text: Chapter 2
  2-4. There are also disadvantages to using a column formation. These include—
  * Units can only immediately apply the majority of the column’s firepower on the column’s flanks.
  * The length of the column affects movement and terrain management.
  * Possibly inadvertently bypassing enemy units or positions and exposing the unit’s flanks.
  * Running head-on into an enemy deployed perpendicular to the column’s direction of movement.
  Restricted terrain may limit the ability of friendly forces to maneuver if contact is made to the front of
  the formation.
  Figure 2-1. Column formation
  LINE FORMATION
  2-5. A line formation is a movement formation in which elements move abreast of each other. A unit
  typically employs this formation when assaulting an objective because it concentrates firepower to the front
  in the direction of movement. Figure 2-2 depicts a line formation. A line formation also—
  * Facilitates speed and shock in closing with an enemy force.
  * Allows the coverage of wide frontages.
  * Facilitates the occupation of attack by fire or support by fire positions.
  2-6. There are also disadvantages of a line formation:
  * Provides less flexibility of maneuver than other formations since it does not distribute units in
  depth.
  * Linear deployment allows a unit deployed on line to bring only limited firepower to bear on either
  flank.
  * Provides limited or no reserve.
  * Limits overwatch forces.
  * Limits control of a unit using a line formation in restricted terrain or under conditions of limited
  visibility.