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Glossary - H
Hat - A hat is a form of
headcovering with a full brim (as distinct from a "cap" which is
distinguished by a partial brim ).
Hill refers to a terrain feature
higher than surrounding terrain. In military terminology, hills have
often been referred to also as "high ground" or "high features". They
have been important tactically throughout the 20th Century because they
offer a military force an enhanced view of surrounding terrain as well
as the ability to employ direct fire weapons with a greater field of
fire.
Hills, like many terrain
features, were often given names, particularly in Operations Orders in
order to prevent confusion. On topographic maps, hills are often named
for their elevation (in metres), calculated by measuring the highest
point on the hill and giving its elevation above sea level. Hill 70 is
an example of a notable battle fought over a hill. Sometimes hills
receive more distinctive names; the most famous example would be Vimy
Ridge.
Topography
The term
military crest refers to the
shoulder of a hill or ridge rather than its topographic or actual crest
(highest point). It refers to the highest contour of elevation from
which the base of its slope can be seen without defilade (being hidden
from both view and direct fire). Defensive forces usually located
themselves on the military crest, giving them the ability to see
approaching attacking forces while still allowing for a withdrawal
uphill under pressure if necessary.
The
reverse slope is the side of a hill, ridge, or mountain
that descends away from the enemy. A reverse
slope defence is a positioning technique taking advantage of
the concealment afforded by such an obstacle, preventing observation and
direct fire. Such a defence also shortens engagement ranges by direct
fire weapons used in an assault on such a position.
Hull Down:
In armoured warfare, the
term hull-down refers to a position taken up by an armoured
fighting vehicle such that its hull is behind a crest, raised ground or
some other obstacle, but its turret or roof-mounted weapon remains
exposed, allowing it to observe and fire to its front while protecting
the body of the vehicle from enemy observation and fire. A hull-down AFV
is also referred to as being in defilade. Turret-down
refers to a position in which the vehicle's crew can observe to their
front from roof hatches, but the vehicle remains completely hidden to
view from the front.
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