defenses should be made up of single foxholes, if time and the terrain permits these

should be joined together and also have an access to a communications post in the center and

a position for resupplying further back. Great care must be ensured during the entire digging

operation to prevent enemy observers to see the work, if possible it should be shielded.

If there is an imminent danger of enemy attack, all work is performed in such a way that it can

be quickly stopped and allow for the opening of defensive fire. This means that the light

machinegun must be maintained in a ready and alert position and rifles have to be readily at

hand in case of emergency.

Preparing a defensive position the team must always ensure to have guards and alarm teams,

always have a crew by the light machinegun, prepared ammunition and a line of

communication.

One single rifleman may crew both the light machinegun and conduct both aerial observation

and be the alarm post. 1/3 of the team must also maintain combat readiness by holding their

weapons ready to fire in case of a raised alarm.

The line of communication with neighboring teams and the platoon commander must be

visual. Ammunition should be readily at hand within each foxhole and defensive position. The

team commander should take extra precaution for the care of ammunition for the light

machinegun.

The team commander is responsible for ensuring that his entire team can join in the combat if

necessary without delay – this is ensured by every soldier knowing the alarm signs and sounds

and a quick reaction to an alarm situation.

During sunset, dawn, fog, smoke, heavy snowfall or when the troops are tired the team

commander must ensure the combat readiness of his team.

Opening and controlling the fire

It is essential to open fire at the right moment in order to thwart an enemy attack. The team

commander must always be ready to order his men to open fire. If the line of defense is

already withdrawing the team commander should be in total control of his team and ready to

open fire.

Firing at targets on long range the team should control their fire so that they are eliminating

important targets first using combined fire from the entire team, marksmen or the light

machinegun.

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Depending on the nature of the advancing enemy, if the platoon commander hasn’t imposed

any restrictions, the team commander should issue the order to open fire out of his own

initiative and conduct fire with the entire team or single elements of the team.

During battle the direction of fire issued by the team commander should be sensible and

accurate. Suddenly appearing and disappearing targets should be destroyed by riflemen.

Marksmen should focus on priority targets such as enemy officers, observers, machinegun

crews and armored targets. If the enemy comes within assault distance the defensive efforts

should be conducted by the entire team At this point the personal behavior of the team

commander is crucial, his boldness and determination should inspire a stubborn defense into

those under his command. This should ensure that the team morale is maintained even if the

enemy approaches them with fire an maneuver, and a calm and steady fire into the enemy

should be maintained by the team. The team commander is helped in this effort by his second

in command and the private first class, and this defensive effort must be achieved using any

measure available to him.

In case of a surprise attack, attack during nighttime, or in conditions that make observation

difficult or when the enemy initiates an assault from within close range the entire team is

supposed to open fire when the signal to fire is given.

Attack from the air must not make the defenders on the ground lose their determination to

defend. In the event of a gas attack the defenders should apply gas masks and continue the

defense. If the enemy uses smoke rounds the team commander must be increasingly aware of

enemy approaching his position behind the cover. In these situations the team should maintain

fire even against unidentified targets.


Every attempt the enemy makes to assault should be crushed. Groups of storming infantry

must be killed or pinned down. An enemy attempting to reach the defensive position must be

killed, at extremely close range the enemy should be thwarted by with close fire, grenades and

hand to hand combat.

Even if the enemy captures the positions of neighboring units the team must endure and fight

to the last man in order to buy time for higher commanders to send reinforcements designated

to retake lost positions. Every sign of individual hesitation and in particular attempts to

withdraw from battle must be suppressed immediately by any means – even with ruthless

force.

Reacting to enemy armor

In case of the appearance of enemy tanks the team commander with the help of the second in

command and the private first class much ensure that calm and determination is maintained

within the team. In case the enemy assaults with unsupported tanks the entire team takes part

in fighting off the tanks with accurate fire at the weak spots of the tank – the viewing slits.

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If enemy infantry is moving along with the tanks the team commander should allocate the

main bulk of the defensive effort towards the infantry attempting to separate them from the

tanks and not allow them to move up to the defensive position. Meanwhile the team

commander should ensure that the marksmen and if needed the light machinegun should

concentrate fire on the armored vehicle.


Withdrawing from battle is only allowed on the direct order from the commanding officer and

should always be conducted out of line of sight from the enemy.

If the need to withdraw arises during broad daylight and under the direct observation and fire

from the enemy the withdrawing effort should be conducted in a sensible manner not to risk a

full collapse of the frontline.

The task of the team commander is to ensure the withdrawal of his soldiers either in small

groups or by lone soldiers, and move them into cover further back. To break away from the

enemy the use of covering friendly artillery, smoke, dust or heavy machineguns should be

employed to reduce the sight of the enemy.

The team commander should ease the withdrawal from the frontline of his men by having the

light machinegun team providing covering fire, that team always falls back last.

With the first group withdrawing from battle it is important to send the second in command

who will be tasked rallying the men from the team at the new location. The withdrawal is

coordinated by the team commander himself with the help of the private first class. The team

commander falls back together with the last group of riflemen. During the later stages of

withdrawal the team commander issues the correct formation, gradually transitioning the team

from open order to moving the men in pairs.

Abandoning positions during nighttime should be made in secret and under complete silence,

the soldiers must conduct their movement in such a way so that the enemy can’t spot their

silhouettes.

Patrols

Patrols should always be given specific tasks and never be called anything else than their

designated mission description names such as reconnaissance patrol, security patrol or combat

patrol. The main task of patrols is to gather information about the enemy and about the

terrain. Security patrols are tasked with protecting the main unit from an enemy surprise

attack.

Depending on their task the speed and movement of the patrol is determined, a security patrol

must adjust their pace to the unit they are protecting. Patrols not tied to a parent unit or limited

in their movement should feel free to use any hidden approach they see fit. However if time is

of the essence the patrol must swiftly and boldly, disregarding whether or not they are in

cover. The most important task of each patrol is the swiftness of bringing news and

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observations to the main unit. Patrols should be made up of soldiers with great cunning,

endurance and swiftness so that they can always fulfill their mission regardless of the

difficulties that they may run into.

Duties of a patrol commander

Before the patrol moves out the commander should understand and repeat his mission, if he

doesn’t fully understand something he should ask for clarifications. If needed the patrol

commander should synchronize his watch with the watch of the officer sending him on a

patrol.

Before the patrol moves out the patrol commander should inform his riflemen about the task

and what the commanding officer is expecting from the patrol in terms of observations. He

also nominates a second in command.

As the patrol moves out the patrol commander should nominate a heading for the patrol,

designate the security section and inform about the unit formation. If time permits it he should

also inform about the terrain and the intended way operation during the patrol, give the

members of the patrol pointers in how the patrol mission may be achieved, if needed establish

additional signs to be used between the members of the patrol and ensure that no one carries

newspapers, notes or letters that may provide the enemy with information upon being

captured.

The patrol

The patrol commander should be aware of friendly operations along the frontline, leaving the

main unit he should ask for any last news about friendly and enemy movement. Leaving on

patrol is performed with great care not to give away the location of friendly guard posts.

When the patrol is moving the commanding officer should designate a point of movement

between the front and rear horizon, control the pace and formation of the patrol and employ

the security section to guard the rear of the patrol. If needed the commander should take point

of the patrol, and should also make his riflemen aware of specific landmarks which will help

them to orientate on the way back with their findings.

The commander should ensure that the patrol doesn’t maintain a stiff formation and that the

security section isn’t allocated without any thought put into their task. The security section

should always move from point to point completing issued tasks of keeping an eye out for the

enemy and report anything suspicious to the patrol commander. The security section should

always be instructed where to move, how to behave and where to return in order to join up

with the parent unit.

The security section should also act as forward scouts ahead of the patrol, so that they can

bring information on what is hiding behind the horizon so that the patrol avoids any surprises

from the enemy. If the patrol commander can’t spare the time of sending away his forward

scouts he should lead the full patrol in lose formation so that in case of a surprise attack losses

are kept to a minimum.

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The patrol commander should always move in such a way so that he can maintain control

over the whole patrol and maintain visual contact with the security section.

If time permits it and especially in close proximity to the enemy, the patrol commander

should ensure every vantage point is used to get a good view over the defenses and obstacles.

In such satiations the patrol should be ready to open fire and have its flanks guarded by

security sections.

Approaching and crossing terrain

The following are instructions on how to approach and cross important terrain features.

1) Woods should be approached in line formation, with the security section at the front. If

possible the patrol should use any terrain on the approach to the woods and have their

weapons ready in case they need to provide fire support for the security section.

Movement through woods is done in loose pairs, with the security section within viewing

distance. The rearguard of the patrol should also include the second in command. Small forest

and bushes should be avoided not to stir up wildlife. The security section approaching such

locations should rely on the fire support from the patrol, in particular from the light

machinegun (BAR)

2) Villages and hamlets are treated according to the same guidelines as approaching small

forests. The patrol should avoid moving into enclosed spaces, if required these are passed

through quickly.

3) River crossings should be scouted by the forward security section to ensure the safety of

the surroundings before the patrols uses them.

Before the reconnaissance of key terrain the commanding officer should observe them with

binoculars, avoiding detection and decide upon the best approach to gather information.

Before sending forward a security section he should instruct them in detail about how to

behave when approaching the terrain and how to potentially lure an enemy unit. The security

section should always be under the protection of the light machinegun.

When moving through forests it is recommended that security sections are sent to the edges of

the forest, when patrolling through a populated area the security section should be directed

towards isolated buildings where it is often easier to capture prisoners and take hostages.

The patrol is forbidden to talk to the inhabitants, and leaving a populated area the patrol

should move in such a way so that the inhabitants can’t discern the heading or potential target

of the patrol.

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Conduct towards the enemy

Small patrols are to primarily gather information through observation of the enemy and

should take any measure to complete the task.

If gathering of information is not possible in any other way, use of force and fighting is

necessary. The patrol commander should not be put off by such difficulties. In the case of

gathering information from a well concealed enemy he should attempt to make the enemy

reveal himself, even if it is necessary to organize a mock attack.

