Scouting and patrolling

By United States. Marine Corps

The Project Gutenberg eBook of Scouting and patrolling

This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and
most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms
of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online
at www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States,
you will have to check the laws of the country where you are located
before using this eBook.

Title: Scouting and patrolling

Creator: United States. Marine Corps

Author of introduction, etc.: Lt. Gen. John E. Rhodes

Release date: April 9, 2026 [eBook #78401]

Language: English

Original publication: Washington: Dept US Navy, 2000

Other information and formats: www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/78401

Credits: Carol Brown, Aaron Adrignola, Brian Coe and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive)

*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SCOUTING AND PATROLLING ***

MCWP3-11.3

Scouting and Patrolling

[Illustration]

U.S. Marine Corps

17 April 2000

PCN 143 000075 00

To Our Readers

=Changes=: Readers of this publication are encouraged to submit
suggestions and changes that will improve it. Recommendations may be
sent directly to Commanding General, Marine Corps Combat Development
Command, Doctrine Division (C 42), 3300 Russell Road, Suite 318A,
Quantico, VA 22134-5021 or by fax to 703-784-2917 (DSN 278-2917)
or by E-mail to [email protected]=. Recommendations should
include the following information:

• Location of change
Publication number and title
Current page number
Paragraph number (if applicable)
Line number
Figure or table number (if applicable)

• Nature of change
Add, delete
Proposed new text, preferably double-spaced and typewritten

• Justification and/or source of change

=Additional copies=: A printed copy of this publication may be
obtained from Marine Corps Logistics Base, Albany, GA 31704-5001,
by following the instructions in MCBul 5600, _Marine Corps
Doctrinal Publications Status_. An electronic copy may be obtained
from the Doctrine Division, MCCDC, world wide web home page
which is found at the following universal reference locator:
=http://www.doctrine.usmc.mil=.

=Unless otherwise stated, whenever the masculine or feminine gender
is used, both men and women are included.=

DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY
Headquarters United States Marine Corps
Washington, DC 20380-1776

17 April 2000

FOREWORD

1. PURPOSE

Marine Corps Warfighting Publication (MCWP) 3-11.3, _Scouting and
Patrolling_, provides the doctrinal foundation and the tactics,
techniques, and procedures for scouting and patrolling conducted
by Marines from the fire team to the company level. Although the
information focuses on infantry units, much of the information is
also applicable to combat support units that are assigned patrolling
missions.

2. SCOPE

MCWP 3-11.3 provides all Marines with the instructional material they
need to build the skills necessary to become effective scouts and
patrol team members. This publication provides the fundamentals of
scouting and patrolling and their relationship to each other. It also
addresses organizational structure of teams and patrols, the training
required to develop teamwork, and reporting requirements.

3. SUPERSESSION

MCWP 3-11.3 supersedes Fleet Marine Force Manual (FMFM) 6-7,
_Scouting and Patrolling_, dated 6 January 1989.

4. CERTIFICATION

Reviewed and approved this date.

BY DIRECTION OF THE COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS

[Illustration: J. E. Rhodes]

J. E. RHODES
Lieutenant General, U.S. Marine Corps
Commanding General
Marine Corps Combat Development Command

DISTRIBUTION: 143 000075 00

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART 1. SCOUTING

Chapter 1. Fundamentals of Scouting

1001 Purpose 1-1
1002 Required Scouting Skills 1-1

Chapter 2. Terrain, Maps, and Direction

2001 Terrain Features 2-1
2002 The Lensatic Compass 2-1
2003 Stars, Sun, and Other Features 2-5
2004 Range Determination 2-6

Chapter 3. Enemy Activity

3001 Estimating Enemy Strengths 3-1
3002 Interpreting Signs and Tracks 3-1
3003 Knowing the Enemy 3-2

Chapter 4. Daylight Scouting

4001 Cover and Concealment 4-1
4002 Camouflage 4-2
4003 Individual Movement 4-3
4004 Route Selection 4-5

Chapter 5. Night Scouting

5001 Night Vision 5-1
5002 Appearance of Objects 5-3
5003 Sounds 5-3
5004 Smells and Touch 5-3
5005 Clothing and Weapons 5-3
5006 Concealment 5-3
5007 Aids to Night Scouting 5-4
5008 Aids to Night Movement 5-4
5009 Locating and Plotting the Enemy at Night 5-6
50010 Routes of Movement 5-8

Chapter 6. Observing and Reporting

6001 Observation Posts 6-1
6002 Reporting 6-2

Chapter 7. Scouting Fire Team

7001 Positioning 7-1
7002 Locating Enemy Positions 7-2
7003 Action With an Attacking Platoon 7-2
7004 Action With an Enveloping Unit 7-5

PART 2. INFANTRY PATROLLING

Chapter 8. Fundamentals of Infantry Patrolling

8001 Definitions 8-1
8002 Relation of Patrolling to Scouting 8-1
8003 Purpose 8-1
8004 Types of Patrols 8-1
8005 Training 8-2
8006 Keys to Successful Patrolling 8-3

Chapter 9. Patrol Organization

9001 General Organization 9-1
9002 Task Organization 9-1

Chapter 10. Patrol Preparation

10001 Mission 10-1
10002 Factors Influencing Patrol Size 10-1
10003 Commander’s Duties 10-1
10004 Patrol Leader Duties 10-2

Chapter 11. Movement to and Return from the Objective Area

11001 Passage of Lines 11-1
11002 Organization for Movement 11-1
11003 Control Measures for Movement 11-4
11004 Precautions at Danger Areas 11-5
11005 Hide 11-6
11006 Immediate Actions Upon Enemy Contact 11-6
11007 Patrol Leader’s Action in a Developing Situation 11-10
11008 Return From Objective Area 11-10

Chapter 12. Reconnaissance Patrols

12001 General Missions 12-1
12002 Specific Missions 12-1
12003 Types of Reconnaissance 12-2
12004 Task Organization 12-2
12005 Size of Reconnaissance Patrols 12-3
12006 Reconnaissance Equipment 12-3
12007 Reconnaissance Patrol Actions at the Objective Area 12-3

Chapter 13. Combat Patrols

13001 Task Organization 13-1
13002 Equipment 13-1
13003 Raid Patrols 13-1
13004 Contact Patrols 13-3
13005 Ambush Patrols 13-3
13006 Security Patrols 13-7
13007 Urban Patrols 13-8

Chapter 14. Information and Reports

14001 Reporting 14-1
14002 Captured Items 14-1
14003 Prisoners 14-2
14004 Patrol Report 14-2
14005 Patrol Critique 14-2

Appendix A. Patrol Warning Order A-1

Appendix B. Patrol Order B-1

Appendix C. Patrol Evaluation Checklist C-1

Appendix D. Ambush Formations D-1

Appendix E. Acronyms E-1

Appendix F. References F-1

PART 1. SCOUTING

CHAPTER 1. FUNDAMENTALS OF SCOUTING

Scouting involves observing terrain and/or the enemy, and
accurately reporting those observations. Scouting requires
proficiency in the use of weapons, cover and concealment,
route selection, and skill in unobserved day or night
movement.

1001. PURPOSE

When an infantry unit is not actively fighting the enemy, it should
be actively searching for the enemy, which is the primary purpose
of scouting. The unit attempts to keep the enemy off balance while
making preparations for further attacks. Physically locating and
keeping the enemy off balance are normally accomplished by small
units ranging from a two-person scouting party to a squad-size patrol.

Infantrymen are sent out as scouts or as members of a patrol because
the commander needs information about the enemy, terrain, and the
location of friendly troops. The lives of the entire unit may depend
upon the success or failure of a scout or patrol and the accuracy
and timeliness of the report. The success of the scout or patrol
will depend upon their training, preparation by the commander, and
understanding their mission and the commander’s requirements.

To wage combat successfully, a commander must have accurate,
detailed, and timely information about the enemy, the terrain, and
adjacent friendly units. Well-trained scouts and capably led patrols
are among the most effective means the commander has for acquiring
the information necessary to plan tactical actions and make decisions
in execution.

1002. REQUIRED SCOUTING SKILLS

To be effective, a scout must be able to--

• Recognize terrain features.

• Read a map and determine direction.

• Practice and implement the principles of cover and concealment.

• Fully utilize movement and route selection.

• Know the enemy (estimate enemy unit composition and strength).

• Observe and report information accurately.

• Select routes and move through numerous types of terrain.

CHAPTER 2. TERRAIN, MAPS, AND DIRECTION

A scout must understand map symbols, identify elevations
from contour interval lines, scale distance on a map,
relate natural and man-made features shown on the map to
the actual features on the ground, plot a course from
one point to another, and locate his current position.
To relate a map to the actual terrain and its features,
a scout must be able to orient it to the ground using a
compass, two points, a watch, and the sun or the stars.

2001. TERRAIN FEATURES

Since the infantry works and fights on the ground, terrain ashore
information that scouts gather and report on is of great importance.
Hills, valleys, woods, and streams are the forms and growths commonly
referred to as natural land features. Artificial or man-made features
include houses, bridges, and railroads. Figure 2-1 shows some
important terrain features.

[Illustration: Figure 2-1. Natural and Artificial Terrain Features.]

2002. THE LENSATIC COMPASS

The best method of finding direction, during both day and night, is
with a compass. The lensatic and M2 are the two types of compasses
issued to infantry units. Both work on the same principle.

The standard compass for general use in the Marine Corps is the
pivot-mounted lensatic compass, so called because azimuths are read
through a magnifying lens in the eyepiece. Figure 2-2, on page 2-2,
shows the lensatic compass and its nomenclature. The meter graphic
scale on the side of the compass is 1:50,000, which is the most
used scale in military mapping. The graphic scale is useful in the
field as a straightedge, an aid in orienting the map, and a means of
reading map grid coordinates. The plastic dial is graduated in both
degrees and mils. Numbers on the dial are printed in black. There
are luminous markings on the bezel, floating dial, and on both ends
of the sighting wire, plus a 3-degree bezel serration and clicking
device that permit reading azimuths at night. The compass is carried
in a nylon case that may be attached to the cartridge belt.

[Illustration: Figure 2-2. Lensatic Compass.]

Magnetic compasses are affected by the presence of iron or magnetic
fields. Consequently, the scout should not be within the influence
of local magnetic attraction while using a compass to determine
direction. The rifle, pistol, and other metal objects must be laid
aside when reading the compass. The minimum distances the scout
should be from visible masses of iron and electrical fields of
magnetism for the compass to provide accurate readings are provided
below.

Minimum
Magnetic Fields Distances
(meters)
High tension powerlines 60
Field guns 20
Vehicles (wheeled or tracked) 20
Telephone and telegraph wires 10
Barbed wire 10
Machine gun 3
Rifle, pistol 1

Reading an Azimuth

To read an azimuth to any point, the cover of the compass is raised
to an angle of 90 degrees in relation to the index face, and the
eyepiece is lifted to a 45-degree angle in relation to the bezel, or
so the numbers on the dial can be seen. The thumb of either hand is
placed in the thumb loop, the index finger extended along the side of
the compass case, and the remainder of the hand closed. The closed
hand and wrist are grasped with the other hand. The elbows are drawn
in close to the body, forming a firm foundation for the compass. The
eye is placed to the lens on the eyepiece. The compass is pointed at
the object or point to which the azimuth is to be read. A sighting
is taken through the sighting slot in the eyepiece, and the point is
lined up with the sighting wire in the cover. The compass is held
until the dial steadies; then the reading is taken through the lens
of the eyepiece. This reading is the magnetic azimuth of the line
from the observer to the point.

Reading a Back Azimuth

A back azimuth is the direction opposite the line of sight. If the
azimuth is less than 180 degrees, the back azimuth is obtained by
adding 180 degrees. If the azimuth is greater than 180 degrees, the
back azimuth is obtained by subtracting 180 degrees. Back azimuths
are used to determine a return route or to resection to determine a
current position.

Circumventing Obstacles

When a scout is traveling on an azimuth and comes upon an
obstacle--such as a contaminated area, minefield or swamp--the
following steps (sometimes referred to as the _90-degree offset_
method) is employed to go around or circumvent the obstacle and
resume movement along the original azimuth (see fig. 2-3). The steps
are as follows:

1. Move up to the obstacle and make a full 90-degree turn to the
right (or left).

2. Walk beyond the obstacle, keeping track of the distance in paces
or meters.

3. Stand at the end of the obstacle, face in the original direction
of march, and follow that azimuth until the obstacle has been passed.

4. Make a 90-degree turn to the left (or right) and move the distance
previously measured to return to the original line of march.

[Illustration: Figure 2-3. Circumventing an Obstacle.]

Following an Azimuth During the Day

The eye is placed to the lens in the eyepiece and the compass moved
until the desired azimuth reading is visible beneath the fixed
index. Without moving the compass, the vision is shifted from the
lens through the sighting slot in the eyepiece, and a sighting is
taken out beyond the sighting wire in the cover. A prominent terrain
feature on this line of sight is selected, the compass closed, and
the landmark approached. When the scout reaches the landmark, the
procedure is repeated.

Following an Azimuth at Night

It is necessary to prepare and set the compass before departing
on a night movement because at night only the luminous parts of
the compass can be seen. To prepare the compass for night use, the
luminous parts must be fully charged by sunlight or artificial light,
such as a flashlight. To set a compass--

1. Move the compass so that the desired azimuth on the dial is
directly under the index line on the lower glass.

2. Rotate the upper movable glass so that the luminous line is
directly above the north arrow of the dial.

3. Set the compass for marching at night on the specified azimuth.

--OR--

1. Face the general direction of movement.

2. Line up the north arrow and the luminous line on the bezel with
the luminous sighting dots.

3. Hold the compass still with one hand and grip the knurled bezel
ring with the other hand.

4. Turn the bezel ring the prescribed number of clicks in the proper
direction, remembering that each click equals 3 degrees. For example,
to set an azimuth of 21 degrees, the bezel ring would be turned seven
clicks to the left.

5. Turn the whole compass until the north needle lines up with the
luminous line. The compass is then set on the desired azimuth. The
azimuth is the line formed by the two luminous sighting dots on the
inside of the cover.

[Illustration: Figure 2-4. Following a Night Azimuth.]

To march on a preset azimuth during night movement, open the compass
and move it so the north arrow is directly below the luminous line
(see fig. 2-4). Move in the direction of the line formed by the two
luminous sighting dots. It is necessary to refer to the compass more
frequently at night than during the day. If stars are visible, find
a prominent star along the azimuth of movement to use as a reference
point. When the view of the sky is restricted by overcast conditions
or vegetation, send a scout forward along the azimuth of movement to
the limit of visibility. This scout is guided along the azimuth of
movement by a stationary navigator. When the scout reaches the limit
of visibility, the navigator moves to the scout’s location. This
process is repeated until the destination is reached.

