1. Definition and Function.—Posted where connection cannot be easily maintained with other elements of outpost. Sent usually by outpost reserve or by main body, and retires to them, rather than to the line of supports. Function same as element of outpost proper,—observation, resistance, reconnaissance; but less resistance than warning. May be as small as 2 men, or as large as a support, depending on location and importance of detached position.
  2. Principles.
    1. Established under precautions, because of danger of enemy breaking between the main body and the detached post.
    2. Entrenchment: what time of day? What other circumstances? Treatment of bridges? Night?
    3. Requisitioning order: Need of payment; for justice, for military advantage later (reassure farmers through whose territory you will need to pass and keep supplied).

Twelfth Problem—Requisitioning Detachment or Patrol:

  1. Definition and Function.—A patrol may have any mission: here it is sent to take (on payment) the provender designated. A.r.d. sent by commander with specific instructions, is legal; a raid for booty illegal. (See f.s.r., sec, 290.)
  2. Principles.
    1. Preparation essential.
    2. Sending of men singly or in pairs across open spaces.
    3. Deliberate start on wrong road to deceive enemy scouts.
    4. Not to fire unless obliged,—until return trip.

Thirteenth Problem—A Contact Patrol:

  1. Definition and Function.—A small patrol sent out from a stationary body of troops, usually at night, to find out whether enemy is starting a retreat. (Compact formation in column.)
  2. Principles.
    1. Travel light, but prepare to spend some time lying still.
    2. Route rear and parallel to a road, but not on it.
    3. Do not attack enemy patrols unless necessary.
    4. Get through enemy line of observation and watch support or larger body.
    5. Return together when you have definite information. Do not send single messengers.

Fourteenth Problem.—A Small Outguard:

The principles used in 14 are same as those listed under 1-13; and should be clinched by assigning yourself the problem of completely arranging an outpost for a brigade to be encamped or bivouacked at some assigned position on the Hunter's Town sheet. Exchange solutions, for mutual criticism.

Examinations.

The following examinations, given at the second Plattsburg Training Camp, will enable students of military matters to form some idea as to where they stand in their grasp of the subject:

Plattsburg Training Camp: