Chapter 4
Ship-to-Shore Movement

		Paragraphs
Section I.	General	74-75
II.	Organization	76-80
III.	Boat group formations, platoon and company	81-88
IV.	Boat group	89-97
V.	Landing of regimental, division, or landing force reserves	98-101
VI.	Planning	102-111
VII.	Execution	112-119

Section I
General

74. Scope.--

    1. The scope of this chapter includes those considerations directly connected with the planning and execution of the movement of troops from the beginning of their debarkation from transports until they are landed on the beach, It deals primarily with the battalion combat team and smaller units, and the corresponding boat organizations. Naval gunfire and aviation support, and the landing of field artillery, tanks, and other arms and services are treated in separate chapters.

    2. In the formations illustrated in this chapter, the X-boat and the Y-boat have been used. These are special type boats capable of transporting about 15 and 25 fully equipped men, respectively.

75. Ship-to-Shore Movement Vital Part of Attack.--

    1. The ship-to-shore movement of the small boats carrying troops embraces an important phase of the attack itself. the movement is more than a simple ferrying operation and involves much of the tactics of fire and movement. This may be realized readily from a brief review of the basic elements of an infantry attack on land prior to the hand-to-hand conflict.

    2. An attack on land opens with preparatory gunfire laid on the defending enemy positions for both destruction and

demoralization. This fire is increased in severity until masked by the assaulting infantry. For ease of control, the infantry begins its distant approach in comparatively large columns, but as the approach continues and the danger from enemy weapons increases, the infantry for its own safety and east of prospective deployment breaks into smaller columns. Finally, in order to reduce losses further and to use effectively its own weapons, it is forced to deploy. Then when it is judged that the combined fires of the artillery and infantry have produced sufficient effect or at a time previously ordered, the gunfire lifts and the deployed infantrymen, still maintaining their fire, rush the enemy positions with the bayonet.
3. In the attack on the immediate beach defenses in a landing operation, all of the above phases up to the last rush take place while the attackers are on the water. This indicates that the leading troops must necessarily be broken into small groups as soon as danger from shore weapons becomes acute or the necessity arises for the use of their own weapons. A deployment of small boats is necessary to accomplish this. All lateral maneuvers essential to placing the troops in the proper attack formations and opposite the desired landing place must also take place at or before this time. Finally, the leading troops must be quickly delivered in formation on the beach or as near thereto as the small boats will permit, deployed as skirmishers. Supports and reserves must be maneuvered on the water so as to exploit successes, and artillery must follow at the proper time and place to enable it to support the attack beyond the initial assault.

4. Landing operations definitely place the burden of an important phase of the initial attack upon coordinated movements of various types of naval craft in accordance with land tactical plans. Thus, the movement from ship to shore should not be regarded as merely a preliminary movement, but as an integral and vital part of the attack itself, demanding of the boat commanders a high order of tactical knowledge and skill and a complete control of the boat formations involved.

Section II
Organization

76. Major Groupings.--

    1. The organization for any ship-to-shore movement of troops is naturally divided into two main categories, the subdivision of the landing force into task organizations, and the organization of the small boats in which landing force units are to move and initiate the action.

    2. The task organization of the landing force is based on the integrity of units (squads, platoons, companies, and battalions). The task organizations of the small boats should as far as the number and type of boats permit, conform to those of the landing force so as to facilitate landing of troops in intact units which will enable them to carry out their missions on shore.

    3. The basic task organizations of the landing force are the landing groups (battalion combat teams and additional parties), and the basic organizations of the small boats are the boat groups.

77. Landing Group.--

    1. Composition.--For composition, see paragraph 45b(4).

    2. Organization.--

       1. In order to make the best use of available boats, provide for combined training, and simplify the issuance of orders, all troops to be landed in formation are organized into landing groups. each landing group is identified by a number, followed by the name of its principal organization, such as Landing Group No. 1 (1st Bn 1st Inf, rein.).

          the organization of landing groups is published in the form of a table, as shown in c below, which should include all the landing groups organized in the landing force. This table should be issued as early as practicable after the composition of the landing force is known, preferably before embarkation, and independent of any tactical orders for a landing. The table may then be used as a basis for assignment of boats, organization of embarkation groups, transport loading, and similar purposes. The table shows the number of boat spaces required for each organization and the total for each landing group. Motor vehicles and heavy equipment

requiring special boats or landing gear should be listed separately. Infantry battalions to be used as assault units should be so designated in order that suitable boats may be assigned.
3. Model form for organization of landing groups.
   Organization of Landing Groups

   Organization	Boat spaces
   	Personnel	Matériel	Total
   Landing Group No. 1 (1st Bn 1st Inf rein)1
   1st Bn 1st Inf (with Bn Com Sec and Med Sec)
   1st Plat, AT Co, 1st Inf
   Btry A 1st FA Bn (4 guns; 1 truck, 1/2-ton, 4x4, command; 2 prime movers)2
   1st Plat Co A 1st Engr Bn (1 truck, 11/2-ton, 4x4, dump)2
   1st Plat Btry ---, --- CAC (AA)
   Additional transportation as prescribed2
   Beach party No. 1
   Beach party No. 2
   Total
   Landing Group No. 2 (2d Bn 1st Inf rein)1
   2d Bn 1st Inf (with Bn Com Sec and Med Sec)
   2d Plat AT Co 1st Inf
   Btry B 1st FA Bn (4 guns; 1 truck, 1/2-ton, 4x4, command; 2 prime movers)2
   2d Plat Btry ---, --- CAC (AA)
   2d Plat Co A 1st Engr Bn (1 truck, 11/2-ton, 4x4, dump)2
   Additional transportation as prescribed2
   Beach party No. 2
   Shore party No. 2
   Total
   Landing Group No. 3 (3d Bn 1st Inf rein)1
   *   *   *   *   *

   ¹ To be organized and equipped as an assault unit (if available, a detachment of amphibian tanks may be included buy disregarded in assignment of boat spaces).
   ² To be embarked in a separate boat division.

78. Boat Group.--

    1. A boat group is a group of boats organized to transport a landing group from ship to shore. It is designated by a number, such as Boat Group No. 1, and is commanded by a naval officer, the boat group commander.

    2. When the operation of two or more boat groups in a restricted area demands the actual presence of a single commander, they are combined into on organization called a boat flotilla. The flotilla commander is embarked for the ship-to-shore movement on a fast boat, and proceeds so as best to exercise command of his several boat groups during the movement.

