diff --git a/plugins/fastdwarf.cpp b/plugins/fastdwarf.cpp
index b03fda561..0bd9d9698 100644
--- a/plugins/fastdwarf.cpp
+++ b/plugins/fastdwarf.cpp
@@ -113,8 +113,15 @@ DFhackCExport command_result plugin_onupdate ( color_ostream &out )
                     action->data.move.timer = 1;
                     break;
                 case unit_action_type::Attack:
+                    // Attacks are executed when timer1 reaches zero, which will be
+                    // on the following tick.
                     action->data.attack.timer1 = 1;
-                    action->data.attack.timer2 = 1;
+                    // Attack actions are completed, and new ones generated, when
+                    // timer2 reaches zero.  If set to 1 this never seems to occur.
+                    // Setting to zero makes next tick generate a new attack action
+                    // every time, thereby allowing target enemy/body part re-selection
+                    // take place.
+                    action->data.attack.timer2 = 0;
                     break;
                 case unit_action_type::Hold:
                     action->data.hold.timer = 1;