A more rapid method for reaching the scout’s destination is to equip
the navigator with a compass. The navigator can set the compass as
explained earlier and the scout proceeds providing security 180
degrees to the front on the specified azimuth, receiving right and
left corrections from the navigator while both are on the move.
The point scout must stay within visual range of the navigator. If
available, a strip of white or luminous tape on the back of the point
scout’s helmet will assist.

Intersection

Intersection is the location of an unknown point by successively
occupying at least two, preferably three known positions and
sightings on the unknown point. It is used to locate features not
depicted on the map or not readily identifiable. To determine an
intersection, perform the following steps (see fig. 2-5):

1. Orient the map using the compass.

2. Locate and mark your position on the map.

3. Measure the magnetic azimuth to the unknown position; then convert
to grid azimuth.

4. Draw a line on the map from your position on this grid azimuth.

5. Move to a second known position from which unknown point is
visible. Locate this position on the map and again orient the map
using the compass. The second unknown position should be a minimum of
30 degrees offset from the first position.

6. Repeat steps 4 and 5.

[Illustration: Figure 2-5. Intersection.]

To check accuracy, move to a third position and repeat steps 1
through 4. Where the lines cross is the location of the unknown
position. Using three lines, a triangle is sometimes formed--called
the _triangle of error_--instead of an intersection. If the triangle
is large, recheck your work to find the error. Do not assume that the
position is at the center of the triangle.

Resection

Resection is the location of the user’s unknown position by sighting
on two or three known features that are identifiable on the map. To
determine a resection, perform the following steps (see fig. 2-6):

1. Orient the map using the compass.

2. Locate two or three known positions on the ground and mark them on
the map.

3. Measure the magnetic azimuth to a known position then convert to
grid azimuth.

4. Change the grid azimuth to a back azimuth and draw a line on the
map from the known position back toward the unknown position.

5. Repeat step 3 and step 4 to determine a second known position.

[Illustration: Figure 2-6. Resection.]

To check accuracy, repeat the steps above for a third known position.
The intersection of the lines is your location. Using three lines, a
triangle of error may be formed. If the triangle is large, recheck.

2003. STARS, SUN, AND OTHER FEATURES

In rare cases when a scout is without a compass, the following
examples are alternate means to determine direction. When using
constellations to determine direction, identify your location’s
Temperate Zone. A Temperate Zone is the area between the tropics and
the polar circles.

At night, the stars provide an excellent means of maintaining a line
of march. In the North Temperate Zone (north of the equator), the
Big Dipper constellation is one key to determining direction of true
north. It is made up of seven fairly bright stars in the shape of a
dipper with a long curved handle (see fig. 2-7). The two stars that
form the side of the cup farthest from the handle, used as pointers,
are situated in the direction of a bright star that is about five
times the distance between the two stars of the dipper cup. This
bright star is the North Star and is directly over the North Pole.
The pointers always designate the North Star, which is the direction
of true north.

[Illustration: Figure 2-7. Locating the North Pole.]

[Illustration: Figure 2-8. Locating the South Pole.]

In the Southern Hemisphere, true south is determined in relation
to the Southern Cross, a constellation composed of five stars. Two
bright pointer stars in the vicinity of the Southern Cross serve as
locators to help locate true south (see fig. 2-8). The outer four
stars are fairly bright and form a cross. This cross is imagined as
the frame of a kite. A straight tail, four and one half times as long
as the length of the kite itself, is put on the kite using finger
widths for a measuring stick. The end of this tail will be close to
a position directly over the South Pole. Usually, it will not be
possible to see a star in the immediate vicinity, because there is no
bright star visible directly above the South Pole.

During daylight hours, a watch and the sun can be used to determine
direction within 8 degrees. In the North Temperate Zone, the watch is
held horizontally, face up, and the hour hand pointed at the sun (see
fig. 2-9). The north-south line and the direction of south can be
found midway between the hour hand and the number 12, if the watch is
set on standard time. If in daylight savings time, the direction of
south is found midway between the hour hand and the number 1.

[Illustration: Figure 2-9. Determining Direction by Watch and Sun
(North Temperate Zone).]

In the South Temperate Zone, if the watch is set on standard time,
the number 12 on the watch is pointed at the sun; if the watch is set
on daylight savings time, the number 1 is pointed at the sun. North
is midway between 12 (or 1) and the hour hand (see fig. 2-10).

When laying in a north-south line, if any doubt exists as to which
end of the line is north, remember that the sun is in the east before
noon and in the west in the afternoon.

[Illustration: Figure 2-10. Determining Direction by Watch and Sun
(South Temperate Zone).]

In addition to the sun and stars, other methods a scout without a
compass can use to determine direction include determining prevailing
wind direction and using a mountain for orientation. By previous
study of maps and photographs, a scout can keep informed of location
and direction by using a distinctive edge of woods, a deep ravine
or the direction of a stream’s flow. A scout should constantly
evaluate and memorize both the immediate terrain and general area for
prominent features and landmarks.

2004. RANGE DETERMINATION

Range determination is the method of finding the distance between
an observer and an enemy target or an object. By accurate range
determination, the members of a given unit can set their sights
correctly and place effective fire on enemy targets. The degree of
accuracy is dependent on several factors, such as terrain relief,
time available, and experience of the observer.

Mental Estimation

A mental distance estimate is made using a known unit of measure.
Distance is estimated to the nearest 100 meters by determining the
number of known units of measure between the observer’s position
and a target. For example, a football field, which is 100 yards,
can be used as a known unit of measure for determining the distance
between an observer’s position and a target. For longer distances,
progressive estimation may be necessary. To do this, the observer
determines the number of units of measure to an intermediate point
and doubles the value. The observer should consider the effects in
table 2-1 in estimating distances.

Table 2-1. Effects to Consider
in Mental Estimation of Distances.

Estimating in Good Visibility

When visibility is good, distances can be estimated by using the
appearance of tree trunks, branches, and foliage (as seen by the
naked eye) in comparison with map data. Table 2-2 is a guide for
wooded terrain. Table 2-3 is a guide for urban environments.

Estimating From a Terrain Study

The Marine should always use terrain/map analysis to assist in
estimating distances. When the Marine is looking in a specific
direction, the estimation of distance can be enhanced by studying
the terrain and comparing it with the map. Particular emphasis
should be given to color contrasts of terrain features seen along
the observer-target line (OTL). For example, the distance across
successive ridge lines or depressions in the distance may be
identifiable by only slight changes of color to the eye. Different
colors of grass might reveal a hidden terrain feature such as a
stream.

Table 2-2. Estimating Distance
in Wooded Terrain.

+-----------+------------------------------------------------+
| Distance | |
| in | Tree Description |
| Meters | |
+-----------+------------------------------------------------+
| 1,000 | Trunk and main branches are visible. Foliage |
| | appears in cluster-like shape. Daylight may be |
| | seen through the foliage. |
+-----------+------------------------------------------------+
| 2,000 | Trunk visible, main branches distinguishable, |
| | foliage appears as smooth surface. Outline of |
| | foliage of separate trees distinguishable. |
+-----------+------------------------------------------------+
| 3,000 | Lower half of trunk visible. Branches blend |
| | with foliage. Foliage blends with adjoining |
| | trees. |
+-----------+------------------------------------------------+
| 4,000 | Trunk and branches blend with foliage and |
| | appears as a continuous cluster, smooth in |
| | appearance. Movement of foliage due to wind |
| | cannot be detected. |
+-----------+------------------------------------------------+
| 5,000 and | Whole area covered by trees and appears |
| beyond | smooth and dark. |
+-----------+------------------------------------------------+

Table 2-3. Estimating Distance
in Urban Terrain.

+---------------+-------------------------------------+
| Distance in | Object Identified by the |
| Meters | Unaided Eye |
+---------------+-------------------------------------+
| 1,000 | Lone tree trunk |
+---------------+-------------------------------------+
| 1,500 | Individuals and horsemen |
+---------------+-------------------------------------+
| 3,000 | Chimneys on rooftops |
+---------------+-------------------------------------+
| 4,000 | Windows in houses |
+---------------+-------------------------------------+
| 4,000–5,000 | Individual houses in populated area |
+---------------+-------------------------------------+
| 8,000–9,000 | Villages and individual houses |
+---------------+-------------------------------------+
| 15,000–18,000 | Large houses, towers, and steeples |
+---------------+-------------------------------------+

CHAPTER 3. ENEMY ACTIVITY

A commander often acts on information furnished by scouts.
Therefore, scouts must aim at absolute accuracy in
reporting enemy activity. This chapter discusses estimating
enemy strengths, interpreting signs and tracks, and knowing
the enemy.

3001. ESTIMATING ENEMY STRENGTHS

If troops cannot be counted, their strength may be estimated by:
noting the length of time it takes various types of moving columns to
pass a given point, the area required of a unit in camp or bivouac,
or the front on which they are deployed. When the ground is dry,
infantry on the march raise a low, thick cloud of dust, and motor
vehicles or mechanized units raise a thick, rapidly moving cloud.
Additionally, through practice, a scout may gain information as to
the strength and composition of enemy forces by listening to noises
and observing lights, fires, and smoke. A scout gains valuable
experience in estimating enemy strengths by observing friendly forces
in camp, on the march, and deployed. The knowledge scouts gain
during field exercises of the appearance and tactical dispositions
of squads, platoons, companies, and larger units will be of great
assistance in estimating the strength and composition of enemy units
observed under various conditions.

3002. INTERPRETING SIGNS AND TRACKS

In addition to estimates made through direct observation, a scout
may often be able to estimate size, composition, direction, rate of
movement, condition, discipline, state of training, and morale of
enemy forces through signs and tracks left behind.

Signs

The examination of vacated enemy positions provides valuable
information. The size of a bivouac or defense area ordinarily
indicates the number of enemy occupants. Clothing, ration containers,
dumps, etc., further indicate the quantity of the departed enemy
force. The condition of the bivouac area and amount of material
abandoned give an indication of the enemy morale, training, and
discipline. A well-policed area indicates good discipline. Rubbish,
ration and smoking residue, and nonessential personal items of
equipment adrift indicate a lower state of morale, training, and
discipline. Stores and material left behind in good condition
may indicate a hasty movement or withdrawal. Burned or destroyed
materials indicate a deliberate, orderly withdrawal or movement.
Letters, insignia, and other articles may reveal the identity of the
enemy unit.

In the case of a moving enemy, the distance between periodic halts
indicates the rate of march if enemy habits relative to marches and
halts are known. Condition of the halt areas indicates the state of
morale, training, and discipline.

The physical condition of enemy dead and wounded and their personal
equipment and weapons are reported. The general condition and state
of maintenance of destroyed or abandoned vehicles should also be
reported.

Tracks

A track is a mark left on the ground by the passage of a person or
object. Examination of tracks reveals information about the enemy.

_Troops_

A few tracks overlapping each other on both sides of a road or trail
may indicate a patrol in staggered formation. A large number of
tracks indicates troops in column formation. A large column will wear
a dry road smooth and flat. In damp terrain, a freshly made track
will have sharp edges; ordinarily, signs of moisture will disappear
in about 15 minutes. A runner’s toes are dug into the ground; a
walker’s footprint is fairly even.

_Vehicles_

The type of track indicates whether the vehicle is wheeled or
tracked. A scout acquires the necessary experience to make the proper
determination by observing vehicle tracks during training.

The direction of travel can be determined by the way tracks pass
across ruts, by impressions on the edges of holes in the ground,
how water is splashed from puddles, or by the way grass, twigs, and
branches are bent; for example--

• A vehicle (wheeled or tracked) entering a rut pushes dirt into
the rut and leaves an indentation on the exit side of the rut.

• A wheel going over holes in the ground leaves a deeper
impression on the edge toward the direction of travel.

• The side of a puddle with the greater splash indicates the
direction of travel of the vehicle.

• When traveling cross-country, the direction in which grass is
bent and/or twigs, branches, and bushes are broken indicates
direction of travel.

A general rate of speed can be estimated by the amount of water or
mud splattered. A fast-moving vehicle will throw larger amounts
of water or mud a greater distance to the front and sides than a
slow-moving vehicle, and it leaves a deeper impression on the exit
edges of holes. The faster the travel, the deeper the impression.

3003. KNOWING THE ENEMY

A scout should learn as much as possible about enemy psychology,
habits, organization, and tactics. The more knowledge gained about
the enemy, particularly the enemy’s normal security measures, the
better the scout’s chances are to observe and obtain accurate
information with minimum risk to the mission’s success. Scouts gain
much of this knowledge through experience, but they also gain a great
deal of their preliminary information, particularly that pertaining
to enemy organization and tactics, during training and may be updated
by unit commanders and intelligence officers.

CHAPTER 4. DAYLIGHT SCOUTING

A scout must be able to operate in all types of terrain
and under all conditions of visibility. He must be
thoroughly familiar with the principles for using cover and
concealment, camouflage, individual movement, and route
selection, both to and from the objective.

4001. COVER AND CONCEALMENT

Cover is protection from the fire of hostile weapons. Concealment
is protection from observation or surveillance from hostile air
and ground observation, but not from hostile fire. Both cover and
concealment are divided into two main categories: natural and
artificial. Natural cover includes small hills, ditches, rocks or
vegetation. Fighting holes, bunkers, and brick walls are examples
of artificial cover. Some features, such as buildings, provide
both cover and concealment. In deciding whether to seek cover or
concealment, a scout must make the best choice to complete the
mission (see fig. 4-1).

Concealment Principles

Concealment principles are as follows:

• Remain motionless while observing. Anything in motion attracts
the eye.

• Use all available concealment.

• Observe from the prone position (it offers a low silhouette and
makes detection by the enemy difficult).

• Expose nothing that reflects light.

• Blend with the background because contrasting colors are
noticeable.

• Remain in the shade because moving shadows attract attention.

• Distort or change the regular outline of objects. Most military
objects have distinctive shapes that make obvious shadows and
silhouettes.

• Avoid the skyline. Figures on the skyline can be seen from great
distances and are easily identified by their outlines.

Concealment Techniques

Concealment techniques are as follows:

• When observing, the scout looks around an object’s side (unless
it is transparent) and prepares to fire, if necessary, around
the side of or, if possible, through an object.

• Looking or firing over an object can make the scout an easily
visible target for the enemy. If the scout must fire over the
top of concealment or cover, the outline of the head or helmet
should be broken or distorted.

• Upon the approach of an airplane, the scout takes a prone
position, turns face-down, and remains motionless. If surprised
by an airplane, the scout remains in place and does not look up.

• The scout covers exposed body parts such as the face, back of
the neck, and hands with grease paint, mud or other materials to
reduce sun reflection.

• Camouflage for equipment can be improvised from garnishing or
sandbags to prevent sun reflection.

