Chapter X: Outposts

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_Duties._ The duties of an outpost are to protect the main body so that the troops may rest undisturbed, to screen them from hostile observation, and in case of attack to check the enemy long enough to enable the main body to make the necessary dispositions to meet him. The outpost also performs such special reconnaissance as may be directed by the superior commander. Often its duty will be to gain touch with the hostile outpost line, when the latter is not too distant, as this is the best possible means of security. Firing upon, or otherwise harassing the enemy will not be indulged in unless specially directed.

In general the duties of an outpost are reconnaissance, observation and resistance.

In an advance the outpost is generally detailed from the advance guard. In retreat the outpost for the night usually forms part of the rear guard, or all of it, for the following day. If the command remains in camp the outpost is relieved at daybreak, in order to have double strength present at the time when the enemy is most likely to attack.

_Strength and composition._ The proper strength for an outpost is a matter of judgment as it is very dependent on conditions. In general it may be said to vary from about ¹/₂₀ to ⅓ of the command, ⅙ being about an average. The only rule that can be given as to the strength of an outpost is: “provide reasonable security with a minimum of men.” This criterion, if intelligently applied, will produce satisfactory results.

The conditions to be considered in deciding the strength of an outpost are:

(a) Size of command.

(b) Extent of front and number of roads to be covered, and
nature of terrain, including roads.

(d) Proximity, strength and aggressiveness of the enemy.

(e) Operations of friendly cavalry. Position of independent
(or advance) cavalry. Strength of cavalry assigned to
outpost.

(f) Weather and season, etc., etc.

As a rough guide it may be assumed that under ordinary conditions in the presence of the enemy a battalion of infantry as a support, can cover a front of not more than 2,500 yards, and a squadron of cavalry about 3,500 yards. Of course the frontage of impassable obstacles will be deducted from the total length of front. Then divide the remainder by 2,500 which will give _approximately_ the number of battalions required on the line of supports. To this must be added the reserves, from ¼ to ½ the entire strength of the outpost, depending on conditions, and the special troops, including cavalry. This rule, however, is only a rough guide. If the enemy is known to be so distant that an attack by his infantry is impossible the line of observation may be drawn much closer to the camp and the strength of the outpost greatly reduced. If cavalry efficiently covers the front of the command a strong infantry outpost is usually not required. Finally if the enemy is nowhere in the vicinity a regular outpost may be dispensed with, a few exterior guards around the camp being sufficient for security in such cases.

In a close country, especially at night, infantry is usually more efficient than cavalry on outpost duty, as the movements of the latter are generally confined to the roads. In open country and during the day cavalry affords the greatest measure of security. In a close country even the movements of infantry are to a large extent confined to the roads. The enemy is not likely to advance in any force through a close wood or thicket, especially at night. Hence outguards at the points of passage and patrolling between, to such extent as conditions seem to demand, will be the rule.

Mounted troops are very useful on outpost duty. For observation and reconnaissance a few mounted men will often be more efficient than a considerable body of foot troops. For resistance infantry, of course, will be required; but when the front of the command is covered by an efficient force of cavalry which is in touch with the enemy, timely warning by the cavalry of any hostile movements will greatly relieve the infantry of the burden of outpost duty, thereby conserving the fighting strength of the foot troops. When no cavalry is available, or when it is too weak to properly perform the duty of distant reconnaissance, lack of observation must be compensated by considerably increased power of resistance, which throws a heavy burden upon the infantry outpost. The necessity for placing a considerable portion of the infantry on outpost may thus often be avoided by the judicious use of even a small force of cavalry. The prospective duties of the infantry and cavalry in the immediate future should be carefully considered in determining the relative proportions of the two arms to be assigned to outpost duty. The commander must decide whether it is more important under the existing conditions to conserve the strength of the trooper and his horse for reconnaissance, or the energy of the foot soldier for march and combat; bearing always in mind that success in combat is the usual aim of military operations, and that the judicious use of one cavalryman may enable a number of infantrymen to rest in security. A reasonable compromise may thus be effected. Outpost duty is very trying for both infantry and cavalry, and both should be spared unnecessary duty of this kind. The commander should apportion the burden between the two arms so as to keep his command as a whole in the best possible condition to accomplish its mission.

In a retreat cavalry may temporarily replace infantry on outpost in order to facilitate the withdrawal of the latter.

The outpost proper will ordinarily consist mainly of infantry. There should, however, always be some mounted men attached, especially if the front is not covered by the cavalry. These mounted men are used as follows:

(a) Messengers.

(b) Patrols within the outpost lines, along the line of observation
and to the front.

In cases (a) and (b) the mounted men are assigned to the reserve, supports, and pickets.

Artillery is not usually assigned to an outpost. If present it would be used to cover some important bridge or defile, or to keep the enemy’s artillery out of range by preventing the occupation of positions too close to the outpost. It would generally be with the reserve. Machine guns are very useful. They may be used to defend bridges or defiles, fire along the roads, etc. They are especially useful at night as their fire is so easily controlled. They may be with the supports, usually behind barricades, covering important roads, bridges or defiles. Machine guns should be distributed by company or platoon, not as individual guns.

Engineers may be used with a large outpost to assist in the preparation of the position for defense, construction of obstacles, improvement of means of communication, demolitions, etc. Upon the completion of their tasks they camp with the reserve, or return to the main body.

Signal troops may be usefully employed to maintain communication with the advance cavalry and different parts of the infantry outpost, usually from the reserve to the supports and important detached posts. They camp with the reserve, except such detachments as are out to operate the signal apparatus.

Sanitary troops, except those regularly assigned to organizations, are usually unnecessary. If present they are with the reserve.

All special troops should be under the orders of the outpost commander only. They should not be placed under the orders of the support commanders.

The various elements from rear to front of a large command in camp may include:

(a) The camp of the main body with interior and exterior
guards, detached posts for protection of flanks, when
necessary, etc.

(b) The camp of the advance guard with necessary precautionary
measures.

(d) The line of infantry supports (usually the line of resistance).

(e) The line of observation (outguards and sentries).

(f) Patrols in front of line of observation.

(g) Advance or outpost cavalry, with its patrols and necessary
security measures.

(h) The independent cavalry.

It would be exceptional for all these elements to be present in one command. For economy’s sake some of them would be omitted or combined with others. An outpost of two companies may or may not have a reserve. A larger one usually would and a smaller one would not. In a small camp the main body is usually close enough to act as the reserve of the outpost. In a very small command the outpost may consist of outguards only, without supports or reserve, or merely of sentries posted around the camp. The main body remains in such a condition of readiness as the situation demands.

The use of cavalry for the security of a stationary command has three phases:

1. When the enemy is very distant the cavalry should be well out to the front, observing him. In this case it does not come inside the outpost line at night, but establishes rendezvous, and places an outpost for its own protection. The cavalry is thus independent. The cavalry commander should generally be allowed to select his own rendezvous (one or more points) and make his own dispositions, the order from the supreme commander designating the front to be covered, special reconnaissance to be conducted, place where messages for the cavalry will be sent, etc.

