This authoritative military manual published by the United States War Department establishes the comprehensive standard for infantry training, tactics, and operational procedure at the beginning of the twentieth century. The text begins with the school of the soldier, detailing the fundamental positions of attention, facings, steps, marchings, and the manual of arms with the rifle. It progresses systematically to the school of the squad and the company, outlining precise formations, alignments, and the crucial mechanisms of close order and extended order drill. A central focus is placed on the transition from rigid parade formations to flexible combat deployment, emphasizing the absolute necessity of teamwork and coordinated movement under fire.
The volume sets forth strict principles regarding orders, commands, and visual signals, utilizing bugle, whistle, and arm signals to overcome the communication breakdown inherent in combat environments. Considerable attention is devoted to the theory and practice of fire superiority, explaining how volume and accuracy of rifle fire suppress enemy resistance. The regulations outline the precise duties of commanders at every level, from squad leaders to regimental commanders, stressing the importance of initiative, clear objectives, and the retention of reserves to influence the outcome of an engagement.
Tactical doctrine is explored through comprehensive sections on attack and defense. The author details the execution of enveloping attacks, the utilization of cover, the advance by rushes, and the decisive bayonet charge. Defensive operations emphasize the selection of positions with clear fields of fire, the construction of intricate intrenchments, and the vital role of counterattacks. Separate chapters address specialized conditions, including night operations, encounters with cavalry and artillery, the deployment of machine guns, ammunition supply logistics, and the rigorous demands of marches and camp sanitation.
The work concludes with detailed instructions for outpost security, covering detachments, advance and rear guards, and patrolling. Ceremonies, reviews, and formal inspections are prescribed to instill discipline and prompt, subconscious obedience. Throughout the manual, the underlying philosophy asserts that success in battle depends upon thorough training, intelligent leadership, and the relentless maintenance of fire discipline.
