Which position must the rifleman support during combat?

The correct choice is that the rifleman must support the automatic rifleman during combat. The role of the automatic rifleman is crucial on the battlefield, as they provide sustained fire to suppress enemy positions and protect the fire team’s movements. The rifleman’s responsibilities include covering the automatic rifleman while they engage targets and ensuring that they can operate effectively.

This support can take several forms, including providing security, engaging enemies that might threaten the automatic rifleman, and ensuring that they have the necessary ammunition and assistance when needed. By focusing on the automatic rifleman, the rifleman contributes to the overall effectiveness of the fire team, enabling them to maintain the momentum during combat operations.

The fire team is a cohesive unit, but the dynamic is such that specific roles must be prioritized depending on the tactical situation. Supporting the automatic rifleman is essential because they serve as the primary source of firepower. While it is important for all team members to work together, the direct support to the automatic rifleman is what enhances the team's firepower and operational capability in combat scenarios.