Captain Hodges: “I note that Captain Harvey made a statement about sending forward the reconnaissance party. Who would head that party and just what would it be composed of?”
The Director: “Captain Harvey, what are your ideas about this?”
Captain Harvey: “I would have the second in command lead the party. It would be composed of two runners from each of the platoons and two from company headquarters.”
The Director: “You cannot have the second in command lead the party. He is not up with the company at this time. He is back with the rear echelon of the company. The idea is that he will remain there so as to be available to take charge in case the company commander becomes a casualty.”
Captain Harvey: “That is right. I had overlooked that fact. I would have the commander of the 3rd platoon conduct the reconnaissance party. His platoon is to be in support and is the most available officer. The platoon sergeant can conduct the platoon on the approach march.”
The Director: “I think you are right. Does that answer your question, Captain Hodges?”
Captain Hodges: “Yes, sir.”
Procedure
The Director: “Now, I want each member of the class to write out Captain B’s order on his pad. Place yourself in the Captain’s shoes; visualize the situation just as it is before you; refer to the notes you have made during the solution and explanations; and write out the order. This is the very best training you can possibly get. It puts the proposition right up to you for solution. In writing the order leave a margin of 1½ inches on the left.”
When the class has finished with the order the Director will direct each member to pass his order to the member at his left. Each officer will then correct the order in his possession and make comments on the margin.