• In snowy terrain, white overgarments are worn.

• The helmet cover outline should be distorted.

[Illustration:

CORRECT OBSERVING POSITION PRONE AROUND RIGHT SIDE OF TREE
FROM A DITCH OBSERVE OVER BROKEN EDGE WITH BACKGROUND
OBSERVE THRU BUSH IN PRONE POSITION
OBSERVE OVER A CREST AT A POINT WHERE IT IS BROKEN OR GRASSY
OBSERVE PRONE AROUND RIGHT SIDE OF ROCK
OBSERVE PRONE UNDER CROSSBAR OF FENCE

Figure 4-1. Correct Use of Cover.]

4002. CAMOUFLAGE

Camouflage is the use of concealment and disguise to minimize the
possibility of detection and/or identification of troops, material,
equipment, and installations. The purpose of camouflage is to provide
concealment of military objects from enemy observation. Camouflage
is also used to conceal an object by making it look like something
else. A scout’s mission usually requires individual and equipment
camouflage. If natural camouflage is not adequate, the position
is camouflaged. In using camouflage, remember that objects are
identified by their form (outline), shadow, texture, and color. The
principal purpose of camouflage in the field is to prevent direct
observation and recognition.

Individual Camouflage

Successful individual camouflage involves the ability to recognize
and take advantage of all forms of natural and artificial concealment
available (vegetation, soil, debris, etc.) and knowledge of the
proper use of artificial camouflage materials.

Aids to Individual Camouflage

A scout must recognize the terrain’s dominant color and pattern and
must change the appearance of clothing and equipment accordingly in
order to blend and not contrast with the terrain (see fig. 4-2).

The helmet is camouflaged by breaking up its shape, smooth surface,
and shadow. Use of a helmet cover works best. In the absence of
a helmet cover, mud can be irregularly blotched on the helmet to
disguise its form and dull the surface. A helmet cover may be
improvised from irregularly colored cloth or burlap to blend with the
background. Foliage can be draped to prevent the visor of the helmet
from casting a dark shadow across the face. Foliage should not stick
up like plumes because any head movement will give away the position.

A small, thin bush in the shadow of a large bush makes a good
observation point. Lone trees, rocks, fence corners, and outstanding
landmarks are easily picked up by the enemy as obvious observation
posts.

If camouflage clothing is not available, other available clothing can
be attached in irregular splotches of appropriate colors.

Exposed skin reflects light and attracts the enemy’s attention. Even
very dark skin will reflect light because of its natural oil. The
buddy system is recommended when applying camouflage. Standard Marine
Corps issue camouflage face paint sticks are two toned:

• Loam and light green for light-skinned troops, in all but snow
regions.

• Sand and light green for dark-skinned troops.

• Loam and white for troops in snow-covered terrain.

[Illustration: Figure 4-2. Avoid Contrasting Backgrounds.]

Shiny areas (forehead, cheekbones, nose, and chin) are painted
with a dark color. Shadow areas (around the eyes, under the nose,
and under the chin) are painted with a light color. Skin that is
exposed on the back of the neck and hands is painted with a two-color
combination in an irregular pattern (see fig. 4-3).

When standard issue face paint sticks are not available, burnt cork,
charcoal or lamp black can be used to tone down exposed areas of skin.

Mud is used only in an emergency because it changes color as it dries
and may peel off, leaving the skin exposed. Since mud may contain
harmful bacteria, mud should be washed off as soon as possible.

[Illustration:

SPLOTCHING
STRIPING
SPLOTCHING & STRIPING

Figure 4-3. Face Camouflage.]

Any equipment that reflects light should be covered with a
nonreflective material that aids in the concealment of the weapon
(for example, black electrical tape or mud). The straight line of the
rifle or other infantry weapons may be very conspicuous to an enemy
observer. The barrel and hand guard should be wrapped with strips
of contrasting colored cloth or tape to break the regular outline.
Mud or dirt dulls the reflecting surface of the stock, barrel, and
bayonet where coloring has been worn. Lamp black may also be used on
metal parts. The function of the weapon must not impaired.

If time, material, and surroundings permit, a ghillie suit should be
constructed. (Refer to MCWP 3-15.3, _Scout Sniping_.)

Aids to Camouflage a Position

To successfully camouflage a position, the scout must remember to--

• Camouflage the position as soon as it is occupied.

• Avoid using too much material for camouflage. Even though
natural materials are used, too much may make the object and
its shadow stand out from its surroundings, thus attracting the
attention of a hostile observer.

• Inspect completed camouflage work from the enemy’s point of view
to check effectiveness.

Continuous Camouflage

Camouflage around and on the scout’s position must be maintained in
a fresh condition as wilted and dead foliage can give the position
away. If the mission dictates that the position should be occupied
for longer periods, wilted foliage should be replaced during periods
of reduced visibility.

4003. INDIVIDUAL MOVEMENT

Principles

The principles of individual movement are as follows:

• Scouts move from one concealed position to another. When not
changing positions, they remain motionless.

• The scout’s head is lifted slowly but steadily, without abrupt
movements, to search for a new position.

• Scouts select the next stopping place before moving and ensure
it is not contained by the enemy.

• Scouts change position on the run: springs up, runs with the
body bent low, zigzags, quickly drops to the ground slightly
to the right or left of the objective, then rolls or crawls to
the desired position. (Remember the phrase, “I’m up--he sees
me--I’m down.”)

Rushing

When starting from the prone position--

• Raise the head slowly and steadily and select a new position.

• Lower the head slowly, draw arms inward, cock right leg forward,
and prepare to rush.

• Use one movement to raise the body by straightening both arms.

• Spring to your feet, stepping off with the left foot.

• Bend forward as low as possible when running. Never advance
directly to the next position; always zigzag.

When hitting the deck--

• Stop.

• Plant both feet in place.

• Drop quickly to the knees and slide the hand to the heel of the
rifle.

• Fall forward, breaking your fall with the butt of the rifle. (To
confuse the enemy, roll over after hitting the deck and roll
into firing position with feet, knees, and stomach flat on the
ground.)

• Keep head down if you do not intend to fire.

When rolling over--

• Hit the deck and assume the prone position.

• Bring the rifle in close to the body, placing the rifle butt in
the crotch.

• Roll over swiftly to confuse any enemy observers as to final
intended location. Never reappear at the same place you went
down.

Low Crawl

The low crawl is used when--

• Cover and concealment are scarce.

• The enemy has good observation over the area in which the scout
is moving.

• Speed is not essential.

To perform the low crawl, keep the body as flat as possible against
the ground. Grasp the rifle sling at the upper sling swivel. Let the
balance of the rifle rest on the forearm and let the butt of the
rifle drag on the ground. Keep the muzzle off the ground.

To start forward, push arms forward and pull right leg forward. To
move forward, pull with arms and push with right leg. Change the
pushing leg frequently to avoid fatigue.

High Crawl

The high crawl is used when--

• Cover and/or concealment are available.

• Poor visibility reduces enemy observation.

• Greater speed of movement is required.

To perform the high crawl, keep body off the ground. Rest weight on
forearms and lower legs. Cradle rifle in arms, keeping the muzzle off
the ground. Keep knees well behind the buttocks to stay low.

Move forward, alternately advancing right forearm and left knee; then
left forearm and right knee.

Movement Aids

Aids to movement include--

• Carrying only necessities. Additional weight causes premature
fatigue and impedes free movement.

• Not disturbing birds or animals whose flight would betray your
presence. If birds or animals are alerted, remain motionless
under cover for a few minutes, as the enemy’s attention may also
be attracted.

• Moving during an incident that diverts attention, such as an
airplane flight, a distant disturbance or sudden bursts of fire.

• Fog, smoke, or even light haze offer concealment for movement;
however, the enemy may have thermoimagery and night vision
devices. Therefore, darkness and smoke cannot be used as easily.

• Following a stream or road by staying as far away from them as
possible while still keeping them in sight. Keep close to the
dune line when moving along a beach.

• When moving through tall grass or similar growth, move when the
wind blows, changing direction frequently. A straight route will
be more readily noticed.

• Whenever possible, avoid areas of soft ground so as not to leave
tracks.

• When crossing a road or water obstacle, choose crossing sites
where the enemy’s observation is restricted (an area in shadows
or near a bend) and cross rapidly.

4004. ROUTE SELECTION

Prior to Movement

A scout and the immediate commander conduct a map reconnaissance
before starting on a mission. This assists them in selecting the
route according to available cover and concealment and any indicated
enemy activity.

Prior to and during the course of the mission, move to an observation
point to visually reconnoiter the terrain for movement and select the
tentative route. It may be necessary to make wide detours around open
spaces or those containing enemy patrols or other enemy activity.

Carefully study the country to be traversed and pay close attention
to the general features, streams, ridges to be crossed, and their
relation to the general direction to be taken (see fig. 4-4).

Make notes of terrain features and landmarks along the proposed
route and rely on notes for guidance (see fig. 4-5 on page 4-6).
Additionally, determine the compass direction and readings for each
change of direction at the start. Finally, learn the location of
unit boundaries and observation/listening posts as well as general
location of other friendly or scouting parties. Be sure to avoid
man-made and natural obstacles as they will slow progress and overall
success of the mission. If possible, use the local populace as a
source of intelligence. When returning to friendly lines, avoid using
the same route.

En Route

En route, the actual advance will be a series of movements from one
observation point to the next. The distance and route will depend
on cover and terrain. Assess the cover, terrain, and any enemy or
civilian activity to determine whether or not to modify the approach
or return routes. Unless the mission requires it, avoid danger
areas (for example, houses, villages, potential assembly or bivouac
areas, roads, and streams) that may give away your position by being
observed by the enemy. When required to reconnoiter danger areas,
choose a covered approach and return, and make entry or passage as
quietly and quickly as possible. If part of a larger effort, the
approach and return should be covered by observation and fires of the
other members of the scouting party or patrol.

[Illustration:

STARTING POINT
CORRECT COVERED ROUTE
DIRECT ROUTE TO OBJECTIVE
OBJECTIVE

SCOUT TRAVELING BY DIRECT ROUTE WILL BE VISIBLE ON FORWARD SLOPES
OBJECTIVE

Figure 4-4. Choosing a Concealed Route of Advance from a Map.]

Stream Crossings

When the crossing does not appear to be held by the enemy, advance
upon it rapidly. If there are two or more scouts, one crosses while
the other(s) provide protection. Note the length, width, depth,
and approaches to a crossing. Observe the condition of the road or
trail that crosses the stream, and report on the suitability of the
crossing for use by tracked and wheeled vehicles. If the crossing is
under observation by enemy, seek another crossing site or dash across
to avoid detection.

[Illustration: Figure 4-5. Proposed Route Sketch.]

CHAPTER 5. NIGHT SCOUTING

Night scouting presents many of the same problems
encountered in day operations--such as cover, concealment,
movement, and camouflage--as well as additional
considerations. Knowledge of human eye construction and
operation will enable maximum advantage under night
conditions or poor visibility.

5001. NIGHT VISION

Certain parts of the eye correspond to parts of a simple camera
(see fig. 5-1). The lens focuses light entering the eye similar to
a camera lens. The iris (colored part of eye) corresponds to the
diaphragm of a camera, opening and closing to regulate the amount of
light entering the eye through the pupil. The retina corresponds to
camera film. Light rays strike the retina, form an image, and cause
an impression to be transmitted to the brain through the optic nerve.
In a camera, the image is formed and fixed on film.

[Illustration: Figure 5-1. The Eye is Like a Camera.]

The retina is composed of cone cells and rod cells, so-called
because of their shapes. Cone cells distinguish color, shape, and
sharp contrast. Because they are activated by light conditions, they
are blind during periods of low illumination. Rod cells produce
a chemical substance called visual purple that makes them active
in darkness, low illumination or night conditions. Rod vision
distinguishes black, white, shades of gray, and general outlines.

Principles

To effectively “see” at night, the principles of night vision dark
adaptation, off-center vision, and scanning are applied.

_Dark Adaptation_

Allowing the eyes to become accustomed to low levels of illumination
is called dark adaptation. It takes the rod cells about 30 minutes
to produce enough visual purple to activate them and enable the eye
to distinguish objects in dim light. This may also be accomplished
by staying in a red-lighted area, or by wearing red goggles for 20
minutes, followed by 10 minutes in darkness (which allows the pupils
to open wide). This method saves valuable time by allowing Marines to
be in a lighted area to receive orders, check equipment, or perform
some other function before moving into darkness.

_Off-Center Vision_

The technique of focusing on an object without looking directly at
it is called off-center vision. When looking directly at an object,
the image is formed on the cone region, which is not sensitive at
night (see fig. 5-2 on page 5-2). When looking slightly to the left,
right, above or below an object, the image is formed on the area of
the retina containing rod cells, which are sensitive in darkness. The
most sensitive area varies in individuals, but is usually found by
looking 6 to 10 degrees away from an object; in effect, out of the
corner of the eye (see fig. 5-3 on page 5-2).

_Scanning_

Off-center vision used to observe an area or an object is called
scanning. When using rod vision, the visual purple in the rod cells
bleaches or blacks out in 4 to 10 seconds and the object observed
disappears. As the visual purple in the rod cells in one area
bleaches out, the eyes must slightly shift to use fresh rod cells.
Eyes should be moved in short, abrupt, irregular movements over and
around the target (see fig. 5-4).

[Illustration: LOOK DIRECTLY AT THE OBJECT SO THAT THE IMAGE IS
FORMED ON THE CONE REGION (YOUR DAY EYES)

Figure 5-2. Day Vision.]

[Illustration: CENTER OBJECT AT 12 O’CLOCK AND LOOK SLIGHTLY TOWARD
11 O’CLOCK OR 1 O’CLOCK]

[Illustration: LOOK SLIGHTLY AWAY FROM THE OBJECT SO THAT THE IMAGE
IS FORMED ON THE ROD REGION (YOUR NIGHT EYES)]

Figure 5-3. Night Vision.

Preserving Night Vision

Night vision is quickly destroyed if bright light is allowed to
enter the eye. When entering a lighted area or when observing in a
temporarily lighted area (illumination, flares), one eye should be
closed and covered to preserve its night vision. When the light goes
off, fades or the lighted area is exited, the night vision retained
by the protected eye enables it to see until the other eye adapts to
the darkness. Red light helps preserve night vision, but like white
light, it can be observed at long distances.

Factors that decrease night visual acuity include fatigue, lack of
oxygen, long exposure to sunlight, alcohol, nicotine (within the past
48 hours), and age. When night vision has been attained, straining
will not improve effectiveness; however, practice identifying objects
at night will improve perception.

