218 MANUAL FOR NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICERS. 



of view; to inform passing patrols of ^Yllat lie lias seen; to 

 carry liis weapon habitually loaded and locked and at will. 



Outpost patrols are divided into those which operate beyond 

 the lines and those whose duty lies principally within the 

 lines. The former, called reconnoitering patrols, scout in the 

 direction of the enemy; the latter, called visiting patrols, 

 maintain communication between the parts of the outpost and 

 supervise the performance of duty on the line of observation. 

 Reconnoissance should be continuous. Though scouts and 

 detachments of cavalry remain in contact with the enemy, or 

 at least push forward to a considerable distance, more detailed 

 reconnoissance by infantry patrols in the foreground must not 

 be neglected. Reconnoitering patrols are composed of at least 

 two men and a skillful leader, who, in important cases, would 

 be an officer. They obtain information, ascertain the presence 

 of the enemy, or discover his approach. All patrols, when they 

 cross the line of observation, inform the nearest sentinel of 

 the direction in which they are to advance; on their return 

 they similarly report what they have seen of the enemy ; sig- 

 nals are agreed upon so that they can be recognized when re- 

 turning. Any ground near the line of observation which 

 might afford cover for troops, or for scouts or spies, and the 

 approach to -which can not be observed by sentinels, is 

 searched frequently by patrols. Definite information con- 

 cerning the enemy is reported at once. Patrols fire only in 

 self-defense or to give the alarm. Supports on the flank of an 

 outpost position patrol the country on the exposed flank. 

 Visiting patrols and reliefs should not march in the open 

 and thereby expose the position of sentinels. 



During a march in the vicinity of the enemy when halts are 

 made, special measures for protection are taken. When the 

 halt is for a short period, less than half an hour, the advance 

 party and support remain at ease, the point and flankers move 

 to positions from which they can obtain a good lookout, and 

 additional patrols may be sent out from advance parties and 

 supports. Where the halt is for a period exceeding half an 

 hour a march outpost should be formed. 



With an advance guard consisting of a squadron, one 

 troop as support and three as reserve, a suggested form of 

 march outpost might be formed as follows: The leading pla- 



