TM20-205 Dictinary of Army Terms 1944

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WAI DEP TECHNICAL MANUAL
44
UNITED STATES
ARMY T-ERMS/
Public Domain, Google-digitized / http://www.hathitrust.org/access_use#pd-google
F RESTRICTED MATTER.-
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DISSEMINATI_ON Ot lcted documents and the
t ined 1n res r . be given
The Information t c~~t~ of restricted mate~al =~a~he United
euentlal charac e wn to be In the servc discretion
to anY p:rs:n P~~ons of undoubted loy:ty b:;'dwlll not be
States an
who are cooperating
In Government wo '
r to the press except
by author-
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communicated to the pulb t;~:: agencies. (See also par. '
1 d miltarv pulbllc re a
. : 380-5 28 Sep 194.) r: ' .
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lt'Al< r>PA1?.1"NIENT TECHNICAL ;.v/ANlrAJ.
1~1\1 20-205
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ted matter,The informa-
s and the essential characteristics
o any person known to be in the
rsons of undoubted loyalty and
vernment work, but will not be
press except by authorized military

DICTIONARY OF
ar. 18b, AR 380-5, 28 Sep. 1942.)
ficr
UNITED STATES
ARMY TERMS
I \r ~4 I~ J) 1~ P A R 1' lvl E N T' 18 }A!Vl!AR1T 1944
RESTI{l CJ.-.ED: Disstmination of restricud matur.-The informa-

tion contained in restricted documents and the essential characteristics
of restricted n1a tcrial nwy be given to any person known to be in the
service of the l7nited States and to persons of undoubted loyalty and
discretion who Jre cooperating in Government work, but will not be
communicated to the public or to the press except by authorized military
public relations ~gcncies. (See also par. 18b, AR 38G-5, 28 Scp. 1942.)
Orlg1nal rrom
UNI ERSITY OF C LIFORNI
my Terms, is published
ncerned.
WAR DEPARTMENT.
Washington 25, D. C., 18 January 1944
TM 20-205, Dictionary of United States Army Terms, is publisher

for the infonnation and guidance of all concerned.
(A. G. 300.7 (19 Dec 43).]
BY ORDER OF THE Secretary of War:
G. C. MARSHALL,
Chief of Staff.
. t
, '
OFFICIAL:
J. A. ULIO,
Major General,
The Adjutant General.
DISTRIBUTION:
Orlg1nal fro
U I ERSITY OF C LIFORNI
RESTRICTED
Tltl 20-205
c 1
Lt 11 ~
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0'. _,
-- -- r ,_ " - ..
y 1944.
ed as follows:
I ! I } : --~
cation," add a third meaning as follows:
hods other than visual whether an object
) Cllf L/
~-
sert the following:
ng by visual methods whether an object
R;
OF
UNITED STATES ARMY TERMS
Gen & Sp Sv Sch (10).
CHANG~} \VAR DEPARTMENT,

1-6.
No.1 WASHINGTON25, D. C., 15 July 1944.

TM 20-005, 18 January 1944, Is changed as follows:
On page 139, under the word "identification,'' add a third meaning as follows:
S. the process of determining by methods other than visual whether an object
ls friendly or not.
On page 226, in its proper position, insert the following:
recognition, the process of determining by visual methods whether an object
ls friendly or not.
[A. G. 470.9 (20 May 44).]
BY OBDIB 01' THE SI!JCBiiTABY OF W AB:
G. C. MARSHALL,
Chief of Stafl.
OFFICIAL:
J. A. ULIO,
Major General,
The Adjutant General.
DISTRIBUTION :
C & H (1); Sup & Admin Service (10); Gen & Sp Sv Sch (10).
For explanation of symbols, see FM 21--6.
M5?4?65
AGO 29C 598703-44
ng1 rr1ca I frorn
UNI ERSil OF C LIF R I
ARY
S is a working dictionary for a
in reaching a more nearly
ng of military terms. It is
are writing or revising training
ature in the instruction of

NOTES ON THE USE OF THE DICTIONARY
them, for the men who are being
Purpose
inciple in, and is illustrated
vel of the definitions.
The DICTIONARY OF U. S. ARMY TERMS is a working dictionary for a

y 7,000 terms selected from a working Army. It is intended to assist in reaching a more nearly
arge. The final selection falls
ch term was chosen for its mili-

common understanding of the meaning of military terms. It is
rsally known in a general mean- designed especially for the men who are writing or revising training
eir military meaning in some way
hort, the DICTIONARY OF u. s.

literature, who are using training literature in the instruction of
place general dictionaries for troops, and as far as it is available to them, for the men who are being
2. Only terms dealing with
y interest have been fully de-

trained.
ich are encountered only in
This principle has been the guiding principle in, and is illustrated
are either left out of the dic-
general idea to readers not

by, the selection of entries and the level of the definitions.
hort, the dictionary does not
l Manual with a single definition.
he Army falls between these

Selection of entries
The dictionary contains approximately 7,000 terms selected from a
ed area that the dictionary is
terms defined have been drawn
terature, such as the Field

preliminary list about three times as large. The final selection falls
Army Regulations, and the
s such as mobilization, movement

within well-marked boundaries. 1. Each term was chosen for its mili-
onents of the Army. The dic-
tary significance. Terms almost universally known in a general mean-
ctly and exclusively from such
ing have not been included unless their military meaning in some way
differs from the general meaning. In short, the DICTIONARY OF u. s.
ARMY TERMS makes no attempt to replace general dictionaries for
words or phrases of general meaning. 2. Only terms dealing with
objects or practices of general military interest have been fully de-
fined. Highly specialized activities which are encountered only in

the latter stages of advanced training are either left out of the dic-
tionary or defined so as to give only a general idea to readers not
specialists in the field concerned. In short, the dictionary does not
attempt to replace an entire Technical Manual with a single definition.
The bulk of the training literature of the Army falls between these
two limits and it is with this well defined area that the dictionary is
concerned. The majority of the 7,000 terms defined have been drawn
directly from current official military literature, such as the Field
Manuals, the Technical Manuals, the Army Regulations, and the
regulations covering specific activities such as mobilization, movement
overseas, or, activities of major components of the Army. The dic-
tionary is the first to be prepared directly and exclusively from such
sources.
iii
Orlg1nal rom
Since the list of terms is drawn from official literature, slang and
colloquial or newspaper phrases have not been included. Jeep,
al literature, slang and
been included. Jeep,

bazooka, and top. sergeant, for example, although well known in Army
although well known in Army talk, are excluded by this principle. Since the dictionary is for use in
the dictionary is for use in
ete terms usually are not

training, not for military historians, obsolete terms usually are not
, such as the Women's Army included. The titles of some organizations, such as the Women,'s Army
ded or absorbed by other
or ranks within such organi-

Auxiliary Corps, which have been superseded or absorbed by other
ut violating this principle, organizations, and the names of positions or ranks within such organi-
still appear in current official
zations do appear in this dictionary without violating this principle,

since the terms and discussions of them still appear in current official
en time are a cross section
de variation of education
military literature.
previous military ex-
have missed many current
s rapidly and efficiently as

Level of definitions
s is made in readily under-
The troops undergoing training at ~ny given time are a cross section
r practicable, have been
of the American public, with its natural wide variation of education
understood by the average
nvolved both a scaling

and intelligence. The majority are without previous military ex-
ture from some time-
perience, and the remainder are likely to have missed many current
ected that some tradi-
a sacrifice of accuracy. In
practices. So that training may proceed as rapidly and efficiently as
ut the possible loss in ac- possible, the explanatio~ of military terms is made in readily under-
reader comprehension.
with a long background of

standable language.
and restated to have a clearer The definitions in this dictionary, wherever practicable, have been
finition has been itensi-
maintained at a level of simplicity easily understood by the average
it the use of diagrams, draw- soldier. The process of sitnplification has involved both a sealing
ms, definitions must be
ood by the average man in

down of vocabulary difficulty and a departure from some time-
g methods, flight maneuvers, honored military phrasings. It can be expected that some tradi-
ata.
tionalists will regard this simplification as a sacrifice of accuracy. In

ions (AR 850-150) and
a sense, this may occasionally be true, but the possible loss in ac-
he text. Each authorized
ar alphabetical order. It
curacy is more than offset by the gain in reader comprehension. "
Official definitions that are clear to men with a long background of
n1ilitary experience have been amplified and restated to have a clearer
meaning to inexperienced personnel.
The need for simplification and for full definition has been itensi-
fied by the fact that space does not permit the use of diagrams, draw-
ings, or other illustration. Without diagrams, definitions must be
full and simply worded to be fully understood by the average man in
training, especially definitions of mapping methods, flight maneuvers,
and angles involved in calculating firing data.
Abbreviations
Abbreviations authorized in Army Regulations (AR 850-150) and
in FM 21-30 are included in the body of the text. Each authorized
abbreviation appears as an entry in regular alphabetical order. It
lV
Orlg1nal fro
also appears in connection \Vith the term for which it stands, \vhere it
erra for which it stands, where it
is put at the end of all the definitions to avoid interference in getting
to avoid interference in getting
the meaning. It applies only to the entry-word, even though it may
try-word, even though it may
follow a variant term. For example:

amphibian, 1. capable of operating on
n
both land and water; as, an amphibian

airplane, an amphibian tank. In this
d
meaning, also called amphibious.
2. airplane that can take off from, and
ane.
land on, either land or water. In this
meaning, also called amphibian airplane.
military meaning, it is given
Abbrev: amph
zed, abbreviations is given in
If the entry is a word with no special military meaning, it is given

without a definition. For example:
d abbreviation exists for one
it has been indicated. For
drawn. A bbrev: dr
.
A large list of common, but unauthorized, abbreviations is given in
ms having identical meanings
an appendix. Whenever an authorized abbreviation exists for one

of these unauthorized abbreviations, it has been indicated. For
of usage or the comparative
n two or more terms have
ar preference, only the preferred
example:
re merely listed and referred
comm, communication. Auth Abbrev:

n
com
o
ear
Cross References
ablished, all terms are defined
Preference between two or more terms having_ identical meanings
d. For example: has been established upon frequency of usage or the comparative
te
standing of the source material. When two or more tenns have

identical meanings and one has a clear preference, only the preferred
term has been defined. Other terms are merely listed and referred
to the preferred term. For example:

bronze star, small bronze star worn on
the service ribbon of certain medals to
show that the wearer is entitled to wear
a battle clasp because of participation
in battle; battle star.
battle star. See bronze star.
When no clear preference can be established, all tenns are defined

in parallel language and cross-referred. For example:
morning gun, gun fired at the first note
of reveille or at sunrise. Also called
reveille gun.
reveille gun, gun fired at the first note
of reveille or at sunrise. Also called
morning gun.
v
Orlg1nal rrom
Many definitions carry a sentence making a distinction between
a distinction between
terms which might be confused. For example:
mple:
chemical officer, officer, usually a mem-

ber of the Chemical Warfare Service,
who serves on the staff of a commander
of a division or higher unit, and advises
the commander and staff on all matters
regarding chemical warfare. In units
smaller than a division, the staff officer
having these duties is called the gas
officer.
gas officer, staff officer in a unit smaller
than a division assigned to advise on,
and be responsible for, plans, equip-
ment, and training for chemical warfare
defense. In a division or higher unit,
the staff officer having these duties is
peration of The American
called the chemical officer.
Acknowledgements
This dictionary was prepared with the cooperation of The American
Council of Learned Societies.
Editorial Staff
C. L. Barnhart Laura H. V. Kennon
Major Sidney Hotchner Agnes C. E. Langner
Lieutenant Golden F. Evans Bernard G. Mattson, Jr.
Lieutenant John J. Latella Ellen L. Nelson
Lieutenant Howard E. Reed N. Bryce Nelson
Corporal Allen W. Read A. Marion Osborn
Private William J. Gedney Harrison G. Platt, Jr.
J. A. Bowler, Jr. Theresa Rapblla
Elizabeth Diez Mildred L. Thorndike
Natalie B. Frohock Mabel Wilcox
Robert King Hall Ella Woodyard
vi
Orlg1nal fro
RESTRICTED
DICTIONARY
f.
OF
U. S. ARMY TERMS
aff.
an
A accelerator
A, 1. Army. 2. air. sion, but without intending to desert.
A-1, 1. personnel section of an air staff. The absentee need not necessarily realize
2. officer in charge of this section. that his absence is unauthorized.
A-2, 1. intelligence section of an air staff. Abbrev: AWOL
2. officer in charge of this section. absolute altitude, height of an aircraft
A-3, 1. operations and training section above the ground directly beneath it.
of an air staff. absolute ceiling, greatest height above
2. officer in charge of this section. sea level at which a given airplane can
e of
A-4, 1. materiel and supply section of an maintain horizontal flight under stand-
ees
air staff. ard air conditions.

d
2. officer in charge of this section. absolute deviation, distance between

AA, antiaircraft. the center of the target and the point
all
AAA, antiaircraft artillery. where the projectile hits or bursts.
AAAIS, Antiaircraft Artillery Intelli- absolute error, 1. shortest distance be-
gence Service. tween the center of impact of a group
e
AA/B, antiaircraft balloon. of shots and the point of impact of a
t
AAF, Army Air Forces. single shot.
to
AB, 1. air base. 2. airborne. 2. error of a sight consisting of its error

nd
A/B, airborne. in relation to a master service sight with

s
abatis (ab a TEE or AB a tis), an ob- which it is tested, including the known
e
stacle turned toward the enemy made of error of the master service sight. Rela-
cut-down or fallen trees, or of small trees tive error, which is a part of absolute
or saplings bent down, often interlaced error, includes only the error of a sight
with barbed wire. A dead abatis is an in relation to a master service sight.
obstacle made of cut-down or fallen absolute quarantine, complete isolation
ed
trees; a live abatis is one made of small of persons suffering from a communi-
ce
trees or saplings bent down. cable disease, or of an organization con-

A/B Comd, Airborne Command. taining such persons, from contact with
about face, 1. command to turn in the other persons or units. Under an ab-
opposite direction by placing the right solute quarantine, normal auties are
foot behind the left foot and pivoting to suspended and all contacts avoided,
alize
the right on the heel of the left foot and but under a working quarantine some
the ball of the right foot. About face is duties are continued with restrictions.
carried out only at the halt. abutment, 1. the part of a bridge that
t
2. carry out this command; turn in the receives the thrust of an arch.
opposite direction. 2. block or framework at the rear of a
e
absence without leave, act or state of cannon that receives the rearward thrust
staying away from a military post or of discharge.
n
duty without permission, but without AC, 1. Air Corps.

intending desertion. The absentee need 2. hydrocyanic acid.
not necessarily realize that his absence accelerator, 1. pedal or lever for con-
is unauthorized. trolling the engine speed of motor-driven
e-
absent without leave, away from any vehicles such as cars or trucks.
p
military post or duty without permis- 2. part of the operating mechanism of

r1g1 I ro
or
ith
n
. accept 2 acoustic correction
certain types of automatic weapons accountable officer, officer in charge of
which speeds up the action. public property or funds who must keep
accept, take a position of attack tha.t an accurate record of ite1ns or funds
may not be favorable. Antiaircraft guns charged against him, and issue periodic
may reduce the effectiveness of enemy reports as to their status.
bombing by forcing the enemy to accept accouterments, soldier's equipment,
altitudes of attack that are unfavorable with the exception of his weapons and
to accuracy. clothing.
accessories, tools and equiptnent used accredited correspondent, journalist,
in assembling, disassembling, cleaning, writer, radio correspondent, or photog-
and protecting military apparatus, ea- rapher who is authorized by the War
pecially guns and vehicles . Department to carry on his work in a
accidental cover, shelter from enemy theater of operations or a base command.
fire afforded by ditches, buildin~, em- By means of his credentials he is at-
bankments, and similar objects. tached to a headquarters and wears an
accidental error, unpredictable or officer's uniform without insignia. Visit-
chance error in the performance of any Ing correspondents differ from accredit-
apparatus. Accidental error occurs ed correspondents, in that they are not
particularly in gunfire or bombing, and attached to a headquarters, do not wear
is caused by mechanical, personal, or uniform, and are not allowed to publish
atmospheric variations. Accidental er- their material until they have completed
rors change from one time to the next; their stay.
systematic errors are those which remain accrued leave, total credit for leave
the same since they are due to faulty due an officer at any given time, in-
adjustment of an instrument or to some cluding total credits for leave that have
defect in it. accumulated prior to the current year as
accompanying, attached to, and moving well as total credit for leave for the
with, an attacking force. Accompanying current year.
artillery consists of single guns or sepa- accumulated leave, annual leave that
rate artillery units moving with an at- an officer has earned but not used during
tack unit to give immediate and close years prior to the current year.
support. A rolling barrage or other fire accuracy life, estimated average nuni-
delivered by accompanying artillery is ber of rounds that a particular gun will
called accompanying fire. The guns or fire before it becomes so worn that its
batteries of an accompanying artillery accuracy is lost.
unit are spoken of as accompanying guns accuracy or fire, closeness of grouping
or accompanying batteries. Single tanks of shots around their center of impact.
attached to attacking units are called accuracy or practice, measurement of
accompanying tanks. the precision of fire, made in terms of
accordion action. See accordion effect. the distance of the center of impact
accordion effect, variation of speeds of from the center of the target; accuracy
vehicles and of the distances between of the shoot.
them within a moving column; accordion accuracy of the shoot. See accuracy ol
action. Such variations in speed often practice.
lead to congestion and traffic jams. acetone, colorless, volatile, inflammable
accountability, responsibility of an offi- liquid that can be mixed in any propor-
cer or other person for keeping an action with water, alcohol, or ether, and
curate record of public property or that is highly explosive when the vapor
funds. The person having this respon- is mixed with air. Acetone is used in
sibility may or may not have actual the manufacture of smokeleBS powders,
possession of the property or funds. varnishes, chloroform, iodoform, etc.
accountable, responsible for an accurate acft, aircraft.
record of public property or funds. ACofS, Assistant Chief of Staff.
accountable disbursing officer, officer acoustic correction, correction made in
who receives and pays out public funds the data obtained from a sound locator
in his own name. He is required to keep to allow for atmospheric conditions and
an accurate record of such funds and of for the time the sound takes to travel
their expenditure. from its source to the sound locator.
lg
acoustic corrector 3 adjusted elevation
acoustic corrector, device on a sound from duty on account of sickness,
locator that corrects errors due to the wounds, leave, or other lawful cause are
speed of sound, the direction of the wind, considered as still on active duty.
the temperature of the air, etc. An Also called active service. Abbrev: AD
wind,
ke
acoustic corrector is necessary to make active list, officers and soldiers receiv-
he
a sound locator accurate in locating the ing full pay and performing, or normally
position of an unseen aerial target. available for, military duties.
acoustic wind: calculated wind, con- active service, military service with
stant in speed and direction, which is full pay and regular duties. Persons
a
assumed to have the same effect on a absent from duty on account of sickness,
ual-
sound wave as the varying winds actual- wounds, leave, or other lawful cause are
ly encountered. considered as still in active service. Also
actg, acting. called active duty.
es
acting, serving temporarily in another active weapon, weapon authorized for a
des-
rank or capacity. For example, privates combat unit by the Tables of Equipment
or privates, first class are sometim~ des- or some other authority. In peacetime
ignated acting corporals, with the au- it is one authorized for use in prescribed
thority but not the pay or permanent training.
rank of a corporal. Abbrev: actg actuator, part of the receiver mecha-
nt.
action front, command ordering artil- nism in certain types of automatic weap-
lery units to prepare to fire to the front. ons; trigger actuator. The actuator
slides forward and back in preparing
r.
e
action rear, command ordering artil-
lery units to prepare to fire to the rear. each round to be fired.
action station, assigned position to be AD, 1. active duty. 2. air depot.
e taken by an individual in case of air adamsite, yellow irritant smoke used as
attack. a harassing agent. Adamsite contains a
an
activate, organize a unit on the active form of arsenic that is a poison; it causes
list of the Army by assigning to it per- sneezing, headache, vomiting, and a
hes
sonnel and equipment with which it can temporarily disabled condition. Also
st
operate as a distinct unit. Activate called diphenylaminechlorarsine.

differs from constitute, which establishes Symbol: DM
cal
ne
a new unit on the active or inactive list adapter, 1. device for fitting together
at
of the Army but does not give it physical parts having different sizes or designs.
existence. For instance, a small caliber machine
e
activated mine, standard antitank mine gun can be fitted by an adapter to a
with an auxiliary firing mechanism that mount made for a larger model.
is set and ready to explode when it is 2. metal lining put into the nose or base
moved or when a trip wire or pressure of a shell to make it fit the fuze.
device is touched. adapter-booster, combined adapter ana
activation, establishing and putting booster assembled as a unit to be used
c-
a military organization into operation with a bomb or shell.

by official order. ADC, aide-de-camp.
active air defense, direct defensive ac- add, additional.
ude
tion taken to destroy attacking enemy additional. Abbrev: add
s-
aircraft in the air. Active air defense additive method, system of making a
includ~ such measures as the use of code harder to solve by adding secret
e
fighter airplanes, antiaircraft artillery, numbers to the groups of code letters.

and barrage balloons; it does not include adj, adjutant.
the use of cover, concealment, and dis- adjust, correct the elevation and de-
of
les,
persion to guard against enemy air flection of a gun so that its projectile
e.
attack, which are employed in passive will hit the target.
air defense. adjustable pitch propeller, propeller
nt active defense, resistance by the use of whose blades are so attached to the hub
weapons. Active defense does not in- that the pitch can be changed while the
clude camouflage, scattering of vehicles, propeller is not turning.
are
etc., which are called passive defense. adjusted elevation, elevation of a gun
active duty, military service with full so corrected by observation of fire as to
pay and regular duties. Persons absent place the fire on or very near the target.
I ro
-
lly
1g1
a_djusted range 4 administrative march
adjusted range, range of a gun so cor- Adjutant General's Office. Abbrev: AGO
rected by observation of fire as to place Adjutant General's School, special
the fire on or very near the target. service school that gives training and in-
adjusting point, particular point on an struction in administrative methods and
objective on which gunfire is adjusted. operative procedures, that develops
adjusting ring, part of a fuze setter trained enlisted spec~alists, and that
which engages and adjusts the setting trains and qualifies men for commission
element on the fuze of explosive pro- in the Adjutant Generars Department.
jectiles. The whole projectile is turned It is under the supervision of the Com-
by the setting ring. manding General, Army Service Forces.
adjustment. See adjustment of fire .. adjutant's call, bugle call announcing
adjustment chart, record of data in that the adjutant is about to form the
correcting or regulating gunfire: chart guard, battalion, or regiment for a
used in adjustment of gunfire. ceremony.
adjustment correction. See arbitrary adm, administrative.
correction. administration, management and opera-
adjustment fire, gunfire directed for the tion of all military matters not included
purpose of obtaining data for correction in tactics and strategy. Administration
of gunfire. Adjustment-fire is often con- includes supply, evacuation, sanitation,
trasted with fire for effect, which is fire quartering, personnel management,
to destroy enemy targets or to accom- maintenance, transportation, martial
plish some other tactical purposes. law, military government, censorship, etc.
adjustment of fire, correcting the ele- administrative, having to do with
vation and deflection of a gun or regu- administration; managing military
lating the moment when its projectile operations that are not strategic or tac-
explodes, in order to bring the gunfire tical. Abbrev: adm
accurately on a particular point on the administrative estimate, survey made
target; adjustment. Adjustment of fire by a commander or staff of the necessary
can be made from the data of previous arrangements for supply, transportation,
shootings, or from maps, photographs, evacuation, and other administrative
and aircraft observations. matters. An administrative estimate is
l
adjutant, staff officer of a command who used as the basis for the administrative
is responsible for all official correspond- plan.
ence except combat orders, for personnel administrative inspection, regular in-
and other records, for the distribution of spection of the administrative records
orders, and for other administrative and activities of an Army Air Forces
duties. The adjutant, first staff section, unit.
of brigades and lower units is referred to administrative inspector, officer as-
as S-1. Abbrev: adj signed to supervise and conduct regular
adjutant general, adjutant of a division inspections of the administrative records
or larger unit, or of a service command. and activities of an Army Air Forces
Abbrev: AG unit.
Adjutant General, The, chief of the administrative map, map of an area
Adjutant General's Department, who showing information of importance in
performs such administrative duties for administrative activities. An adminis-
the War Department and the Army as trative map shows locations of supply
may be prescribed by law or delegated and evacuation installations, collecting
to him by the Secretary of War or the points for stragglers and prisoners of
Chief of Staff, U.S. Army. Abbrev: TAG war, principal supply roads, train biv-
Adjutant General's Department, ad- ouacs, etc., as well as details necessary
ministrative branch of the military serv- to show the administrative situation in
ice, under the direction of The Adjutant relation to the tactical situation.
General. It is located in Washington, administrative march, movement of
D. C., and is charged with the adminis- troops and equipment in relative se-
tration of all matters relating to corre- curity for administrative reasons. An
spondence, records, administrative di- administrative march is often contrasted
rections, publications, decorations, post- with a tactical march, which is made
al service, etc. Abbrev: AGD under combat conditions.
lg
administrative officer 5 advance guard support
administrative officer. Abbrev: Adm 0 advance by bounds, move forward in
administrative order, order covering a series of separate advances, usually
traffic, supply, evacuation, and other from cover to cover. Troops advance
administrative details of operations. It by bounds while still beyond the range
t
is usually issued by divisions and higher of effective enemy infantry fire.

units. advance by echelon, advance in eche-
her
Abbrev: Adm 0 lon formation.

r
administrative plan, plan proposed for advance by rushes, move forward in
on,
handling the traffic, supply, evacuation, short, quick spurts. An advance by
and other administrative details of rushes is usually made by individual
operations of a unit. It must be based soldiers or small infantry units in the
e
on a survey of the situation, called the face of active, enemy, small-arms fire.
to
administrative estimate, and is put into advance command post, location of the
effect by the administrative order. commander or a small staff party,
administrative services, branches of the ahead of the command post.
he
ge
Army Service Forces primarily in charge advanced airdrome, temporary airport

t
of Army administration, such as the located near the front. An advanced
.
Judge" Advocate General's Department airdrome usually has only limited repair
or the Adjutant General's Department. facilities, and its landing strips, shelters,
-
administrative unit, military organiza- and buildings are not highly developed.
e-
tion which, for purposes of administra- advance depot, supply point in the for-
i-
tion, is regarded as a distinct and inde- ward part of the communications zone
e
pendent unit, such as a company, regi- in a theater of operations, ahead of the

ment, division, or army. A unit may be intermediate and base depots.
or
both administrative and tactical, or it Advanced Flying School, special service
may be only a tactical unit. school that gives training and instruc-
.
administrative vehicle, vehicle used for tion in piloting military aircraft and in
a
administrative purposes, such as a other subjects relating to the duties of
n
kitchen truck, wrecker, or office truck. aircraft combat crews. It is under the
t
admiral, officer in the Navy who has a supervision of the Commanding Gen-
rank equivalent to that of a general in eral, Army Air Forces.
the Army. A vice-admiral is equivalent advance guard, detachment sent ahead
in rank to a lieutenant general; a rear of the main force to protect it against
admiral to a major general. See Table surprise and to facilitate its advance by
up
of Comparative Grades on p. 125. removing obstacles, repairing roads and
Adm 0, 1. administrative officer. bridges, etc. The advance guard also
of
2. administrative order. locates the enemy, especially his main

adobe shooting, method of breaking up forces; and delays the enemy's advance
large rocks without drilling. A charge of long enough to permit the main force to
high explosive is laid on the rock and prepare and deploy for action.
covered with a shovelful of mud, then Abbrev: adv gd
set off. Also called mudcapping. advance gu~d action, attack or de-
it-
s.
adrm, airdrome. fense by an advance guard to occupy or

ADTELP, advise by teletype. ADTELP deceive the enemy and to protect the ad-
is a code abbreviation used in transmit- vance and deployment of the main force.
ting telegrams and teletype messages. advance guard point, first unit of an
adv, advance. advance guard support. The advance
d
advance, 1. forward move toward the guard point consists of a small group of
u-
enemy. soldiers sent out ahead of the advance

2. move forward toward the enemy. party to warn against surprise attacks.
Abbrev: adv advance guard reserve, second of the
el
advance base, 1. place located toward two main parts of an advance guard. It
the front from which supplies of ammu- protects the main force and is itself pro-
nition or other materiel are issued to tected by the advance guard support.
units in the field of operations. Smaller advance guards do not have
y
2. forward area where depots for sup- reserves.
plies of ammunition and other materiel advance guard support, first of the two
e
may be located. main parts of -an advance guard. It is

-
1g1nal fro
advance landing field 6 aerial review
made up of three smaller parts, in order filled with a heavy charge of high ex-
from front to rear, the point, the ad- plosive, used to destroy enemy surface
vance party, and the ~Support proper. defenses and installations. An aerial
The advance guard support protects the mine can be fitted with a parachute in
second main part, the advance guard order to prevent penetration and obtain
reserve. the maximum blast effect.
advance landing field, temporary land- aerial mosaic. See mosaic.
ing field located near the front and pro- aerial navigation map, chart used by
vided with only the very necessary sup- navigators of aircraft.
plies and equipment for repair and aerial navigation school, tactical and
servicing of aircraft. technical school of the Army Air Forces
advance message center, communica- that gives training in navigation of
tion center for receiving and relaying planes.
messages between the main part of the aerial observation, obtaining military
command and the elements farthest to information by observing or by taking
the front or flank. Abbrev: adv msg cen pictures from aircraft for the purpose of
advance party, second unit of an ad- liaison, reconnaissance, or directing' artil-
vance guard support, following the ad- lery fire; aerial exploration of a near
vance guard point and going ahead of objective or area. Also called air ob-
the advance guard support. The ad- servation.
vance party protects the support and is aerial observer, member of an observa-
itself protected by the advance guard tion unit of the Army Air Forces that
point which precedes it. supports ground units by making recon-
advance position, position nearer to the naissance flights and undertaking artil-
enemy than the main battle position but lery and liaison missions. Also called
"ithin supporting distance of it, estab- aircraft observer or air observer.
lished for the purpose of either attack or aerial photograph, photograph or mo-
defense. . tion-picture film taken from an aircraft;
advance post, concealed observation air photograph. Aerial photographs are
place well ahead of the main body of used in map making and intelligence.
troops. An advance post is used for ob- aerial photographer, person skilled in
serving, listening, or otherwise securing taking pictures from an aircraft.
information, and is linked with head- aerial photograph identification, study
, quarters by some system of rapid com- of topographical features on aerial pho-
munication. tographs, in order to identify visible
advance section, forward subdivision of features on the ground.
a communications zone. aerial photograph interpretation, study
advancing fire. See assault fire. of military activities from aerial photo-
adv gd, advance guard. graphs used as intelligence documents.
adv msg cen,' advance message center. aerial photography, the taking of pic-
AEF, American Expeditionary Forces. tures from any type of aircraft with a
A Engr Serv, Army Engineer Service. still or motion-picture camera. Two
aerial camera, camera used in aerial purposes of aerial photography are map-
photography. Also called aircraft camping and intelligence.
era. aerial phototopographer, person skilled
aerial gunner, member of an aircraft in making maps and mosaics from aerial
crew who fires cannon or machine guns photographs. An aerial phototopog-
from an aircraft. rapher is skilled in the reading and in-
aerial gunnery, theory and practice of terpretation of aerial photographs and
firing cannon or machine guns from air- in drafting maps and charts.
craft. aerial review, ceremony carried out by
aerial gunnery school, tactical and an Army Air Forces unit not smaller
technical school of the Army Air Forces than a squadron. An aerial review is
that gives training in the structure and participated in by a formation of air-
operation of guns, in recognizing and craft and crews, and consists of the pres-
using various types of projectiles, and in entation of the unit, the giving of
the use of guns in combat. honors, ceremonial inspection, and air-
aeriaJ mine, large, thin-walled container craft passing in review.
1 1ncal frorn
aerial sound ranging 7 aileron
aerial sound ranging, locating the di- Agas, aviation gasoline.
rection and distance of an aircraft by its AGD, Adjutant General's Department.
its
sounds. age-in-grade, nge in relation to rank,

aerial torpedo, large explosive projec- considered as a qualification for field
-
tile that is usually launched from lovl- service.

flying aircraft at fixed or floating targets. agent, person sent as a special repre-
An aerial torpedo is driven by its own sentative from one military organization
ets.
motor. or unit to another in order to establish

aero, 1. aeronautic. 2. aeronautical. and maintain liaison. Abbrev: agt
g
aerocartograpb, instrument for making agent finance officer. See agent officer.
ours maps that shows elevations and contours agent officer, commissioned or warrant
n
of the ground from photographs taken officer to whom funds are intrusted by
from the air. the Finance Department for the purpose
f-
aeroembolism (ayr o EM ba liz urn), ef- of paying out such funds as its agent;
ure
fect on the body of reduced air pressure agent finance officer. Class A agent
and of nitrogen released into the blood officers are restricted to the making of
d
in
stream. This effect may be caused by specified payments, such as monthly pay
too rapid ascent in deep-sea diving or in rolls; class B agent officers, however,
ly
high-altitude flying, together with the have general authority to collect and
sudden drop in air pressure. Commonly pay out funds for, and in the name of,
e-
called bends. the accountable officer.
of
aerometeorograph, instrument that re- AGF, Army Ground Forces.

cords the pressure and temperature of AGO, Adjutant General's Office.
d.
the air, the amount of moisture in the agonic line, line on a map joining places
air, and the rate of motion of the wind. at which the magnetic needle keeps true
ns-
is
An aerometeorograph designed to trans- north, that is, has a magnetic variation

mit its record by radio from a balloon is of zero degrees.
called a radio meteorograph. agt, agent.
aeronautic. Abbrev: aero AH Q, Army headquarters.
aeronautical. Abbrev: aero aide. See aide-de-camp.
see
aeronautical chart, map used in the aide-de-camp, member of the personal

operation of aircraft that contains the staff of an officer, usually a general
locations of features that are easy to see officer, in a high command; aide. His
air
and identify from an aircraft, such as duties include receiving and transmit-
-
railroads, water tanks, streams, etc. ting orders or performing any other
Aeronautical charts are usually clas- duties the general officer may assign him.
sified as planning charts, long-range air Abbrev: ADC

navigation charts, pilotage charts, ap- aid man, man from the Medical De-
proach charts, or target charts. partment attached to a company, bat-
g
aeronautical mile. See air mile. tery, troop, etc., to give first aid to the
-,
aeronautics, science or art of flight in wounded and to carry necessary infor-

m
aircraft; navigation in the air. mation to the battalion or regimental

aerostatics, science or art of operating surgeon.
balloons and other lighter-than:air air-. aid station, first post or center estab-
craft. Aerostatics is distinguished from lished by the Medical Department on
aviation, which is the art of operating the route of evacuation from a combat
s heavier-than-air aircraft. area to which the wounded are brought:
e
A Ex Serv, Army Exchange Service. dressing station; first-aid station. The
ave
AF, air force. wounded are given first aid and sepa-
affirmation, solemn declaration made rated into groups according to their in-
instead of taking an oath. If a person's juries; those needing further care are
religion forbids him to take an oath, he prepared for transportation to the rear.
r
can make an affirmation which will have aiguilette (AY gwa LET), decoration of
the same force in law as an oath. braided cord for the dress uniform of
a ftd, air field. aides, military attaches, and officers-of
AFSWA, Assistant Secretary of War for the General Staff Corps.
Air. aileron (A Y ]ur on), movable part of an
AG, adjlJtant general. ! airplane wing, usually part of the trail-
rlgln I ro
on
h
aileron roll 8 air area
ing edge. The aileron is designed to im- aiming post lamp. See aiming post light.
part a rolling motion to an airplane and aiming post light, lamp to illuminate
is used primarily to maintain lateral an aiming post or range pole during
balance. night survey or in night firing; aiming
aileron roll, complete tum of an air- light; aiming post lamp.
plane in wing-over-wing fashion. In an aiming post sleeve, striped, tubelike
aileron roll, the forward movement of the bag that fits over a lifting bar so that the
airplane is largely maintained. The roll- bar has the appearance of, and may be
ing motion is effected mainly by forces used as, an aiming post.
arising from displacement of the ailer- aiming rule, device used to eliminate
ons. errors in pointing a gun that would be
aim, 1. alining the sights of a weapon on made if a fixed aiming point at close
a target or aiming point. range were used. The aiming rule pro-
2. aline a weapon by any means so that vides what is equal to an aiming point
the projectile, bomb, etc., will strike the at an unlimited distance, and consists of
target. a slide attached to a level and holding a
aiming circle, instrument for measuring telescope sight that turns in a horizontal
horizontal and vertical angles . An aim- circle.
ing circle is used in surveying and for aiming rule sight, telescope sight on
similar work in connection with artillery an aiming rule. It turns in a horizontal
or machine-gun fire. circle and slides on the bar of the aiming
aiming device, special attachment for rule.
any gun for correcting its sight aline- aiming silhouette, form of field target,
ment. An aiming device is used in train- usually the outline of a man, lying,
ing to permit the instructor to detect kneeling, or standing. An aiming sil-
errors in the sight alinement of a gun. houette is usually used for small-arms
aiming disk, circular, flat piece of card- practice.
board, painted tin, or other material, aiming stake. See aiming post.
with a bull's-eye and pinhole in the a int, air intelligence.
center, and a handle. An aiming disk is A Int Sec, air intelligence section.
used for instruction in sighting and air. Abbrev: A
aiming. air adviser. See air support officer.
aiming group, pattern made on a sur- air alert, 1. position of aircraft kept
face by a series of pencil marks that test in the air ready for immediate action.
the ability of a soldier to sight a gun 2. signal to take stations for an air alert.
properly; shot group. The soldier di- air alert method, method of air defense
rects a small disk target to be moved in which fighter airplanes are kept in the
until it is alined with the sights of a gun air, overhead or near by, ready for im-
in a fixed position. The position of the mediate action. The air alert method is
disk is marked by a pencil dot made one of three methods of using fighter
through the hole in the disk. Three such aviation in air defense; the other
dots make up an aiming group. methods are the ground alert method
aiming light. See aiming post light. and th~ search patrol method.
aiming point, object or point on which air alert warning, notification, by radio
a gunner sights in pointing his gun. The or any other means of rapid communica-
aiming point is the target itself when the tion, of the approach of enemy aircraft.
gunner can see the target. When the air ambulance. See airplane ambulance.
gunner cannot see the target he uses air annex, instructions for the use of
some other fixed and visible point, often aircraft, issued with a field order that in-
called the auxiliary aiming point. volves large units or issued with defense
aiming point offset, angle made by a plans for large areas such as a defense
line from the aiming point to the gun command.
and a line from the aiming point to air area, limited region within which a
the observer's post. commander has responsibility for obser-
aiming post, stake used as an auxiliary vation and reconnaissance from the air.
aiming point in obtaining proper direc- The area is set up to enable various
tion and elevation of a gun; aiming ground units having air observers to
stake. cooperate efficiently.
ng1rr1cal rn
air base 9 aircraft observer
air base, command equipped and or- copters, autogyros, an<! gliders, are sup-
ganized for supporting the operations of ported by dynamic action. Abbrev: acft
one or more tacti<:Jll air units. An air aircraft accident, accident involving an
base consists of the personnel, supplies, aircraft, caused by errors of personnel or
of
equipment, airdromes, and other facili- failure of materiel, resulting in complete
ties necessary to support the operations wreck of, or major damage to, the air-
es,
of tactical air units currently using its craft, and sometimes in death or major
i-
facilities. Abbrev: AB injury to personnel.

air base service area, territorial area aircraft camera, 1. camera used in
ons
within which are located the air base aerial photography. In this meaning,
headquarters, airdromes, and all other also called aerial camera.
establishments making up the air base 2. camera mounted in a machine-gun
r facilities. frame and operated by a trigger. It is
e
air base troops, troops assigned to a used to make a photographic record of
particular station or air base. Air base each shot, especially in target practice
troops consist of Army Air Forces service by aerial gunners. In this meaning, also
units, air transport squadrons, and called camera gun.
troops not of the Air Forces, with their aircraft carrier, ship designed as a base
ice
r
supplies, equipment, and service units. for airplanes; airplane carrier. An air-
s.
airborne, 1. transported by air. 2. in craft carrier has a flight deck running
the air. In the report "Flight 22 air- the length of the ship, on which aircraft
borne," airborne means the flight is in land and take off.
n
the air. Abbrev: AlB or AB aircraft compass, compass in an air-
Airborne Command. Abbrev: A(B Comd craft, usually magnetic, used either to
d
airborne infantry, infantry units, in- indicate the direction in which the air-
cluding parachute troops, especially craft is headed when flying on a straight
on
trained and equipped for transportation course or to locate the position by cross
by air. bearing.
by
airborne troops, soldiers transported by aircraft damage, accident involving air-
r
air. These may be parachute troops or craft not caused by errors of personnel
air-landing troops. or failure of materiel, that results in
air burst, the bursting of a shell in the complete or partial destruction of an
s or
air that results in a spray of fragments or aircraft. Destruction of a properly

shrapnel. parked aircraft by a storm would be
-
air burst ranging. See high burst rang- classed as aircraft damage.
ing. aircraft file, file maintained in each
u-
air command communication, commu- operating aircraft. It contains one copy

nication by means of radio or visual of Visual Inspection System for Air-
ft
signals. Air command communication planes and one copy of the technical
is used to provide control of an aircraft orders covering operation and service
formation in flight. instructions for the particular aircraft
air command net, system of ground and engine involved.
and airplane radio stations used by a aircraft log, permanent record book of
commander in controlling a formation the complete operating history of an
pt
while in flight. aircraft. It gives details of flight time,
Air Corps, name that was replaced on inspections, repairs, changes, and ac-
r
May 1, 1942, by Army }Air Forces except cidents.
in special references. Officers still are aircraft observer, 1. classification or
e commissioned in the Air Corps and Air rating given to a member of the Army
Corps Reserve. Abbrev: AC Air Forces who is qualified to conduct
Air Corps Maintenance Command. See observation and reconnaissance mis-
-
Air Service Command. sions from aircraft.

aircraft, machine that is supported in 2. person who has this rating. An air-
the air by buoyancy or by dynamic ac- craft observer ranks below a senior air-
s,
eli-
tion. Lighter-than-air aircraft, such as craft observer.
up-
balloons and rigid or semirigid airships, 3. member of an-observation unit of the
ft
are supported by buoyancy; heavier- Army Air Forces that supports ground
n than-air aircraft, such as airplanes, hell- units by making reconnaissance flights
r1g1nal ~rom
l or
ete
-
or
aircraft plotter 10 air foree
and undertaking artillery and liaison enemy air action or to reduce its effect;
missions. In this meaning, also called antiaircraft defense. Active air defense
aerial observer and air observer. is direct defensive action taken to de-
4. person stationed at a lookout to watch stroy attacking enemy aircraft in the air
for and report time and direction of pas- by fighter aircraft, antiaircraft artillery,
sage, approximate altitude, type, and and barrage balloons. Active air de-
nationality of all passing aircraft. fense over a large area is called general
aircraft plotter, 1. device for mapping air, defense; that over a small area or
tracks, headings, position lines, or bear- single objective is called local air de-
ings on a chart. fense. Passive air defense includes all
2. person who marks on a map the num- means used on the ground to prevent or
ber, type, height, and direction of air- guard against air raids, such as the use
craft reported by <?bservers or tellers. of aircraft observers, air-raid wardens,
In this meaning, also called aircraft blackouts, alerts, shelters, and also the
warning plotter. use of cover, concealment, and dispersion.
aircraft signal, signal from an aircraft air defense area, territory that in-
as a means of communication between cludes the objectives of a probable air
air and ground forces when radio can campaign by the enemy, and for which
not be used; airplane signal. An aircraft protection must be provided. The
signal may be made by dipping the United States is divided into air defenEe
wings, dropping a flare, or by firing a areas. For military purposes, each of
type of fireworks giving off an intense these air defense areas is controlled by
colored light. an interceptor commander and is further
aircraft status report, basic Army Air divided into air defense regions. For
Forces record of the number and condi- civilian purposes, each air defense area
tion of aircraft and uninstalled motors is divided into warning districts.
at any specific locality. See also air- air defense force, all persons em-
plane status report. ployed in protection of a particular
aircraft l\arning. Abbrev: A W command or area against enemy attack
aircraft warning company. Abbrev: from the air.
AW Co air defense region, division of an air
aircraft warning filterer, person who defense area to which are assigned one
examines, interprets, and evaluates data group of interceptor planes and at least
marked on a map by aircraft warning one signal aircraft warning regiment.
plotters. air depot, supply station that obtains,
aircraft warning officer, officer assigned stores, and distributes supplies necessary
to the aircraft warning service of a unit for the Army Air Forces.
or area who directs the installation, Abbrev: AD
operation, and maintenance of aircraft airdrome, landing field with the build-
warning equipment. ings and equipment for servicing, arm-
aircraft warning plotter, person who ing, operating, and maintaining military
marks on a map the number, type, aviation units. Also called airport.
height, and ~irection of aircraft reported Abbrev: adrm
by observers or tellers. Also called air air echelon, in combined ground and air
craft plotter. operations, the air unit as distinguished
aircraft warning service, warning sys- from the ground forces which it supports
tem established by an air defense com- or accompanies.
mand to report the movement of air- air field. Abbre~': a fld
craft; air-raid warning system. An air- airfoil, any surface of an aircraft de-
craft warning service consists of ob- signed to help in lifting or controlling
servers, filter centers, and the necessary the aircraft by making use of the current
signal communications. of air through which it moves. Wings,
Abbrev: AWS ailerons, rudders, etc., are airfoils.
aircraft warning teller, person who in- air force, 1. largest tactical and admin-
terprets data on charts and telephones istrative unit of the Army Air Forces.
his findings to plotters. An air force normally consists of a head-
air defense, defense against attack from quarters, a bomber command, an inter-
the air; all rneasures used to prevent ceptor command, an air support com-
Orlg1nal fro
air force depot 11 airplane defense area
mand, and such other tactical air units Air Medal, decoration awarded to a
and ground arms and services as may person serving in the Army, Navy,
s
be attached or assigned. Its duties in- Marine Corps, or Coast Guard for
y
clude air defense, bombardment, ground- meritorious achievement while flying.
air support, and base services. An air air mile; measure of distance in the
und-
force is the equivalent of a field army. 1light of aircraft; aeronautical mile. An
Abbrev: AF air mile is 6,080 feet, and is the unit of
.
2. The Air Forces means the Army Air length used in dead reckoning.
Forces. air navigation, finding geographical po-
air force depot, station that obtains, sition, and guiding or directing aircraft
stores, and distributes supplies neces- from place to place; navigation of air-
-
sary for one air force. craft. This is done by the use of maps
Air Forces. See Army Air Forces. and visible landmarks, astronomical ob-
Air Force Serl-;ce Command. See Air servations, or radio signals.
Service Command. air objective, goal in air warfare; any
Jlir-ground code. See air-ground liaison aim or target of military aviation.
on
eode. air observation, obtaining military in-

air-ground communication, means of formation by observing or by taking
nd
communication between air and ground pictures from aircraft for the purpose of
forces, such as radio or signaling by liaison, reconnaissance, or directing ar-
lights, fireworks, flags, or panels. tillery fire; aerial exploration of a near
s
air-ground liaison code, set of symbols objective or area. Also called aerial
s, for a limited number of words, phrases, observation.
on
and sentences used for communication air observer, 1. member of an observa-
between air and ground fore~; air- tion unit of the Army Air Fore~ that
ground code. These symbols can be supports ground units by making recon-
r
given by radio, telephone, blinkers, or naissance flights and undertaking artil-

strips of cloth called air-ground liaison lery and liaison missions. In this mean-
n
panels. ing, often called aerial observer.

air-ground liaison panel, large cloth 2. person stationed at a lookout to watch
ni-
strip used by ground troops for visual for and report time and direction of pas-
signaling to supplement radio communi- sage, approximate altitude, type, and
cation with aircraft; air-ground panel. nationality of all passing aircraft.
th
air-ground net, system of radio com- air officer. See air support officer.
munication linking aircraft in flight with air operations officer, administrative
ground stations. and tactical officer, generally assigned to
he
air-ground paneL See air-ground liai- air fields and air units as the officer in
son panel. charge of plans, policies, and operations,
r-
air guard, person posted to warn of the especially air-landing operations.
y
approach of enemy aircraft; air scout; air photograph. See aerial photograph.
air sentinel; air guard observer; antiair- airplane, mechanically driven, heavier-
ea
craft lookout. Air guards are posted by than-air aircraft that is supported in
units on the march or in any position flight by the action of air- flowing past
open to air attack even though the area its fixed wings. Airplanes are powered
has a permanent warning system. by from one to four gasoline or diesel
air guard observer. See air guard. motors.
ir
air intelligence. Abbrev: a int .Abbrev: ap
air intelligence section. airplane ambulance, airplane specially
Abbrev: A Int Sec equipped for transporting wounded men~
ps. air-landing troops, troops moved by air air ambulance. In emergencies, ordinary
are
transport who leave the aircraft after transport planes with improvised equip-
d
it has landed. Airborne troops include ment are used.

pay
air-landir1g troops and parachute troops. airplane carrier. See aircraft carrier.
ant,
air mechanic, technician who takes care airplane defense area, area beyond the
of an airplane. Air mechanics are rated range of friendly antiaircraft artillery.
as first or second class, receiving the pay An airplane defense area is protected by
of technical sergeant and staff sergeant, fighter aircraft, assisted at night by
respectively. searchlights.
n
Orlg1nal rrom
of
o-
airplane flare 12 Air Support Command
airplane flare, 1. flare to be dropped military aircraft. The location and
from an airplane to light a ground area limits of the air reconnaissance area are
or water target. An airplane flare usual- defined and assigned by the commanding
ly consists of a parachute to whjch is at- officer, and include all enemy and friend
tached a container holding a mixture ly localities of importance in the prepa
of magnesium and other substances. ration of immediate military plans.
This mixture bursts into flame auto- air reconnaissance force, one or more
matically after being dropped. units of aircraft and their personnel as-
2. pyrotechnic signal. signed to reconnaissance duties.
airplane flight chief, supervisor of all air scout. See air guard.
aircraft maintenance crews of a single air sentinel. See air guard.
flight of planes. He lays out work, air service command, unit that fur-
directs mechanics, in..c;tructs new work- nishes supply and maintenance service
ers, checks planes before they are re- for an air force.
turned to service, and sees that pre- Air Service Command, major subdivi-
scribed inspections are made. sion of the Army Air Forces that organ""
airplane signal. See aircraft signal. izes and operates depots, repairs and
airplane status report, basic Army Air maintains aircraft, and procures, stores,
Forces record of the number and condi- and distributes aircraft, equipment, and
tion of airplanes and uninstalled motors supplies to units of the Army Air Forces.
at any specific locality. See also air- Formerly called Air Corps Maintenance
craft status report. Command and Air Force Service Com..
airport, tract of land or water where mand. Abbrev: ASC
aircraft can land or take off, and where airship, any aircraft that is lighter than
facilities for their shelter, supply, and air and self-propelled by its own motors.
repair are available. An airport is often There are three main types: non-rigid,
used regularly for receiving or discharg- semi-rigid, and rigid Abbrev: ash
ing passengers and cargo traveling by air speed, speed of aircraft in reference
air. A military airport is usually called to the air, in contrast to ground speed,
an airdrome. which is the speed of aircraft in reference
Abbrev: aprt to the ground.
airport flare, chemical device used to air-speed indicator, instrument oper-
give a brief bright light at an airport ated by air pressure and used for meas-
when the floodlights fail. uring the speed of aircraft with reference
air power, total effective strength of to the air.
the military aviation of a nation or fight- air squadron, any squadron of the Army
ing force. Air Forces actually operating airplanes,
air-raid warden, member of an aircraft as opposeq to such a unit as a head-
warning service who has temporary po- quarters squadron.
lice duties during an air-raid alert. Air Staff, staff of Headquarters, Almy
air-raid warning district, subdivision Air Forces, corresponding to the General
of an air defense area in an aircraft Staff in the Army Ground Forces and
warning service. Also called warning the Army Service Forces.
district. , air striking force, in large air com-
air-raid warning system. See aircraft mands, one or more groups of bombard-
warning service. ment aviation, of the same or different
air reconnaissance, the getting of mili- classes, put under a single command.
tary information by observation and air superiority, advantage held by mili-
taking pictures from aircraft; aerial ex- tary aviation over enemy aircraft that
ploration of a distant objective or area. permits air or ground operations in a
Air reconnaissance is usually made over locality without effective enemy air op-
territory held by the enemy and is made position.
to get information about military objec- Air Support Command, tactical and ad-
tives in enemy territory, and the loca- miniStrative unit of military aviation
tion, arrangement, and movement of organized, equipped, and trained to
enemy forces. render air support to large ground units,
g
air reconnaissance area, area assigned usually an army.
for observation to one or more units of Abbrev: A Spt C
Or1g1nal fro
air support control 13 allotment
air support control, aviation unit lo- alarm, warning, by bugle, cannon fire,
cated at the headquarters of the army siren, or other means, to summon mili-
y
or other large ground unit which it sup- tary forces to meet an emergency.
p-
ports. The air support control manages alert, 1. readiness for action, defense, or
the operations of the air support and protection.
es
ir
maintains communications with the air 2. get ready for action.
units. Abbrev: A Spt Conti or AS Conti 3. warning signal of a real or threatened
air support control net, radio commu- danger, such as an air attack.
nications system between air support 4. period of time during which troops
in
command headquarters and aviation in stand by in response to an alarm.
support of ground troops. 5. condition of aircraft manned, armed,
air support officer, officer in the Army and ready to carry out a mission.
al
Air Forces attached to a ground tactical alert station, position taken up by de-
unit to advise on air matters; air ad- fensive aircraft between expected enemy
aircraft and the objective to be de-
air
m-
viset'; air officer. He represents the air
r of
support control. He also transmits com- fended.
p-
munications between the commander of alidade (ALa dayd), instrument used
the ground unit supported, the air sup- in surveying and mapping to determine
-
port control, and aircraft in flight. the direction of a line by frighting along.
air support party, one or more air sup- it. Some alidades are brass rules with
-
port officers, with other persons and sighting holes at the ends; others are
e
equipment, who transmit communica- fitted with telescopes.

tions between the commanders of the alien enemy, person fourteen or more
rt
ground units supported, the air support years of age residing in the United
nd
control, and aircraft in flight. ' States or any of its territory, who is not
ir-
air target, any target in the air that naturalized, and who is a citizen of a
low may be fired on from aircraft or ground hostile nation; enemy alien.
e
forces, such as, gliders descending, air- alinement, straight line on which severai
planes diving or passing overhead at low elements are formed or are to be formed;
altitudes, barrage balloons, ..parachute the formation in a straight line of sev-
air
troops descending, etc. eral elements; the dressing of a group of

air task force, group of air, ground, men or units upon a straight line.
ary
up-
and service units needed to carry out air aliquot part charge. See equal section
es.
missions as outlined in a plan of military charge.
operations; task air force. aliquot propelling charge. See equal
air transport, aircraft used to move sup- section charge.
es
or
plies, equipment, personnel, or vehicles. all-around traverse, turning or swing-
air transportation, the moving of sup- ing a gun on a mount that permits a gun
plies, equipment, personnel, or vehicles to be turned in a complete circle hi a
by air, usually in transport airplanes or horizontal plane. A gun has an all-
in gliders. around traverse when it can be turned,
y of
Air Transport Command, major subdi- clamped, aimed, and fired in any hori-
vision of the Army Air Forces that has zontal direction without changing the
charge of the air transport and supply of position of the tripod or mount.
tactical equipment and personnel to all-clear signal, prearranged signal to
theaters of operations and all parts of indicate that danger from enemy air-
d-
the continental United States. For- craft has passed.

merly called Ferrying Command. allocation, assigning a credit for sup-
s
Abbrev: ATC plies, ammunition, money, etc., and set-

air transport net, radio communicating it apart for the individual or
tions system between command head- organization that is to use it.
om
quarters and aviation transport units. allotment, 1. assignment of personnel or
air umpire, aviation officer who judges materiel to an organization for service
the effectiveness of air actions during or use.
,
maneuvers. 2. portion of the pay of an officer or en-
i-
air warning net, system of radio sta- listed person that he authorizes to be
tions set up to warn against attack from paid directly to another person, such as
, or
the air. a dependent, or to an institution, such

1g1 I ro
ed
allotted 14 ~mbulance loading post
as a bank or insurance company. Class alternate rallying point, substitute lo-
A or class A pay reservation, class B, cation Vv?here troops assemble and reor-
class D, class E, class F or class F de- ganize after an attack when the first
duction, class H, and class X are kinds rallying point designated has become
of allotment. unsuitable.
3. authority by which an agency makes alternate target. Abbrev: alt t
funds allocated to it available to a sub- alternate traversing fire, method of
ordinate agency. In this meaning, covering a target that has both width
formerly called procurement authority. and depth by firing a succession of trav-
Abbrev: almt ersing groups whose norn1al range dis-
allotted. Abb;ev: alot persion will provide for distribution in
allotter, person who makes an allotment depth.
or who authorizes a deduction from his altimeter (al TIM it ur), instrument for
military pay to be paid dir~ctly to an- measuring altitude. An altimeter is
other person or an institution. used in aircraft for t1nding di~tance
allowance, 1. money or something above sea level, terrain, or some 'Other
equivalent furnished in addition to the reference point, by means of air pres-
prescribed rates of pay. An allowance sure, radio waves, sound waves, etc.
h
is given to pwvide for expenses for which altitude, 1. height above sea level or
a soldier's pay is considered inadequate, some other reference plane. Measure-
such as travel allowance, quarters al- ments of altitude are important in the
lowance, clothing allowance, and sub- navigation of aircraft.
sistence allowance. 2. angular distance of a star, planet, etc.,
2. prescribed share of items of supply or above the horizon. Measurements of
equipment provided for an individual or altitude are important in determining a
organization. Abbrev: alws ship's position at sea.
allowances. Abbrev: alws 3. vertical distance to the target from
allways fuze, fuze, especially in some the horizontal plane through a gun.
types of mortar projectiles, that sets off alt t, alternate target.
the explosive charge when the projectile alws, allowance or allowances.
strikes an object, no matter what posi- am, ammunition.
tion the projectile is in when it hits the amatol, high explosive made of a mix-
object. ture of ammonium nitrate and TNT. It
almt, allotment. is used as a bursting charge in high ex-
alot, allotted. plosive projectiles.
ALP, ambulance loading post. amb, ambulance.
alphabet code flag, signal flag that ambient noise, sounds around a listener
represents a letter of the alphabet or one or mechanical sound detector that in-
of the ten numerals. terfere with hearing or locating a distant
alternate airdrQrne. See alternate air- sound.
port. ambulance, vehicle, boat, or aircraft,
alternate airport, airport named in the equipped for carrying sick and wounded
flight plan as one which aircraft may persons or animals. Abbrev: amb
use in an emergency instead of tlie one ambulance boat, boat equipped for
originally intended for use; alternate air- transporting sick and wounded person-
drome. nel to a hospital ship from the shore or
alternate emplacement, emplacement from a warship.
for a gun prepared for use in case the ambulance insert, special frame in-
first position used or planned to be used stalled in a motor vehicle and used to
becomes unsuitable. support a loaded stretcher. This insert
alternate firing position, firing position converts a panel body truck into a field
assigned to a unit or \Veapon for firing on ambulance.
primary targets when the primary firing ambulance loading post, location in the
position becomes unsuitable for carrying forward combat area where sick and
out an assigned fire n1ission. Sometimes wounded persons or animals are loaded
called alternate position. I into ambulances for transportation to a
alternate position. See alternate firing clearing station or hospital.
1>osition. Abbrer: ALP
Orlg1nal fro
ambulance orderly 15 ammunition data card
ambulance orderly, person who accom- erent nations, and the administration
panies and assists the driver of an am- of supplies sent to occupied territory.
bulance in transporting the sick and Abbrev: ARC
m-
wounded. American Red Cross. See American

ambulance station, station on an am- National Red Cross.
m-
bulance route, from which the operations ammonal, high explosive substance,
of ambulance units are managed and made of a mixture of ammonium nitrate,
ons
at which personnel are quartered and TNT, and flaked or powdered alumi-
vehicles stored when not in use. It is num. Ammonal is used as a bursting
also the traffic control point for ambu- charge in high explosive projectiles, and
lance vehicles. An ambulance station is produces bright flashes on explosion.
-
not equipped to care for th~ sick and ammonium picrate. See explosive D.
is
wounded. _ ammunition, all the materials used in

ambulant case. See walking wounded. discharging every kind of firearm or any
.
ambush, 1. soldiers hidden to make a weapon that throws projectiles. Am-
surprise attack. munition includes powder, shot, shrap-
2. place where soldiers are hidden for a nel, bullets, and cartridges, and also the
a
surprise attack. means of igniting and exploding them,
3. act or condition of lying in wait to such as primers and fuzes. Chemicals,
make a surprise attack. bombs, grenades, mines, and pyrotech-
4. make a surprise attack on the enemy nics are also ammWlition. Abbrev: am
my
from a hidden position. ammunition bag, canvas covering worn

AMC, Army ~1edical Center. by an ammunition bearer in some units.
amecz, antimechanized. An ammunition bag covers the upper
A med lab, army medical laboratory. part of the bearer's body, and contains
A med serv, army medical service. pockets for ammunition in the front and
American Defense Service Medal, back.
nt
decoration authorized by the President amtnunition bearer, soldier who carries
of
of the United States as a recognition of small-arms ammunition, including ma-

honorable service in the Army, Navy, chine-gun belts and grenades, to supply
Marine Corps, or Coast Guard. To ob- ground troops in combat.
tain this decoration, a soldier must have ammunition belt, 1. fabric or metal
ave
more,
m-
served for a period of 12 1nonths or more, band with loops for cartridges that are
n-
any part of which was between Septem- fed from it into a machine gun or other
ber 8, 1939, and December 7, 1941, in- automatic weapon. In this meaning,
clusive. usually called feed belt.
ns
American Defense Service Ribbon, 2. belt with loops or pocketc:1 for carrying
vice
service ribbon worn by eligible persons cartridges or clips of cartridges. In this

.
in place of the American Defense Service meaning, usually called cartridge belt.
Medal pending the issue of the medal. ammunition car, steel boxcar for the
American Expeditionary Forces. transportation of ammunition.
ck
Abbrev: AEF ammunition carrier, 1. vehicle that ac-
s
American National Red Cross, Ameri- companies guns and carries ammunition
se, can organization that cares for the sick for them.
and wounded in war, and that relieves 2. member of a gun or mortar squad who
he
suffering caused by floods, fire, disease, carries ammunition and helps load in
eir
and other calamities; American Red actual firing.

re-
Cross. It serves as a liaison between the ammunition clip, container that holds
a
members of the armed forces and their a number of rounds of ammunition for
fatnilies and also assists in furnishing re- a rifle, carbine, or pistol. The clip is
c-
lief to prisoners of war. Its symbol is a inserted into the gun to load it.
e
red cross on a white background. The ammunition crane, lifting device used
s-
Red Cross of any nation is the only to load projectiles and powder charges
civilian organization authorized to func- into large guns.
g-
tion inside a theater of operations. The ammunition data card, identification
International Red Cross Committee as- card that is put into each box or con-
sists in handling such matters as mail tainer of ammunition. On it are give!l
and information servi('e between bellig- the type and composition of the ammu-
lgl I ro
ate,
ammunition depot 16 aneroid barometer
nition. When necessary, the ammuni- 2. airplane that can take off from, and
tion data card also includes instructions land on, either land or water. In this
for handling the ammunition. meaning, usually called amphibian air-
ammunition depot, station established plane. Abbrev: amph
in the rear of the combat area where amphibian airplane, airplane that can
ammunition is received, classified, stored, take off from, and land on, either land or
and issued to the combat units served water; amphibian.
,
by the station. amphibian truck. Abbreu: amph trk
ammunition distributing point, place amphibian truck company.
from which ammunition is supplied to Abbrev: Amph Trk Co
subordinate units. amphibious, capable of operating on
ammunition dump, location within the both la~d and water; amphibian; as,
combat zone, where ammunition for the amphibious tanks, or amP.hibious forces.
unit is temporarily stored. Abbrev: amph
ammunition lot number, code number Amphibious Command.
that identifies a particular quantity of Abbrev: Amph Comd
ammunition from one manufacturer. amphibious forces, units of the Army
The number is assigned to each lot of or special units of the Army, Navy, and
ammunition when it is manufactured. Air- Forces, formed for land and water
ammunition pit, hole or trench dug in operations. They are trained, equipped,
the ground where -f1mmunition is stored and used for landings, beachhead op-
temporarily. An ammunition pit is erations, or raids.
usually near the gun from which the amph trk, amphibian truck.
ammunition is to be fired. Amph Trk Co, amphibian truck com-
ammunition point, place at the rear of pany.
a company or battery where ammuni- AMPS, Army Mine Planter Service.
tion is received from the ammunition am tn, ammunition train.
supply point and from which it is issued anaglyph, photograph resulting from
to the company or battery. printing two images, one in red, one in
ammunition sling, pack consisting of a blue-green, nearly in the same position.
container and a parachute by means of Looked at through colored glasses hav-
which ammunition is dropped to supply ing one red and one blue-green lens, it
airborne troops. appears as a black and white picture
ammunition supply point, advance having the effect of depth. Anaglyphs
point where ammunition is received, are used only for training in stereoscopic
classified, stored, and issued to combat vision.
units. The troops draw the major quan- ANC, Army Nurse Corps.
tities of their ammunition from the am- anchor, 1. device used to bold an object
munition supply point. Abbrev: ASP in place. Anchors are used to hold
ammunition train, organization consist- boats, vessels, mines, or floating bridges
ing of personnel and vehicles for trans- in place in the water. On land, a device
porting ammunition to the place from that holds an object, such as a wire en-
which it is to be distributed. tanglement, in place on the ground is
Abbrev: am tn sometimes called an anchor.
ammunition truck, iron frame, with 2. key position in defense lines.
wheels on it, that carries the projectile anchorage, means of holding heavy ob-
and powder charge for a large gun from jects in place. A railway gun carriage
the ammunition pit to the gun. It has must have anchorage against recoil.
a loading tray that fits into the breech anchor light, light or group of lights
recess of the gun so that the projectile carried on an aircraft or ship at night
can be slid into the gun. to show its position while at anchor.
AMP, Army Mine Planter. anemometer, instrument for measuring
amph, 1. amphibian. 2. amphibious. the speed or pressure of the wind.
Amph Comd, Amphibious Command. aneroid barometer, instrument for
amphibian, 1. capable of operating on measuring air pressure and, indirectly,
both land and water; as, an amphibian altitude. It registers the pressure on
airplane, an amphibian tank. In this the elastic top of a box from which the
1neaning, usually called amphibious. air bas been pumped out.
1g n f
angle 17 angle of Incidence
angle, 1. space between two lines or tween the line from the muzzle of the
surfaces that meet. gun to the target, and a line along which
2. figure formed by two such lines or the gun is pointed at the instant the
surfaces. projectile leaves the muzzle.
8. difference in direction between two 2. angle from the horizontal formed by
such lines or surfaces. The difference in the line between the point of contact of
o
direction of two such lines or surfaces is the rear wheel of a vehicle and the lowest
in measured in degrees and minutes or in part of the rear of the vehicle, generally
is
mils. In a military sense, angles are the rear bumper or the mud shield. The
in
usually associated with artillery fire, angle of departure must be great enough
navigation, and aircraft. to allow the vehicle to climb a steep
angledozer, tractor-type, dirt-moving bank without catching the rear on the
machine with its scraper set at an angle ground.
gle
to move the dirt to one side. angle of depression, angle between the
angle of approach, 1. angle between horizontal and the line along which the
the line along which a moving target is gun is pointed when it is pointed below
is traveling and the line along which the the horizontal; negative angle of site;
gun is pointed. The angle of approach depression angle.
is never greater than 90 degrees. angle of divergence, angle through
2. angle from the horizontal formed by which any gun in a battery, laid parallel
y
the line between the point of contact to the base gun, must be turned away
e
of the front wheel of a vehicle and the from the latter in order to be properly
ly
lowest front part of the vehicl.e, usually aimed for direction. It is used, espe-
the bumper. The angle of approach cially by a machine-gun battery, when
hi-
must be great enough to allow the vehi- fire is to be distributed over a target
es cle to come out of steep banked ditches having width.
ng
or holes in the ground without dragging angle of elevation, vertical angle be-
or scraping. tween the line from the muzzle of the
angle of attack, acute angle between gun to the target and the axis of the
the chord of an aircraft wing or other bore when the gun is pointed for range.
airfoil and its direction of motion rela- Also called elevation.
tive to the air. The angle varies ac- angle of fall, angle between the tan-
cording to flight conditions and the gent to the trajectory at the level point
position of the aircraft. In British use, and the base of the trajectory; angle at
called angle of incidence. which a projectile falls.
angle of bank, angle by which the angle-offset method, method of survey-
lateral axis of an aircraft deviates from ing a curved base by means of laying out
e
the horizontal; angle of roll. a series of constant angles and distances

he
angle of clearance, angle between the in both directions from a single starting
line along which a gun is pointed at the point. This method is often used for
un
en
target and the line along which the gun laying out microphones for sound rang-
must be pointed for a projectile fired ing.
gh
from it to clear any obstruction between angle of impact, acute angle between
e the gun and the target. the tangent to the trajectory at the
rd
angle of convergence, 1. angle through point of impact of a projectile and the
which any gun laid parallel to the base plane tangent to the surface of the
the
gun in a battery must be turned toward ground at the point of impact; angle at
m
it in order to point at the target. which a projectile strikes the ground or

2. angle formed by the intersection of the a target.
-
on.
f
lines of sight from the two eyes or from angle of incidence, 1. angle at which a
the two eyepieces of an optical instru- projectile strikes a surface; acute angle
e
ment or from two points of observation. between the tangent to the line of im-
of In both meanings, also called angle of pact of a projectile and the perpendicu-
n.
parallax. lar to the surface of the ground at the
e-
angle of deflection, angle between the point of impact. It is the complement

axis of the bore of a gun and the line of of the angle of impact.
ich
sight when the gun is laid for direction. 2. fixed angle between the plane of the
angle of departure, 1. vertical angle be- chord of au airplane wing and the long
y
1g1 I ro
of
west
lly
angle of jump 18 antiaerial
axis of the airplane. In this meaning, angle of wing setting, fixed angle be-
often called angle of wing setting. tween the plane of the chord of an air-
3. in British use, the acute angle be- plane wing and the long axis of the air-
tween the chord of an aircraft wing or plane. Also called angle of incidence.
other airfoil and its direction of motion angletube, tube that connects the hose
relative to the air. In the United States of a gas mask to the part that fits over
use, this is called angle of attack. the face.
angle of jump, angular difference be- angular height, vertical angle between
tween the line along which the gun is the horizontal and the line to a point
aimed just before firing and the line from an observer or a gun. As an artil-
along which the gun is pointed at the lery angle, angular height is the same as
instant the projectile leaves the muz- angle of site.
zle; jump. angular speed. See angular velocity.
angle of parallax. See angle of con- angular travel, angular distance covered
vergence. by a moving target in a given time. It
angle of pitch, 1. acute angle between is equal to the angular velocity multi-
the chord of a cross section of a propeller plied by the time of travel. Angular
blade and a plane perpendicular to the travel is measured in terms of the change
axis of rotation of the entire propeller. of angle at the observing point during
In this meaning, also called blade angle. the time of travel.
2. angle between the longitudinal axis of angular travel method, method of cal-
an aircraft and the direction of the rela- culating firing data based on the rate of
tive wind. angular travel of the target in direction
angle of position. See angle of site. and elevation. Angular travel method
angle of roll. See angle of bank. and linear speed method are two
angle of safety, minimum permissible methods of eomputing firing data.
angular clearance, at the gun, of the angu.lar unit method, method of ad-
path of a projectile above friendly troops. justing antiaircraft artillery gunfire in
The angle of safety is the angle of clear- which range deviations in mils obtained
ance increased enough to insure the by a flank observer are converted into
safety of the troops. Also called safety altitude corrections in yards for appli-
angle. cation at the director.
angle of shift, horizontal angle between angular velocity, speed of a moving
the line joining the gun and the first target, measured at the observing point
target and the line joining the gun and in terms of the rate of change of the
another target. The angle of shift is the angular position of the target in direc-
angle through which the gun must be tion and elevation; angular speed.
turned .to shift fire from the first target animal. A bbrev: ani
to another one. animal-drawn. Abbrev: anl-dr
angle of site, vertical angle between animals. Abbrev: anls
the horizontal and a line joining the ani, animal.
target and the muzzle of a gun; angle of anl-dr, animal-drawn.
position; site. anls, animals.
angle of train, azimuth element of fir- annex, anything added to a field order
ing data furnished by a remote control or other document to make it clearer or
system. to give further details. Maps, photo-
angle of traverse, 1. horizontal angle graphs, schedules, etc., are annexes.
through which a gun can be turned on Annexes, such as a medical annex, artil-
its mount. lery annex, or intelligence annex, are
2. angle between the lines from a gun to frequently used to cover special activi-
the right and left limits of the front that ties or special units.
is covered by its fire, that is, the angle annihilation fire. See counterpreparation.
through which it is traversed. antenna, rod, wire, or set of wires used
angle of visibility, angle of vision from for sending or receiving radio messages.
the position of the pilot or an observer or antiaerial, opposed to enemy action that
gunner in an airplane, that is not ob- is directed from the air, such as descend-
structed by any of the airplane surfaces, ing parachute troops or gliders attempt-
such as the wings or tail. ing to land troops.
1g ro
antiaircraft 19 antitank defense
antiaircraft, designed for, or tL~d in, mation of ice on aircraft surfaces dur-
defense against enemy aircraft. ing flight. An anti-icer differs from a
Abbrev: AA de-icer, which is used to break up ice
antiaircraft artillery, weapons and ma- coatings that have already formed.
teriel used to locate, illuminate, and antimechanized. See antitank. Abbrev:
-
fire on enemy aircraft. Fixed, mobile, amecz
and semimobile units are used. Anti- antimechanized defense, all means
aircraft arti11ery is organized as part of used for defense against armored com-
the Coast Artillery Corps. Abbrer1: AAA bat vehicles; antitank defense. Anti-
f
Antiaircraft ArtiUery IntelUgence Service. mechanized defense employs such means

A
Abbre11: AAAIS. as antitank guns and grenades, ditches,

ce.
Antiaircraft Artillery School, special traps, and mine fields.

serviee school of the Antiaircraft Artil- antimechanized security, system for
lery Command that trains men in the protection against surprise or annoyance
technique and tactics of antiaircraft by enemy mechanized forces; antitank
artillery, for duty in the field or as in- security. Active means of protection
structors, or for commission in the may include antitank guns, aviation
Coast Artillery Corps. The Antiair- units, armored vehicles, chemicals, etc.;
craft Artillery School is under the super- passive means Qf protection may include
er-
vision of the Commanding General, a warning system, guards and patrols,

Army Ground Forces. concealment, natural or artificial ob-
antiaircraft balloon. Abbre11: AA/B stacles, antitank mines, etc.
antiaircraft defense. See air defense. antimechanized weapon. See antitank
antiaircraft director, instrument for weapon.
for
collecting and interpreting firing data for antipersonnel, used against individuals
antiaircraft guns in action against air- rather than against mechanized vehicles,
craft. materiel, etc.; as, antipersonnel bombs,
antiaircraft gun, gun especially de- antipersonnel mines. Abbrev: apers
i-
signed for use against aircraft. An anti- antipersonnel bomb, bomb designed for
aircraft gun can be shifted easily in use against individuals. An antiperson-
direction and elevation, has great range, nel bomb is a small light bomb that
ge,
n.
and can fire at high angles of elevation. bursts into fragments.

e-
antiaircraft lookout. See air guard. antipersonnel mine, mine designed for
antiaircraft officer, member of the spe- use against individuals; personnel mine.
cial staff of a command who advises Antipersonnel mines are laid in fields to
the commander and staff on all anti- keep the enemy from the area, or laid in
aircraft matters. He is usually the obstacles, wire entanglements, etc., to

commander of the antiaircraft artillery warn of the enemy's approach. They
belonging to the command. may be specially constructed or impro-
antidim. See antidim compound. vised.
antidim compound, soaplike prepara- Antisub Comd, Antisubmarine Com-
tion applied to the eyepieces of a gas mand.
mask to keep them from becoming Antisubmarine Command.
clouded or fogged; anti dim. Abbrev: Antisub Comd
antidim set, small can that contains antisubmarine net:P steel net stretched
antidim compound. An antidim set is across channels or harbor entrances to
carried in the gas-mask carrier. prevent the entry of submarines.
in
antifriction device, mechanism which antitank, designed for use against tanks
reduces friction in pointing a gun. It or. other armored vehicles; antimecha-
operates by lifting the gun off the main nized; as, an antitank mine. Abbrev: AT
bearings and supporting it, while it is antitank bomb, bomb used against
eam
being moved, on light, free-turning tanks or other armored vehicles. It may
s,
bearings. be an armor-piercing or high explosive
ft.
anti-leer, device on an aircraft that bomb. Antitank bombs are placed in
-
sprays a special fluid, or throws a stream tracks or dropped on top of enemy tanks
of warm air, on the windshield, airfoils, or other armored vehicles.
and some other surfaces of the aircraft. antitank defense. See antimechanized
An anti-icer is used to prevent the for- defense.
:
Orlg1nal rrom
m-
antitank ditch 20 applieatory system
antitank ditch, ditch dug to stop or antitank security. See antimechanlzed
slow down enemy tanks or other ve- security.
hicles. Antitank ditches are dug deep antitank weapon, any weapon used
enough to cause enemy vehicles that against armored vehicles; antimecha-
drop into them to be unable to climb out. nized weapon. Tank-destroyer guns,
Sometimes called a tank ditch. antitank guns, and grenades are anti-
antitank grenade, high explosive gre- tank weapons.
nade used against tanks or other ar- anvil, rigid metal part in a primer.
mored vehicles; antitank rifle grenade. When a blow from the firing pin forces
It is fired from a rifle by means of a in the primer cap, the charge is com-
special attachment, and it has fins at its pressed against the anvil and set off.
base to keep it steady while in flight so Aoll, aviation oil.
that it strikes nose first. ap, airplane.
antitank gun, gun designed or suitable AP, armor-piercing.
for use against tanks or other armored aperiodic compass, magnetic compass
vehicles, such as a .50-caliber machine in which the pointer comes to rest in the
gun, a 37-mm gun, or guns of larger final position by one direct movement
caliber. and without vibrating.
antitank lookout, w~tcher posted to apers, antipersonnel.
give warning of the approach of enemy apmt, appointment.
tanks. APO, Army post office.
antitank mine, high explosive mine that app, 1. apprehended. 2. apprehension.
explodes when pressure is put on it, 3. appendix.
such as that exerted by a heavy vehicle apparent azimuth, azimuth of the ap-
passing over; tank mine. The explosion parent position of an air target located
of the mine is sufficiently powerful to by sound.
wreck the running gear of a tank, and it apparent elevation, elevation of the ap-
may smash the tank and kill the crew. parent position of an air target located
antitank mine field, 1. area in which by sound.
antitank mines are planted to stop or apparent position, position at which an
slow down enemy tanks or other ar- aircraft seems to be, judged by its sound.
mored vehicles. The apparent position is the point of
2. pattern of antitank mines so placed origin of the sound reaching a listener at
as to stop or slow down the progress of any instant, and is considerably behind.
enemy tanks or other armored vehicles. the true position of the aircraft, because
antitank obstacle, obstruction or bar- of the forward motion of the plane while
rier set up to stop or slow down enemy the sound travels.
tanks or other armored vehicles; tank apparent speed, speed at which the
obstacle. Antitank obstacles include target appears to be moving along the
ditches, wire rolls, concrete pillars and line of apparent motion, which is the
blocks, etc. line perpendicular to the sight axis.
antitank officer, officer who is in charge appendage, something not a part of a
of, and responsible for, all measures for weapon or other equipment, but used in
the protection of a unit against armored connection with it. A bayonet and
vehicles. bayonet scabbard are appendages of a
antitank rifle grenade. See antitank rifle.
grenade. appendix, 1. supplementary material,
antitank rifle grenadier, soldier trained such as books, circuit diagrams, maps,
in the use of grenade-throwing devices tables, or schedules, added to an order
and tactics against armored vehicles. or report.
antitank rocket, rocket grenade used 2. short tube directly connected to a gas
against tanks or other armored vehicles. or air compartment at the bottom of a
It is fired from a special launching tube, balloon, and used for inflation or for
which is held on the shoulder or on a the escape of gas. Abbrev: app
prop when it is fired. The rocket attach- application of fire, placing gunfire upon
ment fires the grenade on the same prin- desired targets or upon a zone.
ciple as a pyrotechnic rocket is shot applicatory system, teaching method in
through the air. which each step of a procedure is ex-
lg
appointed 21 ~area target
plained and demonstrated by the in- approx, approximate.
structor, and then practiced by the class. approximate. Abbrev: approx
appointed. Abbrev: aptd approximate data, position of a target
appointing authority, officer who selects plotted from the first readings taken at
and appoints a board or court to in- the observation stations.
ass.
cts
vestigate and decide a dispute, a ques- apron, 1. area with a hard surface in
tion, or an action between persons under front of a hangar or aircraft shelter.
s- his command. The exercise of this 2. network that slants out from either
nder
authority is a function of command and or both sides of the center stakes of a
not of rank. The appointing authority barbed-wire entanglement.
nd
is also the reviewing authority. 3. removable screen of camouflage ma-

appointment, 1. giving a person a cer- terial placed over, or in front of, artillery
-
tain grade or rank in the armed services. guns.
ces.
2. naming or choosing a person to carry apron shield, sheet of steel attached to
rry
out a duty or duties. Abbrev: apmt a gun to protect the gunners.
apprehended. Abbrev: app aprt, airport.
apprehension. Abbrev: app APS, Army Postal Service.
approach, 1. advance in dispersed for- aptd, appointed.
-
. mation, from the point where light and aptitude test, test for special fitness;
nd
medium artillery fire is encountered to test given to find out what sort of work
o
the point where effective small-arms fire a person has the ability to learn, such
is met. During the approach a route as clerical work, mechanical work, etc.
fire
column is broken up into the final de- APU, Army postal unit.
ployment for combat. AR, Army Regulations.
2. path or route, usually with natural ar, arrest.
protection, leading to an objective. afr, at the rate of.
approach, angle of. See angle or ap- arbitrary correction, correction of fir-
proach. ing data or sound-locator data, applied
a
approach chart, chart, generally with a to correct for observed errors after al-
d by
scale of 1:250,000 or 1:125,000, used by lowance has been made for all known
-
air units in approaching an objective. causes of deviation; adjustment cor-
An approach chart is one kind of aero- rection.
nautical chart. ARC, American National Red Cross.
approach formation, formation taken area, territory in which a military unit
by a unit as it nears a combat area or is operating and which is assigned to
contact with the enemy. that unit; as, an air defense area.
m-
approaching target, moving target com- area bombing, bombing a general area.
of
ing toward a gun. In area bombing, there is no attempt to

l-
approach march, forward movement of hit particular targets in the area. Area
troops to a place within range of small- bombing differs from precision bombing,
tly
re
arms fire. Such a march is made mostly which is bombing at a specific target,
off the roads, in small groups, so as to and from pattern bombing, which is sys-
avoid points within range of enemy fire tematic covering of a target according to
ach
from artillery or aircraft. a plan.
:
approach march formation, arrange- area control, management by a single
up
ment of advancing forces in an approach authority of all traffic on the road net of
march. This formation has two stages: an area. This method is used in large-
ea.
first, the advancing forces are broken up scale operations.

into small. groups; second, the small
s
e
area depot, storage place for supplies
groups are deployed in the combat area. that are used in a particular region.
t
approach trench, trench that provides area fire, fire directed to cover an entire
d by protected communication between the area, either part at a time or all at once.
e.
front and rear of a defensive position. Area fire differs from precision fire,
appropriation, sum of money set apart which is directed against a definite part
for some special use; money provided by of a spe.cific target in an area.
a legislative body for a special purpose. area target, target for gunfire or bomb-
approving authority. See reviewing ing covering a considerable space, such
as a munitions factory, airport, or freight
t
authority.
IQI !11ro
at

arm 22 Arntored Command
yard. An area target differs from a Armd F, Armored Force.
point target, which is a particular object armed forces, all military forces of a
or structure. nation, including such organizations as
arm, 1. weapon for use in war. In this the army, navy, marine corps, and coa...'
meaning, usually called arms. guard; armed services.
2. supply with weapons. Armed Forces Institute, correspond-
3. branch of the Army of the United ence school that prepares and provides
States whose main function is to engage correspondence courses for military per-
directly in combat. The principal arms sonnel who apply for them. The insti-
are Coast Artillery Corps, Field Artil- tute also makes arrangements for mili-
lery, Army Air Forces, Cavalry, and tary personnel to take correspondence
Infantry. The arms are known collec- courses offered by civilian schools, and
tively as the line of the Army. Arm shares the expenses of such courses up
differs from service, a branch of the to a fixed sum. It is under the direction
Army whose chief mission is not combat and control of the War Department.
but supply, administration, transporta- Formerly called Army Institute.
tion, or medical care. armed services. See armed forces.
4. put a fuze in a bomb or projectile arming pin, safety device in the fuze
into proper condition to explode when mechanism of an aerial bon1b. It is au-.
it hits. This may be done by releasing tomatically pulled out when the bomb
the safety by hand, or it may be done is dropped from an aircraft, thus putting
automatically. the bomb into condition to explode when
armament, 1. weapons of a particular it hits.
vehicle, airplane, unit, etc. arming vane, small rotating propeller
2. war equipment and supplies. Arma- attached to the fuze mechanism of a
ment includes all weapons, ammunition, bomb that puts the bomb into condition
vessels, fortifications, and organized to explode \\ hen it hits.
1
personnel, industry, and service.~ used arming wire, wire attached to the fuze
in land, sea, and air warfare. mechanism of bombs. The arming \\ire
armament error, dispersion of shots automatically pulls out the arming pin
from a particular gun; the deviation of when the bomb is dropped from an air-
any shot from the center of impact of a craft, thus putting the bomb into con-
series of shots from a gun after all errors dition to explode when it hits.
of personnel and adjustment have been armistice, temporary stop in fighting
accounted for. between two forces,- armies, or nations
armament officer, special staff officer by agreement on both sides.
in an Army Air Forces unit, who advises arm locker. See arms locker.
his commander on problems of arma- armor, protective covering, especially
ment and who has charge of supply and metal plates, used on ships, tanks, motor
maintenance of weapons and ammuni- vehicles, etc.
tion. His duties are frequently com- armored. Abbrev: armd
bined with those of S-4. armored car, motor vehicle provided
armament train, total group of vehicles with guns and protected by light armor.
used for transportation of guns, ammu- Armored cars are used chiefly as scout
nition, and stores. An armament train cars, but they are also used as ammu-
also quarters the personnel connected nition carriers, personnel carriers, and
with the group while traveling. self-propelled mounts for antiaircraft
arm and hand signals, signs made with artillery and antitank guns. Abbrev:
hands and arms to transmit orders and armdc
brief messages. These signals are used armored combat, fighting carried on by
for simple changes in firing data or forces of armored vehicles, usually sup-
orders, for controlling the movements of ported by motorized infantry, artillery,
vehicles and persons, and for drill and and air units.
combat. Armored Command, branch of the
arm chest. See arms chest. Army Ground Forces trained and equip-
armd, armored. ped to fight with tanks and other mecha-
armd c, armored car. nized vehicles. Formerly called Ar-
Armd Comd, Armored Command. mored Force. Abbrev: Armd Comd
rr1g1na fro
armored force 23 Army Administration School
armored force, combination of motor- armor-piercing shells and armor-pierc-
ized combat vehicles carrying reconnais- ing shot; these classifications are no
sance, assault, and supporting troops longer used.
ais-
from such arms or services as form a armor-piercing shell, former classifica-
-
balanced group for offensive operations. tion of armor-piercing projectile.

Aif such units are now organized as the armor-piercing shot, former classifica-
ns.
Armored Command. tion of armor-piercing projectile.

Armored Force. See Armored Com- armor plate, sheets of steel or iron used
he
mand. Abbrev: Armd F on ships, tanks, aircraft, and other typ~~

Armored Force School. See Armored of fighting equipment to protect them
School. from enemy fire.
Armored School, special service schoolj armory, place or building where arms
ol
of the Armored Command that gives , are stored, or where drill and reviews can
training and instruction in the technique be held.
ue
and tacti~ of armored combat, that de- armr, armorer.

1
velops trained specialists for duty in the arm rack. See arms rack.
de-
field and as instructors~ and that trains arms, weapons for use in war. Some-
he
he
and qualifies men for commission in the tbnes called arm. To arms is a bugle
Armored Command. It is under the call summoning all men to fall in,
ral, supervision of the Commanding General, I equipped for fighting, without delay, at
Army Ground Forces. Formerly called a pla<->e set in advance.
1
Armored Force School. ~ arms chest, box or case used as a port-
armored vehicle, motor car or track- able locker for holding or transporting
es,
laying vehicle protected by steel plates, i small firearms; arm chest.

used for transport, scouting, and com- ! arm signal, signal made with the arms
-j
ed
bat. Armored vehicles include scout to tran8mit an order or message. Arm
cars, armored cars, tanks, self-propelled signals are used to transmit firing data,
artillery, and wheeled or half-track and to control the movement of persons
es carriers. and vehicle.~ in drill or combat.
dj
armorer, man who repairs and services [ arms locker, chest, cupboard, or the like
keep
small anns, fills ammunition belts, and ! used for the safe keeping of small arms;
performs similar duties necessary to keep ; arm locker.
small arms ready for use. arms rack, frame with shelves, niches,
.4.bbrev: armr hooks, or similar devices, used to store
pes
,
armorer-artificer, person in certain types small arms, to protect them, and to pre-
of units who makes minor repairs on vent unauthorized handling; arm rack;
all
weapons, does simple carpentry work, gun rack.

gh
and aids in checking and distributing alii army, largest administrative and tac-
supplies except rations or water. tical unit of a land force, made up of a
armor-piercing, designed to go through number of corps and divisions; field
armor. Armor-piercing projectiles and army.
es
armor-piercing bombs can pierce the Army, all the military forces of a na-
heaviest armor. Abbrev: AP tion, exclusive of the naval forces and,
or
-
armor-piercing ammunition, projectiles in some countries, also exclusive of the
specially designed to go through armor air forces. Abbrev: A
or other material resisting ordinary Army Administration School, special
bullets. These projectiles have a hard- service school that gives training and in-
h
ened steel core. struction in administrative methods and
d
armor-piercing bomb, bomb designed operative procedures relating to person-

to go as far , as possible through very nel and business management of the
thick or heavily armored objects, such Army. It develops trained enlisted
as concrete or steel shelters, armored specialists in administration, and trains
ap
ships, and armored vehicles. and qualifies men for commission in an

armor-piercing projectile, projectile administrative capacity in the branches
- made with a hardened steel core or cap or services to which they may be as-
that enables it to go through armor, signed. It is under the supervision of
concrete, steel, etc. Armor-piercing the Commanding General, Army Serv-
-
projectiles were formerly cla~ified as i('e Forces.

-
Orlg1nal rrom
ed
pes
Army Air Forces 24 Army Extension Courses
Army Air Forces, one of the three ma- under the supervision of the Command-
jor subdivisions of the Army, comprising ing General, Army Service Forces.
all the aviation of the Army, together Army deposit fund, money deposited
with its personnel, equipment, supply, with the United States government by
etc.; Air Forces. Formerly called Air military personnel under regulations
Corps. Abbrev: AAF prescribed by the Secretary of War.
Army Air Forces School of Applied Tac- army depot, supply point, located with-
tics, school that gives advanced train- in the area of an army and designated
ing in air and antiaircraft combat tech- by the army commander, where supplies
niques and in combined air-ground op- from the communications zone or from
erations. It also conducts research in local sources are received, classified,
the science of military aviation. It is stored, and distributed.
under the supervision of the Command- Army Directory, publication of the Ad-
ing General, Army Air Forces. jutant General's Office issued twice a
Army Air Forces Weather Service, sys- year. It gives the names, ranks, or-
tem of weather stations operated by the ganizations, and addresses of Regular
Army Air Forces. Army officers together with a list of the
Army and Navy aircraft code, code official promotions, and other changes
used for communication on joint mis- of status, such as retirements, deaths,
sions of Army and Navy forces when dismissals, etc. Formerly called Army
aircraft are involved. List and Directory.
Army and Navy Staff College, agency Army dog, dog trained to perform such
of the joint Chiefs of Staff that gives special tasks in warfare as guard duty,
senior officers of all arms or services fun- messenger service, or location of the
damental training in the tactics and wounded.
strategy of branches of service other army engineer, senior engineer officer
than their own, followed by final higher in charge of engineer troops assigned to
training in coordinated operations. an army.
Army commitment board, committee Army Engineer Service.
appointed to determine whether a per- Abbrev: A Engr Serv
son under investigation is insane, and, Army exchange, military organization
if he is, whether he should be committed that sells merchandise and services to
to an institution; commitment board. military personnel and other authorized
Army Communication and Equipment persons. Often called exchange or post
Coordination Agency. See Army Com- exchange. Abbrev: PX
munications Board. Army Exchange School, special service
Army Communications Board, support- school that trains officers in the opera-
ing agency of the Chief of Staff which tion and management of Army ex-
coordinates all communication matters changes; Exchange School. Training is
for the Army as a whole. Formerly given in the supervision of personnel,
called Army Communication and Equip- accounting methods, and general busi-
ment Coordination Agency. ness administration. The Army Ex-
army corps. See corps. change School is under the supervision
Army courier service, transmission of of the Commanding General, Army
important official communications by Service Forces.
special courier. This service is main- Army Exchange Service, organization
tained by the registry section of the of the War Department that supervises
Army. Postal Service. It combines the and advises Army exchanges at posts,
safety of registry with the speed of forts, encampments, bases, or tactical
special delivery. organizations. It is supported by small
Army Dental Scho"ol, special service fees assessed against those exchanges.
school that gives instruction and train- Abbrev: A Ex Serv
ing in professional and technical sub- Army Extension Courses, courseJ that
jects pertaining to the dental service of give training by correspondence to offi-
the Medical Department. It maintains cers and specialists. These courses deal
diagnostic laboratories, and engages in with what is to be taught by the officers
research, development, and testing of and specialists in troop schools of the
dental supplies and equipment. It is field forces.
rlg1nal fro
Army Finance School 25 Army Postal Service
Army Finanee School, special service ing in professional and technical subjects
school that gives training in the adminis- pertaining to the medical service of the
trative and technical duties of the Fi- Medical Department. It maintains
nance Department of the Army; Fi- diagnostic laboratories, and engages in
nis-
nance School. It trains soldiers to be research, development, and the testing

specialists in the details of organization of medical supplies and equipment. It
and management of the financial mat- is under the supervision of the Com-
on
ters of the Army, and also qualifies per- manding General, Army Service Forces.
-
sonnel for commission in the Finance army medical service. Abbrev:
er- Department of the Army. It is under A med serv
the supervision of the Commanding Army Mine Planter. Abbrev: AMP
General, Army Service Forces. Army Mine Planter Service, subdivi-
Army General Classification Test, sion of the Coast Artillery Corps whose
basic test for measuring ability to learn, major function is the mining of sea ap-
used as a guide in the classification of proaches to important coastal areas.
military personnel. Abbrev: AMPS
rn,
Army Ground Forces, one of the three Army Motion Picture Service, or-
major subdivisions of the Army, com- ganization that furnishes motion picture
prising all the ground com bat branches entertainment for Army personnel at
es
of the Army, with their personnel, posts, camps, and stations.
equipment, supplies, etc.; Ground Forces. Army nurse, member of the Army
ces.
Abbrev: AGF Nurse Corps who gives nursing care to

Army headquarters. Abbret1: AHQ sick and wounded Army personnel.
Army Industrial College, general serv- Army nurses are commissioned in grades
C.,
ice school located in Washington, D. C., corresponding to those of Army officers.
that trains officers in the strategy of Also called nurse.
ds
military supply, teaches wartime needs Army Nurse Corps, part of the Medical
n of industrial organization, mobilization Department of the Army consisting of
per-
of materials, and the technique of super- nurses whose duties are to organize and
'\jsion of the obtaining of military provide nursing care of the sick and
supplies. wounded; Nurse Corps. Abbrev: ANC
Army Institute. See Armed Forces In- army of occupation, army established
stitute. in conquered territory to maintain order
Army List and Directory. See Army and to insure the carrying out of peace
e
Directory. or armistice terms.
Army mail clerk, enlisted person in the Army of the United States, temporary
s Army authorized under the Post Office military organization of the United
es. Department to perform postal services States, established in time of war or
s-
in military posts, reservations, or bases. national emergency. It includes the
gis-
These duties include receiving and dis- Regular Army, the National Guard of
tributing mail, selling stamps, and regis- the United States, the National Guard
tering letters. while in federal service, the Organized
Army Medical Center, professional Reserves, all Selective Service personnel,
-
service schools of the. Medical Depart- and all officers who are appointed in the
es
ment at Washington, D. C. The Army Army of the United States but not in
Medical Center includes the medical, any particular component. It differs
dental, and veterinary schools, provides from the United States Army, which in-
t
training, maintains laboratories, and cludes only the permanent military
-
carries on research. Abbrev: AMC forces such as the Regular Army, the
ies
army medical laboratory, medical unit N a tiona! Guard of the United States,
s
assigned to an army. It provides medi- and the Organized Reserves.

cal service with certain medical supplies Abbrev: AUS
and performs laboratory examinations Army Postal Inspection Service, organ-
and investigations, mainly in the field ization set up as part of the Army Postal
-
of preventive medicine. Service to inspect conditions and pro-
ects Abbret1: A med lab cedure, and investigate complaints and
he
Army Medical School, special service irregularities in Army post offices.
school that gives instruction and train- Army Postal Service, subdivision of
ng
in
i_1 I ro
es.
Army postal unit 26 arsine
the Adjutant General's Department that I Service Forces. It includes all vessels
handles mail for troops at posts, camps, and personnel under the control of the
and stations, as well as overseas. War Department that are utilized in
Abbrev: APS transportation of troops and supplies by
Army postal unit. Abbrev: APU water. Abbrev: ATS
Army post office, post office at or near army troops, those troops allotted to an
the headquarters of a particular unit, or army which do not belong to its divisions
located in the field. It receives and dis- or corps. Army troops are utilized for
tributes mail, sells stamps, registers army missions or for attachment to
letters, and gives other postal services. corps or divisions for special purposes
Abbrev: APO and usually for a limited time.
Army Register, annual publication in Army Veterinary School, special serv-
book form, issued by the AQ.jutant ice school that gives instruction and
General's Office, that gives the names of training in professional and technical
Regular Army officers, active and re- subjects pertaining to the veterinary
tired, brief summaries of the training service of the Medical Department. It
and service of each, and similar infor- n1aintains diagnostic laboratories, and
mation. engages in research, development, and
Army Regulations, policies and rules testing of veterinary supplies and equip-
for the governing of the Army. They men t. It is under the supervision of the
are issued by the War Department, Commanding General, Army Service
usually as printed pamphlets, and have Forces.
the force of law a]though they are not a Army War College, general service
part of the statute law. school operated in peacetime for train-
Abbrev: 'AR ing senior officers of the Army in the
Arnty serial number, number assigned most advanced courses in military
to each member of military personnel on science, command, and administration.
entering military service, used for pur- It is located in Washington, D. C.
poses of identification. Abbrev: ASN Abbrev: AWC
army service area, area at the rear of arrest. Abbrev: ar
a combat zone where the administrative arresting gear, device in airplanes and
establishments and service troops for an on small landing areas to stop a plane
army are located. quickly after landing. With arresting
Army Service Forces, one of the three gear an airplane can land on a short
major subdivisions of the Army. It pro- runway such as the flight deck of an
vides general administration, transpor- aircraft carrier.
tation, supply, evacuation, and other arrest in quarters, restriction of a per-
services to meet the requirements of the son to the building, room, or other
Army. Formerly called Services of place where he lives. Arrest in quarters
Supply. Abbrev: ASF may be applied to any person subject
Army Specialized Training Program, to military law while awaiting trial by
higher education of military value, such court-martial, or other action on his
as science, engineering, or medicine, case. It is done when the rank of the
given in approved civilian colleges to accused person or the nature of his
selected enlisted men under military offense does not warrant confinement
discipline. The Army Specialized Train- under guard.
ing Program is for men 22 years or older arrival card. See embarkation card.
who have had at least a year of college arrival time, hour at which the head of
education. Men who are between the a column, or other specified part of a
ages of 18 and 21 and who have grad- column, reaches a given point.
uated from high school are given basic ars, arsenal.
specialized training. Abbrev: ASTP arsenal, building or station for manu-
Army Specialized Training Reserve Pro- facturing, repairing, storing, or issuing
gram. Abbrev: ASTRP weapons and ammunition. Abbrev: ars
Army Specialized Training Unit. arsine, colorless, inflammable, poison-
Abbrev: ASTU oas gas that has a sickening, garlic-
Army Transport Service, tlubdivision like odor. It is used in cylinders, shells,
of the Transportation Corp.s of the Army and bombs for chemical warfare. Arsine
rr1g1na fro
article of war 27 ASC
affects the red blood cells and kidneys artillery cart is attached to a field gun
rather than the skin, lungs, or nose for traveling.
s
membranes. Symbol: SA artillery drill, practice by an artillery
article of war. Abbrev: AW unit in taking the proper positions of
Articles of War, code of laws govern- guns, vehicles, equipment, supplies, and
ing the conduct of all persons in the troops.
Army or subject to military law. The artillery engineer, member of the spe-
Articles define military offenses, pre- cial staff of an artillery unit who advis~q
scribe the composition and procedure the commander on the maintenance and
of courts-martial, and fix the punish- operation of fire-control systems, com-
ment for each crime. The correspond- munications, searchlights, and power
ing code of the United States Navy is plants and lines. He is also in charge of
called "Articles for the Government of the procurement and maintenance of the
the United States Navy." Abbrev: AW engineer and signal corps equipment
artif, artificer. needed by his organization.
_'\rtificer, soldier skilled with his hands artillery gun book, record book of a
in one kind of work, such as carpentry, gun. It is used for keeping data on the
y,
painting, blacksmithing, etc. Abbrev: performance, maintenance, and inspec-

artif tion of a gun.
ws
artificial horizon, instrument that shows artillery horse. Abbrev: arty h
o
the position of an aircraft in relation to artillery liaison officer.
the horizon; substitute for a natural Abbrev: Arty Ln 0
horizon in an aerial navigation instru- artillery mechanic, member of an artil-
ment. An artificial horizon is usually a lery gun section who inspects, main-
pendulum, gyroscope, or liquid level. tains, and makes repairs on artillery
by
artificial obstacle, obstacle prepared by guns.

human agency to slow down or delay artillery mil, American unit of angle
y
the advance of the enemy. Commonly measurement equal to 1/6400 of a circle.

used artificial obstacles are mine fields, Scales of sighting instruments are shown
ds,
antitank ditches, wire entanglements, in artillery mils. An artillery mil is

n
barricades, and demolitions. slightly smaller than an infantry mil.
artillery, 1. guns of larger ealiber than 100 artillery mils =98.2 infantry mils.
and machine guns. artillery officer, 1. senior officer in the
2. equipment, supplies, ammunition, and artillery section of a large unit. He is
personnel involved in the use of such the adviser to the commander and staff
guns. on artillery matters.
ast
3. branches of the Army assigned to 2. officer of the artillery branches of the

the
operate artillery weapons, namely Coast service.
Artillery Corps and Field Artillery. artillery plan, plan that is worked out
4. science of firing, and coordinating the for the use, coordination, and control of
firing, of guns of larger caliber than artillery units in a particular combat
machine guns. operation.
Abbrev: arty artillery position, place from which th
artillery ammunition, ammunition for guns of an artillery unit fire.
all cannon of 20 mm. (.787 inches) or artillery preparation, heavy artillery firE-
larger. delivered before an attack to disrupt
artillery annex, information and in- communications and disorganize the
structions issued with a field order to enemy's defense; preparation.
e
cover the details regarding the use of artillery survey, observation and map-
n-
artillery. An artillery annex is issued ping of a ground area for the purpose of
to make the field order clearer or to finding the locations of targets and the
give further details which would make positions from which the most effective
-
the field order too long if they were in- fire can be delivered on them.
n-
cluded in the order. arty, artillery.

n
artillery brigade. Abbrev: Arty Brig Arty Brig, artillery brigade.

artillery cart, trailer that carries equip- arty h, artillery horse.
ment used by artillery units for fire con- Arty ~n 0, artillery liaison officer.
trol, communication, and mapping. An ASC, Air s~rvice Command.
and
1 1 I ro
-
es
ascending branch 28 assistant adjutant
ascending branch, part of the curved or come together in close formation.
path of a projectile, extending from the 3. put together the parts of a gun or
muzzle of the gun to the highest point other mechanism.
the projectile reaches in its flight. assembly, 1. signal given by drum or
AS Conti, air support control. bugle for units of troops to gather or
ASF~ Army Service Forces. come together in close formation.
asgd, assigned. 2. grouping of units in close forn1ation.
asgmt, assignment. 3. point in the air to which all units of
ash, airship. an air force are assigned.
Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Ribbon, serv- 4. group of two or more parts of a weap-
ice ribbon authorized to be worn by on or other piece of equipment that
military personnel serving under orders function together.
in the Asiatic-Pacific theater in World 5. the putting together of the parts of a
War II. gun or other mechanism.
ASN, Army serial number. assembly area, area in which the ele-
ASP, ammunition supply point. ments of a command are assembled pre-
A Spt C, air support command. paratory to further action; assembly
A Spt Conti, air support control. point; assembly position.
assault, 1. final phase of an attack; clos- assembly point. See assembly area.
ing with the enemy in hand-to-hand assembly position. See assembly area.
fighting. assembly trench, trench in which
2. make a short, violent, but well- troops are organized preparatory to
ordered attack against a local objective, action.
such as a gun emplacement, a fort, or a assign, place an individual, unit, or
machine-gun nest. item of equipment in a military organi-
assault boat, small boat used to carry zation so that the individual, unit, or
troops and weapons across a river, in item so placed becomes an organic part
order to make an attack; storm boat. of the organization. Assign differs from
If silence is required in making the attach, which means place temporarily,
assault, assault boats propelled by pad- not as an organic part of an organization.
dles are used; if speed is required, as- assigned, placed in a military organiza-
sault boats propelled by outboard motion so as to become an organic part of
tors are used. it. Assigned differs from attached, which
assault course, area of ground used for means placed temporarily, not as an
training soldiers in attacking an enemy organic part of an organization.
in close combat. On an assault course, Abbretg asgd
soldiers are trained especially in the use assignment, 1. placing an individual,
of the rifle and bayonet in hand-to-hand unit, or item of equipment in a military
combat. organization so that the individual, unit,
assault echelon, one or more units of or item becomes an organic part of the
an attacking force used in close combat organization.
to begin and lead the attack; assault 2. duty to which an individual or unit is
wave. assigned. Abbrev: asgmt
assault fire, fire delivered by attacking assignment group, group classification
troops as they close in _on an enemy to according to which Reserve officers are
engage him at close range or in hand-to- assigned to units of the Army. There
hand fighting; advancing fire. Assault are th~e groups: general, service com-
fire is delivered by troops usually ad- mand, and arm and service. Officers in
vancing at a walk. the general assignment group are under
assault gun, any of various sizes and the jurisdiction of the Adjutant General;
types of guns that are self-propelled or those in the service command group are
mounted on tanks and are used for di- under the jurisdiction of the service com-
rect fire from close range against point mander; those in the arm and service
targets. group are under the jurisdiction of the
assault wave. See assault echelon. chief of the arm or service concerned.
assemble, 1. gather or come together in assistant. Abbrev: asst
close formation. assistant adjutant, officer who assistA
thP adjutant gfr ~ unil f lT'hder the adju-
2. command for units of troops to gather
1
assistant chief of staft' 29 attached
tant, he is in charge of one or more of the ASTU, Army Specialized Training Unit.
functions of the adjutant, such as per- ASW, Assistant Secretary of War.
f the
sonnel records. as you were, command canceling
- assistant chief of staff, assistant to the another command that has not yet been
chief of staff of an organization that has carried out, or dire9ting soldiers to re-
e
a general staff. An assistant chief of turn to the formation or movement that

as
staff is in charge of one of the subdivi- preceded the last command.

sions of the general staff of the or- AT, antitank.
ganization. ATC, Air Transport Command.
-
Assistant Chief of Staff, executive as- atchd, attached.

sistant to the Chief of Staff of the Army. at close interval, preparatory command
my.
He is head of one of the divisions of the that establishes the distance between
he War Department General Staff. persons for certain drill movements
Abbrev: ACofS that will follow.
Assistant Chief of the Air Staff, any at ease, 1. position of rest in which
one of the several officers serving as soldiers may relax, but may not leave
assistants to the Chief of Staff of the their places or talk.
s.
Commanding General, Army Air Forces. 2. command to take this position. At
e
He is the executive head of one of the ease is also often used as an order for
he
main administrative subdivisions of the silence.
h
headquarters of Anny Air Forres, such at ease march, command that permits
as personnel, training, plans, intelli- troops to break step and relax from at-
gence, etc. tention, but that requires them to main-
my
assistant director, 1. officer in the Army tain silence.

nt
Nurse Corps who has a rank equivalent atk, attack.

to that of a captain. Atlas grid, system of lines drawn on an
2. officer in the former Women's Army aerial photograph to divide it into
y
t
Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) who had a squares so that points on it can be lo-
rank equivalent to that of a lieutenant cated readily. The lines are always 1. 8
a colonel. inches apart, regardless of the scale of
ter,
assistant engineer, \Varrant officer on a the photograph. An Atlas grid is used
of
transport, supply vessel, or mine planter, instead of a military grid on aerial
el.
who is in charge, under the engineer, of photographs when variations of scale in

the mechanical operation of his vessel. the photograph or group of photographs
of
Assistant Secretary of War, civilian make a scale grid useless.

executive assistant to the Secretary of ATS, Army Transport Service.

War, ranking next below the Under attach, place an individual or a unit
Secretary of War. Abbrev: ASW temporarily in a military organization
ork Assistant Secretary of War for Air, for duty, rations, or quarters without
he
person in the War Department who making the individual or unit an organic
assists the Secretary of War in the work part of the military organization. At-
e
of the War Department that affects the tach differs from assign, which means
Army Air Forces. Abbrev: AFSW A place as an organic part of an organiza-
t
assistant superintendent, officer in the tion.

Army Nurse Corps who may have a attache (AT a SHAY), person serving
nge
rank equivalent to that of a lieutenant on the official staff of an ambassador or
ght.
colonel, or a major, or a captain. minister to a foreign country. A mili-
ht asst, assistant. tary attache is a military observer who
astigmatizer, device attached to a range reporUJ to his own government on the
finder jor observing small lights at night. military plans and developments of the
An astigmatizer distorts a point of light country in which he is stationed.
l
into a band. attached, placed temporarily in a mili-

ASTP, Army Specialized Training tary organization for duty, rations, or
Program. quarters without becoming an organic
astronomical navigation. See celestial part of the military organization. At-
navigation. tached differs from assigned, which
ASTRP, Army Spec:-.iali:red Training means placed as an organic part of an
een
ResPrve Program. organization We speak of at ..
-
r1 1
at
attached unassigned 30 automatic
tached artillery, an attached company, 2. command to take this position.
attached personnel, or attached medical attention to orders, command given by
personnel. Abbrev: atchd the adjutant of a military organization
attached unassigned, placed tempo- to announce that he is about to issue
rarily in a military organization for duty, orders.
rations, or quarters, without becoming at the rate of. Abbrev: a/r
an organic part of the military organiza- attitude, tip or tilt of an aircraft; posi-
tion and without being an organic part tion of an aircraft in relation to the
of any other organization. surface of the earth, the horizon, or
attached unit, unit placed temporarily other reference plane.
under the direct orders of another unit atzd, authorized.
to which it does not organically belong. AUS, Army of the United States.
attachment, placement of an individual AUTGR, authority granted. AUTGR
or unit temporarily in a military organi- is a code abbreviation used in transmit-
zation for duty, rations, or quarters ting telegrams and teletype messages.
without making the individual or unit auth, authority or authorities.
an organic part of that military organi- authentication, proof by proper signa-
zation. ture or seal that a military order, paper,
attack, 1. offensive action directed or record is genuine and official; proof by
against the enemy. secret signal that a message is genuine.
2. phase of an offensive operation that authenticator, code signal sent with a
involves an advance combined with fire radio message as proof that it is genuine.
and that usually ends with fighting at authorities. Abbrev: auth
close range. authority, 1. power to command or take
3. approach of an airplane on a target to action; right of military personnel to
fire on it. give orders, enforce obedience, and take
4. make an attack. all necessary measures in carrying out
Abbrev: atk duties.
attack airplane, name formerly given 2. individual, organization, or office that
to a light bombardment airplane. exercises the power to command or take
attack, angle of. See angle of attack. action. Abbrev: auth
attack formation, formation or arrange- authorized. Abbrev: atzd
ment of the parts of a combat unit for authorized stoppage, deduction of a
making an attack against the enemy. sum of money from a soldier's pay that
attack order, field order giving instruc- is provided for in Army Regulations or
ti-ons and directions for carrying out an other rules or policies. Authorized stop-
attack against the enemy. pages of pay are made to satisfy court-
attack position, last covered or con- martial fines, to meet debts owed to the
cealed position taken by an attacking Army or for which the Army serves as
force before moving off to the line from collecting agent, or to pay allotments,
which the attack is launched. Here insurance premiums, etc.
commanders of attacking units make auto, automatic.
final contact with cooperating troops autogyro, heavier-than-air aircraft, able
before launching their attack. to take off rapidly, climb steeply, and
attack wave, the part of a combat unit land with almost no run; gyro plane. An
that carries out the actual attack against autogyro is supported in flight largely
an enemy. Generally each attack wave by the action of air on a set of freely re-
is followed and supported by another volving planes or blades, rather than by
attack wave. fixed wings as in an airplane. It is
attention, 1. prescribed erect position moved forward by an ordinary. motor-
of readiness and alertness with eyes driven propeller.
straight ahead, hands at the sides, heels autoloading, loading itself. An auto-
together, and toes turned out at an loading gun has a mechanism that
angle of 45 degrees. Similar positions throws out the used shell, puts in a new
of attention are prescribed for mounted one, and prepares the gun to be fired
individuals, persons carrying weapons, again, but does not fire it.
etc. Complete silence and immobility automatic, 1. self-acting; moving or
are required. acting b~ itself. An automatic gun
1_ a
I
automatic anchor 31 aviation
throws out the used shell, puts in a new automobile flag, flag on the official car
one, and continues to fire until the pres- of the President of the Unit~d States, of
sure on the trigger is released. Auto- the Secretary of War, of a general officer,
ew matic means completely self-acting as etc., that indicates the position or rank
es-
distinguished from semiautomatic, which of the person using it.
means partly self-acting. aux, auxiliary.
s
2. automatic pistol. Abbrev: auto auxiliary, 1. person or organization that

hich
automatic anchor, anchor that holds a assists or supports a military unit in

submarine mine at a given depth below carrying out a duty or task.
a
the surface of the water. 2. assisting or supporting a military unit
ow
automatic direction finder, radio in- in carrying out a duty or task.
strument in an aircraft that continues to 3. member of the former Women's Army
point toward any radio station to which Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) who had a
to
it is tuned. It is used to aid in the rank equivalent to that of a private in
ch
navigation of an aircraft. 1
the Army. Abbrev: aux
automatic feed mechanism, mechanism auxiliary aiming point, point or object
in an automatic gun that puts fresh used for laying a gun on a target that
shells into the chamber in position for cannot be seen. The gunner adjusts th
sm
firing. gun so that when the sight is aimed at

automatic fire, continuous fire from an the auxiliary aiming point the gun is
n
automatic gun until the pressure on the laid on the target.
he trigger is released. Automatic fire dif- auxiliary airdrome. See satellite field.
fers from semiautomatic fire, which re- auxiliary arm, branch of the Army
e-
quires a separate trigger pull for each that assists or supports another branch
shot fired. of the Army in carrying out a mission.
automatic firearm. See automatic gun. For example, an auxiliary arm such as
automatic gun, firearm, gun, or cannon the Chemical Warfare Service may as-
n.
on
ure
that fires continuously until the pressure sist infantry in carrying out a mission.
ire-
on the trigger is released; automatic fire- auxiliary landing gear, device on an
arm; automatic weapon. aircraft that is used in addition to the
e- automatic pilot, automatic steering d~ main landing gear to give the aircraft
i-
"\'ice in an airplane; gyropilot; mechani- extra balance in landing or taking off.
cal pilot; robot pilot. An automatic Tail wheels, nose wheels, or outboard
a
pilot works on the same principle as a pontoons are auxiliary landing gear.
gyroscope in resisting. change in posi- auxiliary target, point at a known dis-
tion. It is linked with the steering 1 tance from the actual target; registra-
controls of the aircraft so that it keeps tion target. An auxiliary target is used
s
el
the aircraft on a set course and in level as an adjusting point before firing on the
flight. . actual target. Fire is delivered and ad-
y automatic pistol, pistol that has a justed on the auxiliary target. When
s
mechanism that throws out the empty the adjustment is complete, the neces-
shell, puts in a new .one, and prepares sary correction is put on the gun to swing
the pistol to be fired again. it over to the actual target. Auxiliary
automatic pitch propeller, propeller targets are used when fire on the actual
whose blades are so attached to the targets is intended to surprise the enemy.
bub that the pitch is automatically auxiliary vessel, vessel that is not a
-
adjusted to the best setting while the combat vessel and is used in military
propeller is in motion. operations. An auxiliary vessel may be
ifle
automatic rifle, rifle that has a mecha- a tral}.sport, a hospital ship, or a mine
e nism that throws out the empty shell, sweeper.
emi-
puts in a new one, and prepares the rifle aviation, 1. aircraft and the personnel
to be fired again. Recent models of the needed to operate, maintain, and repair
automatic rifle are capable of either semi- them. Military aviation is usually di-
automatic or full automatic fire. They vided into four main operating divisions:
are carried and fired like a regulation combat aviation, experimental aviation,
n.
r
rifle. special purpose aviation, and training
of
automatic weapon. See automatic gun. aviation.
cer,
Abbrev: AW 2. art of flying in airplanes; navigation
rlglnal rrom
k

at
aviation badge 32 ax man
of heavier-than-air aircraft. In this flank observation, which is observation
meaning, aviation is distinguished from of fire from an angle greater than
aerostatics, which is the art or science of 75 degrees, and also from unilateral
operating lighter-than-air aircraft. observation, which is observation of fire
Abbrev: avn from an angle between 5 degrees and
aviation badge, badge, consisting of a 75 degrees.
pair of silver wings, that is worn by the axial road, former name for principal
flying personnel of the Army Air Forces. supply road.
A design stamped on the wings shows axial spotting. See axial observation.
the classification of the wearer, such as axis, 1. imaginary or real line that passes
pilot, bombardier, navigator, observer, through an object and about which the
etc. object turns or seems to turn. A verti-
aviation cadet, student in training for cal line through the center of a spinning
a commission as a second lieutenant or top or the shaft on which a wheel or
appointment as a flight officer in the cylinder turns is an axis.
Army Air Forces. Formerly called a 2. imaginary central or principal line
flying cadet. around which parts are arranged regu-
aviation gasoline. Abbrev: Agas larly. The central line of the bore of a
aviation kit bag, case that holds field gun is its axis.
medical equipment. It is dropped by 3. principal line along which movement,
parachute for the medical detachment of communication, etc., take place. The
an airborne unit, or worn by the per- central route of a communication sys-
sonnel of such a detachment. tem is its axis.
aviation oil. Abbrev: Aoil axis of advance, line of advance, often
aviation pay, fifty percent increase in a road or group of roads or a designated
pay that is given to military personnel series of locations, extending in the di-
required to make regular and frequent rection of the enemy.
aircraft flights; flight pay; flying pay. axis of evacuation, route by which ma-
aviator's helmet, warm leather or cloth teriel and personnel may be sent to the
,
headgear, often provided with earphones, rear.
used in aircraft. axis of movement, line along which
avn, aviation. troops move either toward the front or
AW, l. article of war; Articles of War. toward the rear.
2. aircraft warning. axis of sighting, line taken through the
3. automatic weapons. sights of a gun.
a ward, decoration or reward given to axis of signal communication, line or
a soldier for meritorious service. An route on which lie the starting position
award may be a medal, citation, etc. and probable future locations of the
Some awards entitle the recipient to ad- command post of a unit, during a troop
ditional pay at the rate of $2.00 per movement. The axis of signal commu-
month. nication is the main route along which
AWC, Army War College. messages are relayed or sent to and from
AW Co, aircraft warning company. combat units in the field.
AW filling, phosphorus and a solution axis of supply, route by which supplies
of rubber and gasoline that is used in are brought forward.
certain types of incendiary grenade. The axis of supply and evacuation, route
solution of rubber and gasoline sticks to in a combat zone by which supplies are
surfaces and burns for 6 to 8 minutes. brought forward and materiel and per-
The phosphorus prevents the rubber and sonnel may be sent to the rear.
gasoline solution from being put out by axis of the bore, imaginary central line
water. of the bore of a gun.
AWOL, absent without leave. axis of trunnions, axis about which a
A'VS, aircraft warning service. gun is rotated in elevation to increase or
axial observation, observation of gun- decrease the range of fire.
fire from a point on the line joining the axman, member of a surveying party
gun and the target or not more than 5 who clears brush, sets stakes, takes
degrees to either side of it; axial spot- measurements, reads maps, and has the
ting. Axial observation differs from . care of survey equipment.
rr1g1n fro
azimuth 38 azimuth tracking telescope
azimuth, expression of horizontal direc- gun position and a directing point.
tion as an angle from north. The azi- Also called parallax.
c- muth of a point is the angle formed at azimuth display board, blackboard or
the observer between a north-south other board on which azimuth firing
t
line and a line from the observer to the data are marked up for the information
point. It is measured in degrees or mils of a gun crew.
he
clockwise from north. The horizontal azimuth indicator, electrical instrument

ls
direction in which a. gun is laid is com- on some guns that shows the azimuth or
-
monly expressed as an azimuth. The deflection to be used. An azimuth in-
north-south line may be true north, dicator is part of a remote control
magnetic north, or grid north. system.
azimuth adjustment slide rule, circu- azimuth Instrument, telescopic instru-
lar slide rule by which a known angular ment used for measuring horizontal an-
ar
correction for fire at one elevation can gles, usually azimuths.

n
be changed to the proper correction for azimuth micrometer, instrument for

or
any other elevation. An azimuth ad- measuring azimuths with which very
ec-
justment slide rule is used to find correc- exact readings are made.
tions for high-angle guns, such as the azimuth of attack, direction of attack
mortar or howitzer. expressed as an azimuth.
- azimuth circle, instrument for measur- azimuth scale, graduated angle-meas-
ing azimuths. It is a graduated circle uring device on instruments, gun car-
etc.
on a sight, gun carriage, searchlight, etc. riages, etc., that indicates azimuth.
azimuth deviation, angular difference azimuth tracking telescope, tele~cope
e
between the lines from the gun to the with which the course or direction of a
target and from the gun to the point moving target is tracked. It is a part
ce
'\Vhere a projectile strikes. of a director, a combined observing and
m
azimuth difference, apparent difference computing instrument, that calculates
in the position of an object viewed from firing data for the future position of the
t w~ different points, especially from a target .
on
nt
h or
n-
e

a
nd
he
Orlg1nal rrom
bacnetor olficers' quarters 34 ballistic density
bachelor officers' quarters. Abbrtro: BOQ baggage train, group of motor trucks
back azimuth, angular expression of or other conveyances carrying the equip-
the oppoSite direction from a given ment of military units.
azimuth along a given line. When the bakery. Abbrev: bkry
azimuth is known, the back azimuth is balance, steadiness; steady condition
calculated by adding or subtracting 180 or position. The balance of a rifle is the
degrees or 3200 mils to or from the azi- point at which the weight is evenly di-
muth. For example, if the azimuth vided lengthwise, or its center of gravity.
from the observer to the target is 85 de- The balance of an aircraft is a condition
grees, the back azimuth, which is equal leading to steady, straight, horizontal
to the- azimuth from the target to the flight.
observer, is 265 degrees. balk, timber put lengthwise in a trestle
back-azimuth method, method of locat- or floating bridge.
ing an observer's position on a map or ball ammunition, cartridges containing
chart with a very accurate angle-measur- solid bullets. Ball a1nmunition is
ing instrument. It is done by measuring general purpose small-anns ammunition.
the azimuth of three visible points that ballast~ 1. heavy material carried in a
are located on the map or chart, and ship to steady it.
drawing through each point a line or ray 2. weight carried in a balloon or dirigible
with its calculated back azimuth. The to control its buoyancy.
point where the lines or rays intersect 3. cru8hed gravel or rock used in making
is the location of the observer's position. the bed for a railroad track or a road.
The back-azimuth method is one kind ball cartridge, projectile that consists of
of resection. a cartridge case, a primer, powder, and
back pack parachute, parachute at- a solid bullet. Ball e.artridges are gen-
tached to a harness so that it can be eral purpose small-arms ammunition for
worn across the wearer's upper back, standard service.
thus permitting greater freedom of ballistic, having to do with the motion
movement. or throwing of projectiles; as, ballistic
back plate, plate at the rear of the curve, ballistic wind.
breech mechanism of certain automatic ballistic area, space lying between the
guns. centers of impact of two groups of shots,
backsight, sighting in a backward di- one consisting entirely of shots over the
rection or toward a former station. target, the other entirely of shots short
back step, single step 15 inches straight of the target. .. ~
to the rear of a given standing position. ballistic coefficient, number that repre-
The back step, like the side step, is used sents the power of a projectile to over-
for short distances only and is never come air resistance and keep up its
executed at double time. speed during flight. The coefficient is
badge, medal, ribbon, or other device calculated from a formula that makes
worn on the uniform to show that the allowancec3 for all factors that affect the
wearer has been awarded a decoration or flight of the projectile, such as its shape,
other honor, or to show his organization, weight, diameter, density of air, direc-'
rank, or, in some cases, the type of tion of the wind, and temperature.
duty he is performing. ballistic correction, adjustment in fir-
baffle, wall or screen that controls the ing data that is based on conditions
flow of air, water, or gas, by hindering affecting the flight of a projectile. It
its movement or changing its course. allows for such factors as wind, tempera-
Baffles are used extensively in motor ture, etc. It does not include adjust-
mufflers, gun muzzle brakes, and air- ment based on observation of fire.
cooled motors. ballistic curve, actual path or trajec-
baffle grease trap, container that is tory of a bullet or shell as influenced by
divided into an inlet and outlet chamber wind, etc.
by a baffle or screen by which grease ballistic density, assumed constant air
and debris are separated from liquid density that would have the same total
waste matter. effect on a projectile during its flight as
bag, baggage. the varying densities actually encoun-
baggage. A bbrev: bag tered.
Orlg1nal fro
ballistic director 35 band of fire
ballistic director, combined observing A balloon floats in the air and may or
and predicting instrument that com- may not have means of propelling itself.
putes firing data for the future position Balloons are classified according to their
of a moving target. A ballistic director use as observation, barrage, meteoro-
makes corrections for actual conditions logical, etc., and according to construc-
n
of wind, atmospheric density, tempera- tion as ballonet, rigid, semirigid, non-

ture, muzzle velocity, etc. rigid, etc. Abbrev: bln
ballistic efficiency, ability of a projectile
ns
a-
balloon barrage, protective screen of
to overcome the resistance of the air. balloons that are moored to the ground
le
Ballistic efficiency depends chiefly on and kept at given heights to prevent
the weight, diameter, and shape of the or hinder operations by enemy aircraft
projectile. at low levels over a given point or area.
e
ballistics, science or study of the motion Steel cables or nets often hang from the
of projectiles, such as bullets, shells, balloons to make it dangerous for air-
on
bombs, etc. Interior ballistics is the craft to fly beneath them. Also called
study of the motion of projectiles within barrage.
hin
the bore of a gun, to determine the Balloon Barrage Training Center.
effect of weight, dimensions, rifling, etc. Abbrev: BBTC
tc.
Exterior ballistics is the study of the balloon bed, space on the ground where
motion of projectiles after they leave a balloon is moored, deflated, inflated.
the muzzle of a gun, to determine the or inspected, and from which it is flown.
e
effects of wind, air density, etc. balloon observation, observation and

ballistic table, list of the standard con- direction of artillery fire from a balloon
-
ditions that affect the flight of a projec- moored to the ground.

c-
tile. Ballistic tables show figures for balloon observer, soldier who observes
and
such factors as range, time of flight, and and directs . artillery fire from his place
"
muzzle velocity for a given projectile.' in a balloon that is moored to the
ballistic wave, disturbance or wave ground.
caused by the compression of the air balloon pilot, 1. classification or rating
ve;
ahead of a projectile in flight; bow wave; given to a member of the Army Air
shell wave. Forces who is qualified to pilot a bal-
ballistic wind, assumed constant wind loon.
on
that would have the same total effect on 2. person who has this rating.
lly
a projectile traveling from the gun to balloon site, area on the ground where
the target as the varying winds actually a balloon is moored. A balloon site in-
encountered. cludes the place where it is fastened
ballistite, smokeless powder used as a down, the machinery for winding and
propelling charge in small-arms and unwinding the cable attached to the
mortar ammunition. Ballistite is made balloon, the space where it is inflated,
of nitrocellulose and nitroglycerin. deflated, or inspected, the place from
and
ballonet, air or gas compartment in a which it is flown, and the area over
balloon used to control its buoyancy and which the balloon is maneuvered.
to maintain its shape under varying ball turret, gun turret, shaped like a
es.
will
pressures, used extensively in dirigibles. ball, on the lower or bottom part of a
ballonet balloon, balloon designed so bomber. ~ ball turret is power-driven,
m-
that the shape of the outer envelope will and can swing its guns to deliver fire in
a _remain the same. It contains one or any direction.
s,
more sections consisting of a gas cham- band, 1. two or more lines of wire en-
ber and an air chamber separated by a tanglements or other obstacles, ar-
ir
fabric diaphragm. As the gas expands, ranged one behind the other. Each line
-
it exerts a downward pressure on the of obstacles is called a belt.

