CHAPTER 4
COMBAT MANEUVERS, FORMATIONS, PATROLS,
AND AMBUSHES
RUSHING
In this chapter, moving through enemy controlled
terrain either on your own or in small groups is
Rushing is the fastest means of moving from one
discussed. Usually in such instances, your movement
position to another. It should always be used when you
must not be seen or heard. When this cannot be avoided,
are moving but not concealed. Generally, you should
you must at least be able to move quickly with a
start rushing from the prone position (fig. 4-1, view 1).
minimum of exposure. Actions, such as moving,
Slowly move your head to select the new position to
rushing, hitting the deck crawling, moving silently, and
which you will move (fig. 4-1, view 2). Avoid raising
taking action under flares, are also discussed in this
your head too high, and always look around the side of
chapter.
an object rather than over the top, so you do not make a
sharp silhouette. Slowly lower your head; then draw
your arms in close to your body; keep your elbows
MOVEMENT
down, and pull your right leg forward (fig. 4-1, view 3).
With one movement, raise your body by straightening
When you move about, it is best to travel a short
your arms (fig. 4-1, view 4). Spring to your feet quickly,
distance quickly; then stop, listen, observe, and move on
step off with your left foot (fig. 4-1, view 5), and run to
again. Before moving from the concealment or cover of
the new location by the quickest and shortest route. Keep
one position, always pick out your next position. In
low and use all available cover (fig. 4-1, view 6).
addition, look for an alternate new position in case you
are unable to reach your first choice. Observe the area
carefully for enemy activity; then select the best
HITTING THE DECK
available routes to the new location. Take advantage of
After reaching your new position at the end of the
darkness, fog, smoke, or haze to assist in concealing
rush, you must quickly get into the prone position again.
your movement.
Getting into the prone position from rushing is known
Change direction from time to time when moving
as hitting the deck or dirt. To do this, plant your feet
through tall grass. When you move in a straight line, the
firmly, about 18 inches apart, and while sliding your
grass waves with an unnatural motion that could attract
hand to the heel of the rifle butt (fig. 4-1, view 7), drop
attention. The best time to move is when the wind is
to your knees (fig. 4-1, view 8). Fall forward, breaking
blowing the grass.
your fall with the butt of your rifle (fig. 4-1, view 9)
unless you are armed with the M16; then, after shifting
When stopping between movements, you should
your weight to your left side, bring your rifle forward
observe briefly whether birds or animals are alarmed.
(fig. 4-1, view 10). Place the butt of the rifle in the
Their flight or movement may attract the attention of the
hollow of your shoulder; then roll into a firing position
enemy, or they may provide a clue as to the location of
(fig. 4-1, view 11). If your weapon has a stock made of
the enemy.
plastic or fiber glass, such as the M16, you should not
use it to break your fall. Instead, grasp your rifle in one
such as bombing, shelling, rifle fire, or vehicle
hand and break your fall with the other.
movement.
Lie as flat as possible. If you think you were
Travel across roads, trails, and rivers where the most
observed, move to the right or left, preferably where
cover and concealment exist. Search for a large culvert,
there is cover and concealment.
a low spot, or a curve; keep in mind that these are the
most likely spots for enemy mines and booby traps.
CRAWLING
Avoid steep slopes and areas with loose stones or
gravel. Also, avoid ridges or clearings where you would
There are times when you must move with your
make a good silhouette.
body close to the ground to avoid enemy fire or
4-1