ADVANCING THE FIRING LINE.
159.—Methods of advance.
To advance the firing line in attack, all means are good: by section, half-section, squad, the only condition being that it be by commanded fractions.
160.—Closing in to replace casualties.
As men fall, the rest close in toward the section leader, the sections rectifying intervals on the sections furthest advanced (the captain is with this section, all sections being now in line.)
161.—Closing in on the battalion front.
The several companies rectify intervals in the same way on the furthest advanced company (the battalion commander being with this company).
162.—Seize every opportunity to advance.
Every propitious occasion to advance should be seized at once by the various elements of the line: greater effectiveness of the neighboring section's fire, slackening fire of the enemy, effects of artillery, etc.
163.—Each fraction protects advance of neighbor.
The movement forward of each fraction of the line should be protected by the fire of the neighboring fraction.
164.—Keep fit to fire accurately.
The fraction leader, after each rush forward, should give time to the men to get back their breath so that they may fire with careful aim.
165.—Liaison with the Captain.
The captain should be kept informed by a conventional signal as to the need of ammunition, etc.