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As soon as the commander decides to break off the
action, the reserve, if one is still available, should be sent to
the rear to take up a rallying position, which should be so
situated that it can make its influence felt as soon as the
main position is evacuated. As every defeated force, or
one that is withdrawn by order, retires straight to the rear,
the rallying position, in order to allow the troops holding it
to fire effectively, must be located as far as possible to a
flank of the line of retreat. If the outer flank of the position
can be advanced, fire may be opened at an earlier moment,
but this will only be practicable in minor engagements. The
distance of the rallying position from the main defensive position
should be such as to compel the enemy to advance again
under fire, and prevent his carrying both the main defensive
position and the rallying position at one rush. On the other
hand, the rallying position should not be so far to the rear
that the retreating troops may be annihilated before they
enter its effective zone. However, as the troops in the rallying
position are also to effect a withdrawal, it is not a good
plan for them to engage the enemy from the start at too
short a range. "It is most desirable when artillery and
machine guns supported by cavalry suffice for this purpose,
while the infantry uninterruptedly continues its retreat. The
mounted arms follow later at an increased gait." (Par. 429
German I. D. R.).
