THE ITALIAN DRILL REGULATIONS OF 1903 AND 1906.[1]
ATTACK.
The peculiar character of the probable Italian theater of war in
Upper Italy, with its numerous forests of tall timber, and its many defiles,
causes special attention to be paid to the offensive.[2] The regulations
emphasize the necessity of the coöperation of infantry and artillery.
Although the platoons intended for the firing line are brought up in close order formation, the actual combat formation is not taken up until the situation makes this necessary; but, in any case, the leading element is to enter the zone of hostile fire in a deployed formation. To neutralize the mixing of units as much as possible as the action progresses, the firing line is formed into groups separated by intervals of 4-5 paces, although this increases the casualties. These intervals may be increased, when required, to 10 paces. (Intervals between skirmishers in the firing line are usually at least 15 cm., otherwise 3 paces). The firing line is to advance until increased casualties force it to open fire.
Kinds of fire. Only fire at will is employed. (This is also used when the troops are in close order and formed in four ranks). The battalion commander in the first line directs that fire be opened, as soon as it is certain that a good effect can be produced. When two targets appear, the fire is to be directed upon the one promising the best results (i. e., not necessarily the one that is tactically most important). "In order that the intensity of the fire may correspond to the requirements of the tactical situation existing at the moment, officers, by reason of their tactical training, should be able to state approximately how many rounds are necessary to produce the desired effect, the range, degree of visibility and character of the target, the nature of the terrain and of their position, as well as the physical condition and morale of their men being given. From these
- ↑ Major-General Mikulicz Radecki, Austrian Army, Das neue Exerzierreglement der italienischen Infanterie, Vienna, 1906. v. Grävenitz, Die neueren taktischen Vorschriften für das italienische Heer, in Viertelfjahrsheft, 1905, I, p. 90, et seq. Der Infanteriekampf in der oberitalienischen Tiefebene, in Streffleur, 1907, October and November numbers (also obtainable in special pamphlet form). P. Rath, Der Kampf in der italienischen Kultur, in Militärische Welt, 1907, January-February number.
- ↑ Unless otherwise ordered, the advance guard advances against the hostile forces which it encounters in its march, whether its action be to determine, as quickly as possible, the strength of the opponent and to save its main body from an unnecessary delay, or whether it be to deceive the opponent as to the location of its own forces, or, in certain cases, to make the most of a surprise. (Par. 37).