    3. The boat group is subdivided into task organizations called boat divisions. A boat division consists of two or more small boats used to transport a tactical subdivision of the landing group such as a platoon or a company (see fig. 5). During the ship-to-shore movement, the boat division operates as a unit under the boat division commander. Since the boat group commander is able to exercise command through the boat division commanders rather than by dealing directly with the individual boats, his control is facilitated by the organization of boat divisions. Each boat division is designated by a number such as Boat Division No. 1, Boat Group No. 1.

    4. Boat groups move from ship to shore and land in successive waves corresponding as nearly as possible to the tactical formation desired during and after landing. A wave consists of one or more boat divisions which land approximately simultaneously. Waves are designated successively from front to rear, as first wave, second wave.

79. Assignment of Boats to Boat Groups and Boat Pools.--

    1. The table showing the organization of landing groups (see par. 77c) is the basis for the assignment of boats to boat groups. Boat groups to transport assault combat teams are assigned a sufficient number of the smallest and fastest boats available to accommodate the landing group in one trip. Boat groups organized to carry units which are to land later consist of larger motor launches, troop barges, or lighters.

    2. In addition to the boats assigned to boat groups, a pool should be provided to aid or replace boats which may become disabled prior to or during the landing. Pools should include all types of boats used in the boat group they support, and

Figure 5.--Boat group, boat division and wave
(flags shown are wave guide flags).

the crews should be familiar with the formation and plan of landing. Certain of these boats accompany boat groups of the first wave and operate under the orders of the commander of the boat group which they accompany.

80. Embarkation of Boat Group and Landing Group Officers.--In order to insure the essential close cooperation between boat group officers and officers of the landing group which are to operate together under fire, these officers should be embarked on the same transport. Such personal contact also permits changes to be made readily in the plan for the ship-to-shore movement of the unit concerned in case information received while at sea indicates the desirability of such changes.

Section III
Boat Group Formations, Platoon and Company

81. Coordination of Army and Navy Terms.--

    1. To avoid misunderstandings, it should be noted that in the Navy the term "distance" indicates the space between individual ships or boats measured in any direction, and the term "interval" indicates the space between groups of ships or boats measured between the corresponding ship or boat in each group in any direction.

    2. In this manual Army usage is followed; distance means the space between elements from front to rear, and interval means the space between elements of the same line.

82. Factors Involved.--Formations, frontages, and distances employed within boat groups are governed largely by the following considerations:

    1. Types of boats available.

    2. Extent of beach, for of coast line, and presence of obstacles.

    3. The necessity of maintaining the integrity of troop organizations and landing these organizations in the desired tactical organization.

    4. Effective use of boat weapons against enemy aircraft and beach defenses.

    5. Vulnerability of the formation to fire of beach weapons and aircraft. li> Time intervals between waves which permit prompt support by following units and at the same time are sufficient to prevent congestion of boats and intermingling of units on the beach.

83. Landing a Platoon.--
    1. 1. Figure 6 illustrates a boat division landing an assault platoon in four X-boats and one Y-boat. It will be noted that the leading boats are deployed in a V similar to that used by aircraft. This formation facilitates effective leadership and control from the command
          
          Figure 6.--Boat division landing an assault platoon.

and guide boat (X-1), permits the four leading boats to fire on the beach, and is less vulnerable to aerial attack than a line or column formation. Whenever advisable, the V may be opened to a formation with boats abreast by appropriate signals from the leading boat. In order to avoid further the effects of hostile fire, all boats should move toward the beach in zigzag courses while maintaining approximately the relative positions in the formation.
2. The third (support) element of the platoon in Y-1 keeps sufficiently close to the leading boats to maintain contact. As the leading boats approach the beach, it should be from ¹/2 to 2 minutes traveling time in rear. This enables its commander to select the most advantageous point to land and support the attack. If the enemy opens fire from positions on the flank of the platoon, the support element should not hesitate to change course so as to engage him with boat guns at point-blank range.

3. Since a platoon after landing is held responsible for a frontage of from 150 to 200 yards and the leading boats are uniformly distributed over the assigned front to insure covering it with fire and engaging all enemy weapons on the beach, the interval between the leading boats varies from 40 to 70 yards. This interval will usually prevent more than one boat being damaged by a single shell or aerial bomb.
2. Boat divisions in the second and succeeding waves employ formations similar to the foregoing. Boats should not be less than 40 yards apart and arranged in staggered lines.
84. Landing an Assault Company.--Four boat divisions each carrying a platoon, are usually employed to transport an assault company from ship to shore. Another boat division may be organized to transport attached or supporting units. the assault company may be landed in the following formations:

    1. Three platoons in assault and one in support.

    2. One platoon as a covering force and three initially in support.

    3. In column of platoons.

    4. Exceptionally, with the four platoons abreast.

85. Three Platoons in Assault.--

    1. The boat formation, three boat divisions in the leading wave and one in the second

wave, is suitable when the company is to be landed on a front of 250 to 500 yards. The assault platoons are transported by the boat divisions constituting the first wave. The support platoon, company headquarters, and any attached or supporting units are carried in the boat division which constitutes the second wave. The second wave should follow the first at sufficient distance to permit the assault platoons to clear the immediate beach of the enemy, and allow the support platoon a reasonable chance to land behind a successful advance without intermingling of units. It should not follow at such great distance, however, as to permit the assault platoons to be defeated in detail as they arrive on the beach. When the company is to make a relatively deep advance, the leading platoons should be given an opportunity to advance from the beach before the support platoon lands, the distance being greater in open country than in wooded or broken country. the time it will take the troops to advance the desired distance must be estimated by troop commanders from a study of the terrain and battle conditions that will likely prevail at each particular beach.
2. When the company is to land in a bay, the boat divisions carrying the 2 assault platoons may be directed to separate when nearing the beach in order to permit the platoons to attack both sides of the bay. Under cover of these attacks, the boat division carrying the support platoon may move on the center of the beach.
86. One Platoon as Covering Force.--For a landing with one platoon as a covering force, the boat formation comprises a leading wave of one boat division carrying the covering force platoon and a second wave of boat divisions abreast transporting the support platoons. This formation contemplates that the platoons transported in the second wave will be landed under protection of the engagement of the covering platoon, and pass through it to drive the enemy farther from the shore. The formation is applicable when the company is to land on a front of less than 250 yards and then extend shortly after landing to cover a wider front.

