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

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b. Tank Section. As the enemy approaches the delaying position,
the tanks open fire at maximum effective range. This fire is delivered
to force premature deployment by the enemy and to inflict
maximum casualties.
c. Rifle Squad. The rifle squad withholds its fire until the enemy
is within effective range of small arms. Maximum use should be
made of the machinegun mounted on the armored personnel carrier.
d. Support Squad. The support squad delivers indirect harassing
fires to the limit of its range.
135. Platoon Withdrawal to Next Delaying Position
The platoon holds each delaying position until forced to withdraw
by enemy action or to conform to the withdrawal of adjacent
friendly units. In either case, the authority to withdraw rests with
the troop commander. If the platoon faces a forced withdrawal due
to enemy pressure, the platoon leader must inform the troop commander
in sufficient time to obtain permission to withdraw before
becoming decisively engaged. He must keep the troop commander
informed as the situation develops so that the troop commander
has detailed knowledge of the situation on which to make a proper
decision. The platoon may withdraw from the delaying position as
a unit, or by squads and sections. In either case, the withdrawal is
accomplished as follows:
a. Platoon Leader. The platoon leader remains with the last
element to withdraw.
b. Tank Section. In daylight, the tank section is normally the
last element of the platoon to withdraw from the position. At night,
in heavy woods, or when observation is otherwise restricted, the
tank section may withdraw under cover of the rifle squad.
c. Rifle Squad. When the terrain provides good observation,
the rifle squad normally withdraws before the tank section. At
night or when visibility is limited, the rifle squad may remain on
the delaying position until after the tank section has withdrawn.
d. Support Squad. The support squad will normally withdraw
first after maximum assistance has been given to the other elements
of the platoon in delaying the enemy. It will cover the withdrawal
of other elements of the platoon from its new firing position.
e. Scout Section. The scout section leader controls the withdrawal
of the scout squads and coordinates this movement with
the withdrawal of the other elements of the platoon. As the scouts
withdraw on the flanks of the platoon, they should maintain contact
with the enemy.
AGO 4088B 85