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

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actions of the lead troops are as discussed in a above. The elements
of the squadron not initially committed must be prepared to assist
the leading elements. The squadron commander will launch
a coordinated squadron attack when required to ensure the uninterrupted
advance of the main body.
283. General
Section III. FLANK GUARD
a. The flank guard protects the main body from ground observation,
direct fire of hostile weapons, and surprise attacks. The flank
guard may be mobile or stationary, depending on the actions of
the main body.
b. As a flank guard for the division, the squadron normally protects
one flank. It may protect both flanks of the division by employing
the bulk of the squadron on the flank where the enemy
threat is more likely to develop, with a portion of the squadron,
usually an armored cavalry troop, protecting the other flank.
This troop is normally attached to the combat command or battle
group on that flank.
c. The higher commander will specify the units to be protected
or the zone of responsibility. In an offensive situation, the flank
guard responsibility extends from the rear of the leading battalion
task force or battle group to the rear of the combat elements of
the division, or as otherwise specified. When performing a mobile
flank guard mission, the armored cavalry squadron operates along
a route that generally parallels the axis of the main body and that
provides rapid access to key terrain dominating likely avenues of
approach. If the main body halts, the squadron establishes blocking
positions on this key terrain to protect the flank. The leading
troop acts as advance guard for the squadron, secures the area between
the main body route or axis of advance for the squadron,
and maintains contact with the rear of the leading element of the
main body. In a defensive operation, the flank is usually designated
as an area extending from one specified terrain feature to another.
In a retrograde operation, the flank is normally designated from
the rear of the rear guard to a specified unit or terrain feature
designated by the main body commander.
d. There are occasions when, due to terrain restrictions or enemy
activity, it is not possible for the flank guard to move on a
route separate from the routes used by the main body until after
an initial penetration has been effected. In such situations, it is
necessary that elements of the flank guard be temporarily integrated
into the column of the main body for forward movement.
AGO 4088B 185