"The objects of this instruction are (1) to train the personnel in the mechanism of the methods of fire so that, at the word of command, fire of the desired nature may be delivered with certainty and celerity, and (2) to train officers in the...
"This 1954 manual is a guide to assist commanders in developing the sections of 8 inch gun M1 and 240-mm howitzer M1 firing batteries into efficient, smooth-working teams that have a sense of discipline that will impel them to operate effectively...
This manual prescribes the duties to be performed in the service of the piece by the personnel normally assigned to one howitzer section of the firing battery.