Contact with smaller enemy units or enemy security sections the patrol commander should

attempt to take prisoners, or if not possible, destroy the enemy – unless it has a negative

impact on the given mission.

In case the patrol makes contact with a stronger enemy, or if the patrol becomes surrounded,

the patrol must strike boldly in order to breach the enemy line. If needed the patrol should

disperse and reform at a designated gathering point.

Patrols that are tasked with protecting their own parent unit must immediately raise the alarm,

and put up a fierce fight. If the enemy is attacking the patrol commander should relocate the

defense to the nearest terrain feature and prevent the enemy from capturing terrain that may

offer a tactical advantage.

If necessary the patrol must be ready to sacrifice itself, especially if the enemy is close and the

parent unit isn’t ready to defend itself.

The sight of enemy gas or armored unit should immediately be related to the commanding

officer by the shortest possible line of communication.

Patrols at night

Nighttime and foggy conditions are the best conditions to conduct patrols. Before moving out

the patrol should ensure that their equipment doesn’t make any noise when moving. During

nighttime the patrol must double its efforts not to or fall into enemy hands. The patrol should

be guided by sounds and speaking and making noise is forbidden, the marching sounds should

also be softened. The patrol will have an easier time to if they have familiarized themselves

with the surroundings during daytime or using a map and following landmarks.

If the enemy fires a flare the patrol should drop to the ground and only move onward once the

flare goes out. If an enemy unit is encountered the patrol commander is called upon to use all

of his cunning and skill in order to achieve the given mission. Nighttime offers great

opportunity for ambushes and fighting should be conducted with bayonets and grenades.

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Patrol reports

Patrol reports must be short and clear, and are required to include the following information:

1) Patrol number

2) Exact time and place from which the report is sent

3) If the enemy has been sighted, in what strength and what the enemy is doing.

4) Source of the information

5) Information about the surrounding terrain

6) Information on the whereabouts, or planned further action, of the patrol commander

7) A clear signature

The writing must be clear and easy to read, all sketches must be easy to understand. A report

should always be given as soon as contact is made with the enemy, changes among enemy

positions, as well as all other negative information are important. The report must always be

confirmed.

All information that may make operation of the friendly unit easier or more difficult must

always be included, in all further reports a short summary of the previously gathered

information should be included since one cannot count on all reports reaching their

destination.

Runners

Runners are sent either on foot, bike or horse especially when the distances are great. Before

sending a runner the patrol commander should ensure that the runner is familiar with the way

back and to whom he should hand the report.

In case of the commander having given order the patrol to quickly located and signal the

whereabouts of the enemy positions use of flare gun or making a fire is permitted.

Patrols that are protecting the main unit should always be familiar with short signals with this

they can communicate with the main unit. A fast means of communication is crucial in order

to report about use of gas or appearance of enemy armor.

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The light mortar section is composed of:

A section commander – “Kapral” (Corporal)

2-3 mortar crew of which one is a “Starszy strzelec” Private First Class who also acts as the

second in command of the light mortar section

3-4 ammunition carriers

A light mortar section may be reduced only when light mortars are reduced in number or

missing. Mortar sections are numbered 1-3 within the company structure.

Section commander

The section commander is performing tasks according to the orders of the platoon

commander. He should always be ready to support the platoon actions with intense and

accurate fire, especially before an assault. In every action the section commander should be

aware of:

1) The current actions of the platoon.

2) When moving, to keep the same direction and use of terrain along the line of the riflemen.

3) Fire according to orders given by the platoon commander, or the platoon second in

command.

4) Picking a setup position that allows for uninterrupted support along the entire frontline of

the platoon and specifically in front of the platoon.

The section commander must also always care for an accurate fire and conserving

ammunition, for resupplying ammunition and generally spend the ammunition in such a way

that he can always provide enough fire support on the shortest of ranges.

General information

The light mortar section follows the same procedures, movements and unit formations as the

“team”, replace the word team with the word “section” in the previous text describing team

operations.


The section commander makes sure that the light mortar fires accurately, and is always

supplied with ammunition. As soon as half of the ammunition has been spent the section

commander is to inform the platoon commander or the platoon second in command without

any specific order to do so.

A good way to spend the ammunition is to use it at the most critical and deciding point during

a battle. Only a small part of the ammunition should be used to fire at long range. This is

especially important when fighting with a frontline platoon where the resupplying of

ammunition can be very difficult when the platoon is under fire from enemy infantry.

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During combat

Every rifleman must know how to operate the light mortar if required to replace one of the

crewmen. Particular training and familiarity with the weapon should be emphasized by all

members of the light mortar section.

It is forbidden to leave the light mortar, or light mortar ammunition, behind on the battlefield.

In the event that the light mortar section suffers casualties the platoon commander must be

ready to replace the crew with any riflemen that are closest to the weapon.

When the light mortar isn’t used in battle the section commander should not keep his crew

idle. Part of the crew, if the terrain allows for it, should take part in the battle and fire their

rifles.

During an attack

When the platoon is attacking, the section is moving along in a position designated by the

platoon commander. When moving the light mortar section follows the same procedure as the

“team”.

In general the light mortar opens fire when the platoon is closing in with the enemy, at around

400 meters. Under special circumstances, when the ammunition levels are particularly high,

fire may be opened sooner in order to fight important targets that prevent effective movement

of the platoon – in particular heavy machineguns in cover.

The main task of the light mortar is to support the platoon during an assault, and in the

subsequent deeper movement of the platoon into enemy lines. The light mortar should attack

key targets such as heavy machineguns, artillery, and other targets that can’t effectively be

targeted and shelled by friendly artillery and mortars.

Under difficult circumstances before the platoon makes itself ready for an assault, the light

mortar section should guide its fire orders of the platoon commander or the orders of the

platoon second in command who is left in the rear.

Light mortars are in general used as whole sections, in special situations they may however be

attached to a team within the platoon.

When defending

During a defensive situation the platoon commander gives the setup location and fire

instructions to the section. The section should be able to provide fire at the maximum

effective range of the light mortar, it should target larger groups of enemy soldiers and heavy

weapons entering battle. Fire should also be directed towards areas that are out of line of sight

for friendly machineguns. The main task of the light mortar section is to aid the platoon in

repulsing enemy assaults, fighting heavy weapons preparing to assault, dedicated groups of

storming enemy infantry, and in every sense suppressing and breaking up every enemy

attempt at assaulting friendly positions. If needed the section can provide help to neighboring

units.

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Platoon composition

The platoon is made up of the following:

Platoon commander (a 2nd

Lieutenant “Podporucznik” or Lieutenant “Porucznik”)

Second in command, a senior NCO ( Sergeant “Sierzant” or Senior Sergeant “Starszy

Sierzant”

Observer (unspecified rank, only that it is a NCO)

3 rifle teams


Ammunition cart

Anti tank rifle section (1939) not mentioned in the 1934 manual

Platoon should include 1 officer, 9 NCO’s, 58 riflemen (including the batman of the platoon

commander). A reduced platoon can operate with 2 rifle sections and a light mortar section

with a reduced crew of 2. A platoon should never drop below 26 men including the platoon

commander. Platoons are numbered 1-3 within the company structure.

Platoon commander

The platoon commander is the aide of the company commander in terms of fostering and

schooling the troops. He commands his platoon according to the orders of the company

commander. He commands over the rifle teams and the light mortar section.

If needed the platoon commander may take light machineguns (BAR) and riflemen from rifle

sections and allocate them to special tasks.

The platoon commander is a constant influence on the operation of his platoon, his conduct,

energy and morale must be act as a support despite the hardships in order to maintain an

unbreakable opposition. He should care for his subordinates and their efficiency in every

undertaken task must be based upon full confidence in him in order to ensure success in

battle.

By knowing every soldier and his thought process the platoon commander can better tailor

ways to boost morale and lift the soldier spirit in his men.

In all actions the platoon commander should ensure that:

1) He has full overview of his platoon.

2) Overview over the enemy in the field.

3) A line of communication with the company commander

4) Ensure that he keeps his flanks secured in order to prevent a surprise attack by the enemy.

During battle the platoon commander must ensure that he is in full control over his rifle teams

and in particular the light mortar section which he guides so that they work together with

other heavy weapons and neighboring units. Doing this he must ensure he has a sense of

direction on the battlefield, make sure to use the terrain to his favor, direct fire, and ensure an

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immediate response to enemy aircraft, gas attacks and to enemy anti tank weapons. The

platoon commander should also ensure that his platoon maintains an accurate fire and that it is

supplied with ammunition. The platoon commander must always care for order and discipline

within his unit, and when outside of battle ensure that the soldiers care for and maintain their

weapons. The platoon commander is responsible for every actions within the platoon, no

matter to whom he entrusted a task.

Second in command

The second in command is the aide of the platoon commander. The general tasks of the

second in command is to ensure that there is a line of communication with neighboring units,

replenishment of ammunition within the platoon, making sure that no one is left behind – and

other tasks specified by the platoon commander.

When the platoon is acting in loose formation he must ensure that the orders of the platoon

commander are followed, in particular when the platoon commander is acting in front of the

unit and gives orders using signals.

During battle the second in command may be given command depending on the need for

additional leadership. Often the second in command will be called to lead a part of the platoon

that due to the platoon commander being too far away or out of sight behind terrain is out of

control of the platoon commander.

Sometimes during an assault the second in command may be left behind in order to direct the

fire of the light mortar, or in especially difficult situations instruct how to use the light mortar.

The second in command must always be ready to assume command when the platoon

command is missing.

The observer

The observer is there to aid the platoon commander and ensure a constant observation of the

field. His role has already been described in the “General infantry guidelines and tactics”

chapter.

Platoon formations

During a muster the platoon is gathered in a double line. It may also be gathered in four

columns or a double column.

The platoon marches in a four column, if the terrain calls for it the platoon marches in a

double column. Due to the uneven number of soldiers in each team the teams are evened out

with the observer joining the first team, the second in command joins the third team, and the

batman of the commanding officer joins the light mortar section. Four soldiers are to march in

front of the second team.

