text: Chapter 2
  Movement and Forms of Maneuver
  This chapter discusses movement formations, movement techniques, and the five
  forms of maneuver.
  MOVEMENT FORMATIONS
  2-1. A movement formation is an ordered arrangement of forces for a specific purpose and describes the
  general configuration of a unit on the ground (ADP 3-90). Movement formations allow a unit to move on the
  battlefield based on the terrain and enemy threat. Terrain characteristics and visibility determine the actual
  arrangement and location of the unit’s personnel and vehicles within a given formation. There are seven
  different movement formations:
  * Column.
  * Line.
  * Wedge.
  * Echelon (left or right).
  * Vee.
  * Diamond.
  * Box.
  2-2. Each movement formation has its advantages and disadvantages. A unit may employ a series of
  movement formations during a movement or maneuver based on changing terrain or threat. Commanders
  consider the advantages and disadvantages that each formation has in the areas of command and control,
  firepower orientation, ability to mass fires, and flexibility. The use of standard formations allows units to
  transition from one formation to another, giving additional flexibility when adjusting to changes in the
  mission variables. Movement formations describe how combat or security elements maneuver in relation to
  each other and the main body. By designating the movement formation planned for use, units—
  * Establish the geographic relationship between units.
  * Indicate probable reactions once an enemy force makes contact with the formation.
  * Indicate the level of security desired.
  * Establish the preponderant orientation of subordinate weapon systems.
  * Posture friendly forces for the attack.
  COLUMN FORMATION
  2-3. The column formation is a movement formation with elements arranged one behind another. A
  unit moves in column formation when the unit does not anticipate early contact, the objective is distant, and
  speed and control are critical. Figure 2-1 on page 2-2 depicts a column formation. The location of direct fire
  systems within the column reflects the column’s length and the range fans of those systems. Normally, the
  lead element uses a traveling overwatch technique while the following units are in traveling formation. A
  column formation—
  * Provides the best formation to move large forces quickly, especially with limited routes and
  limited visibility.
  * Makes enemy contact with a small part of the total force while facilitating control and allowing
  the unit to quickly mass forces.
  * Provides a base for easy transition to other formations.
  * Works in restricted terrain.