2. When the enemy is closer, but there is still room to interpose the cavalry between the enemy and the infantry outpost line. In this case the cavalry may, or may not come inside the outpost line at night, depending on circumstances (see post). The instructions to and dispositions of the cavalry commander would be similar to (1). In case the cavalry withdraws at night it may leave standing patrols over night at important points too far out to be occupied by the infantry.

3. When the cavalry is too weak in numbers to conduct distant reconnaissance in the face of the opposing cavalry, or when the enemy is so close that the cavalry is “squeezed out” by the firmer contact of the infantry outposts. In this case some cavalry may be assigned to the outpost for reconnoitering and visiting patrols, detached posts or standing patrols, etc.

The strength and vigilance required of the infantry outposts will obviously vary in these three cases.

An outpost entirely of cavalry may well be organized like one of mixed troops, the horses of the outguards, and even those of the supports (except such as are required for patrol and messenger duty) being to the rear and unsaddled for the night (see post).

_Integrity of tactical units._ It has been stated as a general principle that as few men as possible should be kept on outpost duty as it is very fatiguing. Nevertheless in organizing an outpost and each of its component parts the integrity of tactical units should be preserved as far as possible. Above all, companies should not be so divided as to interfere with their messing arrangements and other internal economies. Hence the following rules concerning the sizes of different elements may be observed, when tactical requirements do not necessitate a departure therefrom:

If more than one battalion is required for an outpost it is well to send an entire regiment. The troops in the reserve will get as much rest as if they were camped with the main body, so long as there is no attack.

If a support larger than a company is required it generally should consist of an entire battalion, or at least two full companies.

A picket should consist of a number of full squads or platoons. If an entire company is sent out as outguards, its cooks and kitchen police should remain with the support to prepare meals.

A sentry squad should be a full squad (7 men and a corporal) rather than 6 men and a corporal (the minimum number required). A cossack post should consist of a half squad (4 men) and two halves of any squad should be on adjacent posts, one commanded by the corporal, the other by the senior private.

Better results are usually obtained by concentrating the patrols in a few of the larger bodies, instead of attaching extra men to sentry squads and cossack posts for this purpose. Of course adjacent cossack posts and sentry squads should keep touch with each other, one man from each making occasional visits to the adjacent posts between rounds of the regular patrols from the larger bodies.

As the two sentinels of a sentry squad are posted together for mutual support their range of vision is no greater than that of a cossack post and they require twice as many men. A sentry squad is more efficient than a cossack post as two men will naturally observe more than one and each, feeling the presence of the other is relieved from the sense of loneliness which affects the sentry of a cossack post. Also a sentry squad, being larger, has more resisting power than a cossack post. The requirements of the particular locality and situation must be considered in deciding which form of outguard to employ.

_Location._ A camp site is not usually selected with a view to securing a strong outpost position, although circumstances might demand or permit that this be done. Other considerations usually govern the selection of a camp site, and the outpost must make the best use possible of conditions as they are found.

For a large command the outpost must hold the enemy beyond artillery range of the main camp (about 5,000 yards off). For a smaller command protection against rifle fire is sufficient. Thus for a division camp, the line of resistance of the outpost should be distant 2 to 3 miles or more from the main camp. For protection against rifle fire 1,000 to 2,000 yards, according to the terrain, is sufficient.

The first step is to select a line of resistance at a suitable distance. The line should fulfill as far as possible, the requirements of a defensive position (see “Combat”) except that if offensive operations are not contemplated, an obstacle along the whole, or any portion of the front, is an advantage. The best natural obstacles are unfordable streams, swamps or morasses, impenetrable thickets, etc. Artificial obstacles may also be constructed. They would generally be limited to the roads, or to the most dangerous open ground. The line of resistance should be as short as practicable. The flanks should preferably be secured by impassable obstacles or by the flank of an adjacent outpost.

An outpost placed to hold a river line may be directed to “secure the line of the stream from ______ to ______.” This leaves its commander free to select a suitable line of resistance. If the stream is unfordable, resistance will probably be required only at the bridges--the line of the stream between being simply patrolled, to prevent the enemy from using ferries or ponton bridges. The duty may be still further lightened by disabling some of the bridges.

The supports are usually placed on the defensive line selected and constitute the “line of resistance.” Roads, however, exercise a very great influence on the location of the supports, as they are the lines by which the enemy is most likely to advance, especially at night. A good rule for general guidance is to select that road by which the enemy is most likely to make an advance in force, and place a strong support where it can command the road with its fire. The remainder of the outpost then conforms to this arrangement. Supports or strong pickets are placed where they can command all the roads over which the enemy might advance, as well as unobstructed country between the roads, over which an attack might be made. The general method of locating an outpost is to observe and guard the avenues of approach at points where these avenues are crossed by the best natural line of resistance.

In exceptional cases the line of resistance may be at some locality in rear of the line of supports. In such cases the reserve would generally be placed on this line and would prepare it for defense. The supports would then become merely reservoirs for the relief of the outguards. In case of attack they would delay the enemy, and gradually fall back on the defensive line in rear.

An outpost should generally not be placed so close to that of the enemy that continual firing between the opposing lines would result. It should, however, when in the near vicinity of a hostile outpost or line of battle maintain contact with the latter by either mounted or dismounted patrols, depending on the distance between the two lines, as this provides the very best security. Such contact is especially desirable when pursuing a retreating enemy, in order that his withdrawal may be promptly detected.

Special mounted patrols may observe the flanks of the enemy’s outpost line, but usually no attempt will be made to pierce the hostile line of resistance in order to gain information concerning the main force unless special orders to that effect have been received. Information concerning the enemy’s main body is generally gathered by the independent cavalry, or by special officers’ patrols sent out by the supreme commander, or by his direction (see “Patrolling”). These patrols have no connection with the regular outpost, the duty of the latter being primarily security, rather than information.

A large outpost, having two or more regiments on the line, may be divided into regimental sectors, each under a separate commander, and each having its own sector (local) reserve, like a line of battle.

_Limits._ The front to be covered by an outpost, and the distance it is to extend its protection to the flanks, are questions to be decided in each case, and for which general rules cannot be given.

The order of the superior commander will indicate the approximate line to be outposted and the limits of same. From these instructions it may be inferred that he considers this the best line of resistance--this being a certainty if he also says “in case of attack this line will be held.” Hence the supports should be posted on or quite close to the designated line. The orders also indicate the approximate extent of front which the supreme commander desires covered. If the flanks as indicated do not rest on impassable obstacles or connect with adjacent outposts or detached posts from some other organization, some provisions for the security of the flanks are usually required. If detached posts are sent to the flanks by troops other than the regular outpost, the latter has only to maintain communication with these. An exposed flank should be bent slightly to the rear by refusing the line of the outposts on that flank.

