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

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b. The scout platoon is not organized and equipped to conduct an
independent delaying action. Normally, it will operate as part of
the battalion task force and should be assigned missions that
capitalize on its reconnaissance and security capabilities.
c. When the scout platoon is required to conduct a delaying action,
it must make'maximum use of its organic automatic weapons
firepower, create obstacles, and use its mobility to delay and
harass the enemy.
d. FM 17-1 covers the fundamentals of planning for and conducting
delaying actions.
51. Scout Platoon in Delaying Action
a. When performing as part of a battalion delaying force, the
scout platoon is normally employed initially as a security force to
the front to provide early warning. Once an enemy force is detected,
the platoon maintains contact with it until relieved of the
assigned mission. As the enemy approaches the initial delaying
position established by the battalion, the scout platoon will usually
move to the flanks of the delaying force and provide flank security
while maintaining contact with the enemy. This is accomplished
by moving parallel to the routes of withdrawal selected for use by
the delaying forces.
b. It is important that scout elements do not withdraw faster
than the delaying units. They must also remain in continuous radio
communication with the delaying force. Forward scout squads
do not withdraw unless they or another squad can continue to observe
the advancing enemy. The technique used in movement to
the rear consists of either successive or alternate bounds to previously
reconnoitered positions.
c. Scout units may be required to reconnoiter and secure routes
of withdrawal for the delaying forces. This type of mission is
usually accomplished by patrolling the assigned route. The platoon
can successfully reconnoiter up to three routes in this manner,
with one scout section operating on each route.
d. Scout sections may be attached to company teams in the conduct
of a delaying action. This employment of scout sections is
particularly effective when the battalion task force is operating
on an extremely wide front, and centralized control of scout elements
is difficult.
52. Scout Platoon in Reserve, Delaying Action
In a delaying action, all or part of the scout platoon may be
employed as part of the reserve. The scout platoon may act as a
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