diaphragm and forces air out of the air 2. path of fire, usually from machine
chamber. As the gas contracts, there- guns.
verse is true; and the air chamber is 3. particular range of wave lengths in
r.
then filled with air through an air hole radio broadcasting.
or scoop. band of fire, fire, usually from one or
elf.
balloon, aircraft consisting of a bag more automatic guns, that gives a cone
heir
filled with a gas that is lighter than air. of dispersion so dense that a man trying
-
c-
r1g1nal fro
bandoleer 86 barraee fire
to cross the line of fire would probably of a vessel that provides that the Gov-
be hit. It is grazing fire, or at least ernment take over and operate the
part of it is grazing fire. A band of fire vessel, furnish all supplies and provi-
may be used as a final protective line. sions, provide officers and crew, and
bandoleer~ cloth belt that is divided assume responsibility for upkeep and re-
into pockets for holding cartridges or pair. A bare boat charter differs from
clips of cartridges for small arms. A a time charter, in which the vessel is
shoulder strap is attached to it so that maintained and operated by the owner,
it can be carried easily over the shoulder who also provides the personnel and
and across the breast. equipment needed.
B&Q, barracks and quarters. barge, large, flat-bottomed boat used
Bangalore torpedo, metal tube or pipe to transport men, equipment, or sup-
that is packed with a high explosive plies in shallow water.
charge. A Bangalore torpedo is chiefly barograph, instrument that automati-
used to clear a path through barbed wire cally records changes in air pressure.
or mine fields. barorneter, instrument for measuring
bank, position of an aircraft when it is air pressure. A barometer is used in de-
tilted to one side in flight. termining the height above sea level
bank and turn indicator, instrument and in predicting probable changes in
on an aircraft that shows the rate of turn, the weather.
the direction of the turn, and the amount barrack bag. See barracks bag.
of bank or tilt. Also called turn and barracks, building or group of buildings
bank indicator. used as living quarters for soldiers.
bank, angle of. See angle of bank. Abbrev: bks
bank indicator, instrument on an air- barracks and quarters. Abbrev: B&Q
craft that shows the amount of bank or barracks bag, canvas or cloth sack for
tilt. holding clothing and equipment of n:ili-
bar, 1. small strip of gold or silver worn tary personnel.
on the shoulder of a uniform by certain barrage, 1. concentrated artillery or
officers to indicate rank. A captain machine-gun fire used to close off part
wears a double silver bar; a first lieu- of the front from enemy assault, to
tenant a single silver bar; and a second isolate part of the enemy position and
lieutenant a single gold bar. prevent its being reinforced, or to pro-
2. small metal strip that hangs from tect an infantry advance by a curtain
a medal worn on the uniform. Such of fire moving in front of it. In this
bars are awarded for special skills with meaning, also called barrage ftre.
weapons. 2. protective screen of balloons that are
3. colored ribbon worn on the left breast moored to the ground and kept at given
to indicate bravery, service, good con- heights to prevent or hinder operations
duct, merit, campaigns, etc., or to repre- by enemy aircraft at low levels. Steel
sent a medal or decoration. cables or nets often hang from the bal-
4. netting used for protection against loons to make it dangerous for aircraft
mosquitoes. to fly beneath them. In this meaning,
5. long narrow piece of wood or metal, also called balloon barrage.
such as a towing bar. barrage balloon, balloon that is part
BAR, Browning automatic rifle. of a balloon barrage. A barrage balloon
barbed-wire entanglement, obstacle or often has steel cables or nets hanging
barrier of barbed wire, put up to prevent from it to make it dangerous for enemy
or hinder an enemy from entering an aircraft to fly beneath it. Abbrev:
area. bar bin
barbette, a mound of earth, a platform, barrage balloon battalion. Abbret~:
a support, or a carriage upon which guns Bar Bin Bn
are mounted to fire over a wall or para- barrage chart, chart that shows india-
pet, not through a port or opening. gram form the plan of an artillery bar-
bar bin, barrage balloon. rage. A barrage chart is used by those
Bar Bin Bn, barrage balloon battalion. directing the guns or batteries of a unit.
bare boat charter, agreement made barrage fire, concentrated artillery or
between the Government and the owner machine-gun fire used to close off part
rlg1nal fro
barrel 37 base command
of the front from enemy assault, to barrier tactics, tactics based on the use
isolate part of the enemy position and of barriers that are defended by artillery
d
prevent its being reinforced, or to pro- or machine-gun fire to prevent or hinder
-
tect an infantry advance by a curtain tile advance of the enemy in an area.
of fire moving in front of it. Also called bar sight, rear sight of a firearm, con-
d barrage. sisting of a movable bar, usually with an
barrel, metal tube of a gun, from which open notch.
ch
the projectile is fired. Most firearms base, 1. foundation or part upon which
have spiral grooves cut into the inner an object or instrument rests, such as a
surface of the tube to give a spin to the gun base.
he
projectile. In built-up guns, the inner 2. unit or organization in a tactical op-

part of the barrel is called the tube. eration around which a movement or
barrel assembly, gun barrel together maneuver is planned and performed. In
ch
with the other parts necessary to attach this meaning, usually called base unit.
it to the rest of the gun. 3. station or installation from which a
barrel erosion, wearing away of the military force operates and from which
om
bore of a gun, as a result of friction from supplies are obtained.
he
the rotating bands of projectiles and the 4. rear portion of a projectile.

r.
chemical action of gases from powder. 5. line used in mapping, surveying, or

Because of the high rate of fire on fire control as a reference from which
red,
machine guns, barrel erosion, after distances and angles are measured.
le
several thousand rounds have been fired, base airdrome, airdrome in the com-
results in an appreciable loss of muzzle munications zone of a theater of opera-
ed velocity. tions. It is similar to a permanent
o-
barrel extension, metal projection fixed peacetime airport except that its build-
to the rear of the barrel in certain auto- ings are of a more temporary nature.
matic guns. The barrel extension ex- base altitude method, method of air-
e
tends backward and holds the breech plane bombing attack in which the lead-
locked against the gas pressure in the ing airplane or echelon of airplanes drops
chamber when the gun is fired. its bombs from a given height, called the
ct-
barrel reflector, device used for inspect- base altitude, and the following planes
ing the bore and chamber of a gun or drop theirs from higher altitudes.
and rifle barrel. A barrel reflector consists bas'e and increment charge, propelling
of a mirror mounted in a frame and a charge of powder made up into a princi-
tube that is inserted in the chamber and pal or base charge and a series of smaller
gives a view of the rifle bore. charges that can be added to or taken
barrel roll, maneuver of an aircraft from it, to make adjustments for dif-
in which the aircraft is rolled wing ferences of range.
or
over wing while the direction of flight base angle, angle between the line join-
e
is maintained. ing a gun and its first or principal target
barricade, 1. obstacle or group of ob- and the line joining the gun and a visi-
stacles placed across a road, street, or ble reference point, from which angles
path to prevent or hinder the advance to targets that cannot be seen at the
s
of enemy troops or vehicles. gun are measured. The gun is first
2. block a road, street, or path with pointed at the reference point (initial
a-
obstacles. aiming point) and its dials are set at

d
barrier, obstacle or group of obstacles zero. The gun is then pointed at its
that block entrance into an area.
s
primary target; the angle through which

for
barrier light, searchlight used in a sea- the gun has been turned is called the
coast defense system to throw a fixed base angle.
beam to detect the passage of vessels base command, area organized under
through a harbor mouth or channel. It one commander of military operations
ne
is often used to shut off a water area for to maintain a military base or group of
night firing practice. bases. A base command is usually
se
barrier line, traffic control boundary smaller than a theater of operations, and
ery
beyond which vehicles may not pass it is established for the administration
until other traffic with priority has gone of all military operations connected with
der
through. the base or bases operating within it.

an
1g1 I ro
h
a
base cover 38 base section
base cover, metal disk that covers the reverse, and in which supply depots are
base of a projectile and prevents the hot organized. The base of operations is in
gases of the propelling charge from com- the communications zone of a theater of
ing ~n contact with the explosive filler operations.
through joints or any possible flaw in base of trajectory, straight horizontal
the base of the shell. Projectiles con- line from the center of the muzzle of a
taining a high explosive filler are pro- gun to the point in the downward curve
vided with a base cover. of the path of the projectile that is level
base deflection, angle through which a with the muzzle.
gun must be shifted from an initial line base pay, authorized rate of pay for a
of known direction, in order to point at given grade or rank in the Army, with-
an accurately located point of reference out increases for allowances or length of
known as the base point. Base deflec- service.
tion is marked upon the ground as soon base piece, gun in a battery for which
as adjustment is completed upon the the initial firing data are calculated, and
base point, or in case the base point is with reference to which the firing data
the initial target, as soon as fire for for the other guns are computed; direct-
effect on the target is completed, so as ing gun.
not to interfere with the fire. base plate, 1. plate or support used to
base depot, supply point in the rear distribute the weight of a heavy struc-
part of a communications zone in a ture or apparatus so as to prevent sink-
theater of operations, behind the ad- ing or collapse under direct thrust.
vance and intermediate depots. 2. metal plate with a socket into which
base depot company. Abbrev: BD Co the base of the barrel of a mortar is
base detonating fuze, fuze located in seated. The base plate is set in a firm
the base of a projectile. A base detonat- position on the ground and takes up and
ing fuze gives a projectile time to pass distributes the shock of the recoil of the
through armor or a protecting wall be- mortar.
fore it sets off the bursting charge, in base point, well-defined point in the
contrast with a point detonating fuze target area used as a point of reference
which is set off wben the projectile from which range and direction adjust-
strikes. Normally projectiles equipped ments of artillery fire are made. The
with base detonating fuzec1 are received location of the base point relative to the
properly fuzed for firing. weapons is accurately known. ...4bbrev:
base element. See base unit. BP
base end station, observing post for base post office, postal station set up
tracking a moving target with an ob- in the communications zone or at an
serving instrument. A base end station overseas port. At a base post office mail
is located at either end of the base line is separated and routed in bulk for
on which the observation stations of an troops in a certain area. Abbrev: BPO
artillery gun or battery are placed. base repair, repair work done at a sta-
base hospital, general hospital located tion by maintenance men specially
in the rear of a communications zone. trained and equipped to make repairs
base line, 1. line of known length and which cannot be done by line mainte-
direction between two points whose nance crews and which do not require
locations are known. A base line is used major operations. Base repair is done
in fire control, mapping, and surveying. especially in the Army Air Forces.
2. line that passes through the gun and base reserves, supplies stored in depots
a reference point called the base point. as a general reserve within a theater of
base of fire, one or more units that give operations.
supporting fire to an attacking unit. A base ring, circular metal track in the
base of fire covers and protects the ad- concrete platform of a fixed cannon. A
vance of other units with its fire, and base ring is used to support the cannon
serves as the base around which attack and to enable it to be fired in any di-
operations are carried out. rection.
base of operations, area from which a base section, area in the rear part of
military force begins its offensive opera- the communications zone in a theater of
tions, to which it falls back in case of operations.
rlg1nal fro
base services 39 battalion train
base services, maintenance of person- terial, such as exhibits or documents that
nel and materiel at a military base, have been added as evidence, is not
-
especially an air base, from which tac- part of a basic report.
tical units operate. basic tactical unit, fundamental unit
-
base spray, fragments of a bursting capable of carrying out an independent

shell that are thrown to the rear in the tactical mission in any branch of the
e
line of flight in contrast with nose spray, Army, such as a rifle battalion in In-
ay,
which are fragments of a bursting shell fantry, a battery in Artillery, and a
ell
that are thrown to the front, and side flight in the Army Air Forces.
spray, which are fragments of a bursting basic training, elementary training in
ing
shell that are thrown to the side. military techniques and tactics. Basic
base stake, black and white marker training includes general subjects in ad-
set out by a gunner to mark the line dition to elementary training in the
from gun to base point or from gun to particular arm or service to which the
initial aiming point. The base stake individual is assigned.
marlr..s the direction of the primary basis of issue, schedule of the amount
target; aiming stakes, each painted and type of articles of equipment to be
he
preferably with a single color, mark the issued to an individual or militiory unit.
direction of the other targets. basket, 1. structure beneath a balloon
base unit, unit or organization in a for carrying passengers or ballast.
ve-
tactical operation around which a move- 2. structure within a tank turret that
-
ment or maneuver is planned and per- carries the two men who operate the
formed; base; base element. turret. The basket in a tank turret ro-
basic, enlisted man with the minimum tates as the turret rotates.
m
es
essentials of military training who does battalion, tactical unit made up of a

tasks which require no experience or headquarters and two or more com-
specialized training; basic private. panies, batteries, or similar organiza-
Abbrev: bsc tions. It may be part of a regiment,
C)
basic auxiliary, member of the former but separate battalions exist that are
Women's Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) administrative as well as tactical units.
who had a rank equivalent to that of Abbrev: bn
private. battalion adjutant. Abbrev: Bn S-1
basic communication, original letter, battalion aid station, emergency medi-
-
u-
report, or other document. Added ma- cal station set up close to the front by
terial, such as indorsements and in- battalion medical personnel. Here the
closures, is not part of a basic commu- wounded are given emergency treatment
nication. and returned to duty or evacuated to the
t
basic data, essential facts needed to rear.
place fire on a target. The location of battalion beachhead. Abbrev: BBH
the target relative to the battery must battalion combat train, unit, organical-
e
be known in terms of direction, or de- ly part of a battalion, that furnishes a

flection; distance, or range; and dif- movable reserve of ammunition and a
ference in altitude, or site. All of these means of transporting it to batteries or
facts are basic data. companies. Abbrev: Bn C Tn
Basic Field Manual. Abbrev: BFM battalion intelligence officer.
t basic load, 1. prescribed allowance of Abbrev: Bn S-2
ammunition, supplies, and equipment battalion landing team. Abbrev: BLT
carried by a unit. battalion plans and training officer.
al
2. load on a structural member or part Abbrev: Bn S-3

g
of an aircraft in steady flight. battalion supply officer. Abbrev: Bn S-4

basic private. See basic. battalion train, vehicles and personnel
y
basic records, principal or fundamental that provide a battalion with facilities
records of a military unit. The morning for supply, maintenance, and evacua-
a-
report, the duty roster, etc., are basic tion. Battalion trains comprise the
that records. battalion section of the regimental trans-
basic report, original concise summary portation platoon and the battalion sec-
of information contained in an ad- tion of the regimental medical detach-
nt
ministrative report. Accompanying rna- ment. rlglnal rrom
battery 40 battleship
battery, 1. tactical and administrative battle chart, chart used in coast artil-
artillery unit corresponding to a com- lery command stations to show the
pany or similar unit in other branches water area covered by their respective
of the Army. guns, with adjoining land, gun locations,
2. group of guns or other weapons, such observing stations, etc.
as mortars, machine guns, artillery battle clasp, small metal bar attached
pieces, or searchlights, set up under one to the ribbon of a medal. It is awarded
tactical commander in a certain area. as a decoration for participation in cer-
3. A gun in battery is a gun in firing tain officially recognized engagements of
position. A gun from battery is a gun a campaign or war. The bar bears the
not in firing position. Abbrev: btry name of the campaign for which it was
battery chart, chart that shows the awarded.
firing data for each gun in a battery. A battle cruiser, ship similar to a battle-
battery chart registers target locations, ship but faster and less heavily armored.
elevation and direction data, fire orders, battle honor or battle honors, colored
etc. streamer flown from the staff of the flag,
battery commander. Abbrev: BC color, guidon, or standard of a unit, or a
battery commander's telescope, tele- silver band fastened around the staff of
scope that has two lenses and rests on a the guidon of a unit. A battle honor is
mount and tripod, used for observing awarded or authorized by the War De-
fire and for measuring horizontal and partment, or by foreign governments, as
vertical angles in calculating firing data; a decoration for meritorious service by
BC telescope. a unit in combat, and shows the battles
battery emplacement book, record or campaigns in which it was earned.
book or log where all firing data, meas- battle injury, wound received as a di-
urements, and similar information con- rect result of enemy action. Accidental
cerning the guns or battery are regu- wounds, though received in battle, are
larly recorded. not regarded as battle injuries.
battery executive, ~istant to the bat- battle map, large-scale map, normally
tery commander. He is the officer in obtained by photographic survey, show-
command of the firing battery; in the ing terrain features and the location of
Coast Artillery Corps, he is in command tactical units. A battle map is usually
of the firing section. on a scale of 1:20,000.
battery front, lateral distance between battle position, position on which the
the flank guns of a battery. main effort of the defense is concen-
battery manning table, list of the trated. A battle position is made up of
names, posts, and duties of the person- a system of defensive sectors that sup-
nel of an artillery battery. port one another.
battery-target line, line joining the battle reconnaissance, continual ob-
base piece of a battery and the target. servation, made under combat condi-
Corrections and adjustments for all the tions, of the terrain, disposition of the
guns in the battery are calculated froni enemy, etc. It is made during or im-
the battery-target line. mediately before battle, when in close \
battery-target method, method of aerial contact with the enemy. Abbrev: b rcn
spotting of artillery fire in which de- battle reserves, supplies gathered in
viations are reported as over or short, the neighborhood of a battlefield, in ad-
or right or left of the target, with dition to the reserves of the unit and of
reference to thE:' battery-target line. the individual soldiers.
battle casualty, 1. soldier who is killed, battle service practice, practice in
injured, missing in action, or captured which two or more gun units work under
as a result of ene:1ny action. a central control. It is held for the pur-
2. injury or wound received as a result pose of checking the efficiency of the
of enemy action. control unit as well as of the individual
battle casualty report, report to The guns.
Adjutant General listing by name and battleship, largest and most powerful
serial number all men killed, wounded, type of warship. A battleship is very
missing in action, or captured as a result heavily armored and its main gun bat-
of enemy action; casualty report. teries are of ~ ~ ttban 8-i fh caliber.
battle sight 41 berm
battle sight, rear sight on a rifle with a of azimuth is preferred to a bear-
large aperture or notch set for a con- ing.
a
venient range. A battle sight is used for bearing plate, aircraft instrument by
emergency fire at close range when there which it is possible to estimate ground
or
is no time or need for accurate adjust- speed and drift. It is used in calculat-
here ment. ing bearings on distant points.
-
battle star. See bronze star. beaten zone, area on the ground that is
bay, 1. compartment in an aircraft, such hit by the shots fired from a gun or
as an engine bay or bomb bay. battery. Because of gun vibration,
uch
2. section of a floating bridge extending differences in separate shells, changes in

from the center of one ponton to the wind, etc., the shots fired in a series from
a gun follow slightly different paths and
ng
center of the next.

bayonet, blade attached to the muzzle strike at different points, covering a
e
end of a rifle. It may be detached and considerable area.
used as a separate hand weapon. Beaufort scale, internationally used
bayonet scabbard, carrying case for a scale of wind velocities, ranging from
bayonet, attached to a soldier's belt by 0 for "calm" to 12 for "hurricane."
by
two hooks. bedding roll, canvas or other cloth sheet

BBC, brombenzylcyanide. in which bedding and clothing are rolled
BBH, battalion beachhead. and carried.
BBTC, Balloon Barrage Training Cen- belt, 1. cloth strip with loops, or a series
ter. of metal links with grips, for holding
BC, battery commander. cartridges which are fed into an auto-
bel, bicycle. matic gun.
r's
BC telescope. See battery commander's 2. band of leather or webbing, worn
telescope. around the waist and used as a support
bd, boundary. for weapons, ammunition, etc.
BD Co, base depot company. 3. strip of terrain, usually parallel to the
e
beach defense, part of a coastal de- front.
ding
fensive position located at or near the 4. line of obstacles used for defense. A
water's edge, for defense against landing line of wire entanglement is a belt. Two
e
attacks. or more belts form a band.
ake beachhead, position on a hostile shore belt-fed, supplied with cartridges from
p-
established by an advance force to make a feed belt for automatic weapons.
possible the landing of troops and sup- belt-filling machine. See belt-loading '
plies. machine.
un-
he
beaching gear, detachable, wheeled un- belt-loading, arranging ammunition for

dercarriage that can be attached to the an automatic, belt-fed gun in an am~
ow
hull of a seaplane or flying boat to allow munition belt.

handling ashore. belt-loading machine, machine that ar-
beach party, men detailed to assist in ranges ammunition in an ammunition
. the landing of troops .and supplies. belt for an automatic belt-fed gun; belt-
beacon, marker, signal light, or radio filling machine.
station that guides aircraft, ships, etc. belt road. See lateral road.
bead sight, small metal knob used as bench mark, fixed point on the ground
the front sight on a gun. that is marked and used as a reference
d
bearing, expression of the horizontal point in surveying. . The exact height
e
direction of a point from an observer above sea level of a bench mark must be
r
in terms of an angle, measured in de- known. Abbrev: BM
grees, from a line extending north and bends. See aeroembolism.
rth south through the observing point. The beneficiary, person who is entitled to a
north-south line may be either true or payment, insurance, or death benefit if
n
magnetic north. Since the angle is a soldier dies.

measured east or west either from north berm, shelf near the top of a trench or
or south, whichever gives the smaller other dugout shelter. A berm prevents
angle, a bearing is never greater than caving banks or sides from falling into
90 degrees. In modem military prac- the trench or shelter and provides a
tices, expression of direction in term~ ~upport for bPam~. If
- ro n
d
U I ERSITY OF C liF RNI

is
Bessel method 42 blade angle
Bessel method, method of locating an devices; binaural trainer. A binaural
observer's position on a map or chart by training instrument consists of a phono-
sighting through points on the map that graph device that plays records of
represent visible terrain features; Italian sounds made by aircraft in flight, and
method. The map is oriented so that sends the sounds through a set of ear-
the relative positions of the points on phones to the listener. The hearing
the map and those of the terrain features ability of the listener in each ear is
correspond. The observer's position is determined and trained in this way.
the point of intersection of the lines binoculars, field glasses having two
joining each point on the map with its telescopes, one for each eye. Binoculars
corresponding terrain feature. may have scales for measuring angles
BFM, Basic Field Manual. and distahces and may be mounted or
bglr, bugler. unmounted.
BH Q, brigade headquarters. biplane, airplane with two sets of wings
Bl, branch immaterial. placed one above the other.
bicycle. Abbrev: bel bipod, two-legged support. A Brown-
bilateral observation, observation of ing automatic rifle is often equipped
fire from two observation stations. with a bipod to support the muzzle.
bilateral spotting, system for determin- biting angle, smallest angle of impact
ing deviations from impacts from the at which a projectile will penetrate or
target by the use of two instruments pierce armor.
located at a distance from each other. biv, bivouac.
The angular deviation of the impact bivouac, 1. area in the field where troops
from the target as seen from each station rest or assemble. A bivouac may have
is read by an observer. no overhead cover, or only natural
billet, 1. shelter for troops that consists cover, shelter tents, or shelter made from
of private or nonmilitary public build- anything available.
ings. 2. rest or assemble in such an area.
2. quarter troops in private or nonmili- Abbrev: biv
tary public buildings. bkry, bakery.
billeting detail, officer and men assigned bks, barracks.
to make arrangements for quartering BL, born b line.
troops in private buildings or shelters B/L, bill of lading.
in the field. blacking out, putting out all lights
billeting officer, officer who directs that can be seen from the air. Black-
and supervises the quartering of military ing out is used as a passive defense
personnel at a post or in the field. against hostile aircraft.
bill of lading, contract between the blackout, passive defense against air-
Government and a public carrier for craft that consists of screening or extin-
the transportation of supplies, baggage, guishing all lights that can be seen from
property, etc. Abbrev: BfL the air.
binaural balance, position in which blackout lamp. See blackout light.
sounds are heard or registered at the blackout light, lamp put on vehicles for
2ame instant with equal loudness. The use during blackouts; blackout lamp.
position of the horns of a sound-locator It is used because it can be seen from
system, or the position of the head of the the air only at very close range.
person listening, faced toward the point black powder, mixture of powdered po-
of origin of a sound, gives binaural tassium nitrate or sodium nitrate, char-
balance. Binaural .balance, that is, coal, and sulfur; gunpowder. Black
hearing a sound at the same time with powder is a low explosive used in ig-
both ears, is arrived at by turning the niters, primers, fuzes, and blank-fire
head so that the phase difference is re- charges.
duced to zero. blacksmith. Abbrev: blksm
binaural trainer. See binaural training blade angle, acute angle between the
instrument. chord of a cross section of a propeller
binaural training instrument, sound blade and a plane perpendicular to the
instrument used to train and test lis- axis of rotation of the entire propeller.
teners for the operation of sound-locator Also called angle of pitch.
Or1g1nal fro
blank ammunition 43 blockade
blank ammunition, ammunition con- blast mark, worn area of the ground
taining powder but no projectile. Blank in front of a gun, caused by the force
ammunition is used in training, in sig- of the blast of firing. Unconcealed, it
k
naling, and in firing salutes. may give away the position of the gun.
blanket, 1. layer of smoke, clouds, or bleach. See bleaching powder.
fog covering troops or operations. bleaching powder, chemical agent that
2. lay a protective screen of smoke over, has a strong oxidizing action on many or-
or in front of, friendly troops; blind ganic chemicals. Bleaching powder is
ver,
enemy troops with a cover of smoke. used for the removal of coloring matter
3. prevent a sound locator from discov- or stains, as a disinfectant, and as a
v-
ering bombers by flying a pursuit for- decontaminating agent to destroy cer-
mation directly. over it and drowning tain chemical warfare gases. Bleaching
out the sound of the bombers. powder is also known as bleach, calcium
blanket door. See curtain door. bleach, chloride of lime, or chlorinated
blanketing smoke, chemical screen laid lime.
id
on, or in front of, the firing lines of the bleed, adjust hydraulic brakes or recoil
e
enemy. Blanketing smoke is used to cut mechanisms by removing part of the

cut
down the enemy's vision and destroy the fluid in order to get rid of air pockets.
the
accuracy and effect of his small-arms blend, combine colors in camouflage so

en
fire. It is also used as a screen between that a dividing line between them can-
enemy and friendly forces to prevent not be clearly seen.
enemy observation. blimp, small dirigible balloon without a
blanket roll, folded and rolled blanket rigid frame.
y wrapped in the shelter half and usually blind, smoke or artificial fog laid down
containing poles and pins, undershirt, to screen the movement of troops or
s
drawers, and socks. The blanket roll is ships.

usually carried in the pack. blind flying. See instrument flying.
blank file, position in a drill formation blinker, signal light that flashes dots
s
that has not been filled. and dashes according to code to spell
blank fire powder. See E. C. smokeless out a message; blinker light.
powder. blinker light. See blinker.
on
blast, sudden air pressure created by blister, 1. bulge on a ship below the
the discharge of a gun or the explosion water line to protect it from torpedoes.
n
of a charge. 2. bulge on the fuselage of an aircraft for
blast ,area, scorched area of ground in observation and firing.
front of, and around, the muzzle of a blister agent. See vesicant.
gun, caused by repeated blasts. blister gas, poison gas that burns or
blast effect, destruction or damage to blisters the skin or internal tissues of the
d by
ile
ur-
surface structures, etc., that is caused by body. Mustard gas and lewisite are the
e
the force of the explosion of a projectile common blister gases.
or charge on, or ~lightly above, the sur- blitzkrieg, rapid and well-timed offen-
face of the ground. Blast effect may be sive based on a coordinated advance of
contrasted with the mining effect of a aircraft, armored units, and motorized
n-
projectile or charge, which goes off troops, with the purpose of crushing all
i-
beneath the surface. enemy resistance quickly.

e
blasting cap, thin case inclosing a sen- blksm, blacksmith.

r by
sitive explosive such as mercury fulmi- bin, balloon.
nate, used to set off another explosive block, 1. group of explosive units fas-
an
charge. The explosive in the blasting tened together to go off at once.
cap is fired either by a burning fuze or by 2. obstacle that prevents or hinders the
electricity. advance of enemy troops.
s.
blasting fuze, time fuze that sets off an 3. hinder the movement of ground troops
d
explosive charge. A blasting fuze is by placing obstacles across the routes of

used especially in demolishing stone, advance.
brick, mortar, and concrete structures. 4. interfere with enemy radio broadcasts
It is often a length of inflammable cord by transmitting on the same frequency.
that burns at a fixed rate. blockade, 1. placement of armed forces
blasting machine. See exploder. so as to shut off an enemy from trade
n.
1_1 1 ro
at
y or-
block control 44 bomb
or communication with other countries. the proceedings of a judicial or other
2. armed force that maintains a block- agency; committee of officers which
ade. passes on certain promotions and similar
3. shut off an enemy from trade or com- matters.
munication with other countries. board of survey, committee of officers
block control, method used to prevent appointed to investigate the circum-
traffic from interfering with the move- stances of the loss of, damage to, or de-
ment of troops or supplies; block sys- struction of, property, and to fix the re-
tem. Traffic patrols of military police, sponsibility for the loss or damage.
etc., are sent ahead of the convoy of boat. Abbrev: bt
troops or supplies to stop other traffic boatswain (BOsun), petty or warrant
and clear the way. officer on a ship who directs the work
blockhouse, fortified structure that has of the crew and has charge of the rigging,
ports or loopholes through which gunfire anchors, etc.
is delivered. Blockhouses are built to boat-tail, rear end of a projectile that
give protection against bombs, artillery, is tapered or cone-shaped, and not
and small-arms fire. cylindrical, as in a projectile having a
block system. See block control. square base. A boat-tail gives a pro-
blouse. See service coat. jectile greater range and accuracy.
blowback, 1. the escape under pressure bobbing target, practice target that is
to the rear of a gun of gases .formed fully exposed to the firer for the short
when a projectile is discharged from the time that he is given to fire on the target.
gun. Blowback is usually the result of A bobbing target is pulled down or
a faulty primer or of a broken cartridge. turned so that only its edge faces the
In some automatic guns, blowback is firer during the time that the target is
a necessary part of the action in firing not fully exposed.
the gun. body, 1. group or unit of troops.
2. faulty primer or broken cartridge that 2. fuselage of an airplane.
causes a blowback. 3. part of a fuze that houses the working
blown primer, cartridge defect that parts.
e
causes the primer to be blown complete- 4. cylindrical part of a projectile be-
ly out of the pocket of the cartridge case tween the rotating band and the ridge
when the cartridge is fired. where the nose taper begins.
lllr & Sm Sh Co, boiler and smith shop bogie, 1. truck or carriage consisting of
company. an axle and two wheels, or two axles and
BL T, battalion landing team. four wheels. Bogies are used to support
blue discharge. See discharge without the weight of a heavy body, such as an
honor. artillery gun or railway car.
BM, benchmark. 2. roller or wheel that rides on the track
bmbdr, bombardier. of a tractor or tank, and that takes up
bmr, bomber. and distributes the weight of the vehicle
bn, battalion. along the track.
Bn C Tn, battalion combat train. boiler and smith shop company.
Bn S-1, battalion adjutant. Abbrev: Blr & Sm Sh Co
Bn S-2, battalion intelligence officer. bolo, heavy, single-edged knife similar
Bn S-3, battalion plans and training of- to a machete, but usually shorter.
ficer. bolt, sliding mechanism that closes the
Bn S-4, battalion supply officer. breech in some types of small arms. It
board, committee of officers appointed usually contains the extractor and the
to act as a fact-finding agency or as an firing pin ..
advisory body to a commander. There bolt mechanism, mechanical assembly
are advisory committees set up to make in a bolt action gun that includes the
recommendations for many branches of moving parts whieh insert, fire, and ex-
the Army, for example, the Infantry tract a round of ammunition.
Board, Cavalry Board, Coast Artillery bomb, 1. container filled with an explo-
Board, etc. ' sive charge or a chemical substance,
board of review, committee of officers usually dropped from aircraft. Some
appointed to paRS on thP corre~tne~s of bomhs contain both a explosive eharge
I
bomb 45 bomb release mechanism
and a chemical substance. Bombs are bomb disposal unit, detachment or
e
exploded by contact or a. time mecha- group of soldiers who have been or-
- nism or a combination of the two. Com- ganized, trained, and equipped to dis-
m-
mon explosive bombs are demolition pose of unexploded bombs.
bombs to destroy heavy materiel or bomb door, door in the floor of the
buildings, and fragmentation bombs to bomb bay of a bomber. The bomb door
o
destroy personnel. Common chemical is opened to allow bombs to be dropped

nd
bombs include incendiaries and gas and from the airplane.
smoke bombs. bomber. See bombardment airplane.
ir-
2. drop one or more bombs from an air- Abbrev: bmr
craft on a target. bomber command, tactical and ad-
bomb, bombardment. ministrative unit of the Army Air
f
bombardier, 1. member of the crew of Forces that is concerned principally
es
a bombardment airplane who operates with bombing.

the bomb sight and the bomb release bomb hoist, mechanism for loading
mechanism. heavy bombs into an airplane.
2. rating in the Army Air Forces given bombing, dropping bombs from an air-
to the member of the crew of a bom- plane on enemy targets. Bombing is
bardment airplane who does this. classified as area, pattern, or precision
et Abbrev: bmbdr bombing according to the technique
bombardment, attack made on a target used in covering the target. Bombing
by artillery fire or by bombs dropped is further classified as single shot, salvo,
from aircraft. Abbrev: bomb train, or volley bombing, according to
ns;
bombardment airplane, combat air- the method by which the bombs are re-
plane that is used for bombing missions; leased from the airplane or formation of
ace
bomber. aircraft.
t
bombardment aviation, class of mili- bomb line. Abbrev: BL
,
tary aviation organized to attack surface bomb load, quantity or weight of bombs
objectives with bombs. Bombardment carried by a bomber.
c-
aviation is classified as light, medium, bombproof, 1. strong enough to be safe
e
and heavy. from bombs or shells.
a-
bombardment photography, taking pic- 2. safe shelter built to give protection

tures from aircraft of the terrain at the from bombs, especially on a practice
time a bomb is released, or of the loca- range.
tion of bomb bursts in relation to the bomb rack, device for carrying bombs
es
e
target. in an aircraft. The bomb rack includes
he
Bombardment School, special service the mechanism that controls the release
nt school of the Army Air Forces that gives of the bombs. Also called rack.
training in bombardment aviation. The bomb rack control. See bomb release
rs
Bombardment School trains men in the mechanism.

technique and tactics of bombardment bomb release line, imaginary line
aviation, and trains and qualifies can- around a defended area over which a
g
didates for commission as bombardiers bomber should release its first bomb in
in the Army Air Forces. It is under order to have it strike the nearest edge
the supervision of the Commanding of the defended area; initial bomb re-
General, Army Air Forces. . lease line. Although a bomb release line
bomb bay, compartment of a bombing can be calculated for glide or dive bomb-
plane in which bombs are carried and ing, it is commonly used in connection
from which they are dropped. with level flight bombing, in which the
o
bomb controL See bomb release bomber approaches its target at con-
mechanism. stant speed, altitude, and direction.
bomb control mechanism. See bomb bomb release mechanism, device in a
the
release mechanism. bomber that is used to release the bombs

bomb disposal officer, staff officer who from the bomb rack; bomb control;
directs and supervises the disposal of bomb control mechanism; bomb rack
- unexploded bombs, and who advises the control. Except in single-place air-
commander on all matters connected craft the bomb release mechanism is
with bomb disposal. controlled by ~he b~& h~rdi -.
or
ed
bomb release point 46 bounding mine
bomb release point, 1. the point in the boots and saddles, cavalry bugle call
air over a surface target where a bomber for mounted formation.
must release its bombs to have them BOQ, bachelor officers' quarterd.
strike the target. bore, 1. the inside of a gun barrel from
2. any point in the air where a bomb is the breechblock to the muzzle. Bore is
released from a bomber. used both for the inside surface of the
bomb-resistant, strong enough to pre- barrel or tube of a gun, with its rifling,
vent bombs of a certain size and weight and a1'3o for the cylindrical space in-
from breaking through. closed by the barreL
bomb safety line, line on the ground 2. inside diameter of an engine cylinder.
behind which friendly troops are safe bore brush, brush used for cleaning the
from the bombing of their supporting rifting of a gun.
airplanes. Friendly troops should not bore rest. See clinometer rest.
advance beyond the bomb safety line bore safe, classification of fuzes having
until their supporting airplanes have an interruption in the explosive train
completed the bombing. that prevents a projectile from explod-
bomb service truck. Abbrev: BSTrk ing until after it has cleared the muzzle
bomb sight, instrument in an airplane of a gun; detonator-safe.
that :is used to find the point in the bore-safe fuze, safety fuze on a pro-
flight of the airplane where dropping a jectile thaf makes it im{>0'3Sible for the
bomb '\\ill cause the bomb to fall exactly projectile to go off in the bore of a gun.
on the target. A bomb sight calculates bore sight, device used to aline the
the speed and the altitude of the air- axis of the bore of a gun with an aiming
plane, the wind, and other variable point. A bore sight consists of a part
factors, and allows for the effects of attached to the muzzle of the gun and a
these to find the exact time to release part attached to the breech of the gun.
the bomb so that it will hit the target. The soldier using it sights through the
bomb trailer, vehicle for carrying bore sight to aline the axis of the gun
bombs, pulled singly or in a train. bore with an aiming point to which the
booby mine, mine used as a booby trap. gun sight is adjusted, so that the axis of
booby trap, hidden bomb or mine with the bore is alined with the axis of the
its firing mechanism placed so that it gun sight.
will be set off by an unsuspecting person boresight, sight through .the bore of a
through such means as lifting or mov- gun, with or without bore sights. Bore-
ing an apparently harmless object. sighting is done in lining up the axis of
Booby traps are used to cause casualties the bore of a gun with the sights.
among enemy personnel. bound, 1. single movement, usually from
boom, floating barrier used to block cover to cover, made by troops, often
entry to water channels, harbor mouths, under artillery fire or long-range small-
etc. A boom is usually constructed of arms fire. A forward move made by a
logs and steel cables. series of bounds is called an advance by
boost, 1. bring about a more rapid ex- bounds.
plosion of the main charge of an explo- 2. distance covered in one movement by
sive by using an additional charge to set a unit which is advancing by bounds.
it off. 3. distance between artillery hits caused
2. supply a machine or engine with a by making slight changes in the range.
stronger mixture of fuel than would be boundary. Abbrev: bd
supplied by normal means. boundary light, light that marks off one
booster, additional explosive between of the limits of a zone or area. Bound-
the priming charge and the main charge ary lights are especially used to mark
to explode the main charge more quick- the limits of landing fields.
ly; booster charge. Sometimes a booster bound barrel, barrel that fits so tightly
is part of the fuze. in the receiver of a gun that it has no
booster charge. See booster. room to expand when it is heated by th~
boot, leatner shca~h that holds and pro- :firing of the gun. ~
tects small arms. A boot is often cmTied bou11ding mine, type of antipersonn~l
on the side of a saddle, motorcycle, or mlne, usually buried just below the sur-
armored vehicle. -- face of th-e ~ ld 1 ti has a small charge
U I ERSITY OF C LIFOR I
bourrelet 47 break ranks
which throws the case up in the air; this corrections for range are determined.
explodes at a height of three or four feet, bracketing correction, adjustment cor-
throwing shrapnel or fragment..c;; in all rection placed on a gun or battery of
his
directions. guns so that there is an equal number of

bourrelet (boor LAY), raised band or shots over the target and short of the
eet,
ring on the forward part of a projectile. target.

This band holds the projectile centered bracketing method, method of adjust-
e.
in the bore of the gun, thus making it fit ing artillery fire in which the target is
d closely. kept between two ranges or deflections,
fit
bow gun, gun mounted at the front of which are brought together until the
a ship or armored vehicle, especially a fire is directly on the target; bracket
semifixed, forward-firing gun in tanks. adjustment. The bracketing method is
a
bow-on, facing the firer. A bow-on tar- used when only the direction of the de-
get is a target that presents its narrower viation is known; the magnitude method
.
is used when both the amount and direc-

-
wer
dimension exactly toward the gun firing
ng
at it. When an enemy tank is headed tion of the deviation are known.
exactly at the gun firing at it, the tank bracketing salvo, group of shots in
k is a bow-on target. which the number of shots going over
bow wave. See ballistic wave. the target equals the number falling
box barrage, artillery fire that falls short of it.
around, and incloses, an area. A box branch, 1. subdivision of any organiza-
barrage is made by a series of standing tion.
barrages fired at the same time. It is 2. arm or service of the Army. The In-
ng
usually used to prevent the escape or fantry, Cavalry, Medical Department,

reinforcement of enemy troops. and Signal Corps are branches of the
box in, lay down a barrier of fire that Army
t incloses an enemy position to prevent branch depot, place where supplies are
y
the escape or reinforcement of enemy stored for, and distributed to, a single
troops. arm or service, as contrasted with a
box magazine, box-like device that general depot, which serves more than
e
holds ammunition and feeds it into the one branch of the Army.
receiver mechanism of certain types of branch immaterial, not assigned to any
of
automatic weapons. particular arm or service. The term is

BP, base point. applied to commissioned officers and to
or
BPO, base post office. replacement training centers not as-
bracket, 1. space between two shots or signed to any particular arm or service.
e
series of shots one of which is over the Abbrev: BI
to
target and the other short of it, or one brassard, band of cloth having varying
of which is to the right and the other to colors or insignia on it, worn around the
n
the left of the target. left sleeve as a sign that the wearer is
2. deliver fire that places a bracket on assigned to certain special duties. Mili-
the target. tary police wear a brassard with MP in
bracket adjustment. See bracketing white letters.
method. b rcn, battle reconnaissance.
bracket fire, fire delivered on a target breach, 1. gap or opening forcibly made
in order to establish range limits over in a fortification or position.
ed
and short of the target or deflection 2. create such a gap or opening.

limits to the right and left of the tar- breach of arrest, military offense com-
e
get. When the target has been inclosed mitted by an officer or enlisted man
by a bracket fire, the area containing under arrest when, without permission,
wed
k-
the target can then be covered by fire he leaves the limits of the area to which
e
for effect, or the bracket can be narrowed he has been restricted.
e
by further adjustment fire until a brack- break, reduce in rank.
r, eting salvo is laid on the target. break camp, pack all equipment and
bracketing adjustment chart, in range make ready to march, following a biv-
adjustment, a chart on which shots are ouac, a stay at a post, etc.
-
recorded in consecutive series as over, break ranks, fall out of ranks; leav~
short, or hit. Ry means of this chart, ranks.
r of
Orlg1nal rrom
-
break-through 48 Browning automatic rifle
break-through, getting all the way brigade, tactical unit smaller than a di-
through and beyond a defensive system vision and larger than a regiment. A
into the unorganized areas in the rear. brigade is usually commanded by a brig-
breastwork, field fortification that is adier general, and usually consists of
dug deep enough, or put up high enough, troops of a single branch, such as artil-
to give protection to soldiers standing lery, infantry, or cavalry.
erect. Abbrev: brig
breech, rear part of the bore of a gun, brigade adjutant. Abbrev: Brig S-1
especially the opening that permits the brigade headquarters. Abbrev: BHQ
projectile to be inserted at the rear of brigade Intelligence officer. Abbrev:
the bore. Brig S-2
breechblock, movable steel block that brigade plans and training officer.
closes the rear part of the barrel in a Abbrev: Brig S-3
firearm. brigade supply officer. Abbrev: Brig S-4
breech bore sight, disk with a small brigadier general, officer in the Army
opening at its center that fits snugly in who ranks next above a colonel and next
the breech chamber of a gun. The below a major general. A brigadier
breech bore sight is commonly used with general is the lowest grade of general of-
a muzzle bore sight in boresighting a fleer. He is usually in command of a
gun. A soldier sights along a line es- brigade in the ground forces, or a wing
tablished by the two sights as the axis in the air forces. See Table of Compara-
of the bore at an aiming point to which tive Grades on p. 125. Abbrev: brig gen
the gun sight has also been adjusted, so brig gen, brigadier general.
that the axis of the gun bore is alined Brig S-1, brigade adjutant.
with the axis of the sight. Brig S-2, brigade intelligence officer.
breech mechanism, mechanism that Brig S-3, brigade plans and training offi-
opens and closes the breech of a gun and cer.
fires the charge. Brig S-4, brigade supply officer.
brevet commission (bra VET), honor- brisance (bree ZAHNS), shattering
ary commission in a higher grade given power of high explosives.
to officers as a reward for distinguished broadside, 1. simultaneous firing of all
conduct. The honorary grade does not guns on one side of a warship to produce
entitle the officer to higher pay or to a heavy concentration of fire on the
greater command except when actually target.
engaged in hostilities. 2. with the side turned to the firer. A
brevity code, relatively simple code broadside target is a target that pre-
used in radio communication, in which sents its longest dimension to the firer.
sentences and phrases are represented A ship or tank crossing the line of fire
by code words or symbols. A brevity is a broadside target.
code provides some secrecy, but its brombenzylcyanide (broam BEN zil
main purpose is to save time in transmit- SIGH uh nide), chemical, with an odor
ting messages. like sour fruit, that causes tears and
d
bridgehead, position on or near the irritates the eyes and nasal pass.ages.
bank of a river or defile that is established Brombenzylcyanide is released by pro-
by advance troops of an attacking force jectiles or in sprays, and is used to harass
to protect and cover the crossing of the enemy troops by forcing them to put on
main body over the river or defile. gas masks, thus cutting down their
bridge train. Abbrev: br tn efficiency. Symbol: BBC
bridge train, heavy. Abbrev: br tn hv bronze star, insignia worn on the serv-
bridge train, light. Abbrev: br tn 1 ice ribbon of certain medals to show that
brief, 1. short, accurate summary of the the wearer is entitled to wear a battle
details of a flight mission, given to the clasp because of participation in battle;
crew of a combat airplane just before it battle star.
takes off to carry out its mission. Browning automatic rifle, self-loading
2.. short, accurate summary of legal rifle that can be adjusted to fire full auto-
charges against, or arguments in defense matic, semiautomatic, or hand-operated.
of, an accused man in a court-martial. A Browning automatic rifle is air-cooled,
brig, brigad~. ga~-operated, and magazine-fed. Late
1g1na
Browning machine gun 49 burster
models have a bipod attached near the other metal that is shot from a rifle or
muzzle end to hold the gun steady when other small arm. Bullets are a part of
he
it is fired from a prone position on the cartridges; the explosion of the propel-
hen
ground. Abbret1: BAR ling charge in the cartridge case hurls
Browning machine gun, machine gun the bullet out of the gun.
firing .SO-caliber or .50-caliber ammuni- bullet drop, normal fall of a bullet un-
tion, used by the U.S. Army. der the influence of gravity during the
br tn, bridge train. time of flight from gun to target.
ni-
br tn hv, bridge train, heavy. bulletin, official publication carrying

br tn I, bridge train, light. advisory or informative material that is
bse, basic. relatively permanent. Abbret1: bull
BSPet, bulk storage petroleum. bull's-eye, 1. central divjsion of a tar-
BSTrk, bomb service truck. get.
bt, boat. 2. shot that hits this division.
btry, battery. bull' s-eye powder, common type of
buckling, breaking of a march column powder used as a propelling charge in
he
because the rear units crowd up on the smaUarms ammunition. '
front units. bungee (bun GHEE), hydraulic mecha-
buck sUp. See informal action sheet. nism that is used for opening the bomb
r
budget credit, allowance for money or doors in a bomber.
material, issued to a military unit ac- bunker, 1. mound of protective earth
cording to a system of money credits erected in front of a defended gun em-
ngth
based on the approximate troop strength placement.

n
of the unit. Budget credit is entered on 2. storage space for fuel oil or coal on
the credit side of its accounts. ships.
e
budget item, article listed in Army buoyant mine, submarine mine with a
to
Regulations that may be issued, at the case of such size that its buoyancy
discretion of the commanding officer, to would cause the mine to float on the
organizations or to individuals and surface of the water if it were not held
charged against budget credits. at a proper depth by an anchor and
buffer, device or mechanism in a gun mooring rope.
that takes up, and checks, the recoil bureau, subdivision of the War Depart-
action of the gun when it is fired. ment that carries out duties of a non-
bugle call, command or signal blown military nature; for example, Bureau of
on a bugle. A bugle call is used as a
e
Public Relations, National Guard Bu-

warning or assembly call for all routine reau. A bureau is distinguished from
duties. a division of the War Department, such

bugler, soldier who blows a bugle to as the Military Intelligence Division,
give military signals. A bugler often that is primarily concerned with mat-
es
acts also as a runner or messenger. ters of a military nature.
Abbrev: bglr Bureau of Public Relations, subdivi-
et
bulk stock, full and unbroken packages sion of the War Department that con-
of military supplies. trols and supervises the distribution of
bulk storage petroleum. Abbrev: BSPet
an-
,
military information to the public. It
k
bulk supply, any kind of military sup- establishes policies and practices for
ight
plies that is sent out in very large quan- the distribution of news, and maintains
tities. Sand, gravel, paint, gunpowder, liaison with other Government agencies
etc., are examples of bulk supply. Bulk on matters of mutual interest in the field
supplies are measured in terms of weight of public relations.
or volqme rather than in terms of the burst, 1. series of shots fired by one
number of units. pressure on the trigger of an automatic
c-
bull, bulletin. weapon.
bulldozer, powerful caterpillar tractor 2. explosion of a projectile in the air or
equipped for moving dirt. A bulldozer when it strikes the ground or target.
is used extensively in grading roads, burst center. See center of burst.
leveling airports, and in other construc- burster, explosive charge used to break
l-
tion work. open and spread the contents of chemical
s
bullet, shaped piece of lead, steel, or projectiles, bombs, or mines.

rlglnalrro
e
burster course 50 by the right flank
burster course, concrete slab in a for- to the firing point, with a target pit on
tification; detonating slab. It detonates the opposite side. In this meaning, also
projectiles before they can enter deeply called target butt.
enough to cause great destruction, or 2. end of the stock of a rifle or other
prevents projectiles from penetrating. small arm.
burster tube, tube in a chemical pro- butt plate, metal or rubber covering of
jectile that holds the burster. the end of the stock on small arms, par-
bursting charge, explosive charge in a ticularly rifles.
projectile, bomb, or mine that breaks the butt stroke, blow with the butt end of
case and produces the fragmentation, a rifle. A butt stroke is used in close
demolition, or other action desired. combat, especially in bayonet fighting
The relatively sman bursting charge in and bayonet drill.
chemical projectiles or mines is called buzzerphone, portable field telephone
a burster. and telegraph.
bursting layer, layer of hard material by direction of the President. Abbrev:
used in the roofs of dugouts or cave DP
shelters. It sets off shells fuzed for short by the left flank, preparatory com-
delay or immediate detonation before mand to have every soldier in a forma-
they can enter deeply enough to cause tion change direction 90 degrees to the
great destruction. left of the original direction of march.
burst interval, distance between the by the numbers, preparatory com-
point where the projectile explodes and mand given in close order drill to signify
the target. that the movement ordered is to be
burst wave, wave of compressed air carried out step by step, at the com-
caused by a bursting projectile or bomb; mand of the drill instructor.
detonation wave. It may cause exten- by the right flank, preparatory com-
sive local damage. mand to have every soldier in a forma-
butt, 1. retaining wall at a target range, tion change direction 90 degrees to the
backed up with earth on the side next right of the origiwll direction of march.
Orlg1nal fro
c 51 camera spotting
c, 1. changes. 2. chief. 3. combat. elevation for a gun by firing the gun.
cable block, road obstruction made by Calibration is used to bring the fire of a
y
stretching a cable diagonally across a gun into the same range as the other
road so as to ditch a vehicle that hits the guns of a battery.
the
cable. 2. measurement of wear in the bore ()fa
cable ferry, set of cables strung over a gun in order to correct for the differ-
a
stream or defile, over which equipment ence of muzzle velocity between it and
nt
is moved from one bank to the other. the other guns of a battery.
The equipment is rigged on the cables 3. determining the corrections to be
s
and pulled across the stream or defile made in the readings of instruments used
by a towline. in precise measuring.
e
d
cable ship, boat used to carry, lay, and calibration correction, corrections ap-
e
repair cables for controlled submarine plied to a gun in a battery to make its
mines. range agree with that of the other guns
er cable system, electric wiring and power in the battery.
ma
necessary to transmit firing data from a calibration fire, experimental fire to de-
if
remote control director to a gun and, if termine the calibration corrections need-
o
the gun is controlled automatically, to ed for the individual guns of a battery.

operate the hydraulic mechanism. call, 1. request for the delivery of sup-
CAC, Coast Artillery Corps. plies covered by credits. In this mean-
cadence, 1. uniform pace and time in ing, also called draft.
r
marching. 2. signal on a bugle, drum, or whistle.
2. number of steps soldiers march per call letter, code signal in communica-
r
minute. tions used to identify a particular air-
er.
cadet, student training in a mi,litary or craft, radio station, or telegraph station.
aviation school for service as an officer. call otT, command to the members of an
ish
cadre (KAD ree), key group of officers artillery unit to call out their titles or
n
and enlisted men necessary to establish numbers in order.
and train a new unit. call sign, signal, usually a group of let-
h
cadre man (KAD ree mun), enlisted man ters, used to identify a radio station, a
ir
assigned to auty in a cadre. telegraph station, or an aircraft.
e caduceus (ka DOO see uss), staff with call the shot, in target practice, to give
nd
two snakes twined around jt and a pair an opinion of where a shot strikes before
h
of wings on top. It is the insignia of the the actual point is announced. From
Medical Corps and also the background the position of his sights a firer should
of the insignia for allied services, such be able to call his shot accurately.
as the Army Nurse Corps. call to quarters, bugle call warning sol-
-
caisson (KAY sun), two-wheeled ve- diers to go to quarters. Call to quarters

r.
hicle used for carrying artillery ammu- is usually blown 15 minutes before taps
gun.
nition. is blown, and warns soldiers to go to
ned cal, caliber. quarters before beds are checked and
s.
calcium bleach. See bleaching powder. lights are put out.
h
caliber, 1. diameter of the bore of a gun. call-up, set of signals used by a radio
ch.
In rifled gun bores the caliber is obtained station to establish contact with another
by measuring between opposite lands. station.
A .45-caliber revolver has a barrel with cam, camouflage.
ess
rtar.
an inside diameter of 45/100 of an inch. camera gun, aircraft camera mounted

un
2. diameter of a projectile. in a machine-gun frame and operated by
he
3. unit of measurement used to express a trigger. It is used to make a photo-
the length of the bore of a gun or mortar. graphic record of each shot, especially in
n.
The number of calibers is found by di- target practice by aerial gunners. Also
ong.
viding the length of the bore of the gun called aircraft camera.
from the breech block to the front of the camera spotting, observation of artil-
f
muzzle by the diameter of its bore. A lery fire using two motion-picture cam-
a
gun whose bore is 40ft. long and 12 in. eras which operate at the same time at
in diameter is said to be 40 calibers long. opposite ends of a surveyed base line,
Abbrev: cal and photograph both the target and the
calibration, 1. finding the correction of burst of the proJectile. I &.
1rom
of a
1_1
I I
d
camouflage 52 canteen
camouflage (KAMa FLAHZH), 1. dis- canalize, restrict an enemy's advance to
guising a place, thing, or person to mis- a narrow zone by obstacles and by gun-
lead or deceive the enemy. By camou- fire.
flage, the existence, nature, or location C&GS Sch, Command and General
of buildings, military equipment, or Staff School.
troops can be concealed. In this mean- candle, chemical container filled with a
ing, also called protective concealment. gas-producing or smoke-producing agent.
2. disguise places, things, or persons to The chemical filler is ignited, usually
mislead or deceive the enemy. from a striker or spark at the top cover
3. materials used as camouflage. of the container, and produces a chemi-
Abbrev: cam cal warfare gas or smoke.
camouflage discipline, 1. maintenance C&N Bt, command and navigation boat.
in good condition of all disguises set up canister, 1. metal cylinder containing
to conceal military equipment or per- metal fragments which are scattered
sonnel. when the cylinder breaks, causing in-
2. obedience to rules of conduct estab- jury or death to enemy personnel.
lished to prevent enemy observation. 2. part of a gas mask containing a sub-
camouflage net, net to which is fas- stance that filters a poisonous gas and
tened camouflage material such as grass, makes it harmless.
burlap strips, or branches. A camou- cannelure (KANa loor), groove made
flage net is made of cord and is put over around the cylinder or jacket of a pro-
gun emplacements and military materiel jectile. A cannelure collects the metal
to disguise and conceal them. When a scraped off the projectile as the projec-
standard camouflage net is not available, tile moves forward through the bore of
chicken wire or other kinds of netting the gun. A cannelure also gives a hold
may be used. for extracting, and forms a tight joint
camouftet (KAM a .FLET or kam oo between the projectile and the jacket.
FLAY), 1. mine, bomb, or shell that cannibalization, the using of equipment
explodes underground but whose ex- or parts from damaged materiel to
plosion does not break the surface of the maintain other materiel.
ground. cannon, fixed or mobile weapon on a
2. hole left beneath the surface of the mount that throws its projectile by the
ground by such an explosion. use of an explosive. Cannon are classi-
camoufteur (kama FLUR or kam oo fied as guns, mortars, and howitzers.
FLUR), man who conceals or disguises Abbrev: en
military objects by camouflage. cannoneer, member of a gun squad in
camp, 1. group of tents, huts, or other artillery who has assigned duties in the
shelter set up temporarily for troops. A loading, firing, and care of a cannon.
camp is more permanent than a bivouac. cannon platoon. Abbrev: Cn Plat
A temporary military post is called a cannon salute, firing cannon a pre-
camp, a permanent one a fort. scribed number of times to honor a per-
2. place where tents, huts, or temporary son, vessel, or flag, or to celebrate a
buildings are set up. special event.
3. make a camp; put up tents, huts, or canopy, supporting cloth surface of a
other shelter. parachute.
campaign, 1. planned series of related cant, 1. leaning or tilt to one side of any
military operations aimed at a definite obje~t; especially, the sidewise tilting of
objective within a given time and area. a gun.
Z. take part in a campaign; serve in a 2. lean or tilt to the side. A canted gun
campaign; go on a campaign. cannot be aimed accurately.
campaign badge. See campaign medal. canteen, 1. small container for water,
a-..ampaign medal, service medal award- coffee, etc., carried by a soldier.
ed for taking part in a particular war or 2. former name for a shop or store for
campaign; campaign badge. soldiers now operated by the Army Ex-
camp hospital. See station hospital. change Service.
camp retainer, servant, store clerk, or 3. club or recreation center for soldiers,
other civilian who works at a post, camp, operated by a civilian organization such
or station and is subject to military law. as the t.Tnited Service Organizations.
- it
canteen check 58 carrier pigeon
canteen check, paper or metal token of loons are used for observation or PS
any specified value accepted in payment obstacles to enemy aircraft.
of
for purchases at a post exchange. carbine, light rifle with a short barrel.
ent cantilever, projecting bracket or beam The current army carbine is magazine-
that is fastened and supported at one fed, gas-operated, self-loading, air-cooled,
m
end only. A cantilever bridge is made of and weighs about five pounds.
two cantilevers whose projecting ends Abbrev: cbn
of
meet but do not support each other. carbineer, soldier armed with a carbine.
s
cantilever extension, method of locat- carbon monoxide, colorless, odorless,

-
ing points beyond a base line for use as extremely poisonous gas. Carbon mon-
as
control points in photomapping. Can- oxide is lighter than air and burns with
tilever extension is done by photog- a pale blue flame. It is formed by in-
raphy, and used when ground survey is complete combustion in gun blasts,
is
not possible. bursting shells, and gasoline engines.
cantonment (kan TON munt), group Dangerous quantities are often found in.
of temporary buildings for soldiers to poorly ventilated gun turrets or gun em-
live in. They are usually made of wood. placements, in mining operations, and
d.
A camp differs from a cantonment in in recently formed shell holes.

for
that a camp usually has canvas tents for carbonyl chloride. See phosgene.
shelter. cargador (KARG a dor), person who
d-
cantonment building, temporary build- supervises the loading and driving of
ing for soldiers to live in. It is usually pack animals.
made of wood. cargo-transport plane, airplane designed
ve
cap, 1. small quantity of high explosive to carry freight. It is usually a large,

na
used to set off the explosive charge in a multiple-motored plane with great cruis-
projectile, fuze, mine, etc. ing range.
er,
2. nosepiece on a projectile. car navigator, member of the crew of
e
capital ship, battleship or battle cruiser, an armored vehicle who keeps close
,
or any warship mounting guns of more check on his position on his map, and
than 8-inch caliber. An aircraft carrier, directs the route of his vehicle, especially
regardless of size, is not classed as a in cross-country travel.
s or
capital ship. carpenter. Abbrev: cptr
capitulate, surrender on certain terms or carr, carrier.
conditions. car repair company. Abbrev: Car Rep Co
n
capitulation, agreement by which one Car Rep Co, car repair company.
on
force surrenders to another on certain carriage, 1. mobile or fixed support for
s or
terms or conditions. a gun. It sometimes includes the ele-
n
capstan, spool-shaped rotating drum on vating and traversing mechanisms. In
the deck of a ship around which ropes or this meaning, usually called gun car-
ch cables are wound. A capstan is used in riage.
lifting and pulling. Sailors hoist the 2. undercarriage of an aircraft.
anchor by turning the capstan to which carrier, 1. motor vehicle for carrying
nks
the anchor chain is attached. men or materiel. The term is often com-
capt, captain. bined with a word naming the special
-
captain, 1. officer in the Army who ranks function of the carrier; for example,
es
next above a first lieutenant and next troop carrier or gun carrier.
below a major. A captain usually com- 2. harness or device for carrying small
mands a company, battery, troop, or loads, such as chemical cylinders or gas
a flight. See Table of Comparative Grades masks.
s on p. 125. 3. person or thing that carries or spreads
in
2. officer in the Navy who ranks next a disease. Carriers are often healthy
above a commander and next below a persons who are immune to a disease,
commodore. A captain in the Navy has but carry its germs.
m
a rank equivalent to that of a colonel in 4. part of the mechanism of some auto-

the Army. See Table of Comparative matic guns that helps to set the projec-
Grade8 on p. 125. Abbrev: capt tile in its proper firing position.
taptlve balloon, balloon controlled from A bbrev: carr
e-
the ground by a cable. Captive hal- carrier pigeon. See ho ing pigeon.
1_1 - 1'1
oled,
ne.'
carry 54 catapult
carry, 1. prescribed position for holding point other than the target; the eleva-
and carrying the saber, color, guidon, tion is set with an elevation quadrant
etc., in a military formation. or range disk.
2. hold a saber,- color, guidon, etc., in cased color, the color when rolled up
this prescribed position. and covered with a case.
3. capture; take possession of a military casemate, bombproof structure, used
objective by force. to house the control equipment of a
carry light, searchlight used in an antisubmarine mine system. A casemate
aircraft system to keep an aerial target may also be used as a gun emplacement
that has been spotted by a pick-up light on land or on a warship, as a supply
constantly illuminated so that the target magazine, or for quartering troops.
can be tracked and fired upon. A carry caster, 1. backward tilt of the top of the
light in an antiaircraft system corre-. front axle of a motor vehicle. This tilt
sponds to an illuminating light in a sea- gives fore-and-aft stability to the wheels
coast defense system. and makes them tend to straighten out
cartel (kar TEL), written agreement after a curve.
between countries at war, usually for the 2. wheel mounting that permits a wheel
exchange of prisoners or the passage of to turn in a full 360-degree circle.
mail or supplies through a blockade. casual, soldier awaiting orders, transpor-
cartel ship, unarmed vessel sailing tation, etc., at a post or station to which
under a guarantee of freedom from at- he is not attached or assigned.
tack or capture in time of war. A cartel casual detachment, military unit con-
ship usually carries prisoners to be sisting of officers or soldiers separated
exchanged. from their own units or awaiting assign-
cartographical sketching, freehand ment.
sketching of maps or charts. casual officer, 1. officer not yet assigned
cartridge, round of ammunition for a to a unit, or absent from his unit because
rifle, machine gun, or other small arm; of a special assignment, leave, illness, etc.
complete round of small-arms ammuni- 2. officer in charge of a detachment of
tion. A cartridge consists of the primer, casuals.
gunpowder, bullet, and case. casual payment, payment made to a
cartridge bag, cloth bag holding the person temporarily separated from his
propelling charge for some types of own organization and service record.
cannon. casu~ty, 1. loss in numerical strength
cartridge belt, ammunition belt with because of death, wounds, sickness, cap-
loops or pockets for carrying cartridges ture, or desertion.
or clips of cartridges. 2. soldier who is missing in action, or
cartridge case, metal container that who has been killed, wounded, or cap-
holds the gunpowder in a cartridge. tured as a result of enemy action. In
cartridge clip, metal frame or container this meaning, also called battle cas-
that holds cartridges for a magazine ualty.
rifle or automatic pistol; clip. In clip- casualty agent, poisonous gas; chemical
fed rifles, the cartridges are loaded from agent used directly against the enemy
the clip into the rifle magazine. In the to cause casualties. A casualty agent is
automatic pistol, the clip is inserted into powerful enough to cause death, while
the grip. a harassing agent is only irritating.
case, roll up the color, or any flag, and Mustard gas is an example of a casualty
cover with a case. agent.
case I pointhtg, gun pointing in which casualty report. See battle casualty re-
direction and elevation are set with a port.
sight pointed at the target. catapult, 1. device for launching an air-
case II pointing, gun pointing in which plane from the deck of a ship not equip-
direction is set with a sight pointed at ped with a flight deck. A catapult
the target, and the elevation with an usually uses the force of compressed air
elevation quadrant or range disk. or gunpowder to give the plane flying
case III pointing, gun pointing in which speed quickly.
direction is set with an azimuth circle 2. launch an airplane by 'ISing su(.h a
or with a sight pointed at an aiming device.
rlg1nal f -
caterpillar band 55 central control
caterpillar band, endless belt placed on mining geographical positions by obser-
the wheels of a gun carriage for travel vation of heavenly bodies, used especial-
on
over soft or rough ground. ly by aircraft and ships; astronomical

l
cathead, 1. movable grooved wheel or navigation. In flying aircraft, celestial

r
pulley, mounted on an arm projecting navigation is used a8 a check on dead
over the side of a mine planter. A cat- reckoning or radio navigation.
-
head is used in taking up mines. cell. See cellule.
2. projecting piece of timber or iron cellule, the entire structure of the wings
near the bow of a vessel. When the and wing support of an airplane on one
anchor is hoisted it is fastened to the side of the plane; cell.
cathead. cern, cemetery.
caustic soda, white substance that dis- cemetery. Abbrev: cern
s-
solves readily in water; sodium hydrox- cen, 1. center. 2. central.

ide. Caustic soda is used as a means of censor, person who examines and, it
x-
of
ls.
destroying poiqon gases and chemicals. necessary, strikes out or takes out all, or
c auth, civil authorities. parts of, private correspondence, tele-
cav, Cavalry. grams, press dispatches, motion pic-
cavalry, highly mobile ground units, tures, radio broadcasts, or any other
horse, motorized, or mechanized. means of communication, to prevent in-
Cavalry, branch of the Army Ground formation of military value from falling
e,
Forces made up of highly mobile horse, into enemy hands.

motorized, or mechanized units. censorship, examining and, if necessary,
Abbrev: cav striking out or taking out all, or parts of,
cavalryman, member of the Cavalry. private correspondence, telegrams, press
Cavalry School, special servi~ school dispatches, motion pictures, radio broad-
o-
that gives training and instruction in casts, or any other means of communica-
the technique and tacti~ of horse, m~ tion, to prevent information of military
torized, and mechanized cavalry. The value from falling into enemy hands.
ns
Cavalry School trains specialists for center. Abbrev: cen

field duty and as instructors, and trains center of burst, point in the air about
and qualifies men for commission in which the bursts of several projectiles
the Cavalry. It is under the supervi- are evenly distributed; burst center.
my
sion of the Commanding General, Army center or dispersion, theoretical center

e,
Ground Forces. of hits that would have been made if an
eave shelter, underground shelter for unlimited number of shots had been fired
ve
troops, dug out from a bank or hillside, with the same data. Actually it has to
with undisturbed ground over it. A cave be considered the center of impact of all
shelter differs from a cut-and-cover shots already fired.
ch
shelter, which is an open pit with an center of impact, center of the points
artificial cover. hit by a series of shots fired with the
cavity, the interior of a projectile, which same data.
is filled with high explosive. center or resistance, point in the main
cbn, carbine. defensive system at which troops are
CC, 1. combat command. concentrated to repel enemy attacks.
2. cyanogen chloride. A center of resistance supports, and is
c car, combat car. in turn supported by, other centers of
CCR, combat crew. resistance.
CD, coast defense. center-to-center method, method of as-
op
CDD, certificate of disability for dis- sembling aerial photographs with a more
r
charge. than 50 percent overlap, by matching
CE, Corps of Engineers. a point near the center with correspond-
t
cease firing, command or signal to stop ing points in the overlap of adjacent
shooting. pictures to form a strip mosaic.
ceiling, 1. distance between the lower central. Abbrev: cen
er-
level of a cloud bank and the ground. central control, fire control of weapons
cial-
2. greatest height to which an aircraft from a central location, not by the in-
can ro. dividual gunner. It is especially used
d
celestial navigation, method of deter- in antiaircraft b~~~ ~r
gs
central interpretation unit 56 change step
~entral interpretation unit. Abbrev: CIU the pay rolls, financial matters, or any
~entral station, position of those mem- other fact to be true and correct as it is
bers of a sound-ranging platoon who col- given.
lect data from the outlying surveying CF, coastal frontier.
units and calculate an artillery range cfr, chauffeur.
from that data. CG, 1. commanding generaL
central tracer control, central control 2. phosgene.
of gunfire by the use of tracer ammu- C GP, combat group.
nition. ch, chaplain.
eeremony, military formation or func- chain of command, series of command-
tion, such as a parade or review, held to ing officers through whose hands must
honor a person, to celebrate an event, pass orders, especially field or combat
etc. orders, and instructions which travel
certificate, written or printed statement from a commander to a subordinate.
signed by an officer that declares some- Also called command channel.
thing to be a fact. chain of evacuation, series of stations
certificate of capacity, statement and routes by which the sick and in-
which declares that the officer named is jured are collected and carried to hospi-
qualified for promotion to the grade tals. The chain of evacuation usually
named in the certificate. begins at an aid station and ends at a
certificate of disability for discharge, general hospital.
statement which declares that the soldier challenge, t". command of a sentry to
named is permanently unfit for military anyone approaching his post, to halt and
service and should be discharged. identify himself.
Abbrev: CDD 2. order anyone approaching a sentry's
certificate of discharge, statement post to halt and identify himself.
issued to a soldier when be leaves mili- 3. form~l objection made to having a
tary service. A certificate of discharge certain officer on a court of Army offi-
confirms the release of the soldier named cers. A challenge can be made either by
in it, and states the character and record the accused or by the judge advocate of
of his service. the case.
certificate of expenditure, statement 4. make formal objection to having a cer-
which declares that expendable property tain officer on a court of Army officers.
has been used up or has been dropped chamber, part of a gun in which the
from accountability. The certificate is charge is placed. In a revolver it is a
used in checking actual issues of prop- hole in the cylinder, in a cannon it is
erty against authorized allotments, and part of the breech, and in most rifles
it also authorizes the turning over of and automatic weapons it is the rear-
unusable property to the salvage officer most part of the bore.
for disposal. chandelle (shan DEL), abrupt climbing
certificate of fair wear and tear, state- turn approximately to a stall, in which
ment that the loss of, or damage to, the the momentum of the airplane is used
items named was due to normal use in to obtain a higher rate of climb than
military service, not to anyone's fault would be possible in unaccelerated flight.
or neglect. The purpose of this maneuver is to gain
certificate or proficiency' certificate altitude at the same time that the direc-
stating that a man has gained a pre- tion of flight is changed.
scribed skill or gained a special rating change of station, detail, transfer, or
through attending a school or passing a assignment of a soldier to duty at a new
test. post. A change of station may be either
certificate or service, certificate stating a permanent change of station or a tem-
that a person named has honorably porary change of station.
completed the required period of active changes. Abbrev: c
military service, or has been honorably change step, 1. shift feet quickly in
separated or relieved from active mili- marching, to get in step with another
tary service prior to its completion. It person or to get in rhythm.
also notes any special merit attained. 2. preparatory command to change step,
certifying officer, officer who declare.s used in ~ 1c:_hn~ , fro
channel 57 chemical agent, nonpersistent
channel, 1. route of official communica- given to a noncommissioned officer. In
a-
tion between headquarters or command- the absence of the first sergeant and
nd-
ers of military units. In this meaning, company commander he is also in
also called military channel. charge of discipline.
2. band of frequencies or a circuit within charge sheet, form on which are listed
hin
which communication may be main- the charges and all data relating to the
tained. offense of an accused person to be tried
f-
channel of communication, route of of- before a court-martial.
n
ficial military correspondence between chart, 1. map, especially a map to be
ary headquarters or commanders of military used for sea or air navigation, or an
units. outline map giving information for
chapeau (sha PO), official cap for an military operations or the like.
Army hostess or librarian. 2. sheet giving information in lists, pic-
s
chaplain, clergyman commissioned as tures, tables, or diagrams.

-
e
an officer in the Corps of Chaplains. He 3. make a chart of; show on a chart.

is a staff officer, and advises the com- charter, 1. written evidence of an agree-
m-
mander on all matters affecting the ment or ~ontract, especially of a con-
ous
moral. and religious welfare of the com- tract to let or hire a ship.
c- mand. He is responsible for the religious 2. hire a ship, aircraft, etc.
welfare of soldiers and for their instruc- chartroom, 1. central place at which ob-
ol
tion in morals. Abbrev: ch served data are converted into firing

er-
Chaplain School, special service school data for transmission to individual guns
of
that gives chaplains training in minister- or air units in a tactical force.

of
ing to the religious and moral needs of 2. compartment or room on ships and
military personnel. It also gives in- some types of aircraft, in which charts
struction in the customs of the Corps of and instruments are kept and navigation
Chaplains. It is under the supervision is planned.
of the Commanding General, Army chassis (SHASS ee), 1. frame, wheels
e-
Service Forces. and machinery of a motor vehicle. The
chaplain's fund, fund used in promot- chassis supports the body.
ing the religious welfare, character de- 2. main landing gear of an aircraft; that
velopment, and contentment of the portion of the landing gear that supports
personnel of a command. It is admin- an aircraft. The chassis includes the
un.
istered by the unit's chaplain. wheels, floats, or other main structural
char, character. support of the aircraft. In this mean-
character. Abbrev: char ing, also called main landing gear or

charge, 1. explosive used in firing a gun. undercarriage.
m-
A propelling charge throws a projectile 3. movable base on which the top car-
from a gun. A bursting charge breaks riage of a gun moves.
-
the casing of a projectile to produce chauffeur. Abbrev: cfr

the demolition, fragmentation, or chem- check point, 1. easily identified point on
ial.
ical action. which adj11stment is made to correct
2. violent final rush in an attack or as- data for fu1 ther artillery fire.
sault. 2. geographical location on land or water
3. make such a rush. above which the position of an aircraft
4. accuse a defendant in a court-martial. in flight may be determined by observa-
e
5. the accusation of a defendant in a tion.
e-
court-martial; formal statement ac- chemical, 1. substance obtained by, or

of
cusing someone of having violated a used in, chemistry.

specific Article of War. 2. containing one or more chemical sub-
6. posture of an individual in which the stances.
feet are spread apart, one foot well be- Abbrev: cml
hind the other, similar to the position of chemical agent, chemical used as a
n guard in bayonet drill. It is one of the weapon. Poison gases, irritant gases,
positions taken in unarmed defense. incendiaries, and screening smokes are
rharge of quarters, responsibility for chemical agents.
the care and policing of a barracks or chemical agent, nonpersistent.
he
d
<'amp for a particular period of time Abbret': G-NP r1g1 I ro

ed
chemical agent, persistent 58 chief
chemical agent, persistent. Abbrev: G-P I Chemical Warfare School, special serv-
chemical bomb, bomb or special type ice school that gives training and in-
of mortar shell mainly used to start struction in the technique and tactics of
fires or spread gas or smoke by releasing chemical warfare, develops trained en-
chemicals enclosed in it. listed specialists, and trains and qualifies
chemical cylinder, metal container from men for commission in the Chemical
which gas or smoke clouds are released./ Warfare Service. It is under the super-
It is one of the standard pieces of equip- vision of the Commanding General,
ment of chemical combat troops. Army Service Forces.
chemical grenade, grenade filled with Chemical Warfare Service, branch of
chemicals that scatter as it breaks. A the Army Service Forces in charge of all
chemical grenade is used to spread phases of the supply of chemical warfare
poisonous or irritating gases, fire, or materials and equipment, and the train-
smoke. ing of personnel in chemical warfare.
chemical land mine, gas-filled container The Chemical Warfare Service is in
that is hidden or buried, and exploded charge of research, development, manu-
by a detonator. facture, and procurement of gas, smoke
chemical mortar, mortar that fires generators, incendiaries, gas masks,
shells containing chemical agents. The flame throwers, etc. It also trains mili-
shells burst and spread gas, smoke, etc. tary personnel in the use of such mate-
The chemical mortar is the principal rials and devices and in methods of
weapon of chemical troops. protection and defense against casualty-
chemical mortar, 4.2-inch. Abbrev: producing chemical agents. The Chem-
4.2 Cml Mort ical Warfare Service also acts in an
chemical officer, officer, usually a mem- advisory capacity on the chemistry of
ber of the Chemical Warfare Service, explosives. Abbrev: CWS
who serves on the staff of a commander chess, one of the floor planks of a float-
of a division or higher unit and advises ing bridge.
the commander and staff on all matters chest pack parachute, parachute fas-
regarding chemical warfare. In units tened across the wearer's chest. A chest
smaller than a division; the staff officer pack parachute is used mainly in train-
having these duties is called the gas ing jumpers and as a second parachute
officer. for additional safety.
chemical projectile, bomb, grenade, or chevron, cloth design shaped like a A
shell containing a burster and a chem- or V, worn on the sleeve to indicate
ical agent. rank, wounds, or length of service in a
chemical security, all measures of pro- combat area. Chevrons are worn on the
tection taken against enemy use of upper part of both sleeves to indicate the
chemical agents. rank of an enlisted man above the grade
chemical shell, projectile containing of private.
chemical warfare agents and designed to grade chevron, khaki or olive-drab
be fired from a gun or mortar; gas cloth design shaped like a A, to indicate
shell. the rank of an enlisted man above the
chemical spray, discharge of chemicals grade of private. A grade chevron is
from aircraft. Chemical spray is con- worn with the point up, on the upper
tained in a tank in the aircraft. Com- part of both sleeves.
mon chemical sprays are mustard gas, war service chevron, gold-colored
lewisite, or any type of liquid smoke. cloth design shaped like a V, to indicate
chemical warfare, tactics and technique six months' foreign service in World
of conducting warfare by the use of War I. It is worn with its point down,
chemical agents. Attacking agents are on the lower part of the left sleeve.
gases, fire, and smoke, and they are wound chevron, gold-colored cloth de-
spread by means of shells, bombs, gre- sign shaped like a V, to indicate wounds
nades, cylinders, smoke generators, and received in action in \Vorld War I. A
flame throwers. Defenses are neutraliz- wound chevron is worn with its point
ing or decontaminating agents and pro- down, on the lower part of the right
tective devices, such as gas masks and sleeve.
~pecial clothing. chief. 49~ev: c :::)
1
chief dietitian 59 chief warrant officer
ehief dietitian, woman who plans menus mander in Chief of the Army, exercises
and supervises preparation of food in a his functions in relation to strategy,
hospital. The chief dietitian serves in tactics, and operations. The Chief of
the Medical Department with the rela- Staff also serves as military adviser to
nus
tive rank, in wartime, of captain. the Secretary of War. Abbrev: CofS

ehief engineer, 1. officer in charge of chief of staff, senior staff officer in a
a
-
the mechanical performance of any ship division or higher unit who acts as prin-
in the various Army services. cipal adviser to the commanding officer
2. tactical officer who plans and super- and coordinates the work of the different
hip
vises the construction, maintenance, and staff sections.
operation of inland waterway systems Chief of Staff, United States Army.
r-
and military railways in a large military Abbrev: WDCSA

and
area. Chief of the Air Staff, officer in charge

ehief leader, officer in the former Wom- of the Air Staff. The Chtef of the Air
s
en's Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC)

y
Staff acts as the executive assistant and

m-
who had a rank equiva~nt to that of a adviser of the Commanding General,
master sergeant. Army Air Forces, and takes temporary
a ehief nurse, officer in the Army Nurse command in the latter's absence.
Corps who has a rank equivalent to Chie( of the Veterinary Service, offi-
that of a first lieutenant. She is in cer in administrative and technical com-
charge of" nurses in a ward, laboratory, mand of the veterinary service. He i~
or department of a hospital. immediately under The Surgeon Gen-
chief of. Abbrev: Cof eral, Medical Department, Army Service
y,
Chief of Administrative Services.- See Forces.

e
Director of Administration. Chief of Transportation, officer in ad-
ehief of arm or service. . See chief of ministrative and technical command of
service. the Transportation Corps. Abbrev: CofT
Chief of Chaplains, administrative offi- chief petty officer, noncommissioned
-
cer in command of the Corps of Chap- officer of the highest grade in the Army
-
lains. Transport Service and the Army Mine

Chief of Chemical Warfare Service, of- Planter Service, and in the Navy. A
ficer in administrative and technical chief petty officer is equivalent in rank
-
erv-
command of the Chemical Warfare Serv- to a master sergean~ in the Army. See
ice. Table of Comparative Grades on p.
Chief of Engineers, officer in adminis- 125.
trative and technical command of the chief quartermaster, any senior staff
Corps of Engineers. officer, attached to the headquarters of
Chief of Finance, administrative and a large organization, such as a division or

technical officer in charge of all War a theater of operations, in command of
Department funds. He is immediately all Quartermaster Corps units in the
under the Director of Administration. organization.
Chief of Ordnance, officer in adminis- chief signal officer, any senior staff of-
trative and technical. command of the fleer attached to the headquarters of a
Ordnance Department. large organization, such as a division or
chief of service, senior general officer theater of operations, who is in com-
in one of the supply or administrative mand of all Signal Corps units in the
ar-
services of the Army, such as the Fi- organization.

nance Department or the Chemical War- Chief Signal Officer, officer in adminis-
i-
fare Service. The chief of a service is trative and technical command of the
uip-
charged with preparing plans and poli- Signal Corps. Abbrev: CSigO
s,
cies for the organization, training, equip- chief surgeon, senior medical officer
ment, and operation of the service. assigned to a general headquarters, or to
f
There are no longer any chiefs of arms, an expeditionary force, as a staff officer
such as the Cavalry or Field Artillery. in charge of all medical units in the
Chief of Staff, executive staff officer of command.,
the War Department General Staff. chief warrant officer, warrant officer of
es
Through the Chief of Staff the Presi- the senior grade in the Army. A chief
dent of the United States, as Com- warrF't officer rankq next above a war-
o
Orlg1nal rrom
n-
er
chloracetophenone 60 civil affairs section
rant officer, junior grade, and next below very accurate time. It is used in sea
a second lieutenant. See Table of and air navigation in determining longi7
Comparative Grades on p. 125. Abbrev: tude.
CWO church call, bugle signal that a church
chloracetophenone (KLOR a SET a fa service is about to be held.
NOAN), gas having the odor of apple cipher, 1. method of secret writing which
blossoms. Chloracetophenone will pro- transposes the letters of a message ac-
duce tears and intense burning in the cording to a set pattern, or replaces the
eyes, and its effects can be controlled by proper letters with substitutes called for
washing with water and using gas masks. by the system used, or combines both
Symbol: CN methods.
chloracetophenone solution, either of 2. key to such a method of secret writ-
the two common solutions of chlora- ing.
cetophenon~, CNB, the w~aker, or CNS, cipher device, mechanical device for
the stronger, used as a spray against per- translating messages into, or out of,
sonnel. cipher. "
-
chloramine-T (KLOR a MEEN TEE), cipher key, word, number, or other in-
white crystals or powder soluble in dication of the system to be used for
water, used as an agent for removing translating a cipher message into plain
mustard gas. text or a plain text into cipher.
chloride of lime. See bleaching pow- cipher text, text of a message in cipher,
der. that is, with the letters of the plain open
chlorinated lime. See bleaching powder. message transposed or with other letters
chlorination, 1. combining or treating or numbers substituted for them ..
with chlorine. cir, circular.
2. disinfecting with chlorine compounds; circuit diagram, drawing that sho\vs
sterilizing drinking water by treatment connections of the wiring system in any
with calcium hypochlorite. electrical device or installation, espe-
chlorine, greenish-yellow poison gas that cially in radios, telephones, and other
is irritating and harmful to the eyes, com1nunication equipment.
nose, throat, and lungs, and may cause circular, official publication that usually
death. Sym'J~l: Cl contains information of a general but
chlorpicrin (kl3r PI~ rin), colorless temporary nature. Abbrev: cir
liquid whose vapor is very irritating to circulation map, official map shoVt~ing
the lungs, and causes vomiting, cough- traffic routes and the measures for traf-
ing, and crying. Chlorpicrin has the fie regulation. It indicates the roads
odor of flypaper ot licorice. Symbol: PS certain classes of traffic may use, the
chlorsulphonic acid (KLOR sul FON ik location of traffic control stations, and
ASS id), colorless liquid that gives off the directions in which traffic may move.
fumes and produces a prickly sensation citation, 1. specific mention in orders or
on the skin and irritates the eyes. dispatches.
Chlorsulphonic acid is used for fog 2. public commendation or decoration
screens. Sym!>Jl: F3 for unusual achieve1nent or gallant
chord, straight line connecting two action.
points of a curve. The straight line 3. reference to legal or other authorities
forming the base of the curved path of in support of rules and regulations pre-
a projectile, the straight line connecting scribed in Army manuals.
1
.
the end3 of a highway curve, and the i Citizens' 1\lilitary Training Camp, spe-
straight line connecting the front and cial station for giving instruction and
rear edge3 of an airfoil section are chords. training to civilians in military science
CHQ, 1. corp-; head1uarters. and tactics. Abbrev: CJVITC
2. corp3 headqu:1rter-; company. CIU, central interpretation unit.
chronograph, instrume~t for measuring civ, 1. civil. 2. civilian.
and graphically recording small intervals civil. Abbrev: civ
of time. A chronograph is frequently civil affairs section, 1. divi~ion of a mil..
U3ed in measuring velocities of pro- itary government set up in a theater of
jectiles. operations or a conquerPd territory, for
ehronometer, ~.1oek or \vateh that kPeps the handling of civil affairs.
rr1g1nal fro
civil air-raid officer 61 classification
2. section of the general staff of an class A property, new or unused prop-
army or higher organization that ad- erty.
ministers measures to prevent subver- class B agent officer, commissioned or
sive aetivities in the United States, and warrant officer to whom public funds
to control civilian activities that en- are intrusted by an accountable disburs-
r-
danger national defense. Specific meas- ing officer for the purpose of making
d
ures include air-raid precautions, dim- payments and collections as agent for
outs, etc. the accountable officer. A class B
civil air-raid officer, officer attached to agent officer is not restricted to specified
as-
the aircraft warning service who is payments or collections, but is given

o
charged with deciding which air-raid general authority to act for, and in the
alarm is to be sounded, and to which name of, the accountable officer.
control center the alarm is to be issued. class B allotment, deduction from pay
civil authorities. Abbrev: c auth authorized by a soldier to cover pay-
ed.
civilian. Abbrev: civ ments on purchases of war savings

civilian internee, civilian, especially an bonds. This allotment has replaced the
alien enemy of nonmilitary status, living deduction known as class A allotment or
in the United States, who is confined for class A pay reservation.
n
ng
for
the duration of the war or until other ~lass B property, property that has
disposition is made of his case. been used or reclaimed and is still
Civil Relief Act. See Soldiers' and Sail- usable.
ors' Civil Relief Act. class C property, property that is un-
ck, cook. usable but can be reclaimed.
cl, class. class D allotment, deduction from pay
Cl, chlorine. authorized by a soldier to cover pre-
CL, close-in. miums on United States Government
s
claims officer, officer appointed by his Life Insurance issued in World War I.
to
commanding officer to head a board to class E allotment, deduction from pay
or
investigate certain types of accidents or authorized by a soldier to be paid to
ainst
incidentsthatmayresultinclaimsagainst institutions, such as banks and insur-
the Government. ance companies, or to individuals.
on
clasp, small metal bar across the ribbon class F allotment, deduction from pay
of a medal that tells something of the authorized by an enlisted man as his
e
occasion of its being granted; a battle contribution toward a dependency al-

clasp names the action, and a service lowance. The Governm@nt contributes
clasp names the country where the an additional amount, the size of which
wearer served. depends on the number and class of

r
class. Abbrev: cl qualified dependents. Usually called
class A agent officer, commissioned or class F deduction.
urs- warrant officer to whom public funds class F deduction, deduction from pay
are intrusted by an accountable disburs- authorized by an enlisted man as his
thly
ing officer for the purpose of making contribution toward a dependency ~1-
specified payments, such as the monthly lowance. The Government contributes
y
payment of troops. an additional amount, the size of which

class A allotment, deduction from pay depends on the number and class of
er-
authorized by a soldier to cover pay- qualified dependents. Sometimes called
ments on purchases of war savings class F allotment.
lass
bonds. Usually called class A pay reser- class N allotment, deduction from pay
vation. This form of deduction is now authorized by a soldier to cover pre-
obsolete, and has been replaced by class miums on National Service Life In-
over
B allotment. surance.
s
class A pay reservation, deduction class X allotment, deduction from pay

-
from pay authorized by a soldier to cover authorized by a soldier serving overseas,

lass
payments on purchases of war savings to be paid to a dependent residing in a
bonds. Sometimes called class A allot- foreign country other than that in which
-
ment. This f0rm of deduction is no\v the soldier is serving.
obsolete, and has been replaced by class classification, 1. determining where a
r B allotment. ; man <'an hPf4t Rerve in thP military serv-
urs-
rlglnal rrom
r
classification estimate 62 clearing station
ices on the basis of information on his" class V supplies, ammunition, pyro-
intelligence, aptitudes, education, and technics, antitank mines, and chernical
life history. . warfare agents.
2. grouping materials and equipment on cld, colored.
the basis of use, condition, or some other cleaning brush, metal brush on a rod or
standard. pulled by a string, used to clean the ri-
3. putting military documents, etc., in fling of a gun barrel.
special groups. They are classified as cleaning rod, rod to be used with a
secret, confidential, or restricted when brush or cloth, or other attachment, for
their circulation must be limited. The cleaning the bore of a firearm.
particular classification depends on the clean-up party, soldiers who remain in
degree of restriction required. camp to clean up the camp site, after the
classification estimate, determining, departure of the main body of troops.
from the information on the soldier's clear, 1. make certain no ammunition
qualification card, his suitability for remains in a gun.
various assignments. 2. remove stoppages that interfere with
classification officer, commissioned of- the firing of a gun.
ficer who classifies military personnel. 3. pass a designated point, line, or ob-
classified, having a classification as ject. The tail of a column must pass a
secret, confidential, or restricted. Pub- point before the point is cleared.
lication or circulation of classified items 4. in plain text. When security of mili-
and of information about them is limited tary information is not involved, mes-
according to the classification given. sages are ordinarily sent in the clear,
classified military information, all in- rather than in cipher or code.
formation concerning documents, codes clearance, 1. statement in writing that
or ciphers, future projects, and materiel the accounts of an officer are in order.
classed as secret, confidential, or re- 2. papers permitting a ship or aircraft
stricted, as well as the items themselves. to leave on a voyage or flight. Clear-
class I supplies, supplies, such as ra- ance is especially necessary if a ship or
tions and forage, that are consumed at aircraft is going across one or more
an approximately uniform daily rate in tern a tional..boundaries.
under all conditions, and that are issued 3 ..space allowed between moving parts
automatically without requisitions to of guns and machinery; as, the clearance
Army units. Abbrev: Cl I Sup between the bore of a gun and the
class II supplies, supplies, such as cartridge.
clothing, weapons, and vehicles, for 4. elevation of a gun at such an angle
which allowances are fixed by Tables of that a projectile will not strike an ob-
Allowances and Tables of Basic Allow- stacle between the muzzle and the
ances. target.
class III supplies, supplies, such as clearance, angle of. See angle of clear-
fuels and lubricant3 for all purposes ex- ance.
cept aviation, including gasoline for all clearance time, time at which the tail
vehicles, Diesel oil, fuel oil, and coal. of a column or other unit passes a given
class ill (A) supplies, aviation fuels point.
and lubricants. clear ice, smooth, transparent coating
class IV supplies, supplies and equip- of ice from freezing rain which forms on
ment for which allowances are not pre- the front of an airplane wing; glaze.
scribed, or which require special meas- Clear ice adds to the weight of the plane,
ures of control and are not otherwise and alters the lift of the wing by chang-
classified. Normally such supplies in- ing its shape.
clude fortification materials, construc- clearing block, wooden block placed be-
tion materials, aircraft, and articles of tween the bolt and the rear of the barrel
similar nature. of an automatic weapon to prevent
class IV (E) supplies, complete air- closing of the action and to show that
planes, airplane equipment, and all the gun is unloaded.
spare parts and supplies required to clearing company. Abbrev: Clr Co
maintain a complete airplane in com- clearing station, tnedical station in the
mi~~ion. field, where Rick and wounded are as-
Original fro
clearing unit 63 close order drill
sembled from collecting stations, given close, preparatory command used to
temporary aid, classified, and then sent bring men marching at normal interval
to the rear for further care. Formerly to close interval.
en
called hospital station. close column, mass formation in which

nt
clearing unit, medical organization of the march units of a column are sepa-
one or more clearing stations. It re- rated by less than the usual distance.
ceives and classifies battle casualties, close combat, fighting in narrow quar-
gives them tenporary aid, ahd prepares ters; hand-to-hand or bayonet fighting.
, them to be sent back farther to the rear. close defense. See close-in protection.
res
clear text. See plain text. closed traverse, in surveying, a set of
ear.
clerical aptitude test, standardized ex- connected lines that return either to the
amination given to discover whether an starting point or to a point of known
-
enlisted man has abilities which, with location. In open traverse, by con-
training, fit him for clerical work. trast, the final line does not return to the
an
clerk, person who keeps the records in starting point, or to a point of known
n
an administrative unit. The special title location.
e
and duties of a clerk depend upon the close envelopment, enveloping ma-
e unit and upon the nature of the records neuver intended to strike the flank of
ds
kept, for example, company clerk, stock the enemy and surrounq the enemy
ock
clerk, headquarters clerk, mail clerk, forces on that flank. Close envelopment
message center clerk. Abbrev: elk differs from wide envelopment, which
clevis, U-shaped piece of metal with a is an enveloping maneuver that starts
bolt through the open ends. It is used from the enemy position and usually is
a
on vehicles for towing. directed at an objective far in the rear

climb and dive indicator. See rate of of the enemy front lines.
climb indicator. close-in. Abbrev: CL
air-
climbing turn, flight maneuver of an air- close:in protection, protection against
plane in which it increases its altitude enemy attack at close range; close defense.
while making a tum. close-in security, employment of cover,
n
clinical record, official form or chart on camouflage, obstacles, antitank weap-

or
which a medical and surgical history for ons, sentinels, and patrols f6r protection
each patient in a hospital is kept. of a unit against attack at close range.
er
clinometer, instrument for measuring close interval, 1. space between soldiers
vertical angles accurately. A clinometer standing abreast, measured by placing
is often used to measure the angle of the palm of the hand on the hip so that
elevation of guns. the elbow touches the arm of the next in
;
clinometer rest, device placed in the line.
bore of a gun to support a clinometer; 2. smallest prescribed interval between
bore rest. two unit8 standing abreast in a forma-
clip. See cartridge clip. tion.
clip loading machine, device for plac- close march, command to take a close
ing cartridges in a clip. interval in marching.
elk, clerk. close order, formation in which indi-
. elm, column. viduals or units are arranged in a line
s
clo, clothing. or column at normal intervals or dis-
g-
clock-face method. See clock method. tances or at close intervals or distances.

clock method, method of calling shots Close order is the normal arrangement
d;
by reference to the figures on an imag- in drill marching and is different from

inary clock dial assumed to have the extended order, a tactical formation in
ame
target at its center; clock-face method; which the men are widely spaced.
a
clock system. Thus, a shot directly close order drill, drill formations and
ck
above the target is at 12 o'clock. The movements that are done at normal in-
same method is sometimes used to name terval or at close interval. The forma-
the direction of a wind; for example, a tions and movements are those usually
wind directly from the left is a 9 o'clock performed in parades and reviews, and
wind. those involving the manuals of the var-
al
clock system. See clock method. ious arms, such as the rifle, pistol, and
Cl I Sup, Class I supplies. saber.
r1g1nal fro
h
UNI ERSil OF C ~IF RNI

-
g.
close ranks 64 Coast and Geodetic Survey
close ranks, 1. lessen the distance be- acetophenone, designed for burning.
tween rows of men; bring a unit from CN capsule, small container, filled with
open ranks formation to normal interval. solid chloracetophenone (CN) used in
2. pre para tory command to close ranks. gas chamber training. A CN capsule
close reconnaissance, reconnaissance gives off a small cloud of tear gas when
of a region near at hand. Exploration heated, as by a lighted candle.
of objectives that lie outside immediate CN grenade, hand grenade filled with
striking range of a force is called distant chloracetophenone, which gives off tear
reconnaissance. gas when burned.
close station, command dismissing all Cn Plat, cannon platoon.
personnel engaged in a drill, practice, or CNS, solution of chloracetophenone
J~.Ction at a given gun station. (CN) in a mixture of chlorpicrin (PS)
close support, effective air or ground and chloroform that is used to cause
support given at close range by one com- tears and vomiting.
bat arm or unit to another combat arm CN solution, solution of chloracetophe-
or unit. none (CN) either in benzene and carbon
clothing. Abbrev: clo tetrachloride (CNB) or chlorpicrin and
clothing allowance, amount of clothing chloroform (CNS). CN solution is a
.
authorized for issue to an enlisted person. tear-producing agent.
clothing and equipment record. See in- co, company.
dividual clothing and equipment record. CO, commanding officer.
clothing money allowance, money value coach-and-pupil method, method of
of the clothing allotted to an enlisted training in which pairs of students take
man. The money value of the clothing turns teaching each other a procedure
periodically issued to him is charged previously explained by the instructor.
against this allowance. This system is coarse setting, preliminary adjustment
suspended during wartime. of a sight in laying a gun. A coarse
clothing slip, memorandum blank on setting is made first on the main scale;
which a soldier requests needed articles then the fine setting is made on the as-
of clothing. sociated scale of smaller graduations.
cloud attack, attack made by means coarse sight, adjustment of the sight
of a gas cloud released from aircraft, of a gun so that a part of the front sight
chemical cylinders, or burning chemical is seen through the notch in the rear
candles. sight.
Clr Co, clearing company. coastal force, naval force organized to
cluster, 1. fireworks signal in which a operate in a given area as an aid in
group of stars burns at the same time. special situations for which the local
2. group of bombs released together. A naval defense forces are too weak to de-
cluster usually consists of fragmentation fend the coast adequately.
or incendiary bombs. coastal frontier, geographical division of
cluster adapter, device for holding a the coastal area of the United States es-
cluster of small bombs in the bomb rack tablished to insure effective coordination
of an aircraft. A cluster adapter usually between Army and Navy forces engaged
holds incendiary or fragmentation bombs in. coast defense; frontier. Abbrev: CF
in a born b rack designed for large-size, coastal frontier defense, organization
general purpose bombs. of Army and Navy for~es with their in-
CM, court-martial. stallations, charged with the defense of
cml, chemical. a coastal frontier.
CMP, Corps of Military Police. coastal zone, navigable waters touching
cmptr, computer. the seacoast. A coastal zone extends
CMTC, Citizens' Military Training outward to include the customary routes
Camp. of navigation along the coast or ap-
en, cannon. proaching the coast.
CN, chloracetophenone. Coast and Geodetic Survey, branch of
CNB, solution of chloracetophenone the Department of Commerce that pro-
(CN) in benzene and carbon tetra- vides maps and geographical information.
chloride, used to cause tears. It surveys and charts the coasts of the
CN candle, cylinder loaded \vith chlor- U.S. and its posseRsions, studies tides and
lg
Coast and Geodetic Survey map 65 collecting station
currents, compiles aircraft charts, and cockpitt small place in the fuselage of an
collects other data useful in navigation. airplane, where pilots and passengers sit.
d
Coast and Geodetic Survey map, chart code, system of communication in which
n. of a harbor and water areas, showing the set symbols or other devices are substi-
t
coastline, channels, and water depths tuted for sentences, phrases, words, let-
the
as well as the locations of markers, ters, or numbers. Codes may be used

s
lights, and buoys. for brevity or for secrecy.

coast artillery, 1. artillery weapons, code group, two or more letters or num-
fixed, tractor-drawn, or railway, that hers that have special meaning in a code
are used mainly for defense against system.
enemy naval vessels. Coast artillery code panel. See air-ground liaison
also includes submarine mines. In this panel.
s
meaning, also called seacoast artillery. coding, 1. indicating by symbols the
y.
2. troops and equipment of the Coast various qualifications of a member of

Artillery Corps. the armed forces on a form provided for
Coast Artillery Corps, one of the com- that purpose.
bat branches of the Army. The Coast 2. translation of a message from plain
-
Artillery Corps operates seacoast artil- text into coded form.
lery, antiaircraft artillery, and sub- codress, telegraph message sent by ra-
marine mines. Abbrev: CAC dio in which the address as well as the
coast artillery district, tactical com- text is put into the same cipher system.
mand that includes all the harbor de- Codress differs from plaindress, in which
fenses within a given area and all the the address is given in plain text or in a
or
mobile coast artillery units assigned or different cipher from that used in the
attached to it. body of the message.
Coast Artillery School, special service Cof, chief of.
school that gives training and instruc- CofS, Chief of Staff.
tion in the technique and tactics of CofT, Chief of Transportation.
coast artillery, develops trained spe- coincidence adjustment, range adjust-
n
cialists for duty in the field and as in- ment in a coincidence range finder.
structors, and trains and qualifies men coincidence range finder, optical in-
he
for commission in the Coast Artillery strument for determining distances. By

Corps. It is under the supervision of the adjustment, separate imags seen
Commanding General, Army Ground through the two eyepieces can be made
Forces. to coincide. A reading of the adjust-
coast defense, all measures taken by ment gives the distance.
~aval forces, coast artillery, etc., to col, colonel.

provide protection against any form of coil, collecting.
attack at or near the shore line. Coil Co, collecting company.
Abbrev: CD collecting. Abbrev: coli
e
Coast Guard. See United States Coast collecting company. Abbrev: Coil Co
oast
Guard. collecting point, place at which sick or

-
Coast Guard Sea Patrol, patrol service wounded personnel, stragglers, prisoners
in coastal waters conducted by the Coast of war, and damaged materiel are gath-
ons
Guard. It furnishes inft>rmation to anti-. ered for later disposition. Abbrev: coll pt
nst
submarine and interceptor stations of collecting post, medical station in the
the Army Air Forces. forward combat zone where battle casu-
cobelligerent, one of a number of nations alties are prepared to be sent to clearing
re.
or political units engaged in war against stations in the rear. Collecting posts
dy
a common enemy. differ from collecting stations, in that the

cock, 1. position of the hammer of a station is a more elaborate installation.
gun when it is pulled back, ready to fire. collecting station, 1. medical station in
n
2. pull back the hammer of a gun, ready the forward combat zone where battle
to fire. casualties are prepared to be sent to
an
cocking lever, device in a gun's action clearing stations in the rear.
s sit. that prepares the gun to be fired by 2. any place in the forward area for col-
ich
moving the firing pin back into firing lecting and sorting salvaged materials.
ti-
position. Abbrev: coll sta

rlglnal rrom
et-

m-
ode
collective fire 66 column of twos
collective fire, combined fire of various President, an ex-President, or a foreign
small arms concentrated on a given chief magistrate. Also called to the
target or area. colors or to the standard.
collective protection, measures and color band, strip of color painted on
equipment used to protect men, animals, the sides and ends of ammunition pack-
or materiel against attack. Collective ing boxes to show what type of ammuni-
protection against chemicals includes tion is inside.
making a shelter gasproof, preparing color bearer, one who carries the flag at
neutralizing agents, etc. formal reviews and ceremonies.
collective protector, filtering device that colored. Abbrev: cld
removes poisonous gases from the air color guard, guard of honor that carries
that is drawn into gasproof shelters. and escorts the flag or flags at formal
collimate, 1. bring into line; make par- reviews and ceremonies.
allel. colors. See color.
2. adjust accurately the line of sight of a color salute, salute made by dipping a
surveying instrument, telescope, or flag. The national color is never dipped
camera. in salute.
3. adjust the sight of a gun so that it is column, formation in which elements
- parallel to the axis of the gun barrel. of troops, tanks, vehicles, ships, or air-
collimating mark. See fiduciary mark. craft are placed one behind the other.
collimating sight, sight equipped with a A column of men is usually made up of
collimator. 'The collimating sight is set a number of files and called a column of
parallel with the axis of the bore of the twos, threes, or fours. Abbrev: colm
gun in horizontal direction, but ad- or elm
justable in elevation, so that it can column half left, 1. change of direction
be kept focused on an aiming point of a column of 45 degrees to the left.
while the gun is raised or lowered. 2. preparatory command to make such
collimation, adjustment of an optical a change of direction.
gun sight so that it is parallel with the column half right, 1. change of direc-
axis of the bore of the gun in horizontal tion of a column of 45 degrees to the right.
direction, but adjustable in elevation. 2. preparatory command to make such
collimator, optical device used to aline a change of direction.
the sights of a gun with the vertical column left, 1. change of direction of a
plane through the axis of the bore. It column by a full right-angle turn to the
can be moved in elevation independently left.
of the gun, so that it can be kept sighted 2. preparatory command to make such
on an aiming point. a turn.
collision course, calculated course of an column of battalions, formation with
aircraft so that a particular bomb, re- battalions in column, one directly be-
leased at a certain point in space, will hind the other.
strike its target; that is, that course in column of companies, formation with
which the target remains still in the companies in column, one directly be-
center of the optical cross hairs of the hind the other.
bomb sight. column of files, formation in which a
coil pt, collecting point. number of files march one directly be-
coli sta, collecting station. hind the other, making a single long line.
colm, column. column of fours, men, mounts, or ve-
colonel, officer in the Army who ranks hicles four abreast in column formation.
next above a lieutenant colonel and next column of masses, formation with
below a brigadier gener3,l. A colonel masses of troops in column, one directly
holds the highest rank of field officer, behind the other.
and usually commands a regiment. column of platoons, formation with
See Table of Comparative Grades on platoons in column, one directly behind
p. 125. Abbrev: col the other.
color, flag, especially one carried by column of threes, men, mounts, or ve-
dismounted units; colors. To the color hicles three abreast in column formation.
is a bugle call sounded as a salute to column of twos, men, mounts, or vehi-
the flag, or to the President, the Vice- cles two abreast in column formation.
lg
column right 67 combat unit
column right, 1. change of direction of combat Intelligence, information about
a column by a full right-angle turn to the enemy collected in the field during
the right. operations. The main sources of com-
f
2. preparatory command to make such bat intelligence are questioning of
a turn. prisoners, examination of captured docu-
com, communication. ments and materiel, reports of scouts
h
combat. Abbrev: c and patrols, and ground and air op-

combat airplane, airplane that is armed servation.
and usually armored and that is used combat liaison, system of maintaining
ed
on air combat missions such as bombing, contact and communication between
interception, and ground strafing. units during fighting, in order to secure
ing, combatant, soldier or unit assigned to proper cooperation.
duty as an active fighter, as distin- combat order, instructions issued by a
o
guished from one on duty in any of the commander covering all phases of corn-
services, such as administration, supply, bat operations. A combat order usually
e
or medical care. : includes information about the enemy

combat area, 1. place where fighting is I and friendly supporting troops, the
ply,
is
going on or is likely to start. general plan of the command, the mis-
2. area assign2d to a combat unit within sion of each subdivision, and the loca-
hin
which it is to operate against the enemy. tion of supply points, medical installa-
my. combat arm, branch of service u,sed in tions, and command posts.
n
actual fighting cuch as the Infantry, combat outpost, security elements de-
Coast Artillery . Corps, or Army Air tailed to the front from each battalion
Forces. holding a sector of the main line of
combat aviation, class of military avia- resistance. Combat outposts are UEed by
tion that includes bombardment planes, individual units when the general out-
a-
es,
s.
fighter planes, and observation planes. post for an entire unit is too far away,
a-
Other classes are special purpose avia- or when a general outpost has not been
tal
tion, training aviation, and experimental established.
aviation. combat patrol, tactical unit sent out
combat car, light armed and armored from the main body to en gage in inde-
ve
track-laying vehicle designed for active pendent' fighting; detachn1ent assigned

fighting. A light tank is one kind of to protect the front, flank, or rear of the
combat car. Abbrev: c car main body, by fighting if necessary.
combat command. Abbrev: CC combat practice, training in which serv-
combat crew, flying crew of a combat ice ammunition is fired at targets rep-
at
airplane, or operating crew of a combat resenting the enemy.

of
vehicle, etc. Abbrev: C CR combat reconnaissance, reconna~ance
combat echelon, most advanced unit of of the enemy in immediate contact with
fighting power. one's own forces, preliminary to, or dur-
m
combat element, troops that actually ing, combat.
ra-
take part in fighting, distinguished from combat report, any of several reports
troops engaged in supply or administra- made at regular intervals from units in
tion. the field to headquarters. A combat re-
ad-
combat engineers, troops of the Engi- port tells about battle positions, actions,
air
neer Corps organized, trained, and supporting troops, casualties, etc.
equipped for actual battle service in ad- combat team, two or more units of
n dition to regular construction and repair different branches acting together in
work. battle, such as an infantry regiment, a
n
combat exercise, maneuvers or drill in field artillery battalion, and an engineer
g
fighting technique. company.

combat firing, form of training wherein Abbrev: CT
ng
tactical units solve a problem involving combat troops, all units except service
a tactical situation in which ball am- and administrative unite; troops trained
munition is fired at targets representing and equipped for actual fighting.
ut
the enemy. Combat firing is the final combat unit, unit trained and equipped
g phase in the training of riflemen. for fighting as an independent tactical
combat group. Abbrev. C GP group.
ocu-
r1g1nal fro n
co1nbat unit loading 68 commander
combat unit loading, method of load- as the Materiel Command, Air Trans-
ing a unit, together with its essential port Command, Training Command.
battle equipment, supplies, motors, and 6. distance the bore of a weapon is raised
animals on a ship, aircraft, truck, or above the surrounding ground.
railway train, so that it can be unloaded Abbrev: comd
ready for action. Command and General Staff School,
combat vehicle, armed motor vehicle advanced tactical school that prepares
used in battle. It may or may not be office:t:_s for command and staff duties.
armored. It is located at Fort Leavenworth,
combat zone, region where fighting is Kansas.
going on; for\vard area of the theater of Abbrev: C&GS Sch
operations \vhere combat troops are ac- command and navigation boat. Abbrev:
tively engaged. It extends from the C&N Bt
front line to the front of the communica- commandant, any commanding officer,
tions zone. Abbrev: CZ usually the officer in charge of an Army
combined arms, more than one tactical service school.
branch of the army used together in Abbrev: comdt
operations. command car, automobile having a col-
combined observation, observation of lapsible roof and removable flaps used
flre by two or more observers from for doors that is equipped for the use of
different points. a commander or members of his staff in
combined operations, operations car- the field.
ried on by two or more allies acting to- command channel, 1. series of com-
gether. Operations carried on by Army manding officers through whose hands
forces and Naval forces acting together must pass orders, especially field or com-
are called joint operations. bat orders, and instructions V\ hich travel
7
combined sights, firing at a target with from a commander to a subordinate. In

two or more guns having different range this meaning, also called chain of com-
elevations, but using the same aiming Blind. .
point. 2. commander through whom orders and
combined training, training any unit instructions are relayed from a superior
with the branch or branches with \\hich to a subordinate commander.
it would normally cooperate, for ex- command echelon. See command ele-
ample, combined training of artillery, ment.
engineers, infantry, tank destroyer units, commandeer, take over private property
and air units. or the services of individuals for military
comd, command. or public use.
comdg, commanding. command element, group of officers and
comdr, commander. enlisted men who form the directing and
comdt, commandant. coordinating_head of a tactical or admin-
coming flight, front view of an air- istrative unit, usually including the unit
plane; position of an airplane as it ap- commander, his staff, and attached per-
proaches an observer. sonnel, that performs duties in relation
coml, commercial. to administration, intelligence, commu-
comm, commissary. nications, and other necessary activities;
command, 1. authority that an indi- command echelon. Also called head-
vidual exercises over his subordinates quarters.
because of his rank and assignment. commander, 1. officer in command of a
2. order given by a commander. post or unit, such as the commanding
3. body of troops or an area under the officer of a regiment. In this meaning,
command of one individual. also called com1nanding officer.
4. administrative and tactical unit in the 2. officer in the Navy who ranks next
Army Air Forces, larger than a \\ring and above a lieutenant commander and next
smaller than an air force. .A. command below a captain. A commander in the
is the equivalent of a division in the Navy is equivalent in rank to a lieu-
Army Ground Forces. tenant colonel i.n the Army. See Table
5. one of the- large administrative sub- : of Comparative Grades on p. 125.
divisions of the Army Air Forces, such Abbrev: comdr
Commander in Chief 69 commit
Commander in Chjef, person who has echelon and a rear echelon; the forward
complete command of the armed forces echelon is called the command post.
of a country. The President of the fl.bbrev: CP
United States is Commande1 in Chief of command post exercise, a tactical field
ces
all the armed forces of the United States. exercise in setting up a command post,
Sometimes a high ranking officer of the carried on by a headquarters staff and
Army or Navy is called commander in communication personnel. Command
of
tes.
he
chief of a theater of 'var, a fleet, etc. post exercises vary in nature from an
commander of the guard, senior officer exercise that closely resembles a map
or noncommissioned officer who is re- maneuver to exercises in which all com-
er sponsible for the instruction, discipline, mand posts and communications actual-
-
and performance of duty of the guard. ly are installed on the ground.
e,
commanding. Abbrev: comdg. Abbrev: CPX

.
commanding general, title for any offi- command set, radio set installed in air-
cer of brigadier general's rank or higher craft for giving orders to other aircraft.
who is in command of a service, post, commence firing, command to fire at
-
er
school, tactical unit, theater of opera- once.

tions, port of embarkation, hospital commendation, written citation signed
unit, etc. Abbrev: CG by a commander, in recognition of praise-
commanding ground, high land which worthy action not meriting a decoration.
overlooks the surrounding region. Be- commercial. Abbrev: coml
cause of its superior location for observa- commercial loading, method of loading
rva-
tion and fire it controls the lower ground. a ship or an aircraft so as to make the
nd.
commanding officer, officer in com- best use of all available space, without
mand of a post or a unit, such as the attempting to keep units and their
so
commanding officer of a regiment. Also equipment together. It is used when,
called commander. Abbrev: CO and if, there is time to issue equipment
command liaison, close touch main- to troops after they have .landed.
ing tained between commanders for sharing commissary, store handling food and
information and working together ef- merchandise in a military post, camp,
fectively. or station. It is under the control of the
e-
command net, radio, telegraph, or tele- Quartermaster Corps. Abbrev: comm

phone system of communication over commission, 1. written order giving a
which commands are sent to various person rank and authority as an officer
o
headquarters and units. in the Army or Navy.
Commando, soldier specially trained to 2. rank and authority given by such an
,
make surprise attacks on enemy terri- order.
g. tory. Commandos act in small groups, 3. put in service or use; make ready for
making rapid attacks and withdrawing. service or use; for example, to commis-
The name Commando is used by the sion an aircraft or a ship.
r.
British; the corresponding American commissioned officer, officer in any of

f
term for soldiers of this kind is Ranger. the armed services who holds a commis-
ied
eommand of execution, second part of sion. In the Army, a person who has
nd
a command at which the order is carried been appointed to the rank of second
out. In "Forward, MARCH", "For- lieutenant or higher is a commissioned
ward" is the preparatory command, and officer.
on
"l\tiARCH" is the command of execu- commissioned warrant officer, officer
t tion. in the Navy who ranks next above a
n
command pilot, 1. highest classification warrant officer, junior grade, and next
or rating of an Army Air Forces pilot. It below an e_nsign. See Table of Compara-
r
may be given to either an officer or an tive Grades on p. 125.

enlisted man. commission pennant, narrow pennant
2. person who has this classification or
d-
of red, white, and blue bunting flown at

rating. the foremast to indicate that a ship is in
d
command post, station of a unit's head- service or commission.
ard
quarters, where the commander and commit, make a positive decision to
staff work. In combat, a unit's head- send a particular unit into an engage-
quarters is often divided into a forward ment or attack; send a unit into battle.
r1g1 I from
ld
st,
d
commitment board 70 compartment of terrain
commitment board. See Army commit- ron, and is usually commanded by a
ment board. captain. Abbrev: co
commodore, officer in the Navy who company aid man, man in the Medical
ranks next below a rear admiral and next Department assigned to a combat com-
above a captain. A commodore is equiv- pany to give first aid to the wounded,
alent in rank to a brigadier general in and to carry necessary information to
the Army. See Table o/ Comparati-ve the battalion or regimental surgeon.
Grades on p. 125. company area, special section of a post
communicating file. See connecting file. or camp assigned to a company.
communicating trench. See connecting company clerk, person, usually a non-
trench. commissioned officer, assigned to help
communication, official message of any the first sergeant in doing the clerical
sort, such as a letter, report, signal, tele- work of a company.
gram, radiogram, or telephone message. company council, all the officers on duty
Abbrev: com with a company. They meet at stated
com1nunication officer, special staff offi- times, or on order, to check company
cer who is responsible for the tactical, funds and recommend expenditures.
technical, and administrative operation company council book, official book in
of a unit's communication system. which a bookkeeping record is kept of
communications, 1. means, methods, company funds.
and routes of sending messages, such as company discipline. See company pun-
telephone and telegraph, radio, or signal ishment.
systems. company fund, money belonging to the
2. routes and transportation for moving company as a unit. With the approval
troops and supplies, especially in a of the company council, it can be used
theater of operations. for the benefit of the company in accord-
communications zone, region that con- ance with rules prescribed in Army
nects the part of an army actually fight- Regulations.
ing with its sources of supply. It is a company grade, classification of those
part of the theater of operations behind officers normally serving in a company.
the combat zone. Within this territory It is applied to lieutenants and captains.
are supply and evacuation establish- company officer, any officer ranking
ments, repair shops, and other service below a major and serving in a company.
facilities. Abbret': com z Captains, first lieutenants, and second
communications zone depot, supply es- lieutenants are company officers.
tablishment in the communications company punishment, light punish-
zone, containing reserve supplies. ments and other corrective measures im-
communication trench. See connect- posed by a company commander with-
ing trench. out resort to a court-martial; company
communique (kum YOON aKA Y), in- discipline.
formation i8sued officially, especially an company street, roadway or open space
account of recent activities or events. in front of, or between, the tents or
commutation of quarters, authorized buildings of a company.
money allowance made when living company transport, vehicles that form
quarters are not supplied in kind. Also an organic part of company equipment,
called rental allowance. and are directly available to the com-
commutation of rations, allowance of a pany commander for tactical use.
prescribed sum of money per day in comparator, ihstrument that automati-
place of rations. cally shows the relation between the
commutation value, official exchange data indicated by the pointing of a
value in money of rations or quarters. searchlight and the data given by the
comp, composite. sound locator.
company, basic administrative and tac- compartment of terrain, area hemmed
tical unit of most branches of the mili- in on at least two opposite sides by fea-
tary service, larger than a platoon, tures of landscape, such as ridges, woods,
smaller than a battalion. A company water courses, and the like, which limit
is equivalent to a battery of artillery, a ground observation, fire, and movel'i1ent;
troop of cavalry, or an aviation squad- terrain compartment.
r1g1nal fro
UI ERSil OF C LIFO~NI
compass 71 concentration march
compass, instrument for showing direc- 2. essential part of a whole, such as a
tion. A magnetic compass has a mag- food item in a ration or a trigger in a
netic needle that points toward the firing mechanism.
c- magnetic north pole. composite. See composite photograph.
compass a.dmuth, angle measured Abbrev: comp
clockwise from a north point determined composite photograph, assembled pic-
by means of a compass reading. Be- ture made from all the photographs
cause of variations of the compass, it taken at the same time by a multiple-
ned
may not agree with an azimuth meas- lens camera; composite. The pictures
ured from true magnetic north. ' taken at a slant are corrected for tilt
-
~ompass bearing, direction or bearing before assembly with the vertical pic-
as given by a compass reading. ture taken through the central lens.
g compass compensation, method of ad- compound, enclosed place or yard for .
justing a compass to compensate for the confining prisoners for a short time.
d-
magnetic forces exerted by nearby computer, 1. mechanical instrument for

the
metals, parts of an aircraft or a ship's solving mathematical problems. It is

structure, etc. used in obtaining firing data for artillery
~ompass course, course of an aircraft and data for navigation.
as indicated by the horizontal angle be- 2. technician who solves mathematical
e-
tw~n the north-south line, as shown by problems having to do with firing data
by
a compass, and the direction of motion or surveying. Abbrev: cmptr
n of the aircraft. computing sight, type of gun sight that
compass declination, angle from the furnishE5 a series of reference points in-
true north in the pointing of a compass, tended to correspond in turn to a serie.~
ss,
because the magnetic north pole is not of positions of a moving target. It lli
ot
in the same place as the true north pole. used to help a gunner calculate how
~ompass error, 1. amount of error in much to allow for the speed of the target.
ole.
ss
the pointing of the needle of a compass com z, communications zone.
rth
from the direction of the magnetic north cone, concentration.
or
pole, because of the presence of iron or concealment, anything that prevents
steel objects or deposits of iron ore in men or materiel from being seen by the
theground nearby. enemy. Concealment offers protection
ad-
2. the total difference between the read- from observation only; cover offers pro-
ing of north on the compass and true tection from gunfire.
north. concentrated fire, fire from a number of
compass north, line to the magnetic guns, directed at a single point or small
area; fixed fire; point fire. Concen-

a
north pole, along which the needle of a

et
magnetic com pass points. trated fire is heavy fire directed at a
compensator, any device used to offset strong point, fixed fortification, or ene-
ed or allow for undesirable forces or mo- my concentration; distributed fire covers
tions. Compensators are often mounted a wider area more lightly.
on some types of shotguns and auto- concentration, 1. volume of gunfire
matic weapons to hold down muzzle placed on a limited area within a limited
p
rise and reduce recoil. time. .

al
compilation, the making of a new map 2. amount of a poisonous chemical in a

gth
based on previous maps, charts, aerial unit volume of air.
offi-
photographs, and information. 3. assembly of troops in a given locality
complement, 1. full, authorized strength for purposes of training, attack, or de-
ed
of a military unit or post, includin' offi- fense. Abbrev: cone
es cers, men, and materiel. concentration area, 1. area, usually in
2. extra units of. various types attached the theater of operations, where troops
to a given unit for adding to its services are assembled before beginning active
e.
or operations. operations.
complete round, all the' ammunition 2. limited area on which a volume of
components needed to fire a gun once. gunfire is placed within a limited time.
e
component, 1. one of the parts of the concentration march, march made by

Army of the United States, such as the troops to reach an assembly point or
Regular Army or National Guard. area at which they will join other troops.
Or1g1nal rrom
h.
c-
concertina 72 conscription
concertina, cylinder-shaped, portable confirmatory order, written order re-
wire entanglement, which can be folded cording a verbal order previously issued.
or pushed together for carrying, and confirming authority, person who must
extended for use. Concertinas are nor- approve the action of a reviewing
mally used to increase the strength and authority in certain court-martial ac-
effectiveness of other types of entangle- tions before sentence may be carried out.
ments. The President has general jurisdiction
concussion, sudden, violent disturbance as a confirming authority, and certain
of the air which results from an explosion. commanders have limited jurisdiction.
conduct of fire, all operations con- Cases involving general officers, cadets,
.
nected with the preparation and actual or capital offenses are cases requiring
application of effective fire upon a target. action by a confirming authority
._ Also called fire control. conformal projection, type of map pro-
conduct prejudicial to the service, any jection which keeps the shape of smaller
conduct contrary to the best interests of geographical features correct, at the ex-
the service, usually punished by dis- pense of a changing scale all over the
charge from the service after trial by map. Meridians and parallels are shown
court-Inartial. Such conduct may in- at right angles, without preserving the
elude insubordination, refusal to obey shape of the larger geographical features.
orders given by proper authority, leav- Congressional Medal of Honor. See
ing the service prior to discharge, mis- Medal of Honor.
conduct ip any form, and other offense conic projection, method of map mak-
against military authority. ing. Points on the earth's surface are
cone of dispersion, cone-shaped pat- projected on an imaginary cone with its
tern formed by the paths of a group of apex on the extended axis of the earth,
shots fired from a gun with the same and its' base touching the earth at the
sight setting; cone of fire; sheaf of fire. north-south middle point of the area to
The shots follo\v different paths as a be mapped. 'fhe projected parallels of
result of gun vibration, variations in latitude appear as circles parallel to the
ammunition, and other factors such as base of the cone, and meridians of longi-
changes in wind. tude appear as straight lines from the
cone of fire. See cone of dispersion. edge of the base to the point of the cone.
cone of silence, inverted, cone-shaped connecting file, one man, or two men
space directly over the aerial towers of a together, placed between units on the
radio range station, in \Vhich all signals march to maintain contact between
are unheard or greatly dimmed in the units; communicating file.
volume. connecting group, any group used to
conf, 1. confined. maintain contact between separated
2. confinement. forces.
conference call, connecting several tele- connecting trench, trench by which
phones at once so that a conference may men can move from one fire trench to
be held or orders may be given to several another, or from one part of a trench
persons at the same time. system to another; communicating
confidential, classification for informa- trench; communication trench.
tion or material which is allovved to con objtr, conscientious objector.
reach only those persons \vho need it to con pty, contact party.
carry out their duties. Information not cons, construction.
public is classified as restricted, con- conscientious objector, person whose
fidential, or secret. Confidential in- beliefs forbid him to take an active
formation, although not secret, is less part in warfare. A conscientious objec-
freely circulated than restricted in- tor, if taken into the Army, is assigned
formation. to noncombatant duty. Abbrev:
confined. Abbrev: conf con objtr
confinement, bejng kept in prison or conscript, 1. man drafted for military
under guard in a specified place. Con- service.
finement does not include restriction to 2. draft men for military service.
barracks or other area not under guard. conscription, drafting for military serv-
Abbrev: conf I iC'e.
Orlg1nal fro
.
tonsolidated return 73 contour map
C!oitsolidated return, report made by inspections and repairs on ordnance
combining the reports from several materiel of units needing assistance.
subordinate organizations or stations. Abbrev: con pty
eonsolidating station, place to which contact patrol, patrol detailed to main-
less than carload lots of freight are re- tain contact with adjoining units.
layed so that they can be grouped with contain, stop, hold, or surround the
other freight to make full carloads for forces of the enemy; cati.se the enemy to
-
the same delivery point. Abbrev: c sta center his activity on a given front and
th
consolidation of position, organizing prevent his withdrawing any part of his

a
and strengthening a newly captured po- forces for use elsewhere.
sition so that it can be used against the containing action. See holding attack.
po-
enemy. contaminated, made poisonous by chem-
he constitute, establish a new unit on the ical agents. Contaminated vehicles have
activ~ or inactive list of the Army. The drops of liquid chemical agent on their
e
new unit is set up on the list but it has surface. Contaminated ground or a con-
e
no physical existence until it has person- taminated area has drops of chemical
s
nel and equipment assigned to it. Con- agent on the plants and shrubs so that
stitute differs from activate, which it is dangerous to pass through without
on-
n-
means to establish a new unit on the special protective clothing.

active list of the Army and assign to it contamination, state of being covered
t
personnel and equipment. or act of covering something with
construction. Abbrev: cons chemical agents so that it is dangerous
contact, 1. position of bodies of troops, to touch.
s,
aircraft, or tanks near each other so that contd, continued.

hat
they can maintain communications if continental system, mapping system

friendly, or observation if hostile. used on standard military maps of the
hat
2: warning to an aviation mechanic that United States. In this system, the point
otor
the ignition is switched on and the motor where the parallel of latitude 40 degrees,
ready to start: 30 minutes crosses the meridian of lon-
or
contact agent, member of a medical or gitude in the center of the area to be
an veterinary unit who acts as liaison man mapped is taken as the point of origin
between an aid station and the unit of all subordinates.
he
commander, and as guide between the contingent, unit of troops in an army.