In deciding how far to the flanks to extend protection it is necessary to consider the probable moves of the enemy. Where is he known to be and what forces has he? Is it likely or even possible that he may make an attack at night from the flank? If so it must certainly be guarded. It is to be noted that protection to the flanks is much more necessary for a small force than for a large one since the enemy does not have to make such a long detour to turn its flanks. A very small force may require an all-around outpost--one extending not only to the flanks but even to the rear.

The flanks of an outpost may be covered by detached posts sent directly from the reserve (of the outpost), from the camp of the advance guard (or rear guard), or from the camp of the main body. In such cases the regular outpost will connect with the detached posts on its flanks. Such posts would be placed on important roads leading to the flanks, at bridges, defiles, etc.

The distance to the flanks and rear to which the outpost should extend protection is determined by conditions and the measures for security adopted by the troops in rear. Thus the organizations in the main camp may be directed to place detached posts at certain localities or they may be ordered to “provide for their own security against attacks by small bodies of the enemy,” or given some similar instructions. In the absence of any special orders each organization will provide the routine interior camp guards.

_Distances and intervals._ No fixed rules can be given for intervals and distances, but there are certain precautions which should be observed in distributing the parts of an outpost.

The distance between the main body and the outpost line (see ante) has been stated to depend on the requirements that the latter must protect the former from rifle or artillery fire, as circumstances require. Each group must be sufficiently far in front of the larger group to the rear to give the latter time to prepare for an attack before the advanced group is driven in, but the distance should not be so great that the advanced group cannot be conveniently relieved or supported, nor communication readily maintained. The following distances may be used as a rough guide to be departed from according to circumstances:

From the reserve to the supports about 1,000 yds.

From the supports to the outguards about 800 yds.

From pickets to sentry squads or cossack posts sent
therefrom, about 400 yds.

From reserve, a support or picket to the sentinel on
duty over same 100 yds.

From a sentry squad or cossack post to sentries of same
or from cavalry outguard to vedettes 40 yds.

In very close country all distances should be reduced. For a mounted cavalry outpost, distances may be somewhat greater than for one composed of infantry, or dismounted cavalry.

The advance (outpost) cavalry, if it is to come in at night and go out again early next morning, should not be over four miles out, and 2½ to 3 would be better. The independent cavalry, as it usually does not come inside the infantry outpost line at night, may be any reasonable distance out, depending on the situation.

An outpost must always have sufficient depth from front to rear to provide reasonable security. The enemy must be forced to _fight_ his way through a considerable distance so that the large bodies in rear may have ample time to make the necessary dispositions to meet him.

_The intervals_ between groups on the same line are even more difficult to fix than distances, as they depend so much upon the nature of the country. Thus where an outpost is placed on the near side of an unfordable stream, outguards are needed only at the bridges, the intervals between being simply patrolled.

As has been stated, in open country, the maximum sector or front for a battalion of infantry as a support is about 2,500 yards. The front for a company would then be about 600 yards. Sentry squads should generally be not over 300 to 450 yards apart and cossack posts not over 250 yards apart, unless there be active patrolling between them. In close country the distances might be greater or less, depending on whether or not the woods were impenetrable, and on the amount of patrolling. The distances here given must be regarded as very rough guides only. Considering the great variation in conditions rules for these distances cannot be prescribed.

When an army bivouacs in line of battle a regular outpost is not required as the troops are already formed to resist attack. In this case, only sentinels in front of the line and patrols beyond are required. A regular outpost would only interfere with fire from the line of battle.

In guarding the line of a stream the supports or pickets are posted where they can command the crossings, usually under cover some 300 or 400 yards back. At night the covering groups move up to the near end of the bridge, and if machine guns are available they may be placed behind barricades to sweep the bridge. A defile is guarded in the same manner. At night a sentry squad should be placed at the far end of the bridge or defile and patrols may be sent on beyond. If the bridge is to be used by the army for its advance, it is usually necessary to hold the far side. In this case a strong detachment is sent beyond the bridge to guard its far approach and it would usually intrench a defensive position and throw out a small outpost beyond. Such a detachment would not be a true outpost but rather a covering force, and its defensive works would be called a bridge head.

_The Reserve._ The reserve includes all outpost troops not specially assigned elsewhere, and the special troops (engineers, signal and sanitary troops). It should be posted in a central position where it can readily reinforce any of its supports, preferably on the principal road to the camp of the main body. Concealment is very desirable, also covered approaches to the stations of the supports. Wood and water for the camp are necessary. If placed on the line of resistance the reserve will prepare the position for defense.

The camping arrangements of the reserve, such as internal and external guards, messing arrangements, etc., are arranged by its commander (either the outpost commander himself or a subordinate). They may be covered by verbal instructions or routine orders, but would not as a rule properly form a subject for field orders. The “2d outpost order” (see post) may, however, prescribe whether or not fires will be permitted in the camp at night. Detached posts to be sent from the reserve should be covered by the orders of the outpost commander.

Some cavalry, or a number of mounted orderlies, should be with the reserve for patrol and messenger duty. The main body of the advance cavalry may retire to the camp of the reserve at night, or camp beyond the outpost line, depending on the situation.

The artillery, if any be assigned to the outpost, is habitually with the reserve. If it takes an exposed position for covering the approaches to the outpost line it would have a support detailed from the reserve.

The field trains of the outpost are usually at the reserve camp, whence those of the supports may, in the discretion of the outpost commander, be sent to join them. If an attack is feared the trains may be ordered by the superior commander, to return to the camp of the advance guard (or main body) sometime before daybreak the following morning. The field trains of the supports may usually be allowed to join them and remain at least until after supper, or else until just before daybreak, being then withdrawn to the reserve camp. Field wagons should not be allowed with outguards.

_The Supports._ Supports vary in size from a platoon to a battalion. In an outpost of any size they would generally be not smaller than a company. They consist mainly of infantry. A few mounted men, generally at least three, should be attached to each support for patrol and messenger duty. It may be better to use mounted orderlies for this purpose, rather than to split up the cavalry into a number of small detachments, although the latter may be necessary if extended reconnaissance to the front is required. But it should be remembered in this connection that when practicable it is better to use the cavalry as “advance cavalry” rather than as part of the supports. The advance cavalry even when withdrawing for the night is often required to maintain touch with the enemy during the night by means of patrols, and this of course relieves the supports of the duty of carrying on any _extended_ or _distant_ patrolling, though they should not neglect such local reconnaissance as security requires. If the cavalry is too weak or for any other reason it is not advisable to use it as advance cavalry it may then be split up and parts of it assigned to the supports for more extended patrolling than they could conduct with infantry alone.