The commanders place when the platoon is forming or marching independently is three steps

to the rightmost team when formed in line, or at the front of the first team when formed in a

column.

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If the platoon is forming or marching as part of a company the place of the platoon

commander is on the right side of the double line formation. When marching the platoon

commanders place is in front of the four riflemen marching at the head of the column.

The platoon commander is also responsible for applying the correct heading and formation of

the platoon, and in case of a ammunition cart being part of the platoon he should designate a

place for it in the marching column.

The leading team of the platoon is always, unless the platoon commander says otherwise, the

first team. All other teams follow the pace and formation of the first team, if the column is to

spread out the second team should move to the right while the third team should move to the

left, while the light mortar section should remain in the middle, 80-100 paces behind the

leading team.

Loose formation

When the platoon acts in loose formation, the space between the teams should be 100-120

paces. The light mortar section should be located approximately at the center of the platoon. If

the platoon commander wants to increase or decrease the space between the teams he must

specify this in his order. The platoon commander’s place is usually at the head of his platoon,

or where he can best direct the movement of his platoon. He should constantly be

accompanied by the observer and the batman. The place of the second in command is usually

at the rear of the platoon.

Opening fire

The fire from a platoon consists of:

1) Fire from rifle teams, under direction of team commanders.

2) Fire from the light mortar section guided by the platoon commander but directly

commanded by the section commander.

Opening and conducting fire with the entire platoon as one combined unit is only performed

when the platoon comes under a surprising and heavy enemy fire, when firing at a particularly

important target, to fight off an enemy who threatens the whole platoon, or in order to fight an

enemy at long distance.

Directing the fire

The platoon commander decides when his platoon is to open fire, he instructs his team

commanders about targets that have to be destroyed in order for the platoon to fulfill its task,

or order them about specific locations which are to be kept under fire.

The platoon commander also instructs the task of the light mortar section. He should should

maintain a cooperation between the teams in his platoon as well as with neighboring units.

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The commander should observe the effect of friendly fire from his platoon, the effects of

enemy fire, and the effect of neighboring units. He should immediately correct the fire if

important targets aren’t being fired upon, or are fired upon with poor effect.

If the platoon is surprised by the enemy, in particular by enemy cavalry, the platoon

commander must be ready to issue the order to open fire suddenly. The platoon should in such

case quickly assume positions and open fire even if at close range from the enemy, the light

mortar section should immediately prepare to give close fire support. It is necessary to drill

the soldiers so that they are able to quickly assume positions, and direct the fire under such

conditions.

Cooperation with artillery and air support

The efficiency of heavy weapons support if first and foremost decided by the infantry being

able to correctly direct and issue targets. The platoon commander is designating targets for the

heavy weapons, either directly or by predetermined signals, or by reporting targets to the

company commander. The platoon commander reports targets for the artillery to the company

commander or to the forward observer if present.

The platoon commander must know the correct passwords on how to start and stop artillery

fire and must be familiar with who can give the fire support. Friendly aircraft are directed

with the use of sheets which are folder back together as soon as the pilot has confirmed the

signal.


The platoon follows the same procedures to conserve ammunition as described in the chapter

detailing the team. If the platoon includes an ammunition cart it should be directed by the

platoon commander. Ammunition is distributed by spare crewmen from the light machinegun

(BAR), spare crew from the light mortar section or by designated riflemen.

When the platoon has used up half of its ammunition the platoon commander reports this to

the company commander without any special order to do so.

Combat – when attacking

As soon as the company unfolds and beings its attack, the company commander immediately

sends a security section ahead of the platoon and establishes communication with the

company commander.

During daytime and in open terrain it is enough for the security patrol to consist of 1 NCO

and 3 riflemen send ahead of the unit, and another similar patrol to be send to the flank and

nearest terrain feature that blocks line of sight, the security patrol should however never be

further than 400-500 meters from the main unit

During nighttime or foggy conditions the platoon should send out several such security patrols

but keep them at shorter distances from the main unit. Upon opening fire the security patrols

are to remain stationary and be absorbed by the platoon which moves up ready to fight.

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The patrol should always maintain line of sight to the platoon commander, the platoon

commander decides about the movement of his unit depending on the encountered danger.

Movement of the platoon should be performed in such a way to minimize its risk of taking

casualties while also being ready to engage the enemy by facing in the right direction.

The platoon commander is tasked with adjusting the movement and formation of this platoon

depending on the terrain. The continued movement of a dispersed platoon should be

maintained as long as the circumstances of terrain and enemy fire allow for it, as far as

possible in order to set up a firing position.

If movement of the platoon endangers it the platoon commander issues the order to move in

teams between specific points, if needed the teams should break up in smaller groups. This

reduction of platoon movement should not impact negatively on the task given to the platoon.

If the mission calls for it, the platoon must move as a compete unit, regardless of any losses

that may be inflicted upon it.

The platoon observer maintains a constant watch and raises the alarm in case of observed gas,

enemy aircraft or enemy armor.

The platoon commander should always act from the front to be able to observe and process

information about the terrain in front of the platoon so that he can decide as soon as possible

about how to best move his platoon.

Preparing for an assault

The platoon commander should keep himself informed about the direction of the impending

assault and information about enemy positions. Some of this information may be handed

down to him by the company commander, but some he must learn by himself.

The platoon commander should issue short and clear orders about the direction and target of

his platoon and make sure that the platoon is dispersed. If time permits it he should instruct

his platoon on a team basis, inform his subordinates about the supporting fire that the platoon

will receive and inform them about the signal which will be used to begin the assault.

The platoon leading the assault should be located in the company center with secured flanks,

it should deploy all of its rifle teams in a line. If the number of soldiers or the terrain doesn’t

allow for this sort of deployment the platoon commander should deploy two rifle teams and

every light machineguns (BAR) in the platoon to lead the assault.

The team left behind may be used for a various number of tasks, such as securing the flanks,

act as reserves and other similar tasks. The light mortar section should as often as possible be

placed in the center of the unit.

If the assault has to cross barbed wire the platoon commander should inform his subordinates

on how to proceed, special patrols should be sent forward to cut open the obstacles while the

rest of the platoon provides covering fire.

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How to behave during an attack

Regardless of whether the attack begins with the platoon formed as a column or in loose

formation it follows the same principle. The platoon commander must constantly have a good

feeling and judgment of enemy opposition and use that information to regulate the speed and

force of the attack.

When the commander deems it impossible to move any further without opening fire at the

enemy due to the range to the enemy or risk of casualties he order the platoon to open fire.

In the continued attack the platoon advances under fire with single teams, groups of light

machineguns and riflemen and finally single soldiers. The platoon commander ensures that no

one gets isolated by constantly controlling the movement and speed of his teams.

The platoon commander pursues to lead his platoon tirelessly so that it keeps advancing and

should be located in the thick of the fighting.

Should his subordinates fail to take advantage of an opportunity to advance the platoon

commander should himself lead by example. If the platoon is well supported by covering fire,

has favorable terrain or when the enemy is weak he should attack with the entire platoon as

one. The unbent will to engage the enemy should guide ever action to move forward at all

costs

The platoon commander is responsible for the direction and heading of the attacking platoon,

and should if possible use terrain to get as close to the enemy as he possibly can without

exposing his platoon. He should also make sure to counter the instinct of his riflemen to

attempt to even out the line of the attack, the movement of the unit should be fluid and make

best use of any available cover. The movements of the platoon should also be performed in

such a way so that they not disturb fire from friendly heavy machineguns.

During the attack the platoon commander should maintain fire control of his teams and direct

their fire at enemy positions and targets that are directly limiting platoon movement. The

platoon commander should keep a constant eye on enemy positions and report any heavy

weapons and vital targets so that artillery and fire support may deal with them as efficiently

and accurately as possible. He should report all important targets either to forward observers

or the company commander.

In difficult terrain the platoon commander must also ensure that the fire support is aware of

the location of operation of friendly teams.

The use of light mortars and machineguns has an increased importance the closer the platoon

is to the enemy where the fire support from artillery and heavy machinegun is harder to

maintain. Should the terrain be of difficult nature and the line of communication with friendly

fire support should be broken, the platoon commander should not hesitate to assume control

over the nearest unit of heavy machineguns and have them follow his platoon to provide

direct fire support.

39

The fire from light mortars should be directed at enemy heavy machineguns, especially if it is

unable to knock out those positions in any other way.

If the need arises the platoon commander should give the order to his platoon to temporarily

dig in order to avoid heavy casualties. He should however keep the unit ready to move

onward and this should not hinder his platoon from completing their assigned mission.

The platoon commander must ensure that the platoon is disciplined and follows his orders, if

necessary he should be ready to enforce his command to force the platoon to proper behavior.


The order to attack alongside tanks is given by higher commanders; the advancement

alongside tanks is already covered in the “Team” chapter. The platoon commander should

direct the actions of his platoon to take advantage of the tanks, inform the tanks about

obstacles that they may not be aware of with the use of signals.

Against enemy anti tank fire shooting at the tanks from close range the platoon commander

should direct the fire from his light machineguns, marksmen and light mortars.

Should the tanks cease their advance he should not allow the platoon to stop from advancing

towards the designated target.

Attacking at night

When attacking at night the platoon commander should inform his troops about the lay of the

land, the way that they are going to attack, how neighboring units as well as how heavy fire

support from artillery and heavy machineguns will act.

In particular the soldiers should be informed on how to maintain a sense of direction by

following terrain features or illuminated compasses, how to communicate and how to act

when contact is made with the enemy.

As far as possible and as long as it does not risk detection from the enemy, the attack should

be conducted with close proximity to neighboring units. In order to secure the advance the

platoon commander may send forward a patrol which will remain within reach of the main

unit.

The platoon commander should lead his platoon from the front, ensuring that it maintains the

right direction, communication with neighboring units and maintains silence on their

approach to the enemy. The attack frontage of the platoon is formed by 3 or 2 teams

depending on the situation. The platoon commander should always have a group of riflemen

close at hand at his disposal. The second in command is leading the light mortar section.

