Machine gun manual

by H. Douglas

INDIRECT FIRE BY GRATICULES, LEVEL, AIMING POSTS AND OBSERVATION.

All the suggested methods have been used, and in some cases compasses and maps as well. Effect has been obtained in the open and on enemy’s concentrations at long ranges, and in trench warfare on working parties, ration parties, communications, etc., behind the enemy’s lines. A great deal more could be done in this way if all guns were not almost invariably placed in trenches, instead of a proportion being placed in suitable positions in rear, and long-range fire employed. All this points to the fact that a Machine Gun Officer should be acquainted with all methods of employing indirect fire, in order that he may be in a position to make the best of any opportunities that may occur.