Supports are usually placed to cover the main roads. They will, of course, not be on the roads, but either astride of them or in positions on one side or the other from which they can command the roads and adjacent country by their fire. A sentinel will be placed on the road to challenge persons moving along it. He also serves as sentinel for an examining post if one is required. If the bivouac of the support is more than 100 yards from the road, an additional sentinel will generally be necessary over the bivouac by night. Supports should always be placed in a concealed position, and exercise caution not to betray their location to the enemy.

A definite sector of the outpost line, with carefully defined limits, preferably prominent natural objects, houses or the like, which must not fall on or even near a road, is assigned to each support, and its approximate station is designated. The support selects a good defensive position near its designated post from which it can cover with fire the most important road in its sector and the country adjacent thereto. If possible it should cover two or more roads directly. If it cannot cover all the roads in its sector directly it places outguards of sufficient strength on the other roads, or closes them by destroying bridges or placing obstacles. The support, if on the line of resistance, prepares its position for defense by intrenching and clearing the field of fire, etc.

A machine gun platoon may be assigned to each support.

The company wagons of a support may be allowed to join it, at least until after supper, unless an attack is expected. If an attack is expected wagons would remain with the reserve, where meals might also be prepared. The outpost commander will give verbal instructions as to fires, tent pitching, meals, etc. At the support these may be mentioned in the night order if one is issued, inasmuch as they have a direct bearing upon the question of security and are not merely routine matters.

A good field of fire is the first requisite for the position of a support when posted on the line of resistance, as would usually be the case. Defensive strength is more important than ease of observation. The two requirements that a support should have a good field of fire and at the same time be in a concealed position may often conflict to a greater or less extent. The trenches should be made as inconspicuous as possible, and of course it is not necessary for the support to occupy its trenches throughout the day--it may be placed in a covered position near the trenches. At night the support will usually be perfectly concealed in or immediately behind its trenches, unless they are on the sky line. An ideal location for a support is at the far edge of an open wood, or a wood with light underbrush as this will often afford a good view to the front with concealment from view and a covered line of approach and of retreat.

As a rule not more than 4 supports should be sent from any one reserve. (An exception would be in an “all-around” outpost where all the supports were approximately the same distance from the reserve and readily reinforced.)

Supports are numbered serially from right to left.

_Outguards._ Outguards are stationary groups sent from the supports, and their dispositions and duties are left to the discretion of the support commander subject to the inspection of the outpost commander. They are placed so as to cover all lines of approach. Outguards include generally (a) pickets, (b) sentry squads, (c) cossack posts. Important roads within the sector assigned to a support which cannot be directly covered by it, are guarded by pickets from 2 squads to a company in strength. Such pickets would be disposed in the same manner as a support, intrenching if necessary and covering their own fronts with small outguards. The outguards sent direct from a support are numbered serially from right to left for that support, regardless of their size. The smaller groups sent direct from a large picket are numbered similarly for that picket, but are not included in the support series of numbers.

Sentry squads normally consist of 8 men (including a corporal) and post a double sentry. Cossack posts consist of 4 men and post a single sentry.

The meals of the outguards are prepared at and sent to them from their supports.

Outguards placed to command approaches may intrench their positions.

Outguards, as well as the sentinels posted therefrom should whenever possible be concealed from observation by the enemy. It is their duty to see without being seen.

Sentinels should be on duty not more than 2 hours in every 6. Visiting patrols should have 3 full reliefs and be relieved at regular hours when practicable.

_Examining posts._ Examining posts may be established on the principal roads. They are usually near a support or picket; the sentinel on duty over the bivouac serving also as sentry for an examining post.

_Communication._ Communication between all the different elements of an outpost is of the utmost importance. Each stationary group should know the position and strength of other groups in its vicinity, and should keep in touch with them. In a large outpost signal troops may be attached for this purpose (see ante). The usual method of intercommunication will be by patrols. Patrols should, before dark, go over the routes they will use at night, opening up and blazing trails, where necessary. Routes of travel which would be used by the reserve in reinforcing the line of resistance, and those from the supports to the outguards should be cleared and marked, where necessary, so that they can be used at night.

_Outpost patrols._ There are two general methods of providing security on the line of observation:

1. By posting a number of small stationary groups at close intervals, so that no considerable force can pass between them without being seen or heard. This is called the “cordon system” of outposts.

2. By posting a less number of stationary groups at the more important points only and covering the ground between groups by constant patrolling. This second method is called the “patrol system” of outposts.

As to which method is to be preferred circumstances will decide. Sometimes both systems are employed on the same outposts. In any case a considerable amount of patrolling is done by every outpost. Outpost patrols are of two classes:

1. _Reconnoitering patrols._ These are patrols sent beyond the line of observation to reconnoiter in the direction of the enemy, gaining touch with him if practicable. The limit of their action is ordinarily the hostile outpost line. These patrols may be mounted or dismounted. Having a limited field of action and not being expected ordinarily to offer resistance, they should usually be small--2 to 5 men. Patrols on the important roads may well be commanded by officers if any are available. If composed entirely of infantry, outpost patrols are usually limited to a distance of not more than about 1½ miles from their point of departure as they should ordinarily return inside of 2 hours. Mounted patrols may, of course, go farther out and are usually preferable to infantry patrols if available, except at night when dismounted men are to be preferred for limited patrolling. Reconnoitering patrols to the front usually travel on the roads. They should give sentinels notice as to the probable time and route of their return, exchange information with them, arrange for signals, etc. If important information is to be gained, or if the distance to the front is considerable, patrolling should be performed by special mounted officers’ patrols. Such patrols would usually be sent from the reserve or main body. The function of the _supports_ is primarily security, rather than information, and it is difficult to coordinate the work of the outpost if patrols are sent to a great distance from the supports since these bodies are independent of each other. (See “Patrolling.”)

The duty of the outpost is primarily to provide _security_ for the command. Such information as it gathers is usually limited to that which is essential for security. Information of tactical or strategical importance is obtained by means of special patrols, spies, etc. Any information which the supreme commander specially desires will be more certainly obtained by patrols sent out under his own orders.

2. _Visiting patrols._ These are patrols which maintain communication between the different parts of an outpost and reconnoiter the line of observation between the stationary groups. They do not ordinarily go beyond the line of observation except when necessary to make special examinations of localities immediately in front of the line. Visiting patrols are always small, one or two privates and a non-commissioned officer being usually sufficient. When the conditions are favorable, mounted men may be used to advantage, but as there is usually cross-country traveling to be done visiting patrols will ordinarily be dismounted. The round of an infantry visiting patrol should therefore usually be limited to less than 3 miles.

Both reconnoitering and visiting patrols should have three full reliefs. This may not always be practicable in the case of reconnoitering patrols, but in such case the duty must not be too heavy.

During the day few, if any, visiting patrols will be required, except in close country. Reconnoitering patrols may also be dispensed with by day if there be available good observation points from which the country for a considerable distance in front of the outpost line may be seen. There should always be, however, sufficient patrolling to insure vigilance on the part of sentries.

