“After considering all of these circumstances, I think Sergeant Wilkins’ decision would be to remain here and continue covering this road.”
_The Director_: “I think you are right. Now, having arrived at that decision, what are you going to do next, Captain Hastings?”
_Captain Hastings_: “The men would be looking to me for instructions. I would say:
“‘It is apparent that our main body has encountered a force of the enemy. It is possible that our flank guard has halted.
“‘Shane, you will keep on the look out for the enemy.
“‘Take off your packs and put them on the ground behind you.
“‘Secure your intrenching tools and each man improve his firing position.
_The Director_: “I think that order would meet the immediate requirements.”
The Director will bring out the points involved in the preparation of the position for defense. This will depend entirely upon the terrain. By questioning members of the class and a discussion the method of preparing certain of the individual fire positions will be arrived at. The question of obstacles in the road to interfere with the enemy’s advance should also be considered and discussed.
1. Distribute sheets containing Situation No. 5. Read and explain.
2. Estimate of enemy. Contact patrol. Action—open fire on enemy. How close to let them come. Fire orders.
3. Assumption regarding action of patrol and enemy. Identification.
4. Message to flank guard commander. Importance of identification.
5. Action with respect to enemy dead and wounded.
6. State new situation verbally. Main body encounters enemy. Size up new situation.
7. New mission of patrol. Decision to remain where it is.
8. Orders for patrol: Information of enemy and own troops; remain here; look out for enemy; take off pack; prepare for defense.
9. Bring out points involved in preparation for defense. Improvement of firing position. Obstacles.
Halley returns to the patrol. He reports that he sent the message to Lieutenant A, and that it was acknowledged. He received the following message from Lieutenant A for Sergeant Wilkins:
“Advance guard meets strong opposition on main road—Cavalry. Main body halted. Flank guard halts abreast of head of main body. Your patrol will cover cross-road. Corporal Vincent being sent to you with his squad.”