Before we dive into the steps of Squad Ambush, let's go over the “20 Board” above. On the left side of the board are the steps for a squad ambush. At the top right hand corner of the board there is a north-seeking arrow, which orients us to the ground. At the bottom right hand portion of the board there is a Squad that recently stopped and is currently in a Security Halt (SH). If you are unfamiliar with the Security Halt or the Formations and Order of Movement (FOOM) it is covered here in great detail. Above the SH there is an Objective Rally Point (ORP). Above the ORP there is the Release Point (RP) where you will conduct what’s known as the “rucksack plan” (more on this later). Notice the “kill zone” in the center of the board, where the squad will engage the enemy. Also, notice the direction of travel of the depicted enemy team (the red diamond) in relation to the Support By Fire or SBF (depicted by three yellow arrows near the center of the board). Additionally, the Limit of Advance (LOA) has been depicted.
Notice that the board is color-coded but not personalized. Color coded refers to the board displaying the lead team in BLUE, the HQ element in YELLOW, and the trail team in GREEN. While at Ranger School and Sapper Leader Course, you will color-code and personalize all of your boards. For example, if I were the Squad Leader (SL), there would be a line next to the SL circle with my name on it.
Now let’s go over an Ambush at the platoon and squad level. An ambush is a surprise attack from a covered and concealed position on a moving or temporarily halted target.
An ambush has four tasks which are to; disrupt/destroy, collect information/intelligence, block/deny access, and canalize.
An ambush always falls into one of two categories, hasty or deliberate. A hasty ambush is conducted when a unit makes visual contact with an enemy force and has time to establish an ambush without being detected. The conduct of the hasty ambush should represent the execution of disciplined initiative within the parameters of the commander’s intent. The actions for a hasty ambush should be established in a unit SOP and rehearsed so Soldiers know what to do on the leader’s signal. A deliberate ambush is conducted against a specific target at a predetermined location and time.
There are two types of ambushes, point and area. Point ambushes are set at the most ideal location to inflict damage on the enemy. Such ambushes must be able to handle being hit by the enemy force from more than one direction. The ambush site should enable the unit to execute an ambush in two or three main directions. The other directions must be covered by security that gives early warning of enemy attack. An area ambush (more than one point ambush) is not conducted by a unit smaller than a platoon. This ambush works best where enemy movement is restricted.
There are three characteristics every good ambush at Ranger or Sapper School has in common. There are surprise, coordinated fires, and violence of action. You gain surprise by moving into our positions undetected by enemy personnel until the ambush is initiated. A good rule of thumb is, if I can see the enemy, they can see me. When you obtain the element of surprise you have gained the initiative. To have coordinated fires, you must carefully plan each individual sector of fire, using direct fire weapons to their maximum potential (you don’t always have to be right up on the road), and ensuring you have interlocking fields of fire covering the entire kill zone, to include indirect fires to properly canalize and seal off the objective. When you coordinate fires you achieve fire superiority and maintain the initiative. Violence of action is obtained by massing fires; this causes an instantaneous neutralization of everyone and everything on the objective. When you achieve violence of action you can retain the initiative and instill an overwhelming sense of fear in the enemy crushing their will to fight.
There are two formations that you should use at Ranger or Sapper School, linear ambush and L-shaped ambush. A linear ambush is an ambush using a linear formation, the assault and support elements deploy parallel to the enemy’s route. This position forces the enemy on the long axis of the kill zone, and subjects the enemy to flanking fire. The linear formation can be used in close terrain that restricts the enemy’s ability to maneuver against the squad, or in open terrain. In an L-shaped ambush the assault element forms the long leg parallel to the enemy’s direction of movement along the kill zone. The support element forms the short leg at one end of and at a right angle to the assault element. This provides both flanking (long leg) and enfilading (short leg) fires against the enemy. The L-shaped ambush can be used at a sharp bend in a road, trail, or stream. It should not be used where the short leg would have to cross a straight road or trail. The squad leader must consider the other factors of METT-TC (More on METT-TC here) before opting for the L-shaped formation. Special attention must be placed on sectors of fire and sectors of fires for the weapons because of the risk of fratricide when conducting an L-shaped ambush. Generally a L-shaped ambush is conducted with a platoon size element or larger.
Basic Task Organization of a Squad Ambush:
The “Actions on the OBJ” for an ambush begins once the Security Halt (SH) has been initiated prior to the ORP and ends with the dissemination of information and calling in the Operational Schedule (OPSKED) to higher for mission complete.
Once the squad is in the security halt, set up in a long halt posture (LHP) according to the SL’s T, C and S, the SL will tell the BTL to move around the perimeter to ensure that security is maintained throughout the perimeter, and tell the ATL to gather prep the men going on the leader's recon of the tentative ORP. At this point it is imperative that the BTL and ATL work together to adjust the parameter as the ATL collects the personnel going on the recon. The element for the ORP recon will consist of ATM R, ATM AR, ATL, and the SL. Their rucksacks will be going with them on the recon. Once prepped, bring them to the SL’s so that he can spot check. This will be a hasty prep where he will check to ensure that they are re-camouflaged if necessary, have weapons are locked and loaded with a full magazine, commo is checked and NVGs are operational.
SL will issue two, 5-point contingency plans: One to the BTL to cover the SL’s absence during the leader's recon of the ORP. The other is the ATL and ATM AR for when the SL leaves them at the 6 o’clock of the tentative ORP to cover his movement back to the security halt to pick up the remainder of the squad and movement to the tentative ORP to occupy it. These 5 points will be issued using the acronym GOTWA.
Going (where I am going), Others (others I am taking with me), Time (time I will be gone), What (what to do if I don’t return), Action (actions to be taken upon enemy contact both you and me).
The GOTWA given to the BTL will sound something like this:
The SL will also issue additional/special instructions to the BTL. To disseminate the 5-point contingency plan, readjust the perimeter as necessary, ensure Ranger/Sapper (RTO) monitors the radio, and ensure security is being maintained at all times. The BTL will back brief the SL, to ensure the BTL has a complete understanding of the 5-point. The 5-point begins once the SL leaves the security halt.
The SL will also issue a 5-point contingency plan to the ATL and ATM AR, for when he leaves them at the 6 o’clock of the tentative ORP. He will also issue any additional/special instructions to the ATL.
After the 5-points and special instructions have been issued, the recon element will move to the 12 o'clock to be counted out and the BTL will count each individual of the recon team out of the perimeter. During hours of GV, the squad will move in a diamond formation, with approximately 10 meters between personnel. At the apex of the diamond formation will be the ATL, to his right at a 45- degree angle for 10 meters is the ATM R, to the ATL’s left at a 45-degree angle for 10 meters is the ATM AR, the SL will be in the rear of the formation right at a 45-degree angle for 10 meters behind the others. For hours of LV, the modified wedge. (More on FOOM here) Halfway (100 meters during LV and 200 meters during GV) to the ORP, the SL will begin looking for a location that has some or all of the characteristics of a good ORP.
There are the five characteristics of a good ORP:
Just remember, “Easily, Away, Away, Provides, Provides.”
Once the SL finds an area that meets all or most of these characteristics, he will signal the ATL to halt the patrol with the same hand and arm signal.
Once the ATL receives the SL’s signal to halt, he will assume a short halt posture (SHP) at the next available cover and concealed position as will the rest of the recon element. During hours of GV they will remain dispersed. During hours of LV, you will be "back to back", rucksack to rucksack. At this time you will conduct SLLS. During hours of GV as previously described. During hours of LV we will utilize the "Squeeze" technique. The squeeze technique will be initiated in a counter-clockwise manner. The SL will squeeze the ATM R on the shoulder/arm; this will be passed man to man, until it returns back to the SL. When SLLS is complete, the SL will again utilize the "Squeeze" technique. However, this time it is the signal to terminate SLLS. SLLS will last for 3-5 minutes or for as long as he deems necessary.
The ATL and ATM R will clear the tentative ORP using the zigzag method. The SL and the ATL will identify the 3, 6, 9 and 12 o'clock positions. Then the ATL and ATM R will clear from the 6 o’clock position to the 3 to the 9 to the 12 then back to the 6 o'clock. While clearing the tentative ORP they are looking for signs of enemy presence or use such as fresh tire tracks, trash, foxholes, expended ammunition or anything uncommon to the surrounding area. If so, return to the SL immediately. When you have completed the recon, the SL will spot check the area to make sure it is a suitable site for an ORP. If the tentative ORP is not suitable the SL will make the decision to move to a new location.
When the SL is satisfied, he will place the ATM AR facing towards the 12 o'clock position, the ATL will remain at the 6 o’clock position facing towards the direction of the security halt. Then the SL tells the ATL that his 5-point is in effect. Additionally, he will ensure that both Rangers/Sappers (ATL and ATM AR) have their feet interlocked, to utilize the tap code with their feet from one soldier to another.
The tap code is nothing more than one tap from one soldier to another means that everything is okay, if everything is okay with the other soldier, he will respond with one tap. Two taps means that I see or hear something. Three taps means that we need to move NOW. When you are placed in a security position, you will utilize this tap code as a non-verbal means of communication.
Before the SL leaves the ORP location, he must call the BTL and let him know that he is moving back to the security halt, and to get the rest of the squad in the SH posture and ready to move, also to keep a look out for them (SL and ATM R) as they move back to the SH.
When the SL gets within close proximity of the security halt we will stop short and exchange the near recognition signal. Once identified, the BTL will then count the SL and ATM R back into the perimeter. When movement has ceased, the SL will have the squad conduct SLLS, as previously described.
After completion of SLLS, the SL will disseminate any changes to the plan, and the route to the tentative ORP to the ATM R, who will be in charge of the remainder of ATM at this time and the BTL, and allow them time to disseminate that information to their men. Once dissemination is complete the squad will then assume the OOM to the tentative ORP, which will be the remainder of ATM, followed by HQs, and then by BTM.
The ATM R will lead the squad out, because he knows the route back to the ORP. As the squad gets ready to depart the security halt, the SL must call the ATL to let him know the rest of the squad is coming to his location; this is the far recognition signal, at which time the ATL and ATM AR will get into the SHP.
Once the ATM R sees the ATL, he will halt the patrol, and exchange the near recognition signal. The SL will then move to the front of the formation, and get face to face with the ATL and tell him to take his team and strongpoint the 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock positions in the SHP. The SL will remain at the 6 o’clock position as a control measure for the occupation of the ORP. After the ATM passes through the 6 o’clock, the next personnel moving into the ORP will be the RTO and the M240B gun team. He will tell them where to move to inside the center of the perimeter, there they will halt, and assume the SHP. Next, the SL must orient BTL to the tentative ORP by telling him that this is the 6 o’clock and pointing out the 12 o’clock, additionally he will also point out the 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock positions that the ATM is Strong-pointing at, and where to place his personnel in the 4 and 8 o’clock positions. During periods of LV he will have to assist the BTL in physically emplacing his team.
Once the entire squad has moved into the ORP and halted the SL will then spot-check the perimeter to ensure that there is 360 degree security established and that all personnel are in the SHP.
They will then conduct SLLS and pinpoint their location as previously described for periods of GV and LV. If the SL is not satisfied, he can then move the ORP to either left, right or perhaps closer to the OBJ to find a more suitable location.
At this time the SL will then issue T, C and S to his Team Leaders for not only placing their men in the LHP but also strong pointing them at the 10-2-4 and 8 o'clock positions. This is an example of how it should sound. “Ranger/Sapper (ATL) __________, you will have the 10 and 2 o’clock positions and Ranger/Sapper (BTL)__________, you will have the 4 and 8 o’clock positions. You will strong point your men, issue them sectors of fire, and disseminate information just like we did for the security halt. I will emplace the M240 gun team at the 12 o’clock or the most likely avenue of approach.”
Once both Team Leaders have placed their men in the LHP and returned to the SL’s location, he will then spot check the perimeter to ensure that his standards have been met. Once satisfied, the SL will have the RTO call in the OPSKED to Higher that the ORP has been occupied.
At this point the squad will begin to prepare men, weapons, and equipment for the Objective. Understand that no one will leave the ORP and move up to the OBJ until they are fully prepared to conduct actions on the Objective.
Priority for preparation goes to the leader’s recon element which will consist of the SL, the ATL, the Bravo Team Automatic Rifleman and the Bravo Team Rifleman. The ATL will prepare the Bravo Team Automatic Rifleman and Bravo Team Rifleman. If time is not a factor and the SL has plenty of time to prepare all the men in the squad before conducting the recon, then that is what he will do. However, if the SL wants to maximize the time he has to conduct a thorough recon of the OBJ he will have the Bravo Team Leader continuing to prepare men, weapons, and equipment in the ORP while the LDRS recon of the OBJ is being conducted. Once the ATL has finished preparing his men he will then move back to the SLs location and they will prepare and inspect each other. When the men are preparing themselves or being inspected, they will be pulled 3-5 meters off the line while maintaining noise and light discipline. Once the men are ready to be inspected the ATL will bring them to the SL to be spot checked.
While the LDRS recon element is preparing the BTL will move around the perimeter to ensure security is being maintained and assist in cross-loading equipment as needed. It is imperative that while the squad is preparing M,W,E that both Team Leaders are ensuring that noise and light discipline are maintained to avoid detection by the enemy.
The standards for preparing men, weapons, and equipment can be found here.
While the squad is prepping men, weapons, and equipment, the SL will confirm the route to the OBJ with the ATL.
As the Team Leaders finish preparing their men they will bring them to the SL so he can inspect them. Once the SL has inspected them and they have met his standards, he will then place them in the FOOM to the OBJ. The ATL will then spot check the SL.
Prior to departing on my leader’s recon the SL will issue a 5-point contingency plan (GOTWA) to the BTL and include additional instructions such as; continue to prep men, weapons and equipment, while maintaining 50% security. Disseminate the 5-point; readjust the perimeter as necessary; ensure the RTO monitors the radio; ensure security is being maintained and have everyone in the proper FOOM (security, support, and assault) for occupation of the ambush site upon my return. I will then have you back-brief me.
The SL will then issue two, 5-points to the Surveillance and Observation (S/O). The 1st 5-point GOTWA will cover the period while the ATL and SL conduct the LDRS recon around the OBJ area. The second 5-point will cover the SL and ATL’s movement to the ORP to pick up the rest of the element and issue additional instructions for each GOTWA.
The SL will receive a back brief from the S/O and BTL to ensure that they understand the 5-point. The BTL will then move to the 12 o’clock position, establish a choke point and count the leader’s recon out of the perimeter. The FOOM to the OBJ in GV will be the Diamond Formation and in LV it will be the modified wedge. Once the BTL is ready to count them out, the SL will signal the ATL to move out on azimuth to the OBJ.
After moving approximately half the distance to the OBJ, the SL will begin looking for a suitable Release Point (RP). The characteristics of a good RP are the same as for an ORP, with the addition that it has an easily identifiable feature for locating it moving to and from the OBJ. Additionally, the SL may desire to place the RP on a natural line of drift to assist the Squad in the withdrawal off the OBJ because the natural line of drift will force the elements to funnel into the RP. The RP will be out of sight of the OBJ, but not necessarily out of sound.
Once the SL finds a suitable location for a RP, he will signal the ATL to halt and occupy the RP. The recon element will conduct a security Halt at the RP in the same manner as the LDRS recon did for the ORP. After halting, the recon element will conduct SLLS. SLLS will be conducted in the same manner as it was with the LDRS recon for the ORP for GV and LV. Once SLLS is complete, the recon element will place their rucksacks in the rucksack plan, while maintaining security.
The SL will place his rucksack in the rucksack plan first, in the center of the RP. He will place it frame down, cat eyes facing towards the ORP. Next, the ATL will place his rucksack to the left of the SL. The personnel on S/O TM will place theirs down last. Their rucksacks will be to the right of the SL’s. The SL needs to ensure that this is done in the correct order. Once the rucksack plan is complete, the recon element will move up and pinpoint the OBJ. If the SL has not already issued the 5-points to the S/O TM, he will do it here in the RP. To ensure the RP is easily identifiable for both hours of GV and LV, the SL needs to ensure that he looks back when the recon element begins moving up to the OBJ.
While conducting the reconnaissance, the SL will have to decide to confirm, change or abort the plan. This is an ongoing process that is done throughout the LDRS recon of the OBJ area. The SL BEGINS the confirm, change or abort process from the time that he first Identifies the OBJ area until he moves back to the ORP to pick up the remainder of the Squad.
Once the SL gets in sight of what he believes is the OBJ, he will call the LDRS recon element to a halt. The SL will move forward with the ATL where they will pinpoint the OBJ. While staying in a covered and concealed position, they will pull out their maps and compasses to help pinpoint their position and determine whether or not this is the OBJ. While the SL and the ATL are doing this, the Rifleman and the Automatic Rifleman will be providing local security.
After the SL and the ATL have determined that this is the OBJ, the SL will identify the center of the kill zone. The SL needs to consider what he is looking for in a kill zone. First, he must consider that the kill zone is large enough to accommodate the enemy force yet small enough to effectively cover the kill zone with the Squad’s weapon systems. Since the SL has determined that the Squad will ambush a smaller enemy element of approximately 2-5 individuals, he can therefore plan a kill zone that is approximately 25 meters wide. The intelligence regarding the size of the enemy force comes from Higher’s OPORD or from Coordinations. Planning a kill zone that size will allow some flexibility in engaging the enemy in case the enemy element is spread out. Next, the SL needs to plan on covering the kill zone with his available weapon systems four times over. In regards to the assault line, the SL knows he must space out his weapon systems the length of the kill zone. Additionally, he wants to ensure that each weapon system can achieve interlocking sectors of fire with the weapon system to the left and right. Since the SL has directed the ATM AR to join the assault line, the two M249 gunners will be at opposite ends of the assault line to set the left and right limits. Moreover, the SAWs will each cover 50% of the kill zone and their respective sectors of fire will overlap thus covering 100% of the kill zone between them. Next, each M4 gunner positioned on the assault line will have interlocking sectors of fire with the Ranger to his left and right covering the kill zone twice over. Finally, since the Squad’s most casualty producing weapon system is the M240B MG, the SL needs to ensure that the 240B can cover 100% of the kill zone. When the SL begins his recon of the OBJ, he knows that he must position the MG Team in such a manner that they can accomplish this. Since the Squad is setting in a linear ambush, the MG Team needs to be at the far left or far right side of the assault line (depending upon the most probable enemy direction of approach).
Once the SL has identified the center of his kill zone, he will then identify a position to emplace the S/O TM. The S/O position should provide them with cover and concealment yet allow them to observe the OBJ area, particularly the area around the killzone for any enemy movement. It is also important for the SL to try and select a position for the S/O TM that is somewhat in-line with the route that the SL will use when bringing the Assault element up to the OBJ from the RP. This will assist in linking-up the personnel on the S/O TM with the assault element. When the SL is emplacing the S/O TM, he will position the Automatic Rifleman facing towards the OBJ and the Rifleman facing away with their feet interlocked in order to utilize the tap code. Once the SL has emplaced the S/O TM, he will then inform them that their first 5-point contingency plan is in effect. The ATL and the SL will then begin their recon of the positions for the assault, support and security elements. Each time that they come within sight of the S/O position, the S/O will give the SL a “thumbs-up” if everything is still good around their area or a “thumbs-down” if they see or hear something that is possibly enemy activity.
Because the Squad’s task is to destroy, the SL will recon for a location to place the element that is assigned to do that: The Assault element. There are many things the SL needs to identify here. Most importantly, he will need to assume the prone position at each soldier's position to see what that soldier will see. The SL is looking for the following: a covered and concealed position; dimensions of the kill zone; clear fields of fire/sector of fire; an assault lane for each individual Ranger so as not to funnel into the center of the OBJ; the positions to the left and right; an LOA and ensuring that friendly positions are not in the back blast of the tentative Claymore position. In regards to the Claymore position, the SL will have to make sure that he has at a minimum 16 meters of distance between the Claymore’s position and any friendly positions. As the SL and ATL move around the OBJ, they want to ensure that they use max stealth, moving from covered and concealed position to covered and concealed position. Additionally, they want to ensure that they clover-leaf around the OBJ to prevent detection by enemy forces that may be in the area.
The Support By Fire (SBF) position is similar with the exception of a couple of factors. First, the MG Team doesn’t need an assault lane. Secondly, instead of a sector of fire, the SL will need a PDF (Principle Direction of Fire) for the MG in order to support the assault element while they assault through the kill zone and a secondary sector of fire for the MG to shift to when the assault element moves across the OBJ and establishes an LOA. Moreover, the SL needs to ensure that the left or right limit has at least a 15 degree ricochet factor off of the assault line to prevent fratricide. Third, the SL wants a position where he can maximize the enfilade fires from the MG. Once the SL is satisfied with the support position, he will recon for the left and right flank security positions.
When conducting the recon for the Security elements positions, the SL will do this by taking bold bounds back and away from the LDA so as not to parallel the OBJ. The SL should first recon the security position that the enemy is most likely to approach from according to Higher’s OPORD or Coordinations.
In regards to the security positions, the SL is looking for a position that has good cover and concealment, provides early warning and allows the security team to seal off the OBJ from enemy personnel coming into or out of the kill zone. The SL will determine this location based on his METT-TC analysis -- Time, Enemy and Terrain. The SL is also looking for a good place to employ the claymore. He will have to make sure that he has at a minimum 16 meters of distance between the claymore’s position and any friendly positions. He is also looking for a position that will allow the security position to engage enemy vehicles with the AT-4. The SL wants a position that allows the AT-4 firer to acquire an oblique target (Flank and frontal/rear), and that is at least 30 meters away from the firing position to ensure that the missile has enough time to arm. Also, the SL needs to ensure that the AT-4’s back-blast is not in the direction of any friendly elements (90 degree acre for 60 meters). Lastly, the SL needs to determine a route back to the RP using terrain or an azimuth and distance in order to enable the security position to move directly back to the RP during the withdrawal.
When the SL is satisfied with one of the security positions, he and the ATL will begin to recon for the opposite side security position. Enroute, the SL will stop by the S/O TM to get a "thumbs-up". When reconning for the other security position, the SL is looking for the same characteristics as previously stated.
When the recon is complete, the SL will again stop by the S/O position to get a "thumbs-up" and to inform them that their second 5-point contingency plan is now in effect.
The SL and the ATL will then return back to the RP to secure their rucksacks and move back to the ORP. Prior to leaving the RP to the ORP, the SL will call the BTL on the MBITR and let him know that they are enroute back to the ORP. This is the far recognition signal and the cue for the BTL to get everyone in the SHP and into the correct OOM for occupation of the ambush site.
The OOM for occupation is Security (ATM), Support (HQs), followed by Assault (BTM). Once back in the ORP, the SL will direct the Squad to conduct SLLS as previously described. If there are any changes to the plan, the SL brief those changes to the TLs and allow the TLs time to disseminate the changes to their men. Additionally, the SL will spot check those Rangers that he didn't have the opportunity to check before departing on the recon. At this time, the BTL will give his MBITR to the ATM RM to ensure that the flank security positions have communications. Once the Squad is ready to move, the BTL will move to the 12 o’clock position in order to count out the Squad.
