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

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of defensive action. It includes a discussion of the reconnaissance,
selection, preparation, and strengthening of defensive positions;
the planning for use of supporting fires; and surveillance plans.
For further discussion of these topics, see FM 17-1.
327. Reconnaissance and Selection of Position
The squadron commander makes as complete and detailed a
reconnaissance of the area as the time and situation permit. This
should include a map, ground, and aerial reconnaissance of the
squadron sector. From this reconnaissance, the squadron commander
determines the key terrain features and the likely enemy
avenues of approach. He selects positions for the armored cavalry
troops that cover the likely enemy avenues of approach.
328. Organization and Preparation of Defensive Position
a. Troop strongpoints are usually organized to control key terrain
features. The location of these positions depends on the importance
of the terrain and the approaches that they dominate.
Supplementary and alternate positions are selected for each troop
and prepared to permit the squadron commander to withdraw his
forces or shift them to other positions to prevent their capture or
destruction, or to draw the enemy into an area suitable for counterattack.
Forces occupying strongpoints may or may not be mutually
supporting by fire, depending on the area to be defended by
the squadron and the nature of the terrain; however, complete coverage
of the entire squadron sector is maintained by either ground
or aerial observation, listening posts, and patrolling.
b. The squadron commander indicates to his troop commanders
a general trace of the FEBA and the troop boundaries, and designates
strongpoints that each troop will prepare for occupation on
order.
c. If the width of the sector and the terrain permit, the squadron
commander disposes his force in a manner that will provide
depth to his squadron sector. This is normally accomplished by
placing one or more troops in depth.
d. The squadron commander must make provisions for security
during the organization and preparation of the position. He may
charge each troop with the responsibility for its own security, or
he may assign this mission to one troop that will later be positioned
in depth.
e. The squadron command post is normally located well to the
rear, where it will receive protection from the tactical disposition
208 AGO 4088B