87. Column of Platoons.--

    1. A formation of four waves, each composed of a boat division carrying a platoon, is applicable

when the company is to be landed on a beach of less than 250 yards width and is not to be required to extend its front to any considerable degree after landing. The formation may also be employed to prevent congestion when the landing is to be made on a very restricted beach, or it may be required in order to negotiate a narrow channel.
2. As this formation facilitates the concentration of enemy shore weapons on each boat division in turn, the time interval between boat divisions is reduced as much as possible without entailing congestion of boats and intermingling of platoons at the beach. A time interval of from 2 to 6 minutes is desirable. When the company is to be employed as a covering force for the remainder of the battalion combat team, the intermingling of platoons after landing ceases to be a governing factor, and the time interval between boat divisions should approach the minimum figure.
88. Platoons Abreast.--A formation in a single wave with all boat divisions which transport the company moving from ship to shore abreast is seldom employed. As all of the platoons of the company are immediately engaged upon landing, this formation permits little opportunity for the company to maneuver after reaching shore and the company cannot be expected to do more than deliver a severe attack on the enemy groups close to the beach. This formation is applicable when no amphibian tanks are available and the company is to act as a covering force for the battalion landing on a broad front. It has the advantage of developing enemy weak points and rapidly establishing small local beachheads.

Section IV
Boat Group Formations, Assault Battalion

89. Boat Formations for Landing Assault Battalions.--

    1. A boat group transports the assault battalion combat team from ship to shore. The boat group formations are dependent upon the plan of tactical employment of the infantry battalion, which in turn is largely dictated by the extent of the beach and the terrain adjacent to the beach. The assault infantry battalion is transported for employment with two rifle companies in assault and one in reserve; with one rifle company in assault, and two initially in reserve; with rifle

companies in column; or with rifle companies abreast. The antitank platoon and heavy weapons company are assigned positions in the boat group in accordance with proposed tactical employment on shore. Usually in the ship-to-shore movement, the caliber .30 machine-gun platoons are attached to assault rifle companies, and the remainder of the heavy weapons company is landed with the battalion reserve. The battalion headquarters and headquarters detachment is also normally in the same wave as the battalion reserve. A battalion staff officer with part of the detachment may accompany an earlier wave to establish an advance message center ashore.
2. Figure 7 illustrates several dispositions of the infantry assault battalion, less heavy weapons company, in boat group formations. As previously stated, units of the heavy weapons company are normally attached to assault rifle companies and the battalion reserve. The assignment, within the boat group formation, of other elements of the battalion combat team is outlined in paragraph 97.
90. Two Companies in Assault.--Figure 7 A shows a formation of a boat group in part, which is applicable particularly when the assault battalion is to be landed on a beach of from 600 to 1,000 yards extent on a regular coast line with open country extending inland for a considerable distance. The formation is designed to land simultaneously sufficient troops to drive quickly toward the battalion objective, with a reserve available to extend the front or push through to greater depth. The main disadvantage of this formation is that a large part of the battalion is located in the first wave and therefore will be committed to the fight at the water's edge.

91. Part of Battalion as Covering Force.--Figure 7 B, C, and D show formations in which the leading wave is to be employed as a covering force. The succeeding waves move to the beach under the security of the covering force, the primary task of which is to clear the beach of enemy resistance and protect it from observation and direct fire. The use of these formations is applicable when the landing is to be made on a beach of less extent than 500 yards. These formations are particularly suitable when the terrain adjacent

Figure 7.--Boat group landing assault battalion (diagram not to scale).

to the beach is such that a limited objective or short advance on the part of the covering force will afford the desired protection for the succeeding waves.

92. One Company as Covering Force.--Figure 7 B illustrates a covering force of one company with two platoons

the leading wave and two support platoons in the second wave. The remaining rifle companies of the battalion are transported in boat formations moving abreast. The advantage of this formation is that one company commander is in charge of the first attack on the beach, and a support platoon is at his disposal to influence the action. The remaining rifle companies, landing abreast, will be in proper formation to pass through the covering force, continue the attack, and extend the front. However, this formation results in committing the entire battalion soon after landing, and the absence of a reserve other than that which may be reconstituted from the covering force is a distinct disadvantage.
93. Two Assault Companies With Covering Force Platoons.--In the formation shown in figure 7 C, the leading waves consists of two platoons, one from each of two rifle companies, to be landed abreast as a covering force. The second wave consists of the remaining assault rifle companies' platoons abreast, and the third rifle company follows in succeeding waves to be landed as a reserve. This formation has the advantage of providing a mobile battalion reserve. It is particularly applicable when the battalion is to be landed on two separate beaches and only a short advance of the covering force is required to furnish the desired security.

94. Column of Companies.--Figure 7 D illustrates a boat formation in which the battalion is transported in column of rifle companies, each company in two waves. This formation tends to divide the battalion into a succession of three efforts of equal magnitude, which increases the danger of defeat in detail and slows up the process of extending the front. This formation has the advantage inherent in a disposition in depth and may be desirable when the battalion is to be landed in darkness, when it is to attack on a narrow front, or to prevent congestion on a very narrow beach.

95. Companies Abreast.--The battalion will seldom be transported from ship to shore with all companies abreast, except when preceded by amphibian tanks as a covering force. In the absence of amphibian tanks this formation may be applicable when a demonstration is desired to create the impression of a much larger force, or when it is necessary to

make a reconnaissance in force over an extremely broad front with a view to determining enemy weakness and utilizing other battalions to exploit a successful landing on any part of the front.
96. Battalion Reserves.--The most desirable landing place for battalion reserves can seldom be foreseen before the assault companies are landed. Therefore, sufficient time interval should be allowed between waves carrying assault companies and waves carrying reserves to insure an opportunity to divert the reserves to a landing behind a company that has already succeeded in getting ashore. This time interval, however, should not be so great as to expose an assault company to defeat for lack of prompt support. A time interval between 5 and 15 minutes is applicable in most situations.

97. Other Elements of Combat Team.--

    1. The location of boat divisions carrying the elements of the combat team other than the infantry battalion depends upon the plan for their employment after landing. The following discussion of the position of such elements in the boat formation is furnished as a general guide only. In so far as the orders of higher commanders permit, the combat team commander must decide on the location of each element for the particular situation confronting him.

       1. When a landing is likely to be opposed on or near the beach and conditions permit the use of armored vehicles by the defense, an antitank platoon or more should be a component of each combat team. When conditions are favorable therefor, the leading waves may be struck on the beach by enemy armored vehicles. Hence, the antitank weapons should be landed with the first assault elements ashore.

       2. Similar considerations with respect to the action of hostile aircraft will make it desirable to land a platoon of antiaircraft automatic weapons with the leading waves of each combat team.

