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

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form reconnaissance in the same manner as in a zone reconnaissance
or move directly to preselected points of observation from
which the area can be observed. The area may be divided into
sectors, so that each scout section reconnoiters a portion of the
area, or the scout platoon may reconnoiter the area as a whole,
with scout sections operating under control of the platoon leader
and canvassing the area in a systematic manner. Upon completion
of an area reconnaissance, the platoon may be required to
secure the area until other friendly troops arrive. If the time
element, distance involved, terrain obstacles, and enemy activity
dictate, the platoon may be moved, with or without vehicles, by
Army aircraft near to or into the area to be reconnoitered.
b. Action on Contact. See paragraph 34.
Section VII. SCOUT PLATOON, SECURITY MISSIONS
37. General
a. The scout platoon may be employed on a security mission
whenever the battalion needs a light security force during offensive,
defensive, or retrograde operations. Security missions
performed by the scout platoon include advance guard, flank
guard, rear guard, and screening force missions. The most effective
employment of a platoon assigned an advance, flank, or rear
guard mission requires reinforcement with tanks, riflemen, and
fire support. In the performance of a security mission, the scout
platoon should adhere to the basic fundamentals of security discussed
in FM 17-1.
b. When Army aviation is available, communication should be
established between scout elements and Army aircraft to ensure
a constant exchange of information about enemy activity in the
area of interest.
38. Scout Platoon in Advance Guard
a. General. Normally the battalion task force will employ a
company-size unit as the advance guard; however, all or part of
the scout platoon may be attached to the advance guard or work
in close coordination with it.
b. Conduct. The scout platoon may provide flank security for
the advance guard or be the leading element of the advance guard,
particularly when contact with the enemy is not imminent. It will
normally be directed to maintain a prescribed rate of advance. It
is the responsibility of the scout platoon leader to maintain this
rate of advance unless the platoon is stopped by enemy action or
an obstacle. When enemy resistance is encountered, the platoon
30 AGO 4088B