Page:Tactics (Balck 1915).djvu/235

 The Formation of a Brigade of Four Battalions of the 6th Infantry Division

during the advance on Poplar Grove on March 7th, 1900. Front about 800 m., depth, 1800-2000 m.

When an engagement is expected, the different elements, each in route column, are directed upon their several objectives, i. e., the column is developed for action. This is done because it is necessary to gain a start over the enemy in deployment and advantageous to move in route column. Thus a development for action (Entfaltung) is nothing but an extension of front accomplished by breaking up the original route column into a number of separate columns. The latter march on diverging lines and can generally remain in route