       3. The battalion medical detachment and engineer units pertaining to the combat team will be needed ashore soon after the assault companies have landed. These units therefore may be included in the wave containing the reserve rifle company or they may be assigned to a wave intermediate

between the assault and reserve companies. Company aid men of the battalion medical detachment should go ashore with the companies.
4. When a battery of field artillery is a part of the combat team, it ordinarily will be placed in the last wave. It is highly vulnerable to hostile machine-gun fire at the time of landing and preferably should not land until the beach is secure from aimed small-arms fire. A reconnaissance detail should land sufficiently in advance of the battery to insure prompt entry of the battery into action upon landing.

5. If light tanks are a part of the combat team they should be landed about the same time as the leading wave to provide immediate assistance in the advance from the beach. Tanks are especially valuable at this time owing to the lack of adequate close supporting artillery fire. If amphibian tanks or other armored vehicles are available they may constitute the covering force and lead the first wave ashore. When tank lighters of sufficient speed are available and landing conditions are favorable, the tanks should be assigned to the first wave; when these conditions do not exist, tanks should be in the second or later wave.

6. The naval artillery liaison party accompanying the combat team is assigned a position in the boat group such as to facilitate the early establishment of contact with the combat team commander when he lands.
2. The commanders of the shore party and the beach party land with the leading waves of each assault combat team. Additional personnel of these parties may be distributed among boats in succeeding waves to assist in landing equipment. The remainder of the shore party and beach party in boats assigned to these parties usually are placed in the last wave.

Section V
Landing of Regimental, Division, or Landing Force Reserves

Provision for Small Boats.--In order to exploit quickly the successes gained by leading battalions, reserve units must be disposed for prompt landing. Sufficient boats should be provided to land at least the assault combat teams and the regimental and division reserves in one trip. When a shortage

of boats makes this impossible due to the number of boats required to carry assault combat teams for a planned operation, consideration must be given to reducing the frontage of the initial attack in order that reserves may be immediately available in boats ready to land. To facilitate control, reserves are embarked preferably in relatively large boats.
99. Sea Areas for Reserve Boat Groups.--The time and place of the landing of regimental, division, or landing force reserves can seldom be determined until information has been received of the progress of the initial action on shore. Upon debarkation from transports, boat groups carrying these reserves proceed to a designated sea area and await orders from the commander of the tactical unit of which the reserves are a part. This sea area is centrally located in reference to probable landing points and at a reasonably safe distance from shore artillery. Frequently one of the control group vessels is designated as the rendezvous in order to facilitate transmission of orders.

100. Holding reserves on Transports.--

     1. Where the probable beaches for landing the reserve units are separated by long distances, it may be desirable to hold the units aboard transports even through boats are available for their immediate debarkation. In such case, when a decision is reached regarding the employment of these reserves, the transports proceed opposite the selected landing point for the debarkation, thus expediting the movement ashore.

     2. When it is necessary to land reserves in the second trip of the boats, the transports or other vessels carrying the reserves proceed as close to the beach as enemy fire and depth of water permit. Under such conditions it is necessary to provide for the rendezvous of boats with the transports or other vessels.

     3. When conditions permit, reserves are landed directly from transports and smaller craft onto a dock or sea wall. Landing from beached transports, however, usually involves the use of small boats or rafts to ferry the troops to the beach. Under these conditions time will usually be saved by having the transports or other vessels anchor in sufficient water to keep them afloat, although a greater ferrying distance is involved.

101. Floating Reserve.--The floating reserve is the reserve of the entire landing force. It is held afloat on transports suitably located to assist or exploit any of the landing operations, but especially the main landing, until the situation permits locating it ashore. in major operations, it is preferably a self-contained unit of all arms capable of independent action. Particular attention is paid to its antiaircraft and antisubmarine defense.

Section VI
Planning

102. General.--Planning for the ship-to-shore movement is a continuing process. Even prior to embarkation, decision is made as to the composition of the combat teams constituting the landing force and the probable method of debarking them for the landing. The combat teams and the boat groups which are expected to transport them are trained together, both prior to and after embarkation, in preparation for the execution of the tentative ship-to-shore movement plans. Embarkation groups, (sec. II, ch. 10) are organized to facilitate debarkation in suitable landing groups. The embarkation order is based on the tentative ship-to-shore plan for the preferred tactical plan. During the movement from ports of embarkation, information received afloat may make modification of the preferred tactical plan or the adoption of an alternate tactical plan necessary. If so, the tentative plan for the ship-to-shore movement is changed as required. Therefore, most of the plans for the ship-to-shore movement are prepared well in advance of arrival in the landing area.

103. Landing Schedule.--

     1. To plan the details of the ship-to-shore movement in conformity with the Army scheme of maneuver, the Navy must be furnished complete information as to the desired schedule of landing of Army units. A landing schedule is therefore issued as an annex to the field orders of the landing-force unit for each separate landing operation. The landing schedule contains the place, hour, and priorities of landing of all landing groups as well as a tabulation for movements from the transports. The time of landing of the first trip of the boats is expressed in terms of H-hour, which is the time of the initial landing in the main operation.

2. A model form for a landing schedule is shown below.
   LANDING SCHEDULE

   Landing group No.	Beach	Boat group No.	Troop Unit	From transport	Time of landing
   1	A	1	1st Bn 1st Inf combat team; shore party No. 1; beach party No. 1	XAP 14	H-hour
   4	B	4	1st Bn 2d Inf combat team; shore party No. 4; beach party No. 4	XAP 13	H-hour
   2	C	2	2d Bn 1st Inf combat team; shore party No. 2; beach party No. 2	XAP 14	H plus 30 min.
   3	A or B	3	3d Bn 1st Inf combat team; shore party No. 3; beach party No. 3	XAP 10	H plus 40 min.
   5	C	5	2d Bn 2d Inf combat team; shore party No. 5; beach party No. 5	XAP 13	H plus 70 min.
   *	*	*	*	*	*

   Priorities of landing of units in second trip of boats:

   	Beach	Boat groups
   From transport XAP 14:
   Hq and Hq Btry 1st FABn	A	1 and 2 (boats running individually).
   A Co 1st Eng Bn (less dets)	A
   Advance party 1st Inf	A
   From transport XAP 13:
   *       *       *       *	*	*       *       *       *
   From transport XAP 10:
   *       *       *       *	*	*       *       *       *

104. Navy Clock Time.--Army personnel employed with a joint force should understand Navy methods of designating time. In the Navy, the hours from midnight to midnight are numbered from 0000 to 2400. Thus 1:00 AM is 0100; 2:00 AM is 0200; 1:00 PM is 1300; 6:00 PM is 1800; 9:00 PM is 2100.

