Cavalry Tactics, Or, Regulations for the Instruction, Formations and Movements of the Cavalry of the Army and Volunteers of the United States - Softcover

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This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1864 edition. Excerpt: ...out, toward which to direct his whole course. RALLYING. 294.--To exercise the troopers in rallying, the platoon is formed at the extremity of the ground, the sabres are drawn, and the signal charge as foragera is sounded; at this signal, the troopers gallop forward in couples and charge as foragers; the instructor and the flank files remain in place, to mark out the rallying point. When the troopers have marched 150 or 200 paces, the instructor orders the rally to be sounded. At this signal, the troopers wheel to the hf about, and. as rapidly as possible to be well in band, pass to the rear outside of the flanks, to turn again and resume their places in rank. As soon as two-thirds of the troopers have joined, the instructor commands the platoon to move forward. At first the platoon is rallied at the trot, and then at the gallo. This movement is repeated without retaining the flank files; _n this case the troopers rally behind the instructor. SKI RMISHING. 295.--'I'he objects of employing skirmishers are, to cover movements and evolutions, to gain time, to watch the movements of the enemy, to keep him in check, to prevent his approaching so close to the main body as to annoy the line of march, and to weaken and harass him by their fire; to prepare the way for the charge on infantry, by rendering them unsteady, or drawing their fire. In flank movements they cover the front and flank of the column nearest to the enemy. The trooper skirmishing ismuch thrown upon his own intelligence and resources; as much coolness a.swatchfulness is required of him; and he should especially guard against exciting his horse. On service, regularity in skirmishing and correctness of distance cannot always be maintained, on account of the movements of the enemy, ..