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

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tive officer remains with the troop and, assisted by the platoon
leaders and key noncommissioned officers, makes certain that the
troop is readied for combat.
d. When the troop is involved in a meeting engagement and
required to attack directly from march column, it attacks without
benefit of the foregoing preparation.
186. Reconnaissance Before the Attack
a. Before the armored cavalry troop is committed to an attack,
the commander makes a map study, then, if time and means are
available, a personal ground and aerial reconnaissance of the
area of operations. If time does not permit a personal reconnaissance,
the commander must rely on a detailed map study in
planning the attack.
b. The troop commander arranges to have the platoon leaders
accompany him or come forward to meet him at a specified time
and place. It is normal for the troop commander to complete his
own reconnaissance before meeting with his platoon leaders. If
available, an artillery forward observer accompanies the troop
commander on the reconnaissance and assists in planning the use
of supporting fires.
c. During his reconnaissance, the troop commander determines:
(1) Positions for supporting weapons in the troop base of
fire.
(2) The route for the maneuvering force to the objective.
(3) When necessary, positions for tanks employed in an
overwatching role.
(4) Location of obstacles likely to hinder the advance.
(5) Location of an attack position when required.
d. The troop commander should allow time for platoon leaders
to make a ground reconnaissance of the area of operations following
issuance of the troop order for the attack.
187. Estimate of the Situation
a. The estimate of the situation by the troop commander is a
continuous examination of all factors that affect the accomplishment
of the mission. The commander uses the basic form for
the estimate as a mental check list to ensure that he considers
all pertinent factors before arriving at his decision as to which
course of action to follow.
b. In making this estimate, the troop commander should consider
the mission, enemy situation, terrain and weather, and
troops available as each of these factors pertains to the particular
situation.
AGO 4088B 125