All plans and orders affecting employment of Navy units will utilize the Navy method of time designation.
105. Detailed Plans.--

     1. Detailed plans for the debarkation and ship-to-shore movement of all troops from each transport are made jointly by the commanders of the landing groups and the boat groups concerned with the cooperation of the transport commander, and in accordance with the landing schedule and other orders of the landing force commander. The considerations that govern the formation of boat groups carrying assault units, the landing of reserves, and other details of planning are outlined in sections II to V, inclusive.

     2. Rapid debarkation reduces the period of greatest vulnerability of transports to air and submarine attacks, lessens the value of information given the enemy, and shortens the time boats must remain in the water. Plans provide therefore that boats are promptly lowered and assembled and that boat divisions are assigned gangways in such manner that each gangway will be used continuously to fullest capacity. Prior to debarkation tests should be made to determine the fastest and most suitable method of lowering and loading boats, and the speed of loaded boats in smooth and rough seas and in darkness and daylight. Data secured by such tests are used in formulating the plan for debarkation for the landing.

     3. The organization of the landing groups and the assignment of boats to the corresponding boat groups having been completed, the following diagrams, tables, and schedules are useful in planning and issuing orders for the ship-to-shore movement: boat assignment table, landing diagram, deployment diagram, boat diagram, boat assembly and rendezvous diagrams, and debarkation and approach schedule.

106. Boat Assignment Table.--

     1. the boat assignment table following shows the organization of a boat group into boat divisions, the boat-division formations, and the personnel carried in each boat. It is made up as soon as the composition of the landing group and the number, types, and speeds of boats assigned to the boat group are known. In each boat division, the order of boats when in column is that which facilitates deployment into desired positions in the V formation. Each boat division commander and the commanding officer of the troops to be carried are transported

in the leading boat of the boat division. Boats of each division, together with the troops they carry, are listed in the order in which they are arranged in column formation. This is
BOAT ASSIGNMENT TABLE

Boat No.	Personnel and matériel	Boat spaces	Formations
x-0	Comdr Bt Gp, Comd detail (3), and crew (3)	7
	Comdr 1st Bn, Staff (2), and runners (4)	7
	Machine gunners 1st Plat Co D	2
	Total	16
	Boat Division No. 1		V
	(1st Plat Co A; Weapons Plat Co A)		x-1
x-1	Comdr Bt Div & Crew (3)	4	x-3 x-2
	Sec Ldr & gunners LMG Sec (2)	3	x-4
	Comdr 1st Plat and runners (2)	3	Y-1
	Armd Sqd	8
	Total	18
x-2	Bt O & Crew	4
	Plat Sgt 1st Plat & 1st Rifle Sqd	13
	Total	17	Column
x-3	Bt O & Crew (3)	4	x-1
	Plat Guide & 2d Rifle Sqd	13	x-2
	Total	17	x-3
x-4	Bt O & Crew (3)	4	x-4
	Comdr & Sgt Weapons Plat, Cfr, msgrs (2)	5	Y-1
	Comdr LMG Sec	9
	Total	18
Y-1	Bt O, Crew (3)	4
	Sqd LMG Sec	5
	60-mm Mortar Sec	19
	Total	28
	Boat Division No. 2
	*   *   *   *   *
	Boat Division No. 3
	(Continued until boat group is completed.)

the order in which boats come alongside the transport for debarkation of troops. Types of matériel which require extra boat spaces, such as mortars, tanks, guns, other vehicles, and bulky ammunition, should be shown in their proper places in the table. For boat spaces of various types of Navy boats, see paragraph 67; for boat spaces required by various types of matériel, see section II, chapter 3.
2. The following points are considered in planning the organization of boat divisions, the determination of their formations, and the assignment of troops to boats:

   1. A separate boat is assigned for the boat group commander and his communications detail and, if available, a separate boat is furnished each of the assistant boat group commanders. The landing group commander with a part of his staff is transported in one of these boats, preferably that of the boat group commander. These boats are not a part of any boat division, but cruise independently as directed by the commander concerned.

   2. The smallest and fastest boats are assigned to assault platoons, the next larger types to support platoons, and the largest boats to the reserve echelon. Boats of approximately equal speed are assigned to each boat division, and to boat divisions which are to be landed abreast.

   3. It is desirable that at least four platoons per infantry battalion be assigned boats suitable for assault echelons so that the battalion can be landed on a broad front or in a variety of formations.

   4. The integrity of trop units is maintained as far as possible and units are landed in proper formation. For example, a rifle squad is kept together in one boat; boats carrying rifle squads of the same platoon are landed adjacent to each other; each platoon in a reserve rifle company is transported intact in one boat or boat division.

   5. The risk of heavy loss of any one essential unit, such as a signal communications platoon, a machine-gun platoon, or an 81-mm mortar platoon, is reduced by distributing such units among two or more boats.

3. The following sequence in the preparation of the table is recommended:

   1. Assign a separate boat to the boat group commander and his communications detail and, if available, one to each of his assistants.

2. Assign the landing group commander and staff required initially to one of these boats.

3. Assign such heavy weapons company personnel and beach and shore party personnel as are required to act as gunners or to assist boat crews.

4. First, assign rifle units of the assault platoons and any associated tank platoons to boats, then support or reserve echelons.

5. Assign the remainder of the heavy weapons company, headquarters units, and attached or supporting troops.

6. Designate ambulance boats and assign personnel and equipment.

7. Fill any vacant boat spaces with the remainder of the beach and shore parties.

8. Make use of a check list to account for all units and to check with total available boat spaces.
107. Landing Diagram.--

     1. A landing diagram shows graphically the landing formation of the boat group, and the guide and alternate guide of each wave. A separate diagram is made for each formation the boat group may be required to employ. Figure 8 shows a model diagram with four boat divisions in the first wave. Additional instructions, together with the intervals and distances between elements, are included on the diagram if it is not to be accompanied by written orders.

     2. An example of the instructions issued separately (or included on the diagram) is as follows:

        Boat group No. 1 will use landing formation No. 1.

        Distance and interval between boats within BDs: 50 yards; support sections, 1st wave, as directed by BD commanders.

        1st wave: Lt P comdg in X-15 (not in formation); intervals: between BD's 2 and 1, 200 yards; BD's 1 and 4, 150 yards; BD's 4 and 5, 200 yards.

        2d wave: Lt Q comdg in V-3; lands 8 minutes after 1st wave; interval between BD's 300 yards.

