What is the first principle of machine gun employment represented by the acronym PICMDEEP?

The first principle of machine gun employment represented by the acronym PICMDEEP is "Protection." This principle emphasizes the need to provide cover and safety for your forces while utilizing the machine gun effectively. When machine guns are deployed, they serve not only to deliver effective fire against the enemy but also to protect friendly troops maneuvering in the battlefield.

The "Protection" principle is crucial as it guides tactical decisions about positioning and utilizing the machine gun in a way that maximizes the safety of friendly forces. This principle involves understanding how to align firepower to cover gaps in defense and support maneuvers while minimizing exposure to enemy fire.

It’s essential to grasp this principle as it lays the foundation for making informed choices in machine gun deployment that prioritize the safety and effectiveness of the unit as a whole.