The carriers will move direct to the companies for which they are destined. If there is a difficulty in their getting back they may be retained in their ranks till the action is over.
It is the duty of section and squad commanders to make sure that all ammunition from the killed and wounded is collected and distributed.
The system of carrying ammunition by hand, here provided for, is not to prevent every endeavour being made to push the S.A.A. carts as far forward as practicable. They ought, in ordinary circumstances, to get within 1,000 yards of the firing-line, and in broken and undulating ground considerably nearer. With pack animals, it should be practicable to get within 500 yards of the firing-line.
The immense importance of having a supply of ammunition out of sight of the enemy, and yet within easy reach of the firing-line, will justify great risks being incurred in getting it to such a position.
176. Entrenching Tools.
1. The entrenching tools of a battalion are carried on two tool carts and on eight pack animals (i.e., one per company).
A brigade reserve of entrenching tools is carried on one G.S. wagon.
2. On the march, the pack animals carrying the tools will be with those carrying the ammunition, i.e., one in rear of each company.
3. In action, the pack animal carrying the tools will keep as close to its company as the enemy’s fire will admit, but the driver must use his discretion in doing so; for instance, on bare open country it will seldom be advisable to advance the animals close to the firing line, whereas when advanced positions have been secured, it will usually be necessary to take tools at once up to the firing line, in order that the position may be strengthened against counter-attacks.
The tool carts will usually accompany the ammunition cart with the reserve, and will be under the serjeant-major, the tools, if necessary, being carried forward when required by men from the reserve.