Figure 5-22.--Topographic symbols.
Greenvegetation, such as woods, orchards, or
pertinent features properly positioned. Ideally, all
vineyards
features within an area would appear on the map in their
true proportion, position, and shape. However, this is not
Brownall relief features, such as contours
practical. Many of the features would be-unimportant
Redmain roads, built up areas, and special features
and others could not be recognized because of their
Othersoccasionally used to show special
reduction in size. Therefore, the map maker has been
information; generally, explained in the marginal notes
forced to use symbols to represent these features. These
symbols resemble, as closely as possible, the actual
Military Symbols
features themselves. (See fig. 5-22.)
Topographic symbols are usually printed in a
In addition to topographic symbols used to represent
number of standardized colors. This is done so the
natural and man-made features of the earth, the military
features on the map are easier to identify and to give
establishment requires some method for showing the
them a more natural appearance and contrast.
identity, strength, locations, and movements of its
troops, activities, and installations. The symbols used to
Blackthe majority of cultural or man-made
represent these features are known as military symbols.
features
As these features are constantly changing and moving,
Bluewater features, such as lakes, rivers, and
they are not normally printed on the maps. They appear
swamps
on special maps and overlays and are handled by
5-17
