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

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b. When the troop is employed as part of a covering force for
an advancing unit, it performs reconnaissance within its assigned
sector to locate enemy forces. When contact with the enemy is
made, and orders so indicate, the troop attacks and destroys or
disperses the enemy within its capability. An enemy force may
be bypassed if stated in the mission or on order of the squadron
commander. The armored cavalry troop may be assigned objectives
as part of the covering force mission. The troop must adopt
a formation that provides for rapid employment against enemy
resistance.
c. The armored cavalry troop may be employed as part of a
covering force for a unit conducting a defense or retrograde
operation. The higher commander directing the covering force
action will designate the general area in which it is to conduct
its operations. In the defense, instructions will also include a
general line beyond which the enemy is to be engaged. In a retrograde
operation, the area in which the enemy is engaged is dictated
by the interval at which the rear covering force is following the
main body. In executing a covering force mission as part of a
larger force, the troop is assigned a sector.
180. General
Section VI. SCREENING FORCE
a. A screening force is a security detachment that protects an
area or body of troops from surprise by observing and reporting
enemy activity. A screening mission is assigned when a wide area
requires security and there are few units available to perform the
mission. The mission is accomplished by establishing observation
posts and by patrolling to cover all approaches into the area. The
width of the area to be screened is the primary consideration in
determining the distribution of forces to accomplish the mission.
b. The mission of a screening force is to provide early warning
of enemy approach and to maintain contact with the enemy.
Forces disposed on a screening mission cannot be expected to
offer significant resistance to the enemy. Screening forces are,
however, expected to fight to protect themselves.
c. An armord cavalry troop may be assigned a screening mission
(fig. 36). The scout elements, augmented by riflemen, establish
observation posts and conduct patrols across the troop sector.
The tanks and remaining riflemen are retained in positions behind
the screening force for employment in limited offensive or defensive
action in support of the screening element. The support
squads are retained under platoon control.
AGO 4088B 117