program will be terminated assault squad 2

After several hours of bitter fighting, during which hundreds of mortar rounds were fired, the enemy broke. With the combined assistance of its own 60-mm mortar platoon, the 81-mm mortar platoon from Hvy Wpns Company, and the 60-mm mortar platoons of its sister E and F companies, and aided later by the 26th FA battalion, C Company riflemen were able to move forward again to close with the enemy. The 81-mm mortar platoon of the heavy weapons company also assumed firing positions and began to adjust fire onto the enemy.ĭ. Fortunately, the weapons platoon had placed its three 60-mm mortars into action and began to deliver fires on the German positions. With all its rifle platoons pinned down by close and accurate enemy direct fire, the company was facing heavy casualties.Ĭ. He was unable to get any farther forward than the right flank of the 3d platoon. The company commander took the 2d platoon and a machine gun section with him and tried a sweeping maneuver to the right. At the same time, German mortars and artillery began to fall on the 2d platoon and the company command group.ī. The 1st and 3d platoons were pinned down, unable to move. Suddenly, the Germans opened fire with flak cannon and machine guns from hidden positions. Company C was leading the 39th Regiment's advance, with its 1st and 3d platoons in front and 2d platoon trailing. Deprive the enemy of resources or the use of decisive terrain.Īn excellent example of the integrated use of mortars to support an infantry attack occurred during the operations of Company C, 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division at Cherbourg, France, in June 1944 ( Figures 4-1 and 4-2.)Ī.Neutralize, suppress, or destroy enemy forces.Mortars are an integral part of any attack and can be used to do the following: The mortar platoon participates as part of a larger force in the conduct of offensive operations.

The main reason for attacking is to destroy enemy forces. Offensive operations carry the fight to the enemy. CHAPTER 4 MORTARS IN SUPPORT OF OFFENSIVE

Program will be terminated assault squad 2