        3d wave: Lt R comdg in V-15; lands 12 minutes after 2d wave; distance between BD's, 300 yards.

Figure 8.--Landing diagram (formation No. 1).
108. Deployment Diagram.--A deployment diagram shows the formation in which the boat group proceeds from the rendezvous areas to the line of departure, and the method

Figure 9.--Deployment diagram (formation No. 1).

of deployment into the landing formation. Figure 9 shows a deployment diagram applicable to the landing formation shown in figure 8 when deployment is made straight to the front. In this figure, the boat group is shown proceeding with reduced distances between waves. This formation is applicable during darkness, when the transport areas are congested, or when the route to the line of departure contains changes in direction. During daylight or when the movement is otherwise simplified, each wave may proceed from its rendezvous area independently in the formation shown on the deployment diagram, and at a speed which permits it to arrive at the line of departure at the designated time.
109. Boat Diagram.--

     1. A boat diagram is a rough sketch or diagram showing the positions of individuals and equipment in each boat. In the boat diagrams prepared for larger boats used in the later waves, the locations of squads will suffice insofar as personnel are concerned. Preparation of these sketches or diagrams is particularly desirable when there has been no opportunity for combined training; if thorough training exercises have been carried out, they are unnecessary.

     2. The positions of men and matériel in each boat depend primarily on the following considerations:

        1. Distribution to keep the boat in trim.

        2. Provision for a suitable number of men to fire their weapons, both at planes and at beach targets with the least danger to each other and with minimum change in position.

        3. Maximum protection for personnel.

        4. Provision for rapid debarkation and for deployment on the beach in the desired formation.

110. Boat Assembly and Rendezvous Diagrams.--

     1. Boat assembly and rendezvous diagrams (or written orders) indicate the assembly areas of empty boats preparatory to debarkation, routes to gangways, and rendezvous areas of loaded boats, all of which are prescribed to prevent confusion and delay when a number of boat divisions are involved (see fig. 10).

     2. Assembly areas are fixed in reference to the transport, and therefore move with the transport if it swings. rendezvous areas are located in reference to some fixed point such as a control vessel temporarily stationed for that purpose, a

Figure 10.--Boat assembly and rendezvous areas.

buoy, or a small boat; they are preferably between the transport and the line of departure. when a landing group is embarked on two or more transports, each transport prescribed its own assembly areas but the rendezvous areas are common to the complete boat group.
3. Two general methods are employed to control the movement of small boats from the time of arrival in designated assembly areas to the time of arrival, loaded, in their rendezvous areas, namely, the assembly and loading by boat divisions (fig. 10), and assembly and loading by boat type. The boat division method decentralizes control of boats during assembly and loading to boat division commanders, and is applicable when boat and troop units have had thorough combined training. The boat type method provides for assembly of empty boats of similar type, speed, and capacity without regard to any boat division organization; and boats are called alongside as needed for loading an organization into the required boat divisions. The organization into boat divisions is accomplished either as soon as the boats are loaded at gangways or upon arrival at the rendezvous areas. This method is applicable when there has been little or no combined training, when the majority of boats are to come from ships other than the one carrying the troops to be landed, or when the operation requires relatively few boats and this procedure is consequently possible without confusion. Both methods presuppose that the boat group and boat division commanders are embarked in the same transport with the troops they will land.
111. Debarkation and Approach Schedule.--The debarkation and approach schedule contains the time schedules for the debarkation of the boat group, its approach, landing, and any necessary explanatory remarks or instructions.

     1. Model schedule.--The model schedule shown below is for a boat group (No. 1) to be debarked from one vessel (XAP No. 5). If the landing group for which the schedule is prepared is embarked on two or more vessels, the names of these vessels are entered at appropriate places in the schedule.

DEBARKATION AND APPROACH SCHEDULE

Boat Group No. 1, XAP No. 5

1. Basic information:
   Line of departure to beach, 5,000 yards; course, 097°.
   Control point C to line of departure: 7,000 yards; course, 097°.
   Rendezvous areas to control point C, 8,000 yards; course, 020°.
   H-hour, 0900; D-day, 3 June 19--.

2. Method of proceeding from rendezvous areas:
   Waves move separately as soon as formed; first wave guiding on control vessel T.

3. Latest hour to start lowering boats, 0558.

4. Debarkation schedule:

Boats	Wave No.	Principal unit	Along- side by---	Clear by---	Remarks
GANGWAY NO. 2
X-0		Bt Gp and Bn Cmdrs	0616	0168
Bt Div 1	1	1st Pl, Co A	0619	0633
Bt Div 2	1	2d Pl Co A	0634	0647	(First wave completes loading 0647.)
Bt Div 3	2	3d Pl, Co A	0648	0702
Y-15,16,17 and 18 of Bt Div 7	3	Co C	0703	0720
GANGWAY NO. 4
X-18		Asst Bt Gp Cmdr	0613	0615
X-19		Asst Bt Gp Cmdr	0616	0618
Bt Div 4	1	1st Pl, Co B	0619	0631
Bt Div 5	1	2d Pl, Co B	0632	0645
Bt Div 6	2	3d Pl, Co B	0646	0705	(Second wave completes loading 0705.)
Y-19,20, and 21 of Bt Div 7	3	Hv W Co, etc.	0706	0725	(Third wave completes loading 0725.)
GANGWAY NO. 6
Bt Div 8	3	Det Bty A	0618	0658 to 0725

5. Approach schedule:

	Hour to leave ren- dezvous	Hour to leave con- trol point	Leave line of depar- ture	Land
First wave	0702	0759	0850	0900
Second wave	0720	0809	0853	0908
Third wave	0740	0820	0855	0920

(Approach schedule to be furnished fire support group and control vessel.)

A__________ B__________,
Commanding XAP No. 5

112. Time.--It will be noted that the Navy method of indicating time is employed in this model schedule. See par. 104.) Paragraph 1 of the schedule contains basic data necessary to complete the remainder of the schedule. In this case H-hour has been definitely announced, 0900, or 9:00 AM on D-day; if H-hour is not definitely known, all times are shown in reference to H-hour, for example: H-3 hours, 2 minutes, instead of 0558 as entered in paragraph 3 of the sample schedule. All times in the sample schedule are figured from the time each wave is to land, which is shown in the last column under paragraph 5 of the schedule. Data as to the time required for loading the small boats and their speed are necessary for figuring the time when boats should be lowered; when they should report alongside designated gangways; when they clear gangways; and when they leave rendezvous areas, control points, and the line of departure. These data should be available as a result of the test mentioned in paragraph 105b.

