200 MANUAI FOR NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICERS. 



fantry patrol consists, as a rule, of from 8 to 16 men, a Cavalry 

 patrol generally of from 4 to 10 men. 



Reconnoitering patrols are habitually small and seek safety 

 in concealment or flight, fighting only when their mission de- 

 mands it. The most skillful reconnoissance is where patrols ac- 

 complish their mission and return without being discovered by 

 the enemy. When resistance is expected stronger detachments 

 are required. These cover themselves with small patrols of two 

 to four men, the remainder acting as support. 



The commander determines the number and strength of pa- 

 trols and when they are to be sent out. It is a cardinal prin- 

 ciple to send out patrols of such strength only as will accom- 

 plish the object. 



The officer sending out the patrol verifies the details, desig- 

 nates a second in command, and gives the necessary instruction. 

 The orders or instructions for a patrol, or for any detachment 

 going on reconnoissance, must state clearly where the enemy 

 is or is supposed to be, what information is desired, what fea- 

 tures are of special importance, the general direction to be 

 followed, whether friendly patrols are liable to be encountered, 

 and where messages are to be sent or the patrol is to report. 

 Important and comprehensive instructions should be in writ- 

 ing, but precautions against capture of papers must be taken. 

 An officer sending out a patrol must be certain that his orders 

 are understood. Detailed instructions are, as a rule, avoided. 

 When necessary the time of return is stated. 



The patrol leader should be selected with care. He should 

 be an excellent horseman, have good judgment, courage, be able 

 to read maps, make sketches, and send clear and concise mes- 

 sages. In addition to his ordinary equipment, he should have 

 a map of the country, a watch, field glass, compass, whistle, 

 naessage blanks, and pencils. 



Tl*e leader of a patrol should carefully inspect the men and 

 horses before starting out. He should see that the horses are 

 well shod and in good working condition. Nervous horses or 

 those that neigh when left alone should not be taken. The 

 equipment of each man should be complete and so arranged as 

 to prevent rattling. Articles that are liable to glitter in the 

 sunlight should be covered. Nothing should be taken along 

 that would be of information to the enemy if any members of 



