U.S. ARMORED INFANTRY BATTALION TACTICS In WWII (FM 17-42)
Introduction
GENERAL
1. SCOPE
This manual covers the tactical employment of the armoured infantry battalion, both as part of a larger force, and when acting independently. It is designed as a guide and does not prescribe a set of inflexible rules. Each tactical situation must be solved on its own merits and the initiative of individual commanders is encouraged.
2. ORGANIZATION
The armoured infantry battalion has a headquarters and headquarters company, service company, and three rifle companies. (See fig. 1.) for details of organization, see T/O&E 7-25.
3. CHARACTERISTICS
a. The armoured infantry battalion is a powerful, mobile, lightly armoured unit that is tactically and administratively self-contained and capable, to a limited extent, of independent action.
b. The battalion is specially organized, equipped, and trained for employment of mutually supporting tank and infantry action.
c. Armored infantry normally fights dismounted. Under favourable conditions vehicular armament either mounted or dismounted is used to support the attack. If vehicles are used, they must be placed in position defilade and dispersed. It moves forwards in vehicles until it is forced by enemy fire or unfavourable terrain, to dismount. In mounted movement it is sensitive to minefields, other obstacles, unfavourable terrain, and weather. Continued operation is dependent on maintenance and adequate resupply of ammunition, fuel, and lubricants.[Figure 1. The armoured infantry battalion]
Footnote: For military terms not defined in this manual, see TM 20-205.