The attack begins on the signal from the commander, every smaller patrol or enemy unit

encountered must be destroyed without hesitation and silently using bayonets so not to alarm

the enemy force. The platoon commander ensures that the platoon reaches their designated

target even if the enemy opens fire.

40

The assault

The platoon commander should prepare by early detection and identification good targets for

the assault. The platoon should direct most of its efforts towards these locations, directing

light mortar fire and any attached weapons. He should also inform about the locations of high

value targets to the company commander and the heavy weapons support.

During the battle the platoon commander must be ready to initiate the assault by his own

initiative and by his own example. Always before the assault begins the platoon should mount

bayonets. Immediately before the assault begins the fire from artillery, light mortars and

heavy machineguns should be redirected. The company commander should provide new

targets for these weapons.

Once the platoon starts their assault the light mortar section should adjust their fire to fire

deeper into the targeted enemy unit or at the enemy flanks to provide cover for the assaulting

platoon.

The second in command who is left behind to direct fire from the support weapons should

ensure that they can all move forward to follow the assaulting platoon so that they can always

provide close fire support. If the platoon is crossing an obstacle they should be covered by

heavy machineguns and light mortar fire.

The platoon may perform a combined assault, already described in the chapter “Team”, in

such case the platoon commander must inform and direct the light mortars to synchronize

their fire with the attack of the assaulting platoon.

If the assault fails the platoon should remain in place and keep fighting until relieved so that

captured ground is not lost and buy time for the organizing of reinforcements.

After the assault

Once the platoon has breach the enemy line and is inside the position of an enemy unit the

platoon commander should be located at the forefront of the attack, with the covering fire

from light machineguns he should organize his platoon and continue the attack. He should

ensure that the light mortar and heavy machineguns join the fight and direct their fire so that it

covers the continued attack.

The platoon commander should also quickly make contact with the company commander to

learn about the location of friendly units and the situation on the flanks. If needed he should

order the replenishment of ammunition to his platoon, he is aided in this task by his second in

command.

Continued fighting deeper into enemy positions requires a lot of bravery from the platoon

commander in order to maintain the speed and force of which the platoon keeps moving

deeper into enemy lines. The attack must not be slowed down be remaining opposition on the

flanks or by neighboring units remaining in the rear. The platoon commander must constantly

be ready to fight and destroy suddenly appearing targets at close range threatening the platoon

41

from the front or the flanks with the help of light mortars and attached heavy weapon support,

or such support units that t he platoon commander has taken command of during the course of

battle. The support from these weapons must be quick and if necessary – offer a brotherly and

sacrificial operation in order to aid the platoon commander. If lacking orders and command

these weapons should rely on their own initiative to provide fire support, especially during

enemy counterassaults.

Halting the attack

When the attack is halted, either by the achievement of its goal, by orders or by heavy enemy

opposition the platoon acts defensively but remains ready to push onward. The platoon

commander should ensure the order and calm within his platoon, and if need be use his own

personal influence at particularly exposed locations within the platoon to lift the morale of his

soldiers.

The ability to organize an effective defense requires the distribution of orders to quickly

organize fire instructions to all teams, light mortars and heavy machineguns, as well as ensure

that the platoon digs in.

Ammunition levels should be evened out within the platoon and if possible resupplied. If the

platoon is located near the enemy lines it should be relocated under cover of darkness.

The platoon commander ensures that he has a channel of communication with neighboring

units, and in case his platoon is isolated he makes sure that the flanks are secured. He should

quickly contact the company commander to inform him about his location in order to receive

fire support. Constant contact should be maintained with the enemy either by observation or

patrols and reports should be made about every change in the enemy line.

In case of dusk, darkness or fog the platoon commander doubles his efforts to keep his

platoon secure and maintain contact with the enemy.

Pursuit

It is important to maintain observation and be aware of any changes in the enemy line so that

the platoon can react to a weakening enemy or an enemy attempt to withdraw. At the sight of

enemy withdrawal the platoon commander reports about this and then leads a pursuit after the

enemy – not waiting for any order and disregarding the levels of fatigue within his platoon.

Any light mortars and heavy machineguns in the proximity are to follow the pursuit so that

the platoon commander can rely on covering fire in case of running into opposition or a

counterattack.

The pursuit must be fast so not to lose contact with the enemy or allow the enemy to use the

terrain to their advantage and set up a new defense. When facing enemy artillery and heavy

machineguns the platoon commander should adapt the formation of his unit so they can make

best use of the surrounding terrain.

42

In dense terrain the platoon commander must ensure that he uses security sections to avoid

surprises.

All opposition in t he direct path should be destroyed, opposition to the flanks should be

ignored and evaded – or assigned to be handled by units in the rear. Should the enemy cover

his retreat with armor it is important to quickly bypass them using the cover of surrounding

terrain.

In case of a disorderly enemy withdrawal, risks taken by the platoon commander may be

rewarded with great results.

Reserve platoon

The reserve platoon moves behind the fighting platoons according to the orders given by the

company commander but always ready to support their actions or the flanks if needed. The

platoon must be formed in such a way so that it makes the best use of cover in order to

minimize casualties from the air and from fire on the ground.

The platoon commander should constantly be in touch with the company commander, and be

aware of the current combat situation of fellow platoons. Usually the light mortar of the

reserve platoon acts together with the rest of the company at the forefront of the fighting.

As an air defense the reserve platoon commander nominates 1-3 of his light machineguns to

provide AA fire.

The reserve platoon enters active combat on the direct order from the company commander,

in some cases the platoon commander must be ready to perform isolated actions with his

platoon to secure exposed and threatened flanks of the company or repulsing enemy attacks.

Defense

During a defense the platoon commander is responsible for holding a designated location in

the frontline. His duty is to defend this location with fiercely and with determination, without

any thought of withdrawing.

The platoon commander prepares the fire of his platoon by distributing the teams in foxholes

along the front of his defensive position and instructing the teams with fire missions.

The defense must be in total control of the field in from of their position and cooperate with

heavy machineguns and neighboring platoons, and if need be all fire should be able to be

directed at concentrated points. In the case of enemy units tearing through the defense the

platoon must be able to defend its position and be able to provide support to neighbor units.

The platoon commander should also familiarize himself with the task and mode of operation

of the heavy machineguns designated to his stretch of the front. Cooperation with neighbor

units require agreements between unit commanders.

43

By giving the order to fire the platoon commander establishes:

1) The destruction of enemy units at long range by combined fire from the whole platoon, or

by light machineguns and marksmen alone.

2) The use of suppressing fire on the given signal.

The platoon commander should care for accurate estimation of ranges to specific terrain

features that can be used as guidelines for the fire. During night fighting he should have

prepared the battlefield with clearly visible range finders, preparation of firing angles from all

weapons – in particular the light machineguns so that their fire isn’t interrupted by terrain.

The platoon commander should pick his place of commanding the platoon in such a way so

that he has complete overview over his platoon, the field in front of the unit and the

approaching enemy. The observer is kept close at hand to the platoon commander, and

communication with the company commander, neighboring platoon commanders and with

team commanders within his own platoon is prepared.

The platoon commander is responsible for quickly creating fortifications and hiding obstacles

by orders of the company commander. It is important to organize defenses so that they create

an uninterrupted line allowing for continued defense even when neighboring units have been

overrun. The platoon commander should not forget to create decoys which may split the

attention of enemy attacks and fire.

Combat readiness

The combat readiness of the platoon should be adjusted to match the danger of enemy attack.

Platoon observers and designated riflemen are fulfilling the task of constant alarm duty. The

combat readiness of the platoon should be prepared in such a way that each foxhole is ready

to open fire at the sound of the alarm. An NCO is constantly on duty within the platoon,

ensuring the combat readiness, awareness and alertness of troops and alarm posts is

maintained.

The platoon commander most ensure that the alarm is well prepared, especially when it’s

dark, in order to avoid confusion once the alarm is raised. The communication of the platoon

should be checked frequently and the platoon commander must ensure that all soldiers are

familiar with the signs. The commander should ensure that his platoon maintains all these

precautions, especially when the men are tired, during nighttime or just before the break of

dawn when it is most likely to come under sudden attack.

The platoon commander must ensure that each foxhole is supplied with ammunition and

organize for a way to resupply them. He should take extra care to ensure that the light

machineguns (BAR) and the light mortar is supplied with ammunition as well as making sure

that the soldiers have food and water.

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Opening and directing defensive fire

Once the alarm is raised or when the enemy appears the platoon assumes a readiness to open

fire. Before opening fire all forward patrols should be withdrawn.

The team is opened and controlled by the team commanders within the platoon; if the platoon

commander wants to surprise the enemy with suddenly opened fire he should instruct his

teams accordingly.

The platoon follows the directions of the platoon commander in directing their fire at long

range targets, destroying them if the fire from friendly artillery and heavy machineguns isn’t

intense or destructive enough. For this task the platoon may use the combined fire of the

entire platoon, parts of the platoon or decide if fire should be limited to light machineguns and

marksmen. Firing at long range should be sensible in order to not waste ammunition.

In difficult circumstances, during darkness, fog or when observation of the enemy is limited

the platoon commander should ensure that the fire from his platoon is controlled and there is

no wild shooting.

The platoon commander must direct his fire in such a way to break up and stop all enemy

attempts to assault friendly positions, taking extra care to cover exposed and vulnerable areas

in the friendly line, making sure that the heavy machineguns are aware of these weaknesses

and has them covered.


Unwavering will and fierceness of the platoon commander during a defense shall serve as

inspiration and affect the riflemen under his command. The platoon commander must ensure

that all possible support is given if a specific foxhole is targeted by enemy assaults, be it with

fire or in hand to hand combat with the enemy. Neighboring team commanders that aren’t

directly affected by assaults must ensure a continued defense of the frontline area, but should

if the situation permits help out neighboring teams.