Again the FOOM to the OBJ will be the modified wedge with security element leading, followed by the support element and then the assault element. When the Squad arrives at the RP, the ATL will issue the signal to halt and get into the SHP as will the rest of the element. The Squad will conduct SLLS as previously described. Once SLLS is complete, the Squad will begin placing their rucksacks, one by one, in the rucksack plan. The SL will give the BTL T, C and S on how and where he wants the rucksack plan emplaced. The BTL will direct one man from a team at a time into the center of the RP to emplace their rucksacks down in the rucksack plan.
Once the SL and ATL have placed their rucksacks in the rucksack plan and the SL has given the BTL his T, C and S for the rucksack plan, the SL and ATL will move forward to check with the S/O TM to ensure that nothing has changed on the OBJ. If the S/O TM hasn’t seen any evidence of the enemy around the OBJ area they will give the SL a “thumbs-up” at that time.
After they have gotten the “thumbs-up” from the S/O TM, the SL and ATL will return to the RP to start emplacing the security elements.
The SL will give the ATL T, C and S and a time hack for emplacing his security element on the side that the enemy is most likely to approach from. For example, “ATL, you will have 30 minutes to emplace security which means that the claymore is out and in place, the AT-4 is ready to fire, and both you and the Grenadier are camouflaged and prepared to perform your duties as flank security. If you cannot accomplish this within 30 minutes then you need to inform me by calling me on the MBITR, if you cannot contact me via the MBITR, return back to the RP to inform me why you cannot be emplaced.” In the event that the ATL cannot reach the SL via MBITR and the ATL has moved back to the RP to inform the SL, then the SL needs to move to the ATL’s position, emplace the Grenadier and ATL and spot-check the position.
NOTE: The SL cannot assume that security is in position. Security must be emplaced before any other elements are emplaced.
While the ATL is emplacing his flank security position, the SL will take the other security team consisting of the ATM Grenadier and the ATM Rifleman and emplace them at their position. The RTO will move with the SL as his Battle Buddy and pull security while the SL emplaces the security position. Once they get to the security position, the SL will show the Grenadier or the Rifleman where to emplace the claymore or the SL can simply emplace the claymore himself. Once the claymore is emplaced and the SL has checked the Grenadier’s AT-4 to ensure that it is ready to fire, the SL will brief the position on their route back to the RP. Once this is completed, the SL will camouflage them and then he and the RTO will return back to the RP. Ideally, by the time the SL and the RTO return back to the RP, the ATL should have called on the MBITR to inform the SL that he is in position (claymore is out, AT-4 prepped and ready to fire and the position is camouflaged).
Once the SL has verified that security is emplaced, he can begin emplacing the support by fire element.
The OOM for emplacing the support element will be the SL, followed by the AG, followed by the MG, and then followed by the AB (Ammo Bearer) (if the Squad has one) and finally the RTO. The RTO will pull local security for the SL as he emplaces the support element. As the SL moves the support element up into position, he will get a "thumbs-up" from the S/O TM, then he will move the Support element into position. Once the SL is at the Support position, he will tell the AG where to emplace the tripod and what direction the fires will be oriented. The AG will put the tripod down, double checking it to ensure that it is still fully extended, then he will move (roll) to the left side of the tripod. The SL will then call forward the MG. The MG will then mount the M240B on the tripod with the assistance of the AG. Once the Gun is mounted, the AG will link up the 500 round belt that he prepared back in the ORP. Once this has been done, the MG will move to the right of the gun, and the SL will get down behind the M240B. The SL will ensure that the gun is positioned properly and that there is a 15 degree buffer zone between the left or right limit and any friendly positions. The SL will then have the MG get behind the gun and the SL will point out to both the MG and the AG (and AB if applicable) the kill zone, the Principal Direction of Fire (PDF), a secondary sector of fire to shift the Gun to on the command of “assault” and the LOA.
Lastly, the SL will brief the MG Team on where the other elements will be located in relation to their position and where the SL will place the claymore. Once all of this is complete, the SL will camouflage the support position and the SL and RTO will move back to the RP.
Finally, the SL will emplace the assault element. The assault element will file up to the assault line behind the SL from the RP, using max stealth, moving from covered and concealed position to covered and concealed position, assuming the SHP each time they halt. The SL will emplace each soldier one at a time.
The OOM from the RP will be the SL, the RTO, the BTL, an AR, a RM (and any additional Riflemen the Squad may have), followed by the other AR. Note: the last two soldiers for the assault line should be the S/O TM (Rifleman and Automatic Rifleman) which the SL will pick up when he moves the assault from the RP to the assault line.
The SL will lead the assault element up from the RP to the vicinity of his position near the assault line, where he will place the RTO down in the LHP, facing to the rear in order to provide rear security as the SL emplaces the assault element. As the SL moves the assault element up to its position, he will pick up the S/O personnel.
Once at the assault line, the SL will orient the BTL to the area. He will point out the dimensions of the kill zone, the center of the kill zone, the LOA, the support position, where he, the SL, will be located, and how far down the road or trail each flank security element is positioned. The SL and the BTL will then begin emplacing each soldier, one at a time, in the positions that the SL identified from the LDRS Recon.
As the SL places each soldier into their individual positions, they will get down in the LHP, and the SL will show them the dimensions of the kill zone; issue them their sector of fire (the SL needs to ensure that all the sectors of fire interlock); point out their assault lane; and point out the LOA.
Once at the BTL’s position, the SL will show the BTL his position but both will by-pass in order to emplace the AR who is the final soldier on the assault line. At this last position, the SL will issue the BTL T, C and S for spot-checking the assault line while the SL emplaces the claymore. Additionally, the SL will tell the BTL that after he has spot-checked the assault line and camouflaged each position, the BTL will move to the last Ranger’s position on the line, nearest the SL’s position, and wait for the SL there.
The SL will then move down the line informing each soldier that he is moving forward of their positions to emplace the claymore so that the assault line doesn’t accidently shoot the SL. The SL will move back to his position on the OBJ and inform the RTO that he is moving up to the kill zone to emplace the claymore. The SL will then tie-off the connector end of the wire to his position and move forward to emplace the claymore. Once the SL has emplaced and camouflaged the claymore, he will move back to the RTO’s position and hook up the firing device (the Clacker). The SL will then have the RTO face towards the OBJ and the SL will hand the RTO the firing device so that the RTO has control of initiating the claymore while the SL spot-checks the assault line. If enemy personnel move into the kill zone while the SL is spot checking the assault line, the SL can initiate the ambush by firing his M-4. The SL will give the RTO guidance to blow the claymore if, and only if, the SL initiates the ambush with his M-4.
By this time the BTL should be done spot-checking and camouflaging his personnel and he should be waiting for the SL at the last man on the assault line’s position. The SL will spot-check the positions to ensure that his T, C, and S have been met. When the SL is satisfied, he will place the BTL in his position and camouflage him.
Once this is done, the SL will move back to his location and secure the claymore’s firing device (the Clacker) from the RTO and have the RTO face about and pull rear security. The SL will then camouflage the RTO and himself and get down into the prone with his feet interlocked with the RTO’s in order to utilize the tap code. While the Squad is waiting for the enemy to approach, the RTO will continue to monitor the radio and pull rear security.
At this point in the operation the left and right flank security’s task is to provide early warning. As soon as either element observes the enemy they will call the SL on the MBITR and give him a SALT report. It should sound like this: “SL, this is left/right side; I have two men, in DCUs, small arms, moving into the kill zone, they should be there in 30 seconds”. As soon as the ambush is initiated the left and right side security elements will seal off the OBJ, destroying any enemy personnel attempting to enter or leave the kill zone.
The primary signal to initiate the ambush will be the detonation of the claymore. If for some reason the claymore fails to detonate, the alternate signal to initiate will be the SL firing his M4 on auto.
After the signal to initiate has been given, the MG Team will commence firing with a cyclic rate of fire for 10 seconds, then at a rapid rate of fire for 10 seconds. The AR’s will use the same rates of fire. MG and AR gunners need to ensure that they control their bursts of fire to stay on target and accurately engage the enemy. M4 firers will fire on semi-automatic at a rapid rate of fire, firing as many rounds as they can while maintaining accuracy. If the M240B goes down, the M249 gunners will immediately pick up the rate of fire; M4 firers will switch to auto.
Once the SL is satisfied that there are no enemy personnel alive in the kill zone, he will give the signal for cease-fire. The primary signal for cease-fire is one long whistle blast. The alternate signal will be the verbal command of “CEASE FIRE!” After the command of “cease-fire” is given, the Squad will listen for sounds or watch movement coming from the OBJ. If after the command of “cease-fire” is given and the Squad detects no enemy activity in the kill zone, the SL will give the command to assault the OBJ by yelling “ASSAULT!” If, however, it appears that there is some enemy activity such as moaning, groaning, or movement in the kill zone that could be a threat, the SL will re-initiate fires into the kill zone with a burst while on auto. All personnel will re-initiate with the same rates of fire as previously described. Then the SL will give the signal for “cease-fire” as previously described.
After each command of “cease-fire”, the BTL will have the assault line place a fresh magazine or drum in their respective weapons, ensuring that not all soldiers on the assault line are reloading at the same time. If, after the second time the Squad has initiated fires into the kill zone and they still detect movement, the BTL will immediately assault the OBJ.
On that command of “ASSAULT”, the entire assault element, having reloaded, will pick up and begin to IMT by buddy team up to the last covered and concealed position prior to the kill zone, on the near side of the road.
Additionally, on the command of “ASSAULT”, the MG Team will shift the gun off of the OBJ to the secondary sector of fire that the SL gave them when he emplaced them. At this time, the AG will face about and pull rear security.
Once the BTL has maneuvered his assault element to the last covered and concealed positions prior to the kill zone/road, he needs to ensure that he has his men online and that they are centered on the enemy in the kill zone. Then the BTL will continue to assault across the OBJ to the LOA. Once the assault begins, the BTL needs to ensure that he has accountability of his men and that they stay in their assault lanes during the assault across the kill zone.
As the assault element moves across the kill zone, they need to have their weapons in the high carry position and be prepared to fire controlled pairs into any enemy personnel that pose a threat and remove any weapons from enemy bodies that they come across.
Once the assault element reaches the LOA, the BTL will move from soldier to soldier and assign them hasty sectors of fire as well as gather an ACE report. The soldiers on the ends of the assault line (ARs) will face out at a 45 degree angle to protect the flanks. Simultaneously, the SL and RTO will begin to move to the edge of the road, gaining an ACE report from the MG Team enroute. Moreover, the SL will call the left and right side security elements in order to gain their ACE reports. Once the BTL has gathered his ACE report, he will physically move to the SL’s location and give him the ACE report.
After the SL has received the ACE reports, he will call out for the EPW and search team. The designated EPW and search team will move to the SL’s location. Once there, the SL will give them T, C, and S on how to clear the OBJ.
For example, “start 20 meters past the last body on the left, move in a zigzag pattern across the OBJ, covering about 3 meters into the wood line. You will move abreast of each other, each body you come across, one man will pull security on the body while the other man checks the body to see if they are alive. If they are alive you will secure them, and call out to me that you have a live one. Whether they are dead or alive you will check them for booby-traps, and grenades. You will continue to clear the OBJ until you have gone 20 meters past the last body on the right, then return back to my position”.
Once the EPW and search team has cleared the OBJ, the SL will determine if he needs to call out his Aid and Litter TM based on the ACE report. If the Squad takes casualties, then the SL will call out his Aid and Litter TM once the OBJ has been cleared. The Aid and Litter TM will report to the SL’s location where he will proceed to give them T, C, and S for moving any wounded friendly personnel to the casualty collection point (CCP). A good rule of thumb regarding a CCP for this part of the mission would be to designate the CCP at the RP since the rucksacks are located there and all of the Squad’s personnel need to make their way back to the RP following AOO. Based on the number and type of friendly casualties that the Squad sustained, the SL will have to make a determination as to the amount of time that the Squad can dedicate to conducting a detailed search for PIR versus the amount of time it will take to conduct CASEVAC procedures.
However, if the Ambush is so deliberately and violently executed there stands to be a good chance that the Squad will sustain no friendly casualties. Therefore, the SL will not need to call forward his Aid and Litter TM and he can then give T, C, and S for the EPW and search teams to conduct their search. The SL will assign one Ranger/Sapper the code word of “Black” or “Red” and one Ranger/Sapper the code word of “Gold” or “White.” Additionally, the SL will assign each Ranger/Sapper a portion of the OBJ to search and a position to consolidate all the enemy equipment that they find. The EPW and Search TM will call out what they find during their search of the OBJ area using the code word assigned to them respectively.
An example is a Rifleman in BTM, who is part of the EPW and Search TM and has been assigned the code word of “Gold,” finds an enemy AK-47 while searching his portion of the OBJ. The Rifleman will sound off as such, “Gold…one AK-47”. This system of code words is used to limit the amount of confusion of what type and numbers of equipment is found on the OBJ.
The RTO will be recording this information as it is called off by the EPW and search team. Additionally, the RTO will start his stopwatch as soon as the ambush is initiated and he will call off the amount of time that the Squad has been on the OBJ in one minute increments, starting at three minutes. Keep in mind that the Squad does not want to spend more than 10 minutes on the OBJ as the enemy can reinforce within 20 minutes.
Once the EPW and search team has consolidated all enemy weapons and equipment at the point that the SL designated, he will call for the DEMO team. The DEMO team will report to the SL’s location and he will give them T, C, and S as to how and where he wants the DEMO prepared to destroy the enemy equipment. Once the DEMO is prepared, and the safety pins have been removed from the M81 fuse igniters, the DEMO team will hand the SL the M81s and return back to their positions on the LOA. At this point the Squad will begin their withdrawal off of the OBJ.
The SL will use the code words of “red, white, and blue” to withdraw the squad from the OBJ. The SL will also call the code words over the MBITR to keep the security elements updated on the assault and support withdrawal of the OBJ.
On the command of “red”, the assault element will pull off the OBJ and move back to the RP by funneling past the SL. Also on “red” the M240B gun will go to bipod mode. Once at the RP, the BTL will take charge and establish 360 degree security, get the existing personnel into the SHP with their rucksacks on their back, and start accounting for personnel. The BTL will be in charge of the RP until the SL returns.
On the command of “white”, the M240B gun team will pull off the OBJ and move to the RP. Once the MG Team begins moving back to the RP, they will yell out “GUN MOVING”, “GUN MOVING” in order to let the SL know that the MG Team is actually up and moving towards the RP.
On the command of “blue”, the SL will pull the M81 fuse igniters. Once the SL can see that the time fuse is burning, he will put the fuse igniters on the ground and call out “BURNING”. At that time, the SL and the RTO will withdraw the OBJ to the RP.
On the command of “blue”, the left and right side security elements will start their stopwatches. One minute after the security teams hear the charge explode, or two minutes after the command of “blue” is given, they will recover their claymores and other equipment and pull off the OBJ and move straight back to the RP. As the security TMs begin moving back toward the RP, they will call the SL via the MBITRs so that the SL can alert the perimeter that friendly personnel are coming in. Additionally, it might prove necessary to assist guiding the security elements into the RP with flashes of IR.
As the elements return to the RP, the leadership will account for men, weapons, and equipment, and conduct a hasty repack of equipment. Once the Squad has 100% accountability of men, weapons, and equipment at the RP, the Squad will get into the OOM in order to move out. The OOM will be ATM, followed by HQs, followed by BTM.
After the Squad has accounted for MWE, they will move 1000 meters or a major terrain feature away from the OBJ (METT-T/C dependant) preferably in the direction of the Link-Up site in order to disseminate information. Once the Squad has moved a major terrain feature or 1,000 meters away, the SL will issue the ATL the signal/command to halt.
The squad will halt as previously described for periods of GV or LV. When all movement has ceased, the Squad will conduct SLLS as previously described for both GV and LV.
When SLLS is complete, the SL will issue T, C, and S to the ATL and BTL for placing the men in the LHP. The SL will, of course, spot check.
Once the men are in the LHP, the ATL will ensure security is being maintained by trooping the line. Meanwhile, the BTL and the RTO along with the SL will begin consolidating the PIR and preparing the SALUTE report for higher.
During periods of LV, the BTL and the SL will be doing this under the RTO’s poncho and poncho liner with a red lens flashlight. The PIR will be prepared in the SALUTE format. The RTO will use his carbon paper when preparing this to make three additional copies of the PIR in the SALUTE format.
If the SL has any doubts as to what PIR was gathered or if the SL is not satisfied, he may elect to pull either the left or right side security personnel into the center to help prepare the SALUTE report.
When the SALUTE report has been completed, the SL will give the BTL T, C, and S on how he wants him to disseminate the PIR to his men. Note: When the TL’s disseminate the PIR during GV, they will go to each man and show them the SALUTE format as well as brief them; however, in periods of LV, the TL’s will simply brief them the PIR in the SALUTE format. Also, the TL’s need to ensure that every Ranger knows that a paper copy of the PIR is water-proofed in the left shoulder pocket of the ATL, BTL, the SL, and the RTO.
The SL will instruct the BTL to start disseminating the PIR to his personnel at the 3 o’clock position and moving in a clockwise manner through the 6 o’clock to the 9 o’clock position. Then the SL will pull the ATL into the center and issue him the same T, C, and S for dissemination of the PIR that the SL gave to the BTL with the exception that he will begin disseminating at the 9 o’clock to the 12 o’clock to the 3 o’clock positions.
Before the TLs are sent out to disseminate the information to their teams, the SL will get a brief back and issue a time hack. When the TL’s are done disseminating the PIR and have returned to the center of the perimeter, the SL will go and spot check the Squad in order to ensure that every soldier knows the SALUTE report. If the SL is not satisfied, he will re-issue his T, C and S and the TLs will go back out and disseminate the PIR. The Squad will do this until the SL feels that his T, C, and S have been met or the SL can simply have the RTO make enough additional copies of the PIR so that each soldier has a copy of the PIR in the SALUTE format, waterproofed in the left shoulder pocket of his ACU top.
When the SL is satisfied that every soldier knows the information, he will have the RTO call in the OPSKED to higher for mission complete.
At any time during this operation the Squad can make contact with the enemy. If the Squad is compromised while the entire squad is together, whether moving or at a halt, the SL will make the determination to either conduct a squad attack or break contact.
If any element is separated from the Squad such as during the recon of the ORP or while conducting the Recon of the OBJ, they will react to contact in accordance with the 5-point contingency plan that the SL will give them on the ground.
If the Squad is compromised while moving the support or assault elements into position meaning the security elements are already in position, the Squad will execute a hasty attack. The Squad will get down oriented towards the OBJ and return fire. Then, depending on the outcome of the contact, the SL will decide to either continue executing the hasty attack or break contact.
If the security (either left or right) is compromised or if the enemy reinforces, the security teams will blow their claymore mines and break contact straight back to the RP. They will call the contact over the radio so that the assault element, support element and the other security team will know to break contact and move back to the RP.
Once there, the Squad will pick up rucksacks, get 100% accountability of men, weapons, and equipment and move 1,000 meters or a major terrain feature away then call higher for further guidance.
This was a summary of how you will be expected to conduct a squad ambush at Ranger and Sapper School.
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]]>The reference for reconnaissance patrols can be found on page 7-4 of your Ranger Handbook.
Before we dive into the steps of Area Reconnaissance, let's go over the “20 Board” above. On the left side of the board are the steps for an area recon. The center of the board is an example of a recon patrol cloverleafing around their objective and the leader’s recon element in their FOOM (More on FOOM here). The right side of the board has the FOOM of clearing the Objective Rally Point (ORP), Leader’s Recon of ORP, and the Security Halt.
Notice that the board is color-coded but not personalized. Color coded refers to the board displaying the lead team in BLUE, the HQ element in YELLOW, and the trail team in GREEN. While at Ranger School and Sapper Leader Course, you will color-code and personalize all of your boards. For example, if I were the Squad Leader (SL), there would be a line next to the SL circle with my name on it.
Now let’s go over Reconnaissance at the platoon and squad level. A reconnaissance patrol collects information or confirms/disproves the accuracy of information previously gained. The intent for this type of patrol is to avoid enemy contact and accomplish its tactical task without engaging in close combat. With one exception (reconnaissance in force patrol), reconnaissance patrols always try to accomplish their mission without being detected or observed. Because detection cannot always be avoided, a reconnaissance patrol carries the necessary arms and equipment to protect itself and break contact with the enemy. There are three types of reconnaissance patrols normally conducted by an Infantry platoon and squad. They are:
This post will focus on Area Reconnaissances.
Area reconnaissance patrols focus on obtaining detailed information about the enemy activity, terrain, or specific civil considerations within a prescribed area. This area may include a town, a neighborhood, a ridgeline, woods, an airhead, or any other feature critical to operations. The area may consist of a single point (such as a bridge or an installation). Areas are normally smaller than zones and not usually contiguous to other friendly areas targeted for reconnaissance. Because the area is smaller, units conduct area reconnaissance quicker than zone reconnaissance. Other unique techniques falling under an area reconnaissance patrol include:
While at Ranger and Sapper School, you will only conduct the “point technique”.
Keys to Successful Area Reconnaissance (Ranger/Sapper Recon Fundamentals)
Basic Task Organization
Planning Considerations
When planning for your recon, you will utilize the acronym METT-TC, which stands for Mission, Enemy, Troops, Terrain, Time and Civil considerations. This post will not go into detail on using METT-TC at Ranger/Sapper School, but you can learn more about it here.
Reporting Criteria
Use the SALUTE format when reporting for your recon. SALUTE stands for:
Steps for Area Reconnaissance
The actions on the OBJ for the squad recon begins at the security halt (SH) prior to the ORP. The actions end with the dissemination of information and the call to higher with the updated Operational Schedule (OPSKED).
Unless otherwise stated, all of the following actions take place in periods of good visibility (GV).
When the squad is approximately 200-400 meters away from the ORP, the SL gives the hand and arm signal for halt to the lead team leader (TL). Notice that on the 20 board the security halt has a grid location (GL) and a terrain feature (TF). When the lead TL receives the signal, he moves to the nearest covered and concealed position and assumes the Short Halt posture (SHP). Then, the TL issues the hand and arm signal for halt to the team and ensures that his team follows his lead. The SHP is nothing more than taking a knee behind cover and concealment, keeping your rucksack on your back, weapon at the ready, pulling security in your hasty sector of fire.
The SL continues moving until the HQ element closes the distance with the lead team and the trail team can achieve interlocking sectors of fire with the lead team. Then, the SL issues the hand and arm signal for halt, assumes the SHP, and ensures that the HQ element does the same.
The trail TL continues moving until his team closes the distance with the HQ element and then ensures his team can interlock sectors of fire with the lead team. At this point, the trail TL issues the hand and arm signal for halt, assumes the SHP, and ensures that his team does the same. The trail team leader also confirms that his grenadier maintains rear security from the 4 o’clock to the 8 o’clock locations.
