1. An objective sometimes may be attained by maneuver alone;
ordinarily it must be gained by battle. A sound tactical
maneuver has a great influence on the successful outcome of
battle.    2. The purpose of offensive action is the destruction
of the hostile armed forces. To facilitate the accomplishment of
this purpose the commander selects a physical objective such as
a body of troops, dominating terrain, a center of lines of
communication, or other vital area in the hostile rear for his
attack. The attainment of this objective is the basis of his own
and all subordinate plans. This objective should have the
following characteristics:     1. Its capture must be possible
within the time and space limits imposed by the assigned
mission.     2. Its capture should assure the destruction of the
enemy in his position, or the threat of its capture should
compel the enemy to evacuate his position.     3. It should
produce a convergence of effort.     4. It must be easily
identified.     5. Its capture should facilit