Object: Test of fire direction and control.
Targets: Tier A (left section) infantry line standing, extended order, 1,200 yards. Right section, infantry line standing, extended order, 800 yards. Tier B (left half) infantry line standing, extended order, 1,000 yards—half of line crowded together.[32]
Directions: The firers will represent two separate units in neighbouring localities of a defensive position. The target on Tier A (right section) will first be exposed for ten seconds. After a pause, both targets on Tier A will be exposed together for ten seconds. After a pause the targets on Tier A (right section) and Tier B will be exposed together for ten seconds. Particulars: The enemy at 1,200 yards is difficult to discern owing to background and undergrowth, and the defence know that he is close to a covered approach which will bring him to 1,000 yards of their line. Criticism: (i) Justification for Opening Fire: (a) By both units on first exposure of 800 yards’ target; (b) by both units on exposure of 1,200 yards target. (ii) Choice of Targets and Mutual Support: By left unit on simultaneous exposure of 1,200 and 800 yards targets. (iii) Rate of Fire: (a) By both units on first exposure of 800 yards target; (b) by left unit at 1,000 yards target. (iv) Concentration and Distribution of Fire: By left unit at 1,000 yards target. (v) Results of Firing.
No. 2.
Object: Test of fire direction by auxiliary aiming-marks (aiming-off).
Target: A point on the scenery indicated to unit commander as concealing enemy’s machine-gun at 1,400 yards.
Directions: Commander is ordered to open fire at once, allowing one, two, or three fingers’ breadths for the deflection of right-angle winds of varying strength from left or right. He will select auxiliary aiming-marks for direction of fire and aiming-off under a time limit. Criticism: Choice of description-point. Clearness of fire orders. Quick opening and rate of fire. Results of firing.
No. 3.
Object: Test of fire direction by anticipatory orders.
Directions: A variety of targets and tactical schemes may be employed for this practice, which may also be made to combine fire and movement. For example, the firers may represent a force in pursuit of retreating troops, and run 100 yards in intervals of firing to represent an advance. At the end of movement prearranged crossing and disappearing targets will be exposed or moved at points previously known to commander, who will indicate them to men, telling them to open fire when target appears without further orders. To develop individual judgment, men will be made to use their judgment in applying fire according to nature and importance of targets. Criticism:: Recognition of targets. Quick opening of fire. Application of fire as to rate, volume, concentration, or distribution according to nature of target. Fire discipline.