_Captain Hastings_: “The point is composed of one complete squad commanded by a sergeant. It is in patrol formation, marching on the road with a distance of about 20 to 25 yards between each pair of men. The point precedes the advance party by a distance of about 150 to 200 yards. The connecting file between that point and advance party marches so that he can keep both of these bodies in sight. He has no fixed place where he is to march—” _Lieutenant Wallace_ (_interrupting_): “Right there is a point that I want to bring up. I can conceive of a situation where the connecting file could not keep both bodies in sight all the time—for example, on a winding road or in hilly country. What does he do in that case?” _The Director_: “Under those circumstances the commander of the advance party would have to send out a sufficient number of men for this duty, so as to insure communication being kept up at all times. It is simply a problem to be solved by the advance party commander. Captain Hastings, proceed with your discussion.” _Captain Hastings_: “Next comes the advance party composed of the first platoon, less one squad and connecting file, commanded by Lieutenant W. It is marching with a column of files on each side of the road at easy marching distances. The connecting files between the advance party and support march so that they can keep both bodies in communication with each other all the time. The distance between the advance party and support is about 400 yards. Now comes the support, composed of the company, less the first platoon and connecting files with the advance party, which marches in a column of squads on the road. Following is the main body of the battalion, at a distance of about 500 yards.” _The Director_: “Lieutenant Ralston, what provisions are made for flank protection?” _Lieutenant Ralston_: “I do not think that any flank protection is necessary at this time. No considerable body of the enemy will get between our column and the main body of our brigade. If they did they would be doomed to destruction. On the other flank the country is open, so that no patrols are needed in that direction. I do not believe in wearing men out on flank patrol duty when there is no necessity for it.” Explanation