_The Director_: “Before going further with the problem I want to make
some remarks on the general subject of the defensive and some with
reference to the part that the battalion and its component parts plays
in it. The problem under consideration is that of a passive defense. Our
troops have made such rapid progress that the rear echelons have not
been able to keep up. The enemy has been falling back on his reserves
and naturally his defense is stiffening all along the line. The time has
arrived when it is necessary for us to stop for a period; reorganize our
forces, which have been more or less disorganized by our successes;
bring up our rear echelons; and prepare to continue the advance. During
this period we must so organize our position that the enemy will have
little chance for success should he decide to attack with a view to
interfering with our arrangements.
“Our attacking troops have now arrived on a general line where a
defensive position may be taken up and the high command has ordered such
action. We do not want to give up any ground that has been gained that
is suitable for our purpose. Having this principle in mind Major A has
decided to organize and hold the ground that is now occupied by the
support echelon of the 2nd Battalion.”