Once the entire squad has halted, the squad conducts SLLS. The SL initiates SLLS by cupping his non-firing hand behind the corresponding ear.
SLLS stands for Stop, Look, Listen, and Smell.
STOP: Stop all movement
LOOK: Look for signs of the enemy, such as trash, old fighting positions, or the enemy themselves.
LISTEN: Listen for signs of the enemy, such as engines running, the enemy talking, or the enemy moving.
SMELL: Smell for signs of the enemy, like food, smoke from fires, or POL products (fuels).
The squad conducts SLLS for 3-5 minutes or for as long as the SL deems necessary. When SLLS is complete, the SL terminates SLLS by making a slashing motion by his ear.
After terminating SLLS, the SL then pinpoints the squad’s location. The lead TL moves to the SL’s position in the center of the security halt. The SL and lead TL pull out their maps, pinpoint their current location, and determine the distance and direction for the next movement to the ORP. At the same time, the trail TL monitors the men and ensures the squad maintains security by rotating around the perimeter of the security halt. After the SL confirms the squad’s current location and next movement with the lead TL, the TLs exchange positions and the SL confirms this information with the trail TL.
Once the SL and TLs determine the squad’s location and have a route to the tentative ORP, the SL issues tasks, conditions, and standards to the TLs for placing their men in the Long Halt Posture. The SL tells the TLs to strong point at the 10, 2, 4, and 8 o'clock positions or wherever he deems most appropriate. The lead TL starts at the 9 o’clock position and moves in a clockwise manner to the 3 o’clock position to place his men in the long halt posture. He will move his men to the designated positions and either assume the short halt posture and pull security for each man while they assume the long halt posture, or he will have one of the soldiers in the position pull security for each other while they transition to the long halt posture.
Keep in mind that the SL can designate any clock position for the TL’s to strong point their men. The SL makes the decision on where to strong point based on factors such as terrain, available cover and concealment, avenues of approach, etc. For the purposes of this post only, we will use the 10, 2, 4, and 8 o’clock positions as the locations where the SL has deemed it most appropriate for his men to be strong pointed.
A soldier properly transitions to the long halt posture by rotating the rucksack off his back, placing it frame down with the cat eyes facing the center of the security halt, getting in the prone position behind proper cover and concealment, and pulling security in his assigned sector of fire.
The trail TL starts at the 3 o’clock position and moves in a clockwise manner to the 9 o’clock position to place his men in the long halt posture; at the locations the SL designated. The trail TL has the same options to place his men in the long halt posture as the lead TL.
During the transition to the long halt posture, the TLs assign their men a sector of fire using natural terrain features such as “That tree to that rock”. TLs ensure that each man’s sector of fire interlocks with the man to his left and right approximately 35 meters out (hand grenade range). Additionally, TLs show their men the squad’s current location on the map and the distance and direction for the next movement, which in this case is the movement to the ORP.
After the TLs emplace their men in the long halt posture, they return to the SL’s position in the center of the perimeter. At that time, the SL spot checks the perimeter to ensure that his tasks, conditions, and standards have been met. If they are not met, the SL reissues the tasks, conditions, and standards and spot checks until they are met. This is very important while at Ranger and Sapper School. Everyone is tired and not thinking straight so your buddy might screw you over without even meaning too. That is why you trust, but verify.
While TLs emplace their personnel in the long halt posture, the SL emplace the M240 gun teams based on METT-T/C analysis.
Once the SL’s tasks, conditions, and standards are met, he tells the trail TL to move around the perimeter and ensure that the squad maintains security. The lead TL preps the men going on the leader's recon of the tentative ORP. The personnel going on the recon are the lead TL, the lead team rifleman, the lead team automatic rifleman, and the SL. All personnel on the recon bring their rucksacks with them. Once prepped, all personnel on the leader’s recon meet with the SL so he can spot check rucksacks, re-camouflage, check commo and ensure that weapons are locked and loaded with a full magazine.
After meeting with these personnel, the SL issues two 5-point contingency plans. The SL gives the first 5- point contingency plan to the trail TL to cover the SL’s absence during the leader's recon of the ORP. When this is complete, the SL gives the second 5-point contingency plan to the lead TL and the lead team automatic rifleman. This plan covers the period when the SL leaves the ORP security team at the tentative ORP, moves back to the security halt, and returns with the rest of the squad to the tentative ORP.
The SL uses the acronym GOTWA to give the 5-point contingency plans. GOTWA stands for:
Going – Where the SL is going.
Others – Others the SL takes with him.
Time – Time the SL will be gone.
What – What to do if the SL doesn’t return.
Action – Actions to be taken upon enemy contact for both the SL and the soldier receiving the plan.
The SL will give this GOTWA to the trail team leader:
Going: I am going to recon for the tentative ORP.
Others: I am taking Ranger/Sapper (lead TL), Ranger/Sapper (lead team rifleman) and Ranger/Sapper (lead team automatic rifleman). This is a total of 4 personnel.
Time: I will be gone for one hour.
What: If I am not back in one hour, I want you to first try to contact me by FM. If you can’t contact me, then call higher, inform them of the situation and ask for further guidance.
Actions: If I make contact, we will break contact and attempt to link-up with you here at the security halt. If we cannot do this, I will link up with you at the last En route Rally Point (ERP). You should be able to hear the contact. I want you to remain in place and be prepared to assist us in breaking contact. If you make contact, defend in place until you feel as if you are about to be overrun. If this is the case, break contact, move to the last ERP, and conduct rally point procedures (Establish security, establish a chain of command, call higher and inform them of the situation, wait 45 minutes or until the remainder of the patrol has linked up then continue the mission). I will be able to hear the contact and work my way back to you and assist you in executing the battle drill.
The SL also issues the additional/special instructions to the trail team leader to disseminate the 5 point, readjust the perimeter as necessary, ensure the RTO monitors the radio, and ensure the element maintains security. The trail TL then back briefs the SL. The SL answers any questions the trail TL might have at that time. The 5-point begins when the leader’s recon leaves the security halt.
The SL then issues a GOTWA to the lead TL and the lead team automatic rifleman for when he leaves them at the 6 o’clock of the tentative ORP. This GOTWA will sound like this:
Going: I am going back to the security halt to pick up the rest of the personnel from the squad.
Others: I am taking Ranger/Sapper (lead team rifleman).
Time: I will be gone no more than one hour.
What: If I am not back in one hour, I want you to try to contact me by FM. If you can’t contact me, then make your way back to the security halt where we will link up.
Actions: Regardless of who makes contact, both teams will break contact and fight their way back to the security halt. If either team is unable to make it to the security halt, we will link up at the last ERP.
The lead TL and lead team automatic rifleman then back brief the SL. The SL answers any questions they have at that time. The SL also issues additional/special instructions to the lead TL. The SL tells the lead TL that when the SL calls the lead TL with the far recognition signal, the lead TL and the lead team automatic rifleman should assume a short halt posture to help guide the squad to the ORP and to assist the lead TL in quickly emplacing his personnel into their positions on the perimeter.
After the SL issues the 5-points and special instructions, the personnel designated for the leader’s recon move to the 12 o'clock position. The trail TL takes up a position at the 12 o’clock to count out the departing personnel. When the SL sees the trail TL is in position, the SL signals the lead TL to move out. The leader’s recon moves in a diamond formation, with personnel spaced at approximately 10 meters and 45 degrees. The lead TL is at the apex of the diamond formation. The lead team rifleman is in position to the right and rear of the lead TL. The lead team automatic rifleman is to the left and rear of the lead TL. The SL moves at the rear of the formation. Halfway to the ORP, which is approximately 200 meters, the SL begins looking for a location that has some or all of the characteristics of a good ORP.
There are five characteristics of a good ORP:
Once the SL finds an area that meets most or all of these characteristics and is in the vicinity of the designated grid location, the SL signals the lead TL to halt the patrol as previously described.
When the lead TL receives the “halt” signal, he assumes a short halt posture at the next available covered and concealed position. The rest of the recon element follows his lead. The element then conducts SLLS as described above.
After SLLS is complete, the lead TL and the lead team rifleman must clear the tentative ORP using the Zigzag method. The SL identifies the 3, 6, 9 and 12 o'clock positions. The lead TL and lead team rifleman slowly clear from the 6 o’clock to the 3 o’clock to the 9 o’clock to the 12 o’clock then back to the 6 o'clock position. While clearing, the lead TL and lead team rifleman look for signs of enemy presence or use, such as fresh tire tracks, trash, foxholes, expended ammunition or anything uncommon to the surrounding area. If they spot any of these signs, the lead TL and lead team rifleman return immediately. After the two soldiers clear the ORP, the SL spot checks the area by moving into the ORP with the lead LT and verifying that it is a suitable location for the squad to establish the ORP. The SL will personally check one position or he may decide to check all positions within the tentative ORP while conducting his spot check.
After the SL approves the ORP site, he emplaces the lead team automatic rifleman at the 6 o’clock position facing the 12 o'clock position. The lead TL remains at the 6 o’clock position facing towards the direction of the security halt. Once the lead TL and the lead team automatic rifleman are in position, the SL tells the lead TL that the 5-point is in effect. Additionally, the SL ensures that the lead TL and the lead team automatic rifleman have their feet interlocked so they can utilize the tap code with their feet. The SL also ensures that the two soldiers understand the tap-code.
This is the tap code. One tap from one soldier to another means that everything is okay. If everything is okay with the other soldier, he responds with one tap. Two taps means that a soldier sees or hears something. Three taps means that the soldiers need to move NOW. When in a security position with another soldier utilize this tap code as a non-verbal means of communication.
Before the SL and lead team rifleman move back to the security halt, the SL communicates to the trail TL that the SL is returning to the security halt. This is the far recognition signal. When the trail TL receives the signal, he ensures that all remaining soldiers at the security halt take up the short halt posture and are ready to move out.
When the SL and the lead team rifleman are within close proximity to the security halt, they stop and the SL gives the near recognition signal. An example of a near recognition signal during good visibility is a challenge and password. After the SL and the trail TL exchange the near recognition signal, the trail TL counts the SL and the lead team rifleman into the security halt. After movement ceases, the element conducts SLLS as previously described.
After completion of SLLS, the SL disseminates any change to the plan and the route to the tentative ORP to the lead team rifleman. The lead team rifleman takes charge of the remainder of the lead team at this time and disseminates the information. The trail TL also disseminates the information to his men at this time. Once dissemination is complete, the squad assumes the OOM to the tentative ORP, which is the remainder of the lead team, then the HQ element, followed by the trail team.
The lead team rifleman leads the element out of the security halt. Prior to leaving the security halt, the SL calls the lead TL and tells him that the rest of the squad is moving to his location. This is the far recognition signal. When the lead TL and the lead team automatic rifleman receive this signal, they take up a short halt posture.
Once the lead team rifleman sees the lead TL, he halts the patrol, and exchanges the near recognition signal with the lead team leader as previously described. The SL moves to the front of the formation and gets face to face with the lead TL. At that time, the SL tells the TL to take his team and strong-point the 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock positions in the short halt posture. The SL stays at the 6 o’clock position as a control measure for the occupation of the ORP. After the lead team passes through the 6 o’clock, the RTO moves into the ORP followed by the MG team. The SL tells the RTO and MG team where to move inside the center of the perimeter. Once in position, the RTO and MG team assume the short halt posture. The SL then orients the trail team leader to the tentative ORP by pointing out the 6 o’clock and 12 o’clock positions. The SL also points out the 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock positions that the lead team leader is strong-pointing. The SL then tells the trail team leader to strong-point his personnel in the 4 and 8 o’clock positions. Due to the fact that the trail TL is unfamiliar with the ORP, the SL may choose to assist the trail TL in emplacing his men in the designated positions. He can do this by personally emplacing all members of the trail team into their designated position or by personally emplacing men into one of the designated positions while the trail TL emplaces men into the other position.
The entire squad moves into the ORP and halts. At that point, the SL spot-checks the perimeter to ensure that there is 360 degree security with all personnel in the short halt posture.
Then, the squad conducts SLLS and pinpoints their location as previously described. If the SL is not satisfied, he can move the ORP left, right or perhaps closer to the OBJ to find a more suitable location.
TLs issues tasks, conditions, and standards for placing the men in the long halt posture and strong-pointing the 10, 2, 4, and 8 o'clock positions. The lead TL strong points the 10 and 2 o’clock positions and the trail TL strong points the 4 and 8 o’clock positions. TLs strong point their personnel, issue sectors of fire, and disseminate information as previously described for the security halt. The SL emplaces the M240 gun team at the 12 o’clock or the most likely avenue of approach.
Once the TLs place their personnel in the long halt posture and return to the SL’s location, the SL checks to ensure his standards are met. When satisfied, the RTO calls in the OPSKED to higher headquarters to communicate that the squad has occupied the ORP.
At this point, the squad prepares men, weapons, and equipment for the OBJ. No man leaves the ORP and moves to the OBJ until he is fully prepared for conducting the actions on the OBJ. Priority for preparation goes to the recon elements. There are three recon elements. R&S 1 consists of the SL and the lead team rifleman. R&S 2 consists of the lead TL and lead team grenadier. The S&O element is lead team automatic rifleman and trail team grenadier. After the lead TL preps his men, he moves to the SL’s position. The lead TL and the SL prep and inspect each other. Men who are preparing or undergoing inspections pull 3-5 meters off the line and maintain noise and light discipline. After men are prepared and inspected, the SL spot checks the men.
While the recon elements are preparing for the OBJ, the trail TL ensures that the rest of the squad maintains security on the perimeter and helps crossload equipment as necessary. It is imperative that during the preparation of men, weapons, and equipment, the squad maintains noise and light discipline to prevent detection by the enemy.
The SL then issues tasks, conditions, and standards for preparing men, weapons, and equipment. The standards for preparing men, weapons, and equipment can be found here.
During the prep of men, weapons, and equipment, the SL confirms the route to the OBJ with the lead TL.
After TLs finish preparing their men, they bring their men to the SL so he can inspect them. After the SL inspects the men and determines they meet his standards, TLs place their men in the FOOM to the OBJ. (see board above). The lead TL then spot checks the SL.
Prior to departing the ORP, the SL issues a 5-point contingency plan to the trail TL. An example of a GOTWA should sound like this.
Going: I am going to conduct the AOO Recon.
Others: I am taking Ranger/Sapper____________ (lead team rifleman), Ranger/Sapper______ (lead TL), Ranger/Sapper ________ (lead team grenadier), Ranger/Sapper __________ (lead team automatic rifleman) and Ranger/Sapper _________ (trail team grenadier). Including me, this is a total of six personnel.
Time: I will be gone for four hours.
What: If I am not back in four hours, I want you to first try to contact me by FM. If you can’t contact me, then call higher, inform them of the situation and ask for further guidance.
Actions: These are two-fold: If I make contact, we will break contact and attempt to link up with you here at the ORP. If not or we are being tracked, I will link up with you at the last ERP. You should be able to hear the contact. I want you to remain in place and be prepared to assist us in breaking contact. If you make contact, defend in place until you feel as if you are about to be overrun. If this is the case, break contact to the last ERP and conduct rally point procedures, I will be able to hear the contact and work my way back to you and assist you in executing the battle drill in place.
The SL issues additional instructions to the trail TL to disseminate the 5-point, readjust the perimeter as necessary, emplace the claymores to increase the ORP security while the recon element is absent, create a range card for the MG and a sector sketch of the OPR security, ensure the RTO monitors the radio, and ensure the remaining soldiers maintain security. Additionally, the SL tells the trail TL to continue to prep men, weapons and equipment for night movement while maintaining 50% security. The SL also tells the trail TL that when the SL calls the ORP with the far recognition signal, the trail TL must get everyone in the short halt posture and prepared to move. After giving all these instructions, the SL has the trail TL back brief him.
The SL issues a 5-point to the soldiers on S/O and R&S. The S&O 5-point contingency plan covers the period when R&S 1 and 2 are conducting the recon of the OBJ. It will sound something like this:
Going: I am going to recon the OBJ.
Others: I am taking R&S 1 and 2.
Time: I will be gone for three hours.
What: If I am not back in three hours I want you to move back to the RP, secure your rucks, and if I am not there at the RP, then move back to the ORP.
Actions: If your position gets compromised you will break contact and fight your way back to the RP and wait 5 minutes, if I am not there in 5 minutes move back to the ORP. Do not forget to take your rucksacks with you. If an R&S team comes into contact you will execute the compromise plan, then move back to the RP, wait for me there for 5 minutes, if I am not at the RP after 5 minutes, move back to the ORP.
The SL gives additional instructions to the S&O team that they should take notes on the PIR they obtain from their position. Additionally, the SL also tells soldiers on S/O and R&S teams to make a military sketch and keep track of the time for events occurring on the OBJ, such as how long it takes a guard to rove the perimeter. Most importantly, the SL emphasizes that the soldiers must not compromise their positions.
The SL receives a back brief from the soldiers on S/O and R&S to ensure they understand the SL’s 5-point. The R&S 2 5-point contingency plan will cover the period while R&S 1 and 2 are conducting the recon of the OBJ. It will sound something like this:
Going: I am going to recon the OBJ.
Others: S&O are in their position and I am taking Ranger/Sapper _________ as my security man for R&S 1.
Time: I will meet you back here in the RP in two hours.
What: If I am not back in two hours I want you to attempt to contact me in FM. If you cannot reach me on FM, secure your rucks, and then move back to the ORP.
Actions: If your position gets compromised you will break contact and fight your way back to the RP and wait 5 minutes, if I am not there in 5 minutes move back to the ORP. Do not forget to take your rucksacks with you. If the other R&S team or S&O comes into contact you will execute the compromise plan, then move back to the RP, wait for me there for 5 minutes, if I am not at the RP after 5 minutes, move back to the ORP.
The SL gives the R&S 2 team additional instruction that they take notes of all of PIR from their position. Additionally, the SL tells the soldiers on R&S 2 to make a military sketch and a salute format of the information. Most importantly the SL emphasizes that the R&S 2 team does not cross the LOA or allow itself to get compromised. The SL receives a back brief to ensure that the SLs 5-point is understood.
The SL confirms that every man going on the recon understands the route to the OBJ and compromise plan. The SL briefs the details of the compromise plan which are at the end of this post.
When the squad is ready to move out of the ORP the trail TL moves to the 12 o’clock position, establishes a choke point, and counts the Squad out of the perimeter. The FOOM to the OBJ is the modified wedge. Once the trail TL is ready to count the squad out, the SL signals the lead team leader to move out on azimuth towards the OBJ.
Once the trail TL counts the recon element, he disseminates the 5-point contingency plan to all members of the squad in the ORP. He then readjusts the perimeter as necessary to maintain security and directs the MG team to create a range card for their sector of fire. While the MG team is creating this range card, the trail TL needs to determine where to emplace his claymore mines and where to position his AT-4.
Good locations to emplace claymore mines include areas of dead space and likely avenues of approach. Good locations to position anti-tank weapons include any likely avenues of approach.
Weapons on the perimeter should be positioned to maximize their capabilities and in positions where they can be effectively employed. For example, the machine guns should be positioned to achieve enfilade and plunging fire along likely avenues of approach, etc. Classes of Fires can be found in the RHB on page 10-3.
Prior to moving out of the ORP to emplace the claymores, the trail TL must alert his men along the perimeter that he is moving forward to emplace the claymores and not to engage any moving targets until he returns to the perimeter. Once the trail TL emplaces and camouflages the claymores and positions the AT-4, he will inspect the range card to ensure it is accurate and complete. He will make a copy of the range card to use at his location in the center of the ORP; and, return the original range card to the MG team. Next, he will create a sketch of the entire squad’s security plan to include sectors of fire for each weapon system or strong pointed position, the location and sector for each claymore, the location and sector for the AT-4, and the location and PDF for the M240B.
Once all weapons are properly emplaced, the range card is accurate and complete, and the sector sketch is accurate and complete, the trail TL will begin preparing the men in the ORP for night movement IAW the SL’s additional instructions. Remember that every man will pull 3-5 meters off the line when prepping equipment.
Throughout this entire process, the trail TL will continue to monitor the men on the perimeter to ensure they are alert and security is being maintained. He will also monitor the RTO to ensure he is listening to the radio.
After moving approximately half the distance to the OBJ, the SL begins looking for a suitable place for the release point (RP). The characteristics of a good RP are the same as for an ORP, with the addition that it has an easily identifiable feature so it is easy to locate. The RP is out of sight of the OBJ, but not necessarily out of sound.
Once the SL finds a suitable location for a RP, the SL signals the lead team leader to halt and occupy the RP. The squad conducts a security halt at the release point in the same manner as during the leader’s recon for the ORP. After halting, the Squad conducts SLLS. Once SLLS is complete, the squad places their rucks according to the rucksack plan, while maintaining security.
The SL first places his rucksack according to the rucksack plan, in the center of the RP. The SL places it frame down with the cat eyes facing towards the ORP. Next, the lead TL places his rucksack to the left of the SL. The security men for R&S 1 and 2 then place their rucks down behind their R&S team leader’s rucksack. The personnel on S/O place their rucksacks down last. The SL ensures the elements drop their rucksacks in the correct order. When soldiers are not placing their rucksacks down, they pull security. Once the element finishes dropping rucksacks, the element moves up and pinpoints the OBJ. If the SL has not already issued the 5-point to the S/O, the SL does it in the RP. Depending on METT-TC, the SL may elect to leave the security personnel for R&S 1 and 2 in the RP while the SL pinpoints the OBJ. If the SL chooses to leave anyone, he issues a 5-Point to these personnel at this time. To ensure the RP is easily identifiable, each man looks back at the RP when the element begins moving up to the OBJ.
Soldiers in the recon elements must use max stealth as they move to the OBJ and maintain situational awareness at all times as there may be an enemy on the OBJ. The soldiers also want to utilize their binos to maximize stand-off range between the OBJ and the recon elements. This helps the recon elements avoid compromising their positions.
When the SL can see what he believes is the OBJ, the element halts. The SL and the lead TL move forward so the SL and lead TL can pinpoint the OBJ. While staying in a covered and concealed position, the SL and lead TL pull out their maps and compasses to pinpoint their position and determine whether or not this is the OBJ. While the lead TL and SL are doing this, the lead team automatic rifleman and the trail team grenadier provides local security for them.
After the SL and lead TL determine that they are at the OBJ, the SL has to decide to confirm, change or abort the plan. If the initial plan works with the ground, the SL confirms the plan. However, the SL may see the need to change certain parts of the plan because the terrain does not support the plan he briefed. For example, if the terrain on the site does not offer vantage points on both sides of the OBJ, the SL may decide to only use one R&S team. Another option is the SL may abort. Reasons for aborting the mission could be aggressive counter recon patrols from the enemy that prevent recon elements from conducting eyes on the OBJ or insufficient time to complete the mission. If the SL has to abort, the SL extracts all personnel on the leader’s recon back to the ORP. Once there, the SL contacts higher for further guidance.
