flying column

American  

noun

Military.

1. (formerly) a force of troops equipped and organized to move swiftly and independently of a principal unit to which it is attached.

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Etymology

Origin of flying column

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

When Gen. MacArthur heard of the Japanese military’s plan to kill the prisoners, he organized a flying column to liberate the people.

From Washington Times

A flying column is a military term defined as “a small, independent, military land unit capable of rapid mobility and usually composed of all arms. It is often an ad hoc unit, formed during the course of operations.”

From Washington Times

Bob’s group was a part of this flying column and traveled 100 miles in three days to liberate the prisoners.

From Washington Times

I fought with a Flying Column during the Troubles and I’m hoping you can help me now in the time of need.

From Literature

The western border will probably be held from Kimberley to Fort Tuli by the forces composing the western column, while a flying column is to be in readiness lest a wider area be given to the theatre of war, and it become necessary to cross the Limpopo River.

From Project Gutenberg