3-1. Characteristics of Operations in Cold Weather
Unlimited space and a sparse, widely scattered population are dominant features of most of the colder regions of the world. Such conditions permit unrestricted maneuver for troops properly trained and equipped for cold weather operations. Warfare under such circumstances is characterized by, widely dispersed forces operating at great distances from other units or their parent organization. Units must be highly mobile and have the ability to sustain themselves while carrying out independent operations over extended periods of time.
3-2. Composition of Units
a. Small units (squad, gun crew, tank crew, wire team, etc.) form the basic working group for cold weather operations. Under normal operating conditions they will work together, cook and eat together, and share the same tent or other shelter. These small units should be formed at the beginning of training and, if possible, kept intact. The standard to be achieved is a unit which can make or break camp quickly, efficiently, and silently under all conditions; one in which each man knows the tasks to be completed and does them without having to be told.
b. Small units operating in cold weather must be thoroughly familiar with the special equipment required and the techniques involved in living away from their parent organization for extended periods of time. Equipment, and the techniques of using it, are discussed in this chapter.
