Chapter II
Combat Orders

    Paragraphs
Section I. General 57-63
II. Composition of orders 64-71
III. Check lists 72-73
IV. Forms 74-75

Section I
General

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Form 4

Tactical Study of the Terrain1

  1. Purpose and Other Limiting Considerations.2-- Consider the purpose for which the study is being made and such other considerations as serve to limit the area to be studied. Among these may be, according to circumstances, one or more of the following: the mission, apparent enemy capabilities, commander's decision.

  2. General Topography of Area.

    1. Drainage system (principal streams).2

    2. Ridge system (principal ridge lines, mountain ranges, relative elevations).3

    3. Routes (number, direction ,adequacy, condition).3

    4. General nature of the terrain (flat, rolling, open, wooded, etc.)

  3. Military Aspects of the terrain.--Divide the terrain under discussion into natural or tactical subareas; within each subarea, consider the effect on our own or the enemy's operations of such of the following terrain elements as are applicable:

    1. Avenues of approach and lines of communication.

    2. Obstacles (natural and artificial.)

    3. Concealment and cover.

    4. Observation.

    5. Fields of fire (all weapons).

  4. Critical Terrain Features.--Consider any terrain features which, as a result of the foregoing study, appear to be critical or vital for either combatant.

  5. Tactical Effect of the Terrain.--Summarize the effect of the terrain in such tactical or administrative operations or disposition of either or both sides as may be appropriate. In case apparent enemy capabilities or tentative own lines of action, or both, are under consideration, it may be desirable to use subheads for each such capability and line of action in turn.
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Notes

1. The study may be mental, oral, or written, depending on circumstances. It may be used by staffs on occasions; also for training.

2. Graphic representation of some of the items of this paragraph on a map of the area may be helpful.

3. Outlining this feature in ink or pencil on the map may aid in visualizing the general topography of the area.

See Appendix II

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