Chapter IV.

THE FIELD MESSAGE.

Definition.—The term "field message" is applied to all messages sent over field lines of information. All field messages for transmission over field lines of information by electrical or visual means should be plainly written by the sender on the blank forms in the United States Army Field Message Book. The practice of verbally delivering telegrams to enlisted men for transmission should invariably be discouraged.

"In framing telegrams, all words not important to the sense will be omitted. The last name of the officer addressed, or his title, and the last name of the sender are generally sufficient." (Paragraph 1198, Army Regulations.)