5002. APPEARANCE OF OBJECTS

Darkness not only makes objects difficult to see but also changes
their appearance, distorts size, and blots out details. A tree
visible against the night sky appears smaller than in the daytime
because the twigs at the end of branches cannot be seen. A scout must
train to identify objects by block outlines at night and cannot rely
on details visible in daylight. Binoculars enlarge objects or parts
of objects otherwise too small to be seen and help identify objects
already spotted. Night observation devices increase night visibility
and should be used whenever possible.

5003. SOUNDS

At night, sounds become very important. By listening, a scout gains
information about the enemy and by exercising care, keeps information
from the enemy. A scout stops frequently to listen. Scouts must
listen for long periods in perfect silence. Hearing is amplified with
the mouth open; removing the helmet will reduce sound distortion.
Sounds are transmitted a greater distance in wet weather and at night
than in dry weather and in the daytime. By holding the ear close to
the ground sounds of people walking and vehicles moving can be heard.
Sound travels approximately 370 meters a second. When a flash from
a fired weapon is observed, the range to the weapons can be easily
estimated by counting the time interval between the flash and hearing
the report. For example, counting to three (one thousand one, one
thousand two, one thousand three), indicates the distance is 1,110
meters. The cadence is determined by actual practice at known ranges.

[Illustration: Figure 5-4. Scanning]

5004. SMELLS AND TOUCH

A scout’s sense of smell can warn of enemy fires, cooking, motor
parks, gasoline and diesel engines, and bodies of water. A scout
must feel and recognize objects in the dark, and adjust and operate
equipment quietly by sense of touch.

5005. CLOTHING AND WEAPONS

All loose clothing must be secured (string or tape can be used) to
prevent snagging on barbed wire, brambles, and brush. Helmet covers
are worn to muffle sounds made by low branches.

The belt buckle should be turned around to the side in order to move
in a prone position without scraping the buckle against stones or
hard surfaces. Identification tags can be taped together to prevent
rattling. Hands, face, and neck can be blackened so skin does not
reflect light or appear as white spots in the darkness. (Refer to
para. 4002.)

Scouts are normally armed with rifles. Rifle slings should be taped
to prevent rattling. All weapons parts should be checked for glare
elimination measures.

5006. CONCEALMENT

Although total darkness provides concealment, scouts must observe the
same principles of concealment during moonlight conditions as in the
daytime. Scouts should assume enemy employment of night observation
devices and observe the principles of night movement such that
presence will not be disclosed by noise when close to the enemy.

5007. AIDS TO NIGHT SCOUTING

Aids to night scouting include the following:

• Carry out scouting missions close to or within hostile positions
on dark or rainy nights.

• Stifle a threatening sneeze by pressing fingers upward against
the nostrils.

• Stifle a threatening cough by applying slight pressure with the
finger on the Adam’s apple.

• Stop a ringing sound that interferes with hearing by yawning.

• Speak softly rather than whispering if voice communication is
necessary.

• Move boldly and rapidly when taking advantage of any sound--such
as shelling, rustling wind or distant firing--to push forward if
firing is taking place.

• Avoid shell craters and depressions in damp weather conditions
if the enemy has employed chemical munitions.

• Move the eyes constantly; concentrating on one object too long
will strain them.

• Take notice of the enemy’s use of flares. When the enemy employs
flares, few enemy patrols are apt to be out; when flares are not
employed, the enemy’s patrols are likely to be numerous.

• Drop to a prone position upon hearing a flare being fired and
before it illuminates. Remain motionless while it is burning. If
open or moving when a flare bursts in the air, freeze or drop
quickly in the split second after the flare illuminates while
the enemy is blinded. You are an easy target for the enemy if
the flare bursts in the air or on the ground behind you. Never
look at a flare. If you activate a trip flare, drop to the
ground and crawl away from the illuminated area.

• Consider all patrols or individuals encountered as hostile
until proven friendly. If encountering someone, crouch low,
silhouetting the approaching person against the sky. At the same
time, make yourself an indistinct target in case the person
encountered is an enemy.

• Return fire only to avoid capture if fired on when close to
enemy positions.

5008. AIDS TO NIGHT MOVEMENT

Aids to night movement include the following:

• Move silently.

• Advance in stealthy legs. Each leg should follow some terrain
feature that serves as a guide. When there are no terrain
features to serve as guides, move in a straight or nearly
straight line from one defined point to another, or maintain
direction by using a compass.

• Avoid running, except in an emergency.

• Take advantage of sounds that may distract the enemy.

• Fall silently without making an outcry.

Walking

When walking at night--

• Place the heel down first. Balance the weight of the body on the
rear foot until a secure spot is found.

• Lift the forward foot high to clear any stiff grass, brush, or
other obstruction.

• Continue to balance body weight on the rear foot, lower the
forward foot gently, toe first, to explore the ground for
objects that might make noise. Step over fallen logs and
branches, not on them.

• Lower the heel of the forward foot slowly; gradually
transferring body weight to that foot.

Creeping

The low crawl and high crawl are not suitable at night when very near
the enemy because an easily heard shuffling noise results. Creeping
is the recommended method of movement:

• Creep at night on the hands and knees.

• Use your hands to feel for twigs, leaves or other substances
that might make a noise. Clear a spot to place your knee.
Keeping your hand at that spot, bring your knee forward until
it meets your hand. Then place your knee on the ground and
repeat the action with the other hand and knee.

[Illustration]

• Lay the rifle on the ground at your side and clear an area for
it. Lift the rifle up and move it forward. Movement is slow and
tedious, since it must be done silently.

[Illustration]

Hitting the Deck at Night (Right-Handed Shooter)

To safely hit the deck at night from the standing position--

• Advance your left leg, place the butt of the rifle in your right
armpit with the hand remaining on the pistol grip, and grasp it
with the right hand at the balance.

[Illustration]

• Quietly drop down on the right knee and left hand.

[Illustration]

• Move the left leg carefully to the rear, and then move the right
leg to the rear.

[Illustration]

• Lie flat on the ground, or take up a firing position if
necessary.

[Illustration]

Wire Obstacles

[Illustration: Figure 5-5. Crossing Wire Silently at Night.]

A mission often requires a scout to pass through and work behind
enemy positions. To accomplish this, the scout must be able to
quietly pass through enemy wire obstacles and cross trenches. Cutting
a gap in wire is time-consuming. If possible, walk over the low bands
of enemy wire and crawl under the high bands (see fig. 5-5). Avoid
movement along wire barriers, as enemy covering fires are generally
planned parallel to them to take advantage of canalization and
enfilade fire.

To step over low wire at night, crouch low to view the strands
against the sky. Grasp the top strand with one hand; with the other
hand, reach forward and feel for a clear spot for foot placement
without stepping on other strands or any object apt to make a noise.
Raise the body up, still grasping the top strand of wire. To avoid
catching the foot in another strand, lift the foot up and over,
passing it close to the hand grasping the wire.

If a high wire obstacle is encountered at night and wire cutters are
not available, pass under the wire with your back on the ground.
Grasp the lowest strands in your hands and hold them clear of the
body while you slide under them.

When cutting wire and working solo, cut a wire near a post (see fig.
5-6), then dispose of all but one loose end. Grasp the wire close to
a post and cut between your hand and the post, muffling the sound and
keeping the loose wire in your grasp. When cutting wire in tandem,
one firmly holds the wire with the hands positioned close to the
cutters, in order to muffle the sound and prevent the loose ends from
flying back, while the other one cuts. In both instances, the loose
ends of the wire are bent back to form a passage.

[Illustration:

WHEN TWO SCOUTS CUT WIRE TOGETHER, ONE HOLDS WIRE FIRMLY, CLOSE TO
CUTTERS, IN ORDER TO MUFFLE SOUND AND KEEP LOOSE WIRE FROM SNAPPING
BACK WHILE THE OTHER SCOUT CUTS.

IN CUTTING WIRE ALONE, A SCOUT GRASPS WIRE CLOSE TO A STAKE AND HIS
HAND, THUS MUFFLING SOUND AND KEEPING LOOSE WIRE IN HIS GRASP TO
PREVENT ITS SNAPPING BACK.

Figure 5-6. Cutting Wire Silently at Night.]

Wrap a sandbag around the wire cutters and wire to deaden the sound.

Do not cut a complete gap in the wire; cut only the bottom wire(s).
Leave the top wire(s) intact to lessen the chance of discovery by the
enemy.

Crossing Trenches

Before approaching a trench, wait outside the trench for a while
and listen. Do not enter or cross a trench near its junction with a
communication trench. Crawl silently up to the edge of the trench
and look into it. Remove all loose dirt and rocks from the edge. If
it is a narrow trench, spring up and jump across, sinking quietly to
the ground on the other side and remaining there a moment to listen
before proceeding. If the trench is wide, climb silently and slowly
down into it and out the other side, using the revetment for support
(see fig. 5-7). Do not enter enemy trenches unless it is absolutely
necessary in order to accomplish the mission. Ordinarily, work is
better accomplished from outside the trench. Sentries usually pay
more attention to sounds in front of them; therefore, if it is
necessary to enter a trench, cross it first at the place where enemy
observation is restricted, then approach from the rear.

[Illustration:

CRAWL SILENTLY UP TO TRENCH AND LOOK IN. REMOVE ALL LOOSE DIRT AND
ROCKS FROM EDGE IF IT IS A NARROW TRENCH.

SPRING UP. LEAP ACROSS THE TRENCH LANDING ON ONE FOOT WITH THE OTHER
FOOT HELD BEHIND TO CATCH YOURSELF IN CASE YOU MISS THE EDGE OF THE
TRENCH IN JUMPING.

ON THE OTHER SIDE, DROP NOISELESSLY TO THE GROUND. LIE MOTIONLESS
AND LISTEN BEFORE PROCEEDING.

WIDE TRENCH

CLIMB SILENTLY DOWN ONE SIDE AND UP THE OTHER MAKING USE OF
REVETMENT FOR SUPPORT.

Figure 5-7. Crossing Trenches Silently at Night.]

5009. LOCATING AND PLOTTING THE ENEMY AT NIGHT

For night work, a scout must understand the use of a lensatic
compass. (Refer to para. 2002.) Using the lensatic compass, the scout
can guide the platoon into position, locate adjoining elements of the
command, keep direction when on patrol, determine the location of
gaps in the enemy wire and the position of enemy out guards.

Locating Gaps in Enemy Wire

When searching for gaps in enemy wire, at least two lensatic
compasses are needed: one to register the gap in the wire and the
other for navigation. When a gap in enemy wire is located, lie
outside the gap, keeping a distance of 10 meters from the barbed
wire. Sight with the lensatic compass on a prominent point on the
skyline in line with the gap. In selecting the prominent point in
the skyline, pick one that appears on the map (i.e., hill mass,
house, road junction). If the only prominent point available is one
not identifiable on a map (i.e., a tree, destroyed vehicle, enemy
position), use it. The exact location of this point can be fixed the
next day by visual reconnaissance of the area from an observation
point. When the needle rests--

• Clamp it in place by lowering the eyepiece to the closed position

• Rotate the movable bezel ring until the luminous line is
directly over the north end of the needle. The azimuth of the
gap from the prominent point is now registered.

The compass is carried back without further adjustment. The azimuth
setting can be recorded later on a map (see fig 5-8).

[Illustration: LIE OUTSIDE OF GAP IN ENEMY’S WIRE AND SIGHT WITH
COMPASS ON A PROMINENT POINT ON THE SKYLINE BEHIND OWN LINES. ROTATE
THE LUMINOUS INDEX TO A POINT OVER THE NORTH END OF THE NEEDLE AND
RECORD THE AZIMUTH.

GAP IN THE ENEMY’S WIRE

Figure 5-8. Locating a Gap in Enemy Wire at Night.]

Locating Enemy Out Guards

At night, locate enemy guards by their sounds and failure to
maintain light discipline. As sounds of the enemy are heard, and/or
observations of the enemy made, shoot an azimuth with one compass.
When the needle comes to rest, clamp the compass by lowering the
eyepiece to the closed position.

Note the time and nature of each sound, the estimated distance, and
which compass was used to fix the location. Plot this data on a map
then wait until the debrief to turn in the notes and compasses. See
figure 5-9.

[Illustration: ADVANCE ON A KNOWN AZIMUTH, ARRIVING AT A KNOWN POINT
OUTSIDE THE ENEMY’S POSITION. LIE HERE UNTIL SOUNDS INDICATE POSITION
OF ONE OF THE ENEMY OUTGUARDS.

ENEMY OUTGUARD

Figure 5-9. Locating Enemy Outguards at Night.]

50010. ROUTES OF MOVEMENT

Prior to beginning a night mission, a scout studies the ground in
detail from an observation point, air photos, and a map during
daylight. The route of advance should be below the skyline. Avoid
becoming a silhouette (see fig. 5-10).

Unless the moon is bright, avoid, if possible, passing through woods,
ditches, ravines, and brush, because noises of movement may lead to
discovery. If the enemy is known to have night observation device
capability, avoiding these kinds of terrain may not be possible. To
avoid enemy ambushes, return by a different route from the advance
and change routes on successive nights.

~DAY~ (white arrows)
SCOUT COMES OVER THE HILL UNDER COVER OF WOODS
WORKS ON IN BRUSH HEDGE
MOVES BEHIND SCRUB ALONG FENCE
ENTERS BUSHES
CONTINUES IN COVER AFFORDED BY BANK AND BUSHES ALONG STREAM

[Illustration]

~NIGHT~ (black arrows)
SCOUT AVOIDS WOODS ON ACCOUNT OF NOISE AND COMES OVER HILL IN LOW
PLACE
AVOIDS HEDGE AND COMES DOWN LOW OPEN DRAW
CONTINUES DOWN DRAW AVOIDING BUSHES.
AVOIDS BUSHES.
AVOIDING STREAM, BANKS, AND BUSHES GOES ON IN LOW GROUND WHERE
STREAM FLOWS.

[Illustration:
When moving at night without a compass, use the stars and objects
that appear silhouetted against the sky as your guide.]

Figure 5-10. Difference Between Correct Routes by Day or Night.

CHAPTER 6. OBSERVING AND REPORTING

When sent out on a mission, a scout’s duties are to
observe and report. The first five chapters covered scout
protection measures and movement in enemy territory. This
chapter discusses performing the assigned mission and
reporting the mission after its completion.

6001. OBSERVATION POSTS

Positions

The following guidelines apply to observation posts. See figure 6-1.

• When selecting observation posts, scouts should chose the least
prominent position.

• Scouts may occupy one or more observation posts.

• An observation post should not be manned for more than 24 hours.

• A selected observation post should be observed for 10 to 15
minutes to ensure it is not occupied.

• Scouts move to the chosen observation post by a concealed route.

• If the post is located on a hill, crawl to a position where the
skyline is broken.

• If a tree is used, the position should have a background so
as not to be silhouetted against the sky while climbing or
observing.

