Infantry survivability - at the crossroads?

[Rifleman]

Exactly, Wilf. USMC infantry units are light formations; our armored vehicles are kept in an entirely separate battalion and attached to infantry units as needed. There are advantages and disadvantages to this, but it apparently didn't hinder 1st Marine Division during the march up to Baghdad. They were able to operate at a "mechanized" tempo, but the infantry units retained their light infantry flavor for when it was needed (i.e. Phase IV). Not to say it's a perfect system, but it's worked well for us so far.

I've often wondered if something similar might be appropriate for Army light infantry units. Perhaps A, B, and C Companies foot mobile and D Company with vehicles, mounted weapons, and crews but no dismounts.

As you said, there would be advantages and disadvantages.