Military Geology

1
Military Geology and the Apache Wars, South West
United States
Peter Doyle University College London doyle268_at_bt
internet.com
2
Principles of Apache warfare

• Security in movement
• Outnumber the enemy in open fights
• Fortify when static, even for short time
• Keep escape routes open
• Retreat on wide front
• In retreat, deny resources to the enemy

3
Terrain analysis and Hembrillo Basin
Vantage
Trafficability
Tracks in valley bottoms, funneling effect of
canyons
Apache height advantage
Ground engineering
Resource provision
Bedded limestone provides ample breastworking
material
Springs Apache controlled
4
Slope configuration fire pattern, Hembrillo
Victorio Ridge
W
E
Victorios Command Post
Incoming from Carrolls Ridge
Apache positions
Cross-fire covering Rock House Spring
Prominent Limestone unit
Apache Ridge
Carrolls Ridge
Apache positions
Long-range Apache sharpshooters
9th Cav. pinned down (6-7 April) - fire
ineffective
Regional dip Permian limestones mudrocks
Not to scale
Apache breastworks
5
Conclusions

• Vantage
• Apache positions on ridge lines and hill tops
  provide superior vantage
• Weapons specialists deployed in appropriate
  positions
• Trafficability
• Difficult mountain terrain famliar territory for
  Apache people over centuries
• escape routes covered and controlled
• Ground engineering
• Apache breastworks provide superb fire control
• Water supply
• Control of water supply significant issue in this
  battle