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

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136. Platoon in Reserve, Delaying Action
The platoon may function as the reserve for the troop. As the
reserve, the platoon will frequently be positioned in depth on a
successive troop delaying position. It may be required to establish
a blocking position, launch a limited objective counterattack, support
the withdrawal of other platoons by fire, or reinforce or replace
another platoon as part of the delaying force.
137. Ambush by Platoon in Delaying Action
a. An ambush is a tactical device used to entrap an enemy force
and destroy it. Troops participating in an ambush wait in a concealed
position for an opportune time to attack an unsuspecting
enemy.
b. The frequency that an armored cavalry platoon can employ
an ambush is limited by the terrain and enemy action. The platoon
must be capable of destroying the enemy force which it intends to
ambush; otherwise the platoon may become so heavily engaged
that it is unable to withdraw. An ambush prepared by a platoon
should be organized so that the leading vehicle and last vehicle
of an enemy column are engaged. If possible, fire should also be
placed on all vehicles in the enemy column to preclude their employment
against the platoon (fig. 24). Routes of withdrawal must
be carefully selected and reconnoitered to permit rapid withdrawal
of the platoon before the enemy can react to the ambush.
c. In an ambush, elements of the platoon are positioned to deliver
maximum firepower on the enemy force. Tanks are positioned
to deliver effective direct fire on all vehicles in the ambush. The
rifle squad is positioned to prevent the easy escape of dismounted
enemy troops. The scout section may be placed to provide security
or where it can add to the firepower of the ambush. This section
may also be used to help seal off the ambush. The support squad
delivers indirect fire to the rear of the ambush position to prevent
the escape of enemy troops and to preclude reinforcement of the
ambushed force.
138. Combat Support for Platoon in Delaying Action
Combat support for the armored cavalry platoon in the conduct
of a delaying action as in a defense will normally be provided by
artillery, engineers, and Army aviation (par. 127).
AGO 4088B 87