• When leaving the observation post, a different route from that
of the approach should be used.

• If a radio is used, its antenna should be located to provide
clear communication to the controlling commander but masked
from enemy observation and direction-finding equipment.
Upon departure, scouts should remove the antennae from the
observation post so as not to give away the position.

[Illustration:
OBSERVE DESIRED POSITION FROM A PLACE OF CONCEALMENT FOR SIGNS
OF HOSTILE OCCUPATION. APPROACH SELECTED POSITION BY A CONCEALED
ROUTE.

Figure 6-1. Method of Approaching an Observation Post.]

Observing

Using all senses available, be particularly alert for movement,
objects, sounds, and smells inappropriate to the surroundings. While
observing, avoid all unnecessary movement. If observing from a
building, keep back from doors and windows.

In daylight, look first at the ground nearest you. Begin observing
close to your post and search a narrow strip 50 meters or less deep,
going from right to left parallel to your front; then search from
left to right a second and similar strip farther away but overlapping
the first. Continue to observe until the entire field of view has
been searched (see fig. 6-2 on page 6-2).

At night, use a night observation device. If one is not available,
search the horizon with short, jerky movements, and short pauses.
Look a little to one side of an object and then to the other. Lower
the head close to the ground to view the object more clearly. Use
low-powered field glasses to increase sight range.

[Illustration: Figure 6-2. Method of Searching Ground.]

6002. REPORTING

It is imperative that the scout accurately and completely report
who, where, when, and what was observed to the proper authority upon
mission completion. In most cases, a scout will not be equipped with
a radio.

Verbal Reports

Verbal reports should be made when writing is impractical, when
the information is not complicated or when the enemy is likely to
intercept a messenger carrying a written message.

Written Messages

Written messages, preferred to verbal reports, are recorded in
message book blanks issued for that purpose (see fig. 6-3) and
delivered to a higher authority as soon as possible. The NATO spot
report (SPOTREP) should be reviewed as the written message is a NATO
format.

[Illustration: Figure 6-3. Sample Field Message.]

The message body is brief, accurate, and clear; facts and opinions
are distinguished. If secondhand information is reported, its source
is included. Reports include all information of value, first about
the enemy, and then about the originator. Information about the enemy
should cover--

• Size and/or strength.

• Actions or activity.

• Location and direction of movement.

• Unit identification. (The designation of the enemy unit may be
derived from unit markings, uniforms worn or through prisoner
interrogation.)

• Time of observation.

• Equipment and weapons.

Messages are printed in block letters. Individual items of
information are numbered and separated into paragraphs. If doubt
exists as to message receipt by the commander, a summary of its
contents is included in the next message. Information about the
originator or writer should cover--

• Location at the time of enemy observation (reference to an
important terrain feature, by map coordinates, by the back
azimuth from each of two definitely located points, or the back
azimuth and distance from one known point).

• Intentions. (Remain in position? Continue on the mission? Take
other action?)

The message is carefully reread and if possible read by another
person to ensure understandability. If a messenger is used, the
messenger must read and understand the message in order to answer any
questions the commander might have.

Sketch

Information difficult to describe may be given accurately on a simple
sketch. The sketch may give all the necessary information or it
may be used to supplement a written message. A military sketch is
generally one of two types: simple or panoramic. The simple sketch is
easily made and read.

Figure 6-4 shows a simple sketch that has been included in the
message itself. The sketch may be on a separate sheet of paper, but
all of the necessary information must be contained in either the
sketch, the message or both.

The panoramic sketch is a picture of the terrain’s elevation in
perspective, as seen from one point of observation. Although a
panoramic sketch is not difficult to create, skill and training are
necessary to enhance usefulness. Figure 6-5 on page 6-4 illustrates
how to make a panoramic sketch.

Overlay

The same information sent back to higher headquarters on the sketch
may be sent on an overlay, if the sender and the person to whom the
message is to be sent have copies of the same map. Figure 6-6 on page
6-6 illustrates a simple overlay. The overlay is drawn on transparent
paper as follows:

• Orient the map and place it on a hard, flat surface.

• Place the transparent paper over the part of the map of the
object or information to be transmitted and hold the paper in
this position.

• Orient the overlay to the map by tracing in the intersecting
grid lines at two opposite corners of the overlay. Write the
correct number designation on the overlay. The cross made by the
intersection is called a _tick mark_ and enables the receiver to
locate the exact area on the map covered by the overlay.

• Sketch the object seen or the information to be transmitted on
the tracing paper (the sheet on top of the map) in the exact
location it would appear on the map (the sheet underneath the
tracing paper). Explanatory notes are annotated in the overlay’s
margin, arrows point to the objectives.

[Illustration:
TREE CLUMP ON SMOKE HILL
071405 JULY 1999

FIND THE AZIMUTH AND ESTIMATE THE DISTANCE TO THE OBJECT

SAME FOR REFERENCE POINT SHOWN ON MAP

Figure 6-4. Making a Simple Sketch.]

• Indicate with an “X” and an appropriate explanation the position
from which the observer saw the object or obtained information.

• Include title and scale of the map from which the overlay was
made, date and hour the information was obtained, and signature
of the observer on the overlay in the lower right-hand corner.

[Illustration:

DRAW THE HORIZONTAL LINES OF A LANDSCAPE.
PUT IN THE PROMINENT POINTS.
TRENCHES IN WHEAT FIELD RED TANK AND BARN AZIMUTH 22°
PUT NOTES ABOVE SKETCH. PUT AZIMUTH FROM POSITION TO MOST PROMINENT
POINT IN THE SKETCH.
GIVE SKETCH A TITLE. SHOW WHERE IT WAS MADE, THE DATE AND TIME, AND
SIGN IT.
Tree Clump on Smoke Hill 071405 July 1999

Figure 6-5. Panoramic Sketch.]

[Illustration:
NOT TO SCALE
MAP EMMITSBURG SHEET
0800 5 OCTOBER 1999

Figure 6-6. Simple Overlay.]

CHAPTER 7. Scouting Fire Teams

Upon completion of individual training, a Marine adapts
this training to the functioning of the unit. The basic
tactical unit for scouting is the fire team. Within the
fire team, scouts normally work in pairs to furnish
security and gather information. Information gathered by
the individual scouts is passed to the fire team leader.

7001. POSITIONING

When a rifle platoon in the approach march is not preceded by
adjacent units (left, right, front, and rear), it employs its own
scouting elements. The scouting element for a platoon is usually one
fire team; however, an entire squad may be used.

A fire team used as a scouting element is called a scouting fire team
and is controlled by the platoon commander, assisted by the squad
leader. A squad leader whose squad is providing the scouting fire
teams normally marches near the platoon commander to assist in the
control of the scouting fire teams.

A scouting fire team moves aggressively to cover the front of the
advancing platoon and to locate the enemy’s position(s). It generally
moves in a wedge or skirmisher’s formation. Normally, a scouting fire
team is deployed on a frontage of 50 to 75 meters (10 to 17 meters
between each individual scout). The entire squad may be employed
to cover a wider frontage. The platoon commander coordinates the
movement of the scouting fire team(s) so as to protect the main body
of the platoon from enemy fire from points within 400 to 600 meters
away, or in close terrain from points within the limits of enemy
observation.

Scouting fire team(s) should have enough firepower to overcome
resistance from small enemy advanced posts and patrols; the intent
is to make enemy riflemen and machine gunners open fire and disclose
their positions. Without scouts in advance, the platoon may move into
areas where enemy fire may prevent further advance or maneuver and
inflict heavy casualties (see fig. 7-1).

Scouting fire teams are covered by the platoon or, when the platoon
is masked, the fire team leader ensures individual scouts are
maneuvered and coordinated so that the fire team covers its own
advance. The fire team leader constantly watches for signals from the
platoon commander and remains in visual contact at all times.

The distance between the scouting fire team and the platoon is
terrain-dependent. The scouting fire team should not be beyond
visibility of the platoon. In open terrain, the platoon commander
usually directs the scouting fire team to move by bounds along a
succession of locations designated by the platoon commander as
intermediate objectives.

Individual scouts should advance as stealthily as possible, while
remaining consistent with their mission of reconnaissance to the
front, taking advantage of cover without delaying the advance. An
occasional glimpse of scouts constantly advancing over a wide front
can make the enemy uneasy. It is this activity, and not the target
the scouts offer, that may cause the enemy to open fire and disclose
its location.

[Illustration:
Figure 7-1. Position of Scouts Preceding an Attacking Platoon.]

When fired upon, scouts must drop to cover and return fire only when
necessary to complete the mission. If necessary, one scout reports
back to the fire team leader who informs the platoon commander.

7002. LOCATING ENEMY POSITIONS

The key terrain of defensive positions are those points that afford
extended observation over the ground where the attack must advance.
The enemy will place machine guns and infantry to defend critical
points.

Members of a scouting fire team preceding an attacking platoon
identify the probable enemy infantry and machine gun positions (see
fig. 7-2). They use concealment and cover to conduct their advance in
order to discover the exact location of enemy positions.

7003. ACTION WITH AN ATTACKING PLATOON

The scouting fire team reconnoiters to the front of the advancing
platoon. As soon as the scouting fire team leader indicates the area
is secure, the platoon advances and the scouting fire team moves
forward. Squads within the platoon advance by bounds; at least one
squad is positioned to support the other(s) by fire. Successive
positions along the line of advance are selected and designated by
the platoon commander as intermediate objectives, and reconnoitered
by the scouting fire team before occupation. By conducting proper
reconnaissance, surprise by the enemy or movement in the wrong
direction may be prevented.

Movement

The distance between the scouting fire team and the front of the
main body of the platoon is dependent on the mission, enemy, terrain
and weather, troops and support available, and time available
(METT-T). In close terrain, such as dense woods, the scouting fire
team’s movements closely resemble those used for night operations.
In approaching houses, woods, and villages, one scout of each pair
covers the other while the latter reconnoiters (see fig. 7-3).

A scouting fire team moves forward aggressively to cover the front of
the advancing platoon, usually adopting either skirmisher’s or wedge
formation in order to be prepared to go into action immediately and
to cover a wide frontage of 50 to 75 meters.

[Illustration:
PICK OUT POSSIBLE POSITIONS THAT HAVE A GOOD FIELD OF FIRE,
INDICATED BY ↓ ↑ BELOW.
POSITIONS WHICH AFFORD THE ENEMY COVER ARE POSSIBLE MACHINEGUN
POSITIONS.
POSITIONS FROM WHICH FLANKING FIRE CAN BE DELIVERED ARE CONSIDERED
THE MOST DANGEROUS.

Figure 7-2. Assessing Probable Enemy Machine Gun Positions.]

As a scouting fire team advances in open terrain, it is supported
when possible by elements of the platoon; in close terrain, by
mutual support within each fire team. Mutual support within the
fire team is accomplished by the fire team leader and the automatic
rifleman forming a team that supports by fire the advance of the
rifleman and assistant automatic rifleman until they reach a location
designated by the fire team leader. The rifleman and assistant
automatic rifleman then support by fire the movement of the team
leader and automatic rifleman. These successive points to which the
sub elements of the fire team move are normally designated as fire
team intermediate objectives by the fire team leader. The fire team
leader sets as many fire team intermediate objectives as necessary
to maintain mutual support within the team. This process is repeated
until the team can be covered by other elements of the rifle platoon.

A scouting fire team takes advantage of available cover and
concealment without delaying its advance. The orders of the platoon
commander govern the distance at which it precedes the platoon. The
terrain and the probable position of the enemy affect the scouting
fire team’s distance in front of the platoon. It may be as much as
400 to 600 meters in advance of the platoon. In open terrain, the
platoon commander usually directs that the scouting fire team move by
bounds to a succession of intermediate objectives. In close terrain
or conditions of limited visibility, the scouting fire team is
normally ordered to precede the platoon at the limit of visibility,
maintaining visual contact with the platoon commander.

[Illustration:
With platoon in woods, scouts reach open field and see house ahead.
They signal halt, meaning that the platoon should not advance
beyond this point.
Reconnaissance shows house to be clear. Scouts signal forward and
proceed.]

[Illustration:
Crossing open space, scout sees position from which machine gun may
sweep this area. He signals double time and points to the MG
position meaning this area is dangerous. From that point platoon
should hurry across.]

[Illustration:
Scout reconnoiters for a short distance into woods. Finding edge of
woods to be unoccupied, another scout returns to edge of woods
and signals forward. They both enter woods and wait for platoon
to close up.]

Figure 7-3. Conduct of Scouts Preceding a Platoon.

Action in Woods

When a scouting fire team is directed to advance over open ground
to the edge of a woodline, two members of the team, preferably the
rifleman and assistant automatic rifleman, reconnoiter inside the
woodline while the remainder of the fire team covers them. It is not
recommended they separate until finished with their reconnaissance of
the far side of the danger area. Both members staying together can
cover the same area using a zigzag reconnaissance and they are better
equipped to overcome any opposition.

In heavy underbrush and/or poor visibility, the rifleman and
assistant automatic rifleman proceed into the woodline together for
50 to 60 meters. The two then separate, searching out either flank to
the first high ground or limits of observation, probably 50 to 100
meters (see fig. 7-4 on page 7-4). After the initial search and out
posting the limit of advance, the remaining scout signals the fire
team forward.

In light underbrush and/or good visibility, the assistant automatic
rifleman remains at the edge of the woodline while the rifleman
searches the woodline, (see fig. 7-5 on page 7-5). The rifleman
searches the woodline in a zigzag pattern, reports back to the
assistant automatic rifleman, then moves to an outpost position at
the limit of advance. In turn, the fire team leader signals the
platoon commander that it is safe for the platoon to move forward.

The fire team leader then moves the remainder of the fire team into
the woods, joining up with the forward scout manning the outpost. The
scouting fire team occupies and holds a line 50 to 75 meters within
the woods and observes toward the direction of movement until the
platoon closes up. The scouting fire team leader awaits further word
from the platoon commander before moving the team further into the
woods.

When directed, the scouting fire team leader moves the team forward
until they reach the far edge of the woods. The team is held at the
edge of the woods and the fire team leader notifies the platoon
commander of the situation. The platoon commander moves the platoon
to a position where it can cover the scouting fire team as it exits
the woods and directs the team leader to move out and continue the
scouting mission.

[Illustration:
A--Both scouts enter woodline.
B--Scouts separate.
C--Scouts link up; one scout stops and signals all clear to
the fire team leader. The other scout again advances into
the woods.
D--Outpost position of scout.

Figure 7-4. Searching Edge of a Woodline (Dense Underbrush/Poor
Visibility).]

A scouting fire team passing through woods ahead of its unit
maintains a distance allowing visual and oral communications. If an
obstacle is encountered, reconnaissance to its front and flanks must
be carried out. When advancing along a road or path, scouts precede
the platoon to provide necessary protection and to prevent surprise
fire on the platoon. When crossing a road or path, they reconnoiter
well to the flanks before signaling “all clear” to the platoon.

