The chain of runners is under the command of a N. C. O. who is responsible for its efficiency. He has an important task on his hands. He must assure himself that every runner knows, not only his two neighboring posts, but also the general direction of the chain. He must change disabled runners and fill gaps in his chain. It becomes his duty to instill into the runners the importance of their duty.
(f) Carrier Pigeons: Carrier pigeons are the last means of communication. They have been found to give excellent service during heavy shelling or gas attacks. They do not fly very easily at night.
Each command post of a center of resistance in the first line has a pigeon post. These consist of two reliefs of men, four pigeons, and the necessary equipment and food. The pigeons themselves have to be relieved every few days. The care given to the birds at the command posts must not be as good as that at the dovecot in the rear, so that when they are released they will return immediately to the latter place, from where the message is delivered to its proper destination.
Instructions for Sentinel, Watcher, and Observer
Sentinel. A sentinel is a soldier placed in the first line or in an advanced post for the purpose of security.
The duty of the sentinel is to watch and guard against hostile attack and to warn the chief of the platoon of every action of the enemy in “No Man’s Land.”
At night, one sentinel is posted about every ten yards in the firing trench. During the day, only a sufficient number are posted to assure that all parts of the enemy’s line and “No Man’s Land” are observed.
Sentinels are relieved every two hours except under bad weather conditions when the length of the tour of duty is reduced. Every sentinel is regularly posted by a non-commissioned officer who explains to him his duties and ascertains that both the sentinel and his relief are aware of the position of the platoon commanders and of the sentinels, on either side.
At night, the sentinels must observe over the parapet. As little challenging as possible is done and then only in a very low voice. If the sentinel receives no answer to his challenge, he shoots, thus giving the alarm. During the day, the sentinel uses a periscope or observes through a loophole.
The sentinel always has the bayonet fixed on his rifle, which is loaded and ready for use. He must be on the alert for every noise, and for this reason he is not allowed to wear any ear covering.