RECONNAISSANCE (from Fr. reconnaitre, to recognize,

See also:

• LAT

Lat. recognoscere)  , a military term denoting the reconnoitring or examination of an enemy's position or movements, or of a tract of ground . Reconnaissances naturally vary indefinitely according to the purposes for which they are undertaken . A topographical reconnaissance is practically a survey of a tract of country or route, comprising both a map and a report as to its advantages and disadvantages . All reconnoitring work of this character is done by officers with small patrols, escorts or assistants . Strategical reconnaissance is performed by contact squadrons, which send forward officers and patrols to find the enemy . Tactical reconnaissance falls to the lot of troops of all arms, whether in contact with the enemy or for self-protection . A reconnaissance by a large force of all arms with the idea of provoking an enemy into showing his hand, if necessary by fighting, is called a reconnaissance in force .