.
aid stations and the collecting station. contingent barrage, barrier of gunfire
a-
contact fire, method of firing a subma- planned and ready to be employed in a

ded
rine mine by which the mine is exploded possible emergency.

by
immediately when struck or touched by contingent zone, area within the possi-
r-
a vessel. ble firing range of a 'gun or artillery unit,
nd
contact flight, method of flying an air- but not in the region of expected opera-
ned craft in which the altitude, position, and tions, into which the gun or unit may be
d or
course of the aircraft can be determined required to fire in an emergency.
r
at all times by reference to the ground or continued. Abbrev: contd
water visible below the aircraft, rather continuous fire, fire at the normal rate
than by flight instruments or radio without repeated orders to fire and with-
guides. out interruption for corrections of ad-
contact light, one of a series of lights
f
k-
justment or for other reasons, until an
placed on the ground on both sides of order to cease firing is received.
airplane runways to direct pilots in tak- continuous wave. Abbrev: CW
n it ing off and landing. contl, control.
eontact mine, mine fitted with a firing contour, 1. imaginary line on the grounq
-
device which explodes the mine when it joining all points at the same elevation.
of
is touched by a vessel. 2. line on a map representing this ele-

eontact mission, airplane flight under- vation.
taken 'for the systematic observation of contour interval, difference in elevation
a given area, enemy force, or enemy
in-
ke
represented by each contour line on a
activities. map. The contour interval is given as
~on tact party, detachment from a tnain- part of the scale of the map.
tenanee company sent forward to make contour map, n1ap sho,ving heights
r1g1n .1fro n
n-

y to
d
contraband of war 74 control stick
above sea level by lines that connect to a uniform scale and placed on a con-
points on a land surface having the same trol sheet. The control sheet carries
height. points already located by ground survey
contraband of war, goods, supplied by with which corresponding points on the
neutral nations to any country at war photographs are matched, as a check.
with another, that either warring coun- controlled submarine mine, submarine
try has the right to seize. Ammunition is mine fitted with a firing device that is
always contraband of war. regulated by an electrical connection
contracting officer, 1. any officer who from a shore control station.
signs a contract. controlled supplies, supplies distributed
2. officer authorized to make contracts according to orders and priorities set up
for the purchase of materials and by the chief of the branch concerned;
services. controlled items.
contract surgeon, civilian who performs controlled tower, tower having the
the professional and administrative func- mechanism and equipment that allow a
tions of a medical officer, but without parachute to come straight down be-
military rank or commission. tween cables. A controlled to\ver is
contradiction, result obtained when two used for training in parachute jumping.
shots fired with the same data give hits, controller, 1. officer in charge of all
one on each side of the target, or one phases of antiaircraft defense over a
short of the target and one beyond it. given area.
control. Abbrev: contl 2. operator of azimuth or elevation con-
control airport, airport where, in the in- trols in a searchlight unit.
terest of safety, air traffic is controlled 3. electrical device used in maintaining
from the ground by means of radio com- distant control over machines, such a8
munication or visual signals. the braking system in a truck and trailer
control board, administrative board of unit.
officers in many large military organi- control oft1cer, officer moving at the
zations that analyzes and oversees or- head of a march unit to set the pace
ganizations, procedures, and methqds. and to insure keeping to the assigned
control buoy, floating marker that route and march schedule.
shows the position or intended location control point, 1. temporary location
of an underwater mine or series of mines. along a route of march at which men are
control car, 1. automobile that precedes stationed to give information and in-
a marching column and sets the rate for structions for the regulation of supply
'its movement. or traffic.
2. that part of an airship containing the 2. point located by ground survey with
control apparatus. which a corresponding point on a photo-
control flag, distinctively colored flag graph is matched, as a check, in making
used to communicate, or to indicate mosaics.
commands, between units. control region, geographic unit used in
controllable pitch propeller, propeller the technical and administrative organi-
whose blades are so attached to the hub zation of a weather service.
that the pitch can be adjusted automati- control servo, device on an aircraft that
cally or by hand while the propeller is magnifies or strengthens the pilot's phys-
in motion. ical efforts on the controls. It may be
controlled equipment, equipment dis- mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, or
tributed in limited quantities according pneumatic.
to priorities set up by the chief of the control station, device that makes it
branch P.oncerned. possible to control a searchlight from a
controlled itents. See controlled sup- distance, and to direct it toward the
plies. point in the sky indicated by a sound
controlled mine, submarine mine fitted locator as an airplane's position.
with a firing device that is regulated by control stick, lever in an airplane con-
an electrical connection from a shore nected with ailerons and elevators, but
control station. not the rudder. It controls the tilt or
controlled mosaic, map made from bank, and the climb and dive of the air-
overlapping aerial photographs brought plane.
Orlg1nal fro
eontrol system 75 cordite
control system, equipment on the shore converter, 'mechanical device used in
used to regulate the firing of a group of translating ,messages rapidly into or out
controlled submarine mines. of cipher.
ore
control tower, structure at an airport convertible vehicle-, truck that can be
of
that contains the personnel and equip- changed from the wheel type to the
ment for managing air traffic in the caterpillar type.
vicinity of the airport. conv hosp, convalescent hospital.
p-
control wheel, handwheel in an air- convn, convenience.
craft for maintaining balance. It can be convoy, 1. formation of ships or a train
twisted to control tilt or bank, or pushed of vehicles tisually accompanied by a
forward or back to control the dive or protecting escort.
climb of the plane. 2. accompany in order to protect.
e
ed
control zone, safety zone, with specified convoy discipline, obedience to regula-
limits above and around an airport, in tions necessary to enable a convoy to
ed
which all air traffic is directed by radio move with the greatest possible speed
from the airport, to avoid collision or and safety, and with the least possible
o
other accident. interference with other traffic.
conv, convalescent. convoy guard, escort to protect a con-
convalescent. AbbrerJ: conv voy of vehicles from being scattered,
convalescent camp, branch of a hospi- destroyed, or captured.
-
tal center where sick or injured soldiers convoy unit loading, method of loading
rs
complete tb.eir recovery after leaving the troops and their equipment so that they
the
hospital. travel in the same convoy, but not neces-
convalescent hospital, fixed or mobile sarily on the same transport.
e hospital for patients who no longer need cook. Abbrev: ck
eed
active treatment. Abbrev: conv hosp coordinate, in mathematics and map-
convenience. Abbrev: convn ping, any of two or more distances
convenience or the Government, that define the position of a point, line,
1. reason given for an action not specifi- or plane by reference to a fixed figure
cally covered by regulation, such as hold- or system of lines. The reference X-
ifi-
old-
ent
ing a man beyond his term of enlistment and Y-lines used in common problems
not
because convenient transportation is not involving graphs are coordinates.
immediately available. coordinate code, code referring to co-
2. all-purpose reason for discharge in ordinates on a map or chart by letters
egu-
cases not specifically covered in the regu- or numerals other than those printed on
lations. If the actual reason is favor- the map.
able, it is stated; if unfavorable, it is coordinated attack, attack in which
withheld. each element has its own mission,

convening authority, officer having the planned so that the activities of all ele-
e
p of
power to designate an officer or group of ments make an effective whole, rather

than empl~ying elements as they be-
rial.
sed
officers to preside at a court-martial trial.
in
conventional sign, standard symbol used come available, as dn piecemeal attack.
on maps to show features of the terrain coordinate scale, right-angled ruler for
such as rivers, mountains, and cities. plotting or locating points on a map. It
eonvergence, angle or. See angle of has scale markings equal to the spaces
convergence. between grid lines on the map.
nt
eonverging attack, attack from differ- coordinate system, lines drawn or su-
ent directions delivered upon one point perimposed upon a map, by means of
or place. which absolute or relative positions on
ts
~on verging fire, fire from a number, of the map or on a land. su~:face are ex-
e guns directed at the same spot. pressed.
conversion table, chart that gives units CoP, co-pilot.
ion
of anything in tem1s of a different type co-pilot, assistant or second pilot in an

-
of units. Examples are the various aircraft. The co-pilot usually is second
ery
tables that convert boxes of ammunition in command. Abbrcv: CoP

into rounds, English units of measure- cordite, slow-burning powder made of
guncotton, nitroglycerin, and tnineral
in
out
ment into the metric system, or artillery
firing data in mils into yards of range. jelly, used in artillery projectiles.
Orlg1nal rrom
corduroy road 76 corresponding range
corduroy road, road surfacing for soft is under the supervision of the Provost
or marshy ground, made by laying whole Marshal General. Abbrev: CMP
or split logs crosswise, either on the corps troops, troops assigned or at-
natural surface or on logs or planks tached to a corps, but not a part of one
placed length wise. of the divisions that make up the corps.
corltscrewing, flying in a spiral course They are assigned or attached for special
to avoid enemy fire. purposes, and usually for a limited time.
corporal, 1. noncommissioned officer of corrected azimuth, azimuth from the
the fifth grade in the Army who ranks gun to the target \\rith allo\vances made
ne..xt above a private, first class and next for winds, state of the gun, or other
below a sergeant. He is usually in com- variation irom standard conditions; cor-
mand of a squad. See Table of Com- rected deflection.
parative Grades on p. 12 5. corrected deflection. See corrected azi-
2. title of address for a technician, fifth muth.
grade. Abbrev: cpl corrected elevation, firing table elQva-
c~rporal of the guard, noncommis- tion corresponding to the corrected
sioned officer of the guard who instructs range.
and posts sentries, changes r.eliefs, and corrected range, actual range with al-
is in charge of one of the reliefs. lo\vances made for \veather conditions,
corps, 1. tactical unit larger than a divi- variation in ammunition, wear in the
sion and smaller than an army. A corps gun, or any other variations from stand-
usually consists of two or more divisions ard conditions, so that the projectile will
together with auxiliary arms and serv- carry to the target.
ices. In this meaning, formerly called correction, any change in data to &.1-
arnty corps. low for observed errors or variations;
2. o~e of the branches of the Army; those changes in firing data that are
major subdivision of an arm or service, made to allow for variations from the
such as Coast Artillery Corps, Corps of conditions regarded as standard.
Engineers, Quartermaster Corps, and corrertor, mechanism on the fuze in a
1\Iedical Corps of the Medical Depart- projectile to change the time of burning.
ment. It is used for making small adjustments
corps area. See service command. 'vithout changing the main timing of
corps artillery, artillery that is assigned the fuze.
to a corps, but not as a unit within it. correspondent, journalist, writer, radio
corps headquarters. Abbrev: CHQ correspondent, or photographer author-
corps headquarters company. ized to carry on his \Vork in a theater of
Abbrev: CHQ operations or a base command.
Corps of Chaplains, branch of the accredited correspondent, correspond-
Army that supervises the moral and ent authorized by the War Department
religious \velfare of Army personnel. to carry on his work in a theater of
The Corps of Chaplains is made up of operations or a base command. By
clergymen of all faiths \vho serve with means of his credentials he is attached
all Army units and carry on activities to a headquarters, and wears an officer's
such as religious services and personal uniform \vithout insignia.
interviews \vith the personnel of the visiting correspondent, correspondent
commands to which they are assigned. authorized by the Secretary of War or
It is under the supervision of the Com- the commander in chief to visit a field of
manding General, Army Service Forces. operations and publish his material only
Corps of Engineers, branch of the after he has co1npleted his stay. He is
Army that constructs and operates not attached to a headquarters and does
shelters, fortifications, bridges, and not \Vear a uniform.
other structures, and many kinds of corresponding range, shortest range at
mechanical equipment. Abbrev: CE \vhich fire can safely be delivered over
Corps of Military Police, branch of the the heads of troops. It is the range from
Army that functions as a police force to a gun to the point where the curved path
protect persons and property and to of a projectile, passing safely over the
maintain order in areas under military heads of tro0ps, 'vill strike on level or
control. Th~ Corps of :rvi ilitary PolicP uniforn1ly sloping ground.
rr1g1n f
corridor 77 court
corridor, narrow section of terrain ex- counterpoise, weight balancing another
tending in the direction of the enemy; weight. The counterpoise on a gun is
terrain corridor. A corridor is bounded the mechanism that counterbalances
on the sides by ridges or other natural the 'veight of the breech of a large gun,
;
features. making it easier to open and close.

l
corvette, gunboat used in antisubma- counterpreparation, fire delivered just
rine convoy work. before an enemy attack, in order to
counterattack, 1. attack by a part or all break up the attack or reduce its ef-
of a defending force against an enemy fectiveness; annihilation fire; counter-
all attacking force, for the purpose of re- preparation fire.
y
gaining ground lost or of cutting off or counterpreparation fire. See counter-
destroying enemy advance units. It is preparation.
r
mostly a defensive action with only tern- counterrecoil, forward movement of a

porary and local offensive action to seize gun returning to firing position after
limited objectives. A counterattack recoil.
em-
eize
differs from a counteroffensive, which counterrecoil mechanism, hydraulic,

h
is aggressive action on a large scale, pneumatic, or mechanical system that
undertaken by a defending force to returns a gun to proper firing position
seize the initiative from the attacking after recoil; recuperator; recuperator
force. mechanism.
2. make such an attack. counterreconnaissance, all measures
counterbarrage, barrage laid down in taken to screen a command from any
opposition to an enemy barrage. form of enemy observation or to neu-
re.
counterbattery. See counterbattery fire. tralize its effectiveness. Abbrev: c-rcn
d-
counter battery fire, artillery fire intend- counterreconnaissance screen, units of
t-
ed to neutralize or destroy enemy bat- an attacking or maneuvering force that
teries; counterbattery. protect the main force from effective
counterespionage, measures taken to enemy reconnaissance. Cavalry and
prevent or confuse enemy espionage. motorized units are often used as a
ed
counterintelligence, measures intended counterreconnaissance screen.
to destroy the effectiveness of the countersign, password given in answer
enemy's intelligence work. to the challenge of a sentinel. The
an
countermand, 1. withdraw or cancel an countersign includes the challenge, when

er;
order or command. secret, and the sentinel's reply to the
2. call back or stop by a contrary order; password.
order back. count off, 1. call out one's numerical
countermarch, 1. reverse directions position in a line in successive order

while marching but keeping the same from a given starting point.
order, especially used with military 2. command to count off.
bands. couple, attach the drawbar or lunette
2. carry out a countermarch. of a gun carriage to the pintle of.- the
-
countermine, 1. submarine mine in- truck or other vehicle that draws it.
set
tended to set off enemy mines prema- coupon book, book of coupons or stamps
turely. issued to be used in place of currency in
n'a
2. sow submarine mines intended to set the Army Motion Picture Service or
g
off enemy mines prematurely. post exchanges.
t- counteroffensive, aggressive action ona courier. See messenger.
large scale undertaken by a defending courier mail, mail sent by special mili-
f
force to seize the initiative from the at- tary messenger.

tacking force. The purpose of a coun- course, path that is planned for an air-
er-
terofiensive is to stop the offensive of craft to fly. The track is the path that
the enemy and destroy his forces. A it actually flies. Course is expressed as
-
counteroffensive differs from a counter- an angle measured from north, usually
attack, which is mostly a defensive from true north.
action with only temporary and local course light, light directed along an air-
er
offensive action to seize limited objec- way so that it can be seen chiefly from
tives. A counteroffensive usually fol- points on or near the airway.
lows a counterattack. court. See military court ..
r1g1 I rom
n,
t
court- martial 78 creep
court-martial, 1. military court; court of ment. A rear guard, advance guard, or
army officers that tries military person- ' flank guard is a covering force.
nel accused of offenses against military cover off, 1. take position directly he-
law and regulations. The number of hind the person in front, in close order
officers sitting in judgment varies with drill.
the three kinds of court-martial: general, 2. command to straighten the files in a
special, and summary. formation that is out of line.
2. trial by such a court. cover position, place just behind a firing
3. try by such a court. Abbrev: C1I position in which personnel and equip-
court-martial order, order that is is- ment are sheltered from enemy fire.
sued to announce the result of a court- CP, command post.
martial trial. The order includes such cpl, corporal.
essential information as the nature of cptr, carpenter.
the trial, the identity of the accused, and CPX, command post exercise.
the judgment of the court. Court- cr, crew.
martial orders are classified as general or CR,. crossroads.
special, according to the class of court- crab, 1. sidewise slant necessary to keep
martial. an aircraft on a flight line in a eross wind.
court of inquiry, board of ofilcers ap- 2. angle between the edge of a photo-
pointed by competent authority to graph and the flight line, caused by fail-
examine into any transaction, action, ure to adjust the camera to allow for .any
accusation, or charge against a member slanting or slipping of the plane, es-
of a command. pecially in a cross win d.
cover, 1. shelter or protection, either cradle, that part of the gun carriage
natural or artificial, from enemy fire. upon which the gun slides in recoil.
Cover offers protection from enemy fire; crash boat, high-speed motorboat kept
concealment offers protection from ob- ready for rescue work in the event of
servation only. crashes or forced landings of aircraft in
2. get directly behind the person in front water.
in a formation, in close order drill. crash helmet, heavy padded helmet
3. protect friendly troops by assisting worn as protection against head injuries
fire. in tanks or aircraft.
4. command, in searchlight batteries, to crash pad, thick pads fastenea around
concentrate a beam of a light on an the instrument panel or on other projec-
enemy aircraft caught by another light. tions, in aircraft or tanks, to protect
coverage, 1. area taken in by any one operators from injury in case of accident.
exposure by an aerial photograph. crater, 1. hole in the ground left after a
2. covering; protection; as, the coverage projectile or bomb explodes; hole made
of troops by supporting fire. in a road to block the enemy's progress.
covered approach, 1. any route that of- 2. opening in the end of the carbon poles
fers protection against enemy observa- of a-searchlight.
tion or fire. crater charge, explosive charge that
2. approach made under protection fur- will break earth or other material all
nished by other forces or by natural around it to a distance greater than its
cover. depth below the surface. Consequently
covered approach march, approach the charge blows upward, leaving a
march protected by forces strong enough crater. A crater charge is used to
to guard against hostile ground attack. destroy surface installations.
covering detachment. See covering era wl trench, shallow connecting trench.
force. CrC, crew chief.
covering fire, fire used to protect troops c-rcn, coun terreconnaissan ce.
when they are within range of the credit, grant or allowance of a definite
enemy's small arms. Covering fire is quantity of supplies or equipment,
usually artillery fire protecting infantry. placed at the disposal of the commander
covering force, body of troops that proof a unit for a given period of time.
vides security for a larger force by ob- creep, any small motion caused by loose-
~ervation, attack, defense, or any com- ness, wear, or vibration in movable
bination of them; covering detach- parts, e~p(lrially in the triggf"lr of a gun,
r1g1nal fro
creeping method 79 curtain door
in the throttles of an aircraft, or in rheo- aim ahead of, or lead, the target so that
stats or electrical control boards. the paths of the target and bullet will
creeping method, method of getting the meet.
eo-
range of an enemy position close to cross-level, level a weapon or instru-

friendly troops by firing the first set of ment, such as a mortar or surveyor's
he
shots too far, then gradually and care- transit, at right angles to the line of
f
fully shortening the range. sight.
-
crew, group of men who work together crossroads. Abbrev: C R
as a team in the operation of a ship, air- cru~ser, warship with more speed than
er craft, gun, tank, etc. a battleship, but smaller and more light-
air-
Abbrev: cr ly armed and armored. A cruiser, how-
crew chief. Abbrcv: CrC ever, is larger and more heavily armed
crewman. Abbrev: crm than a destroyer.
critical item, item classed as essential cruising radius, distance a plane or ship
by the War Department, for which sub- can go and return without refueling;
stitutes do not exist, and of which the effective operating radius.
l
b-
total supply available is estimated as cruising speed, speed at which a par-

less than war requirements. ticular aircraft operates with a specified
critical point, 1. key point on which an efficiency.
n important step in an operation depends. cryptanalysis, analysis of secret mes-
ds.
2. selected point along a line of march sages; the process of reading a ciphered
h
used for reference in giving instructions. or coded message without having the
ns.
3. point where there is a change of direc- key.

rec-
tion or change in slope in a ridge or cryptanalyst, person trained to decode

stream. Critical points are important and decipher coded and ciphered mes-
in contour sketching or rna pping. sages without the aid of the device or
d
critical speed, minimum forward speed key used in preparing them.
n
at which an aircraft is able to maintain cryptogram, message written in secret
itself in the air and under full control. code or cipher, or in a combination of
l
critical zone, area, including the initial code and cipher.
bing
bomb release line, over which a bombing cryptograph, translate a message from
el
plane must maintain straight and level plain text into a secret code or cipher.
flight so that the bomb sight can be Also called encrypt.
operated properly. cryptographer, person who prepares,
g
critique, discussion and review of a compiles, and revises code books, cipher
military exercise or operation, bringing systems, and cipher keys and is expert
es.
out errors and successful performances. in their use. He also translates mes-
f crm, crewman. sages from plain text into a secret code
i-
cross compartment, narrow section of or cipher.
terrain whose length lies across the di- cryptographic security, measures taken
rection of movement of a force, or is to provide technically sound ciphers and
t.
parallel to the front; cross corridor. codes and to protect them from being
r
cross corridor. See cross compartment. found out by the enemy.

cross fire, intersecting fire from two or cryptography, all methods and devices
e
more positions. by which plain text can be put into code
d
cross hairs, 1. cross formed by lines or cipher; science of translating mes-
etched on glass or by actual, very fine sages into or out of code or cipher.
d
strands of hair, fiber, wire, or silk used cs, current series.
to center a line of sight on a target or CSigO, Chief Signal Officer.
not
other object in telescopes, sights, and c sta, consolidating station.

other optical instruments. CT, combat team.
or's
2.lines for the same purpose that do not cupola, armored turret, especially the
form a cross. small hatch opening into the top of the
In
3. the two horizontal lines in a surveyor's main turret of certain types of tanks.
ust
transit. cur, current.
hat crossing target, moving target that current. Abbrev: cur
crosses the line of sight at any angle. In current series. Abbrev: cs
firing at a crossing target, the firer must curtain door, gas-tight door made of a
r1g1 I fro
curtain of fire 80 cz
piece of blanket or other material, used cave shelter, which is completely under-
in gasproofing shelters against chemical ground, or a surface shelter, which is
attack; blanket door. completely above ground.
curtain of fire, screen or barrier of fire CW, continuous wave.
that is laid down along a line or in an CWO, chief warrant officer.
area. A curtain of fire is usually laid CWS, Chemical Warfare Service.
down to protect attacking forces from cyanogen chloride (sigh AN o jen KLOR
enemy attack or observation. ide), colorless and extremely poisonous
custodial officer, officer at a post, camp, liquid soluble in water, alcohol, and
or station who signs memorandum re- ether. Cyanogen chloride is used in the
ceipts for property issued to his unit, or, manufacture of poisonous gases for mili--
sometimes, to a group of units. A tary uses. Symbol: CC
custodial officer is responsible for the cyclic change mechanism. See cyclic
return of the property to the issuing rate mechanism.
officer when it is no longer needed, and cyclic rate, rate of automatic firr.; ex-
for adjusting any shortages. pressed in terms of shots per mfnute;
customs of the service, military prac- especially, the maximum rate of fire of
tices not covered by regulations but an automatic weapon.
. regarded as binding because of tradi- cyclic rate mechanism, dev~ce on an
tion. automatic gun, such as the Browning
cut, set a fuze. automatic rifle, with which the rate of
cut-and-cover shelter, shelter con- fire of the gun can be controlled, either
structed by digging an open pit, then to reduce it or to increase it; cyclic
providing an overhead cover. A cut- change mechanism.
and-cover shelter is different from a CZ, combat zone.
Orlg1nal fro
DA 81 d!ltum point
DA, diphenylchlorarsine. the trajectory of rifle or machine-gun
daily automatic supply, sending sup- bullets does not rise above the average
plies daily to an organization without height of a man.
speciai request. 2. space around the bursting point of
daily ration strength return, daily re- an antiaircraft shell.
port to the issuing quartermaster or sup- DAO, division ammunition office.
ply officer, giving the actual number of data board, record board set up so that
men in an Army unit who are present on gunners can write down elevations, de-
flections, and other firing data.
up-
of
that day and the estimated number of
on
men who will require rations over a data card, 1. any card used as a sys-
f
specified number of days in the future. tematic memorandum; as, a data card
daily sick report, daily organization used in artillery fire, aerial photography,
e.
record that lists the personnel of a com- etc.
mand who require medical treatment for 2. card included with all packages of
m-
an illness or injury; sick book; sick re- ammunition except explosives in bulk,
for
port. The report includes a statement with complete technical information re-
by the commander of the organization garding its use, together with assem-
n
concerned, .. and one by the examining bling instruction if needed.
g
medical officer. A similar report is kept data computer, mechanical device that
pt
for sick animals that require veterinary continuously calculates firing data for
y care. use against an airplane or other moving
daily stock record,. printed form used target. Also called director.
by the Quartermaster Corps to keep a data receiver, part of a data transmis-
a
daily list of stock on hand. sion system which is located at the gun
daily strength . report, daily report sub- to receive firing data from the fire-con-
mitted by a division or a larger unit that trol instruments.
-
hat
s
shows the number of men and animals data transmission system, system used
present with the unit. This report is for transmitting firing data. The data
he
included in the daily telegram which the are sent from observers to the data com-
of unit submits as its basis for the issue of puter, or plotter, and then on to the
ration supplies. gunners. In an electrical data transmis-
daily telegram, daily report showing sion system, the firing data are elec-
ent
the number Qf men and animals present trically transmitted from a director or
e
with a divisio'n or a larger unit, and the data computer to dials and controls at
e
.
kind of field ration desired by the unit. the guns.

The daily telegram is submitted to the data transmitter, part of a data trans-
the
issuing quartermaster, and serves as the mission system which is located at the
a
basis for the issue of ration supplies. sound locator or at the data computer.
ed daily train, train that arrives daily at a It sends firing data from the fire-control
d
railhead with all the supplies requested instruments to the data receiver located
by the unit or units which the railhead at the gun.
e
serves. datum level, surface or horizontal plane

danger area, area on a practice range used as a reference point from which cal-
where direct fire or the fragments of culations or mer..surements are made.
s,
er
he
bursting shells, ricocheting projectiles, datum line, any reference line from
etc., may cause casualties. The danger which measurements of distance or di-
g
area on a practice range varies with the rection are made.
ng kind of weapon being used. datum plane, any reference plane from
danger flag, scarlet flag flown on firing which calculations or measurements are
ranges as a danger warning when firing taken. The datum plane upon which
is going on. the firing chart is constructed is usually
danger signal, flag, streamer, whistle, ~he average ground level of the target
e
shots, etc., used to warn of danger" area.
danger space, 1 .' that portion of the datum point, fixed point used as a basis
h
range within which a target of given for reckoning. A datum point is used
dimensions could be hit by a projectile especially when its azimuth and range
ge
with a given angle of fall. Specifically, from several observing stations have
the danger space is the space in which been accurately worked out,
r1g1nal ~ro
at
e-
. davit 82 deck engineer
davit, 1. one of a pair of arms at the side is buried in the ground and used for
of a ship used for holding or lowering anchoring a line. The deadman is
small boats. buried so that its long axis is perpen-
2. the curved arm and tackle on mine- dicular to the line of pull from the cable
laying vessels used to pick up anchors which is fastened around the center of
and mines and to swing them out over the deadman.
the water. dead reckoning, finding one's position
daylight dump, temporary storage place by means of a compass and calculations
that can be used in the daytime, and yet based on speed, time elapsed, and direc-
not be observed by the enemy. tion from a known position. Dead reck-
daylight traffic line, line beyond which oning is used for desert travel, coastwise
vehicles are not permitted to go in day- shipping, and air navigation.
light. A daylight traffic line is marked Abbrev: D/R
on operations maps by the letters DY. dead reckoning navigation, navigation
day of absence, day during which an based on the determination of position
officer or enlisted man is off duty status by the distance and direction from some
and away from his organization. It is known point. Dead reckoning naviga-
used as a unit in figuring leave or fur- tion is based on calculations of speed,
lough time, or as a unit in figuring the drift, time, and direction.
time an officer or enlisted man is absent dead space, area within the maximum
without leave. range of a weapon that cannot be
day of duty, day during which an offi- reached by fire from a position; dead
cer or enlisted man is considered to be area. Dead space may be caused by
in duty status with his organization. It limitations in the pointing capabilities
is used as a unit in figuring leave or of the weapon or by obstacles in the
furlough time. path of the projectile.
day of fire. See unit of fire. dead-stick landing, aircraft landing
day of supply, unit used in estimating made with the propellers stopped.
the average expenditure of various dead storage, storage of vehicles, equip-
items of supply per day in the field. It ment, etc., for an indefinite time.
is expressed in pounds per man per day dead time, time interval between the
or in quantities of specific items. last observation of a moving target and
day room, room in a barracks or com- the firing of a gun. D~ad time is the
pany building set aside for soldiers' time allowed for calculating and apply-
reading or recreation. ing the firing data. Also called predict-
DB-boat. See distribution box boat. ing interval.
D BH, division beachhead. debarkation, unloading of troops, equip-
DC, 1. Dental Corps. ment, or supplies from a ship or aircraft.
2. diphenylcyanarsine. debarkation officer, officer in charge of
DCofS, Deputy Chief of Staff. unloading troops from a ship.
D /D, dishonorable discharge. debouch (da BOOSH), move out from a
D day, day on which a previously defile, wood, or other close country into
planned attack is to be made, or on open country.
which an operation is to be started; day debouchment (da BOOSH munt), mov-
on which a new division or other Army ing out from a defile, wood, or other close
unit is activated. country into open country.
dead abatis, obstacle turned toward decipher, translate a message in cipher
the enemy made of cut-down or fallen form into plain text by the use of a
trees, often interlaced with barbed wire. cipher key.
A live abatis is a similar barrier made of decision, 1. definite and brief statement
smantrees or saplings bent down. of the general plan of a commander,
dead area. See dead space. given after his study of a situation.
deadline, remove from action, as for re- 2. ruling of a court-martial on any point.
pairs. A tank or gun is deadlined for 3. outcome of a battle, with one side def-
repairs. initely defeated.
dead line, line in or around a military deck engineer, petty officer in the Army
prison that a prisoner may not cross. Transport Service assigned to engineer-
deadman, log, rail, or other object that ing duties on deck or bridge.
rr1g1na fro
decllnate 83 defensi ve-ofrensive
decllnate, find the angle between the deeryptograph, translate the secret text
line to true north and the direction in of a message into plain text either by
which the magnetic needle of a com- deciphering or decoding the message or
pass points. by using a combination cipher-code key.
declinating point. See decUnating sta- def, defense.
tion. defense, 1. any means taken to prevent,
- declinating station, point selected for resist, or drive back' an enemy attack.
the purpose of determining the declina- A counterattack to prevent assault is
tion of a compa..c;s; declinating point. A active defense of a contested area;
a-
declinating station should be free from merely holding a contested area is pas-
A
local magnetic attractions and should sive defense.

m
afford a view of one distant, well-defined 2. procedure followed by the accused in

ned
object with a direction of known Y- a court-martial; answer or response to
azimuth. an accusation in a court-martial.
declination, difference in direction be- Abbrev: def
-
tween true north and magnetic north at defense area, area assigned to a given
at any given point; magnetic declination; unit to be protected from, and held
;
variation. against, enemy attack; defensive area.
declination constant, declination of a defense command, one of the principal
particular compass which is inherent in geographical divisions into which the
in
the compass and not influenced by local continental United States is divided for
causes. the purpose of coordinating and control-
cal
to
declinator, magnetic instrument used to ling the defense of each area. It is
orient or check the orientation of equal in importance to an anny, but is
c-
another instrument or machine. A dec- limited to a fixed area.
linator measures declination or point- defense in depth, system of mutually
ing error. supporting positions organized for de-
decode, translate the secret text of a fense, with the more powerful positions
e
coded m~ge into plain text with the usually to the rear. Defense in depth
aid of a key. is designed to break up and absorb the
decon, 1. decontaminating. enemy attack.
rea
2. decontamination. defense in place, system of defense
decontaminate, make any object or area based upon firm resi~tance without re-
ng
safe for unprotected personnel by ab- treat, as opposed to delaying action in
in sorbing, making harmless, or destroying successive positions.
chemicals with which they have been in defense plan, coordinated plan for pre-
contact. venting or defeating an enemy attack.

ed
decontaminating. Abbrev: decon A defense plan includes plans for tac-

decontaminating agent, substance used tical organization, fire, security, air sup-
.
to absorb, make harmless, or destroy port, ground organization, counterat-
any
chemicals. Bleaching powder is a de- tack, communications, and supplies.
er-
contaminating agent for mustard gas. defensive, 1. condition of a force when
decontamination, process of making any it stands ready to protect itself and its
ng- object or area safe for unprotected per- positions against enemy attack.
sonnel by absorbing, destroying, or 2. resisting attack. Defensive warfare is
making harmless chemical agents cling- opposed to offensive warfare.
ing to or around it. Abbrev: decon 3. suitable for defense; meant for protec-
r-
decoration, mark of honor, given for tion; as, a defensive position, a defensive
al
service of unusual distinction; medal, weapon.
es
cross, ribbon, or other emblem author- defensive area. See defense area.
ized by the government. A decoration defensive coastal area, part of a land
aw is given as a special award for unusual and water area on or near a coastline,
o
service or great bravery. In some cases within which defense operations involve
a decoration carries additional pay. both Army and Navy forces.
.
decoy, dummy installation used to draw defensive-offensive, operation in which

ext
the attention of the enemy, in order to a force first takes the defensive in order
or
keep the enemy from firing at the ob- to exhaust the enemy, and later takes
ject or position it is .intended to cover. the ofi~ns! ve.
)rlglnal rrom
ey.
ent,
.
def-ensive position 84 deliberate field fortification

defensive position, area occupied by flection change does not include the de-
-troops organized in a system of mutually flection difference, which allows for the
supporting defense areas or fortified tac- difference in positions of the various
tical localities. guns firing at the same target.
defensive zone, belt of terrain, general- deflection difference, correction ap-
ly parallel to the front, which includes plied to the direction of a particular gun
two or more organized, or partially or- in a battery so that its fire will converge
ganized,. battle positions. on the same target as the base piece.
deferment, postponement of induction deflection scale, scale on a gun sight,
into the armed forces under Selective marked in mils or degrees, for applying
,Service, because of dependents, useful- corrections in deflection or for pointing
ness in essential industry, or other cause. the piece in direction.
deferred message, message which may degassing, freeing from gas; treating
be delayed in delivery until the begin- with chemical agents to destroy a gas
ning of the working day following the or its harmful properties. Degassing is
day of filing. a form of decontamination.
defilade (DEF a layd), 1. protection de-icer, device on an airplane that
from enemy fire and observation pro- breaks up or removes ice formations on
vided by an obstacle such as a hill, ridge, airfoils. A de-icer differs from an anti-
or bank. icer, which is a device used to prevent
2. obstacle that gives protection. the formation of ice on airplane sur-
3. shield from enemy fire or observation faces during flight.
by using natural or artificial obstacles. del acct, delinquent account.
defile, any natural feature such as a delay, authorized leave of absence, or
narrow valley, wood-path, or ford, or extension of leave of absence, in connec-
any structure such as a bridge that re- tion with travel under orders.
stricts the wide front of advance of a delayed-action bomb, bomb equipped
force, or its movement to the sides. with a fuze that is adjusted to explode
deflagration, explosion that gradually the charge at a set time after contact
builds up power smoothly and evenly, with a target.
as opposed to detonation, which is delayed-action fuze. See delay fuze.
practically instantaneous, and produces delayed-action mine, explosive charge
a sudden and violent explosion. designed to go off some time after plant-
deflection, 1. distance to the right or ing, and often left behind by a retreat-
left of the target between the point ing enemy to harass or destroy pursuing
aimed at and the burst of the projectile. forces.
Deflection is caused by variations of delayed contact fire, firing system ar-
wind, horizontal movement of the tar- ranged to explode a mine at a set time
get or of the gun, or variations in the after it has been touched or disturbed.
ammunition. delay fuze, fuze that explodes the charge
2. setting on the scale of a sight allow- at a set time after it has been put in ac-
ing for the wind and other conditions, tion; delayed-action fuze. The two
so that the gun is correctly pointed in common types are short-delay fuze and
direction when the line of sight is on the long-delay fuze.
aiming point. delaying action, form of defensive ac-
3. horizontal angle between the line of tion employed to slow up the enemy's
sight and the axis of the bore of a gun, advance and gain time without becom-
when the gun is pointed for direction. ing decisively engaged, characteristic of
deflection, angle of. See angle of de- the tactics of a rear guard in a retreat.
flection. Delaying action differs from sustained
deflection board, instrument used in defense, the purpose of which is to stop
artillery for figuring azimuth or deflec- an enemy attack at the defense line.
tion corrected for wind, drift, and other delaying position, position taken to
factors; gun deflection board. slow up the advance of the enemy with-
deflection change, change in azimuth out being decisively engaged.
setting applying to all guns in a battery deliberate field fortification, fox hole,
when the target moves, or when a shift is trench, gun emplacement, or obstacle
made from one target to another. De- constructed before contact with the
lg
deliberate fire 85 departure, angle of
enemy. A deliberate field fortification density of loading, concentration of
is generally more elaborate than a hasty powder in the powder chamber of a gun.
field fortification, which is constructed The density of loading is the ratio of the
under fire or threat of attack. weight of the powder charge of a shell
sty
deliberate fire, fire delivered more slow- to the weight of the amount of distilled
ly than the normal rate, for the purpose water at 39.2 degrees Fahrenheit that
d
w-
of permitting precise adjustment and would fill the powder chamber.
se
careful correction for greater accuracy of Dental Corps, subdivision of the Medi-
aim. cal Department that cares for the teeth
y of
deliberate mine field, field of mines of military personnel. Abbrev: DC
laid carefully and slowly as protection dental identification record, official
against enemy attack expected at any form for recording in detail every charac-
moment. A field laid more quickly is teristic of the condition of a soldier's
y
called a hasty mine field. teeth. The dental identification record

delinquent account. Abbrev: del acct is used as a means of identification if in-
delivered. ...4.bbrev: delv juries causing death result in the de-
delivery. Abbrev: delv struction of other features of the soldier.
delousing, killing or removing lice. dental officer, Army dentist; officer in
delv. 1. delivered. 2. delivery. the Den tal Corps.
demilitarize, take away all military or- dental service, 1. part of a hospital
ganizations and installations; restore staff that provides dental care for mili-
civil government after a military occu- tary personnel.
pation. 2. detection, treatment, and prevention
-
DEML, Detached Enlisted Men's List. of dental diseases as part of the medical
demobilization, disbanding military service that is provided for military per-
ing
forces; changing over from a war footing sonnel.
to a peacetime or inactive footing. dental surgeon, senior officer in charge .
demobilize, disband military: forces; of the dental service of a unit. A dental
-
change from a war footing to a peace- surgeon performs his professional duties
time or inactive footing. under the direction of the surgeon of the
demolition, 1. act of demolishing; de- unit to which he is assigned. He also
struction, especially by explosives. advises in matters of dental supply,
2. used for demolition or destructive operation, and training.
purposes; as, a demolition bomb. dental technician, enlisted man who
Abbrev: dml does dental laboratory work, takes X-
demolition bomb, bomb containing a rays, and prepares patients for dental
y-
relatively large charge of explosives. work.
gas,
Demolition bombs are used for destroy- DEO, district engineer officer.
ople
ing material objects; fragmentation, gas, dep, depot.

and other bombs are used against people department, 1. one of the branches of
or animals. the Army, such as the Adjutant's Gen-
demolition officer. Abbrev: Dml 0 eral's Department or the Judge Advo-
y
demolition gquad. Abbrev: dml sqd cate's Department, that carries on an
s
demonstration, 1. teaching method in administrative function for the Army.
which explanations are made clear by 2. military establishment into which an
the
showing how each step of an action is overseas possession of the United States
made or how a mechanism works. is organized to coordinate military
ll
2. attack or show of force to deceive the activities within the territorial limits of
tion
e of
enemy. the department. The Hawaiian Depart-
3. exhibition arranged to show the skill ment is an example of such a depart-
or tactical use of troops, or the operation ment. Territorial departments corre-
and effectiveness of a weapon or type of spond to service commands. In this
equipment. meaning, also called territorial depart-
ain
demotion, reduction in rank; putting ment. Abbrev: dept
back into a lower grade. department hospital, general hospital
denim, heavy coarse cloth used for located in a territorial department.
un.
he
work clothes and clothes worn in certain departure, angle of. See angle of de-
kinds of training. parture.
l
d
Orlg1nal rrom
t
-
dependency benefits 86 detach
dependency benefits, allowances au- bombs are set off by special firing de-
thorized for dependents of members of vices that operate at the depth for which
the arrned forces. A dependency bene- they are set. These bombs are dropped
fit is the sum of money allotted to from airplanes, or shot or dropped
authorized dependents by an enlisted frotn naval vessels.
man of the rank of sergeant or lower, Deputy Chief of Staff, officer who as.
with a contribution added by the gov- sists the Chief of Staff in supervising the
ernment. various divL;ions of theWar Department
dependent, person for whose support General Staff and the three principal
another person is legally responsible. commands, and who acts for the Chief
For a member of the armed forces, de- of Staff in his absence. Abbrev: DCofS
pendents may include his wife, children, des, 1. deserted. 2. desertion.
parents, brothers, and sisters. descending branch, path traced by a
deploy, extend or widen the front of a projectile in descending from the highest
military unit, extending from a close point of its flight.
order to a battle formation. desert, be absent without leave from a
deployed defense, defense in which the military post or duty with the intention
troops are in deployed position, but the of not returning, or of avoiding danger-
ground is organized only with hasty ous duty or important service.
works or not at all. deserted. Abbret': des
deployment, act of deploying; extending deserter, person who deserts.
a command in width, in depth, or in both desertion, unauthorized absence from
width and depth. a military post or duty with the inten-
depot (DEPP o), station for receiving, tion of not returning, or of avoiding
storing, and distributing supplies, or for dangerous duty or important service.
receiving, classifying, and forwarding re- Desertion differs from absence without
placements. Depots' sometimes also leave, in which the absentee does not
have other functions, such as procure- have the intention of staying away or
ment of supplies, materiel, replacements, shirking dangerous duty.
etc. Abbrev: dep Abbret': des
depot quartermaster, commissioned of- design altitude, altitude at which a
ficer who is in charge of fire protection, given aircraft is designed to operate at
guarding, and policing, and of utilities, maximum efficiency.
transportation, and other facilities of the designate, give an official name to a
depot to which he is attached. unit of troops.
depress, lower the muzzle of a gun by design load, weight that a given part of
means of the elevating mechanism. a structure or machine is intended to
depression, 1. lowering the muzzle of a carry without dangerous strain.
gun, especially below the horizontal, by destroyer, 1. warship smaller than a
means of the elevating mechanism. cruiser, and more lightly armed and ar-
2. region of low barometric pressure sur- mored. However, a destroyer has high
rounded by higher pressures. speed and heavy fire power, including
depression angle. See angle of depres- antiaircraft batteries and torpedo tubes.
sion. A destroyer is used in independent op-
depression, angle of. See angle of de- erations, as an escort vessel with mer-
pression. chant convoys or larger warships, etc.
depression position finder, telescopic 2. self-propelled antitank gun. In this
instrument that determines range and meaning, usually called tank destroyer.
direction of a target at sea level. destruction fire, heavy artillery fire in-
dept, department. tended to cause the destruction of
d~pth, 1. space from front to rear of any 1
enemy works or materiel. Destruction
formation or position, including the fire is often used to put enemy artillery
front and rear units. permanently out of action.
2. height from the bottom of a trench to det, detachment.
the ground level. detach, take personnel or units away
depth botnb, steel container filled with , fr. om the organization to which they
a high explosive charge that is used belong, usually for special duty with
against underwater targets. Depth 1 another uni~. n a 1 fro
i U I ERSIT-Y OF C LIFORNI
detached 87 detonating slab
detached, separated from one's proper liquid vesicant detector paint. If a
organization, usually for.. special duty drop of a vesicant or blistering agent
with another unit; not assigned perma- touches a surface painted with this de-
er
nently to any specific branch. Individu- tector, the spot changes color.
als as well as units may be detached. detention camp, place for holding in-
a-
detached duty. See detached service. coming recruits for a sufficient length of
u-
Detached Enlisted Men's List, classi- time to detect any acute communicable
fication of enlisted men who are not as- disease they may have contracted be-
signed to duty with any particular fore arrival.
as-
branch. Abbrev: DEML detention of pay, withholding of a part
Detached Officers' List, list of officers of the pay of an enlisted man, following
assigned to duties with activities of the sentence of a court-martial. The money
War Department other than the arms is credited to the soldier and paid to him
he
and services. Examples of such ac- upon his separation from the service.
tivities are Reserve Officers' Training detention room, room maintained by
Corps duty and recruiting duty. milit~ry police for the temporary con-
Abbrev: DOL finement of persons whom they have
detached post, post established beyond arrested.
nd
the limits of an outpost proper for some detention ward, ward in a military
me
special purpose, such as guarding some hospital for prisoner patients.
me locality of special importance. deteriorating supplies, those items that
detached service, duty with another may -reasonably be expected to become
organization, making necessary a con- unusable within one or two years,
-
tinuous absence of 24 hours or more whether used or not.

from the military unit to which one is determinate error, error of such a kind
normally attached; detached duty. that its cause can be found and its effect
Abbrev: DS allowed for.
ay
detached unit, unit that is serving away detonate, explode suddenly and vio-
from its parent organization. A de- lently.
der tached unit usually serves with or under detonating agent, explosive used to set
another organization. off another. Fulminate of mercury and
ed
detachment, 1. part of a unit separated tetryl are used as detonating agents to
se-
from its main organization for duty else- set off other less sensitive explosives.
e-
where. Medical units often serve as de- detonating charge, charge used to. set
tachments with other troops. off a high explosive charge.
2. temporary military unit formed from detonating cord, flexible fabric tube
m
t
other units or parts of units; military containing a filler of high explosive that
unit that is a permanent separate unit is set off by a blasting cap or by an elec-
smaller than a company. tric detonator. It has an extremely high
to Abbrev: det rate of explosion, and it is used to set off
detail, 1. soldier or soldiers assigned to other _high explosive charges or to act as
a particular task, usually a temporary a bursting charge. The detonating cord
ers
one, such as a guard detail. currently in use is known commercially

2. assign a soldier or .a group of soldiers as primacord.
ng
to a particular task. Abbrev: dtl detonating explosive. See high explo-
cts.
detector, any mechanical or electrical sive.
device used for discovering and locating detonating fuze, fuze consisting of a
on
enemy personnel, equipment, or objects. fabric or lead tube that contains a high
detector crayon, stick of a chalklike explosive filler. It is used to detonate
colored substance for making marks on the high explosive charges of projectiles,
surfac~ to test for the presence of mines, bombs, or torpedoes.
nt;
chemical agents. If the color of the detonating net, network of detonating

e
mark of the detector crayon stays un- cord that is interlaced in a mesh design;
r
changed, no chemical agent is present; primacord net. Detonating nets are
nts;
if the color of the mark changes, there used for clearing paths through mine
is a chemical agent present. fields by exploding the mines over which
detector paint, paint used as a test for the nets are placed and detonated.
e-
contamination hy liquid chetnical agen~; detonating slab. See burster course.
r1g1nal fro 1
of
ble
-
detonation 88 diphenylaminechlorarsine
detonation, sudden and violent explo- parts of a unit to permit maneuvering.
sion. Detonation is practically instan- The fifth part of a diamond formation
taneous; the slower burning of some ex- is in the center when five are used. A
plosives is called deflagration. diamond formation is used especially by
detonation wave. See burst wave. mechanized units.
detonator, powder charge or electric diaphragm gas mask, special type of
device in a projectile, mine, etc., that is gas mask used by officers, noncommis-
used to set off the main charge. sioned officers, telephone operators, and
detonator-safe. See bore safe. others whose duties make it necessary
detraining point, station or yard where for them to speak while wearing a mask.
troops and equipment are unloaded from diary, detailed daily account of a unit's
railway trains. activities, kept by a staff officer of the
detrucking area, area that includes all unit for future reference.
the points in a given locality at which dichloramine- T (die KLOR a MEEN
troops, their equipment, and supplies TEE), yellow, crystalline powder with
are unloaded from trucks. a strong chlorine odor. Dichloramine-T
develop, 1. break up a command from is soluble in benzene or chloroform, and
a mass or marching formation into a is used as an antiseptic or as a decon-
number of smaller columns or groups, taminating agent.
in preparation for action. Dictionary of Occupational Titles, list-
2. uncover or make clear; work out in ing of the titles and descriptions of
detail; as, to develop the position, in- activities perforn1ed by persons engaged
tention, and strength of the enemy. in various civilian occupations. The
developing attack, 1. attack made to Dictionary of Occupational Titles is
obtain information about the strength used by classification personnel to find
and placement of enemy troops and the out the exact names of the occupations
plans of action of the enemy. of persons before they entered the Army.
2. attack made preliminary to a main dietitian, femalemember of the Medi-
attack in order to secure an advantage cal Department who plans and super-
in position or timing that will make a vises meals in Army hospitals; hospital
position more secure or increase the dietitian. A dietitian is equivalent in
probability of success of the main effort. rank to an officer, usually a second lieu-
development, 1. breaking up a com- tenant.
mand from a mass or marching forma- difference chart, table by which the
tion into a number of smaller columns range and azimuth of a target from a
or groups, in preparation for action. gun or station are obtained when the
2. seizing and organizing terrain in prep- range and azimuth from some other gun
aration for action. or station are known.
development order, order for the de- differential effects, data given in firing
velopment of a unit; commander's de- tables so that artillerymen can make
tailed orders covering the breaking up corrections for variations in atmospheric
of a mass or march formation into a conditions.
number of smaller columns or groups, dig in, dig or improve fox holes or
in preparation for action. other intrenchments, for immediate
deviation, 1. distance of a point of im- defense.
pact from the target. Deviation is dip, 1. lower and raise quickly; as, to
measured by an angle or by linear dip the guidon in salute.
measure. 2. angle below the horizontal made by
2. error in a compass whose needle does a compass needle.
not point directly to the magnetic north 3. in aviation, a sudden drop followed
pole, because of the magnetism of sur- by a climb.
rounding objects. In this meaning, also 4. angle between the horizontal and the
called magnetic deviation. line of sight from an observer's eye,
D /F, direction finding. usually in an aircraft, to the visible
J>FC, Distinguished Flying Cross. horizon.
D H Q, division headquarters. . diphcnylaminechlorarsine (die FEN il a
diantond formation, diamond-shaped MEEN klor AR seen), chemical name fo:-
arrangemElnt made up of four or five adamsite. Symbol: D~1
fig f
diphenylchlorarsine 89 Director of Administration
diphenylchlorarsine (die FEN irklor AR If the aircraft. flies to either side of the
seen), odorless irritating and harass- beam, the aircraft will receive a charac-
R
ing agent that produces white, irritant teristic broken signal, indicating right
smoke similar in effects to diphenyl- or loft.
t
aminechlorarsine. Symbol: DA directional traverse, line laid out in sur-

diphenylcyanarsine (die FEN il SIGH an veying to show the direction of one
AR seen), irritant with an odor like point from another without determin-
ing the distance between them.
n
that of bitter almonds and garlic, that i3

h
slowly decomposed by water. Diphenyl-. direction board, circular board marked
yl-
cyanarsine is used as a military poison off in 100 mil units with a pointer
n gas. Symbol: DC pivoted at the center. A direction
dir, director. board is used to assist an observer in ,
direct-climbing target, air target that identifying sounds by their direction.
climbs away from a gunner. direction finder. See radio direction
direct communication, 1. communica- finder.
tion authorized to pass straight from the direction finder station, station which
sender to the receiver without going uses a radio direction finder to give air-
the
e
through the hands of any intermediate .planes and ships their bearings, and to
officers. locate enemy airplanes and radio sta-
he 2. radio contact established without the tions; direction finding station.
aid of an intermediate relay point. Di- direction finding. Abbrev: D /F
rect communication differs from indi- direction finding station. See direction
ugh
rect communication, which goes through finder station.

a relay point. directive, military communication in
direct-diving target, air target which which a policy is established or a specific
dives directly toward a gunner. action is ordered.
h
directed net, system of radio stations direct laying, laying in which the sights
sion
none of which may communicate with of the weapon are alined directly on
or any other one without special permission the target.
ch
from the net control station, except for direct laying position, gun location fron1
led
highly urgent messages. A net in which which the target can be seen through the
this permission is not necessary is called sights.
a
a free net. direct observation, observation by

th
direct fire, fire in which the sights of a direct vision, aided by instruments such
weapon are brought directly in line with as field glasses or telescopes, instead of
the target; fire by direct laying. a study of photographs of terrain, etc.,
a
direct fire sight, sight used with anti- which is indirect observation.
aircraft guns when the director is not director, 1. mechanical device that con-
et
available. A direct fire sight provides a tinuously .calculates firing data for use
.
simple means of giving the necessary again8t an airplane or other mo;ving
n
lead to allow for the motion of a target target. In this meaning, also called
during the time of the flight of a shell. data computer.
direct hit, projectile striking exactly on 2. supervisor, as, the director of maneu-
th
the target .. vers or the director of an administrative
ng
directing gun. See base piece. office.
directing point, point in or near a bat- 3. officer in the Army Nurse Corps who
tery from which the range and azimuth has a rank equivalent to that of a cap-
~ to the target are determined in figuring tain.
firing data. If a gun is the directing 4. officer in charge of theWomen's Army
lar
point, it is chlled the base piece or di- Corps (WAC). She holds the grade of
recting gun. colonel.
air-
directional gyro, gyroscopic turn indi- Abbrev: dir
m
cator used in aircraft to indicate angular Director of .Administration, officer in
m.
deYiation from the course. command of all the administrative serv-
e
directional radio range, narrow radio ices of the Army Service Forces except
ac- beam broadcast to give a course for air- those carried on by The Adjutant Gen-
craft. When the aircraft is on the beam eral. Formerly called Chief of Adminis-
the aircraft receives only a steady hum. trative Services.
rlglnal rrom
r-

d
direct plotting 90 disciplinary barracks
direct plotting, method of determining 3. make a mine or bomb useless by re-
firing data for a moving target when cal- moving the firing device or by other
culation of its distance and azimuth means.
from a single gun position will meet the disarmament, reduction or limitation
needs of a battery of guns. Offset of the size, equipment, armament, etc.,
plotting is used when data must be given of the army, navy, or air forces of a
for more than one gun. country.
direct pointing, pointing a piece in a di- disassemble, take a weapon or machine
rection or in both range and direction by apart, usually for cleaning or repair.
tneans of a sight directed at the target. disband, discontinue a unit and with-
direct pressure. See direct pursuit. draw it from current records of the
direct pursuit, action directed against Army.
the rear and flanks of a retreating enemy; disbursing agent, commissioned or
direct pressure. warrant officer or civilian, authorized to
;
directrix, center line of the field of fire pay out public funds.
of a gun. disbursing officer, officer who receives,
direct SUl)port, 1. help given by artil- is responsible for, and pays out public
lery to a particular subdivision of a funds. He may also command the
unit, as opposed to general support, finance detachment and advise his com-
which is given to the unit as a whole. manding officer on financial matters.
2. help given by aircraft to ground disch, 1. discharge. 2. discharged.
troops. Direct support includes obser- discharge, 1. dismiss from service; re-
vation, transmission of messages, and lease a member of the Army (especially
other particular tasks; indirect support an enlisted man) upon completion of his-
includes destroying enemy airplanes and term of service or for such reasons as
cutting supply and communication lines disability, minority, inaptitude, or con-
in the enemy's rear. Abbrev: D /S viction by a civil or military court.
dirigible, !.lighter-than-air aircraft that 2. release from service of a member of
is propelled by an engine and that can be the army (especially an enlisted man).
steered in direction. In this meaning, 3. discharge certificate.
sometimes called dirigible airship. 4. fire a weapon.
2. capable of being steered in direction. Abbrev: disch
dirigible airship, lighter-than-air air- discharge by purchase, discharge given
craft that is propelled by an engine and in time of peace to an enlisted man in
that can be steered in direction. Often good standing, who has completed one
called dirigible. year or more of service and has paid the
disability, 1. physical or mental illness required fee for release from service;
or injury that makes a person incapable purchase discharge. This type of dis-
of active service. charge is not given in time of war.
2. condition of a vehicle that makes it discharge certificate, statement of re-
unfit for service. lease from service issued to a discharged
disappearing carriage, gun mount on soldier. It also gives the character of his
some types of fixed artillery that raises service and the reason for discharge.
the gun above a concealing wall or bank discharged. Abbrev: disch
before firing and lowers it after firing; discharge without honor, form of dis-
disappearing gun carriage. charge given when service has not been
-disappearing gun carriage. See disap- honest and faithful, when a character
J>earing carriage. rating is "fair" or "poor," or when dis-
disappearing target, target that is ex- honorable discharge cannot be given;
posed to the firer's view for a short time. blue discharge.
Bobbing targets, and targets that are disciplinary action, all authorized meas-
raised from target pits for short periods ures, including court-martial, company
of time, are disappearing targets. punishment, and reprimand, taken to
disarm, 1. reduce or limit the size, punish acts of tnisconduct by military
equipment, armament, etc., of the army, personnel.
navy, or air forces of a country. disciplinary barracks, place of confine-
2. take away an opponPnt's weapon~, ment named by the War Department
P.Rpe<'ially his small arn1s. for prisonP.r~ who are to he hPld for ~i x
rlg1nal fro
disciplinary exercises 91 display board
months or more, and. who are not to be dispensary, medical station where first
confined in a penitentiary; United States aid and other routine medical treatment
disciplinary barracks. are given. A dispensary is similar to an
be
disciplinary exercises, exercises in mili- aid station, but is not set up in a combat
tes tary drill that are intended, not for phys- area.
ical development, but for training in dispersal area, area in which troops and
li-
alertness, promptness in carrying out materiel are widely spread to protect

ys-
orders, and morale. Disciplinary exer- them from concentrated air or artillery
cises include facings, the position of attack.
attention, hand salute, etc. dispersed airdrome, airdrome in which
disciplinary report, written report sub- facilities for maintenance and repair are
mitted by military police on an offender scattered and set up as far as possible
-
against military rules and regulations. from the landing and take-off area.
er discipline, 1. state of order and obedi- dispersed formation, tactical formation
.
ence amon~ soldiers, brought about by in which units are spread out to reduce
-
training, necessary to carry out orders in the effectiveness of enemy fire.

by
the proper spirit. dispersio-n, 1. scattered pattern of hits of

s in
2. systematic rules and procedures es- bombs dropped under identical condi-
tablished for specific operations; for tions, or of shots fired from the same
example, march discipline, camouflage
s-
gun with the same firing data.

ge
discipline. 2. spreading of troops and materiel over
disengage, break off action with an a wide area so as not to offer the enemy
enemy. a concentrated target.
disengagement, breaking off action with dispersion error, chance variation in a
ith
an enemy. series of shots even though firing condi-

dishonorable discharge, formal release tions are kept as constant as possible.
e
from military service, without honor, For practical purposes the dispersion
d
given a soldier upon his conviction and error of a particular shot is considered
y
sentence by a court-martial or military the distance from that shot to the
commission; yellow discharge. center of impact.
Abbrev: DID dispersion ladder, table that shows the
nd disinfestor, apparatus for delousing and probable distribution of a succession of
disinfecting clothing and equipment. shots made with the same firing data.
dismiss, order a unit to break ranks A dispersion ladder consists of a dia-
f
after a drill, ceremony, or formation of gram made up of eight zones, in each

any kind. one of which is shown the percentage
of shots which may be expected to fall
et
dismissal, release of an officer or cadet

from the service without honor, upon within it.
dispersion z~ne, area over which shots
ial
sentence of dismissal by a court-martial

cle,
or military commission. scatter when fired with the same sight
dismount, 1. get off a horse, motorcycle, setting.
or bicycle, etc. displace, leave one position and take
2. take a gun from its setting, mount, or another. When a unit is advancing, its
f-
carriage. command post must displace forward.

m
dismounted defilade, concealment suf- displacement, 1. movement from one

ficient to hide a dismounted man from position to another; especially, move-
observation. ment of supporting troops or weapons
e-
m-
dispatch, 1. send a message, order, re- from one firing position to another for
port, or other communication. tactical reasons.
ary
2. message, order, report, or other com- 2. distance of one point from another
munication that has been sent. point; for example, the distance of a
3. send or direct troops or other military gun in a battery from the base piece or
etc.
units or conveyances. directing point.

dispatcher, person who directs the display board, blackboard or other
n-
movement of motor vehicles, trains, etc. board on which firing data are marked
st
dispatch route, roadway over which a up for the information of a gun crew.
ent
central traffic authority exerts full con- Artillery units use an azimuth display
n
trol. boord and an elevation display board.
bat
Orlg1nal rrom
nd
y
disposition 92 divergence difference
disposition, distribution of the elements 3. planned spread of fire to cover a de-
of a command and the duties assigned sired frontage or depth.
to each unit to accomplish a common 4. official delivery of anything, such as
purpose. orders or supplies.
disrate, take away a person's rating. distribution area, geographical unit
dist, district. within which a supply depot makes
distance, space from front to rear be- routine deliveries.
tween men, animals, vehicles, or units distribution box, metal case containing
in a formation.. The space from side to cable connections. Distribution boxes
side is called an interval. are found on the remote control systems
distant. Abbrev: ds of some guns and are used in submarine
distant reconnaissance, exploration of mine systems.
objectives that lie outside immediate distribution box boat, vessel used in
striking range of a force, but about mine planting to mark buoys, lay shore
which detailed information is essential cables, etc.; DB-boat. It may also
for military planning. Study of regions serve as a patrol boat after a mine field
near at hand is called close reconnais- is planted.
sance. distribution center, agency of a head-
Distant Surveillance Section. quarters for the routing of correspond-
Abbrev: DS Sec ence and other papers to and from the
distinguished class, highest rating of different officers or sections of the staff.
skili for a bombardier, ranking above distribution list, list giving names of or-
the other two ratings, master class and ganizations and individuals to whom
bombardier. orders and other documents are to be
Distinguished Flying Cross, bronze sent, and the number of copies for each.
medal awarded to an officer or enlisted district, geographical subdivision of a
man in the Army Air Forces for unusual military area in a service command. A
heroism or extraordinary achievement in district is set up for the purpose of ad-
an aerial flight. Abbrev: DFC ministering the various organizations
distinguished marksman, officer or en- established within it. Usually called
listed man who has won three medals for military district. Abbrev: dist
rifle, pistol, or carbine fire in competi- district engineer, officer in command of
tions designated by the War Depart- an engineer district who represents the
ment. Chief of Engineers and supervises local
Distinguished Service Cross, bronze construction work in connection with
medal awarded to an officer or enlisted fortifications.
man in the Army for extraordinary hero- district engineer officer. Abbrev: DEO
ism in military action against an armed district transportation officer.
enerny. Abbrev: DSC . Abbrev: DTO
Distinguished Service Medal, medal div, division.
awarded to an officer or enlisted man in dive, 1. downward plunge of an aircraft;
the Army for exceptionally meritorious steep descent, with or without power, in
service in a duty of great responsibility. which the air speed is greater than the
Abbrev: DSM maximum speed in horizontal flight.
distributed fire, gunfire so placed in 2. make such a downward plunge.
width that all parts of the target are dive bomber, bomber that releases its
under effective fire. Distributed fire bomb load just before it pulls out of a
may be used against a road, wood, or dive toward the target.
other large target; concentrated fire is dive bombing, releasing a bomb load
directed against a single point or area. just before a bomber pulls out of a dive
distributing point, place other than a toward the target. The angle is such
depot, railhead, or truckhead, where that the pilot sights through his ~n
supplies are issued to regiments and sights.
smaller units. divergence, angle of. See angle of di
distribution, 1. arrangement of troops vergence.
for a purpose, such as a battle, march, divergence difference, change in direc-
or maneuver. tion of any gun of a battery except the
2. pattern of proje.cti)e~ about a point. ba~ gun, so that its 1ine of fire will di-
lg
diversion 93 double tent
verge from that of the base gun. This planes or between individual mechanized
is done in order to cover a target wider units.
than the battery front. DOL, Detached Officers' List.
er
diversion, attack or sham attack in- dope, liquid chemical preparation put
tended to hold the enemy's attention on aircraft fabric to make it airtight and
and draw his troops from the point at more durable.
which a main attack is to be made; at- double, 1. second shot fired automati-
tack upon a weak point in the enemy's cally by a semiautomatic. weapon, when
-
battle line intended to make him draw only the first shot is int@nded. It indi-
s
some of his forces away from an attack cates poor adjustment of the weapon.
at another point. 2. hit in coast artillery target practice
w
ck
division, 1. major administrative and that strikes a target within the range
tactical unit. A division is larger than limits of a broadside target and alsf
a regiment or brigade, and smaller than within the limits of direction of a bow.
an a corps. It is usually commanded by on target.
a major general. 3. On the double or at the double means
2. branch or section of the headquarters in double time.
ers
of a division or higher unit, that handles double action, method of fire in a re-
es
military matters of a particular nature, volver and in old-style rifles and shot-
such as personnel, intelligence, plans and guns in which a single pull of the trigger
,
and
training, or supply and evacuation. both cocks and fires the weapon, in con-
Abbrev: div trast tQ single action, in which the ham-
division ammunition office. mer must be cocked by band before
Abbrev: DAO firing.
division artillery, artillery that is per- double-apron fence, obstacle consisting
n.
manently an integral part of a division. of a fence with a network of barbed-wire

ed
For tactical purposes, all artillery placed entanglement extending out on each
-
under the command of a division com- side.

mander is considered division artillery. double banking, two columns of troops
y.
nd
division beachhead. Abbrev: DBH or vehicles side by side, moving in the
s
division engineer, 1. officer in command same direction or standing still. Double
of an engineer division who represents banking is not generally pel'lllitted be-
the Chief of Engineers and who has cause of the danger of blocking the
charge of construction work in his di- roads.
d of
vision. double bank method, method by which

2. senior engineer officer in command of scouting aircraft can search large areas
all engineer troops of a division. He is rapidly. One group of planes searches

a member of the special staff of the an inner circle, while another searches an
division commander. outer circle.
ts
division headquarters. Abbrev: DHQ double-base powder, propellent powder
ce
division service area. Abbrev: DSA containing both nitrocellulose and nitro-
at- division trains, all the service elements glycerin.
a
of a division, including the maintenance double envelopment, attack on both
battalion, supply battalion, medical bat- flanks of the enemy while his center is
talion, etc. They are organized under a held in check.
e.
trains headquarters. double sentry, guard of two soldiers

DM, diphenylaminechlorarsine. posted to keep watch over an area and
DM candle. See DM irritant gas candle.
d
to prevent surprise by the enemy.

DM irritant gas candle, cylindrical double shelter tent. See double tent.
steel container and generator charged double staggered column, two-lane col-
with adamsite (DM) that produces a umn of vehicles moving in the same
cloud of irritant yellow smoke when direction, so spaced that the vehicles in
burned; DM candle. one lane are opposite the spaces between
dml, demolition. vehicles in the other lane.
Dml 0, demolition officer. double tent, shelter tent set up in the
ized
dml sqd, demolition squad. field by buttoning together the square

DO, duty officer. ends of two single shelter tents; double
dogfight, c-ombat hPtw~n indh:-ioual ~hAlter tent. O I .~:
nd
r1g1na 1rom
-
hen
double time 94 drop
double. time, 1. marching at the rate of straighten a line, each individual in re-
180 steps, each 36 inches in length, per lation to the person at his right.
minute. dress uniform, uniform authorized for
2. preparatory com1nand to march at wear at social, ceremonial, and otficial
this rate. occasions.
down time, 1. interval between the drftm, draftsman.
arrival of an empty ammunition train : drift, 1. amount of shift of a projectile
at an ammunition supply point and its 1
to one side because of such factors as
departure witQ. a load. its own rotation or air resistance.
2. interval between receipt of a request 2. amount of sidewise movement or dis-
for supplies at a supply depot and their placement caused by a side wind acting
delivery to the troops. on an aircraft, ship, or barrage balloon.
3. time during which ordnance materiel 3. slow spreading of a chemical cloud by
is being repaired in a field shop. gravity and wind.
downwind, direction toward which the 4. tool such as a punch, tapered pin, or
wind is blowing; leeward. reamer.
DP, by direction of the President. 5. movement of wounded towards the
dr, drawn. rear in a battle.
D /R, dead reckoning. drift float. See drift signal.
draft, 1. selection of persons from the drift meter, instrument for determining
total manpower of a country for com- the direction and amount of drift when
pulsory military service. In this mean- an aircraft is flying in a cross wind. A
ing, also called Selective Service. drift meter is also used in taking visual
2. persons selected for compulsory mili- bearings and in calculating ground speed
tary service. by timing.
3. call a man for compulsory military drift signal, floating signal dropped
service. from an aircraft flying over water to
4. request for the delivery of supplies provide a reference point for determin-
covered by credits. In this meaning, ing drift and for aiding in navigation;
also called call. drift float. Fire, smoke, or metallic
draftee. See selectee. powder is released when the signal
draftsman.. Abbrev: drftm strikes the water surface.
drag, 1. air resistance to the relative drill, 1. exercises and movements taught
wind offered by an aircraft or a part of and practiced to develop skill in march-
it. Induced drag is drag on a wing ing, and to develop control, discipline,
caused by lift. This is only part of the and teamwork.
total drag on a wing. Parasite drag is 2. practice a sequence of acts for learning
the part of the drag of an aircraft ex- purposes.
elusive of the drag induced by lift. drill ammunition, ammunition without
2. slow drift of a chemical cloud near an explosive charge, used in training and
the ground, compared with the faster practice; dummy ammunition.
drift of the higher parts. drill call, bugle call used as a warning
drawn. Abbrev: dr to turn out for drill.
dress, 1. form a straight line in a drill drillmaster, person who gives soldiers
formation. drill instruction.
2." command to take this line. drive, attack, often a large-scale, force--
3. arrangement of flags and pennants on ful attack.
the masts of a ship for formal occasions. I driver. Abbrev: dvr
dressing station. See aid station. driver's trip ticket, form to be filled in
dress left, preparatory command at by the driver of an Army motor vehicle.
which soldiers turn eyes to the left and A driver's trip ticket gives data as to
straighten a line, each individual in re- performance, thning, repairs, etc., while
lation to the person at his left. en route.
dress parade, ceremony at which sol.. droop, bending of a structure due to its
diers in their dress uniforms take forma- own weight, such as the curvature of a
tion under arms. very long barrel in a heavy artillery gun.
dress right, preparatory command at drop, vertical distance a bullet has fallen
",.hi<'h solrliers turn eyes to the right and under the influence of gravity at any
lg
drop message 95 duty officer
point in its path of flight; vertical dis- dud, projectile that has failed to explode.
tance from a point on this path to the dugout, underground shelter built to
line of departure. protect troops, ammunition, and ma-
drop message, message dropped from teriel from gunfire.
an airplane to a ground unit. Maps or dum-dum bullet, bullet designed or
photographs, which cannot be trans- changed so that its piercing ability is
m
mitted by radio, are often delivered as lessened, and its tendency to spread or
drop messa-ges. flatten upon impact is increased.
s
dropping angle, angle between the air- dummy, 1. having no explosive charge.
craft-target line and the vertical line Dummy amtnunition is used in practice.
r-
from the aircraft to the ground at the 2. figure used to represent an enemy in
instant a bomb is released. Also called bayonet and saber practice.
range angle. 3. false building, emplacement, etc. used
d
dropping groun(i, place where messages to deceive the enemy. In this meaning,
are dropped to ground troops from air- also called dummy installation.
ges
planes. dummy ammunition. See drill ammu-

r-
drop test, test of a parachute by drop- nition.

-
ping it, with a dummy load attached, dummy installation, false building, em-
from an airplane. placement, etc., used to deceive the
drum, 1. adjusting device and scale for enemy. A dummy installation may
or
making fine settings on certain types of draw fire away from real targets, weaken
of gun sights. The coarse setting is made enemy fire by spreading it, or delay and
e
on a device called a plateau. confuse the enemy. Also called dummy.
2. cylindrical magazine, from which dummy mine, false or imitation land
cartridges are fed, on certain machine mine used to deceive the enemy, or used
e
guns. for training purposes.

dry camp, temporary camp in a place dummy position, position, particularly
-
where there Lc; no water. Weather con- a false battery location, prepared to
-
ditions, difficult terrain, danger, or ex- deceive the enemy as to the true size or
ng haustion of soldiers may make camping location of the position actually occu-
in such a place necessary. pied; dummy site.
n.
dry run, 1. any practice test or session. dummy projectile, shell that has no ex-
2. any simulated firing practice, par- plosive charge. Dummy projectiles are
ade
ticularly a dive bombing approach made used for practice and training purposes.
without the release of a bomb. dummy site. See dummy position.
ds, distant. dummy works, false fortification or
DS, detached service. other imitation structure set up to de-

D/S, direct support. ceive the enemy.
DSA, division service area. dump, 1. temporary storage place for
DSC, Distinguished Service Cross. supplies.
DSM, Distinguished Service Medal. 2. discharge gas from a balloon by pull-
DS Sec, Distant Surveillance Section. ing the rip cord in an emergency.
dtl, detail. 3. unload ballast from a balloon.
DTO, district transportation officer. dunnage, boards or loose material
dual status, holding of two appoint- placed under stored goods to prevent
ent
me,
ments by a single officer in two different contact with the floor or ground or with
military organizations at the same time, a lower layer of goods.
particularly in the National Guard and dunnite. See explosive D.
in the National Guard of the United dust respirator, device consisting of a
r-
States. half mask worn over the lower part of
-
dual-status officer, officer holding ap- the face, containing a filter which re-
pointments in two different military or- moves dust from the air to be breathed.
ganizations at the same time, particu- duty, prescribed task to which military
It
larly in the National Guard and in the personnel are assigned.
National Guard of the United States. Abbrev: dy
ode.
dubbin, protective substance with a duty officer, officer detailed to be con-
tallow base, used to preserve leather. It stantly available for call in emergencies
is similar to shoe polish. during a specific period. Abbret': DO
r1g1nal ~rom
or
duty roster 96 dynamite
duty roster, list of the personnel of a 1. any position with a unit operating
unit, showing the duties each man has under an approved Table of Organiza-
performed, such as guard, fatigue, tion.
kitchen police, etc. It is kept to deter- 2. any position with training units of
mine the date of his next tour of duty service schools, unit training centers,
and to insure fair distribution of duties and replacement training centers.
among the personnel of the unit. 3. any position in which an officer exer-
duty station, military establishment or cises direct command over troops of a
post to which an officer or enlisted man unit not smaller than a platoon, or-
has been assigned for duty. ganized for other than purely adminis-
duty status, standing of an officer or trative or disciplinary purposes.
enlisted man who is considered to be dvr, driver.
performing his full military duty and dy, duty.
entitled to receive full pay. dynamite, 1. powerful explosive made
duty with troops or duty with troop from a nitroglycerin base. It is highly
units. An officer is on duty with a troop sensitive to shock, but is less powerful
unit when he is assigned to, and is per- than trinitrotoluene (TNT).
forming, duty as follows: 2. blow up or destroy with dynamite.
Orlg1nal fro
E/A 97 ' effective balloon
,
E/A, enemy aircraft. ing or maintenance that is beyond the
EAD, extended active duty. scope of the operating personnel, but
ear cup, device in a soundproof helmet which can be done by the maintenance
that fits over each ear. It contains an section of the unit that uses the equip-
adjustable tube which carries to the ment.
et
inner ear sounds picked up by a listening third echelon maintenance, mainte-

system, such as an aircraft detection nance, repairs, and unit replacement
ning
device. beyond the scope of the troops using the
earth-bleach method, method of de- materiel and equipment, which can be
contaminating an area of ground by performed by mobile maintenance or-
covering it with earth-bleach mixture. ganizations.
earth-bleach mixture, bleaching pow- fourth echelon maintenance, general
der mixture, usually composed of dry overhaul and reclamation of equipment,
chlorinated lime and dry earth, sand, units, and parts, involving the use of
ashes, or sawdust. It is used in decon- heavy tools and the services of general
taminating areas of ground. and technical mechanics.
earth induction compass, aircraft course fifth echelon maintenance, mainte-
-
rse
indicator that depends upon a current nance of equipment by personnel of
t
generated by a coil which reduces the maintenance and supply units located at
e
earth's magnetic field and which varies fixed installations in the rear areas.
es if the aircraft deviates from a straight This includes the reclamation or com-
course; earth inductor compass. plete reconditioning of materiel, the
earth inductor compass. See earth in- limited manufacture of parts and equip-
duction compass. ment, and the supplying of equipment
earthwork, field fortification made chief- to lower echelons.
ef-
ly of earth, such as a trench. echelonment, forming or being formed

E. C. blank fire, orange or pink e:.. into echelons.
nd.
plosive powder, resembling coarse sand. echelonment of s'upplies, storing sup-
n
It is used as a charge in small arms, in plies in graduated quantities, the largest
blank cartridges, and as a bursting stocks to the rear of the field and the
charge in hand grenades. Also called smallest in front, to prevent interrup-
blank fire powder or E. C. smokeless tion in the flow of supplies to the
powder. ~ troops.
ech, echelon. echelon of attack, one of the waves of
echelon (ESH a Ion), 1. stair-step for- an attack; one of a series of subdivisions
mation; arrangement in which the sub- of an attacking unit.
b-
ther
divisions are placed one behind the other economy of force, fundamental princi-
and slightly to the right or left. ple of warfare that only a minimum of
2. arrange in a stair-step formation. troops and supplies should be used on
e
3. one of the fractions of a command less important objectives so that the
arranged from front to rear in a battle main strength can be reserved for a
ne
fOHnation. Examples are the support major effort.

echelon and reserve echelon, each one E. C. smokeless powder, orange or
rs
having a particular combat mission. pink explosive powder, resembling coarse

4. subdivision of a unit. A headquarters sand. It is used as a charge in small
n
is often divided into a forward echelon arms, in blank cartridges, and as a burst-
n-
and rear echelon. ing charge in hand grenades. Also called
Abbrev: ech blank fire powder or E. C. blank fire.
d to echelon maintenance, system of main- ED, ethyldichlorarsine.
tenance and repair of materiel and eduction tube, thin metal pipe in the
es,
equipment in wbich jobs are allocated to chemical container of a gas mask or a

organizations in accordance with the gas cylinder through which the chemical
availability of personnel, tools, supplies, is carried to an outlet valve.
and time within the organizations. effective, 1. ready for active service; fit
first echelon maintenance, serVIcing for service; present for duty.
e
or repairs that can be done by an op- 2. EtTectives are troops actually avail-
erator, driver, or crew. able for combat duty.
ce second echelon maintenance, servic- effective balloon, barrage balloon }o-
riginal rrom
p-

the
effective beaten zone 98 elevation display board
cated in the air space that a hostile air- elasticity effect, influence on range of
plane must cross in order to bomb its temperatures that vary from those upon
objective. which standard firing tables are based.
effective beaten zone, section of target elbow telescope, L-shaped telescope
area in -\Vhich J. high percentage of shots with the eyepiece at right angles to the
fall, usually the zone that gets 85 per- objective.
cent of the hits; effective pattern; elec, 1. electrical. 2. electrician.
eighty-five percent zone. electrical. Abbrev: elec
effective depth, ground covered in the electrician. Abbrev: elec
line of range by the dispersion of shell electric primer, electric device for set-
fragments and shrapnel in which the ting off any kind of charge.
gunfire is fully effective. electron bomb, incendiary bomb that
effective forces, 1. all the elements of has a magnesium case filled with fast-
an army that can be brought into battle. burning thermit.
2. all troops of a nation available for element, subdivision of a command
service in the field. considered as a part of a formation or
effective landing area, part of a land- maneuver. An element may be an indi-
ing area, including clear approaches, vidual, vehicle, airplane, squad, crew,
upon which an aircraft can safely land section, platoon, or any unit that is a
and from which it can safely take off. part of a larger unit. Element is also
effective pattern. See effective beaten used to refer to all those various smaller
zone. units or parts of units, generally different
effective range, distance at which a gun in character, such as service elements,
may be expected to fire accurately to command elements, or combat elements.
cause casualtieS or damage. The ordi- Abbrev: elm
nary effective range of an automatic elephant steel shelter, shelter for per-
pistol is 25 yards; its maximum effective sonnel or materiel made from steel arch
range is 7 5 yards; its extreme range, if sections of large size. 'rhis shelter is the
held at an angle of 30 degrees, is about largest type of steel arch shelter and it
1600 yards. serves as a splinterproof cover.
effectives, :roops actually available for i elevate, raise the muzzle end of a gun;
combat duty. I increase th~ angle of elevation.
effective wind, calculated wind which is elevating arc, upright, geared arc, at-
equal in speed and direction to the tached to a gun or carriage, along which
average of all the varying winds actually the gun is raised or lowered.
encountered. Effective y..;ind is used ex- elevating mechanism, device on a gun
tensively in sound ranging and in that raises or lowers the muzzle for ele-
weather observation. vation; elevation mechanism.
efficiency report, report giving a com- elevation, vertical angle between the
plete record of an officer's activities line from the n1uzzle of the gun to the
during the period covered, and also his target and the axis of the bore when the
immediate superior officer's estimate of gun is pointed for range. Also called
his efficiency. angle of elevation.
EG, expert gunner. elevation, angle of. See angle of ele-
eighty-five percent zone. See effective vation.
beaten zone. elevation board, board or sheet of
ejector, mechanism in small arms and paper marked off in small squares, on
rapid-fire guns which automatically which elevations and ranges are worked
throws out an empty cartridge case or out.
unfired cartridge from the breech or elevation circle, circular scale showing
receiver. The ejector is not to be con- the angular elevation of the gun barrel.
fused with the extractor, which pulls the elevation difference, change in eleva-
empty cartridge case or unfired cartridge tion which must be applied to a partie-
from the chamber. ular gun when firing data is being re-
elasticity correction, change made in ceived from a base piece or other direct-
standard firing data to allow for the ing point.
effect on range of changes in tempera- elevation display board, blackboard or
ture. other boa rd on hichit elevation firing
r, 1_
...... U I ERSITY OF C LIFORNI

elevation indicator 99 emergency mettiNl tag
data are marked up for the information embarkation order, order directing the
of a gun crew. transportation overseas of troops, their
elevation indicator, electrical instru- equipment, and supplies.
on
ment on some guns that shows the ele- embarkation regulations, rules and
vation to be used. An elevation indi- policies governing the administration
cator is part of a remote control system. and operation of a port where troops are
e-
elevation. mechanism. See elev!lting put on transports.

m.
mechanism. embarkation table~ form for listing in
elevation quadrant, instrument for detail the number of officers and men
showing gun elevation. It is used prin- aboard a transport, and also the total
cipally in adjusting for range. cargo carried on the ship.
-
elevation scale, scale on a gun carriage embrasure, opening in a wall or parapet,
that sho\vs the elevation of the gun. especially one through which a gun is
ge
elevation stop, structural unit in a gun fired. It is usually cut wider at the out-
mount that prevents it from being ele- side to permit the gun to swing through
n
vated or depressed beyond certain fixed a greater arc.

emerg, emergency.
-
xed
limits.
elevation table, firing table giving a list emergency. Abbrev: emerg
st
of ranges, with the corresponding eleva- emergency addressee card, card giv-
vation settings to be applied to a gun. ing the name and address of the person
elevation tracking telescope, telescope to be notified in case of emergency,
pe
in a director which is used in tracking a signed by each person when he leaves
a
moving target and which automatically the United States on active duty.
ly
supplies the elevation data to the emergency barrage, barrage fired to

director. cover gaps which may occur in the nor-
elevator, movable airfoil at the tail of mal barrage line, or to strengthen the
e
an airplane. Its movement enables the normal barrage of another part of the
r,
airplane to climb or dive. The elevator, line.
n aileron, and rudder are the three main emergency ceiling, greatest height at
controls of an airplane. which an airplane with two or more
k
elevator control, wheel or control stick engines can safely fly when one engine
uperated by the pilot of an aircraft to is out of commission.
ry
set the elevator at the angle necessary emergency counterpreparation, fire by

for climbing or diving. the artillery of one division to reinforce
elim, eliminate. the local counterpreparations of other
eliminate. Abbrev: elim divisions. It is delivered at the request
elm, element. of the commander of the division to be

elope, fail to enlist after applying for supported.
ov-
enlistment. An applicant is said to emergency flotation gear, device at-
o
elope when he accepts or destroys Gov- tached to a landplane to keep it afloat
o
ernment funds or property and fails to if it is forced down at sea.

repay the costs involved, in addition to emergency landing, landing made be-
failing to enlist. cause of accident or loss of motor power;
EM, enlisted man or enlisted men. bringing an aircraft to the ground in an
-
emb, embarkation. emergency.
r
embargo, ruling given by the Chief of emergency landing field, place where
ut Transportation, or other authority, for- aircraft can land in an emergency. It
bidding truck or ship movements to or usually does not have facilities for
by
from a given place. Embargoes are put shelter, supply, and repair.
into effect when traffic becomes con- emergency landing flare, flare which
gested, and may be disregarded only by may be dropped at night by an aircraft
special permission. that must make an emergency landing.
aft.
embarkation, loading troops, equip- It is usually attached to a small para-

ves
ment, or supplies on to a ship or aircraft. chute.
; Abbrev: emb emergency medical tag, identifying
e embarkation card, form on which sol- card, attached in the field to a casualty,
eir
diers going overseas may notify relatives giving a record of the nature of his
of change of address; arrival card. injury and of any treatment given.
r1g1 I fro
are
emergency ration 100 engineer district
emergency ration, ration consisting of Prisoners of war are sometimes placed
concentrated foods, such as candy, in an enclosure.
chocolate, and powdered coffee, carried encode, translate a message from plain
by soldiers in battle and u.sed when text into code.
other food is not available. encrypt, translate a message from plain
emergency veterinary tag, card, at- text into a secret code or cipher. Also
tached in the field to an injured Army called cryptograph.
animal, giving a record of the nature of endurance, maximum time, usually at
the injury and of any treatment given. a given speed and altitude, that an air-
empennage (ahmp a NAHZH), rear part craft can stay in the air without re-
of an aircraft, usually consisting of a fueling.
group of stabilizing planes or fins and enemy aircraft. Abbrev: E/A
the attached elevators and rudders. enemy alien. See alien enemy.
Also called tail or tail assembly. enemy battery file, card index of all
empl, emplacement. facts known about enemy gun batteries.
emplace, put in position; fix a gun in a enemy capabilities, lines of action the
prepared position from which it may be enemy can take in a given tactical situa-
fired. tion. These must be taken into account
emplacement, 1. prepared position from in planning operations.
which one or more heavy guns are fired Enfield rifle, popular name for the
or from which a unit executes its fire lJnited States rifle, caliber .30, model
mlS3lon. Artill~ry emplacements may 1917. It is a bolt-type, breech-loading
be distinguished according to their con- magazine rifle.
struction as surface, if the area on which enfilade, 1. deliver fire from the flank
the piece rests is on the san1e level as or front so as to sweep the length of a
the ground surface, and sunken if the line of troops, a trench, or a battery.
area is below the surface. 2. flanking or frontal fire which sweeps
2. act of fixing a gun in a prepared posi- along the. length of a target. In this
tion from which it may be fired. meaning, also called enfilade fire.
Abbrev: empl enfilade fire, flanking or frontal fire
emplacement book, record book kept which sweeps along the length of a
for the gun or guns in an emplacement. target. Also called enfilade.
emplacement officer, officer in charge Eng Hse Co, engine house company.
of a gun emplacement. engineer, 1. member of the Corps of En-
employment reconnaissance, recon- gineers; soldier who performs engineer-
nahBance, before combat, by an armored ing duties, including construction, dem-
unit, for the purpose of finding out the olition, surveying, sanitation~ road and
be3t use that can be made of an armored bridge building, and camouflage.
force in a tactical situation. Particular 2. senior officer of the engineer troops in
attention is given to routes, observation a large unit. He is a staff officer, and
points, covers, and the character of the ad vises the commander on engineering
terrain. matters.
encampment, 1. temporary camp in the 3. commissioned or warrant officer on
.
field. transports, supply vessels, or mine

2. act of making camp. planters, who is in charge of the me-
1
encipher, translate a message from plain . chanical operation of the ship.
text into cipher. Abbrcv: engr
encirclement, surrounding or hemming Engineer amphibian unit, organization
in a hostile force; being surrounded in a of engineers trained and equipped to
double-flanking maneuver. conduct operations across water onto a
encircling force, force that tries to sur- hostile shore. They are used in special
round the enemy in order to destroy his assault missions and landing operations.
communication and supply lines and to engineer depot, depot where supplies
cut off his line of retreat. used primarily by the Corps of Engi-
encircling maneuver, combat move- nef~rs are stored.
ment that gets around the flank of an engineer district, subdivision of an en-
enemy and threatens his rear. gineer division, established for the ac-
enclo3ure, area walled in or fenced in. tual execution of new construction work.
lg
engineer division 101 ensign
engineer division, geographic division enlist, enroll in some branch of the mili-
of the continental United States, in tary service; especially, to enroll volun-
which all fortifications, new military tarily.
constructions, maintenance, and repair enlisted. Abbreo: enl
are in charge of an officer of the Corps enlisted cadre, key enlisted men needed
air of Engineers. to organize and train a new unit.
s
engineer intelligence, technical intel- enlisted man, noncommissioned officer
ligence regarding enemy supplies or ac- or private; any member of the Army
tivities, terrain, routes of communica- who is below the grade of a commis-
ac-
tion, and other engineering matters hav- sioned officer or warrant officer. Every
ing an effect on military operations. man in the Army is either an enlisted
man or an officer. Abbreo: EM
av-
engineer reconnaissance, scouting car-

r-
ried on by engineer troops, usually for enlisted men. Abbrev: EM
r
the purpose of finding out what engineer Enlisted Reserve Corps, major sl.&b-
eer work has to be done. division of the Army of the United
engineers. Abbrev: engrs States; organization of enlisted men who
Engineer School, special service school have been given reserve status and may
ol
that gives training in the technique and be. called to active service in a national
nd
tactics of the engineer branch. The emergency. Abbrev: ERC

p-
Engineer School assists in the develop- enlisted section, subdivision of a per-
s
ment of engineer equipment, develops sonnel office that deals with the assign-
trained enlisted specialists for duty in ment, transfer, and classification of en-
s
the field and as instructors, and trains listed men.
he and qualifies men for commission in the enlisted specialist, 1. enlisted man clas-
Corps of Engineers. It is under the sified as an occupational specialist by
supervision of the Commanding Gen- reason of training or experience.
eral, Army Service Forces. 2. rating formerly given to privates and
h
engineer situation map, map on which privates, first class who do specialized
es,
is recorded the iatest information re- work. Such men are now given a rating
e
garding the condition of routes, bridges, as technician.
natural and artificial barriers, fordable enlisted woman, noncommissioned of-
streams, etc. fleer or private in the Women's Army
engineer's scale, measuring scale or Corps (WAC).
ruler which is divided into units of enlistment, 1. voluntary enrollment as
i-
hundredths of an inch. It is wed for a member of the Army, as contrasted
measuring distances on a map in deci- with induction under the draft or Selec-
n of
mals, in order to make the conversion of tive Service.

map distances into actual distances 2. period of military service under the
quick and easy. contract of enlistment. Abbrev: enlmt
of
m-
engineer troops, troops in the Corps of enlistment allowance, allowance paid
Engineers; troops who are .trained and to a man who reenlists within three
equipped for engineering tasks in com- months after being given an .honorable
bat, and also for general and special discharge. The amount of payment is
services, such as camouflage. based on his grade.
t
engine house company. enlistment record, form giving per-

n
Abbrev: Eng Hse Co sonal information about an enlisted

engine synchroscope, instrument that man, made out when he enlists.
rk
registers differences of speed between enlmt, enlistment.
the engines of a multiple-engined air- enplaning, embarking in an airplane.
plane. It aids the pilot in making ad- enrolled member, noncommissioned of-
justments so that the engines will work ficer or auxiliary in the former Women's
exactly tog~ther. Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC). An
n
engr, engineer. enrolled membet corresponded to an en-
engrs, engineers. listed man.
enl, enlisted. ensign, 1. flag or banner; especially, a
enlarpna projector, instrument used in national flag or banner.
ili-
2. lowest commissioned officer jn the

n-
making an enlarged copy of a map or

Photograph. Navy, who ranks next below a lieuten-
IQI I ro
I
ded

er
entrain 102 escort of the color
ant, junior grade. An ensign in the in correct proportion at the expense of
Navy has a rank equivalent to that of correct shape.
second lieutenant in the Army. See equal section charge, propelling charge
Table of Comparative Grades on p. 125. made up of a number of charges equal in
~ntrain, get on a train; put men on a size; aliquot part charge; aliquot pro-
train. Entraining is usually connected pelling charge. The number of sections
with a troop movement by rail. used determines the muzzle velocity and
entraining area, area that includes all range of the projectile.
the points in a given locality at which equilibrator, device which balances the
troops, together '\vith their equipment weight of a gun so that it can be ele-
and supplies, are put aboard trains. vated without difficulty.
entraining officer, officer who assists equip, equipment.
the train commander in supervising the equipage, all supplies necessary for a
loading of troops and their equipment man or a unit in the field, excepting
and supplies on to trains. arms and clothing.
entraining point, station or yard where equipment, all articles needed to outfit
troops and their equipment and supplies an individual or organization. It in-
are loaded on to railway trains. cludes clothing, tools, utensils, weapons,
entraining table, form giving informa- and supplies. Abbrev: equip
tion and instructions about train sched- equipment status board, board used to
ules, entraining and detraining points, post information as to the availability
and troops to be moved. It is usually and condition of balloons, aircraft, etc.
annexed to a field order. ER, expert rifleman.
entrench. See intrench. ERC, Enlisted Reserve Corps.
entrenching tool. See intrenching tool. Erect & Mach Sh Co, erecting and
entrenchment. See intrenchment. machine shop company.
entruck, get in a truck, put 1nen in a erecting and machine shop company.
truck. Entrucking is usually connected Abbrev: Erect & Mach Sh Co
with a troop movement by truck. erosion, wearing away of the inner sur-
entrucking area, area that includes all face of a gun as the result of mechani~al
the points in a given locality at which wear and the chemical action of powder
troops, their equipment, and supplies gases.
a;re put on trucks. error, distance by which a shot misses
entrucking point. Abbrev: EP the target.
entrucking table, form giving informa- escarpment, steep, cliff-like slope cut
tion and instructions about truck out of the ground as a fortification
schedules, entrucking and detrucking against enemy attack.
points, and troops to be moved. It is escort, 1. armed guard that protects
usually annexed to a field order. persons or accompanies them as a mark
envelop, attack one or both flanks of of honor.
the enemy, usually attacking his front 2. armed guard that accompanies a con-
at the same time. voy, trains, prisoners, etc.
envelope, outer covering of a balloon. 3. unit assigned to the protection of
enveloping attack. See envelopment. other troop~, such as work troops or
envelopment, attack made on one or artillery troops, in an exposed position.
both of the enemy's flanks or rear, usual- 4. accompany; convoy.
ly accompanied by an attack on his escort force, force of men, ships, air-
front; enveloping attack. If the attack craft, or armored vehicles that escorts;
is made on both flanks at once it is called especially, units of the naval local de-
a double envelopment. fense forces detailed to protect convoys
EP, entrucking point. within naval district waters.
epi, short, curved railroad track, some- escort of honor, troops detailed to ac-
times used as a mount for a seacoast company anyone as a mark of honor;
artillery gun. escort to a person of high rank or great
EPTI, existed prior to induction. importance.
equal area projection, representation escort of the color, ceremony of escort-
of the curved surf ace of the earth on a ing the flag with a color guard; escort of
flnt map or rh~.:t hy kf'eping the areas , the standard. If
1_1na ro
escort of the standard 103 exchange officer
escort of the standard. See escort of teriel from any place or position.
the color. evacuating officer, medical officer in
escort system, system of providing charge of the evacuation section of an
guards or patrols for the protection of evacuation hospital. He is especially re-
moving troops, columns, trains, or sponsible for patients who are being sent
ships. farther to the rear.
escort vessel, ship that accompanies evacuation, l.'moving casualties from a
another ship or a convoy to give protec- battlefield, and subsequently moving
tion. Occasionally an escort vessel is them through every medical installation
ec-
provided as a mark of honor. from aid station to general hospital.
escutcheon, 1. shield used as part of an 2. withdrawal of personnel, animals, or
insignia. materiel from any place or position. ,
an
2. small metal plate or shield imbedded Abbrev: evac
in the stock of a revolver. evacuation hospital, mobile field hospi-
ed
espionage (ESP ya nahzh or ESP ya tal in the combat zone. It gives neces-
NAHZH), use of spies to gain informa- sary treatment to casualties, but sends
tion of military value about the enemy. serious cases on to fixed hospitals for fur-
y.
esprit de corps (ess PREE da KOR), ther care.
spirit of the group; pride of individuals evacuation lag, unavoidable delay in
s
in their organization. getting a casualty from the front to a
essential elements of information, basic fixed hospital in the rear.
sic
information about local conditions and evacue. See evacuee.
d
about the strength and position of the evacuee, person who is removed from a
e
enemy that a commander needs to make danger area, such as a battle casualty or
ake
sound decisions. a civilian removed from a combat zone;

essential item, article designated by eva cue.
the War Department as necessary for evening gun, firing of a gun as a signal
combat efficiency of troops. for the lowering of the flag at retreat.
estimated data, firing data which are The gun is fired after the sounding of the
determined by estimation rather than last note of the bugle call at retreat.
-
. by exact measurement or by observa- Also called retreat gun.
tion of fire. evolution, maneuver or movement by
estimated time arrival. Abbrev: ETA which a command changes from one
nd
estimate of terrain, study of the ground position or formation to another.

ary
features of an area in planning a military ex, 1. excellent. 2. executive.

operation. exam, examination.
estimate of the situation, command- examination. Abbrev: exam

-
er's interpretation of the data he has excellent. Abbrev: ex
n,
before him on any given military prob- exceptional article, article classified as a
a- lem. He considers, in turn, his mission, confection, fancy grocery item, or the
on
the opposing enemy force and its capa- like, that is not a component part of
bilities of interfering with the execution rations and is not shown on the author-
of his mission, his own force, and the ized sales list.
der
courses of action open to him. On the excess stock, supplies in excess of local
estimate of the situation the commander needs in a specified area.
bases his decision and plan. exchange, military organization that
nt
ETA, estimated time arrival. sells merchandise and services to mili-
ethyldichlorarsine (ETH il die klor AR tary personnel and other authorized per-
seen), persistent, liquid chemical agent sons. Often called Army exchange or
n
with a sharp irritating odor. It is irri- post exchange.
tating and harmful to the lungs, nose, exchange council, group of officers, in-
and eyes. It is used in shells and as an cludfng the exchange officer, whose
airplane spray. symbol: ED duties are to supervise an Army ex-
ETS, expiration term of service. change, check its inventories, and audit
ed
a-
evac, evacuation. its reports; post exchange council.
evacuate, 1. remove sick and wounded exchange officer, officer in charge of
n
from a combat zone. the management, property, and funds
n 2. withdraw personnel, animals. or rna- of an exchange.
rlglnal rrom
e-
sent

ma
Exchange School 104 exploitation
. Exchange School. See Army Exchange of expendable property. Expendable
School. property is dropped from stock record
excl, exclusive. accounts when it is issued or used.
exclusive. Abbrev: excl expendable supplies, 1. items, espe-
executive. See executive officer. cially bulk iterns such as powder or fuel,
Abbrev: ex which are consumed in use.
executive officer, principal assistant of 2. item~, such as repair parts, that lose
the commander; executive. The execu- their individual identity when they be-
tive officer is charged with supervising come a part of a machine or larger
the work of the staff in a command not assembly.
provided with a general staff. expenditure .credit, credit authorizing a
executive order, order given by the unit to use a specified amount of ma-
Pre3ident of the United States by virtue teriel for a stated purpose during a
of the authority vested in him by Con- given time.
gress. It has the same force as a law. expenditure record, record of supplies,
exempted station, military post which equipment, etc., which have been used,
is re3pon3ible directly to the War De- and of those which are still on hand.
partment General Staff or to head- experience tables, records of various
quarters of the Army Service Forces, previous tasks and operations that serve
Army Ground Forces, or Army Air as a guide in n1aking future plans and
Forces. It comes under the jurisdiction decisions.
of the service command in which it is experimental aviation, class of military
located only for purposes of supply and aviation that is organized, trained, and
administration. The United States equipped to develop and test aircraft
Military Academy at West Point is an and aeronautical equipment. Experi..
exempted station. mental aviation is never used in combat.
exercise, military maneuver, drill, or Other classes are combat aviation, special
operation carried out for training and purpose aviation, and training aviation.
discipline. expert, 1. highest classification given for
EXFORACT, extracted for action. EX- skill in the use of small arms. The next
FORACT is a code abbreviation used in two grades are, in order, sharpshooter
transmitting telegrams and teletype and marksman. 'fhe grade of expert
messages. corresponds to that of expert gunner.
existed prior to induction. This term 2. soldier having this classification.
applies to a physical defect in a soldier expert gunner, 1. highest classification
which existed before his induction and given for skill in the use of heavy guns
may become a permanent disability. and machine guns. The next two grades
Abbrev: EPTI are, in order, first class gunner and
expeditionary force, armed force for second class gunner. The grade of
foreign service; especially, large forces to expert gunner corresponds to that of
invade, or fight in, other countries. expert.
expeditionary force message, personal 2. soldier having this classification.
cablegram or radiogram for the use of Abbrev: EG .
military personnel overseas. The soldier expert rifleman. Abbrev: ER
chooses a suitable fixed-text message expiration term of service.
from those listed for use. Abbrev: ETS
expendable, consumed or changed in exploder, electric device that sets oft'
identity when put in use; nonrecovera- demolition charges, the propelling
ble. Ammunition, fuel, medicines, etc., charges in a battery of Livens projectors,
which are consumed in use, and ma- and other explosives; blasting machine.
chine repair parts, etc., which lose their exploitation, 1. taking full advantage of
identity in use, are expendable. There is success in battle and fpllowing up initial
no accountability for expendable items. gains.
expendable property, property that is 2. taking full advantage of any informa-
consumed in use or loses its identity in tion that has come to hand; examination
use; nonrecoverable property. Sta- of the information obtained from a pho-
tionary supplies, ammunition, and con- tograph or other source, for tactical or
~t.nJr-t.ion and repair materiel are items strategic purposes.
1g ro
explosion 105 eyes right
explosion, violent bursting caused by extended order, tactical formation in
the sudden production of great gas pres- which individuals or units are spaced
sure, as in a bomb; very rapid or almost farther apart than the n9rmal close order
instantaneous combustion. Instantane- interval. Extended order differs from
res-
ous explosion is called detonation; slower close order, in which units are ar-
ost
explosion is called deftagration. ranged in a line or column at normal

explosive, 1. any chemical compound or intervals or distances or at close in-
e-
ower
tnixture which burns so rapidly that an tervals or distances.

or
explosion results. A high explosive is extended order drill, field exercise con-
n
used as a bursting charge in born bs or ducted with the troops or units spaced
projectileB; a low explosive is used as a farther apart than in close order drill.
r
propelling charge in guns or for ordi- This drill gives soldiers training in for-
a
nary blasting. mations and movements that are actual-

2. of or for explosion; tending to explode; ly used on the battlefield.
capable of exploding. extension in depth, formaticn in which
explosive D, high explosive charge that the units are spread out from front to
ode;
at
is not easily set off in transportation, in rear.
in
handling, etc.; ammonium picrate; dun- exterior ballistics, study of the motion
n-
nite. It is used as a burster in armor- of projectiles after they leave the muzzle
piercing projectiles. of a gun, to determine the effects of
explosive train, step-by-step arrange- wind, air density, etc.
ment of explosives in a bomb, shell, exterior. ballistic table, table contain-
mine, etc., by which the initial fire from ing data on the trajectories of projectil8
m
the primer is transmitted and intensified under various conditions.

until it reaches and sets off the main exterior guard, guard stationed outside
ied
om
charge; powder train. The series is from the boundaries of a camp or post. The
to
a small amount of sensitive explosive to exterior guard is used to prevent Eur-
sive.
a large amount of less sensitive explosive. prise, to delay or hinder enEmy attack,
a A pyrotechnic bomb, shell, etc., uses a and to provide for the security of the
similar series~ called an igniter train. main force.
-
exposed, unprotected from enemy at- extractor, 1. device for pulling an empty
a
tack. An exposed flank is the side of a cartridge case or an unfired cartridge out
defended position or formation that has 1 of the chamber of a gun. The exfractor
as
been left unprotected from enemy at- is not to be confused with the ejector,
-
ed
d
tack. An exposed position is a defended which throws the empty cartridge case
position that has been left unprotected or unfired cartridge out of the receiver.
from enemy attack. In this meaning, also called shell ex-

EXREQ, extract for requisition. EX- tractor.
REQ is a code abbreviation used in 2. device in certain types of automatic
transmitting telegrams and teletype weapons which pulls the round from a
r-
messages. feed belt.

a-
extend, spread out; lengthen the inter- extra duty, additional duty assigned to
val between men and units in a forma- an enlisted man, either as company pun-
tion; command to spread out. ishment or as a detail for which addi-
en
extended active duty. Abbrev: EAD tional pay is given.
extended distance, distance greater extreme range, greatest range of a
than the normal distance between men weapon; the greatest distance a gun will
n
and units. shoot.
extended formation, formation whose eyes left, command given to troops in
elements are wide apart but still within march formation to turn head and eyes
sight and actual fire support of each to the left. The movement constitutes
other. Extended formations are the a salute to a reviewing party.
an
formations normally used in combat. eyes right, command given to troops in

extended interval, interval greater than march formation to turn head and eyes
the normal interval between men or to the right. The movement constitutes
rder" units. a salute to a reviewing party.
Orlg1nal rrom
n-
d
FA 106 field
FA, Field Artillery. fan marker, radio transmitter that
fabric fuel tank, type of airplane sends sound signals upward through a
gasoline tank that contains no metal. fan-shaped area at a point on an air-
face about, turn the body so as to face craft course. These signals give an air-
in the opposite direction. The command plane pilot his bearings.
to do this is about face. fascine, long bundle of sticks, poles, or
face-about, act of turning the body so as rods tied together. Fascines are used
to face in the opposite direction. as trail supports for guns, and in making
facepiece, airtight part of a gas mask retaining walls, in filling ditches, and in
that fits over the face of the wearer. It similar field construction.
has transparent eyepieces, an outlet fathometer, instrument that sends out
valve for exhaled air, and a metal or sound waves, and measures depth of
rubber tube connected to a canister for water by measuring the time of echo.
purified air. fatigue. See fatigue duty.
facing, turning to face in a given direc- fatigue call, bugle call that summons
tion in response to a command. The soldiers to fatigue duty.
three facings are tight face, left face, fatigue dress. See fatigue uniform.
and about face. fatigue duty, manual labor performed
facing distance, distance of 14 inches, by soldiers as contrasted with work done
calculated as the smallest in which a in military training; fatigue. Cleaning
soldier can carry out drill facings. up can1p areas or repairing roads is
factor of safety, extra strength built fatigue duty.
into a structure or mechanism to give a fatigues. See fatigue uniform.
margin of safety over normally expected fatigue uniform, clothes made of her-
loads. ringbone twill or other suitable mate1ial
fall, angle of. See angle of fall. worn by soldiers for field work in con-
fall back, withdraw to a position farther nection with military training; fatigue
to the rear. dress; fatigues.
fall in, 1. take a proper place in a for- FCA, fighter control area.
mation and come to the position of at- FD, Finance Department.
tention. FDC, fire-direction center.
2. command directing soldiers to come fed, federal.
to the position of attention in their cor- federal. Abbrev: fed
rect places in a formation. feed belt, fabric or metal ammunition
falling leaf, flight maneuver in which band with loops for cartridges that are
an airplane descends almost vertically, fed from it into a machine gun or other
slipping from side to side. automatic weapon. Algo called am-
fall off, lose lift on one wing so that an munition belt.
aircraft suddenly loses lateral control feed mechanism, device on an auto-
and starts to fall in a diving, slipping matic or self-loading gun that supplies
turn. fresh cartridges or shells as fast as the
fall out, 1. leave a place in a formation; used ones are ejected.
leave one's position in a formation but feint, 1. attack or demonstration in-
remain in the immediate vicinity. tended to deceive the enemy; pretended
2. command permitting soldiers to leave blow.
their places in ranks but keeping them 2. make a pretended blow or attack.
in the immediate vicinity. Ferrying Command. See Air Transport
false ogive, streamline cover or wind- Command.
shield placed over the head of a projec- fi, fighter.
tile so that it will meet with the least fiduciary mark, any mark of fixed refer-
possible resistance from the air while in ence, such as the direction of flight,
flight. which is automatically registered on the
family allowance, payment made by the border of an aerial photograph. For-
government, upon application, to de- merly called collimating mark.
pendents of enlisted men of specified field, battlefield or terrain in which mili
grades, to which is added a regular con- tary training or military operations are
tribution deducted from the soldier's carried out. The field may include
pay. training oonters, etc-., in the zone of tlv~
rr1g1nal fro
field army 107 field jacket
interior, as well as all agencies in the en's Army Auxiliary Corps (W AAC)
theater of operations. Administrative who had a rank equivalent to that of
posts and other noncombatant installa- major.
tions in the zone of the interior are not a field duty, service with combat troops,
part of the field in this sense. as opposed to service in an administra-
tive unit.
a-
ot a
Abbrev: fld
field army. See ar1ny. field emplacement, platform, support,
field artillery, artillery mounted on or other position for artillery, machine
carriages and mobile enough to accom- guns, etc., in the field.
pany infantry, cavalry, or armored field equipment, articles used by soldiers
m-
units in the field. in combat or in maneuvers in the field,

Field Artillery, branch of the Army such as shelter halves, mess kits, or
Ground Forces that is armed with var- weapons.
-
ious types of field guns and howitzers. field exercise, practice operation car-
.
Abbrev: FA ried out in detail and as realistically as
field artillery intelligence, 1. staff sec- possible against an imaginary or repre-
tion of a Field Artillery unit that gathers sented enemy.
rs information about enemy dispositions field firing, practice firing at field tar-
and movements that are important in gets that imitates battle conditions as
artillery operations. closely as possible.
2. gathering of information about enemy field firing range, area used for practice
my
dispositions and movements that are firing at field targets.

important in artillery operations. field forces, the troops and the installa-
Field Artillery School, special service tions comprising one or more theaters of
school that gives instruction in the operations, and a gener~l headquarters.
,
technique and tactics of field artillery, field fortification, fortification con-
that trains spe'cialists to serve as instructed in the field to strengthen the
s
structors or in the field, and that trains natural defenses of the ground features.
the
and. qualifies men for commission in the Field fortifications include fox holes, ob-
Field Artillery. It is under the supervi- stacles, trenches, gun emplacements,
my
sion of the Commanding General, Army etc. They are designed to permit the
g
Ground Forces. fullest possible fire and movement of the
to
field artillery survey, survey consisting defender and to restrict to the greatest
d
of topographic operations necessary to possible extent the movement and the
construct a firing chart for unobserved effects of fire of the attacker. A hasty
fires. The main object of the survey i3 field fortification is one made quickly,
r-
to determine with sufficient exactness when under fire or threat of immediate
the relative locations of pieces and tar- attack. A deliberate field fortification is
gets both horizontally and vertically. made more slowly and carefully, when
field artillery trainer, small practice not in contact with the enemy.
gun and carriage unit used in training field glass, pair of small telescopes
field artillery personnel. A field artil- fitted together to make a single observ-
ch-
lery trainer has a telescope and a mech- ing instrurnent, usually with each tele-
anism for adjusting elevation and de- scope adjustable separately; binoculars.
flection. field grade, classification of officers
field bag. See musette bag. ranking above a captain and below a
ns
field cap. See garrison cap. brigadier general. Field grade includes
field control, method of establishing a colonels, lieutenant colonels, and majors.
n
series of points whose relative positions field gun, field artillery piece; cannon
cs.
and elevations are known. They are mounted on a carriage for. use in the
used as basic data in surveying and in field.
e
e
making topographic maps and mosaics. field hospital, a mobile hospital which
of
field desk, portable desk for use in the may be divided into units and employed
field. in the field under tentage or other
m- field development, improvement made locally improvised shelter.
in material and equipment as a result of field jacket, jacket of olive-drab,
experience gained in the field. weather-proofed cotton c.loth, worn on
8eld director, officer in the former W om- duty.
a-
,
Orlg1nal rrom
,
e
field kitchen 108 fig
field kitchen, 1. portable equipment for field piece, field artillery gun or how-
preparing and cooking food in the field. itzer; gun mounted on a carriage, for use
2. field establishment where mess is pre- in the field.
pared. field printing, printing, binding, and
field laboratory, unit maintained by blank-book work done or procured else-
some branch of the service for testing where than at the Government Printing
and research in the field. The Medical Office, Washington, D. C.
Department and Chemical 'Varfare field radio, portable radio equipment
Service have field laboratories. for use in the field.
Abbrev: f lab field range, portable stov~ used in a
field maneuvers, practice military oper- field kitchen.
ations under conditions that resemble field ration, ration issued only in actual
actual warfare as closely as possible. In articles, not in money, and authorized
field maneuvers, troops representing op- for troops in the field.
posing forces work out military situa- field remount depot. Abbrev: f rmt dep
tions. Field Selection Board. Abbret~: FSB
Field Manual, one of the series of official Field Service Regulations, handbooks
handbooks that contains general, ele- in the Field Manual series, giving the
mentary information and instructions basic principles and regulations govern-
for the training of milit:try personnel, ing the operations of large units, terri-
and for the operation and maintenance torial commands, and combined arms
of materiel and equipment. Field and services. Abbrev: FSR
!\fanu:1ls differ from Technical 1\fan- field shop, maintenance or repair shop
uals, which contain information of a established and operated in the field by
technical, specialized nature. The Field ordnance troops.
and Technical manuals are issued by the field strip, take apart the major as-
War Dep3.rtment. Abbrev: FM semblies of a gun for cleaning or minor
field medical record, brief hospital repairs.
record of every patient treated in a field target, target used in field firing
theater of operations. practice. A silhouette of a man is often
field mess, e:}uipment and personnel used as a field target. Several types of
needed to feed a unit in the field. moving targets are also used.
field message book, small book con- field telegraph, portable telegraph
taining blanks for messages to be sent equipment for use in the field.
in the field. field telephone, portable telephone
field music, 1. trumpeters and drum- equipment for use in the field.
mers organized to play as a unit in place field train. Abbrev: f tn
of a band. field training, training troops by means
2. music played by trumpeters and of field exercises, 1naneuvers, etc., to fit
drummers. them for service against an enemy;
field officer, officer who ranks above a training for battle.
captain and below a brigadier general, field wire, flexible insulated wire used
that is, between a company officer and a in field telephone and field telegraph
general officer. Colonels, lieutenant systems.
eolonels, and majors are field officers. fifth echelon maintenance, mainte-
field of fire, area that a gun or battery nance of equipment by personnel of
covers effectively. maintenance and supply units located
field order, combat order from a com- at fixed installations in the rear areas.
mander to his subordinates giving direc- 'l.,his includes the reclamation or com-
tions for operations in the field or \Varn- plete reconditioning of materiel, the
ing to prepare for future operations. limited manufacture of parts and equip-
.4bbrev: FO ment. and the supplying of equip1nent
field orders. A.bbrev: FQ to lower ecneion!:..
field pack, bundle or ro 1.l of equipment fifty percent zone, are~ !!ldO-~inl! the
and supplies carried by tl1e sr>ldier in the center of dispersion or impact with11.
field, e3pecially the roll and equipment which one half of all shot.~ fired with the
carried in the haversack; infantry pack. same setting wiil fall.
Al~<) ('HllPd park. fiJ!. figurP.
lg1nal fro
fighter 109 filtering
fighter. Abbrev: fi of a rank to supervise the soldiers in
fighter airplane, aircraft designed to ranks and see that the leader's orders are
seek out and destroy enemy aircraft in carried out.
the air. A fighter airplane has high file leader, first person in a file.
n
speed, a high rate of climb, and great Filipino ration, allowance of food t:re-
maneuverability, but relatively short scribed for the Philippine Scouts in time
range. It is used as accompanying of peace.
support for other aviation, for inter- filler, substance carried in an ammuni-
ception and pursuit in general air de- tion container such as a projectile, mine,
fense, and sometimes for attacks on bomb, or grenade. A filler may be ex..
light surface objectives. plosive, chemical, or inert.
fighter aviation, classification of mili- filler replacement, officer or enlisted
tary aviation organized, trained, and man added to a newly organized unit to
equipped to support air or ground strik- bring it to its prescribed strength. A
k-
ing forces or to break up an enemy air filler r~placement differs from a loss re ..
r
attack. placement, who is an officer or enlisted

fighter-bomber, airplane that combines man who takes the place cf a pErson
es
th
the function of the fighter airplane with killed, wounded, or lost from other
that of the bomber. causes.
s-
fighter command, tactical and adminis- filling, active chemical substance in a
t
trative unit of the Army Air Forces that chemical projectile or mine.
up
is concerned primarily with breaking up film strip, series of still photographs,
r enemy air attack and supporting air or diagrams, etc., in successive frames of a
ground striking forces. A fighter com- standard motion-picture film, thrown
er
mand is larger than a wing and smaller onto a screen as a visual aid in training.
than an air force. Abbrev: FS
fighter control area. Abbrev: FCA filter. Abbrev: fil
fighter night, period of time during filter area, subdivision of a region in an
er
which aircraft take control of the air aircraft warning service established by a
at
above a balloon barrage. When 'fighter fighter command for collecting, evaluat-
es
night' is called, the balloons are kept at ing, and distributing information of
my a reduced height so that pursuit planes enemy air activity. The filter area is
can operate more easily" against enemy also subdivided into air~raid warning
-
aircraft. districts.
fighting control, concentration of gun- filter board, table on which is painted a
fire of a bombardment formation on
va-
map of an aircraft warning service filter

n-
points of greatest danger, and conserva- area and adjacent parts of other areas,
tion of fire to insure its maximum de- and on which the filter center personnel
livery at the critical time. Fighting con- plot all reported movements of air-
trol is especially important in small planes.
formations of bombers. filter center, . central communications
figure. Abbre-ocJ: fig office of an aircraft warning service filter
e-
fil, filter. area that gets all reports on the move-
fil cen, filter center. ments of aircraft, sifts the information
,
file, 1. line of persons or things one be- received, and sends it to information
hind another. Both rank and file refer centers. Abbrev: fil cen
om
to single lines of troops, vehicles, etc.,

om
filter grease trap, container, such as a

t
in formation: files are vertical lines from pail or can, in the bottom of which a
front to rear; ranks are lateral lines from number of small holes are punched, and
side to side. To cover in file means to in which is placed a quantity of hay,
get directly behind the person in front grass, straw, or cloth, by which grease
.
of you. and debris are separated from liquid
2. march or move in a line. waste matter.
of-
3. folder, cabinet, or other device for filtering; preparing, and making avail-
ar
storing records or documents in order. able to air defense units, pertinent in-
s are
4. put away in order. formation about the movement of air-
file closer, officer, noncommissioned of- craft observed from the ground or de-
fi<'er, or enlist..f'd man po~ted in thA rear tect.oo by rad8J.". .~:
1g1na 1 1rom
me
-
filter officer 110 fire command
filter officer, officer of the aircraft warn- measurement made by means of an
ing service who supervises the operation auxiliary device graduated in subdivi-
of the filter center. sions of the units on the main scale.
fin, part of the tail of an aircraft, pro- The adjustment on the main scale is
jectile, etc., that helps to maintain the called coarse setting.
direction of the aircraft, projectile, etc., fine sight, adjustment of the sight of a
during flight. gun so that only the tip of the front sight
fin, finance. can be seen through the notch of the rear
final assembly area, place where troops sight. A less accurate adjustment is
are concentrated in preparation for an called coarse sight.
attack. Troop units that have been or- Fin 0, finance officer.
ganized in the various initial assembly fire, 1. shoot; discharge a gun.
areas are moved up to the final assembly 2. shooting; discharge of a gun or a group
area, from which they move into combat. of guns.
final indorsement, indorsement on the 3. command to fire. The command
service record that is filled out only when FIRE is given by voice or by signal,
a soldier is separated from the service when a gun or a group of guns is to be
by discharge, death, etc. fired.
final protective fire, concentrated fire fire adjustment, correcting the eleva-
along a line close to a position, where the tion and left and right direction of a gun,
last and strongest defense would have to or regulating the explosion time of its
be made. Final protective fire may be projectile, so that the projectile will
fire from machine guns along their final strike or burst at the desired point. Fire
protective lines, from mortars onto their adjustment for automatic weapons is an
primary target areas, and from artillery operation v;hich is continuous from the
onto their normal barrage lines. instant the first round~ reach the vi-
final protective line, line selected where cinity of the target until CEASE FIR-
an enemy assault is to be checked by ING is given.
interlocking fire from all available weap- fire adjustment board, special drawing
ons. A final protective line may be board used by artillery units in figuring
parallel with, or oblique to, the front of out the corrections that should be ap-
the position. plied as a result of observation of fire.
Abbrev: FPL A fire adjustment board gives a perma-
final statement, pay voucher containing nent record o' adjustments.
a statement of the money due a soldier fire and maneuver. See fire and move-
on his discharge from the service. When ment.
he is paid, the voucher becomes the fire and movement, method of attack
receipt for the payment. in which the advancing element is sup-
Abbrev: F/S ported and covered by the gunfire of
finance. Abbrev: fin other elements; fire and maneuver.
Finance Department, . branch of the firearm, gun from which projectiles are
Army Service Forces that pays out funds fired. All sizes of guns are firearms, but
and also examines and checks accounts. firearms usually mean small arms, which
Abbrev: FD include rifles, pistols, and other guns
finance . officer, 1. any officer of the that a man can carry.
Finance Department. fire at will, 1. fire delivered by individ
2. member of the Finance Department ual men or gun crews independently of
who serves as a member of a command- their commander and of each other.
ing officer's staff and has charge of the 2. command to fire independently.
finances of the unit. fire bay. See firing bay.
Abbrev: Fin 0 fire call, bugle call or other signal to
Finance School. See Army Finance announce that there is a fire either in
d School. the post or near by. Fire call may also
findings, decisions reached after exami- be used for fire drill.
nation or inquiry. The verdict of a fire command, command that includes
court-martial and the conclusions reached all the information necessary to com-
by a board of officers are called findings. mence, conduct, suspend, and cease fir-
fin~ setting, delicate adjustment or ing.
Orlg1nal fro
r
fire eon trol 111 flre power
fire control, 1. all operation.~ connected target, in keeping in touch with the fire-
. with the preparation and actual applica- direction center, and in coordinating the
ed
tion of effective fire upon a target. In fire of one gun or battery with that of
ca-
. this meaning, also called conduct or fire. other guns and batteries.
2. ability of a commander to control fire discipline, efficiency of personnel in
ire.
the fire of the guns of his command. If delivering fire only on designated targets
a commander has fire control, he can and only at the command of their leader.
f
open fire when it is necessary or ad- fire distribution, using the weapons of
vantageous, adjust fire upon the target, a unit so that they will cover the target
et,
shift fire to other targets, and cease most effectively; delivering fire on tar-
firing when he wishes. gets, or subdivisions of a target, in their
fire control car, boxcar of a railway order of importance.
artillery battery in "hich fire control fire effect, result of firing on enemy per-
equipment is kept. sonnel and materiel.
fire control code, code used by ground fire fight, delivery of fire bet\\een op-
d
and air observers and commanders for posing infantry or gun units. Fire fight
or
fire-adjustment messages sent by radio, is a phase of an attack that usually fol-

dio,
telegraph, or other signals. lows the approach march and deploy-

fire control equipment, equipment ment and comes before the assault.
n-
needed for regulating gunfire. Fire con- fire for effect, gunfire to destroy enemy
ts
trol equipment includes all instruments targets or to accomplish some other tac-
used in calculating and adjusting the tical purpose. Fire for effect differs from
ns, proper elevation and deflection of guns, adjustment fire, which is fire to obtain
e-
such as telescopes, range finders, pre- data for correction of gunfire.
dictors, directors, data transmission fire lane, path cleared for gunfire in
systems, and power plants. wooded or overgrown areas.
fire control grid, series of lines that fire marshal, officer in charge of meas-
mark off a military map into squares, the ures for preventing fires in a given unit
the
es
distance between any two parallel lines or area.

representing 1000 yards. Maps using fire mission, specific assignment given
the fire control grid are of sufficiently to a fire unit as part of a definite plan.
large scale to be useful in fire control. A fire mission includes the assignment of
other
fire control instrument, aiming circle, targets and full directions for timing of
range finder, compass, telescope, or other fire and for the guns to be used.
instrument used in fire control. fire order, command that directs and
fire control net, system of radio sta- controls the fire of a unit, gun, or group
tions used in sending observation and of guns in accordance with the plan of
adjustment messag~s for artillery fire
-
the commander.
t
control of an Armored Command artil- fire plan, 1. tactical plan for using the
lery unit. weapons of a unit so that their fire mis-
. fire coordination, adjusting fire so that sions will be coordinated. The fire plan
e
targets are adequately covered by . a . includes the assignment of fire missions
a
suitable weapon or group of weapons. to weapons and instructions for timing
ir
fire crest, inside edge of the top of the of fire, signals, shifts in position, etc.
mound of earth thrown up in front of a 2. standing directions to the members of
g
trench. The men in the trench fire their a unit for preventing, reporting, or ex-
rifles from the fire crest. tinguishing fires.
he
se
fire direction, directing and controlling fire position, location of a gun, unit, or
the fire of one or more units so that the individual from which fire is delivered
f
fire is properly coordinated; tactical use upon a given target. For supporting
of artillery fire. Fire direction includes weapons in combat, the fire positions are
the choice of targets, methods of de- known as primary fire position, alternate
livering fire on them, and allocation of fire position, and supplementary fire po-
ammunition to each fire mission. sition. Also called firing position or
fire-direction center. Abbrev: FDC position.
fire direction net, system of radio sta- fire power, ability to deliver fire; the
re-
he
tions used in adjusting the fire of an amount of fire delivered by a unit or by

Armored Command artillery unit on a a particular weapon. I .~:
in
1 1 1rom
gets
der.
fire problem 112 firing table
fire problem, problem set for practice in firing elevation, vertical angle at which
C)mbat firL1g to trai~ me:1 in estimating a gun is pointed for firing at a particular
a situation and in solving it by the use of target.
gunfire. firing interval, period of time between
fire step. See firin~ step. firing one shot and the next.
fire superiarity, fire with greater effect firing line, 1. line where soldiers are sta-
than that of the enemy because of its tioned to shoot. The firing line in target
greater accurJ.cy - and volume. Fire practice is the line on which soldiers or
superiority mJ.kes possible advances guns are placed; in combat, the firing
again3t the enemy without heavy losses. line is the front line from which gunfire
fire support, usiag the fire of various is delivered.
weapons according to a tactical plan to 2. soldiers on such a line.
assist infantry or other units. firing mechanism, group of parts which
fire trench, trench from which men can fire the propelling charge in a gun. The
fire their rifles or other small arms and in firing mechanism usually acts by percus-
which they are relatively well protected. sion, but sometimes by heat developed
fire unit, unit whose fire in battle is by electricity.
under the immediate and effective con- firing party, group of soldiers detailed
trol of one leader. The rifle squad is to fire over the grave of a person buried
one fire unit in the infantry; the battery with military honors, or to shoot anyone
is the fire unit in the artillery. condemned by a court-martial to be
fireworks. See pyrotechnics. shot.
firing angle, in indirect laying of a gun, firing pin, 1. plunger in the firing
the horizontal angle, measured clock- mechanism of a firearm that strikes the
wise, between the line along which a gun primer and thus ignites the propelling
is actually fired and the straight line be- charge of a projectile.
tween the gun and an aiming point. 2. part of a fuze that strikes the sensi-
firing azimuth, horizontal direction in tive explosive in thefuze and sets it off;
which a gun is pointed for firing, ex- device which sets off the action of a
pre33ed as an azimuth. detonator or primer.
firing base, part of the mechanism in firing point, location from which fire is
some cannon that supports the gun car- delivered in target practice.
riage when it is in posi'tion for firing. firing position, 1. location of a gun,
firing battery, that part of a battery unit, or individual from which fire is de-
actually at the firing position when a livered upon a given target. For sup-
bJ.ttery is prepared for action. It in- porting weapons in combat, the firing
clude3 the piece3, personnel, and equip- positions are known as primary firing
ment nece33ary for their operation. position, alternate firing position, and
firing bay, one of a series of short supplementary firing position. In this
straight sections of a fire trench, set for- meaning, also called fire position or
ward and joined to the next by short position.
trenches which make an indentation in ~- arrangement or adjustment of a gun
any of variou3 shape3; fire bay. A fire making it ready for firing.
trench is divid~i into firing bays so that firing range, range at which a gun is
a bomb or shell falling in one bay does pointed for firing.
n~t cawe destruction in those on either firing squad, squad of soldiers detailed
side. to fire over the grave of a person buried
firing chart, map or diagram showing with military honors, or to shoot any-
accurately the relative positions of bat- one condemned by a military court to
teries, base points, base lines, check be shot.
p:lints, targets, and other details needed firing step, board or narrow ledge,
in prep1.ring firing data. placed about a foot above the bottom of
firing data, figures, measurements, and a fire trench, for men to stand on when
c~mmands used in correcting the eleva- firing or when observing enemy move-
tion, direction, and fuze setting of a ments; fire step.
gun; gun pointing dat1. firing table, table or chart gi.vin2' the
firing device, igniting mechanism in a data needed for firing a iUn accurately
mine. on a target under standard conditions
I
first 113 fixed armament
and also the corrections that must be who has immediate charge, under the
made for special conditions, such as master, of the deck department of a
winds or variations of temperature. A ship. He is executive officer of the
set of tables is made for each gun. ship.
first. Abbrev: 1st first sergeant, chief noncommissioned
first aid, emergency treatment given to officer in a company, battery, or simil&r
an injured, wounded, or sick person unit in the Army. He is in immediate
to before the services of a medical officer charge of the enlisted men of the unit,
can be secured. and holds a rank equal to that of a
er
first-aid kit, small case containing band- master sergeant. See Table of Com-
ages, cleansing agents, and other equip- parative Grades on p. 125.
nd-
ment for use in first-aid treatment. first sergeants' call, daily assembly of
uip-
first-aid packet, small airtight package first sergeants at battalion or regimntal

e
containing sterilized bandages and dress- headquarters to receive instructions
ess-
ings for use in first-aid treatment. about the personnel and work of their
first-aid station. See aid station. companies.
first call, warning signal given before fiscal officer, officer responsible for the
men are summoned to a formation, duty; financial accounts of any organization to
uty,
or other activity. The first call is usual- which funds have been allottQd.
-
ly a bugle call. fiscal year. Abbrev: fy

first class. A bbrev: 1 cl fishbone, series of independent under-
first class gunner, 1. classification given ground passages that military engineers
for skill in the use of heavy guns and cut out in the direction of the enemy
en
machine guns, that ranks next above with branches for purposes of attack,
the grade of second class gunner and flank protection, and listening. A fish-
next below that .of expert. The grade . bone differs from a lateral, which is an
hat
of first class gunner corresponds to that underground passage cut parallel to the
of a sharpshooter. front line, from which galleries are
2. soldier having this classification. carried toward the enemy.
d
first defense gun, machine gun placed fishnet, net made of knotted cord, used
where it can cover the enemy from the to hold camouflage materials in place.
e
he
time the enemy starts to attack until he fishtail, 1. maneuver by which the tail
breaks through the front lines of the of an aircraft is moved alternately ri~ht
battle position. and left without banking, especially to
ra- first echelon maintenance, serVIcing reduce speed for landing.
or repairs that can be done by an opera- 2. tnove the tail of an aircraft to accom-
om-
tor, driver, or crew. plish this maneuver. In both meanings,
first leader, member of the former W om- also called yaw.
en's Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) fishtail wind, wind that is constantly
who held a noncommissioned grade changing direction back and forth.
ho
equivalent to the enlisted grade of a FlU, forward interpretation unit.
first sergeant. fix, 1. point on a map or chart at which
first lieutenant, officer in the Army who two lines of position cross one another,
of ranks next above a second lieutenant used for finding the position of an air-
and next below a captain. A first lieu- craft, ship, etc.
tenant is usually second in command of 2. stop an enemy and hold him where
y
a company. Abbrev: 1st lt See Table he is.

of Comparative Grades on p. 125. fix bayonets, command to attach
e
first mate, warrant officer in the Army bayonets to rifles in readiness for use.
Mine Planter Service who has imme- fixed. Abbrev: fxd I
om-
diate charge, under the master, of the
deck department of a vessel. He is
fixed ammunition, ammunition that is
loaded into a weapon as a unit, and not ~
executive officer of the vessel. in parts, as in separate-loading ammu-
first officer, 1. officer in the former Wom- nition. The cartridge case is attached to
en's Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) the projectile in fixed ammunition.
e
who had a rank equivalent to that of

a captain.
fixed armament, guns in permanent
firing positions, such as some antiair. .
1j
2. officer of the Transportation Corps craft guns or seacoast artillery.
d
1g1 I ro
ar
,
fixed bridge 114 flare
fixed bridge, permanent bridge of any carried by mounted or motorized units,
type. The two kinds of military bridges and a guidon is a flag carried by Army
are fixed bridges and floating bridges. units for identification.
fixed camouflage, disguising anything flag semaphore, system of signaling by
so that the camouflage will remain for a which messages are spelled out with
long time, such as painting a ship or flags.
putting up dummy structures of a flag target. See towed flag target.
permJ.nent nature. flame projector. See flame thrower.
fixed emplacement, fixed setting for a flame thrower, weapon that throws a
gun. A fixed emplacement is usually spray of oil that ignites in the air; flame
made of reinforced cnncrete, with the projector.
base plate and base ring set in the con- flank, 1. right or left side of a formation
crete and hoi ted d Jwn. Also called of troops, right or left side of a fortifi-
permanent emplac~ment. cation, etc.
fixed fire. See concentrated fire. 2. get clear around either side of; as, to
fixed gun, weapon mounted rigidly in an flank the enemy.
airplane or vehicle S3 that it cannot be 3. attack from, or on, the side.
m3ved for sighting except by the move- flank attack, attack against an enemy's
ment of the plane or vehicle. flank; flanking attack.
fixed hospital, hospital, such as a sta- flank guard, one or more groups or
tion hospital or general hospital, having units that protects the right or left side
a stationary location, as opposed to a of a body of troops.
mobile hospital, which can be moved flanking action, offensive maneuver di-
from one location to another; stationary rected against an enemy's flank. Flank
hospital. attack and flanking fire are examples of
fi ~ed obstacle, barrier to the advance of flanking action.
troops that is constructed in the field flanking attack. See flank attack.
and fixed to the ground. flanking fire, fire delivered on an ene-
fi ~ed pitch propeller, propeller whose my flank, or from a position at' the right
blades are so attached to the hub that or left side of the enemy.
the pitch can not be c~1anged. flanking march, march made to get
fixed pivot, 1. fixed point on which a around the right or left side of an enemy
line of troops turns when changing for- force.
mJ.tion or direction of march. flank observation, observation of fire
2. man who is at the pivot point. from a place on, or nearly on, the flank
fixed post system, assigning sentinels of the target where the angle -at the
to guard duty at fixed posts where they target between the observer and the gun
stand, sometimes in a sentry box, until is greater than 75 degrees; flank spot-
relieved. ting. Flank observation differs from
fixed round, round of fixed ammuni- axial observation, which is observa-
tion; one complete charge, including tion of fire from an angle of less than
cartridge case, primer, propelling charge, 5 degrees, and also from unilateral ob-
and projectile, assembled as a unit. servation, which is observation of fire
fixed target, bridge, railway station, from an angle between 5 degrees and
water tank, or other stationary or per- 75 degrees.
manent target for gunfire or bombing. flank patrol, patrol whose duty it is to
f lab, field laboratory. protect the flank of a unit and to keep a
flag, piece of cloth with a color or design close watch on the enemy's movements.
that has a special meaning or serves as flank protective fire, gunfire to protect
a signal. Examples: flag of the United a flank, especially when it is exposed.
State3, the white flag of truce, weather flank security, measures for the pro-
flags to let people know what kind of tection of the flanks of a marching
weather is coming. In the military column or of a force in battle formation.
service, the color is a flag carried by Wherever practicable, flank security em-
dismJunted units, an ensign is a national ploys flank guards or patrols, and
flag, a pennant is a small triangular flag natural and artificial obstacles.
usually flown for identification of a unit flank spotting. See flank observation.
or a general officer, a standard is a flag flare, dazzling light that burns for a
I
flare back 115 flight indicatQr
short time, used for signaling, lighting muzzle velocity are comparatively fiat,
up the battlefield, etc. Flares may be as are those of projectiles fired at short
g
fired by weapons or rocket.CJ, or dropped ranges.
from aircraft. flat trajectory fire, gunfire delivered at
ed
flareback, burst of flame from the such a range, or with such an elevation
breech of a gun. A flareback is caused setting, that the path of the projectile in
by gases that remain in the gun, and, flight is almost flat, rather than curved;
when the breech is opened, pass to the flat fire.
d
he
rear where they ignite when mixed with flat trajectory weapon, gun that fires
th
air. projectiles at such velocity that they
flash defilade, 1. condition in which travel in an almost straight path with
the flash of firing at a gun position is little curve above the ground. A ma-
concealed from enemy observation by an chine gun or a rifle is a flat trajectory
y an
intervening obstacle, such as a hill or weapon at common battle ranges.

