[267]. Employed according to principles of battalion acting alone. In general, the company, when acting alone, is employed according to the principles applicable to the battalion acting alone as laid down in [pars. 327]–363; the captain employs platoons as the major employs companies, making due allowance for the difference in strength.
The support may be smaller in proportion or may be dispensed with. (230)
[268]. Protection against surprise. The company must be well protected against surprise. Combat patrols on the flanks are especially important as explained in [par. 410]. Each leader of a flank platoon details a man to watch for the signals of the patrol or patrols on his flank. (231)
FIRE
[269]. Issuing of ammunition and loading of pieces before deployment; firings in close order. Ordinarily pieces are loaded and extra ammunition is issued before the company deploys for combat.
In close order the company executes the firings, as prescribed in [pars. 179]–194, at the command of the captain, who posts himself in rear of the center of the company.
Usually the firings in close order consist of saluting volleys only. (See [par. 189] for volley firing.) (232)
[270]. Firing controlled by platoon leaders. When the company is deployed, the men execute the firings at the command of their platoon leaders; the latter give such commands as are necessary to carry out the captain's directions, and, from time to time, add such further commands as are necessary to continue, correct, and control, the fire ordered. (233)
[271]. Use of signals during firing. The voice is generally inadequate for giving commands during fire and must be replaced by signals of such character that proper fire direction and control is assured. (See [par. 92] for signals; [pars. 285]–286 for fire direction and [pars. 287]–290 for fire control.) To attract attention, signals must usually be preceded by the whistle signal (short blast). A fraction of the firing line about to rush should, if practicable, avoid using the long blast signal as an aid to cease firing. (See [par. 91].) Officers and men behind the firing line can not ordinarily move freely along the line, but must depend on mutual watchfulness and the proper use of the prescribed signals. All should post themselves so as to see their immediate superiors and subordinates. (234)
[272]. Duties of musicians. The musicians assist the captain by observing the enemy, the target, and the fire-effect, by transmitting commands or signals, and by watching for signals. (For posts of musicians see [par. 207].) (235)