Grenadiers are employed on both the offensive and defensive. They accompany the attacking lines in the advance on the enemy's position, they clear the fire trenches and communication trenches after parts of the enemy's lines have been taken, and on the defense they assist the riflemen in repelling attack and engage the enemy whenever he has obtained a lodgment in the trenches.
Organization
While every infantryman receives a certain amount of instruction in grenade throwing, there should be a grenadier squad in each platoon specially instructed and trained in this most effective auxiliary method of trench warfare. Not all men possess the temperament and qualifications necessary to make efficient grenadiers. Hence the personnel of the grenadier squad should be carefully selected. Strong physique, personal courage and steadiness in emergencies are the qualifications that count. Men fond of outdoor sports, other things being equal, will be found the best.
PLATE 40.
The grenadier squad is organized as follows:
Front Rank.
No. 1. First bayonet man.
No. 2. Second bayonet man.
No. 3. Grenade thrower.
No. 4. Squad leader, observer and director.
Rear Rank.
No. 1. First carrier.
No. 2. Second carrier.
No. 3. Barricader.
No. 4. Barricader.