Rearguard

Rearguard (up to about 1880 French rear-guard ) is the name for an independent military formation of the march securing the retreat of troops body, which generally consists of a reinforced battalion, and marched at the end of the majority or of the main forces or remains.

Order

On the march up the rear is formed as mostly moving troops with strong firepower. The rear guard covers, secures or protects the organized retreat of the main forces against unexpected attacks. The rear guard marching in a reasonable distance behind the main forces that is necessary for the successful accomplishment of its mission. The commander of the rear guard can command and send back and side coverage depending on the enemy's camp.

For withdrawals or withdrawal remains a rearguard in the positions to allow an orderly retreat of the main forces.

Special

Use and position -related and dependent on the probable actions of the opponent can be dispensed with a rearguard. In this case, only back backups are sent by the commander on the individual cruise lines to ensure the marching troops body.

Troops marching at the head of the column are referred to as vanguard. Troops securing the flanks are referred to as coverage.