The scouting fire team will not exit the woods until the arrival of
the platoon commander, who will then be given an opportunity to alter
the disposition or direction of march. The point where the platoon
exits the woods is considered a danger area where the platoon is
vulnerable to enemy fire. The scouting fire team is sent ahead to
reconnoiter the danger area, as well as the next area to be occupied
by the platoon. They signal back whether conditions require a halt,
an advance or a quick rush across the open area. The scouting fire
team leader must be continually on the lookout for signals from the
rear.

Action Under Fire

When a scouting fire team is fired upon, they immediately take cover,
locate targets, and return fire. The scouting fire team leader then
determines--

• Location of enemy (range and reference points).

• Extent of position (location of flanks).

• Types of positions (obstacles, bunkers, fighting holes,
etc.).

• Number of enemy.

• Enemy weapons (machine guns, mortars, tanks, etc.).

The platoon commander assesses the situation as quickly as possible
based on the limited information obtained. Usually the platoon
commander brings up the remaining squads, sets up a base of fire,
and assaults the enemy position. Should the enemy position prove too
strong for the platoon, the platoon remains engaged with the enemy
as a base of fire until the remainder of the company is committed to
clear the enemy resistance.

[Illustration:
A--Both scouts enter woods. Assistant automatic rifleman
remains here and covers forward movement of rifleman.
B through G--Rifleman moves to these positions, stopping and
observing before moving to next position.
G to A--Rifleman reports results of his search to the
assistant automatic rifleman.
A to H--Rifleman moves to outpost position.

Figure 7-5. Searching Edge of a Woodline (Light Underbrush/Good
Visibility).]

7004. ACTION WITH AN ENVELOPING UNIT

When a platoon is given the mission to envelop an enemy position, a
scouting fire team is employed for protection and reconnaissance in
the same way as when the platoon is advancing in the approach march.

PART 2. INFANTRY PATROLLING

CHAPTER 8. FUNDAMENTALS OF INFANTRY PATROLLING

This chapter begins Part 2 and provides basic information
about infantry patrols; specifically, their purpose,
types, and missions. Infantry patrol training is also
addressed and keys to successful patrolling are presented.
Subsequent chapters of this part cover patrol organization,
preparation, movement, and reconnaissance actions.

8001. DEFINITIONS

A patrol is a detachment of ground, sea or air forces sent out for
the purpose of gathering information or carrying out a destructive,
harassing, mopping-up or security mission (Joint Publication [JP]
1-02). The mission to conduct a patrol may be given to a fire team,
squad, platoon or company.

8002. RELATION OF PATROLLING TO SCOUTING

Each patrol member must be knowledgeable in the principles of
scouting and maintain membership of a larger team. To develop the
teamwork skills required among the members of a patrol, additional
training beyond the basic principles is necessary to become a
well-trained scout. A patrol member must respond quickly to the
decisions and orders of the patrol leader. There must be complete
confidence among all members of the patrol and the confidence that
they, as a team, will be successful in their mission.

8003. PURPOSE

A commander must have current information about the enemy and the
terrain in order to employ the unit effectively. Patrols are an
important means of gaining this information and are used to destroy
enemy installations, capture enemy personnel, perform security
missions or prevent the enemy from gaining information. Modern
warfare places a high premium on effective patrolling because units
have larger areas of operations and can be threatened from all
directions. As distances between units increase, more patrolling
becomes necessary to prevent infiltration by guerrillas or small
enemy units, as well as to maintain contact with friendly adjacent
units. Active patrolling by numerous small groups is needed to
locate the enemy and gather information on the enemy’s disposition,
strength, morale, and weapons, as well as gather and confirm
information about the terrain.

8004. TYPES OF PATROLS

Classification as to Mission

_Reconnaissance Patrol_

Reconnaissance patrols gather information about the enemy, terrain
or resources. Relying on stealth rather than combat strength, they
gather this information and fight only when necessary to complete
the mission or to defend themselves. The distance covered by
reconnaissance patrols varies based on the terrain and mission. The
squad is ideally suited for reconnaissance patrol missions because of
its relative small size and its experience of working together.

_Combat Patrol_

A combat patrol is a fighting patrol assigned missions that require
engagement with the enemy in combat. Larger and more heavily armed
than reconnaissance patrols, combat patrols have a mission to capture
enemy documents, provide security, and capture or destroy enemy
equipment and installations. Such action is ordinarily followed by
a return to friendly positions. Regardless of the mission, the
patrol reports any information concerning the enemy and terrain
acquired during the accomplishment of the assigned mission. There
are four types of combat patrols: raid, contact, ambush, and
security (normally conducted by a Marine rifle platoon). A rifle
platoon reinforced with crew-served weapons is normally considered
the minimum size for contact, economy of force or ambush patrols.
In some situations, such as the capture of a small enemy outpost,
a rifle platoon could conduct a raid. However, a raid is a complex
mission and, due to the organization of a raid force (command,
reconnaissance, assault, support, security, and reserve elements), a
rifle company is normally the smallest force assigned to a raid.

Classification as to Means of Movement

_Foot Patrols_

Movement by foot is the most common means; however, there are
inherent disadvantages. Foot patrols travel slowly and carry limited
quantity and types of equipment and supplies. Range and area coverage
is relatively restricted. Foot patrols also have apparent advantages
in that they have fewer restrictions as to terrain that can be
covered; are more difficult for the enemy to detect; provide thorough
coverage within limits of range; and are generally not inhibited by
weather.

_Motorized Patrols_

Where terrain and road networks permit, a motorized patrol overcomes
the inherent disadvantages of the foot patrol. Mechanized forces
require patrolling units that can keep pace with them. However,
motorized patrols are restricted to certain types of terrain, and
tend to bypass areas that may be advantageous to and occupied by
enemy infantry.

_Waterborne Patrols_

Waterborne patrols move over seas, lakes, rivers and streams, canals,
and other inland waterways. The water is either used as a medium of
entry to an objective area or is the actual patrol route. Waterborne
patrols are limited by the location of water routes in the terrain
and tend to bypass areas that may be advantageous to and occupied by
the enemy.

_Helicopterborne Patrols_

Where terrain is extremely difficult or the enemy situation precludes
the use of vehicle or motorized patrols, helicopterborne patrols are
a method or means to conduct a patrol.

8005. TRAINING

Training is essential to successful patrolling. Premature and
unordered actions by members of the patrol destroy coordination and
control. Leaders are trained to issue their orders calmly to inspire
confidence and discipline, and to avoid misunderstanding. Patrol
members must work together and fight as a team. Training should
develop the following skills:

• Expertise in handling individual and special weapons, and
familiarity with enemy weapons that may be captured.

• Recognize camouflaged personnel, equipment, and defensive
positions; ability to pick up fleeting targets, fire the rifle
from any firing position.

• Understand fire discipline and, after weapon firing, immediately
change position (see fig. 8-1).

• Quick and accurate observation skills, and the ability to recall
and transmit clearly and briefly, both orally and in writing.

[Illustration: Figure 8-1. Changing Position After Firing.]

• Recognize and quickly respond to improvised signals, visually or
by sound.

• Ability to swim with weapon and equipment.

• Use issued or improvised camouflage suits and garnish helmet
in order to blend with the surroundings. Smudge face, hands,
and any bright surfaces of weapons and equipment with some
substance, such as mud or charcoal, to prevent the reflection of
light.

• Silence self, equipment, and weapon.

• Use antimalarial and water purification tablets.

• Acclimation to temperature extremes.

• Develop a sense of direction and learn how to follow a course
by compass, stars, sun, flow of streams, prominent terrain
features, and by observing other natural phenomenon. Learn to
determine the distance traveled from a known point and to keep
a record of azimuths and the distance traveled on each azimuth
(dead reckoning).

• Call for and adjust indirect fire assets.

• Familiarization with all communications assets and the use of
field expedient antennae.

8006. KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL PATROLLING

Regardless of the category or means of conducting a patrol, the keys
to successful patrolling are--

• Detailed planning. Every portion of the patrol must be planned,
all possible contingencies considered.

• Productive, realistic rehearsals. Each phase of the patrol is
rehearsed, beginning with actions in the objective area. Similar
terrain and environmental conditions are used when conducting
rehearsals.

• Thorough reconnaissance. Ideally, the patrol leader will
physically conduct a reconnaissance of the route and objective.
Photographs and/or maps will be used to supplement the
reconnaissance.

• Positive control. The patrol leader must maintain positive
control, this includes supervision during patrol preparations.

• All-around security. Security must be maintained at all times,
particularly near the end of the patrol where there is a natural
tendency to relax.

CHAPTER 9. PATROL ORGANIZATION

Organizing a patrol is a two-step process: the general
organization of the entire patrol and the task organization
of various patrol elements. Normally, the nature of
patrolling does not permit long preparation periods and
rehearsals to specifically build a unit for each mission.
Accordingly, the patrol leader must combine unit integrity
considerations with proven concepts of patrol organization.

9001. GENERAL ORGANIZATION

The patrol leader establishes a patrol headquarters and elements to
accomplish the mission.

The headquarters is composed of the patrol leader and the personnel
who provide support for the entire patrol, such as a forward
observer, corpsman, and radio operator.

The major subdivisions of reconnaissance and combat patrols are
elements. The existing infantry structure (squads and fire teams)
is reinforced as required. For example, a reinforced platoon tasked
to conduct a combat patrol that will raid an enemy outpost could be
organized as follows:

• Platoon headquarters (command element)
◦ Patrol leader (platoon leader).
◦ Assistant patrol leader (platoon sergeant).
◦ Navigator.
◦ Radio operator (company tactical net).
◦ Radio operator (patrol tactical net).
◦ Corpsman.

• The first squad (security element) provides security en route
to the objective area (the point, flank security, and rear
security) and at the objective area (the flanks and the
objective rally point).

• The second squad (support element) supports by fire for the
attack, covering fire for the withdrawal, and supporting
fires to cover the crossing of danger areas.

• The third squad (assault element) provides the assault force
to attack and seize the objective; searchers to clear the
objective; pacers, compass man, navigator, and the assistant
patrol leader en route and back from the objective area.

Any attachments a patrol may have (i.e., demolition team, scout
snipers, and machine gun squad) will be added to the element that
supports its function. For example, the demolition personnel should
go with the unit conducting the attack, and scout snipers and machine
gunners should stay with the support squad.

9002. TASK ORGANIZATION

The preceding paragraphs described the elements necessary for a
patrol to accomplish its mission. These elements reflect the internal
functions or tasks required for the patrol to succeed. Depending on
the METT-T, there are various methods of grouping these elements
together. Task-organization is the further subdivision of patrol
elements into teams that are required to perform essential tasks. In
creating teams, unit integrity of infantry units should be maintained.

The patrol is organized so each individual, team, and element is
assigned a specific task, but capable and prepared to perform
other tasks. This may not be possible for certain specialist tasks
requiring a trained technician.

CHAPTER 10. PATROL PREPARATION

For a patrol to succeed, all members must be well trained,
briefed, and rehearsed. The patrol leader must have a
complete understanding of the mission and a thorough
understanding of the enemy and friendly situations. The
patrol leader should make a complete reconnaissance of the
terrain to be covered (either visual or map), and must
issue an order to the patrol, supervise preparations, and
conduct rehearsals.

10001. MISSION

The mission assigned to a patrol must be clear and oriented toward
one objective with a specific task and purpose. More than one primary
objective or indefinite missions invites confusion, casualties, and
failure.

10002. FACTORS INFLUENCING PATROL SIZE

The circumstances under which patrolling by infantry units is
conducted make it necessary for combat patrols to be able to
fight offensively, security patrols to defend themselves, and
reconnaissance patrols to move quickly and only fight if necessary to
break contact or defend themselves. The size of a patrol depends on
METT-T.

Generally, a patrol should contain the least number of members needed
to accomplish the mission. Combat missions ordinarily require larger
patrols than reconnaissance missions.

10003. COMMANDER’S DUTIES

Determining Patrol Requirements

The need for conducting patrols derives from the commander’s stated
mission (issued by higher level commander) and other specified
and implied tasks (secondary or supporting efforts necessary to
accomplish the stated mission). This requires analyzing the unit’s
mission and determining the necessary reconnaissance and/or combat
tasks that must be performed. By considering the mission, along
with time available, the commander develops the overall concept of
operations to include the patrol plan and the specific tasks for each
patrol.

Assigning Units

When assigning patrol missions, maintaining the integrity of the
existing unit while considering the skills and experience of the unit
and its leader are critical factors to the infantry commander. To
provide operational depth and equitable apportionment of hazardous
assignments, the commander ensures that each of the subordinate
leaders and units develops the skills and experience necessary to
conduct successful patrols. Assignment of patrol units must consider
the commander’s concept of operations as a whole and the plans for
subsequent employment of assigned forces after completion of the
assigned patrolling mission.

Providing Adequate Time

The commander must allow the patrol sufficient preparation time by
completing the mission analysis, estimate, and preparation of orders.
The commander should use warning orders to alert subordinates to
possible requirements and afford them the opportunity for concurrent
planning.

Providing the Patrol Leader Information

The following information should be provided:

• A simple, straightforward explanation of the mission,
particularly for night patrols.

• General routes (defined by checkpoints) or exact routes (defined
by avenues of approach or other terrain features) to follow.

• Enemy composition, disposition, and strength.

• Location and activities of friendly troops.

• Outposts or other security elements through which the patrol is
to pass.

• Terrain conditions.

• Missions and routes of other patrols.

• Time patrol is to depart and return.

• Method of reporting information while on patrol (radio,
messenger), place where messengers are to be sent, and place
where the patrol leader is to report upon completion of the
patrol.

• The challenge and password to be used for exiting and
re-entering friendly lines.

• Special instructions such as locations to be avoided and
essential elements of information higher headquarters is seeking.

• Report barrier/obstacle plan of friendly units if known;
support available from friendly unit (e.g., medical evacuation
[MEDEVAC], react force).

• Fire support available.

Providing Special Skills and Equipment

There will be situations when the unit assigned to conduct a patrol
does not have the necessary technical skills or equipment organic to
it to successfully accomplish the patrol mission. In these cases,
additions (attachments) are made to the unit, such as--

• Machine gun and/or shoulder-launched, multipurpose assault
weapon (SMAW) team and/or squad.

• Forward observers (mortar/artillery).

• Radio operator(s).

• Combat engineers.

• Tracked vehicle crewman to assess the ability to traverse the
terrain.

• Corpsman.

• Other personnel (snipers, translators) as required.

