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

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f. When manning observation posts, scouts may often work in
conjunction with Army aircraft and with ground surveillance
devices.
25. Establishing Listening Posts
During hours of darkness, listening posts may be established
near the main body or in the vicinity of the daylight OP's. Listening
posts should be positioned to cover likely enemy avenues of
approach. Observers must use both their sight and hearing. Observation
telescopes and binoculars are equally important at night
and during daylight. The organic medium range radar set may
be employed to supplement the surveillance effort. Warning devices,
such as trip flares and mines, may also be used for detection
and local security. Normally, vehicles are secured within a strongpoint
or other secure position. Ground portable radios or telephones
are used for communication.
26. Firepower of Scout Platoon
a. General. For organic weapons, the scout platoon has rifles,
machineguns, and rocket launchers. Supporting fires are provided
by artillery, mortars, and, on occasion, tanks. Frequently, scouts
will be required to request and adjust artillery or mortar fire;
therefore, all scouts must be thoroughly trained in observed-fire
procedure (FM 6-135). Also, since scouts must be prepared to
fight when necessary, they must be proficient in the use of all
organic weapons. The scout platoon leader and section leaders
must be able to control and coordinate fires.
b. Rifle Fire. Each member of the scout platoon is armed with
a rifle. When required to fight dismounted without machineguns,
each scout section must be able to function essentially the same
as a rifle squad and each scout squad as a fire team. The techniques
of fire coordination as discussed in FM 7-10, FM 17-20,
and FM 23-5 are appropriate to scout elements.
c. Machinegun Fire. Scout personnel must be adept in placing
their machineguns in action from either the vehicular mount or
the ground mount. The scout section or squad leader must be able
to ascertain which mount is better suited for the mission. Area
fire technique will usually be employed from either mount.
(1) Mounted action. Machinegun fire is normally delivered
from the truck pedestal mount when movement does not
allow time for dismounted action or when effective fire
may be delivered from the pedestal mount. This technique
is employed when:
22 AGO 408RB