MANUAL FOR NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICERS. 191 



The effect of fire and the influence of the ground in relation 

 thereto, and the individual and collective instruction in marks- 

 manship are treated in the Small-Arms Firing Manual. 



659. Volley fire has limited application. It has a moral 

 effect both on the troops employing it and on those subjected 

 to it. It may be employed to restore control. In defense it 

 may be used in the early stages of the action if the enemy 

 presents a large compact target. It may be used by troops 

 especially posted on the flank or in a dominant position in 

 rear of an attacking force for the purpose of aiding the 

 advance by so-called fire of position. When the ground near 

 the target is such that the strike of bullets can be seen from 

 the "firing line, ranging volleys may be used to correct the 

 sight setting. 



In combat, volley firing, if used, is executed habitually by 

 platoon. 



660. Fire at will is the class of fire normally employed in 

 attack or defense. 



661. Clip fire has limited application. It is principally used 

 (a) in the early stages of combat to steady the men by 

 habituating them to brief pauses in firing; {h) to produce a 

 short burst of fire. 



FIRE DIRECTION. 



662. When the troop is large enough to be divided into 

 platoons, it is impracticable for the captain to command it in 

 combat. His efficiency in managing the firing line is measured 

 by his ability to enfore his will through the platoon leaders. 

 Having indicated clearly what he desires them to do, he avoids 

 interfering except to correct serious errors or omissions. 



The captain directs the fire of his troop or of designated 

 platoons. He designates the target and, when practicable, 

 allots a part of the target to each platoon. Before beginning 

 the fire action he determines the range, announces the sight 

 setting, and indicates the class of fire to be employed and the 

 time to open fire. Thereafter he observes the fire effect, cor- 

 rects material errors in sight setting, prevents exhaustion of 

 the ammunition supply, and causes the distribution of such 

 extra ammunition as may be received. 



