necessary to neutralize this by placing the platoons side by side so as not to present an easily observed target to the enemy.
Movements by the flank and changes of front are easily made in column of squads, and after some practice the deployment into line of skirmishers from this formation offers no difficulties. This column is best adapted for movements over varied ground. In column of squads difficult terrain can be crossed and advantage can be taken of the most insignificant cover. In addition, it is difficult for an enemy to observe a force moving in column of squads along the edge of woods and rows of trees, and such a column entails the least expenditure of energy on the part of the men. The leaders must insist, however, that the men cover in file, and that elongation of the column does not take place. The column of squads or the route column is therefore to be employed on the battlefield as long as possible.
A column of squads or route column may be shortened by placing the platoons, each in column of twos or squads, side by side. By this means the Company Column (Kompagnickolonne) is formed.
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The normal interval between
platoons in this formation, measured
from the leading guide of one
platoon to the leading guide of the
next in line, is nine paces. This interval
may be increased as required
by the nature of the ground and
the intended deployment for action
(deployment on a broader front).
Movements in company column are
facilitated by the fact that platoon
commanders are posted four paces
in front of the center of their respective
platoons. The leading
squad follows the platoon leader,
the guide of that squad moving directly
in that officer's tracks. Thus,
