Lieutenant Baker: “It seems to me that if I were Sergeant Wilkins I would want you to indicate how far I am to go with the patrol. Can the Director enlighten us on that point?”
The Director: “Captain Hall, what do you think about the point that Lieutenant Baker brings up?”
Captain Hall: “Captain James told the Sergeant to stay out about 35 minutes. It seems to me that is sufficient. The Sergeant can keep tab on his time and judge his distance by that.”
The Director: “Yes, I think the time element is one thing, but there is another point that has not been mentioned. You do not want to hamper your subordinate with detailed instructions. It may be that there is a point on this road only a short distance out where Sergeant Wilkins has a good view over the country and a good position in case the enemy does come upon him. There would be no necessity for going on beyond such a point. If he had specific orders to go a certain distance he would feel that he had to do it. You give the Sergeant his mission, make him understand what he is out there for. Tell him about how long he is to remain out and then let him work out his own problem. You must not go into details. The moment you do so you get beyond your depth. You cannot foresee all contingencies. There has been only one military commander that was able to do this. He was the great Napoleon.”
Flank Guard Card No. 2
Director’s Key
1. Conduct class along road to point where there is a cross-road.
2. Distribute sheets bearing Situation No. 2.
3. Estimates of Situation:—Mission; enemy; own troops; plans of action; decision; discuss necessity for.
4. Selection of commander of patrol. How give orders to him.