Page:Machine-gun tactics (IA machineguntactic00appl).pdf/142

 CHAPTER VI

EMPLOYMENT IN THE FIELD WITH INFANTRY (contd.)

THE RETREAT

The reply of the British drummer-boy when asked by the great Napoleon to beat the "Retreat," is historical, and, following the traditions of the British infantry, the word will not be found in the index of Infantry Training. Nevertheless, although British infantry never retreat, they may be called upon to perform that most difficult operation of war—"a retirement in the face of the enemy."

Field Service Regulations, Part I., 1909, speaking of the retreat says: "The cavalry and other mounted troops, aided by a strong force of artillery, will meanwhile check the enemy's advance, and the remainder of the force, with the exception, if possible, of a rear guard in support of the mounted troops, will move as rapidly as possible to the shelter of the rallying position and there reorganise. Steps should be taken immediately to secure any bridges, defiles, or other vital points on the line of retreat at which the enemy's mounted troops might intercept the force. Commanders of retreating troops must recognise that their greatest danger will arise from attacks in flank