When it has been decided to attack a certain sector of the enemy’s position a detailed reconnaissance is made with a view to locating and developing every element of the position, detailed plans are made and imparted to all concerned. (See Chapter XI.) The phases of the attack consist of: (1) The artillery preparation; (2) the infantry assault; (3) the occupation and organization of the captured position, and preparation to meet a counter attack. During the course of the artillery preparation grenadier squads work their way across “no man’s land” and establish themselves sufficiently close to throw grenades into the fire trenches. Failing in this they accompany the assaulting troops. When they are able to work up close they cover the advance of the infantry assaulting lines by showering grenades into the enemy’s fire trenches after the curtain of artillery fire has been extended back into his position to prevent the supports and reserves from coming up to the front. All men of the squad carry as many grenades as possible and such number as the squad leader may designate act as throwers, while the others act as carriers and prepare the grenades for throwing. Accurate throwing, properly observed and distributed, will greatly assist in preparing for a successful assault. Clearing Fire Trenches No matter how well the infantry assault on the enemy’s fire trenches may be conducted, it rarely succeeds in occupying the hostile position throughout its entire length. Casualties, loss of direction, and unexpected obstacles encountered are bound to break up the assaulting line more or less, thereby leaving gaps in the captured position. Furthermore the attack on a line of trenches takes place on a relatively small front by a large number of men. When the trenches are finally reached and a lodgment effected there will be great overcrowding. Provision must be made immediately for extending the line, otherwise the casualties at these points will be exceedingly heavy. It is the particular duty of the grenadier squads to clear these “gaps” of the enemy as quickly as possible. For this purpose an efficient and well-organized storming party must be immediately available. Let us say that, after careful artillery preparation, the assault has reached the enemy’s fire trench. There is much overcrowding at the points where lodgments have been effected. There is a gap in the line between two adjacent elements. How is this cleared of the enemy? The grenadier squad immediately forms for action. Two bayonet men are in the lead, followed by the grenade thrower, who is in turn followed by the two carriers. Further to the rear are the two barricaders, who carry a reserve supply of grenades in addition to their sandbags and shovels. The squad leader is where he can best direct the operations. The grenadier squad is formed as shown in the _first position_, Plate 40.