Base of Fire

Definition

A position from which supporting forces provide covering fire for advancing troops. The anchoring force that lets everyone else move without getting shot.

Example Usage

One squad established a base of fire while the other maneuvered around the enemy.

Origin

Infantry tactics terminology, established WWII

Fun Fact

Basic infantry tactics haven't changed much since the 1940s—because they work.

Source: Infantry tactics doctrine, FM 3-21.8

Related Terms

Intermediate

Logistics Train

The succession of supply vehicles and support units moving resources from rear areas to forward combat units. The lifeline of any military force, because bullets and beans don't teleport themselves to the front lines.

🎖️ Military / Defense

Intermediate

Picket Line

An early warning perimeter of guards or sensors designed to detect approaching enemies before they reach main defensive positions. The military's doorbell system, except it rings when people you don't like show up uninvited with guns.

🎖️ Military / Defense

Advanced

Escalation of force

A graduated approach to resolving conflicts, starting with hand signals and ending with missile strikes if necessary—or as generals call it, 'escalating commitment to bad decisions.'

🎖️ Military / Defense

Advanced

yeomanry

Historically, Britain's middle-class farmer-soldiers who owned their own land and occasionally cosplayed as cavalry when the homeland needed defending. Starting in 1761, these landed gentry types formed volunteer mounted units that eventually merged into the Territorial Army. Think of them as the original weekend warriors, except with actual horses and significantly better real estate holdings.

🎖️ Military / Defense

Intermediate

asymmetric threat

An adversary employing unconventional tactics or strategies to counter a conventional military advantage. When the other side didn't get the memo about fighting fair.

🎖️ Military / Defense

Intermediate

mustang

An officer who previously served as enlisted personnel, theoretically possessing both leadership credentials and actual knowledge of how things work. Often viewed with suspicion by traditional officers and grudging respect by enlisted troops.

🎖️ Military / Defense

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