This post continues the translation of a German pamphlet from 1944. The following link will take you to the first post in this series.
Advance of a Reinforced Rifle Company in Thick Woods
A rifle company should advance with two platoons in the first line so that, as soon it makes contact with the enemy, it can deliver a lot of fire.
If a rifle company leads with a single platoon, its front will be too narrow and, as a result, it runs a greater risk of blundering into an ambush.
Infantry guns and anti-tank guns cannot be towed through woods that lack proper paths. Thus, mortars will serve as the chief heavy weapon of a rifle company fighting in dense forests.
General Rules for an Advance in the Forest
All hands will maintain absolute silence while advancing. Leaders will use signals to give orders.
If, at any time, forward movement stops, subordinate leaders will immediately and, without waiting for orders, establish all-round security.
In the event of contact with the enemy:
All hands will remain calm, make use of cover, and watch their surroundings.
Leaders at all levels will make rapid decisions and act promptly, conduct combat reconnaissance (Gefechtsaufklärung), and commit squads (or platoons) in order to destroy the enemy.
Example
An enemy patrol appears on a flank.
The platoon under attack uses one squad to fix the enemy unit with fire while sending two squads to attack it from the rear.
A Company Commander Must Always
Assign observers
Position heavy weapons to cover open portions of the forest, thereby protecting the flanks of the company.
Keep subordinate leaders close at hand.