_The reserve_ sends visiting patrols, usually once an hour, and at least once in two hours, to each support or detached post of the outpost proper, or of its sector thereof. If practicable these patrols should be mounted, for which purpose a few mounted men should be attached to the reserve. In large outposts these patrols may be under an officer. Two or three men will usually be sufficient. In some cases the reserve may send out special reconnoitering patrols under an officer beyond the line of observation, to gain information of the enemy. (See ante.)

_The supports_ maintain patrol communication with adjacent supports and send visiting patrols (usually one an hour) to each outguard (picket, sentry squad or cossack post) sent out _directly_ from support. These patrols are small (2 or 3 men) and _if practicable_ may be mounted. In any case at least two or three mounted men should be attached to each support for patrol and messenger duty. A support on the flank of an outpost line maintains patrol communication with adjacent outposts or detached posts.

The supports habitually send reconnoitering patrols along the important roads in front of the line of observation. The duties of such patrols are:

(a) To reconnoiter the country in advance of the line of
observation.

(b) To maintain communication with the advance cavalry.

If the enemy (or the advance cavalry) is more than 2 miles beyond the supports the duties (b) and (c) cannot well be performed by infantry (foot) patrols. If such duty (b) and (c) is required it generally should be specified in the outpost orders, and a few mounted men should then be attached to the supports for the purpose.

_The pickets_ maintain patrol communication with adjacent pickets and patrols along the line of observation. These patrols are usually small infantry patrols commanded by a non-commissioned officer or an experienced private. In special cases, if so directed, large pickets may send reconnoitering patrols beyond the line of observation; but this duty is usually assigned to the supports, or if it be very distant work, to the reserve or the cavalry (see ante).

_Sentry squads and cossack posts_ do no routine patrolling. They should keep touch with adjacent posts between the rounds of the regular visiting patrols from the pickets.

Patrol duty at night may be lightened by the use of prearranged signals (matches or electric flashlight) from the outguards to the pickets or supports. Care should be taken that such signals cannot be seen by the enemy.

_Day and night positions and duties._

_Infantry._ The reserve proceeds to its camping place and the supports to their posts immediately after the issue of the outpost order. If the halt is made late in the afternoon the supports may be sent to their approximate stations _before_ the issue of the full order, that they may have time to prepare their suppers. Otherwise, if late, they prepare supper at the reserve camp. Having arrived at their designated stations the supports select and prepare their defensive positions (if on the line of resistance) and reconnoiter the ground within their sectors with a view to placing the outguards.

If the country is open and a good view to the front is obtainable the outguards need not be placed until shortly before dusk. A single sentinel at each support may be sufficient for security, especially if cavalry is covering the front.

The outguards are placed in position shortly before dusk so that they have opportunity to become familiar with the terrain in their vicinity while there is still daylight.

In a close country where observation is limited, some or all of the outguards may be in position during the day.

The visiting patrols should start their rounds as soon as the outguards take position. Patrolling during the day should be held to the minimum, but at night continued patrolling may be required.

The times for assuming night and resuming day positions are not ordinarily mentioned in the first outpost order except for the cavalry. Instructions for this are given verbally by the outpost or sector commander when he makes his round (before dark) or may be embodied in the second order. To avoid the necessity of sending a second message to the cavalry (if it is out in front) the times when it is to withdraw from the front and resume its day positions may be mentioned in the first order.

Day positions should not be assumed until broad daylight (usually at sunrise or later). If the outpost is to be relieved, the relief arrives at the supports at daybreak, thus giving the outpost double strength at the time when an attack is most to be feared.

_Cavalry._ The advance cavalry, during the day, will be in front of the infantry. About half an hour or so after the infantry outpost has assumed its night position, the bulk of the cavalry, if not too far out, may be withdrawn behind the outpost line. In such a case the cavalry would usually resume its day position by daybreak, or even earlier, if an attack is to be feared; and should be well to the front before the infantry outguards are withdrawn from their night positions. In withdrawing behind the outpost line the cavalry will usually camp with the reserve (of the outpost). Here it may be joined by its field trains. While the cavalry can rest with greater security behind the outpost line, and may have its trains, yet on the other hand this necessitates a march to the rear of several miles, and making camp, etc., often in the dark. Also the cavalry must be saddled up again during the night in order to march out and resume its day positions by daybreak or earlier, being thus deprived of much of its night rest. The absence of the cavalry from the front increases the outpost duty of the infantry. It will accordingly often be advisable to leave the cavalry out over night. The particular circumstances of each case will determine the proper course to pursue. The independent cavalry, being usually 5 miles or more beyond the outpost line will habitually remain out over night, providing for its own security.

Even when withdrawn for the night the cavalry should maintain touch with the enemy by means of patrols, if practicable, unless this duty is assigned to the infantry supports (or reserve) for which purpose cavalry should generally be attached to the outpost for the night. Standing patrols may also be placed at important points (crossroads, bridges, etc.) too far out to be occupied by the infantry, during the night.

To avoid a greatly extended infantry outpost line the cavalry may be used by day and night to cover the country to the flanks by patrolling, the central or more dangerous portion being held by the infantry outpost. An example of this would be a river line, the section opposite the enemy being held by the outpost, and the banks above and below being patrolled by cavalry.

In issuing orders as to times for assuming night and day positions, etc., it is better when practicable to use standard times rather than references to “daybreak,” “dusk,” or “dark.” (See tables of sunrise and sunset, Chapter VI. “Daybreak” is about an hour before sunrise, “dark” about the same time after sunset.)

_Cavalry outposts._ An outpost consisting _entirely_ of cavalry would be used only by a cavalry command. It is organized in a general way quite like an outpost of mixed troops, but on account of its greater mobility the distances between fractions may be somewhat greater. The sentinels of a cavalry outpost may be mounted. From this extreme a cavalry outpost may vary to one organized exactly like an outpost of mixed troops, all the horses (except those of patrols, detached posts, etc.) being at a safe place in rear and unsaddled for the night. This latter form of outpost will usually be preferable, and is practically essential if any determined _resistance_ is contemplated. A cavalry outpost is usually not required to make as stubborn resistance as one composed of mixed troops. If it is merely the advance or outpost cavalry of a mixed command it would usually make no resistance, except such as was necessary to insure its own withdrawal. The vigilance required of the outpost proper may, especially in the case of cavalry, be greatly diminished by the judicious use of mounted patrols to the front and flanks and air craft to observe the avenues of approach. Parties of some strength may be sent to the front on important roads to resist or delay an advance of the enemy by obstacles and dismounted fire action. Their horses are held conveniently near under cover, to facilitate withdrawal when further resistance is impracticable.

