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

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c. The rifle squad is located to provide maximum firepower to
the front and flanks of the position and to protect the tanks from
hand-carried antitank weapons or devices. The platoon leader designates
a primary position for the rifle squad and assigns a sector
of fire to be covered. The rifle squad leader reconnoiters the primary
position and selects primary and alternate positions for the
machineguns, automatic rifles, and individual riflemen in the
squad. The fire teams are placed so they can fire across the front
and flanks of the platoon defensive position. If possible, the armored
personnel carrier should be employed in the squad area. The
vehicular-mounted machinegun can be used to increase the defensive
firepower of the platoon. The 3.5-inch rocket launcher is
sited to cover the most likely avenue of armor approach in the
platoon sector not covered by tank fire. All personnel should dig
in and make maximum use of cover and concealment. Range cards
should be prepared for the machineguns. The rifle squad leader
should position himself where he can best control the actions of
the squad. At least one man at each machinegun and automatic
rifle position should be alert at all times. The organization of the
squad position may change at night so as to provide better close-in
defense and protection.
d. The scout section may provide security for the position or be
employed as riflemen. When the scout section is employed to provide
security for the platoon position, it will normally establish
observation posts and conduct patrols. At times, the crew of one
l/-ton truck is sufficient to give adequate early warning of enemy
approach while the remainder of the scout section is employed to
add strength or depth to the platoon defensive position. When
scout elements are employed as riflemen, they should be employed
by squad.
e. The support squad provides close indirect fire support for the
platoon. It is usually located to the rear of the position and is
normally responsible for rear security of the position. If the platoon
is occupying part of the troop sector, the mortars may be
employed under troop control. When the mortar remains under
platoon control, the platoon leader normally designates primary
and supplementary positions. If necessary, the mortar squad
leader selects alternate positions.
f. See figure 21 for an illustration of a typical platoon defensive
position.
g. Vehicles of the platoon, not employed in a security mission
or in the defense, should be located to the rear of the position in
well concealed and defiladed positions.
AGO 4088B 75