the side of a ravine. fld, field.
2. vertical distance by which the flash of fleet, 1. group cf warships under one
a gun is concealed from enemy obser- commander.
of
2. group of ship~ or boats sailing to-

-
vation.
flash fuze. See squib. gether.
flash hider, device attached to the fleeting target, moving target that Te-
at muzzle of a gun to cover the flame that mains within observing or firing dis-
appears when the weapon is fired at tance for such a short period that it
night. affords little time for deliberate ad-
oke-
Oashless-nonhygroscopic powder, smoke- justment and fire against it; transient

less powder that does not readily ab- target. Fleeting targets may be air-
sorb or hold moisture and that does not craft, vehicles, marching troops, etc.
ot
produce a flash upon explosion; FNH flexible gun, gun on a movable mount
powder. It is used chiefly as a propel- that enables it to swing in all direction~:;.
ial
ling charge for projectiles. flick, 1. brief illumination of an aircraft
flash message, brief message in special as it is held for a rnoment in the bean1
form sent by telephone, telegraph, or of a searchlight.
s-
radio to give information about ap- 2. catch an aircraft in the beam of a

ges.
proaching enemy aircraft. A flash mes- searchlight.

he
sage has priority over all other messages. 3. command given for the commander of
flash ranging, finding the position of the the searchlight control station to take
un
burst of a projectile or of an enemy gun over the searchlight controls and keep
b-
by observing its flash. Abbrev: FR the searchlight on the target.
flash ranging adjustment, correcting flight, 1. basic tactical unit of the Army
friendly artillery fire on the basis of ob- Air Forces, consisting of two or more
e-
servation and location of the flash of aircraft.
friendly shell bursts. 2. act of flying. 3. trip in an aircraft.
m
flash ranging location, locating an ene- 4. travel of a projectile from the muzzle
e
my gun by observing its flash. of a gun to the point of impact.

f
flash reconnaissance, observation from Abbrev: fit

ground posts or from aircraft to locate flight at lower altitude, top view of an
enemy gun positions by the flashes of aircraft; one of the standard flight posi- j
al
enemy guns. tions used in training antiaircraft per-
y flat fire. See flat trajectory fire. sonnel to recognize airplane types from
flat spin, flight condition in which an silhouettes.
aircraft in a stall spins about its vertical flight deck, upper deck of an aircraft
een
axis and descends maintaining a fairly carrier, constructed and equipped for the
level attitude. landing and take-off of aircraft; landing
-
flatten out, make an airplane fly in a deck.
line parallel to the earth after it has been flight diagram, chart of courses to guide
t,
climbing or diving. an aircraft pilot.
rt flat trajectory, trajectory with little flight formation, two or more airplanes
vertical curvature. Trajectories of pro- flying in some set arrangement.
t
jectiles fired from long guns with high flight indicatoF, fl_l~rp q~ir> instrurnent
on
in
d;
flight line . 116 flying status
or other instrument, that shows the tilt around crossed rifles to fortn a float for
of the airplane in relation to the real the rifles and soldiers' equipment.
horizon, used for instrument flying. 4. support for a floating bridge.
flight line, aircraft course ma~ked on a floating _bridge, ponton bridge or any
rna p or chart. temporary bridge that is supported by
flight log, record of a trip kept by the low, flat-bottotned boats or other float-
pilot or navigator of an aircraft. ing structure. The two kinds of mili-
flight map, map on which lines show tary bridges are floating bridges and
the exact location of territory that an fixed bridges.
aircraft is to cross. flotation gear, device that can be in-
flight method, method of airplane flated with gas, attached to a land air-
bombing attack in which the assault craft to enable the aircraft to float if it
unit stays just outside the range of has come down on water.
enemy antiaircraft defenses and sound flotilla, unit used for planting mines,
locating devices, and sends flights to ap- composed of one mine planter, one distri-
proach the target area from various bution box boat, and three mine yawls.
directions at fixed intervals. Flight flourish, short melody played as a
method is used especially at night. salute by trumpeters.
flight officer, mem her of the Army Air fir, flyer.
Forces qualified for duty as a member of fit, flight.
an air crew and holding the rank of flutter, vibration set up in any part of
warrant officer, junior grade. a machine or instrument by a momen-
flight pay. See aviation pay. tary disburbance, such as a gust of win~,
flight plan, data for a proposed flight. but kept up by a reaction of parts of the
A flight plan includes time and place of machine. Flutter in aircraft sets up
departure, course, means of communi- dangerous strains.
cation, and probable tinte of return or flyer. Abbrev: fir
arrival at destination. flying boat, airplane that can float on
flight position, any one of the five views water. A flying boat is a seaplane with
from which an aircraft in flight is ob- a boat-shaped hull that is both the
served. These positions are: (1) coming fuselage of the plane and the means by
flight or front view, (2) passing flight or which the craft is supported on water.
side view, (3) flight at lower altitude or flying bridge. See flying ferry.
top view, (4) overhead flight or bottom flying cadet. See aviation cadet.
view, and (5) maneuvering flight or per- flying ferry, raft, used as a ferry, that is
spective view. controlled in the stream by an anchor
flight recorder, combination aircraft cable fastened farther upstream; flying
instrument that records various flight bridge. Usually the current moves the
conditions, such as changes of air flying ferry from shore to shore, but
pressure. sometimes outboard motors are also used.
flight report, report form used in the flying officer, Army Air Forces officer
AI:Illy Air Forces to record the details of who holds a rating as a pilot, aircraft
a flight. A flight report includes flying observer, or other member of a combat
time, aircraft performance, and duties crew of a military aircraft. In time of
performed by the crew. war, flight surgeons and also officers and
flight surgeon, specialist in aviation warrant officers undergoing flying train-
medicine; medical officer holding a ing are classed as flying officers.
special rating because of training and flying pay. See aviation pay.
experience with the Army Air Forces. flying school, Army Air Forces school
float, 1. watertight apparatus attached in which instruction in aviation is given.
to an aircraft so that the ai~craft will There are four types: elementary flying
not sink if it comes down at sea. In this schools, basic flying schools, advanced
s
meaning, sometimes called a pontoon. flying schools, and specialized flying
2. flat base set at an angle in the ground schools.
to bracean emplaced railwayartillerygun. flying status, standing of a member of
3. raft or similar structure for carrying the Army Air Forces who is under orders
equipment, and sometimes troops, across to make frequent and regular fliithts in
water. Shelter halves may be tied an aircraf. gina fro
Flying Training Command 117 formation bombing
Flying Training Command, former com- force a safeguard, force a lock, or over-
m-
mand of the Army Air Forces that is power a guard who is posted to protect \
now a part of the Training Command. persons or property.
FM, 1. field manual. forced crossing, going across a stream
2. titanium tetrachloride. in the face of enemy opposition.
FM grenade, band grenade containing forced issue, issue by the quarter-
g
titanium tetrachloride (FM), used to master of food or other supplies that are
form a dense smoke that will hide troops in danger of spoiling. The issue is called
ops
and materiel. a forced issue because it must be made

FM smoke, dense white smoke pro- or the supplies would be wasted.
ide
duced by bringing titanium tetrachloride forced landing, 1. landing an aircraft
e.
(FM) into contact with the atmosphere. because of engine trouble, other me-
ut
FM smoke is harmless to personnel, but chanical failure, or bad flying conditions.
ket is useful to screen movement, to blanket 2. putting troops ashore in the face of
d to
the enemy and enemy observers, and to enemy opposition.
disguise cloud gas. forced march, unusually long march;
FNH powder. See ftashless-nonhygro- any march that is longer than troops are
scopic powder. usually expected to travel, and that is
g
FO, field order or field orders. kept up with little time for resting or for
focal center, radio station in a warning servicing vehicles.
net that acts as a clearing center for forearm, wooden device on the barrel
information. end of a rifle to protect the firer from
follow-the-pointer indicator, scale, on the heat of the gun barrel.
the mount of some types of artillery' foreign port, port, under the authority
s-
that receives and registers firing data of the War Department, outside the con-
transmitted over a remote control sys- tinental United States. A foreign port
d
tem. The gun is kept properly aimed may be in a foreign country or in one of
when its adjustment dials are matched the possessions of the United States.
with the readings on the indicator. foreign service, military duty anywhere
e
follow up, 1. put steady, direct pres- outside the continental boundaries of the
sure on a withdrawing force. United States. Base pay is increased for
s 2. act of putting close, direct pressure foreign service in wartime.
om
on a withdrawing force. forfeit, give up a right or privilege. One
3. inquiry into the quantity of supplies may be required by a court-martial to
and time of delivery to be expected from forfeit his pay as a punishment.
any particular call or requisition, or forfeiture, 1. giving up anything, espe-
into the results of an administrative cially part of one's pay, by order of a

military court, as punishment for- neg-
cted
es,
action taken, or directed to be takQll.
food handler, anyone permanently or lect, a fault, or some wrongdoing.
temporarily assigned to duties connected 2. right or privilege given up.
with the handling of food, drink, dishes, fork, a change in range elevation or di-
etc., in an Army mess. Daily kitchen rection necessary to move the center of
nd
police are not considered to be food impact of artillery fire the distance of
handlers. four probable errors. Fork is sometimes
get
forage, 1. food for horses, cattle, etc. used as a unit of change in the conduct
Sometimes forage means both food and of fire.
d.
bedding for animals. form, 1. draw up in lines or other for-

2. get supplies for men and animals; get mation; arrange in a formation.
or take food anywhere it can be found. 2. paper printed or marked with spaces
. forage ration, daily allowance of food into which information is to be written,
f
for Army animals. such as a pay roll or service record.
foragers, mounted troopers arranged formation, arrangement of the elements
side by side at extended intervals. of a command in line, in column, or in
force, 1. strength; power to wage war. any other prescribed manner.
2. body of troops, especially a body of formation bombing, delivery of one or
er-
ct *
troops ready for action. more bombs, from each of the airplanac:;
m
3. get or take by superior strength. of a bombardment formation, against a
in force, in full strength. given point or...area targ,et.
1_1 ro
I I
are
ed
de
formation in depth 118 free net
formation in depth, combat formation action. When a unit has been so deco-
that extends farther from front to rear rated, future as well as present members
than from right to left. of the unit wear the fourragere.
formation in width, combat formation fourth echelon maintenance, general
that extends farther from right to left overhaul and reclamation of equipment,
than from front to rear. units, and parts, involving the use of
fort, 1. permanent post as opposed to a heavy tools and the services of general
camp, which is a temporary installation. and technical mechanics.
2.land area within which harbor defense fox hole, small pit, usually for one or two
units are located. men, used for cover in the battle area.
3. strong, fortified building or place that FPL, final protective line.
can be defended against an enemy. fr, from.
f~rtification, 1. temporary or perma- FR, flash ranging.
nent defense for troops or for a position. fragment, break into small pieces, as a
A trench or pillbox is a fortification. projectile.
2. art of designing and constructing de- fragmentary order, 1. combat order is-
fenses. sued in sections. Each section of a
fort record book, secret, detailed record fragmentary order contains instructions
of the history, equipment, and arma- only for the commander or unit to which
ment of a fort. the section is sent.
forward. Abbrev: fwd 2. one section of such an order.
forward area, section of a theater of fragmentation, the breaking and scat-
operations in which attack by enemy tering in all directions of the pieces of a
ground forces is probable. The forward projectile, bomb, or grenade.
area includes, primarily, the area cov- fragmentation bomb, bomb that throws
ered by the combat zone. bits of metal in all directions as it bursts.
f~rward area sight, type of antlaircraft Fragmentation bombs are used against
gun sight which permits control by the personnel, animals, and light material
individual gunner. targets, especially against ground troops.
forward echelon, station of a unit's fragmentation grenade, hand grenade
headquarters where the commander and that shatters as it bursts, throwing small
staff work. In combat, a unit's head- bits of metal in all directions.
quarters is often divided into a forward frangible grenade, incendiary grenade,
echelon and a rear echelon; the forward consisting of a glass bottle filled with
echelon is called the command post. . gasoline or a chemical, that ignites when
Abbrev: fwd ech the bottle is smashed.
f~rward interpretation unit. Abbrev: FlU fraud, fraudulent.
forward observation post, observation fraudulent. Abbrev: fraud
station set up ahead of the main battle fraudulent enlistment, gaining accept-
position. / ance as an enlisted member of the Army
forward observer, observer at a for- by concealing facts which would dis-
ward observation post, especially for the qualify an applicant or by making false
purpose of adjusting artillery fire. A statements.
forward observer may be a roving ob- fraudulent induction, induction into
server or may be at a fixed post, depend- military service after making false state-
ing on the military situation. ments or concealing important facts.
Abbrev: fwd ob free. maneuver, practice maneuver in
fouling, deposit that remains in the bore which each force acts as it chooses, and
cf a gun after it is fired. is limited only by the field orders re-
fouling shot, preliminary firing of a ceived, by restrictions of area and time,
rifle to remove oil or other material from and by the actions of the opposing force.
the barrel. free net, radio network in which any
fourragere (FOOR a ZHAYR), metal- station can communicate with any other
tipped, braided cord worn around the station in the same network without first
left shoulder. A fourragere is given to obtaining permission from the net con-
anyone who has a required number of trol station to do so. A network in
citeltions, or to all the members of a unit which this permission is necessary is
de~orated for conspicuous bravery in called a d ~cte~ et.
free tower 119
free tower, tower with mechanism and full step, thirty-inch step taken in
d
equipment that pern1it the free descent walking or marching.
nt
of an inflated parachute. It is used for full-track vehicle, vehicle entirely sup-
training in parachute jumping. ported, driven, and steerd by an end-
friction primer, type of cannon primer less belt, or track, on each side. Tanks
which is fired by pulling a toothed wire are full-track vehicles.
e
or plug through an explosive mixture. fulminate of mercury. See mercury fui-
f rmt dep, field remount depot. minate.
from. Abbrev: fr funeral escort, personnel detailed to at-
front, 1. direction of the enemy. tend a burial as a mark of respect and
es.
2. line of contact of two opposing forces. honor to the dead person.
as-
3. space occupied by an element, meas- fur, furlough.
ured from flank to flank. furlough, authorized vacation from mili-
e
4. the muzzle end of the gun when the tary duty for an enlisted man. A pass
d gun is set up for firing, or the trail end : is for three days or less; a furlough is for
when the gun is attached for to,Ning. a longer period. A similar vacation
u-
frontage, space from side to side occu- authorized for an officer is called leave.
pied by an element in a formation or Abbrev: fur
covered by a unit in combat. furlough allowance. See furlough ra-
frontal attack, attack against the tion allowance.
he
enemy's front. furlough ration allowance, sum of
frontal fire, gunfire directed against the money granted to an enlisted man to
-
enemy's front. pay for meals he missed at his regular
- frontal security, protection for the for- mess, while on furlough; furlough al-
ward part of an advancing force. Fron- lowance.
tal security may be furnished by an furn, furnished.
advance guard. furnished. Abbret': fun1
-
frontier. See coastal frontier. fuselage, body of an airplane, to w hie h

front line, line formed by the most ad- the wings and tail parts are attached.
a-
vanced unit in any given tactical situa- The crew, passengers, luggage, cargo, or
n,
tion. In a war of movement, the front weapons are carried in the fuselage. In
line is the advanced line that is pro- I many airplanes the engine is in the
tected by artillery; in a war of position, fuselage.
the front line connects the advanced 1future position, position it is calculated
points in the defense system. Also' a moving target will reach in a given
called line of battle. length of time.
front sight, sight near the muzzle of a fuze, 1. mechanical or electrical device
fJ.reann; muzzle sight. used with a projectile, mine, bomb, or
al-
FS, 1. film strip. 2. sulfur trioxide grenade to explode it at the desired time.
-
solution. 2. train of powder used to detonate ex-
F/S, final statement. plosives or to fire pyrotechnics.
le- FSA, travel chargeable to applicable al- fuze range, range at which a fuze is set
lotment authority under Finance Serv- to make a projectile burst at the desired
ice, Army. FSA is a code abbreviation point in its flight.
used in transmitting telegra1ns and tele- fuze setter, device by which the fuze
type messages. of a projectile is adjusted for time and
FSB, Field Selection Board. range.
s-
FSR, Field Service Regulations. fwd, forward.

r tn, field train. fwd ech, forward echelon.
full pack, pack containing all the neces- fwd ob, forward observer.
- sary equipment to sustain a soldier in fxd, fixed.
d-
the field. fy, fiscal year.
s
l-
at-
Orlg1nal rrom
ili-
for
g_ 120 gas barrier
g, gun. garnishing, camouflage process in which
G -1, 1. personnel section of the general narrow strips of dyed cotton, burlap, or
staff of a large unit. other material are drawn irregularly
2. assistant chief of staff for personnel. through the meshes of chicken wire or
G-2, 1. military intelligence section of fishnet covering.
the general staff of a large unit. garrison, 1. body of troops stationed at
2. assistant chief of staff for military a military post.
intelligence. 2. military installation or location at
G-3, 1. operations and training section which troops are stationed. In this
of the general staff of a large unit. meaning, also called post.
2. assistant chief of staff for operations 3. station troops at such a post or posi-
and training. tion.
G-4, 1. supply and evacuation section garrison belt, leather belt formerly
of 'the general staff of a large unit. issued for wear outside the blouse by
2. assistant chief of staff for supply and enlisted men.
evacuation. garrison cap, small olive-drab or khaki
gabion (GAYB yun), cylindrical basket cap. Gold braid or black and gold braid
woven with open ends, filled with earth, on the cap of an officer, or colored cord
and used as a retaining wall in construct- braid on the cap of an enlisted man
ing fieldworks. In modern warfare, shows the arm or service of the officer or
sandbags are often used in place of enlisted man. Formerly called field cap
gab ions. or overseas cap.
gait of march, rate at which a mounted garrison flag, largest size United States
unit is moving at a given instant. flag. It is flown at posts only on holi
gallery, 1. underground passageway that days and important occasions as re-
i::; part of a military mining system. quired by Army Regulations.
2. compartment for storage of ammuni- garrison prisoner, military prisoner,
tion. other than a prisoner of war, who is
3. enclosed range for target practice. lawfully held, is awaiting trial, or is sen
gallery practice, practice in firing small tenced to confinement but not to dis-
a!'ms in a room or enclosed range. missal or discharge from the service.
gallery practice antmunition, ammuni- garrison ration, food allowance for one
tion with a reduced charge, used in gal~ person for one day prescribed (in peace-
lery practice and also for gUard purposes. time) for all persons entitled to a ration.
gallery practice cartridge, cartridge It is issued in the form of a money al..
with a reduced charge, used in gallery lowance.
practice and also for guard purposes. garrison shoe, type of shoe formerly
gang plank issue, issue of supplies to issued. Garrison shoes are now being
individual officers and enlisted men just replaced by service shoes.
before embarkation. gas, 1. chen1ical warfare agent capable
gang plank supply officer, officer at a of producing a poisonous or irritant
port of embarkation who is designated effect.
to issue supplies just before embarkation. 2. poison, injure, or kill by use of a
gar, garage. chemical agent.
garage. Abbrev: gar gas alarm, 1. device to give warning of
Garand rifle, semiautomatic, gas-op- a gas attack, for example, a metal rod
erated, clip-fed rifle. The Garand rifle or triangle.
has a caliber of .30 inch and weighs 2. warning sound made with this device.
8.56 pounds. It is replacing the Spring- gas alert, condition of readiness to put
field and Enfield bolt-action rifles as on gas masks as protection against gas
standard equipment in the Army. The attack. -
official designation is "U. S. Rifle, Cali- gas alert line, limit beyond which gas
ber .30, Ml." masks must be kept ready to put on.
~arland, strips of cotton cloth or burlap, The gas alert line is designated on opera
fastened to a light wire framework. A tions rna ps as G.
garland is used to thicken an overhead gas barrier, cloud of poison gas laid
camouflage or natural cover, or to hide across the route of ground troops as
t.hP Pogfl of a prntP<'t.ing net. I an oh:.-:t.an1P lnal fro
I
~gas bomb 121 gas trap
gas bomb, bomb filled with a chemical gas, nonpersistent. Abbrev: G-NP
agent, usually one to be dropped from gas officer, staff officer in a unit smaller
al
an airplane. Gas bombs are used par- than a division assigned to advise on,
m ticularly against personnel. and be responsible for, plans, equipment,
gas candle, chemical container filled and training for chemical warfare de-
with a gas-producing agent. The chemi- fense. In a divisioii. or higher unit, the
cal filler is ignited, usually from a striker staff officer having these duties is called
mi-
or spark at the top cover of the con- the chemical officer.

tainer, and produces and releases a gasoline bomb, an improvised incen-
ker
chemical warfare gas. Irritant gas can- diary bomb made from a glass bottle
-
dle and tear.gas candle are types of gas filled with gasoline, and with a rag for .
gas
candles. a fuze. A' gasoline bomb .is one kind of
gas casualty, person who has been tem- frangible grenade.
m-
porarily or permanently disabled by a gas-operated, put in motion by the ac-
chemical agent. tion of expanding gases. This term
gas chamber, 1. room or tent filled with refers especially to the mechanism in
th
gas. It is used in training personnel in certain types of automatic guns that

antigas precautions, and in testing gas are operated by deflecting a part of
masks and equipment. the escaping powder gases, so that its
s
gas
2. that part of a balloon in which the gas force operates the reloading mechanism
is contained. through an opening in the barrel. The
al gas check, device in a gun or chemical United States rifle, caliber .30, Ml, is a
projector that prevents escape of gas gas-operated weapon.
through the breech. gas, persistent. Abbrev: G-P
cal
gas cloud, mixture of air and a chemical gas port, opening for the passage of gas.
agent in the form of a vapor. The gas cylinder of a gas-operated auto-
gas curtain, gas-tight door made of a matic weapon has gas ports that admit
blanket or other material, used in. gas- some of the powder gases from the
-
ack.
of
proofing shelters against chemical attack. barrel of the gun.
d
gas cylinder, tube fixed to the barrel of gas pot, container for tear-producing
a gas-operated automatic weapon and gas, used in chemical warfare training
containing a piston, the movement- of and to a limited extent in tactical
which operates the extracting and re- operations. ,
a
loading mechanisms. gas projectile, projectile containing a .

e
gas discipline, training that results in a poisonous or irritating gas, and a burster
soldier's having proper respect for the to release it.'
efficiency of gas, but no unreasonable gasproof. Abbrev: G-Pf

is
of
d-
fear of it; that, knowing the value of hi3 gas proofing, making shelters, etc.,
s
protective equipment, he takes care of safe for men without gas masks dttring
e to
it; that, upon dete~tion of gas or sound- chemical attack. It is done by filtering
e ing the alarm, he promptly adjusts hi3 incoming air, closing off entrances with
e
mask and warns others; that he is able to gas traps, etc.
his
wear his mask for a considerable time gasproof shelter, enclosed space from
and carry on his duties without undue which poisonous chemicals are excluded
fatigue, and that he does not remove his by filtering incoming air, or by prevent-
ed
mask until properly ordered to do s:>. ing any air from entering.
ce
gas identification set, samples of the gas sentinel. See gas sentry.
s
common military chemical agents, used gas sentry, person detailed to detect
s
in training personnel in recognizing gas, to sound the alarm, to assist in gas
gases. defense, and to keep gas alarms in con-
s,
gas mask, device that fits over the face dition; gas sentinel.
sk
and protects the eyes, nose, and lungs gas shell, shell containing a poisonous
o
from poison rases. The diaphragm gas or irritating gas and a burster to re-
mask is worn by officers and by any lease it.
other persons, sue~ as radio operators, gas trap, air lock or gasproof space,
who have to talk. The service gas mask
er
usually at the entrance of a dugout or

ent,
is worn by all other enlisted men. Also training chamber, often no more than
<'alled mask. two curtains w:ith air P.ftee between.
IQI 1 ro
led
U~I ERSITY OF C LIFORNI
gas warfare 122 general orders
gas warfare, the use of poisonous and pensary is located in a large city, mili-
harassing gases in chemical warfare. tary district, or prescribed military area.
GCI, ground control interception. An establishment at a military station
GCM, general court-martial. that serves the personnel of the station
gd, guard. is called the station dispensary.
gen, general. Abbrev: gen disp
gen disp, general dispensary. general engineer troops, engineer
general, 1. officer in the United States troops who are usually assigned to large
Army who ranks next above a lieutenant units and who perform all engineering
general and next below a general of the functions except the most highly spe-
. Armies of the United States. A general cialized. These latter are performed by
is equivalent in rank to a field marshal special ~ngineer troops.
in most European Armies and to an ad- General Headquarters, headquarters of
miral in the United States Navy. See the commander of all the field forces.
Table of Comparative Grades on p. 125. Abbrev: GHQ
2. title by which any general officer is general headquarters reserve, troops
addressed in conversation; officer of one of the various arms and services not
of the first four grades: general, lieu- organically assigned to an army in the
tenant general, major general, brigadier field, which are held for use as reinforce-
general. Abbrev: gen ments or for separate missions under
general air defense, coord.inated use of General Headquarters; GHQ reserve.
all air defense measures taken through- general hospital, hospital designed
out a large area to protect it against to serve general and special needs,
attack from the air. equipped and staffed for special treat-
general classification test, test that is ment of a professional nature. A
intended to measure ability to learn general hospital affords better facilities
quickly rather than the amount of than other hospitals for the study, ob-
knowledge a person has acquired. A servation, and treatment of serious,
general classification test includes tests complicated, or obscure cases.
on arithmetic and the meaning of words, Abbrev: gen hosp
and also simple problem questions. En- general inspection, inspection of all
listed men are given this test when they commands and other Army activities
are inducted. made once each fiscal year by The In-
General Council, War Department of- spector General or by officers named by
ficials representing all branches of the him.
Army who meet periodically with the general map, small-scale military map
Deputy Chief of Staff to discuss and co- showing a considerable area, used for
ordinate major War Department pro- general planning purposes.
jecoo and policies. general military service. See general
general counterpreparation, heavy fire service.
from all weapons capable of firing on a general officer, any officer above the
threatened front to dislocate or destroy rank of colonel. Generals, lieutenant
enemy preparations for a general attack. generals, major generals, and brigadier
general court-martial, highest type of generals are general officers.
court-martial, consisting of not fewer General of the Armies, officer of the
than five officers, having power to try highest rank in the Army of the United
any crime punishable by the Articles of States; General of the Armies. He is
War. Abbrev: GCM above a general in rank. This rank is
general depot, large supply establish- equivalent to a field marshal in most
ment for receiving, storing, and issuing European armies. It was created as a
supplies for more than one branch of the special title for General John J. Pershing.
.A.rmy. A depot that serves a single general Oa dcrs, 1. permanent instruc--
branch is called a branch depot. tions issued in order form, that apply to
general dispensary, Medical Depart- all members of a command, as compared
ment establishment that provides medi- with special orders, which affect only
cal and dental care for military personnel individuals or small groups. Such orders
receiving treatment at the establishment are usually concerned with matters of
but not staying there. A general dis- policy or administration.
1 n
general outpost 123 glider
2. series of permanent guard orders that preserving supplies. Forage, fuel, and
govern the duties of a sentry on post. food are general supplies.
All soldiers are required to memorize general support, support by artillery
hat
them. Abbrev: GO given to an entire unit, as opposed to
general outpost, stationary bodies of direct support, which is given to a par-
troops placed at some distance from the ticular subdivision. Abbrev: G/S
main force, while at a halt, in camp or Geneva Convention, agreement between
bivouac, or in battle position, to protect European nations at Geneva, in 1864,
the main force from observation and with later amendments, establishing
the
ct
surprise by the enemy, and also to keep rules for the treatment during war of
the enemy under observation. the sick, the wounded, and prisoners of
ep general prisoner, garrison prisoner sen- war.
tenced to confinement and to dismissal gen hosp, general hospital.
n-
or discharge. gen serv, general service.
al
general purpose bomb, bomb contain- geographic code, system of secret code
ing a high explosive charge, used to da- names for towns and other points, used
-
stroy structures and materiel by the in signal communication.

force of the explosion of the charge. geographic coordinates, latitude and
de-
general service, service of any kind longitude; north-south and east-west

that may be assigned to a soldier; gen- lines whose intersections are used to
n- eral military service. General service is locate physical points on a map.
s a classification given to soldiers who are geological survey. Abbrev: geol surv
are
found physically and mentally qualified geol surv, geological survey.
ed
for service of any kind. GHQ, General IIeadquarters.

Abbrev: gen serv GHQ reserve. See general headquar-
general service school, school in the ters reserve.
-
military education system where com- gisement (GIZE munt), See grid decli-
missioned officers are trained in the nation.
duties of staff and high command po- glaze. See clear ice.
sitions. The Command and General gli, glider.
ol.
Staff School is a general service school. glide, 1. descent of an aircraft at a
general service schools. Abbrev: GSS normal angle of attack with little or no
General's March, musical selection thrust supplied by the propeller.
or
played at military ceremonies to honor 2. descend under these conditions.

a general officer. glide bombing, method of airplane
general staff, group of officers in a di- bombing attack in which the bombers
,
vision or larger unit who assist their approach the target in a glide in order
commander in planning, coordinating, to reduce noise and to confuse enemy
ons:
and executing operations. A general range finders; glide method.
staff iS usually divided into four sections: glide method. See glide bombing.
personnel (G-1), military intelligence glider, heavier-than-air aircraft without
(G-2), operations and training (G-3), a motor that is towed aloft or projected
supply and evacuation (G-4). into the air by various means. It may
Ahbrev: GS glide to the ground or ride on upward-
General Staff' Corps, branch of the moving air currents. Gliders are also
i-
eral
t-
Army made up of specially trained offi- towed by airplanes. Abbrev: gli
cers who are detailed to perform general performance type glider, glider hav-
staff duties either with the War Depart- ing a high degree of aerodynamic refine-
ment or with divisions or larger units. ment and a low minimum sinking speed.
on
Abbrev: GSC It is used principally for soaring.
t
general staff' with troops, part of the primary type glider, ruggedly built
General Staff Corps including officers on glider designed for use in elementary
duty with divisions or larger units, but training of student glider pilots.
not including those on duty with the secondary type glider, glider designed
r
nd
War Department General Staff. to have better aerodynamic performance
general supplies, supplies required for than the primary type, and rugged
the maintenance of an organization, enough for the use of pilots with limited
other than ammunition or cleaning and training.
-
Orlg1nal rrom
een
glider pilot 124 grapnel -
gilder pilot, 1. person who operates or $10,000, that gives coverage in the event
controls a glider. of death or total permanent disability.
2. classification or rating for officers or It is not to be confused with National
enlisted men in the Army Air Forces who Service Life Insurance, which is similar
have qualified as operators of standard insurance in World War II . .
glider equipment. govt, government.
gliding angle, angle at which an aircraft gp, group.
glides toward the earth; angle between G-P, 1. chemical agent, persistent.
the horizontal and the path of a gliding 2. gas, persistent.
aircraft. G-Pf, gasproof.
gliding ratio, ratio of the horizontal gpmt, groupment.
distance a glider will travel in the line of gr, grade.
flight to its loss of altitude. grade, 1. indication of the quality or
gliding turn, flight maneuver consisting type of ammunition.
of a turn made during a glide. 2. rank in the Army. Grade applies to
G-NP, 1. chemical agent, nonpersistent. both officers and enlisted men, although
2. gas, nonpersistent. usually applied to enlisted men and war-
gnr, gunner. rant officerS; There are seven grades of
GO, general orders. enlisted men: private, private, first
gondola, 1. car attached to the under class, corporal, sergeant, staff sergeant,
surface of an airship for the crew and technical sergeant, and first sergeant or
instruments. master sergeant. See chart on p. 125.
2. large, open freight car with deep sides. 3. slope of a hill, road, or railroad.
goniometer, 1. instrument for measuring Abbrev: gr
angles. A goniometer is used in survey- grade chevron, khaki or olive-drab
ing and other scientific measurement. cloth design shaped like a I\ to indicate
2. electrical instrument used for direc- the rank of an enlisted man above the
tion finding. grade of private. A grade chevron is
Good Conduct Medal, medal awarded worn with the point up, on the upper
to enlisted men in good standing and part of both sleeves.
with clear records for one year's con- gradient, rate of change of temperature
tinuous service after Dec. 7, 1941 during or pressure in a given direction; mathe-
time of war, or for three years' active matical expression giving the direction
Federal service on or after Aug. 27, 1940. and amount of the most rapid rate of
Good Conduct ribbon, ribbon worn on decrease of a quantity, such as tempera-
the left breast by persons authorized to ture of pressure.
wear the Good Conduct 11edal. It is grand division, largest of the subdivi-
issued to them pending the issue of the sions of a military railway system in a
Good Conduct Medal. theater of operations. A grand division
good-conduct time, time deducted from is ordinarily made up of two or more
a prisoner's sentence for good behavior. divisions. Abbrev: gr div
good of the service, 1. reason given by grand division railway. Abbrev: gr div
an officer for resigning rather than going ry
through reclassification because of un- grand tactics, military operations con-
desirable habits or traits of character. ducted by large groups of troops.
2. phrase often used by commanding granulation, size and shape of grains of
officers when framing and issuing orders, propellent powder.
the authority for which does not come graphite, one of the natural forms of
under any specific regulation or Article soft carbon. It is used as a dry lubricant.
of War. graphite grease, lubricant containing
gooseberry, portable obstacle made of graphite.
barbed-wire balls connected with spirals grapnel, 1. small anchor used in moor-
of barbed wire. It is mainly used to ing boats or pontons for military bridges.
block trenches. 2. device with one or more hooks for
government. Abbrev: govt seizing and holding something; hook-
t
Government life insurance, class of in- like device with prongs, used to drag
surance offered to veterans of World along the bottom of a body of water in
War I, in stated amounts not to exceed order to recover sunken objects.
rr1g1na fro
TABLE OF COMPARATIVE GRADES
Army I Marine Corps Navy Coast Guard z
o=::
General (no equivalent) Admiral (no equivalent) 0
Lieutenant General Lieutenant General Vice-Admiral Vice-Admiral Eu....
-- _J
Major General Major General Rear Admiral Rear Admiral 2<

'4- u
Brigadier General Brigadier General Commodore Commodore m~
Colonel Colonel Captain Captain r::O
Lieutenant Colonel Lieutenant Colonel Commander Commander i;i>-
"ii: 1--
Major Major Lieutenant Commander Lieutenant Commander 0 ........
~
Captain Captain Lieutenant Lieutenant : Li.J
1st Lieutenant 1st Lieutenant Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Lieutenant (Junior Grade) I z:
2nd Lieutenant 2nd Lieutenant Ensign Ensign i :::::)
Chief Warrant Officer Commissioned Warrant Officer Commissioned Warrant Officer Chief Warrant Officer I
Warrant Officer (Junior Grade) Warrant Officer Warrant Officer Warrant Officer I
Flight Officer (Army Air Forces) lO

C\1
.......4
Cadet (no equivalent) Midshipman (no equivalent)
Aviation Cadet (Army Air Forces)
l
Sergeant Major or Master Tech-1
nical Sergeant . .
Master Sergeant or 1st Sergeant lst Sergeant or Quartermaster J Chief Petty Officer Chief Petty Officer
Sergeant
Technical Sergeant Gunnery Sergeant or Technical Petty Officer 1st Class Petty Officer 1st Class
Sergeant
Staff Sergeant or Technician 3rd Platoon Sergeant or Staff Petty Officer 2nd Class Petty Officer 2nd Class
Grade Sergeant
Sergeant or Technician 4th Grade Sergeant Petty Officer 3rd Class Petty Officer 3rd Class
Corporal or Technician 5th Grade Corporal Seaman 1st Class Seaman 1st Class
Private, First Class Private, 1st Class Seaman 2nd Class Seaman 2nd Class
Private Private Apprentice Seaman Apprentice Seaman
--- --

gratuity 126 groove
gratuity, money payment in addition to grenade, small explosive or chemical
all authorized pay and allowances, such bomb thrown by hand or fired from
as the payment made to the family of a rifles, guns, or special grenade throwers.
soldier who has died or a missing soldier The two most common kinds are hand
presumed to be dead. grehades and rifle grenades.
graves registration. Abbrev: gr reg grenade court, training ground laid out
graves registration battalion. for instruction in throwing grenades.
Abbrev: Gr Reg Bn grenade launcher, extension attached
graves registration company. to the muzzle of a rifle or carbine that
Abbret': Gr Reg Co converts the gun into a device for firing
graves registration service, wartime rifle grenades.
organization within the Quartermaster grenade net, net of chicken wire, or the
Corps that is responsible for identifica- like, placed over a trench, etc., as a pro-
tion and burial of the dead and the tection against grenades.
maintenance of graves. grid. See military grid.
graze, 1. pass close to the surface, as a grid azimuth, clockwise angle measured
shot that follo\vs a path nearly parallel from grid north to a line connecting the
to the ground and low enough to strike observer and the observed point; azi-
a standing man. muth from grid north. Sometimes called
2. burst of a projectile at the instant of Y-azimuth.
impact with the.ground. In this mean- grid coordinates, method of locating
ing, also called graze burst. a point in a north-south direction or an
graze burst, burst of a projectile at the eac;t-west direction in reference to the
instant of impact with the ground. Also grid lines on a military map.
called graze. grid declination, angle at any given
grazing fire, fire whose path is close locality between the true north-south
enough to the ground to hit a standing line and the north and south grid lines,
man for a considerable part of its range. or Y-lines, on a military map; gisement.
Grazing fire is different from plunging gridded map, map on which is drawn a
fire, which is fire that strikes the ground system of grid lines running north and
at a high angle. south, and east and west. These lines
grazing point, point at which the path are used in locating pointB.
of fire of a weapon touches a rise in the grid line, one of the lines in a grid sys-
ground which forms a mask at the rear tem; line u~ed to divide a map into
edge of a space not reached by the gun- squares. East-west lines in a grid sys-
fire. tem are X-lines, and north-south lines
grd, ground. are Y -lines.
gr div, grand division. grid north, direction in which the
gr div ry, grand division railway. north-south grid lines on a military map
grease trap, device or container with point, generally not the same as true
which grease and debris are separated north; Y -north. Military maps ordinari-
from liquid waste matter. It may be ly indicate true north, magnetic north,
one of two types: baffle grease trap or and grid north in order to give complete
filter grease trap. orientation in direction.
great circle course, any course follow- grid system. See military grid system.
ing the path of a circle that has its center grip safety, safety mechanism that pre-
at the center of the earth. The great vents a gun from being fired unless the
circle course is the shortest distance stock is firmly grasped while the trigger
between two pointB on the surface of the is pulled. It is used mainly on auto-
earth. matic pistols.
Greenwich hour angle, angle at the groove, 1. any one of several spiral
pole bet\veen the longitude line of Green- channels cut in the bore of a gun to ro-
wich and the longitude line of the tate the projectile when it is fired. The
heavenly body being observed. The raised surfaces between grooves are
Greenwich hour angle is always meas- lands; rifling consists of both lands and
ured along the celestial equator from grooves.
the meridian of Greenwich to the west, 2. small, narrow channel cut around a
360 degrees or 24 hours. projectile near it8 base, used to hold
Or1g1nal fro
ground 127 group
grease in heavy ammunition and to ground abserver, person stationed at a
fasten the cartridge case in fixed am- ground position as an observer; especial-
munition. ly, a guard posted to watch against
ground. Abbrev: grd enemy air attack.
ground alert, 1. position of aircraft ground projector. See ground signal
kept on the ground ready for immediate projector.
action. ground reconnaissance, reconnaissance
ate
2. signal to take stations for a ground conducted by units that operate only on
alert. the ground.
ground alert method, one of three ground rigging, ropes and tackle used
methods of using fighter aviation in air to anchor a bedded-down balloon to the
defense. With this method the defend- ground cable.
ir
ing fighter force is held ready on the ground school, Army Air Forces service
-
ground for immediate take.off upon re- school that gives instruction in such
ceiving warning of approaching enemy subjects as map making, photography,
e-
aircraft. Other methods of using fighter and aerodynamics.

aviation are the air alert method and ground signal, pyrotechnic signal fired
my
er
the search patrol method. from a ground signal projector.

ground cable, cable by which a barrage ground signal projector, device for fir-
ge
balloon is anchored to the ground. ing pyrotechnic signals or flares into the
ground commander, officer in charge of air from the ground; ground projector.
of
ground forces that are being assisted by Also called pyrotechnic projector.
by
an Army Air Forces unit or units. ground speed, speed of an aircraft in

ground control, system of points ac- reference to the ground, in contrast to
curately located by ground survey, with air speed, which is the speed of the air-
which corresponding points in aerial craft in reference to the air through
th
photographs are matched, as a check which it flies.

on the photographs. Ground Staff, the general staff of Army
ground control interception. Ground Forces. It has six sections:
..4.bbrev: GCI Plans, G-1, a-2, G-3, G-4, and Require-
ground crew, ground personnel con- ments.
e
nected with air operations, such as the ground strafing, attack upon ground
maintenance crew of an aircraft. troops by low-flying aircraft using
ground echelon, in combined ground bombs, machine guns, and cannon.
and air operations, the ground unit as ground umpire, umpire who judges the
distinguished from the air forces. effectiveness of the actions of ground
Ground Forces. See Army Ground troops in maneuvers, as contrasted with

Forces. an air umpire, who judges the effective-
grounding, 1. the prohibition of an ness of air actions during maneuvers.
nd-
individual from flying, usually for group, 1. administrative and tactical
ns
reasons of a temporary nature. Ground- unit of the Army Air Forces, smaller
ing may be due to bad flying conditions than a wing and larger than a squadron.
that make it unsafe to fly, or because A group is composed of- two or more
n-
the individual may be undergoing pun- squadrons of a single class of aviation.

ishment for violating a regulation. A group in the Army Air Forces corre-
2. electrical contact, usually with the sponds to an infantry regiment.
earth. 2. administrative unit which works as a
ground loop, uncontrollable violent team, especially in the supply and medi-
turn of an aircraft during a landing or cal services.
take-off run or while taxiing. . 8. tactical unit formed for more efficient
ground mine, submarine mine that fire control, as in harbor defense or
rests on the bottom of the sea. armored forces, or as in a combination
,
ground observation, observation of of two or more arms, such as a field

m
enemy or friendly positions, activities, artillery group combining artillery and
ed. fire, etc., from a point on the ground; air units.
a
terrestrial observation. 4. mechanical unit made up of a number
cial-
ground observation post, location from of parts that function as a whole.

which ground observation is conducted. Abbrer1: IP
Orlg1nal rrom
ce
on
group firing 128 guides out
group firing, practice firing of small new guard is installed and the old guard
arms by groups rather than by 'indi- relieved. In this meaning, also called
viduals. guard mounting.
group formation, two or more squad- 2. bugle or trumpet call used on this
rons flying in any of several aerial for- occasion.
mations. The V or wedge formation guard mounting, ceremony at which the
and the stagger or echelon formation new guard is installed and the old guard
are the most common examples. relieved. Usually called guard mount.
groupment, 1. temporary field artil- guard of honor, guard detailed to ac-
lery unit that contains two or more bat- company distinguished persons at a
talions or larger units having the same ceremony, or the coffins of deceased
tactical ml3Sion. military personnel at a funeral; honor
2. tactical command of coast artillery guard.
containing two or mvre groups or sepa- guard report, report submitted to the
rate batteries whose tiE;jd of fire covers proper authority by the commander of a
a given water area. guard at the close of each period of duty. 1
Abbrev: gpmt guardroom, quarters occupied by the

gr reg, graves registration. guard during its term of sentinel duty.
Gr Reg Bn, graves reg::3tration bat- guard roster, record of the date of each
talion. tour of guard duty performed by soldiers
Gr Reg Co, graves registration com- in a unit.
pany. guerrilla warfare. See partisan warfare. !
GS, general staff. guide, 1. person who leads a unit or ve-

G /S, general support. l :hicle over a predetermined route or to
GSC, General Staff Corps. a sel'ected area.
GSS, general service schools. I 2. person placed at the side or front of a
guard, 1. individual or group set the formation to regulate the direction and
task of protecting an encampment, sta- rate of marching.
tion, or the like, from a surprise attack, 3. unit named as the one with respect ,
or to prevent the escape or hostile action to which other units regulate their
of prisoners. A guard keeps a system- positions.
atic watch over the place or persons guide center, command to regulate
entrU3ted to his care. An interior guard march on the center guide or center ele-
keeps watch within the limits of a post, ment of a formation.
camp, or station. guide flag, flag placed at a point to
2. act as a guard. show the position of a unit, direction or
3. curved piece of metal on a gun within route to be followed, a danger zone, etc.
which the trigger is located and which guide left, 1. command to regulate
protects the trigger. In this meaning, march on the left guide or the left ele-
usually called trigger guard. ment of a formation.
4. position in bayonet practice in which 2. order to the guide to move to the left
one holds a rifle with the bayonet pointed of a formation.
at the enemy's throat, ready for instant guide on me, order given by a battery
attack. Abbrev: gd commander for a unit to follow his
guard ammunition, ammunition with a movements. This unit then becomes
reduced propelling charge, used for the guide for other units.
guard purposes. guide right, 1. command to regulate
guard detail, men assigned to perform march on the right guide or right ele-
sentinel duty for a given period, usually ment of a formation.
one day. 2. order to the guide to move to the
guard duty, duty required of guards; right of a formation.
systematic watch over a particular place guides out, command given by the ad
-
or locality. jutant of a marching unit at a review,
guardhouse, building occupied by men parade, etc., at which the guides of the
detailed for sentinel duty. A guard- various subordinate units leave their
house may also be used as a place of con- places and run up to the guide positions
finement for soldiers. on the line along which the unit will halt
'uard mount, 1. ceremony at which the and form for the parade.
rr1g n
guides post 129 gunnery personnel
guidee post, command given by the ad- gun emplacement, firing location of a
jutant of a unit at a review, parade, etc., gun together with necessary installa-
at which the guides of the subordinate tions, such as camouflage, ammunition
d-
units resume their proper places in line. supply, etc.

tc.,
The command is given after all the gun group, major pam of a gun, con-
marching elements have reached, and sidered as a unit distinct from its mount.
e
ne.
halted on, the line of guides from which gun hoist, device placed near the
d
the review begins. breech of a gun for lifting powder and
ch
guidon (GUY DON), 1. flag, streamer, projectiles.
or pennant, carried by Army units for gun junction box, container for the con-
identification. It is usually cut swal- nections of the wires and cables from the
low-tailed. data transmission system, the power sys-
2. soldier who carries the guidon. tem, indicawrs, etc., on an individual
gun, 1. any firearm; especially, a can- gun.
non that has a relatively long barrel, gun lever, pivoted ann on a disappear-
low angle of fire, and high muzzle ve- ing carriage by means of which the gun
locity. Guns are classified according to is raised into firing position.
o
their method of loading, angle of fire, gun mount, carriage, tripod, or other
or tactical use. support holding a gun.
2. ihoot with a gun. Abbrev: g gunner, 1. person who operates a gun,
guaboat, small warship having a shallow such as a machine-gun operator or a
ow
draft. A gunbqat is usually unarmored. member of an artillery gun crew.

gun book, log that records the history 2. noncommissioned officer who does
d.
of the operations and inspections of a the actual laying of a gun. Abbre1': gnr
particular gun. gunner's mate, rating of an enli.3ted
rt-
gun car, railroad car used for transport- man in the Navy or in the Army Trans-
ing cannon. port Service; petty officer who has cer-
gu carriage, mobile or fixed support tain duties in the firing and maintenance
for a gun. It sometimes includes the of a ship's battery.
.
elevating and traversing mechanisms. gunner's quadrant, instrument with a

Sometimes called carriage. graduated scale, used in range adjust-
gun chart, part of a battery chart that ment. It measures the angle of eleva-
gives; firing data and firing history for a tion of the gun. Also called quadrant.
a
g
single gun. gunner's rule, method of determining
gu11cotton, explosive made by treating safe firing range over the heads of
cotton with nitric and sulphuric acids; friendly troops when the range to the
ec- nitrocotton. Guncotton is used to carry target is 900 yards or less.

the flame to the burster in some projec- gunnery, practical handling of guns.
tiles, and in electric priming devices. Gunnery includes the study of the flight
t
Guncotton is also used in making cer- of projectiles and the technical problems
n
tain high-grade smokeless powders. It involved in firing.

is a nitrocellulose with a high nitrogen gunnery officer, officer in an artillery
content. battalion who is responsible for the work
gun cover, covering that protects a of the fire-direction center of the bat-
gun from dirt and weather. talion. He supervises the work prelimi-
gun crew, group of soldiers that oper- nary to firing, such as the preparation
ate and service a gun. of firing data, construction of the firing
e
gun deflection board. See deflection chart, computation of corrections, and

and
board. determination of all elements required

gun difference, difference between the by the battalicn commander for effective
range from a given gun to the target and control of all batteries of the battalion.
the range from the directing point to gunnery personnel, personnel that car-
the target. # ry out the work of the fire-direction
gun displacement, 1. distance from a center of an artillery battalion in prepar-
gun to the directing point or the base ing firing data and determining other
piece of a battery. elements required by the battalion for
2. movement of a gun to a new firing centralized control of the tire of its
on
position. batt~ries,
Orlg1nal rrom
unt.
gun operational control gyro-stabilizer
gun operational control, control over or swinging gun. It is used in combat
the position of barrage balloons by the to check the range and accuracy of fire.
regional antiaircraft artillery com- gun slide, 1. portion of a gun which
mander, so as not to interfere with anti- rests on the cradle guides.
aircraft artillery fire. 2. part of a plotting and relocating board
gun parallax, difference in azimuth be- mechanism.
tween. the line from the directing point gun sling, strap attached to a rifle or
to the target and the line from the gun carbine to be placed over a man's shoul-
to the target. der to sustain the weight of the firearm
gun p~k, ground occupied by battery on the march and to hold it steady
pieces in garrison, camp, or bivouac. when being fired. Also called sling.
gun pointer, member of a gun crew gun-target line, imaginary straight line I
who points the gun in direction. from a gun to a target.

gun pointer control, fire control by the gunwale (GUN ul), upper edge of a
pointer of each individual gun, especial- ponton or small boat.
ly in antiaircraft fire. The pointer gun wave, compression wave or reac-
estimates the proper lead, and follows tion of the air in front of the muzzle of a
the target by means of tracer bullets gun after firing; muzzle wave.
or by the use of forward area sights. guy pin, peg driven into the ground to
gun pointer's platform, place oh a large secure a tent rope or guy wire.
cannon where the gun pointer stands. guy rope, rope fastened to a peg in the I
gun pointer's shield, metal sheet that ground to steady a tent; anchored rope
protects the gun pointer. used to steady a structure.
gun pointing data. See firing data. gyro compass. See gyroscopic compass.
gunpowder. See black powder. gyro control, 1. gyroscopic unit of an
gun rack. See arms rack. automatic pilot.
gun rail, track for machine-gun car- 2. gyroscopic device for maintaining the 1
riage mounts that extends around the steady position of a structural unit,
body of a scout car or a similar open, such as the device that steadies a gun
armored vehicle. in a moving and pitching tank or the
gun section, . 1. in field artillery, sub- _ device that reduces the pitch and roll
division of a battery consisting of a gun of a ship. In this meaning, also called
and caisson with proper personnel and gyro-stabilizer.
equipment. gyro horizon, aircraft instrument that
2. in coast artillery, one gun in its em- provides an artificial horizon, used to
placement, with assigned personnel and check the level of flight.
necessary equipment. gyropilot. See automatic pilot.
3. in armored command, one of the three gyroplane. See autogyro.
sections constituting the reconnaissance gyroscope, heavy-rimmed wheel kept
platoon of an armored reconnaissance revolving at high speed, which resists
company. A gun section consists of a change in position. It is used to main-
self-propelled assault gun and a half- tain stability or direction in many de-
track ammunition carrier. vices, such as airplane instruments and
gun sited, covered area where guns and ship stabilizers.
other artillery materiel are stored and gyroscopic compass, navigation instru-
inspected.. ment in aircraft or seacraft that depends
gun shelter, bulletproof blind or shield upon the principle of a gyroscope's re- .
used to mask openings in permanent sistance to change in position to indicate
fortifications for guns when the gun is a set direction; gyro compass. The di
not in firing position. In the field, gun rectional gyro in an aircraft is a type of
shelter is a cover that conceals and pro- gyroscopic compass.
tects a gun position. gyro-stabilizer, gyroscopic device for
gun shield, armor plate attached to a maintaining the steady position of a
gun carriage to protect the mechanism structural unit, such as the device that
and the crew from enemy fire. steadies a gun in a moving and pitching
gun-sight aiming point camera, small tank or the device that reduces the
motion-picture camera mounted in air- pitch and roll of a ship. Also called
craft near the siP:hting station of a fixed ifyro control.
rr1g1nal fro
h 131 hand arms
h, 1. heavy. 2. horse. the rear for driving. It is used to carry
H, mustard. personnel and weapons.
hachure, short line in shading, used on half-track vehicle, combination wheeled
n
maps to show differences in heights of and track-laying vehicle, usually steered
of
land. Hachures are drawn in the direc- . by an ordinary front-wheel arrange-
-
tion of slope. Hachures are now less ment, and propelled from the tractor-
commonly used than contour lines. tra~k arrangement behind the front
half cock, position of the hammer of a wheels; half-track.
a
gun when it is held by the first cocking halt, 1. command to stop any proceed-
g
notch, with the trigger locked and the ing, especially to stop marching.
gun relatively safe. 2. period of rest in a march.
half left, 1. direction, 45 degrees to the 3. bring to a stop; bring to a halt.
left of the original front, in which a sol- halt area, place where a command is
he
l-
dier faces in executing the command halted to assemble, eat, reorganize, rest,
"Left oblique, march," or "Half left, or refuel. .
face." halt order, order in which the time,
2. preparatory command to face in a place, and other details of a halt are
direction 45 degrees to the left of the specified. Halt orders are sometimes
original front. This movement is done included as part of march orders, but
from the position of attention. may be issued separately after a march
r
half-loaded, in automatic arms, belt or starts.

magazine inserted and receiver charged, halving, division of the field of view, ob-
ged,
but without the first cartridge actually served from a coincidence type range
in the chamher. finder, into two equal portions, one the
the
half-mast. See half-staft". exact mirror image of the other.
half right, 1. direction, 45 degrees to the halving adjustment, adjustment of a
nd
right of the original front, in which a coincidence type range finder so that the
soldier faces in executing the command two sections of the field of view, divided
"Right oblique, march," or "Half right, by the halving line, are exact mirror
face." images of each other.
2. preparatory command to face in a halving line, line that divides the two
e
direction 45 degrees to the right of the parts of the field of view of a coincidence
out
original front. This movement is done type range finder into exactly equal mir-
l from the position of attention. ror images of each other.
half-roll, turn through 180 degrees about hammer, part of the firing mechanism
the longitudinal axis of an aircraft; roll of a gun that strikes the firing pin or
from normal level position to inverted percussion cap and fires the gun; percus-
position or from inverted to normal. sion hammer.
half snap roll, acrobatic flight maneu- hammer gun, gun with an outside, visi-
ver consisting of a quick half-roll and
e
ble hammer.
a reversing of direction. It is made by hammer head stall, airplane maneuver
pulling back the stick and at the same in which the plane is first pulled almost
k
time applying full rudder in the direc- up to the vertical and held there. Just
s
tion of the roll. before it begins to stall, the full rudder
half-staff, position of a flag lowered is applied in the direction in which the
about halfway down its staff as a mark pilot wants the plane to fall~ until an
of respect for the dead or as a distress almost vertical dive results. Then re-
signal; half-mast. covery is made to normal flight.
e-
half step, 1. preparatory command in hammerless gun, gun with a wholly
close order d~ill for troops to take half inclosed hammer and firing mechanism.
steps. hammer pin, pin that holds the ham-
2. step 15 inches long in quick-time mer in its correct operating position in
marching and 18 inches long in dou hie- a gun, and upon which the hammer
n
time marclnng. turns.

half-track. See half-track vehicle. hand arms, all weapons such as sub-
Abbrev: h-trk machine guns, automatic pistols, re-
volvers, or swords, that can be carried
ed
red
half-track carrier, motor vehicle that
has wheels in front and short tracks in and used by ha!ld; hand weapons.
r1g1na 1 ro
i I
d-
hand grenade 132 harmonization
hand grenade, small bomb, thrown with hangfire test, test to determine uni-
the hand, that explodes on impact orb~ formity and promptness of fire of a type
a time fuze. Hand grenades are divided of ammunition.
into three general types: fragmentation, hangwire, length of wire connecting the
those containing a chemical filler, and fuze assembly of an aerial flare or bomb
those designed for training or practice~ to the structure of an aircraft. The
handguard, wooden part of a shoulder wire removes the safety and arms the
gun which covers the barrel beyond the fuze after the flare or bomb has fallen
breech mechanism. the wire's length from the aircraft; in
handling line, any of the ropes attached some flares it opens a parachute or
to a balloon or other lighter-than-air stabilizing sleeve.
aircraft, with which -ground crews haul bar, harbor.
down or maneuver the craft. harass, annoy and disturb the enemy by
hand-operating device, mechanism on raids, gas, continual fire, or other dis-
certain automatic firing weapons that tracting operations. \
permits. the piece to be prepared by harassing agent, chemical agent, such
hand for firing. as irritating gas or smoke, that .forces
hand reel, hand-operated reel for trans- troops to wear masks and so cuts down
porting and handling telephone and tele- their efficiency. A harassing agent pro-
graph wire in the field. duces irritating effects only, while a
H & RP, holding and reconsignment casualty agent is powerful enough to
point. cause death.
H&S, headquarters and service. harassing concentration, mtntmum
hand salute, salute made by smartly quantity of a chemical agent, per unit
raising the right hand till the tip of the volume of air, that forces the wearing of
forefinger touches the lower part of the gas masks.
cap, with the palm to the left, fingers ex- harassing fire, occasional gunfire de-
tended and joined, followed by smartly livered to annoy thEt enemy, to keep his
dropping the arm to the side. A hand troops unable to rest, and to lower
salute is the prescribed salute with the enemy morale and efficiency.
hand when a rifle is not carried. harassing tactics, tactics intended to
H&S Btry, headquarters and service annoy and hinder rather than to destroy,
battery. such as repeated minor attacks, as in
H&S Co, headquarters and service ''hit and run" tactics.
company. harbor, 1. place of shelter for ships.
handset, telephone in which the trans- 2. place of shelter or bivouac for tanks . .
mitter, receiver, and connecting handle 3. give shelter to. Abbrev: bar
form a single piece. Harbor Boat Service, Army vessels, ex-
handspike, handle attached to the trail clusive of overseas transports, and their
of certain guns for ease in handling. personnel, used at various ports and in
H&S Tr, headquarters and service land waterways for the movement of
troop. troops and supplies, target practice,
hand weapon. See hand arms. dispatch service, and rescue work. The
handwheel, control wheel on guns, Harbor Boat Service is a branch of the
searchlights, sound-locator systems, etc., Transportation Corps. Abbrev: HBS
used in adjusting azimuth or traverse, harbor craft. Abbrev: har eft
and elevation or range. harbor craft company. Abbrev: Har Cft
hang, lock the receiver or bolt of a gun Co
in an open position. harbor defense, administrative and
hangar, structure in which aircraft are tactical Army command with the duty
housed. of defending a limited coastal area, es
hanger, part of a bayonet scabbard by pecially against attacks from the sea.
which it may be attached to the belt. Abbrev: HD
hangfire, temporary failure or delay in harbor defense command. Abbrev: HDC
the action of a primer, igniter, or propel- bar eft, harbor craft.
ling charge. For a few seconds it can- bar eft co, harbor craft company.
not be distinguished from a complete harmonization, adjustment of a gun in
failure, or misfire. relation to its siihts so that the curving
I I I
U I ERSil OF C LIFO~NI
harness 133 headquarters battery
path of its projectile meets the straight HC smoke mixture. See HC mixture.
line of sight at the target. HD, harbor defense.
harness, assembly by which a para- HDC, harbor defense command.
ht
chute is attached to its wearer, or to h-dr, horse-drawn.
objects to be dropped from an airplane. HE, high explosive.
hasty crossing, crossing a stream by head, 1. first element in a column in
swimming, fording, or using rafts put order of march or advance.
e.
together on the spot. 2. curved forward part up to, and iP--

hasty field fortification, fox hole, trench, cluding, the pointed end of a projectile.
gun emplacement, or obstacle con- In this meaning, also called ogive.
ch,
structed under fire or under threat of 3. flat circular part of the base of a
immediate attack. A has!y field forti- cartridge case; the covering area sur-
fication is generally less elaborate than rounding the face of the primer pocket.
a deliberate field fortification, which is 4. small part that holds the cylinder on
an
constructed more carefully and not its axis in a revolver.

s
under fire or threat of attack. head and chest set, telephone set con-
hasty intrenchment, simple intrench- sisting of a light-weight, chest-type
ment constructed under fire or under transmitter and a single earpiece re-
threat of immediate attack. Common ceiver, equipped to plug into a circuit.
typ~ of hasty intrenchment are the heading, 1. direction in which a ship or
skirmisher's trench, fox hole, improved aircraft is pointed, with reference to a
d shell hole, and shallow connecting trench. true, magnetic, or compass north.
nch.
hasty mine field, field of mines quick- 2. official first part of a message appear-
ly laid as protection against an enemy ing before the m:1in text.
y
attack expected at any moment. One head nurse, officer in the Army Nurse
laid more carefully and slowly is called Corps whQ has a rank equivalent to that
a deliberate mine field. of a second lieutenant. She acts as the
d
tch,
hasty profile, rough cross-section sketch, responsible nursing head of a ward.
w-
constructed from a contour map, show- head of column, first element of a
ing the comparative elevations of the column in order of march.
principal high points of the terrain. headquarters, 1. place from which the
nt.
hasty sling. See hasty sling adjustment. chief or com man ding officer of an or-
hasty sling adjustment, rapid method ganization issues orders and conducts
y
of adjusting a gun sling to help steady administrative and tactical work.

a rifle while shooting; hasty sling. The 2. group of officers and enlisted men
sling is passed under and behind the left forming the directing and coordinating
left
ss
t.
arm. This adjustment is quicker but less he~ of a tactical or administrative unit,
steady than the loop sling adjustment. usually including the unit commanderF
-
hasty trench, shallow tr.ench usually his staff, and attached personnel, that
dug under enem~ fire or threat of im- performs duties in relation to adminis-
mediate attack. tration, intelligence, communications~
nvas
haversack, principal part of the field and other p.ecessary activities. In this
he
pack of a soldier, consisting of the canvas meaning, also called command element.
er-
case in which the field equipment of the Abbrev: hq

soldier is packed; knapsack. The haver- headquarters and service. Abbrev: H&S
to
sack has shoulder straps and harness to or Hq & Serv

.
support the pack on the back. headquarters and service battery.
HBS, Harbor Boat Service. Abbrev: H&S Btry or Hq & Serv Btry
HC, hydrocarbon type smoke mixture. headquarters and service company, in
ut
HC mixture, chemical agent used for some branches, a single company in
screening; HC smoke mixture. It pro- which the functions of a headquarters
and
duces a gray smoke, ordinarily without company and a service company are
t
harmful effects. HC mixture is the combined. Abbrcv: H&S Co or Hq &

standard smoke producer for candles and Serv Co
pots in the Army. The main ingredient headquarters and service troop.
of HC mixture is hexachlorethane. Abbrev: H&S Tr or Hq & Serv Tr
Symbol: HC headquarters battery, administrative
HCO, horizontal control operator. and tactical element of an artillery
r1g1nal ~rom
headquarters company 134 hedgehog
battalion or larger unit, with personnel millimeter howitzer is classed as heavy
used for purposes of administration, in- artillery. Other classes are light artil-
telligence, communications, and other lery and medium artillery.
necessary activities. 2. artillery units that use such pieces.
headquarters company, administrative heavy bombardment airplane, bombing
and tactical element of a battalion or airplane designed to carry a heavy bomb
larger unit, with personnel used for pur- load and sufficient fuel for long-range
poses of administration, intelligence, bombing operations; heavy bomber.
communications, and other necessary heavy bombardment aviation, military
activities. aviation organized to attack surface ob-
headquarters detachment, headquarters jectives with bombs. Its equipment is
personnel assigned to administrative designed to carry heavy bomb loads to
duties. great distances, and to conduct long-
headquarters net, radio communication range reconnaissance over land and sea.
network between various headquarters heavy bomber. See heavy bombard-
units, especially between air support and ment airplane.
higher air headquarters. heavy bridge train. Abbrev: H v Br Tn
headquarters section, section organical- heavy-case bomb, type of high explo-
ly assigned to a headquarters for pur- sive bomb in which the weight of the
poses of administration, intelligence, container is large in proportion to the
communications, and other necessary weight of the bursting charge. Heavy-
activities. case bombs weigh from 250 to 2000
headquarters squadron, adm.inistrative pounds.
element of a group or larger unit in the heavy machine gun, classification of
Army Air Forces assigned to the head- machine guns including the .30-caliber
quarters of the unit for purposes of in- water-cooled machine gun, and all .50-
telligence, reconnaissance, administra- caliber machine guns. It is often used,
tion, and communications. It is similar however, to refer to the .30-caliber
to the headquarters company of an in- water-cooled machine gu.n, specifically,
fantry battalion, etc. in order to distinguish it from other
headquarters troop, administrative and . machine guns of the same caliber.
tactical element of a cavalry battalion heavy maintenance unit, repair shop
or larger unit, with personnel. used for with personnel trained for major over
purposes of administration, intelligence, haul and repair work.
communications, and other activities. heavy marching order, complete indi-
headset, telephone set in which both vidual equipment for service in the field,
receiver and transmitter may ba at- carried on the person.
tached to the head. heavy shellproof shelter, shelter that
head space, distance between the base can protec~ against continuous born-
of a cartridge fully seated in the chamber bardment by shells of 8-inch or larger
and the face of the bolt in a gun, espe- caliber. r
cially a machine gun. Too little or too heavy tank, tank of over 40 tons in
much head space can cause serious weight. Heavy tanks also carry the
trouble and jamming. greatest armament and armor. Tanks
headway, interval of time between are usually classified as light (up to 25
individual vehicles or units in a march tons), medium (25 to 40 tons), and
or procession, measured from head to heavy (over 40 tons).
head as they pass a given point. heavy weapons, all weapons, such as
heavier-than-air aircraft, any aircraft mortars, howitzers, guns, and heavy
with weight greater than the weight of machine guns, which are usually part of
the air it displaces, supported in the air infantry equipment.
by aerodynamic forces. Examples are heavy weapons company.
airplanes, seaplanes, flying boats, and Abbrev: Hv Wpn Co
amphibians. hedgehog, portable obstacle made ol
heavy. Abbrev: hv or h three poles or logs crossed and bound at
heavy artillery, 1. artillery pieces of their centers to make a framework of
the largest calibers, usually 155 milli- hour-glass shape, the whole laced witn
meters or larger. Sometimes the 105 barbed wire.
Orlg1nal fro
heel 135 historical ride
heel, upper comer of the butt of a rifle creased. Mortars deliver high-angle
stock held in firing position. fire.
heeling error, error or deviation in the high-burst ranging, adjustment of gun-
reading of an aircraft compass intro- fire by observation of air bursts; air-
e
e
duced when the aircraft is not in level burst ranging.
flying position. high entanglement. See high wire en-
height finder, optical instrument used tanglement.
to find the height of aerial targets. high explosive, any explosive that goes
There are two general types, called ster- off or burns so rapidly that it produces a
eoscopic and coincidence range finders. shattering effect; detonating explosive.
er-
height of burst, vertical angle between A high explosive is therefore suitable as

rs.
the line from the gun to the base of the a bursting charge in bombs or projec-
target and the line from the gun to the tiles, while a low explosive is suitable
n
he
e
point of burst. for use in propelling charges in guns, or
height of site, altitude of a gun above for ordinary blasting. It is commonly
some standard lev'el, such as sea level. called HE. Abbrev: HE
el. helicopter, heavier-than-air aircraft high explosive shell, projectile with a
whose support is obtained from the comparatively large burster of high -ex-
thrust of one or more power-rotated, plosive, used against personnel and
horizontal propellers. A helicopter can materiel.
n
move vertically up or down or remain high frequency. Abbrev: hf

motionless in the air. It can land or high oblique, aerial photograph taken
take off without a run. at a slant so that it includes the horizon
g
heliograph, mirror device for signaling line. A high oblique differs from a low
e.
by means of the sun's rays; heliotrope. oblique, which is an aerial photograph
heliotrope. See heliograph. taken at a slant not great enough to in-
helium, light gas used in balloons and clude the horizon line.
e-
dirigibles. It is safer than hydrogen be- high order detonation, complete and
cause it will not burn. instantaneous explosion.
d-
helmet, any regulation protective head- high port, position in which a rifle is
mb
gear. A steel hat worn as protection carried while a soldier is charging or
against shrapnel, light bullets, and bomb jumping. The rifle is carried diagonally
fragments is a helmet. across the body with left wrist in front
ar-
aviator's helmet, _warm leather or of left shoulder, right wrist near the
cloth headgear, often provided with ear- right hip.
phones, used in aircraft. high-pressure test ammunition, ammu-
es
crash helmet, heavy padded helmet nition with an especially powerful pro-
worn as protection against head injuries pelling charge. High-pressure test am-
in tanks or aircraft. munition is used in proof firing only.
helmet liner, stiff fabric headgear fit- highway. Abbrev: hwy
ting inside a steel helmet, with an ad- highway transportation officer.
justable band for the head. Abbrev: HTO
-
hexachlorethane (HEKS a klor ETH ayn), high wire entanglement, obstacle con-
practically harmless chemical - agent, structed of barbed wire crisscrossed be-
seldom used by itself in chemical war- tween a series of stakes five or six feet
fare, but frequently mixed with other high; high entanglement.
substances, such as zinc compounds, historical record, 1. detailed, docu-
and used to produce smoke. It is a mented history of a military unit or
main ingredient in HC mixture. establishment, including the record of
Symbol: HC
r
its important activities. In this mean-

hf, high frequency. ing, also called history.
-
H-hour, hour set for an attack or other 2. record, with costs, of all major con-
axi- operation to begin. Also called zero struction work, alterations, or additions,
e-
hour. at an Army installation.
-
high-angle fire, fire delivered at eleva- historical ride, mounted exercise in mil-
tions greater than the elevation of maxi- itary tactics in which a historical battle
mum range; fire the range of which de- or campaign is studied on the actual
creases as the angle of elevation is in- ground where it took place.
n-
1g1 I ro
es
historica! walk 136 horizontal clock system
historical walk, exercise in military tac- ally used to carry message8 in the field.
tics, made on foot, in which a. historical The term carrier pigeon is frequently,
battle or campaign is studied on the though Incorrectly, used to refer to this
actual ground where it took J: lace. kind of pigeon.
history, detailed, documented history honor, 1. formal recognition of dis-
of a military unit or establishm~?nt, in- tinguished position, rank, service, or
. eluding the record of its important achievement.
activities. Also called historical record. 2. pay respect; give some mark of honor
hit, 1. impact on the target. or recognition of achievement.
2. strike a target. honorable discharge, form of discharge
"hit and run" tactics, repeated at- given to a soldier whose service has been
tacks and withdrawals, in which the at- honest and faithful, and who has been
tacking force refuses to stay and fight given a character rating of "good,"
out an engagement. "Hit and run'' "very good," or "excellent"; white dis-
tactics are intended to harass the enemy. charge.
HL, lewisite-mustard mixture. honor graduate, graduate of a college,
HN, nitrogen mustards. university, or military school, who, as a
holdfast, series of pickets driven into member of the Reserve Officers' Train-
the ground and used for anchoring a ing Corps, has a record of scholastic
line. The pickets are driven one behind excellence, leadership, good character,
the other, in line with the pull from the and aptitude for military service. He is
cable, and they are lashed to each other entitled to be considered for appoint-
for mutual support. ment in the Regular Army.
hold file, file where documents are filed honor guard. See guard of honor.
temporarily, waiting for further action. hood, I. protective cover for the fuze of
Also called suspense file. a projectile.
holding and reconsignment point, large 2. separate upper part of the roof of a
rail or motor center where cars or trucks tent.
are held until their destination, routing, 3. metal covering for a motor vehicle
and proper time of departure have been engine.
determined. Abbrev: H & RP horizontal base, accurately located and
holding attack, supporting attack made measured line between two observation
to hold the enemy in check, divert his stations, used in calculating the position
attention from the mnin attacking force, of a target.
and prevent his reinforcing his troops horizontal base method, system of lo-
along the line of main attack; containing cating the position of a target by sight-
action; secondary attack. ing from two observation stations lo-
holding element. See holding force. cated at opposite ends of a measured
holding force, force assigned to holding and located base line; horizontal base
a place or position; force that carries out system. With the angles between the
a holding attack; holding element. base line and the two lines to the target
holding garrison, that part of a de- established, the distance as well as the
fending force charged with the imme- direction from the observation posts to
diate defense of the main line of re- the target can be exactly calculated.
sistance. Also called t'vo-station meth'od.
bolster. leather or weh case for a pistol horizontal base system. See horizontal
or revolver, designed to be fastened to base method.
the belt or saddle. horizontal bombing. See level flight
horne parole, release of a prisoner on bombardment.
parole from any disciplinary barracks to horizontal clock system, system used
work in a place of his own choosing. in describing the direction of the wind
horne port, War Department port at by reference to the figures on an imagi-
which the headquarters of a line of nary clock dial. The firing point is con-
transports is located. sidered the center of the clock and the
horne station, post, camp, or station target is at 12 o'clock. A 3 o'clock wind
named as the permanent headquarters comes di~ectly from the right. A 9
of a unit or individual. o'clock wind comes directly from the
homing pigeon, breed of pigeon gener- left.
r1ginal fro
horizontal control 137 howler
horizontal control, system of geographic contrasted with emergency or first-aid
points whose positions in a horizontal treatment administered at a hospital.
plane are accurately known, used in 2. placing a man under medical care in a
hic
constructing a map or chart. hospital.

horizontal control operator. hospitalization unit, complete and self-
Abbrev: HCO contained hospital unit able to function
horizontal fire. See terrestrial fire. independently; one of the two identical
horizontal range, distance from the gun units that, with a mobile surgical unit,
to a point level with the gun, and di- make up a surgical hospital.
un
rectly above or below the target. Hori- hospital ship, large vessel completely
zontal range is often used in calculations equipped to treat the sick and wounded.
-
for antiaircraft fire. hospital station, former name for a

ons
horn, 1. bell-shaped collector for pick- clearing station.

-
ing up and concentrating sound waves hospital train, specially equipped and
s
received by a sound locator. staffed railroad train for evacuating the
2. short lever on the rudder, elevator, or sick and wounded.
or
aileron of an aircraft to which the con-:- hospital transport, specially equipped
r trol cable or rod is connected. and staffed vessel for evacuating the sick
hom collector, one of the horns or bell- and wounded.
l-
shaped collectors for picking up sound hostage, enemy person held as a pledge
d
on a sound locator. that certain promises or agreements will

horse. A bbrev: h be kept.
horse artillery, light mobile artillery in hostess unit, hostess and her assist-
ses
which the carriages are drawn by horses ants, such as the cafeteria director, rec-
or mules and the cannoneers are reational assistant, a.nd others necessary
mounted on horses. to conduct a service club.
horse-drawn. Abbrev: h-dr hour angle, angle at the pole between
m
horse-drawn artillery, light or medium the meridian of the observer and the
artillery moved by teams of draft hour circle passing through a given
horses. celestial b.ody.
hosp, hospital. hour angle method, locating a heaven-
hospital, medical establishment for the ly body by finding the angle between its
e
care and treatment of military person- meridian and that of the observer.
nel. The chief kinds are stationary or ho.ur circle, any circle of the celestial
or
fixed hospitals, including general hos- sphere passing through the poles, espe-
pitals and station hospitals, and field or cially one of the earth's meridians of
mobile hospitals, including evacuation longitude projected on the celestial

hospitals and surgical hospitals. sphere. '
Abbrev: hosp housewife, small case containing nee-
hospital boat, boat equipped for the dles, thread, thimble, and scissors, some-
transportation and temporary care of times carried by soldiers for use in
or
ill or wounded personnel. mending clothing.
s-
hospital center, administrative and how, howitzer.
clinical organization consisting of two or howitzer, artillery piece with a medium-
more general hospitals and a convales- length barrel, between that of a mortar
o cent camp grouped together. and a gun in length, operating with a
hospital council, three senior officers high angle of fire (as high as 65 degrees
present and on duty at a hospital, who of elevation) and using a medium muz-
are charged with administering the zle velocity. The high angle of fire
hospital funds. allows a howitzer to reach targets hidden
hospital dietitian. See dietitian. from flat trajectory guns. Abbrev: how
d-
hospital fund, fund which every hos- ho\vitzer carriage, wheeled mount or
pital maintains for the purpose of feed- chassis upon which a howitzer is
ses
ing personnel and patients and for mounted.
as providing recreation. howler, electrical device, similar to an
d
hospitalization, 1. medical care and automobile horn, placed at gun positions
treatment at a hospital for serious cases as a firing signal in a time-interval sys-
na
or those needing care for a long time, as tem of tracking a moving target.
f-
1na
on
al
hq 138 hygroscopic
hq, headquarters. hv, heavy.
Hq & Serv, headquarters and service. H vapor detector kit, apparatus for
Hq & Serv Btry, headquarters and ~esting air for the presence of mustard
service battery. gas.
Hq & Serv Co, headquarters and serv- Hv Br Tn, heavy bridge train.
ice company. Hv Wpn Co, heavy weapons com-
Hq & Serv Tr, headquarters and serv- pany.
ice troop. hwy, highway.
HTO, highway transportation officer. hydrocyanic acid. See prussic acid.
h-trk, half-track. Symbol: AC
hull, 1. body of a ship, exclusive of en- hydrogen, very light, colorless gas that
gines, superstructure, and masts. burns easily. It is used for in.flating
2. that part of the body of a flying boat balloons.
that supports the aircraft while it is rest- hydrogen sulfide, gas consisting of hy-
ing on water. drogen and sulfur chemically united. It
3. massive armored body of a tank, ex- is heavier than air and has an odor like
clusive of tracks, motor, turret, and ar- rotten eggs. It is irritating in small
mament. quantities, and poisonous when concen-
4. main structure of a rigid airship. trated. Although not used as a chemical
hull defilade, position taken by a com- agent, it -is produced in the bursting of
bat vehicle hi which the hull is hidden explosive projectiles and in some chem-
and only the fighting compartment is ex- ical processes.
posed to enemy fire or view; hull down. hydrographic map, map showing loca-
hull down. See hull defilade. tions, depths, and bottom contours of ,
hundred percent rectangle, rectangle bodies of water.
which .is expected to contain practically hydrophone, instrument for listening to
all of the points of impact of a group of sounds transmitted through water. A
shots fired with the same data. Its hydrophone is used in detecting sub-
length is eight probable errors in range marines.
and its width is eight probable errors in hygrograph, recording hygrometer; re-
1
direction; its center is the center of dis- cording instrument that measures the
persion. amount of moisture in the air.
hung bomb, bomb that accidentally re- hygrometer, instrument for measuring
mains attached to an airplane after re- the amount of moisture in the air.
lease from the bomb rack. hygroscopic, having a tendency to ab-
hung striker, defective striker of a gre- sorb and hold water, particularly mois-
nade fuze, which failed to strike the ture from the air. Glycerine is hygro-
primer and explode the grenade. scopic.
ng1 rr1ca I frorn

i. 139 impact
i, interceptor. primer is transmitted and intensified
I and I Report. See inventory and in- until it reaches and sets off the main
spection report. charge. An explosive bomb, projec-
lAS, indicated air speed. tile, etc., uses a similar series, called
IBH, initial beachhead. an explosive train.
IC, information center. igniting charge. See igniter.
identification, 1. special mark by which igniting fuze, type of grenade fuze which
personnel, organizations, or equipment ignites the filler through the medium of
h
are identified. a small quantity of black powder.
nt
2. identifying personnel, equipment, igniting mixture, explosive mixture used
etc., from dis~inctive markings or other as a fuze in pyrotechnic signals.
means. igniting powder. See igniter.
er
identification group, number assigned igniting primer, charge of black powder
to each unit of the Army as a means of that carries the fire from a friction prim-
d
identifying the unit to friendly aircraft. er or electric primer to the propelling

of
The unit identifies itself to friendly air- charge, in certain types of ammunition.
.
craft by laying out identification panels ignition cartridge, igniter element of the
propelling charge of some types of pro-
-
ls
in patterns that represent the assigned
ed
numbers of the unit. jectiles, consisting of an igniter within
identification light, colored light car- a case or shell that is inserted in the base
ried on an aircraft so that it can be of the projectile.
identified at night. 1/1, inventory and inspection report.
identification mark, distinctive mark- illuminating light, a light used in a sea-
ing, especially on an aircraft or vehicle, coast defense system to light up targets
e,
that identifies its nationality, type, so that they can be tracked and fired
manufacturer, etc. on. An illuminating light in a seacoast
identification panel, strip of cloth or defense system corresponds to a carry
to
other material used by ground troops to light in an antiaircraft system.
identify their unit and to show their illuminating shell, projectile with a time
s position to friendly aircraft. The panels fuze that sets off a parachute flare at
e
are usually laid out in a group of three any desired height. An illuminating
up.
numbers, called an identification group. shell is used for lighting up an area.

identification panel code, system of illumination, 1. lighting up an objective
in
code numbers that may be displayed in by a flare or a searcJ.llight beam.

panels to identify a ground unit to 2. keepil).g a light on an aircraft target.
friendly aircraft. Each unit uses a immediate action letter, letter calling
group of numbers, usually a group of for immediate atte~tion and prompt

three, called an identification group. action. Tpe letter is prepared on paper
nal identification tag, metal disk with the that has a red border and the words
m
name, serial number, and other personal "IMMEDIATE ACTION" in red capi-
e
information about the soldier to whom tal letters at the top and bottom of the
eck
it is issued. Two identification tags are sheet. This type of letter has now been
worn on a chain or cord around the neck replaced by messageform.
and are used to identify the wearer. Immelmann turn, maneuver in which
IG, inspector general. an airplane makes a half loop, then re-
te
IGD, Inspector General's Department. sumes its normal level position by mak-
igloo, dome-shaped storage place for ing a half-roll. An Immelmann turn is
er, munitions, made of reinforced concrete used to gain altitude while changing to
n
and earth. the opposite direction.
and
igniter, charge, usually of black powder, immobilize, keep in one place; keep
er.
used to set off the explosive charge in from moving; hold opposing forces by
some types of projectiles, grenades, and tactical threat or action.
nt
mines; igniting charge; igniting powder. immunization register, form on which
lls,
The igniter is fired by the primer and are recorded all immunizationa or inocu-
then sets off the explosive charge. lations given to a soldier.
igniter train, step-by-step arrangement lm pact, blow; atriking of one thing
of charges in pyrotechnic bombs, shells, againat another; the atrikiq of a pro-
etc., by which the initial fire from the jectile or bomb on the target or groUDd.
r1g1nal ~ro
hich
of
impact, angle of 140 indctd
impact, angle of. See angle of Impact. 2. in operation, as an antiaircraft gun or
impact area, area in which projectiles searchlight.
or bombs strike or are expected to inactivate, make a unit inactive; with
strike. draw all personnel and equipment from
impact fuze, fuze that is set in action a unit without intending to replace them
by the striking of a projectile or bomb at once.
against the target; percussion fuze. The inactive, not in condition or position
principal types of impact fuzes are: for active service; not mobilized.
supersensitive, that is set in action by a inactive list, list of retired Army per-
very light impact; superquick, that is set sonnel; list of officers and men who may
in action immediately upon impact; be recalled to active duty in case of war
instantaneous, or non delay, that is set or emergency.
to burst the projectile before penetration Inactive Reserve, grouping of Army
or ricochet; delay, that is set in action at officers who are retired from active serv-
a definite time after impact. An impact ice because of age, length of service, or
fuze differs from a time fuze, which is physical defect not their own fault.
set in action at a definite time after fir- inactive status, being officially con-
ing, but independently of whether it nected with the military service, but
strikes a target or not. Impact fuzes are not actively serving in it.
also classified by the position of the fuze incendiary, 1. any chemical agent that
in the projectile into two types: base produces enougf1 heat to set anything
detonating fuze and point detonating on fire.
fuze. 2. aeri::l bomb which, upon striking, re-
impedimenta, military and personal leases chemical agents that start fires.
supplies and equipment that are taken 3. used to start fires, such as an incendi-
into the field with the troops, but not ary bomb. Oil and thermit are common
into actual combat. These articles are incendiary agents. An incendiary gre-
called impedimenta only when they ac- nade bursts upon striking and releases
company a troop movement. chemical agents that start fires. There
impermeable protective clothing, cloth- is also incendiary ammunition, an in-
ing that has been chemically treated so cendiary projectile, etc.
that it resists penetration by chemical Incidence, angle of. See angle of inci
liquids as well as by vapors and gases. dence.
It is more effective than permeable pro- incinerator, place or furnace for burn-
tective clothing, which gives protection ing the waste material of a camp or
only against vapors and gases. station.
impreg, impregnating. incl, 1. inclosure. 2. inclusive.
impregnate, cover or soak something incld, include.
with a chemical substance; saturate with inclinometer, instrument for measuring
a protective substance that will resist the angle that an aircraft makes .with
chemical agents. the horizontal; aircraft instrument that
impregnating. Abbrev: impreg indicates the attitude or tilt of an air-
impregnite, chemical' substance used on plane.
shoes, fabrics, etc., to make them resist- inclosure, thing inclosed; document that
. ant to chemical agents. is not part of a communication but is in-
impress, 1. seize by force for public use. cluded with it. An inclosure may ex-
2. force men to serve in the armed forces. plain, or may give evidence in support
Men are impressed in an emergency to of, information in the communication.
help defend the country. Abbrev: incl
impulse generator, part of the mecha- include. Abbrev: incld
nism of an aircraft machine gun that inclusive. Abbrev: incl
controls the action of the gun so that its increment, amount of powder added to,
shots are fired between the moving or taken away from, a propelling charge
blades of the propeller. Also called of separate-loading ammunition to allow
interrupter. for differences in range. Increments are
in action, 1. command to put a weapon, commonly packed in separate bags.
such as an antiaircraft gun or search- ind, indorsement.
light, in operation. indctd, inducted.
1-g al fro
indeterminate error 141 indorsement
indeterminate error' error in firing surface that hides the enemy target
which cannot be determined exactly. from direct view.
Index and Digest, monthly publication indirect observation, study of photo-
of the ~r ar Department that gives an graphs of terrain, etc., instead of visual
index of important letters and a brief observation of the ground itself, which
n
summary of official instructions, train- is direct observation.

ing publications, etc. indirect pointing. See indirect laying.
-
index error, difference betw.een an ac- indirect support, help given by aircraft
tual reading and the correct reading on to a combat unit. Indirect support in-
- a compass, scale, or other instrument. cludes cutting supply and communica-
on
index line, reference line on a measur- tion lines in the enemy's rear and de-
.
ing instrument. An index line is used as stroying enemy airplanes; direct support
r-
the starting point for readings. includes observation, transmission of

as
index map, map on which are indicated messages, and other particular tasks.
ed
the areas covered by a series of photo- indh, individual.
o-
graphs taken from an aircraft. An index individual. Abbrer: indiv
ex
map is usually one which shows the Individual Clothing and Equipment Re-
physical features of the area covered by cord, forn1 on which is kept an official
by the photographs. record of clothing and equipment issued
indicated air speed, air speed of an air- to, and turned in by, an enlisted man;
r-
craft as shown on an air-speed indicator. clothing and equipment record.

tor.
The indicated air speed is the instru- Individual Clothing Siip, temporary
ment reading uncorrected for variations form on which a soldier can draw an
of temperature, q,ir pressure, etc. issue of clothing and equipment. The
ns
Abbrev: lAS information on this form is later trans-

indicated altitude, height above sea ferred to the Individual Clothing and
level as shown by an altimeter. The Equipment Record.
n- indicated altitude is an uncorrected in- individual control, method of control-
strument reading. ling gunfire used, with machine guns.
indicator, 1. measuring or recording Individual control is control of the firing
instrument. of the gun by the gunner who aims,
2. pointer on a gage, dial, meter, etc. sights, and fires his gun himself.
g,
indicator-regulator, instrument which individual equipment, personal clothing
s-
shows firing data, such as fuze setting, and equipment belonging to a soldier;
azimuth, and elevation, that are trans- articles for his own use, such as clothing,
mitted by the fire control system of a weapons, shelter tent, which each soldier
gun. The gun is pointed in accordance carries or which he takes with him into
with the data provided by the in- the field.
r
strument. individual firing, firing of a gun by a

a
indirect communication, radio or other soldier on a range or in a firing area

communication that must go through a without any reference to other soldiers
nt.
relay point. Indirect communication firing there.
-
differs from direct communication, individual protection, means or equip-
which does not go through a relay point. ment adopted or available for the pro-
indirect fire, gunfire delivered at a tar- tection of the individual, such 88 a gas
get that cannot be seen from the gun mask.
et
position; gunfire in which the gun is individual reserves, additional supplies
aimed for direction and elevation by carried by a soldier, animal, or vehicle
means other than sighting at the target for use in an emergency.
g
itself. indorsement, 1. reply or forwarding

ng
indirect laying, aiming a gun by sight- note added to a basic communication

ing at a fixed object, called the aiming
ht,
by an office or commander in the chain

point, instead of the target, or by using of communication. The indorsement
a means of pointing other than a sight, becomes a part of the text of the mes-
d when the target cannot be seen; in- sage.
direct pointing. 2. form giving data on the Service Re-
indirect laying position, gun position cord as to change of status or station of
masked by some feature of the ground a soldier, his financial credits, and his
I ro
al
h
1g1
t
induced drag 142' initial point
character and efficiency ratings. It is axis of the bore. The adjustment is
completed when the soldier is trans- made by sighting at a distant target
ferred, placed on detached service, through the bore and then, without
dropped as a deserter, or separated from moving the gun, alining the sight on the
the service. Abbrev: ind target.
induced drag, drag on a wing caused info, information.
by lift. This is only part of the total in force, in full strength.
drag on a wing. informal action sheet, sheet of paper,
induct, bring into military service un- attached to a communication, on which
der Selective Service. the sender states what action is to be
inducted. Abbrev: indctd taken in a matter, and on which there-
induction, act or ceremony of enrolling ceiver states what he has done about
an individual into the Army under Se- the matter; buck slip.
lective Service, or of bringing a National information, 1. facts of military value
Guard organization into the United about the enemy or the theater of opera-
States service. tions. After these facts are evaluated
induction station, station at which men they become military intelligence.
are inducted into the military service. 2. written papers, plans, drawings,
At the induction station, physical ex- models, reconnaissance reports, and I
aminations are given, the men are sworn other sources from which such facts are :
into the Army, and basic records are obtained. Abbrev: info
started. information center, station in an air-
inert, containing no explosive or active craft warning service where data about
chemical agent. -Inert ammunition may enemy aircraft are gathered and plotted ,
be used in practice more than once. on a map, and are then sent to antiair-
inf, Infantry. craft defense units. Abbrev: IC
infantry, troops trained, equipped, and initial aiming point, point on which a
organized to fight on foot. gun is sighted to establish a reference
Infantry, branch <;f the Army Ground line from which direction angles for tar-
Forces whose principal mission is to gets are measured. From this reference
fight on foot. Abbrev: inf line, other aiming points that give the
infantry mil, unit for measuring angles, direction of the targets are measured off.
being the angle subtended by 1 yard at This method of aiming is used in in-
1000 yards distance. It is slightly direct laying.
larger than the artillery mil: 100 in- initial assembly area, place where
fantry mils = 101.8 artillery mils; 100 troops are originally concentrated in
artillery mils = 98.2 infantry mils. preparation for action. When the troops
infantry pack. See field pack. have been organized in the initial as-
Infantry School, special service school sembly areas they move up to a final
that trains officers and enlisted men in assembly area, from which they move
the technique and tactics of the infantry into combat.
arm, as specialists for duty in the field initial beachhead. Abbrev: IBH
or as instructors, and for commission in initial bomb release line. See bomb
the Infantry. The Infantry School is release line.
under the supervision of the Command- initial fire order, first fire order, giving
ing General, Army Ground Forces. the data necessary to sight Jl gun on a
infiltrate, move through an area or target and to fire the first round.
territory occupied by other troops or initial firing point, first position from
organizations, in small groups or as which attacking troops are to fire.
individual persons or vehicles. initial firing position, first position from
infiltration, movements of individuals which attacking troops open fire on the
or vehicles, singly or in small groups, enemy.
through an area or territory occupied by initial lead, amount a gun is pointed in
other troops or organizations. front of, above, or below a moving target
infinity method, method by which the when opening fire. This amount allows
sight on some kinds of gun, such as the for the distance the target will travel
37-mm antitank gun, is adjusted so that while the projectile is in flight.
the line of sight is made parallel to t~1e initial point, point at which a foot
1g1na
initial reconnaissance 143 Inspector General's Department
General's Department
march or motor movement is formed by craft. It controls shipping within a de-
by
the successive arrival of the units that fensive sea area.
t
finally make up the column. The initial insignia, badges, medals, bars, chevrons,
l point is usually a crossroads, or other or other distinctive devices worn on the
place easy to locate, where the head of uniform to show rank, organization, rat-
of
the column is to pass. ing, service, or honors.

2. first point at which a moving target insp, inspector.
is located on a plotting board. inspection, examination of personnel,
3. point in the air where the air force barracks, and equipment to check on
units making up a formation take up their condition, efficiency, shortages,
their positions for carrying out their cleanliness, etc.
assigned assault missions. Abbrev: IP inspection arms, 1. position in the
d initial reconnaissance, in the Armored manual of the rifle, in which the gun is
ore
Forces, reconnaissance made just before held with the bolt open for inspection.
moving forward from an attack posi- 2. command to take this position.
tion. - inspection pistol, 1. position in which a
ed
initial requirements, all supplies needed pistol is held with the chamber open for
to equip soldiers or organizations when inspection.
en
they are put on active duty. 2. command to take this position.

-
initial return, report submitted by a inspection report, report on a general
new unit, giving its strength as of mid- inspection, submitted on a form pre-
night of its first day in active service. scribed by The Inspector General. It
initial velocity. See muzzle velocity. includes the inspector's findings and also
tart
initiator, small quantity of very sensi- any inclosures that support them.
ve
tive and powerful explosive used to start inspector. Abbrev: insp

the detonation of another less sensitive inspector general, officer of the Inspec-
explosive. Mercury fulminate is the tor General's Department who examines
principal high explosive used as an and reports on property, records, ac-
of
initiator. counts, and all other matters that affect
in kind, issued in the form of actual the efficiency and economy of the Army.
rations, quarters, travel, etc., instead of The special staff of a division or higher
n
in the form of a money allowance for unit usually includes an inspector
them. general, who advises the commander on
Inland Waterway Ser,r~~e, organization matters affecting the efficiency and
of the Transportation Corps that op- economy of the command. Abbrev: IG
erates and maintains all inland water- Inspector General, The, officer in
ways under military control. charge of the Inspector General's De-

es.
ner
inner harbor area, water area that is partment, stationed in Washington, D.

protected by the inner harbor defenses. C. He is a member of the Special Staff
n
The inner harbor area includes the inner of the War Department. His duties are
channels of a port. to assist the Chief of Staff in keeping the
in position, in place and ready for ac- Secretary of War informed as to the
tion. The guns of a unit are in position state of the Army.
e
when they are set up ready to fire. Inspector General's Department, ad-
to
In readiness, in a condition of pre- ministrative branch of the Army, under

paredness for action. An artillery unit the direction of The Inspector General,
aria-
is in readiness when it is held near one located at Washington, D. C. Its mission
or more possible positions, prepared to is to inquire into the condition of the
move quickly into position. Army, and to furnish information andre-
p- in relief, standing out from a surface. ports as required by the Secretary of
e
On a map) lines or marks showing varia- War, the Chief of Staff, and the Com-
tions in height of the land. manding Generals of the Army Ground
ins, insurance. Forces, the Army Air Forces, and the
inshore patrol, naval defense patrol op- Services of Supply. It investigates com-
erating in the inner areas of navigable plaints and allegations, and has charge
ons,
coastal waters. An inshore patrol is .of regular inspections of commands,
he
part of the naval local defense forces, posts, and installations, their personnel,
at- and consists of naval vessels and air- arms, equipment, and supplies, their ex-
Original rrom
inst- 144 intelligence report
penditures and accounts, etc. The 3. division or section of a military unit
sphere of the Inspector General's De- that gathers, ev~lu~tes, interprets, and
partment includes all branches of the di3seminates information of military
Army, the National Guard, and even v:.lue.
the nonmilitary activities of the War In all meanings, also called military
Department. Abbrev: IG D intelligence. Abbrev: int
inst, instrument. intelligence annex, det3.iled instructions
installation, military organization in a to intelligence personnel for their work
fixed place, together with its buildings in connection with an action. An intel-
and equipment. A depot, hospital, ligence annex is added to a field order.
post, or station is an installation. intelligence journal, day-by-day record
Abbrev: instl of the activities of the intelligence sec-
installations. Abbrev: instls tion of a military organization.
i:nstantaneous fuze, fuze that is set intelligence map, map made up from
to burst the projectile very quickly, be- data gathered by the intelligence section
fore the projectile penetrates the target of a command. An intelligence map
or glances off. An instantaneous fuze shows all availal;>le information about
is also called a nondelay fuze, and is one the enemy that can be put on a map.
type of impact fuze. Al~o called intelligence situation mav.
instl, installation. intelligence net, system of radio sta-
instls, installations. tions for transmitting information of
instr, instructor. mili+:ary value about the enemy.
instruction firing, practice firing on a intelligence officer, staff officer in a
target range with the help of an in- unit who supervises the g::tthering, eval-
structor, often carried on by the coach- uating, interpreting, and disseminating
and-pupil method. of information of military value; staff
in&tructor. Abbrev: instr officer in a unit smaller than a division
instrument. Abbrev: inst corresponding to G-2 of the general staff.
instrumental error, repeated error due An intelligence officer is often called 8-2
to faulty adjustment of an instrument and is in charge of the intelligence
or to a defect in it. Also called sys- section. Abbrev: S-2 or Int 0
tematic error. intelligence photography, taking pic-
instrument flying, navigating and pilot- tures from aircraft, analyzing, and in-
ing an aircraft with instruments only; terpreting them to obtain i!lformation of
blind flying. ground activities or installations. Also
instrument light, light that enables the called reconnaissance photography.
operhtor to see the scales and dials of intelligence p,an, plan for gathering
instruments in the darkness, especially information of military value about the
on optical instruments, flight instru- enemy. The intelligence officer makes
ments, and gun mounts. an intelligence plan for the commander
iMuboruination, disobedience; resist- requesting it, and for one or more par-
anee to authority; refusal to obey law- ticular operations. An intelligence plan
ful orde1-s; disrespect. includes a list of the phases of the opera
Insurance. Abbrev: ins tion, the essential elements of informa-
lnt, intelligence. tion required, an analysis of the re-
intelllgence, 1. work of the intelligence quired information, a list of the agencies
peraonnel of a military organization in that are to collect the information,
gathering, evaluating and disseminating statements of the orders for each col-
information of military value. lecting agency, and the time the infor-
2. information of military value, gath- mation is to be reported. The intelli-
ered, evaluated, and disseminated by gence plan is the basis of the intelligence
the intelligence personnel. According annex of a field order.
to its use or the means by which it is , intelligence report, report summing up
gathered, intelligence is classified as all information of military value gath-
combat intelligence, engineer intelli- ered, evaluated, and interpreted during
gence, chemical iiltelligence, War De- a stated period by the intelligence sec-
partment intelligence, signal intelli- tion of a command. A map is often
&ence, Air Forces intelligence. included with an intelligence report.
Or1g1nal fro
intelligence section 145 international code
intelligence section, part of the special interior guard, guard within the limits
or general staff of a command that of a camp, garrison, or station to keep
gathers, evaluates, interprets, and dis- order, enforce police regulations, and
al
seminates information of military value. protect the property and personnel of

s-
Also called military intelligence section. the command. The interior guard may
ue.
Abbrevs: G-2; S-2 include a main guard, a special guard,
n.
Intelligence service, subdivision of a and a prisoner guard.
command that gathers information of interior guard duty, duty of keeping
military value about the enemy. The order, protecting property, and enforc-
intelligence service is usually organized ing police regulations within a camp,
as an intelligence section. garrison, or station; duty as a member of
ed
intelligence situation map, map made an interior guard.

up from data gathered by the intelli- intermediate depot, general or branch
gence section of a command. An intelli- depot located in the intermediate sec-
e
li-
gence situation map shows all available tion of the communications zone in a
ble
information about the enemy that can theater of operations.
n be put on a map. Also called intelli- intermediate objective, key position or
gence map. objective that must be taken or de-
interaircraft communication, communi- stroyed before the main objective can
i-
cation between aircraft, usually by radio. be reached.

dio,
intercept board, board in an aircraft intermediate position, position between

warning service on which are plotted the assembly area and the attack posi-
data on all aircraft movements in a tion. At the intermediate position the
given area. units of an attacking force gather for
e
interception, engaging an enemy force final instructions, further reconnaissance,
in an attempt to hinder or prevent it or for servicing of vehicles, etc., before
p-
from carrying out its mission. Intercep- taking attack positions.
s,
tion is usually carried out by airplanes. intermediate scale map, map drawn on
es
intercept officer, officer who supervises a scale of 1 :200,000 to 1 :500,000. Inter-

nd
the operation of an intercept board and mediate scale maps are used in planning
who prepares data for the use of air de- strategic operations, including the move-
e-
fense units in intercepting enemy air- ment, concentration, and supply of

craft. troops.
sed
interceptor, type of fighter airplane intermediate section, area between the
with a high rate of climb and speed, used advance and the base sections of the
chiefly to intercept enemy aircraft. communications zone in a theater of
Abbrev: i operations.
interceptor command, large Army Air intermediate trench, trench dug be-
g
Forces organization whose chief func- tween the principal lines of a defensive
arge
tion is to attack and destroy attacking position.
o
enemy aircraft. intern, keep within a country; force to
interceptor commander, officer in charge stay in a certain place. A nation at war
of an interceptor command who is also interns alien enemies, prisoners of war,
ain in charge of an air defense area. military personnel, or vessels that hap-
by
Intercept station, radio station that pen to be present within the country
k.
copies enemy radio messages to obtain when the war starts, or are raptured
information, or copies messages sent by during the war. A neutral nation in:
ans
friendly stations to check on their work. terns any prisoners of war, military
interdict, prevent or hinder the use of personnel, or vessels of a nation at war,
.
use
an area or route by the enemy by means that seek refuge within its borders.
of gunfire or chemical agents, or both. international code, code adopted by
interdiction fire, gunfire directed at an many nations for communicating be-
, area or route to prevent or hinder its use tween ships at sea. The international
men-
by the enemy. code uses flags to stand for the letters
interior ballistics, study of the motion of the alphabet, and when the flags are
of projectiles within the bore of a gun, hoisted in different combinations, the
p
to determine the effect of weight, dimen- flags stand for words, phrases, and sen-
sions, rifiinK, etc. tences.
y
Orlg1nal rrom
,
international law . 146 inverted wedge formation
international law, treaties, agreements, speech of someone who uses a fo.reign
customs, and traditions that govern the language.
relations between nations. The Hague Abbrev: intpr
and Geneva Conventions were attempts interrupted fire, fire delivered in short
to put some of the principles of inter- series of bursts.
national law into systematic form. interrupter, 1. safety device in a fuze
International Morse code, communi- that prevents it from acting until the
cation system in which letters and num- projectile has left the muzzle of the gun.
hers are represented by groupings of 2. part of the mechanism of an aircraft
dots and dashes; Morse code. The In- machine gun that controls the action of
ternational Morse code is used especially the gun so that its shots are fired be-
in radio, telegraph, and blinker-light tween the moving blades of the pro-
communications. peller. In this meaning, also called im-
International Red Cross. See Interna- pulse generator.
tional Red Cross Committee. intersection, locating a given point on
International Red Cross Committee, a map by finding the point at which lines
principal neutral organization of all Red drawn from known points and in known
Cross societies. In wartime this Com- directions cross.
mittee acts as a friendly agent between interval, space between two individuals,
belligerent nations, assisting in handling animals, vehicles, or units that are
such matters as mail and information placed side by side or abreast of each
service between them. Its central other. The space from front to rear is
agency in Geneva, Switzerland, acts as a called distance.
clearing house for information and aid to intervehicular communication, com-
prisoners of war, as well as for inquiries munication between tanks or other vehi-
about civilian war victims. The Inter- cles, usually by radio.
national Red . Cross Committee also in the clear, in plain text. When se-
assists in the administration of supplies curity of military information is not in-
sent to occupied territory. volved, messages are ordinarily sent in
internee, interned person; milita17 in- the clear, rather than in cipher or code.
ternee. Int 0, intelligence officer.
Internment camp, military station at intolerable concentration, dense gas or
which prisoners of war, alien enemies, smoke that forces anyone in contact
and military prisoners other than gar- with it to put on a gas mask.
rison prisoners and general prisoners, intpr, interpreter.
are confined. intrench, dig any kind of trenches; for-
internment serial number, number I tify with trenches or field fortifications;
given to a prisoner of war by which he entrench.
can be identified. intrenching tool, shovel, ax, or other
interphone, telephone apparatus with tool used by troops for making field for-
which members of the crew of an air- tifications; entrenching tool.
craft, tank, ship, etc., can talk to each intrenchment, fortification consisting of
other. a trench and a bank; entrenchment.
interpolator, simple calculating device inventory and inspection report, form
used to give fractions of the units of on which is listed all property that has
firing data that are computed by a per- become unusable because of fair wear
centage corrector or by other instru- and tear or has been declared out-of-
ments that correct observed data for the date and is no longer needed by the
effect of wind, speed, direction, etc. Army; I and I Report. This form is
interpretation, study, analysis, and com- used when it is desired to have property
parison of maps, aerial photographs, condemned. Use of this particular form
etc., to secure information of military is suspended for the duration of the
value. present war.
interpreter, 1. member of an intelligence Abbrev: I/ I
section who explains the meaning and inverted wedge formation, formation
value of information received by the resembling an inverted triangle, in which
section. two units advance abreast of each other
2. person whose work is translating the and a third unit follows in the rear.
. . In I
I I UNI ERSIT
investigating omcer 147 item of issue
investigating officer, smoke causes sneezing, coughing, tears,
officer who in-
vestigates accidents, claims against the or headache, followed by vomiting and
government, court-martial charges, and temporary physical disability. Two
he
the like. common irritant smokes are adamsite
nd
involuntary absence without leave, ab- and diphenylchlorarsine. Also called
sence of a soldier from his post without sternutator.
b-
irritating concentration, chemical agent
permission or authority, but not through
ut
his own fault. It is especially absence in such density that it produces an irri-
gh
without leave or desertion by a soldier tant effect upon a person, but does not
who has in any way been persuaded by destroy his ability to work and does not
r
a superior to absent himself. oblige him to put on his gas mask, as an

IP, initial point. intolerable concentration does.
by
irritant. See irritant agent. island of resistance, small group that

irritant agent, nonpoisonous chemical
still resists the enemy although it is cut
agent that irritates the eyes, causing off from its own forces.
tears, or that irritates the noc.;e and di-
isolation, 1. separating from others any-
-
gestive system, causing.sneezing, cough- one who has a disease that might spread.
ugh-
ing, and nausea, or that irritates the 2. complete cutting off from other forces,
eyf:\s as vvell as the nose and digestivenations, etc. A blockaded country is an
e
system. An irritant agent that causes example of i&olation.

tears is called a lacrimator; one that isolead curve, curved line, on a chart
ea
causes sneezing, coughing, and nausea or diagram, used to show how far ahead
is called a sternutator. of a moving target a gun must be aimed
irritant candle, metal container filled
to allow for the time the projectile takes
n with a chemical agent that gives off an to reach the target. The isoleaa curve
irritant gas valhen it is burned. connects points of equal lead on the
r
irritant gas, gas that produces tears or chart or diagram.

m,
issue, 1. delivery of supplies or equip-

irritates the nose and digestive system,
sea,
c.:1.using sneezing, coughing, and nausea,

ment by a supply agency to one or more
or that irritates the eyes as well as thepersons authorized to receive them on
e
r
nose and digestive system. behalf of their organizations.
to
irritant gas candle, chemical container 2. supplies that are distributed or de-
ms-
filled with a substance that is burned tolivered.
produce an irritant gas, such as adams- 3. send out officially; as, to issue an
n
ite. order or communique.
irritant smoke, chemical agent, used in Italian method. See Bessel method.
in
chemical warfare, that can be spread in item of issue, any article of supplies
ars,
d
the form of stnoke or vapor. An irritant that is authorized for issue.
nt
i-
ot
ot
an
ut
ny-
ead.
ces,
ad
med
es
Orlg1nal rrom
JA 148 junior third officer
JA, judge advocate. advocate is also charged with preparing
jack, flag hoisted at the bow of a ship a record of the proceedings. In this
when it is anchored or docked. The meaning, usually called trial judge ad-
American jack has 48 white stars on a vocate. Abbrev: JA
blue field. Also called Union Jack. Judge Advocate General, chief legal
jacket, metal casing or outer covering, adviser of the Secretary of War, the War
such as the steel covering of a cannon, Department, and the Army as a whole.
the steel cover around the core of a He supervises the system of military
bullet, or the water jacket on some guns. justice, represents the Government in all
JAG, Judge Advocate General. legal matters affecting the Army, and is
JAGD, Judge Advocate General's De- in charge of legal records. He has the
partment. rank of major general.
jam, 1. stoppage in the firing of a gun, Abbrev: JAG
usually caused by faulty ammunition, Judge Advocate General's Department,
overheating, or a broken part. administrative branch of the Army Serv-
2. stick or catch so as to stop a mecha- ice Forces that supervises the adminis-
nism, such as the firing mechanism of tration of military justice, reviews trials
an automatic weapon. by military courts, has custody of War
3. interfere with radio messages with Department legal records, and gives
conflicting radio sound. such legal advice and services as are
javelin formation, aerial flight forma- required. Abbrev: JAGD.
tion made. up of two or more three-plane jump. See angle of jump.
elements. The leading element is fol- jump, angle of. See angle of jump.
lowed in close column by the others in jump area, locality assigned by a com-
steps either above or below it. manding officer for the landing of para-
jd, joined. chute troops in a combat operation. A
jn, join. jump area usually is a locality behind
join. Abbrev: jn enemy lines. Also called landing area.
joined. Abbrev: jd jumpmaster, officer or noncommis-
joint, organized to serve both the Army sioned officer who controls the jumping
and the Navy or carried on by both the of parachute troops and the dropping of
Army and the Navy. The Joint Com-. their equipment from an aircraft.
munications Board is a board that co- jump off, leave one's lines for an at-
ordinates the radio procedures of the tack on the enemy.
Army and the Navy. jump-off, start of a planned ground at-
joint operations, operations carried on tack.
by Army forces and Naval forces acting jump-off line, line from which an at-
together. Operations carried on by two tack starts. Also called line of depar-
or more allies acting together are called ture.
combined operations. jump-off point, point at which para-
journal, daily record, in the order of chute troops must jump from the air-
their occurrence, of events, messages, craft in order to land in the area chosen
orders received, etc., kept by a unit or for their operations.
staff section, in the field. junior. Abbrev: jr
jr, junior. junior leader, member of the former
judge advocate, 1. staff officer who acts Women's Army Auxiliary Corps
as the chief adviser on military law to a (W AAC) who had a rank equivalent
commander whc has authority to ap- to that of a corporal.
point courts-martial. The judge advo- junior officer, officer in the Army below
cate checks all proceedings before and field grade. A captain, a first or a second
after a trial and keeps a record of all lieutenant is a junior officer.
cases. In this meaning, usually called junior third officer, deck officer of the
staff judge advocate. Army Transport Service. The junior
2. officer designated by the appointing third officer is in charge of a watch, and
authority to prosecute an action in the during h'ls watch is responsible for the
name of the United States, in a general navigation of the vessel and the opera
, or special court-martial. The judge tion of the deck department.
Orlg1nal fro
kd 149 K-transfer
kd, killed. magnesium case filled with thermit or a
keeper, loop that holds straps or cords similar mixture that will start magne-
together. Keepers are used on hat sium burning. Almost 95 percent of the
cords, gun slings, etc. weight of a kilo bomb is incendiary mate-
s
key, 1. telegraphic or radio instrument rial. Also called light magnesium bomb.
used for tapping out code signals. Kilo bomb is short for kilogram bomb.
t
2. prearranged method used in translat- kit, 1. equipment and personal neces-
ing a message into, or out of, cipher or sities that a soldier carries with him.
at- code. 2. outfit of tools, instruments, chemical
or
key point. See key position. detecting apparatus, or the like.
key position, terrain feature or locality 3. small bag or case for carrying such
that must be held or taken, if an engage- equipment or such an outfit.
y
ment, either in attack or defense, is to kitchen. Abbrev: ki

succeed; key point. kitchen police. See mess attendant.
age-
key terrain, kitchen truck, truck that carries kitch-

part of .an area that gives
an advantage in combat to the side en equipment, food, and water.
holding it. knapsack. See haversack.
khaki, dull yellowish-brown color. The kneeling position, position that gives
cloth used in Army summer uniforms is steadiness in firing rifles. In this posi-
is
this color and such uniforms are often tion, the soldier kneels on his right knee,
n
called khakis. half facing the right, and sits on his

ki, kitchen. right heel.
of
kick, 1. violent backward movement of kneeling trench, trench that shelters a
eac-
a gun after being fired, caused by a reac-rifleman firing from the kneeling posi-
tion to the forward motion of the pro- tion.
jectile and hot gases. known-distance firing, practice firing
fa
2. move backwards under the force of a when the distance between the weapon
propelling explosion. and the target is known.
In both meanings, also called recoil. known-distance range, practice range
at
kicker, mechanical device on guns that where the distance of the weapon from
ge.
uses the recoil to draw back the rod the target is known.... A known-distance
which in tum forces home the cartridge. range is used in training in the firing of
killed. Abbrev: kd small arms and light automatic weapons.
killed in action, K ration,
killed instantly in one of the emergency field
ach- combat or having died of wounds re- rations used when other rations are not
available.
ceived in action on the field before reach-
ing an aid station. K-transfer, transfer of fire based on the

killing concentration. See lethal con-
relation between the firing table eleva-
~entration. tion to a given point and the adjusted
a
ra
\dlo bomb, incendiary bomb that has a elevation of a gun to the same point.
he
ate-
b.
al
ee,
a
Orlg1nal rrom
I 150 landscape target
I, light. landing attack, attack against a de-
LA, low altitude. fended shore by troops who come ashore
lab, laboratory. from boats, rafts, barges, or amphibian
labor. Abbrev: lbr vehicles.
laboratory. Abbrev: lab landing barge, special type of flat-bot-
lacrimator, chemical agent that causes tomed boat used to carry troops and
a blinding flow of tears, and in tense, combat equipment ashore for a landing
though temporary, eye irritation; lacri- attack.
mator gas. Also called tear gas. landing boat, boat designed to carry
lacrimator' gas. See lacrimator. troops and combat equipment ashore for
ladder, bursts of three rounds fired a landing attack. It may be of any size,
rapidly by a single gun pointing in the varying from small surf craft with a
same direction. The bursts are at in- capacity of one squad to large self-pro-
tervals of 300 yards in range. The first pelled barges capable of landing tanks.
round is fired at the greatest range. landing craft, apy vessel used to carry
Lambert projection, a method of map men, equipment, and supplies ashore.
making in which the earth's meridians of landing craft, mechanized.
longitude are represented by straight Abbrev: LCM
lines meeting at a point beyond the landing craft, personnel. Abbrev: LCP
borders of the map. The parallels of landing craft, tank. Abbret': LCT
latitude are represented by curved lines landing craft, vehicle. Abbrev: LCV
which are parts of concentric circles cen- landing craft, vebicle-personneJ.
tered on the point of meeting of the Abbrev: LCVP
straight lines that represent meridians. landing deck. See flight deck.
This method of projection has been used landing field, area set aside for aircraft
by the Coast and Geodetic Survey in to take off from and land in. A landing
preparing the sectional charts of the con- field is often the part of an airport
tinental United States, which are widely equipped with a system of runways for
used as aeronautical charts. take-off and landing.
lance, staff supporting the colors car- landing gear, wheels, floats, or other
. ried on parade or march. Also called supports under an aircraft. On land or
pike. water an aircraft rests on its landing
land, raised portion between grooves in gear.
the bore of a gun. Spiral channels cut landing party, body of troops that en-
in the bore of a gun are called grooves; gages in a landing attack.
rifling consists of both lands and landing ramp, wide gangplank attached
grooves. to a landing boat for the ea.Sy unloading
land cable, cable that connects a case- of vehicles and men. .
mate to a cable hut in a system of con- landing strip, long narrow piece of
trolled submarine mines. land suitable for the landing and take-
land grant railroad, railroad construct- off of aircraft. A landing strip is often a
ed with the help of grants of land from surfaced runway at an airport.
the Government. In return, the rail- landing trainer, tower with release
road must give reduced rates for trans- mechanisms, used to train men to absorb
portation to the Government. the shock of landing when completing a
landing, 1. bringing an aircraft safely parachute jump.
to the ground after flight. landmark, prominent, easily recognized
2. getting ashore, as the first step in es- feature of the ground surface. A land-
tablishing a beachhead or beginning an mark is used as a reference point in de-
amphibian operation. fining boundaries, establishing direction
landing area, 1. level field suitable for of march, locating a target, etc.
the landing and take-off of aircraft. land mine, container filled with explo-
2. locality assigned by a commanding sives or chemicals, placed on the ground
officer for the landing of parachut.e or lightly covered. It is usually set off
troops in a combat operation. A land- by the weight of vehicles or troops pass-
ing area usually is a locality behind ing over it. Abbrev: LM
enemy lines. In this meaning, also landscape target, picture of a land
~ailed jump area. scene, used in target practice.
1g I
lanyard 151 LE
lanyard, 1. strong cord with a small latitude, 1. distance north or south of
hook at one end, used to fire certain the equator, measured in degrees.
kinds of cannon, pyrotechnic projectors, 2. angle at the center of the earth be-
etc. tween the plane of the equator and the
2. strong cord worn about the neck or line from the center of the earth to some
rs,
shoulder and attached to a side arm to point on the earth's surface, north or
keep it from being lost. south of the equator.
o
large-scale map, map drawn on a scale latrine, privy or toilet in a bivouac or
of 1:20,000 or larger. Large-scale maps camp; washroom and toilet facilitiea in
le
are used by combat branches. barracks.
ps
last resort target. Abbrev: LRT latrine screen, canvas put up to hide
lateral, underground gallery that is con- the latrine of a camp or bivouac.
structed parallel to the front line, and launcher, device used to launch gre-
n-
from which other parallel galleries for nades and 'rockets. A grenade launcher
attack, defense, and listening are pro- is an extension attached to the muzzle
jected toward the enemy. A lateral of a rifle or carbine that converts the
differs from a fishbone, which is a gun into a device for throwing grenades.
-
series of independent galleries cut in laundry. Abbrev: ldry

the direction of the enemy .. Ia w member, officer appointed as a
lateral action, action toward the side. member of a general court-martial with
A bridgehead may be enlarged by lateral the additional responsibility of ruling on
eral
action along the river. questions of law and procedure that
lateral communication, communication come up during the case.
n
between units that are side by side along lay, 1. direct or adjust the aim of a gun,
ong
a front. especially of a machine gun or artillery

-
lateral deflection, horizontal angle be- piece.
-
tween the line from the gun to the tar- 2. setting of a gun for a given range, or
n
get and the axis of the bore of the gun for a given direction, or for both.
on
at the instant of firing; lateral deflection 3. assemble a mosaic by pasting aerial
angle. This angle allows for the effect photographs to a mount.
of wind, draft, etc. laying, 1. the process of pointing a gun
e-
lateral deflection angle. See lateral de- for a given range, or for a given direc-
flection. tion, or for both.
e-
lateral deviation, sideways distance be- 2. assembling a mosaic by pasting aerial

tween the target and the point of im- photographs to a mount.
pact. lay-on-me method, method of aiming
he
lateral jump, horizontal angle between in which a battery observes a friendly
e;
the axis of the bore on firing and at the airplane that flies at a specified altitude
e instant the projectile clears the muzzle; along the gun-target line and makes a
the horizontal component of the angle sudden turn when directly over the tar-
of jump. The vertical equivalent of get. Firing data is calculated from the
un
lateral jump is called vertical jump. direction, altitude, and distance of the
w
lateral lead, angular amount that a gun plane at the moment it makes its turn.
is pointed in front of the target to allow The lay-on-me method is used when
-
ur-
for lateral wind effect, drift, and espe- there are no known points for designa-
cially the lateral travel of the target dur- tion of targets.
ont.
ing the time the projectile is in flight. lbr, labor.
n- lateral march, movement toward the L Br Tn, light bridge train.
side or flank rather than toward the front. LC, lines of communication.
lateral observation, observation of gun- LCM, landing craft, mechanized.
o
fire from a point considerably to the LCP, landing craft, personnel.

right or left of the line of fire. LCT, landing craft, tank.
lateral road, road generally parallel to LCV, landing craft, vehicle.
m-
-
the front; belt road. LCVP, landing craft, vehicle-personnel.
lateral tilt, inclination of an aerial cam- LD, 1. line of duty. 2. line of departure.
era perpendicular to the line of flight. ldr, leader.
Also called tilt. Inclination in the direc- ldry, laundry.
tion of flight is called tip. LE, low explosive.
rlglnal rrom
he
me

lead 152 leggings
lead, 1. distance ahead of a moving tar- ing or lowered to keep from being broken
get that a gun must be aimed in order to when not in me. A leaf sight contains a
hit the target. peep sight that can be moved up and
2. vertical and lateral angles between the down to make adjustments for range.
gun-target line and the axis of the bore leapfrog, move a command forward by
at the moment of firing at a moving passing one unit through or around
target. others, so that part of the command can
3. aim a gun ahead of a moving target. remain in action at all times.
4: one target length, as it appears to the leave, permission for an officer to be
gunner, used as a unit for measuring absent from duty. A furlough is per-
lead. mission for an enlisted man to be absent
5. spacing between the heads of succes- from duty. Leave is also called leave of
sive vehicles, march units, columns, etc., absence. Abbrev: lv
as they go forward in a line. leave area, locality in the communica-
lead azide, high explosive used in small tions zone of a theater of operations
quantities to set off other high explo- where soldiers on pass or furlough may
sives. go for rest or recreation.
lead computer, device for calculating leave of absence, permission for an of-
leads to hit a moving target. It is often ficer to be absent from duty. A fur-
a device in the sights or mount of a ma- lough is permission for an enlisted man
chine gun that automatically gives the to be absent from duty. Leave of ab-
proper lead when the target is tracked sence is also called leave.
by the gun. leave year, year reckoned from July
lead curve, line on a chart, recording 1st to the following June 30th, inclusive,
in graphic form the lead involved in aim- used in calculating leaves of absence.
ing a gun at a moving target. leeward (LOO urd or LEE wurd). See
leader, 1. member of the former Wom- downwind.
en's Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) left face~ 1. movement from the posi-
who had a rank equivalent to the en- tion of attention, in dismounted drill, by
liste{l grade of sergeant. which a person turns on the heel of the
2. person in charge of a small unit or de- left foot and the ball of the right foot so
tachment. Leader is not a rank or rat- as to face 90 degrees to the left of the
ing but a temporary title. original position.
Abbrev: ldr 2. command to execute this movement.
leader's rule, method of determining left flank, entire left side of a command
safe firing range over the heads of from the leading element to the rearmost
friendly troops when the range to the element as it faces the enemy. By the
target is more than 900 yards. left flank is a preparatory command to
leading element, first unit of advanc- have every soldier in a formation change
ing troops. direction 90 degrees to the left of the
leading file, first two soldiers, one from original direction of march, at the same
the front rank and one from the rear time.
rank, who march off in forming a column left shoulder arms, 1. movement in the
of files. They may be those on the right manual of the rifle in which the rifle is
or left, or in the center. brought to rest on the left"shoulder, the
leading fire, fire delivered ahead of a butt being held in the left hand.
moving target to allow for its motion. 2. command to perform this movement.
lead mark, small mark on the eyepiece leg, 1. straight line between two points
of a telescope by means of which the or stations in surveying, navigation, or
angular lead to allow for the motion of range finding.
a target may be calculated. 2. a distinct portion of the course of a
lead table, chart or table giving the moving target that is being plotted.
leads necessary to strike a moving target 8. one of the sides of the right angle in a
under various conditions, such as the right triangle.
distance to the target and its speed and leg, legislative.
direction of travel. leggings, extra outer coverings of cloth
leaf sight, rear sight for small arms, or leather for the legs between the knee
hinged so that it can be raised for aim- and foot.
Orlg1nal fro
Legion of Merit 153 liaison set
Legion of Merit, decoration created by leveling mechanism, mechanism by
Congress to be awarded by the President which a gun mount or instrument can
of the United States to members of the be adjusted to a level position.
y
armed forces of the United States, of the level off, bring an aircraft to a hori-
dent
Government of the Commonwealth of zontal course after a climb, glide, or dive.

level point, point in the curved path of
he
the
the Philippines, and of friendly nations.
The Legion of Merit is given for excep- a falling projectile that is level with the
s.
tionally meritorious conduct in the per- muzzle of the gun. Also called point of
- formance of outstanding aervices since fall.
r-
September 8, 1939. Abbrev: LM lewisite, chemical agent that appears
ce
legislative. Abbrev: leg in the form of a dark brown, oily liquid

lensatic compass, compass equipped or as a colorless gas, with a geranium-
with a magnifying glass for reading the like odor. I~ arsenic content, in either ,
scale, used in making accurate measure- the gas or liquid form, causes extreme
injury to skin and lungs. Symbol: Ml.
he
ure-
ments such as azimuths for fire control.
ol.
lethal chemical agent, poisonous chem- lgts, -lights.
m-
ical that can be used in the field in con- liaison, any contact or means of com-
n- centrations high enough to cause death. munication maintained between parts of
th.
lethal concentration, amount of a chem- an armed force to secure their effective
m-
ical agent, per given volume of air, neces- working together. Liaison is often
eces-
sary to kill an average man unprotected maintained between units of different

ed
against it; killing concentration. branches of the service by sending per-

letter. A bbrev: 1tr sonnel of one unit to visit or work with
letter of instruction, form of order by another and to keep up an exchange of
r-
which superior commanders give infor- information between units. Abbrev: In
d
mation as to broad aims, policies, and liaison agent, person who maintains
strategic plans for operations in large contact between a command post and
me.
areas over a considerable period of time. other headquarters in the field, or be-
nd
It is issued to large units of a command tween the headquarters of different
bat
and has the same authority as a combat units, when exchange of information is
order. necessary.
t
letter of transmittal,. letter stating that liaison airplane, airplane used as a

a report, records, papers, or other docu- courier ta maintain contacts between
cu-
ments are inclosed. various parts of a military force. Liaison

r
letter order, official military order or airplanes are usually slow and do not
instructions sent in the form of a letter have armor or armament. They are
y to the person or persons concerned. able to operate from small areas.

ce.
level, 1. any instrument for accurately liaison communication, communication
determining a horizontal Jine or surface. between various parts of a military force
r
By proper adjustment a level can also in order to insure proper working to-
be used to determine a vertical line or gether.
surface. A level is an essential part of liaison net, system of radio stations
l
ts
most types of sighting and fire control used for maintaining liaison.
ype
equipment. liaison officer, officer from the head-
2. surveying instrument which consists quarters of one unit sent to represent
y of a telescope and a built-in, hubble-type his commander at the headquarters of
level. another unit and to keep the two units
level flight bombardment, bombing by in close touch.
aircraft flying on a horizontal course; liaison party, detachment working with
horizontal bombing. Level flight bom- another unit to serve as a link between
al-
bardment differs from dive bombing, the two commands.
which is bombardment from aircraft liaison pilot, aeronautical rating of a
diving at a target. qualified pilot who lacks training or ex-
leveling, adjusting any device, especial- perience necessary to operate combat
ly a gun and mount or sighting equip- aircraft but who is competent to operate
ment, so that all horizontal or vertical liaison types.
angles will be measured in the true liaison set, radio set suited to liaison
horizontal and vertical planes. communication.
dive.
rro -
rlglnal
f
e
f
lieutenant 154 light maintenance unit
lieutenant, 1. company officer in the the size of, and usually including, the 105
Army who ranks next below a captain millimeter howitzer. Other classes are
and next above a warrant officer. There heavy artillery and medium artillery.
are two grades, first and second, the first 2. artillery units that use such pieces.
being the higher rank. A lieutenant is light bombardment airplane, relatively
usually in command of a platoon, or of small-sized bombing plane; light bomb-
an aircraft and its combat crew. See er. It carries a smaller load of bombs
Table of Comparative Grades on p. 125. and has a shorter operating radius than
2. officer in the Navy who ranks next a medium or heavy bomber, but it is
above a lieutenant (junior grade) and more maneuverable and can operate at
next below a lieutenant commander. lower altitudes than either of the hea\jer
He has a rank equivalent to that of a types.
captain in the Army. See Table of light bombardment aviation, aircraft
Comparative Grades on p. 125. designed and armed to operate in sup-
Abbrev: It port of ground, naval, or con1posite
lieutenant colonel, officer in the Army forces. Its armament consists of bombs,
who ranks next below a colonel and torpedoes, and cannon supplemented by
next above a major. A lieutenant machine guns and chemical spray. It is
colonel is usually in command of a bat- used to cut off routes of supply and com-
talion or squadron. He may also be in munication, attack concentrations of
charge of any part of a regiment larger troops or vehicles, and to destroy ma-
than a battalion, or a regiment in the terial objectives.
absence of its commanding officer, or of light bomber. See light bontbardment
any part of a group larger than a squad- airplane.
ron, or a group in the absence of its light bridge train. Abbrev: L Br Tn
commanding officer. See Table of Com- light-case bomb, type of high explosive
parative Grades on p. 125. bomb in which the weight of the con-
Abbrev: It col tainer is small in proportion to the
lieutenant commander, officer in the weight of the burster.
Navy who ranks next below a com- light elephant steel shelter, shelter for
mander and next above a lieutenant. A personnel and materiel made from steel
lieutenant commander has a rank equiv- arch sections of medium size and weight.
alent to that of a major in the Army. See This shelter is larger and stronger than
Table of Comparative Grades on p. 125. the two-man steel shelter, but smaller
lieutenant general, officer in the Army than the elephant steel shelter. It
who ranks next below a general and serves as a splinterproof cover.
next above a major general. A lieu- lighter, boat or flat-bottomed barge
tenant general is usually in command used for loading and unloading ships.
of a corps or an air force. See Table of lighter-than-air aircraft, balloons and
Comparative Grades on p. 125. airships; aircraft supported by the lift of
Abbrev: It gen a gas that is lighter than air.
lieutenant (junior grade), officer in the light line, line or boundary beyond
Navy who ranks next below a lieutenant which lights are prohibited as a security
and next above an ensign. A lieutenant measure against enemy action or ob-
(junior grade) has a rank equivalent to servation.
that of a first lieutenant in the Army. light machine gun, any machine gun
See Table of Comparative Grades on p. including, and lighter than, a .30-caliber.
125. air-cooled machine gun. Abbrev: LMG
lift, 1. upward force due to buoyancy or light magnesium bomb, incendiary
aerodynamic pressure; the tendency of bomb that has a magnesium case filled
an airplane to rise because of the re- with thermit or a similar mixture that
duced pressure on the top of its wings. will start magnesium burning. Almost
2. elevate the muzzle of a gun so as to 95 percent of the weight of'the bomb is
advance the range of fire. incendiary material. Commonly called
lift fire, advance the range of fire by kilo bomb.
elevating the muzzle of a gun. light maintenance unit, mobile repair
light. Abbrev: I shop, including its personnel and equip-
light artillery, 1. artillery pieces up to ment, that is maintained in the field by
rr1g1nal fro
light pack 155 line in
a supply service, such as. Ordnance or limited storage, storage of a motor ve-
the Quartermaster Corps, to service and hicle kept ready for use. Limited stor-
repair materiel issued by that supply age does not extend over 30 days.
service. limited traverse, restricted movement
r
nd
light pack, standard military pack of a gun to right or left. The restriction
lightened by ren1oving certain articles, 1nay be caused by mechanical devices or
used in practice marches, maneuvers, etc. by natural obstacles.
s,
lights. Abbrev: lgts limited traverse emplacement, em-
, etc.
light shell proof shelter, shelter that placement for a gun that permits the
can protect against continuous bom- gun only a restricted movement to right
bardment by shells of 6-inch, or smaller, or left.
caliber. limiting point, point along a line of re-
light shelter, shelter that can protect sistance where the responsibility of one
er,
against continuous bombardment with unit stops and that of another begins.
3-inch shells. Light shelter is not to be limit of fire, 1. boundary marking off
the area on which gunfire can be de-
h
e confused with a light shellproof shelter,

er,
which is built to withstand 6-inch shells . . livered.
ls.
lights out. See tattoo. 2. safe angular limits for firing at towed
light tank, tank of 25 tons or less. aerial targets.
Light tanks are speedy and easily line, 1. formation in which troops, ve-
nd
maneuvered, and carry light armor and hicles, or units are abreast; formation in
d
armament. Tanks are usually classified which the units are abreast of one
o
as light (up to 25 tons), medium (25 to another and on the same front. In this
40 tons), and heavy (over 40 tons). meaning, also called line formation.
ch limber, 1. two-wheeled vehicle to which 2. row of fortifications, trench system,
-
a gun or caisson is attached for trans- or front between hostile forces.
port. 3. any boundary or limit of action, such
r.
2. attach a gun or caisson to its limber. as a line of lights or a picket line.

