Infantry Attacks

1. The Battlefield Demands Constant Vigilance and Adaptability

Facing the enemy, the commander of a reconnaissance patrol should be conscious of the great responsibility which rests on him.

Reconnaissance is paramount. The ever-changing nature of war necessitates continuous reconnaissance to gather accurate intelligence about the enemy's disposition, strength, and intentions. A failure to adapt to new information can lead to disastrous consequences.

Adaptability is crucial. A rigid adherence to pre-set plans can be a recipe for disaster. Commanders must be prepared to modify their strategies and tactics based on the realities on the ground, even if it means deviating from orders. Examples include:

• Changing attack routes based on enemy fire
• Adjusting defensive positions to exploit terrain
• Modifying tactics based on enemy behavior

Exploit opportunities. A keen eye for observation and a willingness to seize fleeting opportunities can turn the tide of battle. This might involve exploiting a gap in the enemy's lines, capitalizing on their mistakes, or adapting to unforeseen circumstances.

2. Leadership Requires Leading from the Front and Sharing Hardships

To win the confidence of his men, the officer must first make severe demands on himself; he must be circumspect, look after his men, share their hardships, and, above all, set them a good example.

Lead by example. A commander's willingness to share the hardships and dangers faced by his troops is essential for building trust and inspiring loyalty. Soldiers are more likely to follow an officer who leads from the front and demonstrates courage under fire.

Empathy and care. A good leader is not only concerned with achieving objectives but also with the well-being of his men. This involves:

• Ensuring adequate supplies and rest
• Providing medical care and support
• Recognizing and rewarding bravery

Discipline and respect. While empathy is important, a leader must also maintain discipline and enforce standards. This requires a balance of firmness and fairness, ensuring that orders are followed while treating subordinates with respect.

3. Terrain and Environment Dictate Tactics and Strategy

In war, the terrain is a critical factor that must be carefully considered.

Terrain awareness. A thorough understanding of the terrain is essential for planning and executing successful military operations. Factors such as elevation, vegetation, and obstacles can significantly impact troop movement, visibility, and firepower.

Adapt to the environment. Different environments require different tactics and strategies. For example:

• Jungle warfare necessitates close-quarters combat and ambushes
• Mountain warfare requires specialized equipment and climbing skills
• Trench warfare demands fortifications and siege tactics

Utilize terrain to advantage. Commanders should seek to exploit the terrain to their advantage, using natural features to provide cover, concealment, and defensible positions. This might involve:

• Positioning troops on high ground for better visibility
• Using forests or hills to mask troop movements
• Creating chokepoints to funnel enemy forces

4. Maintaining Morale is Paramount, Even in Dire Circumstances

High morale springs from the ability to accomplish difficult tasks.

Morale is a force multiplier. A unit's morale can significantly impact its combat effectiveness. High morale can enable troops to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles, while low morale can lead to defeat even in the face of superior numbers or equipment.

Factors influencing morale:

• Strong leadership and clear communication
• A sense of purpose and belief in the mission
• Adequate supplies and rest
• Recognition and rewards for achievements

Maintaining morale under pressure:

• Emphasize small victories and positive developments
• Provide opportunities for rest and recreation
• Foster camaraderie and a sense of shared purpose
• Address concerns and rumors promptly

5. Effective Communication and Coordination are Essential for Success

Good communications between infantry and artillery are essential.

Clear communication is vital. In the chaos of battle, clear and concise communication is essential for coordinating troop movements, calling in artillery support, and responding to changing circumstances.

Methods of communication:

• Telephone lines (though vulnerable to disruption)
• Runners and messengers
• Signal flares and visual signals
• Radio (though still in its early stages)

Coordination between arms:

• Infantry and artillery must work together to suppress enemy defenses
• Engineers must clear obstacles and construct fortifications
• Air support can provide reconnaissance and strike capabilities

Decentralized command. In situations where communication is disrupted, subordinate commanders must be empowered to make decisions on their own initiative, based on their understanding of the overall mission.

6. Logistical Support is the Lifeline of Any Military Operation

The lack of supplies can cripple even the most determined fighting force.

Supplies are essential. A steady flow of supplies, including food, ammunition, and medical equipment, is crucial for sustaining military operations. A failure to provide adequate logistical support can quickly cripple even the most determined fighting force.

Challenges of logistical support:

• Difficult terrain and weather conditions
• Enemy attacks on supply lines
• Limited transportation resources

Strategies for effective logistics:

• Establish secure supply routes
• Stockpile supplies in forward areas
• Utilize local resources when possible
• Prioritize essential supplies

Adaptability in logistics. Logistical plans must be flexible enough to adapt to changing circumstances. This might involve finding alternative routes, improvising transportation methods, or adjusting supply priorities.

7. Exploiting Enemy Weaknesses and Maintaining Momentum are Key to Victory

A sudden attack on the flanks and rear of the enemy positions made their previously constructed fortifications useless.

Identify vulnerabilities. Success in warfare often depends on identifying and exploiting the enemy's weaknesses. This might involve targeting their flanks, exploiting gaps in their defenses, or disrupting their supply lines.

Maintain momentum. Once a breakthrough has been achieved, it is crucial to maintain momentum and prevent the enemy from regrouping. This requires aggressive pursuit, rapid exploitation of gains, and a willingness to take risks.

Seize the initiative. A proactive approach to warfare is often more effective than a reactive one. By seizing the initiative and dictating the terms of engagement, a commander can force the enemy to respond to his actions, rather than the other way around.

8. Fortifications and Preparedness Can Mitigate Losses

The heavy casualties suffered by the 3rd Battalion were due to the fact that the ground was too close to the woods and that the troops had not been able to dig in properly.

Defense in depth. A well-designed defensive system should incorporate multiple layers of fortifications, obstacles, and fire support. This creates a "defense in depth" that can absorb enemy attacks and prevent a breakthrough.

Importance of entrenchment. Even in offensive operations, troops should take the time to dig in and create defensive positions whenever possible. This can provide crucial protection against enemy fire and allow them to consolidate their gains.

Utilize natural defenses. Commanders should seek to incorporate natural features, such as hills, forests, and rivers, into their defensive plans. These features can provide additional protection and make it more difficult for the enemy to attack.

9. War is a Brutal Test of Physical and Mental Endurance

War is the most severe test of a soldier's physical and mental endurance.

Physical demands. Warfare places immense physical demands on soldiers, requiring them to endure long marches, harsh weather conditions, and constant exposure to danger.

Mental strain. The psychological toll of war can be even greater than the physical one. Soldiers must cope with fear, stress, grief, and the constant threat of death.

Importance of resilience. The ability to withstand these physical and mental challenges is essential for survival and success in combat. This requires:

• Physical fitness and stamina
• Mental toughness and discipline
• Strong camaraderie and support networks

10. The Human Element is the Decisive Factor in Warfare

In the final analysis, it is the human element that is the decisive factor in warfare.

Technology is secondary. While technology plays an increasingly important role in modern warfare, it is ultimately the human element that determines the outcome of battles.

Importance of leadership. Competent and courageous officers can inspire their troops to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Conversely, poor leadership can lead to defeat even in the face of superior equipment.

The will to fight. The will to fight, driven by factors such as patriotism, loyalty, and a desire for survival, is a crucial determinant of combat effectiveness. Soldiers who are motivated and committed to their cause are more likely to persevere in the face of adversity.

Last updated: March 17, 2025