_March outposts._ Every command on halting, even temporarily, should cover its front and flanks by temporary or “march” outposts. These march outposts are withdrawn on resuming the march or, in case of a halt for the night, when the regular outpost is in position. The placing of march outposts is the special duty of the advance guard, and is usually performed by the advance party. Cavalry covering the front affords a considerable measure of security, but this should usually be supplemented by small patrols of infantry or mounted orderlies, sent to the front and flanks along the roads or across country when necessary.

On receipt of orders to halt for the night and establish outposts, the cavalry with the advance guard, if not already there, should be sent to the front to cover the movement of the outpost troops to their positions. Patrols of mounted or dismounted men should be sent to the front a short distance on all important roads, especially those on which supports of the outpost are to be placed. These patrols, which may be as strong as a platoon, proceed to some important point, such as a hill or ridge, road junction, stream or defile. Here they satisfy themselves that no enemy is near, returning at a designated time or when recalled by a mounted messenger. If the enemy be encountered they delay his advance, sending word to the rear and falling back gradually. Patrols should also be sent to the flanks, if any danger is anticipated in those directions. Mounted patrols of this kind may go out as much as two miles; infantry patrols usually from a half to three-quarters of a mile. The advance cavalry, if out, will usually be from 2 to 5 miles in front, and will generally remain out until about dusk. Even when the front is covered by the cavalry, however, patrols should be sent out on the important roads on halting, unless danger from the enemy is known to be out of question. If the halt be temporary these patrols rejoin by the shortest practicable route as the march is resumed. If the halt be for the night they are selected if practicable from the troops intended for the outpost and join their organization when the outpost has moved forward to its position.

_Outpost orders._ The formal orders covering the placing of an outpost are as follows:

1. The halt order of the supreme commander which designates the troops for the outpost and the approximate position of same, or directs the advance guard (or rear guard) to establish the outpost on a designated line. This order should be issued well in advance of the halt (1 to 2 hrs.) in order to allow subordinate commanders time to issue the necessary orders before reaching the camping place.

2. The order of the advance guard (or rear guard) commander, designating the troops for the outpost and the line to be held.

3. The first order of the outpost commander, designating the troops for the outpost (under his command), the exact line of same, and the composition and location of each support, with special instructions for same. This order usually covers only the day positions of the infantry.

4. The 2d (night) order of the outpost commander, covering necessary changes in the outpost dispositions for the night.

No. 2 is omitted when the entire advance guard goes on outpost duty. No. 4 should preferably take the form of verbal instructions, unless the command is large or extensive changes, such as might result from additional information concerning the enemy, are necessary.

The orders for the dispositions and duties of the outguards and patrols are given verbally by the support commanders. (Examples of outpost orders follow. See also F. S. R.)

_Establishing the outpost._ The supreme commander’s halt order should generally be issued from an hour to two hours before the halt. This gives the advance guard and outpost commanders opportunity to estimate the situation and issue their own preliminary orders before the halt. If a command fatigued by a day’s march must wait under arms while camp sites are selected, serious discontent will be the logical result. The intelligent commander and his staff should generally contrive to select the camp site in advance and route the various organizations to their stations without delay, confusion or unnecessary movement. Herein is found a test of the efficiency of the staff.

The halt order of the supreme commander must generally be issued from the map, supplemented by such information as may have been received from the cavalry, etc.

Having estimated the situation the advance guard commander issues his orders, and gives the necessary instructions for placing the march outposts. If practicable, he should make a personal examination of the terrain to supplement the information obtained from his map, but in a large command this might cause great delay, and the order may be issued from a good map. The advance guard halts on reaching its camp site and march outposts are at once sent out.

When the advance guard halts, the outpost commander with the troops designated for the outpost, proceeds to the vicinity of the spot selected, from the map, for the reserve camp. Here the outpost troops are halted (usually by a staff officer) while the outpost commander, accompanied by such of his subordinates as are mounted, proceeds rapidly ahead to the designated outpost line for personal reconnaissance. If it has been practicable to select the approximate stations of the supports and determine their strength from the map alone, they may be directed to continue the march beyond the reserve camp, take their approximate stations and prepare their suppers. On reaching a suitable lookout point on the outpost line the commander sends a mounted messenger (usually an aide) with the orders to the advance cavalry (when to withdraw for the night, standing patrols to be left out, etc.). He then makes an examination of the ground and with the aid of his map, issues the necessary orders to his subordinates. If the subordinates are not mounted they usually assemble at the reserve camp to await the return of the commander from his reconnaissance.

No rules for the procedure of the various commanders can be prescribed. It is always advisable to place all troops in camp as quickly as possible, so that the men can remove their accoutrements and rest. On the other hand if outpost supports are placed from the map alone, faulty dispositions necessitating a change of positions later on, may result, and this is trying to the men and tends to weaken their confidence in their commander.

The supports and detached posts having been placed, the outpost commander, sometime before dark, makes an inspection of the entire outpost line, examines the defense and security measures, and questions the support commanders as to the dispositions they intend to make for the night. He makes such changes as appear to be necessary, gives the support commanders instructions as to when to take up night and resume day positions, and orders any special reconnoitering which he desires. If extensive changes are necessary particularly in view of fresh news concerning the enemy, a second order should be issued, but generally this will not be required.

Instructions for demolitions, obstacles, or other work of the engineers, are usually given verbally. They may be briefly referred to in orders so that the balance of the command may take notice.

In withdrawing to a camp after an engagement, if still in the presence of the enemy, the troops holding the front (who will usually be deployed in line of battle) should not retire from their positions until relieved by the outpost, otherwise the security of the command might be compromised.

_Outpost sketches and tables._ Each support commander makes a sketch of his dispositions for the information of the outpost commander, and the latter a sketch of the entire outpost for the information of the superior commander. Tables, showing the number of men actually on duty as sentinels or patrols by day and by night, may accompany the sketches. These tables are particularly useful, as an examination of them often indicates how the number of men on duty may be reduced without loss of security. An example of such a table for the outpost shown in the sketch herewith (Fig. VIII) follows:

SUPPORT NO. 1. _Day_ _Night_
Single sentinel at support (1 n. c. o.) 4 4
Officer and mounted orderly to visit outguards 2 and 3 0 2
Reconnoitering patrols beyond outpost line 4 8

_Outguards._
1. Cossack post at 0 4
2. Sentry squad at 0 8
3. Picket at
Single sentinel at picket 0 4
Cossack post at 0 4
Cossack post at 0 4
Patrol, 3 men, patrol along front and connect with
detached post from the reserve at 0 9
Patrol, 2 men, to connect with adjacent picket and
patrol along front 0 6
4. Cossack post at 0 4

SUPPORT NO. 2.
Double sentinel at support (2 n. c. o.) 4 8
Officer and 2 mtd. orderlies to visit pickets 2 6
Reconnoitering patrols beyond outpost line 8 16