linrlted attack, attack restricted to a 4. row of aircraft drawn up on a landing
single, set objective. field.
-
limited duty status, any situation in 5. the combatant branches of the Artny,
ted
which an officer or enlisted man is au- such as Infantry and Cavalry, as op-
ve
thorized to perform only some restricted posed to the services and the staff; line
duty, for which he i~S entitled to receive of the Army.
full pay. linear defense, method of defense in
limited procurement, classification of which the defensive uni~ and weapons
articles which have been given service are spread along a defense line in breadth
tests and appear to be satisfactory for rather than in depth.
t
senic-e use, but v; hich have not been linear speed method, method of calcu-
classified as standard. lating firing data in which the future
ob-
limited service, 1. military service that position of a moving target is deter-
-
is restricted to noncombatant duties mined by finding the direction of flight
because of disability or conscientious ob- and the ground speed of the target. By
jection. This classification is now obso- multiplying the ground speed by the
lete, and all men kept in service must time of flight of the projectile, the future
s.
meet the minimum requirements for position is determined. Linear speed

re-
general service. method and angular travel method are

2. not suitable for use in combat areas. two methods of computing firing data.
m-
at is
Limited service equipment of a unit pre- linear target, long narrow target such
paring for immediate entry into a com- as a troop column, railway train, or
bat area iq replaced by equipment that is truck train.
s complete and usable. line formation, formation in which
limited standard, classification of ar- troops, vehicles, or units are abreast;
be
ticles not adopted by the Army for formation in which the units are abreast
standard use but issued as substitutes of one another and on the same front.
to meet supply demand3. It also in- Also called line.
e-
cludes out-of-date items which are to be line in, sight a target along the a.xis of
n
t
used while the stook lasts. the bore of a ~~f I rro m
s or
line maintenance 156 line of operations
Hne maintenance, minor maintenance 2. cla88ification of all sickness, injury,
consisting of inspection, servicing, and or death, unless caused by indindual
repair of vehicles, aircraft, etc. It is fault or neglect, auftered by personnel
performed in the field by the mainte- in active military service of the United
nance section of the crew of a vehicle or States. Abbr~: LD
plane. line of duty board, board of officers
lineman. Abbrev: lmn appointed to investipte the facts r&-
line map, map omitting unnecessary gardini sicknesa, injury, or death of
detail, made by tracing from, or bleach- military personnel to determine whether
ing, an aerial photograph. it occurred in authorized duty in service.
line of action, possible plan open to a line of fall, direction in which a projec-
commander in a particular tactical situa- tile is falling when it reaches a point in
tion. its flight that is at the same height as
line of battalions, formation in which the muzzle of the gun. It is the tangent
battalions, in battalion mass formation, to the trajectory at that point.
are placed abreast so that the front row line officer, officer belonging to a com-
of men in each battalion is on the same. batant branch of the Army; officer of the
straight line. line.
line of battle, line formed by the most line of fire, straight horizontal line
advanced unit in any given tactical from the muzzle of the gun, running in
situation. Also called front line. the same direction as the path of the
line of bearing, direction of any straight projectile.
line expressed as the anile that line line-offset method, method by which a
makes with a north-fJouth line; especially, curved line can be surveyed. From a
the direction of an airplane's courae. known starting point, a straight line iJ
line of columns, formation in which laid out which will cut the curve at two
several parallel columna are placed so points at equal distances frotn the start-
that the fronts of all the columns are ing point. At set distances along this
on the same straight line. line, in each direction from the starting
line of communication, network of rail- point, perpendiculars of known length
ways, waterways, roads, and air routes I are set up. By joining their ends the
by which an armed force in the field is curve is established.
supplied and reinforced from its base of line of impact, direction in which a
operations. projectile is falling when it strikes; the
line of companies, formation in which tangent to the trajectory at the point
companies, in company mass formation, of impact.
are placed abreast 80 that the front row line of interception, line along which
of men in each company is on the same enemy aitcraft are to be met and en-
straight line. gaged by local defending planes.
line of defenBe, any position taken by line of march, 1. route or direction set
combat forces for the purpose of defend- for a march.
ing an area or objective. 2. regular arrangement of troops or units
line or departure, 1. line from which for a march.
an attack starts. In this meaning, also line of masses, formation in Vlhich sub-
called jump-otJ line. ordinate units are arran~ed in maaea,
2. initial position of a scouting line from spaced at equal intervals and abreaJlt of
which a formation of scouting aircraft each other.
rtarts an aerial search. line of observation, 1. line occupied by
8. line extending the axis of the bore of the observation units of the outpost
a gun at the inatant the projectile leaves position.
the muzzle. 2. line from a position finder to a target
Abbrev: LD at the exact time of a recorded obeerva-
llne of drift, natural route along which tion.
wounded men may be expected to go line of operations, line along which a
back for medical aid from a combat combat force operates in carrying out
position. tactical mi&~ions. It begins at the base
line of duty, 1. authorized duty in of operations and extends in the direc-
serviee. tion of movement warda the enamy.
I
line of platoons 157 liquid eotree allowance
line or platoons, formation in which plotted on the board. Afj groups of cor-
platoons are placed abreast so that the rections are plotted, the line of targets is
he front row of men in each platoon ~ on shifted on the board and later correc-
n
the same straight line. tions are plotted from the new line.
line of position, 1. straight line extend- line of the Army, all the combatant
d-
ing from a gun or a position-finding branches of the Army.

inatrument to a point, ~pecially a tar- line of wedfe&, tactical formation, es-
get. In this meanin~, a~o called line of pecially used in the Armored Command,
-
in which a series of units are in wedge

of
site.
a
2. line extending from an observer to a formation and the wedgee are abreast.
point of known location. Two 3Uch line of withdrawal, direction of retire-
linee cr088ing each other at the ob- ment of a force during a withdrawal.
of
server's position determine the point of liner, 1. inner tube in a cannon, bear-
location in navigation or survey. ing the rifling, that may be replaced
line of re~i~tance, line along which an ~hen worn out.
enemy attack is met by organized re- 2. inner part of a helmet.
sistance. line route map, map for signal com-
ear.
line of retirement, 1. direction of re- munication operations that shows the
tirement of a retreating force to the rear. actual routes and type of construction of
In this meaning, also called line of wire circuits in the field. It also gives
retreat. the locations of switchboards, tele-
2. line at which scouting aircraft turn phones, and telegraph instruments.
and start to 8earch to the rear. line shot, striking of the projectile on
line of retreat, direction of retirement the line from the observer to the target.
of a retreating force to the rear. Also lines of communication. Abbrev: LC
ing
called line of retirement. line troops, troops that are available
llne of return, line at which scouting for combat service.
aircraft leave their stations in a scouting link, 1. method of fastening cavalry
o
line to go back to their bases. horses two by two, side by side, but
Hne of sections, formation in which facing in oppoeite directions.
sections of units are placed abreast so 2. metal unit that connects the car-
that the front rows are on the same tridges for an automatic weapon and
on
straight line. with them forms a feed belt.

line of si1ht, 1. line of vision; optical link belt, ammunition feed belt for an
axis of a telescope or other observation automatic weapon in which interlocking
er
instrument. metal links connect the cartridges and

2. straight line connecting the observer with them form the belt.
u-
with the aiming point; the line along linking station, radio station used for
which the sights are set. the relay of messages from one network
line of site, straight line extending to another.
from a gun or a position-finding instru- link-loading machine, machine that
ion
ment to a point, especially a target. quickly loads ammunition into interlock-

Usually called line of position.- ing metal links, which in turn form an
r-
line of skirmishers, line of mounted or ammunition belt for certain types of
he
dismounted men in staggered formation automatic weapons.
ne.
at extended intervals. Link trainer, ground training device
line of squads, formation in which used in flight training, especially in in-
g ~uads are arranged at extended inter- strument flying. A Link trainer repre-
oved
vals abreast of one another, so that the sents an airplane, mounted on a device
ar
front roWM are on the same straight line. which imitatee actual flight conditions,
line of supply, network of railways, such as rough air, and reproduces the
a
waterways, roads, and air routes along effect of the airplane cuntrols by turning,
which supplies and equipment are moved
a
are
banking, and diving. A Link trainer is
r-
from baaes or supply points in the rear one type of trainer.
s is
to tactical units farther forward. liquid coffee allowance, money allow-
ftne of targets, vertical line drawn on a ance formerly given troops in transit in
fire-adjmtment board that serves as a place of the coffee, milk, and sugar in-
reference line from which corrections are cluded in thff tan&Jr vel ration.
1'-J"I,IIL'I"-.....,._..
nd,
e
liquid fire 158 local flight
liquid fire, flaming oil or chemical tar is fired only once from an emplace-
usually hurled from flame throwers. ment, but the simultaneous discharge
Liquid fire is used against fortified em- establish~ a gas cloud of high concen-
placements, tanks, etc. tration that is extremely &ffective
liquid vesicant detector paint. See de- against the enemy. Livens projectors
tector paint. are fired by electric charges.
listening post, 1. concealed position in LM, 1. Legion of Merit. 2. land mine.
advance of a defensive line where one or LMG, light machine gun.
more men are stationed to give warning hnn, lineman.
of the enemy's movements. In, liaison.
2. warning station in an aircraft warn- load, 1. single round consisting of a
ing service provided with sound-locator primer, propelling charge, and projectile,
equipment. sometimes held together by a shell case.
3. position at which seacoast artillery 2. place a charge in a firearm.
listeners may detect the approach of ves- 3. command to charge a firearm.
sels, by means of sound carried through loading barrow, small cart or carrier
the water. from which a heavy projectile is loaded
Lister bag. See Lyster bag. into a gun.
list of balances, list of the property in loading officer, officer who supervises
a property officer's account; property the loading of personnel, supplies, and
voucher upon which turnovers and in- equipment aboard trains, trucks, air-
ventories are based. craft, etc., used in moving troops.
litter, stretcher for carrying sick, wound- loading point, any location at which
ed, or dead persons; stretcher. trains, trucks, aircraft, etc., are loaded
litter bearer, person who helps carry a with personnel, supplies, and equipment.
stretcher. Litter bearers are usually loading table, table or chart t}J.at gives
medical aid ll)en who carry wounded allowable loads for different types of
back to battalion aid stations for emer- trains, trucks, aircraft, ships, or any
gency treatment. carrier.
litter carrier, light two-wheeled cart loading tray, 1. trough-shaped carrier
operated by two men and used for carry- on which heavy projectiles are placed so
ing a stretcher with a sick, wounded, or that they can be more easily and safely
dead person. slipped into the breech of a gun.
litter relay point, 1. point wher~ 2. hollowed slide which guides the shells
stretcher bearer squads change their into the breech of some types of auto-
means of carrying, as from a hand matic weapons.
stretcher to a wheeled stretcher. load pistol, command to insert a loaded
2. point where a new squad takes over magazine in a pistol.
further movement of the casualty. local air defense, defense of a small
live abatis, obstacle turned toward the area or a single objective against attack
enemy, made of small trees or saplings from the air. It includes aircraft and
bent down, often interlaced with barbed all military and civilian ground defense
wire. A dead abatis is a similar ob- measures.
stacle made of cut-down or fallen trees. local board,. civilian committee that
live ammunition, ammunition contain- makes the preliminary choice of men
ing explosives. This is in contrast to called into military service under Selec-
drill ammunition or dummy ammuni- tive Service.
tion, which contains no explosives and local counterattack, counterattack
is used in training. made by local reserves to retake ground
live file, 1. file containing a duplicate or to force the enemy to use up his own
or summary of each outgoing message reserves.
for which a receipt has not yet been local counterpreparation, gunfire deliv
obtained. ered so as to cover that portion of the
2. file in which current documents and front threatened by a local attack. It
correspondence are kept. is for the purpose of disorganizing enemY
Livens projector, mortar, usually in- preparations.
stalled in the ground in large numbers local flight, airplane flight inttnded to
to fire chemical projectilei;. Each mor- end at the- l~ce ~here it began.
local hour angle 159 longitude
loeal hour angle, difference of longitude used on the range disks of guns when the
between the meridian passing through disks are graduated for the combination
de
the observer and a point on the earth of powder charge and projectile. It is
h
directly beneath an observed celestial so named because it follows a logarith-
body. It may be measured as an angle mic rather than an arithmetic curve.
l at the pole. log book, book in which a iog is kept
e
local parole, permission granted pris- book containing a daily reeord of a ship,
oners to work outside a detention bar- aircraft or boepital, or "giving a record
racks or prison under the supervision of ol Uae performuee of a small military
an officer. ~ait or oi IUCh equipme.t M pas ud
-
local procurement, obtaining supplies fJilgiDeL

of
from the immediate neighborhood, not locistica, ari rl planniD~ ud earryfng

ot
from a base or depot. out milit&ry movement.. eyacuat.loo, aDd
local protection, protection against supply.
enemy attack or surprise, established by logistics annes_ IUpp emeat or addi-
by
a commander for his own unit. Also tioo to a field order giving inform.,..
called local security. tion aDd iasVuctioos rega.r<liDs mov.
local sector, subdivision of a subsector mt. eupply ud evacuation.
r
in a defense command. long-base method, method used in ar-

-
local security, 1. protecting unit, inde- tillery survey in which a point is located
by a
pendent of any outpost, established by a by the intersection of two lines of known
commander to guard his unit against direction laid off from two known points
surprise and insure its readiness for sufficiently far apart so that graphical
action. representation is accurate. This method
2. protection against enemy attack or is different from the short-base method,
for
surprise established by a commander for in which location is found by solving a

his own unit. In this meaning, also triangle having a short base that is ac-
called local protection. curately measured between observation
locator card, 1. card giving essential in- points.
n-
er,
formation about an officer or enlisted long-delay fuze, fuze designed to set
uch
man, including his name, serial number, off a bursting charge after the pro-
organization, and grade; especially, such jectile has completely penetrated the
a a card prepared for machine filing. target.
2. similar card for each item stored in a Iongeron (lawn ja RA WN), one of the
s
depot. main lengthwise members in the frame
locator card fil~, 1. file of locator cards of an airplane fuselage.
of officers and enlisted men, kept at longevity pay (Ion JEV a tee), increase
,
every headquarters. added to the base pay of officers or en-

2. file of locator cards of stored items, listed men at the end of a prescribed
kept in every storehouse office. numbers of years of service in the Army.
m
locator file, any file of names that Additional longevity pay is added for
d.
serves as a directory or mailing list. each additional period of service.
lock, 1. position of a safety mechanism longhorn, one type of sound locator
which prevents a gun from being fired. used to detect the approach of an air-
2. secure or make safe, as to set the plane. It is so called because it has
safety on a gun, etc. longer and more conspicuous horns than
nd
lock frame, mechanical recoil unit in recent models.

certain firearms. It is used to cushion longitude, 1. distance east or west on
the shock of the recoil of the barrel and the earth's surface, measured in degrees
bolt assembly before the bolt is un- from a certain meridian, usually the
r-
locked and opened. meridian which runs through Green-
loft, Signal Corps unit where pigeons wich, England.
are kept and trained. 2. angle at the earth's center between
log, daily record kept for a ship, an air- the plane of a meridian and the plane of
craft, or a hospital. Logs are also kept a specified meridian, usually that of
n the
for small military units and for such the prime meridian of Greenwich, Eng-
equipment as 'gUns and engines.
on
land, measured to the east or west, up

logarithmic range scale, type of scale to 180 degrees.
lglnal rrom
h-

ip
longitudinal deviation 160 Lyster bag
longitudinal deviation. See range devia- suitable for propelling charges in guns
tion. or for ordinary blasting, while hlih ex-
long lunge. See long thrust. plosives are suitable for use as bursting
long-ranee air navigation chart, chart charges in bombe or projeetiles.
of the world that is used by navigators Abbrev: LE
and pilots for celestial navigation. A low oblique, aerial photograph taken
long-range air navigation chart is one at a slant not great enough to include
type of aeronautical chart. the horizon, as does a hlih oblique.
long thrust~ bayonet thrust made with low order burst, breaking of a pro-
arm extended and the body thrown for- jectile into only a few large fragments,
ward, with the weight shifted to the as a result of a low order detonation.
leading foot; long lunge. low order detonation, incomplete and
loni wheelbase. AbbretJ: LWB comparatively slow explosion of the
lookout, observer assigned to watch for burster of a projectile.
enemy airplanes, tanks, or troops. low position, position of a machine
loop, aerial maneuver in which the path gun set up with ita muzzle about 15
of an airplane describea a circle in a inches from the ground.
vertical plane. 'low wire entanarlement, low barrier
loop sling. See loop slln1 adjustment. consisting of fiat networks of barbed
loop slln1 adjustment, adjustment of wire sloping down both way~ from a line
the sling strap of a rifle for firing, in of stakes about three feet high; low en-
which the left arm is passed through a tanglement.
loop in the strap which is tightened and LRT, last resort target.
adjusted to the firer; loop sling. This It, lieutenant.
adjustment gives a steadier grip than It col, lieutenant colonel.
d~ the hasty sling adjustment, but it It gen, lieutenant general.
requires a little more time to make. Itr, letter.
loose round, cartridge defect in which lubber line, a prominent, fixed Iine in
the bullet is loose in its case. an aircraft compass, directional gyro,
loss replacement, officer or enlisted radio direction-finder loop, or the like,
man added to a unit to fill a vacancy due parallel to the long axis of a ship or air-
to lou, such as a battle casualty. A craft, used as a reference line in reading
1088 replacement differs from a filler re- directions.
placement, in that a filler replacement Lufberry circle, defensive tactical ma-
ia a person added to a newly organized neuver in air combat, in which the air-
unit to bring it to its prescribed strength. 'craft fly in a circle with each aircraft
lot, quantity of supplies of the same protecting the one directly ahead of it.
general classification, usually from the lunette, towing ring in the trail plate or
same manufacturer, received and stored tongue of a towed vehicle, such as a gun
at any one time. carriage or trailer, used for attaching
lot number, identification number as- the towed vehicle to the prime mover or
signed to a particular quantity or lot of towing vehicle.
materiel, such as ammunition, from a lung irritant, any chemical agent that
aingle manufacturer. For an exampl~, causes irritation and inflammation of th~
see ammunition lot number. lungs and bronchial tubes. PhO!gene
low altitude. Abbrev: LA and chlorine are. lung irritants.
lo,v-angle ftre, gunfire delivered at lusterless paint, paint which absorbs
angles of elevation below the elevation light rays so that no shine or polish ap-
that corresponds to the maximum range pears on ita surface. It is used extensive-
of the piece, so that ranges increase with ly on Army vehicles.
increases in angles of elevation. lv, leave.
low entanglement. See low wire en- L \VB, long wheelbase.
tanglement. Lyster bag, heavy canvM or rubberized
low explosive, relatively slow-burning cloth bag for distributing disinfected
explosive, usually set off by heat or water for the use of troops; Lister bai;
friction. Low explosives are therefore water bag; water-sterilizing ba~.
Orlg1nal fro
m 161 magnitude method
m, medium. a&e;igned to the operation of a small am-
MA, military attache. munition supply point.
MAC, Medical Administrative Corps. maaazine test, teet given to check the
machete (rna CHET ee), large broad- efficiency of peraonnel in loading map-
bladed knife, sometimes two or three zines.
hs
feet loni, uaed chiefly for cuttini paths ma1azlne weapon, gun with a magazine
through jun~lee. that holds a number of cartridge~; er
m*
machine gun, ~tUn that firM ~man..anm pecially, an automatic weapon such as
ammunition automatically and ia ca- the Brownine automatic rifle.
pable of auatained rapid fire. It is maanaflux lnapectlon, method of lo-
usually belt-fed or magazin~fed, air- catina cracks, aeama, and certain other
y
cooled or water-cooled, and recoil- defecta in metals, eepecially in the parts
operated or gu-operated. It is usually of an aircraft engine, by obtervinll the
fired from a mount. diatribution of a fine mailletic powder
ne-
Abbrn: MG spread upon the surface of the metal

ne
maelllne pnner, member of a machine-- after it has been magnetized.

gun crew who airna and fir~ a machine maanesium, light-weight, silver-colored
fUn . metal that burns very easily and quick-
ly. Magnesium is often used in incen-
and
aaeldae-flUl llMt, machine-gun em-

placement, generally in a concealed and diary bombs.
s of
fortifted pOOtion. magnesium bomb, incendiary bomb
maeklne record unit, unit at a head- that has a magnesium case filled with
quarter~, in charge of keeping records of thermit or a similar mixture that will
d
individual personnel and of organiza- start the magnesium burning.

uip-
tiona. It corudsts of personnel trained ma~neslum powder, powdered form of

in the uae of punch card machines and magnesium, a metal that burns euily
mechanical sorting and tabulatini equip- and rapidly.
ment. Abbrev: MRU maflletic azimuth, angle measured
maehlnl.t. Abbrio: machst clockwise from magnetic north to a line
an maebat, machinist. connecting the observer and the given
macro meter, instrument that has two objective.
-
mirrora and a focusing teleacope with magnetic compass, instrument for
e-
which the ranges of distant objects can showing direction. It comists of a

to
be found. magnetic needle that swings freely in a

ma1ulne, 1. case or chamber for car- horizontal plane, either on a pivot or in
trid~ inlerted in, or attached to, a re- a liquid, and poinUI always toward the
peating iiDl The cartridges are fed into magnetic north pole. The points of the
the gun from the magazine. compass are usually marked on a round
2. building or other structure in which card that turns with the needle.
ammunition or explosives are stored. magnetic course, direction of flight as
8. part of a camera that contains the measured by an angle between the line
film. to magnetic north and the direction of
a-
mqadne drill, practice drill for filling motion of the aircraft.

magazine~ and loading them into an magnetic declination. See deeUnatlon.
automatic gun. ma~netlc deviation, error in a compass
111agazlne-fed, automatically 4JUpplied whose needle doe8 not point directly to
-
with ammunition by means of a maga- the magnetic north pole because of the
line. An automatic rifle is magazine- magnetism of surrounding objects. Also
g-
fed. called deviation.
magazine platoon, subdivision of an magnetic mine, underwater mine which
ammunition company. Its duty is to is set off by the magnetic action of the
receive, store, and distribute ammuni- steel hull of a ship passing near it.
tion. magnetic north, direction of the mag-
macaztne pocket, -container for a mag-
m-
netic north pole from the observer.

e
uine filled with cartridges, worn on a magnitude method, method of adjustr
ga-
cartridge belt. ing gunfire for range. The distance by
magazine section, subdivision of a which a shot misses the target and the
ne
magazine platoon, which is normally direction are f~~~ hiY-j'" po~ting, and are
s
UNI ERSITY OF C LIFORNI I
mail and records division 162 maintenance unit
plotted on a fire-adjustment board. The maintenance, care taken and work done
magnitude method is used when the to keep any item of materiel and equip-
amount and direction of the deviation ment in good working condition.
are known; the bracketing method is Abbrev: maint
used when only the direction of the de- maintenance and repair branch, branch
viation is known. of the quartermaster utilities division of
mail and records division, section of a post, camp, or station. It does the
the headquarters of a division or other actual work needed for minor construc-
large military installation, that receives tion and for the maintenance and re-
and distributes the mail of the command. pairs of buildings, other structures, and
It also keeps files and records of com- utilities.
munications that pass through the head- maintenance area, area set apart for a
quarters. field repair shop at which materiel and
mail call, bugle call or other signal equipment are inspected, serviced, and
given to notify soldiers that mail will be repaired.
distributed. maintenance company, company or-
mail clerk, enlisted man who receives ganized and equipped to service and
and distributes the mail of a company repair items of materiel and equipment.
or similar unit. Formerly called mail Each company is trained by one of the
orderly. supply services, such as Ordnance or
mail orderly. See mail clerk. Quartermaster Corps, in servicing and
main attack, principal attack; attack repairing the property that it issues.
into which the commander throws the maintenance crew, 1. maintenance sec-
full weight of the offensive power at his tion of the crew of a vehicle or aircraft.
disposal; attack directed against the 2. group of men detailed to inspect,
chief objective of the campaign or service, and repair materiel and equip-
battle; main effort. ment. '
main body, principal part of a tactical maintenance detachment, group of
command or formation. It does not in- men organized and equipped to inspect,
clude detached elements of the com- service, and repair materiel and equip-
mand, such as advance guards, outposts, ment belonging to a unit or tactical
connecting files, etc. command.
main effort. See main attack. Maintenance Inspection Record, form
main guard, regular interior guard of a used by the Army Air Forces on which
post or unit, whose principal duties are all information concerning inspections
to patrol the area and protect the per- of, and repairs to, an airplane are
sonnel, buildings, and equipment. A recorded.
main guard is a subdivision of the in- maintenance of equipment.
terior guard of a command, the others Abbrev: maint of e
being the special guard, such as an es- maintenance officer, officer in charge of
cort guard or guard of honor, and the inspection and repairs of materiel and
prisoner guard. equipment in a command.
main landing gear, that portion of the maintenance of way. Abbrev: maint ofw
landing gear which supports an aircraft. maintenance park, part of a mainte-
The main landing gear includes the nance area at which vehicles are in-
wheels, floats, or other main structural spected, serviced, and repaired by mo-
support of the aircraft. Also called bile field maintenance units.
chassis and undercarriage. maintenance plan, plan prepared before
main line of resistance, line joining an operation, by the maintenance officer
the forward edges of the most advanced of a command.- The maintenance plan
organized defense areas. It is a series is based on a maintenance estimate of
of separate centers of resistance which the situation, and includes instructions
support each other. On this line the on such matters as getting maintenance
first determined effort is made to stop personnel and equipment to the place
the enemy. Abbrev: MLR where they are needed. ~1aintenance
main supply road. See principal supply plans are especially important in the
road. Abbrev: MSR Armored Command.
maint, maintenance. maintenance unit, organization that is
1_1 l
maintenance vehicle 163 Manual for Courts-Martial
Courts-Martial
responsible for the inspection, repair, to cause it to perform movements out

and up~ ~n of the equipment of a com- of the ordinary.
m-
mand. maneuvering element. See maneuver ..

-
maintenance vehicle, repair truck; ve- ing force.
nt
hicle car~ing pe~nnel and equipment maneuYerlng flight, perspective view of
for making minor repairs on items of an aircraft; aircraft flight position that
materiel, etc., in the field. is neither atraight nor level but includes
t.
ntaint of e, maintenance of equipmPnt. all maneuvers Ruch as climbing, diving,
maint of w~ maintenance of way. banking, and turning, or a combination
maj, major. of them.
maj gen, major general. maneuvering force, element of a com-
a
major, officer in the Army who ranks bat unit that carries out the main attack
next above a captain and next below a while the enemy is held by a secondary
lieutenant colonel. A major usually attack force, called pivot of maneuver;
r-
commands a battalion or an Army Air maneuveringelement;massofmaneuver.
Forces squadron. See Table of Compar- maneuvering target, moving target,
alive Grades on p. 125. Abbrev: maj used in practice to develop skill in firing
-
major-caliber weapon, seacoast artil- at moving troops, vehicles, ships, or

lery weapon of 12-inch or greater cali... aircraft.
o
her. Also called primary armament. maneuvers, war games; series of tac-
major general, officer in the Army who tical exercises usually carried out in the
and
-
ranks next above a brigadier general and field by large bodies of troops in imita-
d.
next below a lieutenant general. A tion of war. The Army holds maneu-
p.
major general usually commands a di- vers for instruction of military personnel
vision or an Army Air Forces command. in tactical and technical problems and
See Table of Comparative Grades on p. to try out equipment in the field.
-
125. Abbrcv: maj gen , maneuver unit, command or subdivi-

major repair, repair work on items of 1 sion of a command that is maneuvered
materiel or equipment that need com- as a unit in a tactical operation.
rt
plete overhaul or substantial replace- manning detail, crew that serves an ar-
-
ment of parts, or that require special tillery weapon. It consists of a chief of
tools. section, a gun squad, and an ammuni-
rnalfunction, faulty action of some part tion squad.
1
of a gun, resulting in a stoppage. Mal- l manning table, chart that gives a list
e
function is also failure of ammunition of the personnel of an organization and
to function in a normal or expected shows the duties to which each is as-
ty.
manner. signed. Manning tables are often used

malingerer, person who pretends to be by batteries of coast artillery and by
sick so that he can escape work or duty. aviation units.
pretending to be sick in manometer,
se
.
malingering, instrument for measuring
ops,
order to escape work or duty. the pressure of gases or vapors. It is
ith
mandatory, required by command or often used to test and adjust other pres-
order; compulsory; allowing no exercise sure instruments.
of judgment. A directive is mandatory. manta, waterproof canvas, used as a
maneuver, 1. movement to place troops, pack cover.
materiel, or fire in a better location with manual, 1. handbook. The War De-
respect to the enemy. partment publishffi two series: Field
2. move troops, materiel, or 1ire to a Manuals and Technical Manuals.
ar.
better location with respect to the 2. prescribed exercise in the handling of

enemy. a weapon or other item of equipment
f
3. tactical exercise carried out on the at formal ceremonies or in drill. Exam-
ground or on a map, in imitation of war. pies are: manual of the rifle, manual of
It involves two opposing sides, one of the pistol, manual of the submachine
t
which may be imaginary. gun, manual of the color and standard,

4. skillful operation of an aircraft to manual of the guidon, an~ manual of the
-
cause it to perform movements out of baton.

the ordinary. M11nual for Courts-Martial.
5. operate an aircraft in a skillful way Abbrev: MCM
of
.c.
es
rlg1nal1 rom
g,
UNI ERSITY OF C LIFORNI Jl/l4
n
map 164 march discipline
map, 1. graphic representation of an vals and will overlap enough to permit
area of the earth's surface. It is reduced matching. .
to scale and usually projected on a flat mapping photo~aphy, taking picture&
1urface. Since the distortion caused by from aircraft to form a series of overlap-
:flat projection varies with different sys- ping photographs which are ~ouped and
tems of projection, the use to which the matched to form a single reproduction,
rna p is to be put determines the best and from which a map or chart is made
method of projection. or corrected.
2. make a map of; show on a map. map problem, exerci.aQ in which a mili-
map code, code system used for refer- tary situation is stated and solved in
ring to places on a map. The code is writing, with a map as the only ~de to
secret and is used especially in military the land surface.
operations. map reading, art of underatanding the
map compilation, process of making information given by a map; study of the
a new or improved map by using pre- details shown on a map for the purpose
vious maps, new map data, aerial photo- of finding out the nature of the country,
graphs, contour map material collected the location of particular points, the
by field parties, etc. position of troops, etc.
map coordinate code, secret code sys- map reconnaissance, study of ground
tem for designating the locations of features, such as roads, wood!, and
pointa on a map. It locates a point by waterways, on a map, to get information
giving its distance from secret lines or needed in preparing a tactical plan or
points of reference. maneuver. Map reconnaissance il
map course, line on a chart showing the sometimes used instead of direct ob-
route followed, or to be followed, by a servation.
ground or aerial force. map scale, relation between the dil-
map data, information used in making tance shown on a map and the actual
a map, or available on a map that is al- distance on the ground. For example,
ready drawn. Artillery firing data taken one inch on a map drawn to a scale of
from a firing chart, or weather informa- 1:20,000 representB 20,000 inches, or
tion, are examples of map data. 555.55 yards on the ground.
map declination, angle between the map substitute, hastily made drawing
grid north line and the magnetic north or improved aerial photograph, U8ed in
line at any PQint. place of a map when there is not enouih
map exercise, exercise similar to a map time to prepare one. A map substitute
maneuver except that it is always one- may be made by putting a number of
sided, with students directing only the photographs together, by bleaching a
movement of friendly troops. photograph in order to show only im-
map maneuver, exercise in which a portant features, etc.
military problem, or a series of military march, 1. move in a steady, feiUlar
problems, is solved on a map. In a map manner and in a given order, on foot,
maneuver, the students may be divided mounted, or in vehicles.
into two groups, each directing the 2. movement of troops from one place to
movements of a force, represented by another in this way.
markers, or they may direct only a 3. distance covered in one advance or
friendly force, the instructor making the one given unit of time.
necessary enemy moves to develop the 4. command of execution for troope to
situation. march in a given direction.
map measurer, device consisting of a march collecting post, location on the
!mall wheel or roller and a dial. The route of march at which casualties who
wheel may be rolled along a map from cannot continue to march are given
point to point, and the distance between medical treatment and are moved to
them read on the dial. medical stations in thQ rear.
mapping camera, camera for taking march column, one or more march
aerial photographs to be used in making units, or serials, marching on the same
maps. It is generally semiautomatic in route under the control of a column
operation, to insure that the photo- commander.
graphs will be taken at accurate inter- march discipline, observance and en-
lg fro
march graph 165 marking flag
foreement of the rulea that govern a unit in the margin of a map, diagram, or
on the march, especially those involving photograph. It gives detail~ of a tech-
unit
correct formations, distances, speeds, nical nature that must be known if the
ng
and the effective use of cover. map, diagram, or photograph is to be
, mareh graph, diagram showing the dis- read correctly.
tance traveled, or to be traveled, by a Marine Corps. See United States Ma-
s-
marching unit in a given time. For this, rine Corps.

a
a sheet of squared paper is used, the Marine Corps Women's Reserve. See
s,
vertical lines repr~nting distance, and United States Marine Corps 'Vomen's
nd
the horizontal lines repreaenting time. Reserve.
.
The march ifaph is used in preparing ma~ine superintendent, civilian in
and checking march tables. charge of the docking, loading, move-
mareh In review, parade formation of ment, and maintenance of transports
troops, vehicles, etc., passing a review- w bile they are in port.
w-
ing officer during a ceremony. maritime engineer, temporary warrant
march maintenance, service and repair officer who is BS8igned to duty as an
air
to vehicles and other equipment, done engineer or assistant engineer in the

e
by service units in the field. March military crew of a harbor boat or other
maintenance differs from scheduled tactical craft under Army control.
egu-
maintenance, which consists of the regu- mark, 1. letter! and symbols formerly
lar servicing and repair of equipment stamped on an item of materiel or equip-
according to a time schedule or on a ment to show its deeign and model. In
mileage bMis. Also called operating 1925, a system of model numbers was
malntenanee. introduced to replace the mark, which
a
march order, 1. field order issued by 11. has now almost entirely disappeared.
commander to give instructions for a 2. order given in target practice for the
,
march, such as route, time of starting, marker to put a mark on the target.
initial point, order of march, security The mark will show the point at which
measures, etc. the gun is sighted in aiming practice, or
2. command given to an artillery unit where a shot has struck in firing practice.
to put a gun prepared for action in Abbrev: mk
d traveling order. marker, 1. person who marks the tar-
of
march outpost, observation posts and gets in target practice. 1
or
patrols established for the protection of 2. person, or a flag, stake, or some other
a command dwing a halt in a march or object, posted at a point to indicate the
ce
at a bivouac. position of a unit, a direction or pro-

march reconnaluanee, reconnaissance cedure to be followed, a danger point,
of
to
made during a march in the presence of an obstacle, or a boundary.

e
the enemy, to inform eommanders as to marker ~ircle, circular band marking
po~ible observation posts, positions, the approximate center of a landing area
and routes of march, and also possible or the intersection of the principal land-
e
enemy targets. ing strips in an airport or landing field.
or
march schedule, table giving the rate marking, number or ~ymbol stamped or
of march to be maintained, halts to be painted on ammunition, aircraft, guns,
at
made, etc., in a movement of troops or or some other item of materiel or equip-

ch
vehicles. ment.
mareh table, table giving the units that marking buoy, floating object anchored
.
are to make up the various march in the water to mark a point or object.
columns, their routes, locations on each M3rking buoys are used to mark the po-
er day, and other details. It is mually sition of a group of submarine mines.
published as an annex to a field order. marking disk, colored disk, set on a
y
march unit, tactical unit or group of stick or rod. A soldier in a target pit
e
units which moves or halts at the order uses it to signal the value of each shot
of a single commander. A company, fired at the target.
troop, or similar organization normally marking fla.f:(, small banner used to
forms the march unit. A serial is made mark the p:~sition of a unit, to set off a
e
up of one or more march units. danger area in target practice, or for
marginal data, data written or printed other purposes. 1g 1n al fro
marking panel 166 maximum thermometer
marking panel, sheet of cloth or paper master, captain of a merchant ship, an
displayed by ground troops to signal Army transport, or a mine planter. He
their position and progress to a friendly controls the navigation and the work of
aircraft, which then reports to head- the crew.
quarters. Mar king panels are used only master at arms, petty officer on an
in the front lines. Army transport who maintains order and
marking pennant, small triangular flag discipline and has charge of prisoners.
used to mark the position of a unit, to master class, rating of skill for a bom-
set off a danger area in target practice, bardier, ranking next above bombardier
or for other purposes. and next below distinguished class.
mark number, identifying number or master schedule, training program for
symbol formerly stamped on an item of a camp or school, on the basis of which
materiel or equipment. On recent individual training units prepare their
equipment a model number is used in- own schedule. It gives the subje~ to
stead of a mark number. be taught, the time to be given to each
marksman, 1. lowest classification given course, and the order in which each
for skill in the use of small arms. The course is to be taken.
other two grades are~ in order, sharp- master sergeant, noncommissioned of-
shooter and expert. The grade of marks- ficer of the first grade in the Army, who
man corresponds to that of second class ranks above a technical sergeant. A
gunner. master sergeant is equivalent in rank to
2. soldier having this classification. a first sergeant. See Table of Compara-
Abbrev: mkm tive Grades on p. 125. Abbrev: m sgt
marksmanship, skill in shooting. master service sight, sight used to de-
marksmanship training, instruction and tennine the errors of other sights.
practice in shooting. mat, material.
mark target, order to a marker, in~tar mate, deck officer of a ship, ranking
get practice, to mark the shot on the next below the captain or master. He
target. assists the master in the operation of the
mark time, move the feet as in march- ship and controls the work of the crew.
ing, but without advancing. material. Abbrev: mat
martial law, military authority substi- materiel (rna TEER ee EL), supplies,
tuted in the home country or any dis- stores, and equipment of all types used
trict thereof, either by proclamation or in co:rnbat, including instruments, ve-
as a military necessity, when the civil hicles, clothing, weapons, and ammuni-
government is temporarily unable to tion. Materiel and personnel are the
exercise control. two subdivisions of military power.
mask, 1. device that fits over the face materiel and powder report, report on
and protects the eyes, nose, and lungs the performance of weapons and am-
from poison gases. In this meaning, munition.
usually called gas mask. Materiel Command, one of the subdi-
2. anything that interferes with, or provisions of the Army Air Forces that
tects from, observation or gunfire. It is procures aircraft and aviation equip-
often a hill or wood that comes between ment. It also conducts research and
an observer or gun and the target. experiment for their development.
a. obstruct gunfire or observation that matrix, substance used as a filler be-
is directed at some point or locality. tween the fragments or balls in shrapnel.
s.
mass, 1. concentration of combat power. maximum ordinate, difference in alti-

2. concentrate or bring together in one tude between the muzzle of a gun and
place; as, to mass the fires of all batteries. the highest point in the path of its pro-
a. military formation in which units are jectile when in flight.
spaced at less than the normal distances maximum range, 1. greatest distance a
and intervals. gun can fire.
massed formation, arrangement of 2. greatest distance that an aircraft can
troops or units in a compact group with fly without refueling.
little space between them. maximum thermometer, thermometer
mass of maneuver. See maneuvering in which the mercury, or other indicator j
force. used for registering temperature, re-

I_ "I
mbl 167 medical annex
mains at the highest point it has reached mechanization, process of equipping a
since its last setting. military force with armed and armored
hed
mbl, mobile. motor vehicles, such as tanks and com-
MC, Medical Corps. bat cars. ~iechanization differs from
McBee selector, mechanical device that motorization, in that the motorization
sorts cards which have been punched for of a unit provides a means of transpor-
at
machine filing, especially the classifica- tation only, wherea3 in mechanization

for
tion cards of soldiers. the unit both travels in, and fights from,
1\ICM, Manual for Courts-Martial. its vehicles.
a-
MD, 1. Medical Department. mechanize, equip with anned and ar-

2. rnethyldichlorarsine. mored motor vehicles.
M-day, mobilization day; date an- mechanized, equipped with anned and
nounced by the War Department as the armored cor.abat vehicles such as tanks,
he
first day of mobilization. half-track carriers, gun carriers, etc.
1\ID W, Military District of Washington. Mechanized differs from motorized, in
meal ticket, governmental order au- ' that a motorized unit is provided with
'thorizing a public eating place to fur- a means of transportation only, '""? hereas
to
nish meals within a certain price limit to a mechanized unit both travels in, and
the person or persons named, and to fights from, its vehicles. Abbrev: mecz
charge the cost to the government. It mechanized cavalry, cavalry equipped
avel-
is often used for enlisted personnel travel- with, and fighting from, armed and
ing under orders. arinored motor vehicles instead of
mean deviation, average distance by horses.
which a group of shots fired with the mechanized gun, gun mounted on, and
same firing data miss the target. fired from, a motor vehicle. It is usually
n
mean error, average distance between an artillery gun mounted on an armored,

the center of impact and the points of wheeled or track-laying vehicle.
f
he
impact of a group of shots fired with the mechanized unit, unit that is trans-
e
~me firing data. ported by, and that fights from, armed
mean height of burst, . average of the and armored n1otor vehicles.
heights of bursts of a group of shots mecz, mechanized.
ed
fired with the same firing data. med, medical .
me
mean range, average distance reached Med Adm C, ~fedical Administrative

by a group of shot'; fired with the same Corps.
d
firing data. medal, decoration given a soldier in

mean temperature, average of ground recognition of outstanding bravery,

es
and air temperature. It is used in cor- wounds, or special achi.~ven1ent.
recting altimeter readings. Medal for Merit, medal given to civil-
mean trajectory, trajectory that passes ians for exceptional service to the United
through the center of impact. States in time of war or national emer-
mech, 1. mechanic. 2. mechanical. gency.
at
mechanic. Abbre?): mech Medal of Honor, medal given in the
eing
mechanical. Abbrev: mech name of Congress to a soldier \v?ho risks

mechanical aptitude test, test given at his life in battle beyond the call of duty;
reception centers when soldiers are being Congressional Medal of Honor. It is
he
classified. Its purpose is to find out the highest decoration that the United
p-
each man's probable ability to learn a States awards. Abbrev: MH
mechanical skill. medical. Abbrev: med
mechanical noise, noise inherent in the Medical Administrative Corps, Reserve
design and operation of listening equip- officers on active duty and officers of
e
ment. the Army of the United States commis-
mechanical pilot. See automatic pilot. sioned to perform administrative duties
se
mechanical time fuze, fuze with a with medical units.

clocklike mechanism that controls the Abbrev: MAC or Med Adm C
a
time at Vlhich it will go off. medical annex, detailed instructions is-
d
mechanical training, training in the use sued in addition to a field o'rder to cover
m-
of tools and machine.s and in the me- the work of medical personnel in connec-
chanics of the operation of weapons. tion with a oombat o~ration.
I
r-
m,
Medical Corps 168 medium-scale map
Medical Corps, branch of the Medical medical regulator, are sent to fixed
Department consisting of medical offi- hospitals or other institutions.
cers who give medical and surgical medical service, 1. organization of the
treatment, but not dental treatment, to Medical Department, including person-
military personnel. Abbrev: M C nel, equipment, and supplies, attached
Medical Department, branch of the to a command for the purpose of treating
Army Service Forces that is responsible sick and wounded soldiers.
for the health of men and animals in the 2. treatment given by the medical per-
Army. It consists of the Medical Corps, sonnel to the members of an organiza-
the Dental Corps, the Veterinary Corps, tion.
the Army Nurse Corps, the Pharmacy medical troops, enlisted men who be-
Corps, the . Medical Administrative long to the Medical Corps, especially
Corps, and the Sanitary Corps. It also those who serve in a medical detach-
includes dietitians and physical therapy ment attached to a combat unit.
aides. Abbrev: MD medium. Abbtev: m
Medical Department Reserve, reserve medium artillery, 1. artillery pieces of
officers of the Medical Department. medium size or caliber, usually ranging
medical depot, station at which medi- from 105-mm to 155-mm and including
cines, bandages, and other medical sup- the 155-mm howitzer. The other two
plies are received, stored, and issued. classes are light artillery and heavy ar-
medical detachment, group of mem- tillery.
hers of the Medical Department who' are 2. artillery units that use such pieces.
attached to a m~tary organization or medium bombardment airplane, bomb-
station. ing plane designed to carry a fairly
Medical Field Service School, special heavy bomb load over a moderate dis-
service school of the Medical Depart- tance; medium bomber. In size, speed,
ment that trains officers and enlisted range, bomb capacity, maneuverability,
men of the Medical Corps for duty with and operating altitude, the medium
troops in the field. bombardment airplane is midway be-
medical inspector, officer of the Medi- tween the h~avy bombardment air-
cal Department who is attached to a plane and the light bombardment air-
military command. He supervises the plane.
sanitary arrangements of the command tnedium bombardment aviation, class
and the measures that are taken to pre- of military aviation organized to attack
vent the spread of disease. He is surface objectives with bombs. Its
usually an assistant to the surgeon of equipment is designed to carry mod-
the command. Formerly called sani.. erately heavy bomb loads to fairly great
tary inspector. distances, and to conduct long-range
medical laboratory, Medical Depart- strategic reconnaissance over land and
ment establishment, generally a mobile sea.
unit. It has personnel and equipment ntedium bomber. See medium born
to make medical tests and to carry on bardrnent airplane.
field research. Its main function is to metHum-case bomb, type of high ex-
prevent di':;ease, especially epidemic dis- plosive bornb in which the weight of the
ease. container is large (60 to 7 5 percent of
medical officer, Army doctor; officer the total weight) in proportion to the
who holds a commission in the Medical weight of the bursting charge. Medium-
Corps of the Medical Department. case bombs weigh from 50 to 1000
medical plan, plan prepared by the pounds.
surgeon of a comn1and for the work of I medium fire, moderate rate of fire. I'or
the medical service during a military a .30-caliber Browning machine gun,
operation. medium fire is about 15 bursts of 6 to
medical regulator, officer of the Medi- 8 rounds each, per minute.
cal Department who has charge of the medium-scale ntap, military map with
removal of sick and wounded soldiers a scale of 1:50,000 to 1:125,000. Me-
from a regulating station. Soldiers in dium-scale maps are genera:Uy used by
need of medical care are brought to this regiments and higher commands for
station and, under the direction of the tactical maneuve s
I ;)
U I ERSITY OF C LIFORNI.
medium tank 169 messenger
medium tank, powerfully srmed and pole. All the places on the same merid..
armored tank that weighs from 25 to 40 ian have the same longitude.
tons. Tanks are usually classified as mess, 1. section within any Army or-
light (up to 25 tons), medium (25 to ganization that prepares and serves
40
40 tons), and heavy (over. 40 tons). food.

Abbrev: M Tk 2. group of officers or men who take
meeting engagement, clash between their meals together.
opposing forces, neither of which is fully 3. take one's meals (with).
prepared for the battle. mess account, record of the food used,
ully
memo, memorandum. and money spent, in providing meals for
memoranda, a plural of memorandum. the members of a command. The mess
memorandum, routine order by the account is kept by the mess officer.
m.
War Department, or a headquarters, message, communication or corre-

that gives directions, advice, or informa- spondence, whether in plain text or in
ma-
tion. A memorandum is often issued code. Messages include any orders, re-
instead of a bulletin or circular. Plural: ports, instructions, etc., that are sent
:
memorandums or memoranda. from one unit to another. Abbrev: msg
Abbrev: memo message book, 1. record or log of all
memorandum receipt, receipt, in dupli- messages sent from a message center,
li-
cate, for property, one copy of which is radio station, or the like.
is
given by the supply officer to the person 2. book of blank forms for writing mes-
son
taking out property, and the other is sages.

kept by the supply officer until the message center, section of the head-
property is returned. Abbrev: ~fem/R quarters or command post of an organi-
memory board, map of a region with zation that receives and sends out all
o
an illuminated, transparent surface so official messages for the commanding
arranged that different colored lights officer, except those handled by tele-
n
indicate the different kinds of alerts in phone, personal messenger, or mail.
each air-raid control district of the Abbrev: msg cen
region. message dropping ground, open space
MemfR, memorandum receipt. on the ground where airplanes drop mes-
Mercator chart, map based on Mer- sages.
e-
cator projection in which straight in- me8sageform, special form for messaies
Btead of curved lines are used to repre- that call for prompt reply or action.
sent latitude and longitude. A meBSageform is now used instead of
Mercator projection, method of draw- an immediate action letter.
i-
ing maps in which atraight instead of mes8age relay point, place where mes-
o-
curved lines are uaed to represent lati- sages are sent so that they can be for-
f
tude and longitude. On a Mercator pro- warded to their destination.

s
jection the space between the lines of message serial number, number given
ust
longitude is the same, but tl:e space is to each outgoing message so that it can
rreater between the lines of latitude be checked, handled, and filed more
e
nearer the poles than in the regions just easily.
north and south of the equator. mes8 attendant, enlisted man detailed
mercury fulminate, sensitive explosive to help the cooks of a unit perform rou-
that i8 set off by friction, impact, or tine kitchen duties, such as cleaning
s
heat and burns at a very rapid rate; vegetables or washing dishes; ~oldier
fulminate of mercury. Mercury fulmi- who is on kitchen police duty; kitchen
nate ia used to set oft other explosives police; mess orderly.
r-
in projectiles, mines, or bornbs. mess call, bugle call or other signal
d
meridian, 1. line of longitude; circle given to announce breakfast, dinner, or
nd
passing through the North and South supper.
ear Poles and any point on the earth's sur- mess council, group of officers, includ-
face. Lines of longitude are numbered ing the mess officer, who are appointed
o
from 0 degrees to 180 degrees east and by a commander to supervise and ad-
d~
west of the Greenwich observatory near minister the mess.

London, England. messenger, person who carries a~
2. the half of such a cir~e from pole to sage; courier. Abbrev: msgr
1g1 I ro
messenger team 170 mileage
messenger team, fast team of dogs used of what the enemy intends to do. In
for transportation when speedy commu- using the method of intentions, a knowl-
nication is needed, and when conditions edge of the arrangement, number, and
of snow and ice prevent the use of other kind of enemy forces is used to estimate
transportation. A messenger team is what the enemy intends to do. When
~ed for relief expeditions, or for moving such knowledge is lacking, the method
sick or wow1ded people or medical of intentions is used to estimate what
supplies. action would be most advantageous for
mess gear. See mess kit. the enemy.
mess jacket, short jacket, worn by of- methyldichlorarslne (METH il die klor
fleers at fornlal evening functions. The AR seen), colorless liquid that is a
mess jacket is part of the dress uniform. vesicant and lung irritant. Symbol: MD
mess kit, eating equipment which the metro correction, adjustment made in
r.;oldier uses in the field; mess gear. It the firing data of a gun to allow for the
includes knife, fork, spoon, cup, and effect of wind, air pressure, etc., on the
meat can. flight of a projectile.
mess officer)> officer appointed by a metro message. See meteorological
commander to supervise and manage messa~e.
the mess. I MG, machine gun.
mess orderly. See mess attendant. Mgas, motor gasoline.
mess sergeant, noncommissioned offi- MH, Medal of Honor.
cer who helps manage a company mess. Ml, military intelligence.
A 1ness sergeant directs all mess person- microbarograph, instrument that auto-
nel, has charge of supplies, issues ra- matically records changes of air pressure.
tions, plans meals, etc. He is the en- It is more accurate than a barograph.
listed assistant to the mess officer. microfilming, recording letters, draw-
met, meteorological. ings, or any documents in reduced form
metal fouling, bits of metal that col- on photographic film. The film pro-
Ject in the bore of a gun. Metal fouling vides a permanent record, reduces bulk
comes from the jackets or rotating for transportation or filjng, and permits
band') of projectiles. inexpensive duplication. V~mail is
metal trainer. See trainasium. usually microfilmed for shipment, and
metecrograph, apparatus that records enlarged and printed before delivery.
temperature, humidity, and air pressure midshipman, student attending the
in the upper air. A meteorograph is United States Naval Academy at An-
usually carried by a balloon, which may napolis or any college that trains men
be manned or unmanned. for the Navy. A. midshipman ranks
meteorological. Abbrev: met next below an ensign. See Tabl.e of
meteorological message, message in Comparatve Grades on p. 125.
code giving data about atmospheric mil, unit by which angles can be meas-
conditions for the use of artillery units; ured. A mil is approximately the angle
metro message. that is found when the two lines making
meteorologist. Abbrev: metgst it are extended for 1000 yards and when
meteorology, science dealing with the the space separating them at that dis-
atmosphere and weather. tance measures one yard. An artillery
metgst, meteorologist. mil is an American unit for measur-
method of capabilities, method of plan- ing angles, equal to 1/6400 of a circle.
ning an operation based on a study of all It is slightly smaller than the infantry
lines of action open to the enemy. In mil; 100 artillE-ry mils ==98.2 infantry
using the method of capabilities, all mils. An infantry mil is a slightly larger
lines of action open to the enemy are unit, being the angle subtended by
examined until a decision is made as to 1 yard at 1000 yards distance. 100
which line of action the enemy will prob- infantry mils= 101.8 artillery mils.
ably use, or as to the order of probability mil, military.
of the various lines of action open to the mil att, military attache.
enemy. mileage, money allowance given to oBi-
method of intentions, method of plan- cers to cover their expenses when trav-
ning an operation based on an estimate eling under orders. The allowance is
lg J
mileage allowance 171 military education
made on the basis of a fixed sum per fidential, or restricted nature will reach
mile. Also called mileage allowance. the enemy or anyone else not entitled
mileage allowance, money allowance to receive it.
given to officers to cover their expenses military channel, route of official com-
when they are traveling under orders. munication between headquarters or
ses
The allowance is made on the basis of commanders of military units. Usually
.
a fixed sum per mile. Also called called channeL
f
mileage. military chart. See military map.
mileage table, table of the officially military commission, military court set
accepted distances between various up to try persons not normally subject
cities and military establishments. The to military law who are charged with
e
distances on the mileage table are used military offenses. In places under mili-
ed
for calculating travel allowances. tary government or martial law, the
mil formula, formula or equation used military commlSslon tries persons
d in gunnery: the angle in mils made at charged with ei~er civil or military
the gun position by the two edges of the offenses.
the
target equals approximately one thou- military correspondence,. official letters,

-
sand times the width of the target di- memoranda, reports, indorsC;ments, tele-
vided by the range; (m = 1000 W + R); grams, etc., of a military nature, usually
mil relation. If any two terms of the sent between headquarters.
);
mil formula are known, the third is military court, court of justice com-
easily calculated. posed of military personnel that enforces
militarized female personnel, women military law; court; military tribunal.
of appointed to, or enrolled in, the Army of There are four kinds of military courts:
d
the United States. They hold ranks and military commission, provost court,
grades corresponding to the commis- court-martial, and court of inquiry.
lar
sions and enlisted grades of the Regular military courtesy, rules of conduct that
i-
Army, and include dietitians and physi- are required, either by regulation or by
cal therapy aides of the Medical Depart- tradition, for military personnel. Salut-
rt-
se
ment, and members of the Army Nurse ing officers is an important part of mili-
).
Corps and Women's Army Corps (for- tary courtesy.
merly Won1en's Army Auxiliary Corps). military crest, line near the top of a
military, 1. of or related to the Army. ridge or hill from which all, or nearly ali,
2. of the armed forces; related to the the ground on the enemy's side can be
Army, Nav-.r, etc. seen and reached by gunfire. 'The mili-
3. having to do with war. tary crest is not always the topographical
4. the Army; soldiers. Abbrev: mil crest, which is the highest ridge.
1tfilitary Academy. See United States military discipline, mental attitude and
Military Academy. state of morale and training that make
military area, geographical subdivi- obedience and correct conduct auto-
e of
sion of a service command. A military matic under all conditions. Military
area is made Up of a grOU}: of military discipline is founded on respect for, and
districts, and is set up for the purpose of loyalty to, proper authority.
ster
administering reserve organizations. military district, 1. geographical subdi-

military attache, Anny officer on the vision of a military area in a service
wn
official staff of an ambassador or minister command. A military district is set

to a foreign country. He serves as a up for the purpose of administering or-
military observer and reports to his own ganized reserve activities. In this mean-
government on the military plans and ing, also called district.
ion
developments of the country in which 2. district under military control. The
he is stationed. Abbrev: mil att or MA Military District of 'V ashington is or-
military aviation, all personnel and ganized for the defense of the District
equipment connected with the operation of Columbia and the neighboring area.
ake
of aircraft in the military service. Military District of 'Vashlngton.

military censorship, examination and Abbrev: ~IDW
regulation, by military authorities, of military education, individual tnilitary
h
messages and communications, to make instruction provided by schools and ex-

-
certain that nothing of a secret, con- tension courses, given without reg:.1.rd
I I
Military Establishment i72 military passport
to the student's membership in a partie- that gathers, evaluates, interprets, and
ular unit. dis3eminates information of military
Military Establishment, military fore~ value.
of the United States exclusive of the Military Intelligence School, special
Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Corps. service school that trains military in tel-
military government, government by ligence personnel in gathering, evaluat-
armed forces over occupied foreign tering, interpreting, and disseminating in-
ritory or over home territory that has formation of military value.
been regained from rebels who are military intelligence section, section of
treated as belligerents. The exercise of the general or special staff of a command
military government is a command re- that gathers, evaluates, and interprets
sponsibility, and full legislative, execu- information of military value. Also
tive, and judicial authority is vested in called intelligence section.
the oommanding general of the theater Abbrev: G-2 or S-2
of operations. Military Intelligence Service, branch
military governor, military officer who of the Military Intelligence Division
administers an occupied territory, usual- that gathers, evaluates, interprets, and
ly temporarily, with the aid of a military prepares for use information of military
force. value.
military grid, network of straight north- military internee. See internee.
south and east-west lines put on a mili- military jprisdiction, authority exer-
tary map, dividing it into squares to cised by military courts in administering
permit accurate location of points or justice.
places; grid. The distance between lines military justice, trial and judgment by
on the map represents a distance on the military courts; justice in accordance
ground of 1000 to 100,000 yard~, de- 'vith the Articles of War.
pending on the scale. 1nl!itary law, law for the government
military grid system, method of sub- of the armed forces; law administered
dividing the United Statee and other by military courts.
parts of the northern half of the Western military map, map med for military
Hemisphere for the purpose of making purp~; military chart. A military
accurate military maps; grid system. map ~ generally classified according to
Each zone in the ~ystem ~ ~mall enough its military use, such as general map,
so that a map of it may be made using a strategic m~p, or tactical map, or ac-
milltary grid. cording to the type of geographical in-
military information. See Information. formation it conveys, such at topo-
milltary Intelligence, 1. work of the in- graphic map, planimetric map, or
telligence personnel of a military or- photomap.
ganization in gathering, evaluating, in- military mission, group of military per-
terpreting, and di~eminating informa- sonnel t)lat a government agree! to send
tion of military value. to a foreign country. for the purpose of
2. information of military v~lue, gath- studying or teaching some phase of
ered, evaluated, interpreted, and dis- military ~cience.
seminated by the intelligence personnel. military occupation, occupation of an
According to its use, or the means by enemy country by an army !O that the
which it is gathered, intelligence is clas- occupied territory comes under the
sified as combat intelligence, engineer authority of the invading army.
intelligence, chemical intelli~ence, War military occupational specialty specifi-
Department intelligence, signal intelli- cation serial number. - Abbrev: MOS
gence, Army Air Forces intelligence, military offense, breach of military law;
field artillery intelligence, etc. offense subject to trial by court-martial.
3. division or section of a military unit military passport, document giving per-
that gathers, evaluates, interprets, and mission to one or more persom to travel
disseminates information of military unmolested, though usually with some
value. In all three meanings, also called re~trictions, in a territory occupied by
Intelligence. Abbrev: 1\1! a military force. A military passport is
Military Intelligence Division, division issued to a person or persons living in,
of the War Department General Staff or visiting .-i _the Pfcug\ed aNa by the
I I U I ERSITY OF C LIFORNI
military police 173 mine
commander of the military force in work in which he is engaged or for which
COJltrol there. he is qualified. For example, a stenog-
military police, soldier or soldiers who rapher is given the military specification
guard property, prevent crime, enforce serial number 213.
laws and regulations, arrest offenders, military subdistrict, smallest of the
ce
and perform other duties within the subdivisions of a service command. It

s,
Army similar to the duties of civilian is part of a military district.

police. They are organized as the military symbol, sign or mark put on a
Corps of Military Police. Abbrev: MP military map. A military symbol is
Military Police Corps Reserve, per- used to identify a terrain feature, such
sonnel of the Officers' R~erve Corps . as a road or waterway, and to locate and
who are trained for work with military identify a military unit or installation.
poli~ units. The Military Police Corps military training certificate, document
Reserve is now absorbed into the In- issued as evidence that a student in
fantry Reserve. the Reserve Officers' Training Corps
military policeman, soldier of the Corps (ROTC) has completed a preBcribed
ps
of Military Police. course of military training.

military post, place at which a mili- military training mission, group ot
sa
tary organization is stationed, such as a military personnel that a government
fort or camp. Also called station. agrees to send to a foreign country for
military prisoner, person under arrest the purpose of helping and advising the
or or in confinement at a military prison or foreign government in military affairs.
garrison. It is one type of military mission.
military railroad. See military railway. military tribunal. See military court.
y
military railway, railway under military militia, army of citizens trained for war
ne
operation or control, and especially one or other emergency; local military de-
built by the Army for its own use; mili- fense organization. The National Guard
-
tary railroad. is the organized militia; all other militia

-
Military Railway Service, organization units are known as unorganized or re-
of the Transportation Corps that oper- serve militia.
ates and manages all railroads under mil relation. See mil formula.
military control. Abbrev: MRS mil rule, ruler that enables -an observer
military . rank, status held by military to make rough estimations of angular
er
personnel that empowers them to ex- distances. A mil rule is marked off from
y
ercise command or authority over other a zero point at the center in graduations
persons in the military service. Military of 10 mils each. A piece of cord is tied
rank is divided into degrees or grades to each end of the rule, and the other
e
that mark the relative positions and ends of the cord are attached to a brass
powers of the persons holding it. Also ring. The observer holds the ring under
r called rank. See Table of Co1nparative one eye and holds the rule away from
Grades on p. 125. his face so that the strings are taut and
military reservation, land set apart for the zero mark on the rule is alined with
h
Army purposes; ground on which a the target, or other object, and then
military post or station is located. reads the angle in mils on the rule be-
military service, 1. duty in any branch tween the target and the bursts, or be-
of the armed forces. tween two other objects.
n
2. training for duty with the armed mils .error, error in firing data ex-
.
forces. pressed in terms of rrdls of angular dis-
military sketch, hasty map or sketch tance. Mils error differs from yards
ng
of an area; especially, one prepared in error, which is an expression of error in
a
the field for a special tactical purpose. yards of linear distance.
military specialist, enlisted man who min alt, minimum altitude.
has been rated, on the basis of training mine, 1. container holding an explosive
or experience, as qualified to perform a charge that is put under water, laid on
hich
specified military duty. the ground, or buried. A mine iJ ex-
-
military specification serial number, ploded at will by a control device or by
on
code number marked on a soldier's contact with a vehicle, ship, etc. Minas
qualification card to show the ty~ of are Wled to ha-m~r the movemwta of an
i
a
mine battery 174 minor-caliber weapon
advancing force or to make sea channels a tank, used to dEmroy ~nes by ex-
unsafe for enemy shipping. Sometimes ploding them.
a land mine is filled with a chemical mine sweeping, 1. clearing underwater
agent rather than with an explosive. mines from a harbor, the sea, or a
2. put mines in a field of battle, water- waterway by means of ves~ls fitted
way~ etc. with nets or drag wires.
3. dig under enemy positions. 2. destroying a mine field on land by ex..
mine battery, coast defense unit that ploding mines with rollers or locating
plants and maintains underwater mine them with electrical devices.
fields and also operates the equipment mine thrower, small mortar or other de-
by whigh the mines are controlled. vice that ijlrows projectiles containing
mine buoy. anchored, floating object high explosive for a short distance.
that marks the position of an undermine yawl, small harbor-defense boat
water mine or mine field. that assists the mine planters and dis-
mine cable, cable that connects the tribution box boats in planting, main-
selector box to the mine. taining, and repairing underwater mines
mine case, outer shell of metal that in a harbor defense system; motor mine
holds the mechanism and bursting yawl.
charge of a mine. miniature, small reproduction of a deco-
mine defense, defense of a position, ration or insignia, sometimes worn in
area, etc., by land or submarine mines. place of the full-sized one.
A mine defense system includes the miniature oak leaf cluster, decoration
personnel and equipment needed to in the form of a small oak leaf cluster.
plant, operate, maintain, and protect It is awarded to holders of War Depart-
the mine fields that are laid. ment decorations who have been cited
mine detector, electrical or magnetic for merit and achievement that would
instrument that is used to locate mines. entitle them to receive the same decora-
mine dragging, clearing an area of tion again.
underwater mines by grappling along miniature range, small range on which
the bottom of the sea. targets and distances are reduced in
mine field, 1. area in which mines have scale, used in firing practice.
been planfed, such as a submarine mine miniature range practice, practice fir-
field or a land mine field. ing on a small range in which the targets
2. pattern of mines planted in such an and distances are reduced in scale.
area. minimum altitude. Abbrev: min alt
1nine group, personnel and equipment minimum elevation, lowest elevation of
needed to plant, operate, maintain, and a gun at which the projectile will clear
protect part or all of the controlled mine an obstacle between the gun and the
fields of a particular harbor defense. target.
mine layer, small vessel used for laying minimum range, 1. least range setting
mines, harbor nets, and similar defenses, of a gun at which the projectile will
usually operated by the harbor defense. clear an obstacle or friendly troops be-
mine planter., ~mall vessel belonging tween the gun and the target.
to the Am1y ur1der the control of the 2. shortest distance to which a gun can
Coast Artillery Corps, used primarily fire from a given position.
to lay underwater mine; and cables. mining effect, hollowing-out action of
mine planting flotilla, small fleet of an explosive charge which goes off under-
vessels used to lay mines and shore ground. General purpose bombs with
cables and to mark out the mine fields. delay fuzes may have a mining effect.
It consists usually of five vessels: 1 mine 1'Iining effect is contrasted with the
planter, 1 distribution box boat, and 3 blast effect of a projectile or charge that
mine yawls. explodes on, or slightly above, the sur-
mine road block, mines put across a face of the ground. .
road as a barrier against enemy vehicles. mining system, series of underground
mine sweeper, 1. vessel fitted with passages through which enemy fortified
nets or drag wires for picking up under- positions can be reached secretly and
water mines. blo~wn up.
~. heavy road roller oushed in front of minor .. eali~r weaoon, seacoa...c;t artil-
r., 1 1 - , 1 n
I
minor tactics 175 mobile artillery
lery weapon of less than 12-inch caliber. 2. flight. operation of a single airplane or
Also called secondary armament. of a formation.
er.
minor tactics, tactics of small forces or mission of fire, total amount of am-
of those consisting entirely of one arm. munition of all types needed to load a
r minute gun, gun fired at regular inter- squadron of airplanes once.
m.
vals as a signal or as a mark of respect mistake, large error in the discharge of
-
to an individual. It may be fired at the a weapon, due to the particular reaction

ct
burial of a high-ranking officer. of an individual or to his imperfect train-

misbehavior before the enemy, any ing, that could have been avoided by
act of treason, insubordination, coward- proper care. A small unavoidable error
d-
ice, etc.; committed by a soldier on the due to the same cause is usually called a
he
battlefield. Misbehavior before the personnel error.
enemy is punishable by death. mister, official title used when address-
mise, miscellaneous. ing a warrant officer, a flight officer, or
miscellaneous.. Abbrev: mise a cadet in the United States Military
miscellaneous division, section of the Academy at West Point.
headquarters of a division or larger unit mitigation of sentence, reducing the
nit
that handles various reports and comr severity of a punishment imposed by a

munications that are not attended to by court-martial, while' not changing its
r
by
e-
other headquarters sections. These re- general nature. For example, a sentence
r-
ports and communications include cor- of imprisonment with hard labor might
al
respondence, confidential files, general be reduced to imprisonment only.
orders, records of allotted funds, and mixed force, military force that in-
s-
reviews of investigations and of courts- cludes several different branches or
martial. services.
n
misfeed, failure to supply ammunition mixed medical commission, group of

d
properly, especially to a magazine-fed three doctors who examine sick and

or belt-fed automatic gun. wounded prisoners. One doctor is ap-
misfire, 1. fail to fire or explode prop- pointed by the country that holds the
erly. prisoners, and two doctors are appointed
olly 2. failure of a primer or the propelling from a neutral country.
charge of a projectile to function, wholly mixed salvo, series of shots in which
art
or in part. Misfire may be contrasted some fall short of the target and some
with hangfire, which is delay in any part hit beyond it. A mixed salvo differs
of a firing charge. from a bracketing sal'vo, in which the
miss, _ 1. fail to hit, especially with a
number of shots going over the target

projectile or bomb. equals the number falling short of it.
2. burst or impact that is not on the mixed train, railway train that carries
no
target. both passengers and freight.
missing, classification of military per- mk, mark.
t-
sonnel thought to be dead, although no mkm, marksman.
positive evidence of death exists. The MLR, main line of resistance.
s in
term is not limited to casualties in bat- mobile, movable; that can be moved.
red.
tle, but may include disappearances The term applies to vehicles, troops, and
under unusual circumstances, such as in also to field installations, such as mobile
aircraft or vessels that have disappeared.
en
f
hospitals or artillery.
o
missing in action, 1. classification of Abbrev: mbl
en
military personnel thought to have been mobile antiaircraft artillery, artillery
killed in combat, although the body of that can be moved from place to place
-
the soldier has not been found and no for use against aircraft.
positive evidence of his death has been mobile arMament. See mobile artillery.
nd.
found. mobile artillery, artillery that can be
2. thought to have been kill~d in com- moved and set up wherever needed;
bat, although no positive evidence of mobile armament. Mobile artillery may
t
e or
the death of the soldier has been found. be self-propelled or pulled by a railway
mission, 1. definite task, duty, or as- engine, tractor, or truck. Some of the
signment given to an individual or unit weapons of both field artillery and coast
a in a military action. artillery are mo~ile r r-tillery.
I
of
on
in-
mobile defense 176 monoplane
mobile defense, defense of an area, po- to its wartime establishment. This in-
sition, etc., with combat weapons, in . eludes personnel, materiel, and equip-
which maneuver is used together with ment.
organization of fire and utilization of mobilization point, area or camp at
terrain to seize the initiative from the which troops are first assembled and
enemy. Mobile defense is a form of given part of their training and equip-
active defense. ment.
mobile depot, station for receiving, Mobilizatioll RefUlatlons, rules laid
storing, and issuing supplies. It is set down by the War Department, and
up in such a way that it can be moved published in the form of official regUla-
to other locationS as circumstance8 may tions, to govern the assembling and or-
require. Depots located in the field are ganizinr of troops, materiel, and equip-
usually 1nobile. ment in preparation for war.
mobUe disfnfestor, apparatus for kill- Abbrev: MR
ing vermin in clothin~, etc. It is usually Mobilization Tralnina Program.
operated by steam preaure, and may be Abbr~: MTP
mounted on a vehicle or trailer. mobilize, aMemble and orga~ troops,
mobile hospital, hospital unit for serv- materiel, and equipment for active mili-
ice in the field. It can be moved from tary service.
one place to another to meet the de- mock-up, model, built to scale, of a ma-
mands of the combat situation, ae con- chine, apparatus, or weapon. It is UJed
trasted with a fixed hospital, which is a in studying the construction and in ~
permanent establishment at a post or ing a new development, or in teaching
base. men how to operate the actual machine,
mobile re8erves, 1. reserve troops who apparatus, or weapon.
reinforce any defell8e that iJ threatened model desiraation, mark, eonmtin2 of
by the enemy. a combination of letters and numbers,
2. reserve supplie~ held ready on ships, stamped on an item of materiel or equip-
trucks, or railroad cars for prompt shipment to identify and cl&Mify it when it
ment to the front. is adopted. The model designation
mobile seacoast artlllery, aeacout artil- !hows what model the item is and how
lery weapons that can be moved and set many changea of duign, if any, have
up in temporary firing positions. The been made on the original model. M2Al
artillery may be railway-drawn, tractor- iB an example, M2 showin" the ba!ic
drawn, or truck-drawn. model, A1 showing a change of design.
mobile surgical unit, surgical unit of model number, number !tamped on an
a field hospital that can be moved to itQm of materiel or equipment, when it
places where it is most needed. It has is adopted, to show what model the item
its own means of transport, as well as is, and how many changes of design, if
the personnel and equipment needed to any, have been made on the original
carry out surgery under field conditions. model. In the model designation M2Al,
mobile warfare, warfare of movement 2 and 1 are the model numbers.
in which the opposing sides 8eek to seize modified bracketing method, method
and hold the initiative by the use of of adjUBting roughly the range of glli'1.-
maneuver, organization of fire, and fire, ~pecially against aerial targets, in
utilization of terrain. Also called \lar which the distance by which the target
of movement. is missed is not measured accurately.
mobilization, assembling and organiz- The shots are classified as way over,
ing troops, materiel, and equipment for over, hit, doubtful, short, and way short;
active military service, in time of war the gun corrections are made in fixed
or other national emergency. units of elevation to bring the shot or
mobilization center, station or area at burst on the target.
which soldiers are assembled, trained, Moil, motor oil.
and equipped for active military service. monoplane, airplane that has only one
It may be a reception center, training main supporting surface, sometimes di-
center, service school, etc. vided into two parts by the fuselage.
mobilization plan, detailed plan for There are four types of monoplane:
bringing the Army from its peacetime (1) high win~~ in rffich the wing is lo-
I
uI ERSITY OF C LIFORNI
monument 177 mosquito bar
cated at; or near the top of, the fuselage. that are protected or concealed by inter-
(2) low wing, in which the wing is lo- vening hill! or other short-range barriers.
cated at, or near the bottom of, the Abbrev: mort .
age.
fuselage. mortar carrier, cart or vehicle on which
(3) midwing, in which the wing is lo- a mortar is mounted or transported. A
cated about midway between the top mortar mounted in a half-track carrier
and bottom of the fuselage. is mually fired from the carrier.
(4) partl8ol, in which the wing is above mortar deflection board, control in-
the fuselage. strument uaed for finding the corrections
e
monument, atone or other permanent for wind, drift, etc., and the adjuatment
object set in the ground to show location that must be applied to the azimutH
t or to fix a boundary. settings of a mortar.
ion
moor, anchor; fasten a ship or airship mortar pit, emplacement in which a
to something by means of ropes or mortar ia set. It is generally detign&d
cables so that it will not be able to move to give cover, concealment, and a firm
away with the wind or current. base from which the piece can be fired.
ove
mopping up, getting rid of remnants of mortar projectile, 1hell ~ in a mor-

of
enemy res~tance in an area that has tar. A mortar projectile is sometime&
been surrounded or isolated, or through used to pierce deck armor on a zhip.
gh
which other units have passed without mortar ran1e board, fire control in-
t stamping out all active resistance. strument for finding corrections that
mop up, get rid of remnants of enemy must be applied to the range or eleva-
y
re!i!tance in an area that has been sur- tion settings of a mortar.

ur-
rounded or isolated, or through which mortar shell, explosive or chemicalhell

other units have passed without stamp- designed for use in a mortar.
p-
ing out all active resistance. MOS, military occupational specialty

morale, condition of an individual or specification serial number.
group with regard to couraie, confi- mosaic, collection of aerial photo~pM
m-
dence, and enthusiasm in the perform- joined in such a way that they form a
ance of duty. continuous picture of the area over
Morale Branch, an agency devoted to which they WQre taken; aerial m01aic.
my.
the improvement of morale in the Army. Mosaics are usually scaled and gridded.
Formerly called Special Service Divi- controlled mosaic, mosaic made from
sion. overlapping aerial photographs brought
ned
morale ofllcer, formerly, officer assigned to a uniform scale and placed on a con-
to morale activities. He is now called trol sheet. The control sheet carries
te
special service officer. points already located by ground survey,
morning gun, gun fired at the first note with which corresponding points on the
of reveille or at sunrise. Also called photographs are matched, as a check.
reveille gun. strip mosaic, mosaic made by as-
morning report, daily history or log sembling a series of vertical aerial pho-
of
of a company or similar unit. It shows tograph! taken along a given line on a

o
the daily strengtb and official status of single flight.

w-
the personnel of the command. It also uncontrolled mosaic, mosaic made by

contains a daily record of events, show- matching the edges of aerial photographs
ing important changes of location or and by cutting away the parts that
duty of the unit. The morning report overlap, but without the check of scale
a
is permanent record as well as the or position given by a framework of
basic report of a unit. control points located by ground survey.
Abbrev: M/R mosaic assembly, process of joining
Morse code. See International Morse aerial photographs together to make a
l-
eode. continuous picture.

mort, mortar. mosaic mountant, paper or sticky base
htortar, artillery weapon that has a rel-
nd
to which aerial photographs are attached

s
atively short barrel and generally a to make a mosaic.
ter-
smooth bore. It has a shorter range and mosquito bar, netting made of cloth,
ers. a higher angle of fire than a howitzer, used as a protection against mosquitoes
and is therefore used to reach targets and other insects.
A
h
rlglnal rrom
r
mosquito fleet 178 motor transport officer
mosquito fleet, fleet of small craft. A I from one position to another in motor
mosquito fleet is often a fleet of fast, vehicles.
armed, motor torpedo boats. motorized unit, fot,nerly, a unit equip-
motor. Abbrev: mtr ped with complete rnotor transportation
motor book, book in which are recorded that enabled its personnel, weapons,
all repairs and alterations that are and equipment to be moved at the
made on a motor vehicle. Each vehicle same time. A motorized unit did
has its own motor book. not usually fight from its transport
motor convoy, tran~portation of mili- vehicles.
tary personnel or materiel by motor motor maintenance officer, officer who
truck caravan, generally under escort. supervises the operation, inspection,
1notorcycle. Abbrev: mtrcl servicing, and repair of the motor ve-
motorcycle scout, scout or patrol who is hicles belonging to a company or similar
mounted on a motorcycle. unit.
motorcycle troop, unit, similar to a motor mine yawl. See miue yawl.
company or battery, that is made up of I motor officer, staff officer in charge of
members of the mechanized cavalry who the operation, inspection, servicing, and
are mounted on motorcycles. repair of the motor vehicles that belong
. motorcyclist. Abbrev: mtrclt to a battalion or higher unit; motor
motor dispatch service, service that transport officer. He advises thE unit
provides speedy eommunication by commander and staff on matters of
motor vehickw .between the headquar- motor transportation.
ters of divisions and larger units in the motor oil. Abbrev: Moil
field. motor park, area where motor vehicles
motor ~rasoline. Abbret1: Mgas are stored or parked when not in use
motorization, equipping or being equip- or where repairs can be made when
ped with motor-driven vehicles. Motor- necessary; vehicle park. It is estab-
ization differs from mec.hani7..ation, in lished in 11 protected, concealed location.
that the motorization of unit provides motor patrol, patrol mounted on a
a means of transportation only, whereas motor vehicle which generally has no
in mechanization the unit both travels armor.
1
in, and fights from, its vehicles, which : motor pool, group of motor vehicles that
are armed and armored. ~ are used in common by several units or
motorize, equip with motor-driven ve- that may be assigned to any particular
hicles. organization whenever the need arises.
motorized, equipped with motor-driven Also called motor transport pool.
vehicles. Motorized differs from meclt- administrative pool, vehicles and per-
anized, in that a motorized unit is pro- sonnel that remain with their own or-
vided with a means of transportation ganization, but are available for use by
only, whereas a mechanized unit both others.
travels in, and fights from, its vehicles. physical pool, vehicles and personnel
Abbrev: mtz belonging to several organizations as-
motorized artillery, artillery drawn by sembled in one place for common use.
trucks or tractors. motor repair park, area in the theater
motorized detachment, small tactical of operations to which motor vehicles are
group that uses motor vehicles for brought for repairs. A motor repair
reconnaissance or some other special park is located where it will be most con-
mission. venient to the greater part of the bat-
motorized division, an infantry division talion transport, preferably on a com-
.
equipped with motor transport vehicles mon ambulance route.

that enable its personnel, weapons, and motor torpedo boat, small vessel of
equipment to be moved at the same time. great speed, armed with torpedoes,
motorized gun, gun drawn by a truck mines, and automatic weapons.
or tractor. motor transport, motor vehicles used
motorized infantry, foot soldiers trans- for transport only, as contrasted with
ported to and from battle fronts in combat vehicles. Abbrev: !\IT
1notor trucks. motor transport officer. See motor of-
motorized march, movement of troops ficer.
Orlg1nal fro
-.... U I ERSITY OF C LIFORNI
motor transport pool 179 MRU
motor transport pool, group of motor mountainous country, as opposed to
vehicles that are used in common by jungle warfare, trench warfare, etc. It
several units or that may be assigned to includes skill in skiing, mountain climb-
any particular organization whenever ing, etc.
to the need arises. Usually called motor mounted, 1. transported by vehicles or
pool. horses.
Motor Transport Service, organization 2. in the saddle; on a horse; in a vehicfe.
in the communications zone of a theater 3. fastened onto a mount, backing, or
of operations that has charge of all motor support; especially, assembled on a gun
ter
otor
transport not assigned organically to mount. Abbrev: mtd
troop units. mounted defilade, position behind a
motor-tricycle. Abbrev: mtricl natural or artificial obstacle high enough
motor vehicle, vehicle run with a mo- to give concealment and possible protec-
tor; any wheeled, track-laying, or half- tiol'. to mounted men.
-
track vehicle that is powered by an mounted drill, formation and move-
engine. A trailer is also considered a ments . by cavalry on horseback for
motor vehicle. training and ceremonial purposes.
motor vehicle service record book, book mounted officer, officer in active serv-
ook
in which are recorded all repairs and ice who is required by Army Regulations
alterations that are made on a motor to be mounted.
or
vehicle. Each vehicle has its own motor mouth pull-down, cartridge defect in
vehicle service record book. which the mouth of the case is pushed
mount, 1. structure that supports any down. This happened when the bullet
e-
apparatus. A gun, a searchlight, a tele- was put into the case.
y
scope, or a surveying instrument may move. Abbrev: mv
have a mount. movement, maneuver; moving of troops
on
2. fasten in position, especially a gun on and equipment from one place to an-
its support, a photograph on a backing,
g,
other, as in a march or in transport

etc. overseas. Abbrev: mvmt
mes
3. riding horse. Today a cavalryman's movement order, order issued to cover
scout car or motorcycle is also sometimes all the details of the movement of a
called a mount. unit, such as the starting time, initial
unt
4. equip; put into operation; go into point, route to be followed, equipment
operation, as, to mount guard, to mount to be taken, and the refueling points for
an offensive. vehicles.
mount adapter, device to make a gun
move out, command that follows in-

fit properly into a mount. structions in spoken field orders. It
es;
mountain. Abbrev: mt indicates that the men addressed are to
-
mountain artillery, light artillery that leave and carry out orders.
c:.tn be carried on pack horses or mules; moving pivot, 1. person who acts as the
artillery designed for use in mountain- turning point or pivot for a line of troops
ous country. when they change their direction of
mountain corps, tactical unit, larger march.
n-
than a division and smaller than an 2. the arc of a circle about which a
army, that is composed of troops se- column turns when it changes its direc...
lected and trained to fight in mountain-
re
e.
tion of march.
un-
ous country. moving screen, patrols, often cavalry
mountain training center, station where or mechanized detachments, used to
nd
troops are trained in mountain warfare. keep enemy scouting parties at a dis-
g Special training is given in skiing, moun- tance and hide a body of moving troops
tain climbing, etc. from enemy observation.
mountain troops, soldiers equipped and moving target, target in motion, such
-
trained in mountain warfare, including as an airplane or vehicle.

skiing and mountain climbing. MP, military police.
mountain warfare, 1. combat opera- MR, Mobilization Regulations.
tions that are carried out in mountain- M/R, morning report.
b-
ous country. MRS, Military Railway Service.
2. tactics and technique of fighting in MRU, machin~ records unit.
or
1_1 ro
cle.
msg 180 muster
msg, message. holds more than one bomb.
msg cen, message center. multiplex aero-projector. See multiplex
ms~, messenger. projector.
m sgt, master sergeant. multiplex projector, apparatus made up
MSR, main supply road. of a series of individual projectors which
1\lf station, primary or bMe end ob- are so placed that they throw a coll8ecu-
serving station of a mine field in a coast tive series of aerial photographs of an
defense area, where the electric control area onto a projection board or table;
that explodes a mine is operated. multiplex aero-projector. The projec-
1\IT, motor transport. tion of the photographs is adjusted for
mt, mountain. scale and position so that the image of
mtd, mounted. the whole assembly makes up a stereo-
M Tk, medium tank. scopic picture that is accurate in both
MTP, Mobilization Training Program. detail and scale.
mtr, motor. multipurpose gun, gun that can be used
rntrcl, motorcy~le. for a number of different purpose~J, such
mtrclt, motorcycli~t. as against ground -forces and against
mtricl, motor-tricycle. aircraft.
mtz, motorized. multtsection charae, propelling charge
rnudcappinl, method of breaking up in !eparate-loading ammunition that is
large rocks without drilling. A charge loaded into a number. of powder bags.
of high explosive is laid on the rock Range adjustments can be made by
and covered with a shovelful of mud, increasing or reducing the number of
then set off. Also called adobe shoot- bags used, as contrasted with a slnile
ing. section charge, in which the size of the
mud-lime slurry course, wide trench charge cannot be changed. Three types
filled with a decontaminatini chemical, of mult~ction charge are equal section
usually lime, mixed with mud. Vehicles charre, base and increment charge, and
that have come in contact with chemical unequal section charie.
agents are driven or wallowed through mun, munitions.
this trench so that they can be fre~ munitions, ammunition, explosivea, and
from the poison gases. Also called wal- all other types of neceMary war ma-
low course. terials. Abbrev: mun
multiplace fiihter, fighter airplane that munitions officer, officer in charge of
has room for a crew of two or more men, the records and supply of ammunition
in contrast with a single-place fiahter, for a unit.
which is operated by a single flyer. It mus, musician.
is used for patrol and escort duty, and musette bai, small bag with a strap so
also for attacking enemy ground posi- that it can be carried over one shoulder, ~
tions and formatioll!. used by a soldier in the field to hold his
multiple antiaircraft weapon, antiair- own supplies and equipment; field b~.
craft weapon that i8 provided with more musician. Abbrev: mus
than one firing unit or barrel assembly. musketry, 1. training in the use of the
The English pompom gun is a multiple rifle arid similar small arms.
antiaircraft weapon. 2. fire delivered with rifles or similar
multiple gun, group of guns that are small arms.
emplaced and adjusted for firing ~ a mustard. See mustard gas.
unit; group of guns mounted in a single mustard gas, very poisonoll!, oily,
turret of an aircraft, or any group of brown liquid that attacks the eyes and
guns mounted in one position and fired lungs and raises blisters on the skin;
as a unit. mustard. It has an odor similar to gar-
multiple-lens camera, aerial camera lic, mustard, or horseradish. It is not
with two or more lenses, used chiefly actually a gas, but is spread in clouds
in aerial mapping. Usually one lens made up of very small drops. Symbol: H
takes vertical photographs, and the muster, 1. assemble for orders, review,
other lens or lense'J take oblique photo- inspection, etc.
graphs. 2. assembling of troops for review, roll
multiple station rack, bomb rack that call, etc. ~ f
rr1g1na 1 ro
muster roll 181 mvmt
muster roD, list of personnel of an or- the projectile leaves it. So~etim~
ganization in which the names and called powder blast.
grades are given. It is made up at an muzzle bore sight, disk with cress hair~,
assembly or roll call, and it lists the or some other marking, that is fitted into
names and grades of the men preaent or a gun at the muzzle. The cross hairs
accounted for. show the exact center of the bore, along
t or
mutiny, 1. revolt or rebellion against which a soldier sights through another
military authority. It is different from disk, ~et into the breech recess of the
sedition, which is revolt against civil gun, to line the bore of the gun upon a
authority. fixed aiming point in order to make the
2. rebel or revolt against military au- axis of the bore correspond with the
thority. axis of the gun sights. The attachment
mutual ftre support, ~fire from ad- at the breech is called the breech bore
jacent combat units in support of one siaht.
another. muzzle flash, spurt of flame that ap-
mutual support, support, involving gun- pears at the muzzle when a gun is fired.
n-
fire or movement, or both, that adjacent It is caused by gases from the propelling
ent
units give one another. charge that collect in the muzzle and
muzle, open front end of the barrel of ignite when mixed with air.
a gun; end of the bore from which the
of
e
muzzle sight. See front sight.
projectile leaves. muzzle velocity, speed of a projectile
muzzle bell, bell-shaped, built-up l!ec- at the instant it leaves the muzzle of a
an- tion at the muzzle of some types of can- gun; initial velocity.
non, such as the 155-mm gun. muzzle wave. See gun wave.
s
muzzle blast, rush of hot air and gases mv, move.

as
that bursts from the muzzle of a gun as mvmt, movement.
rs,
nto
ong
he
ed.
ing
\
\ .. ~'
i
Orlg1nal rrom
nacelle 182 navigation officer
nacelle, inclosed part of an aircraft, certain circumstances, the present or
usually in the wing, where personnel or former President of the United States.
engines are carried. A nacelle is usually 2. salute of 48 guns, one for each state
shorter than a fuselage, and does not in the Union, fired at noon on July 4,
carry the tail unit. each year, to commemorate the signing
nadir, point vertically beneath an ob- of the Declaration of Independence. In
server. The nadir is the opposite of this meaning, usually called Salute to
the zenith, which is the point '<iirectly the Union.
overhead. . j National Service Life Insurance, life
national anthem, song officially adopted 1
insurance up to $10,000, provided by the
in honor of a country, as The Star government and available to persons in
Spangled Banner. active military service. A. bbrev: NSLI
national cemetery, burial ground for natural obstacle, any feature of a region
military personnel and for authorized that hinders military maneuvers or
members of their families. A national operations. A. natural obstacle may be
cemetery is established under orders of a desert, mountain, stream, swamp,
the Secretary of War when empowered forest, etc.
by act of Congress. nav, navigation.
National Defense Act, act of Congress Naval Academy. See United States
that establishes the military policy of Naval Academy.
the United States. The National De- naval base, center from which naval
fense Act provides for the maintenance forces operate, and at which they are
of a peacetime army and for the orderly repaired, supplied, and serviced.
mobilization and training of the Army naval district, subdivision of the coastal
of the United States, including the area and waters set up by the Navy De-
National Guard, in time of war or any partment as a military and administra-
other emergency. tive command.
national ensign, flag of the United navigation, science of sailing and steer-
States flown from the staff at the stern ihg a ship, of flying an aircraft, or of
of ships. driving a land vehicle from one place to
National Guard, reserve part of the another on a given course, and of de-
national military establishment that is termining its position in unfamiliar ter
administered by the States, and by some ritory. Abbrev: nav
Territories. The National Guard is or- celestial navigation, method of de-
ganized, armed, and equipped, wholly termining geographical positions by ob-
or in part, at federal expense, in peace- servation of heavenly bodies, used.
time. In time of war or national emer- especially by aircraft and ships; astro-
gency it is called or ordered into federal no1nical navigation. In flying aircraft,
service. In peacetime the National celestial navigation is used as a check on
Guard acts as state guards. dead reckoning or radio navigation.
National Guard Bureau, War Depart- ~dead reckoning navigation, naviga
ment Bureau that exercises control of tion based on the determination of posi-
all civilian and military affairs pertain- tion by the distance and direction from
ing to the National Guard. some known point. Dead reckoning
National Guard of the United States, navigation is based on calculations of
organization consisting of members and speed, drift, and direction.
units of the National Gqard who have radio navigation, navigation by means
taken an oath and been appointed for of radio, radio direction finders, etc.
federal service whenever it becomes navigational chart, map used in pilot-
necessary. The National Guard of the ing a ship or aircraft.
United States is at all times a compo- navigation head, supply point on a
nent of the Army of the United States. waterway where loads are transferred
National Match, annual competition in from the water to truck or rail trans-
all types of small arms for military and portation, or where land loads are trans-
civilian personnel. ferred to ships or boats. A navigation
national salute, 1. salute of 21 guns bead is similar in function to a railhead
fired in honor of a national flag, the or truckhead.
ruler of a foreign country, and, under navigation officer
lg
navigation set 183 noncombatant
navigation set, radio apparatus in- candle or flare dropped from an aircraft
stalled in an aircraft for use in navigat- to illuminate a target in night bombing.
ing. night firing mark, illuminated aiming
t-
navigator, specialist who plans the post, used for firing at night.
course and determines the position of a night ~ying chart, map used to navi-
ship, aircraft, or vehicle. gate aircraft at night. A night flying
fa
Nav 0, navigation officer. chart Rhows those terrain features visible

NCO, noncommissioned officer. at night, such as cities, rivers, beacon
NCS, net control station. lights, etc.
neglect of duty, failure to carry out an night glasses, binoculars that have high
n
order, to perform an assigned task, or to light-gathering power, used in identify-
r to
fulfill the responsibilities of an individ- ing aircraft or seacraft at night.
-
ual's position or assignment. Neglect night traffic line, line beyond which
of duty is a military offense. wheeled vehicles are not permitted to
nest, center of resistance, especially one pass during darkness.
one
sheltering machine guns and riflemen. Nissen hut, dome-shaped, insulated

n.
net, 1. radio system consisting of anum- shelter used chiefly in Arctic areas.
um-
her of stations in communication with nitrocellulose, chemical substance

one another. formed by the action of a mixture of
to
2. flexible barrier of steel mesh used to nitric and sulfuric acids on cotton or
block entry to waterways, protect some other form of cellulose. Guncot-
against torpedoes, etc. ton, an explosive, is a nitrocellulose that
n-
3. fishnet, chicken wire, or similar foun- . has a very high nitrogen content.
is
dation on which camouflage material is nitrocellulose powder, high-powered,

hung to conceal a gun, grounded air- smokeless propellent powder. Pyro pow-
craft, etc. der is a type of nitrocellulose powder.
net call sign, signal used to call all the nitrocotton. See guncotton.
e
stations in a radio net. nitrogen mustards. Symbol: HN

affic,
net control station, station in a radio nitroglycerin, highly explosive oily
re-
net designated to control message traffic, liquid made by treating glycerin with
to keep the stations on the assigned fre- a mixture of nitric and sulfuric acids.
cel,
quency, etc. Abbrev: NCS . nitrostarch, powerful explosive used as
an
neutralization, 1. action taken to cancel, a substitute for TNT. Nitrostarch is

balance, or limit the effectiveness of an made from starch treated with a mixture
enemy area, weapon, installation, or of nitric and sulfuric acids.
he
force. no, number.
2. making a chemical agent harmless no man's land, strip of land between
with a different chemical agent; as, the the front lines of two opposing forces.
neutralization of mustard gas with nomenclature, set or system of official
troy bleaching powder. names or titles given to items of rna-
emy
neutralization fire, fire delivered to teriel and equipment.
cause severe losses, especially to destroy nonaccountable officer, officer not un-
f-
or reduce the combat efficiency of enemy der bond and not accountable for public
personnel and operations. property.
neutralize, 1. destroy or reduce the ef- nonbattle injury, disability or death
m-
fectiveness of enemy personnel and arising from external causes other than
y
materiel by gunfire, bombing, or chem- enemy acts.
g
ical warfare. nonboresafe fuze, fuze that does not
2. make harmless anything contami- include a safety device to make impos-
nated with a chemical agent. One may sible the explosion of the burster of a
neutralize mustard gas with bleaching projectile while it is still in the bore of
powder. the gun.
der.
new g11ard, new group of soldiers as- noncapital ship, warship that carries no
of
signed to a tour of interior gUard duty guns above medium size, usually no guns
aft
to replace the old guard. larger than 8 inehes. N oncapital ship~
NH powder. See nonhygroscopic powder. include cruisers, destroyers, submarines,
I
g.
n.ight. AbbrelJ: nt and aircraft carriers.

night bombing flare, parachute type of n~ncombatant, ~erson .. p._r organization
1

ible
n
noncommissioned officer 184 nonstandard
whose duties do not involve actual fight- made the lowest grade in the general
ing or the bearing of arms. Chaplains classification test. A nonlanguage test
and members of the Medical Corps are is acted out for the men, or parts of it
noncombatants. are acted out by the men themselves.
noncotnmissioned officer, enlisted man nonlethal agent, chemical agent whose
holding any grade from corporal or tech- action is not strong enough to cause
nician, fifth grade, to, and including, death, or which exerts a marked irritat-
master sergeant or first sergeant. ing or warning action at concentrations
Abbrev: NCO below that required to cause death or
noncorrosive decontaminating agent, serious injury; nontoxic agent.
chemical that does not itself injure nonoverhead target, moving air target
fabrics or metals, used to make harmless that does not pass over, or nearly over,
enemy chemical warfare agents. a gunner.
nondelay fuze, fuze that is set to nonpay status, status of an officer or
burst the projectile very quickly, before enlisted man who is not entitled tore-
the projectile penetrates the targPt or ceive pay during the time that he is in
glances off. A nondelay fuze is also a nonduty status, that is, when he is
called an instantaneous fuze, and is one not available for duty with h~ organiza-
type of impact fuze. - tio.n because of his own fault or neglect.
nondeteriorating s1Ipplies, items that Absence without leave and time lost
may be expected to remain useful for a from duty because of illness due to the
reasonably long time. The period of ex- soldier's fault are cases in which the
pected usefulness is usually specified. soldier is placed in a nonpay status.
nondisbursing officer, officer whose duty nonpersistent agent, chemical agent
does not require him to pay out, or whose effect is lost usually within 10
account "for, public funds. mihutes after its release in open air.
nonduty status, status of an officer or nonpersistent gas, chemical agent in
enlisted man who, for any reason, such the form of a gas or vapor whose effect
as arrest, furlough, or absence without is lost usually within 10 minutes after
leave, is not available for duty with the its release in open air.
organization to which he belongs. nonpromotion-list officer, commis--
noneffective, person unable to perform sioned officer of the Regular Army who,
active duty because of illness or other as a member of a nonpromotion-list
disability. service, is promoted at stated intervals
noneffective rate, number of persons based on length of service in the Army
per 1000 strength, per day, unfit for or in grade.
duty because of sickness or other disa- nonpromotion-list service, any one of
bility. several branches of the Regular Army
nonexpendable, not consumed in use. whose members are officers not included
N onexpendable articles are ones which in the promotion list. Such officers are
are not consumed in use, although they promoted upon completion of a specified
may wear out; they remain charged to length of service in the Army or in
the responsible or accountable officer. grade and, in the case of the Medical
Weapons, vehicles, tools, etc., are non- Department, subject to the successful
expendable supplies. passing of a professional examination.
nonexpendable supplies, supplies that The nonpromotion-list services include:
may reasonably be expected to wear Medical Department, Corps of Chap- 1
out in time rather than be consumed in lains, and professors at the United States ,
a single using; supplies that do not lose Military Academy.
their identity in use. nonrecoverable. See expendable.
nonhygroscopic powder, smokeless pow- nonrecoverable property. See expend
der that has no tendency to absorb able property.
moisture from the air, and that is used nonstandard, differing from specifica
ruJ a propelling charge for projectiles; tions, conditions, or procedures that
NH powder. have been prescribed or established.
nonlanguage te8t, group intelligence Weather conditions different from th()re
examination for men who can read little assumed in firing tablea, for instance,
or no English, or for men who have are nons. ~~~~ . fro
nons~dard supplies 185 NYR
nonstandard supplles, articles not listed gun or battery is normally responsible, .
ed
in the supply catalog that are pur- and into which its fire is ordinarily
chased locally or obtained by requisi- directed.. This area is usually smaller
tion when needed. than the area which the gun or battery
nonsupervised articles, articles of pub-, can reach if necessary.
b-.
lie property that are out-of-date or no noae, point, front, or forward end of a
lonier useful, whose disposal does not projectile, bomb, aircraft, etc.
ot
require supervision by the chief of the nose fuze, fuze placed at the front of
e
supply arm or service concerned. a bomb or projectile. A nose fuze acts

nonsystematic error. See accidental slightly faster than a tail fuze.
error. nose gun, gun mounted in the nose of
nontoxic agent. See nonlethal agent. an aircraft.
ich normal barrage, standing barrage which nose heavy, term applied to an air-
of a battery fires for the local protection of craft whose nose tends to sink.
a supported command in case of an nose irritant. See sternutator.
enemy attack. A battery is kept con- nose spray, fragments of a bursting
en
stantly laid on its normal barrage when shell that are thrown forward in the line
bar-
not otherwise engaged, and fires the bar- of flight, in contrast to base spray,
rage on signal from the supported unit. thrown to the rear, and side spray,
t.
i-
normal charge, standard amount of thrown to the side.
powder used in firing a gun under ordi- not yet returned. Abbrev: NYR
in
nary conditions, as compared with re- no vehicle-light line, line in a combat
duced charges or supercharges used in zone beyond which vehicles may not
special circumstances. show a light when traveling at night.
d-
normal form message, form used to NSLI, National Service Life Insurance.
A
transmit a message between the head- nt, night.

quarters of divisions or higher units. A nuisance raid, raid by aircraft or
-
normal form message differs from an ground troops made to harass and dis-
or
abbreviated, "flash'', or other special tress the enemy rather than to do
fonn message which is used for trans- serious damage.
mission of messages within a division or null, meaningless code group inserted
r under special circumstances. into a coded message to confuse and
normal impact, striking of a projectile puzzle the enemy.
against a surface that is perpendicular number. Abbrev: no
to the line of flight of the projectile. numbers, by the, preparatory com-
normal interval, space between indi- mand given in close order drill to signify
vidual soldiers standing side by side. that the movement ordered is to be car-
he
man
It is obtained by extending the left arm ried out step by step, at the command of
sideways at shoulder height so that the the drill instructor.
finger tips touch the shoulder of the man nurse, 1. member of the Army Nurse
ur-
next in line. Corps who gives nursing care to sick and
s
normal landing, aircraft landing in wounded Army personnel. Army nurses
which the main landing gear and the are commissioned in grades correspond-
tail wheel, if any, touch the landing sur- ing to those of Army officers. In this
face at the moment the plane loses its meaning, also called Army nurse.
flying speed. 2. officer in the Army Nurse Corps who
e,.
normal sitting position, position of a has the lowest rank, equivalent to that
machine gun set up with the muzzle of a second lieutenant.
about 21 inches above the ground. Nurse Corps. See Army Nurse Corps.
y normal zone, area for which a given NYR, not yet returned.
Orlg1nal rrom
ne
0 186 observation post
. 0, 1. office (when used in combination). object from a direction that is slantwise
2. order or orders. or diagonal to the long dimension of the
3. officer (when used in combination). target.
o/a, on or about. oblique photograph. See oblique aerial
oak leaf cluster, small bronze decora- photograph.
tion consisting of a twig bearing four observation,. examination or study of
oak leaves and three acorns. It is given the terrain, gunfire, atmospheric condi-
to holders of medals for valor, wounds, tions, etc., made to obtain information
or distinguished service, in recognition of military value. Abbtev: obsn
of some act justifying a second a ward of direct observation, observation by di-
the same medal. rect vision, aided by instrun1ents such
oath of enlistment, solemn pledge of as field glasses or telescopes.
loyalty to the United States Government indirect observation, study of photo-
and promise to perform faithfully the graphs of terrain, etc.
duty of a soldier, made by each man in- observation airplane, airplane used
ducted into, or enlisted in, the Anny. chiefly for reconnaissance, observation,
I
ob, observer. and liaison. The types of airplanes
objective, . military result to be accom- generally used as obaervation airplanes
1 plished, such as a place or goal that a are light bombardment, fighter, and
l command has been ordered to reach and liaison airplanes.
.f
i~
occupy, or an enemy force that a com- observation aviation, classification of
1 mand has been ordered to overcome; military aviation that has as its main
building, construction, or concentration missions the reconnaissance and obser-
that must be attacked or destroyed in vation of near objectives, the observa-
order to accomplish an assigned mission. tion of artUlery fire, and the maintain-
objective folder, collection of informa- ing of contact between elements of the
tion about an objective, used in planning ground forces.
and carrying out a military operation. observation balloon, captive balloon
An objective folder may include maps, used as an elevated observation post.
drawings, and photographs or data on An observation balloon is especially
defenses, terrain features, and the like. used for directing artillery fire and ob-
objective plane, plane tangent to the serving enemy activities.
ground or coinciding with the surface of observation camp, place where incom
the target, especially such a plane at the ing recruits are held long enough so that
point of impact of a bomb or projectile. any cor.amunicable disease they have
objective point. See point of impact. contracted before arrival can be dis-
oblique (o BLIKE), 1. diagonal; slant- covered.
ing. observation fire, firing of an underwater
2. at an angle of 45 degrees to the front mine by an observer who watches the
line; diagonal to the front line. The target and uses an electric firing device.
word oblique is used in close order drill. This method is used only against visi-
3. aerial photograph made with a ble targets that might avojd contact
camera that is intentionally tilted away fire.
from the vertical. In this meaning, observation mine, underwater mine
also called oblique aerial photograph. that can be fired electrically by an ob-
oblique aerial photograph, aerial pho- server v;ho watches the target.
tograph made with a camera that is in- observation of fire, watching gunfire
tentionally tilted away from the vertical; in order to locate the burst or impact Gf
oblique photograph; oblique. It can be projectiles in respect to the target and
used in map making only with re- to correct firing data; surveillanc(.J of fire.
construction, because its scale varies Observation of fire may be made from
throughout the picture, but it is useful the ground or from the air.
in showing elevations, constructions, observation point. See observation post.
and camouflage. observation post, point selected for the
oblique compartment, compartment of observation, adjustment, and control of
terrain whose long axis is diagonal to gunfire, for gathering information about
the direction of march or to the front. the enemy or the terrain, for watching
oblique fire, gunfire delivered at an for hostil~ _ air~raft, etc.; observation
observation station 187 octant
point; observation station. Abbrev: OP like. Obstacles may be fixed or port-
observation station. See observation able, and they may be issued ready-
post. made or they may be constructed in
P
observed fire, gunfire adjusted by ob- the field.

servation, especially from an observa- obstacle course, area filled with hur-
tion post at, or in communication with, dles, fences, ditches, and other obstacles.
-
the gun position. It is used to train soldiers in overcoming
h,
observed fire chart, record kept of the similar obstacles in the field, and to
adjustments of a gun that have been develop their quickness, endurance, and
e
made from the reports of observers of agility.
its fire and the results obtained. obstruction, 1. any natural or artificial
f
observed position, position of a moving feature of the land surface, such as a

target at the instant of observation. hill, that masks, or interferes with, ob-
observer, 1. person who observes. servation, delivery of fire, or the move-
ng
2. person who gathers information about ment of troops.

out
the enemy or the terrain. 2. any object rising high enough above
3. person who watches for hostile air- its surroundings to be a danger to low
craft. flying aircraft, especially when they are
4. person who watches the effects of taking off or landing.
artillery fire from a post on the ground obturation, any process that prevents
d
or from an aircraft. the escape of gases from the breech of

5. person in an aircraft whose main duty a gun during the firing of a projectile.
is observation. Obturation is usually the sealing caused
uty
a-
6. person who makes weather observa- by the expansion of the cartridge case
tions. against the walls of the cham her.
Abbrev: obsr or ob obturator, device for making the breech
observing angle, angle at the target end of a gun gas-tight, preventing any
line
between a line to the observer and a line escape of gas past the breech mechanism
-
to the gun or battery; the angular dis- or the projectile.

tance of an observer from the gun or OC, officer candidate.
battery. 0/C, officer in charge.
b-
observing detail, in artillery, two per- occulter, shutter for closing off the beam
r-
sons assigned to a station to make ob- of a searchlight when it is not being
er
servations for gunfire control. One per- used, so that it cannot be seen and
son observes by direct vision, the other located by the enemy.
reads data. occupational specialist, enlisted man
ure
observing interval, time between two who enters the Army with a certain skill,
successive observations made to secure trade, profession, or specialized knowl-
firing data on a moving target. edge acquired in civilian life.
observing line, line from the observer occupation of position, arrangements
t
e
to the target. made to hold captured terrain when fur-
observing point, that point on a target ther advance is not practicable. The
e
on which the observer sights to secure troops are reorganized and disposed for
o
firing data~ defensive action, the position is organ-
observing sector, area visible from the ized, and defensive fires are prepared.
point of observation; area assigned to occupied area, 1. localities held by
y
a given post for observation. troops in a defensive position.
mili-
obsn, observation. 2. enemy territory in the possession of

obsolete type, any equipment officially troops.
declared not suitable for its original mili- OCS, officer candidate s~hool.
tary purpose. octant, instrument with a built-in level
ws
obsr, observer. for measuring angles, similar to a sex-

cbstacle, any barrier that stops or slows tant, used especially in ai.!"craft. The
- down an advance. Obstacles may be octant measures the angular height of
natural: deserts, rivers, swamps, or the sun, moon, a planet, or a star above
mountains; or they may be artificial: a horizontal plane. It is used to find
barbed-wire entanglements, pits, con- the altitude of celestial bodies as an
crete or metal antitank traps, and the aid in navigation.
lglnal rrom
cles.
ng
od 188 oftieial correspondence
od, Qlive drab. officer candidate school, s<:hool at
0 D, officer of the day. which selected enlisted men and warrant
odly, orderly. officers of the Army are trained to be-
ofT, officer (when used alone). come officers. Most of the branches of
off-cJlrrier pQ~itiQn, that point at which the Army have one or more officer
weapons, such as light mortars and ma- candidate schools. Abbrev: OCS
chine gvns, and their ammunition and officer in charge. Abbrev: 0 /C
accessories are removed from transpor- officeror the day, officer' acting direct-
tation carriers, to be taken jnto position ly under the commanding officer, who is
by hand. responsible on a given day for the per-
offensive, 1. condition of a force when formance of the guard, preserving order,
it is attacking or is ready to attack. protecting property, enforcing inspec-
2, ~ttacking; ready to attaek. tion regulations, and guarding prisoners
3. suitable for attack; used for attack. in a post, camp, or st~tion.
Guns and tanks are often offensive Abbrcv: OD
weapons. officer of the guard, officer, acting un-
4. attack, especially one on a large scale. der the officer of the day, who is respon-
offensive defense, defense consisting of sible for the instruction, discipline, and
attack, or of the active use of troops and performance of duty of th~ guard in a
fire power so as to protect ag~inst enemy post, camp, or station .
attack; offensive-defensive. Abbrev: OG
offensive.. d~fensive. See offensive de- officer of the Jine. See line officer.
fense. officers' call, 1. bugle call to summon
offensive grenade, type of thin-walled all company comm~nders to a daily
hand grenade filled with a high explo- meeting with the regimental or bat-
sive. It is used chiefly for demolition talion commander.
purposes. 2. daily meeting of all company com-
office. Abbrev: 0 (when used in commanders with the regimental or battal-
bination). ion commander.
Office of Civilian Defense, official offie~rs' mess, 1. organization of the
agency in charge of all civilian air-raid officers of a station or command who eat
precautions, such as civilian aircraft together, An officers' mess also includes
warning services, public shelters, and necessary enlisted or civilian personnel.
evacuation plans. 2. room or building where the officers
Office of Dependency Benefits, agency take their meals.
of the Army Service Forces that has officer's pay data card, form upon
charge of family allowances and allot- which is entered all essential current in-
ments to dependents of military person- formation about the pay and allowances
nel. It also investigates, and settles, due to the officer to whom it is issued,
questions of rel~tionship, dependency, and the record of partial payments re-
death gratuities, and similar matters, ceived.
Office of the Quq.rtermaster General. Officers' Reserve Corps~ authorized or-
Abbrev: OQMG ganization of personnel holding reserve
officer, person holding a commission commissions in various branches of the
ip. any of the armed services in the Army, but not commissioned in the
Army, beginning with the rank of second Regular Army. Its members are not
lieutenant. Army nurses and officers of normally on active duty, but are called
tne Women's Army Corps hold ranks into service in time of war or national
equivalent to various grades of officers. emergency. Abbrev: ORC
In regulations, the word officer n1eans officers section, part of the persq~nel
either a commissioned officer or a war"'! section of a headquarters that is mainly
rant officer. Abbrev: off (Whe?l used concerned with the records and status of
in combination, the abbreviation is 0) the commissioned office~ belop.gi~ to
officer candidate, person undergoing in- the organization.
struction at an officer candidate school, Offi~e Secretary of War" Abbr-ev: OSW
who may be given a commission upon Office Under Secretary of War.
satisfactory completion of the training Abbrev: OUSW
course. Abbrev: OC official correspondence, correspondence
1g1na f
official enveiDpe 189 operating handle
on properly authorized military matters one pounder. Abbrev: 1 pdr
or business. It may be legally sent on pard, 1. ready to defend or protect.
through the mails in official envelopes 2. watching, as a guard or a member of
rs
without payment of postage. a guard.

official envelope, envelope used to mail 8. first position of readiness in bayonet
s
official matter without postage, but car- exercises.

ail
rying a penalty if used for private corre- on or about. Abbrev: ofa
ar-
spondence. Also called penalty en- 00, ordnance officer.
re-
velope. OP, observation post.
off limits, 1. place or locality, usually OPD, Operations Division, War De-
outside military areas, which military partment General Staff.
personnel are forbidden to enter, except open column, lengthened or expanded
on official business. An off limits area column of moving vehicles or units with
ept
may be patrolled by military police. long distances between them. An open

2. being in such a forbidden place. column is a formation used to lessen the
offset method, way of describing loca- effect of enemy air attack, or to cut
-
tions on a map by giving the distance down crowding and collision within the
from the bottom of the map, and to the column.
he left or right of a secretly designated open fire, begin firing a gun or battery.
north and south line. open flank, flank of a unit in combat
offset plotting, method of plotting firing that is not protected by another unit or
ng
data when different ranges and azimuths by terrain features, and that is exposed
uths
must be sent to each gun of a battery. to attack.

.
. offshore patrol, naval defense patrol op- open formation, arrangement of men,
aircraft, or mechanized units with space
op-
e
erating in the outer areas of navigable
coastal waters. An offshore patrol is a enough between them to allow some
part of the naval local defense forces, freedom of action or to lessen the effect
and consists of naval vessels and air- of air or artillery attack.
craft. An offshore patrol operates out- open position, place that gives no cover
-
side of those areas assigned to the in- or concealment except what can be pro-
shore patrol. vided by camouflage.
OG, officer of the guard. open ranks, 1. arrangement of ranks in
ogive (0 jive), curved forward part close order drill in which the normal dis-
tance between ranks is increased by the
of
up to, and including, the pointed end of

a projectile. Also called head. length of a full step.
oil bomb, thin-cased bomb containing 2. preparatory command to take this
inflammable oil which is released and position.

pes
ignited by a small explosive charge. open route, roadway over which a mini-
oil buffer, a mechanism on certain types mum of control is exercised by the
ng
of automatic weapons, especially the central traffic authority.

.50-caliber machine guns, for absorbing open sight, rear sight that has a curved
the shock of recoil and regulating the notch instead of a peephole or a tele-
speed of firing. scope.
f
by
oil dent, cartridge defect consisting of open traverse, in surveying, a set of

a smooth hollow in the case, caused by connected lines with length and direc-
using too much oil in the tapering tion measured, in which the final line
d- process. does not come back to the starting place
by
old guard, group of soldiers who have or to a point of known location, as it
been on guard duty during the preced- does in a closed traverse.
ing 24 hours, and are being relieved by operating ai{ency, any individual, or-
s.
the new guard. ganization, or office to which funds are

olive drab, standard brownish green assigned for administration by authority
s
color in general use for Army uniforms. of the Secretary of War.
a
Abbrev: od operating ceiling, greatest altitude to
one hundred percent rectangle, area which a captive balloon will rise, main-
which includes practically all the shots taining a cable tension at the winch
ct.
fired by an artillery gun or battery at a equal to the free lift.
of
target. Qperating handle, handle or bar with

et
r1g1 I ro
operating lever 190 oral trade test
which the operating lever of a gun is aircraft traffic data, radio bearings, etc.,
operated to open and close the breech of which are to be used as a basis for ad-
the gun. justing or continuing an activity.
operating lever, lever device on a gun 2. large, detailed military map mounted
with which the breech of the gun is on a table, used for keeping track of an
opened and closed. operation; especially, the map on which
operating maintenance, service and full details of the operations of friendly
repair to vehicles and other equipment, and enemy aircraft are studied by an
done by service units in the field. interceptor command or by an aircraft
Operating ~aintenance differs from warning service.
scheduled maintenance, which consists Operations Division, one of the subdi-
of the regular servicing and repair of visions of the War Department General
equipment according to a time schedule Staff, responsible for planning and prep-
or on a mileage basis. Also called aration for all military operations, as
march maintenance. well as for strategic direction in time of
operating slide, mechanism in a Brown- war. In time of peace the Operations
ing machine gun that permits opening Division is called the War Plans Divi-
the breech for loading, unloading, and sion, and it prepares and supervises war
clearing out stoppages, and closing the and mobilization plans. Abbrev: OPD
breech for firing. operations map, map used in planning
operating speed, speed of an aircraft in and checking the execution of a military
level flight at the altitude for which the mission; operation map. Conventional
aircraft is designed to give maximum signs and markers on the map show the
efficiency, and at not more than 75 per- location and strength of the forces in-
cent of the engine speed at which the volved as well as the terrain features of
aircraft can function reliably when in the area covered by the operations.
continuous use. operations officer, staff officer who has
operation, military action; carrying out the special duty of preparing plans of
a military mission. An operation may operations, and of representing his com-
include supply and movement, attack, manding officer in seeing that they are
defense, etc. Abbrev: opn carried out. In the Army Air Forces,
operational flight, aerial flight having the operations officer is the sole author-
some specific mission or tactical pur- ity who gives clearance to pilots before
pose. flight. He is sometimes called plans
operational line, any communication and training officer and is in charge of
line used mainly for sending firing data, the S-3 section.
battle orders, and messages about tac- operations plan, practicable plan show-
tical activities. ing how and by what means a military
operational priority, right to send mes- objective can be reached.
sages out of turn, ahead of all other operations section. See operations and
messages except those marked urgent. training section.
operation map. See operations map. operator. Abbrev: opr
operations, complete process of carrying op1ruons. Abbrev: ops
on combat on land or sea, including 0 PL, outpost line.
movement, supply, attack, defense, and OPLR, outpost line of resistance.
all maneuvers needed to gain the objec- opn, operation.
tives of any battle or campaign. opr, operator.
operations and training section, subdi- ops, opinions.
vision of a staff that plans and lays out optical sight, any sight with lenses,
the policies for organization, training, prisms, or mirrors that is used in aiming
and combat operations; operations sec- a gun or in aerial born bing; telescope
tion. It is responsible for tactical and used in aiming artillery pieces.
training inspections, as directed by the 0 QM G, Office of the Quartermaster
commander. Abbrevs: G-3 for a general General.
staff; S-3 for a unit staff. oral trade test, examination, conducted
operations board, 1. space for posting without the use of pencil and paper, to
data, on which information is recorded rate a person's skil1 in some type of work
as it comes in. It may show firing data, or trade.
ng1 rr1ca I frorn
ORC 191 ordnance stores
ORC, Officers' Reserve Corps. ments, and other articles for whose de-
ord, ordnance. sign, storage, and issue the Ordnance
Ord Dept, Ordnance Department. Department is responsible.
order, 1. formal oral or written command ordnance motor book, record of the
issued by a person or headquarters. performance and maintenance of ord-
2. formation; arrangement of troops or nance motor vehicles.
and
units of a formation. Abbrev: 0 ordnance officer, 1. any officer who is
order arms, 1. position in the manual a member of the Ordnance Department.
or
of the rifle in which a rifle is held at the 2. special staff officer who advises his
right side, with the butt touching the commander on technical questions of
ground, while at attention. ordnance. An ordnance officer also has
he
2. command to take such a position. charge of the repair and maintenance of

orderly, 1. soldier who assists an officer, armament and the supplying of ammu-
usually by carrying messages and orders nition. In this meaning, also called
and by performing rou~ine duties. ordnance staff officer.
Abbrev: 00
er,
ders
2. attendant in a mess, hospital, etc.
Abbrev: odly ordnance plan, . detailed statement on
orderly room, office of a company in ordnance operations prepared for a com-
which the business of the company is mander, usually by his ordnance officer.
done. An ordnance plan includes specific in-
order of march, arrangement of troops structions for the use of ordnance units.
or units for marching purposes; sequence It deals with ordnance maintenance,
s
in a marching column. ammunition, and general supply, and

ence
orders. Abbrev: 0 the putting of captured materiel into

ordnance, military materiel, such as usable condition.
combat weapons of all kinds, with am- ordnance property, Government prop-
-
munition and equipment for their use, erty of any kind assigned by the Secre-
, combat and special purpose vehicles, tary of War to the Ordnance Depart-
and repair tools and machinery. ment for use, storage, issue, mainte-
Abbrev: ord nance, and control.
Ordnance, that branch of the Army Ordnance School, special service school
Service Forces that deals with the de- that gives training and instruction in the
sign, construction, testing, and supply maintenance and use of ordnance ma-
of ordnance materiel. Ordnance is teriel. It develops trained specialists for
y
short for Ordnance Department. duty in the field and as instructors, and
Ordnance Department, that branch of trains men for commission in the Ord-
the Army Service Forces that deals with nance Department. The Ordnance
th
the design, construction, testing, and School is under the supervision of the
-
supply of ordnance materiel. The Ord- Commanding General, Army Service
-
nance Department provides guns, am- Forces.

munition, targets, armored and track- ordnance service, 1. all activities neces-
g
laying vehicles, apparatus for sighting sary to maintain the ordnance equip-
and firing guns, and aviation combat ment of a command in usable condition.
re,
equipment. It also maintains arsenals 2. those establishments, facilities, and
and depots for the design, manufacture, troop units of the Ordnance Depart-
testing, storage, and issue of such ment available to a command.
materiel. ordnance staff officer, special staff offi-
Abbrev: Ord Dept cer who advises his commander on
f
ordnance depot, one of the supply technical questions of ordnance. An

r-
points which contain reserve stocks of ordnance staff officer also has charge of
arms, ammunition, and equipment fur- the repair and maintenance of arma-
nished by the Ordnance Department. ment and the supplying of ammunition.
ce
ordnance field service, branch of the Also called ordnance officer.
Ordnance Department t_hat supplies, ordnance stores, all commodities and
inspects, repairs, and adjusts ordnance materials used by the Ordnance Depart-
-
materiel. ment in the design, manufacture, test-
e-
ordnance materiel, weapons of all ing, preservation, and overhaul of ord-

e
types, ammunition, fire control instru- nance property or supplies.
-
Orlg1nal rrom
nt.
ordnance supplies 192 orientation camera
ordnante supplies, all military supplies not so loaded as to allow debarkation of
assigned to the Ordnance Department troops and their equipment simultane-
for storage, issue, and maintenance. ously.
Ordnance supplies consist of all raw ma- Organization and Training Division.
terials, completely manufactured arti- subdivision of the War Department
cles, and parts of such articles assigned General Staff that is responsible for mo-
to the Ordnance Department. bilization, organization, and training of
ordnance troops, technically trained the military forces. Abbrev: G-3
troops assigned or attached to a tactical organization chart, diagram showing
unit to provide ordnance maintenance, the organization of units, offices, activi-
supply, or technical service. They also ties, or installations.
give instruction in the use, maintenance, organization of the ground, develop-
and adjustment of ordnance materiel. ment of existing ground features to
organic, assigned to, and forming an es- strengthen a defensive position, by the
sential part of, a military organization. use of camouflage, field fortifications, etc.
Organic parts of a unit are those listed organized position, area in which
in its Table of Organization. troops and weapons have been put in
organic transport, transport which is a position for future action, and in which
regularly assigned part of a military field fortifications have been constructe,d.
unit, as contrasted with vehicles tem- Organized Reserves, one of the peace-
porarily furnished by other units. time components of the United States
organization, 1. military unit. Army, made up of the Officers' Reserve
2. definite structure of a unit, usually Corps, the Enlisted Reserve Corps, and
prescribed by a Table of Organization. some officers and men of the Regular
3. development of a defensive position to Army. It is organized. and maintained
its full strength by strengthening the in peacetime for purposes of military
natural defenses of the terrain. training, and as a source of trained mili-
Abbrev: orgn tary personnel in the event of a national
organizational, having to do with a emergency.
military organization; belonging to a orgn, organization.
military organization. orient, 1. find the direction of; find one's
organizational control, traffic control location by using a compass or a map.
for a unit on the march, carried out by 2. place in the right position; place a
an escort made up of personnel of the map so that the arrow on it showing
same unit. direction points in that direction, or so
organizational equipment, articles, such that the meridian lines of the map point
as mess and office equipment, tents, and north.
the like, that all organizations in the 3. set the azimuth adjustments for a gun
Army use. Organizational equipment or instrument so that they read correctly
also includes transport equipment and for that location.
other special equipment that a unit 4. place a photograph so that light
needs in order to work as a part of the strikes the photograph from the same
branch or service to which it belongs. direction as the light came when the
It is equipment that is issued to organi- place or object was photographed.
zations as such, rather than to individual orientation, 1. finding the direction of;
soldiers. finding one's location by using a com-
organizational maintenance, routine pass or a map.
preventive care and adjustment of ve- 2. placing in the right position; placing
hicles and equipment by the unit using a map so that the arrow on it showing
the equipment. direction points in that direction, or so
organizational record, account of the that the meridian lines of the map point
activities of a unit as a whole and of the north.
use of equipment, supplies, and money 3. setting of the azimuth adjustments
furnished it. for a gun or instrument so that they
organizational unit loading, method of read correctly for that location.
loading in which organizations, with orientation camera, camera for taking
their complete equipment and supplies, vertical or oblique aerial photographs for
are carried on t.be same transport. but reconnaissance purposes.
Orlg1nal fro
orientation course 193 outpost position
ories.1talion course, program of insttuc- outfit, 1. articles of equipment needed
tion given under the supervision of the for carrying out any task, such as a
Special Service Division of Army Service chaplain's outfit or an aviator's outfit.
c- Forces to acquaint military personnel 2. furnish with equipment.
e
with the meaning of current events in outflank, 1. pass around or turn the
ce
the light of past history. enemy's flank.
orientation officer, technically trained 2. extend the front to the right and left
officer who has charge of orientation beyond the flanks of the enemy's line.
problems for a tactical unit, such as sur- outflanking maneuver, movements of
veying, map interpretation, and adjust- troops for the purpose of passing around,
ur-
ment of instruments. or of attacking, the enemy's flanks.
t-
oriented, 1. properly placed with ref- outguard, small group of soldiers posted
erence to true directions. by an outpost, as near the enemy as
2. aware of one's position and true di- possible, to delay the enemy and give
rections. warning of his approach.
-
orienting line, line of known direction outmaneuver, move one's forces in such
established on the ground, which is used a way that advantage is gained over the
as a reference line in surveying, aiming enemy.
artillery pieces, etc. out of action, 1. command for turning
sed
ng
orienting point, distant object sighted off an antiaircraft searchlight or for

on in alining a director or other instru- taking a gun out of action.
-
ment with a gun. 2. unable to continue in effective service
origin, fixed point of reference on a for any reason, especially because of
graph, map, or chart. damage by enemy action.
origin of the trajectory, center of the out of ranks, not in a formation; pres-
muzzle of a gun at the instant when the ent at an official function but not stand-
he
projectile leaves it. ing in ranks.

