FM 17-35 ( Armored Cavalry Platoon, Troop and Squadron ) 1960

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Active measures must be taken to ensure that the enemy does not
bypass the rear guard and attack the rear of the main body.
Plans may include the assignment of a reconnaissance mission
to one or more platoons to reconnoiter a given area to the front
or flanks of a position; however, the normal method is to assign
the additional mission of protecting the flanks and extending
reconnaissance to the platoon or platoons on the delaying position.
The reconnaissance mission to the front and flanks is normally
accomplished by scout elements operating under platoon control.
Army aircraft can augment the effort of the platoons by extending
observation to the front and flanks. At night and during
periods of poor visibility, the organic short range ground radar
set may be used to augment security to the front or flanks.
d. Frequently engineers are attached to or placed in support
of the rear guard. The troop commander, together with the engineer
unit leader, makes plans to construct obstacles to delay the
enemy. When artillery support is available to the troop, the troop
commander, in coordination with the artillery forward observer,
develops the fire support plan for the operation. This fire support
plan includes planned artillery fires, organic mortar fires, tactical
air, and the fires of other organic weapons on each troop delaying
position.
e. It is essential that liaison be maintained with the main body
to regulate the rate of withdrawal of the rear guard. In addition,
the rear guard commander must be thoroughly familiar with the
plap of the main body and have continuous communication with
the main body commander so that both commanders are informed
of any situations that affect the withdrawal of the rear guard. A
liaison agent, preferably the troop liaison sergeant, may be designated
to accompany the main body to effect this liaison. Another
solution is to have the necessary information relayed by the troop
command post that may move close behind the main body.
f. Plans must include reconnaissance of successive delaying
positions. The troop executive officer and such other personnel
as can be spared from the security effort itself are used for this
purpose.
g. The troop commander must plan for the movement and location
of the troop command post vehicle and trains. The disposition
of elements of the troop and the proximity of the main body
will normally provide security for these elements.
177. Conduct of Rear Guard
a. The troop as rear guard must be prepared to follow the main
body by bounds, occupying successive positions or following the
114 AGO 4088B