As a last resort the fortifications and defenses should be constructed in such a way so that they

allow for a quick counterattack, the platoon commander should gather everyone within range

and launch such an assault to destroy any enemy, that has breached the line of defense, in

hand to hand combat.

Should the enemy tear deep into the defensive line the platoon commander should ensure that

the enemy is pinned down with fire from all directions in order to prevent further enemy

movement.

During a prolonged battle the platoon commander must ensure the quality of the fortifications

and defenses, the maintenance of weapons and keep an open supply line for ammunition.

The personal conduct of the platoon commander and his sharing of living space with his

subordinates should ensure that the morale and fighting spirits of the soldiers remain high and

reassure the combat value of the riflemen. By taking part in sorties and patrols ordered by

45

senior commanders the platoon commander creates an positive impact with his example on

his subordinates.

Reserve platoon during defense

The placement of the reserve platoon is decided by the platoon commander. The light mortar

and potentially part of the light machineguns may be attached to the units in the frontline if

deemed necessary by the platoon commander.

Left behind the platoon commander leaves a security section, some of the light machineguns

and riflemen who are tasked with opening fire immediately upon an enemy breaching the first

line of defense. In these cases the rest of the platoons organize a counterattack.

The platoon commander of the reserve platoon should be constantly aware of the tide of battle

and have good knowledge of how to reach the frontline platoons.

If the enemy breaches the front line it is up to the security section and light mortars to pin

down the enemy with fire, at the same time the platoon command should without hesitation or

waiting for orders lead a determined counterattack so that the enemy does not get the time to

prepare a defense. The light machineguns and light mortars provide covering fire for this

counterattack and if needed move with the rest platoon.

The reserve platoon commander must be ready to immediately reinforce the security section if

needed.


Planned routes to be used in case the specific teams must withdraw from battle, as well as a

point where the whole platoon regroups must be known beforehand.

The timing of when to withdraw is decided by a number of factors.

If the defense takes places in dense terrain which provides cover and will slow down the

enemy, the withdrawal should be delayed as long as possible.

If the defense is out in the open or atop a hill, the unit should withdraw in such a way so that it

has enough time to reach the next terrain feature and use it for cover before the enemy catches

up.

If the enemy uses tanks or cavalry, withdrawing troops must use terrain to shield themselves

from the enemy.,

Withdrawal from the frontline is conducted in the same way as described in the “Team”

chapters, under cover from light machineguns. Great care must be taken to ensure the safety

of the flanks. If needed the platoon commander should help the platoon withdraw using a line

formation and the cover of riflemen that were left in the rear.

The platoon commander should care for the heavy equipment, and if needed ensure that it is

properly relocated. In dense terrain ambushes may be used.

46

Ambushes

Ambushes are performed in order to surprise the enemy and take prisoners, or as part of a

delaying action in dense terrain where it is easier to get close to the enemy.

Ambushes, even when performed by small groups can be very effective and even small units

can be capable of defeating much larger enemy forces or simply inflict heavy losses that

decrease enemy morale and halting enemy movement.

The crucial point of laying an ambush is to open combined fire, suddenly, and at short range.

Good places for an ambush are bottlenecks in the terrain or near obstacles that the enemy

must cross.

There are no specific guidelines for ambushes; their success depends on cunning, initiative

and the determination of the commanders. The ambush may be more successful if the

commander and the riflemen know the terrain well and are prepared for such actions. It is

crucial that the ambush catches the enemy completely by surprise and the quick an bold

exploitation of that surprise.

The commander decides the right moment to strike and uses the quickest means of

communicating his intents with his fellow soldiers.

An ambush must be quick and violent in order to destroy the target before it can be

reinforced. The ambushing unit should know how and where to withdraw if the need for such

course arises.

Platoon on reconnaissance missions

A platoon sent on a reconnaissance mission is issued a task, directions and potentially

secondary objectives. The platoon may be strengthened with cavalry, bikes and possibly even

heavy machineguns. If there is a lack of horses the unit may requisition horses from locals.

The platoon commander sent on a reconnaissance mission has free reins about how to operate,

how to achieve the goal of the mission following all other guidelines described in the “Team”

chapter covering patrol duty.

During movement the platoon is secured by small patrols working as security sections. The

platoon commander must adapt the formation of the platoon to the terrain, and attempt to hide

his movement while maintaining full combat readiness in case of contact being made with the

enemy. There should be a small reserve unit with machineguns covering his rear.

The platoon commander performs his reconnaissance by observation, by the use of patrols

and with combat. When using patrols the platoon should be ready to provide them with fire

support. The patrols must be given clear tasks; it may be very effective to direct such patrols

at the flanks or rear of enemy positions.

The platoon commander should always remember that his sole task is reconnaissance, and he

should do everything and cross very obstacle in order to fulfill that mission. Encountered

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enemy units are either avoided or destroyed. If that is not possible the platoon commander

should enter battle unless he is forced to or unless the reconnaissance mission calls for such a

fight. He should always keep in mind that combat is just an available tool but not the goal of

his patrol.

The platoon commander must always ensure that the platoon can withdraw from battle if

needed and break contact with the enemy. If the platoon has broken away from the enemy, it

should return back home using another way than that which they used going on the patrol

Spearhead

The spearhead only fulfills its task through battle. This is achieved by a constant and

determined advance. Always ready for a fight it should move in a formation adapted to the

terrain and maintains a firm direction following a specified road.

The movement of the unit must maintain an even pace, and the commander must ensure the

safety of, and issue warnings to, units moving in his rear. Every terrain feature in the path of a

friendly column must be searched.

The spearhead sends security sections to the front and flanks, directed at any blocking terrain,

the number of security sections depend on the number of such terrain features. If mounted

these security sections should be sent as far to the front and flanks as possible to prevent any

enemy unit hiding around the horizon. If there is no cavalry available for these tasks then the

spearhead moves as one, in loose formation, towards these targets so that they don’t take

heavy casualties in case of an enemy surprise attack.

Communication with friendly units in the rear is maintained with the use of signals. When the

friendly column halts its movement, the spearhead should take up forward positions from

where the frontline can be observed and a first line of defense maintained.

Contact with the enemy should be reported immediately back to the parent unit.

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Company composition

The company is the basic unit in which infantry is schooled and trained. The communal living

and working conditions ensures that the company is brought up as one coherent unit that

shares its spirit. The backbone of the company is a cadre of commanders’ that are brave,

dutiful and able to work together.

The rifle company consists of:

Company commander (Captain “Kapitan”)

Company color guard and administrative staff

3 rifle platoons

The company should have the same traits as its company commander who is the sole creator

of the company and possesses the highest military virtue and spirit of the infantry. The

company commander must care for maintaining an offensive spirit in his riflemen as well as

their high morale and physical fitness.

The company commander

The company commander is responsible fire the discipline and combat worthiness of his

company. The company commander fosters every single rifleman into a soldier-citizen who

will never waver during battle or in his duty, even if left on his own.

The company commander issues orders verbally, orders are given in a written form only when

it is not possible or to issue them verbally or when verbal orders aren’t suitable for the

situation. The most important information and the time of given orders should be noted.

In all his actions the company commander must ensure that he has a clear field of view over

his company, the field and the enemy. He must also ensure that he has a clear line of

communication with the battalion commander, support weapons and neighboring units.

The company commander must ensure that his company can’t be taken off guard, and should

always secure his flanks. He should also care to always have as much information as possible

about the enemy and the terrain.

The company commander must always have an influence over the actions of his platoons and

attached weapon support, always ensuring that they all work together with the fire support and

neighboring units.

In particular the company commander should ensure that his company maintains the correct

direction while operating and proper use of terrain, direct the fire of attached weapons and

give accurate targeting data to friendly fire support. Ensure that the company is prepared for

air, armor and gas attacks.

The company commander is also responsible for the supply of food and ammunition, the

supply wagons, the evacuation of wounded and the maintenance of all weapons.

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Senior sergeant

The senior sergeant is the direct aide of the company commander in all matters concerning

administrative work and supplies. He is also the commander of the color guard.

During battle his place is with the company, and his main role is to ensure that everyone is

supplied with ammunition, follow the orders of the company commander and care for their

weapons and equipment.

Administrative NCO

The administrative NCO fulfills administrative tasks within the company. During battle his

place is with the supply wagon and his duty is to ensure that the company always has hot food

which is should be delivered on time.

Weapons NCO

The weapons NCO cares for the weapons, ammunition and anti-gas equipment of the

company. In battle he directs the supply of ammunition.

Company command retainers

The retainers of the company commander are there to aid the company with constant

observation and lines of communication. The attached telephone patrol should mainly be used

to make contact with the battalion commander. The field medic patrol should care for

evacuation of wounded from the field of battle.

Applying various formations

The company should be trained in the various loose formations used by the platoon described

earlier. In particular the company should train quick dispersal of the company and how to

adapt to changing terrain features.

The company disperses on the width and depth with its platoons, the company commander

nominates the facing direction and one platoon to act as the leader of the company. If needed

the company commander issues a location for any attached weapons, the supply and

ammunition wagons.

The most invaluable part of the supply should always be at the side of the company

commander. On the given order, platoon commanders disperse their units and lead them to the

designated setup positions and maintain the pace of their movement according to the orders of

the company commander - if the platoon commanders don’t receive such orders they should

lead their platoons independently.

The company supply must be located in such a way so that it can’t be distinguished from the

rest of the company.

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Combat – advancing

As long as the company is marching as part of a battalion the role of the company commander

is limited to make preparations in case of an air or artillery attack. When moving in terrain the

company commander must care for the security of his flanks.

As soon as the battalion splits up, the company commander is given a task such as the

direction in which he shall advance. He must ensure the he has a forward reconnaissance and

a rear security section for his company as well as maintaining communication with the

battalion commander.

The company adjusts its movement to the terrain and the level of threat from the enemy,

minimizing the risk of taking casualties while maintaining a readiness to engage in battle.

The reconnaissance patrol and security section has been described in previous chapters.

During daytime it is necessary to send at least one patrol ahead of the company one towards

the exposed flank. The distance between the patrols and the company is decreased during the

night. Maintaining communication between company and battalion commanders is kept by

the company commander sending a runner.

