Therefore great attention should be paid to training a number of guns to operate together for some specific purpose.
The following notes from overseas on machine guns, compiled by Capt. E. Feilder (Attached Gen. Staff, A.T.C.), are of considerable value:—
INSTRUCTIONS FOR MACHINE GUN OFFICER.
1. The Machine Gun Officer should have a complete knowledge of the nature of the action and the plans of the Commander.
2. The Commanding Officer should inform the M.G. Officer generally of the part he expects the guns to play, and the particular assistance he requires from him.
3. The M.G. Officer should then be allowed to form and carry out his own plan of action in such a way as best meets the requirements of the C.O. and the situation generally.
4. When possible, ample time should be given the M.G. Officer to make his arrangements.
5. He should not be given hurried orders at the last moment; such a proceeding is very seldom necessary.
SUGGESTIONS FOR THE EMPLOYMENT OF THE MACHINE GUNS OF A BRIGADE TAKING PART IN AN ATTACK ON AN ENTRENCHED POSITION.
1. The whole of the machine guns must be organised under the command of one Officer.