Fire team skirmishers right or left (fig. 4-7, view 3) can be used most effectively when you are assaulting a known enemy position. It is also useful for "mopping up" operations (searching for enemy stragglers) and crossing short, open areas. Because the fire team is in a line, skirmishers right or left provides maximum firepower to the front. However, the formation is difficult to control.

FIRE TEAM ECHELON RIGHT OR LEFT

Fire team echelon right or left (fig. 4-7, view 4) is used primarily to protect an exposed flank. This formation permits heavy firepower to both the front and the direction of echelon. As with skirmishers, the formation is difficult to control; therefore, movement is

Figure 4-16.-Squad vee, fire teams in wedge.

generally slow, especially during conditions of reduced visibility.

CHANGING FIRE TEAM FORMATIONS

Depending upon the changing terrain features or the tactical situation, the fire team leader should change formations to meet these new conditions. Figures 4-8 through 4-15 show the manner in which each individual moves when changing from one formation to another.