192 MANUAL FOR NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICERS. 



FIEE CONTEOL. 



663. In combat the platoon is the fire unit. From 20 to 35 

 rifles are as many as one leader can control effectively. 



Each platoon leader puts into execution the commands or 

 directions of the captain, having first taken such precautions 

 to insure correct sight setting and clear description of the 

 target or aiming point as the situation permits or requires 

 (r)ar. 141) ; thereafter he gives such additional commands 

 or directions as are necessary to exact compliance with the 

 captain's will. He corrects the siglit setting when necessary. 

 AVhen the target can not be seen with the naked eye, he desig- 

 nates an aiming point (by one of the methods described in 

 par. 141 if necessary) and orders fire upon it, first announcing 

 the proper sight setting to correct the error of aim. 



In general, platoon leaders observe the target and the effect 

 of the fire and are on the alert for the captain's commands; 

 they observe and regulate the rate of fire. The file closers 

 watch the firing line and check every breach of fire discipline. 

 Chiefs of section transmit commands when necessary, observe 

 the conduct of their sections and abate excitement, assist in 

 enforcing fire discipline, and participate in the- firing unless 

 otherwise directed by the platoon commanders. 



The best troops are those that submit longest to fire control. 

 To avoid or delay such loss of control should be the constant 

 aim of all. 



Fire control implies the ability of the commander to stop 

 the firing, change the sight setting and target, and resume 

 a well-directed fire. 



FIRE DISCIPLIXE. 



664. Fire discipline implies, besides an unquestioning habit 

 of obedience to commands, a control of the ritle by the soldier 

 (the result of training), which will enable him in action to 

 nuike hits instead of misses. It embraces taking advantage 

 of the ground ; proper understanding of orders as to target 

 designation; care in setting the sight and delivery of fire; 

 constant attention to the orders of the leaders, and careful 

 observation of the enemy ; an increase of fire when the target 

 is favorable, and a cessation of fire when the enemy disap- 

 pears ; economy of ammunition. Orderly and regular methods 