Section VII
Execution

112. Preparation for Debarkation.--

     1. Required gangways for debarkation of personnel are placed in position by the transport crew simultaneously with the lowering of boats. Gangways consist of ships' ladders or cargo nets hung over the side of the transport. Cargo nets afford the quickest and safest means of debarking men. The nets should be sufficiently large to permit four or more men to debark abreast

and should reach from the deck to the water line (see fig. 11). The assignment of troops and corresponding boats to gangways is such as to permit simultaneous and continuous use of all available gangways in order to keep the time of debarkation to a minimum.

Figure 11.--Method of using cargo nets for debarkation of men.
2. All personnel not in boats when lowered are assigned compartments or suitable space below decks in which to assembly for debarkation. In each compartment men are segregated by boatloads and arranged in file to facilitate rapid debarkation and prompt occupation of assigned boat spaces.

Routes to gangways are prescribed. A naval officer and an Army officer are stationed at each gangway, the naval officer being responsible for loading and the Army officer for having troops and matériel ready at the gangway. Company officers remain with their troops.
3. Every possible measure is taken which will expedite the debarkation of equipment. Organization combat equipment, such as heavy weapons, company machine guns, and mortars, and signal equipment are assembled convenient to the gangways. Extra ammunition, gas defense matériel and equipment, and other supplies are placed in cargo nets or otherwise made ready for hoisting. Improvised davits and hand lines are provided for lowering equipment into the boats. Slings are adjusted on heavy equipment, motor transportation and armored vehicles are serviced, and all are made ready for hoisting. All timepieces are synchronized shortly before debarkation is to begin.

4. Detailed organization and frequent combined drills of all concerned are essential. Drills during rough weather and darkness are particularly valuable.
113. Debarkation of Personnel and Matériel.--

     1. All boats provided from a transport to carry landing troops from that transport contain their prescribed boat equipment, gas defenses matériel and equipment, boat group officers, crews, gunners, boat guns, and ammunition. Boats coming from other ships should contain designated crews, gas defense matériel and equipment, boat guns, and ammunition. As soon as the boats are lowered, boat guns are mounted and prepared for firing, and a guide or designating flag displayed when appropriate. All boats which are to form a part of the boat group formation then proceed individually from the transport to their assembly areas where they report to their boat division commander or other designated officer in the prescribed assembly area.

     2. If the assembly is to be made by boat divisions, individual boats upon reaching assembly areas assemble in the prescribed column formation of their particular boat division, and so remain until called alongside for loading. If the assembly is to be made by type, arriving boats form column in the most convenient manner and are called alongside individually

as needed. In the assembly areas, boat are conducted in convenient circles which will bring them repeatedly within hailing distance of the transport. Care is taken to keep all boats within designated assembly areas, particularly when the transport swings or otherwise changes position. Gunners are on the alert for hostile aircraft and are prepared to open fire promptly.
3. As boats come alongside from assembly areas, men and equipment are debarked with all possible speed. It is usually advisable to load first the heavier matériel and sufficient men to stow it properly in the boats; the more easily handled matériel and remaining personnel are then loaded. Equipment carried on the person is loosened before starting to debark from a transport. This enables the individual to free himself in the event of falling into the water. The rifle is slung vertically over the left shoulder with the sling passed over the bayonet handle in the pack. An alternate method is to carry the rifle slung over the shoulder with the muzzle down and the butt held in the arm pit, gun sling to the rear, and engage the gun sling under that part of the front pack suspender which hooks into the suspension D-ring of the haversack. Normal loads are retained on vehicles if possible. It may be necessary to remove the load from the vehicle in order to load the latter or to keep the boat seaworthy; if so, the vehicle and its load should go ashore in the same boat. Debarkation of artillery and tanks is outlined in chapter 9. Suitable details are left aboard ship for debarking equipment and supplies which do not accompany troops ashore.

4. When a boat is unable to report alongside on schedule, it should, if possible, be replaced immediately by a boat of the same type and speed from the boat pool. It is desirable that one or more boats from the boat pool follow each wave until it lands to rescue personnel and tow or replace boats as necessary. All boats should not be dispatched on this duty, however, until the actual debarkation of troops is assured.
114. Debarkation of Animals.--
     1. 1. The most satisfactory and rapid method of debarking animals involves the use of a sling by means of which the animals are lowered from the transport to the deck of a mine sweeper or similar vessel of shallow draft where they are tied on a picket line. The vessel approaches the beach as closely as possible, and the

animals are lowered into the water, by means of the sling, to swim ashore.

Figure 12.--Sling used for lowering animals into the water.
2. Figure 12 shows the sling in operation. The sling is made of heavy canvas, with rope sewed in around the edges and with a hardwood spreader in each side. At each end of the sling is a heavy iron ring for hooking into the cable from the winch. A breeching and a breast strap should be attached to the sling for lowering an animals from the transport

to the deck of the smaller vessel in order to prevent the animal from falling out of the sling. For lowering animals into the water the breeching and breast strap are not used and a quick-release device is provided to release the sling just before the animal is fully afloat. A suitable quick release may be provided by attaching the sling to the cable hook by means of the iron ring at one end of the sling and fastening the ring at the other end of the sling to the ring attached to the cable hook. The two rings are thus held together by a rope fastened as a full hitch, through which is thrust a hardwood pin, By means of a line attached to this wooden pin it is pulled out at the proper time, thus disconnecting the two ends of the sling and allowing the animal to drop free of the sling.
2. 1. If animals must be transported from ship to shore in small boats, such as the standard Navy 509-foot motor launch, the flying stall and dumping stall are used instead of the sling (see figs. 13 and 14). The flying stall is strongly built of wood; is about 8 feet long, 2¹/2 feet wide, and 6 feet high; and can b e knocked down very quickly. The door at each end of the stall shown in the figures is hinged. It is preferable, however, to have doors which slide into place to facilitate removal when the stalls are placed end to end. The 50-foot motor launch carries six flying stalls. The animals are loaded on the motor launch facing toward the dumping stall, a ramp being provided for leading the animals from the flying stalls to the dumping stall.

   2. The dumping stall is used to drop animals into the water from the motor launch. It consists of a platform about 8 feet long and 3 feet wide, with sides about 5 feet high. This stall extends over the water and trips downward when a catch is released. A snubbing line prevents the stall from lowering with a jerk, thus projecting the animal into the water gradually.

