Of the Continental Line
Light Infantry
After 1778, each Continental army regiment was required to maintain a light infantry company. Light infantry served in the van of the army in an advance. Likewise, it was positioned in an exposed position between the armies to watch the enemy and provide early warning. In battle, the light infantry often acted as skirmishers, sometimes making initial contact with the enemy, and then drifting to the flanks. Light infantry tactics emphasized mobility and fighting in extended order.
Light infantrymen were capable of fighting in extended order. Note the men are not in the tight formation of the regular battle line and
that they fight paired with another soldier.
Light infantry service often required quick movement by files rather than the slower maneuvers of the line.
Refer to your Soldier's Manual for uniform and Accoutrement requirements for service in the Light Infantry Company.
Light infantrymen were capable of fighting in extended order. Note the men are not in the tight formation of the regular battle line and
that they fight paired with another soldier.
Light infantry service often required quick movement by files rather than the slower maneuvers of the line.
Refer to your Soldier's Manual for uniform and Accoutrement requirements for service in the Light Infantry Company.
