still more easy to deceive the enemy, and a skillful defender will know how to make the most of it."[1]
Advanced positions[2] are apt to mask the fire from the
main position, and fights for their possession may easily lead
to the defeat of the troops holding them. The danger of the
fight taking place and being decided in the advanced position
must be reckoned with. (Battles of Ligny and on the Hallue).
On the other hand, it may be advantageous to employ scouting
detachments, cyclists, and machine guns, and to construct
dummy intrenchments in front of the main position. (Par.
407 German I. D. R.). The French, more than anyone else,
are convinced of the advantages to be derived from an employment
of advanced positions (for example in deceiving the
enemy as to the location of the main position). In a deliberately
planned concentration and advance into action, such positions
are, however, so effectively enveloped that they do not
come into play at all and fall an easy prey to the enemy. However,
we do not wish to deny their occasional usefulness in
cases where it is necessary to gain time for concentration and
for strengthening the main position. In fights for their possession,
an idea may frequently be gained of the intentions and
dispositions of the assailant. Moreover, they offer opportunities
for surprising the enemy with fire, and induce him to make
premature attacks and to mass his troops in the ones he has
captured.
Next to a free field of fire (clearing the foreground, and ascertaining ranges), the determining factors in selecting a position are elbow room in and in rear of the position, supporting points for the flanks, and cover. The natural cover available on the ground is made use of as best suits the purpose of the action.
The line in which the artillery intends to fight the decisive action constitutes the "framework" of the position. Although
