TM-9-2350-311-10 M109 Operator's Manual for M109A2, M109A3, M109A4 and M109A5 Download
Page 250 of 775
TM 9-2350-311-10 2–12 *PREPARATION FOR FIRING 2-12.1 Pre-Firing Emplacement a. Emplacing Howitzer 1 Chief of section commands “PREPARE FOR ACTION” and supervises work of all crew members during emplacement. NOTE · Spades must be used when firing off of loose, sandy, or muddy soils. Spades need not be used when firing off of hard surfaces. Battery commander or platoon leader must decide if spades are to be deployed. · Once emplaced, howitzer can be fired in any direction. However, it is recommended that vehicle be moved off spades before firing to left or right side of vehicle. 2 Assistant gunner depresses right spade pedal (1), locks it with the latch (2), and opens right cab side door (3). Gunner depresses left spade pedal, locks it with the latch, and opens left cab side door. 3 Cannoneer no. 1 opens hull rear door (4), dismounts, and holds hull rear door open. Chief of section and cannoneer no. 2 dismount. Cannoneer no. 1 closes hull rear door. * Standardized procedures for preparation for firing are identified with an asterisk (*) preceding the title. 2-152