Stradtmann’s patrol will break into the enemy’s trenches at the Süd Spion and, at point 1 (see Sketch No. 1), will defend the point of entry from the direction of the enemy.
On orders received from me personally, Dumas’ patrol will follow Stradtmann’s patrol and advance southwards along the enemy’s trench as far as point 2.
On orders received from me personally also, Böhlefeld’s patrol will follow Dumas’ patrol and, once in the enemy’s trench, will push on towards the Spion.
The stretcher bearers will act as connecting files between Stradtmann’s patrol and myself.
The supports will hold themselves in readiness at 4, so as to be able to push on after the other patrols immediately on receipt of an order from me.
If the enemy opens a barrage on our position and on the Hohlweg before the patrols come out of their dug-outs, I shall either lead the patrol to the enemy’s position by another route, or cancel the raid.
4. Duty of the patrols.—As many of the enemy as possible must be made prisoners; in addition, rifles, machine guns, rifle grenade stands, trench mortars, etc., as well as filled packs are to be brought back. Should it be found impossible to carry back all the booty owing to the small numbers of the raiding party, but if, as far as regards the enemy’s fire it could be done, report will be passed on to me by Stradtmann’s patrol.
5. Return.—On a signal given by Lieutenant Stradtmann, or on the “Charge” being blown by my bugler, the raiding party will make its way back from the Süd Spion to the Hohlweg by the shortest way, and immediately make for the same dug-outs whence it started. In the dug-outs, I shall ascertain whether everyone has returned. Prisoners and booty will be taken into the dug-outs.
During the raid, if the enemy should open a heavy barrage on the trenches on the Schwabenhohe and on the Hohlweg, the raiding party will remain in the enemy’s trench and acquaint me of the fact by firing a red flare. I shall then endeavor to reach the party and lead them back by some other way. Should I not arrive, the senior officer present will lead the entire party.