Darkness concealed movement without moving the trench or the routes leading to it. Artillery could fire at positions registered in daylight when noise indicated activity at night. The immediate purpose could be to suppress movement rather than to kill particular soldiers. Delaying the next day's food reduced morale and fighting efficiency, especially before an assault. Attrition therefore operated through the resources reaching a unit as well as through its casualties.
Notable Point · 55:15-56:20
Night shelling could weaken a trench without hitting its defenders
Registered targets and audible movement allowed shellfire to disrupt food and supply even in darkness.