The forward Iraqi divisions, some 12 miles north of Kuwait, could reach the demilitarized zone between the two countries in about an hour, the officials said.

The forward divisions were ordered to dig in and hold their positions rather than retreat, while the reserve divisions advanced to their relief.

Scoones gave his forward divisions orders to withdraw to Imphal only on 13 March.

By late evening of the 17th, rumors that the enemy was killing prisoners had reached the forward American divisions.

Washington's forward divisions, including that of Lord Stirling, shadowed this British movement, and Washington moved his main army out of the hills.

The Japanese tactic was to infiltrate to cut off the forward divisions' line of supply and so force their capitulation.

Army commander Slim had anticipated this and ordered that the forward divisions should fight where they stood and be supplied by air.

While the General takes charge at the command post, you and I will tour the forward divisions to ascertain the situation at the front.

Slim and Scoones had given their forward divisions orders to withdraw too late.

He in turn consulted the commanders of his forward divisions, who felt that the terrain was too difficult and the logistical problems could not be overcome.