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

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e. The troop commander may employ one of several combinations
of his platoon elements to constitute his maneuvering force
when executing an independent attack:
(1) Tank-infantry teams, consisting of two tanks and one
rifle squad each.
(2) A provisional tank platoon of six tanks.
(3) A provisional rifle platoon of three rifle squads.
f. Provisional groupings of tanks, infantry, and scout elements
are commanded by the platoon leaders, other key personnel designated
by the troop commander, or as covered in the unit SOP.
191. Base of Fire
a. The base of fire for the armored cavalry troop during an
attack may consist of supporting artillery or tactical air in addition
to organic firepower. The nucleus of the base of fire for the
troop is provided by the three organic mortars. They are grouped
under troop control whenever they can effectively support the
troop attack. Scout elements may be used in the base of fire to
furnish automatic weapons firepower or to provide security.
Tanks may also be used in the base of fire, when the maneuvering
force is required to attack dismounted or when sufficient firepower
is not available from other sources.
b. The troop commander usually designates the executive officer
or a platoon leader to control that part of the base of fire provided
by organic elements of the troop.
192. Operation Order
The troop order for the attack is usually issued orally by the
troop commander to his assembled key subordinates. It should be
brief, clear, and complete. To insure completeness, the troop
commander should follow the established form for an operation
order. It will normally be issued from a vantage point overlooking
the area of operations, thus precluding the possibility of misunderstanding
by the recipients. If the situation or time precludes
issuing the order at a terrain vantage point, the troop commander
may issue the order in the assembly area or at any other
convenient location.
193. Supervision of Preparation for Attack
Supervision by the .troop commander, platoon leaders, noncommissioned
officers is a continuing process. All officers and
noncommissioned officers must actively supervise the actions of
their subordinates to ensure that their units are fully prepared
for the operation. Detailed attention must be given to such mat-
130 AGO 4088B