OS &; D report. See over, short, and out port, any War Department port
damaged report. which is not the headquarters of a line
he
oscillogram; photographic record of the : of transports, but a port of call for
cil- form of a sound wave made by an oscil- 1 transports operating from a primary
!
e- lograph. Such a record is studied to de- port.

tennine the location of enemy guns. outpost, protecting guard of consider-
at
oscillograph, electrical instrument that able defensive power, detailed to protect

records the form of a sound wave to- a resting command or defensive position
gether with a time scale. In the Army, from surprise, observation, or annoy-
it is usually used in sound ranging to ance by enemy ground forces. The out-
ed
locate enemy guns. post takes up its position at some dis-
oscilloscope, electrical instrument used tance from the main body of the
ay
for direct observation of the form of a command.
sound wave; a low voltage cathode-ray outpost area, area in front of the main
-
oscillograph that indicates the wave line of resistance. Outpost positions are
form on a fluorescent screen. An oscil- located in the outpost area.
g
loscope is used in tracking targets by outpost line. See outpost line of re-
sound, and in radio and sound ranging sistance. Abbrev: OPL
devices. outpost line of resistance, line selected
rt.
OS/D, over, short, and damaged report. for effective joining of outpost fire and
ur-
osnaburg, strong, unbleached cotton the fire of supporting guns; line selected
fabric used as a substitute for burlap, to be held, in case of attack, until the
as target cloth, and for camouflage pur- main body can prepare for action; out-
.
poses. post line. Abbrev: OPLR
OSW, Office Secretary of War. outpost positioq, location of an outpost;
OUSW, Office Under Secretary of War. defensive location between the main line
r,
outer harbor area, waters extending of resistance and the enemy front. An
seaward from the outer ends of the outpost position is used for observation
d
entrance channels of a fortified harbor, of the enemy, protection against sur-
but lying within raBge of the harbor prise attack, and delaying and dis-
defense batteries. organizing action in case of attack.
rlglnal rrom
ft
.
outrange 194 over, short, and damaged
outrange, 1. have guns of greater range taken on adjacent lines of flight is called
than enemy guns, and hence be able to sidelap.
fire without receiving an effective return overlap area, 1. area 20 miles wide, out-
fire. side the limits of the area covered by a
2. move beyond the reach of radio com- particular aircraft warning unit.
munications. Radio communications 2. shaded area on an aircraft warning
units may be outranged by advancing service plotting board, on which infor-
friendly forces that are moving fast. mation from adjoining filter or radar
outrank, be of higher rank than; ex- boards is plotted.
ceed in rank. overlapping photograph, two vertical
outrigger, brace extending to the side of aerial photographs taken from the same
something to steady or support it. The elevation and in which there is generally
long beams or arms which are swung an overlap of from 30 to 60 percent.
out to brace a mobile gun mount and to The pair is used to give the effect of
give it steadiness while the piece is fired actual relief or projection when ex-
are outriggers. amined stereoscopically. Also called
outside roll, acrobatic aerial maneuver stereoscopic pair.
in which the airplane is rotated about its overlay, transparent sheet giving special
longitudinal axis, but with the pilot's military information not ordinarily
head on the outside of, instead of at the shown on maps. When laid over the map
center of, the roll; roll executed while on \\hich it is based, the details on the
flying in the negative angle-of-attack overlay will supplement the map.
range. overprint, new material printed or
outworks, minor defenses constructed stamped upon a map or chart to show
outside the main fortification limits. data of importance or special use, in
over, shot which strikes or bursts be- addition to that originally printed.
yond or over the target. Overs and overseas cap. See garrison cap.
shorts are observed in sensing. overseas expedition, major tactical un-
over -age in grade, beyond the age dertaking involving transport of troops
limit set for line duty in a given com- and equipment by sea, usually with the
missioned grade. aid of the Navy and other military
overhead, personnel needed for the ad- services.
ministrative and supervising duties of a overseas staging area, concentration
military unit; overhead personnel. area near a port of embarkation where a
overhead fire, gunfire delivered over unit is inspected, its records are checked,
the heads of friendly troops. and last minute supplies are issued be-
overhead flight, bottom view of an air- fore the unit is shipped overseas. Also
craft; position of an aircraft seen from called staging area.
beneath. Overhead flight is one of the overshoot, 1. shoot over or beyond a
five standard flight positions used in target.
training personnel to recognize airplane 2. fly behind a designated mark or area
types from silhouettes. while attempting to land an aircraft.
overhead personnel. See overhead. over, short, and damaged report, offi-
overhead target, air target which cial report prepared by the receiving
passes over, or nearly over, a gunner. officer of a shipment of equipment or
overlap, common area shown in both supplies, whenever the quantity of
of two aerial photographs taken suc- property delivered disagrees with the
cessively along a line of flight. The quantity charged to the receiving officer,
term is used loosely for any common or whenever the property is received in
are!. on two aerial photographs. Strict- a damaged condition; OS & D report.
ly, the area common to two photographs Abbrev: OS/D

Orlg1nal fro
PA 195 parachute assembly
PA, Port Agency. P & D Sec, pioneer and demolition
pace, 1. step of 30 inches; the length of section.
the full step in quick time. panel, 1. structural unit in a wing of an
2. rate of movement or marching. aircraft.
of
pack, 1. bundle or roll of equipment 2. large cloth strip used by ground
and supplies carried by the soldier in troops for visual signaling, to supple-
the field, especially the roll and equipment radio communication with air-
ment carried in the haversack. In this craft.
meaning, also called field pack. 3. part of the fabric covering of a
-
2. bundle or roll of equipment carried by balloon.

a pack animal. 4. section of a parachute canopy.
by
3. load an animal with a pack. 5. electrical switchboard or instrument
4. part of a parachute assembly in which board.
the canopy and shroud lines are folded panel code, set of symbols consisting_
ich
and carried. In this meaning, also of cloth strips or panels displayed in
d
called pack assembly. Abbrev: pk various positions on the ground. It is
pack artillery, field artillery that is used by ground troops to signal to air-
transported by pack animals. Moun- craft for air-ground communication.
tain artillery is the most common type panel display ground, space where
of pack artillery. Pack artillery is used signal panels may be displayed for com-
when traveling conditions are difficult. munication with aircraft. A panel dis-
e
.
pack assembly, part of a parachute as- play ground i'3 usually located near a
s-
sembly in which the canopy and shroud radio station.
ud
lines are folded and carried. Also called panoramic sight, sight for guns that
ed pack. gives the gunner a wide field of view.
pack carrier, canvas piece attached to A panoramic sight has a telescope that
o
the pack to inclose and carry the roll. gives distinct vision at an angle, as well
packer. Abbrev: pkr as in a direct line, and can sometimes be
pack howitzer, small artillery weapon rotated and elevated.
ack
transported, usually in sections, on pack panoramic sketch, hand-drawn picture
animals. The pack howitzer was de- of an area that gives the effect of dis-
ut
signed for use by mountain troops, but tance, as it would appear to the eye of
n
it is also used on mobile gun mounts in an observer.
armored units. panoramic telescope, binocular tele-
packmaster. Abbrev: pkmr scope giving a wide field of view. A
pack radio set, mobile radio transmit- panoramic telescope is usually of the
ting station that is transported by pack type that gives distinct vision at an
ts
animals. It has a limited range and gets angle, as well as in a direct line, and can
g
its power from a hand generator. be rotated and elevated. A panoramic
packsaddle, special saddle for carrying telescope is often used as the optical
th
a load on a pack animal. part of a gun sight for laying a gun in
nt.
pack train, column of pack animals with direction and elevation.
- all necessary personnel and equipment. pantograph, mechanical instrument for
g
pack transportation, 1. personnel, ani- copying plans, maps, drawings, etc., on
mals, and equipment used in carrying any scale desired.
s
loads on the backs of animals. par, paragraph.

2. transportation of loads on the backs parachute, urnbrella-like device whose
of animals. air resistance retards the speed of a fall-
paid. Abbrev: pd ing body. It is used to enable men to
Panama mount, makeshift concrete descend, or supplies to be dropped, with-
ne,
mounting that permits the trail of a out injury. A parachute consists main-
field gun to be swung in a full circle. ly of a canopy and shroud lines, the
e pancake landing, landing of an airplane, pack in which they are folded and car-
ps
in which the airplane is leveled off ried, a harness, and a rip cord.
nt,
several feet above the ground, and the Abbrev: prcht or pcht
speed cut down so that the plane drops parachute assembly, canopy and
suddenly with little forward movement, shroud lines, the pack in which they are
and sometimes with a severe shock. carried, and harness of a parachute.
n
Orlg1nal rrom
parachute dumm7 196 parent Unit
paraehute dummy, weight attached to across the eyepiece. Such parallax is
a parachute that approximates the caUsed by improper focusing of the
weight of a living man, in tests of equip- objective lena.
ment. 3. apparent but false position of a target
parachute duty, military service in caused by the difference in position
which parachute jumping is an essential between the sound lacator and the
part. searchlight, in sound ranginr.
parachute flare, pyrotechnic device, at- 4. angle contained between the two
tached to a parachute. A parachute straight lines joining a heavenly body
flare may be released from an airplane with two different points on earth.
at night to light tip a large area. parallax, angle of. See angle of eon-
parachute record, card giving history vergence.
of the maintenance, repair, inspection, parallax correction. allowance to be
and use of a parachute. A parachute made for difference in position of a
record is kept for each parachute. target as measured from the gun and as
parachute target, range target repre- measured from the observer's position.
senting a descending parachutist. A parallax error, 1. error in an observa-
parachute target is operated by pulleys. tion caused by making the observation
parachute tower, high structure used from a position different from the normal
in training men in parachute jumping. one or from the one where the firing data
parachute troops, troops moved by air are used.
transport and landed by parachutes; 2. error made by reading the dial of an
paratroops. instrument from a slant rather than
parachutist. Abbrev: pchst directly from the front.
parade, 1. ceremonial marching in re- parallax offset mechanism, device on
view of troops, before public officials or a sound locator that allows for those
high officers, to display their skill in parallax errors introduced by placing
marching, condition of equipment, etc. the locator at some distance from the
2. march in review. battery or searchlight which is to use
parade ground, field on which military its data.
reviews are held. A parade ground may parallel trench, trench running parallel
also be used for other formations, and to the front, used for sideways com-
for drill and other kinds of training. munication and for fire purposes.
parade rest, 1. position of a soldier in paralyzing gas, chemical agent, usually
which the left foot is 12 inches to the a gas, occasionally used in chemical war-
left of the right foot, legs are straight, fare to cause paralysis. The most com-
and hands are clasped behind the back. mon paralyzing gases are hydrocyanic
While at parade rest, the soldier remains acid, hydrogen sulfide, and carbon
motionless and silent. When a soldier monoxide.
has a rifle, parade rest is taken with the parapet, low moundf usually of earth,
feet in this position, with the butt of the thrown up in front of a trench or em-
rifle on the ground with the trigger to placement to protect personnel from
the front and the muzzle of the rifle enemy fire and observation.
in his right hand, extended forward, and parasite drag, the part of the drag of
with his left hand behind his back. an aircraft exclusive of the drag in-
2. command to take this position. duced by the lift.
parados (PAR a duss), bank behind a paratroops. See parachute troops.
trench that protects men from fire and paravane, protective underwater device
from being seen against the skyline. which, when towed with a wire rope from
paragraph. Abbrev: par a fitting on the bow of a ship, rides out
parallax, 1. apparent difference in the from the ship's side and cuts the cables
position of an object viewed from two of anchored mines in the path of the
different points, especially from a gun ship. The mines will then rise to the
position and a directing point. In this surface, where they can be seen and de-
meaning, also called azimuth difference. stroyed.
2. apparent motion of the cross wire in parent unit, organization to which a
a telescope across the image of the ob- smaller unit, or individual, belongs.
ject as the eye is moved from side to side The smaller unit or individual may be on
r1ginal fro
park 197 pattern
special duty or detached service with through may remain in place or move to
another organization and still belong to the rear.
the parent unit. A parent unit may passing flight, side view of an aircraft;
furnish important or key personnel for position of an aircraft seen from one side.
to the organization of a new unit. It is one of the five standard flight posi-
park, 1. area used for servicing, caring tions used in training personnel to
r
for, and parking vehicles and weapons. recognize airplane types.
2. arrange artillery pieces or vehicles of pass in review, 1. march in front of a
g
a train in regular order in garrison or reviewing officer during a ceremony.

camp. Abbrev: prk 2. command given by an adjutant to
s.
(PARL a mun TAYR), start this movement.

of
parlementaire
agent of a field commander sent openly passive air defense, system of defense
within enemy lines to communicate and that uses cover, concealment, and dis-
nly negotiate directly with the enemy com- persion to guard against enemy air at-
nd
mander. tack. It does not include the use of
m-
parley, informal conference between fighter planes, barrage balloons, and

enemies under truce, to discuss terms, antiaircraft artillery, which are em-
conditions of surrender, etc. ployed in active air defense.
parole, 1. promise not to attempt escape passive defense, defense in place, de-
s,
ape
given by a prisoner. signed only to keep the enemy out of a
2. limited freedom from restraint and position or area; passive protection.
imprisonment granted to a prisoner in The primary means of passive defense
n recognition of good behavior. are dispersion, concealment, camouflage,
3. set at liberty on promise not to at- cover, and obstacles. Passive defense is
tempt escape. not expected to furnish an opportunity
parole officer, officer at'a post, camp, or for taking the initiative, as is active
, or
station detailed to investigate applica- defense.

tions of soldiers for parole from disci- passive protection. See passive defense.
-
s
plinary barracks. A parole officer takes password, secret word or distinctive
-
statements, records them, and recom- sound which identifies a person or party
pli-
mends action to be taken on each appli- desiring to pass a sentinel or enter a
cation for parole. guarded area or building. A password
o-
parry, 1. defensive movement in bayo- is used as an answer to a challenge.
net practice or bayonet combat. paster, paper sticker used in firing prac-
2. ward off an opponent's bayonet. tice, to cover shot holes previously
partisan warfare, operations carried made on a target.
on by small independent forces, gener- pat bt, patrol boat.

r-
patrol, 1. small body of mobile troops,

or
-
ally on the flanks and rear of a superior
enemy; guerilla warfare. Partisan war- mounted forces, vehicles, ships, or air-
fare is carried on to cause delay, dis- craft, sent out to seek contact with, or
ear ruption of communication and supply information about, the enemy, or to
lines, and repeated small losses to wear provide security for a larger force.
down enemy resistance. 2. take part in a mission having these
ne,
party, group of soldiers assigned to a objectives; guard; look for the enemy.
particular task, usually a temporary one, patrol boat, small watercraft used in
such as a guard detail. Abbrev: pty patrolling harbors and coastal waters.
pass, 1. written authority given a sol- Abbrev: pat bt
ges,
dier to leave a station or duty for a patrol bomber, large two-motored or
period not exceeding three days. four-motored flying boat capable of
-
2. narrow passage or gap through ridges, long-range bombing operations and a
ep hills, or mountains. high degree of self defense, used for
3. short tactical run or dive by an air- patrol activities. Patrol bomber is a
craft over an aerial target; single sweep class of Navy combat aircraft.
rd
through an enemy air formation. pattern, 1. distribution of a series of

passage of lines, relief of a front line shots fired with the same setting from
to
unit by a rear unit which moves forward one gun or a battery of guns.
through an already established line. 2. systematic coverage of a target with
;
In a passage of lines, the unit passed aerial bombs,
Or1g1nal rrom
side.
si-

pattern bombing 198 percussion mechanism
pattern bombing, systematic covering military establishment or unit in peace-
of a target area with aerial bombs, ac- time.
cording to a plan. Pattern bombing pedestal, base or support of a gun mount
differs from area bombing, which is about which the gun may be pivoted in
bombing of a general area according to traversing.
no special plan, and from precision pedestal mount, fixed mount for a
bombing, which is bombing at a specific small-caliber or medium-caliber gun.
target. peel off, make a half-roll in beginning
pattern painting, type of camouflage in a dive out of an aerial formation.
which the surface of a building, bridge, peep sight, rear sight attached near the
materiel, etc., is covered by several breech of a firearm, with a small hole to
colors of paint put on in an irregular but look through in aiming the gun.
carefully worked-out design. pelorus (paLO Russ), simple mechan-
paulin, long sheet of olive-drab canvas, ical or optical instrument used to obtain
usually treated to make it resistant to the positions of objects on the earth or of
moisture and chemicals, used as a pro- celestial bodies.
tective covering. A paulin is used to penalty envelope. See official envelope.
cover guns, etc., in the open, or to put penetration, 1. attack on the enemy's
underneath articles unloaded on damp front by driving a wedge into it or pierc-
ground. ing it completely. A penetration may
pawl, pivoted catch, usually spring con- be follo'Yed by an enveloping attack on
trolled, that fits into the notches of one or both of the flanks made by the
another mechanism to prevent reverse break in the enemy's front.
motion. 2. distance to which a projectile sinks
pay, regular compensation for Army into the target.
services including increases for length of pennant, small triangular flag usually
service, but not including allowances, flown for identification of a unit or
mileages, rations, or the like. general officer. A pennant with two
payment. Abbrev: pmt stars on a red background indicates the
pay period, one of six classifications of presence of a major general.
length of service and rank which de- percentage corrector, mechanical de-
termine the base pay of officers below vice for correcting the range of a gun or
the grade of brigadier general. searchlight and for determining the cor-
pay reservation, deduction from pay rected elevation.
authorized by a soldier to cover pay- perchloron, calcium hypochlorite; a
ments on purchases of war savings bleaching agent that contains twice the
bonds. This form of deduction is now chlorine content of bleaching powder.
obsolete, and has been replaced by class percussion, 1. sharp light blow, especial-
B allotment. ly one for setting off an explosive.
pay roll, list of personnel to be paid, in- 2. command to set the time fuze of a
cluding information as to the amount projectile or bomb in a nonoperating
due each individual together with position, to allow the projectile or bomb
authorized deductions or stoppages. to be set off by the blow of impact.
When signed by the payee, a pay roll percussion cap, small metallic cap con-
is the basis for the paying out of funds taining high explosive powder, used to
to military personnel as pay and allow- fire some types of firearms.
ances. Abbrev: P/R percus6ion charge, small high explosive
pay status, condition of being entitled charge that is set off by the blow of the
to payment for Army service. firing pin. A percussion charge is used
PC, Pharmacy Corps. to ignite the primer charge in order to
pchst, parachutist. fire the propelling charge in a gun.
pcht, parachute. percussion composition, high explosive
PD, 1. port of debarkation. powder that is ignited in some types of
2. phenyldichlorarsine. firearms by the blow of the firing pin
pd, paid. against the primer cap.
PE, 1. pistol expert. percussion fuze. See impact fuze.
2. port of embarkation. percussion hammer. See hammer.
peace strength, reduced strength of a percussion wechanism, device that
Orlg1nal fro
percussion primer 199 persistent agent
contains the firing pin assembly. The in the concrete and bolted down. Also
percussion mechanism slides in the cen- called fixed emplacement.
ter bore of the breechblock of a gun. permanent food handler, military or
percussion primer, cap or cylinder con- civilian person who is permanently as-
en-
taining a small charge of high explosive signed to a duty that requires him to be
that may be set off by a blow. A per- present in kitchens and mess halls, and
n- cussion primer is used in all fixed and to handle food, drink, or mess equip-
ve
semifixed ammunition, and in certain ment. Mess sergeants and cooks are
types of separate-loading ammunition classified as permanent food handlers.
to ignite the main propelling charge. permanent grade, grade held by an en-
per diem (per DIE urn), daily money listed man or an officer in the Regular
allowance given to officers on detached Army, National Guard, or Officers' Re-
n
duty from their home stations to defray serve Corps, as contrasted with the
ed
necessary living expenses. temporary grade of an enlisted man or
ay
per diem allowance. See per diem. an officer in the Army of the United
performance, effective working ca- States. Also called permanent rank.
pacity of any machine or device, ex- permanent post, permanent military
pressed in figures. The performance of station established by authority of Con-
an aircraft is expressed in such terms as gress. A permanent post is officially
of
maximum speed, rate of climb, rate of called a fort, to distinguish it from a

as
fuel consumption, landing speed, .take- temporary station for troops, which is
off speed, and ceiling. called a camp.
f
e-
periscopic sight, gun sight made in the permanent property, machinery, ap-
e
form of a periscope, that permits a pliances, apparatus, etc., that are per-
gunner to see over an obstacle. manently installed and intended for last-
perm, permanent. ing use at a military establishment.
permanent. Abbrev: perm permanent ranir, rank held by an en-
permanent appointment, appointment listed man or an officer in the Regular
t
or promotion of an officer in the Regular Army, National Guard, or Officers' Re-

lar
Army, National Guard, or Officers' Re- serve Corps, as contrasted with the
serve Corps, as contra..qted with the temporary rank of an enlisted man or an
n
temporary appointment of an officer in officer in the Army of the United States.
the Army of the United States in time Also called permanent grade.
of war or national emergency. A per- permanent station, post or station to
ate
manent appointment does not terminate which an officer or enlisted man is as-
at a fixed period nor at the will of the signed to duty under orders which do
appointing authority, as does a tempor- not provide for the termination of the
or-
ary appointment. An officer may have assignment; permanent duty station.

in
a permanent appointment in a grade in permeable protective clothing, clothing

-
the Regular Army, National Guard, or that has been chemically treated so that
Officers' Reserve Corps, and a tempo- it resists penetration by chemical gases
rary appointment in a higher grade in and vapors. It differs from imperme-
r
the Army of the United States. able protective clothing, which is so
permanent change of station, transfer treated that it prevents penetration by
-
or assignment of a soldier from one liquids as well as by gases and vapors.
permanent station to another. This in- permutation table, table of possible
cludes the change from home to first changes or arrangements in a code group.
station when called to active duty, or pers, personnel.
the change from last station to home, persistency, length of time a chemical
in connection with retirement, relief agent will remain in an effective con-
from active duty, or transfer to a Re- centration after release in open air.
serve status. persistent, able to remain effective as a
g permanent duty station. See perma- chemical agent for a period longer than
nent station. ten minutes after release in open air.
e,
permanent emplacement, fixed setting persistent agent, chemical agent that

for a gun. A permanent emplacement retains its effective strength for longer
is usually made of reinforced concrete, than ten minutes after release in open
with the base plate and base ring set air.
-
be
Orlg1nal rrom
nd
persistent gas 200 phase line
persistent gas, chemical agent in the it is known as 8-1. In an air staff it is
form of a gas or vapor that retains its known as A-1.
effective strength for more than ten personnel shelter, structure designed to
minutes after release in open air. protect personnel against air raids,
personal salute, honor in the form of chemical attacks, or gunfire.
cannon salutes authorized to be given to perspective spatial model, optical re-
certain distinguished visitors at a mili- construction of an area of terrain show-
tary establishment. ing depth by viewing a pair of aerial
personal staff, aides-de-camp of a photographs through a stereoscope.
general officer of the Army. petty officer, enlisted man in the Navy,
personnel, body of people in a military Army Transport Service, or Anny Mine
force. Personnel and materiel are the Planter Service whose rank is equiva-
two subdivisions of military power. lent to that of a noncommissioned officer
Abbrev: pers in the Army. There are four grades of
personnel carrier, motor vehicle, some- petty officer. A chief petty officer is
times armored, used chiefly for the equivalent to a master sergeant or first
transportation of troops and their sergeant; a petty officer first class to a
equipment. A half-track carrier is one technical sergeant; a petty officer second
type of personnel carrier. . class to a staff sergeant; and a petty
Personnel Division, subdivision of the officer third class to a sergeant. See
War Department General Staff in charge Table of Comparative Grades on page
of matters relating to the personnel of 125.
the Army as individuals. The Per- pfc, private, first class.
sonnel Division is known as G-1. A PG, proving ground.
personnel division of a command has pgn, pigeon.
similar duties for the persop.nel within PH, Purple Heart.
that command. When the unit has a Pharmacy Corps, branch of the Medical
general staff it is known as G-1; when a Department that is made up of Regular
unit does not have a general staff it is Army officers who are graduate pharma-
known as the personnel section or S-1. cists, and of all Regular Army officers
The personnel division of an air staff is who were formerly in the Medical Ad-
known as A-1. ministrative Corps. The Pharmacy
personnel error, small, unavoidable Corps is responsible for matters of ad-
error in the discharge of a weapon due ministration and pharmaceutics that
to the particular reaction of an indi- concern the Medical Department.
vidual or to his imperfect training. A Abbrev: PC
large error due to the same cause, that phase, particular stage in an activity
can be avoided by proper care, is usually or operation. An attack is usually car-
called a mistake. ried out in a series of parts called phases.
personnel mine. See antipersonnel Training schedules are also divided into
mine. parts called phases.
personnel officer, officer in charge of phase difference, difference in time be-
the keeping of records pertaining to the tween the perception of a sound by the
personnel of an organization. The as- two ears. The ability to distinguish the
sistant adjutant of a unit is often the direction of a sound source is dependent
personnel officer. upon phase difference, since one ear
personnel roster, list of all individuals generally hears a sound a fraction of a
assigned or attached to an organization second before the other ear. Binaural
that shows their names, ranks, serial balance, that is, hearing a sound at the
numbers, and present status. A per- san1e time with both ears, is arrived at
sonnel roster is usually made up for each by turning the head so that the phase
unit at the end of each month. difference is reduced to zero.
personnel section, subdivision of the phase line, conspicuous terrain feature
headquarters of a unit smaller than a chosen as a place where troops may be
division that is in charge of the person- halted for control, coordination, further
nel system within the command. When orders, etc. Each phase line is used as
the unit has a general staff it is known as a temporary objective on the way to the
G-1. When the unit has no ~eneral staff final objective.
rr1g1nal fro
phase of the attack 201 photograpb.i~ strip
strip
phase of the attack., distinct stage of photoflash bomb, pyrotechnic dropped

an attack. 'rlle phases of an attack from an aircraft. lt produces a flash of
usually include the approach march, intense light by which aerial photo-
deployment, fire fight, assault, reorgani- graphs can be made at night.
zation, and pursuit.
ni-
photogrammetry, science of preparing

phenyldieblorMsine. Symbol: PD charts and maps from aerial photo-
Philippine Constabqlary, police force graphs.
made up of natives of the Philippine photograph. Abbrev: photo
rs.
Islands led by native and white officers. photographic. A.bbrev: photo
b-
The Philippine Constabulary was estab- photographic aviation, one or more
he
lished in 1901 and incorporated into the aviation units whose primary functions
Philippine Army in 1935. include aerial mapping and photographic
Philippine Scouts, part of the Regular reconnaissance.
Army of the V nited States on duty in photographic control, orientation of
x-
the Philippine Islands. The personnel photographs from data in the photo-
of the Philippine Scouts, with some ex- graphs without the aid of ground con-
ceptions for temporary duty, must be trol; identification and matching of
citizens of the Philippine Islands. points on an aerial photograph with cor-
Abbrev: PS responding points on a second, overlap-
s-
phonetic alphabet, list of standard ping aerial photograph.

h
words used to identify letters in a mes- photographic intelligence, 1. military

sage given by radio or telephone, such intelligence produced directly through
as baker for B or king for K. study, analysjs, and interpretation of
phonetic symbol, word from the pho- photographs, especially of aerial photo-
e-
neti~ alphabet used to identify letters graphs.
in a radio or telephone message. The 2. the work of analyzing and interpret-
first three phonetic symbols are some- ing the information contained in pho-
ate
times used in artillery observations to tographs.
ot
indicate the accuracy of a reading; in photogr~phic interpretation, study,

an
this system affirm means A, or a~curate analysis, and comparison of military

reading; baker means B, or an error not photographs, especially aerial photo-
greater than 2 mils; cast means C, or an
,
graphs, to secure information of valqe

as
error greater than 2 mils. in planning and executing military op-
s
phosgene, colorless, extremely heavy, erations.
highly poisonous gas, harmful to the photographic mapping, taking aerial
lungs; carbonyl chloride. Phosgene has photographs for the Pl.lrpose of making
so
the odor of new cut hay or corn and is a mosaic assembly from which maps or
relatively nonpersistent. However, it photomaps may be constructed.
is dangerous even in concentrations so photographic officer, 1. officer on an air
small that it is not detected. staff who advises on, directs, or super-
Symbol: CG vises photographic mapping and recon-
t
en
phoaphorus, chemical agent used to naissance.

and
start fires. Phosphorus comes in two 2. officer having technical training and
s
fonns: red, which is nonpoisonous but experience in the supervision, direction,
highly inflammable and explosive when laboratory processing, distribution, etc.,
mixed with oxidizing chemicals; and of still pictures or motion pictures.
h
w}lite, which is extremely poisonous and photographic recon~aissance, 1nilitary

highly inflammable. White phosphorus aerial photography for purposes other
is often used to produce smoke. than the making of maps, charts, or
Phosphorus bomb, bomb for starting mosaics. Photographic reconnaissance
oto-
fires. A phosphorus bomb is filled with is carried on to obtain information on
o-
red, or more commonly, with white, the results of bombing or on enemy
Phosphorus. movements, concentrations, activities,
d
pho~, ~. photograph. and forces.
f
2. Photographic. photographic strip, series of successive
photo-cJtarting, process of making photo- overlapping photographs made from an
chl\rts or photomaps from aerial photo- aircraft flying a selected course or
~ph$. direction.
g
Orlg1nal rrom
photography 202 pillbox
photography, in the Army, the process of locator system to pick up aircraft tar-
taking pictures, and analyzing and in- gets. A pick-up light in an antiaircraft
terpreting them to obtain information of system corresponds to a searching light
military value. Military aerial photog- in a seacoast defense system.
raphy includes photographic mapping pick-up message, message picked up
and reconnaissance photography. from the ground by a cable trailing from
bombardment photography, taking a low-flying aircraft.
pictures from aircraft of the terrain at picric acid, high explosive, more power-
the time a bomb is released, or of the ful than TNT, used widely in the form
location of bomb bursts in relation to of mixtures with other nitro compounds;
the target. trinitrophenol. Picric acid is also used
intelligence photography, taking pic- in converted form in manufacturing ex-
tures from aircraft, and analyzing and plosive D, as a booster explosive, and as
interpreting them to obtain information a substitute for part of the mercury ful-
of ground activities or installations. minate charge in detonators. Since the
mapping photography, taking pictures introduction of TNT as a military ex-
from aircraft to form a series. of overlap- plosive, there has been a gradual aban-
ping photographs which are grouped and donment of the use of picric acid.
matched to form a single reproduction, picture point, easily identified terrain
and from which a map or chart is made feature on an aerial photograph marked
or corrected. with a penciled ring or cross for quick
photomap, reproduction of an aerial reference. A picture point is usually a
photograph or mosaic upon which at location used as a control point in mak-
least indications of scale and direction ing a photographic map.
have been added. Grid lines, contours, piece, any firearm. An artillery weap-
marginal data, and place names also on, a machine gun, or a rifle is called a
have usually been added. A photomap piece.
may be used as a map substitute. piecemeal attack, offensive action in
phototopography, process of making which the various units are employed as
maps that show such terrain features they become available, and not accord-
as rivers and elevations from aerial ing to a plan for the effective use of the
photographs. force as a whole, as in a coordinated
physical inspection, examination of attack.
troops by a medical officer, usually once pier mount, tripod head set in concrete
a month, to detect foot and skin infec- or steel as a permanent holder for an
tions, venereal diseases, etc. angle measuring instrument.
physical pool, vehicles and personnel pigeon. Abbrev: pgn
belonging to several organizations as- pigeoneer, person charged with the
sembled in one place for common use. housing, care, training, and breeding of
physical therapy aide, female member homing pigeons for use as military mes-
of the Medical Department trained in sage carriers.
the use of physical exercises as a treat- pigeon loft, 1. home for pigeons used in
ment for diseases and physical defects. Army communications. A pigeon loft
She may hold either a commissioned or includes provision for their breeding,
an enlisted grade. feeding, care, and training.
pibal, report on the upper winds based 2. unit or organization for the training
on observations of pilot balloons. and use of pigeons in Army communi-
picket line, rope or cable stretched cations.
about four feet above the ground to Pigeon Service, Signal Corps service
which the tie ropes on horses or mules that secures, breeds, trains, and experi-
may be fastened. ments with homing pigeons for use as
pick-up field, open area where aircraft message carriers.
may approach the ground to pick up pike, staff supporting the color carried
messages with a trailing cable without on parade or march. Also called lance.
the necessity of landing. pillbox, small, low, fortification that
pick-up light, a light used in an antiair- houses machine guns, antitank weap-
craft system to search an area or to work ons, etc. A pillbox is usually made of
in coordination with a sound or radio- concrete, steel, or filled sandbags and is
lg
pilot 203 pit detail
used as a point of resistance in defense. pioneer party, small group of men de-
pilot, 1. rating given to a member of the tailed to hasty construction or demoli-
Army Air Forces who pas been quali- tion tasks that are designed to aid a
larger tactical unit or to hinder enemy
se.
he
fied to control and navigate an aircraft
in flight. The rating of pilot is next movement.
t
below that of senior pilot. pioneer tools, hand tools for field use
2. person qualified by training and ex- in construction or demolition. Pioneer
perience to control and navigate an air- tools are ordinarily smaller in size than
-
craft in flight. the corresponding commercial articles.

ir-
3. specialist officer in the Harbor Boat pioneer work, rough, hasty construc-
Service who navigates ships within re- tion or demolition, done to facilitate thE
-
stricted coastal waters or harbors. advance of. troops or to hinder en em~
pilotage, method of navigating or de- movement.
termining course and position from an pistol, 1. short-barreled firearm held and
n
aircraft by r~ference to visible land- fired with one hand, especially an auto-
marks. matic hand weapon that uses the force
pilotage chart, aeronautical chart cov- of recoil to throw out the empty shell
-
ering land areas that shows sufficient and to prepare a fresh round for firing.
terrain detail, correct color scheme, and 2. gun held in one hand for firing pyro-
nd
geographical arrangement, for accurate technics.

contact flying. A pilotage chart is one 3. part of the firing mechanism of a
ate
kind of aeronautical chart. depth charge.

l-
pilot balloon, small hydrogen-filled bal- pistol belt, wide belt to which a holster
to
loon, released by a weather observer to is attached for holding a pistol or re-
learn the direction and velocity of the volver.
wind at various levels. pistol course, practice range where men
pilot chart, small-scale chart showing fire the pistol at targets while riding on
prevailing winds, weather data, and horseback.
other informatiqn of value to a pilot. pistol expert. Abbrev: PE
pilot-navigator, aviator who both navi- pistol holster, leather or webbing case
-
h
gates and controls an aircraft. for a pistol, usually worn at the belt or
pilot parachute, small parachute which carried on a saddle.
pulls the main canopy out of the pack pistol sharpshooter. Abbrev: PS
when the rip cord is pulled. It makes pit, 1. individual fire trench; small hole
the opening of the main parachute to afford shelter from fire.
quicker and more certain. 2. shelter for personnel operating the
Pilots' Information File, summary of targets at an open-air target range.

technical and administrative instruc- 3. sunken emplacement for artillery.
tions essential to safety and skill in pitch, 1. distance a propeller would ad-
flying.
ph
vance in one rotation if it were moving

pinpoint photograph, aerial photograph on the theoretical spiral that has an
g-
of a particular object or small area on angle equal to the blade angle of the
the ground. A pinpoint photograph is propeller.
h
usually made by vertical aerial photog- 2. distance between corresponding poin~
a
raphy. on consecutive screw threads or any
pintle, 1. vertical bearing about which similar spiral device, measured along the
a gun carriage revolves; pin used as a long axis.
er
hinge or axis. 3. up and down motion, lengthwise, of

2. hook, with a latch, on the rear of a a ship or aircraft.
d
towing vehicle, to which a gun or trailer 4. set up a tent.
in
is attached. pitch, angle of. See angle of pitch.
pion, pioneer. pitch indicator, instrument for sho\\ing
pioneer, person selected, trained, and the amount and speed of pitch, or length-
equipped for rough engineering work in wise, up and down motion of an aircraft.
advance of the main body of troops. pit detail, officer or noncommissioned
-
Abbrev: pion officer, together with necessary assist-

-
pioneer and demolition section. ants, in charge of the target pits on a

Abbrev: P & D Sec firing range.
rlglnal rrom
y

n
Pitot tube 204 plan of fire support
Pitot tube, (pee TOE), hollow cylindri- taininr the path of a projeQtile as it
cal tube with open end pointed into the leaves the m~e of the gun.
wind to measure the impact pressure of plane of fire, v~rtieal plane CQptaining
the air against an aircraft, A Pitot tube the axis of the bore of a gun when it, is
is used as part of the app~atW$ that ready to be fired.
measures air speed. plane of positioa, vertical plane con-
pit record, official scores of all targets taining the gun and the target; vertical
kept by the pit _officer durinz a practice plane containing a line of site.
period. plane of site, plane made py two lines,
pit shed, small house or shed built near one from the m~l~ of the gun to the
a target pit for storing target equipment. target, the other line horizontal but
pitted, marked with small indentations perpendicular to the first line at the
or holes caused by rust, acid erosion, or muzzle of the ~n.
other causes. Any metal part of i1 gun plane table, surveying instrument com-
may become pitted if moisture remains posed of a drawing board that can be
on it. leveled and rotated on a tripod support.
pivot, soldier or element upon which a It permits lines and points laid off on
line of troops turns in marching, chang- the ground to be directly sighted and
ing front, or executing a tactical drawn on a chart.
maneuver. planimetric map, map which presents
pivot man, soldier about whom march- only the horizontal p()sition of features
ing troops turn when changing direction. of the terrain.
pivot of maneuver, 1. element so dis- planimetry (pia NIM ~tree), measure-
posed as to be the center a.bout which ment of plane surf~es. In the Army,
the main body turns in movement or planimetry ia a methed of ~~p making
action. that shows flat surf~~ea o~ly, with no
2. part of an attacking force which en- elevations indicated.
gages and attempts to stop the enemy planning chart, chart of world scope,
while another part strikes a decisive usually with a seal~ of 1 :5,000,000, used
blow. for route planning and the control of
pk, pack. tactical movements and developments.
pkmr, packmaster. A planning chart is one kind of aero-
pkr, packer. nautical chart.
PL, post laundry. . plan of action, detailed plan of maneu-
place mark, well marked point of which vers and operations to be used in a given
the elevation and horizontal position military mission. A plan of action is
both in the terrain and on a map or based on a study of such factors as
chart are exactly known. It is used as enemy and friendly resources, disposi-
a reference point in locating guns. tions, and terrain.
plaindress, radiotelegraph message in plan of attack, detailed plan of maneu-
which the address is given in plain text vers and firing orders to be followed in
or in a different cipher from that used in an attack. A plan of attack jncludes a
the body of the message. This is dif- plan of fire and a plan of maneqver.
ferent from codress, in which both the plan of eampaign, comprehensive and
address and the message are put into general strategic plan based upop avail-
the same cipher or code. able information of the enemy ~orees,
plain language. See plain text. theater of operations, available friendly
plain text, wording of a message that forces, political and military objectivE$,
gives the meaning in ordinary language; etc.
message not in code or cipher; clear tat~ plan of fire, detailed plan of artillery
plain language. !lre to be earned out in a :particular at-
plan, 1. course of action by which a mili- tack. The plan of fire and the pl~n of
tary operation is to be put into effect. maneuver make up the pln of attack.
It includes such details as a statement plan of fire support, particular plan of
of the objectives, positions, and misfire that deals with the schedul~ of artil-
sions for troops and supporting ~nits, lery fire, barrages, air bombing attaclm,
2. work out such a course of action. etc., to be followed in support of ground
plane of departure, vertical plane con- troops in a J2a~icullf mission.
plan of maneuver 205 point
plan of maneuver, detailed plan of the course of a moving target representing
maneuvers and movements of troops to the position of the target at any instant.
e
be carried out in an attack. A plan of plotter, 1. person who operates the
to maneuver includes such details as a equipment used in marking the position
statement of objectives, where, when, of a target on a map, chart, or board, in
and how attacks are to be mad~, the an artillery battery.
,
formations of troops, and the missions 2. person who marks the position of an
of subordinate or supporting forces, etc. airplane on a radar board, plotting
The plan of maneuver and the plan of board, or filter board, in an aircraft
s
tc.
fire make up the plan of attack. warning service information center.

plans and training officer, staff officer plotting, marking the locations, dire~
of a unit smaller than a division re- tions, etc., of targets on a map, chart, or
sponsible for matters concerning the board.
strength, disposition, and condition of plotting and relocating board. See
the troops in the unit. The plans and plotting board.
training officer also prepares plans. and plotting board, device consisting of a
nd
orders, subject to the commander's ap- board on which the field of fire of a bat-
proval, and supervises mobilization, or- tery is represented to scale; plotting and
p-
r-
ganization, and training of the troops. relocating board. On a plotting board

When in action, he maintains liaisori the observation stations, the base line,
o
with neighboring units, transmits radio and the directing point or base piece are
and telephone orders from the com- located to scale, and are in their proper
mander, etc. In some units the plans relation to one another. The plotting
ns
and training officer is called operations board is used to locate observed posi-
officer. He is in charge of the S-3 tions of the target so that the necessary
to
section, and he is also often referred to firing data can be sent to the directing
as 8-3. point of the battery.
r
plat, platoon. plotting scale, rule that is marked off
es
plateau, adjusting device and scale for in several different graduations and is
e
making coarse settings on certain types used in measuring distances on maps.
of gun sights. The fine setting is made plumb point, point on an aerial photo-
on a device called a drum. graph that represents the point on the
platform, 1. temporary or permanent ground vertically below the camera at
solid bed on which artillery pieces are the moment of exposure.
pes
supported to give greater stability. plunger, mechanism in a breech-loading

nds
2. metal stand at the base of some types gun that carries the firing pin into strik-
y;
of guns upon which the gun crew stands ing position; mechanism with a similar
while serving the gun. purpose in a fuze.
r
platoon, basic tactical unit of the Army; plunging fire, gunfire that strikes the
subdivision of a company, battery, or ground at a high angle. In plunging
troop. A platoon is composed of two or fire, the angle of fall of the projectile
more squads or sections. It is usually with reference to the slope of the ground
commanded by a lieutenant. is such that the danger space is limited
Abbrev: plat practically to the beaten zone, which is
-
platoon column, tactical formation of also shortened. Plunging fire is less

squads in a column. effective than grazing fire, which covers
t-
platoon leader, officer, or noncommis- a longer zone and may cause damage
sioned officer, who is in charge of a outside the zone actually hit.
platoon. PM, provost marshal.
e plot, 1. map, chart, or graph represent- PMG, Provost Marshal General.
of
ing data of any sort. PMS&T, Professor of Military Science
i-
2. make such a chart; draw to scale. and Tactics.

3. represent on a diagram or chart the pmt, payment.
position or course of a tar~et in terms of point, 1. patrol or reconnaissance unit
ng
angles and distances from known posi- that goes ahead of the advance party of
nt.
tions; locate a position on a map or an advance guard, or follows the rear
chart. party of the rear guard.
plotted point, point on tbQ plotted 2. clearly defi~l!d objec on the ground
ro
on
in
IQI
n
pqint-blank range 206 poncho
that serves as a reference mark in jectile first strikes; objective point.
orienting maps. point of origin, point at either end of
3. one of the 32 principal directions a scouting line at the start of an aerial
marked on a compass. scouting operation.
4. tip of a projectile. point of release. See release point.
5. aim a gun at a target; lay a gun on a point system. See point control.
target. Abbrev: pt point target, target that consists of a
point-blank range, distance to a target particular object or structure, such as an
that is so short that the trajectory of a airplane, tank, fortification, or gun em-
bullet or projectile is practically a placement. A point target differs from
straight rather than a curved line. an area target, which consists of a
Point-blank range is one for which no general location or area on which fire is
elevation is needed. to be delivered.
point control, traffic control system in polar coordinates, distance and angle of
which traffic posts are stationed at in- direction of a point from a set point on
tersections of main roads or of other a reference line. The angle is measured
roads that are being used for troop clockwise. Polar coordinates are used
movements; point system. Patrols to locate points on an ungridded map or
control traffic between the traffic posts. photograph.
point detonating fuze, fuze located in police, 1. keeping an area, building,
the nose of a projectile and set off when equipment, etc., clean and in order.
the projectile strikes. A point detonat- 2. clean an area, building, equipment,
ing fuze usu~lly operates faster than a etc., or keep it clean and in order.
base detonating fuze, which is located 3. soldier detailed to keep an area, build-
at the rear end of a projectile. ing, equipment, etc., clean and in order.
point fire. See concentrated fire. policy book. See policy file.
pointing, laying a gun in elevation and policy file, notebook, folder, or file in
direction for firing at a given target. which are kept copies of all decisions,
In case I pointing, both elevation and opinions, unusual cases, and established
direction are set with a sight pointed at policies for guiding future action; policy
the target. book; precedent file.
In case II pointing, the direction is set polyconic projection, method of map
with a sight pointed at the target; the making. In making a map by polyconic
elevation is set with an elevation quad- projection, the area to be mapped may
rant or range disk. be thought of as peeled off the surface
In case III pointing, the direction is set of the earth and divided along the
with an azimuth circle or with a sight parallels of latitude in strips. The strips
pointed at an aiming point other than are then placed so that the center me-
the target; the elevation is set with an ridian of each strip is part of a vertical
elevation quadrant or range disk. center line for the entire map. Because
point of aim, center of the area at this leaves the sides of the map with
which a gun is to be fired; point on the open spaces, the sides of the map are
target at which the gun is actually aimed stretched vertically to fill the gaps.
for firing. Therefore the sides of the map are slight-
point of burst, point in the air at which ly distorted, though the map is very
a projectile bursts or is set to burst. accurate in other ways. Military maps
point of departure, in air navigation, are usually polyconic projections.
the position from which the course of POM, Preparation for Overseas Move-
an aircraft is considered to start. ment.
point of deployment, position at which pompom, automatic gun that has a
troops split up into individual combat number of barrels assembled as a unit.
units; preparatorJ position occupied A pompom is used, especially on ship-
before an assault. board, as an antiaircraft weapon.
point of fall, point in the curved path pon. ponton.
of a falling projectile that is level with poncho, large piece of waterproof cloth
the muzzle of the gun. Also called level with a slit in the middle for the head to
point. go through. A poncho is used as a rain
point of impact, point at which a pro- cape.
Orlg1nal fro
ponton 207 position
ponton (PON tun), light boat or float portable obstacle, obstruction, usually
used as one of the floating supports for ready-made, that is set up to stop or
a tempor?.ry military bridge, or as a raft hinder enemy troops. A portable ob-
to ferry things over water. Sometimes stacle can be taken down and trans-
or
called a pontoon. ported to new positions as needed.
aft Abbret': pon Port Agency. Abbrev: PA
s
ponton boat, light boat used as a float- port arms, 1. position in the manual of
ing support, or ponton. the rifle, in which the rifle is held with
ponton bridge, tetnporary bridge that the barrel up diagonally across the body,
t-
is supported by light, flat-bottomed along a line from the left shoulder to

boats or other floats. the right hip.
ponton ferry, ferry consisting of one or 2. command to take this position.
more ponton units, generally with a port commander, officer who is re-
r
platform or floor set upon them; ponton sponsible for, and has administrative
raft ferry. It is used to transport per- authority over, all activities at a mili-
on
sonnel and equipment over a stream or tary port.
river. porte. See portee.
or
ponton raft ferry. See ponton ferry. portee, 1. carried in, or towed by, ve-
pontoon (ponTOON), ,1. light boat or hicles. The term is used in connection
float used as one of the floating supports with artillery pieces or cavalry units.
orts
for a temporary military bridge, or as a 2. transport artillery pieces or cavalry
a
raft to ferry things over water. In this units in vehicles.
meaning, usually called a ponton. In both meanings, also spelled porte.
2. watertight apparatus attached to an port of debarkation, any port outside
n
aircraft so that the aircraft will not sink the continental United States at which
k
if it comes down at sea. In this mean- troops, equipment, and supplies are
ing, usually called a float. landed. Ports of debarkation are desig-
pool, 1. resources of property or equip- nated by the War Department.
ment combined for the common use of Abbrev: PD
p-
of
several organizations. A motor pool is port of embarkation, any port within

ed
a group of motor vehicles that are used the continental United States at which
in common by different individuals or troops, equipment, and supplies are
units. put on transports for shipment overseas.
en
2. reservoir of officers and enlisted men Ports of embarkation are designated by
le
at a post, camp, etc., who are available the War Department. Abbrev: PE
for assignment to fill vacancies. In port officer, officer detailed by a supply
this meaning, also called replacement service, such as the Quartermaster
pool. Corps, to represent it at a War Depart-

3. gather or group together for common ment port. The port officer supervis~
on
use. all matters affecting the service he repre-

-
port, 1. harbor with its facilities, for sents.
example, a port of embarkation or de- port transportation officer.
r
barkation. Abbrev: PTO
2. slit or hole in an armored vehicle or position, 1. area or locality occupied by
fortification through which guns are combat elements, especially for defense.
uns
fired. 2. location of a gun, unit, or individual

can
3. small opening in some automatic guns from which fire is delivered upon a given
through which the gas from the bore can target. For supporting weapons in com-
escape. The escaping gas actuates a bat, the firing positions are known as
piston whose action prepares the gun primary firing position, alternate firing
for the next shot. position, and supplementary firing posi-
4. See port arms. tion. In this meaning, also called fire
ce
portable. Abbrev: ptbl position and firing position.
hat
portable bridge, bridge that can be 3. manner in which a weapon is held, as

ed,
taken down and moved from one place prescribed in the manual of arms.
y
to another; bridge made in sections that 4. any of the standard postures taken by
are taken to the bridge site, assembled, a soldier when firing a rifle or other
and fixed into position. weapon.
Orlg1nal rrom
f
position, angle of 208 post property
position, angle or. See angle or site. movement, which involves the use of
position area, ground space occupied maneuver. The defense is aimed chiefly
by, or allotted to, the guns and other at keeping the enemy out of strategic
installations of a combat unit. areas and forcing him to exhaust his
position defense, type of defense in combat power in assaults against well-
which one main position of resistance is established positions. Also called war
established in the defensive zone. The of position.
main defense of the whole area is con- post, 1. military installation or location
ducted from this position rather than at which troops are stationed. A post
from a series of locations, as in zone de- may be a camp, depot, fort, hospital,
fense. proving ground, station, arsenal, air
position defilade, position of a gun base, air field, etc. In this meaning, also
from which the gun crew can see the called earrison.
target, but which is hidden from enemy 2. area for which a guard or sentry is
observation by an obstacle, such as the responsible; location of a soldier while
crest of a hill; site defilade. on active duty.
position finder, optical instrument used 3. assign to a duty station; set a guard,
in finding the range and position of a sentry, etc.
target. post, postal.
position finding, determining the pres- postal. A bbrev: post
ent or future position of an aircraft or postal concentration center, agency of
other target, the point of origin of radio the Post Office Department that handles
waves, etc. Position finding is generally and sorts the mail of the troops in a
done with the aid of instruments, such theater of operations.
as a range finder, radar, or sound locator. postal officer, officer who has direct
position in readiness, position in which supervision of all postal activities within
combat troops are held ready for instant his organization.
action, especially when the course of an postal regulating section, section of a
action is too uncertain to justify throw- regulating station that controls the rout-
ing them into action at once. ing of mail to and from the part of the
position light, light or flare used to sig- theater of operations which the station
nal or show position, direction of move- serves.
ment, etc., of an aircraft, ground troops, postal section. Abbrev: post sec
etc. post engineer, senior officer of the Corps
position or resistance, position chosen of Engineers assigned to repairs and
by a commander as the point at which utilities work at an Army post. He
to stop and defeat the enemy; especially, serves as a staff officer of the post com-
a prepared position to which a retreating mander and is responsible for all tech-
force withdraws. nical details of repairs and utilities, such
position of the target, location of a as inspection and construction.
moving or stationary target, usually ex- post exchange, military organization
pressed in terms of azimuth, elevation, that sells merchandise and services to
and fuze setting. military personnel and other authorized
future position, position it is calculat- persons. Often called Army exchange
ed a moving target will reach in a given or exchange.
length of time. Also called predicted post exchange council. See exchange
point. council.
observed position, position of a mov- post flag, national flag used at posts
ing target at the instant of observation. and national cemeteries and flown in fair
present position, position of a moving weather except when the garrison flag is
target at the instant of firing. prescribed. The post flag is 19 feet fly
position report, report radioed from an by 10 feet hoist.
aircraft to a range station, giving the post hospital. See station hospital.
position of the aircraft and other data, post laundry. Abbrev: PL
such as time and altitude. post property, real property, such as
position warfare, warfare in which the land and buildings, and supplies pro-
defensive is confined mainly to fixed vided for use in garrison as listed in the
positions, as contrasted with war of Tables of Allowances for posts, camps,
rr1g1na fro
post quartermaster 209 prcht
and stations. The post supply offieer is and the caliber and model of the gun for
accountable for this post property, and which it was made.
he must keep a stock record account. powder train. See explosive train.
s
post quartermaster, senior officer of the powder tray, carrier on which powder
d Quartermaster Corps whc is assigned to bags are put for carrying them to the
duty at a given station. gun.
he
post see, postal section. power traverse, turning of a gun to
to
post sianal ofBcer officer who super- change the directiort of fire by means of
vises the operation and management of a power-driven mechanism, as in a tank,
the telephone, telegraph, and radio sys- aircraft, or ship turret.
of
tems at a military post. power traverse mechanism, mechanism
potassium permanganate, chemical that is driven by power and used in
agent that is used as a disinfectant.
ys-
tuming a gun to change the direction

Potassium permangahate is also used in of fire, especi~y in a tank, aircraft, or
making explosives. ship turret.
d in
pouch kit, pouch or cloth bag that holds power turret, turret or enclosed gun
the medical kit issued to members of the mount that is turned by a power-driven
ds
Medical Department for use in the field. mechanism, especially in tanks, aircraft,
the
A pouch kit is carried by a strap which ships, etc. The guns in the power turret
is slung over the shoulder. move with it.
d.
powder. explosive compound or mixture P /R, pay roll.

ure
that is used as a propelling charge or practical test, examination given to an
bursting charge in projectiles, bombs, officer seeking appointment to a higher
mines. etc. There are two general types, grade. The practical test includes a test
es,
black powder and smokeless powder. of his ability and judgment in command-
powder bag, fabric container that holds ing troops in tactical exercises, map
ds
the powder charge for separate-loading problems, etc.

ng
ammunition. A powder bag is usually practice ammunition, ammunition used

at
made of special silk or cotton cloth that for target practice; ammunition with a
burns without leaving any ashes. propelling charge, but with either an
es
powder blast, rush of hot air and gases inert filler or a low explosive filler to
as
that bursts from the mUzzle of a gun as serve as a spotting charge.
the projectile leaves it. Usually called practice bomb, aerial bomb that has
muzzle blast. either an inert filler of sand or other
of
powder chamber, section of the bore of material or a low explosive filler to serve
of
a gun in which the propelling charge of as a spotting charge.

separate-loading ammunition is placed practice fire, target practice with live
and set off. ammunition.

powder charge, explosive or propelling
g
mu-
practice grenade, 1. hand grenade with
charge used in separate-loading ammu- a reduced charge, used in practice
nition. throwing.
re powder fouling, bits of unburned or 2. dummy hand grenade containing no
partially burned powder left in the bore explosive or chemical. In this meaning,
f
after firing. usually called training grenade.
powder ring, cloth bag in the shape of practice mine, imitation land mine used
uni-
a ring that holds a section of the pro- in training. A practice mine may con-
ed
pelling charge in some types of amtnuni- tain a smoke-producing agent for ma-
tion. The number of powder rings used neuvers or for practice in observing the
nd
controls the strength of the charge and effects of mines against vehicles, or it
uns.
the range of the projectile. may be simply a round block of wood,
x- powder silk. special silk fabric used to metal, or concrete fQr practice in laying
hold the explosive charge for large guns. mine fields.
Powder silk leaves no ash when the ex- practice season, annual period set aside
plosive is fired. in peacetime by the Regular Army,
of
powder tag, linen tag attached to a National Guard, and Organized Re-
powder bag. On it are written details serves for drill in gunnery, marksman-
about the powder, such as the name of ship, etc.
for
the loading plant, the date of loading, prcht, parachute.

Orlg1nal rrom
of
preactivation period 210 preliminary firing
preactivation period, time prior to the when the projectile reaches it, according
first day of a unit's official existence; to predictions based on observation.
time leading up to the establishment, predicted point, position at which it is
and the putting into operation, of a expected a moving target will arrive at
military unit. the instant of firing; point a moving
prearranged fire, supporting fire for target is expected to reach at the end
which the need has been foreseen so that of the dead time between the last obser-
data for it, including range and eleva- vation and the moment of firing. It
tion, has been prepared in advance. should not be confused with the set-for-
Also called schedule fire. ward point, the predicted position of the
t
precedence, 1. right to come before target at the moment of impact.

others. Precedence is based especially predicting interval, time interval be-
on military grade, and also on position, tween the last observation of a moving
date of appointment, etc. target and the firing of a gun. The pre-
2. right of way given to a radio, tele- dicting interval is the time allowed for
phone, or telegraph message so that it is calculating and applying the firing data.
sent out as soon as possible after it has Also called dead time.
been filed and in advance of other mes- prediction, determining what the prob-
sages filed before it. Precedence is de- able future position of a moving target
termined by the nature and importance will be at a given time.
of the message to be sent. prediction mechanism, instrument used
precedent file. See policy file. in connection with a plotting board in
precision adjustment, correction for determining the probable future loca-
range and direction applied to the set- tion of a moving target in terms of di-
ting of a gun on the basis of the error rection and elevation from a given posi-
observed for each shot fired. Precision tion. Also called predictor.
adjustment differs from the bracketing prediction scale, accurately graduated
method, in which the setting is adjusted scale or rule used to measure the actual
on the basis of a series of shots that are speed of a moving target. A prediction
alternately over, and short of, the target. scale is used together with a set-forward
precision bombing, bombing with spe- rule or chart to locate on the plotting
cial sights and other aids so that the board the point at which the target will
bombs are directed at a specific target be when the gun is fired.
with the greatest possible accuracy. predictor, 1. instrument used in connec-
Precision bombing differs from area tion with a plotting board in determin-
bombing, the bombing of a general area ing the probable future location of a
according to no special plan, and from moving target in terms of direction and
pattern bombing, the systematic cover- elevation from a given position. Also
ing of a target according to a plan. called prediction mechanism.
precision fire, fire in which the center of 2. device used with a plotting board to
impact is accurately placed on a limited tell just when a controlled underwater
target; fire based on precision adjust- mine ought to be fired. Such a pre-
ment. Usually precision fire is used to dictor indicates the exact moment when
destroy enemy installations, such as gun the target is over the mine.
emplacements, structures, and supply preflight training, ground instruction;
points. Precision fire differs from area instruction in aviation before actual fly-
fire, which is directed against a general ing is attempted.
area rather than against a given objec- preliminary bombardment, concen-
tive in the area. trated and intensive artillery fire in
precomputation, calculation of aerial preparation for an attack.
navigation data before a flight begins, so preliminary firing, training and prac-
that during flight the position of the air- tice in firing a gun, often for the purpose
craft can be plotted quickly and easily. of finding out which men have the
predict, determine what the probable greatest skill in shooting. Preliminary
future position of a moving target will firing takes place before record firing, in
be at a given time. which the selected men are given ad-
predicted firing, firing at the point at ditional training, and in which a record
which a moving target is expected to be is kept of their performance.
ng1 rr1ca I frorn
preparation 211 primary firing position
preparation. See artillery preparation. Presidential order, official order of the
Preparation for Overseas Movement, President of the United States, such as
official publication of the War Depart- that bringing the National Guard of the
ment distributed to all Army units and United States, as a part of the Army of
containing instructions for units pre- the United States, into active federal
d
paring to go to an overseas base or service after Congress has declared a
theater. It covers all administrative state of national emergency and has
matters, such as supply, records, and authorized its use.
transportation. Abbrev: PO M Presidential salute, twenty-one gun
preparatory command, part of a drill salute given a President or ex-President
command which states the movement or of the United States when he visits a
t or
formation that is to be carried out. A military establishment.
preparatory command is followed by presidio, military post or fortified set-
the command of execution, which orders tlement. The Presidio is a n1ilitary post
ers
the movement to be carried out. In in San Francisco.
the command "Forward, MARCH", pressure charge, compressed carbon
"Forward" is the preparatory command dioxide or chlorine in a chemical con-
d
and "MARCH" is the command of exe- tainer. It maintains the pressure needed
cution. to release the chemical agent from the
preparatory fire, fire to determine or cylinder.
to
check corrections of firing data, prior to pressure firing device, firing device for
conducting fire for effect. Trial fire, land mines, etc., that is set off when it is
e verification fire, and calibration fire are subjected to pressure or weight. Es-
all types of preparatory fire. sentially, it is a trigger mechanism usual-
prepare for action, 1. put a gun into ly attached to a blasting cap.
position for firing. pressure gage, cylindrical measuring
or
2. command to put a gun in position for device placed in the powder chamber of
firing. a gun, in order to determine the amount
of compression exerted by its firing.
s
3. put an armored vehicle in readiness

e
for action. preventive maintenance, servicing and
4. command to put an armored vehicle repairing military vehicles and equip-
in readiness for action. ment so that serious breakdowns are
o
prescribed load, weight or quantity of avoided as far as possible.
supplies, etc., that a unit is directed to primacord, flexible fabric tube contain-
take with it for a given movement or ing a filler of high explosive PETN
on,
operation. The size of the load is de- (pentaerythritetetranitrate) that is used

termined by the nature of the operation, as a bursting charge or as a primer for

in
amount of transportation available, other high explosive charges. Prima-
is
type of ground to be covered, etc. cord is the trade name for the type of
present arms, 1. position, prescribed in detonating cord currently in use.
the manual of arms, in which the gun is primacord net. See detonating net.
nt held straight up and down, in front of primary armament, seacoast artillery
the body, with the muzzle up and the weapons of 12-inch or greater caliber.
en
trigger side of the gun forward. Present Primary armament also includes sub-
arms is usually used as a salute. marine mines. Smaller seacoast artil-
2. position of salute with the hand when lery weapons are classed as secondary
troops are in formation without arms. armament. Primary armament other
3. take the position of present arms. than submarine mines is also called
4. command to present arms. major-caliber weapons.
present position, position of a moving primary fire position. See primary fir-
target at the instant of firing. ing position.
g
president, presiding officer of a board primary fire sector, principal area to be
o
or court-martial. covered by the gunfire of an individual

me
Presidential call, official order of the or unit.

e
President of the United States bringing primary firing position, firing position
s
all or a part of the National Guard into assigned to a unit or weapon chosen as
e
the service of the United States, in time the best available position from which
f
of war or national emergency. the most important fire mission can be
Or1g1nal rrom
primary gun 212 prisoner guard
carried out; primary po!ition; primary primer-detonator, unit consisting of a
fire position. If necessary, the primary primer and a detonating charge. A
firing position is left and the alternate primer-detonator sets off the bursting
firing position is used. charge of an aerial botnb.
primary gun, principal or main gun, primer leak, defect in a cartridge or
especially of a tank or other armored shell which allows partial escape of the
vehicle. hot propelling gases ih a primer, caused
primary port, War Department port by faulty construction or an excessive
that serves as the headquarters for a charge.
line of Army transports. primer pouch, container that holds the
primary position. See primary ftring primers used. in firing with separate-
position. loading ammunition.
primary station, observation post near- primer seat, chamber in the breech
est to the directing point or to the base mechanism of a gun that uses separate-
piece. lbading ammunition, into which the
primary target, 1. enemy target that primer is set.
must be fired upon because it is the most primer setback, defect in the firing of a
dangerous target at the moment. round of fixed amtnunition, in which the
2. target assigned to a particular gun or explosion of the propelling charge forces
unit as its most important fire mission. the primer against the face of the bolt.
Abbrev: PT Primer setback is due to a faulty bolt or
primary target area, target area that a defective cartridge or to excessive
is the principal fire mission of a gun or pressure.
unit; target area on ~rhich the fire priming charge. See primer charge.
planned for the close defense of a main princ, principal.
line of resistance is concentrated. principal. Abbrev: princ
primary trainer, airplane used to teach principal chief nurse, chief nurse who
aviation cadets the first steps in flying. serves as head of the nursing staff of a
A primary trainer does not have the military hospital.
high speed and sensitive control of com- principal supply road, supply road
bat aircraft, but it is sturdy, safe, and needed to supply an element or unit that
easily landed. is so located as to need a separate road;
primary weapon, weapon that "is the main supply road.
principal arm of a combat unit. The priority, right of way given to some mes-
rifle is the primary or basic weapon for sages or shipments of supplies over
an infantry rifle company, as compared others, based upon their nature and im-
with grenades or chemical projectiles, portance.
which are secondary or auxiliary weap- priority message, message that has the
ons in such an organization. right of way over routine messages, but
prime mover, motor vehicle used to which has to give way to urgent mes-
tow a gun or trailer. sages.
primer, 1. device used to set off a propel- pris, prisoner.
ling charge or bursting charge. A prim- prismatic compass, magnetic compass
er may consist of an igniter and a sensi- combined with a sighting device, used
tive charge. The igniter is set in action for measuring azimuths. It may be
by friction, pressure, or electricity, and equipped with a clinometer for measur-
it in turn sets off the sensitive charge, ing vertical angles.
which explodes the propelling charge or prisoner, person in confinement under
the bursting charge, or ignites the burn- guard. The two classifications of mili-
ing mixture of certain incendiary bombs. tary prisoner are general prisoner and
2. small charge of high explosive fitted garrison prisoner. Abbrev: pris
with a detonating cap or detonating prisoner guard, soldier or group of sol-
cord. Priming a large charge consists of diers detailed to guard prisoners at work
placing the primer in the main charge. or at any time they are allowed outside
primer eharge, small charge of explosive the prison or guardhouse. The prisoner
in an artillery primer that carries the guard is a subdivision of the interior
flame to the propelling charge; priming guard of a command, the others being
charge. the main guard and the special guard.
Orlg1nal fro
prisoner of war 213 promotion list officer
prisoner of war, enemy person captured -military service. Processing includes
1 and held in captivity by a belligerent classification, physical examination, in-
power. Abbrev: PW oculations, issue of clothing, identifica-
ed
prisoner of war collecting point, place tion tags, and serial numbers, and the
near the front where prisoners of war are preparation of individual records.
gathered and held until they are ex- 2. preliminary steps taken to prepare a
amined and sent to the rear. prisoner of war for confinement. Pro-
are
prisoner of war enclosure, stockade to cessing of prisoners of war includes

which prisoners of war are evacuated search, recording of personal data, in-
o
from collecting points. ventory of personal effects, assignment
prisoner of war processing company, of a serial number, photographing, fin-
military unit that gets all details about gerprinting, and preparation of records.
prisoners of war and checks them. It procurement, getting or obtaining per-
t
gives a permanent serial number to each sonnel, services, supplies, or funds.
prisoner and makes a permanent record. procurement authority. See allotment
ach
prison officer, officer who is responsible (def. 3).

ord.
for the employment and management of Procurement Regulations, rules govern-

prisoners. Prison officer should not be ing the purchase of supplies and the sale
ble
t of
confused with the commander of the of surplus or salvage property. They

guard, who is res!Jonsible for their safe- are published in the form of regulations.
e-
keeping and for enforcement of disci- Professor of Military Science and Tac-
pline. tics. Abbrev: PMS&T
private, soldier of the seventh grade in profile, 1. line on a chart representing a
n
the Army. See Table of Comparative cross section of the surface of an area.
Grades on p. 125. Abbrev: pvt 2. cross section of a trench, fortification,
private, first class, soldier of the sixth etc.
ove
grade in the Army, who ranks next above llrofile map, map which shows the cross
a private and next below a corporal. sec.tion outline of an area above a given
See Table of Comparative Grades on reference line, which is usually sea level.
p. 125. Abbrev: pfc or pvt lei projectile, object that is fired from a
prk, park. gun with an explosive propelling charge,
probable error, calculated amount of such as a bullet, shell, rocket, or grenade.
error in gunfire or bombing; a distance projection, method of map making by
e
from the center of impact that will be 'vhich the sphere of the earth, or part of
exceeded half the time and not exceeded it, is represented on a flat surface.
half the time. projector, . mortar-type barrel or other
eded
on-
procedure message, short message con- gunlike weapon from which pyrotechnic
ic
cerning the handling of message traffic signals, grenades, cherrJcal bombs, etc.,
or message station operation, used in are fired.
m- radiotelegraph and radiotelephone com- prolonge (pro LAWNJ), rope, with a
munication. hook or loop at one end, with which
rn-
procedure sign, set code signal concern- soldiers can move a vehicle or gun car-
ing the handling of message traffic or riage into position.
message station operation, used by a promotion, advancement to a higher
radio operator; prosine. A procedure grade or rank.
sign is a single letter or character, while list, in the order of
ile
e
promotion list,
a procedure signal is made up of three standing for promotion, of all officers
-
letters beginning with Z. of the Regular Army and the Philippine
ic procedure signal, set code signal con- Scouts below the permanent grade of
ya
cerning the handling of message traffic brigadier general, but not including
or message station operation, used by a officers of the Medical Department,
radio operator; prosig. A procedure chaplains, or professors of the United
of
signal always consists of three letters States Military Academy.

beginning with Z; a signal consisting of promotion list officer, officer below the
n
a single letter or character is called a permanent grade of brigadier general
or
procedure sign. who belongs to the Regular Army or to
processing, 1. preliminary steps taken the .Philippine Scouts and whose name
n- to prepare newly enrolled personnel for appears on the promotion list.
rlglnal rrom
a-

a
prone position 214 prophylaxis
prone position, posture of the body for ping. It generally has no protective
firing frotn the ground. The stomach armor, and its armament consists of
is flat against the ground, legs are light weapons. Also called PT boat.
spread, and the insides of the feet are propelling charge, powder charge that
flat on the ground, but the head and is set off in a gun to throw a projectile
shoulders are raised and supported by from it; propellant. Gases are produced
the elbows, thus leaving the hands free in the bore by the burning of the pro-
to operate the gun. pelling charge, and these gases force the
prone shelter, trench that is deep projectile out.
enough to protect a man lying flat in it property, supplies, equipment, build-
from bomb or artillery fragments or ings, grounds, etc. Property is generally
small-arms fire. A prone shelter gives classified as:
little or no protection against fire from class A property, new or unused
over head or against the crushing action property.
of a tank. class B property, property that has
propaganda balloon, small free balloon been used or reclaimed and is still usable.
that has no crew, but has a device that class C property, property that is
releases papers at intervals. It is set unusable but can be reclaimed.
free over populated enemy areas in property accountability, responsibility
which propaganda leaflets, or the like, of an officer or other person for keeping
are to be dropped. an accurate record of public property.
propellant. See propelling charge. The person having this responsibility
propellent, used to drive something for- may or may not have actual possession
ward, as, a propellent powder. of the property.
propeller, device consisting of a hub property book, record book kept in a
with two or more blades that rotate. company or similar unit, in which are
A propeller rotates at high speeds and listed the quantities and classifications
produces a thrust that drives an aircraft of its equipment, with the exception of
or vessel forward. the individual clothing and equipment
adjustable pitch propeller, propeller of enlisted men.
whose blades are so attached to the hub property custodian, officer who acts as
that the pitch can be changed while the the agent of a military training institu-
propeller is not turning. tion for procuring, storing, issuing, and
automatic pitch propeller, propeller accounting for property belonging to, or
whose blades are so attached to the hub issued to, the command.
that the pitch can be automatically ad- property exchange, replacing any item
justed to the best setting while the of property given to a unit by another
propeller is in motion. unit. An organization may replace
controllable pitch propeller, propeller property transferred to it from another
whose blades are so attached to the hub organization by giving in return a similar
that the pitch can be adjusted auto- or equivalent item of property. On this
matically or by hand while the propeller basis, an organization may replace, for
is in motion. example, supplies belonging to the Medi-
fixed pitch propeller, propeller whose cal Department that were used in the
blades are so attached to the hub that treatment of its men.
the pitch cannot be changed, either by property officer, officer who procures,
hand or by some automatic device. issues, and accounts for government-
propeller pitch indicator, aircraft in- owned articles for his m1it.
strument that registP.rs the angle at prophylactic station, medical office
which the blade of t.he propeller is maintained by the Army on or near
operating. military posts, where preventive treat-
propeller thrust, action of a rotating ment for venereal diseases is always
propeller which drives hack the air or available.
water in which it turns and conse- prophylaxis, 1. prevention of disease.
quently drives the aircraft or vessel 2. measures taken to prevent disease, es-
forward!" pecially typhoid, malaria, or venereal
propeller torpedo boat, small speedy diseases.
boat used chiefly to torpedo enemy ship- 3. measures taken to prevent or reduce
rr1g1nal fro
prosig 215 provost sergeant
the harmful effects of chemical agents. ever needed, to subordinate units in the
prosig. See procedure signal. forward area.
prosine, 1. See procedure sign. provisional map, hastily made line map
s.
2. See procedure signal. based on aerial photographs, used as a

protective clothing, clothing that is map substitute.
specially treated to protect the body of provisional warrant, appointment to
the wearer from coming into contact fill a vacancy caused by the honorable
of with chemical agents such as mustard discharge of a noncommissioned officer
gas. who has completed his enlistment. The
d
protective concealment, disguising a appointment is revoked if the discharged
place, thing, or person to mislead or man reenlists within a given time.
deceive the enemy. By protective con- provost court, military court which
cealment, the existence, nature, or loca- tries soldiers or civilians who commit
tion of buildings, military equipment, or minor offenses within the limits con-
n-
ca-
or
troops can be concealed. Usually trolled by the Army.
called camouflage. provost guard, men on special duty,
protective fire, fire delivered by sup- under the provost marshal, to keep order
porting guns and directed against the among soldiers when they are outside
enemy to hinder his fire or movement the territory under the control of the
t
against friendly attacking forces. interior guard. The provost guard usu-
protective ointment, soft, greasy sub- ally serves when military -police are not
stance applied to the skin as protection available, and usually works in coopera-
against vesicant chemical agents. tion with nearby civil authorities.
on
et
protective wire, wire entanglement set j provost marshal, staff officer who com-
e
up to prevent surprise or attack by the mands the military police detachment
nce.
enemy, or to halt or slow up his advance. of a post or organization. A provost
protectoscope, device in a tank, etc., marshal advises the commander on
ne.
similar to the periscope of a submarine. military police matters. Abbrev: PM
It enables a soldier to see around a provost marshal general, officer on the
shield without exposing himself to staff of a command who has charge of
f
enemy gunfire directed at the ports of all military police matters, including the
the tank or armored car. collection and guarding of prisoners of
n
protractor, instrument for measuring war.
angles. A protractor is usually made in Provost Marshal General, staff officer
er
the shape of a half circle, around the under the Commanding General, Army
rim of which the angles from the center Service Forces, in charge of the super-
grees
n
of the base are marked off from 0 degrees vision and administration of all military
to 180 degrees. A protractor is used in police matters that affect the Army as
finding or plotting directions from a a whole, including those concerned with
given point or line on a map. prisoners of war and interned alien
nd
prov, provisional. enemies. Abbrev: PMG
o-
proving ground, testing ground; place Provost Marshal General's School, spe-
or area at which articles of materiel and cial service school that trains soldiers for
-
equipment, especially artillery and mo- service in the Corps of Military Police
tor vehicles, are tested to make sure and that trains candidates for commis-
that they are in perfect working condi- sion in the Corps of Military Police. The
tion. Abbrev: PG Provost Marshal General's School is
Proving Ground Command, one of the under the supervision of the Command-
subdivisions of the Army Air Forces, ing General, Army Service Forces.
in charge of the operation of proving provost sergeant, noncommissioned of-
grounds in testing and trying out air- fleer who directs a group of military
of
craft and aerial equipment. policemen in the performance of their
provisional. Abbrev: prov duties and assists the prison officer in
provisional ammunition train, train the management of the organization
-
based at an ammunition supply point of prison. A provost sergeant supervises

he
a combat force, such as a division. A prisoners, instructs and supervises the

provisional ammunition train is kept military police unit, and keeps the
ready to transport ammunition, when- records of the unit.
ap
I rrom
a
IQI
e
er
proword 216 pyrotechnic signal
proword, phonetic equivalent of a pro- Punitive Articles, section of the Articles
sine or a prosig; word or words which a of War, in which military crimes and
prosig or prosine represents. offenses. are defined and the punishment
prussic acid, chemical agent used es- for each is set down.
pecially in artillery shells as a casualty pur, pursuit.
agent to disable or kill enemy person- purchase discharge. See discharge by
nel; hydrocyanic acid. Symbol: HCN purchase.
PS, 1. Philippine Scouts. 2. pistol purification unit, necessary facilities for
sharpshooter. 3. chlorpicrin. purifying drinking water in the field.
pt, point. The unit is moved from place to place
PT, primary target. in a truck.
ptbl, portable. Purple Heart, medal awarded to any-
PT boat, small speedy boat used one who is wounded by enemy action
chiefly to torpedo enemy shipping. It while serving with the Army of the
generally has no protective armor, and United States. Abbrev: PH
its armament consists of light weapons. pursuit, following a retreating enemy
Also called propeller torpedo boat. force and keeping it engaged for the
PTO, port transportation officer. purpose of destroying its combat power.
pty, party. Abbrev: pur
pub, public. pursuit airplane, fighter aircraft that
public. Abbrev: pub has high speed, a high rate of climb, and
publication and supply division, sub- can be maneuvered with ease. It is
division of a division or higher head- used chiefly to fight enemy aircraft.
quarters which publishes orders, pro- pursuit aviation. See fighter aviation.
vides stenographers to help with secre- pvt, private.
tarial work, prepares letters, indorse- pvt lei, private, first class.
ments, memoranda, circulars, etc., and PW, prisoner of war.
procures, stores, and issues office equip- PX, Army exchange.
ment and supplies. pyrocellulose, nitrocellulose having a low-
public relations, activities of the War er nitration than guncotton, used in
Department and other Army authorities smokeless powder propellants; pyro-
and organizations that are concerned cotton.
with giving the general public a better pyrocotton. See pyrocellulose.
understanding of military organization, pyro powder, straight nitrocellulose
procedure, and policies, by giving out powder; smokeless propelling charge
military news through the newspapers, consisting of a nitrocellulose that has a
magazines, movies, radio, etc. smaller nitrogen content than gun-
public relations officer, officer at a cotton; single base powder.
post, etc., whose duty is to give infor- pyrotechnic code, meaning that is given
mation about military activities to to the various colors and arrangements
civilian news agencies and to give the of fireworks signal lights and flares, by
general public a better understanding of means of which communication between
military organization, procedure, and units is made possible at night.
policy. pyrotechnic pistol, pistol from '\\"hich
pull-out, aerial maneuver in which an fireworks signals, especially flares, are
aircraft returns to horizontal flight fol- fired. A pyrotechnic pistol is used in
lowing a dive. aircraft. Also called signal pistol.
pull out, make a pull-out. pyrotechnic projector, device for firing
pull-up, aerial maneuver in which an fireworks signals or flares into the air
airplane makes a short climb, usually from the ground. Also called ground
from level flight. signal P.rojector.
pull up, make a pull-up. pyrotechnics, ammunition containing
punishment book, record book kept by chemicals that produce a brilliant light
a company commander, in which a com- in burning, used for signaling or lighting
plete account is given of all minor up areas at night; fireworks.
offenses committed by soldiers and the pyrotechnic signal, flare or colored light
nature of the punishments imposed in dropped from an airplane or fired from
each case. a ground projector, to give a signal.
lg
QM 217 quartermaster agent
QM, quartermaster. soldier is tested. Depending upon the
QMC, Quartermaster Corps. skill he shows, the soldier may be given
QMG, Quartermaster General. a rating such as expert, sharpshooter,
QMSO, quartermaster supply officer. marksman, or remain unqualified.
qrs, quarters. qualified, having an approved degree of
quadrant, instrument with a graduated skill in handling a weapon, a machine, or
d scale, used in range adjustment. Also a device. A soldier given a rating in
called gunner's quadrant. arms, such as expert or sharpshooter, or
quadrant ~ngle of departure, angle be- as a rated pilot or observer is said to be
e-
tween the horizontal and the line along qualified.

ng
which a projectile leaves the gun. quarantine, isolation of anyone who is

quadrant angle of elevation. See quad- suffering from a disease that can be
spread, or isolation of carriers and
d-
rant elevation.
quadrant angle of fall, angle between people thought to be responsible for the
he
the horizontal and a line tangent to the spread of diseases such as typhoid.
path of a falling projectile at a point There are two kinds of quarantine:
level with the muzzle of the gun. absolute quarantine, complete isola-
quadrant angle of site, angle at the tion of persons suffering from a commu-
ntal
muzzle of a gun formed by the horizontal nicable disease, or of an organization

and the line that joins the muzzle and containing such persons, from contact
the target. with other persons or units. Under an
quadrant elevation, angle between the absolute quarantine, normal duties are
e
horizontal and the axis of the bore of a suspended and all contacts are avoided.
t
gun; quadrant angle of elevation. working quarantine, isolation of per-
e
quadrant mount, device on a gun that sons suffering from a communicable
holds the gunner's quadrant while the disease, or of an organization containing
n
gun is being laid in elevation. such persons, from unnecessary contact
quadrant sight, sighting instrument on with other persons or units. Regular
a gun that is used in laying the gun in duties are carried out, but infected per-
elevation. The quadrant sight is used sons are kept isola.ted and preventive
-
in conjunction with a telescope that is measures are taken to avoid the spread
a
used for laying the gun for direction. of the disease.
qualification, capacity or fitness, espe- qu""rtering, providing shelter for troops,
cially the rating earned by anyone in a headquarters, establishments, and sup-
si- test. plies.
qualification card, form on which is quartering officer, officer in command of
f all
entered all information about the classi- the detail that lays out the ground in a
the
fication or assignment of all officers of all camp or bivouac for the use of an or-
components of the Army of the United ganiz~tion.
-
States, including Army nurses, below the quartering party, detail of soldiers who
grade of general officer. The qualifica- go ahead of the m~in body of troops to
m-
e
tion card is kept up-to-date and is an make preliminary arrangements for
accurate record for each of these mem- sheltering the troops, suppues, etc., of a .
pon. bers of the Army. command. A quartering party is used
qualification course, 1. record practice whenever a body of troops must spend
ali-
firing given to find out the degree of time in a camp or bivouac.
skill a soldier has in the use of a weapon. quartermaster, officer of the Quarter-
s
His rating or qualification in arms de- master Corps who serves as a staff officer
pends on the score he makes in a quali- of a unit or post and has charge of quar-
e
fication course. tering, supply, etc. Abbrev: QM
2. area containing obstacles, dummies quartermaster agent, civil service em-
representing the enemy, etc. Soldiers ployee who serves on a transport when
are required to run the qualification a commissioned officer of the Quarter-
he
course for training in handling the rifle master Corps is not available for duty.
and in use of the bayonet. A quartermaster agent travels on the
en
qualification in arms, degree of skill transport and attends to all the duties
,
shown in practice firing on a target connected with the quarters and sup-
ran~e in which the marksmanship of the plies for the troops.
lglnal rrom
of
, or

, or
be
Quartermaster Corps 218 quick time
Quartermaster Corps, branch of the charge of storing and issuing supplies
Army Service Forces that is responsible at a quartermaster depot. In matters
for the provision of food, clothing, equip- of a technical nature, the quartermaster
ment, housing, etc., for the Army. supply officer has full responsibility; but
Abbrev: QMC in matters of administration and dis-
quartermaster depot, establishment for cipline, he is responsible to the com-
receiving, storing, and issuing quarter- manding officer of the depot.
master supplies. Abbrev: QMSO
quartermaster field order, field order quartermaster unit, any unit of troops
issued by the commander of a quarter- of the Quartermaster Corps. Quarter-
master unit, generally in connection with master units vary in size from companies
a troop movement. It gives full direc- to regiments.
tions for the work to be done by sub- quarters, place or structure in which
ordinate quartermaster units. troops are housed; lodging for soldiers.
Quartermaster General, The, officer, Abbrev: qrs
with the rank of major general, who is quarters allowance, money allowance
head of the Quartermaster Corps and is for lodging paid to military personnel
responsible for the direction and super- who are not furnished quarters in kind.
vision of its services. Abbrev: QMG quarters and subsistence allowance,
quartermaster plan, plan showing the money allowance for lodging and food
location, time schedules, transports, etc., for enlisted men who are not furnished
of all the quartermaster services that are quarters or rations in kind.
engaged in a mission. The quarter- quarters in kind, lodging, including
master plan is the basis of the quarter- sleeping-car and stateroom accommo-
master field order. dation on trains, etc., provided by the
quartermaster salvage depot, station Government for soldiers.
at which quartermaster personnel re- quick fire, very fast firing. Quick fire is
pairs or disposes of worn-out or damaged faster than rapid fire, and is used again:;t
equipment. moving or bobbing targets.
Quartermaster School, special service quick fuze, type of fuze that causes a
school that trains men in the adminis- projectile to burst as soon as it strikes
trative and technical duties of the Quar- anything and before it penetrates the
termaster Corps. The Quartermaster target. A quick fuze does not act quite
School trains enlisted men and warrant so fast as a superquick fuze.
officer specialists for duty in the field quickmatch, fast-burning fuze made
and as instructors, and trains and q uali- from a cord impregnated with black
fies men for commission in the Quarter- powder, used in flares.
master Corps. It is under the supervi- quick time, rate of marching at 120
sion of the Commanding General, Army steps, each 30 inches in length, a minute.
Service Forces. It is the normal cadence for drills and
quartermaster supply officer, officer in ceremonies.
Orlg1nal fro
r 219 radio discipline
r, 1. regulating. 2. rifle. photographs by finding the intersection
RA, Regular Army. of lines radiating from the centers.
racer, turntable on which a heavy gun The radial line method is based on the
n
is turned to left or right. theory that all angular measurements
rack, 1. device for carrying bombs in around the center of a vertical photo-
an aircraft. The rack includes the graph are correct, regardless of the scale
mechanism that controls the release of of the photograph.
of
the bombs. In this meani:qg, also radial line plot, method of plotting in
called bomb rack. the construction of maps, in which the
2. any grating or framework on which geographical positions of points appear-
things may be stacked, especially in ing on aerial photographs are deter-
storage, such as a gun rack. mined by lines radiating from the
n
3. straight or curved bar with teeth on centers of the photographs to the points.
one face to lock with a worm or with rad int, radio intelligence.
teeth on a gear wheel or pinion. Guns Rad lnt Co, radio intelligence company.
uch usually are elevated and rotated by such radio. Abbrev: rad
rack mechanisms. radio and panel section.
rad, radio. Abbrev: R&P Sec
radar, radio detection and ranging radio A officer, formerly, an officer at
atus
equipment; complex electrical apparatus an aircraft warning system information

;
with which targets are detected and center, in charge of all air-ground com-
ar
their ranges and directions measured; munication with friendly aircraft in
ed
radio detector; radio-locator. The radar flight. Now called radio officer.
transmits radio waves that are reflected radio beacon, radio transmitter that
he by the target back to the receiving _sends out a distinctive signal to aid air-
c-
mechanism of the apparatus, where the craft in determining their direction or
data is translated into range and direc- ~ourse.
tion. radio compass, aircraft instrument with
RADAR, radio detector equipment. a nonrotating loop antenna that picks
radar board, chart on which radar re- up direction signals from radio stations.
ir-
ports are plotted, used especially in air- The signals are registered by an indi-
craft warning systems. A radar board cator on an azimuth scale. The radio
ol is usually a large wall chart. compass differs from a radio direction
g
radar filter officer, officer in charge of finder, which has a loop antenna that
personnel, equipment, and operation of can be rotated.
a filter room and of the proper filtering radio day, the 24-hour period from mid-
of radar-reported aircraft. night to midnight covered by a complete

radar officer, officer in charge of the set of radio station records.
ar
operation of radar equipment. radio detector. See radar.
arn-
radar report, information about the radio detector equipment.
n
position of friendly or enemy aircraft, Abbrev: RADAR
obtained with radar apparatus. A radar radio direction finder, aircraft instru-
report usually is sent to an aircraft warn- ment with a rotating loop antenna that
ing system filter center or information picks up direction signals fr0m radio
center. stations; direction finder. The signals
cat-
radar station, installation that locates are registered by an indicator on an

aircraft -by the use of radar apparatus. azimuth scale. A radio direction finder
radial line control, orientation and differs from a radio compass, which has
m
matching of aerial photographs by locat- a loop antenna that cannot be rotated.

ch
ing the positions of the intersection of radio direction finder station, fixed
corresponding radial lines drawn from radio station that helps aircraft and
the centers of the photographs. Radial ships to determine their position by tak-
line control is used as a control for ing bearings with a radio direction
a
checking the scale and accurate match- finder.

on
ing of photographs in constructing radio discipline, exact obedience to the

mosaics. rules for use of radio, especially in com-
radial line method, method of con- bat conditions where secrecy is re-
e
structing a mosaic of overlapping aerial quired.

cale
r1g1nal fro n
e
radio facility chart 220 radius of rupture
radio facility chart, chart of air routes radio meteorograpb, instrument that
in specific areas that shows the exact lo- automatically records weather condi-
cation of aids to navigation, such as tions in the upper atmosphere and trans-
radio direction finder stations, radio mits the record to the earth by radio;
marker beacons, and radio range sta- radio-sonde. The radio rneteorograph
tions. is carried up by a small balloon, and
radio fix, 1. location of a friendly or brouiht back to earth by a parachute
enemy radio transmitter determined by after the balloon bursts.
finding the direction of the radio trans- radio navigation, navigation by means
mitter from two or more listening sta- of radio, radio direction finders, etc.
tions. radio net, system of military radio sta-
2. location of a ship or aircraft from the tions operating with each other. A
direction of radio signals coming to the :radio net usually includes the radio sta-
ship or aircraft. Such a radio fix is tion of a superior unit and those of all
found by the ship or aircraft itself from subordinate or supporting units. A
the directions of radio signals coming radio net may connect ground stations,
from two or more sending stations whose ground and air units, or air units alone,
locations are known. for command, liaison, observation, or
radio intelligence, interception and in- other purposes.
terpretation of enemy radio transmis- radio officer, officer in charge of a unit's
sions and the location of enemy trans- radio equipment and of the personnel
mitters. Radio intelligence also includes who operate and maintain the radio
listening in on friendly radio traffic to equipment.
check up on radio discipline and crypto- rJldio position finding, finding the po-
graphic security. Abbrev: rad int sition of an enemy radio station by using
radio intelligence company. two or more radio direction finders, and
Abbrev: Rad Int Co triangulating.
radio intercept, use of radio sets or sta- radio procedure, standardized methods
tions to listen to enemy radio messages. used by radio operators to save time and
radio intercept station, station used prevent confusion. Radio procedure in-
for listening to enemy radio messages. cludes the classification of messages, the
radio jamming, blocking out enemy \l.Se of call signs and procedure signals,
radio communication by sending power- etc.
ful radio signals on the same wave radio range, system or line of radio
length. stations broadcasting signals or beams
radio landing beam, special type of to guide aircraft.
radio signal sent from a landing field to radio range beacon, radio transmitter
indicate to a pilot his position on the that supplies a beam of radio waves to
proper path and the required altitude guide aircraft.
for a glide landing. radio range station, station located on
radio-locator. See radar. an airway to guide aircraft by radio
radio Jog, daily record of messages sent signals.
and received by radio and of other im- radio-sonde. See r~dio meteorograph.
portant information about the operation radiotelegra,phy, telegraphy by radio;
of a particular radio station. A radio radio communication by means of a
log includes a record of enemy attempts code, usually the Interna~ional Morse
to join in, and interfere with, transmis- Code, as contrasted with voice com-
sion, reason for delays in handling mes- munication.
sages, etc. radiotelephone, radio transmitter using
radio marker beacon, low-power tran~ voice communication.
mitter that gives a distinctive signal radiotelephony, radio communication
on the same frequency as that of the by means of voice signals.
radio range on which the transmitter is radius of action, distance an aircraft
located. A radio marker beacon lets a can fly along a given course and have
pilot know how far he has traveled along enough fuel to return safely to the
a route. base, allowing for all safety and operat-
radio mast, pole on an aircraft that sup- ing factors. ,
ports radio antenna. radius of ruptur~, greatest distance
1g1na ro
radius of visibility 221 ram
from the center of an underground ex- tribution of ammunition, and for keep-
plosive charge at which the explosion ing ammunition records. In addition,
will be destructive. The radius of rup- he is responsible for supervision of the
ture varies with the kind and weight of rail movements of his unit.
x-
the charge and the nature of the ground. railway artillery, artillery mounted on
of
radius or visibility' greatest distance in and fired from railway cars; railroad
und. every direction that an observer at a artillery.
n
given point can see, especially the dis- railway division, 1. primary adminis-
tance an observer in a plane can see. trative unit for the maintenance and
s-
raid, 1. sudden attack, usually by a operation of the military railway system

small force having no intention of hold- in a theater of operations.
ing the territory invaded. A raid is 2. part of a railway that is managed by
such a unit. It may vary in length from
d-
often made by aircraft, fast naval ves-

-
sels, mobile ground forces, or amphibious 50 to 120 miles.
ious
forces. Railway Grand Division, 1. main ad-
2. make such an attack. ministrative unit for the maintenance
raid clerk, man at a radar station who and operation of the military railway
keeps track of all airplane flights ob- system in a theater of operations. A
served and assigns numbers to enemy railway grand division consists of two
y
raiding planes. or more divisions.

raiding party, troops that make a sud- 2. railways of two or more railway divi-
sions that are managed by such a unit.
-
den quick attack on the enemy. Raid-

ing parties may be sent out to take Abbrev: Ry GD
prisoners, get information, or harass railway shop battalion.
the enemy. Abbrev: Ry Sh Bn
railhead, point on a railroad at which railway shi)p battalion diesel.
h
supplies are unloaded and from which Abbrev: Ry Sh Bn Dsl

they are distributed or forwarded by railway traffic officer, officer in charge
on.
trucks or other means of transportation. of the transportation of troops and mili-

A railhead is similar in function to a tary supplies on a nonmilitary railroad.
truckhead or navigation head. Abbrev: R Traf 0
es
Abbrev: rhd railway transportation officer. See
or
railhead distribution, issuing of supplies railroad transportation officer.
at a point on a railroad to the trucks or raise pistol, 1. prescribed movement in
t
other carriers of yarious units. the manual of the pistol that includes
railhead officer, officer in command at taking the pistol out of the holster and
es
a railhead. A railhead officer supervises raising it as high as, and 6 inches in front
unloading and distributing of supplies of, the right shoulder.
and keeps records. Abbrev: RHO 2. perform this movement.
railhead reserve, supplies and equip- 3. command to carry out this movement.
ment held in reserve at a railhead to rally, 1. bring troops back together after
rneet special needs. a disorganizing action; as, to rally re-
railholding and reconsignment point, treating troops.
place where railway rolling stock and 2. come together after disorganizing
supplies are held ready for use. action.
y
railroad. Abbrev: RR 3. position in the air to which a unit of

s
railroad artillery. See railway artillery. aircraft returns after an action; rallying
ng,
railroad transportation officer, military point of an aviation unit.

station agent at a railhead who assists rallying point, place which a unit com-
the railhead officer in moving, releasing, mander chooses for assembling and re-
and returning all railway rolling stock; organizing his troops after an action, in
railway transportation officer. pre}laration for further operations.
Abbrev: RTO ram, 1. push into position; seat a pro-
ble
railway. Abbrev: ry . jectile in the bore of a gun.
-
railway and munitions officer, staff 2. command to seat a projectile in the

-
officer of a railway seacoast artillery bore of a gun.

regiment or battalion who is responsible 3. run into something head on; as, to
for the procurement, storage, and dis- ram a submarine.
e
IQI I rrom
rammer 222 range officer
rammer, 1. device for driving a projec- usually by firing the gun, by estimating
tile into position in a gun. It may be with the eye, by the use of a range find-
hand-operated or a part of the receiver ing instrument, or by plotting.
mechanism. range deviation, distance by which a
2. tool used to remove live projectiles projectile strikes beyond, or short of, the
from the bore of a gun. target; longitudinal deviation; vertical
R&P Sec, radio and panel section. deviation. It is the distance as meas-
range, 1. distance from the gun, obser- ured along the gun-target line or along
vation point, or directing point to the a line parallel to the gun-target line.
target; gun pointing or fuze setting to range difference, difference between
strike a target at this distance. the ranges from any two points to a
2. extent or distance limiting the opera- third point; especially, the difference be-
tion or action of something, such as the tween the ranges of a target from two
range of an airplane, of a gun, or of a different guns.
searchlight. range disk, graduated disk, used for
3. area equipped for practice in shooting range setting, connected mechanically
at targets. In this meaning, also called with the elevating mechanism of a gun.
target range. A range disk usually is graduated in
range adjustment, correction of firing yards of range and degrees of elevation.
data so that the impact or burst will range drum, graduated indicator of cyl-
be on the target. inder type, connected mechanically with
range angle, angle between the air- the elevating mechanism of a gun, used
craft-target line and the vertical line for range setting.
from the aircraft to the ground at the range error, difference between the
instant a bomb is released. Also called range of the point of impact of a par-
dropping angle. ticular projectile and the range of the
range board. See range correction board. center of impact of the entire group of
range calibration, adjustment of a ra- shots.
dar set so that when "on target" the range estimation, rough estimate by
radar set will indicate the correct range. the eye of the distance between a gun
range card, 1. small chart on which and a target, without using a range
ranges and directions to various targets finder or other instrument. Soldiers
and other important points in the region armed with rifles are trained in range
under fire are recorded. estimation.
2. small chart showing the proper range finder, optical instrument for
amount of charge to use for various finding the distance from a gun to a
ranges within the limits of the weapon. target. Stereoscopic and coincidence
range correction, changes of firing data range finders are two common types.
necessary to allow for deviations of range flag, flag used to mark a target
range due to weather, materiel, or am- range during firing practice.
munition. range guard, guard posted to keep
range correction boa.rd, device with people away from a target range while
which the correction to be applied to a firing is going on.
gun is computed mechanically; range range house, building with a storeroom,
board. The correction that is obtained and sometimes offices, on a target range.
allows for all nonstandard conditions, range indicator, card showing the dis-
such as variations in weather and am- tance in yards from the firing point to
munition, and it is known as the ballistic the target, used in target practice.
correction. Range indicators are attached to the
range corrector setting, degree to which parts of a landscape target to show the
the range scale of a position-finding distances of points from the firer.
apparatus must be adjusted before use. range officer~ 1. officer in charge of the
range-deflection fan, system of ~ad- preparation and maintenance of a tar-
uated lines on a chart, or on a tram- get range and its equipment.
parent protractor, used in measuring 2. artillery officer in charge both of the
deflection angles and ranges. equipment and personnel for position
range determination, process of finding finding and of the range section of a
the distance between a gun and a targPt, battery. Abbrcv: R2- 0
I I ~fl il
I I
range pole 223 rate of pay
range pole, graduated pole used by sur- ranging, 1. correcting the range settings
veyors to mark a point for observation of a gun or battery by observation of fire.
from another point some distance away; 2. wide-scale scouting, especially by air-
ur-
ranging pole. craft, designed to search an area sys-

n
range practice, actual shooting prac- tematically.

tice on a range, as distinguished from 3. locating an enemy gun by watching
ay;
preparatory training for marksman- its flash, listening to its report, or other
ship. similar means.
range probable error, error in range ranging fire, gunfire to determine or
that a gun may be expected to exceed as check firing data when no range-finding
often as not. Range probable error is instrument is available.
d as
given in the firing tables for the gun, and ranging pole. See range pole.
may be taken as an index of accuracy of ranging salvo, discharge of several guns
and
of
the piece. to determine the correct range by trial
range quadrant, instrument used to shots.
measure elevation in laying a gun. ranging shot method, method of ad-
Ranger, soldier specially trained to make justing the range of a gun or battery by
ake surprise attacks on enemy territory. firing trial shots.
Rangers act in small groups, making ranging shots, trial shots fired at a mov-
rapid attacks and withdrawing. The ing target for the purpose of obtaining
name Ranger is used by the Americans; an adjustment correction.
ns;
the corresponding British term for rank, 1. status held by military person-
soldiers of this kind is Commando. nel that empowers them to exercise com-
s
range rake, T -shaped device with pegs mand or authority over other persons in
n
set in the cross. The distance between the military service. Rank is divided
pegs subtends a definite angle at the into degrees or grades that mark the
e base of the 'I'. By sighting with a range relative positions and powers of the
rake a flank observer can get a quick persons holding it. In this meaning,
tion.
angular measurement of range deviation. also called military rank. See Table of
range scale, 1. scale on the arm of a Comparative Grades on p. 125.
nge
plotting board where the observed range 2. possess higher rank than another.
ng
of a moving target is recorded in finding 3. line of persons or things arranged side

unt
firing data. by side. Both rank and file refer to
f
2. graduated scale on the sight or mount single lines of troops, vehicles, etc., in
of a gun used to show the elevation of formation: ranks are lateral lines from
the gun. side to side; files are vertical lines from
ges 3. table of firing data giving elevation front to rear.

settings corresponding to various ranges ranks, ordinary soldiers; enlisted men.
for the standard charges. rapid fire, rate of firing small arms or
ing,
range section, personnel of a battery automatic weapons, faster than slow

whose duty is observation, range finding, fire, but slower than quick fire.
and the plotting of firing data for the rapid-fire weapon, gun capable of being
guns. fired rapidly.
range sensing, observing the location RAR, Regular Army Reserve.
of the striking or bursting point of a rat, rations.
projectile with respect to range, and rate indicator, instrument on a sound
-
reporting it as a hit, over, short, lost, locator that indicates the angular speed
doubtful, etc. Range sensing does not of an aerial target.
include accurate determination of disrate or elhnb indicator, flight instru-
n
tances. ment, in an aircraft, that indicates gain

s
range spotting, watching the burst or or loss of altitude per minute; climb and
r
impact of shots to note their deviation dive indicator.
beyond, or short of, the target. rate of fire, number of shots per minute.
range table, prepared chart that gives rate of march, average marching speed
elevations corresponding to ranges for per hour, including short periodic halts.
ngs
a gun, or class of guns, under various rate of pay. money paid for a definite
fire.
conditions. A range table is part of a j' service. The rate of pay depends upon
air-
firing table. rank and upon the length and type of

r1g1 I ro
g
er
rating 224 rear admiral
service. It includes base pay, longevity rations In kind, cooked rations or
pay, specialist pay, and additional pay meals obtained by contract or purchase.
for distinguished service awards, but Rations in kind do not include meals ob-
does not include allowances for such tained through i&Jued meal tickets.
matters as rations and quarters. ration strength, estimated number of
rating, speciahst grade held by an en- men entitled to rations on any day. It
listed man; specialist grade in the Army is based on the number of rations issued
Air Forces held by officers or enlisted the day before, and the probable changes
men, such as pilot, parachutist, navi- in strength, or other varying factors.
gator, gunner, etc. RB, road bend.
ratioing, reducing or enlarging photo- RBH, regimental beachhead.
graphs for use in a mosaic map so that RC, reception center.
they all have the same scale. rcn, reconnaissance.
ratio method, method of determining Rcn LR, reconnaissance long range.
the amount of reduction or enlargement Rcn MR, reconnaissance medium range.
needed to bring an aerial photograph to R Co, rifle company.
the scale of a mosaic map in which it is ret, recruit.
to be used. rctg, recruiting.
ration, allowance of food for one man or rd, 1. reduce. 2. reduced.
one animal for one day. RDP, ration distributing point.
field ration, food issued only in actual rdv pt, rendezvous point.
articles, not in money, and authorized REACK, receipt acknowledged.
for troops in the field. REACK is a code abbreviation used in
Filipino ration, allowance of food pre- transmitting telegrams and teletype
scribed for the Philippine Scouts in time messages.
of peace. readability, ability to be understood,
garrison ration, food allowance for one as, the readability of a telegraph or
person for one day prescribed (in peace- radio station.
time) for all persons entitled to a ration. reader, member of an artillery unit who
It is issued in the form of a money al- works with an observer. The reader
lowance. reads the azimuth and elevation from
ration allowances, money paid instead the scales of the observing instrument
of authorized food rations issued in kind. and sends the data to the plotter. The
ration and savings accouttt, account, reader is the second member of a two-
for each unit, of the kind and value of man observing or spotting detail, the
rations issued for a given period and the other being the observer.
balance due the unit or due the Govern- ready line, line behind the firing and
ment. ammunition lines on a target range
ration articles, classification of the basic where men stand ready to move up to
prescribed foods of the Army ration, and the firing line.
proper substitutes for them, as listed in ready position, standard position in
Army Regulations. which a rifle or carbine is held just before
ration cycle, time covering one day's aiming. In ready position, the right
ration or three meals. It may begin hand grasps the small of the stock, the
with any meal. left hand the balance, with the rifle held
ration distributing point. Abbrev: RDP to the front and sloping upwards at an
ration return, requisition on the quar- angle of about 45 degrees.
termaster for rations, submitted by the reappointment, renewal of the appoint-
officer under whom the persons entitled ment of a reserve officer, in the same
to them are serving. grade, at the conclusion of a normal five
rations. Abbrev: rat year appointment.
rations and quarters, food and lodging. rear, 1. area farthest from the enemy.
ration savings, difference between the 2. part of a command farthest_ behind
money allotted for food and the money in a movement or farthest from the
spent for food. Ration savings become enemy in combat. Abbrev: rr
part of the mess fund and can be spent rear admiral, flag officer in the Navy,
on extra food items or equipment for the who ranks next above a commodore and
mess. next below a vice-admiral. . !.\... rear ad-
1 I I
s
rear area 225 reclassification
mlral is equivalent in rank to a major receiving officer, officer to whom a ship-
general in the Army. See Table of Com- ment is invoiced or for whose use it is
parative Grades on p. 125. intehded. The receiving officer is not
m-
rear area, area behind the fighting line, necessarily the person to whom the ship-
usually beyond the range of hostile mentis delivered or addressed.
e,
medium artillery and safe from ground receptacle box, central electrical dis-
attack except by patrols. tribution box mounted on a gun carriage.
d
rear echelon, that part of a head- A receptacle box serves as a distributor
quarters engaged in administrative and of the fire control data from a director
supply duties and located a considerable to the azimuth and elevation indicators
nd
distance behind the front lines. The and fuze setter.

forward echelon includes the staff agen- reception, all activities connected with
ble
en-
cies and command facilities that a com- classifying and caring for personnel until
m-
mander needs in tactical operations. they are assigned to organizations. Re-
Abbrev: rr ech ception includes completion of records,
rear guard, security detachment that immunization, supplying of clothing and
protects the rear of a main column from equipment, classification of skills, and
om
hostile forces. It tries to delay the assignment to units.

enemy by armed resistance, destroying reception center, place at which re-
ng
bridges, and blocking roads, and usually cruits and newly inducted personnel are
ally
m
is made up of four principal parts, from examined, classified, equipped, immu-
rear to front, called rear point, rear nized, and forwarded to their assigned
r gd
party, support, and reserve. Abbrev: rr gd organizations. Abbrev: RC or recp cen
rear party, part of a rear guard that rechamber, provide with a new cham-
protects the support and covers the ber; as, to rechamber a gun for a dif-
withdrawal of the rear point. A rear ferent size of ammunition.
ty
party corresponds to the advance party reciprocal laying, method of making
of an advance guard. the planes of fire of two guns parallel by
rear point, group of soldiers in a rear pointing the guns in parallel direction.
es
guard farthest to the rear that observes In reciprocal laying, the two guns sight
enemy movements and discourages pur-
pur-
e
on each other, then swing out through
suit by using harassing fire against the supplementary angles to produce equal
f
enemy. deflections from the base line connect-
rear sight, sight nearest the breech of ing the two pieces.
d
a gun. It is used in aiming, usually by reclamation, 1. restoration to a good,
being put in line 'With a front sight and useful condition by means of repair,
en-
the target. cleaning, or any salvage process.

pe
reassignment, change of an officer or en- 2. government requirement that a con-

e
listed man to a different branch or type tractor make payment of money or re-
of service or area in order to make the placement in kind for losses due to
best use of the ability and training of damage or spoiling of stores through his
military personnel. fault.
rec, recreation. reclassification, 1. procedure prescribed
recall, 1. bugle call or other signal for taking action when it is thought an
sounded to call soldiers back to ranks officer is performing duty for which he
or camp. Recall usually signifies the is not suited. An officer may be ordered
end of a drill or work period. to appear before a reclassification board
2. cause to come back; as, to recall at any time, regardless of his length of
troops from the front. service. After inquiry, he may be de-
ges,
reed, received. tailed to other service or retired.
d-
received. AbbretJ: reed 2. process by \vhich an enlisted man's
receiver, 1. receiving instrument for records are changed so that he becomes
ge radio, telephone, or telegraph messages, available for a different assignment. In-
t
in contrast with a transmitter for send- terviews, record of service, and examina-
ing them. tions are used as a basis for reclassifica-
ip-
2. patt of a gun which takes the charge tion. Reclassification may occur be-
from the magazine and holds it until it cause of an error in records or because
is seated in the breech. a soldier's aualifications change.
I ro
hip-
1g1
age.
or
reclassification board 226 reconnaissance flare
reclassification board, board of quali- enemy, etc. It is made during or im-
fied officers assigned to examine officers mediately before battle, \Vhen in close
to determine whether they are perform- contact with the ene1ny.
ing duties for which they are not suited close reconnaissance, reconnaissance
and, if that be the case, to recommend of a region near at hand. Close recon-
reassignment to other duties or retire- naissance furnishes the commander with
ment from active service. the information upon which he makes his
reclassification center, place where a tactical decisions.
board of officers meets, according to cotnbat reconnaissance, reconnaissance
Army Regulations, to consider cases of of the enemy in immediate contact with
officers who appear to be performing one's own forces, preliminary to, or dur-
duties for which they are not suited. ing, combat.
recognition signal, ariy signal arranged distant reconnaissance, exploration of
beforehand by which members of a objectives that lie outside hnmediate
patrol or other unit may identify each striking range of a force, but about
other. which detailed information is essential
recoil, 1. violent backward movement of for military planning.
a gun after being fired, caused by a reac- strategic reconnaissance, search ovE.:
tion to the forward motion of the pro- wide areas, usually by air, to gain infor-
jectile and hot gases. mation of enemy concentrations or
2. move backwards under the force of a movements that would aid in making
propelling explosion. In both meanings, strategic or large-scale decisions.
also called kick. reconnaissance airplane, military air-
recoil cylinder, fixed cylinder through plane used for reconnoitering or scouting
'vhich a piston attached to the gun is over enemy territory.
forced by the backward motion of the reconnaissance aviation, classification
gun on firing. Recoil is cushioned by of military aviation organized to use air-
springs or by the slow passage of air or craft for observing or photographing
a fluid through holes in the piston. distant objectives, locating advanced
recoil mechanism, mechanism designed units of the enemy, taking photographs,
to absorb the energy of recoil gradually and observing fire.
and so avoid violent movement of the reconnaissance boat, boat used for re-
gun carriage; recoil system. The recoil connaissance of rivers and other bodies
mechanism is usually a hydraulic, pneu- of water. It may be made of rubberized
matic, or spring type shock absorber fabric and blown up with air for use.
that permits the barrel assembly to reconnaissance bombardment, com-
move to the rear while resistance is bined scouting and bombing mission
progressively built up. conducted by a unit of bombardment
recoil-operated, operated by the energy aviation.
of recoil. Some automatic and semi- reconnaissance by fire, search for an
automatic weapons are recoil-operated, enemy position by firing on his probable
so that the ejecting, loading, and firing position and thus drawing his fire.
mechanisms are operated by the force of reconnaissance camera, oblique or ver-
the recoil when the weapon is fired. tical aerial camera used in making pho-
recoil pit, pit dug near the breech of a tographs for reconnaissance purposes.
gun to provide space for the breech reconnaissance car, automobile used
when it moves backward during recoil. principally for scouting.
recoil system. See recoil mechanism. reconnaissance echelon, unit or ele-
reconnaissance, search made for useful ment that carries out ground reconnais-
military information in the field. Re- sance. A reconnaissance echelon may be
connaissance is characterized by the a part of an armored regiment.
type of information sought, as in engi- reconnaissance element, any unit en-
neer reconnaissance; and by the method gaged in reconnaissance. It may be
of seeking it, as in photographic or air aviation, cavalry, tanks, motorcyclists,
reconnaissance. Abbrev: rcn infantry in trucks, etc.
battle reconnaissance, continual ob- reconnaissance flare, parachute flare
servation made, under com bat condi- used in air reconnaissance to light up
tions, of the terrain, disposition of the . the ground.
Orlg1nal fro
reconnaissance in force 227 recoverable item
reconnaissance in force, attack by a in studying a long and narrow piece of
considerable force of troops used to dis- terrain, such as a river or road.
cover and test the enemy's position and reconnoiter, make a thorough search
dis-
strength. for useful information in the field; con-

nd
reconnaissance long range. duct a reconnaissance.

Abbrev: Rcn LR reconsignment point, place for the dis-
reconnaissance medium range. tribution of aviation gasoline when it
Abbrev: Rcn MR cannot be handled through the estab-
reconnaissance method, method of lished regulating stations.
photographic control used in matching recons prk, reconstruction park.
g
and fitting together overlapping aerial reconstitute, reestablish a unit either on
l
photographs in a strip mosaic. Identical the active or inactive list of the Army.
al
features on adjoining pictures are found This may be done only by the authority
nd
and matched. of the Secretary of War.

reconnaissance nuss1on, any specifi- reconstruction park. Abbrev: recons prk
cu-
cally assigned task in scouting a particu- record book, bock in \vhich is kept a
lar area. The flight of an airplane to detailed record of all information of im-
to
take photographs of an objective and to portance about a gun battery, mine
ce observe the enemy is a reconnaissance group, or similar unit.
mission. recorder, 1. member of the crew of a
reconnaissance net, any system of gun, mine planter, plotting station,
; in
radio stations used in reconnaissance; in radar system, or the like, whose duty is
s
particular, the systetn of radio stations to make a record of all fire control in-
used between ground and air forces. formation, reports, co1nmands, roes-
e-
reconnaissance officer, officer on the sages, times of fire, targets, etc.
staff of any unit who is in charge of re- 2. person who makes a record of pro-
n-
connaissance for the command. The ceedings of a court-martial or a board
n, duties of the reconnaissance officer in- of officers when no official reporter has
ure-
elude reconnaissance and observation, been designated.
-
-surveys of routes and positions, procure- record firing, artillery target practice in
ment and issue of maps, and interpre- which a record is kept.
tation of aerial photographs. recording target, target in the back of
reconnaissance of position, detailed a score book on which shots are plotted
he
or
examination of terrain as a basis for the to preserve a record of the firing.

selection of advantageous locations for record practice, target practice with
guns and troops. small arms in which a record is kept.
ake
y. reconnaissance party, any group sent The record is the basis of a soldier's
t
out to reconnoiter; a group sent to make classification in marksmanship.
n-
a detailed study of a particular locality. record service practice, practice for
n-
reconnaissance patrol, patrol sent out checking and grading the efficiency of
to obtain information, to maintain con- an individual or battery in firing.
tact with the enemy, to capture prison- records section, subdivision of a head-
and
ers for questioning, or to observe a quarters whose duty is to keep indi-
particular area. vidual records of the personnel of the
ns.
reconnaissance photography, taking organization it serves.
pictures from aircraft, and analyzing and recoupment, repayment, or recovery
interpreting them to obtain informa- of money. Recoupment is usually a
ut
tion of ground activities or installations. payment to an individual for expenses,
-
Also called intelligence photography. but may be a payment to the govern-

or-
reconnaissance scout, scout sent out ment by an individual for losses that are
on
to reconnoiter. A reconnaissance scout his fault or are due to his carelessness.

a
takes full advantage of cover and con- recover, 1. go back to a position just
phs.
cealment in order to gather useful infor- held in drill or practice.
ed
mation without being seen or fired upon 2. command to go back to any such po-
f
by the enemy. sition.
reconnaissance strip, mosaic made of a recoverable item, article officially con-
series of overlapping aerial photographs. sidered good enough to be repaired and
-
A reconnaissance strip generally is used used again.

s-
r(g Tn a-1-fre
-
recovery party 228 reenlmt
recovery party, 1. group sent to locate drawn parallel to, and at known dls-
and bring back damaged materiel that tances from, the two known perpendicu-
can be repaired and used again. lar reference lines.
2. surveying party sent to locate easily rectification, 1. correction by opticaJ or
identifiable features of terrain and to drafting methods for tilt in an aerial
mark them on aerial photographs of an photograph; rectifying. Rectification
area, for use as controls in map making. does not eorrect for the distortion due
recp cen. reception center. to diffQrences of altitude in the terrain
recreation. Abbrev: rec covered by the photograph.
recreational area, area including fa- 2. in radio, changing from alternating
cilities for rest and amusement. A to direct electric current.
recreational area usually is reserved for rectifying. See rectification.
enlisted men. recuperator. See counterrecoU mecha-
recreation camp, camp with recrea- nism.
tional facilities located outside the limits recuperator mechanism. See counter-
of a military post, established to pro- recoil mechanism.
vide entertainment and accommodation Red Cross, civilian welfare agency or-
for enlisted men on weekend furloughs ganized in several countries to give aid
or passes. and relief in time of war or other na-
recreation fund, unit fund maintained tional emergency. The various national
and administered for the welfare, pleas- agencies, such as the American National
ure, and improvement of morale of the R~d Cross, are coordinated in their
members of the command to which the international activities under the Inter-
fund belongs. national Red Cross Committee.
recreation officer. See special service redesignate, change the existing official
officer. name of a unit. This may be done only
recruit, 1. newly enlisted member of under the authority of the Secretary of
the armed forces. War.
2. ask persons to join a military organi- redline, draw a red line through a name
zation. Abbrev: ret to remove it from an order, or through
recruit depot, military station at which an entry to remove it from a document.
persons accepted for enlistment or in- Redlining a pay roll is a method of signi-
duction as recruits are examined, classifying that a person will not be, or was
fied, equipped, and where, in some in- not, paid on the pay roll.
stances, they receive basic military reduce, 1. put in a lower rank.
training. 2. clear a stoppage in a gun.
recruiting. Abbrev: rctg 3. stamp out enemy resistance at a point.
Recruiting and Induction Service, or- Abbrev: rd
ganization established in a service com- reduced. Abbrev: rd
mand to recruit and induct enlisted reduced charge, ammunition having a
personnel. propelling charge that is less than
recruiting officer, officer assigned by normal.
the commanding general of a service reduction, lowering of rank or grade in
command to operate recruiting and in- accordance with Army Regulations.
duction stations in cities and towns of a reduction coefficient, ratio of observer-
district. A recruiting officer has charge target distance to gun-target distance.
of enlistments and reenlistments in the Reduction coefficient is the number by
Army. which an observed deviation is multi-
rectangle of dispersion, area, assumed plied in order to correct firing data at
to be rectangular, in which the projec- the guns.
tiles of a piece will fall when the piece is reenl, reeenlist.
fired with the same firing data under ap- reenlist, join one of the armed services
parently identical conditions. again after being discharged.
rectangular coordinates, system of lines A bbrev: reenl
drawn parallel to two fixed lines of ref- reenlistment, joining one of the armed
erence at known distances from them. services again after being discharged.
A point may be located in such a system A bbrev: reenlmt
by the intersection of two such lines reenlmt, reenlistment.
rr1g1na fro
reentrant 229 register
reentrant, wedge-shaped dent driven regimental. Abbrev: regtl
into a front line by enemy action. The regimental adjutant. Abbret1: Regtl S-1
corresponding dent, or depression, in the regimental beachhead. Abbret?: RBH
opposing line is called a salient. regimental headquarters. Abbrev: RHQ
the
ref, refrigeration. re1imental intelli1ence officer.
refer, 1. bring the gun sights on a chosen Abbrev: Regtl 8-2
aiming point without moving an artil- regimental order, any directive issued
sen lery piece which has been laid for direc- by a regimental headquarters, such as
tion. the order organizing and assigning of-
ec-
2. command for this adjustment. ficers and men to a newly formed com-
reference. See reference point. pany.
reference line, any line to which di- regimental orders. Abbrev: RO
rections or azimuths are referred. The regimental plans and training officer.
e
zero azimuth line from which other azi- Abbrev: Regtl S-3
i-
muths are measured is a reference line. regimental reserve line, line of a bat-
ne.
reference number, one of a series of tle position along which the reserves of
numbers chosen to represent the actual a regiment are disposed; the last or-
ual
values of units of measure, especially in ganized line in front of the artillery.
in
fire control, to avoid the use of plus, Abbrev: RRL

minus, up, down, right, and left. regimental reserve position, position
reference piece, one gun of a battery behind a regimental reserve line in
o
selected as the standard with which to which the reserve uniU; of a regiment
compare the firing of the other guns. are disposed in readiness for combat.
Each of the other guns is called a test regimental supply officer.
piece. Abbrev: Regtl S-4 or RSO
reference point, prominent, easily regimental train, those vehicles that
located point in a terrain; reference. transport a regiment's ammunition,
The location of a target or other point kitchen equipment, baggage, engineers'
m
is expressed in angular difference from equipment, and maintenance supplies,

the reference point. and the regiment's medical detachment.
referring point, new aiming point on A regimental train differs from a com-
which gunners are to refer an artillery pany transport, which is composed of
y
ply
piece that has been laid for direction. vehicles primarily of tactical importance.
refilling point, former name for a supply regional chart, one of a series of maps
point. covering the entire area of the United
reflecting projector, device which States at a scale of 1 :1,000,000, and
g
throws an enlarged image of a photo- using the Lambert projection. Regional
ol
graph on a drawing board. A reflecting charts are particularly used in air navi-
projector is used in working out control gation.
points, radial lines, etc. regional control board, board of offi-
reflight, another flight over the same cers of the aircraft warning service
n
saic.
course to secure photographs to fill in which oversees the plotting and filtering
o
for those missing or defective in a mosaic. of information received from radar
refresher instruction, review, or addi- uniU; and observation posts in a particu-
tional training, given to personnel who lar region.
have already had training in a skill, regional supplies, supplies obtainable
y
task, or subject of study. from a depot that furnishes supplies in

e-
refrigeration. Abbrev: ref a region taking in more than one service

refugee evacuation center, temporary command. The limits of the regior
assembling place for civilians being reserved by such a depot are fixed by the
de
moved from combat areas. chief of the branch furnishing the su~
d
regiment, administrative and tactical plies, such as the Quartermaster Corps.
he
unit of the Army. A regiment is larger region commander, officer in charge
than a battalion, smaller than a brigade of air defense in a particular locality.
or division, and is usually com1nanded register, adjust fire on a target; de-
by a colonel. A separate regiment is one termine accurate firing data for a target
not assigned to a division or brigade. by firing trial shots in preparation for
Abbrev: regt action.
Q
Orl g 1n a1rro m
d
s
registered document 230 reid
registered document, secret, confiden- regulating unit, unit within a marching
tial, or restricted document or crypto- column that sets the pace for the rest of
graphic device assigned a regi.~ter num- the column. The rate of march of the
ber for purposes of record. column is controlled by the regulating
registrar, medical officer in charge of i unit.
all records and reports of patients in a 'regulation, 1. any of the official policies
military hospital. and rules for governing and training any
registration, process of firing trial shots. branch of the Army. Examples of such
adjusting the fire, and accurately com- regulations are the Army Regulations
puting firing data for one point, so that and the Army Air Forces Regulations.
firing data for later targets may be com- 2. authorized; according to, or required
puted with reference to this point. by, regulation.
registration fire, trial fire used to lo- rehabilitation, restoring to former stand-
cate an objective and to furnish data for: ing or good condition; as, the rehabilita-
later firing at this or other nearby tion of a wounded soldier.
targets. reinf, reinforced.
registration target. See auxiliary target. reinforce, strengthen by the addition
regt, regiment. of troops or military equipment.
regtl, regimental. reinforced. Abbrev: reinf
Regtl S-1, regimental adjutant. reinforcements, troops and equipment
Regtl S-2, regimental intelligence officer. used to strengthen another force, es-
Regtl S-3, regimental plans and train- pecially for combat purposes.
ing officer. rejd, rejoined.
Regtl S-4, regimental supply officer. rejoined. Abbrev: rejd
Regular Army, permanent army main- relative error, error of a sight compared
tained in peace as well as in war; stand- to a master service sight with which it is
ing army; one of the major components tested. Absolute error is relative error
of the Army of the United States. with the known error of the master sight
Abbrev: RA included.
Regular Army Reserve, reserve com- relative rank, 1. comparative rank or
ponent of the Regular Army, consisting position of authority among officers
of honorably discharged members avail- holding the same grade.
able on call for military service. 2. corresponding rank in another service.
Abbrev: RAR An admiral and a general have the same
regular flight, frequent and periodic relative rank.
journey in an aircraft. Regular flights re-lay, 1. lay a gun for firing again;
are defined by Army Regulations dif- point a gun for firing again when at the
ferently for different ratings, but in moment the signal to fire is given it be-
general they must amount to at least 10 comes apparent that the gun will not
flights per month totaling at least three be pointed in time.
hours in the air. 2. command to lay a gun again.
regulating. Abbrev: r relay message, message which is passed
regulating officer, officer in command on from one station to another instead
. of a regulating station responsible for of being sent directly.
the smooth, orderly movement of troops relay point, station or installation at
and materiel within the area controlled. which supplies are transferred from one
regulating point, ea..l;)ily recognizable carrier to another, or at which radio
place where an incoming truck column messages are picked up and rebroadcast
is broken up and from which groups of for forwarding to another relay point
vehicles are sent to their destinations; or to their tlnal destination; relay
place where a column is separated into station.
groups for entrucking and detrucking. relay post, point in an ambulance shut-
regulating station, traffic control agency tie system where empty atubulances are
located on a line of communication near held ready to be sent to replace au am-
the rear of the combat zone to maintain bulance which has left the next post
quick, smooth, regular movement of forward in the system.
troops and materiel to and from parts of relay station. See relay point.
the area controlled. ..4bbrcz': r sta reid, relieved.
lg1nal fro
release 231 rental allowance
release, 1. let go; let loose; as, to release who has been tried and convicted by
a man from active duty. court-martial.
ase
2. let troops or equipment go to another remote control, control from a dis-
organization. tance. Guns are often laid for firing by
her
3. document freeing a man or organiza- remote control through a data transmis-
tion from further responsibility over sion system.
a-
something. remote control system, method of con-
4. act of dropping a bomb from an air- trol from a distance; mechanical, elec-
craft. trical, and hydraulic system that trans-
-
5. drop a bomb from an aircraft. mits firing data from a distant director
release point, place at which specified to a gun. The data is applied to the
d
elements of a column return to the con- gun either by hand or automatically.
on-
trol of their own commanders; point of remote gun control, pointing a gun in
f
release. Abbrev: rei pt azimuth and elevation by means of a
RELET, reference letter. RELET is a remote control system, which automat-
code abbreviation used in transmitting ically keeps the gun pointed according
g
telegrams and teletype messages. to the firing data.

relief, 1. variations in height of the remount, 1. horse furnished to replace a
earth's surface. mount that has b~n killed or disabled.
2. lines or markings on a map that in- 2. furnish such a horse. Abbrev: rmt
on
dicate the various altitudes of points on remount area, geographical subdivision
the earth's surface. of the United States set up to administer
s-
3. release from a particular duty or as- the breeding and purchasing of horses
signment. and mules for the Army.
4. replacement of a unit by another remount branch. See remount division.
unit. remount depot, center where horses and
-
5. change of soldiers on duty, particu- mules are received for conditioning,

larly interior guard duty. training, and distribution, and where
6. person or unit that takes over or gives remount personnel are instructed in the
ves
aid. The man who takes a sentinel's breeding and raising of animals for the
place is called his relief. Army.
relief map, map that shows the dif-1' remount division, part of the office
ferent heights of a surface, by using of the Quartermaster General that pro-
shading, colors, solid material, etc. cures horses, mules, and sledge dogs for
.
relieve, 1. release an individual or or-!' use by the Army; remount branch.

ganization from a duty or assignment. remount officer, officer in charge of
or a
2. replace an officer or enlisted man, or a Army animals that are being transport-
unit, in an assignment. ed to the point where they can replace
3. bring aid to a military force. killed or disabled animals.
get
relieved. Abbrev: reid remount service, section of the office
oth-
relocation, 1. determining the range of the Quartermaster General that is in
and azimuth from one station to a target charge of Army animals, and that in-
h
when the range and azimuth from anoth- eludes the remount division, remount
t.
er station to the target are known. areas, and remount depots.

d
2. determining the range and azimuth - removable liner, rifled inner cylinder
of a future position of a moving target. of a gun tube, made so that it can be
relocation clock, circular diagram used taken out and replaced when it becomes
he
in fire adjustment to show accurately worn.

the positions of a moving target and the rendezvous (RONDa voo), 1. des-
deviations of shots as reported by ob- ignated meeting point, especially for
servers. mobilization or assembly after a march.
ed
rei pt, release point. 2. bring together, or gather, at a given
remaining velocity, speed of a projec- assembly point.
tile at any point along its path of fire. rendezvous point. Abbrev: rdv pt
ual
Remaining velocity is usually measured rental allowance, authorized money al-

in feet per second. lowance made when living quarters are
remission of sentence, lessening the not supplied in kind. Also called com-
y
punishment imoosed upon an individual mutation or quartets.
mis-
n-
-
reorganization 232 requisition
reorganization, restoration of order in a 3. command to give the attendance of a
unit after combat. Reorganization in- unit.
cludes replacing casualties, reassigning 4. present oneself; appear for duty.
men if necessary, replenishing the am- 5. disclose a crime, misdemeanor, or of-
munition supply, etc. fense.
reorganize, restore order in a unit after 6. sharp explosive sound of a shot, burst-
combat, by replacing casualties, re- ing shell, or bomb. Abbrev: rpt
plenishing the ammunition supply, etc. reporting. Abbrev: rpt
rep, repair. reporting line, telephone connection be-
repair, 1. fix, mend, or replace parts of tween an observation post and a filter
guns, vehicles, or any equipment with- room or plotting room.
out completely taking them apart or reporting period, time between succes-
rebuilding them. sive official reports on ammunition. The
2. act of making such repairs. period is set, by administrative orders,
Abbrev: rep according to the situation.
repair shop company. Abbrev: Rep Sh Co report of change, official report of any
repatriation, return or being returned to change in the status of an individual or
one's own countzy; return of refugees to unit. An individual report of change is
their own locality. based on any change in status noted in
REPHONE, reference telephone conver- the morning report. A unit report of
sation. REPHONE is a code abbrevia- change forms the historical record of the
tion used in transmitting telegrams and unit.
teletype messages. report of separation, report made when-
repl, replacement. ever a commissioned officer, Army
replacement, individual available for nurse, warrant officer, or contract sur-
assignment to fill a vacancy. The re- geon is separated from active service by
placement system for personnel is de- discharge, retirement, resignation, or
signed to assure dependable and timely dismissal.
arrival of replacements at troop units as report of survey, official report of an
required. Abbrev: repl investigation to determine the respon-
filler replacement, officer or enlisted sibility for damage to, loss of, or unfit-
man added to a newly organized unit to ness for service of, government prop-
bring it to its prescribed strength. erty. A bbrev: R /S
loss replacement, officer or enlisted representative fraction, method of
man added to a unit to fill a vacancy showing scale on a map. The represent-
due to loss, such as a battle casualty. ative fraction is the ratio between the
replacement center. See replacement distance on a map and the actual
training center. ground distance it represents. The
replacement depot, military establish- representative fraction 1/5000 means
ment, usually located in the theater of that any distance on the map is 1/5000
operations, where replacements are as- of the corresponding distance on the
sembled and then distributed to fill ground, or that 1 inch on the map equals
vacancies in organizations. 5000 inches on the ground.
replacement pool, reservoir of officers repro, reproduction.
and enlisted men at a post~ camp, etc., reproduction. Abbrev: repro
who are available for assignment to fill Rep Sh Co, repair shop company.
vacancies. Also called pool. req, requisition.
replacement training center, military reqmts, requirements.
establishment where recruits receive requirements, all supplies needed for
basic training before being assigned per- the equipment, maintenance, and opera-
manent stations; replacement center. tion of a military force for a given time.
Abbrev: RTC Abbrev: reqmts
replacement transfer order, order di- requisition, 1. formal request for sup-
recting the sending of men from a re- plies or personnel.
placement training center to a unit. 2. make such a request.
report, 1. official statement of facts, 3. demand or require services, supplies,
written or oral. or equipment, especially from an in-
2. make such a statement. vaded or conquered nation. Abbrev: req
lg
RERAD 238 respirator
RERAD, reference radio. RERAD is a equivalent to that of a second lieutenant.
code abbreviation used in transmitting 2. any member of the Army Nurse Corps
telegrams and teletype messag~. who is appointed only for the period of
g
res, reserve. an emergency.
rese, rescinded. Reserve oflicer, member of the Offi-
rescinded. Abbrev: resc cers' Reserve Corps.
rescue boat, small, high-speed motor- Reserve Officers' Training Corps, mili-
boat kept ready for rescue work in the tary training organization at a civilian
-
event of crashes or forced landings of educational institution. The Reserve

e
aircraft in water. Officers' Training Corps is established

rescue officer, officer at an information to give military training and to qualify
n
center of an aircraft warning service selected student$ for appointments as
whose duty is to observe raids and to Reserve officers. Abbrev: ROTC
coordinate efforts to rescue aircraft per- reserve requirements, supplies and
er-
sonnel forood down in the water. equipment necessary to meet emergency
rescue vehicle, tow truck or any ve- situations that may be expected in a
hicle used to bring in damaged vehicles campaign.
es
for repair. reserves, 1. troops that are kept to the

resection, 1. determination of an ob- rear, or withheld from action at the
server's own position by means of ob- beginning of an engagement, available
servations taken on points whose posi- for a decisive movement.
-
i-
tions are lmown. 2. soldiers or sailors not in active service,

2. method of locating an observer's but available for call.
of
position on a map or chart by means of 8. supplies gathered for future use, be-
on lines drawn from other points located on yond what is needed at the moment.
re
the map or chart. Usually three or more In this meaning, also called reserve
points are used. There are three supplies.
methods of resection: back-azimuth reserve supplies, supplies gathered for
method, Bessel method, and tracinJ future use, beyond what is needed at the
paper method. moment. Also called reserves.
mili-
reservation, land set aside for a par- battle reserves, supplies gathered in
ticular purpose, as the grounds of a mili- the neighborhood of~ battlefield, in ad-
s
tary post or camp. dition to the reserves of the unit and of
reserve, 1. portion of a body of troops the individual soldierij.
-
which is kept to the rear, or withheld individual reserves, a<lditional sup-
from action at the beginning of an en- plies carried by a soldier, animal, or
ove-
gsgement, available for a decisive move- vehicle for use in an emergency.

rd
ment. unit reserves, prescribed quantities of

2. largest element of an advance guard supplies ca:rried by a unit as a reserve
or rear guard. to cover emergencies.
vice,
3. soldiers or sailors not in active service, reservist, any member of the reserve
d,
but available for call. Abbrev: res components of the Army of the United
case reserve battle position, locality se- States, particularly a member of the
lected, and usually partially organized, Regular Army Reserve or of the En-
ain
for use as a second battle position in case listed Reserve Corps.
affic
the first position cannot b~ held. resign, voluntarily leave the Army in
reserved road, road reserved for certain accordance with the Army Regulations.
e
units or vehicles or for one class of traffic resignation, 1, giving up of a commis-

only. sion; leaving the Army at one's own
ad
reserved route, route set aside for the request, subject to restrictions imposed
exclwrive use of a particular unit, a by Army Regulations.
specified type of traffic, or for some 2. written statement giving notice that
other specific purpose. A reserved road one resigns.
y
is one kind of reserved route. respirator, 1. simple kind of mask used
reserve echelon, units forming there- to protect against dust rather than
ant.
serve of any force. poisonous chemical agents.