The company observer fulfills the role of the alarm post and keeps a lookout for enemy gas

attack as well as enemy aircraft and armor. One light machinegun (BAR) must be ready to

provide AA fire. The company commander and his retainers should maintain a forward

position within the company to quickly learn about the terrain so that he can issue early orders

about how to proceed with the advance. When the company moves away from the supply and

ammunition wagons it is important to give them instructions.

As far as possible the company should maintain a marching formation, if there is danger of

enemy fire the company should assume loose formation. The formation and location of the

units within the company should be determined by the given task and current terrain.

Combat – preparing to attack

The company should disperse and maintain a loose formation. The company commander

should know the lay of the land and have a good knowledge of at least the basic layout of

enemy positions. Some of this information may be acquired from the battalion commander,

some the company commander must gather by himself with the help of reconnaissance and

combat patrols

The order to enter battle should be short and clear and consist of the direction of the attack,

the target location, forming the company for battle and instructing AA weapons.

If time allows it, the company commander should inform his subordinates about the mission

which the company is expected to fulfill, instruct each platoon about their individual targets,

instruct the platoon commander about neighboring units and the fire support. The company

commander should also inform his subordinates about the place of command, communication

and the ammunition supply chain.

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The company commander should be located in such a location where he can observe the field

of battle and from where he can direct the battle and have good communication with

supporting weapons.

Communication with the battalion commander is achieved through the use of telephone,

signals and runners.

Communication with the artillery is achieved through the forward observer or through the

battalion commander.

Crossing barbed wire and other obstacles should follow the orders of higher commanders, the

company commander has to ensure to organize such tasks properly and equip the forward

platoon with the necessary equipment.

The company should always be ready to fight even when in a column formation, and a fast

and bold destruction of the enemy relies on the company commander being able to give short

orders and coordinate the attack with any attached weapons. The supply and ammunition carts

in these instances should be moved back and behind covering terrain under the direction of

the NCO.

An attack should be organized in such a way that the company takes up starting positions

without revealing its location to the enemy. The company should be located directly in front

of the target of the attack. The company must ensure that it secures its flanks and maintains a

combat readiness in case of a sudden enemy attack. The attack from the company should

initiate by the company commander giving the signal and be sudden and determined in order

to take the enemy off guard before he can prepare his defenses.

Behavior during the attack

The attack is performed in the same way, regardless whether the company is breaking up from

a column or begins their attack from a designated area.

The company commander personally leads the battle, uniting both platoons and attached

weapons, directing supporting fire and maintaining control over the reserves. He must

constantly have a good feeling for the strength of enemy opposition in order to ensure the

correct speed and force the attack.

In the event of suddenly appearing heavy machineguns, especially on the flank, that hinder

effective movement – the company commander should direct the fire of heavy weapons, light

mortars and the reserves. If needed he should direct artillery fire at those targets, in such case

he directly reports to the battalion commander through his own forward observer, or with the

use of previously decided upon signals such as smoke grenades fired from light mortars in the

reserve.

Regardless of whether the company is attacking along the entire front forming an even line or

if most of its effort is concentrated on one specific point, the company commander should

observe this with great care so that he can adapt his actions and discern any weaknesses in the

52

enemy line. Once identified the company should direct all the fire and move up his reserves

towards those weak spots. He should also report about the weakness in the enemy line to the

battalion commander so that all heavy weapons and artillery support can be concentrated

while friendly units prepare to capture those positions.

In these instances, the company commander assumes temporary control over those heavy

weapons. Under difficult conditions or when communication is not possible, the company

commander should use his own initiative to take command over the nearest unit of heavy

machineguns and use it to provide direct fire support to the company. In particular when the

company has torn into enemy lines.

Enemy gas attacks or enemy aircraft must not slow down the company from achieving its

mission. The company commander should constantly interest himself in reserve and supply of

ammunition, in particular for the light machineguns (BAR) and the light mortars – ensuring

that the ammunition supply follows after the advancing platoons – and ensuring that the

ammunition supply is replenished from the battalion ammunition carts.

Cooperation with tanks is ordered by higher commanders and is regulated and described in

earlier chapters, but should be founded in direct understanding between the company

commander and the unit commander of the tanks.

Attacks during night follow the same principle as already discussed in earlier chapters, the

company commander ensures that his company keeps the correct direction and follows the

orders given to him by the battalion commander.

Combat – assaults

Assaults are always launched at any time when possible. Often there will be an

unsynchronized beginning of the assault within the company, especially on the far flanks. The

company commander should be located in such a position where he can keep an overview of

the assault and have the reserves close at hand. He should be ready to bolster the initiative of

his subordinates and should be ready to order the assault of the company through his own

signal or by his own example.

The company commander should make sure that all heavy weapons move along with the

assault, and make arrangements with friendly artillery to provide fire support or widening the

area of bombardment.

A combined assaults and assaults during the night are described in previous chapters.

After the assault

After a successful assault the company keeps attacking, the company commander has to

ensure that the attached heavy machineguns are quickly following in tow to support a

continued assault or provide fire support in the event of an enemy counterattack.

It is also important to quickly create a reorganize the company and form a reserve.

53

When the company is fighting inside the enemy line it requires from the company commander

the effort to lead the platoons and direct the fire support for them with the attached heavy

weapons. The company commander must ensure that units that have advanced ahead are

given proper fire support and guard their flanks. Any enemy opposition left on the flanks of

the forward unit which are blocking further move of the company should be targeted by light

mortars, heavy support weapons and with the use of the reserves.

Units that have been mixed up should be separated and the company commander should issue

new commanders so that they can be given and follow any new orders. The company

commander should take great care in ensuring he remains in contact with the battalion

commander, heavy weapon support and the artillery.

In case of a counterattack the company is to put up a determined defense on the spot. In case

of appearing tanks the company should act as described in previous chapters.

If the company stops, either by orders or because of heavy enemy opposition is should assume

a temporary defense, ready to move onward on the given order.

Pursuit

When the company commander notices that the opposition is weakening in resolve or that the

enemy starts to withdraw he should instantly commence a pursuit out of his own initiative. In

such cases, all attached weapons are to follow the company. During the pursuit it is important

to muster what energy is left from an often already exhausted company in order to maintain

contact with the enemy and not lose any change to exploit a weakness that have been hard

fought for. The primary target of pursuing infantry should be the enemy artillery. Regardless

of how violent the pursuit is the company commander should always keep his units close at

hand so that they don’t disperse on the battlefield. Contact with the battalion commander

should always be maintained.

Reserve company

The reserve company moves behind the fighting companies by order of the battalion

commander, always ready to aid the fighting companies or shield their flanks. The company

should adjust their formation to the terrain in order to minimize casualties, and always use the

terrain to their advantage when moving.In open terrain the company commander of the

reserve company should maintain part of the light machineguns in a state of readiness to

provide AA fire against enemy aircraft.

When moving the company should not pursue to follow any stiff restrictions regarding unit

spacing but always adapt itself to the surrounding terrain. The company commander should

always ensure that he has contact with the battalion commander and the company

commanders of the fighting companies, as well as a keep his eyes on the unfolding events

during battle. He should always be ready to provide fire support from his own light mortars to

frontline companies, concentrating their fire and if needed move them forward. The company

should always enter battle on the order from the battalion commander, but if needed the

company commander should act on his own initiative.

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Combat – defending

During a defense the company commander is responsible for the defending and holding of a

designated frontline. Defenses are prepared according to orders from the battalion commander

and through reconnaissance of terrain.

The company commander prepares his defenses based upon the single location, or network of,

heavy machineguns. He instructs his platoons with fire missions and issues them specific

stretches of the field to defend. He should also inform them on possible long range targets.

In the direct danger caused by an imminent enemy attack all platoons and heavy machineguns

must be instructed in such a way so that they can quickly take up defensive positions and be

ready to fight off the enemy. The company commander should ensure the protection of the

heavy machineguns and a close knit cooperation with neighboring units. Cooperation with

neighboring units should be based on direct orders from the battalion commander, or on the

initiative of the company commander in agreement with neighboring commanders.

It is best to secure the borders between companies with overlapping fields of fire. Locations

that are out of line of sight and cannot be reached with horizontal fire should be the target of

concentrated light mortar fire, and their whereabouts should be reported to the battalion

commander so that he may direct artillery fire at them.

The defenses must be organized in such a way so that the company commander can call for a

combined and unified fire from the entire from all weapons. To ensure the accuracy of the fire

the company commander should have measurements to specific terrain features in the field in

front of his defenses. When defending at night, the weapons should be calibrated and prepared

to open fire. The company should have taken up defensive positions following the guidelines

in previous chapters in regard to dispersion of its units and teams.

The reserve company should be ready to fight towards any flank, and in particular towards

areas where it is possible that the enemy could breach. The bulk of the reserves should be

positions in such a way so that they can form a counterattack or take up positions in prepared

frontline defenses. Should the company be forced to create a fire blockade then light

machineguns belonging to a platoon kept in reserve should be used for that task.

The company commander should always be located where he can have good lines of

communication with his platoons and the heavy weapons supporting his actions, as well as

with the battalion commander.

The company observer should be within reach of the company commander and relay all

important information that he observes during battle. When observers are relieving each other,

the acting observer should hand over his notebook containing all important sightings and

information that has been noted during his shift.

The company commander does everything he can to maintain communication with the

battalion commander, using telephone, signals and runners if needed.

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Field fortifications

The company commander directs the order in which field fortifications are created along his

designated defensive area. Ensuring that the defenses are durable, that the field in front of the

defensive line is cleared, well hidden and follow any other instruction that may have been

given by the battalion commander. He should divide the work within the company so that the

defenses are built quickly and efficiently.

The active defense positions should not look any different from the decoy positions in order to

ensure that the enemy diverts and spreads out his fire towards them. If the defensive work is

based around a terrain feature it should be built in such a way so that the defenders can last

even when surrounded by the enemy.

