Tactics and duties for trench fighting

by Georges Etienne Bertrand

"Tactics and Duties for Trench Fighting" by Georges Bertrand and Oscar N. Solbert is a military manual written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on the principles and methods related to trench warfare, particularly during World War I. It appears to serve as a practical guide for military personnel regarding the organization, tactics, and responsibilities within trench fighting scenarios. The opening of the text introduces the concept of trench warfare, emphasizing the necessity for specialized infantry roles due to the evolution of modern weaponry. It discusses the formation and organization of a typical infantry company, detailing the roles of key personnel and the importance of specialists, such as hand grenadiers, riflemen, and automatic rifle crews. Additionally, it outlines the various combat formations and strategies effectively utilized in both offensive and defensive situations, all aimed at maximizing efficiency and minimizing casualties in the complex realities of trench warfare.