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And on this day in 1855 near Sevastopol in the Crimean War, the phrase "Synchronize watches" was used in preparation for the first attack coordinated by timepieces.
Note that this allowed for precise coordination of elements out of contact without visual or audiable signals, and by World War I and the advent of wristwatches a sargeant could afford, was a critical enabler for a revolution in infantry tactics.
In a planned confrontation with the Persians, Alexander needed a way to synchronize his forces as they converged from different directions. His Science and Technology advisor advised Alexander that they had discovered a dye that would change color after some hours exposure to sunlight. This color change could be used to tell the wing commanders when to attack. Alexander, therefore, placed his forces during the night and had each leader of his split forces tie a strip of cloth soaked with the chemical to their arm, to be uncovered at dawn of the next day. When the color change occurred, the otherwise out of touch forces would execute their missions.
Later in the day, the Persian commander was completely surprised as the Macedonians converged upon him from multiple directions. When he asked his staff how Alexander could coordinate such an attack, the response was "Alexander's Rag Time Band." :D
Fascinating stuff Van! The impact of Watches, Maps, and small compasses are much undervalued and underrated.Quote:
Originally Posted by Van
Today the most unreported tactical enabler is the MIL-STD 1913 rail. It's changed the infantry forever!!