Which of the following is NOT one of the five major terrain features?

The correct answer is that a forest is not considered one of the five major terrain features. The five major terrain features typically identified in military mapping and fieldcraft are hill, valley, ridge, depression, and saddle. These features are fundamental for understanding the landscape and making tactical decisions during operations.

A hill is an elevated landform that rises prominently above its surroundings. A valley is a low area between hills or mountains, often with a river or stream flowing through it. A ridge is a long, narrow elevation of land where it rises sharply. While forests are significant in terms of cover and concealment on the battlefield, they are classified as vegetation types rather than major terrain features. Understanding the five major terrain features is crucial for navigation and strategy in infantry operations, as these features affect visibility, movement, and engagement in combat.