Reserve nurse, 1. member of the Army 2. device for regulating a counterrecoil
rps
mecha.nJ.Sm_.
.
of
Nurse Corpa Reserve who has a rank r I .~:

r1g1na 1rom
responsibility 234 retreat
responsibility, duty of a soldier who has firing again after a pause ordered by the
possession of public property to keep it command, "Suspend firing".
in good condition. If the soldier fails ret, 1. return. 2. retired.
to produce the property, or if the prop- retail stock, supplies carried for ready
erty has been damaged or destroyed, issue in small quantities.
the soldier is financially liable. retardation, loss of speed of a projectile
responsible, liable for the protection as it moves through the air.
and preservation of public property, and reticle, measuring scale or marks placed
for the payment for neglectful loss of, or in the focus of an optical instrument,
damage to, property that has been in- used to determine the size, distance, di-
trusted to one. rection, or position of objects. Gener-
rest, 1. mechanical support for a gun in ally, the reticles are etched on glass and
aiming and firing. the whole disk is spoken of as the reticle.
2. position in which the left foot is ad- Reticles are used on sighting telescopes
vanced, the weapon is grounded with its and other fire control instruments.
butt near the right foot, and both hands Formerly called reticule.
are grasping the upper handguard, left reticule. See reticle.
hand high. retire, 1. withdraw or fall back from a
3. limited freedom to move, talk, or position according to plan, and without
smoke while in ranks. At the command pressure from the enemy.
"Rest", men are required to keep one 2. give up active duty because of age,
foot in place. disability, or other cause, in accordance
4. command allowing men to move, talk, with Army Regulations. Retiring dif-
or smoke while in ranks, but requiring fers from resigning in that a person who
them to keep one foot in place. resigns no longer draws any pay from
rest area, locality where units from the Army and breaks off all connection
the front line may be brought for rest, with it.
reequipment, and replac~ment of lost retired. Abbrev: ret
personnel. retired list, list of officers who have
rest camp, camp in the communications given up active service in a military
zone where soldiers are sent for rest force because of age, disability, or other
after front line duty. cause, but who continue to receive a
restitution, determining the true posi- part of their pay.
tions of things which appear distorted retirement, 1. orderly withdrawal of
or displaced in an aerial photograph. troops according to their own plan and
restricted, classification of a military without pressure by the enemy.
document that is for official use only, 2. withdrawal from active service of an
that is denied the general public, or that individual after the required number of
has its circulation limited for reasons of years of service.
administrative privacy. Restricted items retiring board, board of officers who
are allowed a wider distribution than investigate and report on the unfitness
those classified as confidential or secret. of officers for active service due to men-
restricted area, any area from which tal or physical causes.
aircraft or ground personnel and vehicles retracting drum, cylindrical device that
are excluded for reasons of safety or is part of the mechanism attached to the
secrecy. carriage of a disappearing gun to bring
restricted supplies, supplies that may it back into loading position.
be bought only upon order of the chief retracting mechanism, any mechanism
of the supply service. that draws an assembly, such as a disap-
restricted traffic, limited traffic; traffic pearing gun mount, back into position.
over a route controlled by regulations retraction, drawing back of something,
limiting speeds, types of vehicles per- as the drawing back of a gun from firing
mitted, maximum weights allowed, and position to loading position.
hours at which the route is open to retreat, 1. forced withdrawal, often in a
different types of traffic. hurried and disorderly manner, not to
resume firing, 1. begin firing again after be confused with an orderly retirement
a temporary halt. according to plan.
2. command ordering a unit to begin 2. make such a withdrawal.
I
retreat gun 235 ricochet burst
3. flag lowering ceremony held at sunset material in order to add strength and
at a military post. support.
set
4. bugle call sounded, with or without revetment, retaining wall or facing con-
beat of drums, at the beginning of the structed from sandbags, boards, or
flag lowering ceremony at sunset. brush which holds earth slopes at steeper
e
retreat gun, firing of a gun as a signal .angles than they normally would main-
for the lowering of the flag at retreat. tain without caving or sliding.
The gun is fired after the sounding of review, 1. formal inspection of an or-
the last note of the bugle call at retreat. ganization.
at.
Also called evening gun. 2. ceremony to honor some official or
retriever boat, boat used in finding and dignitary or to present decorations to
nd
bringing back aviators who have crashed military personnel.
hed or come down by parachutes in coastal reviewing authority, commander to
al
waters. whom the record of a court-martial ac-
retrograde defensive, defensive with- tion is submitted for review and ap-
drawal in which decisive battle is proval; approving authority. The ex-
avoided until preparations are complete ercise of this authority is a function of
for taking the offensive with reasonable command and not of rank. The review-
ete
ble
my,
chances of success. It delays the enemy, ing authority is also the appointing
ply
draws him farther from his major supply authority.
mu-
bases, and elongates his lines of commu- reviewing ground, any field or ground
nication. where a review is held, usually the
retrograde movement, any tactical parade ground.
her
movement to the rear; withdrawal eithQr reviewing party. 1. those in whose honor
as a retreat or a retirement. a review, or formal inspection, is being
rets, returns. held.
return, 1. official report made to higher 2. commander and his staff who observe
er
authority, especially in accounting for a review to judge proficieney of the units

troops, property, or supplies. involved.
.
2. flight of an aerial bombing mission revolutions per minute. Abbrev: rpm
back to its airdromes after an assault. revolver, pistol with a revolving cyl-
3. in underground mining, a gallery inder that holds a number of cartridges.
starting out from the side of another Before each shot, the cylinder is turned
gallery. Abbrev: ret to bring a cartridge in line with the
return pistol, command to put a pistol barrel. By this means a number of
of
back in the holster. "Return pistol" is shots can be fired without reloading. A
a prescribed command in the manual of revolver is different from an automatic
the pistol. pistol, in which the cartridges from a
returns. Abbrev: rets stationary magazine are inserted in turn
REULET, reference your letter. REU- into the chamber.
LET is a code abbreviation used in Rg 0, range officer.
transmitting telegrams and teletype r hd, railhead.
messages. RHO, railhead officer.
REURAD, reference your radio. REU- RH Q, regimental headquarters.
RAD is a code abbreviation used in ribbon, distinctively colored ribbon
transmitting telegrams and teletype worn on the left breast of the service
e
messages. uniform to indicate service, participa-
reveille, bugle call marking the rising tion in a campaign, or possession of a
hour at a post or camp. decoration.
reveille gun, gun fired at the first note rib rifling, rifling of the bore of a gun
-
of reveille or at sunrise. Also called in which the lands and grooves are of
ed
morning gun. equal width.

reverse slope, any slope which de- ricochet, 1. the skipping or jumping mo-
scends away from the enemy, particu- tion of a projectile as it goes along a flat
larly the rear slope of a position masked
her
surface.
by a ridge or hill. 2. move in this way.
n-
revet, face a wall, embankment, or ricochet burst, burst of a high explo-
trench with masonry, sandbags, or other sive shell in the ai~ after the projectile
1_1 - 1ro
I
eper
n-
ricochet fire 236 rktr
has hit and bounced. A ricochet burst riaht face, 1. in close order drill, the
is used effectively against enemy per- movement from the halted position of
sonnel, instead of the common air burst attention in which the soldier turns on
secured by a time fuze before the pro- the heel of the right foot and the ball of
jectile strikes. the left so as to face 90 degrees to the
ricochet fire, fire at a low angle of ele- right of the original position.
vation, with the burst occurring in the 2. command to execute this movement.
air close above ground after the projec- right flank, 1. entire right side of a
tile has hit and bounced. command from the leading element to
ride the gun, bear down incorrectly on the rearmost element as it faces the
the breech of a machine gun so that enemy.
the muzzle rises. 2. By the right flank is a preparatory
ride the target, follow a moving target command to have every soldier in a for-
so slowly that an aim with the proper mation change direction 90 d~ees to
lead is not anived at before the target the right of the original direction of
is out of effective range. march. All men in the formation turn
ridge pole, horizontal supporting pole at the same time.
along the top of the roof of a tent. right shoulder arms, 1. movement in
rifle, 1. any firearm that has spiral the manual of the rifle in which the rifle
grooves or rifling in the bore designed to is placed on the right shoulder, barrel up,
give a spin to the projectile for greater and inclined at an angle of 45 degrees.
accuracy of fire and longer range. 2. command to perform this movement.
2. shoulder weapon with spiral grooves right trail, right hand part of a split
cut in the bore. A rifle is one of the im- type gun trail.
portant kinds of small arms. rime, rough ice which forms on wing
3. to cut spiral grooves in the bore of a surfaces, and increases drag and the
gun in order to give a spin to the pro- speed at which an airplane loses its
jectile so that it will have greater ac- lift and ability to maintain level flight.
curacy of fire and longer range. Abbrev: r ring and bead sight, type of gun sight
rifle company. Abbrev: R Co in which the front sight is a bead or post
rifle exercise, setting-up exercise done and the rear sight a ring.
with a rifle. The weight of the gun in- ring sight, any gun sight having a
creases the muscular effort in rifle ring through which one looks. Ring
exercise. sights are usually used 88 rear sights.
rifle grenade, grenade, or small bomb, riot gun, any shotgun with a short
designed to be fired from a rifle by using barrel, especially a short-barreled shot-
a special device called a launcher, at- gun used in guard duty or to scatter
tached to the muzzle of the gun. rioters. A riot gun usually has a 20-
rifleman, soldier armed with a rifle as inch cylinder barrel.
his principal weapon. rip cord, 1. control cord that releases a
rifle range, place for practice in shooting parachute from its container. A para-
with a rifle. chute jumper pulls the rip cord when he
rifle salute, salute defined in the man- wants the parachute to open.
ual of arms, in which the rifle is held 2. control cord that tears a piece from
at right shoulder arms or order arms the envelope of a balloon or nonrigid
position, and the left band is carried airship in order to deflate the balloon
smartly across the body to the rifle, rapidly.
forearm horizontal, palm down, fingers rip panel, piece of fabric in the upper
together and extended. part of the envelope of a balloon or non-
rifle scabbard, sheath or holster for rigid airship which is ripped open when
holding a rifle, often carried at the side the balloon must be deflated very
of a saddle. rapidly.
rifting, spiral grooves in the bore of a river line, 1. water's edge on the de-
rifle designed to give a spin to the pro- fender's side of a stream.
jectile for greater accuracy and carry- 2. any tactical line marked by a stream.
ing power. Rifling includes both the RJ, road junction.
grooves and the ridges between, called rkt, rocket.
lands. rktr, rocketeer,. . If
1 .na ro
RL 23'7 roster
RL, rocket launcher. ide.ntify, and report pyrotechnic signals.
rmt, remount. rocket target, high-speed aerial target
RO, regimental orders. used for advanced practice in antiair-
road bend. Abbrev: RB craft fire. A rocket target is projected
road block, barrier or obstacle to pre- from a mobile rocket projector and
vent or hinder the movement of enemy driven by the escape of self-generated
vehicles along a road. gases.
my
road capacity, maximum number of Roger, word used to indicate that a

vehicles that can actually move over a radiotelephone message has been re-
a
road at a given rate in a given time. ceived. It is the equivalent of the letter
road crater, hole in a road made by a "R", standing for "Received."
bursting projectile, mine, bomb, etc.; roll, 1. list of the names of all members
any hole blown in a road to make a of an organization.
road block at a point that cannot be 2. long beat of a drum.
easily detoured. 3. blankets rolled into a form eaqy for
road discipline, orderly, systematic carrying on a saddle or in a pack.
movement of troops, vehicles, and 4. acrobatic flight maneuver in which
mounts using a road. Road discipline an aircraft rotates about its longitudinal
prevents confusion and delay. axis while in roughly horizontal flight.
road junction. Abbrev: RJ 5. make such a flight maneuver.
road net, network of roads available roll, angle of. See angle of bank.
for use within a particular area. roll call, calling off a list of names of
o
road screen, anything which is used to the members of an organization.
conceal movement along a road from rolling barrage, artillery fire in which
al
enemy observation, especially artificial the range is regularly increased accord-

concealment or camouflage. ing to a time. schedule so that the shells
fall immediately ahead of attacking
l
ma-
road space, distance from head to tail
d
of a column when in a prescribed forma- ground troops as they advance.
tion on a road; length of road occupied rolling kitchen, kitchen mounted on
by a column or part of a column. wheels so that it can travel with the
Abbrev: RS troops.
road time, total time a column or a rolling recoil, system of absorbing the
march unit requires to clear a given recoil of a railway gun. With the brakes
section of a road. set, the entire car is allowed to roll
robot pilot. See automatic pilot. back when the gun is fired.
rocker, movable, built-in support in a rolling reserve, reserve supplies held

nd
va-
e
field gun carriage, between the trail and close to troop units. When equipment
the cradle, that allows changes in eleva- is available, these supplies are kept
ng
tion to be made without disturbing the stored in railroad cars or in trucks ready
angle of position setting. for immediate transportation.
s-
rocket, . self-propelling device operating roll up, 1. attack the enemy's flanks,
by means of gases escaping from a pushing them toward the center.
-
nozzle or jet at the rear of the combus- 2. attack one or both of the flanks made
ex-
tion chamber. The rocket principle is by a break-through of the enemy front,

used in pyrotechnic signals, aerial tar- so as to widen the gap.
gets, some types of projectiles, and, ex- rope ferry, set of ropes strung over a
perimentally, as at least part of the stream or defile, over which equipment
driving power in some aircraft. is moved from one bank to the other.
Abbrev: rkt The equipment is rigged on the ropes
rocketeer, man who sets off rockets. and pulled across the stream or defile by
Abbrev: rktr a towline.
rocket launcher. Abbrev: RL rosette, badge, or other device, resem-
rocket projector, any device used to bling a rose, such as the rosette author-
point and set off a rocket. A rocket ized for the Medal of Honor.
ls.
projector is usually mounted on a roster, 1. list of personnel.
t
trailer. 2. list of officers and men available for a
rocket sentinel, sentry at an artillery specific duty with a record of the duty
position whose duty is to watch for, each has perfp~rn~ff. QI rro m
d
rotating band 238 run
rotating band, soft metal band around route step, 1. way of marching in which
a projectile near its base. The rotating the troops are allowed to break step,
band has a slightly greater diameter talk, or sing, and carry their guns as
than the raised part of the rifling of the they please.
bore so that, as the projectile spins 2. preparatory command to march in
through the bore, the rifling cuts into this manner.
the rotating band. The rotating band routine message, ordinary message
makes the projectile fit tightly in the which does not require priority, but is
bore by centering the projectile, thus sent in the order received. A routine
preventing the escape of gas, and giving message is sent ahead of deferred rnes-
the projectile its spin. sages, but after priority messages and
rotating crank, crank used to turn the urgent messages.
breech mechanism of a large gun. routine order, order covering matters
ROTC, Reserve Officers' Training not connected with, or affected by, op-
Corps. erations in the field. Routine orders in-
round, 1. all the parts that make up the elude general and special orders, court-
ammunition necessary in firing one shot. martial orders, bulletins, circulars, or
A round consists mainly of a primer, a memoranda.
propelling charge, and a projectile. In routing slip, slip attached to incoming
fixed ammunition, these three parts of papers by the mail and records section,
a round are held together with a shell to show where they are to go and in
case. In small-arms ammunition, the what order.
projectile is called a bullet and the com- roving artillery, artillery withdrawn
plete round is called a cartridge. from its regular position and assigned to
2. one shot fired by each man or each special missions. Roving artillery is
gun of a unit. usually moved about and fired from
rout, 1. flight of a defeated army in dis- different positions to deceive the enemy
order. as to position and strength.
2. put to flight by overwhelming defeat. roving gun, gun that is moved about
route column, close order formation of and fired from different positions to mis-
troops, suitable for marching. lead or harass the enemy.
route formation, spread-out flight for- rpm, revolutions per minute.
mation used to rest pilots when tight rpt, 1. report. 2. reporting.
offensive or defensive formations are RR, railroad.
not necessary. Route formation may be rr, rear.
used during the advance and return of rr ech, rear echelon.
a bombardment unit. rr gd, rear guard.
route map, map showing roads to be , RRL, regimental reserve line.
followed and nearby points of military R/S, report of survey.
importance. RS, road space.
route march, march in which the troops RSO, regimental supply officer.
are allowed to break step, talk, or sing, r sta, regulating station.
and carry their guns as they please. RTC, replacement training center.
route of communication, network of RTO, railroad transportation officer.
roads, etc., over which supplies are car- R Traf 0, railway traffic officer.
ried and combat movements are made. rucksack, canvas or leather bag with a
Routes of communication include navi- shoulder harness, used for carrying
gable waters, and airplane landing and clothes and equipment on the back. It
rail facilitiec:;. is a type of knapsack used by some
route order, manner in which a route mountain and ski troops.
march is made when mounted on horse-' rudder, any device for steering a craft
back or traveling in vehicles. Talking, in air or water, especially a movable,
smoking, and relaxing are permitted, hinged surface attached to the rear of a
provided that there is no straggling or ship or aircraft to give lateral control.
loss of relative positions. rumes, low, steady beating of a drum,
route reconnaissance, careful survey not so loud as a roll.
of a route for military purposes, often run, 1. most rapid pace of personnel on
by aircraft. foot, f"st~: t.ha ~hen double quick. .\
runaway gun 239 Ry Sh.Bn Dsl
run is used only under combat condi- usually paved to permit landings and
tions. take-offs under all weather conditions.
2. steady, level flight of an aircraft across rupture, 1. complete or partial circular
a target to enable bombs to be dropped break in the metal of a fired cartridge
ross
accurately in horizontal bombing. case. A rupture causes loss of power and
ed 3. passing of a moving target once across difficult extraction or jamming.
the range. 2. breaking of earth or other substance
ross
4. test operation of any mechanism, es- by the explosion of a projectile or other

pecially the trial of a ship. charge below the surface.
es-
runaway gun, automatic weapon that rush, 1. quick short run of foot troops,
continues firing after the trigger is re- made in approaches under direct fire
leased. A runaway gun is caused by 2. make a quick short run of this sort.
a defect in some part of its mechanism. russet, reddish brown color adopted as
m.
runner, foot messenger. official for leather articles.
running fight, battle which continues ry, railway.
while one side retreats- and the other Ry GD, Railway Grand Division .
pursues. . Ry Sh Bn, railway shop battalion.
run,vay, landing strip for an airplane, 1 Ry Sh Bn Dsl, railway shop battalion
1
diesel.
and
ce
er
as
Orlg1nal rrom
240 safety lock
s, sharpshooter. prevents a gun from being fired acci-
S-1, 1. personnel section of a unit not dentally; safety device.
having a general staff. safety an1Ie, 1. minimum permissible
2. officer in charge of the section. angular clearance, at the gun, of the
S-2, 1. military intelligence section of a path of a projectile above friendly
unit not having a general staff. troops. The safety angle is the angle of
2. officer in charge of the section. clearance increased enough to insure the
S-3, 1. operations and training section safety of the troops. In this meaning,
of a unit not having a general staff. also called angle of safety.
2. offic~r in charge of the section. 2. in firing at towed aerial targets, the
S-4, 1. supply and evacuation section of minimum angle between the gun-target
a unit not having a general staff. line and the towline at which firing is
2. officer in charge of the section. permitted. The angle is measured in the
SA, 1. small arms. f;lant plane containing those lines.
2. arsine. safety, angle of. See angle of safety.
saber, heavy, one-edged sword, whose safety belt, strong belt that is used in
blade usually curves near the point; aircraft, tanks, or other vehicles, to pre-
sabre. vent the wearer from being thrown from
sabotage, destruction of, or injury to, his seat during swift maneuvering or
property by enemy agents or sympa- sudden turns.
thizers in an effort to stop or slow down safety device. See safety.
a nation's war effort. safety factor, increase in range or ele-
saboteur, enemy agent or sympathizer vation that must be set on a gun so that
who destroys or injures property in an friendly troops, over whose heads fire is
effort to stop or slow down a nation's to be delivered, will not be endangered.
war effort. safety fork, metal clip that fits over
sabre. See saber. the collar of the fuze in a mine and pre-
saddle, a
mounted on bearing plate, vents the mine from being set off acci-
that transmits the load of the bridge and dentally. Its function is the same as
the weight of the treadways to the pneu- that of a safety pin or safety lever in a
matic floats or rubber pontons. grenade, bomb, or projectile.
safe, adjustment of a fuze mechanism, safety fuze, type of time fuze that con-
or of the mechanical locking device in sists of a fabric tube containing a slow-
the receiver of a gun, that makes it im- burning explosive train.
possible for the fuze or gun to go off safety lever, 1. lever that prevents ac-
accidentally. cidental firing of a grenade so long as
safe-conduct, document similar to a it remains locked in position. Its func-
passport, issued by a military authority, tion is the same as that of the safety
which a person must have if he wishes pin and safety fork in projectiles, bombs,
to enter or remain in a restricted area. and mines.
A safe-conduct may also enable the 2. lever that sets the safety mecha-
holder to move goods to or from places nism on certain types of automatic
within the area and to engage in trade, weapons.
which would otherwise be forbidden. safety limit, 1. line marking off a zone
safeguard, 1. written order issued by a or area in front of friendly troops, over
commander for the protection of per- whose heads gunfire is delivered. Shots
sons or property from molestation by must clear this zone if the troops are not
troops. A safeguard may be issued for to be endangered.
reasons of military discipline, personal 2. bounds set around the target area on
considerations, public policy, humanity, a firing range, within which there is
etc. Forcing a safeguard is disregard- danger from shell fragments or ricochet-
ing and violating such an order, and in ing shells, if not from direct fire.
time of war is punishable by death. 3. greatest angle to the right or left that
2. soldier or detachment that is detailed a gun is allowed to fire in artillery prac-
to protect people, places, or property. tice. These safety limits are set to pro-
3. lock on a door or gate for the same tect people, buildings, towing vessels, etc.
purpose. safety lock, locking device that prevents
safety, locking or cut-off device that a gun from being fired accidentally.
lg
safety ofticer 241 salvage
safety omcer, officer who supervises authorized articles to messes, members
field practice in gunnery to make sure of the command, or other authorized
that persons and property will not be persons. Abbrev: sales comm
e
endangered. He is the assistant to the sales commissary battalion.
officer in charge of firing. Abbrev: Sales Comm Bn
e safety pin, pin that fits into the mecha- sales commissary company.
nism of a fuze and tnakes it impossible Abbrev: Sales Comm Co
a-
to set off the fuze accidentally. sales officer, officer in charge of a sales
e
safety pointing observer, officer or non- commissary. He is accountable and re-

commissioned officer who acts as assist- sponsible for all the stores that are
n-
ant to the safety officer and sees that handled by the commissary.
fire is kept within the prescribed safety
ist-
sales store, shop operated by the com-

ty
limits. He checks the range and direc- missary at a post, camp, or station.
-
tion setting of the gun to which he is Purchases may be made at the sales
assigned, and does not allow the gun to store by members of the command and
to
be fired if the setting is outside the other authorized persons.
safety limits. salient, part of a battle line or fortifi-
safety shoes, special shoes without ex- cation which extends sharply to the
x-
posed metal nails or plates, worn by men front of the general line. The corre-
men
working in powder rooms so as to avoid sponding depression, or dent, in the op-

causing explosions. Different types of
oid
posing line is called a reentrant.

shoes, some with rubber soles, some sally, 1. sudden attack made from a de-
ng
with leather soles, are worn, depending fensive position. In this meaning, also
on conditions. called sortie.
the
safety stake, one of the stakes set in the 2. go suddenly from a defensive position
of
ground to mark the right or left limit of to attack an enemy.

safe fire of a gun. A safety stake is salute, 1. formal mark of honor, respect,
nt
usually placed about 100 yards in front or courtesy to a person holding a supe-
e
of the gun, and, at the proper distance rior rank, a flag, a high official, etc. The
a
to the side. salute may be given by firing a number
e
safety wire, wire set into the body of a of rounds from a cannon as prescribed in
et
fuze to lock all movable parts into safe Army Regulations, smartly raising the
positions so that the fuze will not be set right hand to the brim of the cap, dipping
off accidentally. It is pulled out just flags, sails, or wings, and in other ways.
.
before firing. 2. position of the hand or of a flag in
sailing instructions. See sailing orders. saluting.
sailing orders, written instructions 3. give a salute.

given to the master of a ship to cover Salute to the Union, salute of 48 guns,
the details of sailing; sailing instruc- one for each state in the Union, fired at
tions. They give directions for time of noon on July 4, each year, to com-
sailing, ports of call, etc. memorate the signing of the Declaration
ad- sailplane, glider that is designed and of Independence. Sometimes called
oar
constructed so that it has the correct national salute.
id-
weight and form to enable it to take ad- saluting distance, distance, generally
r
vantage of rising air currents and to soar between 6 and 30 paces, at which salutes
to high altitudes, instead of merely glid- are given. As recognition of insignia is
n
ing to the ground as an ordinary glider not difficult up to 30 paces, 30 is set as

does. the maximum distance.
sales article, article other than a ration saluting gun, cannon used for firing
t-
item that is authorized to be sold at a salutes.
sales store operated by the Army. salv, salvage..
sales comm, sales commissary. salvage, 1. property that has been
Sales Comm Bn, sales commissary bat- abandoned, discarded, condemned, or
talion. captured, and that has been gathered
Sales Comm Co, sales commissary together for scrappmg or reclaiming.
ers
company. 2. collection of such property.

sales commissary, store at a post, 3. reclaim or scrap such property.
camp, or station that issues and sells Abbt~ii; ~-; r I .~:
r1g1na 1rom
es
salvage depot 242 scale
salvage depot, place where unusable, operations in charge of an officer of the
abandoned, or captured equipment and Medical Department for the purpose of
supplies are brought for repair or scrap- regulating sanitation in the area.
ping. Sanitary Corps, branch of the Medical
salvage dutnp, place in the combat Department, established in time of war
zone where unusable, abandoned, or to supervise and regulate the sanitation
captured equipment and supplies are of places occupied by the military forces.
collected and classified as suitable to be This includes work in certain aspects of
returned to the field for use, needing the field of preventive medicine.
repairs, or fit for scrapping at a salvage Abbrev: SnC
depot. sanitary order, order issued by the
salvage officer, officer in an organiza- headquarters of a command, setting
tion or at a post, etc., who has charge of down the sanitary measures to be car-
receiving, inspecting, and classifying un- ried out within the command. It is a
usable, abandoned, or captured equip- general order and applies to the whole
ment and supplies. conunand.
salvage service, units engaged in sanitary report, report of the medical
collecting, sorting, and disposing of inspector or surgeon of a unit to the
abandoned, captured, or unusable equip- commanding officer regarding the health
ment and supplies. and sanitation of the command.
salvo, 1. group of shots fired at the same sanitary survey, study of health con-
time by a battery, one round by each ditions in an area occupied by troops,
gun. for the purpose of taking measures that
2. group of bombs dropped from an air- will prevent disease or its spread.
plane at the same time. sap, 1. trench that is extended by dig-
3. series of shots fired by a battery. ging away the earth at one end from
Each gun fires its round in turn after a within the trench itself. The earth is
given interval. usually thrown up to serve as a para-
salvo bombing, method of bombing in pet on the exposed end or flank.
which several bombs are released at the 2. undermine by digging; approach by
same time from an aircraft. digging trenches.
salvo fire, fire in which a number of sapper, member of an engineer unit
shots are fired at short, fixed intervals; trained for digging trenches, tWlnels,
especially, fire in which the guns of a and underground fortifications.
battery are discharged one after the SAR, senliautomatic rifle.
other, usually at intervals of two sec- satellite field, airdrome that is not com-
onds. pletely equipped for all types of serv-
salvo point, target of known range and icing or repair of aircraft, but is con-
direction at which the fire of one or nected for such operations with a fully
more gun batteries can be directed. equipped airdrome; auxiliary airdrome.
Sam Browne belt, officer's leather belt sb, switchboard.
that has a supporting strap worn across S BT, small boat.
the right shoulder. S BT Co, small boat company.
same date. Abbrev: sd SC, 1. Signal Corps. 2. summary court.
sandbag, bag, usually made of canvas s;c, statement of charges.
or burlap, filled with sand or earth and scabbard, sheath or case; holder for a
used as a support or as a protection for S\vord, bayonet, rifle, carbine, or other
fortifications, structures, etc. Sandbags shoulder weapon.
are also used as ballast for balloon..c;. scale, 1. relation between distances on a
S&F, sound and flash. rnap or chart and the corresponding dis-
S&F Bn, sound and flash battalion. tances on the ground.
sand table, table, with a shallow box- 2. series of marks along a line, used in
like top, filled with sand, on which measuring. A scale may be marked off
ground areas are reproduced in scale in terms of any sort of unit, depending
models. Sand tables are used for in- on the use of the instrument to which it
struction purposes. is attached. The elevation quadrant on
sanitary. Abbrev: sn a gun, for example, is graduated in
sanitary area, section in a theater of degrees or mils.
Or1g1nal fro
scatter bomb 243 screen
scatter bomb, bomb with a light case, SCM, 1. special court-martial.
filled with incendiary material and with 2. summary court-martial.
a bursting charge that is set off when the scope, 1. telescope. 2. oscilloscope.
h
bomb strikes anything. The explosion scout, 1. person who gathers informa-
the of the charge bursts the case and spreads tion in the field; trained observer who
the chemicals over a wide area. reconnoiters a region to obtain informa-
eads
sed, schedule. tion about the enemy.

sch, school. 2. airplane engaged in an aerial search,
schedule. Abbrev: sed or used to reconnoiter enemy positions
scheduled maintenance, servicing and and territory by direct observation or
d
repair of vehicles and equipment accord- by photography. In this meaning, also
ord-
ing to a time schedule or on a mileage called scout airplane.
e
basis, in contrast to operating or march 3. reconnoiter a region to obtain military
ch
maintenance, in which equipment is information regarding the enemy.
~erviced and repaired as the need arises, Abbrev: set
ses,
v;hile the equipment is in use. scout airplane, 1. airplane engaged in
schedule fire, supporting fire for which an aerial search, or used to reconnoiter
h
the need has been foreseen so that data enemy positions and territory by direct
ata
for it, including range and elevation, observation or by photography. In this

has been prepared in advance. Also meaning, also called scout.
n-
ven
called prearranged fire.
schedule system, system of traffic con-
trol in which truck columns and troops
are dispatched over fixed routes at given
rates of speed, according to a time
2. classification of Navy airplane gen-
erally used for scouting.
scout car, motor vehicle provided with
guns and protected by light armor.
Scout cars are used chiefly for reconnais-
\
schedule. sance. Abbrev: set c
n-
scheme of command, plan for the con- scouting course, course followed by a
ing
trol of all elements of a command during scouting airplane while searching an

a military operation including provision area.
n
the
for communication, observation, and the scouting distance, distance in miles

location of the command post. separating neighboring aircraft on a
the
scheme of fire, part of a military plan scouting line.
t that deals with the arrangements for the scouting front, width of an area that
locations and missions of the different can be covered by a line of scouting air-
weapons and for the control of their craft. A scouting front is measured from
fire in either defense or attack. the farthest point visible to an observer
nt
scheme of maneuver, detailed plan at one end of the line to the farthest
covering the placement and movement point visible to an observer at the op-
e
of subordinate units in carrying out the posite end.

v-
mission of a unit as a whole. scouting interval, distance in miles
school. A bbrev: sch between two scouting airplanes that are
as School for Special Service, special serv- patrolling the same line, measured along
rk.
ice school that trains officers and en- this line. This term is used only in cer-
-
listed men in morale measures, such as tain methods of search.
es.
recreation, education, and welfare work. scouting line, line along which scouting
l
It is under the supervision of the Com- airplanes are located in a formation

manding General, Army Service Forces. suitable for conducting a scouting op-
School of Military Government, school eration according to a definite plan.
nd
and
that gives special training to commis- screen, 1. anything that protects from
rs
sioned officers in the establishment and enemy ground reconnaissance or obser-
t administration of military government vation by such means as a body of
age
in territory that has been conquered and troops, camouflage, a smoke screen, or
r-
occupied by the armed forces. It covers a natural feature of the ground. Some-
all civil and military matters that must times a screen also protects from enemy
be known by those who have to manage fire.
occupied country. It is under the super- 2. body of troops, camouflage, smoke
vision of the Commanding General, screen, or natural feature of the ground
Army Service Forces. that protects a force from. enemy ground
11 ro
-
1_1
ma-
h,
screening agent 244 search patrol
reconnaissance or observation, and the firing pin or hammer back until re-
sometimes from enemy fire. leased by the trigger mechanism.
8. protect from enemy ground recon- search, 1. systematic reconnaissance
naissance or observation, and sometimes of an area by aircraft or other means,
from enemy fire. for the purpose of locating enemy forces,
screening agent, chemical agent that etc.
produces a dense fog or smoke, used to 2. make a systematic reconnaissance of
prevent enemy observation. an area.
screening force, tactical force, such as 3. move a searchlight or radar beam
mechanized units, a body of troops, or back and forth over an area in the sky
an airplane formation, that protects a to locate an aerial target.
command from enemy observation. 4. command to move a searchlight or
screening smoke, dense fog or smoke radar beam in this manner.
produced by a chemical agent, and used 5. in gunnery, distri)>ute fire over an
to prevent enemy observation. area in depth by successive changes in
strew picket, metal post with a spiral gun elevation. This is done especially
point resembling a corkscrew. It is used with machine guns.
as a support for a wire entanglement or searching control, mechanism that
as an anchor for a cable. changes the azimuth and elevation set-
set, scout. tings on a searchlight automatically and
set c, scout car. constantly, so that its beam is swept
sd, same date. back and forth within certain limits.
SD, special duty. searching fire, fire distributed in depth
seacoast artillery, artillery weapons, by successive changes in the elevation of
fixed, tractor-drawn, or railway, that are the gun. It is the opposite of traversing
used mainly for defense against enemy fire, which is distributed in width by
naval vessels. Seacoast artillery also in- moving the gun gradually to the right
cludes submarine mines. Also called or left.
coast artillery. searching light, light used in a seacoast
sea duty, service by an officer or en- defense system to search a water area in
listed man, under orders, on a sea-going order to detect any v~sel in the area.
vessel, or on a coastal vessel, under mili- A searching light in a seacoast defense
tary control while away from its home system corresponds to a pick-up light in
port. an antiaircraft system.
sealed orders, secret or confidential searching sector, area in the sky as-
orders in a sealed envelope, given to a signed to be covered by a searchlight,
commander of troops or of a ship, with radar, or sound-locator unit, for the pur-
instructions not to open them until a pose of detecting enemy aircraft.
given time, or on arrival at a specified searchlight, electric light equipped with
designation. a special reflector that casts a powerful
seaman, 1. enlisted man in the Harbor beam of light. Searchlights are used to
Boat Service who serves as an oiler, illuminate enemy aircraft or naval tar-
boatswain, fireman, or deckhand. His gets for night firing. Abbrev: SL
grade, depending on his class, corre- searchlight battery. Abbrev: SL Btry
sponds to that of private, private, first searchlight control, control of the op-
class, or corporal. eration of a searchlight unit; searchlight
2. enlisted man in the Navy. His grade, direction. It includes instructions to
depending on his class, corresponds to operating personnel, missions to be
that of private, private, first class, or covered, etc.
corporal. See Table of Comparative searchlight direction. See searchlight
Grades on p. 125. control.
seaplane, airplane equipped with floats searchlight unit, one searchlight, to-
that support it on water so that it can gether with its power plant, sound
come down or take off at sea. Airplanes locator, control station, telephones, and
with boat-shaped hulls which support cables.
them in the water are more properly search patrol, system of air defense in
called flying boats. which patrols of fighter plan~ keep up
sear, lock or catch in a gun that holds a constant search for enemy aircraft
I
search patrol method 245 Secretary of War
within an area. This method requires second class gunner. 1. lowest classi-
large numbers of planes and is used only fication given for skill in the use of heavy
only
when an adequate aircraft warning serv- guns and machine guns. The other rat-
erv-
ice cannot be established. ings are, in order, first class gunner, and
search patrol Ittethod, one of three expert. The grade of second class gun-
methods of using fighter aviation in air ner corresponds to that of marksman.
ir
defense. With this method fighter air- 2. soldier who has this classification.
craft are sent out on a systematic search second echelon ntaintenance, serv-
arch
of a given area for enemy aircraft. icing or maintenance that is beyond the
Other methods are the air alert method scope of the operating personnel, but
and the ground alert method. which can be done by the maintenance
od
seat, 1. support or holder for a mech- section of the unit that tlses the equip-
anism, or for a part of one. ment.
e-
2. fit correctly in or on a holder, or pre- second-in-command, deputy or assist-
pared position; as, to seat a fuze in a ant commander; officer, generally the
n,
bomb, a projectile in the bore of a gun, executive officer, who takes over com-
or a cartridge in a chamber. mand duties in the event of the absence,
e
seat pack parachute, parachute whose death, or illness of the co1nmander.

arer
pack is slung over the back of the wearer second lieutenan~, officer in the Army
so that it can serve as a seat cushion who ranks next below a first lieutenant.
when he sits down. He holds the lowest grade of commis-
sec, section. sioned officer. A second lieutenant usu-
ry
second. Abbrev: 2d ally commands a platoon. See Table of
secondary armament, seacoast artillery Comparative Grades on p. 125.
d
weapon of less . than 12-inch caliber. Abbrev: 2d It
ary
Larger seacoast artillery weapons and second mate, deck officer, ranking next
submarine mines are classed as primary below first mate, on a vessel. Under the
armament. Also called minor-caliber supervision of the master he carries out
weapons. some details of the operation and man-
secondary attack. See holding attack. agement of the ship, and during his
secondary fire sector, areas not prop- watch he is in charge of, and responsible
he
erly in a fire sector, but which can be for, the navigation and safety of the
swept by fire if necessary. Such areas vessel.
t
are located close in on the flanks, in the second officer, 1. deck officer, ranking
m
fire sectors .of adjacent units. below the first officer, on a vessel, es-
secondary station, 1. observation post pecially on an Army transport. During
at the end of a base line farthest from his watch, the second officer is in charge
the gun or directing point. of the deck department and is respon-
2. any station in a radio net other than sible for the navigation and safety of the
h
s-
it
the net control station. vessel, under the supervision of the
ble
secondary target, target against which master.
fire is directed when the main fire mis- 2. officer in the former Women's Army
sion has been accomplished, or when it Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) who had a
has become impossible or impracticable rank equivalent to that of a first lieu-
e
for the gun or battery to carry out the tenant.

hed,
main fire mission. secret, classification given to an official

im-
secondary target area, target area document when the disclosure of its con-
against which fire is directed when the tents might endanger national security,
il-
main fire mission has been accomplished, cause serious injury to government ac-
n,
or when it has become impossible or im- tivity, or be of great advantage to the
practicable for the gun or battery to enemy. Secret documents are available
p- carry out the main fire mission. only to those whose duties require the
p-
secondary weapon, supporting or auxil- information contained in them. They
on.
iary weapon of a unit, vehicle, position, are more closely guarded than those
or aircraft. It is generally a gun of marked restricted or confidential.
avy
smaller caliber than the primary weap- Secretary of War, highest official in
on, and its purpose is to protect or sup- the War Department, who serves as a
t-
and
plement the fire of the primary weapon. member of the cabinet and who carries
n-
.
1g1 I '"ro
he
secret language 246 security on the march
out the military policies of the Presi- held by battalions and smaller units
dent and Congress. Abbrev: SW may be called areas.
secret language. See secret text. 2. subdivision of a coastal frontier com-
Secret Service, federal detective serv- mand.
ice that operates under the Treasury sector boundary, line or clearly defined
Department in peacetime. It aids the feature of the ground that marks the
War Department in wartime by obtain- limits, especially the side limits, of an
ing information about enemy activities. area which a unit is assigned to protect
It is not to be confused with the Federal or cover with fire.
Bureau of Investigation, which is under sector command post, station within
the Department of Justice. a sector, or area to be defended, for the
secret text, text or language of a mes- location of the command.
sage put in code or cipher; text of ames- sector of fire, belt or area of ground
sage which on its face conveys no mean- with clearly marked boundaries that is
ing, or the wrong meaning, to those assigned to a unit or weapon to cover
who do not have the key to the code or with fire.
cipher; secret language. The secret text sector reserve, part of the force allotted
of a message is called a cryptogram. to a sector commander that he holds in
sect, section. reserve to send to any part of the sector
section, 1. subdivision of an office or that is threatened or attacked.
organization; especially, a major subdi- security, 1. measures taken by a com-
vision of the staff of units smaller than mand to protect itself from observation,
a division. annoyance, or surprise, and to obtain
2. tactical unit of the Army. A section freedom of action for itself. Security
is smaller than a platoon and larger includes measures taken against air,
than a squad. In some organizations mechanized, and chemical attacks.
the section, rather than the squad, is 2. procedure followed in communication
the basic tactical unit. Abbrev: sec or to make certain that messages are genu-
sect ine and to prevent enemy interference.
Section ll, discharge from the military 3. measures taken to provide technically
service for disability, so called because sound ciphers and codes and to protect
it is authorized by Section II, Army them from being found out by the
Regulations 615-360. The discharge enemy. In this meaning, also called
may be honorable or without honor, de- cryptographic security.
pending upon the facts in the particular 4. protection that results from any of
case. these measures.
Section VITI, discharge from the mili- security detachment, unit that protects
tary service for unfitness, so called be- or covers a command against surprise,
cause it is authorized by Section VIII, ground observation, or interference by
Army Regulations 615-360. The dis- the enemy; security echelon; security
charge may be honorable or without force. A security detachment may be
honor, depending on the character of the an advance guard, rear guard, flank
soldier's service. guard, combat patrol, covering detach-
sectional chart, one of the 87 maps ment, scout, or outpost, according to its
published by the Coast and Geodetic mission.
Survey that, when combined, cover the security echelon. See security detach
continental United States. It is made ment.
on a scale of 1 :500,000, or about 8 miles security force. See security detachment.
to an inch, and is used especially for security mtsston, task or duty of pro-
aerial navigation. tecting and screening friendly forces
section column, formation with sec- against enemy attack or observation.
tions placed in column, one behind the security on the march, measures taken
s
other. to protect a marching column from
sector, 1. clearly defined area which a enemy observation or surprise attack.
given unit protects or covers with fire; These include precautions against chem-
part of a front held by a unit. Some- ical or air attack, the posting of guards
times only the sections held by regiments and patrols, and adequate reconnais-
or larger units are called sectors; those sance.
Orlg1nal fro
security patrol 247 semitrailer
security patrol, combat reconnaissance mor, concrete structures, or similar tar-
patrol that protects the main body of gets before exploding, as opposed to
ce troops from enemy observation or sur- armor-piercing projectiles or bombs,
prise attack. which can pierce the heaviest armor.
r-
selectee, person inducted into military semi-armor-piercing bomb, aerial

service under the provisions of the Selec- bomb with a heavy steel case that makes
y
tive Service Act; draftee. the bomb able to pierce all but the
Selective Service, selection of persons heaviest armor. Although it penetrates
lec-
s
from the total manpower of a country less readily than an armor-piercing
for compulsory military service. Also bomb, it has somewhat greater blasting
called draft. Abbrev: SS power on explosion.
selector box, watertight steel box that semiautomatic, partly self-acting; as
t
holds the underwater control mechanism applied to a gun, self-loading but not
ism
of a group of submarine mines. A sys- self-firing. A semiautomatic gun throws
-
tern of electric cables links it to the out the used shell and puts in a new
control station on shore and also to the one by its own _recoil action or gas
mines. pressure, but a separate pull of the
he
he
selector unit, box or case that holds the trigger is needed for each shot. Semi-
g,
instruments used for sorting, selecting, automatic means partly self-acting, as
and punching soldiers' qualification distinguished from automatic, which
cards. means completely self-acting.
n
selt-contained base, single observation semiautomatic fire, fire delivered from
e
station that determines both the range . a self-loading weapon, with a separate
and direction of a target. It is usually trigger pull for each shot fired. It dif-
om
operated by two observers, one of whom fers from automatic fire, in "'\Vhich the gun
with
er
measures the direction of the target with continues to fire until the pressure on
ned
an azimuth instrument, while the other the trigger is released.
measures the range with a self-contained semiautomatic rifle. Abbrev: SAR
tical
optical range finder. Moving targets semiautomatic weapon, gun that is
ar~ tracked in the same way as in vertical automatically loaded and prepared for
nt
base method. firing after each shot, but that fires only
b-
self-contained range finder, instrument one shot \\'ith each trigger pull.
used for measuring range by direct ob- semifixed ammunition, ammunition in
nge.
servation, without using a base line. which the size of the propelling charge
der.
The two types are the eoincidence range. can be adjusted to correct for range, and
finder and the stereoscopic range finder. which is loaded into the cannon as a unit.
of
n
self-loading, of guns, using the force of semimobile, partly equipped with ve-
recoil or of gas pressure to throw out a hicles. A semimobile unit does not have
spent shell and to place a fresh one in enough vehicles of its own to transport
t-
the chamber ready for firing. the whole organization at the same time.
r-
self-propelled. Abbrev: SP Abbrev: sem
self-propelled artillery, artillery mount- semisldlled, having training and experi-
ed on motor vehicles on which it is car- ence that are sufficient to qualify a
nk
ried, and from which it is fired. person as an assistant to a skilled special-

n
self-propelled gun, artillery weapon ist, but not sufficient for him to be left
carried on a self-propelled mount. Tank to do skilled work without supervision.
destroyers are self-propelled guns. semiskilled rating, rating given to an
th self-propelled mount, motor vehicle on enlisted man who has had some training
flag
which a gun is mounted. Abbre1r. SPM and experience in a skilled trade or pro-
sem, semimobile. fession and who has qualified as an
to
semaphore, 1. method of signaling with assistant to a skilled specialist.

flags, in which the signalman holds a flag semitrailer, vehicle without power and
gh
in each hand and signals by holding with wheels only at the rear. The front
r-
them in different positions, according to end rests on the towing tractor. It has
ar-
a code system. retractable gear to support the front end,
2. signal by such a system. when parked without its towing ve-
semi-armor-piercing, able to go through hicle. Ordinary commercial trailers are
all but the heaviest battleship deck ar- semitrailers. rl gIn aI rrom
akes
s
senior aircraft observer 248 sergeant major
senior aircraft observer, 1. highest maintain order, protect persons or places
rating given to a member of the Army against surprise, or warn of enemy at-
Air Forces who is qualified to conduct tack; sentinel.
observation and reconnaissance missions sentry squad, squad posted on sentry
from aircraft. It ranks above the rating or guard duty. Some of the men go on
of aircraft observer. duty while the others rest, but the latter
2. person who has this rating. stay on call, in case of emergency or to
. senior balloon pilot, 1. highest rating relieve the men on guard when their
given to a member of the Army Air tour of duty is over.
Forces who is qualified to pilot a bal- sep, separate.
loon. It ranks above the rating of bal- separate. Abbrev: sep
loon pilot. separate battalion, battalion that does
2. person who has this rating. not form part of a regiment, and that
seniority, precedence in rank that one operates as an independent unit in the
soldier has over another by reason of field. It is an administrative as well as
date of commission or appointment, tactical unit.
length of active service, etc. When two separate battery, artillery battery that
persons are appointed to the same rank does not form part of a regiment or bat-
on the same day, the person with the talion, and that operates as an inde-
longer active service will have seniority. pendent unit in the field.
senior pilot, 1. rating given to a mem- separate company, company that does
ber of the Army Air Forces who is not form part of a regiment or battalion,
qualified to pilot combat aircraft. and that operates as an independent
2. person who has this rating. A senior unit in the field.
pilot ranks next above a pilot and next separate-loading ammunition, ammuni-
below a command pilot. tion in which the projectile, propelling
senior service pilot, 1. highest rating charge, and primer are not held to-
given to a member of the Army Air gether in a shell case, as in fixed ammu-
Forces who is qualified to pilot aircraft nition, but are loaded into a gun sepa-
other than combat airplanes. It ranks rately.
above the rating of service pilot. separate regiment, regiment that does
2. person who has this rating. not form part of a division or brigade
sense, 1. direction of the striking or and that operates as an independent
bursting point of a projectile from the unit in the field.
target. separation from military service, leav-
2. observe the direction of the striking ing the military service by resignation,
or bursting point of a projectile from dismissal, or discharge.
the target. Shots are sensed as short, sergeant, 1. noncommissioned officer
over, right, left, hit, lost, or doubtful, who holds a rank next above that of a
without regard to the accurate measure- corporal and next below that of a staff
ment of distances and angles. sergeant or technician third grade; en-
sensing, 1. observing the direction of listed man of the fourth grade. See
the striking or bursting point of a pro- Table of Cornparative Grades on p. 125.
jectile from the target, and reporting 2. title of address for an enlisted man of
whether a shot is a hit, over or short, any of the first four grades.
right or left, lost or doubtful. Sensing Abbrev: sgt
does not include accurate measurement sergeant major, 1. chief administrative
of distances and angles. clerk in a battalion or higher unit, usual-
2. determining with a directional an- ly holding the rank of technical sergeant
tenna from what direction a radio wave or of master sergeant. He is the chief
is approaching a receiving set. enlisted assistant to the adjutant of the
sent, sentence. unit.
sentd, sentenced. 2. highest noncommissioned officer in
sentence. Abbrev: sent the Marine Corps, equivalent to chief
sentenced. Abbrev: sentd petty officer in the Navy and to master
sentinel. See sentry. sergeant and first sergeant in the Army.
sentry, soldier assigned to duty as a See Tabfe of Comparative Gradea on
member of a guard., to keep watch,
1
p. 125 rr1g1nal fro

sergeant of the guard 249 service c:ommander
mmander
sergeant of the fllard, title given to service battery, administrative unit

f an
the senior noncommissioned officer of an that provides supply and baggage trans-
interior guard, no matter what his grade port in an artillery battalion or regiment.
~ervice calls, regular calls given by bu...
de
may be.
ich
serial, one of the subdivisions into which gle, drum, or other means, to assemble
r- personnel, vehicles, or materiel are ar- men for formations or routine duties.
y
ranged for movement by march, or by It is the largest classification of bugle
land, water, or air transport. A serial calls, including all not classed as warning
may consist of one or several march calls, formation calls, or alarm calls.
units, under a single commander. service cap, uniform cap with a visor,
n
serial number, 1. individual identifies- sometimes worn by officers and enlisted
tion number given to, and stamped on men instead of the soft garrison cap.
the identification tag of, everyone en- service ceiling, height above sea level,
n-
rolled in the military service. This is under normal conditions, at which an
ber. called the Army Serial Number. Prison- airplane is unable to climb faster than
ers of war are also given a serial number. 100 feet a minute. f 1
y,
2. number stamped on an article, es- service center, mobile repair and main- \
pecially on items of ordnance property, tenance organization of the Army Air '.j
as an identification mark. Forces in a theater of operations. It is
y
serv, service. equivalent to an air base or a subdepot
Serv C, Service Command. in the zone of the interior.
un
serve, 1. be in service; perform a duty service chevron. See war service
or carry out an assignment. chevro~.
, 2. operate a gun or battery; keep a gun service clasp, metal bar, worn on the
I or battery in action by supplyi~g pro- ribbon of the Victory Medal. It was
,
1
jectiles, powder, etc. awarded to men who were not entitled

e
service, 1. any branch of the 1\.rmy to a battle clasp, for service in France,
di-
. mainly concerned with administration, Italy, Engl&nd, Siberia, or European

1
I supply, transportation, or madical care; Russia during the first World War, or
o:
1
. noncombatant branch; one of the subdi- for service op a transport sailing to any
uns
1
visions of the Army Service Forces. A of those countries.
combatant branch is called an arm. service elub, club that provides recrea..
2. care, maintenance, and operation of tional and social activities for enlisted
s
equipment or materiel, especially guns personnel and members of their families
and vehicles. at a military post, etc. It is supervised
3. operation of a gun or battery; sup- by an Army hostess and is under the
plying a gun or battery with projectiles, control of the post commander.

powder, etc. service coat, single-breasted jacket that
k bj
4. in communications, notes covering is worn with the service uniform. For-
routing instructions, time of delivery or merly called a blouse.
receipt, radio frequency used, the op- service command, organization serving
erator's identifying sign, or similar in- as a field agency of the Army Service
formation written on a message bl~nk by Forces in a speeified area. Its mission
i
the sending and receiving operators. is to provide necessary services, in-

5. military duty; period during which a eluding administrative, financial, legal,
soldier is on duty in the Army. statistical, medical, welfare, etc., for
Abbrev: sv or serv elements of the Army; to construct
serviceable property, property which is facilities and provide fixed communi-
r
in condition for use. cation services; and to procure, store,
flervice ammunition, ammunition in- maintain, and distribute supplies and
n
tended for combat, rather than for equipment for Army use both within
o
training purposes. and without tlie limits of the service

service area, area in which the ad- command. Formerly called corps area.
ministrative services of a major military Abbrev: SvC or Serv C
organization, such as an army or an air service command commander. Seese"
ns-
nt,
.
force, are located. The communications ice commander.
le
zone is the service area for a theater of serrice commander, commanding
oper41otions. general of a service command.
II I I1 I
ning
U I ERSil FC LIFO~NI
service company 250 service test
service company, unit within an organ- live ammunition, especially with artil-
ization concerned with its equipment, lery guns, to train the command for
utilities, and materiel. It may also pro- battle and to check the effectiveness of
vide supply and baggage transport. methods and functioning of materiel.
service depot, supply establishment battle service practice, practice in
that procures, stores, and issues sup- which two or more gun units work under
plies of a single service, such as the a central control. It is held for the pur-
Quartermaster Corps or Ordnance~ pose of checking the efficiency of the
service echelon, subdivision of a mili- control unit, as well as of the individual
tary command that is responsible for the guns.
supply, evacuation, maintenance, and record service practice, practice for
administration of the command; service checking and grading the efficiency of an
element. individual or battery.
service element. See service echelon. special service practice, practice for
service flag, flag that may be displayed preliminary training purposes or for test-
by members of the immediate family of ing and checking materiel.
a person who is serving, or has served, in service record, booklet on which is en-
the armed forces of the United States tered the military record of an enlisted
during World War II. man. It is begun at the time he enters
service gas mask, standard gas mask the service and is kept up-to-date as
supplied to members of the armed forces long as he remains in the service. When
for use in the field. It consists of a full his period of service is concluded, his
facepiece, hose, and a filtering canister record is sent to the War Department
worn under the left arm. It protects and becomes a permanent record.
against the common military chemical Abbrev: S/R
agents, but not against ammonia or service ribbon, colored silk ribbon worn
carbon monoxide. on the left breast of the service uniform,
service hat, felt hat with a broad flat showing that the wearer has been
brim and with the crown dented on four awarded the decoration or service medal
sides. It also has a cord that shows to which it corresponds.
whether an officer is a warrant officer, a service school, school authorized by
h
commissioned officer below general offi- the War Department to give general or
cer, or a general officer, or to what branch specialized technical training to military
of the service an enlisted man belongs. personnel. The two types of service
8ervice marking, symbols, numerals, or school are special service school and
letters that are painted, stenciled, or general service school.
stamped on supplies or ammunition to service shoe, regulation footwear, worn
give information needed for proper with the service uniform. For field serv
handling, storage, and use. ice, the shoe is high cut and is made oi
service medal, decoration awarded for heavy, brown leather, with a double sole,
military service performed in time of Services of Supply. See Army ServicE
war, in a campaign, or within given time Forces.
periods. service specialist, civilian technical ex
service of the piece, operation and pert, representing a commercial finn
maintenance of a gun or other equip- who accompanies troops in the field fol
ment by its crew. the purpose of assisting in maintenanc~
service park, location in the forward and repair of specific mechanical equip
area of a combat zone where mainte- ment or armament.
nance elements are grouped, and where service stripe, olive-drab stripe, won
the servicing and repair of vehicles and on the left sleeve of the service coat
equipment of a combat unit are carried awarded to an enlisted man for eac]
out. three-year period of military service.
service pilot, 1. rating given to a mem- service test, classification of an item <J
ber of the Army Air Forces who is materiel or equipment that has pass~
qualified to pilot aircraft other than the engineering and experimental stages
combat airplanes. and has been approved for issue i1
2. person who has this rating. limited quantity for testing in the fiel1
service practice, target practic:. with before b -- ~ ~ ~}~ssi f1d as standard.
service troop 251 shell proof
service troop, administrative unit in a 2. actual reading of the indicator on a
cavalry battalion or regiment organized scale. .
to provide supply and baggage trans- setting ring, part of a mechanical fuze
ed
port. setter that takes hold of a fixed ring on
service troops, all troops not assigned the fuze of a projectile. It then rotates
to combat duty and not officially classi- the entire projectile except a small ring,
d
fied as combat troops. They provide or setting element, in the fuze. This
si- supply, transportation, communication, setting element is kept from turning by
evacuation, maintenance, construction, the adjusting ring in the fuze setter just
n,
and other services for combat units. long enough to make the desired change
n,
service uniform, uniform prescribed by in the setting of the fuze.

Army Regulations for wear by Army sextant, instrument used mainly by sea
personnel on routine duty, as distin- or air navigators for measuring the alti-
y
guished from dress, full dress, or fatigue tude or angular height of the sun, a star,
gue
uniforms. or a planet above the horizon. Either a
service unit, unit within a larger organ- natural or bubble horizon may be used
n- ization which supplies services for the as a reference point or line.
e
entire organization. In general, it pro- SG, Surgeon General.
vides supply, transportation, communi- sgt, sergeant.
ni-
cation, maintenance, construction, po- sh, shop.

-
lice, etc. Abbrev: SU sharpshooter, 1. classification given for

service with troops, classification of skill in the use of small arms, that ranks
h
officers who are assigned to duty with next below the grade of expert and nc~\:t
soldiers in the field. above that of marksman. The grade of
setback, rearward jerk, caused by in- sharpshooter corresponds to that of
tile ertia, of free-moving parts in a projectile first class gunner.
when it is fired. This force is used to 2. soldier having this classification.
me
push back a spring or plunger in a time Abbrev: s

ze.
fuze and start the operation of the fuze. Sh Bn, shop battalion.
set-forward chart, table on which are sheaf of frre. See cone of dispersion.
recorded the distances that moving tar- shell, 1. hollow projectile designed to be
ar-
en
gets may be expected to cover between fired from a weapon. It may contain an
the time when they are last observed explosive, or a chemical or oth2r filler.
and the time when a projectile has It may be fixed or separate-loading.
, reached a point on their course. 2. shotgun cartridge.
set-forward device, scale, ruler, chart, 3. bombard; fire a number of rounds at
get
or predictor used in calculating rapidly a target.

the probable position of a moving target shell crater, bowl-shaped hole left in
at a future instant. the earth by the explosion of a projec-
set-forward point, point on the course tile; shell hole.
t
of a moving target at which the target shell extractor. See extractor.

is expected to arrive at the end of the shell fragments, jagged pieces of shell
predicting interval plus the time of scattered by the burst of a shell. High
flight of a projectile. It is the point for explosive shells, with the inside of the
ith
which firing data are figured. case scored so as to give high fraglnen-
a-
set-forward rule, mechanical device tation, have largely replaced shrapnel

similar to a slide rule, which is used with for purposes requiring a burst in the air.
a prediction scale to calculate the loca- shell hole. See shell crater.
tion of the set-fotward point. shellproof, capable of resisting bombs
pre-
or
set-forward scale, mechanical device or projectiles.

which combines the functions of the pre- heavy shellproof, capable of giving
diction scale and the set-forward rule or protection against continuous bombard-
n chart to locate the set-forward point ment by shells of 8-inch, or larger,
directly from the plotted course of a caliber.
moving target. light shellproof, capable of giving pro-
setting, 1. adjustment of any precision tection against continuous bombard-
instrument, particularly of the scales ment by shells of 6-inch, or smaller,
caliber.
e
on the aiming devices of a gun.

s
n
Orlg1nal rrom
ng,
by
shell wave 252 short title
shell wave. See ballistic wave. violence, and massed weight of the first
shelter, any natural or artificial cover impact produce the main effect. Tank
which protects troops, ammunition, or attacks usually rely on shock action.
supplies from gunfire, gas, or aerial shock power, ability to deliver sudden,
bombs. Shelters are classified according violent attacks with weight and striking
to depth as surface, cut-and-cover, and power. Armored units have shock power.
cave shelters, and according to resistance shock troops, troops especially organ-
to fire as splinterproof, light shellproof, ized, trained, and equipped for assault
e
and heavy shellproof. and hand-to-hand fighting.
shelter area, any locality in a theater shop. Abbrev: sh
of operations where troops are sheltered shop battalion. Abbrev: Sh Bn
in billets, or in a bivouac, camp, or can- shore cable, underwater electric cable
tonment. extending to the shore, connecting a
shelter half, one half of a small two- shore station with the control mecha-
man tent. Each man carries his half as nism of one or more submarine mines.
a part of his field equipment. short, shot which strikes or burats be-
shelter tent, small tent capable of pro- tween the gun and the target; shot fired
viding shelter for two men. It is made without sufficient range to reach the
of two halves, one of which is carried by target. Shorts and overs are observed
each man as part of his field equipment. in sensing.
shield, 1. armor plate mounted on a gun short-base method, method tised in ar-
carriage to protect the operating mecha- tillery survey of locating a point by de-
nism and gun crew from enemy fire. termining its distance along a known
2. metal insignia worn on the uniform, direction from a known point. The dis-
such as the shield worn on the service tance is calculated by solving a triangle
cap. having a short base accurately measured
3. protect from danger; screen from between observation points. This meth-
enemy observation. od differs from the long-base method~
shift, 1. the transfer of fire from one in which location is determined graphi-
target to another. cally by the intersection of two lines
2. to transfer fire from one target to from two points whose distance and
another. direction from each other, or from a
shift, angle of. See angle of shift. common reference point, are known.
SHIPIM, ship immediately. SHIPIM short delay fuze, fuze for a projectile
is a code abbreviation used in transmit- that is designed to work before the pro-
ting telegrams and teletype messages. jectile has completely penetrated the
shipment. Abbrev: shipt target, but not immediately on impact.
shipping officer, any officer who is re- It is also used to produce a burst in the
sponsible for making shipments of public air, just after a rebound, when a ricochet
property. burst is wanted.
shipping ticket, form accompanying a short guard, 1. prescribed guard posi-
shipment of supplies. It serves as both tion in bayonet drill, in which the point
an invoice and a receipt. Its principal of the bayonet is directed at the oppo-
function is to transfer accountability for nent's stomach, and the right hand holds
the supplies from one accountable officer the small of the stock near the right hip.
to another. Abbrev: S/T 2. command to take this position.
shipt, shipment. short lunge. See short thrust.
ship transportation officer, officer, short round, defective cartridge in which
usually of the Transportation Corps, in the bullet has been seated too deeply.
charge of the supply and administrative short thrust, bayonet thrust in which
activities of the Transportation Corps the arm is extended and the body thrown
aboard a transport. If no ship trans- forward, with the weight shifted to the
portation officer is assigned to a trans- leading foot; short lunge. It is delivered
port, a transportation agent is assigned at a distance of about 3 feet.
to carry out his duties. Also called short title, code or abbreviation used~
transportation officer. for purposes of security or brevity, to
shock action, method of attack by mo- identify a registered document without
bile units in which the suddenness, giving a clue to its contents.
lg
short wheelbase 253 shuttle movement
short wheelbase. Abbrev: SWB movement, so that the moving elements
shot, 1. projectile which is solid, as are protected by fire delivered by the
contrasted with a shell, which is hollow stationary on~.
and contains explosive, or a chemical or shoulder loop, loop of cloth sewed to
other filler. the shoulder seam of an officer's service
w
2. small balls or slugs used in shotgun coat and shirt, and fastened under the
or
shells, canisters, and some other types edge of the collar; shoulder strap.
of ammunition. shoulder patch, cloth insignia indicat-
n
3. single discharge of a firearm of any ing branch of the service, division, etc.,
type. worn on the upper left sleeve, one-half
es
y
shot group, 1. design made on a sur- inch below the shoulder seam on the
face by all the impacts of a series of service coat or shirt; shoulder sleeve
shots fired under similar conditions. In insignia.
this meaning, also called shot pattern. shoulder sleeve insignia. See shoulder
n
2. pattern made on a surface by a series patch.
.
of pencil marks that test the ability of shoulder strap. See shoulder loop.
ies
a soldier to sight a gun properly. The shoulder weapon, any small-arms weap-
soldier directs a small disk target to be on designed to be fired while held in the
e
moved until it is alined with the sights hands, with its butt braced against the
s
of a gun in a fixed position. The posi- shoulder. The rifle, carbine, shotgun,
tion of the disk is marked by a pencil and automatic rifle are shoulder weap-
dot made through the hole in the disk. ons.
. Three such dots make up a shot group. shrapnel, artillery projectile which con-
p.
In this meaning, also called aiming tains small lead balls that are released
group. by a powder charge in the base, set off
shotgun, smooth-bored gun that fires by a time fuze. Although still in serv-
cartridges containing small metal balls. ice, shrapnel has been replaced almost en-
shotgun shell, cartridge containing tirely by high explosive shells. Wounds
s.
er
small balls that scatter on firing, rather called shrapnel wounds usually are due
than a single bullet. This type of shell to shell fragments rather than to
is used for target practice, guard pur- shrapnel.
poses, and hunting. shroud, one of the ropes attached to the
shot hoist, apparatus for lifting heavy edge of a parachute canopy, used to sup-
projectiles used in large cannon. port the man or object being dropped.
ce
shot pattern, design made on a surface shuttle, any system of transport in

by all the impacts of a series of shots which a unit operates back and forth
fired under similar conditions. Also between two points to give almost con-
h
called shot group. tinuous service. An ambulance organi-
n
shot truck, small truck or cart on which zation operates a shuttle system to keep
-
heavy projectiles are loaded to be run an ambulance at each loading post at
up to the breech, in loading large can- all times, and to prevent congestion of
non. It is adjusted to the height of the ambulances at any one point.
breech, so that the projectile can be shuttle bombing, 1. bombing of objec-
slid into the gun. tives between two bases. By this
shoulder, 1. edge of the grading of a method, a bomber formation bombs its
road. target, flies on to its second base, re-
ere
am-
ter
2. part of a shell or cartridge case where loads, and returns to its home base,
the larger diameter of the powder cham- again bombing its target on the way.
ber i~ tapered in to the smaller diameter 2. bombing of a target so near that an
o of the projectile. aircraft is able to make several round
ic-
shoulder guard, any shield over the trips to the enemy position in a single
t-
firing mechanism of a gun designed to day.

her
protect the gunner from contact; partic- shuttle marchin", alternate riding and
ularly, such a shield on cannon mount- marching in a troop movement, usually
d
ed in tanks, armored vehicles, and other because of insufficient vehicles to carry
nts
cramped quarters. the entire unit.
shouldering process, attacking an shuttle movement, movement of a unit
enemy position by alternating fire and in which vehicles make two or more trips.
ice
rlglnal rrom
e
shuttling 254 sighting bar
--
shuttling, transporting troops, equip- sig, signal.
ment, and supplies by a series of round Sig C, Signal Corps.
trips of the same vehicles. It may be sight, 1. mechanical or optical device
done by hauling a load the entire dis- for aiming a firearm or for laying a gun
tance and then returning for another in position. It is based on the principle
load; or it may be done by carrying suc- that two points in fixed relation to each
cessive portions of the marching force other may be brought in line with a
for short distances while the remaining third. Sights are classified as fixed or
portions continue on foot. adjustable, depending on the provision
sick. Abbrev: sk made for setting windage and range,
sick bay, ship's hospital or infirmary. and also according to type. Glass
sick book. See daily sick report. sights comprise all sights which include
sick call, 1. daily assembly ''hen all an optical element, such as a collimator,
sick and injured, other than those in the telescope, periscope, etc. Iron sights
hospital, report to a medical officer for are classified as either open or aperture.
exarnination. Aperture sights are those that are
2. bugle call or signal for this assembly. sighted through, such as peep, ring, etc.
sick leave, leave from duty granted an Open sights are all those that are sighted
officer to recover from sickness or injury over or at, such as post, bead, notch,
or to receive any authorized medical etc. Leaf sights are those which can be
treatment except hospitalization. folded down for protection.
sick report. See daily sick report. 2. aim at a target or aiming point.
side arms, weapons that are worn at 3. look through a sighting device to de-
the side or in the belt when not in use. termine the angular direction of a point,
The sword, bayonet, automatic pistol, either horizontal or vertical, in survey-
revolver, etc., are side arms. ing or navigation, especially the angular
side gun, gun mounted so as to be fired position of the sun, a star, or a planet in
from the side of an aircraft's fuselage. navigation.
sidelap, area common to two aerial sight base, mount for a gun sight.
photographs taken on adjacent lines of sight blade, thin, flat, metal post used
flight. The area common to two suc- as the front sight on some firearms.
cessive photographs taken during the sight bracket, clamp used to hold a
same flight is called overlap. detachable sight in position when
sideslip, 1. flight maneuver in which an mounted on a gun.
aircraft slips downward and sidewise. sight cover, protective metallic ring
It is caused by banking the aircraft too fastened about a sight to guard it from
steeply. Sideslip is used purposely to being moved out of adjustment by jars
lose altitude and speed through the or blows and yet leave a clear field of
braking action of air resistance against view immediately around the sight.
the fuselage. sight defilade, 1. position which is
2. make such a flight maneuver. shielded from enemy ground observa-
3. outflanking maneuver made by a tac- tion by an intervening obstacle.
tical unit; movement to one side when 2. gun position in which a gun is masked
it is impossible or impractical to ad- from observation at all points below the
vance straight ahead. line of sighting.
side spray, fragments of a bursting shell 3. vertical distance by which an object
that are thrown sidewise from the line or position is hidden from enemy ob-
of flight, in contrast with base spray, servation by an obstacle, such as a hill.
thrown to the rear, and nose spray, sight extension, any device which
thrown to the front. raises the normal base, or mount, of a
side step, single step 12 inches to the sight to provide improved or unob-
right or left of a given standing position. structed sighting.
siege warfare, type of warfare that de- sighting bar, wooden device with en-
velops when an attacking force wholly larged front and rear sights, and an eye-
or partly surrounds a strongly defended piece, used with a movable target. It is
position and attempts to wear it down used to train men in the proper method
by blockade, bombardment, and small, of ain1ing a small-arms weapon. The
systematic advances. eyepiece forces the student to hold his
r1g1nal ro
sighting disk 255 signal system
eye in proper position. Because of the 2. flag used in signaling by a code sys-
size of the sights, errors of aiming are tem of v.igwag or semaphore.
very apparent. signal flare, any pyrotechnic signal,
e
sighting disk, cardboard or metal disk fired from the ground or from aircraft,
e
attached to a handle. With a gun in that has distinct.i ve color or character-
fixed position, a sighting disk is used in istics which give it meaning in an es-
aiming practice. The instructor moves tablished code system.
the disk across a sheet of paper as the signaling panel, strip of cloth used in
in
student directs, until the student be- sending code signals between ground and
s
lieves it. is in line with the sights. He aircraft in flight. -

e
then marks the position. Three such signal intelligence service, Sign~l Corps
marks make up a shot group or aiming units and detachments within a larger
group. command that have as their duty the
g
sighting shot, trial shot fired from a securing, analyzing, and distributing of
gun to find out whether the sights are information gained by signal intelli-
properly adjusted. gence activities. These include the in-
e
sight leaf, movable hinged part of a terception of m~ages, location of radio

rear sight of a gun that can be raised and transmitters, and solution of enemy
set to a desired range, or snapped down codes and ciphers. The signal intelli-
and
wn
when not in use. gence service also supervises friendly
signal, 1. any signs agreed upon in ad- communications.
d-
vance by which a message may be con- signal lamp, light used to signal by
on-
veyed. Such signs~ may be given by flashing,, according to a code.
buzzers, whistles, marking flags, sema- signal officer, Signal Corps officer who
a-
phores, lights, rockets, blinkers, radios, has two duties, one as a special staff
s,
telegraphs, panels, or other means. officer, the other as a commander of

2. send a message by such signs. troops. As a member of the special
Abbrev: sig .. staff, he is the technical assistant and
signal center, communications unit at adviser to the commander and his staff
e
a headquarters that is in charge of the on all matters concerning signal com-
all
receipt, transmission, and delivery of all munication, signal security, and signal
adio,
messages sent by telegraph, cable, radio, supply. As a commander of troops, he
teletype, and other special means. commands the signal company, and any
nd
signal communication, all methods and other Signal Corps units attached to
ain
means of transmitting messages in plain the command, for operations and train-
-
text or code, other than by direct con- ing only.

versation or mail. signal operation instructions, type of
ni-
Signal Corps, branch of the Army combat order issued for the technical
ro-
which is in charge of military communi- control and coordination of signal com-
n
cations, including the development, pro- munication activities throughout a com-
curement, maintenance, and operation mand. Abbrev: SOI
of signal equipment. It is under the signal pistol, pistol from which pyro-
supervision of the Commanding Gen- technic signals, especially flares, are
eral, Army Service Forces. fired. Also called pyrotechnic pistol.
Abbrev: Sig Cor SC signal rocket, rocket that gives off some
Signal Corps School, special service characteristic color or display which has
g-
school that gives training and instruc- a meaning according to an established

tion in the technique and tactics of sig- code. It is usually fired from a signal
nal communication. The Signal Corps pistol or a ground signal projector.
n
School develops trained enlisted spe- signal security, protection of signal
cialists for duty in the field and as in- communication from enemy intercep-
structors, and trains and qualifies men tion and interpretation.
es.
fpr commission in the Signal Corps. It signal service, Signal Corps unit as-
r
is under the supervision of the Com- signed to an army.

g
manding General, Army Service Forces. signal system, any apparatus for signal
signal flag, 1. flag of a distinctive color communication, such as that for send-
used in signaling by display, according
s-
ing fire control data from an observation

to some standard code. station to a JrUD.
, r1g1nal fro
,

signal troops 256 skate mount
signal troops, troops of the Signal single section charge, propelling charge
Corps; especially, those who are assigned in separate-loading ammunition that is
to another arm or service to maintain loaded into a single bag. A single sec-
and operate its communications systems. tion charge cannot be reduced or in-
silent station, radio receiver tuned to creased for changes of range, as a
the wave lengths of stations where trans- multisectlon charge can be.
mission is restricted to certain types of single shot, 1. loaded by hand for each
messages, to make certain that other shot.
stations in the net do not send un- 2. semiautomatic operation of an auto-
authorized messages. matic gun, in which the trigger must be
silhouette, dark image of a person or ob- pulled for each shot fired.
ject outlined against a lighter back- single-shot weapon, gun, such as an old-
ground. Silhouettes are used as targets, style rifle, that is loaded by hand for
and for training in identification of ob- each shot; single loader.
jects such as tanks and planes. single-station method, method of lo-
silhouette target, 1. target whose shape cating a target or of position finding, in
is outlined against a .light background which observations are made from only
although its body features cannot be one station; single-station system. The
clearly seen. target is located by determining the di-
2. practice target consisting of the dark rection and the distance to it along that
image of a person or object outlined direction, as contrasted with the two-
against a light background. station method, in which the target is
Silver Star, bronze star with a small located by the intersection of two lines
silver 8tar at the center, awarded to an of known directions.
officer or enlisted man who has been single-station spotting, method of de-
cited in orders for gallantry in action, termining by observation the deviations
when the citation does not warrant the of artillery fire from a target, in which
award of a l\1edal of Honor or the Dis- observations are made from only one
tinguished Service Cross. spotting station.
simulated, pretended, sham, or imita- single-station system. See single-station
tion. Simulated amm.anition is imita- method.
tion ammunition made of wood or other si,e, 1. position of anything, for exam-
material, used in gunnery training. ple, the position of a gun emplacement.
Simulated fire is going through the mo- 2. vertical angle between the horizontal
tions of firing without actually firing. and a line joining the target and the
simulated agent, relatively harmless muzzle of a gun. In this meaning,
chemical agent used for testing equip- usually called angle of site.
ment or training personnel. Simulated site, angle of. See angle of site.
agents resemble harmful agents in ap- site defilade. See position defilade.
pearance, but they are not dangerous to site scale, instrument for setting off
persons or equipment that come in con- angles of site in laying a gun.
tact with them. sitting position, one of the standard
single action, method of fire in a re- postures used in firing a rifle. The
volver and in old-style rifles and shot- shooter sits half faced to the right, with
guns that necessitates cocking the ham- legs apart, heels well braced into the
mer by hand before firing, in contrast ground, and body bent forward, while
to double action, in which a single pull supporting the weig~:lt of the rifle with
of the trigger poth cocks and fires the the elbows resting inside the legs.
weapon. situation map, map showing the tacti-
single-base powder. See pyro powder. cal or administrative situation at a par-
single loader. See single-shot weapon. ticular time, used for staff study or as an
single-place fighter, fighter airplane addition to staff reports.
operated by a single flyer, in contrast to sk, ~ick.
one operated by a crew, which is called skate mount, mounting of a machine
a multiplace fighter. It is used for gun that permits it to travel on a con-
patrol and escort duty, and also for tinuous track extending around the in-
attacking enemy ground positions and side of the body of a vehicle. The gun
formations. can be locked in any position for use.
r1g1nal ro
skeet gun 257 slow fire
skeet gun, classification of shotguns SL Btry, searchlight battery.
which includes those with 26-inch im- sleeve emblem, cloth insignia worn on
proved cylinder barrels. Other classi- the sleeve to indicate the wearer's status
fications are riot gun and sporting gun. or his arm or service. Civilian employes
skeleton crew, smallest number of men and civilian members of military mis-
that can handle and care for equipment. sions wear sleeve emblems.
n.
sketch. See military sketch. sleeve target, tubular open-ended bag

which fills with air and bellies out \vhen
en
nt.
skidding, flight maneuver consisting of
a slide toward the outside of a turn. It towed by an aircraft in flight. It is
of
is effected by insufficient banking. used as a target. Also called towed
skilled rating, classification of an en- sleeve target.
listed man who possesses occupational sleigh, part of a gun carriage which sup-
qualifications of such military value that ports the recoil mechanism and barrel of
al
with the tools of his trade and a mini- the gun, and slides with the gun on re-
hat
mum of supervision he can do excellent coil, guiding it in runways in the cradle.

~ork for the Army. slew, swing a gun sidewise; traverse a
nt
skip bombing, method of aerial bomb- gun.

-
ing in which the bomb is released from slide, 1. inner rule of a slide rule or
m
such a low altitude that it slides or graphic firing table.
glances along the surface of the water 2. sliding part of the receiver of certain
r
or ground and strikes the target at automatic weapons.
water-level or ground-level. 3. sliding catch on the breech mecha-
skirmish, 1. relatively light engagement nism of certain guns.
nt
between small bodies of scattered troops. sliding recoil, control of recoil on rail-
2. take part in a skirmish. way artillery that consists of locking
ops.
ne
skirmisher, dismounted soldier in a line the brakes of the car and permitting it
of troops in extended order during to slide back along the track. This
maneuver or attack. method is little used because after each
skirmisher's trench, hasty shallow shot the car has to be pulled back into
trench dug by a soldier in prone posi- firing position and too much time is
tion while under small-arms fire. lost.
skirmish line, line of troops in ex- sling, 1. loop of rope, chains, cable, or
e
tended order during a tactical exercise the like, used to hold an article while it
or attack. is being hoisted.
ski troops, any troops, especially infan-
n-
er
2. strap attached to a rifle or carbive to
try, trained and equipped to maneuver be placed over a man's shoulder to sus-
.and fight on skis. tain the weight of the firearm on the

S-L, sound locator. march and to hold it steady when being
e
SL, 1. searchlight. 2. support line. fired. In this meaning, usually called
slack, looseness or play; especially the gun sling.
play in the trigger of a small-arms sling arms, place a rifle or carbine with
s
weapon, which should be taken up by its strap over the shoulder in position
a slight pressure before final aiming is for marching, or for review under certain
nt-
made. conditions.
slant plane, plans determined by the slip, small sideslip made by an aircraft
gun-target 1ine or the observatior.t point- to lose altitude rapidly in approaching a
target line and a horizontal line at a !anding.
right angle to it. 1t is used in tracking slipstream, stream of air driven astern
n
aerial targets. by the propeller of an aircraft.

slant range, distance a1ong a straight slit trench, term erroneously ~ed to
-
line from a gun or point of observation denote a fox hole.

to the target; distance from origin to slope of fall, ratio between the drop of
tatget along the line of position, espe- a projectile and its horizontal move-
cially to an aerial target. ment; tangent of the angle of fall.
slash, cutting stroke with a bayonet, slow fire, type of firing used in in-
usually from a position in wbich the stn;.cting beginners and in record prac-
n
rifle is held horizontal above the left tice, in which no time limit for complet-
atus
shoulder, with butt forward. ing a score is set.

rlglnal rrom
es

g
en'
/
slurry 258 sn
slurry, mixture of a solid and a liquid gun are concealed from enemy observa-
that v.ill flow easily; especially, a mix- tion by an intervening obstacle, such as
ture of chloride of lime and water, and a hill or ravine.
sometimes mud, used for decontaminat- 2. vertical distance by which the smoke
ing personnel, animals, equipment, ve- and flash of a gun are concealed from
hicles, etc., especially for neutralizing enemy observation.
mustard gas. smoke blanket, dense, low-hanging
slush, clean the rifling of a gun with a concentration of smoke used to obscure
compound, or oil its bore with lubricat- a particular area, to screen tactical
ing oU. maneuvers, or to confuse the enemy.
slush brush, cylindrical piece of wood, smoke bomb, bomb which releases
fastened to a long rod and covered with smoke on impact or burst, used for sig-
a wool or carpet pad, used to coat the naling or for producing a smoke screen
inner surface of a gun bore with oil or or blanket in a limited area.
cleaning compound. smoke candle, chemical container that
Sl\i, Soldier's Medal. is filled with a smoke-producing agent.
small arms, 1. firearms of small caliber, The chemical filler is ignited, usually
including pistols, rifles, machine guns, from a striker or spark at the top cover
and shotguns. The maximum caliber of the container, and produces a cloud
for small arms is set variously in differ- of smoke, especially for use as a smoke
ent branches of the service, commonly screen.
either ~60 caliber or one inch. .. smoke cloud, cloud consisting of a
2. weapons which may be carried by in- chemical agent in the form of fine liquid
dividuals. Abbrev: SA drops or solid particles. It is distin-
small-arms ammunition, ammunition guished from a gas cloud, which is a mix-
used in small arms; rounds having a ture of 2.ir and a chemical agent in the
bullet diameter of one inch or less. form of vapor.
small boat. Abbrev: S Bt smoke defilade, 1. condition in which
small boat company. Abbrev: S Bt Co the smoke of firing at a gun position is
small-bore practice, _practice in firing concealed from enemy observation by an
with small arms using .22-caliber am- intervening obstacle, such as a hill or a
munition instead of the standard service ravine.
rounds. 2. vertical distance by which the flash of
small of the stock, part of the stock of a gun is concealed from enemy observa-
a small-arms weapon ordinarily gripped tion.
by the right hand; part of the stock im- smoke grenade, small grenade which
mediately behind the receiver and trig- releases a chemical agent producing
ger assembly; pistol grip in some styles dense smoke upon impact or explosion.
of sto<;ks. smokeless powder, propellent explo-
small . . scale map, map having a scale sive from which there is little or no vis-
between 1:1,000,000 and 1:7,000,000. ible smoke on firing.
Small-scale maps are used in general smoke pot, small smoke generator used
planning and strategical studies by the to produce a screen or blanket of smoke.
commanders of large units. smoke projectile, any projectile con-
SMG, submachine gun. taining a smoke-producing chemical
smoke, 1. chemical agent that produces agent that is released on impact or
a dense cloud of very fine liquid drops burst. Also called smoke shell.
or solid particles, held in suspension in smoke screen, curtain of smoke used
the air, like fog, and used as a screen to to mask either friendly or enemy instal-
cover friendly movements, or to con- lations or maneuvers.
fuse the enemy. smoke shell, any projectile containing
2. produce a dense cloud of some chemi- a smoke-producing chemical agent that
cal agent as a screen in a particular area. is released on impact or burst. Also
smoke agent, any chen1ical agent which called smoke projectile.
produces sn1oke in sufficient volume arid smooth-bore, having a bore that is
density to act as a screen. smooth and without rifling. Shotguns
smoke and flash defilade, 1. condi- and mortars are commonly smooth-bore.
tion in which the smoke and flash of a sn, sanitary.
Orlg1nal fro
snap roll 259 sounding
snap roll, acrobatic flight maneuver in SOl, signal operation instructions.
which an aircraft is rolled about its SOK, supply authorized. SOK is a code
longitudinal axis by a quick movement abbreviation used in transmitting tele-
n
of the controls. grams and teletype messages. "'
Sn C, Sanitary Corps. soldier, any member of the Army.
t
sneeze gas, chemical agent that gives Sometimes the word is used to mean an
off a grayish irritant smoke cloud, used enlisted man as contrasted with an
as a harassing agent. It produces officer.
s
sneezing and a burning sensation of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Act,
ed
nose and throat. A sneeze gas usually federal statute enacted to give civil and
contains an arsenic compound, diphenyl- legal protection to members of the armed
chlorarsine being the commonest type. forces by suspending the enforcement of
he
nyl-
Sneeze gas is classified as a sternutator. certain civil liabilities; Civil Relief Act.
e.
sniff bottle, small bottle containing a soldier's deposit, deposit of an enlisted
tor.
sample of a chemical agent, used in man's savings in a special fund in the
training military personnel to recognize Treasury of the United States. It is
the odors of chemical agents. made through the local disbursing offi-
ze
sniper, rifleman who is detailed to fire cer. The money cannot be withdrawn
from a concealed position and pick off prior to the discharge or death of the
e
key enemy individuals, or distract or soldier, except in case of emergency. It

harass the enemy. is forfeited if he tieserts.
f
sniper's post. See sniping post. Soldier's Medal, medal awarded to any
sniping, intermittent rifle fire delivered member of the Army of the United
d
by concealed riflemen to kill enemy in- States, or to a member of any other mili-
n- dividuals who do not keep under cover. tary organization serving with the Army
er.
sniping post, concealed, generally of the United States who distinguishes
isolated position for a rifleman who is himself by heroism not involving con-
detailed to pick off key enemy indi- flict with an enemy. Abbrev: SM
viduals; sniper's post. Soldier's Qualification Card, basic
SNL, Standard Nomenclature List. classification record of every enlisted
SO, special orders. man. It contains a summary of his per-
soakage pit, pit or trench into which sonal history, schooling, occupational
sewage and liquid refuse are drained. and military experience, test scores, and
Also called sullage pit. oth~r information.
th-
soar, fly without engine power and with- SOP, standing operating procedure.
out loss of altitude. Glider pilots ac- sortie, 1. sudden attack made from a
complish this by riding rising air defensive position. In this me.aning,
currents. also called sally.

-
sodium hydroxide. See caustic soda. 2. single round trip of an aircraft on a
ble
sodium hypochlorite, chemical decon- tactical mission.
taminating agent having a disagreeable sound and flash. Abbrev: S&F
sweetish odor. It is usually supplied sound and flash battalion. Abbrev:
and used as a solution. S&FBn
as
sodium sulfide, chemical decontami- sound communication, communication
nating agent used in solution in water as based on signals from bugles, whistles,
s-
an alternative to bleaching powder, horns, sirens, small-arms fire, etc; sound

especially in the neutralization of mus- signaling. It is used to give warning of
tard gas. gas, air, or mechanized attack, and to
sodium sulfite, chemical that is dis- transmit prearranged messages. Sound
n-
solved in alcohol and used as a decon- communication does not include com-
s
taminating agent for surfaces con- munication by voice, radio, telephone,
gh
taminated with chlorpicrin. telegraph, or messenger.
soft spot tactics, tactics in which tanks sound discipline, observing the official
ng
or other assault elements strike through restrictions on the sounds that may be
ops
spots of least resistance, bypassing made in a particular locality. It is often

strongly defended localities and leaving near a listening or sound-locator post.
them to be reduced later by other troops sounding, measuring the depth of water
at various points.
e
-
attacking from the flank or rear.
r1g1nal fro n
an
sound lag 260 specialist
sound lag, angular difference between span, 1. maximum distance, measured
the actual or present position of a mov- parallel to the lateral axis, from tip to
ing target and its apparent position as tip of an airfoil.
indicated by the sound, which has taken 2. horizontal distance between the sup-
an appreciable time to travel from the ports of a bridge; the bridge itself.
former position of the target. spanning tray, removable hollowed tray
sound location, locating the direction on which the elements of separate-
from which a sound comes by means of loading ammunition slide when being
a sound locator. Sound location is used inserted in the breech of a cannon.
to detect and locate enemy aircraft at 8par bridge, emergency bridge built of
night. round timbers lashed together.
sound locator, instrument for locating spearhead, 1. the leading assault troops
the direction from which a sound comes, in an attack.
useful in locating the position of an un- 2. hold. the leading position in an assault
seen aerial target. A bbrev: S-L or rapidly moving attack.
sound off, command given at parade 3. ornament on the top of a staff or
and guard mount when it is customary lance bearing the colors.
for the band to play a short series of special. Abbrev: sp
chords before beginning to play the special court-martial, court-maial
march. made up of at least three officers ap-
sound-powered teleph0ne, self-contained pointed by the commanding officer of a
local communication set, not operating station, regiment, or higher unit, to try
through a switchboard and not requir- enlisted men of the grade of master ser-
ing heavy or complicated equipment or geant or lower for noncapital offenses.
batteries. It may impose punishment consisting of
sound ranging, method of locating the imprisonment up to 6 months, and for-
source of a sound, such as that of a feiture of up to two-thirds pay for 6
gun report or a shell burst, by calcula- months. Abbrev: SCM
tions based on the intervals between the special disbursing agent, warrant offi-
reception of the sound at various pre- cer or civilian employee authorized to
viously oriented !nicrophone stations. disburse funds under provisions of law.
Sound location 0f aircraft by means of special duty, duty performed by an
a sound locator is also sometimes called individual away from his own organiza-
sound ranging. Abbrev: SR tion but still under its control.
sound ranging adjustment, adjustment Abbrev: SD
of the fire of a friendly gun or battery special engineer troops, engineer troops
by sound ranging methods applied to who perform highly technical work, such
the sound of its shell bursts. as topography or camouflage. They are
sound ranging location, location of an often placed at the disposal of a division
enemy gun or battery by sound ranging for special tasks, but never permanently
methods applied to the sound produced assigned. Ordinary engineering func-
by its fire. tions are performed by general engineer
sound ranging plotting board, standard troops.
plotting board used in locating the special guard, soldier or group of sol-
source of a sound from the data sup- diers detailed for various guard duties
plied by the various microphone sta- which have not been assigned to the
tions. main guard or the prisoner guard.
sound signaling. See sound communi- Guards of honor, and other guards
cation. posted to protect personnel and equip-
sp, special. ment not covered by the other subdi-
SP, 1. self-propelled. 2. supply point. visions of the interior guard of a com-
spade, sharp part of a gun trail that is mand, are assigned to the special guard.
embedded in the ground and restricts specialist, any individual suited by
movement of the carriage during recoil. training and experience to perform serv-
spade grip, D-shaped handle for point- ices requiring training beyond the basic
ing the gun, fastened on the rea~ of the military training of his branch. A para-
receiver of certain flexible automatic chutist is a military specialist. A cook is
weapons. an occupational specialist. Abbrev: specl
Orlg1nal fro
specialist rating 261 split trail
speeialist rating, rating formerly grant- special service officer, special staff of-
ed enlisted men of the sixth and seventh ficer in charge of all matters pertaining
grades who d1d specialized work. Spe-. to morale, recreation, and welfare.
t-
cialist ratings have been replaced by the Formerly called morale officer or recrea-
nth
technician grades. tion officer.

-
Specialist Reserve, section of the Of- special service practice, practice for
the
ficers' Reserve Corps in which officers preliminary training purposes or for

who are highly specialized in some tech- testing and checking materiel.
s
nical profession, or who possess demon- Special Services Branch. See Special
ch-
strated abilities, are commissioned for Service Division.
on-
specific duties in procurement or indus- special service school, school for offi-
r trial mobilization. cers and enlisted men, conducted by one
us-
Specialized Training and Reassignment. of the various arms or services, at which
Abbrev: STAR are taught subjects necessary in the par-
nt.
special messenger. Abbrev: sp msgr ticular arm or service.

special orders, instructions issued in special staff, staff group, separate from
order fonn that apply only to individ- the general staff of a unit, including
uals or small groups of individuals, those officers of the various arms and
rather than to a command as a whole. services assigned to a headquarters for
.
Special orders usually cover such mat- technical, supply, and administrative
t- ters as assignment, reassignment, trans- purposes.
ans-
fer, promotion, separation, appointment special troops, troops attached to the
ent
of boards, etc. Orders applying to a headquarters of a division or larger

whole command are called general unit, that perform certain special serv-
orders. Abbrev: SO ices, including combat service, for the
-
special purpose aviation, class of mili- command as- a whole. Abbrev: sp trs
c-
tary aviation that performs special tac- specifications, 1. clear and accurate de-
tical missions, such as aerial photog- scription of an item of material, an ar-
raphy or troop transportation, includ- ticle, or a service which it is necessary to
ing transportation by glider. Other obtain.
ental
classes are combat aviation. experimental 2. statement in detail attached to a
aviation, and training aviation. court-martial charge, describing the
a
special purpose vehicle, . vehicle with a exact offense committed.

uit-
body and equipment which make it suit- specl, specialist.

hich
able for some special function, but which speedometer multiplier, any number by
make it unsuitable for general use. which the speedometer reading in miles
Examples are air corps trailers and per hour is multiplied to determine the
crash trucks. proper distance between vehicles in open
- special reconnaissance, scouting and column.
ing
observation of an area to obtain infor- spider wire entanglement, irregular
mation of a particular nature concerning crisscross grouping of barbed-wire fences.
enemy activities. spin, intentional flight maneuver, or ac-
special service, all service other than cidental condition, in which an airplane
-
that classified as service with troops; is completely stalled and descends, still
military service such as industrial pro- in the stall, along a steep, narrow spiral
curement, production, research, etc. path; tail spin.
Special Service. See Special Service spiral, maneuver in which an airplane
y Division. descends in a wide, broad spiral path.
Special Service Division, subdivision splash scale, device on an observing
f
of the Army Service Forces, headed by instrument which shows the deviation
s.
the Chief of the Special Service. The of the splash from the target.
Special Service Division has charge of splinterproof shelter, shelter which pro-
ffi-
recreational and educational activities. tects against rifle and machine-gun fire,
The representative of this service in a splinters of high explosive shell, . and
command is called a special service offi- grenades, but not against direct hits by
-
cer. Formerly called Morale Branch, 3-inch shells, or larger.
g Special Service, or Special Services split trail, trail divided into two parts,
Branch. used on certain types of gun carriages.
r1g1nal ~rom
ea-

SPM 262 squadron ~ethod
SPM, self-propelled mount. spread, 1. widen the beam of a search-
sp msgr, special messenger. light.
spoil, dirt removed in digging trenches 2. extend and put in place the trail of a
and other excavations, lying on the sur- gun.
face of the ground. spread the guns, adjust the sights of
sponson, hollow enlargement on the side the guns of a battery so that the aim
of the hull of a tank, used for storing varies slightly from gun to gun. The
ammunition, or as a space for radio purpose of spreading the guns is to
equipment or guns. widen the cone of dispersion.
sporting gun, classification of shot- Springfield rifle, United States rifle,
guns which include those with 30-inch .30-caliber, M1903. It is a breech-
full choke barrels. Other classifications loading, magazine-fed, bolt-operated
are riot gun and skeet gun. weapon.
spot, 1. adjustment correction based spt, support.
upon observation of fire; measured de- sp trs, special troops.
viation of an impact or center of impact spy, 1. in military law, a person who
from the target. secretly or under false pretenses gets, or
2. place a railroad car or truck in a good tries to get, military information, with
position for loading or unloading. the intention of giving it to the enemy.
3. place guides, ammunition, etc., at 2. act secretly or under false pretenses
proper intervals. to get military information, \vith the in-
spot check, inspection of only one or tention of giving it to the enen1y.
two parts of a weapon, a few out of a sq, squadron.
number of articles of equipment, or cer- sqd, squad.
tain parts of a vehicle or tank. squad, group of enlisted men organized
spotter, 1. small black metal disk at- as a team; smallest tactical unit, con-
tached to a target in practice shooting sisting of only as many men as a leader
to show the marksman exactly where he can direct easily in the field. Squads
has hit. vary in size in different branches of the
2. person who observes the striking or Army. Abbrev: sqd
bursting point of a projectile in order to squad column, extended order forma-
supply information for the adjustment tion in which the men in a squad are
of fire. arranged in an irregular column behind
spotting, process of determining, by ob- the leader, usually about five paces
servation, deviations of artillery fire apart.
from the target for the purpose of sup- squad leader, noncommissioned officer
plying necessary information for the ad- in charge of a squad.
justment of fire. squadron, 1. basic administrative and
spotting board, device for determining tactical unit of the Army Air Forces.
the direction and size of deviations from A squadron is larger than a flight,
the target. It converts the readings of smaller than a group. It is composed of
spotters into usable form for firing data. two or more flights. A squadron is
spotting charge, charge of low explo- equivalent to a battery in artillery, a
sive used in practice ammunition to troop in cavalry, or a company in other
show the striking point of a projectile branches of the Army.
or bomb. 2. administr&tive and tactical unit of
spotting detail, one or more men as- the Army, in cavalry. It is composed of
signed to a spotting station, usually one two or more troops of cavalry. A squad-
man to make observations and another ron is equivalent to a battalion in other
to read the deviations. branches of the Army. Abbrev: sq
spctting station, point at which spot- squadron method, method of airplane
ters observe fire. bombing attack, used especially at night,
spray attack, in chemical warfare, an at- in which several squadrons approach the
tack made by spraying chemical agents target simultaneously from different
from an airplane on troops below. angles and at different heights. The air-
spray tank, tank, fitted into an aircraft, craft of each squadron attack individ-
from which liquid chemical agents are ually, but one plane from each squadron
sprayed onto the ground. should arrive at the same time. This
Or1g1nal fro
squad room 263 staff ride
method is intended to confuse sound projectiles and bombs that helps to
location and make antiaircraft fire maintain balance during flight so that
difficult. the projectile or bomb strikes nose first.
squad room, room in a barracks in stabilizing sleeve, cloth tube attached
which a number of men sleep. to an aircraft flare to hold it in proper
square base, rear end of a projectile position while it is descending.
v.rhich is cylinder-shaped and does not stack arms, 1. put a number of rifles in
taper off from the rotating band to the a group, upright, with their butts on
t
end, as in a projectile having a boat- the ground. Three of them are linked
e
tail. together with the stacking swivels that

square division, infantry division which are attached to them near the muzzles.
h
has two infantry brigades, each of which Additional rifles are stacked leaning
ich
has t~.vo regiments. It is called a square against this group.
re
division because it has four infantry 2. command to do this.
regiments, instead of three, as in a stacked charge, powder charge in which
triangular division. the powder grains lie end to end within
Sfluib, small charge of black powder the powder bag.
packed around an electric wire and en- stacking swivel, hinged hook on the
n-
cased in a small tube, one end of which muzzle end of the handguard of a rifle
ch
is sealed; flash fuze. It is used to ignite by means of which several rifles can be
burning-type munitions, such as the gas fastened together to form a stack.
e
gas
an
candle or the smoke pot, by means of an sta com, station comple1nent.
electric current. stadia, instrument that measures dis-
S/R, service record. tances by means of angles. It consists
SR, sound ranging. of lines or cross hairs on the lens of a
SS, Selective Service. telescope or transit. A graduated rod is
s sgt, staff sergeant. held at the point to which the distance is
S/T, shipping ticket. to be measured. The number of gradua-
sta, station. tions that can be seen between the cross
stability, balanced position; tendency hairs is converted into distance by a
of a vehicle or aircraft to return to its simple formula.
level or balanced position. staff, group of officers who assist the
stabilized front, strong defense line in commander of a battalion or larger unit
h which the combat elements are dis- in carrying out his duties. The staff of
y
tributed over a deep area and in which a division or higher unit is divided into a
the flanks are covered or protected by general staff and a special staff.
other troops or by strong barriers. It Abbrev: stf

a-
is usually fortified with trenches. staff car, automobile used by a com-

stabilized road, road made of such rna- mander or by members of his staff.
a
terials that it will not sink or crack as a staff duty, service on the staff of a com-
result of use. mander.
of
stabilized warfare, warfare in which staff judge advocate, staff officer who
there is only limited maneuvering by acts as the chief adviser on military law
either side. Trench warfare is a form of to a commander who has authority to
an
- stabilized warfare. appoint courts-martial. The staff judge
o
stabilizer, 1. airfoil whose primary advocate checks all proceedings before

purpose is to increase the stability of an and after a trial and keeps a record of
r-
aircraft. The term is usually applied to all cases. Also called judge advocate.
to
the fixed horizontal tail surface of an staff leader, noncommissioned officer in
airplane, as distinguished from the ver- the former Women's Army Auxiliary
gun
tical surface. Corps (WAAC) who had a rank equiva-
2. mechanism on a vehicle that helps to lent to the rank of staff sergeant.
the keep it level on a rough road. staff officer, member of the staff of a
3. gyroscopic device attached to the gun commander.
mount on a tank. It helps to keep the staff ride, mounted exercise in which
guns close to a fixed elevation when the tactical staff problems in given military
tank is crogsing rough country. situations are presented and solved on
stabilizing fin, fin on the tail of some the ground.
st.
rlglnal rrom
d

n
staff sergeant 264 standard trajectory
the ground. No troops are actually in- magistrate. To the standard is usually
volved in this exercise. called to the cGlor.
staff sergeant, noncommissioned officer 2. classification given to supplies and
of the third grade in the Army, who equipment that are accepted for general
ranks next above a sergeant and next use in the Army.
below a technical sergeant. See Table 3. support, as for the barrel of a mortar.
of Comparative Grades on p. 125. standar.d ballistic conditions. See
.,Abbrev: s sgt standard conditions.
staff walk, exercise, made on foot, in standard bearer, soldier who carries a
which tactical staff problems in given standard.
military situations are presented and standard conditions, constant condi-
solved on the ground. No troops are tions assumed as the basis for firing
actually involved in this exercise. tables; standard ballistic conditions.
stagger, position of the \vings of a bi- Corrections must be made for variations
plane in which one wing is placed further of actual conditions from these assumed
forward than the wing above or below conditions. These conditions include
it. If the upper wing is ahead of the such factors as wind, air pressure, tem-
lower one, the stagger is positive; if the perature, and muzzle velocity.
lower wing is ahead, it is negative. standard muzzle velocity, speed at
stagger formation, irregular formation which a given projectile is supposed to
of the troops, vehicles, or airplanes in a leave the muzzle of a gun. The speed is
unit, in which they are unevenly spaced calculated on the basis of the particular
as a safety measure. gun, the propelling charge used, and the
staging area, 1. concentration area near type of projectile fired from the gun.
a port of embarkation where a unit is Firing tables are based on standard
inspected, its records are checked, and muzzle velocity.
last minute supplies are issued before the standard nomenclature, name given to
unit is shipped overseas. In this mean- items of equipment, to describe and
e
ing, also called overseas staging area. identify them, by which they are official-
2. area on the route of march that is oc- ly kno\vn.
cupied by troops for a long halt. Standard Nomenclature List, publica-
Abbrev: st ar tion that lists the official names for
Staging Area Company. items of equipment, such as the Stand-
Abbrev: St Ar Co ard Nomenclature List issued by the
staging field, landing field with very Ordnance Department to cover the
few facilities that is used temporarily by property it issues. Abbrev: SNL
aircraft en route from one airdrome to standard operating procedure. See
another. standing operating procedure.
staging regulations, rules issued by the standard road, road built according to
commander of a staging area for its man- ordinary civilian standards, as opposed
agement and operations. They regulate to one that has been constructed hastily
the steps that must be taken in prepara- to meet immediate military demands.
tion for sending troops overseas, includ- standard stock. See standard supplies.
ing their physical examination, classifi- standard supplies, items of supply that
cation, and outfitting. have been accepted for general Army
stall, 1. cause a motor or engine to stop use; standard stock.
by putting too great a load on it. standard train, authorized type of rail-
2. condition of an airplane when it is way train for a particular military use.
operating at an angle of attack greater Each type of standard train is made up
than its flying speed can maintain. It of a given number of passenger cars
is a loss of flying speed and often of lift and of freight cars of various types.
and control. Sometimes it results in a standard trajectory, path through the
spin. air that it is calculated a projectile will
standard, 1. flag carried by mounted or follow under given conditions of weather,
motorized units. To the standard is a position, and materiel, including the par-
bugle call sounded as a salute to the ticular fuze, projectile, and propelling
color, to the President, the Vice-Presi- charge that are used. Firing tables are
dent, an ex-President, or a foreign chief based on standard trajectories.
Or1g1nal fro
stand by 265 station dispensary
stand by, command to troops to take statement of charges, form listing the
posts \Vithout delay, ready for action. items of property that have been issued
stand clear, command used in artillery to a soldier, which he has lost, damaged,
units, directing the gunner to stand back or destroyed, and for which he must re-
from the gun. pay the government. Abbrev: S/C
y
stand fast, 1. command used in artillery statement of service, itemized account

ack
units, directing all movements of men of previous military service rendered by

and materiel to stop. a soldier. It may be used as documen-
2. command given to prevent movement tary evidence for determining prece-
ry
of indicated units while others move. dence, rate of pay, senioritt for promo-
ent
standing army. See Regular Army. tion, and the like.
standing barrage, stationary artillery static bomb, metal shell that contains
or machine-gun barrage, laid onto a a device for measuring air speed. It is
given area or line as a defensive measure suspended under an airplane and used to
to prevent the passage of enemy troops. check the air speed meters installed in
sure
standing operating procedure, set of the plane.

ps.
instructions giving the procedures to be static line, line attached to an aircraft

be
followed as a matter of routine, as in the and used to open a parachute after it has
the
preparation and submission of reports or fallen a safe distance from the plane.
s or
in the maintenance of motor vehicles; After the parachute is released, the
;
standard operating procedure. The pur- static line is pulled back into the air-
ur- pose of these instructions is to reduce craft.
e
the number of orders that have to be static weapon, chemical weapon, such
issued, and to set down the regular as a chemical cylinder, that is used to
procedure that is to be followed unless release chemical agents from the point
s
particular cases arise that call for special \V here it is placed.

instructions. Abbrev: SOP station, 1. place at which a military or-
cial
standing order, general order that is ganization is stationed, such as a fort or

at
always in force in a command and that camp. In this meaning, also called
establishes uniforn1 procedures for it, military post.
r such as the standing orders issued for 2. position occupied by an individual or
defense against chemical attack. unit in the field, such as a clearing sta-
g
standing position, prescribed standing tion, gun station, or searchlight station.
e
posture of a soldier for firing a rifle. He 3. post of duty of an individual or unit.

s
stands half faced to the right, with his 4. to post; to place; to assign to a station.
left elbow well under the rifle, his left Abbrev: sta
eek
hand holding it in front of the balance stationary gun mount, device by which
point, his right elbow high, and his cheek a gun is fastened to the ground pr to an
close to the stock. immovable base.
stand to horse, position of attention stationary hospital. See fixed hospital.
in which a trooper stands dismounted stationary screen, row of outposts or
beside his horse and holds it by the line of sentinels placed in front of a con-
a
bridle. centration of troops during a halt, in

star, pyrotechnic signal that burns as a order to protect it against enemy ob-
single light. servation or surprise.
STAR, Specialized Training and Reas- station complement, personnel at-
signment. tached or assigned pennanently to the
st ar, staging area. headquarters of a military post.
St Ar Co, staging area company. Abbrev: sta com
he star gage, instrument for measuring station designator, combination of two
the diameter of the bore of a gun. or three call letters used to identify a
star-gage, measure the diameter of the radio station.
-
bore of a gun with a star gage. station dispensary, Medical Depart-

h
star shell, projectile which contains a ment establishment that provides medi-
chemical that is ignited when the pro-
ate
cal and dental care for military person-

jectile bursts. The chemical burns with nel receiving treatment but not needing
ed
a brilliant flame and is used to illuminate hospitalization. It serves the men of
ged,
targets at niglit. the post or station on which it is located.
rlglnal rrom
e-
nt
by
-
station hospital 266 stereoscopic trainer
An establishment that provides medical steno, stenographer or stenographers.
and dental care for military personnel stenographer. Abbrev: steno
not stationed there is called a general stenographers. Abbrev: steno
dispensary. step, 1. pace in walking or marching.
station hospital, fixed hospital estab- A full step is 30 inches, a half step 15
lbhed in or near a military post to give inches in quick-time marching.
medical and dPntal care to military 2. break, resembling a step on a stair-
personnel who belong to, or are attached case, that is built into the bottom of the
to, the poE:t; camp hospital; post float or hull of a seaplane or flying boat
hospital. Station hospital and general to reduce resistance, lessen suction, and
hospital are the two types of fixed make the plane easier to control on the
hospital. water, especially in taking off.
station list, directory that gives the ster, sterilization.
location of the various headquarters and stereocomparagraph, device used for
elements of a command. drawing topographic maps from stereo-
station log, diary kept by a radio op- scopic pairs.
erator; report of the stations with which stereogram, two diagrams or overlap-
the operator has been in communication ping aerial photographs that are ar-
and of the messages he has handled. ranged side by side for examination
station surgeon, senior medical officer through a stereoscope.
in command of the medical personnel at stereo-pair. See stereoscopic pair.
a military post. stereo range finder. See stereoscopic
station veterinarian, senior veterinary range finder.
officer in command of the veterinary stereoscope, instrument through which
personnel at a military post. two overlapping photographs of an ob-
statoscope, instrument that registers ject or area are viewed at the same time,
very small variations in air pressure. It one by each eye. The object 'or scene
is commonly used to detect and register thus viewed takes on depth and relief,
the rise or fall of an aircraft, especially and appears to the eye as it would if
of a balloon. actually observed.
status board, blackboard or other chart stereoscopic height finder. See stereo-
used at command posts of aviation units. scopic range finder.
It sho\vs what planes are available and stereoscopic model, photograph or im-
ready for service; on what mission, if age of an object or area that shows depth
any, they are engaged; and how much and relief. It is prepared by projecting
fuel there is in each plane. two suitable images in such a way that
status card, informal record of the mili- they are blended into one.
tary personnel of a command. The stereoscopic observer, operator of a
status card is kept in a file by the ad-. stereoscopic range finder.
jutant or personnel officer, to make stereoscopic pair, two vertical aerial
readily available current information photographs taken from the same eleva-
about the military personnel of the unit. tion, and in which there is generally an
The file is of great value in selecting overlap of from 30 to 60 percent; stereo-
military personnel for special duties. pair. The pair is used to give the effect
status punch card, official record of a of actual relief or projection when ex-
soldier that is prepared by a machine amined stereoscopically. Also called
records unit, giving information about overlapping photograph.
the assignment or location of the soldier. stereoscopic range finder, telescopic
The status of the individual is registered instrument that gives correct ranges
by punching notches or holes in the when the object sighted on appears at
margin of the card, according to a code. the same distance or depth as an image
statute of limitations, law that pre- or cross hair marked on its lens; stereo
scribes the period of time within which range finder; stereoscopic height finder.
a person must be brought to trial, and stereoscopic trainer, stereoscope used
that bars any action against that per- to train and test observers in the use of
son, except under certain conditions, a stereoscope. Its lenses are marked
which may be brought after the pre- off with a scale by which the ability of
scribed period has expired. the observer can be checked.
lg
stereo-triplet 267 strategic defensive
stereo-triplet, three vertical aerial pho- storage park, area where vehicles are
tographs taken in such a way that the put away when they are not in daily
o-
, middle picture is completely overlapped use.
e
by the other two. It is used in the same storm, make a strong assault on a
ped way as a stereoscopic pair. defended enemy position.
me
sterilization. Abbrev: ster storm boat. See assault boat.
sternutator, chemical agent, used in str, strength.
chemical warfare, that can be spread in I straddle, 1. group of shots or bombs of
the form of smoke or vapor; nose irri- which some fall short of, and others pass
tant. A sternutator causes sneezing, over, the target, or of which some go to
in
coughing, tears, and headache, followed the left of, and others to the right of,
wed
by vomiting and ten1porary physical the target.
disability. Two common sternutators 2. fire a group of shots or drop a group
are adamsite and diphenylchlorarsine. of bombs of which some fall short of,
.
Also called irritant smoke. and others pass over, the target, or of
stev, stevedore. which some go to the left of, and others
stevedore. Abbrev: stev to the right of, the target. _
stf, staff. straddle trench, type of latrine set up
stick, lever of an airplane which oper- in a temporary encampment or bivouac.
ov-
ates the ailerons and elevators, and gov- It consists of an open trench, usually one
erns bank, climb, and dive in normal foot wide. -
flight. It does not operate the rudder, strafe, shell or bombard heavily; espe-
which governs turn in normal flight. cially, of aircraft, to machine-gun and
stock, 1. supply of articles of property bomb enemy ground positions at close
or equipment on hand. range.
s-
2. wooden piece in rifles, shotguns, pis- straggle, fall out of ranks or wander off
y
tols, etc., to which the barrel assembly from one's unit without permission,
s
is attached. especially during a march or maneuver.
stockade, inclosure in which prisoners straggler, soldier who falls out of ranks
are kept. or wanders away from his unit v.ithout
r
stock level order, order issued by the permission, especially during a march or
headquarters of a unit of the Army Air maneuver.
are
Forces, setting down the limits of the straggler collecting point, station at
types and amounts of 1nunitions that are which stragglers are assembled before
authorized to be kept at an air base. they are returned to their proper or-
stock record account, record, kept on ganizations.
cer
nd
a special form by an accountable officer straggler line, line or toute patrolled
for a unit, listing all the property the by military police for the purpose of
organization has on hand, received, and collecting stragglers moving to the rear.
issued. Abbrev: strag 1
ed, stock record card, special form on straggler post, post, established on a
which an accountable officer keeps a straggler line, from which military police
record of all property on hand, received, patrols operate and to which they bring
ally
and issued. stragglers when they have picked them

Stokes mortar. See trench mortar. up.
stop, device on a n1echanism, especially strag I, straggler line.
rt
on guns such as the automatic pistol, strategic,

m
designed or tending to place

in
that checks the. action of a moving part one's combat po\ver in a condition or
the
or that acts as a lock to prevent it from position of advantage over the enemy;
moving. strategical. Strategic problems and ac-
stoppage, accidental stopping of fire in tivities are usually on a much broader
-
a gun, caused by the faulty action of the scale than tactical ones, and involve the
as
gun or of the ammunition used. highest commanders.

y
stoppage of pay, amount withheld by strategical. See strategic.

the government from the pay of a sol- strategic defensive, large-scale defen-
dier who has been overpaid or who has sive action of a nation at war, as opposed
damaged or lost government property to tactical defensive, which refers to a
for which he is responsible. particular operation. .~:
1_1 1 1rom
of
strategic map 268 stripped center of impact
strategic map, military map of me-l tion, or installation. It is prepared by
dium scale (1 :125,000 up to 1 :1,000,000), the machine records unit that services
used in planning military operations, in- the unit, and it serves as the basis upon
,
cluding movement, concentration, and which the War Department determines

supply of troops. the strength of the Army as a whole,
strategic offensive, large-scale offen- and of each unit, arm, or service of the
sive action of a nation at war, as opposed Army.
to tactical offensive, which refers to a stretcher. See litter.
particular operation. strike, take down, remove, or prepare
strategic reconnaissance, search over for transfer, especially a flag, tent, camp,
wide areas, usually by air, to gain in- latrine screen, etc.
formation of enemy concentrations or strike camp, break camp.
movements that would aid in making striker, part of the firing mechanism of
strategic or large-scale decisions. a gun, mine, mortar, etc., that hits the
strategic withdrawal, moving from a primer; hammer or firing pin of a gun.
forward defense line to a line further strike tents, command for men to take
back that offers a better position from down their tents and roll their packs.
which to carry out a combat mission. striking echelon, main attacking ele-
It is not necessarily a forced retreat, but ment of a combat unit; fighting force
is usually made for tactical reasons, that engages the enemy in actual com-
such as to lure the enemy into a trap, bat; striking force.
to wear down his combat power, or to striking force. See striking echelon.
maneuver a better position from which striking power, combat power that an
to launch an attack. attacking unit can throw .against an
strategy, making plans and using mili- enemy at close range.
tary forces and equipment for the pur- striking velocity, speed of a projectile
pose of gaining and keeping the ad- at the point of impact.
vantage over the enemy in combat string, 1. formation in which airplanes
operations. It includes the distribution, fly in a line directly behind one another
transportation, and employment of and stepped up, that is, with the rear
troops and supplies, and also a study of units higher than those in front.
the combat area, and of the disposition 2. series of radio messages sent from one
and possible lines of action of the enemy. station to another. The receiving sta-
Strategy involves planning on a large tion does not signat receipt of each one
scale; tactics involves the operations individually, but waits until the whole
necessary to carry out these plans. series is given to acknowledge receipt.
street barricade, fortification or obsta- strip, take a weapon apart; break a gun
cle thrown across a street to block the or other mechanism down into parts.
advance of the enemy. A street barri- stripe, strip of khaki or other colored
cade is usually built of materials found cloth in the shape of a half V worn on
on the spot. the sleeve of .the uniform coat as a dec-
strength, 1. number of men belonging to oration for military service, battle
a military organization. wounds, etc. The word is also com-
2. number of individuals present at a monly used to mean chevron.
certain time or during a certain period. strip map, map on which a route of
Abbrev: str march or a course to be followed by an
strength for duty, number of individ- airplane is marked off. It is usually a
uals available for duty in an organiza- long narrow strip, and is sometimes a
tion. This number is derived from the section cut from a map.
morning report. strip mosaic, mosaic made by assell)-
strength for rations, number of indi- bling a series of vertical aerial photo-
viduals for whom an organization must graphs taken along a given line on a
provide rations. It is derived from the single flight.
morning report. stripped center of impact, center of
strength report. See daily strength re- the zone that would have been covered
port. by a series of shots if no allowance had
strength return, report showing the been made for adjustment correction or
strength of a headquarters, organiza- human error. .
1g1nal fro
stripped deviation 269 submarine chaser
stripped deviation, distance by which subcaliber gun, gun mounted on the
a shot would have missed the target if outside and above the tube of a larger
there had been no. adjustment correc- gun. It is used in practice firing of sub-
f
tion or human error. caliber ammunition, in connection with
-
strut, 1. part of the lock mechanism in aiming drills with the larger .gun.
small firearms that puts pressure on the subcaliber mount, special mount in or
n
hammer. on the tube of a gun, upon which a gun
he
2. brace or supporting piece, especially of smaller caliber can be attached for
in an aircraft. practice firing.
ly
stu, student. subcaliber projectile, practice projec-

student. Abbrev: stu tile of a caliber smaller than standard
SU, service unit. for the gun on which practice is being
sub, subject. given.
suballotment, transfer of personnel, subcaliber range, firing range that is
property, funds, or responsibility to a used for practice firing with subcaliber
subordinate unit. ammunition. Since subcaliber ammu-
subaqueous ranging, detecting and lo- nition cannot be used for long distances,
-
cating invisible marine. targets, such a sub caliber range may be equipped with
as enemy vessels at night, or enemy sub- landscape targets and other devices
sub-
marines, by means of sound detectors which offer problems similar to those of

placed below the surface of the water. normal fire.
s
These instruments pick up sound vi- subcaliber tube, gun mounted in the
e
brations and automatically register the bore of a larger gun. It is used in prac-
y
distance and direction from which they tice firing with subcaliber ammunition.
come. subdepot, secondary depot established
as
subarea, subdivision of an area, such as to do part of the work of the main depot.
a field of fire. It helps to identify the It is always closer to the troops than the
sector for which a given unit is remain depot.
.sponsible. subgroupment, subdivision of the tac-
sub-base, 1. secondary base to which a tical artillery command, called a group-
a
d-
base commander delegates various ad- ment, \Vhich is formed by the temporary
ministrative functions and assigns grouping of two of more battalions or
o
troops. larger tactical units that have been
a 2. part of a base line between any two assembled from different organizations.
nes
given points, for example, the part of a subject. Abbrev: sub
base line between any two microphones subm, submarine.
in a sound ranging system. submachine gun, light-weight auto-

e
sub caliber, of a caliber smaller than matic or semiautomatic gun, designed

standard for the gun on which practice to be fired from the shoulder or hip. It
nd-
is being given. is air-cooled and gas-operated and fires
subcaliber ammunition, practice am- .45-caliber pistol ammunition.
s
munition of a caliber smaller than stand- Abbrev: SMG
vely
ard for the gun on which practice is submarine, boat that can operate under
th being given. Subcaliber ammunition is water or on the surface. Operations
late
economical and may be fired in relatively undBr water are conducted with the aid
-
crowded areas. It is therefore used with of a periscope. Submarines are armed

special subcaliber equipment to simulate with torpedoes which are launched from
-
firing conditions with standard ammu- tubes; the larger submarines are also
g
nition. armed with mines and guns. .Sub-
ls
subcaliber equipment, items of equip- marines are propelled by Diesel engines
ment, such as small guns, adapters, when on the surface, and by electric
b-
tubes, and accessories, used for firing motors run on storage batteries when
h subcaliber ammunition in practice drills under water. Buoyancy is controlled by
ng
with larger guns. tanks into which water is admitted or
subcaliber firing, practice firing of sub- expelled. Abbrev: subm
caliber ammunition, in connection with submarine chaser, vessel designed spe-
r
drills in elevating, traversing, or aiming cifically for operation against sub-

guns of larger caliber. marines.
-
Orlg1nal rrom
un
submarine mine 270 sullage pit
submarine mine, watertight steel case, subsistence, lodging and meals given
containing a charge of explosive and a to soldiers. Abbrev: subs
firing device, that is planted below the subsistence allowance, money al1 ow-
surface of the water for the purpose of ance paid to soldiers to cover necessary
destroying enemy vessels. A controlled living expenses, such as food and lodg-
submarine mine is one that is fitted with ing.
a firing device which is regulated by an subsistence charge, amount that a pay
electrical connection from a shore con- patient is charged at a general hospital
trol station. for necessary living expenses, such as
submarine mine control system, ar- board. Pay patients include officers,
rangement of cables, panels, etc., by civilians, and members of other branches
means of which the firing of submarine of the armed services, such as the Navy
mines is controlled. and the Marine Corps. .
submarine mine field, 1. area of water subsistence stores, all articles that are
in which submarine miries have been needed, or are suitable, for the ordinary
planted. support of an individual, such as food,
2. pattern of mines planted in a water candy, toilet articles, and tableware.
area to keep out or destroy enemy They are sold at a sales store connected
vessels. with a. commissary at a post, camp, or
submarine mine planter. See mine station.
planter. substitute standard, classification of
submarine mtntng, planting submarine supplies or equipment that fall short of
mines for the purpose of keeping enemy standard but that have been accepted
vessels out of a water area or destroying for use, when necessary, as an addition
them if they enter it. to standard articles on hand.
submarine net, network of steel cables substitution cipher, method of putting
anchored and suspended under water to a message into code, in which code let-
block the entry of submarines into a ters or symbols replace the letters of the
channel, or other waterway. plain text, but in which there is no
submarine plotting board, device con- changing or scrambling of the letter
sisting of a board on which a harbor order of the words in the message.
mine field is represented to scale. It is subvoucher, record of money spent or
used by seacoast artillery in laying and of property or funds received. The sub-
controlling harbor mine fields. voucher is used as evidence of the cor-
submine, , small mine, consisting of a rectness of a voucher and gives the
container filled with TNT and an ex- details of the transaction.
ploding device, that is set off electri- successive attack, attack delivered in
cally from the mine control system on a series of thrusts in which the various
the shore. It floats near a submarine elements of the combat force engage in
mine and is used in training. action, one after the other.
subport, port that is used to handle some successive barrage. See successive con-
of the traffic that would otherwise have centration.
to go through a main port. Its opera- successive concentration, massing of
tion is controlled by the main port. artillery fire on one are~ after another,
subpost, post that is technically a part beginning with the nearest target. The
of, and is administered by, another post. flexibility of successive concentration
subs, subsistence. permits artillery action to be adapted
subsector, subdivision of a sector of a to support infantry action.
coastal frontier; a subdivision of the successive formation, formation in
area for which a given military unit is which the various units move into their
responsible. The subsector is assigned positions, one after another.
to a subordinate unit, but its ultimate sulfur trioxide solution, chemical agent
control remains with the sector com- used in a spray to produce a smoke
mander. screen.
subsector reserve, reserve combat Symbol: FS
echelon of a subsector command. It sullage pit, pit or trench into which
serves as a reinforcement for the outpost sewage and liquid refuse are drained.
forces of the command. Also called f~aka~ pit.
SumCM 271 supplies
Sum CM, summary court-martial. in occupied territory under military
summary court. Abbrev: SC government, consisting of one officer.
summary court-martial, court-martial The court follows court-martial pro-
composed of one officer, appointed by cedure and is authorized to impose sen-
the commander of a military station, tences up to a maximum of confinement
regiment, or higher unit, to try enlisted at hard labor for six months, or a fine of
y
men of the grade of staff sergeant or $1,000, or both.

lower for noncapital offenses. The supernumerary, soldier in excess of the
d
punishment a summary court-martial number authorized or needed for a given

can give is limited to confinement up to duty. He is held in reserve as a replace-
one month, restriction up to three ment.
to
months, or forfeiture of up to two-thirds superquick fuze, fuze that bursts a pro-
of one month's pay. Abbrevs: Sum CM; jectile as soon as it strikes and before the
ds SCM projectile can penetrate. It operates
M;
summit of trajectory, highest point even more rapidly than the quick fuze.
that a projectile reaches in its flight supersensitive fuze, fuze that will set
from the gun to the target. off a projectile quickly when it strikes
sup, supply. even a very light target, sucn as an air-
supercharge, 1. supply an engine with plane wing. It is set in operation by
h
more air or air-fuel mixture than would much lighter resistance than is neces-
d
be supplied under normal conditions. sary for the superquick fuze.
This extra supply gives the engine more supervised articles. See supervised
ore power, especially at high altitudes. property.
2. full charge of multisection ammuni- supervised property, articles or goods
-
tion, including the base, or normal, that can no longer be used by the Army,
charge and all the increments. but that may be disposed of only under
supercharger, pump that supplies an the supervision of the chief of the supply
re
engine with more air or air-fuel mixture service which issued them or of the com-
than would be supplied to it under manding general of the service command
y
normal conditions. It is used especially involved; supervised articles.
for high-altitude flying. supervised route, road controlled by
superelevation, amount that the axis a central traffic authority by means of
of the bore of a gun must be pointed traffic patrols and posts.
e
above the line joining the gun and the supplementary firing position, firing
target to allow for the curved path of position assigned to a unit or weapon
the projectile in flight. for firing on targets that cannot be
g
superintendent, 1. person who directs reached from the primary firing position
and controls the activities of a working or alternate firing position; supplemen-
o
group or force. tary position.
2. officer in the Army Nurse Corps who supplementary position. See supple-
e has a rank equivalent to that of a mentary firing position.
colonel. She has general charge of the supplementary target, target other than
n
administration and operation of the the original target assigned to a gun or
Army Nurse Corps, under the direction battery. It is a target on which fire is
ce
of the Surgeon General. delivered when the original targets have

