Table 2. Aiming Points
7. Select Reference Points. The selection of reference points, when used, must be made well
in advance of an enemy air strike. From your position, select an object two at a football field
distance which will be in the suspected avenue of approach of an enemy aircraft. "Eyeballing" that
path, select another object at the half football field distance. When an enemy aircraft is sighted,
you will fire at the appropriate reference mark when the aircraft is in the proper location.
Remember to do this for each suspected avenue of approach and from each position around your
perimeter.
8. Identify Firing Positions. Except for the prone position, the rifleman's basic firing
positions stay the same (Figure 28). Firing at aircraft when lying down, means the firers are lying
on their backs (supine), aiming their rifles into the air. It will not take you long to learn to fire
from some kind of cover and concealment, no matter how small. If you are in a fighting position
(foxhole), stay there and return fire from the supported standing position. If you are not in a firing
position, you should look for a tree, a large rock, or something to help support the weapon and
provide protection.
a. You can use all the basic firing positions for air defense except the prone position.
Instead, use the reverse position; lie on your back (supine) and point your weapon upward.
b. Always take cover when available. If you are in a fighting position--stay there.
Assume a supported standing position and return fire. A bipod on the M16 rifle assists you in
firing your weapon more effectively at hostile aircraft.
c. If cover and or concealment is fairly good, use the high-kneeling position. If the cover
and or concealment is less substantial, use the low-kneeling position.
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