while the fourth company is held in rear of a threatened flank or in rear of the center. (See "d"). When it is desired to employ the reserve offensively, only one or two companies are placed in the first line, the others being held in reserve in rear of the flank which is to take the offensive. Interval and distance increase with the size of this reserve.
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When a battalion from the reserve is called upon to
make an immediate attack which has been prepared by the
fire of other troops, all its companies may be taken at once
into the first line. In this case the battalion may be formed
for attack with its companies at close intervals. This might
also be a suitable combat formation for night operations.
All these formations are subject to change however, as soon
as the proper utilization of cover makes it necessary.
The general principles stated for a battalion are also applicable to a regiment. The regiment may either be directly formed for attack, or the heads of the battalions may be deflected toward the points where the deployment is to take place. An interval of 300-400 m. between heads of battalions is best calculated to facilitate the subsequent deployment. The distances depend upon the nature of the ground and the purpose of the combat.
The regimental commander assigns tasks to his battalion commanders, but leaves the latter entire freedom of action in regard to the formation to be taken up and the manner of deploying. He should interfere with companies only in ex-