If the SL and lead TL decide to confirm or change the plan, they look for several things:
Additionally, if the SL and lead TL gain all the PIR from this location, they do so and withdraw all personnel back to the ORP. There is no reason to get greedy and risk compromising the element if the SL and lead TL can gain all the PIR from this location.
After the SL verifies these important details, he locates a position to emplace S/O team. The position should provide the S/O team with cover and concealment and still enable them to observe the OBJ and obtain accurate PIR. The SL wants a position far enough away from the OBJ so there is a lower chance of any enemy counter-recon patrols compromising the S&O team’s position, but close enough to be able to employ all the weapon systems at that position.
Once the SL locates this position, he briefs the S&O personnel on the LOA and Vantage points and issues the S&O team sectors of fire and the priority of engagement for the identified targets.
After the SL ensures that the S&O team understands his instructions, he emplaces the S&O team in the prone position. The automatic rifleman faces towards the OBJ and the grenadier faces away from the OBJ. The two soldiers interlock their feet to utilize the tap code. After the S/O team is in position, the SL conducts a final radio check and finishes the emplacement.
Once the SL emplaces the S/O team and verifies that they are ready to begin collecting PIR, he informs the S/O team that their 5-point contingency plan is in effect. Then, the SL and the lead TL move back to the RP to begin the recon.
At the RP, the SL and the lead TL confirm the LOA, vantage points, time, and compromise plan. Then, they ensure that all personnel understand the same information. Next, both teams begin their recon of the OBJ. The R&S teams move to their vantage points, gather PIR in the SALUTE format, and draw sketches of the OBJ. The example on my board shows that the best vantage points were available to the east so that is where R&S 1 recons. R&S 2 recons the west side of the OBJ.
A few things the R&S teams need to remember when conducting their recon are:
As each R&S team approaches its next vantage point they conduct a radio check with the S&O position to ensure it is safe to approach the objective and gather PIR. This prevents an R&S team from being surprised by a drastic change in the situation on the OBJ, such as the presence of a larger enemy since the last time the R&S team had eyes on the OBJ. As the R&S team occupies its vantage point the R&S TL faces towards the OBJ, his security man faces away from the OBJ with their feet interlocked to utilize the tap code and provide 360-degree security. When the R&S TL has determined that he has collected all the PIR he has the security man face towards the OBJ, and while maintaining noise and light discipline confirms what the TL has gathered, then moves to the next vantage point.
Both R&S teams continue to conduct their recon of the OBJ until one of four things happen:
Once an R&S team runs out of time, gains all the PIR, or reaches the LOA, they return to the RP. I will brief their actions if they get compromised at the end of this period of instruction.
After both R&S teams have returned to the RP, the R&S teams conduct SLLS. When SLLS is complete, the R&S teams compare PIR. If there are major discrepancies in the PIR and the SL has time remaining to conduct the recon of the OBJ, they flip-flop sides. One example of a major discrepancy is the lead TL sees three (3) trucks and the SL sees none. To save time in moving into vantage points, the R&S TLs change security men when they move to recon the opposite sides of the OBJ. The reason they do this is that the security man has already been to the vantage points on that side of the OBJ and can lead the R&S TL to each vantage point. This security man already knows the route to those vantage points.
Once the recon of the OBJ is complete and the SL is ready to withdraw from the OBJ, he must first extract the S&O team from their position. The SL has two ways to do this. He can call them on his MBITR and tell them to withdraw back to the RP. The other method is the SL and the lead TL move to the S&O team’s position and motion to the trail team grenadier to withdraw. The trail team grenadier then taps the lead team automatic rifleman three times and the team secures all of their equipment and moves to the SL’s location. Once all personnel are at the RP, the element conducts SLLS. Once SLLS is complete, the SL confirms the PIR that the lead team automatic rifleman gathered from the S&O position. If there is any PIR from the S/O team that the SL wants to confirm and there is time remaining, then the SL and the lead team automatic rifleman move back to the OBJ so the SL can get eyes on that PIR. Then, the two soldiers return to the RP.
Once the SL confirms all the PIR, he gets 100% accountability of men, weapons and equipment. After verifying accountability, the SL calls the trail TL via FM and tells him the recon element is returning to the ORP. This is the far recognition signal. The recon element moves to the ORP in the same FOOM that the element used when moving to the RP. Prior to reaching the ORP, the lead TL stops and exchanges the near recognition signal with the trail TL.
When the trail TL receives the call that the recon element is returning to the ORP, he moves around the ORP perimeter and transitions the men into the short halt posture. Additionally, the trail TL tells the men in the ORP that the recon element is returning. After the trail TL ensures everyone is in the short halt posture, he moves to the side of the perimeter where the recon element departed. The trail TL prepares to exchange the near recognition signal and count the element back into the ORP.
When the recon element moves into the ORP, all personnel return to their original positions and assume the short halt posture. Once the whole squad is in the ORP, the squad conducts SLLS. The squad conducts SLLS to ensure no enemy tracked the recon element from the OBJ. Once SLLS is complete, the SL decides if the ORP is secure enough to disseminate information. If not, the squad needs to move to a more secure site to disseminate information. If the SL determines that the ORP is secure enough to disseminate info, then the recon element disseminates info in the ORP.
If the SL determines that the squad needs to move, the SL gets 100% accountability of Men, Weapons, and Equipment. Then, the squad moves a minimum of 1,000 meters or a major terrain feature away from the OBJ. This depends on METT-T/C. Once the squad moves a major terrain feature or 1,000 meters away, the SL gives the lead TL the signal/command to halt.
The squad halts as previously described. When all movement ceases, the squad conducts SLLS.
When SLLS is complete, the SL issues tasks, conditions, and standards to the TLs to set the perimeter. The SL gives instructions on strong-pointing the positions and transitioning the men into the long halt posture. The SL emplaces the MG team while the TLs emplace their men. Once this is complete, the SL spot checks to ensure his standards are met.
Once the men are in the long halt posture, the trail TL ensures the squad maintains security. The lead TL, the lead team automatic rifleman, the RTO, and the SL begin to consolidate the PIR and prepare the SALUTE report for higher.
The RTO consolidates the PIR using carbon paper so he can make three additional copies of the consolidated PIR. On one side of the paper the RTO consolidates the PIR into a SALUTE format. The RTO makes a military sketch on the other side. If the SL has any doubts as to what PIR the squad has gathered, or the SL is not satisfied, he may pull the security personnel from R&S 1, 2 or the S&O into the center to help prepare the SALUTE report. When the SALUTE report and military sketch has been completed, the SL gives the lead TL T, C, and S on how he wants him to disseminate the PIR to his men. TL’s when you disseminate the PIR go to each man and during periods of GV show them the SALUTE format and military sketch, as well as brief them. Also ensure that the men know that a paper copy of the PIR is water-proofed in the left breast pocket of the ATL, BTL, the SL, and RTO’s ACU top.
The lead TL starts briefing his personnel at the 9 o’clock position and moves in a clockwise manner through the 12 o’clock to the 3 o’clock position. The trail TL is in the center and the SL issues him the same T, C, and S for dissemination of info that he gave the lead TL with the exception that the trail team leader will begin disseminating at the 3 o’clock to the 6 o’clock to the 9 o’clock.
Before the SL sends the TLs out to disseminate the information to the squad, The SL gets a brief back and issues a time hack. When the TLs are done disseminating the PIR and return to the center of the perimeter, The SL goes and spot checks the teams and ensures everyone knows the PIR. If the SL is not satisfied, he will reissue T, C and S and the TLs re-disseminate the PIR. The TLs do this until the SL’s T, C, and S are met or until the SL has the RTO make 12 individual copies of the PIR for each person in the squad. When the SL is satisfied that everyone knows the PIR, he has the RTO call in the OPSKED to higher for mission complete.
The SL determines to conduct a squad attack or break contact if at any time during the operation the squad makes contact or is compromised while the entire squad is together.
If any element is separated from the squad, such as during the recon of the ORP or while conducting the Recon of the OBJ, the element reacts to contact in accordance with the 5-point contingency plan the SL issues.
If the enemy compromises an R&S team during the recon of the OBJ, the team in contact immediately returns a high volume of fire, attempts to suppress the enemy, and bounds back and away from the OBJ to the RP. Keep in mind that the enemy may conduct a recon by fire. This means the enemy may hear something in the wood line and shoot at it to see if it is us. Enemies may also test fire their weapons. A team knows the enemy has compromised the team if the team takes effective fire. In other words, the team has rounds impacting around it.
The R&S team not in contact will bound back and away from the OBJ back to the RP, without firing a shot.
The S&O team when it knows the enemy compromises an R&S team because there will be fire from the OBJ into the wood line and from the wood line back onto the OBJ. When the S&O confirms that an R&S team is in contact, the S&O team engages the targets by the priority the SL designated during the S&O emplacement. The S/O team continues to fire onto the OBJ until the lead team automatic rifleman expends one drum of SAW ammo onto the OBJ at a rapid rate of fire. Once the lead team automatic rifleman expends the drum, the S/O team polices up their equipment and moves back to the RP. At the RP, all elements wait 5 minutes to link up with the other recon elements. Once there is 100% accountability of men, weapons, and equipment or 5 minutes pass, the recon element picks up their rucksacks and moves back to the ORP. Once at the ORP, the squad ensures 100% accountability of men, weapons, and equipment. Then, the squad moves 1,000 meters or a major terrain feature away and calls higher for further guidance.
NOTE ON LIMITED VISIBILITY
If any portion of your recon takes place during limited visibility, refer to the training you received in the Formation and Order of Movement period of instruction. In particular, take note of moving in a modified wedge, halting, conducting SLLS, and pinpointing. (More on FOOM here)
This was a summary of how you will be expected to conduct area reconnaissance at Ranger and Sapper School.
You can continue learning by reading about Squad Ambush.
Squad Ambush can be found here. ]]>A link-up is a meeting of friendly ground forces. The link-up operation requires control, detailed planning, execution, and stealth. Link-up procedures start as the unit moves to the link-up point. The standard for a link-up is that all friendly ground forces involved in the link-up successfully complete the link-up operation while sustaining no friendly casualties due to fratricide.
Before we dive into the details, let me familiarize you with the “20 Board.” The north-seeking arrow is at the top right hand corner of the board. At the bottom center, there is the Security Halt, which has an associated grid location and terrain feature. On the left hand side of the board, there are the key terms, recon/contact team FOOM, and FM distribution. The link-up point is depicted in the top center of the board at a given grid location and terrain feature. Notice that “Ledo Access Road” is a named high-speed avenue of approach located in the vicinity of the link-up point. Finally, on the right hand side of the board you see administrative notes that will help you follow along.
Notice that the board is color-coded but not personalized. Color coded refers to the board displaying the lead team in BLUE, the HQ element in YELLOW, and the trail team in GREEN. While at Ranger School and Sapper Leader Course, you will color-code and personalize all of your boards. For example, if I were the Squad Leader (SL), there would be a line next to the SL circle with my name on it.
Key Terms
During this post, I will use the terms “moving element” and “stationary element”. The moving element is the element that moves to the link-up point. The stationary element is the element that waits at the link-up point. The stationary element establishes the link-up point, marks it, and has a security team observe it from a covered and concealed position. In addition to knowing the terms moving element and stationary element, you must also know the definitions of a link-up point, a link-up rally point, and a link-up site.
As previously stated, the stationary element establishes the link-up point. The stationary element begins this process by conducting a security halt prior to reaching the LURP. The distance from the security halt to the LURP is 200-400 meters in GV and 100-200 meters in LV. The stationary element then conducts a recon, clears, and occupies the LURP. The distance from the LURP to the actual link-up point is 200-400 meters during GV or 100-200 meters in LV. The stationary element ensures the LURP is large enough for the entire moving element to occupy. Once the stationary element occupies the LURP, they send a security/contact team forward. This team performs actions following the acronym RIO.
The security/contact team must carry a radio in order to maintain communication with the moving elements. Maintaining communication assists in conducting the link-up operation and reduces the chance of fratricide. While at Ranger/Sapper School your squads are the moving elements. The Cadre acts as the stationary element. All your link-up boards will be similar to this one above, which depicts the actions of a moving element.
The link-up begins at the security halt prior to the link-up point and ends with the call to higher with the OPSKED for link-up/truck link-up.
The distance between the security halt and the actual link-up point is 200-400 meters in GV or 100-200 meters in LV.
After halting, the squad conducts SLLS and pinpoints their location.
If the SL determines that the squad is in the correct location for the security halt, he has his TLs strong point their men and put them in the long halt posture. The SL emplaces the MG while the TLs emplace their men. As the TLs position their men in the long halt posture, they assign the men sectors of fire. During this time, the TLs also disseminate the following information, at a minimum:
The SL then prepares the men going on the recon of the link-up point. The SL, lead TL, lead team automatic rifleman, and RTO go on this recon. The SL gives tasks, conditions, and standards to the lead TL to do a quick prep of MWE (men, weapons, and equipment). This includes inspecting camouflage, ensuring weapons are locked and loaded with a fresh drum or magazine, and inspecting NODS if there is LV. All personnel on the recon take their rucksacks in case any element must break contact and E&E the enemy. Once the lead TL preps the men, the SL spot checks them. The lead TL inspects the SL.
As the personnel going on the recon prepare themselves, the SL has his RTO switch to the link-up frequency and establish commo with the stationary element. By this time, the stationary element has reconned and marked the link-up point, and is performing over watch of that area. The SL has the RTO confirm the following information, using the acronym RCC:
If the number combination is 5, the moving element gives 2 flashes, and the stationary responds with 3. This totals 5 IR flashes.
Prior to ending your transmission, you must let the stationary element know which direction you are approaching the link-up point from. Keep in mind that this communication should confirm the link-up point location, markings, and signals given in Higher’s order (PLT OPORD) and/or received during coordinations.
At this time, the SL issues two 5-point contingency plans. The SL gives one to the trail TL to cover the period of the recon of the link-up point. The SL gives the second 5-point to the lead TL and lead team automatic rifleman for the period when the SL leaves them at the link-up point and returns to the security halt to move the remainder of the squad.
The SL issues the 5-point plan using the acronym GOTWA. Going (where I am going), Others (others I am taking with me), Time (time I will be gone), What (what to do if I don’t return), Action (actions to be taken upon enemy contact both you and me).
The 5-point to the trail TL should sound similar to this:
∙ Going: I am going to recon the link-up point
∙ Others: I am taking Ranger/Sapper (lead TL), Ranger/Sapper (lead team automatic rifleman) and Ranger/Sapper (RTO).
∙ Time: I will be gone for one hour. It is currently 2200 hrs. I will be back by 2300.
∙ What: If I am not back in one hour which is 2300, try to contact me by FM. If you can’t reach me, attempt to conduct the link-up with the stationary element at the link-up point.
∙ Actions: If I make contact, we will break contact and attempt to link-up with you here at the security halt. If we cannot or are tracked, I will link-up with you at the last En route Rally Point (ERP). You should be able to hear the contact. I want you to remain in place and be prepared to assist us in breaking contact. If you make contact, defend in place until you feel as if you are about to be overrun. If this is the case, break contact to the last ERP and conduct rally point procedures (establish security, reestablish a chain of command, attempt to contact me via FM, if you cannot contact me attempt to make contact with the stationary element at the link-up point and inform them of the situation, wait 45 minutes or until the remainder of the patrol has linked up then continue mission). I will be able to hear the contact and work my way back to you and assist you in executing the battle drill in place.
The trail TL back briefs the SL. The SL also issues additional instructions to the trail TL to disseminate the 5-point, readjust the perimeter as needed, monitor the radio, and ensure the element maintains security.
The SL then issues a 5-point contingency plan to the lead TL and the lead team automatic rifleman. Their 5- point sounds something like this:
∙ Going: I am going back to the security halt to pick up the rest of the personnel from the squad.
∙ Others: I am taking Ranger/Sapper (RTO).
∙ Time: I will be gone for one hour. It is currently 2230. I will be back by 2330.
∙ What: If I am not back in 1 hour which is 2330, try to contact me via FM. If you can’t contact me, then take further guidance from the friendly element at the Link-up point.
∙ Actions: Regardless of who makes contact, both teams will break contact and not become decisively engaged. You two will take further guidance from the guide at the link-up point. The rest of the squad and I will attempt to reach the link-up point. If we cannot, we will establish a different link-up point via FM.
The SL then receives a back brief from the lead TL. The SL also issues additional instructions to the lead TL that if he and his automatic rifleman are the only two surviving members of the squad, they must get the PIR to higher.
After the SL issues the 5-points and spot checks the men going on the recon, he briefs the recon/contact team on:
After the SL briefs his men and the squad has permission to move up to the link-up point, the recon/contact team moves to the 12 o'clock to be counted out. Before departing, the SL will ensure that the lead TL and lead team automatic rifleman have a copy of the PIR on their person. Once he confirms both men are carrying a copy of the PIR, he then tells the RTO to call the stationary element and tell them that they are moving towards the link-up point. This is the far recognition signal. When the trail TL is ready to count out the recon/contact team, the SL signals the lead TL to move out.
In hours of GV, the recon/contact team uses the diamond formation. In hours of LV, the recon/contact team moves in the modified wedge. At this time, the trail TL’s 5-point contingency plan is in effect. Halfway to the link-up point the recon/contact team stops and conducts SLLS. This is 100 meters during LV and 200 meters during GV.
During periods of GV, the recon/contact team disperses and uses hand and arm signals to initiate and terminate SLLS. During hours of LV, the recon/contact team is "back to back" and they utilize the "Squeeze" technique. When SLLS is complete, they use the same "Squeeze" technique to terminate SLLS. SLLS lasts for 3-5 minutes or for as long as the SL deems necessary.
The recon/contact team continues to move forward, halting approximately every 50-100 meters to conduct SLLS until they make visual contact with the link-up point.
Once the recon/contact team makes visual contact with the link-up point, they halt in a covered and concealed location that provides observation on the link-up point. Once in position, the lead TL and SL verify their location on the map to ensure that they are at the correct location. Once they have verified they are at their link-up point, the SL has the RTO call the stationary element to alert them that they have a visual on the link-up point. The recon/contact team also tells the stationary element their distance and direction from the link-up point, such as 50 meters to the south. The recon/contact team exchanges near recognition signals with the stationary element. When the stationary element receives the cue from the recon/contact team, they respond with the near recognition signal.
The recon/contact team initiates the near recognition signal and the stationary element responds. The reason that the recon/contact team initiates the near recognition signal is that the stationary element should not signal everything that moves around the link-up point. If they did, it would only be a matter of time before the stationary element, which is in a static position, gives their location away to enemy personnel.
After the near recognition signal has been exchanged, the SL has the lead TL and lead automatic rifleman assume the long halt posture and provide over watch for the SL and RTO as they move forward to get face-to-face with the security team from the stationary element. The SL and RTO then move forward to get face-to-face with the personnel at the link-up point, ensuring that they don’t mask the fires of their overwatch position.
As the SL and RTO move forward to get face-to-face with the security team, they need to plan on being halted and exchanging the challenge and password or the number combination. Be prepared to answer with both. Once the SL links up with the security team, he coordinates the following:
The SL then calls up the remainder of the recon/contact team on overwatch and links up with the security team at the link-up point. The SL asks the personnel from the security team to take charge of the lead TL and lead automatic rifleman and get them back to a secure area in the event that enemy contact is made. The SL then tells the lead TL that his five point contingency plan is in effect.
The SL and RTO move back to the security halt. Before leaving the link-up point, the SL calls back to the trail TL via FM and tells him to get the rest of the squad into the short halt posture and prepare them to move in the proper order of movement. This is the far recognition signal.
Once the trail TL gets the far recognition signal, he immediately moves to the side of the perimeter that the recon/contact team departed from and begins alerting the entire perimeter that the SL and RTO are on their way back. In addition, he places the men into the short halt posture and prepares them to move. The TL ensures the element maintains 50% security. Once the perimeter is alerted, the trail TL remains on the side the SL /RTO departed from and prepares to exchange the near recognition signal and count them in.
The SL and RTO move to the center of the perimeter and to conduct SLLS. Once SLLS is complete, the SL disseminates any necessary information to the trail TL and the lead rifleman, who is now in charge of the remainder of the lead team. This includes the route back to the link-up point, site markings, etc. The SL allows the lead rifleman and trail TL time to disseminate the information to their men.
The OOM to the link-up point is the remainder of the lead team, followed by HQ, followed by the trail team. When the squad is prepared to move to the link-up point, the SL calls the lead TL and tells him that they are moving forward. This is the far recognition signal. The SL tells the RTO to call the security element and tell them the squad is moving forward. This is also a far recognition signal.
During periods of LV, the trail TL establishes a chokepoint at the front of the movement formation and conducts a physical headcount as the squad moves out.
When the lead rifleman has visual contact with either the link-up point or the lead TL the lead rifleman halts the patrol. The SL moves to the front of the formation and exchanges the near recognition signals.
Once the entire squad links up with the stationary element, they are guided to a location to establish a security perimeter at the link-up rally point (LURP) or load onto trucks. In either case, the squad continues to establish and maintain 360-degree security until they return to higher’s security perimeter.
The SL has the RTO call in the OPSKED for link-up complete or at truck link-up site, whichever is applicable.
These are the proper actions on enemy contact.
This was a summary of how you will be expected to conduct a link-up at Ranger and Sapper School.
You can continue learning by reading about Area Reconnaissance.
Area Reconnaissance can be found here.
]]>A Line Danger Area (LDA) is a danger area that has a long axis where the enemy can concentrate their fires on your unit as you cross it. Examples of LDAs are roads, trails, rivers, or any type of natural or man-made feature where your unit may be observed crossing. Think of a LDA as a fatal funnel.
Let me introduce you to the “20 Board” above. On the right hand side of my board, there are administrative notes to help you follow along. In the center, there is a 12-man Infantry squad crossing a LDA. Since the squad planned to cross at this point, there is a given grid location and terrain feature for the crossing. At the lower portion of the board there is the Near Side Rally Point (NSRP) for the tentatively planned crossing point with a corresponding Grid Location (GL) and Terrain Feature (TF). At the top center portion of the board, you will see the Far Side Rally Point (FSRP). Again, the FSRP has a GL and TF.
If the squad comes upon an unplanned/ unknown LDA, the Rally Points can simply be “floating” Rally Points. This means that the far side rally point is 300 meters from the LDA on the mission azimuth. The near side rally point is 300 meters from the LDA on a back azimuth.
On the left side of the board, arrows indicate the most probable direction of enemy attack as this squad crosses the LDA.
Notice that the board is color-coded but not personalized. Color coded refers to the board displaying the lead team in BLUE, the HQ element in YELLOW, and the trail team in GREEN. While at Ranger School and Sapper Leader Course, you will color-code and personalize all of your boards. For example, if I were the Squad Leader (SL), there would be a line next to the SL circle with my name on it. Note that if there is a LDA on your route, you will need to name the danger area on your boards. You can either use the name of the road from the map or if it has no name label it “no name road” or “no name trail” on your boards.
