Tactics for NCOs

Sand table exercises and tactical walks

In its second issue (dated February 1938), the monthly magazine German Infantry (Deutsche Infanterie) published an article about the tactical education of non-commissioned officers. Written by a certain Captain Moeller, from the War School in Potsdam, this article bore a title that promised a discussion of sand-table exercises, tactical walks, and wargames. Unfortunately, somewhere between the writing table of the author and the compositor’s board, the section on wargames disappeared.

Should the Sergeant Think Tactically?

Sand-Table Exercises, Wargames, and Tactical Walks

Captain Moeller, Kriegsschule Potsdam

How do I deal with the enemy? The answer to this question requires tactical thought from every leader of a small unit, whether he be a foot soldier, a gunner, an engineer, a tanker, or a communicator.

The small unit leader in the rifle company is the ‘fighter’!

Before he can practice tactics, the junior leader must understand the capabilities and limitations of all weapons.

The training of every junior leader must include instruction in the effects of modern weapons; tactical concepts, thinking, and action; and the language of command. Much of this will take place at the sand table or during tactical walks.