The company can prevent unnecessary danger by sending out patrols while constructing

fortifications. During darkness or when fog prevents visual signals the company must decide

how to raise the alarm through sources that can be heard.

Opening and directing fire

The company opens and conducts fire based upon regulations described earlier. Opening fire

at longer range should be regulated by the company commander and the deciding factors

should be based upon the ability to observe the effect of the fire.

If attacked by a smaller unit the company commander should strive towards surprising the

enemy. In case of a sudden enemy attack, or when attacked in conditions that offer poor

observation possibilities or when the enemy launches an attack from a close starting position

– the company commander should order the company to open suppressing fire.

During battle the company commander should influence the direction of heavy machinegun

fire and the fire from light mortars belonging to the reserve platoon in order to combat key

enemy targets.

The company commander should keep a lookout for the enemy sending heavy weapons and

reserves into the battle, and attempt to destroy them before they can join the fight.

The company commander should always be in the thigh of battle, so that his presence and

example can raise the spirit of his men and increase the endurance of the defense.


In order to repulse an enemy assault the company commander uses every means at hand in

order to prevent he enemy to breach his line. If the enemy despite all his efforts break into his

position he should immediately throw his reserves into battle. Such a counterattack is often

enough to halt the enemy assault, the company commander should always ensure that the

enemy is halted and ensure cooperation between the counterassault and those defensive

positions that are still fighting back. Fighting inside friendly positions against an assaulting

enemy follows the same guidelines as described in previous chapters.

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Helping neighboring units

Always, when one’s own situation allows for it, help should be given to neighboring units

who have been overrun by the enemy. This is performed with fire as a first choice, and

counter assaults as a second option. In extreme cases the company must be ready to shield the

flank of the battalion. Under no circumstances is the company allowed to withdraw from their

positions.

Fighting tanks

Tanks are fought off according to descriptions in earlier chapters. To fight tanks the correct

anti tank ammunition must be distributed to units within the company.

Prolonged defense

In a prolonged defensive battle the company commander ensures that the defenses are

expanded and make sure that units maintain a good field of fire. He should make careful

observations and reconnaissance in order to gather as much information as possible about the

enemy.

The risk of a gas attack requires the company to be on constant guard and have their

countermeasures at hand. The company commanders duty is to ensure a good order and

condition all defensive tools, weapons and supply of ammunition. He should also never cease

to attempt to increase the combat willingness and offensive mindset within his unit.

Reserve company during defense

The reserve company should be placed in such a position where fire from its own units can

intermingle with the fields of fire of the frontline companies. All heavy weapons of the

reserve company, if the terrain and positioning of the defensive positions allow for it, should

take part in the battle (this means with light machineguns, light mortars). Detaching light

machineguns from the reserve platoons is unadvised and should be avoided. The light mortars

of such a company should be placed so that their fire can create a blocking barrage in order to

shield those areas that are most exposed to an enemy assault.

Should an enemy breach the front line the reserve company acts as described in previous

chapters, counterattacking according to the orders of the battalion commander. It is thus

important for the company commander to maintain communication with the frontline

companies and the battalion commander at all time.

The company commander should keep himself informed about the frontline situation, and if

needed know how best to reach the positions of the frontline companies.

57

Loosening the defenses

The best time to loosen the defense is during the night. A patrol should be formed, made up of

1 company officer and 1 NCO from each platoon. Their task is to map and obtain information

about friendly and enemy positions. The sketches should be handed down to all commanders

within the company so that they know the location of enemy and friendly positions. The

company then withdraws from their designated defensive line one platoon at a time.


A company may only withdraw from battle upon the direct order from a superior officer. The

company commander begins withdrawing all supply carts and unnecessary equipment as well

as the entire wounded first. Then he dictates the order for the remaining units, forms patrols

that form a rearguard and which withdraw last. The rearguard should be given clear

instructions, be equipped with machineguns and large amounts of ammunition.

Platoons move out and relocate to a designated area determined by the company commander;

they do this under covering fire from friendly support weapons. The company commander

leaves with the bulk of the company as it withdraws.

All units that are withdrawing should always be ready to put up a defense against attacking

enemy units. Withdrawing at night has to be organized in such a way so that the enemy

remains clueless, strong patrols left behind to guard the rear should be equipped with flare

guns and the company should be ready to give them fire support.

During the winter the patrol left behind is equipped with skis.

The company commander must always inform neighboring units about his withdrawal.

Withdrawing from battle in such a way so that it puts the flank of neighboring units at risk is

punishable.

Delaying rearguard

The company sets up its positions in terrain and so that it can fulfill the given mission. Units,

especially heavy machineguns, should be deployed in depth and allow for clear fields of fire

at long range. When the rearguard tasked with providing delaying actions can’t use good

terrain in order to themselves break away from combat easily – the company commander

should deploy his units so they can cover each other and protect the flanks. The rearguard

must always act from hidden and well camouflaged positions. The unit should always have

good observation conditions of the field ahead and its own flanks.

The company commander should maintain influence over when to open fire, in particular

from the heavy weapons, and ensure that the enemy is engaged at long range as far away from

his own positions as possible in order to inflict casualties and force the enemy to advance with

artillery support. It is best to open sudden and destructive fire that is concentrated on

vulnerable targets.

58

Company on reconnaissance

A company sent on a reconnaissance mission is given a heading, or a specific area of

operation, and could also be given additional secondary objectives.

Reconnaissance may cause the company to stretch thin and decrease its combat ability. In

these cases it should be reinforced with heavy machineguns, cavalry or bicycle troops and

sometimes even with armored units and artillery support.

The company should ensure maximum mobility which can be increased by gathering all

backpacks on the supply wagons. The company should always be equipped with the correct

communication equipment.

The actual work of a reconnaissance company begins once it makes contact with the enemy,

often by made by forward patrols. The company commander guides the movement and efforts

of the company, giving the units clear targets and tasks.

If the forward patrols are too weak to gather required information about the enemy by

themselves, the whole company should engage the enemy forces in battle in order to force the

enemy to reveal himself and his strength. If engaging the enemy in battle the company

commander must organize the fighting in such a way so that the company can break away and

withdraw from the enemy.

On the march, the company may be tasked with being the advance guard if the marching unit

is larger than a company. If acting as the advance guard the company commander should

organize security sections and forward patrols according to the same principles of earlier

chapters. The advance guard should keep the heavy machineguns in a forward position, the

company commander is also required to move with secured flanks and be ready to hide it

from enemy observation or the effects of sudden enemy tank, artillery or air attacks.

The company commander should be located with the spearhead unit along with the

commander of artillery. The company must act swiftly and with great energy, encountered

enemy units must be destroyed quickly with the combined firepower available to prevent the

company advance from slowing down.

When the company halts its movement it should set up forward guard posts, the company

commander should disperse his company in a way that ensures maximal observation

possibilities. Units should be able to quickly close the possibilities for an enemy advance,

during daytime an optimal position for such tasks is on a hill. In case it is impossible to secure

such a position due to enemy activity, a secondary location should be designated where a

strong guard post is set up with an attached officer to command it.

Should the enemy attack this secondary location it is important to fight back using the

reserves from the main unit. The reserves should be as big as possible, and preferably strike

during the night.

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During the day, the guard posts should ensure that they have visual contact and

communication with neighboring friendly guard posts. During the night troops should

concentrate near the guard post which should have clear lines of fire. When combat ceases the

area should be patrolled in force and the troops should be ready to counterattack.

Guard posts should be camouflaged and made difficult to spot by ground observers as well as

from the air, terrain and natural obstacles should be used as often as possible. Anti-tank

preparations should be made by creating obstacles and preparing anti-tank weapons.

Frontline guard posts or isolated guard positions should always be secured, and patrolled to

maintain contact between neighboring units. It must be ensured that communication of news

and reports can be quick, the company commander should as soon as he sets up his positions

send information and a sketch to his superior officer describing the distribution of his troops,

lines of communication and reconnaissance information.

Guard post duty

Guar posts are organized according to previously described regulations in previous chapters.

The company commander should ensure that the troops maintain a high awareness especially

if the company is exhausted, when guard posts are assembled in a hurry, at dusk and at night.

The company commander must ensure that part of the troops are on guard duty, part of the

troops remain fully ready for combat and part of the troops should be resting.

Organization of a camp with setting up quarters, tents and burning fires should follow the

orders of the senior commander and fully depend on the current situation.

Part of the troops are organized as a emergency unit, armed and ready to put up a fight in the

position where enemy attack is most likely to happen. The emergency unit should organize

alarm posts. The commander of the emergency unit should organize a checkpoint made up of

a NCO and two riflemen, their task is to control everyone who draws close.

The company commander puts together a unit tasked with checking up on the alertness of all

guard posts, ensuring that there is a maintained line of communication between them. This

unit should circulate the lines and positions especially during nighttime.

The company commander is tasked with ensuring that his troops are fed, in particular those

serving at forward positions and those troops that have been attached under his command.

Once alarm is raised, the entire company must be ready to take up positions and open fire,

forward positions should be able to rely on covering fire as they are withdrawing back

towards the main unit. Attacked guard posts belonging to neighboring unit should be helped

out if it’s possible to divert fire from one’s current position.

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On the march

It is up to the company commander to ensure that the company doesn’t suffer marching losses

and that the march doesn’t lower the combat value of his company. He does this by making

preparations before the company assumes their march, and caring for the company during and

after the march in order to ensure physical fitness of his soldiers.

Before the company moves out he should remove any deficiencies, ensure that soldiers care

for their feed (washing and application of salves) depending on the current weather

conditions. The soldiers should be fed and served coffee, or at least boiled water, to the water

bottles – especially during a heat wave. During the winter the soldiers should be served at

least a piece of meat or bacon. The soldiers should know where to gather so that they don’t

have to fatigue themselves with long waiting.

The company commander should personally ensure that the area which the company is

leaving is left in good order, and that any signs that may reveal the nature of his unit should

be cleaned up.

