1963 US Army Vietnam War Armor Operations ... - Survival Books

WWW.SURVIVALEBOOKS.COM(1) Security forces are organized for com- Rigid adherence to plans conceived before thebat as discussed in chapter 5.enemy situation develops may prevent the ac-(2) Delaying forces are organized to capi- complishment of the mission. The original contalizeon the long range fires and mo- cept of time-phasing may be adjusted to the sitbilityof tank units. Combat support uation as it develops to seize opportunities toand combat service support elements gain greater delay than anticipated or to preareoften attached to facilitate the ac- serve the delaying force against an attack incomplishment of their mission in sup- overwhelming strength.port of combat troops.c. When the maximum possible delay has(3) The reserves are small tank-heavy been achieved and it becomes apparent thatforces and nuclear weapons.further occupation of the position will resultf. Routes of Withdrawal. Routes of with- in the unit's becoming engaged decisively,drawal are selected to provide good trafficabil- withdrawal is begun. Withdrawals may be iniityand cover or concealment. Although with- tiated in accordance with prearranged plans ordrawal during the delaying action is normally on order of the higher commander. Affecteddecentralized, specific routes, together with pri- forces must coordinate their action with adjaorities,may be assigned.cent units.g. Logistical Plans. See paragraphs 145 and d. When a unit withdraws to the next delay146. position, elements of the unit maintain contactwith the enemy. These elements provide se-263. Conduct of Delaying Action curity for the withdrawing units and continueto provide maximum delay between delayinga. The enemy is taken under fire as soon ashe is within effective range of available weap- positions utilizing maneuver, available terrain,ons. As he nears the position, fires are in- long range fires, tactical air, mines and demolicreasedto inflict casualties, cause him to deploy tions.early, and require him to take time-consuming e. The opportunity to inflict heavy casualtiesmaneuvers to close with the position.on the enemy by offensive action should be exb.Each position is defended until the enemy ploited. Limited objective counterattacks andactions threaten decisive engagement. Comn- tank sweeps should be employed to gain addimandersare alert to detect significant events tional time or to extricate units which havethat may require modification of the basic plan. become decisively engaged.Section IV. WITHDRAWAL264. General subordinates in time to permit their making aa. A withdrawal is a retrograde operation in daylight reconnaissance.which all or part of a deployed force disen- c. The withdrawal may be facilitated by thegages from the enemy. It may be executed conduct of limited-objective attacks or the emduringdaylight or under cover of darkness ployment of nuclear weapons.and may be forced or voluntary.d. Night withdrawals are preferred overdaylight withdrawals, but the protection, mob.During a withdrawal, contact is main- bility and long range firepower of armor unitstained to provide deception, security, and to enable them to conduct daylight withdrawalsprevent a rapid enemy advance.with greater success than units that do not265. Considerationshave these characteristics.a. Plans and orders for a withdrawal are 266. Plans and Ordersprepared in detail.Plans and orders includeb.Sufficient information should be provided a. New location to be occupied and missionsof units upon arrival.AGO 9139A 137