ordered or compelled to withdraw under hostile infantry fire
or in the presence of hostile infantry, the support will be posted so
as to cover the retirement of the firing line.

326. When the battalion is operating alone, the support must be strong
and must be fed sparingly into the firing line, especially if a
counterattack is planned. Opportunities for counterattack should be
sought at all times.

THE REGIMENT.

[Illustration: Plate IV. THE REGIMENT.]

327. Normally, the regiment consists of three battalions, but these
regulations are applicable to a regiment of two or more battalions.
Special units, such as band, machine-gun company, and mounted scouts,
have special formations for their own use. Movements herein
prescribed are for the battalions; special units conform thereto
unless otherwise prescribed or directed.

328. The colonel is responsible for the theoretical instruction and
practical training of the regiment as a whole. Under his immediate
supervision the training of the units of the regiment is conducted by
their respective commanders.

329. The colonel either gives his commands or orders orally, by bugle,
or by signal, or communicates them by staff officers or orderlies.

Each major gives the appropriate commands or orders, and, in
close-order movements, causes his battalion to execute the necessary
movements at his command of execution. Each major ordinarily moves his
battalion from one formation to another, in column of squads, in the
most convenient manner, and, in the presence of the enemy, in the most
direct manner consistent with cover.

Commanders of the special units observe the same principles as to
commands and movements. They take places in the new formation as
directed by the colonel; in the absence of such directions they
conform as nearly as practicable to Plate IV, maintaining their
relative positions with respect to the flank or end of the regiment on
which they are originally posted.

330. When the regiment is formed, and during ceremonies, the
lieutenant colonel is posted 2 paces to the left of, and 1 pace less
advanced than the colonel. In movements subsequent to the formation of
the regiment and other than ceremonies, the lieutenant colonel is on
the left of the colonel.

331. In whatever formation the regiment may be, the battalions retain
their permanent administrative designations of _first_, _second_,
_third battalion_. For convenience, they may be designated