Topic: AIF - Lighthorse
The Australian Light Horse,
Militia and AIF
Mounted Rifle Tactics, Part 9, Conclusion
Cape Mounted Rifleman
[Drawing from 1904 by Richard Caton Woodville, 1856 - 1927.]
The following series is from an article called Mounted Rifle Tactics written in 1914 by a former regimental commander of the Cape Mounted Riflemen, Lieutenant-Colonel J. J. Collyer. His practical experience of active service within a mounted rifles formation gives strength to the theoretical work on this subject. It was the operation of the Cape Mounted Riflemen within South Africa that formed the inspiration for the theoretical foundations of the Australian Light Horse, and was especially influential in Victoria where it formed the cornerstone of mounted doctrine.
Collyer, JJ, Mounted Rifle Tactics, Military Journal, April, 1915, pp. 265 - 305:
Mounted Rifle Tactics.
VII - Conclusion
This brings us to the close of our discussions on mounted riflemen. I have endeavoured to refrain from elaborating points from the text-books, though adhering to their teaching, and to put forward some general principles which seem to me worthy of consideration and examination if the arm -mounted riflemen-is to be used to the great effect which is undoubtedly possible. I have also tried to make use of what is a great advantage to the mounted troops of the Union, the experiences of war in South Africa in which mounted riflemen formed the bulk of the contestants some ten years ago.
I am convinced that in a calm and temperate analysis of those experiences and the acceptance of sound principles, and rejection of defects, the mounted riflemen of South Africa will find teaching which will make them the equal of any body of the arm in the world. As years go on the actors in the last war-who are now at hand to advise and teach-will pass, and it is essential that the teaching should be laid down now, that the experience may in the future prove a real support of the military forces of the Union.
Previous: Part 8, Reconnaissance
Next: The Light Horse
Further Reading:
Australian Light Horse Militia
Battles where Australians fought, 1899-1920
Citation: The Australian Light Horse, Militia and AIF, Mounted Rifle Tactics, Part 9, Conclusion