When moving the company should adhere to all movement regulations, keep a tight formation

and maintain an even pace. The pace is controlled by an officer at the forefront of the

company. Nothing fatigues soldiers more than constant increase or decrease of marching

speed, something which may cause those at the rear of the column have a hard time to keep

up. The company commander should prevent such from happening and should constantly

have an overview over his entire company and in particular those that are moving at its rear.

Soldiers should remain in their marching positions and not move about freely in the column

and that the orders about direction and heading should only be uttered, repeated and

confirmed by officers.

Company officers are marching at the head of the column, one platoon commander and the

retainers are marching at the rear. The company commander should most of the time be

located near the rear, he should also provide a positive influence on the troops through his

actions – especially when the company starts to show signs of fatigue. He should instruct the

column to rest when needed especially during long marches.

When needed he should instruct the troops to wear or take off their long coats, and always

ensure a uniformed look. If the road conditions are poor he should ensure that the supply carts

are given help.

During short rest stops, and in particular during the first, the company commander should

inspect the weight carried by the soldiers, issue instruction about clothing and check up on the

equipment. He should also ensure that the rest stop is used in a rational manner, so not to

endanger the health of his soldiers.

When the company is making a longer rest stop, alarm posts should be instructed. The

company commander should personally check up on the morale and physical conditions of his

61

troops, in particular ensuring that they care for their feet. He should check the conditions of

the horses, wagons and ensure that water is distributed.

The company commander has to ensure that troops don’t walk away from the column, in

particular towards houses and populated areas. There should be a designated latrine area. A

hot meal should be served and everyone should inspect their weapons and equipment.

The company commander sends 1 NCO and 1 rifleman from each platoon to the unit

responsible for raising quarters for the company; they wait with the quarters unit for the

arrival of their respective units at a designated resting area.

The resting area

Arriving at the resting area the company commander should not rest until he has ensured that

his company has the best available, under given circumstances, quarters to rest in.

The riflemen should as soon as possible find themselves at their quarters, and it should be

avoided to let the company wait for lodgings. As soon as the company stops, the company

commander should quickly issue lodgings to his units, instruct them on where to gather in

case of a raised alarm, instruct them in proper behavior towards civilian population and warn

the troops for potential spies.

Later he instructs staff officers and platoon commanders about how the company should act in

case of emergency, making sure the company prepares anti-air measures, anti-tank measures

and is prepared for the use of enemy gas attacks. He also issues instructions on serving meals,

checking up on weapons and ammunition, where to locate horses and wagons, direct the

wounded to a doctor, improvements of lodgings, designates latrine areas.

The company commander also sends runners to the battalion commander and gives a full

report.

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Polish army ranks for infantry 1925-39

Lowest ranks on top, highest at the bottom of the list.

Privates

Strzelec (Rifleman), Saper (Sapper)

Private First Class

Starszy strzelec (1938-)/Starszy szeregowiec (infantry). Starszy saper (engineers).

NCO’s

Kapral (Corporal),

Plutonowy (Master corporal)

Sierzant (Sergeant)

Starszy Sierzant (1938-)/Sierzant-szef (Senior sergeant)

Junior officers

Podporucznik (2nd

Lieutenant)

Porucznik (Lieutenant)

Kapitak (Captain)

Staff Officers

Major (Major)

Podpułkownik (Liuetenant Colonel)

Pułkownik (Colonel)

General Corps

General Brygady (Brigadier General)

General Dywizji (Major General)

General Broni (Liuetenant General)

Marszałek Polski (Marshal of Poland)

63

Polish army service regulations for the year 1938-39

( http://www.dobroni.pl/rekonstrukcje,sluzba-wojskowa-w-1938-i-1939-r,3245 )

New regulations on army service starting on September 1st 1938, covered people of varied

age. This may give an idea of the age of soldiers serving during the campaign of

1939.Military service was mandatory for men, but there is room in the regulations for women

volunteering, ages 21-60 for people living in the territory of the Second Polish Republic.

Exceptions from military service could be made due to:

1) Health issues

2) Foreigners and those looking to apply for foreign citizenship

3) Officers dishonorably discharged from service

4) Officers removed from service due to punishment issued by military court

5) Foreign officers that are not recognized to be part of the Polish army

6) Criminals, for 10 years, from the day they have received reduced punishment and who have

been sentenced to serve up to 3 years in prison. Those who had been sentenced for crimes

against the nation interests or placed in correctional facilities for the incorrect are excluded

from service.

7) Criminals, up to 10 years, for criminals sentenced to 3 months or more in prison for smaller

crimes. Those sentenced for crimes against the nations interest or placed in work houses are

excluded from service.

8) Deputies, senators, chancellor ministry members, members and representatives of high

authorities and the judicial system are also excluded.

Officers who have turned 60 can only be called to serve during mobilization or war and only

with their agreement.

The conscription however only covered men who turned 21 starting in January and ended

during the calendar year when they had turned 23. But during mobilization and war the

conscription age was lowered to 18 years. Those between 18-23 where turn up at the district

authorities when summoned.

The right to defer army service (with the exception of times of mobilization and war) was

held by:

1) Sole family breadwinners

2) Owners of farms

3) Students and people learning a trade, this include senior students during their last year of

high school, junior high schools and secondary schools as well as students studying at trade,

business and industry schools.

Conscripts were required to report to the appropriate community office so that they could be

entered in the conscription registry. This had to be done once the person turned 17 and again

when the person turned 20.

All conscription registries of 21 year olds had to be ready for March next year.

64

All citizens between 23 and 60 who had not served in the army could also expect to be called

into army service. People over 38 were directed to the reserves, militia and support service

within the army depending on physical fitness and capacity. Everyone between 23-38 is

required to perform normal service – with the exception of those belonging to category 1.

It is allowed for 17 year olds to volunteer as long as they are not pressured into service by

others and with permission from the father or caregiver.

Based upon these service guidelines conscripts were sent to the conscripts were sent to

government institutions between May 1st and June 30

th . Additional conscription periods were

issued by the President of the Polish second republic and were mainly performed in order to

gather up all those who for one reason or the other missed the conscription window.

Conscripts were classified into the following categories:

Category A: Able

Category B: Partially unfit (only 21-22 year olds)

Category C: Fit for service in the militia

Category D: Fit for support service

Category E: Completely unfit for military service

From the moment of conscription, military service lasted the following period:

1) Cavalry and cavalry artillery – 25 months

2) All other army formations of the Polish army – 24 months

3) Polish navy – 27 months

People belonging to special categories could have their military service shortened:

1) Only breadwinners of the family – to 5 months

2) Students of secondary schools, pedagogical schools and other selected domestic and

foreign schools – to 15 months

3) Students of secondary and vocational schools who had distinguished themselves in work

related to the Polish army – to 15 months

In line with the wishes of anyone interested, the military service can be increased up to 12

months.

The Second Polish Republic could in practice never afford to call upon all conscripts, even

limited to those from Category A. The budget for each year estimated a quota for the

conscription. Those that were not called upon and were between 21 and 23 years of age could

be called upon to serve in a basic military service until the end of the calendar year when they

turned 24. Those who had not been called upon and who had turned 24 were allocated to the

reserve.

65

The reserve was made up of:

1) Soldiers who finished basic military service

2) NCO’s and privates until they turned 40

3) Reserve officers until they turned 50

Service in the reserve was based upon mandatory military training (for those up to 38 years of

age who had not served in regular army) and military exercises. The training lasted up to 5

months.

For the entire duration of serving in the reserve, up to the end of the year where the soldier in

reserve turned 50 (60 for officers) the training could last:

1) 24 weeks for privates

2) 30 weeks for NCO’s

3) 48 weeks for reserve Officers

The training period could never last more than 6 weeks at a time for privates and NCO’s and

8 weeks for Officers.

Everyone in reserve could also be called for ad hoc exercises lasting up to 3 days, and

periodic exercises lasting up to 3 weeks.

Militia and support service

Citizens unqualified because of their age (up to 50 years for privates and NCO’s and 60 for

officers) or because of health reasons were directed to the so called militia. This service was

also issued to those who never got regular military training, and was made up of 20 weeks of

military exercises.

The last category of military service was the support service, and was only served during

mobilization or war. It could only be called upon to serve in peacetime due to exceptions

ordered by the government. Support service should be made up of:

1) Men assigned to this type of service and are between 18 and 60

2) NCO’s and privates from the militia and who are 50-60 years old

3) Soldiers who for some reason have been directed to this particular service

4) Females, age 19-45, who have volunteered

The service during peacetime included military training which covered both men and women.

For women who had high school or secondary school education the training was mandatory if

their service called for it.

The support service of the army covered anti-air duty, anti-gas duty, guard duty, technical and

communications duty, firefighting, military health service, transports, office work and other

administrative tasks from which the defense could benefit.

66

The inter war military service in the Polish army did however not end with the leave from

active service and simply being assigned to the reserve. It was expected to serve and take part

in military exercises that involved preparation for war and maintenance of the physical fitness

and ability to command acquired in the service of the Polish army.

Additional notes about this translation

This translation of the Polish army manual for the infantry is an abridged version of the Polish

original manual. The content that was left out included military and weapon drills, parades,

and all of the very basic information that soldiers needed to know.

The translation is focused on everything that revolves around combat and the tactics used by

small units, the team, and up to company level where the army manual ends.

Everything has been translated without taking any liberties in regard to language, form or

descriptions. The whole text is my attempt to keep the English version as close to being

identical with the Polish text.

The last two chapters covering Polish army ranks and in particular Polish military service

regulations were not original part of the army manual, but were added as they could provide a

deeper and wider understanding of the subject for those interested. The later too comes from a

Polish source and has been translated by me into English.

This whole work is based upon the original Polish digital transcription of the army manual

and not meant to be sold or distributed for profit. In translating the text to English my main

goal was to provide war gaming enthusiasts with a primary source of Polish small unit tactics

during the interwar period and as used during the September Campaign of 1939.

For additional resources of the September Campaign and the Polish army please visit my

blog: http://anatolisgameroom.blogspot.com/

/Alexander Kawczynski

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Polish Infantry Tactics on Team Platoon and Company Level

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