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

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220. Actions on The Delaying Position
a. Long-range fires are brought to bear on the approaching
enemy force as far forward of the delaying position as possible.
This is usually accomplished by artillery and mortar fire. Tactical
air engages enemy forces before they come within range of supporting
artillery fires. Within the delaying force, tanks open fire
on the enemy at maximum effective range. Other weapons within
the position are brought to bear as soon as the enemy is within
their effective range. Observation posts on the flanks of the position
normally remain concealed and do. not fire on the enemy
unless forced to do so by enemy action. Maximum delay is obtained
on each delaying position; however, the delaying force will
normally be withdrawn from a position before becoming decisively
engaged.
b. The troop commander must remain in close contact with his
platoons so that they can perform maximum delay both on and
between troop delaying positions. The troop will not withdraw
until authorized to do so by the squadron commander. Unengaged
-platoons may be employed to assist or disengage heavily engaged
platoons. When all platoons are on line and the troop is covering
a very wide front, the troop commander must depend on individual
platoon leader's action and initiative in disengaging and
withdrawing to the next position. In this situation, security must
be oriented toward preventing platoons from being cut off. The
troop commander will normally remain on the delaying position
until the last platoon withdraws. The executive officer, when
present, will assist the troop commander in controlling the actions
of the platoons.
c. Scout elements of the troop are initially employed well forward
of the initial position to give early warning of enemy approach.
They remain in contact with the enemy and within range
of supporting artillery fire. As the enemy approaches the delaying
position, scouts withdraw to the flanks. The scouts remain concealed
and do not reveal their positions by firing, except as a local
defensive measure. They maintain contact with the enemy, and
report any attempt by the enemy to bypass or envelop the position.
The short range ground radar is employed by the scouts
to assist in gaining and maintaining contact with the enemy.
221. Establishing an Ambush
When conducting a delaying action, the troop commander
should consider the possibility of ambushing the enemy (par. 137).
150 AGO 4088B