1. Route Planning Considerations
While planning routes and traveling during your mission, you must avoid LDA as much as possible. Crossing a LDA greatly increases the chances of observation and/or engagement by enemy forces. That being said, bypassing all LDAs during your missions is almost impossible. At some point, you will have to cross a LDA. You should plan and coordinate for indirect fires to support your crossing of all known LDAs.
When crossing a LDA, your element must maintain security. Failure to maintain security while crossing a LDA could cost your soldiers their lives. The importance of conducting a detailed map reconnaissance of your routes and taking the time to fully think through how your element will negotiate any LDA that you come across during movement cannot be overstated.
With this in mind, let’s discuss how to negotiate LDAs.
2. KNOWN VERSUS UNKNOWN
You want to avoid Danger Areas while patrolling. LDAs can fall into two categories: known and unknown. A known LDA is one that is depicted on the map. Your element identifies a known LDA during planning and determines the element has to cross it either going to or coming from the OBJ. An unknown LDA is not depicted on the map or is one that the tactical situation demands crossing. With known LDAs, you need to decide on a predetermined near and far side rally point and a predetermined crossing point. These rally points have a 6-digit grid, terrain feature, and a direction and distance from the crossing point. The leaders must disseminate all of this information to everyone going on that patrol. These locations are decided upon during your route planning. For unknown LDAs your RP can be floating rally points. For example, your NSRP will be 300 meters on a back azimuth from the crossing point. The FSRP will be 300 M on azimuth from the crossing point.
3. Rally Point Characteristics
When determining the near and far side rally points, you will look for the five characteristics of a good rally point. An easy way to remember these characteristics is to remember “Easy, Away, Away, Provides, Provides”. Rally points are:
4. Crossing Points
When looking for a crossing point, look for a location that provides the least chance of being detected by the enemy. For a known LDA, the crossing point has a 6-digit grid and a terrain feature. For an unknown LDA your crossing point must be a suitable site close to where your direction of travel crosses the LDA.
Good places to cross are at:
Poor places to cross are at:
The ideal crossing point would be in the low ground, at the bend of the LDA, with cover and concealment close to the edge of the LDA on the near and far side.
There are two types of LDAs; they are either Natural or Man-made.
5. Man-made LDA
Examples of man-made LDAs are:
A key thing to remember is that if man made it, then men will use it.
6. Natural LDA
Examples of Natural LDAs are:
7. Active/Inactive
LDAs can be characterized as either Active or Inactive. When conducting a recon of an LDA before crossing it you want to determine if it is active or inactive. An active LDA will have signs of recent use, things such as:
Remember that a paved road will probably not show signs of recent activity.
An inactive LDA may not warrant emplacing security as your element crosses, however, elements will still maintain security as they cross the inactive LDA.
8. Actions at an LDA
This is an example of how to cross a LDA:
9. Halt
Once the lead TL sees a potential LDA, he gives the hand and arm signal during good visibility (GV) or command for halt during limited visibility (LV) and danger area (examples below), the squad halts, and establishes a 360-degree perimeter in the Short Halt Posture.
-"Halt" Hand and Arm Signal -"Danger Area" Hand and Arm Signal
10. 360 degree security
The SL does a quick visual check to ensure that 360-degree security is established then moves his way up to the lead TL's position.
The TL tells the SL why he has halted, in this case there is a potential LDA to the front of the squad.
11. SLLS/Pinpoint
The SL has the squad conduct SLLS to check for any enemy activity in and around the area, particularly for any foot or vehicle traffic on the LDA.
The SL and TLs then pinpoint their current location on the map. Soldiers must always remain aware of their current location on the map. Taking the time to pinpoint the current location on the map prevents the patrol from drifting off the planned route and running into an unplanned LDA. If the patrol is relatively close to the OBJ and plan to conduct an ambush, then they will want to take the time to ensure they are not about to cross the OBJ.
Knowing the location and terrain, allows the patrol to make a sound tactical decision on how to negotiate a LDA.
12. RECON LDA
The lead TL and SL move forward using available cover and concealment, to recon the potential LDA. The SL and lead TL must not expose their movement to the LDA; they must utilize available cover and concealment to avoid detection. After they get eyes on and determine that it is in fact a LDA the SL needs to determine how the squad is going to cross it.
13. Assess LDA
When the SL and lead TL are conducting the recon of the LDA the SL needs to determine a couple things to assist him in deciding on the threat the LDA poses to his Squad. They are:
14. ID Crossing Point and Security Locations
Additionally, the SL needs to determine the following while he and the lead TL are conducting a recon of the LDA:
After the SL completes his recon of the LDA, he and the lead TL return to the squad’s security halt. At the security halt, the SL briefs the lead TL and the trail TL on how the squad will cross the LDA. The SL tells the trail TL to bring his team forward. While the trail TL moves his men, the SL issues tasks, conditions and standards to the lead TL for clearing the far side of the LDA. It sounds something like this.
"On my signal, your team crosses and clears the far side. Move far enough in to allow the entire squad to cross the LDA and not be seen from the road. This is normally a 50m by 50m area. Look for signs of enemy activity and ensure that the squad can continue movement through the terrain. If it is not suitable, move your team back to the near side. If it is suitable, continue clearing and call me via FM. If the radio does not work, I want you to halt your element and send your last man back to signal when it is clear using either a thumbs up during GV or during LV use either IR flash or compass vertical answered by compass horizontal. When you have finished briefing your men, return to the apex of your fire team so that I know that you are ready to cross”. Once the Lead TL understands the SL’s instructions, he moves out to brief his team.
After the SL briefs the lead TL, he links up with the trail TL. By this time, the trail TL should have brought his team forward to the SL’s location. Also, at this time the personnel in the HQ element pull rear security for the squad.
16. EMPLACE FLANK SECURITY
To emplace the left and right flank security, the SL has several options. He can:
The SL decides which option he will choose based on the competency of the Trail Team Leader and the amount of trust the SL has in them. The SL also considers whether it is good or limited visibility, the terrain, the vegetation, and how much time they have before they need to be at their OBJ.
17. Point out crossing point
It is important that the SL points out the crossing point to the personnel on the flank security elements. The flank security teams MUST be able to see the crossing point from their security position.
18. Trail team with 4/5 personnel
If the trail team only has four personnel, the trail TL is on flank security on the side that the SL determines to be the most probable direction of enemy travel. Since on my board enemy contact is higher from the left side, the trail TL would be on left flank security.
If the trail team has five personnel or more, the trail TL can find cover and concealment on the near side of the LDA at the crossing point to assist in the movement of the squad across the LDA.
19. Most casualty producing weapons point out
The left and right flank security elements only consist of two personnel. The soldier with the most casualty producing weapon pulls security facing away from the crossing point. Also, the team’s most casualty producing weapon, normally the M249 SAW, is on flank security on the side that the SL determines as the most probable direction of enemy travel. Again, using the example on the 20 board, the SL has determined the enemy’s most likely avenue of approach is from the left side of the crossing point. Therefore, the M249 SAW would be placed on the left flank security position facing away from the crossing point.
After the M249 SAW, a team’s next most casualty producing weapon is the M203. This weapon should be on the opposite flank security as the M249. In the example on my board, the M203 would be placed on the right flank security position, facing away from the crossing point.
20. Emplace security in SHP
The personnel at the left and right flank security positions are in the Short Halt Posture. The soldier with the most casualty producing weapon faces away from the crossing point and the other soldier at the security position faces back towards the crossing point. During periods of LV the soldier facing the crossing point takes his compass out, opens it up and places it at chest level with the face of the compass exposed to the crossing point so that the personnel at the crossing point can see the green glow of the compass.
Both soldiers in the security positions have their feet touching so they can use the tap code as a non-verbal means to alert one another of the enemy’s approach.
The following are the signals for the tap code. A soldier gives one tap to his buddy if everything is okay. If everything is okay with the other soldier, he responds with one tap. A soldier gives two taps if he sees or hears something. Three taps means that a soldier sees or hears the enemy and the element needs to take action. In this case, the flank security element needs to get into the prone position IMMEDIATELY.
21. SQUAD CROSSES THE LDA
Once the SL approves the position of the flank security elements, he gives the lead TL the hand and arm signal (GV) or command (LV) to move.
After receiving the signal to move, the lead TL moves his team forward to the last covered and concealed position before the LDA. There, the lead TL halts and looks to his left and right to ensure that he can see the men on the left and right flank security in the short halt posture. During LV he can see the green glow from the compasses that the men facing the crossing point have at chest level. If the lead TL cannot see the left and right flank security personnel, or he sees that they are in the prone, he does not cross the LDA.
Again, if a security element sees or hears possible enemy traffic on the LDA they get into the prone position to signal the personnel at the crossing point that it is not safe to cross.
Once the lead TL sees that the flank security personnel are in the short halt posture, signifying that it is safe to cross, he moves his team across the LDA. For this movement, the team moves quickly without running and maintains a wedge formation to clear the far side.
22. Lead team clears far side
The lead team clears the far side of the LDA in accordance with the SL’s tasks, conditions and standards. Again, the cleared area should be at least large enough for the entire squad to occupy, which is generally about 50 meters by 50 meters. If the far side is clear, the lead TL informs the SL that the far side is clear using radio or the prearranged signal.
If the far side is not clear, the lead TL moves his entire team back across the LDA and informs the SL of the situation.
23. HQ follows, trail team breaks down security and follows
Meanwhile, the SL moves the HQ element up to the crossing point and awaits the “all clear” signal from the lead team. Once the SL gets the signal that the far side is clear, he moves the HQ element across the LDA. Again, the element moves in a team wedge formation and links up with the lead team.
The trail TL monitors the flow of the Squad across the LDA. Once the SL has the HQ element on the far side, he gives the trail TL the signal to cross. The SL can send the signal via FM, hand and arm signal, or any prearranged signal the SL deems necessary. Nine times out of ten, the trail TL can visually recognize when the HQ element is on the far side.
When the trail TL receives the signal to move across, he has to recover his flank security teams. He can do this by several means. During GV, he can simply use H&A signals to move his men across. During LV or when moving through restrictive terrain, the trail TL may have to collapse his flank security teams back into the crossing point in order to maintain control.
Either way, the trail TL needs to ensure that his security teams maintain security as they cross the LDA.
During periods of GV, when the security teams get the signal to cross, each security team crosses as a buddy team and moves straight across the LDA. The man facing away from the crossing point stays in position and pulls security as the other man crosses the LDA. Once the first man reaches the far side, he takes up a security position and pulls security facing away from the crossing point. After this Ranger on the far side is in a security position, his buddy crosses the LDA. Once all members of the security teams are across the LDA, the trail team returns to the fire team wedge formation.
During periods of LV, the security teams collapse into the crossing point from their flank positions. The security team members still pull security and cross by buddy team in the same manner as described.
Once the trail TL has accountability of his team on the far side he lets the SL know his team is across the LDA.
After the entire squad crosses the LDA, they get back into their FOOM (Formations and Order of Movement) and continue with the mission. (Learn about FOOM here)
24. ACTIONS ON ENEMY CONTACT
As always, when contact is made with the enemy, the key to success is to maintain control of your element. Contact can be made anywhere around a LDA.
If contact is made while crossing a LDA and the SL is in control of his Squad, he determines to either conduct a Squad Attack (Learn about Squad Attack here) or Break Contact (Learn about Break Contact here).
If the squad is in contact and the SL loses control of his squad, then the SL, if possible, calls out which RP best facilitates the squad's survival and mission completion. An example situation where the SL may lose control is contact with an overwhelming enemy force. Once the SL calls out the RP, every squad member echoes the command. The squad members then break contact by buddy teams and E&E to the designated RP. Once at the RP, the elements conduct rally point procedures. While soldiers break contact and move towards the RP, they must ensure that they use all available cover and concealment and get away from the LDA as quickly as possible.
The worst case scenario is if the squad makes contact while crossing the LDA by an overwhelming force and the LDA cuts the squad in two. The example you see on my board shows that the lead team is on the far side of the LDA and the HQ element and the trail team are on the near side. A couple of T-72s come down the road and begin engaging the squad.
Of course, all elements break contact away from the LDA and move to the rally point on their side of the road. The lead team moves to the FSRP. The HQ element and trail team moved to the NSRP. Both elements conduct rally point procedures at their respective rally points and attempt to establish communications with each other.
If communications can be established, the SL gives instructions to the personnel at the other rally point and the squad conducts a link up wherever the SL designates.
If the personnel at the FSRP and the NSRP are unable to establish communications with each other, then as a general rule of thumb, the RP that the SL is at becomes the squad’s active RP. Therefore, the element that is not at the squad’s active RP must find another location to cross the LDA and link up with the remainder of the squad at the squad’s active RP. It is easier for the smaller element to E&E (Escape and Evade) across the LDA without being compromised.
This was a summary of how you will be expected to cross linear danger areas at Ranger and Sapper School.
You can continue learning by reading about Conduct a Link-up.
Conduct a Link-up can be found here.]]>Let me introduce you to the “20 Board”. In the center of the board, there is a graphic representation of an open area. The left portion of the board contains administrative notes that will help you follow along. In this depiction the squad, due to time constraints, will utilize the bounding overwatch technique to move through the danger area. TIME is the factor that determines whether an open area is small or large and dictates how to negotiate an open danger area. If you have time to bypass the open danger area, it is a small open area, and you will bypass it. (Crossing a Small Open Danger Area can be found here) If you do not have time to bypass an open danger area and have to cross through it, then it is a large open area, and you will utilize the bounding overwatch technique. In the center portion of the board there are examples of overwatch positions in the open danger area. The squad takes up these positions as it maneuvers through the open danger area.
At the bottom center portion of the board, there is a Near Side Rally Point (NSRP), which is 300 meters on a back azimuth from the open area. At the top center point of the board, there is a Far Side Rally Point (FSRP) that is 300 meters on mission azimuth from the open area. In this scenario, the squad is traveling to the North or from the bottom of the board to the top.
OPEN DANGER AREAS
You should never plan your route to go through an open danger area. Therefore, all open danger areas that you come across during movement are considered unknown. Since the danger area is unknown, the rally points are not planned and are considered "floating" rally points. The near side rally point is 300 meters on a back azimuth and the far side rally point is 300 meters on mission azimuth for small open danger areas. Keep in mind that the floating rally points are 300 meters from where contact is made with the enemy.
You must avoid all open danger areas. Moving your element through an open danger area greatly increases the chances of making contact with the enemy by direct or indirect fire. The importance of conducting a detailed map reconnaissance of your routes cannot be overstated.
Additionally, TIME is the determining factor when deciding if an open danger area is small or large. The time you have available determines how you will negotiate the open danger area.
If you HAVE TIME to bypass the open danger area, it is a small open danger area and you bypass it. If you DO NOT HAVE TIME to bypass it and must cross the open danger area, it is considered a large open danger area.
For example, let's say that you are patrolling in a wooded area and you come across an open area the size of Fryar Drop Zone. For those of you who are not airborne qualified, Fryar Drop Zone is an open area several kilometers long and wide.
Now if you have the TIME to bypass Fryar Drop Zone, you treat it as a small open danger area. For example, if you have a whole day to get to the far side, then you treat it as a small open danger area and bypass it using either the contour or detour bypass methods.
However, if you only have 30 minutes to get to the far side of Fryar Drop Zone, you treat it as a large open danger area and use the bounding overwatch movement technique to move across it.
ACTIONS AT OPEN DANGER AREAS
Once the lead Team Leader (TL) sees a potential danger area, he gives the hand and arm signal for halt and danger area. To signal “halt,” raise hand to head level, fingers extended and joined. (See example below) To signal “danger area,” draw the right hand, palm down, across the neck in a throat-cutting motion from left to right. (See example below) Next the squad halts, and establishes a 360-degree perimeter in the Short Halt Posture.
-"Halt" Hand and Arm Signal -"Danger Area" Hand and Arm Signal
The SL does a quick visual check to ensure that security is established then moves his way up to the lead TL’s position.
The lead TL tells the SL why he has halted, for example when there is an open area in front of the squad.
The SL has the squad conduct SLLS to check for any enemy activity in and around the area because an enemy force might be in the area.
The SL and TLs then pinpoint their current location on the map. If the SL understands where the squad is on the map and terrain, he improves his chances of making a sound tactical decision on how to negotiate the danger area. This also helps the SL develop a course of action in the event the squad makes contact with the enemy. Additionally, pinpointing helps the SL identify if the squad drifted off the planned route and moved to an open area that the SL planned to avoid.
After pinpointing, the SL and lead TL move forward using cover and concealment to avoid detection during their recon of the potential open danger area. If it is an open danger area, the SL must conduct an assessment and develop a course of action.
The SL must consider:
LARGE OPEN DANGER AREAS
In this case, the SL determines that his squad does not have enough time to bypass the open area. Since they do not have enough time to bypass it, they must consider it a large open danger area and travel through it utilizing the bounding over watch technique.
LEADER CONSIDERATIONS
The SL must decide on the best possible route through the large open danger area. Some of the things the SL should consider are:
Once the SL determines the best possible route for the squad to travel through the open danger area and which method of bounds he wants the squad to use, he and the lead TL move back to the squad’s security halt. The SL briefs his TLs on the course of action he has decided and the TLs disseminate the information to their men.
SUCCESSIVE VERSUS ALTERNATING BOUNDS
There are two methods of bounding overwatch. These are alternating and successive bounds. Successive bounds are most preferred. This is because they are easier to control. However, this method of bounding is slower.
Successive bounds are nothing more than putting one team in overwatch and then bounding the other team forward. Once that team is in position and performing overwatch, the other team bounds out and halts online or abreast with the team in overwatch.
This method of bounding online with one another continues all the way across the open area. Generally, the same team bounds out first each time. Again, it is the easiest method of bounding to control.
Alternating bounds are harder to control. However, you gain more ground quicker. To use alternating bounds one team is placed in overwatch and the other team bounds out and sets up in an overwatch position. Once the bounding team is in position the team that was in overwatch then moves past the team in overwatch. When that team is set in an overwatch position, the team that was in overwatch now moves past the team in overwatch. It is nothing more than leapfrogging your elements across the open area.
For either successive or alternating bounds, there are two keys to success:
USING SUCCESSIVE BOUNDS
Since successive bounds are the most preferred method to use; therefore, I will talk you through crossing the large open danger area using successive bounds.
Once the SL determines where and how he wants to cross the large open danger area he positions a team in the wood line in an overwatch position. The example on the 20 board shows the lead team in the initial overwatch position. This team is preferably in the prone (situation dictates), prepared to engage the enemy and covers the movement of the trail team into the open area.
The SL positions the M240B gun team with the initial overwatch element. Keep in mind that the SL can keep the M240B with the initial overwatch element throughout the movement.
Once that team is in the overwatch position, the SL then gives a distance, direction and if available a prominent feature for the bounding team to move to. In this example, the initial maneuver element is the trail team. The trail team bounds out to the position the SL designates and sets up an overwatch position. As the team bounds out, they move in a team wedge and are prepared to make contact. Once this maneuver element establishes an overwatch position, the TL tells the SL his team is prepared to perform overwatch duties. The TL can communicate this by calling on FM, using hand and arm signals, or using any other predetermined signal.
The SL then gives a distance, direction and prominent feature to the TL from the original overwatch position. The squad on the 20 board is using the successive bounding method. When successive bounding, the maneuvering team moves to a position that is online (abreast) with the other team. In the example on the board, the lead team moves online with the trail team.
The SL continues to maneuver his teams through the open danger area in this manner until the squad reaches the wood line on the far side of the open area. Once the squad is in the wood line, they return to the FOOM (Formations and Order of Movement) and continue with the mission. (Learn about FOOM here)
Note: If you are moving through an open danger area and you come across a road in the middle of the open area, consider this a danger area within a danger area. You will continue to move in successive or alternating bounds.
ACTIONS ON ENEMY CONTACT
The most important element when in contact with the enemy is to maintain control. Contact can be made anywhere in or around the open danger area. If contact is made while crossing an open danger area, regardless of its size, the SL must maintain control of his squad. It is up to the SL to determine whether to conduct a Squad Attack (Learn about Squad Attack here) or Break Contact (Learn about Break Contact here).
If the squad is in contact and the SL loses control of his Squad, perhaps due to an overwhelming enemy force:
While breaking contact and moving towards the rally point, the squad members need to get out of the open danger area as soon as possible. If they are in the wood line, they need to ensure that they do not enter the open danger area while moving to the rally point.
This was a summary of how you will be expected to cross large open danger areas at Ranger and Sapper School.
You can continue learning by reading about Crossing a Linear Danger Area.
Crossing a Linear Danger Area can be found here.
]]>Let me introduce you to the “20 Board” above. In the center of the board, there is a graphic representation of an open area. The left portion of the board contains administrative notes that will help you follow along. To the left of the open area is an example of the contour method. This graphic is accompanied by administrative notes that pertain to the contour method. To the right of the open area, there is an example of the detour bypass method. This graphic also comes with administrative notes that pertain to the detour bypass method.
At the bottom center portion of my board, there is a Near Side Rally Point (NSRP), which is 300 meters on a back azimuth from the open area. At the top center point of the board, there is a Far Side Rally Point (FSRP) that is 300 meters on mission azimuth from the open area. In this scenario, the squad is traveling to the North or from the bottom of the board to the top.
OPEN DANGER AREAS
You should never plan your route to go through an open danger area. Therefore, all open danger areas that you come across during movement are considered unknown. Since the danger area is unknown, the rally points are not planned and are considered "floating" rally points. The near side rally point is 300 meters on a back azimuth and the far side rally point is 300 meters on mission azimuth for small open danger areas. Keep in mind that the floating rally points are 300 meters from where contact is made with the enemy.
You must avoid all open danger areas. Moving your element through an open danger area greatly increases the chances of making contact with the enemy by direct or indirect fire. The importance of conducting a detailed map reconnaissance of your routes cannot be overstated.
Additionally, TIME is the determining factor when deciding if an open danger area is small or large. The time you have available determines how you will negotiate the open danger area.
If you HAVE TIME to bypass the open danger area, it is a small open danger area and you bypass it. If you DO NOT HAVE TIME to bypass it and must cross the open danger area, it is considered a large open danger area.
For example, let's say that you are patrolling in a wooded area and you come across an open area the size of Fryar Drop Zone. For those of you who are not airborne qualified, Fryar Drop Zone is an open area several kilometers long and wide.
Now if you have the TIME to bypass Fryar Drop Zone, you treat it as a small open danger area. For example, if you have a whole day to get to the far side, then you treat it as a small open danger area and bypass it using either the contour or detour bypass methods.
However, if you only have 30 minutes to get to the far side of Fryar Drop Zone, you treat it as a large open danger area and use the bounding overwatch movement technique to move across it.
ACTIONS AT OPEN DANGER AREAS
Once the lead Team Leader (TL) sees a potential danger area, he gives the hand and arm signal for halt and danger area. To signal “halt,” raise hand to head level, fingers extended and joined. (See example below) To signal “danger area,” draw the right hand, palm down, across the neck in a throat-cutting motion from left to right. (See example below) Next the squad halts, and establishes a 360-degree perimeter in the Short Halt Posture.
