MCRP 12-10B.1, page 101

c. The infantry battalion is most effective when deployed in successive delaying actions. Forces alternately engage the enemy to the maximum extent possible without becoming decisively engaged, then move on order in successive or alternate bounds. Smoke and demolitions are used to aid disengagement and cover the movement of the withdrawing force. Security units on the flank can be employed to prevent the enemy from outflanking the delaying unit. A small reserve can be used to react to unexpected enemy action and to conduct continued attacks on the enemy’s flank. d. The engineer effort should be centralized to support the preparation of battle positions, obstacle emplacement, and clearing routes. e. The width of the infantry battalion sector depends on the nature of the buildings, obstacles along the street, and the time that the enemy must be delayed. Normally, narrow sectors supports delaying by alternate bounds while a wide sector better supports delaying by successive bounds. 3203. Defense of a Village. An infantry battalion assigned a defensive sector that includes a village may decide to incorporate the village as a strongpoint. This use is most common where the village stands astride a high-speed avenue of approach or lies between two difficult obstacles. To incorporate such an area into its defense, the infantry battalion must control the high ground on either side of the village to prevent the enemy from firing into the village. The battalion commander normally deploys one rifle company in the village to prepare a strongpoint defense while the other rifle companies are overwatching the village, blocking bypass routes, and protecting the strongpoint’s flanks. The strongpoint defense should provide a location where the enemy can be stopped and counterattacks can be launched (Figure 3-11). Figure 3-11. Defense of a Village 3 - 34 MCWP 3-35 .3 3-29