3. officer of the Army Transport Service been destroyed or when it is impossible
at a port. He has charge of the ad- to deliver effective fire on them.
ministration and operation of military supplies, all articles needed to equip,
ce
transportation in the port or port area maintain, and operate a military com-
-
to which he is assigned. mand, including food, clothing, equip-
4. officer of the Military Railway Service ment, munitions, fuel, and all items of
who supervises and directs the move- materiel.
ment of trains operating in a railway class I supplies, supplies, such as ra-
division or grand division of which he tions and forage, that are consumed at
is in immediate charge. an approximately uniform daily rate
6. commanding officer of the United under all conditions, and that are issued
.
States Military Academy. automatically without requisitions to
superior provost court, military court, Army units.
en-
ent
Orlg1nal rrom
of
he
supply 272 support
class n supplies, supplies, such as nection with the supply of the Army.
clothing, weapons, and vehicles, for Abbrev: G-4
which allowances are fixed by Tables of supply dump, place where supplies are
Allowances and Tables of Basic Allow- unloaded and stored for a short time.
ances. supply establishment, arsenal, factory,
class III supplies, supplies, such as depot, or other more or less permanent
fuels and lubricants for all purposes ex- installation, that provides units of the
cept aviation, including gasoline for all Army with the supplies and materiel
vehicles, Diesel oil, fuel oil, and coal. they require.
class III (A) supplies, aviation fuels supply officer, staff officer in a unit
and lubricants. who has charge of supply activities and
class IV supplies, supplies and equip- who procures, stores, and issues the sup-
ment for which allowances are not pre- plies needed by his unit. He is often
scribed, or which require special meas- referred to as S-4.
ures of control and are not otherwise supply point, depot, railhead, truck-
classified. Normally, such supplies in- head, or other installation at which sup-
clude fortification materials, construc- plies and materiel used by the Army are
tion materials, aircraft, and articles of received, stored, and distributed.
similar nature. Abbrev: SP
class IV (E) supplies, complete air- supply road, traffic route, such as a road
planes, airplane equipment, and all or highway, over which supplies are de-
spare parts and supplies required to livered to fighting units. A road used
maintain the complete airplane in com- to supply an element or a unit that is so
mission. located as to need a separate road is
class V supplies, supplies such as am- described as the principal or main SUP-
munition, pyrotechnics, antitank mines, ply road for that element or unit.
and chemical warfare agents. supply section, subdivision of a staff
supply, 1. procurement, storage, ac- that prepares and carries out policies
counting, distribution, and salvage of established for supply, evacuation, and
supplies. transportation. It is often referred to
2. provide; furnish. Abbrev: sup as S-4.
supply and evacuation section, sub- supply sergeant, noncommissioned offi-
division of a staff that prepares and cer who obtains, stores, and delivers
carries out policies established for the supplies to his unit. He is responsible
supply, evacuation, and transportation to the unit supply officer.
of personnel and materiel belonging to supply service, one of the branches of
a command. Abbrev: S-4 the Army, such as the Quartermaster
supply arms and services, all those Corps or the Ordnance Department,
combatant and noncombatant branches whose chief mission is the procurement
of the Army which are charged with the and distribution of supplies needed by
procurement and distribution of sup- various units of the Army. Now called
plies. They all have other functions to technical service.
perform in addition to supply. supply train, motor caravan or train of
supply car, railroad flatcar that is used railway freight cars that transports sup-
for transporting supplies other than plies or equipment for a military or-
ammunition, especially in a seacoast ganization.
artillery system. support, 1. assist or protect another
supply credit, official permission given element or unit in combat.
to a subordinate administrative unit to 2. assistance or protection given by one
get supplies from a supply establish- element or unit to another, for example,
ment. The credit expires automatically artillery fire used to assist or protect
if it has not been used within the time infantry
limit stated in it. ., 3. unit which helps another unit in
Supply Division, section of the War battle. Aviation or artillery may be
Department General Staff, under the used as a support for infantry.
immediate control of an Assistant Chief 4. part of any unit held back at the be-
of Staff, that performs the duties of the ginning of an attack as a reserve.
War Department General Staff in con- 5. element of a command that assists
rr1g1na fro
support aviation 278 surveying officer
and protects the reconnaissance, strik- surg, 1. surgeon. 2. surgical.
ing, and reserve forces in combat. In surgeon, senior medical officer in charge
this meaning, also called supporting of the medical detachment or unit of a
k-
force. Abbrev: spt military organization or station. He is
support aviation, class of military avia- a staff officer, and he advises the com-
tion organized to support the operations mander on medical matters.
of ground troops. Support aviation in- Abbrev: surg
a-
eludes'" combat, observation and photo- Surgeon General. Abbrev: SG

ons
graphic, and troop-carrier aircraft. Surgeon General, The, chief of the

o-
support echelon, combat unit that as- Medical Department of the Army.
sists or protects the main force of a Surgeon General's Office, headquar-
command; support force. ters office of The Surgeon General of the
supported flank, flank of a command Army.
that is assisted and protected in attack surg hosp, surgical hospital.
by supporting units, as contrasted with surgical. Abbrev: surg
ck
unsupported or open flanks, which have surgical hospital, mobile medical unit,
h
no protection. attached to an army, that provides

ve
support force. See support echelon. special facilities for giving immediate
supporting artillery, artillery that as- surgical aid to men wounded in combat.
sists and protects an infantry unit with Abbrev: surg hosp
h
its fire. surgical service, medical detachment
supporting distance, 1. distance be- or unit that provides surgical aid and
tween two units that can be traveled in treatment to sick and wounded soldiers
in
time for one to come to the aid of the at a general or station hospital.
other. surplus stock, supplies in excess of War
2. For small infantry units, the support- Department needs.
t-
ing distance may also be considered the surr, surrender or surrendered.

distance between them which can be surrender. Abbrev: surr
the
effectively covered by their fire. surrendered. Abbrev: surr

supporting fire, fire delivered by the ourv, survey.
weapons of supporting units to assist or surveillance, 1. continuous observation
a
or
protect unit in combat. of an area or of gunfire.

supporting force, element of a com- 2. inspection, testing, and maintenance
-
mand that assists and protects the re- of ammunition stores and chemical mu-
orces
connaissance, striking, and reserve forces nitions for the purpose of keeping them
in combat. Also called support, in usable condition.
supporting unit, unit that acts with, surveillance of fire. See observation of
and assists or protects, another unit, but fire.
but
the
that does not act under the orders of the survey, 1. measurement of distances
commander of the protected unit, of and angles on the earth's surface. Artil-
is which it is not an organic part. lery survey determines the positions of
ch
supporting weapon, artillery gun that is targets and guns so that firing data can
used to assist or protect a unit to which be prepared.
it is not attached. 2. make such an examination of the
support line. Abbrev: SL earth's surface.
surface line, telephone or telegraph 3. inspection of property to find out
es
line that is laid on the ground hastily whether loss or damage is due to fair
al-
during the movement of units in the wear and tear or to the fault of an in-
field. In an organized area, surface lines dividual.
e are replaced by more permanent instal- 4. examine pr.operty to find out whether
e
lations. it has been damaged and, if so, whether
surface of rupture, area on the surface anyone should be held responsible for
of the ground that is broken up by the its condition. Abbrev: surv
rs
explosion of an underground charge. surveying officer, officer who makes an

a
surface shelter, shelter built entirely inquiry and fixes responsibility for
above ground. A surface shelter differs damage, destruction, or loss, not due to
rge
from a cut-and-cover shelter, which is a fair wear and tear, of government
a
pit that has an overhead cover. property.
m-
Orlg1nal rrom
suspend 274 synchronized gun
suspend, deprive an officer of some of switch fire, shift fire from one target to
the privileges -of his rank, such as sitting another.
as a member of a court-martial, selecting switching centra!. Abbrev: sw c
quarters, or exercising command, as a switch position, defensive position diag-
punishment for some offense. Suspend- onal to, and connecting, successive de-
ing an officer does not deprive him of his fensive positions that are parallel to the
right to promotion. front.
suspend firing, command to stop firing switch trench, trench diagonal to, and
for the time being. Firing begins again connecting, successive trenches that are
when the command to resume firing is parallel to the front.
given. swivel, 1. device on a gun, machine, etc.,
suspense file, file where documents are that allows one part to turn while other
filed temporarily, waiting for further parts remain stationary.
action. Also called hold file. 2. hinged hook on the muzzle end of the
suspension, act of suspending an offi- handguard of a rifle by means of which
cer as a punishment for an offense. several rifles can be fastened together to
suspension of arms, short truce ar- form a stack. In this meaning, usually
ranged by local commanders for a special called stacking swivel.
purpose, such as to collect the wounded, 3. hinged hook on the underside of the
to bury the dead, or to arrange for an butt stock and on the underside of the
exchange of prisoners. forearm of a rifle through which the gun
sustained defense, defense that is sling loop is passed.
aimed at stopping an enemy attack at swivel gun, gun mounted on a pedestal
the defense line. It differs from delay- so that it can be turned from side to side
ing action, which attempts to hold off a or up and down.
decisive engagement until the defense symbol, sign, letter, or numeral used to
forces are in a better position for battle. signify or stand for something. For ex-
sustaining po\\er, power to keep go- ample, a letter or number on munitions
ing; power to hold up against the enemy. to give their type, a sign on a military
sv, service. map such as a contour line, or a letter
SvC, Service Command. used to represent a factor in firing data
SW, Secretary of War. are symbols.
S \VB, short wheel base. sympathetic detonation, explosion
sw c, switching central. caused by the force of another explosion
swear in, administer the oath of enlist- nearby.
ment to a man being enlisted or inducted synchronization, 1. adjustment of two
into one of the armed services. or more instruments, mechanisms, or
sweating, collecting drops of moisture. parts so that they operate simultaneous-
Gun bores usually sweat after firing. ly at the same rate or in harmony.
sweep, 1. swift flight of a formation of 2. adjustment of pointers on two instru-
combat airplanes over enemy territory. ments so that they show the same read-
2. cover a wide area with gunfire. ing at any time.
3. area covered by a radar station. 3. adjustment of a bomb sight in rela-
4. drag a body of water to find andre- tion to the altitude, speed, and drift of
move or explode mines. an aircraft so that the tatget appears
sweeping fire, fire, especially from auto- to be stationary, centered on the cross
matic weapons, that shifts gradually in hairs.
elevation or direction. synchronize, make two or more instru-
swinging the compass, correcting and ments, mechanisms, or parts of a mecha-
recording the error of a compass. This nism operate simultaneously at the same
is done after the compass has been in- rate or in harmony, as, for instan~e, to
stalled and is ready for use. time a machine gun on an aircraft so
swinging traverse, turning a machine that the bullets pass between the rotat-
gun from side to side without stopping. ing blades of the pr{)peller.
Machine guns fired in this way are synchronized gun, aircraft gun that
loosened on their mounts so that they fires in harmony with the airplane en-
can be swung back and forth. gine so that each shot passes between
switchboard. Abbrev. sb the blades of the turning propeller.
Orlg1nal fro
synchronizing system 275 system indicator
synchronizing system, device on an faulty adjustment of an instrument or to
airplane that spaces the fire of machine a defect in it. Systematic errors are
guns so that they shoot through the those which remain the same, while ac-
ne
turning propeller blades. cidental errors, due to mechanical or

synchroscope, device for checking the other variations, change from one time
e
timing of the distributor on a gasoline to the next. Also called instrumental
engine. error.
synchro-transformer, device on a gun systemic poison, chemical agent that
that automatically sets and adjusts it directly affects the heart or nervous sys-
to agree with the firing data coming from tem, or that interferes with the supply
rom
the remote control system. of oxygen to the blood.
synoptic chart, weather map that shows system indicator, group of letters in a
ws
the weather conditions over a large area coded radio message that shows which
rea
at a given time. code system has been used for putting

to
systematic error, repeated error due to the message into code or cipher.
to
ac-
me
ys-
ch
g
Orlg1nal rrom
t 276 tactical ride
t, 1. transport. 2. transportation. tivities, as opposed to control of supply,
T/A, Table of Allowances or Tables of administration, etc.
Allowances. tactical defensive, defensive action in
tabard, silk banner attached to a bugle a particular combat operation, as op-
or trumpet. posed to strategic defensive, which refers
Table of Allowances. Abbrev: T /A to the broad, general defensive plans of
Table of Maximum Punishments, list a nation at war.
of the most severe punishments per- tactical element, any unit, or part of a
mitted in cases of violation of the Arti- unit, taking part in a combat operation.
cles of War. In time of war the Table tactical employment, use of something
of Maximum Punishments may be sus- in combat operations; way in which some-
pended. thing is used in combat operations, as
Tables of Allowances, tables which the tactical employment of a rifle com-
show the allowances of equipment pany.
authorized for posts, camps, and sta- tactical exercise, practice, such as ma-
tions. Such equipment is not usually neuvers or map problems, that deals
taken with a unit into the field or on with the use of units and weapons in
change of station. Abbrev: T/A combat.
Tables of Basic Allowances, tables tactical grouping, balanced arrange-
showing the authorized basic allowances ment of combat units and means within
of equipment authorized for units and a command to accomplish a tactical
individuals. Abbrev: T /BA mission. A tactical grouping may be
Tables of Equipment, list of items of shown in Tables of Organization or
equipment authorized to be taken with standing operating procedures, or it may
an organization on change of station be made up for a particular operation.
and, under normal conditions, into the tactical inspection, inspection of the
field. The Tables of Equipment do not combat efficiency of a unit, made by the
include expendable items, ammunition commander of a large unit. Tactical in-
allowances, and items of individual spections include exercises that require
clothing and equipment. Abbrev: T /E the unit to solve actual combat prob-
Tables of Organization, charts show- lems.
ing the n\lmber, ranks, and duties of tactical map, military map of large
the personnel, and the prescribed weap- scale, 1 :125,000 or larger, used for tac-
ons and equipment of military units. tical and administrative purposes.
Abbrev: T/0 tactical march, march made under
Tables of Organization and Equipment. combat conditions. A tactical march is
Abbrev: T /O&E often contrasted with an administra-
tac, tactical. tive march, which is made in relative
tachometer, instrument which meas- security for administrative reasons.
ures in revolutions per minute the rate tactical net, system of radio stations
at which any machine or a part of a used to transmit combat messages.
machine, esnecially the crankshaft of an tactical obstacle, any barrier designed
engine, turns. to hold enemy troops under fire.
tactical, having to do with combat tactical offensive, offensive action in a
operations or with plans for the employ- particular combat operation, as opposed
ment of units in combat. The word tac- to strategic offensive, which refers to
tical refers to actual combat operations; the broad, general offensiv~ ,-plans of a
the word strategic refers to the large- nation at war.
scale planning of large-unit command- tactical operation, combat operation.
ers. Tactical also differs from adminis- tactical plan, plan for a particular com-
trative, which deals with noncombat bat operation, exclusive of arrangements
activities of an organization. for supply, evacuation, maintenance, or
Abbrev: tac administration.
tactical airplane, combat airplane, as tactical protection, all arrangements
distinguished from aircraft used for for protecting troops in a combat opera-
training, research, development, or tion from chemical attack and its effects.
transport. tactical ride, exercise in which mounted
tactical control, control of combat ac- officers solve problems in military op-
lgln f
s
tactical training 277 Tank Destroyer School
erations on the ground, with imaginary tail assembly, rear part of an aircraft,
troops, as opposed to solving them on a usually consisting of a group of stabiliz-
y
map, etc. ing planes or fins and the attached ele-

na
tactical training, training of troops in vators and rudders. Also called em-
all phases of combat operations, includ- pennage or tail.
ud-
ing marches, security, offensive and detail fuze, fuze located in the tail of a
de-
fensive action, and withdrawals. bomb or projectile. A tail fuze acts a
tactical unit, organization of troops in- little more slowly than a nose fuze.
-
tended to serve as a single unit in com- tail gun, flexible gun mounted in the
m- bat. A tactical unit that may be con- tail of an airplane.
sidered as an independent unit in the tail-heavy, term applied to an aircraft
field may be considered, for administra- whose tail tends to sink.
ra-
tive purposes, only as an element of a tail skid, runner supporting the tail
a
larger unit. If it can be administered as of an airplane on the ground.

s
an independent unit, it is also called an tail spin. See spin.

administrative unit. tail wheel, wheel supporting the tail of
an
tactical walk, exercise in which dis- an airplane on the ground.

ili-
mounted officers solve problems in mili- take arms, command to a formation
tary operations on the ground, with of men to pick up their rifles or other
ng
imaginary troops, as opposed to solving firearms from a stack or from the
them on a map, etc. ground.
d
tactical wire, wire entanglements used take-otT, beginning of flight of an air-

he
to break up the attack formations of the craft; moving an aircraft from the
an
enemy and hold him in areas which can ground, water, or any runway into the
be covered by intense defensive fire. air.
tactics, art of handling units in com- tally-in, slip of paper showing a list of
bat; planning and carrying out move- items received in a shipment.
ments before and during battle, and tally-out, slip of paper showing a list
using combat power on the field of of items included in an outgoing ship-
of a
battle. Tactics is different from strat- ment.
egy, which refers to the broad plans of a tank, full-track armored vehicle carry-
he
nation at war. Tactics is also different ing machine guns and, usually, cannon.
from administration, which refers to the Tanks are usually classified as light (up
noncombat activities of an organiza- to 25 tons), medium (25 to 40 tons), and
e
nd
rs
tion. The phrase tactics and technique heavy (over 40 tons). Abbrev: tk
is often used to refer to the general and tank arsenal, establishment for the
n-
detailed methods used by commanders manufacture and storage of tanks.

e and forces in carrying out their assign- tank barrier, barrier or group of ob
e-
ments. stacles intended to stop enemy tanks.
s-
tactics and technique, art and science tank crew, group of men who operate,
bat
of planning and carrying out the move- and fight from, a single tank.
ment of troops in action or in the pres- tank defile, narrow place, such as a
ence of the enemy, so as to use combat bridge or a road through a mountain
of
by
power most effectively against the pass, that tanks cannot detour. A tank
enemy, together with skilf in the use of defile is the most effective place to put
n-
personnel, weapons, and equipment by antitank obstacles.
individuals and units for the most ef- tank destroyer, self-propelled antitank
fective combat against the enemy. gun; destroyer. Abbrev: TD
e
tactics of fire, using fire to best advan- Tank Destroyer Center. Abbrev: TDC
tage in combat. Tank Destroyer Command, branch of
-
TAG, The Adjutant General. the Army Ground Forces organized to

tail, 1. last element of a column in the train antitank forces to be used in com-
or
order of march. bination with, or in support of, other

2. rear part of an aircraft, usually con- troops.
sisting of a group of stabilizing planes or Tank Destroyer S'chool, special service
z-
fins and the attached elevators and school that trains men in the tactics and
e-
rudders. In this meaning, also called technique of tank destroyer operations,
empennage or tail assembly. as specialists for field duty or as in-
rlgl I ro
tank ditch 278 1'/f~
structors. It also trains and qualifies target frame, frame used for mounting
personnel for commission in the Tank paper targets used in target practice.
Destroyer Force. It is under the super- target length, length of a target as it
vision of the Commanding General, appears to an observer or gunner at the
Army Ground Forces. moment the gun is fired. Target lengths
tank ditch, deep ditch prepared as an may be used as units in measuring the
obstacle to enemy tanks. It is usually distance the gun must be aimed ahead
called an antitank ditch. of a moving target.
tank gun, gun mounted in a tank. target of opportunity, target which ap-
tank mine. See antitank mine. pears unexpectedly during the course of
tank obstacle. See antitank obstacle. an engagement, for example, a tank con-
tank trap, concealed ditch placed in a centration.
raad or other probable route of enemy target plotter, man who plots the course
tanks, and made so they will enter it of a moving target.
and not be able to get out. target practice, any exercise in a1m1ng
tank warning net, system of radio sta- and firing at a practice target. The term
tions used to give warning of the ap- is usually applied to guns, but some-
proach of enemy tanks. times is used in referring to searchlight
taps, last bugle call at night. Taps is or submarine mine drill.
blown as a signal that all unauthorized target-practice projectile, shell loaded
lights are to be put out. Taps is blown with cast-iron shot and sand that is of
ulso as last honors at military or naval the same size, shape, and weight as a
funerals. shell actually used in service. Some
targ, device used with a plotting board models are inert; others contain a
to indicate changing positions of the smoke-puff charge.
target. target range, area equipped for prac-
target, specific point, area, object, or tice in shooting at targets. Also called
group of objects at which fire is directed, range.
either in practice or in actua~ combat. target sheet, paper target pasted to a
target area, area assigned to a weapon target frame to be used in rifle practice.
or a unit to cover by fire; area upon target sled, sled drawn by a cable, used
which bombs are to be dropped from an to carry a moving target on a target
airplane. range.
target butt, retaining wall at a target task, 1. assignment; an operation or
range, backed up with earth on the side mission.
next to the firing point, with a target 2. fire mission in gunnery or rifle fire.
pit on the opposite side. Also called task air force. See air task force.
butt. task force, temporary grouping of units
target chart; large-;scale map or dia- under one commander, formed for the
gram showing the target or targets as- purpose of carrying out a specific opera-
signed to bombing planes. A target tion or mission.
chart is one type of aeronautical chart. tattoo, bugle call sounded at night as a
target course, path of a moving target. signal that certain lights will be put out;
target-designating system, system for lights out.
transmitting to one instrument the posi- T /BA, Tables of Basic Allowances.
tion of a target which has been located T-base, two pieces of wood nailed to-
by another instrument. gether in the shape of a T, laid down in
target designation, indicating or de- soft ground as a base for the tripod of a
scribing the location of a target in any machine gun.
way, for example, by tracer bullets, TC, 1. Transportation Corps.
pointing, or oral description. 2. training circular.
target detail, personnel who control T Co, Transportation Company.
targets in target practice and assist in TCS, traffic control station.
ke(\ping records of the accuracy of shots. TD, tank destroyer.
target echo, radio signal reflected by TDC, Tank Destroyer Center.
an aerial or other target and received by TD N. Travel directed is necessary in the
the radar station which transmitted the military service.
original signal. T/E, Tables of Equipment.
rig1nal ro
UNI ERSIT FC liFORNI
team 279 technique
team, small group of men working to- of mechanical equipment or armament
gether to operate a gun, radio station, under field conditions.
or the like. 2. classification or rating of an Army Air
,
tear gas, chemical agent that causes a Forces officer. It is given tb officers who
blinding flow of tears, and intense, are assigned to accompany aircraft in
a though temporary, eye irritation. Usu- operations to observe tactics, perform- .
ally called lacrimator. ance of the crew, and the functioning
-
tear gas candle, chemical container of equipment and armament.

filled with a substance that, upon burn- Technical Orders, series of publications
ing, produces a tear gas such as chlor- of the Army Air Forces covering the use
acetophenone. The gas irritates the and operation of aircraft and other
n-
r-
eyes, and causes a flow of tears. equipment.

tear gas pot, device for producing tear technical regulations. Abbrev: TR
r
gas, used chiefly in training. Its tactical technical sergeant, noncommissioned
al
use is limited, since it produces gas in officer of the second grade in the Army,
n
place and needs a favorable wind to who ranks next above a staff sergeant
carry it to the enemy. and next below a master sergeant or a
tear gas solution. See chloracetophe- first sergeant. See Table of Cornparative
none solution. Grades on p. 125. Abbrev: t sgt
tech, technical. technical service, one of the branches
techn, technician. of the Army, such as the Quartermaster
technical. Abbrev: tech Corps or the Ordnance Department,
m- technical channel, route of direct com- whose chief mission is the procurement
he
munication between staff officers of the and distribution of supplies needed by
h-
same branch, confined to normal tech- various units of the Army. Formerly
nd
nical operations not affecting comn1and called supply service.

policies. Technical Training Command, former
technical inspection, inspection of command of the Army Air Forces that
equipment and weapons, to determine conducted and supervised the training
e
whether the materiel should be with- of Army Air Forces. It is now part of
drawn from service for overhaul and the Training Command of the Army
repair. Air Forces.
technical inspector, officer, especially technician, 1. enlisted man doing work
n-
in the Ar1ny Air Forces, \vho inspects requiring specialized training, for exam-
and,
and reports on the condition and main- ple, a dental technician.

tenance of the equipment of a command, 2. rating for enlisted men doing spe-
and who supervises the technical ad- cialized work. Technicians may be of
ministration of the command. the third, fourth, or fifth grade. A
technical leader, noncommissioned technician third grade has a rank equiv-
officer in the former Women's Army alent to that of a staff sergeant and h&s
Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) who had a equal pay and privileges. However, a
rank equivalent to the enlisted grade technician third grade is outranked by a
of technical sergeant. staff sergeant regardless of length of
c-
Technical Manual, one of a series of service. A technician fourth grade is

official handbooks that contain tech- equivalent to a sergeant in the same way,
ion
nical, detailed information and instruc- and a technician fifth grade to a cor-
tions for the specialized training of poral. See Table of Comparative Grades
ip-
military personnel, and for the operation on p. 125. Abbrev: techn

he
and maintenance of materiel and equip- technique, method of performance of
t-
ment. Technical Manuals differ from any act, especially the detailed methods
Field Manuals, which contain informa- used by troops or commanders in per-
al
tion of a general or tactical nature. The forming assigned tasks. Technique re-
m,
manuals are issued by the War Depart- fers to the basic methods of using equip-
to
ment. Abbrev: TM ment and personnel. The phrase tactics

technical observer, 1. civilian technical and technique is often used to refer to
expert, representing a commercial firm, the general and detailed n1ethods used
nt
Air
who accompanies troops in the field to by commanders and forces in carrying
observe and report on the operation out their assignments
I rom
ho
1_1
m-
technique of fire 280 terrain exercise
technique of fire, methods of applying temporary change of station, detail of
effective flre upon a target. Technique a soldier to duty away from his perma..
of fire takes into account the nature and nent station for a short period of time,
location of targets, the different types upon completion of which he will return
of firearms and ammunition, and the dis- to his permanent station.
tribution, adjustment, and control of temporary duty, task of short duration,
fire. as distinguished from regular duty.
telegram. Abbrev: telg Temporary duty may be in addition to,
telegraph. Abbrev: tg or instead of, regular duty. Temporary
telegraph printer. Abbrev: tgp duty is generally to be performed in an
telephone. A bbrev: tp organization other than that to which
telescope, optical instrument consisting an individual is assigned.
of two or more lenses, used to make dis- temporary forces, components of the
tant objects appear nearer and larger. Army organized to serve only during
telescope mount, base or holder for a time of war, for example .Selective Serv-
telescope, especially a bracket for at- ice personnel.
taching a telescope to a gun. temporary grade, grade to which mili-
telescopic sight, gun sight equipped tary personnel may be promoted or ap-
with a telescope. pointed in the Army of the United .
teletypewriter. Abbrev: tt States in time of war or national emer-
teletypeWl'iter center. Abbrev: ttc gency; temporary rank. Although a
teletypewriter exchange. Abbrev: TWX temporary grade may be terminated at
teletypewriter exchange message. any time by the appointing authority,
Abbrev: TWX it is normally held during the war or
telg, telegr~m. national emergency and for six months
teller, . military or civilian person of the following. The temporary grade differs
aircraft warning service who relays from the permanent grade held by an
information about enemy and friendly enlisted man or officer in the Regular
aircraft from the radar or filter board Army, National Guard, or Officers' Re-
to an information center or operations serve Corps.
board. The information relayed by the temporary rank. See temporary grade.
teller has first been filtered and plotted tent, movable canvas shelter supported
by filterers and plotters. by ropes and poles.
temp, temporary. terminal velocity, remaining speed of a
template. See templet. projectile at the point in the downward
templet -(TEM plut), pattern or form, path of the projectile where the pro-
such as a thin plate or board, that is jectile is level with the muzzle of the
used as a guide or scale for reproducing gun. The speed at the point of impact
designs on other surfaces, or for mark- is called the striking velocity.
ing off graduations or distances on maps, terrain, area of ground considered as to
photographs, etc.; template. its extent and natural features in rela-
temporary. Abbrev: temp tion to its use for a particular operation.
temporary appointment, appointment terrain appreciation, art of interpreting
or promotion given to a member of the the special features of terrain from
Army of the United States in time of ground, air, and map reconnaissance, in
war or national emergency. A tempo- order to make the best tactical use of
rary appointment may be terminated the ground and take advantage of
at any time by the appointing author- natural cover.
ity, but it is usually held for the dura- terrain board, horizontal board built to
tion of the war or emergency, or for a represent a particular ground area, used
fixed period following the end of the in solving military problems or in follow-
war or emergency. A temporary ap- ing the events of an operation.
pointment differs from a permanent ap- terrain compartment. See compartment
pointment of a member of the Regular of terrain.
Army, National Guard, or Officers' Re- terrain corridor. See corridor.
serve Corps, which does not terminate terrain exercise, exercise in which a
at a fixed period nor at the will of the military problem is stated and solved on
appointing authority. the ground, with imaginary troops; ter-
rrlglna
terrain problem 281 third echelon maintenance
rain problem. The solution of a terrain theater commander, commanding gen-
exercise is made in writing. eral of a theater of operations.
terrain problem. See terrain exercise. theater directory service, service fur-
n
terrestrial fire, gunfire directed against nished by the adjutant general in a

st
a land or water target; horizontal fire. theater of operations. A theater di-
In artillery usage, terrestrial fire in- rectory service supplies correct addresses
cludes fire at all targets where the for mail which Army post offices are
vertical angle between the line of posi- otherwise unable to deliver.
i-
tion and the horizontal does not ex- theater headquarters. Abbrev: TH Q
ceed 10 degrees. theater officer, officer who supervises
terrestrial observation. See ground ob- the operation of a War Department mo-
servation. tipn picture theater. ..
b-
-
territorial department, one of the mili- theater of operations, combat area,
eas
tary subdivisions into which an overseas including the area necessary for the ad-
possession of the United States is or- ministration and supply connected with
es
ganized to coordinate military activities military operations; theater.
within the territorial limits of the de- Abbrev: T of Opns
partment. The Hawaiian Department theater of war, area directly involved
is an example of such a department. in war, including theaters of operations
Territori~ll departments correspond to occupied by all belligerents.
service commands. Also called depart-
t-
theater reserve, forces held as a re-

ment. serve by the commanding general of a
testing target, special target used in theater of operations for use where they
at boresighting a gun. It has two marks are needed.
separated by the same distance as that theodolite, instrument, similar to a sur-
at
between the sight and the axis of the veyor's transit, by which an observer
bore, so that the gun may be pointed at may follow moving objects, such as air-
d
one mark and the sight at the other. planes, and read their elevation and
test piece, any gun which is compared azimuth at any instant.
with another gun in calibration. The thermals, rising vertical air currents
ce
gun used as a basis of comparison is caused by unequal pressure resulting
called the reference piece; any other from temperature changes. Practical
nti- gun adjusted accurately with reference use is made of thermals for the mainte-
to it is a test piece. nance of long periods of flight by sail-
tetrahedron, pyramid-shaped steel anti- planes.
tank obstacle. thermate, mixture used in incendiary
tetryl, sensitive explosive used espe- bombs and grenades. Thermate is

of
cially in caps and bursters to detonate composed of thermite and some other
less sensitive explosives. material. Symbol: TH
texture, 1. appearance of the surface of thermite or thermit, incendiary agent
the earth in an aerial photograph. consisting of a mixture of powdered
aph
2. nature or composition of a surface aluminum and the oxide of another
which determines its ability to reflect metal, usually iron. Thermite produces
ex-
light. Smooth textures reflect much hot molten metal when ignited.
light, and therefore look and photograph Symbol: TH
gh
lighter than rough textures. Roads, thermite bomb, incendiary bomb hav-
paths, and bare fields have smooth tex- ing a filler of powdered aluminum and
tures and appear light. Forests, thick iron oxide.
brush, and shaded surfaces have rough thermite grenade, incendiary hand gre-
texture and appear dark. nade having a filler of powdered alumi-
TF, training film. num and iron oxide.
tg, telegraph. third. Abbrev: 3d
tgp, telegraph printer. third echelon maintenance, mainte-
TH, 1. thermate. nance, repairs, and unit replacement be-
n-
2. thermite; thermit. yond the scope of the troops using the

The Adjutant General. See Adjutant materiel and equipment, which can be
General, The. Abbrev: TAG performed by mobile maintenance or-
theater. See theater of operations. ganizations. r I .~:
sses
r1g1na 1rom
U.NI ERSITY OF C LIFORNI
third officer 282 time of flight
third officer, 1. deck officer of the Army time distance, distance to a point.
Transport Service. The third officer is measured in time. Time distance is
in charge of a watch, and during his found by dividing the distance to be
watch is responsible for the navigation traveled to the point by the rate of
of the vessel and the operation of the movement.
deck department. time fire, fire of artillery projectil~
2. officer in the former Women's Army which are equipped with time fuzes so
Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) who had a that they will burst in the air.
rank equivalent to that of a second time fuze, fuze that contains a graduat-
lieutenant. ed time element in the form of an ex-
Thompson submachine gun, .45-cali- plosive train or a mechanism similar to
ber, air-cooled automatic weapon that a watch, with which the time at which
can be carried and operated by one man. the fuze will function after firing is
THQ, theater headquarters. regulated. The time fuze generally in
three-numeral code group, set of three use consists of a fabric tube containing
numbers in an air-ground liaison code, a slow-burning explosive train.
communicated by prescribed arrange- time-gap, interval of time between suc-
ments of panels in signaling. cessive vehicles, march units, or columns
three-point landing, aircraft landing in as they move past a given point. The
which the main landing gear and the time is measured from the instant the
auxiliary landing gear touch the ground tail of one unit clears the point to the
or other landing surface simultaneously instant the head of the next unit
at the moment the plane loses its flying reaches it. Also called time interval.
speed. time interval, 1. period of time between
throwing pit, pit dug in the ground into two successive observations made on a
which hand grenades may be thrown in moving target during tracking.
practice by men standing in a throwing 2. interval of time between successive
trench. vehicles, march units, or columns as
throwing range, distance a hand gre- they move past a given point. The time
nade can normally be thrown, usually is measured from the instant the tail
about 50 yards. of one unit clears the point to the instant
throwing trench, trench in which men the head of the next unit reaches it.
stand to practice throwing grenades. In this meaning, also called time-gap.
thrust, 1. forward pull which a propeller time interval recorder, stop watch.
exerts on an aircraft. Fortnerly a time interval recorder was a
2. sudden pushing forward of a rifle, special stop. watch with only one hand.
with a bayonet attached, to full arm- Now either term is used for all instru-
length. ments used to indicate time intervals of
tight turn, sudden sharp turning ma- minutes, seconds, and fractions of
neuver of an aircraft. seconds.
tilt, inclination of an aerial camera per- time lag, 1. period of time elapsing be-
pendicular to the direction of flight. tween the date on which supplies are
Also called lateral tilt. Inclination in the ordered and the date on which the sup-
direction of flight is called tip. plies are received.
time bomb, bomb provided with a clock- 2. interval of time elapsing between the
like mechanism to detonate it after a action of one part of a mechanism and
specific interval of time. the action of a connected part. The
time charter, agreement by which an fraction of a second that passes after a
owner or another government agency bombardier presses the bomb-release
maintains and operates a vessel for the button before the bomb is released from
War Department, furnishing all equip- the rack is an example of time lag.
ment and supplies and providing the time length, time required for a column
necessary personnel. A time charter or march unit to pass a given point.
differs from a bare boat charter, by which time lengths. Abbrev: TL
the government agrees to provide the time of flight, elapsed time in seconds
personnel and equipment to operate a from the instant a projectile leaves the
privately-owned vessel in the service of muzzle of a gun to the instant it strikes
the War Department. or bursts.
Orlg1nal fro
time shell 283 to the color
.
time shell, shell equipped with a time topographic. Abbrev: top or topo
fuze so that it will burst in the air at a topographical. Abbrev: top or topo
given instant. topographical crest, summit or highest
tip, inclination of an aerial camera in line of a ridge.
the direction of flight. Inclination per- topograph-cal identification, art of
pendicular to the direction of flight is identifying visible and hidden terrain
called tilt or lateral tilt. features on a photograph. Identifica-
titanium tetrachloride, chemical agent tion is followed by topographical inter-
used to produce a screening smoke. pretation, whose purpose is to evaluate
t
Syn1-bol: Fl\I the information obtained by identifica-
tk, tank. tion, for use in intelligence work con-
TL, time lengths. nected" with the planning of military
tlmkr, toolmaker. operations.
tlr, trailer. topographical interpretation, study of
TM, Technical 1\fanual. aerial photographs, after topographical
t mort, trench mortar. identification, to evaluate the informa-
tn, train. tion obtained; by identification, for use
Tn Co, Train Commander. in intelligence work onnected with the
tng, training. planning of military operations.
TNT, high explosive widely used in topographic map, map which represents
projectiles and by engineers; trinitro- the vertical position of features of the
toluene; trinitrotoluol. terrain, or relief, in some measurable
T /0, Tables of Orga~ization. form, as well as the horizontal position
T /O&E, Tables of Organization and of terrain features.
Equipment. topographic plot, representation, by
to arms, bugle call summoning all men means of contour lines, of the ground
n
to fall in, under anns, without delay, at relief of an area shown in a stereoscopic
a place set in advance. model.
at
T of Qpns, theater of operations. topographic troops, troops whose pri-

TOG method, target-observer-gun mary function is to produce or reproduce
method; method of pointing a gun by maps or map substitutes.
indirect laying, using the angle at the topography, 1. shape of the surface of
observer between a line to the target any area, including its relief, and the
and a line to the gun. position of its streams, roads, etc.
o
to horse, signal for mounted troops to 2. map making and map reading.
d
saddle horses and fall in, mounted and top turret, gun turret in the center of
under arms, immediately, at a stated the top of a tank; power turret on top
place. In extended order drill, it is a of the fuselage of some aircraft.
signal to mount. tor, . torpedo.
s
tolerance, allowable amount of varia- torpedo, self-propelled, cigar-shaped, ex-
cy tion from a standard in the dimensions plosive projectile launched by subma-
of a machine or part, or in the accuracy rines, surface vessels, or torpedo planes.
of an instrument. Abbrev: tor
tompion, wooden plug or cover, espe-- torpedo boat, small speedy boat used
cially for the muzzle of a gun. A tom- chiefly to torpedo enemy shipping. It
t
pion is also used to cover the sight generally has no protective armor, and
bracket of a gun when the sight is not its armament consists of light weapons.
in place.
t
-
Also called propeller torpedo boat
rface
tone, shade of gray in which an object and commonly called PT boat.
m
appears in an aerial photograph, vary- torpedo bomber, naval airplane used
ing according to the texture of the surface to discharge aerial torpedoes against
and the amount of light reflected from enemy vessels; torpedo plane.
it. torpedo plane. See torpedo bomber.
toolmaker. Abbrev: tlmkr to the color, bugle call sounded as a
.
top, 1. topographic. 2. topographical. salute to the color, to the President, the
top carriage, upper movable part of a Vice-President, an ex-President, or a
gun carriage. foreign chief magistrate. Also called to
st
topo, 1. topographic. 2. topographical. the color and to the standard.
Or1g1nal rrom
-
to the rear march 284 track
to the rear march, 1. movement exe- a marching column in trace is to march
cuted by troops in formation, to reverse behind it over exactly the same route.
direction of march. To the rear march tracer, 1. burning composition placed in
is done by each man making a right ammunition to show the path of the
about in marching. . projectile.
2. command to make such a movement. 2. type of ammunition containing a
to the standard, bugle call sounded as chemical composition which burns in
a salute to the color, to the President, flight. Tracer is used for observation
the Vice-President, an ex-President, or of fire, for incendiary purposes, and for
a foreign chief magistrate. Usually signaling. In this meaning, also called
called to the color. tracer ammunition.
touch signal, signal made with the foot 3. specialist who makes tracings of
or hand by the tank commander to drawings of equipment.
direct the driver. tracer ammunition, type of ammunition
tour of duty, that part of the day, or containing a chemical composition that
that period of time, during y.rhich an burns in flight. Tracer ammunition is
officer or enlisted man iS on a specified used for observation of fire, for incendi-
duty. ary purposes, and for signaling. Also
towed flag target, flag-shaped target called tracer.
towed by an aircraft and used especially tracer bullet, bullet made of a chemical
for air-to-air target practice; flag target. composition that burns in flight. It is
It consists of a special fabric with metal used in tracer ammunition.
spreader bars to keep it in a vertical tracer control, fire control based on the
plane and flat while in flight. observation of the path of tracer bullets.
towed sleeve target, tubular, open- tracer control trainer, device used to
ended bag which fills with air and bellies train gunners in fire control, using tracer
out when towed by an aircraft in flight, ammunition.
used as a target. Also called sleeve tracer stream, path of a series of tracer
target. bullets.
towed-target firing, antiaircraft practice tracer wand trainer, simple device for
fire against. a target towed by an air- training gunners in fire control, based on
craft. the observation of tracer ammunition.
tow target, target for antiaircraft fire or A small red flashlight on the end of a
aerial gunnery practice, drawn behind slender stick represents the tracer am-
an aircraft. It may be a towed flag munition.
target or a towed sleeve target. tracing paper method, locating a point
toxic, poisonous; having a harmful effect on a map with reference to other known
upon the body. points by using tracing paper on which
toxic chemical agent, chemical agent the location of the point has been
that has a harmful effect upon the body determined by lines and angles. The
when applied externally, inhaled, or tracing paper is placed over the map and
swallowed. moved until each line passes through the
tp, telephone. map location of the point on which it
TP A. Travel by officer or his dependents was drawn. The observer'E position is
by privately owned automobile is pricked through the tracing paper at
authorized; detached service for offi- the intersection of the lines.
cer's travel is authorized. track, 1. observe and mark on a chart
tr, troop. the successive positions of a moving
TR, technical regulations. target.
T /R, transportation request. 2. keep a gun pointed on a moving
trac, tractor. target.
trace, 1. location on a map or on the 3. actual path of an aircraft over the
ground for a trench or other. fortifica- surface of the earth. The course is the
tion. path which is planned for an aircraft to
2. line on a map representing the flight fly; the track is the path which it actual-
line of an airplane. ly flies.
3. path of a tracer bullet. 4. follow or pursue an enemy to find out
4. path of an element ahead. To follow where he will go.
Orlg1 fro
tracking 285 train
5. one of the two endless belts on which men mounted in a truck or on a motor-
a full-track or half-track vehicle runs. cycle, having the duty of moving back
6. metal part forming a path for a mov- and forth along a route to supervise and
ch ing object, for example, the track around regulate traffic.
the inside of a vehicle for moving a trail, 1. rear part of a gun carriage which
v-
mounted machine gun. connects the piece with a limber or

und
tracking, observing and plotting the tractor. When the gun is unlimbered,
successive positions of a moving tar~tet. the trail rests on the ground and stabi-
tracking telescope, telescope used for lizes the piece in firing position.
et.
observing a moving target and following 2. attach the trail of a gun to the limber.
r
its path. 3. series of bombs dropped one after the
ng
track-laying vehicle, vehicle which other, instead of in a group.
travels upon two endless traeks, one on 4. distance on the ground between the
each side of the machine. A track-lay- point where a bomb strikes and the
on
ing vehicle has high mobility and can point vertically below where the air-
maneuver, is usually armed and fre- plane is at that moment.
quently armored, and is intended for 5. carrying a rifle at an angle, holding
tactical use. Tanks are one type of the .barrel in the right hand with the
track-laying vehicle. butt nearly touching the ground. At
track off, deliberate underestimation or trail is a preparatory command to troops
or
overestimation of the predicted path of to march with rifles in the position of
of
a target, in order to bring about an trail.
eventual intersection of the line of fire trail angle, angle at the bomb sight in
e
with the target. a bombing aircraft between the line to
tractor. Abbrev: trac the point where a bomb strikes the
tractor airplane, airplane with the pro- ground and a vertical line from the air-
-
peller or propellers placed ahead of the plane to the ground.

wings. Airplanes now are usually of the trail arms, 1. position in the manual of
he
he
tractor airplane type. the rifle in which the rifle is carried at an

tractor-drawn. Abbrev: tr-dr angle, so that the right hand grasps the
y
tractor-drawn artillery, mobile artillery barrel and the butt is nearly touching
that is moved by tractor. . the ground.
trade test, examination to find out 2. command to take this position.
d
whether a man has the knowledge and trail bridge. See trail ferry.
skill in a trade that he claims to have. trailer. Abbrev: tlr
traf. traffic. trail ferry, raft attached to a cable run-
traffic, 1. passing of vehicles, aircraft, ning across a stream; trail bridge. A

be-
or persons along a course. trail ferry is attached to the cable so
2. passing of messages over a wire or be- that it can be set at a slant and use the
or
tween radio stations. Abbrev: traf force of the current for power.
in
traffic control clearance, permission for trail officer, officer who rides at the
a pilot to fly his airplane into an area in rear of a column or march unit. His
which air traffic is controlled. chief duty is to watch for disabled per-
traffic control station. Abbrev: TCS sonnel or vehicles, and to decide what
en
traffic diagram, chart showing the ac- must be done about them.
.
tual number of telephone lines between trail party, detail of men commanded
telephone exchanges and telephones.
s
by the trail officer, riding at the rear of

traffic line, line beyond which vehicles a column or march unit.
d
may not pass, or beyond which they train, 1. that portion of a unit's trans-
es
may not show lights. portation, with its accompanying per-
ve-
traffic map, map used in planning and sonnel, which operates under the im-
ng.
regulating the flow of traffic. It includes mediate orders of the unit commander in
routes, road data, the direction of move- supply, evacuation, and maintenance.
ons
ment, and the amount of traffic moving. 2. line of explosive used to carry fire to
traffic order, set of instructions to a a mine or charge. It is usually called
r-
moving unit regarding traffic regulations explosive train or powder train.
k
and directions. 3. aim a gun.
nd
traftic patrol, man or small group of Abbreo: tn
ich
Orlg1nal rrom
i-
train, angle of 286 transfer
train, angle of. See angle of train. training film, motion picture produced
trainasium, structure -made of metal especially for purposes of instruction in
bars, used for physical exerc~es de- connection with military training. ,
signed to develop the muscular coordi- Abbrev. TF
nation of students; metal trainer. The training grenade, dummy hand grenade
bars cross each other to form a network containing no explosive or chemical.
of tunnels and ladders. Training grenades are used in practice.
train bivouac, temporary camp for the Also called practice grenade.
vehicles and personnel of a unit train. training mask, light-weight gas mask,
train bombing, release of two or more usually without a hose, used only in
bombs in succession from the same air- training.
plane by a single sighting operation, training memorandum, document is-
with an interval between bombs that sued by a commander giving instruc-
will keep all the bombs v.ithin the vul- tions regarding training.
nerable range of the target. training munitions, standard equip-
Train Commander. Abbrev: Tn Co ment and ammunition specially designed
trainee, 1. anyone undergoing training. for, and used in, training.
2. classification for an enlisted man training order, set of instructions is-
undergoing basic training before being sued by a commander regarding the
assigned. training of personnel.
trainer, any device used in training; air- training program, general outline for
plane or imitation of an airplane used to the training of a unit over a given period.
train pilots. A Link trainer is one type The training schedule is developed from
of trainer. the training program.
training. Abbrev: tng training projectile, projectile used in
training airplane, small, sturdy aircraft instruction and drill, often one that con-
used to train flyers. tains no explosive. Some training pro-
training aviati9n, class of military avia- jectiles may be used more than once.
tion especially organized, trained, and training schedule, detailed outline of
equipped for the training of pers6nnel the training for a unit, including text
for duty in flight and ground crews of references for each day and instructions
units of the Army Air Forces. Other as to what is to be done, who is to do it,
classes are combat aviation, experi- when and where it is to be done, and
mental aviation, and special purpos.e the uniform and equipment required.
aviation. training stick, light pole with a 6-inch
training camp, military establishment ring at the end, used in giving instruc-
used only for giving instruction, for tion in the use of the bayonet. The in-
example, one used in peacetime for structor holds the stick in various posi-
training Reserve Officers. tions at which the student may aim.
training canister, special canister used training unit. Abbrev: TU
in gas masks for training purposes only. trajectory, curved path through the air
It does not protect against all chemical described by a projectile in its flight.
agents, and is not used in the service gas trajectory chart, diagram of a side view
mask. of the paths of projectiles fired at various
t.raining center' military establishment elevations, under standard conditions.
used in the training of personnel. The trajectory chart is different for
training circular. Abbrev: TC different guns, projectiles, and fuzes.
training circulars, series of special War trampoline trainer, rectangle of canvas
Department publications giving infor- stretched tight on a metal frame, on
mation and instructions necessary in the which a student is able to bound and
training of personnel. rebound when practicing body control
Training Command, one of the major and flips in the air.
subdivisions of the Army Air Forces that trans, 1. transport. 2. transportation.
conducts and supervises the training of transfer, 1. shifting of fire from one
Army Air Forces personnel. The Train- point to another, applying the correc-
ing Command has replaced the former tions for the first target to the data for
Flying Training Command and the the second target. In this meaning,
Technical Training Command. often called transfer of fire.
rr1g1na fro
transfer of fire 287 travel pay
2. shift a man fro~ one organization to operation of all transportation facilities
another. and equipment. Abbrev: TC
3. shifting a man from one organization transportation officer, 1. staff officer of a
to
to another. battalion or higher unit who has charge

transfer of fire, 1. shifting of fire from of vehicles and transportation personnel.
on
one target to another, applying the cor- In this meaning, also called transport
rections for the first target to the data officer.
or-
for the second target. In this meaning, 2. commissioned officer, usually of the
a
sometimes called transfer. Transportation Corps, in charge of the
,
2. fire on a target, based on an adjust- supply and administrative activities of
ment on a point whose location in re- the Transportation Corps aboard a
-
spect to the target is known. transport. If no transportation officer
transfer order, order form used by the is assigned to a transport, a transporta-
chief of the field service to have sup- tion agent is assigned to carry out his
e
plies moved from one depot to another. duties. In this meaning, also called
transfer point, point at which control ship transportation officer.
transportation order, order giving in-
er.
over railway trains, motor convoys, or

r
reinforcements passes from one com- structions and commands regarding
mander to another. movement of troops or equipment.
transferred. Abbrev: trfd transportation request, document is-
transient objective, temporary struc- sued by the Transportation Corps re-
tures and military installations, con- questing a railroad or other agency to
sidered as possible bombing targets. provide transportation for a man or
transient target, moving target that re- number of men at the government's ex-
e-
mains within observing or firing dis- pense.

tance for such a short period that it Abbrev: T/R
t-
affords little time for deliberate .adjust- Transportation Service, formerly a sub-.
-
ment and fire against it. Transient tar- division of the Army Service Forces,
gets may be aircraft, vehicles, ships, now replaced by the Transportation
marching troops, etc. Usually called Corps.
fleeting target. transport aviation, classification of mili~
nt
transit, telescopic surveying instrument tary aviation organized, equipped, and

r-
used for measuring horizontal and ver- trained to carry personnel and cargo.
nes
tical angles, for prolonging straight lines transport officer, staff officer of a bat-
accurately, or for leveling. talion or higher unit who has charge of
transit storage. Abbrev: TS vehicles and transportation personnel.
nt.
transport, government ship used for Usually called transportation officer.
carrying troops, supplies, or equipment. transposition cipher, cryptogram pro-
d Abbrev: tor trans duced by rearranging the letters of a
transport airplane, large airplane used message.
n-
for carrying personnel and supplies. trap mine, mine designed to explode
transportation, 1. movement of person- unexpectedly when enemy personnel
d
nel and equipment. attempt to move an object.

2. all vehicles or carriers of a unit used travel allowance, money paid to an of-
s-
for carrying personnel, supplies, and ficer to cover travel- expenses. A travel
er-
materiel. Abbrev: t or trans allowance may be paid in the form of
transportation agent, officer on a trans- mileage, as reimbursement for expenses,
port, assigned to the ship by the super- or as a daily allowance while traveling.
a
intendent, Army Transport Service, of traveling position, position or arrange-
-
the home port of the ship. A transpor- ment of the parts of mov~ble equipment
tation agent carries out the duties of a when made ready for moving to another
o
transpertation officer, if no transporta- place.

h
tion officer is assigned to the ship. travel order, official order authorizing
c-
transportation company. Abbrev: T Co an individual to travel by railroad or
Transportation Corps, subdivision of other means of transportation.
s
the Army Service Forces charged with travel pay, allowance for transportation
the direction of all transportation func- back to the place of enlistment, paid to
of a
tions of the War Department and the an enlisted man when he is discharged.
r1g1nal ~rom
ge
nel.

e
traverse 288 trigger guard
traverse, 1. turn a gun to right or left effective and accurate 81-mm mortar.
on its mount in pointing. Abbrev: t mort
2. movement to right or left on a pivot trench shelter~ ditch, open or covered,
or mount, usually of a gun, but some- used as a shelter from enemy fire.
times of a piece of machinery. trench warfare, warfare in which both
3. possible movement of a gun on its sides occupy trenches.
mount to right or left, measured as an trestle, support for a bridge, usually
angle. consisting of a framework of timbers.
4. in surveying or navigation, a series of trfd, transferred.
straight lines running from point to trial fire, deliberate gunfire laid on a
point, the. distances and angles being fixed point or target to determine the
accurately known . corrections, for firing data. Trial fire is
5. projecting mount, or mask of earth or used to prepare for fire for effect.
concrete, protecting a trench, emplace- trial judge advocate, officer designated
ment, or other fortification from enfilade by the appointing authority to prose-
fire. cute an action in the name of the United
traverse, angle of. See angle of tra\? States, in a general or 3pecial court-
erse. martial. The trial judge ad vocate is
traverse method, surveying method, also charged with preparing a record of
used especially for laying out a curve, the proceedings. Also called judge
that uses a series of lines running from advocate.
point to point, the distances and angles trial shot. shot fired at a fixed point or
being known. target during trial fire.
traversing and searching fire, gunfire trial shot correction, adjustment cor-
intended to cover thoroughly a whole rection resulting from trial fire, used to
area. In traversing and searching fire prepare for fire for effect.
the gun is gradually traversed in one trial shot point, point at which trial
direction, then the elevation is increased fire is directed.
and the gun is traversed in the opposite triangle exercise, form of target prac-
direction, and so on. tice with the rifle, in which the rifleman
traversing fire, fire distributed in width fires three shots, making three holes as
by moving the gun gradually to the clo~ together in the target as possible.
right or left. Traversing fire is the op- triangular division, infantry division
posite of searching fire, which is dis- made up of three infantry regiments,
tributed in depth by successive changes together with supporting artillery Units.
in the elevation of the gun. It is called a triangular division because
traversing mechanism, mechanism by it has three infantry regiments instead
which a gun may be turned to the right of four, as in a ~quare division.
or left. triangulation, method of surveying in
tr carr, troop carrier. which the locations of the different ter-
Tr Carr Sq, troop carrier squadron. rain features are found by a system of
tr-dr, tractor-dra~n. triangles, each of whose base lines is
treadway, one of the two tracks forming established accurately as to location and
the roadway in some kinds of bridges. length. As locations of new points are
treadway bridge, bridge whose road- determined, new base lines are estab-
way is formed by two tracks or tread- lished, and the locations of other points
ways. are determined from them.
treason, crime of making war on one's trick, 1. graduation mark on a lens or
own country or of assisting its enemies. reticle.
trench, ditch. used by troops for protec- 2. tour of duty; period during which one
tion. is on duty. Also called watch.
trench knife, knife with a double-edged trigger, lever moved by the finger to fire
steel blade about eight inches long, used a gun.
in close combat. trigger actuator. See actuator.
e
trench mortar, smooth-bore, muzzle- trigger guard, curved piece of metal on
loading mortar that fires a 3-inch shell; a gun within which the trigger is located,
Stokes mortar. The trench mortar is and which protects the trigger. Also
now obsolete and is replaced by the more called guard.
Orlg1nal fro
trigger motor 289 true copy
trigger motor, motor ~n certain types troop catrier squadron.
of automatic guns, having the eame Abbrev: Tr Carr Sq
function as the trigger on a rifle. trooper, cavalryman; cavalry soldier.
trigger pull, resistance offered by the troop location group, body of men as-
trigger of a. rifle or other weapon; force signed by the Adjutant General's Office
which must be exerted to pull the to work in a post office at a postal con-
trigger. centration center. The troop location
e
trigger squeeze, proper method of fir- group furnishes the postal authorities
ing~ rifle or similar weapon. The trig- with the necessary information regard-
ger is not pulled, but squeezed gradually ing troop movements, so that mail can
by a contracting motion of the whole be delivered.
ally hand. troop motement, transportation or
trimetrogon charting, method of mak- movement of troops from one place to
ing charts from three aerial photo- another by any means.
-
graphs, one vertical and two obliques. troops. Abbrev: trs

trimonite, high explosive used as a sub- troop school, any authorized course of
.
stitute for TNT as a bursting charge. instruction for officers and men, within-
Trimonite is a mixture of picric acid an organization or in designated schools
ub-
and mononitronaphthalene. for special training.

trinitrophenol. See picric acid. troopship, ship used chiefly for the
trinitrotoluene, chemical name for TNT; transportation of troops; troop trans-
T; trinitrotoluol. port. A troopship is a type of transport.
trinitrotoluol. See trinitrotoluene. troop train, railroad train being used
trt;, 1. release a lever or set free a exclusively to carry troops.
mechanism. troop transport. See troopship.
2. part of the mechanism of some fire- troop unit, any organization of soldiers.
arms, released by the action of the trouble truck, vehicle, usually equipped
-
trigger. with a winch, used for moving disabled

tripod mount, three-legged base for a vehicles.
machine gun or instrument. trs, troops.
trip wire, 1. wire stretched near the truce, agreement by both sides to stop
ground to trip foot troops. fighting temporarily, for some special
nce
2. low outer wire of a double-apron fence reason, such as to discuss terms of sur-
or low wire entanglement. render. A truce is generally local. A
i-
3. wire attached to an antitank or anti- truce between whole nations is called an

personnel tnine. Movement of the wire armistice.
e
may cause detonation of the mine. truck. Abbrev: trk

triton block, block of pressed TNT, truck-drawn. Abbrev: trk-dr
used for demolition purposes. truckhead, point at which supplies are
trk, truck. unloaded from trucks, and from which
trkdr, truck-drawn. they are distributed or forwarded by
trk hd, truckhead. railway or other means of transporta-
troop, administrative and tactical unit tion. A truckhead is similar in function
of the Army, in cavalry; subdivision of to a navigation head or a railhead.
ches
a squadron of cavalry. A troop cor- Abbrev: trk hd

tr
responds to a company in other branches truekhead distribution, system of dis-
n
of the Army, to a battery in artillery, tributing supplies from points where
or to a squadron in aviation. Abbrev: tr they are unloaded from trucks.
h troop age, age bracket within which an truck master, noncommissioned officer
officer of a given grade, if otherwise in charge of a group of trucks and their
qualified, can be assigned to duty with personnel in a marching convoy.
troop units of the field forces. true azimuth, azimuth measured from
troop carrier. Abbrev: tr carr true north.
ops
Troop Carrier Command, one of the tru~ copy, transcript, word for word, of
major subdivisions of the Army Air
nd
any military document, authenticated as

Forces that has charge of ferrying troops a correct and accurate duplicate by an
and equipment in transport aircraft, and officer or by some other person author-
also of evacuating wounded men. ized by regulations.
ce
rlglnal rrom
n-
true coursP 290 TWX
true course, course of an aircraft as maneuver, passing around the side of
indicated by the horizontal angle be- the enemy's main forces and attacking
tween the true north-south line and the him from the rear.
direction of motion of the aircraft. turnover, transfer from one officer to
true north, geographic north; the di- another of accountability for supplies.
rection of the geographic North Pole turret, dome-shaped or cylindrical ar-
from a point on the earth's surface. mored structure containing one or more
trunk circuit, main telephone line or guns, located on forts, warships, air-
set of lines connecting two switchboards. planes, and tanks. Most turrets are
trunnion, 1. one of the two pivots sup- built so that they can be revolved.
porting a piece of artillery on its car- turret defilade, condition in which a
riage and forming the horizontal axis tank, except for its turret, is hidden from
about which the barrel rotates when it the enemy by an intervening hill or
is elevated. other mask.
2. supporting pivot for holding an in- turret gun, gun mounted in a turret.
strument on its mount. turret mount, mount for a gun placed
TS, transit storage. in a turret.
t sgt, technical sergeant. turret traversing mechanism, device
tt, teletypewriter. for revolving a gun turret.
ttc, teletypewriter center. twenty-five percent rectangle, rectan-
TlJ, t:aining unit. gle, with its center at the center of im-
t abe, main part of a gun, the cylin- pacJ of a large number of shots, within
drical piece cf metal surrounding the which twenty-five percent of all the
bore. Tuhz is freqt1ntly used in refer- shots will fall. A twenty-five percent
ring to artillery weapons, and barrel is rectangle is two probable errors wide
more frequently used in referring to and two deep.
small arms. two-man steel shelter, shelter for per-
tumble, turn end over end in flight, said sonnel and materiel made from small,
of a projectile. light steel-arch frames. Although the
turn, 1. move around the flank of the two-man shelter is the smallest and
enemy nnd attack him from the rear or lightest of the steel-arch shelters, it
side. serves as a splinterproof cover.
2. maneuver by which an aircraft two-station magnitude spotting, system
changes direction. for observing and locating the striking
3. drill movement by which a formation point of a projectile with respect to the
changes fronts. The pivot man faces in target. In tvlo-station magnitude spot-
the new direction and takes up the ting, two observing stations, one at each
half step; the other men march in an end of a horizontal base line, are used.
oblique direction until they come op- two-station method, system of locat-
posite their new places, then make ing the position of a target by sighting
another oblique. Each man takes up from two observation stations located
the half step as he arrives at his new at opposite ends of a measured and lo-
position, and when the entire formation cated base line. With the angles be-
is in place a command is given to take tween the base line and the two lines
up full-step marching. to the target established, the distance
turn and bank indicator, instrument as well as the direction from the obser-
on an aircraft that shows the rate of vation posts to the target can be cal-
turn, the direction of the turn, and the culated exactly. Also called horizontal
amount of bank or tilt. Also called base method or two-station spotting
bank and turn indicator. system.
turn indicator, aircraft instrument two-station spotting system. See two-
which indicates whether the airplane is station method.
turning to the right or left, and how fast. TWX, 1. teletypewriter exchange.
turning movement, wide enveloping 2. teletypewriter exchange message.
Orlg1nal fro
U/F 291 unit assemblage
U {F, unit of fire. War is the officer of the War Depart-
ultimatum, final demand that another ment who ranks next below the Secre ..
nation or military force agree to meet tary of War and next above the Assistant
certain conditions, carrying \\ith it a Secretary of War. Abbrev: USW or
threat of military action if the detnand U Sec War
is not met. underwater ranging battery, harbor
umpire, officer who observes and judges ~ defense unit of the Coast Artillery
d
field, air, or training maneuvers accord- Corps which operates underwater rang-
ing to established rules. ing equipment for locating vessels. An
ges
unarnted, 1. kept from exploding by underwater ranging battery differs from
d- some mechanical device that neutralizes a mine battery and firing battery, which
the fuze. . operate the harbor defense mine field,
2. without weapons. searchlights, and artillery.
zes
unauthorized belligerents, men or units unequal section charge, pronclling

not recognized as lawful combatants charge in separate-loading am1nurn~:on,
under the rules of land warfare, and so divided into a number of unequal sections.
not entitled to be treated as prisoners of unevacuable, incapable of being re-
ts
o
war if captured. moved, especially during a retirement or
s of
unease, remove from a container; withdrawal.
particularly, to unfurl a flag. uniform, prescribed dress of a mem-
unconditional surrender, act of yield- her of a n1ilitary force; in particular,
in~ completely, without reservation or those articles of clothing, equipment,
terms. and accessories prescribed by Army
r
uncontrolled mosaic, mosaic made by Regulations for military wear.

y
matching the edges of aerial photographs uniform aUowance, rnouey allowance
aphs
and by cutting away the parts that authorized to be paid to certain military
overlap, but without the check of scale personnel for the purchase of uniforms.
e
or position given by a framework of unilateral method. See unilateral ob-
control points located by ground servation.
survey. unilateral observation, observation of
uncover, 1. remove hat, cap, or helmet. fire from one side by a single station
et.
2. move certain designated soldiers of a where the angle formed by the gun-
fa
formation to either side in order to get target line and target-station line is be-
t
more space between individuals. In 1 tween 5 degrees and 75 degrees; uni-

physical training, at the command lateral method; unilateral spotting. Uni-
"UNCOVER," each even-numbered (or lateral observation differs from ~xial
de-
odd-numbered) individual makes a side- observati'.:n, which is observation of
wise jump. fire from an angie of less than 5 degr~es,
3. command to move in this manner. and also from flank observation~ which
ove-
4. expose or leave unprotected by move- is observation of fire from an angle
mentor maneuver. greater than 75 degrees.
under arms, bearing arms; especially, unilateral r)otting. See unilateral ob-
ms
with arms in hand, or with a small-arms servation.

weapon or with equipment such as a Union Jack, flag hoisted at the bow of
cartridge belt, holster, or automatic a ship when it is anchored or docked.
rifle belt, attached to the person. The union jack has 48 stars on a blue
s.
undercarriage, 1. movable base on field. Also called jack.
at
which the top carriage of a gun moves. unit, 1. any military force having a pre-
2. main landing gear of an aircraft; that scribed organization. Units vary in size
n-
portion of the landing gear that sup- from a squad to an army.

in
ports an aircraft. The undercarriage in- 2. standard or basic quantity in which

eludes the wheels, floats, or other main an item of supply is issued or used. In
structural support of the aircraft. In this meaning, also called unit of issue.
g
this meaning, also called main landing 'unit assemblage, that portion of the
e-
gear. In both meanings, also called authorized equipment of a mobile or-
chassis. ganization stored or issued as a unit,
Under Secretary of War, deputy Secre- such as equip:nent for an evacuation
-
tary of War. The Under Secretary of hospital or a regimental dispensary.
ant
r1g ro
unit distribution 292 unit of equipment
unit distribution, method of distribut- United States Naval Academy, per-
ing class I supplies to various elements manent naval school, at Annapolis,
of a division, either at the unit supply Maryland, where selected students are
point or at the kitchen area of each given naval ins~ruction and college
regiment or separate unit. training to prepare them for service as
United States. Abbrev: US commissioned officers in the United
United States Army, permanent mili- States Navy; Naval Academy.
tary force of the United States. The United States Navy, branch of the
term is generally used to refer to the United States armed forces trained, or-
Regular Army, although it includes also ganized, and equipped for carrying on
the other normal, peacetime compo- naval warfare. Abbrev: USN
nents, such as the National Guard of United States Soldiers' Home, insti-
the United States and the Organized tution in Washington, D. C., founded in
Reserves. It differs from the Army of 1851 by Act of Congress, for the relief
the United States, which is the tempo- and support of invalid and disabled
rary military organization in time of war, soldiers of the Army.
including the permanent components unit engineer, engineering staff officer
as well as temporary components such serving in the headquarters of any unit
as Selective Service personnel, and the to which engineering troops are assigned.
National Guard while it is in federal In the division, this officer is known
service. as the division engineer; in the corps,
United States Army Forces. he is the corps engineer; in. the army,
Abbrev: USAF he is the army engineer; in the theater
United States Army Transport. of operations, he is the chief engineer.
Abbret': USA T unit journal, log book or chronological
United States Coast Guard, branch of record of events, kept by a unit or staff
the United States armed forces, in section.
charge of lifesaving stations along the unit loading, loading method in which
d
coast and responsible for the vessels used the chief consideration is the ability to
in enforcing customs and immigration land troops with their equipment and
laws; Coast Guard. The United States supplies, ready for immediate combat
Coast Guard cooperates in the inter- on landing, rather than to use cargo
national ice patrol. In peacetime it is space economically.
under the control of the Treasury De- combat unit loading, method of load-
partment. In time of war the United ing a unit, together with its essential
States Coast Guard becomes a part of battle equipment, supplies, motors, and
the Navy. Abbrev: USCG animals on a ship, aircraft, truck, or
United States disciplinary barracks. railway train so that it can be unloaded
See dsciplinary barracks. ready for action.
United States Marine Corps, branch convoy unit loading, method of load-
of the . Navy, trained, organized, and ing of troops and their equipment so
equipped very much as land soldiers are, that they travel~n the same convoy but
and usually employed as a landing force; not necessarily on the same transport.
Marine Corps. Abbrev: USMC organizational unit loading, method
United States Marine Corps Women's of loading by which organizations, with
Reserve, organization of 'vomen who their complete supplies and equipment,
have been trained and as.~igned to duty are carried on the same transport, but
with the United States Marine Corps; not so loaded as to allow debarkation of
Marine Corps Women's Reserve. troops and their equipment simul-
United States Military Academy, per- taneously.
manent military school, at West Point, unit mile, amount of gasoline and oil
N. Y ., where selected students are given required to move all vehicles of a unit a
military instruction and college training, distance of one mile.
to prepare them for service as commis- unit of equipment, container and its
sioned officers in the United States Army; contents, authorized in Tables of Basic
Military Academy. Abbrev: USMA Allowances, for issue for a special pur-
United States Military Academy Pre- pose, such as a shoe repair outfit, or a
paratory Unit. Abbrev: USMAPU medical and surgical chest.
1g n f
unit of error 298 utility railway
unit of error, arbitrary measure, based as to get out of the way and leave a clear
on a mathematical formula, used to field of fire open for friendly troops.
state the accuracy of a range finder. unmilitary, not military in character;
d unit of fire, fixed amount of ammuni- not in accordance with military custom
tion, used as a unit of measure. A unit or regulations.
of fire is figured in rounds or tons per unobserved fire, firing in which the
weapon or per organization. The unit target cannot be seen from the gun or
t
of fire is usually the amount of ammu- observation post.

nition which one weapon or organiza- unquaUftedt status of an individual who
-
tion will use in. one day; this was for- has not completed a prescribed course in
merly called day of fire. Abbrtv: U/F the use of a weapon, or who has failed
unit of issue, standard or basic quan- to reach a prescribed standard in its use.
tity in which an item of supply is issued unserviceable, condition of any equip-
()r used. Also called unit. ment or item of supply that cannot be
ed
unit personnel office. Abbrev: UPO used because it is obsolete, worn, or not
unit plan, plan for the operations of a suited for the purpose intended.
particular unit, prepared by the com- UPO, unit personnel office.
mander of the unit in accordance with upwind, direction from which the wind
h
the decision and orders of the next is blowing; windward.
higher commander. urgent message, message requiring the
unit replacement, method of repair in greatest speed in handling; communica-
which a defective, worn, or damaged tion having the highest priority, and
group of parts of a weapon or other taking precedence over priority, routine,
equipment is replaced by a complete new and deferred messages.
new
group of parts. urgent lltnal, fixed signal (PAN) sent

d
unit report, combined intelligence and three times before transmission of an
m-
operations report submitted by a com- urgent message, to indicate that the
bat unit to a higher headquarters. message takes priority over all but dis-
f
unit reserves, prescribed quantities of tress communications, and that the mes-
e to supplies carried by a unit as a reserve to sage concerns the safety of an aircraft
cover emergencies. in flight or a ship.
unit staff, staff of a unit smaller than US, United States.
a division, consisting of an executive, usable rate of fire, normal rate of fire
e
an adjutant (S-1), a military intelligence of a gun in actual use, measured in units

officer (S-2), an operations and training of shots per minute. The usable rate
ng
officer (S-3), and a supply and evacua-

a-
of fire is considerably less than a gun's

tion officer (S-4). maximum rate of fire, which is a theo-

unit train, train for a unit smaller than retical value based on the purely me-
a: division; transport equipment and chanical operation of a weapon.
personnel for supply, evacuation, and USAF, United States Army Forces.
maintenance. USAT, United States Army Transport.
unit training, phase of the military USCG, United States Coast Guard.
-
training of an organization. Unit train- U Sec War, Under Secretary of War.

ing includes drill, practice, tactical ex- USMA, United States Military Academy.
o
ercises, troop schools, and physical USMAPU, United States Military
training and athletics. Emphasis is Academy Preparatory Unit.
placed upon training the individuals to USMC, United States Marine Corps.
- function as members of the unit to USN, United States Navy.
which they have been assigned. USW, Under Secretary of War.
unit training center, military establish- UTC, unit training center.
ment where units are trained and or- utilities officer, officer in charge of a
e
ganized during mobilization. utilities division of the quartermaster's

un,
Abbrev: UTC office. A utilities officer supervises all

unload, remove all cartridges from the
d
technical and administrative details of

o
chamber, and the magazine from a gun, utilities, such as light, power, and heat-
lear
without firing; remove the charge and ing, at a military establishment.
r projectile from a gun, without firing. utility railway, railroad for general use,
unmask, make a tactical maneuver so not classified as a mlUtary r~;ailway.
m
r1g1nal fro n
r
vacancy 294 vesicant detector crayon
vacancy, authorized position which vertical base system. Azimuth is de-
exists, but is either unoccupied or is termined by sighting. Range is deter-
occupied by an officer of a grade lower mined by using the known height of the
than the authorized one. observer above the target and the angle
vane, 1. small propeller which rotates of depression to solve the right triangle
and arms the fuze, when an aerial bomb formed by the height of the observer,
is dropped. the horizontal distance, and the range to
2. lengthwise partition in a chemical the target.
projectile which makes the contained vertical base system. See vertical base
liquid rotate with the casing. This is method. .
necessary for accuracy in flight. vertical control operator. Abbrev: VCO
variable lead method, method of firing vertical deflection. See vertical lead.
at a moving target, especially aircraft, vertical deviation. See range deviation.
in which the lead is varied, rather than vertical envelupment, envelopment of
held to a fixed average. The maximum the enemy from the air; tactical maneu-
lead is used when the target is entering ver in which aircraft attack the rear and
or leaving the firing area, and the mini- flanks of a force, in effect cutting it off
mum lead is used when the target is or encircling it.
nearest the firing position. vertical interval, 1. difference in eleva-
variation. See declination. tion represented by each contour line
VC, Veterinary Corps. on a map. The vertical interval is
VCO, vertical control operator. given as part of the scale of the map.
vee formation. See V formation. In this me~ning, usually called contour
vehicle park. See motor park. interval.
vehicular firing, shooting fro~ an open 2. space between two altitudes in which
or turreted vehicle. pursuit aircraft search for the enemy.
vehicular station, radio station installed vertical jump, angle measuring the
in a vehicle and able to operate with the vertical distance the muzzle of a gun
vehicle in motion. shifts between the instant of firing and
verbal order. Abbrev: VO the instant the projectile clears the bore.
verification, confirmation of the effective- The horizontal equivalent of vertical
ness of camouflage, concealment, fire, jump is called lateral jump.
etc. vertical lead, angular amount that a
verification fire, preparatory fire to test gun is pointed above or below a moving
the mechanical adjustment of guns and aerial target to allow for the vertical
fire-control equipment, and to measure travel of the target during the tin1e of
the accuracy of corrections determined flight and for vertical pointing correc-
by calibration and trial fire. tions; vertical deflection.
vernier, small auxiliary scale for me as- vertical photograph. See vertical aerial
1
uring a fractional part of one of the divi- photograph.

sions of a main scale. vertical target, target for hand grenade
vertical. See vertical aerial photograph. practice, representing windows at vari-
vertical aerial photograph, aerial pho- ous heights from the ground.
tograph made with a camera whose Very light, colored signal flare fired
optical axis is approxhnate!y perpen- from a special pistol: Very signal light.
dicular to the earth, or whose film is as very low altitude. Abbrev: VLA
nearly horizontal as is practicable; verti- Very pistol, special pistol used to fire
cal; vertical photograph. colored signal flares.
vertical bank, very steep lateral tilt of Very signal light. See Very light.
an airplane when making a sharp turn, vesicant, any chemical agent which
so that its wing tips point up and down. causes burns, inflammation, and destruc-
vertical base, known height of an ob- tion of tissue when it comes in contact
servation point above its target. The with the human body; blister agent;
vertical base is used in position finding vesicant agent. Mustard gas is a
by the vertical base method. vesicant.
vertical base method, system, used by vesicant agent. See vesicant.
seacoast artillery against water-level vesicant detector crayon,
1 stick of a
targets, for finding direction and range; I chalklike' colored substance for making
Or1g1nal fro
vesicant detect~r paint 295 vision slit
marks on surfaces to test for the pres- veterinary hospital, any animal hos-
ence of chemical agents. If the color of pital; place where sick and injured
-
the mark of the vesicant detector crayon animals receive medical and surgical
of
stays unchanged, no ~hemical agent is treatment.

present; if the color of the mark changes, veterinary officer, officer who is a mem-
yon
is
ges,
there is a chemical agent present. ber of the Veterinary Corps.
vesicant detector paint, paint used as veterinary service, component of the
a test for contamination by liquid chemi- Medical Department concerned with the
mi- cal agents. If a drop of a vesicant care of animals and with the inspection
touches a surface painted with vesicant of the quality of food supplies of animal
nt
detector paint, the spot changes color. origin. The veterinary service is com-
r.
vet, 1. veterinary. 2. veterinarian. posed of the Veterinary Corps, consist-

Veterans Administration, independent ing only of officers who are qualified
bureau of the Government, having the veterinaries, and enlisted personnel of
t
eal-
control and direction of all agencies deal- the Medical Department assigned to the
h
ing with benefits to war veterans, such veterinary service.
n,
as pensions, insurance, hospitalization, veterinary sick call, daily routine in-
or vocational training agencies. spection of sick animals, held at a veteri-
veterinarian, senior veterinary officer nary station or dispensary.
of an organization, in charge of all veterinary station hospital, permanent
th-
veterinary personnel and activities with- animal hospital established at a military

in it. Abbrev: vet station and designed to serve local rather
veterinary. A bbrev: vet than general needs.
al
veterinary aid station, in combat, a V formation, simple flight formation of
place for the temporary care of animal three or more aircraft flying in an ar-
casualties. rangement that has the form of a V;
veterinary clearing station, establish- vee formation.
ment in the combat zone to which vice-admiral, flag officer in the Navy
nd,
animal casualties are brought from a who ranks next above a rear admiral
veterinary aid station for treatment and, and next below an admiral. A vice-
when necessary, for preparation for admiral is equivalent in rank to a lieu-
further evacuation to the rear. tenant general in the Army. See Table
s
Veterinary Corps, major branch of of Comparative Grades on p. 125.
s
the l\Iedical Department which super- Victory Medal, round bronze medal
r-
vises the care of Army animals, treats awarded to all men who served in the
sick and wounded animals, supervises armed forces of the United States during
dairies, inspects refrigeration and stor- World War I. .

age plants, inspects meat and dairy Victory ribbon, service ribbon worn on
ed
products, and performs other similar the left breast by men entitled to wear
duties. The Veterinary Corps is com- the Victory Medal.
posed only of officers who are qualified vis, visual.
veterinaries~ Abbrev: VC
for
or
visibility, average greatest distance to-
-
veterinary dispensary, place to which ward the horizon at which prominent
sick and injured animals are brought for objects, such as mountains, buildings,
inspection and for treatment of minor or etc., can be seen and identified by the
en1ergency ailments or injuries. Veter- normal eye unaided by optical devices.
inary dispensaries are located only at Visibility must extend over a range of
permanent posts and stations. half or more of the horizon.
veterinary evacuation hospital, visibility, angle of. See angle of visi-
nt
hospital to which animal casualties bility.
n-
are brought from veterinary clearing visibility chart, map or photograph
al
stations for care until they can be showing which areas can be seen, and
evacuated to permanent hospitals. which cannot be seen, from a given ob-
veterinary general hospital, permanent servation point.
animal hospital designed to serve gen- vision slit, any narrow opening or slit
eral and special needs rather than local in armor through which to look, es-
needs. It serves a larger area than a pecially one in a tank or other armored
veterinary station hospital. vehicle.
r1g1nal fro
m-
UNI ERSil OF C liF RNI

he
on
visiting correspondent 296 vulne~ability factor
visiting correspondent, journalist, visual signal, any signal intended to be
writer, radio correspondent, or photog- seen; signal sent by flags, lights, panels,
rapher who is given authority by the fireworks, motions of the arms, move-
Secretary of War or the commander in ment of the wings of an aircraft, etc.
chief to visit a field of operations and VLA, very low altitude.
to publish his material only after his V-mail, mail to or from members of the
visit ends. He is not attached to a armed forces serving overseas, written
headquarters and does not wear a union a special blank. V -mail is almost
form. Accredited correspondents differ always photographed on microfilm for
from visiting correspondents, in that transportation, in order to reduce its
they are permitted to carry on their weight and size, and is enlarged and
work in a theater of operations or a base printed before delivery.
command, are attached to a headquar- V 0, verbal order.
ters, and wear an officer's uniform with- VOC, volunteer officer candidate.
out insignia. vol, volunteer.
visit of courtesy, formal visit paid by volley, burst of fire; especially, a salute
one officer to another in conformity with fired by a detachment of riflemen.
military customs. volley bombing, simultaneous or nearly
visual. A bbrev: vis simultaneous release of a number of
visual classification test, intelligence bombs.
test given at induction centers to men volley fire, artillery fire in which each
who do not speak English and to men piece fires a specified number of rounds
who cannot read. without regard to the other pieces and
visual communication, any communica- as fast as accuracy will permit.
tion by visible signs; messages sent by volunteer. Abbrev: vol
flags, lights, panels, fireworks, motions volunteer officer candidate, selective
of the arms, movement of the wings of service registrant who applies for volun-
an aircraft, etc. tary induction for the express purpose
visual elevation, distance above the of competing for selection as an officer
target at which the white tracer streak candidate. Abbrev: VOC
from a machine gun must appear, in vou, voucher.
order to allow for the drop in the trajec- voucher, any document that supports
tory. the transfer of property from or to a
visual reconnaissance, survey for mili- stock record account. Abbrev: vou
tary purposes made by direct observa- vuinerability factor, formula indicatin5
tion, as distinguished from taking photo- the probability of any single projectile's
graphs. V.isual reconnaissance can be hitting the target, in bombing or firing
made from the ground or from the air. under set conditions.
Orlg1 al fro
W/ 297 war ofposition
w/, with. ward surgeon, of the other enlisted men
W AAC, Women's Army Auxiliary Corps. . on duty in the ward.
See WAC ward officer, officer in the Medical De-
WAC, Women's Army Corps. The partment who is the administrative and
s.
members of the Women's Army Corps professional head of a hospitJll ward or
hold the same comparative ranks as wards.
soldiers of the Army of the United war game,. training exercise that imi-
s
States. tates war. A war game may be an

wag, wagon. exercise on a map or sand table, or
wagon. Abbrev: wag maneuvers with actual troops, weapons,
waist gun, any flexible hand-held gun and equipment.
mounted in the middle part of the fuse- warhead, forward part of a torpedo that
lage of an aircraft, not in the nose or tail. contains the explosive.
e-
waiver, any official release from obliga- warming-up effect, difference in range
tail.
tion; in particular, a release from the between the first shot from a cold gun
a-
necessity of meeting rigid physical re- and a shot fired after the gun is warm
quirements for military service, often from action. Most guns do not show a
warming-up effect. With guns which
-
granted when experience or general

physical condition compensates for a do, the first shot is disregarded in figur-
minor physical defect. ing corrections.
walking wounded, sick or wounded warning district, subdivision of an air
person who can wa1k from the place defense area in an aircraft warning serv-
where he became a casualty to the place ice. Also called air-raid warning district.
ace
where he can receive medical treatment; warning net, any system of observa-
ent;
ambulant case. tion posts linked together by a com-

wallow course, wide trench filled with munication system to give mutual warn-
a decontaminating chemical, usually ing of enemy movement; in particular,
lime, mixed with mud. Vehicles that a group of radio sets tuned to the same
have come in contact with chemical frequency so that all units will hear a
h agents are driven or wallowed through warning sent out byany one.
this trench so that they can be freed warning order, preliminary notice of an
ud-
from the poison gases. Also called mud- order or action which is to follow. It
lime slurry course. is designed to give subordinates time to
as
war canister, container in a service gas make necessary preparations.

cal
mask that holds the protective chemical warning signal, any signal agreed upon
through which air is passed to be puri-
-
to give warning of the approach or

n.
fied. presence of the enemy.
war chevron. See war service chevron. war of masses, warfare in which the
War Department, executive branch of number of men, rather than the power of
the Government which has charge of mechanized equipment and mobile
matters relating to the Army. The weapons, is decisive.
principal officials of the War Depart- war of movement, mobile warfare in
ment are the Secretary of War, the which the opposing sides seek to seize
Under Secretary of War, Assistant and hold the initiative by the use of
Secretary of War, Assistant Secretary
nt
maneuver, organization of fire, and

of War for Air, and the War Department utilization of terrain, as contrasted with
General Staff. Abbrev: WD war of position or position warfare, in
War Department General StatT, group which the defensive is confined mainly
nd
of officers under the direction of the to fixed positions. Also called mobile
s.
Chief of Staff, who make plans for na- warfare.

tional defense and Army activities, and war of position, warfare in which the
supervise the execution of these plans. defensive is confined mainly to fixed po-
Abbrev: WDGS sitions. The defense is aimed chiefly at
war diary, log or daily account of keeping the enemy out- of strategic areas
events, kept by an organization in and at forcing him to exhaust his com-
en
campaign. bat power in assaults against well-
ward master, male nurse or orderly in established positions. Also called posi-
-
a hospital ward, in charge, under the tion warfare.
rlglnal rrom
nd
or

War Plans Division 298 weapon
War Plans Division, subdivision of the water chest, box containing water for
War Department General Staff which a water-cooled machine gun; water box.
makes plans to employ the military water discipline, rigid control of the
forces in various possible situations, in amount and rate of consumption of
peacetime. In time of war, the War water, and of the sources of all water
Plans Division is called Operations Divi- consumed.
sion, and is in charge of the working out water distributing point, place in the
of strategical operations. field from which water is distributed to
warrant, official certificate of appoint- various units. A water distributing
ment issued to military personnel below point may be located at a natural source,
the rank of commissioned officers. or at a storage place for water brought
Abbrev: wrnt by tank car or pipe line. Water dis-
warrant officer, officer in the Army or tributing points are organized and
Navy who is neither a commissioned operate<:{ by engineering troops.
officer nor an enlisted man, holding his watering point, place in the field where
grade by authority of appointment or a unit, with its own equipment and
warrant. A warrant officer ranks next personnel, obtains water from a natural
above a cadet or midshipman or a non- source.
commissioned officer, and next below a water jacket, casing designed to hold
second lieutenant or ensign. In the water for cooling, built around a device
Army there are two grades: chief war- or mechanism that becomes heated in
rant officer and warrant officer, junior operation; the casing about the barrel of
grade. In the Navy there are also two a water-cooled machine gun.
grades: commissioned warrant officer waterline, 1. line where the surface of
and warrant officer. See Table of Com- still water touches the side of a ship.
parative Grades on p. 125. Abbrev: WO 2. aim a seacoast ar~illery gun at some
warrant officer, junior grade, warrant point on the waterline of a target.
officer in the Army who runks next be- water-sterilizing bag. See Lyster bag.
low a chief warrant officer (the senior water supply. Abbrev: w sup
grade) and next above a cadet or a non- water supply point, establishment in
commissioned officer. See Table of the field for receiving, storing, or deliver-
Comparative Grades on p. 125. ing water. The two classifications of
Abbrev: WOJG water supply points are water distribut-
war reserves, supplies of essential items ing points and watering points.
maintained to meet the requirements of water tan}). Abbrev: w tk
war. water tank battalion. Abbrev: W Tk Bn
war service chevron, gold-colored water tank train. Abbrev: W Tk Tn
cloth design shaped like a V, to indicate waterway division, major administra-
six months' foreign service in World tive subdivision of a military waterway
War I; service chevron; war chevron. 2ystem, comparable to a railway division
A war service chevron is worn with its in a military rail way system.
point down on the lower part of the left waterway grand division, group of
sleeve. waterway divisions under a general
war strength, minimum strength in superintendent in a military waterway
personnel and equipment with which a system, comparable to a railway grand
unit can operate effectively under pro- division in a military railway system.
longed war conditions. wave, one of a series of advancing or at-
watch, 1. tour of duty; period during tacking lines of troops, vehicles, landing
which one is on duty. In this meaning, boats, or aircraft.
also called trick. WD, War Department.
2. members of a ship's personnel who WDCSA, Chief of" Staff, United States
are on duty together during a certain Army.
portion of the day. WDGS, War Department General Staff.
watch compass, compass in a case like wea, weather.
that of a watch, sometimes issued as weapon, any instrument of combat; any
part of field equipment. implement, such as a gun, bayonet, gre-
water bag. See Lyster bag. nade, etc., used to inflict injury on
water box. See water chest. enemy personnel or materiel.
Orlg1nal fro
weapon carrier 299 wind correction
_weapon carrter, vehicle used primarily Particles of white phosphorus will poison
to carry a gun. Abbrev: wpn carr food and water. Symbol: WP
weapons. Abbrev: wpns wide-angle photograph, aerial photo-
y weapons platoon. Abbrev: wpn plat graph taken with a camera which has a
weapons troop. Abbrev: wpn tr wide-angle lens that will photograph a
weather. Abbrev: wea cone ef approximately 90 degrees.
weather code, wide envelopment,
special code used in enveloping ma-
weather communications for describing neuver that starts from the enemy posi-
weather conditions at weather stations.tion and usually is directed at an ob-
ng
weather map, jective far in the rear of the enemy front
chart on which current
ns.
weather conditions are recorded. lines.
weather message, message telling about width, space from side to side of any
formation or position, including the
the weather, issued by a weather station.
bout
It may be a forecast, a daily summary, units farthest to the right and left.
tion.
or a special announcement. wigwag, signal by waving a light or flag,

y,
weather observer, in accordance with a standard code.

person who makes
detailed observations of atmospheric Wilco, word used to show that an op-
pressure, temperature, humidity, visi- erator has received a radio telephone
-
order and will carry it out. It stands for
bility, and ceiling customarily made in a
na
weather station. He helps make weather "will comply" or "will carry out orders."
her
maps, and is familiar with the use of wild shot, shot which is completely out
meteorological instru~ents. of the normal pattern of dispersion;
weather officer, shot whose impact is more than four
trained meteorologist
t
in command of a weather station or developed armament probable errors,
section. and more than six firing table probable
weather station, meteorological station;errors from the center of impact.
on;
station at which the weather is ob- will proceed to. Abbrev: WP

served and forecast. winch. Abbrev: wn
wedge. See wedge formation. windage, 1. influence of the wind in de-
n
wedge formation, tactical formation in flecting a projectile from its course.
the form of a V with the point toward 2. amount of sight deflection necessary
n
the enemy; formation with elements in to allow for the action of wind on a pro-
dge.
jectile in flight.
echelon to the right and left rear; wedge.
A wedge formation is a formation in windage scale, scale for adjusting a
des
which the elements to the rear and sides

sight to allow for the effect of the wind
ts.
are protected by the advance elements. on a bullet in flight. Also called wind
weight zone, gage.

classification, by weight,
,
of projectiles of a single type and size.

wind and drift chart, chart which in-
Since the weights of projectiles of a dicates the amount of sight adjustment
the
given type may vary considerably, necessary to allow for the effect of wind
is severalweight zones are set up, and theand drift of the projectile, at various
zone in which each projectile belongs isranges and wind speeds.
marked on the projectile. wind component indicator, device
welder. Abbrev: wldr which mechanically determines the
West Point, 1. location of the United range and deflection components of the
States Military Academy. computed wind that is equivalent to all
n
2. the Academy itself. true winds encountered by a projectile
-
wg, wing. in flight.
d
whipstall, aerial maneuver in which an wind cone, cone-shaped fabric sleeve
aircraft is made to climb toward a ver- which bellies out and pivots to show the
tical position until it loses flying ~peed
direction of the wind; wind sock.
and the nose suddenly snaps down . . wind correction, any adjustment which
white discharge. See honorable dis-
must be made to allow for the effect of
~harge. wind; especially, the adjustments to
r
w bite phosphorus, yellow, waxy solid correct for the effect on a projectile in
an
nt.
son
that burns easily when not kept under flight, on sound received by sound rang-
water. White phosphorus is used as an ing instruments, and on an aircraft
incendiary and smoke-producing agent .. flown by dead reckoning navigation.
r1g1nal from
a

si-
wind corrector 300 wire head
wind corrector, mechanical device which constant for a given type m gun equals
computes the correction necessary for the number of quarter points, or clicks,
the effect of wind, used in sound ranging to allow for a right angle cross wind. -
and artillery fire control. The constant for the Ml or M1903 rifle
wind deflection, deflection caused by is 10.
the influence of wind on the cou1se of a windshield, 1. cap of light metal placed
projectile in flight. over the point or head of a projectile to
wind-direction indicator, 1. device for increase its efficiency by streamlining it.
indicating the direction of the wind. 2. any glass or plastic wind guard in an
2. mechanical weather vane to indicate aircraft or vehicle; especially, the one in
the direction of the wind to pilots of air- front of the pilot or driver.
craft approaching, or taking off, from a wind sock. See wind cone.
field. wind tee, large T-shaped weather vane
3. meteorological instrument used to in- located on or near a landing field to
dicate instantaneous wind directions on show the direction of the wind.
a dial scale located at some distance wind vane, any device used to show
from a precision wind vane. which direction the wind is blowing;
wind drift, shift in the apparent posi- particularly, a meteorological precision
tion of a sound source or target ob- device used to measure wind direction.
served by sound apparatus. Wind windward. See upwind.
drift is caused by the effect of wind. on wing, 1. administrative and tactical unit
sound waves which changes their di- of the Army Air Forces. A wing is
rection and increases or decreases sound larger than a group, smaller than a com-
lag. mand. It is usually commanded by a
wind error, error in a sound locator brigadier general.
reading caused by wind drift; difference 2. one of the major lifting and support-
between the true and apparent positions ing surfaces, or airfoils, of an airplane.
of a sound source, caused by the wind 3. flank unit; that part of a military
moving the mass of air through which force to the right or left of the main
the sound passes to the sound locator. body. A bbrev: wg
wind-fire angle, horizontal angle meas- wing gun, fixed gun mounted in the
ured clockw~e from the plane of fire to wing of an aircraft.
the direction from which the ballistic wing-over, aerial acrobatic maneuver in
wind is blowing. The wind-fire angle is which an aircraft is put into a climbing
found by subtracting the azimuth of the turn to the point of stalling, then dived
plane of fire from the wind azimuth. out to return in approximately the op-
wind gage, scale for adjusting a sight posite direction to that from which it
to allow for the effect of the wind on a has come.
projectile in flight. Also called wind- wing photograph, one of the oblique
gage scale. aerial photographs taken by a multi-lens
wind gage rule, simple practical rule camera. The wing photographs fit to-
used to allow for wind in firing the M1 gether around a vertical aerial photo-
or M1903 rifle. The rule is: four clicks, graph in the center to form a composite
or one point of windage, moves the im- aerial photograph.
pact of the bullet four inches for each wing setting, angle of. See angle or
100 yards of range. wing setting.
wind resolving mechanism, device wing signal, signal made by moving
similar to a wind component indi<;ator, the wings of an airplane.
which is mounted on a deflection board. wire communication, communication
The wind resolving mechanism me- by telephone or telegraph.
chanically determines the range and de- "ire entanglement, obstacle of barbed
flection components of the ballistic wind. wire. A wire entanglement is used to
wind rule, simple practical rule for es- hold the enemy to areas that can be
timating the approximate correction covered by gunfire, and to delay or pre-
needed to compensate for a wind of vent an assault.
known velocity. The rule is: the range wire head, forward limit of telephone
in hundreds of yards multiplied by the or telegraph communication in a com-
velocity of. the wind and divided by a 1 mand.
Orlg1nal fro
U I ERSITY OF C LIFOR. I
wire net 301 WTkTn
wire net, telephone communication sys- sons suffering from a communicable
tem established and maintained by the disease, or of an organization containing
Signal Corps in the field. such persons, from unnecessary contact
wire roll, antimechanized barrier con- with other persons or units. Some
ys-
he
sisting of a roll of steel wire wound in duties are carried out with restrictions,
a continuous spiral which becomes en- but infected persons are kept isolated
tangled in, and jams, the propelling and preventive measures are taken to
n- wheels or tracks of a vehicle. A wire avoid the spread of the disease. Work-
roll is similar to a concertina. ing quarantine differs from absolute
wire telegraphy, telegraph communica- quarantine, which suspends normal
tion by code over a wire circuit. duties.
a-
wire telephony, telephone communica- work order, official form issued by a

a-
tion by voice over a wire circuit. repair shop office authorizing the per-
with. Abbrev: w/ formance of certain work. A work order
withdrawal, 1. operation of breaking off bears all necessary information concern-
off
combat; retirement from action; ing the job, and is filed as a complete
planned, orderly movement to the rear, record upon completion of the work.
ar,
as contrasted with a retreat or rout. works, fortifications.
2. returning to guard position after mak- work sheet, record of information and
ak-
ing a bayonet thrust. data relating to the staff section con-

wkr, wrecker. cerned, kept by each unit staff officer of
whir, welder. a command during an operation.
wn, winch. wound chevron, gold-colored cloth de-
WO, warrant officer. sign shaped like a V, to indicate wounds
WOJG, warrant officer, junior grade. received in action in World War I. It
Women's Army Auxiliary Corps, for- is worn with its point down, on the
m-
mer organization of women for noncom- lower part of the right sleeve.
batant service with the Army. It was WP, 1. will proceed to 2. white phos-
replaced by the Women's Army Corps phorous.
in September, 1943. Abbrev: W AAC wpn carr, weapon carrier.
h
Women's Army Corps, organization of wpn plat, weapons platoon.
women for noncombatant service with wpns, weapons.
m-
the Army. The members of the Wo- wpn tr, weapons troop.
y
men's Army Corps hold the same com- wrecker. Abbrev: wkr
parative ranks as soldiers of the Army wrnt, warrant.
of the United States. Formerly called w sup, water supply.
Women's Army Auxiliary Corps. w tk, water tank.

Abbrev: WAC W Tk Bn, water tank battalion.
working quarantin8, isolation of per- W Tk Tn, water tank train.
ing
act
s,
er
ern-
of
ds
Orlg1nal rrom
X-axis 302 X-X line
X-axis, 1. horizontal axis in a system ing from west to east in the military
of rectangular coordinates; that line grid system of a military map. The
on which distances to the right or left distance between two of these lines
(east or west) of a reference line are usually represents 1,000 yards.
marked, eSpecially on a map, chart, or X-X line, imaginary line inside the
graph. enemy position parallel to the front line,
2. horizontal line imagined to pass which mark& the limit in depth of the
through the target at right angles to responsibility of division artillery. Tar-
the line connecting gun and target. gets farther behind enemy lines are com-
X-coordinate, distance of a point to the monly the responsibility of corps artil-
right, or east, or to the left, or west, of a lery and army artillery. The X-X line
line where a measurement of distance lies closest to the front line; the Y- Y
begins, in a system of rectangular co- line and the Z-Z line lie farther back,
ordinates. The line of origin is the Y- in that order. These three lines are used
axis of the system. Distances to the as a means of locating the fire missions
right, or east, are positive; distances to of the different ranges of guns and of
the left, or west, are negative. division, corps, and army artillery, in
X-line, one of the parallel lines extend- combat.
Orlg1nal fro
yards error 303 Y-Y line
yards error, . error in firing data ex- Y-azimuth, clockwise angle from grid
pressed in yards; linear deviation from north to a given direction. Often called
the target of a point of impact, measured grid aziinuth.
in terms of yards. Yards error differs Y-coordinate, distance of a point above,
m
from mils error, which is an expression or to the north, or below, or to the south,
ured
of error measured in mils, of angular of a line where a measurement of dis-

n
difference. tance begins, in a system of rectangular
yaw, 1. to travel in a direction that is coordinates. The point of origin is the
at an angle to the longitudinal axis of a X-axis of the system. Distances above,
ship or aircraft; to edge sidewise from or to the north, of the X-axis are posi-
a
the direction in which a craft is heading. tive; distances below, or to the south,
m
, 2. maneuver by which the tail of an of the X-axis are negative.
ng.
aircraft is moved alternately right and yellow discharge. See dishonorable

left without banking, especially to re- discharge.
d
duce speed for landing. In this mean- yeoman, petty officer in the Navy,
ing, also called fishtail. Coast Guard, or Army Transport Serv-
3. move the tail of an aircraft to ac- ice who performs clerical duties.
complish this maneuver. In this mean- Y-gun, tw~barreled, antisubmarine
- ing, also called fishtail. gun, shaped like the letter Y, used to
4. angle between the longitudinal axis throw depth charges to either side of the
s
of the projectile and the tangent to the stem of the vessel on which the gun is
e
trajectory at the center of gravity of the mounted.

he
projectile. . Y-line, one of the parallel lines extend-

yawl, small vessel, similar to a large ing from north to south in the military
ps,
rowboat, used by Coast Artillery troops, grid system of a military map. The dis-
ly
propelled by oars or motor. It is usua,ly tance between two of these lines usually
a medium-sized motorboat. A yawl is represents 1,000 yards.
used in planting and picking up sub- Y-north. See grid north.
marine mines. Y-Y line, imaginary line inside the ene-
Y-axis, 1. vertical axis in a system my position, parallel to the front line,
n
of rectangular coordinates; that line on which marks the division between zones
h
which distances above or below (north of responsibility for subdi~ions of corps

ed,
or south) of a reference line are marked, artillery. The Y-Y line lies between the
especially on a map, chart, or graph. X-X line and the Z-Z line, and these
2. line imagined to pass from the gun three lines are used as a means of locat-
through the target, perpendicular to ing the fire missions of the different
the imaginary horizontal X-axis which ranges of guns and of division, cor~
crosses it at that point. and army artillery, in combat.
d
ve,
uth,
lar
e,
the
-
Orlg1nal rrom
ally
z 304 Z-Z line
z, zone. zone of advance, designated geographi-
z~nlth, point directly overhead. The cal region through which a military unit
zenith is the opposite of the nadir. is to advance. The zone of advance is
zero, 1. sight setting for both elevation an area of responsibility marked off by
and windage for any particular range boundaries at each side. If possible,
which will cause the bullet to strike the the boundaries of the zone of advance
center of the target on a normal day. are easily identified ground features,
2. adjust any instrument or apparatus such as streams or ridges.
to a zero point or to an arbitrary read- zone of defense, region to be defended.
ing from which all other readings are to zone of dispersion, area within which
be measured. all of an infinite number of shots fired
zero deflection, adjustment of a sight from a gun using the same firing data for
exactly parallel to the axis of the bore of each shot would strike. The zone of
the gun to which it is attached. dispersion is usually charted as a rec-
zero hour, hour set for an attack or tangle.
other operation to begin. Also called zone of fire, area within which a par-
H-hour. ticular unit delivers, or is prepared to
zero-in, adjust the sight settings of a deliver, fire. Abbrev: Z/F
rifle by calibrated firing on a standard zone of interior, that part of national
range with no wind blowing. territory in a theater of war not in-
zero reader, device that indicates when eluded in the theater of operations. The
a searchlight and a sound locator are zone of the interior is organized to fur-
pointed at the same elevation and nish manpower and munitions to the
azimuth. armed forces. Abbrev: ZI or Z of I
zero shot, shot made to test the aline- zone of operations, ground or area .,con-
ment of sights. taining the rotttes by which an army
Z/F, zone of fire. advances between its base and its ob-
ZI or Z of I, zone of interior. jective.
zone, 1. any tactical area of importance, zone of responsibility, region for which
generally parallel to the front, such as a a military unit is responsible; area with-
fortified area, a defensive position, a in which a unit acts.
combat zone, traffic control zone, etc. zone of security, area which is de-
2. strip of several bands or belts of wire fended; especially, an area over which
entanglements placed in depth. friei)dly aviation takes all measures to
3. area in which projectiles will fall for detect, intercept, and repel enemy air-
a given propelling charge, when the ele- craft.
vation is varied between the minimum Zone Transportation Office.
and maximum. Abbrev: z Abbrev: ZTO
zone defense, defense from several sue- zoom, 1. sudden upward flight of an
cessive battle positions, more or less airplane.
completely organized. Zone defense ., 2. move suddenly upward; climb for a
differs from position defense, in which short time at an angle greater than a
the defense of a whole area is conducted normal climbing angle, carried partly
from one main center of resistance. by the stored-up energy of the move-
zone fire, fire that completely covers ment of the aircraft.
the region in which the target is situated. ZTO, Zone Transportation Office.
In zone fire, different guns of a battery Z-Z line, imaginary line farther inside
use different ranges, or elevations, so the enemy position than the X-X line or
that they sweep an entire zone. Y-Y line, and parallel to the front line,
zone in depth, section limited by two which marks the limit in depth of re-
lines running parallel to the front. sponsibility of corps artillery. Targets
zone in width, section limited by two farther behind enemy lines than the Z-Z
lines running perpendicular to the front. line are usually the responsibility of
zone of action, designated geographical army artillery. The X-X line, the Y- Y
region within which a military unit is to line, and the Z-Z line are used as a
act, and for which it is responsible. The means of locating the fire missions of the
battalion is ordinarily the smallest unit different ranges of guns and of division,
assigned a zone of action. corps, and army artillery' in combat.
lg
AR 850-150 (August, 1943) or in FM 21-30,
List of Unauthorized Abbreviations
use. They are merely included for convenience.
eviation exists, it has been indicated. All

Th~e abbreviations do not appear in AR 850-1.50 (August, 1943) or in FM 21-30,
d in their proper alphabetical places in the
and therefore are not authorized for use. They are merely included for convenience.
In any case where an authorized abbreviation exists, it has been indicated. All
authorized abbreviation! will be found in their proper alphabetical places in the
body of the dictionary.
A, 1. absent without leave. Auth bomb. 4. armor-piercing projectile.

Abbrev: AWOL 2. Alaska. 3. Araty 5. transports.
Air Fore~. Auth Abbrev: AAF APL, automotive pigeon loft.
AAAIS, Antiaircraft Artillery Intelli- A.P .M., assistant provost marshal.
gence Section. Ap Msgr, airplane messenger.
A & NMB, Army and Navy Munitions ArP, arming pin.
Board. AS, amber star, cluster, M22.
A A 0 P, antiaircraft observation post asgmt, assignment.
(seacoast artillery). asp, amber star, parachute.
A A S L, antiaircraft searchlight (sea- Asst Sec War, Assistant Secretary of
en-
coast artillery). War. Auth Abbrev: ASW

A Avn, Army aviation. Asst Sec War (Air), Assistant Secretary
AC, 1. ambulance company. 2. alter- of War for Air. Auth Abbrev: AFSW A
nating current. A. T ., angle of train.
F
Accep. App., accepted applicants for en- Atched, attached. Auth Abbrev: atchd
listment, not yet enlisted. ATr, ambulance troop.
A Dist, air district. av, average.
adj, adjust. AV, arming vane.
Adm Serv, administrative services. AW, type of incendiary grenade.
AE, angle of elevation. Ax Sig Com, axis or axes of signal com-
.
AF, ill-my Air Forces. Auth Abbrev: AAF munication.
AFCC, .Air Force Combat Command. Az., azimuth.
AG-Enl. Res., Adjutant General's De- b, ball.
partment Enlisted Reserve. B, battery (pieces to fire). Auth Abbrev:
AGL, air-ground liaison code. btry
AG-Res., Adjutant General's Depart- BA, branch assignment.
ment R~erve. B. & Q. A., barracks and quarters, Army.
A.I.C., ammunition identification code. BB, 1. battleships. 2. Bureau of the

Air-Enl. Res., Air Corps Enlisted Re- Budget.
serve. Bel Msgr, bicycle messenger.
Air-Res., Air Corps Reserve. B C P, Seacoast battery command post.
Air T Sq, air transport squadron. BD, 1. base deflection. 2. base detonat-
AIS, Artillery Information Service. ing.
on
AL, aviation medical laboratory. BDF, base detonating fuze.
ed
AI, Alaska Defense Command. bdl, bundle.

AM, 1. air mechanic. 2. amatol. bl, bandoleer.
3. mine sweepers. BL, battery left.
AMC, at my command. bit, belt.
AMSA, ammunition supply authority. B 0 P, battery observation station.
AMXA, ammunition expenditure au- br, branch.
thority. BR, battery right.
AN, Army and Navy (especially code on BT, bombing table.
bombs indicating they are standardized bx, box.
for use by both Army and Navy). C, in confinement (guard roster).
AP, 1. aiming point. 2. amber star, C-1, first change.
parachute, M21. 3. armor-piercing Ca, compass.
y
305
Orlg1nal rrom
CA 306 dent
CA, 1. Coast Artillery. 2. heavy cruiser CP, contact party. Auth Abbrev:
or heavy cruisers. con pty
CA-Enl. Res., Coast Artillery Corps C P H, central powerhouse.
Enlisted Reserve. CPO, chief petty officer.
C. & E. ,V. n., Clothing and Equip- c/r or C.R., complete round.
ment, War Department. C.R.C., complete round chart.
Car, Carribean Defense Command. C. R. of H.A., Construction and Repair
cas, casual. of Hospitals, Army.
CavDIIQ, Cavalry division headquar- CS, 1. chief of section. 2. contract
ters. surgeon.
Cav-Enl. Res., Cavalry Enlisted Re- esc, cartridge storage case.
serve. ~' combat train.
Cav-Res., Cavalry Reserve. ctn, carton.
CB, center of burst. C Tn, combat train.
C B, searchlight controller booth. CTr, collecting troop.
CC, 1. battle cruisers. Cult, cultivated land.
2. collecting company. Auth Abbrev: CV, airplane carriers.
Coll Co CvC, convalescent camp..
CCC, Civilian Conservation Corps. CW, 1. contused wound. 2. radioteleg
CCr, concentration center. raphy.
Cep, circular probable error. CW AC, Canadian Women's Auxiliary
cert, certificate. Corps.
CF, cease firing. C\V -Enl. Res., Chemical Warfare Serv
CG, Coast Guard. ice Enlisted Reserve.
C. G. S., Chief of the General Staff. CWO, chemical warfare officer.
C G S, Coast Guard station. CW -Res., Chemical Warfare Service
Ch, charge. Reserve.
CH, convalescent hospital. A uth C. W .S.A., Chemical Warfare Service,
Abbrev: conv hosp Army.
chg, charge. Cyl, cylinder.
Ch-Res., Chaplain's Reserve. C Z, combat zone.
Ci, civilian internee. d, declination.
C. 1., 1. cast iron. D, down.
2. center of impact. DA, delayed arming.
Cl, close-in. Auth Abbrev: CL D. A. A.-War., "D.A.A.-War" rubber
C in C, Commander in chief. stamp. All bills of lading issued for
Cl, close. service, the obligation of which is charge-
CL, light cruiser or light cruisers. able to defense aid funds, will be stamped
cldr, chief leader. at the top "D.A.A.-War" in letters one-
cler, clerical. half inch in height.
elk, clerical. DANC, decontaminating agent, noncor-
clr, color. rosive.
em, centimeter. DAO, division air officer.
CM, mine layers. DAPE, developed armament probable
cmpn, compilation. error.
cntr, container. Data B, data booth (seacoast artillery).
C of A, Chief of artillery. DD, 1. destroyers. 2. double drift.
C of Avn, Chief of aviation. DE, destroyer escort.
m C of E, Chief of Engineers. dec, declination.
colg, college. D.E.C., distant electric control.
comm, communication. Auth Abbrev: com Decon-1 Y2, decontaminating apparatus,
Com OtT, cotnmissioned officers. 1 Y2 quart.
comtn, commutation. Decon-3, decontaminating apparatus,
confer, conference. hand, 3-gallon pressure.
conft, confinement. Auth Abbrev: conf Decon-PD, decontaminating appara-
cont, contract. tus, power-driven.
cp, 1. candlepower. 2. clip. Demo, demolition. A uth Abbrev: dml
C.P., circular pitch (on gear diagrams). dent, dental.
rr1g1nal fro
Dent-Enl. Res. 307 G-2
Dent-Enl. Res., Dental Corps Enlisted Engr Whf, engineer wharf (seacoast ar-
Reserves. tillery).
Dent-Res., Dental Corps Reserve. enlmt, enlistment.
Dep, deflection probable error. Enl. recruits, recruits who have been
Dep., wives, mothers, and dependent enlisted.
children of commissioned" officers, war- E 0 P, emergency observation station
rent officers, and enli~ted men of first, (seacoast artillery).
second, and third grades. EP, extreme pl"essure.
ar-
DEST, destination. EPL, experimental pigeon loft.

,
Dev, deviation. evid, evidence.

df, fuze spot. EVT, emergency veterinary tag.
Df, deflection. EW, extensive wound.
diann, diameter. Ex, explosive.
dis, disciplinary. exp, expiration.
disab, disability. Exp, explosive.
Disch. Mil. Pris., discharged military F, 1. field. Auth Abbrev: fld
prisoners (en route to home or to place 2. fragmentation bomb.
elected, as authorized by regulations). 3. fuze range.
ce
Disch. Sol., discharged soldiers (en 4. on furlough.

route to home or to place elected, as fab, fabric.
.
authorized by regulations). F A-Enl. Res., Field Artillery Enlisted

discontd, discontinued. Reserve.
dishon, !.dishonorable. 2.dishonorably. FA-Res., Field Artillery Reserve.
bly. dismd, dismissed. fbr, fiber.
dismtd, dismounted. FC, fracture compound.
disr, disrated. FCC, 1. fire control code. 2. fracture
DivOO, division ordnance officer. compound comminuted.
DNL, do not load. FD, fuze delay.
D.O., delivery order. Fin-Enl. Res., Finance Department En-
doc, document. li~ted Reserve.
D.O.O., division ordnance officer. Fin-Res., Finance Department Reserve.
Dp, dump. fis, fiscal.
DP, 1. deck piercing. 2. detrucking F. L. S., final line of sight.
point. 3. directing point. 4. distribut FOR BAT, foreign battery.
ing point. - forf, forfeit.
D.P.F.,_ depression position-finder. FQ, fuze quick.
dpt, deposit. Frag., fragmentation.
D.R., destination release. FS, fracture simple.

drg, drawing. FSB, fire-control switchboard room
l-
drpd, dropped. (seacoast artillery).
DS, 1. danger space. 2. distant surveil- FSMWO, Field Service Modification
lance. 3. duty status. Work Orders.
ty.
d/s, day apart. Ft C P, Fort command post (seacoast
DSSP, deflection single shot probability. artillery).
D. T., 1. dead time. 2. double thread. Ft 0 P, fort observation station (sea-
:
dwg, drawing. coast artillery).

E, 1. Corps of Engineers. A uth Abbrev: FUO,. fever of undetermined origin.
CE 2. east. Fur. Sol., soldiers on furlough (travel-
er.
ECO, exempted by commanding officer. ing at their own expense).

ED, enemy dead. G, 1. German.
FFM, expeditionary force message. 2. graze (sensing).
EH, evacuation hospital. 3. single star, green, AN-M36.
g.
El, elevation. G-1, 1. G-1 Military Personnel.
-
Electn, electrician. Auth Abbrev: elec 2. base gun.

EMT or E.M. T ., emergency medical tag. 3. personnel. Auth Abbrev: pers
e.
Engr-Enl. Res., Corps of Engineers En- G-2, 1. Military Intelligence. Auth

Abbrev: MI
r-
listed Reserve.
Engr-Res., Corps of Engineers Reserve. 2. Military Intelligence Division.
Orlg1nal rrom
G-3 308 LHA
G-3, 1. Military Operations. HCr, hospital center.
2. Organization and Training Division. H D C P, harbor defense command
3. Training and Operations Section. post (seacoast artillery).
G-4, 1. G-4 Military Supply Section H D 0 P, harbor defense observation
of a general's (large unit) staff or heads station (sea~oast artillery).
of such sections. HEI, high explosive incendiary.
2. Supply and Evacuation. bon, honor or honorable.
3. Supply Division. HT, hospital train.
G A, gasoline. HTr, hospital troop.
Gas 0, gas officer. ~ Hv Wpn, heavy weapons.
GB, green star, blinker, parachute, Hv Wpn Sec, heavy weapons section.
M16. I, Italian.
gbc, green bag charge. I and I, inventory and inspection.
G C P, gun group command post (sea- lAP, initial aiming point.
coast artillery). IC, inspected and condemned.
GCT, Greenwich civil time. ICC, Interstate Commerce Commission.
GD, general dispensary. Auth Abbrev: Imp, temporary or improvised fire-
gen disp control structures (seacoast artillery).
Geol, geological. IMR, improved military rifle.
GG, double star, green-green, An-M30. in., inch.
GH, 1. general hospital. Auth Abbrev: Inact-Res., Inactive Reserve.
gen hosp Incend, incendiary.
2. gun or howitzer. Auth Abbrev, for lncls, inclosure. Auth Abbrev: incl
gun: g Auth Abbrev, for howitzer: Iuf-Enl. Res., Infantry Enlisted Re-
how serve.
G H, guardhouse (seacoast artillery). lnf-Res., Infantry Reserve.
GHA, Greenwich hour angle. lnstr, instrument. Auth Abbret': inst
GHQ AF, General Headquarters Air intn, international.
Force. IOSSC, lntroduction to Ordnance Stor-
G.l., general issue. age and Shipment Charts.
GL, general medical laboratory. IPF, initial protective force.
GMT, Greenwich mean time. ISN, internment serial number.
Gn, gun. Auth Abbrev: g IW, incised wound.
GN, Army Ground Forces. Auth 1\VS, Inland Waterway Service.
Abbrev: AGF J, Japanese.
G 0 P, gun group observation station JAG-Res., Judge Advocate General's
(seacoast artillery). Department Reserve.
G P, 1. general purpose. JANP, Joint Army and Navy Radio-
2. general purpose bomb. . telegraph and Radiotelephone Pro-
3. green star, parachute, M19. cedure.
G-PF, gas proof dugout or building. J.M.P.A., Joint Military Passenger
Gpmt C P, groupment command post Agreement.
(seacoast artillery). J.M.P.E.A., Joint Military Passenger
Gpmt 0 P, groupment observation sta- Equalization Agreement.
tion (seacoast artillery). KIA, killed in action.
gr, grain. Kr, corrector.
grad, graduate. L, left.
GS, green star, cluster, M20. lb, pound.
G.S.A.P., gun sight aiming point. LC, light-case (bomb).
gsc, green star, cluster. LCL, less than carload.
gsp, green star, parachute. L/Cpl, rating which is the equivalent of
GST, Greenwich sidereal time. first class private.
GS,V, gunshot wound. LCT, local civil time.
GY, double star, green-yellow, AN-M33. LD, long delay.
H, 1. altitude. LDS, line of duty status.
2. heavy. Auth Abbrev: hv L.H., left hand.
Haw, Hawaiian Department. L H, lighthouse (seacoast artillery).
HC, hospital company. LHA, local hour angle.
rr1g1na fro
Ln 0 309 OMS
Ln 0, liaison officer. M/R, memorandum receipt. Auth
LOP, line of poeition. Abbrev: Mem/R
LP, Livens projector. Mr, master.
L Pon, light ponton. Msg DPU, message dropping and pick-
L R, mine loading room (seacoast ar- up ground.
tillery). Msgr, dismounted messenger (runner).
L S, lightship. Mtcl, motorcycle. Auth Abbrev: mtrcl
ltd serv, limited service. Mtcl Msgr, motorcycle messenger.
L Tk, light tank. Mtd Msgr, mounted messenger.
L W, lacerated wound. mtl, metal.
M, 1. Medical Department. Auth Abbrev: M Tmy, mine tramway (seacoast artil-
MD lery). .
ev:
2. model. M.T.S., Military Transportation Sec-
3. manufacture to be continued. tion, Car Service Division, A.A.R.
4. mortar. Auth Abbrev: mort Mun 0, munitions officer.
MA-Enl. Res., Medical Administrative MV or M.V.. muzzle velocity.
Corps Enlisted Reserve. MW, multiple wounds.
mag, magazine. M Whf, mine wharf (seacoast artillery).
man, manual. . N, In case of an indefinite. appropria-
M. & H. D., A., Medical and Hospital tion, the capital letter "N", indicating
Department, Army. no year, will be substituted for the nu-
MA-Res., Medical Administrative Corps merical figure following the appropria-
s
Reserve. tion number.

M B H, mine boathouse (seacoast ar- nc, normal charge.
tillery). N Ch, normal charge.
M C, mine casemate (seacoast artil- ND, nondelay.
lery). NF, nose fuze.
M C P, mine group command post N. G., (showing grade) members of the
(seacoast artillery). National Guard not in the service of the
mdl, model. United States.
M Drk, mine derrick (seacoast artil- NG, National Guard.
lery). NGB, National Guard Bureau.
Med Adm C, Medical Administrative N. G. Fed. Serv., (showing grade)
eorps. Auth Abbrev: MAC members of the National Guard when
Med-Enl. Res., Medical Corps En- in the service of the United States.
listed Reserve. N. M., National Match ammunition is
Med-Res., Medical Corps Reserve. packed in blue boxes in contrast to the

M E T, meteorological station (sea- usual brown and the head of each car-
coast artillery). tridge is stamped "N. M." and with the
Mg, magazine (seacoast artillery). year of manufacture.
mgb, machine gun belt. NMB, not member of a branch.
Mi, military internee. NOTAl\tiS, dispatch notices to airmen.
mil av, military aviator. NYD, not yet diagnosed.
MI-Res., Military Intelligence Reserve. 0, Ordnance Department. Auth Abbrev:
mkm, marksman. Ord Dept
ML, medical laboratory, Army obs, obsolete.
or C.z. Occ, occulting light.
mlb, metallic link belt. OCM, Ordnance Technical Committee
mm, millimeter. Minutes.
M Msgr; m.otor messenger. OCNGA, Officer in Charge of National
Mod., modification. Guard Affairs.
M 0 P, mine group observation sta- OEC, Ordnance Equipment Chart.
tion (seacoast artillery). OFM, Ordnance Field Manual.
mph, miles per hour. OFSB, Ordnance Field Service Bulletin.
MPLt mobile pigeon loft. OFSC, Ordnance Field Service Circular.
M Pon, medium ponton. 0. L. S., original line of sight.
MP-Res., Military l>olieo Corps Re- 0 M S, Ordnance machine shop (sea-
serve. coast artillery).
rlglnal rrom
-
).
00 310 RR
00 or 0.0., Ordnance Office. Py, party.
Op, open. Q, 1. Quadrant. 2. Quartermaster
opr, operator. Aulh Abbrev: opr Corps. Auth Abbrev: QMC
0 P R, operations and plotting room QE, quadrant elevation.
(seacoast artillery). QM-Enl. Res., Quartermaster Corps
OPSI, Ordnance Publications for Sup- Enlisted Reserve.
ply Index. QM-Res., Quartermaster Corps Re-
0 R, Organized Reserves. serve.
Ord-Enl. Res., Ordnance Department Q M Whf, quartermaster wharf (sea-
Enlisted Reserve. coast artillery).
Ord-Res., Ordnance Department Re- qual, qualified.
serve. R, single star, red, AN-M34.
OS&D R, over, short, and damaged re- re, reduced charge.
port. A uth Abbrev: OS/D RC, Red Chain, parachute, M7.
OSM, Ordnance Safety Manual. Red, record.
OSSC, Ordnance Storage and Shipment RCh, _reduced charge.
Charts. res, resources.
OTCM or OCM, Ordnance Technical .RCS, range corrector setting.
Committee Minutes. rd., round.
0 U Sec War, Office Under Secretary Rd, road.
of War. Auth Abbrev: OUSW RDF, radio direction-finder.
oz, ounce. rdg, reducing.
P, 1. on pass (guard roster). rds, rounds.
2. peace strength. reaptd, reappointed.
3. plotting room (seacoast artillery). reg, regular.
Par. ~il. Pris., paroled military pris- Rej. App., . rejected applicants for en-
oners en route to home or to place listment.
elected, as authorized by regulations. Rep, range probable error.
part, partial. requal, requalified.
PAT, provisional ammunition train. Res. E. M., (showing grade) members
P.B.X., private branch exchange. of the Enlisted Reserve Corps in active
PC, . Panama Canal Department. service.
PD, point-detonating. resgd, resigned.
PDF, point detonating fuze. Res. Off., Reserve officers in active
pdr, 1. powder. 2. pounder (15-pdr.). service.
PE, probable error. retrnt, retirement.
Pen ,V, penetrating wound. Ret. Nurses, retired nurses en route
perc, percussion. home after retirement.
Perf '\V, perforating wound. Ret. Off., retired officers en route home
Pgn Co, pigeon company. after retirement.
Phil, Philippine Department. Ret. Sol., (showing grade) retired sol-
PHosp, post hospital. diers en route home after retirement.
Pl\fP, Protective Mobilization Plan. RF or R. F., representative fraction.
pnt, patient. R F, self-contained base range-finder
Pot. NCO, potential noncommissioned station (seacoast artillery).
officers. Rg, range.
PR, 1. position report. RG, double star, red-green,- AN-M32.
2. Puerto Rican Department. RGM, rounds per gun per minute.
prim, primary. R. H., right hand.
prof, professor. Rhd Det, railhead detachment.
proj., projectile. Rn, range.
P S B, post telephone switchboard R. 0., range operator.
room (seacoast artillery). R. of A., repair of arsenals.
psr, pressure. RP, 1. red star, parachute, Mll.
Pte., Private (Canadian abbreviation of 2. refilling point. 3. regulating point.
private). R Plat, rifle platoon.
publ, publication. RR, 1. radius of rupture.
Pun W, punctured wound. 2. double star, red-red, AN-M28.
rr1g1nal f
RS 311 unsat
RS, .1. red star, cluster, M 6. SPL, stationary pigeon loft.
2. red star, cluster, M14. Sp Wpn Plat, special weapons platoon.
a Sqd, rifle squad. Sp Wpn Tr, special weapons troop.
RSSP, range single shot probability. SQ, superquick.
RTO, railway tTaffic officers. Sq Hq, squadron headquarters.
R. W .A.D., relative wind angle differ- S. R., slant range.
ential. S Rep, shoe repair.
RY, double star, red-yellow, AN-M31. S Rm, shell room (seacoast artillery).
S, 1. Safe. 2. Signal Corps. Auth S s, signal station (seacoast artillery).
Abbrev: Sig C 3. slight. 4. in SNL's, in SS, submarines. Auth Abbrev. of sub-
stock for issue and manufacture discon- marine: subm
. tinued. .5. on shell, smoke producer to-. S Sh, searchlight shelter (seacoast ar-
on-
gether with HE filler. 6. south. tillery).
o-
S & F, sound and flash. SSP, single shot probability.

S & F bn, sound and flash battalion. S S Whf, steamship wharf (seacoast
SAP, semi-armor-piercing. artillery).
S&B, sterilization and bath. S. T ., single thread.
S. C., Searchlight Commander.' stab, stable.
SC, service company. statl, statistical.
Sc, side car. stew, steward.
sc, supercharge. Sub-ASP, sub-ammunition supply
SCA, seacoast artillery. point.
Sed Msgr, scheduled messenger. sum, summary.
SCh, supercharge. Sup 0, supply officer.
SD, 1. medical supply depot, Army or suppl, supplemental.
C.Z. 2. shell destroying. 3. short delay. Sup Pt, supply point. Auth Abbrev: SP
S D R, service dynainite room (sea- susp, suspended.
y.
coast artillery). SV, severe.

SDT, shell destroying tracer. Sw, switching.
sec., second. t, time of flight.
SG, sunset gun (seacoast artillery). T, 1. target (sensing).
SgH, su:gical hospital. Auth Abbrev: 2. tentative model designation.
surg hosp 3. transferred. Auth Abbrev: trfd
SGr, auxiliary surgical group. 4. Transportation Corps. Auth Abbrev:
Sh, shell. ; TC
SH, 1. sick in hospital. T., teeth.
2. station hospital. Td, tide station (seacoa.St artillery).

SHA, sidereal hour angle. TDT/FC, Tank Destroyer Tactical and
Si, site. Firing Center.
Sig Com, signal communications. TF, tail fuze.
Sig-Enl. Res., Signal Corps Enlisted Thd, thread.
Reserve. TM, time mechanical.
Sig 0, Signal officer. . tn, train.
Sig-Res., Signal Corps Reserve. T.O., take-off.
S L, sea level. TO,. technical observer.
Sl B, saluting battery (seacoast artil- TP, 1. target practice. 2. tank piercing.
lery). . T P, turning point other than a land-
Sit, searchlight. Auth Abbrev: SL mark.
sm, speedometer multiplier. T.P.I., threads per inch.
Sn-Res., Sanitary Corps Reserve. tr, tracer.
S 0 P, battery spotting station (sea- Tricl Mtr, tricycle, motor.
coast artillery). trne, trainee.
SOS, Services of Supply. T S, torpedo storehouse (seacoast ar-
SP, 1. Servic_es of Supply. tillery).
2. sn1okeless powder. TSP, trial shot point.
Spec-Res., Specialist Reserve. U, Up.
n.
S P H, searchlight powerhouse (sea- . unasgd, unassigned.
coast artillery). i unsat, unsatisfactory.
r1g1nal ~rom
UR 312 Zn
UR, unsatisfactory report. WDGBI, 1. Assistant Chief of Staff,
USAMPS or U.S.A.M.P.S., United G-2. 2. (identifying symbol) Military
States Army Motion Picture Service. Intelligence Division.
USEO, United States Engineer Office. WDGCT, 1. Assistant Chief of Staff,
USP&DO, United States Property and G-3. 2. (identifying symbol) Organiza-
Disbursing Officer. tion and Training Division.
U.S.Q.X., Government owned tank car WDGDS, 1. Assistant Chief of Staff,
(WD). G-4. 2. (identifying symbol) Supply Di-
VC, veterinary company. vision.
VCH, veterinary convalescent hospital. wdn, wooden.
VEH, veterinary evacuation hospital. WDOPD, (identifying symbol) Opera-
Vet-Enl. Res., Veterinary Corps En- tions Division.
listed Reserve. '\VDWPD, Assistant Chief of Staff,
Vet-Res., Veterinary Corps Reserve. WPD.
VG H, veterinary general hospital. WEMA or W.E.M.A., Welfare of En-
VM, voltmeter. listed Men.
VM GRD, voltmeter ground. Wg Comdr, wing commander.
VM REV, voltm<~ter reverse. WIA, wounded in action.
VOCO, verbal order commanding officer. w/o, without.
vsH, veterinary station hospital. '\VP, 1. white star, parachute, M5.
VTr, veterinary troop. 2. white star, parachute, MlO.
'\V, 1. Chemical Warfare Service. Auth 3. white star, parachute, M17~
Abbrev: CWS 2. war strength. 3. west. WS, white star, cluster, M18.
4. wind velocity. wsc, white star, cluster.
WB, white star, blinker, parachute, wsp, white star, parachute~
M15. W X, weather. Auth Abbrev: wea
wbc, white bag charge. Y, single star, yellow, AN-M35.
'\V Bth, watcher's booth (seacoast ar- yd, yard.
tillery). Yr, year.
'\VD, War Department General Staff. YY, double star, yellow-yellow,
Au~h Abbrev: WDGS AN-M29.
WDGAP, 1. Assistant Chief of Staff, Z, 1. azimuth. 2. Canal Zon~.
G-1. Zn, The abbreviation "Zn" is used when
2. (identifying symbol) personnel. Auth the azimuth is specified to read from
Abbrev: pers north through east to 360 degrees.
Orlg1nal fro
riginal fro
UNI ERSITY OF C LIFOR I

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~ ~JI3

ted matter,The informa-

s and the essential characteristics

o any person known to be in the

rsons of undoubted loyalty and

vernment work, but will not be

press except by authorized military

I \r ~4 I~ J) 1~ P A R 1' lvl E N T' 18 }A!Vl!AR1T 1944

RESTI{l CJ.-.ED: Disstmination of restricud matur.-The informa-

Washington 25, D. C., 18 January 1944

TM 20-205, Dictionary of United States Army Terms, is publisher

BY ORDER OF THE Secretary of War:

hods other than visual whether an object

ng by visual methods whether an object

CHANG~} \VAR DEPARTMENT,

No.1 WASHINGTON25, D. C., 15 July 1944.

S is a working dictionary for a

in reaching a more nearly

are writing or revising training

ature in the instruction of

vel of the definitions.

The DICTIONARY OF U. S. ARMY TERMS is a working dictionary for a

ch term was chosen for its mili-

hort, the DICTIONARY OF u. s.

y interest have been fully de-

general idea to readers not

l Manual with a single definition.

he Army falls between these

terms defined have been drawn

terature, such as the Field

s such as mobilization, movement

fined. Highly specialized activities which are encountered only in

been included. Jeep,

ete terms usually are not

or ranks within such organi-

zations do appear in this dictionary without violating this principle,

have missed many current

s rapidly and efficiently as

nvolved both a scaling

with a long background of

ood by the average man in

tionalists will regard this simplification as a sacrifice of accuracy. In

follow a variant term. For example:

both land and water; as, an amphibian

zed, abbreviations is given in

If the entry is a word with no special military meaning, it is given

it has been indicated. For

an appendix. Whenever an authorized abbreviation exists for one

n two or more terms have

ar preference, only the preferred

comm, communication. Auth Abbrev:

standing of the source material. When two or more tenns have

to the preferred term. For example:

When no clear preference can be established, all tenns are defined

chemical officer, officer, usually a mem-

air staff. ard air conditions.

2. officer in charge of this section. absolute deviation, distance between

AB, 1. air base. 2. airborne. 2. error of a sight consisting of its error

A/B, airborne. in relation to a master service sight with

trees or saplings bent down. cable disease, or of an organization con-

duty without permission, but without AC, 1. Air Corps.

military post or duty without permis- 2. part of the operating mechanism of

operate as a distinct unit. Activate called diphenylaminechlorarsine.

a military organization into operation with a bomb or shell.