The SL does a quick visual check to ensure that security is established then moves his way up to the lead TL’s position.
The lead TL tells the SL why he has halted, for example when there is an open area in front of the squad.
The SL has the squad conduct SLLS to check for any enemy activity in and around the area because an enemy force might be in the area.
The SL and TLs then pinpoint their current location on the map. If the SL understands where the squad is on the map and terrain, he improves his chances of making a sound tactical decision on how to negotiate the danger area. This also helps the SL develop a course of action in the event the squad makes contact with the enemy. Additionally, pinpointing helps the SL identify if the squad drifted off the planned route and moved to an open area that the SL planned to avoid.
After pinpointing, the SL and lead TL move forward using cover and concealment to avoid detection during their recon of the potential open danger area. If it is an open danger area, the SL must conduct an assessment and develop a course of action.
The SL must consider:
SMALL OPEN DANGER AREAS
In this case, the SL determines that his squad has enough time to bypass the open area. The SL must then decide on which method his squad will use to bypass it. Again, there are two methods for negotiating a small open danger area: the contour method and the detour-bypass method.
THE CONTOUR BYPASS METHOD
The contour bypass method is the most preferred method to use when bypassing an open danger area because it gives the squad flexibility in the route around the open danger area. When conducting the recon, the SL has to confirm three things in order to utilize the contour method:
The SL confirms this information with the lead TL and moves back to the squad's security halt. After returning to the security halt, the SL briefs the TLs on the situation.
Both TLs quickly disseminate the information to their teams and move to the apex of their formations. The TLs must confirm with the pace men the squad's mission pace at this point. Also, the TLs must ensure that the pace men do not add to the mission pace count as the squad moves around the open area. The SL takes a quick visual accountability of the squad and signals the lead TL to move out.
The lead TL chooses a route that keeps everyone in the squad a minimum of 25 meters from the open danger area and moves around the open danger area. It is every squad member's responsibility to ensure that they stay concealed from the open area. The personnel on the flank of the formation that are closest to the open area may have to "flex" their locations in the formation to stay concealed. The squad continues to move until they reach the prominent feature on the far side of the open area.
After reaching the far side of the open danger area, the TLs check with their pace men and ensure that the pace men add the SL’s approximation of the distance across the open area to the mission pace count.
For example, pretend that at the near side of the open area the mission pace was 2500 meters. The SL estimated the distance from this point to the prominent feature on the far side to be 500 meters. So, after the squad moves around the open area to the prominent feature on the far side, the pace men's mission pace should be 3,000 meters.
After the squad is clear of the open danger area, they continue with the mission.
USING THE DETOUR BYPASS METHOD
The detour bypass method is not the preferred bypass method. The detour bypass method is simply a series of 90-degree turns used to “box” around a danger area. The squad must move the same distance on the bypass legs and make exactly 90-degree turns in order to make it back to their original route. The detour bypass method uses simple math to get the squad back on its route on the far side of the open area. But, any obstacle the squad encounters while bypassing the open area can cause the simple math equation to fail. Therefore, if the squad utilizes the detour bypass method, it must exercise extreme attention to detail to ensure that it conducts the method correctly.
During the recon of the small open danger area, if the SL and lead TL determine that:
If the SL and lead TL find that any of these conditions are true, the SL has to use the detour bypass method to negotiate his way around the open area. The SL and lead TL still determine which side of the open area affords the squad the most covered and concealed route around the open area. Again, a good map recon helps the SL develop this course of action.
Once the SL decides to use the detour bypass method, he simply tells the lead TL whether he wants the squad to travel to the left or right around the open area.
The SL briefs the TLs on the situation and gives them time to brief their men. The TLs need to ensure that their compass and pace men understand that the squad is using the detour bypass method. In this situation, the SL may decide to use primary and alternate compass and pace men. Once the squad is ready to move, the SL gives the order to move out.
The detour bypass method is simply a series of 90-degree turns. This technique uses a simple mathematical process to bypass or “box” around an area. Once the squad is on the far side of the open area, it returns to its original heading.
In this example, the SL decides the squad will bypass the open area on its right side because this side provides the most covered and concealed route.
When using the detour bypass method, you should utilize the acronym RALS. RALS stands for Right Add, Left Subtract. When you turn right, you should add 90 degrees to your azimuth. When you turn left, you should subtract 90 degrees from your azimuth.
In this example, the squad’s mission azimuth is 360 or 0 degrees. Their near side mission pace count is 1500 meters. Since the SL determined the right side is the best side to bypass the open danger area, the squad’s first change of direction is a 90-degree turn to the right. Since the squad is traveling on a 0-degree azimuth and uses the acronym RALS, it turns right and adds 90 degrees to the mission azimuth.
The squad continues to travel on this heading until the squad passes the entire width of the open area. The squad must keep an accurate pace count for this movement. This leg of travel is an alternate leg. The pace count is important because when the squad reaches the far side of the open area, they must move the same distance to get back on their original route. In this example, the distance that the squad has to travel to bypass the width of the open danger area is 400 meters.
Once the squad moves past the width of the open area, it must turn left to get back on its mission azimuth. Using RALS, the squad subtracts 90-degrees from its azimuth. This puts them back on a 0-degree azimuth. The squad then travels the length of the open area on this azimuth. Remember, the pace men must count and add the distance the squad travels on this leg to their mission pace count. In this example the squad moves 500 meters to bypass the open area and reach the far side. Then, the squad turns left and subtracts 90 degrees from the azimuth. In this example, this puts the squad on a 270 degree azimuth. Next, the squad moves the width of the danger area, which is the same distance they traveled on the first alternate leg.
In this example, the alternate leg down here was 400 meters. Therefore, the squad must move 400 meters on this alternate leg up here to get them back on the correct route on the far side of the open danger area.
After moving the correct distance for the width of the danger area, the squad makes a final turn to the right and adds 90 degrees to their azimuth. This puts the squad on its original mission azimuth, which in this example was a 360 or 0 degree azimuth. Now, the compass men keep the squad on mission azimuth and the pace men resume their mission pace count. In this example, the mission pace count should be 2000 meters.
Remember that the distance they traveled on this leg of movement was 500 meters. When the pace men add this distance to the original mission pace count of 1500 meters, the squad’s new mission pace count is 2000 meters or 2 KM.
Keep in mind that as the squad moves around the open danger area, the TLs and the SL ensure that everyone in the squad keeps a minimum distance of 25 meters and/ or out of sight of the open danger area. In addition, the lead TL spot checks the compass man and pace man at each leg to ensure accuracy. Once the squad negotiates the open danger area, it continues with the mission.
This was a summary of how you will be expected to cross small open danger areas at Ranger and Sapper School.
You can continue learning by reading about Crossing a Large Open Danger Area.
Crossing a Large Open Danger Area can be found here.
Let me familiarize you with the "20 Board" above. The board shows the squad reacting to indirect fire. On the left side, there are a few administrative notes that will help you follow along. To the right, there is a 12-man infantry squad in squad column, fire team wedge. The large arrow represents the squad's direction of travel. Enemy incoming rounds of indirect fire are shown in RED. Notice that my board is color-coded but not personalized. Color coded refers to the board displaying the lead team in BLUE, the HQ element in YELLOW, and the trail team in GREEN. While at Ranger School and Sapper Leader Course, you will color-code and personalize all of your boards. For example, if I were the Squad Leader (SL), there would be a line next to the SL circle with my name on it.
The squad can receive incoming indirect fire from any direction. If the indirect fire is targeted accurately on the squad’s position, the squad has no warning before the first round impacts.
Once the squad receives indirect fire, all personnel in the squad immediately yell “INCOMING” and simultaneously get down in the prone position and seek available cover. This response must occur within seconds. After the initial rounds impact, the SL determines a direction and distance he wants the squad to move. The SL determines the direction and distance based on the following:
After making this decision, the SL yells the command to the squad. An example command is "12 o’clock 300 meters." All squad members echo the command and immediately double time the prescribed direction and distance. While moving, squad members look for their battle buddies to the left and the right to ensure there are no casualties. If someone has a buddy who is injured, they assist them in moving out of the area.
Team Leaders (TL) control their soldiers through oral or visual signals. TLs adjust the movement formation so they can maintain control during the faster movement. TLs ensure that they maintain security at all times and enforce noise and light discipline as much as possible.
If the squad receives additional rounds, the squad continues to react in the same manner as previously described. The squad continues until they no longer receive indirect fire. If indirect fire seems to follow the patrol, the SL should change the direction of movement due to possible enemy forward observers.
During the movement, the SL maintains control of the squad and ensures the squad remains in the movement formation and technique that he deems necessary. Together, the SL and TLs must prevent individual confusion on the battlefield. If the squad stops receiving incoming fire during their movement, they still continue to move the last distance and direction that the SL commanded.
While at Ranger/Sapper School you will always move a minimum of 300 meters from where the last round impacted. This is due to the fact that in the type of terrain you will be encountering at Ranger/Sapper school 300 meters is the minimum distance you would have to move if it was real indirect fire. Three hundred meters in that type of terrain will allow you to have heavy vegetation or a terrain feature between your squad and the impact area. Of course if you found yourself in arid environments such as Iraq or Afghanistan you may need to move much further.
Once the squad has reached that destination they will establish a security halt, get accountability of all personnel and equipment, conduct SLLS then consolidate and reorganize:
Once Consolidation and Reorganization is complete, the Squad will move out and continue the mission.
This was a summary of how you will be expected to react to indirect fire at Ranger and Sapper School.
You can continue learning by reading about Crossing a Small Open Danger Area.
Crossing a Small Open Danger Area can be found here.
Let me familiarize you with the "20 Board" above. The board shows the squad reacting to a near/far ambush. On the left side, there are a few administrative notes that will help you follow along. To the right side, there is a 12-man infantry squad in squad column, fire team wedge. On the squad’s right is the enemy position depicted in red. Dashed lines represent proposed positions of the elements not in contact and the limit of advance (LOA). Notice that my board is color-coded but not personalized. While at Ranger School and Sapper Leader Course, you will color-code and personalize all of your boards.
AMBUSH
An ambush is a surprise attack by fire from a concealed position on a moving or temporarily halted target. An element trapped in an ambush suffers a reduction or loss in combat effectiveness. Detailed route planning and terrain analysis reduce the chances of being ambushed. Knowing how to react if ambushed can save the lives of your soldiers.
NEAR AMBUSH
A near ambush occurs within hand-grenade range, which is 35 meters or closer.
Once the enemy engages the lead element, all personnel within that kill zone will immediately return fire to the enemy’s known or suspected locations, seek covered positions, and simultaneously throw fragmentary/ concussion/ smoke grenades. It is vital that the grenades are thrown at the same time because the detonations signal the element trapped in the kill zone to begin their assault. Any grenades thrown late will cause fratricide. Once the last grenade detonates, the element in the kill zone begins to assault through the ambush line in an attempt to eliminate or destroy the enemy’s positions. The element uses fire and maneuver techniques in this assault.
Elements not in the kill zone immediately provide suppressive fires against the enemy and take up covered positions. In this example, the HQ element and trail team are not in the enemy’s kill zone. These elements continue to suppress the enemy until the element in the kill zone begins their assault. When the assault begins, the supporting elements shift/lift their fires to allow the assault team to maneuver across the enemy’s positions.
Once across, the assault Team Leader (TL) identifies and establishes the LOA approximately 35 meters past the edge of the OBJ or at the last covered and concealed position. As soon as the elements not in the kill zone hear or see the LOA established, they move across the objective to join the assault element and establish their portion of the Limit of Advance (LOA).
CONSOLIDATE and REORGANIZE
SPECIAL TEAMS
Once the squad consolidates and reorganizes, the SL starts deploying his special teams. The first special team he calls to his position is the EPW and search team(s). The SL decides how many teams to use based on the following factors:
EPW AND SEARCH TEAM – CLEAR OBJ: The SL gives tasks, conditions, and standards to the EPW and search team(s) on how he wants them to clear the OBJ. It is important that the SL gives clear and concise tasks, conditions, and standards so that time is not wasted on the OBJ. After the SL assigns each team part of the OBJ, the teams move two men abreast and clear their areas of anything that could pose a threat to the squad. After clearing, the teams return to the SL’s location and brief him on the number of enemy KIA, WIA, and anything else that could affect the squad.
AID AND LITTER TEAM: After the EPW and search teams clear the objective, the teams return to their place on the perimeter. If the squad sustains any casualties that require treatment or evacuation, the SL deploys his Aid and Litter teams. The SL gives tasks, conditions, and standards to the Aid and Litter team(s) on how he wants them to treat and evacuate casualties. The Squad Leader also designates the Casualty Collection Point (CCP). For this example, the SL decides to place the CCP inside the squad's perimeter. If the squad sustains casualties, the SL must consider how much time he has on the OBJ, if any, to conduct a detailed search for PIR given the amount of time it takes to conduct CASEVAC procedures.
EPW AND SEARCH TEAM – SEARCH THE OBJ: If the squad sustains no life threatening casualties and the SL determines that he has time to gather detailed PIR, he gives tasks, conditions, and standards to the EPW and search teams to conduct their search. The teams search all enemy personnel and the OBJ area. They call out what they find along the way using the code words “Black” and “Gold”. The SL assigns one soldier the code word of Black and the other as Gold. This technique is a control measure for information so the SL does not confuse the type and number of equipment found on the OBJ. For example, a soldier assigned the code word “Gold” who finds an AK-47 will call off “Gold, AK-47”.
The SL also gives each of the members of the EPW and search team a portion of the OBJ to search and identifies a consolidation point for all enemy equipment. If the teams find something that they cannot identify, they take the unknown equipment with them unless it interferes with the squad’s mission. If the equipment is too large to carry or hinders the mission, the teams take a picture or make a sketch of that equipment before destroying it in place.
The RTO must record all information the EPW and search teams call out. Additionally, the RTO keeps time by starting his stopwatch at the initial contact and calling out the time on the OBJ in one-minute increments.
DEMO TEAMS: Once the EPW and search teams consolidate all enemy weapons and equipment at the point the SL designated, the SL calls for the Demo team. The SL gives the Demo team tasks, conditions, and standards about how and where the Demo team should destroy the enemy equipment. The squad wants to destroy the equipment so that the enemy can no longer use it against friendly forces, but the squad may or may not have Demo. If the squad has no Demo, the team may destroy enemy weapons by field stripping the weapons and taking the bolts with the squad. If the squad has Demo, the Demo team prepares the charge, gives the M81 initiators to the SL, and returns their positions on the perimeter. At this point, the SL begins the withdrawal from the OBJ.
WITHDRAWAL FROM THE OBJECTIVE
To begin the withdrawal from the objective, the SL must determine which team to send back first to recover their rucksacks. It is recommended that the SL sends the team that has the furthest to travel back first. This enables the squad to clear through the area where they dropped rucksacks in a controlled manner rather than having to pass one fire team through another, which potentially masks a team’s fires if the enemy counter-attacks. Moving the teams in a controlled manner assists in maintaining security and decreases the chance of fratricide.
If the Squad Leader has DEMO, he waits until the last team withdraws from the OBJ. When the last soldier from that team passes the SL, he pulls the M81 fuse igniters to ignite the time fuse. Once the SL sees the time fuse actually burning, he calls out “burning” and radios the message to his TLs. Once the SL successfully initiates the Demo charge, he and the RTO move from the OBJ to their rucksacks to get ready to move.
The SL will get a “thumbs up” from the TL confirming they have accountability of their Men, Weapons, and Equipment and are prepared to move. The SL gives the signal to move out and calls Higher with a complete SALUTE report.
FAR AMBUSH
A far ambush occurs beyond hand-grenade range, which is 35 meters away. In a far ambush, the element in contact (in this case the squad) reacts to contact and either conducts a squad attack (found here) or breaks contact (found here).The SL consolidates and reorganizes, reports the situation to Higher, and continues the mission.
One thing to note is that throughout React to Ambush, the SL should always consider using indirect fires. While at Ranger School or Sapper Leader Course, if you have someone who is EXTREMELY competent on calling for fire, use this to your advantage.
This was a summary of how you will be expected to react to a near and far ambush at Ranger and Sapper School.
You can continue learning by reading React to Indirect Fire.
React to Indirect Fire can be found here.
]]>The reference for FOOM is on page A-6 of your Ranger Handbook. In addition, much of this material can be found in chapter 6 of the Ranger Handbook.
First, let me familiarize you to this "20 Board". On the left side, I have notes that will help you follow along. In the middle, I have the fire-team wedge security halt and a twelve-man Infantry squad broken down into fire team wedges. On the right, I have a modified wedge security halt and a twelve-man Infantry squad broken down into the modified wedge. You will notice my board is color coded but not personalized. At Ranger School and Sapper Leader Course, you will color-code and personalize all your boards. Color-coded refers to the lead fire team displayed in blue, the headquarters element in yellow, and the trail fire team in green. Personalized boards place the Ranger’s (or Sapper's) name next to his assigned position. An example of this would be “Ranger (or Sapper) Smith” as the lead fire Team Leader.
1. MOVEMENT FORMATION (GOOD VISIBILITY)
The most common movement formation in the U.S. Army is the fire team wedge. The fire team wedge is a fighting formation that enables 360-degree security at all times, equally distributes personnel and weapons, and is easy to control.
A. FIRE TEAM WEDGE
In every fire team wedge, the separation between team members is approximately 10 meters at a 45-degree angle.
You can see an example of this above. Notice the distance between personnel and the angle in which they follow. This 10 meter at a 45-degree angle rule will apply throughout the entire movement formation.
First, we will walk through the lead fire team. The Team Leader stands at the apex of the formation. The Team Leader is responsible for frontal security, route selection, and land navigation.
Next, the automatic rifleman stands to the left and rear of the Team Leader.
Following the Team Leader is the rifleman / compass man standing to the right and rear of the Team Leader. The soldier who does not carry a key weapon has the additional duty as compass man so the Team Leader is free to perform his three required duties.
Finally, the Grenadier stands to the right and rear of the rifleman / compass man. This is the lead fire team.
The next element in the order of movement is the Headquarters element. The Squad Leader stands at the apex of this element. The Squad Leader is responsible for accountability, command and control, and everything the squad does or fails to do.
Next, the RTO stands to the right and rear of the Squad Leader.
Following the Squad Leader is the M240B gunner standing to the left and rear of the Squad Leader.
Following the RTO is the assistant gunner standing to the left and rear of the M240B gunner. This is the headquarters element.
The final element in the order of movement is the trail fire team. The Team Leader stands at the apex of the team. The trail fire Team Leader is responsible for rear security and assisting the Squad Leader in maintaining accountability and command and control.
Next, the automatic rifleman stands to the right and rear of the Team Leader.
Following the Team Leader the rifleman / compass man stands to the left and rear of the Team Leader.
Finally, the grenadier stands to the left and rear of the rifleman / compass man. This is the trail fire team.
B. M240B TEAM
As you can see above, the M240B is on the left of the formation. This is known as a “heavy left” formation. If the M240B were on the right, the formation would be “heavy right”. The Squad Leader deploys the M240B based on METT-TC analysis. More on METT-TC here. Common factors that affect this decision are the enemy’s probable course of action and likely avenues of approach. The Squad Leader can move the M240B during movement to the other flank by directing the machine gunner to move. The RTO, M240B gunner and AG can change positions without halting the element.
C. LEADER POSITIONS FIXED / UNFIXED
Next, we will discuss leader positions. The Squad Leader and the trail Team Leader’s positions are not fixed. This means that the Squad Leader can move anywhere within the Squad while the trail Team Leader can move anywhere within his team to maintain control.
The lead Team Leader’s position is fixed within the formation. He must remain at the apex of the formation so he can perform frontal security, route selection, and land navigation. The lead Team Leader leads by example and must be ready to deploy his fire team since they will probably make first contact.
D. EQUAL DISTRIBUTION OF M, W, E (Men, Weapons, and Equipment)
Notice that the fire team wedge allows an equal distribution of personnel and weapons. This allows the Squad Leader to engage the enemy in any direction with an automatic rifleman, a rifleman, and a grenadier with the hopes of not losing the same two types of weapon systems on initial contact.
Notice that the automatic rifleman in the lead team is on the left flank and that the automatic rifleman in the trail team is on the right flank. The rifleman and the grenadier in the lead team are on the right flank and the rifleman and grenadier in the trail team are on the left flank. If the squad is hit in the front, rear, left or right flank, an automatic rifleman, a rifleman, and a grenadier can engage the enemy.
Examine these scenarios. If the enemy is in front, the automatic rifleman, rifleman and grenadier from the lead fire team can engage the enemy. If the enemy is on the right flank, the grenadier and rifleman from the lead fire team and the automatic rifleman from the trail fire team can engage the enemy. The squad has the same security for rear and left flank contact.
E. 360 DEGREE SECURITY
The fire team wedge enables 360-degree security at all times. In the example on the board, the lead Team Leader is responsible for frontal security from the 10 o’clock to 2 o’clock locations. The soldiers from the rifleman in the lead team to the automatic rifleman in the trail team are responsible for right flank security from the 2 o’clock to 4 o’clock locations. The grenadier in the trail team is responsible for rear security from the 4 o’clock to 8 o’clock locations. The soldiers from the rifleman in the trail team to the automatic rifleman in the lead team are responsible for left flank security from the 8 o’clock to 10 o’clock positions.
As you can see the fire team wedge enables an equal distribution of personnel and weapons, 360-degree security at all times, and easy control.
2. MOVEMENT TECHNIQUES
There are three movement techniques available when moving in the fire team wedge. The three movement techniques are traveling, traveling over-watch, and bounding over-watch.
A. TRAVELING
Squads use the traveling movement technique behind friendly forward lines when contact is NOT LIKELY. The distances between personnel remain the same as I just described. However, the distances between elements or teams are approximately 20 meters. In our example, the distance between the last man in the lead team, the grenadier, and the first man in the headquarters’ element, the Squad Leader, is approximately 20 meters. The distance between the last man in the headquarters’ element, the AG, and the first man of the trail team, the trail Team Leader, is approximately 20 meters.
B. TRAVELING OVER-WATCH
Squads use the traveling over-watch movement technique forward of the friendly forward lines when contact is POSSIBLE. The only difference between the traveling and the traveling over-watch techniques is the distance between the lead team and the headquarters element is 50 meters. In our example, the distance from the last man in the lead team, the grenadier, to the first man in the headquarters element, the Squad Leader, is approximately 50 meters. The distance between the last man in the headquarters element, the AG, and the first man of the trail team, the trail Team leader, is still approximately 20 meters.
C. BOUNDING OVER-WATCH
Squads use the bounding over-watch movement technique forward of friendly forward lines when enemy contact is EXPECTED. In this period of instruction, I will not go into detail on this movement technique because you will receive an in-depth class during the open danger areas period of instruction. However, you need to remember two things about the bounding over-watch movement technique. First, the Squad Leader and the headquarters element usually stay with the over-watch element. Secondly, the bounding element does not bound more than small arms range, or out of sight of the over-watch element. This is normally no more than 150 meters.
