b. Territorial organization of a TO varies with the type theater, the type of forces
involved, and the nature of operations planned.
c. Warfare in an ocean area may prevent the distinct separation of combat and
CSS operations that is achieved in a continental TO. Combat service establishments
serving the ocean area may be dispersed throughout the theater.
1-4.
THE COMBAT ZONE
a. The combat zone should include sufficient maneuver area to permit
deployment of all elements of the major combat force and establishment of essential
combat service support facilities without congestion.
b. The forward limits of- the combat zone should extend to the distance
necessary for the commander to exploit fully all means under his control.
c. The depth of the combat zone depends on the forces involved, the nature of
planned operations and character of the lines of communications, the terrain, and the
enemy capabilities. Normally the combat zone is divided into corps and division areas
(figure 1-2). Each area is under the control of the commander of the organization to
which it pertains.
1-5.
THE COMMUNICATIONS ZONE
a. The COMMZ is that portion of a TO communications exclusive of the combat
zone. Activities within the COMMZ are primarily CSS, since the bulk of the combat and
CS units are employed in the combat zone.
b. Responsibility for the COMMZ is assigned to the theater army commander,
whose primary responsibility in time of war is CSS of assigned forces. Operational
control of combat and CS forces is relinquished to the theater (unified command)
commander.
1-6.
BOUNDARIES
Boundaries delineate territorial responsibility and aid coordination of CSS
operations. The President, through the Secretary of Defense, establishes the
geographic limits of a TO. The theater commander designates the rear boundary of the
combat zone, normally on the recommendation of the theater army commander. Corps
commanders designate division rear boundaries. Commanders establish rear
boundaries of subordinate commands as far forward as practicable to reduce territorial
responsibilities of the combat commands. The corps rear boundary is the forward
boundary of the COMMZ.
MD0002
1-5