Providing Miscellaneous Support

The commander must ensure that the patrol leader is provided with
the food, water, ammunition, radios and batteries, maps, special
clothing, and any other items required by the unit (including
attachments) needed for the mission. Post-patrol support such as
debriefings by intelligence personnel must also be planned.

Reviewing the Patrol Leader’s Plan and Preparations

Once the patrol leader receives the mission, conducts visual and/or
map reconnaissance, and develops the plan, the commander confirms
the patrol leader’s understanding of the mission and plan for
accomplishing it. This discussion between the patrol leader and
commander ensures that the patrol leader understands the commander’s
intent and is properly prepared to provide the patrol leader an
opportunity to ask for clarification or additional support, if
required.

Debriefing the Patrol

Upon return of the patrol, the commander receives the patrol report
at a debriefing attended by the patrol leader and all patrol members.
The debriefing should be conducted as soon as possible following the
patrol’s return, while information is still fresh in the minds of the
patrol members. A patrol report, based on the information collected
during the debrief, is generated and forwarded to the next higher
commander.

10004. PATROL LEADER DUTIES

The patrol leader organizes and prepares the patrol by using the six
troop-leading steps to make the best use of resources available.
These steps are to--

1. Begin planning.

2. Arrange for reconnaissance and coordination.

3. Make reconnaissance.

4. Complete the plan.

5. Issue the order.

6. Supervise.

Begin Planning

The patrol leader begins by evaluating all factors affecting the
mission. He looks for possible courses of action that lead to a
decision, and then transforms this decision into an order. The first
step includes making an initial assessment and decision on using
available time, issuing a warning order and initial preparatory
tasks, and initiating his estimate.

The initial planning effort assesses the time, assistance, and
information available, and plans the proper use of each. Time
allowances include reconnaissance; completion of the estimate and
order; troop preparation; and such briefings, rehearsals, and
inspections as required before beginning the patrol.

The patrol leader reviews the mission and the attachments and/or
support available and decides what preparatory efforts must begin
immediately. Proper use of subordinates to manage these initial tasks
during this period reduces preparation time and frees the patrol
leader for proper planning and reconnaissance. A warning order is
issued using a modified five-paragraph order format (situation,
mission, execution, administration and logistics, and command and
signal [SMEAC]) as a checklist. (Refer to app. A for specific
information that a patrol warning order should contain within each
checklist item.)

Once the initial preparations are set in motion, the patrol leader
begins estimating by analyzing the mission; considering the friendly,
enemy, and operating environments; considering each course of action
available against what the enemy might do; comparing the courses of
action in terms of mission accomplishment, capabilities, and probable
casualties; and choosing one that becomes the basis for concept
and order. While the patrol leader should use and organize notes,
estimates must be done quickly and accurately, particularly for
immediate situations. To organize thinking, the patrol leader uses
METT-T, which consists of:

• Mission--the mission assigned to the patrol and how it relates
to the mission of the commander who is sending the patrol.

• Enemy--what is known or suspected of enemy presence and
capabilities, habits and characteristics, and fighting
techniques.

• Terrain and weather--including ground, vegetation, drainage,
weather, and visibility.

• Troops and support available--friendly situation and support
available.

• Time available--the constraints and impact of time on
preparation and mission accomplishment.

The estimate begins with mission analysis, which is the most
important part of the entire planning process. Here, the patrol
leader considers the specified tasks of the mission assigned and
identifies other significant actions (specified and implied tasks)
that must be undertaken to accomplish the stated mission. These tasks
are arranged in sequence of accomplishment. The tasks and sequence
create the framework for developing courses of action for the patrol
concept of operations.

Arrange for Reconnaissance and Coordination

The patrol leader arranges a personal reconnaissance to observe as
far forward as possible and also coordinates with the appropriate
commanders for the patrol’s “passage of lines” (see paragraph 11001
for complete definition) and supporting fires. The patrol leader
also coordinates with other patrol leaders who may be operating
in the same or adjacent areas and requests that the commander
assigning him the patrol mission coordinate the patrol action with
adjacent commanders, local security, and night defensive fires, as
appropriate. The patrol leader may delegate any or all of these
arrangements to the assistant patrol leader if the patrol leader
requires the time for planning.

Make Reconnaissance and Complete the Estimate

The patrol leader uses personal reconnaissance to answer questions
that arise from the map reconnaissance and METT-T evaluation.
Specific points include passage points, lanes through obstacles,
locations of friendly listening posts and observation posts,
possible approach and return routes, enemy positions (if any), and
intermediate observation points on the way to the objective.

In selecting approach and return routes, the patrol leader
chooses routes that best use concealment and avoid opposition and
obstacles. To lessen the chances of ambush by the enemy, the return
trip is planned along a different route. In addition to personal
reconnaissance and review of the map and aerial photographs, the
advice of other patrol leaders who already are familiar with the
terrain and the objective area should be considered.

After compiling information about the situation and possible time
constraint, the patrol leader completes an estimate. The first step
is developing courses of action, each of which will provide for
movement to the objective area, mission accomplishment, and the
return, based on the tasks and their sequencing identified in mission
analysis. While the eventual concept of operations is presented in
order of occurrence, the patrol leader must develop the courses of
action by either backward or forward planning. In situations where
the objective is well defined and there is sufficient information
to plan the action for mission accomplishment (reconnaissance or
combat), the patrol leader begins the scheme for accomplishing the
mission at the objective and then, planning backwards, considers the
options for getting there and back.

The following sections on movement to and return from the objective
area, reconnaissance missions, and combat missions discuss methods
and options available to the patrol leader in developing the courses
of action. The principal variables between courses of action will be
who, where, and how in the following:

• Patrol task organization.

• Routes to the objective area.

• Observation point(s) (reconnaissance patrol), ambush site, form
of maneuver, type of ambush (combat patrol), fire support plan.

• Return routes.

The patrol leader then mentally considers the progress of each course
of action (a map or simple sketch is a useful aid) against expected
and unexpected enemy action. By comparing the options against each
other and prospective enemy opposition, the patrol leader chooses the
course of action that has the best chance of success. Included in
this mental preview process is the time to determine the patrol plan
for unexpected contingencies (enemy attack/counterattack, casualty
handling). These contingency actions, together with the selected
course of action, become the patrol concept of operations.

Once the patrol leader determines the scheme of maneuver, the fire
support required to accomplish the mission is addressed including
the fire power organic to the patrol and what additional indirect
fire support will have to be provided by other units. When planning
for indirect fire support, the patrol leader considers the following
questions:

• Will artillery, mortar, or close air support be required at the
objective area (combat patrols)?

• What artillery and mortar targets exist along the routes to and
from the objective area that can be employed by the patrol if it
encounters the enemy during movement (reconnaissance patrols and
combat patrols)?

• What additional fire support will be required to cover the
patrol’s movement from the objective area back to the friendly
area once the enemy is aware of the patrol’s actions at the
objective area (combat patrols)?

The effect that casualties have upon the patrol depends upon many
factors. Generally, more casualties can be expected in a combat
patrol than in a reconnaissance patrol. A patrol may continue on to
the objective carrying its casualties, send them back with a detail
of Marines, abort the mission and return the entire patrol with the
casualties, or call their parent unit for assistance.

Some factors that determine what action the patrol leader takes
are: patrol’s mission; unit’s standing operating procedure for
handling wounded; number of casualties and nature of their injuries;
availability of aid, helicopters or other means of casualty
evacuation. Helicopter evacuation should only be used for the
most serious casualties. For infantry units conducting patrols in
proximity to the enemy, helicopter evacuation of casualties may
compromise the patrol’s mission and force the patrol to return to
friendly positions before the mission is completed.

The patrol leader determines the requirement for nuclear, biological,
and chemical (NBC) defense equipment. Gas masks should always be
carried due to the availability of riot control agents (RCAs) to the
enemy. If chemical or biological agents have been employed in the
area that the patrol must pass through, protective garments will
have to be worn by patrol members for part of or the entire patrol.
Wearing extra clothing and carrying extra equipment affects the
speed of the patrol’s movement. A contingency plan for post patrol
decontamination must be developed.

Complete the Plan

At this point, the patrol leader has completed the basic thinking
necessary for accomplishing the assigned mission. The patrol
leader prepares the patrol order to spell out the details, assign
tasks to subordinates, and explain the entire endeavor for ease of
understanding by the other members of the patrol.

Prepare the Order

The patrol leader’s order contains more detailed information than
discussed in the warning order. Orders follow the prescribed
five-paragraph order format but contain greater detail. The patrol
order is a modified 5-paragraph order; the major modifications are
to paragraphs 3a and 3c. The format for the order is contained in
appendix B.

Issue the Order

The patrol leader asks for a status report on the initial preparatory
tasks assigned to subordinate leaders and specialists when the
warning order was issued. When the patrol leader has completed
planning and initial preparations have progressed to the point
where the patrol order may be issued, the members of the patrol
are assembled. Roll call is taken to ensure all patrol members are
present, then the prepared order is issued. This will be the only
opportunity for the patrol leader to issue detailed instructions. The
mission, in particular, must be unmistakably clear so that once the
patrol is committed, all subordinate leaders can act with unity of
purpose.

Whenever possible, the patrol leader should have a Marine, such as
the navigator, build a terrain model using dirt, sand, twigs, etc.,
explaining the concept of operations for movement to the objective
area, actions at the objective area, and the return. Terrain models
provide patrol members with a clear and simple layout of the area of
operations and key terrain.

Supervise

Inspections and rehearsals, vital to proper preparation, are
conducted even though the patrol leader and patrol members are well
experienced in patrolling. Inspections determine the patrol’s state
of physical and mental readiness.

The patrol leader inspects before rehearsals to ensure completeness
and correctness of uniform and equipment. The following areas are
checked:

• Camouflage.

• Identification tags, Geneva Convention cards.

• Prescribed equipment, weapons, and ammunition are available and
serviceable.

• Tape and other items are used to “silence” equipment (prevent
noise produced during movement).

• Items that could provide information to the enemy (e.g., letters
and papers) remain behind.

• Unnecessary equipment and excess weight remain behind.

The patrol leader questions each patrol member to ensure the
following is known:

• The mission, planned routes (primary and alternate), and the
fire support plan of the patrol.

• The individual’s role: what to do and when to do it.

• What others are to do and how their actions impact.

• Challenges and passwords, codes, reporting times, radio call
signs, frequencies, and any other pertinent details.

There is usually a period of time between final rehearsal and
departure. The patrol leader reinspects just before departure to
ensure all equipment is still in working order and the unit is ready
to embark on the mission.

Rehearsals ensure the operational proficiency of the patrol. Plans
are checked and needed changes are made. The patrol leader verifies
the suitability of equipment. It is through rehearsals that patrol
members become thoroughly familiar with the actions to take during
the patrol.

If the patrol will operate at night, both day and night rehearsals
are conducted. Terrain similar to that over which the patrol will
operate is used. All actions are rehearsed. If time is limited, the
most critical phases are rehearsed. Action at the objective is the
most critical phase of the patrol and is always rehearsed.

An effective method is to talk the patrol through each phase,
describing the actions and having each member perform individual
duties. When satisfied, the patrol leader walks the patrol through
all phases of the patrol using only the signals and commands to be
used during the actual conduct of the patrol. Rehearsals continue
until the patrol is thoroughly familiar with the plan. The rehearsal
is also used to test the soundness of the patrol order and patrol
organization.

After the rehearsal, the patrol leader makes final adjustments to
the plan and patrol organization based on what was learned during
the rehearsal and from other sources, such as the S-2 and adjacent
patrols. When this is completed, the patrol leader issues final
instructions to subordinate leaders noting any changes made in the
patrol organization or plan. While the subordinate leaders are
briefing the remainder of the patrol members, the patrol leader
reports to the commander stating that the patrol is ready to begin
the mission. The patrol leader also coordinates the location and time
that the patrol can test fire all weapons prior to departure.

CHAPTER 11. MOVEMENT TO AND RETURN FROM THE OBJECTIVE AREA

This chapter provides guidance to patrol leaders for
movement to and return from the objective area. Action
in the objective area depends on whether the patrol is
assigned a reconnaissance mission, combat mission or
security mission. Chapters 12 and 13 provide detailed
guidance on these types of missions.

11001. PASSAGE OF LINES

A passage of lines is an operation in which a force moves forward or
rearward through another force’s combat positions with the intention
of moving into or out of contact with the enemy. (JP 1-02)

During the initial preparation for the patrol, the patrol leader
selects a patrol assembly area and reconnoiters the area of passage
designated by the commander. In coordination with the unit commander
responsible for the area of passage, the patrol leader identifies
gaps or lanes in minefields and wire obstacles and locates local
security elements through which the patrol will pass. The patrol
leader also checks the route from the patrol assembly area to the
passage point or contact point where the patrol will depart friendly
lines. If possible, both the route to the passage point and the route
through the frontlines should be concealed from the enemy’s view.

The patrol leader also reconnoiters the area for return passage
of lines and coordinates with the unit commander responsible for
the area of passage for passage points and lanes as necessary. The
patrol leader observes these points from the direction that the
patrol will use upon return to friendly lines, if possible, to aid in
recognition upon return. The patrol leader provides the forward unit
with information about the size of the patrol, general route, and
expected time of return. The manner of challenge and recognition of
the returning patrol should be coordinated in detail.

Upon return to friendly forward local security squads and/or
frontlines, the patrol leader leaves the patrol in a covered position
and moves forward with a radio operator and at least one Marine for
security to make contact with the friendly unit in the manner agreed.
After contact is made and recognized, the patrol leader rejoins the
patrol and takes them to the passage point, personally checking in
each member.

11002. ORGANIZATION FOR MOVEMENT

The patrol’s task organization establishes the elements and teams
needed to accomplish the mission in the objective area and to and
from the objective. The patrol leader determines the formation(s) in
which the patrol moves to the objective area.

Formations

The proper use of patrol formations is critical to the patrol’s
success. The squad and fire team formations described in FMFM 6-5
(proposed MCWP 3-11.2), _Marine Rifle Squad_, also apply to infantry
patrolling formations. Because the movement of the patrol must be
concealed from the enemy, the patrol normally moves through terrain
that provides concealment. Control of the patrol in this type of
terrain is difficult; thus the column formation, which is easily
controlled, is normally used. However, as various types of terrain
are encountered, the patrol leader uses the same considerations
in determining the appropriate formation used in other infantry
operations.

The standard squad and fire team formations are adaptable to a
patrol. The patrol may change formations en route to match the
situation and terrain. The patrol leader may have to sacrifice some
control for better dispersion or give up some speed for greater
stealth and more security. Other considerations include--

• Visibility, weather, terrain, and vegetation will influence
dispersion and control of individuals and units. These factors
may also affect the enemy; if visibility is good for the patrol,
it is also good for the enemy. Two pieces of luminous tape worn
on the back of the collar will aid in control and movement on
dark nights. The collar is turned down when near the enemy. The
tape can also be worn on the back of the cap, but should be
covered or removed when near the enemy.