3. DISTANCES
So far, I have discussed the distances between personnel and elements or teams. Keep in mind that these distances are based on control but dictated by vegetation, terrain and visibility.
A. VEGETATION
Soldiers may have to operate in a thickly vegetated area such as the Philippines. In this type of vegetation, leaders might decide to decrease the distances between personnel and teams to maintain control.
Alternatively, Soldiers may have to operate in a sparsely vegetated area such as wintertime in the U.S. In this type of vegetation, leaders might decide to increase the distances between personnel and teams as long as they can still maintain control.
B. TERRAIN
Army Soldiers may have to operate in terrain such as the rolling hills of Georgia. In this terrain, one team might be in the low ground while another crests the top of a hill. In this scenario, leaders might decide to decrease the distance between teams to maintain control.
Alternatively, Soldiers may have to operate in a desert environment such as Iraq or Afghanistan. In this terrain, leaders might decide to increase the distances between personnel and teams as long as they can still maintain control.
C. VISIBILITY
There are two types of visibility: good visibility and limited visibility. Good visibility (GV) is a great asset during a patrol. However, there may be periods of limited visibility (LV) such as rain, snow, fog, and/or smoke from the battlefield, and of course, darkness. In any of these situations, leaders might decide to modify their movement formation into the modified wedge in order to maintain control. As you can see, control is the most important factor in determining your distances.
4. MOVEMENT FORMATION (LIMITED VISIBILITY)
Focus on the displayed modified wedge. The modified wedge is nothing more than collapsing the flanks of the Fire Team wedge into two columns. In the modified wedge, the distance between men is approximately 3-5 meters at a 45-degree angle.
You can see an example of this on the board. Notice the distance between personnel and the angle in which they follow. This rule will apply throughout the entire movement formation.
A. MODIFIED WEDGE
At the apex of the formation is the lead Team Leader. He is still responsible for frontal security, route selection and land navigation. The rifleman / compass man is to the right and rear of the lead Team Leader and still performs his additional duty I explained earlier. The automatic rifleman is to the left and rear of the rifleman / compass man. The grenadier is to the right and rear of the automatic rifleman. This is the lead fire team.
The Squad Leader is to the left and rear of the lead fire-team grenadier. The Squad Leader is still responsible for accountability, command and control and whatever the Squad does or fails to do.
The RTO is to the right and rear of the Squad Leader. The M240B gunner is to the left and rear of the RTO. The assistant gunner is to the right and rear of the M240B gunner. This is the Headquarters’ element.
The trail fire team rifleman / compass man is to the left and rear of the AG. The automatic rifleman stands to the right and rear of the rifleman / compass man. The trail fire Team Leader is to the left and rear of the automatic rifleman. The trail fire Team Leader is still responsible for rear security and assisting the Squad Leader in maintaining accountability and command and control. The grenadier stands to the right and rear of the trail fire Team Leader. This is the trail Fire team.
B. MODIFIED WEDGE: M240B
Once again, the M240B gunner is on the left flank. However, this is NOT considered a heavy left or right formation when the squad uses the modified wedge formation. Based on the Squad Leader’s METT-TC analysis, the enemy’s most likely avenue of approach, and the enemy’s most probable course of action, the Squad Leader decides whether to place the M240B on the left or right side of the formation. Again, the Squad Leader can shift the M240B to the other without halting the element. The Squad Leader just tells the M240B gunner to switch out with the RTO.
C. MODIFIED WEDGE: LEADER POSITIONS FIXED / UNFIXED
Once again, the Squad Leader and trail Fire Team Leader’s positions are not fixed positions. The Squad Leader can move anywhere within the squad in order to maintain control and the trail fire Team Leader can move anywhere within his team in order to maintain control. The lead fire Team Leader is an exception because his position is still fixed within the formation. The lead fire Team Leader remains at the front of his formation so that he can perform his three duties of frontal security, route selection and land navigation. The lead fire Team Leader leads by example and stays ready to immediately deploy his fire team because the lead team is most likely to make contact first.
5. ACTIONS AT THE HALT (GOOD VISIBILITY)
While moving, it may be necessary to call a halt. For instance, the Squad Leader may want to conduct a map check, cross load heavy equipment, or conduct a water break. Although anyone in the patrol can call a halt, the lead fire Team Leader or the Squad Leader normally calls it. The reasons that anyone besides a leader should call a halt include sighting the enemy or signs of the enemy, losing mission essential equipment, or suffering an injury.
A. LEAD TL CALLS HALT – GOOD VISIBILITY
While moving during the hours of good visibility in the fire team wedge, the lead fire Team Leader may find it necessary to call a halt. If there is a need to halt, the lead Team Leader gives the hand and arm signal to halt to his team. The hand and arm signal to halt is nothing more than using the non-firing hand with the fingers extended and joined, palm facing forward, arm bent at a 90- degree angle, upper arm parallel to the ground. The lead Team Leader moves to the next available position that provides cover and concealment and assumes the short halt posture.
The Short Halt posture consists of taking a knee behind cover and concealment with your rucksack on your back, your weapon at the ready, pulling security in your assigned sector of fire.
The lead fire Team Leader ensures that the rest of his team also assumes the Short Halt posture. When halted, the lead fire team is responsible for security from the 9 o’clock thru the 12 o’clock to the 3 o’clock position.
During this time, the Squad Leader continues to close the distance between the Headquarters’ element and the lead fire team. The Squad Leader moves until the trail fire team can achieve interlocking sectors of fire with the lead fire team. When the Squad Leader reaches the point where the teams can interlock their fires, the Squad Leader gives the hand and arm signal to halt. Then, he assumes the short halt posture and ensures that the rest of his element does the same.
At all halts the Squad Leader decides where to emplace the M240B Gun Team based on his METT-TC analysis, the enemy’s most likely avenue of approach and the enemy’s most probable course of action. In this case, since the lead fire Team Leader called the halt, the Squad Leader will most likely leave the M240B Gun Team at the 9 o’clock until the Squad Leader determines why the lead fire Team Leader called the halt.
The trail fire Team Leader continues moving his team forward to achieve interlocking sectors of fire with the lead fire team. Once there, the trail fire Team Leader issues the hand and arm signal to halt, assumes the short halt posture, and ensures that the rest of his fire team does the same. The squad wants interlocking sectors of fire approximately 35 meters out (hand grenade range). The trail fire team is responsible for security from the 3 o’clock thru the 6 o’clock to the 9 o’clock. The trail fire Team Leader ensures that his grenadier pulls rear security from the 4 o’clock to the 8 o’clock.
Since the lead fire Team Leader called the halt, the Squad Leader moves up to the lead Team Leader’s location to find out why he has called the halt. The Squad Leader spot-checks the lead Fire Team to ensure that they are in the proper short halt posture.
The trail Fire Team Leader ensures that his Grenadier is pulling rear security and spot checks his men to ensure that they are in the short halt posture behind cover and concealment. He then moves forward to the Squad Leader’s last known location, spot-checking the headquarters’ personnel as he moves forward, once at the Squad Leader’s last known location he waits for further guidance on a knee inside the perimeter.
Once the Squad Leader has moved up to the lead Fire Team Leader’s location he then finds out why the lead Team Leader has called the halt. For example, he has spotted a potential linear danger area, he wanted his men to cross load equipment or conduct a water break.
If the Squad Leader wanted to go ahead and move out at this time, he would give the Team Leaders the order to get their men prepared to move.
B. SL CALLS HALT – GOOD VISIBILITY
While moving in periods of good visibility if the Squad Leader wanted to call a halt he would send the signal to halt by hand and arm signal or by FM to the lead Fire Team Leader. Once the lead Fire Team Leader receives the command to halt, he finds a suitable location and the Squad then halts as previously described.
C. CONDUCT SLLS – GOOD VISIBILITY
In periods of good visibility, the Squad Leader can use the hand and arm signal to initiate SLLS. The hand and arm signal to initiate SLLS is nothing more than taking your non-firing hand and cupping it behind the corresponding ear.
SLLS stands for Stop, Look, Listen, and Smell.
1. STOP: You will stop all movement
2. LOOK: You will look for signs of the enemy, like trash, old fighting positions, expended brass, or the enemy themselves.
3. LISTEN: You will listen for signs of the enemy, like engines running, the enemy talking, or the enemy moving.
4. SMELL: You will smell for signs of the enemy, like food, smoke from fires, or POL products (fuels).
SLLS are conducted for 3-5 minutes or for as long as the Squad Leader deems necessary. In periods of good visibility, the Squad Leader will terminate SLLS by using his non-firing hand and making a slashing motion by his ear, by rotating his hand at the wrist.
Because the Squad Leader called the halt, the Team Leaders need to move to his location to see why the Squad Leader has called a halt. The lead Fire Team Leader has the Rifleman/Compass man assume frontal security from the 10 o’clock to 2 o’clock. He also spot checks his Fire team to ensure that they are in the short halt posture as he works his way to the Squad Leader’s location.
At the same time, the trail Fire Team Leader ensures that the last man in his team is pulling rear security from the 4 o’clock to the 8 o’clock. He then spot checks his team to ensure that they are in the short halt posture. While in route to the Squad Leader’s location, he also checks the Headquarters’ element to ensure that they are in the short halt posture.
Once the Team Leaders reach the Squad Leader’s location, the Squad Leader tells them why they have halted. For example, he wants to cross-load heavy equipment, conduct a water break, or conduct a security halt for whatever reason he deems necessary.
D. PINPOINT / DECISION POINT – GOOD VISIBILITY
The Squad Leader gives tasks, conditions and standards on how he wants to pinpoint his location on the map. He tells the trail Team Leader to start at the 3 o’clock position and work around the perimeter in a clockwise manner ensuring that the men are in the short halt posture and pulling security. At the same time, the lead Team Leader and the Squad Leader pinpoint their current position on the map and determine the distance and direction for their next movement. Once the Squad Leader has done this, the lead fire Team Leader and trail fire Team Leader change positions. The trail Team Leader and Squad Leader then confirm their current position on the map and the distance and direction for their next movement.
Based on the map check, the Squad Leader decides to either move out, or place the men in the long halt posture. The Squad Leader would designate long halt posture if the men will be in position for an extended period. Some examples of the long halt are the security halt for the ORP (Objective Rally Point), or he wants the men to take a break and drink water.
E. STRONG POINT / LONG HALT POSTURE – GOOD VISIBILITY
The Squad Leader then gives the Team Leaders tasks, conditions, and standards to strong point their personnel into a long halt posture. Strong pointing the squad is the technique of placing soldiers in positions of two or more. Typically, these positions are at the 10, 2, 4, and 8 o’clock locations of the perimeter. Strong pointing has several advantages over the traditional halted formation. The advantages are that soldiers can keep each other alert, accomplish some limited priorities of work such as drinking water or adjusting gear, and pull security for each other during the transition to the Long Halt posture. These advantages help free up the Team Leaders. If the Squad Leader decides to strong point the squad, the best time to do so is before the transition to the Long Halt posture. The Squad Leader accomplishes this by designating the desired clock positions and instructing the Team Leaders to strong point their men at those clock positions. While the Team Leaders strong point their men, the Squad Leader can emplace the machine gun team.
When a Soldier transitions to the Long Halt posture, he quietly rotates his rucksack off his back, places the rucksack frame on the ground with cat eyes facing the center of the perimeter, and moves into the prone position behind available cover and concealment. In the Long Halt posture, Soldiers pull security in their assigned sectors of fire.
After the Squad Leader designates that, the squad should move to the Long Halt posture, the lead Team Leader moves to the man in his team that is closest to the 9 o’clock location on the perimeter.
Starting at this position, the lead Team Leader moves in a clockwise direction from the 9 o’clock to the 3 o’clock to set the perimeter. The trail Team Leader begins at the man in his team closest to the 3 o’clock position. Starting at this position, the trail Team Leader moves in a clockwise direction to the 9 o’clock position to set the perimeter. Each Team Leader has two options to position their men in the Long Halt posture. The first option is that the Team Leader strong points his men. With this option, one soldier can cover a buddy while the buddy transitions to the Long Halt posture and vice versa. The second option is that the Team Leader takes up the Short Halt posture at each position and cover each man as they transition to the Long Halt posture.
While positioning their teams, Team Leaders assign positions sectors of fire. Strong point positions have one sector of fire and everyone in the position must know it. In good visibility, Team Leaders can use easily identifiable features like trees or rocks to assign left and right limits. Team Leaders must ensure that the sectors of fire interlock at approximately 35 meters out. The lead Team Leader ensures that his last position near the 3 o’clock location and the first position of the trail team near the 3 o’clock location have interlocking fields of fire out to 35 meters. At the same time, the trail Team Leader ensures the adjoining positions at the 9 o’clock location have interlocking fields of fire out to 35 meters.
F. DISSEMINATE
As the Team Leaders put their men into the Long Halt posture, they disseminate the following information at a minimum:
1. The reason for the squad halt
2. The squad’s current location on the map
3. The distance and direction for the next movement.
For example, “We have halted because this is the security halt prior to the ORP. This is our current location on the map our next movement is 300 meters on a 290 degree azimuth to the ORP.”
Take note that the Team Leaders are working on opposite sides of the perimeter at the same time. The reason for this is that if the squad makes contact, there is a better chance that both Team Leaders are not lost on initial contact. After Team Leaders have emplaced their men in the Long Halt posture, they return to the Squad Leader for further guidance.
G. EMPLACING M240B
As the Team Leaders emplace their men in the Long Halt posture, the Squad Leader emplaces the M240B gun team if he did not do so when the squad halted. If the Squad Leader already emplaced the M240B team, he must still check the gun. After the M240B team is in position, the Team Leader whose perimeter includes the M240B position is responsible for disseminating information to the team.
The M240B holds a sector of fire that is independent from the squad’s sector of fire. During initial emplacement, the Squad Leader gives M240B gun team a Principle Direction of Fire (PDF). An example of this is “Orient your fires on that road intersection.” The M240B has a primary sector of fire and possibly a secondary sector of fire.
It is important that the positions to the left and right of the M240B gun team have interlocking sectors of fire out to 35 meters, which is in front of the M240B. The reason for this is that the Squad Leader has the flexibility to move the M240B to a different position on the perimeter without creating a gap in the squad’s sector of fires. The Squad Leader might choose to do this if the tactical situation changes.
H. SPOT CHECK PERIMETER
After the squad has taken up the Long Halt posture, Team Leaders return to the Squad Leader’s position in the center of the perimeter. The Squad Leader spot-checks the perimeter to ensure that the tasks, conditions, and standards are met. When the Squad Leader is satisfied with the perimeter, he gives guidance to the Team Leaders for conducting any priorities of work deemed necessary.
6. PREPARE TO MOVE – GOOD VISIBILITY
When the Squad Leader is ready to move out, he issues tasks, conditions, and standards to the Team Leaders so they can get their men ready to move. The lead Team Leader will move to his man closest to the 9 o’clock position. Starting at the 9 o’clock location and moving in a clockwise direction through the 3 o’clock location, the lead Team Leader prepares his men to move. The lead Team Leader has two options to do this. If the positions are strong pointed, the lead Team Leader can direct one man to take up the Short Halt posture while another man pulls security. Another option is the Team Leader pulls security for each man in his team while each man transitions to the Short Halt posture. The trail Team Leader uses one of the two approved methods to transition his men to the Short Halt posture. The trail Team Leader begins at his man closest to the 3 o’clock location and move in a clockwise direction until reaching the 9 o’clock location. When the transition to the Short Halt posture is complete, each Team Leader moves to the apex of his team and give the Squad Leader a “thumbs up” to communicate that his team is prepared to move out.
As the Team Leaders prepare their men, the Squad Leader takes accountability of all squad members. In periods of good visibility, the Squad Leader does this by seeing and counting the men. After taking accountability and receiving a “thumbs up” from each Team Leader, the Squad Leader gives the hand and arm signal to the lead Team Leader to move out.
As the squad moves out they are very vulnerable. Security tends to fall off when a squad or element starts to move out because all the men are focused on the lead element. Everyone does not stand up and move out at the same time.
When the lead Team Leader receives the hand and arm signal to move out, he relays the signal to his team and moves out in the direction of travel. After the Team Leader moves approximately 10 meters, the automatic rifleman and rifleman / compass man from the lead team pick up and move out. After the automatic rifleman and rifleman / compass man move approximately 10 meters, the grenadier from the lead team picks up and moves out.
Based on the selected movement technique, the Squad Leader waits while the final man in the lead team travels the appropriate distance. Then, the Squad Leader gives the hand and arm signal to the headquarters element to move out. As an example, the Squad Leader waits until the lead element is approximately 50 meters out before his element moves if the movement technique is Travelling Over-watch. The rest of the squad members move out in the same sequential manner.
7. ACTIONS AT THE HALT- (LIMITED VISIBILITY)
When the squad is moving during periods of limited visibility in the modified wedge, it might be necessary to halt. Remember that anyone in the patrol can call a halt, but the lead fire Team Leader or the Squad Leader normally calls it. Again, the only reasons that anyone besides a leader should call a halt is if they see the enemy or signs of the enemy, have lost mission essential equipment, or they are injured.
A. LEAD TL CALLS HALT – LIMITED VISIBILITY
While moving, if the lead fire Team Leader deems it necessary to call a halt, he gives the command to halt. During periods of limited visibility, most likely hours of darkness, the lead Team Leader cannot use hand and arm signals. Once the lead fire Team Leader moves to an area that is large enough to provide cover and concealment for the entire Squad, he turns around and issues the command to halt to the Soldier behind him. The Team Leader issues the command to halt by placing his hand in the center of that man’s chest and telling him to “Halt”. Once he issues the command to halt, the lead Fire Team Leader assumes the short halt posture. Each Soldier passes back the command to halt by performing the same procedure to the Soldier behind him.
After receiving the command to halt, the Soldiers in the right column (right flank) of the modified wedge continue moving forward until they have achieved interlocking sectors of fire with the men to their front and rear. Then, each Soldier in the right column faces to the right, takes two to three steps to the nearest covered and concealed position and assumes the Short Halt posture.
The Soldier in the left column (left flank) do the same except they face to the left. The spread to the left and right allows a path for the leadership to move through the squad in the center of the perimeter without tripping over everyone.
Since the lead fire Team Leader called the halt, the Squad Leader moves up to the lead Team Leader’s location to learn the reason for the halt. While moving up, the Squad Leader spot checks the Soldier in the lead fire team to ensure that they are in the short halt posture. Simultaneously, the trail fire Team Leader ensures that his grenadier is pulling rear security and spot checks his men to ensure that they are in the short halt posture behind available cover and concealment. Then, the trail Team Leader moves forward to the Squad Leader’s last known location to receive further guidance. While moving, the trail Team Leader spot-checks the headquarters’ personnel to ensure that they are in the short halt posture. The trail Team Leader waits at the Squad Leader’s last known location for further guidance.
Once the Squad Leader has moved to the lead fire Team Leader’s location, he learns why the lead fire Team Leader called a halt. For example, the lead Team Leader spotted a potential linear danger area, wanted his men to cross load equipment, or wanted his men to conduct a water break. If the Squad Leader wants to move out at this time, he gives the Team Leaders the order to get their men prepared so the squad can move.
B. SL CALLS HALT – LIMITED VISIBILITY
If the Squad Leader deems it necessary to call a halt while moving during periods of limited visibility he can pass the command to halt forward to the lead Fire Team Leader, physically move up to his position, or call him on FM. To pass the command to halt forward, the Squad Leader moves up to the man in front of him, grabs him by the shoulder and whispering in his ear “Halt”, the command to halt would be passed from man to man all the way up to the lead Fire Team Leader in this manner. Once the lead Fire Team Leader received the command to halt, the squad would halt in the same manner as previously described.
Because the Squad Leader called the halt, the Team Leaders need to move to his location to see why the Squad Leader has called a halt. The lead Fire Team Leader has the Rifleman/Compass man assume frontal security from the 10 o’clock to 2 o’clock. He also spot checks his Fire Team to ensure that they are in the short halt posture as he works his way back to the Squad Leader’s location.
At the same time, the trail Fire Team Leader ensures that the last man in his team is pulling rear security from the 4 o’clock to the 8 o’clock. He then spot checks his team to ensure that they are in a Sort Halt Posture. While in route to the Squad Leader’s location, he also checks the Headquarters’ element to ensure that they are in the short halt posture.
Once the Team Leaders reach the Squad Leader’s location, the Squad Leader tells them why they have halted. For example, maybe the Squad Leader wants to cross-load heavy equipment, conduct a water break, or conduct a security halt for whatever reason he deems necessary.
C. SLLS LIMITED VISIBILITY
The Squad Leader then issues tasks, conditions and standards for conducting SLLS. Since this is during periods of limited visibility, the Squad Leader tells the Team Leaders to inform their men SLLS starts now and terminates when a leader comes back to their location and tells them it is complete.
The lead Fire Team Leader moves to his nearest man at the 9 o’clock position and then move in a clockwise direction to the 12 o’clock position then to the 3 o’clock briefing each man that SLLS starts now and completes once a leader comes back and tells them that SLLS is complete. Simultaneously the trail Fire Team Leader starts at his nearest man at the 3 o’clock position, then moving in a clockwise direction to the 6 and then to the 9 o’clock position briefing each man that SLLS starts now and complete when a leader comes back and tells them that SLLS is complete. Once the Team Leaders have gone out and briefed their men that SLLS has started, the Team Leaders lasts for 3-5 minutes or for as long as the Squad Leader deems necessary.
D. PINPOINT/DECISION POINT LIMITED VISIBILITY
Once SLLS is complete, the Squad Leader gives tasks, conditions and standards on how he wants to pinpoint his location on the map. He tells the trail Team Leader to start at the 3 o’clock position and move about the perimeter in a clockwise direction informing the men that SLLS is complete, and checking the men to ensure that they are in the short halt posture and pulling security.
At the same time the lead Team Leader and the Squad Leader pinpoint their current location on the map, as well as determine the distance and direction for their next movement. During periods of limited visibility, they pinpoint their location using NVGs, or by getting under the RTO’s poncho and poncho liner, and using a red lens flashlight. While they do this, the RTO makes sure that no red light escapes from the poncho and poncho liner to ensure noise and light discipline remains.
After they have pinpointed their location, the lead Fire Team Leader and trail Fire Team Leader change positions. The trail Team Leader and Squad Leader confirm their current position on the map, as well as confirm the distance and direction for their next movement.
Based off the map check the Squad Leader decides to either move out, or place the men in the long halt posture because they will be there for an extended period. For example, the Squad Leader determines that this is the security halt for the Patrol Base or he wants the men to take a break and drink water.
E. STRONG POINT / LONG HALT POSTURE- LIMITED VISIBILITY
The Squad Leader then gives the Team Leaders the order to strong point their personnel and put them into a long halt posture. The Squad Leader designates the appropriate clock positions and the team leaders emplace their men as previously described for good visibility.
As the Team Leaders get their men in the long halt posture, they assign them sectors of fire. During periods of limited visibility, they use their compasses to give their men azimuths for their left and right limits. Team Leaders ensure that their men’s sectors of fire interlock with the men to their left and right approximately 35 meters out and between the teams.
