Page:Machine-gun tactics (IA machineguntactic00appl).pdf/228

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guns can only be brought up and withdrawn under cover."

The German Cavalry Drill Book of 1909 has some interesting paragraphs on the employment of machine guns, which are here given:

Para. 497.—Horse artillery and machine guns, by reason of their fire, enhance the offensive and defensive powers of cavalry. In defence and against unexpected opening of fire they form the most effective portion of the force.

Para. 498.—Horse-artillery fire will often be the first thing to make the enemy disclose his dispositions, and thus is useful for reconnaissance. In conjunction with machine guns it can break down the enemy's resistance in defiles, and thus save the cavalry the necessity of dismounted action.

Para. 498.—Artillery and machine guns enable the cavalry, . . . especially by fire effect upon their flanks, to distract hostile columns from their line of march.

Para. 500.—Detached forces of the Division may be allotted artillery and machine guns to increase their powers of offensive action. . . . The employment of single machine guns is forbidden.

Para. 501.—The commanders of artillery and machine guns must be kept informed of the situation and of the cavalry commander's intentions. They remain with him until the employment of their commands has been