_Outguards._
1. Cossack post at 0 4
2. Picket at
(out day and night)
Single sentinel at picket 4 4
Cossack post at 0 4
Cossack post at 0 4
2 patrols, 3 men each, patrol along front and connect
with adjacent pickets 0 18
3. Sentry squad at 0 8
4. Sentry squad at 8 8
(serves also as examining post)
5. Picket at
(out night and day)
Single sentinel at picket 4 4
Cossack post at 0 4
Cossack post at 0 4
2 patrols, 2 men each, patrol along front and connect
with adjacent pickets 0 12

SUPPORT NO. 3.
Single sentinel at support 4 4
Officer and mounted orderly to visit outguards 2 and 4 0 2
Patrol, 1 officer (or n. c. o.) and 4 troopers
maintain communication with cavalry post at
and detached post from main body at 0 15

_Outguards._
1. Sentry squad at 0 8
2. Picket at
Single sentinel at picket 0 4
Cossack post at 0 4
Cossack post at 0 4
2 patrols, 2 men each, patrol along front and connect
with adjacent picket 0 12
3. Cossack post at 0 4
4. Sentry squad at 8 8
---------
Total 50 226

A careful study of such a table and accompanying maps
or sketches will enable the outpost commander to
determine how he can economize men without loss of
security.

ADVANCE GUARD COMMANDER’S HALT ORDER.

_Par. 1._ Information of the enemy.

Location and security measures of independent cavalry, if known.

Location of adjacent bodies of friendly troops and of their outpost lines.

Location of march outposts (these have been posted under verbal instructions).

Camp of the main body, location of its headquarters.

Detached posts from the main body--strength, location.

_Par. 2._ Camp of the advance guard, location of its headquarters.

_Par. 3._ (a) Instructions to the advance cavalry, when not attached to the outpost.

General orders as to country to be reconnoitered, any special tasks to be performed, contact with the enemy.

Time to withdraw for the night, where to camp.

Time to resume day positions.

Instructions as to standing patrols to be left out over night--strength, posts, special reconnaissance, etc.

The place to which messages for the cavalry will be sent.

(b) Instructions for the outpost. Troops, commander, location, line to be held in case of attack (or “in case of attack the outpost will be supported”), connection with other outposts or detached posts, examining posts, any special instructions. (Camp of reserve of outpost may be designated or this may be left to the discretion of the outpost commander.)

Conduct in case of attack.

Detached posts (if any), troops, commanders, duties.

Instructions for the camp (preferably conveyed in verbal instructions or routine orders.)

Instructions to special troops, if any.

_Par. 4._ Instructions for field trains. Those of outpost generally placed at disposal of its commander. May be directed to return to camp of advance guard after supper or before dawn.

Field trains usually assemble at an early hour at a designated locality, off the road, to join those of the main body (as they pass) on resuming the forward march.

Instructions to sanitary troops.

_Par. 5._ Messages to _________________________.
Location of lines of information, if any.
Signature.

How and to whom communicated.

Report of dispositions to superior commander.

OUTPOST COMMANDER’S ORDER.

_Par. 1._ All the information contained in Pars. 1 and 2 of the Advance Guard Commander’s order--or so much thereof as may seem necessary.

_Par. 2._ Troops for the outpost, commander. Outpost line “to be held in case of attack,” or “in case of attack the outpost will be supported.”

Connection with adjacent outposts (if any), or detached posts.

TROOPS:

(a) Outpost cavalry:
Commander.
Troops.

(b) Supports:
No. 1. Commander.
Troops.
etc.

(d) Reserve:
Commander.
Troops.

_Par. 3._ (a) (Same as preceding order--if cavalry is attached _to outpost_.)

(b) Instructions for supports, right to left.
Station. Sector to occupy or guard.

Special reconnaissance. Contact with enemy. Patrol connection
with adjacent outposts or detached posts.

Instructions as to examining posts, intrenching, obstacles,
demolitions, etc.

Instructions similar to those for supports.

(d) Reserve. Camp, special duty. Conduct of in case of attack.

Special troops--duties. Engineers assist in clearing, construction of obstacles, improvement of communications, demolitions, etc. Signal troops--connect parts of outpost.

_Par. 4._ Instructions for field trains (and sanitary troops if any). Wagons may join supports, usually return to camp of reserve after supper or before dawn. Assembly for march in the morning. (See previous form.)

_Par. 5._ Messages to __________________________.
Location of lines of information, if any.
Signature.

How and to whom communicated.

Report of dispositions to superior commander, with sketch of outpost when prepared.

SECOND ORDER OF OUTPOST COMMANDER.

(It is usually not necessary to issue this order, especially in a small command, as verbal instruction would suffice. If extensive changes are necessary a second order would be issued before dark in this form.)

_Par. 1._ Additional information or statement, “No change in situation.”

_Par. 2._ The following changes are ordered for the night.

_Par. 3._ (a) Instructions for advance cavalry (if not covered in first order).

Time to withdraw from night position, camp for the night (usually with reserve), assignment of mounted men to the infantry supports for the night (if any). Standing patrols to be left out over night, special duties. Time for cavalry to resume day positions.

(b) Instructions for supports, any changes of position,
reinforcements, additional intrenching, additional security
measures, reconnaissance, etc.

Time to assume night and resume day positions. Patrol connection
with cavalry posts during the night. Instructions as to
camp fires, cooking, tent pitching, etc. (These camp details may
be covered verbally and omitted from order.)

Detached posts, exterior guards or other security measures for the night.

Instructions as to fires, cooking, tents, etc.

Reserve to be under arms at designated hour before dawn. (An extreme precaution adopted only when an attack is feared.)

Additional instructions for special troops.

_Par. 4._ Additional instructions for field trains. Usually wagons at supports to return to camp of reserve. Assembly of field trains in the morning.

_Par. 5._ No change, (or messages to ______________________.)
Signature.

How and to whom communicated.

Report of dispositions to superior comd’r.

Note: It would be seldom that any outpost orders would contain _all_ the information and instructions set forth in the foregoing forms. On the other hand under certain conditions special instructions might be required. The forms indicate the subjects that should be considered. Not all of these need in the usual case be covered by the orders.

VERBAL OUTPOST ORDER FOR A SMALL COMMAND.

Information of the enemy and our supporting troops.

Our main body camps at __________, with a detached post of (such troops) at __________.

March outposts are now __________.

Troops for the outpost, commander, outpost line, conduct in case of attack--usually “in case of attack this line will be held.” Such troops under such commander will constitute Support No. 1, and will occupy (or guard) the sector from such landmark to such landmark, both inclusive. Reconnaissance to __________.

(Support No. 2--instructions in same form.)

All supports will prepare their positions for defense. Planking of bridges will be loosened and fords obstructed, etc.

Patrols will be sent to the line of __________ (usually enemy’s outposts if not too distant.)

Three mtd. orderlies will report to each support.

Reserve. Troops, commander, camp, detached posts, distant patrolling, etc.