F. DISSEMINATE
Additionally, during periods of limited visibility the Team Leaders at a minimum disseminate the following information to their men:
1. The reason for the squad’s halt.
2. The squad’s current location.
3. The distance and direction for the next movement.
Team Leaders must maintain noise and light discipline when they brief their men during hours of darkness. They are not going to show their men the Squad’s current location on the map. Instead, they give each man a six-digit grid for the squad’s current location.
Here is an example: “We have halted because this is the security halt prior to the patrol base. We are currently located at GA123456. Our next movement is 200 meters on a 190-degree azimuth to the patrol base”.
G. EMPLACING M240B
While the Team Leaders emplace their men in the Long Halt posture, the Squad Leader emplaces the M240B gun team unless he did so when the Squad initially halted. After the gun team is in position, the responsibility to disseminate information to that gun team falls to the Team Leader whose perimeter contains the gun team.
After the whole squad is in the Long Halt posture and the Team Leaders have returned to the Squad Leader’s position in the center of the perimeter, the Squad Leader spot checks the perimeter to ensure his the squad was strong pointed correctly.
8. PREPARE TO MOVE/MOVE – LIMITED VISIBILITY
When the Squad leader is ready to move out, he gives the order to the Team Leaders to get their men ready to move. The Squad Leader tells the lead Team Leader to prepare his men starting at his 9 o’clock position and moving clockwise until his 3 o’clock position. The lead Team Leader pulls security in the short halt posture for each man as they get into the short halt posture and ready to move out. If the positions are strong pointed, the lead Team Leader directs the positions to put themselves in the short halt posture with one man pulling security for the other. The trail Team Leader starts at his 3 o’clock position and moves clockwise to his 9 o’clock position. The trail Team Leader uses the same procedure as the lead Team Leader to put his men in the Short Halt posture.
When the trail Team Leader has his men ready, he moves to the Squad Leader’s location and tells him the team is ready. The Squad Leader then tells the trail Team Leader to move to the front of the formation, approximately two to three paces in front of the lead Team Leader’s position. The trail Team Leader establishes a choke point. While at the choke point, the trail Team Leader physically touches each man in the squad as they pass his position out of the security halt.
The Squad Leader follows the trail Team Leader to the front of the formation until he reaches the lead Team Leader. The Squad Leader then verifies that the lead fire team is ready to move. Once the Squad Leader verifies that all elements are ready to move and there is an established choke point, he taps the lead Team Leader on the shoulder and tells him to move out.
The lead Team Leader turns to the man behind him, places his hand on the man’s chest, and tells him “we’re moving”. Each man passes this signal back in a zigzag fashion until it reaches the last man in the patrol. The lead Team Leader then gets up and moves in the direction of travel while ensuring that he is physically counted out by the trail Team Leader and that the man behind him is up and moving. Each man waits until the man in front of him has moved approximately 3-5 meters before they get up from the Short Halt posture. When the trail Team Leader has counted everyone out of the security halt, he takes up his place in the formation and ensures that the grenadier is behind him.
A. HEADCOUNT – LIMITED VISIBILITY
The trail Team Leader then passes up the headcount by moving to the man traveling in front of him, grabbing him by the shoulder, and whispering in his ear “headcount good” if they have everyone or “headcount bad” if his count of personnel is short. The squad passes the headcount in a zigzag fashion forward from man to man until it reaches the lead Team Leader. If the headcount was “good”, the lead Team Leader passes back “headcount good” in a zigzag fashion until it reaches the trail Team Leader. This lets the leadership know that there is information dissemination and that there are no breaks in contact.
If the message that reaches the Squad Leader is “headcount bad”, the Squad Leader has two options:
The first option is the Squad Leader can re-initiate a headcount during movement by moving to the man to his front, grabbing him by the shoulder and whispering in his ear “initiate headcount”. Each man passes “initiate headcount” forward until it reaches the lead Team Leader. When the lead Team Leader gets this command, he turns around and says, “Headcount, I am one, pass it back” to the man behind him. That man then turns around to the man behind him and says, “Headcount, I am two, pass it back”. Each man in the squad adds to the tally and passes the message until it reaches the trail Team Leader. If the headcount is correct this time, the squad continues on its movement. If the headcount is still wrong, the Squad Leader must halt the patrol and conduct a physical headcount of each man.
The second option is the ONLY one you will use at Ranger and Sapper school. If the initial headcount is bad, the Squad Leader IMMEDIATELY halts the patrol and the Squad Leader and trail Team Leader move to the front of the formation, and physically count each man where they are halted. If the headcount is still bad, the Squad Leader gives the order to the trail Team Leader for the trail Team Leader and a battle buddy to return to the last security halt and police up any lost Soldier.
In this blog post, we have covered:
1. The fire team wedge
2. The modified wedge
3. The three movement techniques
4. The distances between fire teams and personnel
5. The conduct of security halts for good and limited visibility.
If you have any questions regarding this material, please contact us at admin@militarypackinglist.com. We can explain FOOM further or even walk you through specific examples.
The next lesson we will go over is React to Contact, which can be found here.
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Let me familiarize you with the "20 Board" above. The board shows the squad executing the React to Contact Battle Drill. On the left side, there are notes that will help you follow along. The lower right area displays a 12-man infantry squad in a squad column of fire team wedges. In the upper right portion of my board, there is an example of the lead team deployed after initial contact with the enemy. The enemy is depicted in red. Notice that this board is color coded, but not personalized. While at Ranger School and Sapper Leader Course, all of your boards will be color-coded and personalized.
When the squad makes initial contact with the enemy, every soldier occupies the nearest covered position. Covered positions include large trees, rocks and depressions. No one lies down in the open. The team in contact returns fire immediately. The team utilizes violence of action to try to overwhelm the enemy and gain fire superiority by firing at known or suspected enemy locations.
Anyone that sees the enemy sounds off with the 3 D’s. The 3 D’s are description, direction and distance. An example of the 3 D’s is “three enemy small arms, twelve o’clock, fifty meters.” This enables the team in contact to focus their attention and direct their fires on the enemy. The 3 D’s also inform the rest of the squad of the enemy location in reference to the squad and the size of the enemy. Every member of the squad echoes the 3 D’s to ensure the Squad Leader (SL) has the best information to start his assessment of the situation. The Team Leaders (TL) maintain visual or oral contact with every soldier in their teams. The TL whose team is in contact moves his team on line to effectively engage the enemy. He tries to gain fire superiority by using fire commands.
Fire commands are:
ALERT: The TL alerts the soldier to receive further instruction. “Saw Gunner”
DIRECTION: The TL points w/ his weapon or arm, uses tracers, or gives general direction. “Twelve o’clock”
DESCRIPTION: The TL describes the target. “Three enemy, small arms”
RANGE: The TL gives the range to the target. “Fifty meters”
RATE OF FIRE: The TL outlines the rate of fire he wants the soldier to use when engaging the enemy. “Cyclic, Rapid or Sustained” M249 and M240 rates are cyclic, rapid, and sustained. (See table 1 below)
COMMAND TO FIRE: The TL tells the soldier when to fire. Since they are in contact, if the TL wants the soldier to fire immediately after identifying the target, the TL just says “FIRE”.
An example of a set of fire commands is “Saw Gunner, 12 o’clock, 3 enemy, 50 meters, rapid, FIRE”
SEARCH: Soldiers search for known or suspected enemy locations in their sectors of fire.
FIRE: When in direct contact, soldiers engage the known / suspected locations with their weapon.
CHECK: Soldiers check the soldier and situation to their left/right/rear to check for commands from leaders and to maintain situational awareness.
When the SL hears the initial contact, he starts to assess the situation. The SL ensures that the rest of the HQ element is behind good cover and concealment and that there is flank and rear security. Then, he moves forward to get to the closest position to the team in contact WITHOUT becoming decisively engaged. The SL moves from covered and concealed position to covered and concealed position so that he can confirm the 3 D’s and communicate with the TL whose team is in contact.
When the SL reaches the lead team, he assesses the situation. This assessment needs to happen extremely fast. Remember your squad is being shot at and you could have Soldiers that may need a MEDEVAC. That is why knowing what you need to consider prior to going to Ranger or Sapper School is important. Factors they considers are:
Additionally, the SL considers using indirect fires. Some considerations are:
The SL also assesses the enemy’s most probable course of action based on the information he has gathered from his assessment and his experience. Then, the SL determines whether to conduct a squad attack or break contact. After making his decision, the SL reports the situation to higher and begins to maneuver the squad.
Squad Attack can be found here.
Break Contact can be found here.
Let me familiarize you with the "20 Board" above. The board shows the squad executing the Squad Attack Battle Drill. On the left side, there are a few administrative notes that will help you follow along. On the right side, there is a 12-man infantry squad in movement formation. The dotted lines are all proposed positions. Notice that this board is color-coded but not personalized. While at Ranger School and Sapper Leader Course, you will color-code and personalize all of your boards.
The Squad Attack Battle Drill usually takes place after a squad has taken initial contact from an enemy force. If you have not read it already, the React to Contact Battle Drill can be found here. After initial contact, the Squad Leader (SL) assesses the situation by determining the following:
The SL also has to consider using indirect fires prior to maneuvering the squad. Some considerations are:
The SL assesses the enemy’s most probable course of action based on the information he has gathered from his assessment and his experience. Based on his assessment, the SL determines that he will conduct a squad attack.
The SL tells the Team Leader (TL) in contact the following Information:
The TL can use the MG if he feels it is necessary in order to maintain fire superiority. Remember that using the MG gives the enemy a feeling of a larger force and may cause a withdrawal or a call for reinforcements.
Once the SL makes all his assessments and considers the use of indirect fire, he calls Higher with a situation report (SITREP). Before moving, the SL must decide whether to bring his radiotelephone operator (RTO) with him on the assault or leave him with the Support by Fire (SBF) Element as rear security. He considers that:
Either way, the SL must decide before beginning to maneuver the Assault Team to the Assault Position.
Once the RTO is in position, the SL orders the squad to drop rucksacks. The SL then leads the Assault Element back and away from the SBF Element along a covered and concealed route towards their assault position. Once in position, the SL outlines the OBJ and gives the TL the left and right limits and direction of assault.
The Assault TL selects a covered and concealed route for his team to assault the OBJ. Then, he deploys his team on line and issues each soldier left and right limits and a lane with an identifiable terrain feature to assault towards. Examples of features are trees, rocks, and buildings. Assigning lanes helps prevent funneling. Once each soldier has a lane, the Assault TL begins to “creep” forward, keeping his team in a shallow wedge to control the movement and pace. He leads from the front until the team receives enemy fire or reaches the last covered and concealed position.
The SL positions himself wherever he can best control his support and assault elements. Generally, the best location for the SL is slightly behind the assault element. From here, the SL can assist and control the assault and signal the support element. This allows the assault Team Leader to focus on the fight.
At this point, the battlefield handover is crucial. The assault team must increase its rate of fire and suppress the enemy before the SL can give the support element the signal to shift fire. From this point forward, the assault team must provide its own suppressive fire.
The SL issues the shift fire signal immediately before the assault team begins its assault using the prearranged signals discussed earlier. Once the SL gives the shift fire signal and the SBF TL confirms it, the SL signals the assault TL to begin his assault. The SBF TL gives the command to shift fires to his team and the MG Team verbally. THIS IS CRITICAL. A failure to confirm that the SBF shifts their fires can result in fratricide. When the SL sees that the assault team is on the objective (OBJ), the SL signals the support element to lift fire.
While the assault team maneuvers across the OBJ utilizing individual movement techniques (IMT), the assault TL maintains visual or oral control of his team. During the assault, the team eliminates all hazards by destroying any enemy personnel that still pose a threat and removing any weapons found near the enemy.
As soon as the support TL receives the lift fire signal, he gives that command to his team and sends a confirmation signal to the SL that the team has lifted fire. After the SBF TL confirms the lift fire signal, he begins gathering an ACE (Ammo, Causalities, Equipment) report from his soldiers. During this time, his team must be prepared to resume firing in case the tactical situation on the OBJ changes and the assault team has to withdraw off the OBJ under fire.
Once across the OBJ, the Assault TL identifies and establishes the LOA (limit of advance). The LOA is approximately 35 meters past the edge of the OBJ or the last area that provides cover and concealment. The SL remains near the center of the OBJ to maintain control. As soon as the support TL hears “LOA”, he prepares to move his team and the MG team. Once the assault team is set on the LOA, the SL calls for the SBF to move up to the LOA.
Once SBF moves to the LOA and announces that, they have crossed it by calling "LOA". The SL begins "Consolidation and Reorganization" with the following steps.
CONSOLIDATE and REORGANIZE
SPECIAL TEAMS
Once the squad consolidates and reorganizes, the SL starts deploying his special teams. The first special team he calls to his position is the EPW and search team(s). The SL decides how many teams to use based on the following factors:
EPW AND SEARCH TEAM – CLEAR OBJ: The SL gives tasks, conditions, and standards to the EPW and search team(s) on how he wants them to clear the OBJ. It is important that the SL gives clear and concise tasks, conditions, and standards so that time is not wasted on the OBJ. After the SL assigns each team part of the OBJ, the teams move two men abreast and clear their areas of anything that could pose a threat to the squad. After clearing, the teams return to the SL’s location and brief him on the number of enemy KIA, WIA, and anything else that could affect the squad.
AID AND LITTER TEAM: After the EPW and search teams clear the objective, the teams return to their place on the perimeter. If the squad sustains any casualties that require treatment or evacuation, the SL deploys his Aid and Litter teams. The SL gives tasks, conditions, and standards to the Aid and Litter team(s) on how he wants them to treat and evacuate casualties. The Squad Leader also designates the Casualty Collection Point (CCP). For this example, the SL decides to place the CCP inside the squad's perimeter. If the squad sustains casualties, the SL must consider how much time he has on the OBJ, if any, to conduct a detailed search for PIR given the amount of time it takes to conduct CASEVAC procedures.
EPW AND SEARCH TEAM – SEARCH THE OBJ: If the squad sustains no life threatening casualties and the SL determines that he has time to gather detailed PIR, he gives tasks, conditions, and standards to the EPW and search teams to conduct their search. The teams search all enemy personnel and the OBJ area. They call out what they find along the way using the code words “Black” and “Gold”. The SL assigns one soldier the code word of Black and the other as Gold. This technique is a control measure for information so the SL does not confuse the type and number of equipment found on the OBJ. For example, a soldier assigned the code word “Gold” who finds an AK-47 will call off “Gold, AK-47”.
The SL also gives each of the members of the EPW and search team a portion of the OBJ to search and identifies a consolidation point for all enemy equipment. If the teams find something that they cannot identify, they take the unknown equipment with them unless it interferes with the squad’s mission. If the equipment is too large to carry or hinders the mission, the teams take a picture or make a sketch of that equipment before destroying it in place.
The RTO must record all information the EPW and search teams call out. Additionally, the RTO keeps time by starting his stopwatch at the initial contact and calling out the time on the OBJ in one-minute increments.
DEMO TEAMS: Once the EPW and search teams consolidate all enemy weapons and equipment at the point the SL designated, the SL calls for the Demo team. The SL gives the Demo team tasks, conditions, and standards about how and where the Demo team should destroy the enemy equipment. The squad wants to destroy the equipment so that the enemy can no longer use it against friendly forces, but the squad may or may not have Demo. If the squad has no Demo, the team may destroy enemy weapons by field stripping the weapons and taking the bolts with the squad. If the squad has Demo, the Demo team prepares the charge, gives the M81 initiators to the SL, and returns their positions on the perimeter. At this point, the SL begins the withdrawal from the OBJ.
WITHDRAWAL FROM THE OBJECTIVE
To begin the withdrawal from the objective, the SL must determine which team to send back first to recover their rucksacks. It is recommended that the SL sends the team that has the furthest to travel back first. This enables the squad to clear through the area where they dropped rucksacks in a controlled manner rather than having to pass one fire team through another, which potentially masks a team’s fires if the enemy counter-attacks. Moving the teams in a controlled manner assists in maintaining security and decreases the chance of fratricide.
If the Squad Leader has DEMO, he waits until the last team withdraws from the OBJ. When the last soldier from that team passes the SL, he pulls the M81 fuse igniters to ignite the time fuse. Once the SL sees the time fuse actually burning, he calls out “burning” and radios the message to his TLs. Once the SL successfully initiates the Demo charge, he and the RTO move from the OBJ to their rucksacks to get ready to move.
The SL will get a “thumbs up” from the TL confirming they have accountability of their Men, Weapons, and Equipment and are prepared to move. The SL gives the signal to move out and calls Higher with a complete SALUTE report.
OTHER SQUAD ATTACK TECHNIQUES
Above we detailed how to flank the enemy's position while conducting a squad attack. Flanking the enemy is the most preferred method because it can throw your enemy off balance and give your squad a better chance at defeating them. However, other techniques can be used:
As an example, the squad may be moving through the woods on relatively flat terrain when the lead fire team encounters a one or two soldier enemy element with small arms 20 meters to their front. Now does it make sense to stop and wait for the SL to make a decision, attempt to flank a position 20 meters in front of another team, or allow the enemy time to react? No, it does not. That lead team in this scenario could immediately get on line and fire and maneuver on the enemy’s position.
One thing to note is that throughout Squad Attack, the SL should always consider using indirect fires. While at Ranger School or Sapper Leader Course, if you have someone who is EXTREMELY competent on calling for fire, use this to your advantage.
This was a summary of how you will be expected to perform Squad Attack at Ranger and Sapper School. The other option would be to break contact.
Break Contact can be found here.
If you have already read Break Contact, you can continue learning by reading React to Near and Far Ambush.
React to Near and Far Ambush can be found here.
]]>Let me familiarize you with the "20 Board" above. The board shows the squad executing the Break Contact Battle Drill. On the left side, there are some administrative notes to help you follow this period of instruction. On the lower right side, there is a 12-man infantry squad in squad column, fire team wedge. Above that, I have an example of the lead team in contact with a three man enemy element. To the right, the team not in contact sets up a Support by Fire (SBF) / Overwatch position. Notice that my board is color coded but not personalized. Remember while at Ranger School and Sapper Leader Course, you will color code and personalize all of your boards.
The Break Contact Battle Drill usually takes place after a squad has taken initial contact from an enemy force. If you have not read it already, the React to Contact Battle Drill can be found here. After initial contact, the Squad Leader (SL) assesses the situation by determining the following:
The SL also has to consider using indirect fires prior to maneuvering the squad. Some considerations are:
The SL assesses the enemy’s most probable course of action based on the information he has gathered from his assessment and experience.
The SL also considers reasons the squad might need to break contact, such as:
If the SL determines through his assessment that the squad needs to break contact, he orders the squad to “Break Contact.” In this example, the SL decides to use the lead team as the initial Support by Fire or Base of Fire Element. The SL tells the lead Team Leader (TL) that his team is the Base of Fire Element. The lead TL must now increase his team’s rate of fire in an attempt to suppress the enemy and gain fire superiority. This enables the trail team to maneuver.
The SL must also consider whether to send the M240B forward to help the team in contact to gain fire superiority. Keep in mind that if the SL sends the M240B forward to the team in contact:
The SL moves back to the team not in contact, which in this example is the trail fire team. He informs the trail TL that the trail team is the initial Maneuver Element for the break contact. Ideally, the SL leads his teams to their Overwatch/SBF positions. However, if the tactical situation does not allow this to happen, the SL directs the trail TL where to move his team. The SL gives a Direction, Distance, and Identifiable Feature so the maneuver element can move to and establish an Over-watch/SBF position. The SL can give this information over FM, verbally, or with hand and arm signals. An example directive is, "4 o' clock, 100 meters, that big white oak tree / large rock".
Notice that the SL must set his SBF position in a location where they can effectively engage the enemy. The SBF must suppress the enemy to enable the team in contact to break contact. The SBF CANNOT effectively do this if their fires are masked by friendly elements or if they cannot see the enemy's positions. If the squad is in open terrain with minimal cover and concealment, the maneuver element may have to use smoke grenades to mask their movement. You must be careful using smoke because if the wind blows in the wrong direction, the billowing smoke might hinder the squad's ability to break contact and increase the chance of fratricide due to reduced visibility between friendly elements.
Once the trail team reaches the position the SL designated, the TL immediately deploys his team on line and assigns each soldier a sector of fire. During periods of limited visibility, the TL assigns sectors of fire by going to each soldier and utilizing tracers and the PEQ-15 or any other laser target designating devices available.
The TL then tells the SL that his team is ready to support by fire. The TL can communicate this over FM, with a “thumbs up” to the SL, or by having his team engage the enemy positions. The TL then attempts to gain and maintain suppressive fire by directing his team's fires with fire commands until the SL gives him further guidance.
Ideally, the M240B goes with the maneuver element and sets up between the team in contact and the team not in contact. As a general rule of thumb, the M240B should be in the Overwatch/SBF position farthest from the enemy's position. However, the SL can position the MG wherever he deems necessary based on the tactical situation and where he can best control his element. The SL assigns the MG limits of fire, where to direct their fires, and the rate to fire.
The SL and RTO move wherever the SL can best control the squad. In a perfect world, the SL moves with the maneuver element to lead them into their Overwatch/SBF position and direct their fires. However, the tactical situation might not permit this.
Once the maneuver team establishes the Overwatch/SBF position and effectively suppresses the enemy's positions, the SL signals the team in contact, the base-of-fire element, to break contact. Some signals are radio, verbal, smoke, hand and arm signals, or any prearranged signal issued in their OPORD.
This base-of-fire element then becomes the maneuver element. The SL gives a Direction, Distance, and Identifiable Feature to enable this team to move. An example is "6 o'clock, 150 meters, pile of logs". When the lead TL receives the “break contact” signal, the team begins to bound back to the designated position. If the team has smoke available, they throw it and use it to mask their movement. When they reach the designated position, they establish an Over-watch/SBF position.
The team must break contact in a controlled manner. The TL controls his team by having them IMT by buddy team using fire and maneuver techniques to the position the SL designates.
Once in position the TL immediately gets his team online, assigns sectors of fire, and prepares to Support by fire to allow the remainder of the Squad to Break Contact. The SL continues this process of bounding his teams away from the enemy until the Squad is:
After contact has been broken, the Squad will move 300 meters or a major terrain feature away. The SL should consider changing the direction of movement once contact is broken. This will reduce the ability of the enemy to place effective indirect fires on his Squad. Once the SL has moved the appropriate distance, the SL conducts a security halt to consolidate and reorganize.
After reporting the situation to higher authorities, the SL continues the mission.
One thing to note is that throughout Break Contact, the SL should always consider using indirect fires. While at Ranger School or Sapper Leader Course, if you have someone who is EXTREMELY competent on calling for fire, use this to your advantage.
This was a summary of how you will be expected to perform Break Contact at Ranger and Sapper School. The other option would be to break contact.
Squad Attack can be found here.
If you have already read Squad Attack, you can continue learning by reading React to Near and Far Ambush.
React to Near and Far Ambush can be found here.]]>