Machine Guns
Categories:
OFFICERS' RESERVE CORPS
Military Handbooks:
The Plattsburg Manual
Before the present European War, machine guns were classified as
emergency weapons. It was not believed that they could remain long in
action, because they would soon be silenced by hostile fire (artillery
and infantry). It was recommended, therefore, that a favorable
opportunity be awaited before opening fire which was to be delivered
with their utmost effectiveness. They were believed to possess very
limited possibil
ties in an attacking line, hut as being most valuable
in defensive works where protection and concealment could be found.
During this war they have lost, as a defensive weapon, no prestige. They
have also proved of great value to the attacking side. They are being
made light and portable to accompany the firing line in an attack. The
supply of ammunition alone limits the number that can be used.
Each side in the present war has used them by the thousands with
effectiveness. Machine guns are more worthy of consideration to-day than
heretofore.