The rifle company commander distributes his company into three elements: a main attacking force, a supporting attack force, and a reserve force. Attacking forces, fire support forces, and the reserves are all specifically designated in an ATTACK ORDER issued by the senior commander. Usually, the supporting attack is an attack by fire, whereas one or more rifle platoons maneuvering to seize the assigned objective(s) compose the main attack force. The supporting attack force may contain units from the weapons platoon. In fact, the two major construction or rifle companies (Charlie and Delta) of a construction battalion each have their own weapons platoon. The reserve force is kept to the rear of the attacking forces where it can readily move to the attack should the need arise. There are no fixed

conditions to determine the most appropriate formation for a given situation. The company commander must weigh all circumstances of terrain, the strength and location of the enemy, and the friendly fire support available to decide on one of the following attack formations (fig. 4-23).

One Platoon in Attack

A formation of one platoon in attack and two platoons in reserve provides limited firepower to the front and a strong reserve. This formation should be used when information about the enemy is vague or when the company attacking has one or both flanks exposed. This formation may be used when only a single, narrow avenue of approach is available or when you are attacking to seize an objective deep in enemy territory. The reserve platoons may follow the attacking platoon in company column, or they maybe positioned to protect one or both flanks. This formation provides a lot of variety in positioning and moving reserve platoons and allows the company commander maximum flexibility in maneuvering and controlling these platoons.

Two Platoons in Attack

Two platoons in attack and one platoon in reserve provide moderate firepower to the front while retaining a reserve large enough to influence the action. This formation may be appropriate when relatively detailed information concerning the enemy is available.

Three Platoons in Attack

When formation has three platoons in attack and none in reserve, the company lacks a reserve force to influence the action. This formation provides maximum firepower to the front and is useful when a wide area must be cleared rapidly or when the enemy situation is known.