Cremaillère

This term was usually associated with an indented or serrated continuous line that consisted of a series of alternating branches (faces) and crochets (flanks) traced perpendicular to each other with repeating salient angles aligned along a single right line. Branches were traced on a right line about 70 yards long and joined one flank to form a 90º salient while joining the other flank to form a 90º re-entering angle. The flanks projected columns of fire parallel to the faces and crossed their fire with that of the faces. This type of line was most appropriate for level or commanding ground and could be adapted to establish a well flanked line on hills where the slope ran parallel to the general direction of the salient base line. Since the flanks were traced with the line of their parapet nearly perpendicular to ground an enemy would occupy they were vulnerable to enfilading fire.

January, 2003