Terrain Exercises

A concise manual that bridges the gap between classroom theory and real‑world field drills, this work shows how imagined troop movements across actual terrain can sharpen an officer’s or non‑commissioned officer’s tactical sense. By walking readers through the planning, execution, and debriefing of a series of “terrain exercises,” it illustrates the essential steps of setting a problem, selecting a suitable landscape, and guiding a class through realistic combat scenarios such as attacks, defenses, and patrols.

The text emphasizes the pivotal role of the Director, offering practical advice on preparing clear, logical problems, distributing concise situation cards, and fostering constructive discussion without harsh criticism. It also outlines how to tailor each exercise to the specific abilities of the participants, ensuring that every step— from the initial briefing to the final analysis—reinforces key tactical concepts.

Designed for both infantry and other service branches, the guide remains a timeless resource for anyone seeking to understand the fundamentals of tactical training, making the abstract principles of war come alive on the very ground where they would be applied.