The automatic rifles are assigned one to each section.
All eight automatic rifles should be in readiness for instant use when on the march. They should be evenly distributed throughout the battery, and handled by men who have had special training. At least two magazines per gun (40 rounds) should be instantly available. While it is difficult to bring down a plane with a machine gun or rifle, a well directed fire will limit the action of hostile planes.
It should be borne in mind that often when in the advanced zone friendly aeroplanes are detailed to guard a battery on the march. Great care must be taken to make no mistakes in identifying aeroplanes. Never shoot at a ship unless the distinctive markings on the wings are clearly distinguished and identified. Upon subdivision for action, the automatic rifles go with the section to which assigned. This, of course, may be varied according to the situation.
(B.) Defense of the Position.
The machine gun emplacement should be carefully selected and constructed. The first consideration is a good field of fire; the second is good concealment.
Usually it is placed on a flank of the battery. Situated on the flank of the battery, a greater field of fire is obtained for the gun. Moreover when firing against hostile airplanes, the position of the battery will not necessarily be disclosed. In case the battery is shelled, the position of the machine gun on the flank renders it less liable to be hit.
The emplacement for a machine gun at a battery position differs from those generally built by the infantry in that it is designed primarily for anti-aircraft shooting.
There can be no overhead cover, all protection being provided by well constructed concealment. Camouflage must be arranged for and so placed that it can be instantly thrown aside for firing.
The plans for close defense of the battery should include the assignment of positions and sectors of fire for the automatic rifles.
The methods of fire and the technical points involved, in firing against hostile airplanes, will be considered elsewhere. A sentinel equipped with a pair of field glasses must be on duty in the emplacement at all times. The members of the machine gun squad are detailed for this duty by roster.