Page:Military organization of the United States (IA militaryorganiza00comm).pdf/52

This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
52
MILITARY ORGANIZATION

to supplement the railway and waterway transport system. Motor and wagon transport are not used for the purpose except when the capacity of the railways and waterways is insufficient to meet the demands. The amount of motor and wagon transport assigned for operation to any headquarters is the minimum required for transportation purposes.

(2) The allowance of transport fixed by regulations for the trains of any combat unit is that needed for carrying mobile reserve supplies, for hauling supplies to the troops from the various establishments, and for transporting tactical units.

f. The function of all trains is to keep the commands to which they are attached supplied for action at all times without hampering their freedom of movement. Baggage and other impedimenta are reduced to a minimum and all material not actually required with the combatant field force is left in the rear, whence it is sent forward as required. Commanders of organizations are responsible that no unauthorized vehicles accompany troops or trains, and that no unauthorized supplies or material are transported.