3. Animals can swim distances as great as 1,000 to 1,500 yards, but the distance required should be as short as possible and preferably not greater than 500 yards. To head animals toward shore promptly and avoid needless swimming, a small motor or row boat should be stationed at the point where the animals are put into the water. Some of the weaker animals may have to be assisted by means of a tow. A sufficient number of men should be available on the beach

Figure 13.--Lowering animal from transport to motor launch by means of flying stall.

Figure 14.--Disposition of flying stalls on motor launch. Note dumping stall projecting over water.

to catch the animals and assemble them at the proper place. See also FM 25-5.
115. Movement to Line of Departure.--

     1. after completing loading, boats either proceed individually to their rendezvous areas or assemble in their boat divisions just off the gangways and move in formation to the rendezvous areas. The latter method is usually preferable, particularly at night. When completely assembled in the rendezvous areas, the boat divisions are arranged in the prescribed boat group or wave formation under the command of the boat group or wave commander.

     2. The control vessel assigned to guide a boat group identifies the beach and marks the line of departure, if necessary, and then proceeds to the rendezvous areas and acts as a rendezvous guide. At the time prescribed in the debarkation and approach schedule or when directed by the control group commander, the control vessel guides the leading wave to the line of departure. All speeds are regulated by the control vessel so that boats will cross the line of departure at the prescribed time.

     3. If attacked by aircraft, boat guns and other weapons designated for antiaircraft defense open fire without orders. Riflemen fire only when directed.

     4. K Upon arrival on the line of departure the control vessel commander notifies the boats of that fact by prearranged signal, and in accordance with control group instructions, either proceeds to its firing station to assist in furnishing fire support or takes position on the line of departure as an observation station. The naval attack force commander and the fire support group commander are notified by the control vessel when the first wave crosses the line of departure and also when the boats are in the position prescribed for opening and lifting naval gunfire.

     5. On crossing the line of departure waves deploy into their prescribed landing formation.

116. Dash to Beach.--

     1. Since the landing boats may expect fire from hostile light artillery and machine guns shortly after crossing the line of departure, each wave proceeds at full speed from this line to the beach. Each boat guides on the designated guide boat of its boat division which

in turn, guides on the boat designated as wave guide. Boats preserve proper intervals in order to reduce vulnerability to hostile fire and to insure proper distribution of their own fire on the beach.
2. It is extremely difficult for boat commanders, depending solely on compasses and observation of the shore line, to approach the beach at full speed and land at the point desired. In daylight therefore the Navy may employ an airplane to guide each boat group from the line of departure to the beach; this method is particularly advantageous when landing behind a smoke screen. Flying in rear of the wave, the guide airplane by prearranged signals indicates necessary changes of direction.

3. Naval supporting vessels continue to place the maximum volume of fire on the beach until the boats approach the area where shots are falling short. The gunfire then lifts in accordance with a prearranged time schedule, verified by direct observation by control and firing vessels. Provision also should be made to have fires lift upon pyrotechnic signal fired by the commander of the leading wave (a naval officer). Supporting vessels located inshore regulate their fire by direct observation and lift it when masked by the boats or troops. Appropriate arrangements must be made whereby personnel in boats and aircraft may, in emergency, be warned by pyrotechnics or other means of the termination of supporting naval fire.

4. During daylight, boats of the leading wave commence firing when within range of the beach. The fire of boat guns is supplemented by weapons of the landing troops. Initially, this fire is more or less evenly distributed over the platoon landing front. As the boat approaches the beach, fire should be gradually concentrated on the front assigned to the troops it carries, and finally, when the boat is about to ground, fire is concentrated on the particular target designated by the commander of these troops.

5. In order to obtain the maximum surprise effect in a landing under cover of darkness, it may be desirable to withhold all supporting fires until it becomes apparent that the enemy has discovered the attempt to land. Darkness not only greatly decreases the effectiveness of supporting fire, but fire from one landing boat may endanger others. Boat divisions

landing in darkness should therefore delay deploying and opening fire until close to the beach, or until it becomes necessary to return the hostile fire in order to land.
117. Landing.--

     1. The brief period embracing the debarkation and deployment of the assaulting troops on the beach is one of the most critical in the entire operation, and must be characterized by the utmost speed and dash. At the instant that each boat of the leading wave is beached, the Army commander in the boat should give the signal to debark. Upon this signal, the assaulting troops, aided by all practicable fire from boat guns, spring out of the boat and deploy. Each rifleman in an assault unit about to debark from the port (left) side, should carry his rifle above his head in his left hand. He should place his right hand and right foot on the gunwale and spring well clear of the boat, landing feet first facing the beach. Similarly, riflemen debarking from the starboard (right) side carry the rifle in the right hand and use the left hand and foot on the gunwale.

     2. Boat guns which can be used effectively while troops are debarking from the boats and advancing inland should be employed to maintain a heavy volume of fire on a single target until such fire is masked by attacking troops. Targets selected by the Army commander in the boat may consist of a known enemy activity or position, a likely enemy position, or a selected terrain objective for the landing troops.

     3. Units in the second and succeeding waves may proceed from the line of departure in open or closed V formations or in line, as required by the existing conditions. Such units land behind assault units which have succeeded in landing. Information of successful landings may be obtained from the visual signals explained above, or by direct observation. The second and succeeding waves should make such adjustment in speed as becomes necessary in order to gain the prescribed distances between waves at the time of landing.

5. Equipment taken ashore by units in the leading combat team should, as far as practicable, be limited to that which can be unloaded at the beach by hand; this is especially applicable to units in the early waves. Such equipment must be unloaded with the greatest possible speed. Personnel of beach and shore parties may be allotted to boats for the purpose of assisting in unloading equipment.
118. Subsequent Boat Movements.--

     1. After landing their troops, such boats as have been designated as ambulance, messenger, or patrol boats proceed on their assigned duties as directed by the beachmaster. In order to save time and prevent congestion near the beach, boats of the leading boat groups other than those mentioned above return individually to the transports or other designated vessels as soon as cleared. If necessary to land other units in formation in the second trip of the boats, assembly and reorganization of the boats may be accomplished at the transports. Otherwise, boats operate independently on the second and succeeding trips.

     2. Boat landing regimental or brigade reserves in the first trip rendezvous at a designated control vessel at or near the line of departure until ordered to land.

     3. When transports, after debarking troops, are forced to put to sea or otherwise change position, boats may be directed to rendezvous on a control vessel until their further disposition is decided.

119. Reconnaissance; Air and Naval Gunfire Support.--A brief discussion of the reconnaissance during the landing is contained in section II, chapter 5 Air support during the ship-to-shore movement is outlined in section IV, chapter 7, and naval gunfire support is covered in chapter 6.

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