151. Withdrawal from action will often be preceded by an attack with limited objectives by the tank brigade. Screened by the more mobile infantry, motorcycle, and antitank units, first the tanks and then other parts of the division will disengage from the enemy.

If the enemy follows up rapidly with superior forces, especially tanks, the division will be screened during disengagement by tanks and antitank units, supported by artillery and engineers. Smoke can be used to assist disengagement.

Planning and timely orders are necessary to insure that troops, after the first stage of withdrawal on a broad front, are quickly and smoothly formed into march columns. Traffic control points must be established in advance.

152. The last troops to be withdrawn will normally be adequately covered by antitank units reinforced by motorized infantry or motorcyclists. Mines can be laid to assist in the final disengagement. In this case there must be close cooperation between engineers and the last troops to move. The division commander will decide how mines are to be employed.

153. In the absence of antitank units equipped with self-propelled mounts, rear protection will be provided chiefly by tank units.

154. The situation may favor the formation of task forces.