Yet with his two forward platoons still separated and unable to support each other , D Company was badly positioned for a defensive battle .
By 16 : 50 , it was apparent to Smith that he was facing a force of at least battalion - strength .
Yet with Smith 's two forward platoons still separated and unable to support each other , D Company was badly positioned for a defensive battle .
By 16 : 50 , it was apparent to Smith that he was facing a force of at least battalion - strength .