- pulse for the assault by launching the reserve. This is undoubtedly
the safer procedure. "When the decision to assault emanates from the commanders in rear, notice thereof is given by sounding the signal 'fix bayonet', which must be repeated by all the units that are to take part in the assault. At this signal the skirmishers increase their fire to the utmost. The parts of the firing line which are still in rear, move forward, as quickly as possible, to a position close to the enemy. All reinforcements in rear hasten straight to the front. As soon as the leading line is to form for the assault, all the trumpeters sound the signal 'forward, double time', all the drummers beat their drums, and all parts of the force throw themselves with the greatest determination upon the enemy. It should be a point of honor with skirmishers not to allow the supports to overtake them earlier than the moment of penetrating the enemy's position. When immediately in front of the enemy, the men should charge bayonet and, with a cheer, penetrate the position." (Pars. 346-348 German I. D. R.).
It is very difficult for a superior commander to perceive when the proper moment for making the assault has arrived, as he is compelled to remain so far in rear of the fighting line, especially where large forces are concerned, that he can only follow the general course of the attack. The first indication which he receives as to whether the enemy's fire power has been broken all along the line, is the advance of his own firing line. He will still more rarely be able to see in time when the resistance of the enemy abates at some one point, and it will be quite impossible for him to issue orders with sufficient promptness to turn such an advantage quickly to good account.[1]
- ↑ "The attack fed from the rear, which may be likened to the closing of a telescope, is one of the most peculiar results of constructive theory, which seeks, by this means, to increase the energy of the first line, but only succeeds in massing too many men in front of the enemy, a better condition than which the enemy could not desire." von Malachowski, Scharfe Taktik und Revue-Taktik, p. 230. Incorrect estimate of the situation by the commander of the Ist Army on August 18th, 1870. F. Hönig, Vierundzwanzig Stunden Moltkescher Strategie, p. 145. Der 18. August, p. 271.
