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

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290. Squadron as Screening Force
a. General. The squadron may be used as a screening force
when operations of the division have created extended flanks or
when gaps between major subordinate elements exist that cannot
be secured in force or that are not considered critical enough to
require security in strength. Screening operations require use of
mission-type orders and decentralized execution by troops and
platoons.
b. Planning. The area to be screened is divided into troop zones
by the squadron commander. The troops screen their zones by
establishing observation posts and patrols. Army aviation is integrated
into the overall plan to augment the ground screen. Usually
no reserve is maintained at squadron level due to the extended
frontage involved and the resulting dispersion of troops.
Critical avenues of approach may receive additional fire support
or may be assigned to troops having narrow zones.
c. Conduct. When required by enemy action, the squadron commander
influences the action by providing fire support and by
moving troops to previously designated screening positions. Every
effort is made to keep the screen intact while maintaining contact
with the enemy. Ground radars are shifted between previously
prepared positions as required to gain maximum use of the capability
of this equipment. The squadron commander may maneuver
unengaged forces to assist other elements heavily engaged.
d. Army Aviation Support. Reconnaissance helicopters and observation
aircraft enable each troop to better screen its assigned
area. The aerial surveillance platoon is used for visual and photo
surveillance across the entire squadron sector. The aerial radar
equipment is used to extend the range of observation to the front
and flanks.
291. General
Section VII. REAR AREA SECURITY
A rear area security force protects rear area units and installations
and guards routes of communication from hostile airborne,
air landed, and guerrilla attacks and from infiltration. Coordination
with other units and with installations in the area of operations
is essential. Communication and liaison must be maintained
with these units and installations.
292. Protecting Routes of Communication
The method employed to guard routes of communication varies
according to the terrain, the road net, the length of the routes of
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