Wagons may join their companies but will return to park south of the reserve by 9:00 p. m.

Messages to __________.

ADVANCE GUARD COMMANDER’S HALT AND OUTPOST ORDER.

Adv. Gd., 1st Brig., 1st Div., 1st Blue Army Corps,
TWO TAVERNS, PA.,
Field Orders } 20 June 1912, 2:20 p. m.
No. -- }
Gettysburg-Antietam 3" map.

1. A hostile division advancing through CASHTOWN has occupied GETTYSBURG. A hostile troop has been driven from ST. MARY’S REFORMED CHURCH by our cavalry, which now occupies that place, observing the line of ROCK CREEK and towards GETTYSBURG. March outposts are now observing on the line of WHITE RUN.

Our army halts for the night with the left of its outpost at 550 (1⅔ miles north of TWO TAVERNS.)

Our brigade camps at GERMANTOWN with headquarters at the town hall and sends a detached post of 1 platoon of infantry to the TRUSTLE F. H.

2. This advance guard will camp at TWO TAVERNS.

3. (a) The 1st Sq., 1st Cav. (less Tr.D) will continue to cover our front until 7:00 p. m. when it will withdraw and camp at TWO TAVERNS, north of the main road and east of LITTLE’S RUN. Day positions will be resumed at 4:00 a. m. Half a troop under an officer will be sent at once to the vicinity of BARLOW to watch the crossings at that place and one mile south thereof, and patrol to the west and to GETTYSBURG on the TANEYTOWN Road, throughout the night. One platoon under an officer will be sent to report to the outpost commander.

(b) Lt. Col. B with the 1st and 2nd Bns. and 12 mtd. orderlies of the 1st Inf., and 1 platoon, 1st Sq., 1st Cav., will establish an outpost on the line from the left of the army’s outpost through 525--479--Hill 449--to include the bridge 393W. In case of attack this line will be held and the outpost will be supported. Contact will be maintained with the cavalry post at BARLOW and the detached post from the main body at TRUSTLE. An examining post will be established on the BALTIMORE TURNPIKE.

(c) The remainder of the advance guard will camp at TWO TAVERNS; north of the road and west of LITTLE’S RUN, under command of Major C. In case of attack the outpost will be supported.

4. The field trains will join the troops. Those of the outpost troops are placed at the disposal of the outpost commander. All field trains will assemble on the BALTIMORE TURNPIKE east of 508 by 3:00 a. m. tomorrow when Capt. X, Q. M., 1st Inf., will conduct them to join the brigade train.

5. Messages to the school house at TWO TAVERNS.

A,
Colonel, 1st Inf.

Dictated to Staff:

Copies to C. O. of:
Outpost
1st Sq., 1st Cav.
1st Bn., 1st Inf.
2d Bn.
3d Bn.
M. G. Co., 1st Inf.
By mounted messenger to C. G. 1st Brigade.

Notes: The march outposts consist of small patrols of cavalry. They are withdrawn by verbal instructions as soon as the outpost is in position. In addition to these march outposts the advance guard, of course, establishes the necessary guards for the security of the camp.

Here the cavalry is independent of the outpost commander. It comes in at night leaving out a standing patrol at Barlow. During the night some cavalry is assigned to the outpost for patrolling toward the enemy. The patrols from Barlow are told to go _to_ Gettysburg, not _toward_. Perhaps they cannot reach the town, but will go as close as possible.

OUTPOST COMMANDER’S FIRST ORDER.

Outpost, 1st Brig., 1st Div., 1st Blue Army Corps,
Farm house 1,000 yds. S. of
ST. MARY’S REFORMED CHURCH, PA.
Field Orders } 20 June, 1912, 4:20 p. m.
No. -- }
Gettysburg-Antietam 3" map.

1. (Include in this paragraph pertinent information contained in Pars. 1 and 2 of preceding order, also information as to the location of the headquarters of the advance guard and concerning the cavalry post to be at BARLOW during the night.)

2. The 1st and 2d Bns. and 9 mtd. orderlies, 1st Inf., and 1 Plat. Tr. A, 1st Cav., under my command will establish the outpost from the left of the army’s outpost on the line through 525--479-Hill 449 to include the bridge 393W. In case of attack this line will be held and the outpost will be supported.

Troops
(a) Supports:
No. 1, Maj. B.
1st Bn. 1st Inf.
(less Co. D)
6 mtd. orderlies.
No. 2, Capt. D.
Co. D, 1st Inf.
1 Plat. Tr. A, 1st
Cav. (less 2 n.c.o’s
and 7 troopers.)

No. 3, Maj. D.
2d Bn. 1st Inf.
(less Cos. E & F)
2 n.c.o’s & 7 trprs.
Tr. A, 1st Cav.

(b) Reserve:
Capt. F.
Cos. E & F, 1st Inf.
3 mtd. orderlies.

3. (a) Support No. 1 will take post just west of 525, connect with the left of the Army’s outpost, and guard the sector, stream just south of the 529--550--516 road inclusive, ravine 400 yds. south of ST. MARY’S REFORMED CHURCH inc. The line of WHITE RUN will be observed. Reconnaissance to WOLF HILL and along the BALTIMORE PIKE to GETTYSBURG. An examining post will be established on the BALTIMORE PIKE.

Support No. 2 will take post about 500 yds. west of 479 and guard the sector, ravine 400 yds. S. of ST. MARY’S REFORMED CHURCH exclusive, LITTLE’S RUN inclusive. Reconnaissance to the north and northwest from DIENER.

Support No. 3 will take post near 491 and guard the sector LITTLE’S RUN exclusive, 491--393W road inclusive. Limited reconnaissance from 418 west. Patrol connection will be maintained with the cavalry post at BARLOW and the detached post at TRUSTLE during the night.

Each support will prepare its position for defense.

(b) The reserve will camp at the farm house 1,000 yds. south of ST. MARY’S REFORMED CHURCH.

4. Company wagons may join their organizations but all trains will be reported to Capt. X, Q. M. 1st Inf., at road junction 508 east of TWO TAVERNS by 2:50 a. m. tomorrow.

5. Messages to the reserve camp and in case of emergency by duplicate direct to advance guard comdr. at TWO TAVERNS.

B,
Lt. Col., 1st Inf.

Verbally to support commanders.
By Lt. T, Bn. Adjt., to C. O. Cav.
Copy with sketch of outpost to C. O. Adv. Guard.

Notes: The expression “limited reconnaissance” means within the limits of an infantry patrol as Support No. 3 has not enough cavalry for this reconnaissance after allowing patrols to go to BARLOW and TRUSTLE, as these must be mounted on account of the distance. Support No. 2 will place a picket at DIENER in accordance with its instructions. This arrangement illustrates the statement that there can be no fixed rules for the dispositions of an outpost.

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Technique of modern tacticsChapter X: Outposts

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