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

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222. Withdrawal to The Next Delaying Position
a. Withdrawal from a delaying position must be accomplished
while the troop retains freedom of action. The exact time of
withdrawal depends on several factors-strength and composition
of attacking force, status and location of adjacent units, strength
of the position, condition of the delaying force, and the length
of delay required by the mission.
b. The squadron commander will designate a route of withdrawal
to the troop. Plans should include alternate routes of withdrawal.
The routes of withdrawal in the troop sector must be
protected and kept open.
c. The whole delaying force usually does not withdraw at the
same time. Elements of the troop withdraw on order, according
to plans or as forced by enemy action. The order in which elements
of the troop withdraw is determined by the troop commander
to ensure accomplishment of the mission and unit integrity.
The delaying force employs fire and movement to withdraw, supported
by fires of elements that may have been previously withdrawn,
such as artillery, mortars, and tactical air. The troop
commander withdraws with the last platoon to leave the delaying
position.
d. Units withdraw only after approval by, or at the direction
of, the next higher commander. The troop commander must keep
himself and the squadron commander informed of the situation
in the troop area to ensure a timely withdrawal before elements
become decisively engaged.
e. Scout elements providing observation to the flanks do not
withdraw in any set order. They keep the enemy under constant
observation and move by bounds, using routes of withdrawal other
than those used by other elements of the troop.
223. Occupation of Successive Delaying Positions
Successive troop delaying positions are organized and occupied
in a manner similar to the initial delaying position. Prior to
arrival of the troop, the next delaying position is reconnoitered
and platoon positions are selected by the executive officer. As
time, personnel, and equipment permit, the positions are prepared;
ammunition and supplies stockpiled; obstacles created; and routes
improved.
224. Reserve
a. The troop will normally employ all elements on line. When
possible, one platoon is positioned to the rear of the other platoons.
AGO 4088B 151