3. Pillboxes are covered structures which normally house machine-guns but
may contain antitank weapons, automatic rifles, or riflemen.
Usually
permanent in nature, they can be distinguished from bunkers by their
concrete and/or steel construction.
Bunkers are usually built of logs,
sandbags, earth, and so on. However, concrete pillboxes can be covered with
earth and vegetation and take on the appearance of bunkers. Pillboxes are
sited to cover defense lines, roads, bridges, obstacles, and material on
these structures will hinder the IA engaged in their identification (Figure
2-2).
Figure 2-2.
Pillbox.
4. Casemates are similar to pillboxes, except they normally house artillery
and are therefore larger in size.
These are usually self-contained units
providing quarters for the gun crew and storage facilities for ammunition
and supplies. Because of their tremendous size, they can be identified even
though camouflaged.
Comparative cover taken during construction is
extremely helpful in determining the size of weapons; otherwise, size of
weapons in individual casemates are difficult to determine (Figure 2-3).
Figure 2-3.
Casemate.
IT 0649
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