The following information was compiled from a translation of German Panzer
Grenadier tactics, and Reiberts "Der Deinst-Unterricht im Heere".
1. Closed Formation
The Forms of close formation are: The "Linied zu einem Glide", the
"Reihe" and the Doppelreihe".
2. Squad Column
The squad column (Schützenreihe) formation is used for approaching the enemy during the
fire fight when only the light machine gun is firing and the Schützen are held back. The
Truppführer is at the tail of the column to insure that the members of the Gruppe keep
closed up.
3. Squad Skirmish Line (Schützenkette)
If the immediate, combined fire action of bothe the light machine gun and the Schützen is
required by the situation, the skirmish line formation should be adopted. The Schützen
take positions according to the terrain, building up a skirmish line on both sides of the
light machine gun.
4. Squad Skirmish Line echolened to the right or left (Schützenkette, rechts) or
(Schützenkette links!)
5. "V" Formation
The "V" is used to allow the formations to move with firepower to the front and yet be able to respond to enemy fire from unexpected directions.
- The Squad Leaders hand signal is both arms bent downwars in an inverted
"V" and waved in line with the body.