“That each practice or scheme is of a practical nature, i.e., that it should bring out certain lessons under as near battle conditions as possible.
“All ports, etc., in the Tanks will be closed during the practice. Targets should represent as nearly as possible those met with in action. The practice must not be hurried and the Tank must never contain more than the normal crew. Students should be allowed to ride on the top of the Tanks, in order to observe the fire effect. In this way, by observing the faults of others, they should be able to avoid committing the same errors themselves, when their turn comes to fire.
“Battle Practice exercises must be regarded by the Tank Crews as what the Field firing practices are to the Infantry.
“Vizors and Gas-Masks must frequently be worn during a Battle Practice Course.
“Before the Battle Practice begins, Crews and Gunners will form up outside the Tanks and the scheme of attack will be explained to them; also how it is intended to carry out the attack and what are their objectives. All drivers and gunners must fully understand the scheme of attack and what is expected of them; they must be told to ask their Tank Commander to explain any point that does not appear clear to them. Positions where Anti-Tank guns are expected must be pointed out to them on a map, and other information of this type may be given. This will add to the keenness and interest of the men.
“Drivers must be reminded that the goodness or badness of the shooting will probably depend upon their driving.
“The Gunnery Officer must see that the targets are sited properly; he should always go over the Course in a Tank previous to the practice to satisfy himself on these points.
“If flashes are to be used, or moving targets employed, he must see that the fatigue men know their work, and the Gunnery Officer should always give these fatigue men one rehearsal before a Battle Practice Course, as it is most important for everything to go smoothly on the day.
“N.C.O. Instructors must be told off, one to each gun in the Tank which is firing, and their duty will be to see that points taught in the elementary training are brought into play and that the necessary safety precautions are adhered to.
“There will always be a conference at the end of each Battle Practice exercise. All members of the crews, students, instructors, etc., will attend. Constructive criticism and encouragement should be the tone of the conference. Faults brought to light should be carefully explained so that all can hear, learn and correct, in the future. The Gunner is as anxious to learn and to improve his shooting as is the Instructor to have a pupil who will do him credit.”