Tactical Schemes

[Ken Lees]

On reading a war diary, particularly in 1917 and 1918 there are many references to units out of the line being involved in 'Tactical Schemes'.

Using the context of the diary entry these appear to be training exercises, but I would appreciate Pals' views. Was this term used to describe the tactics that evolved with the changes in offensive and defensive tactics on the Western Front during the second half of the war, or have I missed the point?

Initially I thought that these were attacks of some kind that troops in reserve were called upon to perform.

Thanks in advance,

Ken

[Guest Hussar]

Ken,

I think what your diary is referring to is the pre-assault training where they would do a 'dress rehearsal' for a forthcoming attack.

[Ken Lees]

Hussar,

That fits the context, thanks for the response.

Ken

[BMoorhouse]

'Tactical Schemes' would also cover the introduction of new fighting methods eg practising attacking trenches in conjunction with stokes mortars, or general tank/infantry co-operation or following creeping barrages.

They were not always dress rehearsals for specific actions.

Brendon.

[Ken Lees]

Thanks, Brendon.

That makes sense, too. It seems from the War Diary that a lot of emphasis was placed on this type of training as tactics developed in the post-Somme period.

Regards,

Ken