• Preserving the integrity of fire units (fire teams and, if
attached, machine gun teams) is of primary importance. If team
members are detached from a machine-gun team, the unit integrity
is lost and effectiveness is reduced. The patrol leader must
also position fire units so as not to mask their fires.

• All-around defense of the patrol must not be sacrificed under
any circumstances. The conventional squad and platoon formations
provide adequate firepower in any direction required. When
attachments are made to the patrol, the attachments are
positioned within the formation to enhance the firepower of the
patrol. If a fire unit, such as a machine gun team or squad, is
attached, it is incorporated into the all-around defense of the
patrol by modifying the conventional formation (see fig. 11-1).
It is permissible to employ machine gun teams individually
during movement. However, assault rocket squads and teams should
be employed primarily as rifle fire units for movement. Firing
the SMAW or AT-4 from within a patrol formation can present a
serious back-blast danger to patrol members and should only be
fired on the patrol leader’s direction.

• Time allotted for mission accomplishment is also a major
consideration. In selecting the formations, the patrol leader
must consider the speed of the movement required to meet the
time constraints (if any) imposed on the patrol. If required to
meet a time schedule, a formation that permits rapid movement
should be used. Speed, however, must never be permitted to force
the patrol leader to make rash tactical decisions.

Exercise of Control

The patrol leader is positioned for best control over the patrol.
The assistant patrol leader moves at or near the rear of the patrol.
Other subordinate leaders move with their elements. All patrol
members assist by staying alert and passing on signals and orders. A
signal to halt may be given by any patrol member, but the signal to
resume movement is given only by the patrol leader.

Arm-and-hand signals are the primary means of communication within
a patrol and should be used exclusively when near the enemy. All
members must know the standard infantry signals (refer to FMFM 6-5),
as well as any special signals required, and be alert to receive and
pass them to other members.

The patrol leader should speak just loudly enough to be heard. At
night, or when close to the enemy, the patrol leader halts the patrol
and has subordinate leaders come forward. They speak in a low voice
and then pass the information to their subordinates by moving from
member to member.

[Illustration:

Figure 11-1. Squad Patrol with Attached Mortar Forward Observer
Team and Machine Gun Squad.]

Radios provide a means of positive control within a large patrol;
however, radios should be used only when arm-and-hand signals or
face-to-face contact between the patrol leader and subordinate
leaders is impractical. When close to the enemy, words are spoken
into the microphone with hands cupped over it in a low voice.

Other sound signals may be used if the patrol leader is sure they
serve the purpose intended. Planned sound signals are rehearsed
before starting on the patrol. Sound signals used must be simple,
natural sounds that are few in number and easily understood. Bird and
animal calls are seldom satisfactory.

Infrared equipment, such as the sniper scope and infrared filters for
the flashlight, may be used as means of sending and receiving signals
and maintaining control at night.

Luminous tape may be used to assist in control at night. Small strips
on the back of the cap or collar of patrol members aid in keeping
visual contact with the front member. However, the luminous tape must
be covered when near the enemy.

An important aspect of control is accounting of personnel, especially
after crossing danger areas, enemy contacts, halts, and exiting and
re-entering friendly lines. The patrol leader may arrange for the
last member to send up the count automatically after crossing danger
areas, enemy contact, and halts. In large patrols or when moving in
a formation other than a column, subordinate leaders check members
and report the count to the patrol leader by the quickest method
appropriate to the circumstances.

Navigation

One or more members are assigned as navigators for the patrol. Their
function is to assist the patrol leader in maintaining direction by
the use of the compass.

The patrol leader assigns at least two members as pacers to keep
track of the distance from point to point. The average of their count
is used to approximate the distance traveled. Pacers are separated
so they do not influence each other’s count. Pacers must know how to
convert their own paces to meters.

The route is divided into increments, with each increment starting
at a recognizable point on the ground. The pacers begin their counts
from zero at the beginning of each leg. This makes the pace count
easier to keep and checks for accuracy.

The pace count is sent forward when the patrol leader turns to the
member behind and in a low voice says, “send up the pace” or uses
the arm-and-hand signal of tapping his boot. This signal is passed
to both pacers, who in turn send up the pace count in meters; for
example, “two-hundred” or “one-seven-five.”

Patrol members must understand that the counts of both pacers are
sent forward. The patrol leader must know the counts of both men in
order to check them.

Security

The patrol is dispersed consistent with control, visibility, cover,
and concealment. Scouts are employed to the front, flanks, and rear
of the patrol to provide security. For the patrol members traveling
in the main body of the patrol, areas of responsibility are assigned
to the front, flanks, and rear. Scouts are the eyes and ears of the
patrol leader. They move when and where directed by the patrol leader
and maintain contact with the patrol leader at all times, except when
momentarily obscured by vegetation or other terrain features.

_Front_

Small patrols (squad size) may employ from one scout up to a fire
team as the point, depending on the enemy situation, terrain, and
route being followed by the patrol. Normally, squad-size patrols
will use two scouts as the point. The point is responsible for
investigating the route of advance immediately to the front of the
patrol.

The point moves as far ahead of the patrol as visibility and terrain
permit. When visibility is good, the point may precede the main body
by as much as 100 meters. The point travels right and left ahead of
the patrol, searching the area over which the patrol will pass.

The point maintains direction by knowledge of the general route to be
followed and visual contact with the patrol leader. The patrol leader
or the navigator ensures that the point is proceeding correctly.

The point, which stays far enough ahead of the patrol to provide
security, is not a trail breaker for the patrol. If the point loses
contact with the patrol, the point waits for the main body to catch
up or moves rearward if contact is not quickly regained.

One of the navigators may be positioned with the point. One or more
members works as the point while the other is the navigator.

_Flank_

Flank security for a patrol of squad size or less may be provided by
using one or two members on either flank. If two scouts are assigned
to a flank, one is positioned to observe the patrol leader and the
other works farther out from the patrol. The scout who must observe
the patrol leader remains within a maximum distance of 100 meters.
The scout farther out remains in sight of the inside scout but
normally does not move more than 20 or 25 meters away and remains
prepared to relieve flank security regularly. Moving through dense
woods or jungle may render the use of flank security impractical
because of reduced visibility. In such cases, it moves with the
patrol itself, but maintains observation to its assigned flanks.

_Rear_

A small patrol normally has only one rifleman assigned as rear
security. An interval between the member assigned as rear security
and the last Marine of the patrol is maintained at the limit of
visibility, up to 50 meters. This member maintains rear security for
the patrol by constantly observing to the rear.

Halting

Speed of movement is slower at night than in day patrols and reduces
the danger of a Marine becoming separated from the patrol. The patrol
occasionally halts to observe and listen for enemy activity; this
is called a security halt. Upon signal, when reaching a danger area
and periodically throughout movement en route, every member freezes
in place, remains quiet, observes, and listens. It may be necessary
to call a security halt just after departing friendly areas and just
before entering friendly areas.

The patrol may halt briefly to send a message, eat, rest, check
direction, or make a reconnaissance. The area selected should provide
adequate concealment and cover, as well as favor the defense.
All-round security is established and the patrol leader ensures all
members move out when the patrol resumes movement. (For extended
halts, see paragraph 11005.)

Infiltration

The disposition of enemy forces may sometimes prevent a patrol from
entering the enemy occupied area as a unit; however, pairs of scouts
or fire teams may slip through without being discovered. (Refer to
FMFM 6-5 for infiltration techniques and procedures).

11003. CONTROL MEASURES FOR MOVEMENT

Checkpoints

A checkpoint is a predetermined point on the surface of the Earth
used as a means of controlling movement, a registration target for
fire adjustment or reference for location (JP 1-02). Checkpoints
are a means of control between the parent unit and the patrol.
These locations are decided upon and coordinated before the patrol
leaves, so that both the patrol members and parent unit will know
the patrol’s location when it reports in. The parent unit can follow
the progress of the patrol without transmitting coordinates over the
radio that the enemy could monitor.

Rally Points

A rally point is an easily identifiable point on the ground where
units can reassemble and reorganize if they become dispersed (MCRP
5-12C). It should provide cover and concealment, be defensible for at
least a short time, and be easily recognized and known to all patrol
members. All rally points are considered and identified as tentative
rally points until they are occupied, found to be suitable, and
designated as rally points by the patrol leader.

_Initial Rally Point_

The initial rally point is within friendly lines where the patrol
can rally if it becomes separated before departing the friendly area
or before reaching the first en route rally point. It may be the
assembly area where the patrol waits while the patrol leader contacts
the last friendly position through which the patrol will pass. The
location of the initial rally point must be coordinated with the
forward unit commander.

_En route Rally Points_

En route rally points are between the initial rally point and the
objective rally point; and from the objective rally point back to the
point where the patrol reenters friendly lines. They are determined
as the patrol passes through a likely area that is suitable for a
rally point.

_Objective Rally Point_

The objective rally point is located nearest the objective where the
patrol makes final preparations prior to approaching the objective.
It also serves as a location where the patrol reassembles after
completing actions on the objective. The objective rally point must
be suitable to accommodate those activities accomplished prior to
actions on the objective. This position must provide the patrol
concealment from enemy observation and, if possible, cover from
enemy fires. It may be located short of, to a flank or beyond the
objective. It should be out of sight, sound, and small-arms range
of the objective area. The patrol leader’s reconnaissance of the
objective is made from this position; it is the release point from
which patrol elements and teams move to the objective to accomplish
the mission.

_Rally Point Selection_

The patrol leader selects likely locations for tentative rally points
during reconnaissance or map study. A tentative rally point must
be confirmed and announced after examination proves suitability. A
tentative initial rally point and a tentative objective rally point
are always selected and identified in the patrol order. If necessary,
the patrol leader selects additional rally points en route as
suitable locations are reached. When the patrol reaches a danger area
that cannot be bypassed, such as an open meadow or stream, the patrol
leader selects a rally point on both the near and far side. If good
locations are not available, the patrol leader designates the rally
points in relation to the danger area. The patrol leader will say,
for example, “50 meters this side of the trail” or “50 meters beyond
the stream.”

_Rally Point Use_

The initial rally point and en route rally points are designated to
enable the patrol to reassemble if it is unavoidably separated or
dispersed. Identifying features are pointed out. The patrol leader
ensures that the information is passed to all patrol members. When
crossing a danger area, a near side rally point and a far side
rendezvous point are designated. These rally points should only
be used when all other methods of retaining control of the patrol
have failed. The success of the patrol may be jeopardized if it is
dispersed and cannot rally expeditiously.

If the patrol has left the friendly area and becomes dispersed,
patrol members return to the last designated rally point (the initial
or an en route rally point) unless the patrol leader gives other
instructions.

As previously noted, the patrol leader selects two rally points at
the near and far sides of danger areas that cannot be bypassed. If
the patrol becomes separated or dispersed at a danger area, and there
has been no enemy contact, the patrol should reassemble at the rally
point on the far side of it. If, however, the patrol is separated or
dispersed at a danger area as a result of enemy contact, members who
have already crossed the danger area assemble and reorganize at the
rally point on the far side; members who have not crossed assemble
and reorganize at the rally point on the near side. In the absence of
the patrol leader and unless directed otherwise, the senior member
at the rally point on the near side takes charge, attempts to move
the rallied patrol members to the rally point on the far side, and
rejoins the remainder of the patrol.

_Rally Point Actions_

The patrol leader plans the actions to be taken at rally points and
instructs the patrol accordingly in the patrol order. Planned actions
at the initial rally point and en route rally points must provide
for the continuation of the patrol as long as there is a reasonable
chance to accomplish the mission. Plans for actions at rally points
should provide for--

• Recognition signals for assembly at rally points.

• Minimum number of members and maximum amount of waiting time
required before the senior member at the rally point moves the
rallied patrol members onward toward the objective or returns to
friendly lines.

• Instructions for patrol members who find themselves alone at a
rally point.

11004. PRECAUTIONS AT DANGER AREAS

A danger area is any place where the patrol is vulnerable to enemy
observation or fire (open areas, roads, trails, and obstacles such as
barbed wire, minefields, rivers and streams, and lakes). Any known or
suspected enemy position the patrol must pass is also a danger area.
The patrol leader plans for crossing each danger area and includes
these plans in the order.

The patrol reconnoiters the near side of a danger area first, then
the patrol leader sends scouts to reconnoiter the far side. Once the
scouts report that the far side is clear of the enemy, the remainder
of the patrol crosses the danger area. As each individual or group
crosses the danger area, they are covered by those remaining and by
those who have successfully crossed. Enemy obstacles are avoided
since they are usually covered by fire.

In crossing a river, the near bank is reconnoitered first; then the
patrol is positioned to cover the far bank. Scouts are sent across
to the far bank. After the far bank has been reconnoitered and the
scouts report that it is clear of the enemy, the patrol crosses as
rapidly as possible. This may be done individually or in pairs. If
crossing the river requires swimming, the patrol uses improvised
rafts to float equipment, weapons, and ammunition across. (Refer to
MCRP 3-02C, _Water Survival Handbook_.)

A road or trail is crossed at or near a bend or where the road is
narrow. Observation is restricted and, if the enemy is present, the
patrol is exposed as short a time as possible. The near side is
reconnoitered first, then scouts are sent across to reconnoiter the
far side. This includes reconnoitering the tentative rally point on
the far side. Once the scouts report “all clear,” the remainder of
the patrol crosses rapidly and quietly.

If the patrol must pass close to an enemy position, it takes
advantage of battlefield noises to cover the sounds of movement. If
supporting fires are available, the patrol leader can call for them
to divert the enemy’s attention as the patrol passes.

11005. HIDE

When a patrol is required to halt for an extended period in an area
not protected by friendly troops, the patrol moves into a location
which, by the nature of the surrounding terrain, provides passive
security from enemy detection. Such an assembly area is termed a
_hide_. To establish a hide--

• Cease all movement during daylight hours to avoid detection.

• Hide the patrol for an extended period while the patrol leader
conducts a detailed reconnaissance of the objective area.

• Rest and reorganize after extended movement.

• Reorganize after a patrol has infiltrated the enemy area in
small groups.

The patrol leader’s plan must include tentative hide locations
when the patrol’s mission dictates an extended halt within enemy
areas. These tentative locations must be confirmed by actual ground
reconnaissance prior to occupation by the patrol. The plan for a hide
includes both passive and active security measures.

Passive security measures are--

• Avoid built-up areas.

• Select an area remote from all human habitation.

• Avoid known or suspected enemy positions.

• Avoid ridge lines, topographic crests, valleys, lakes, and
streams.

• Avoid roads and trails.

• Avoid open woods and clearings.

• Select areas offering dense vegetation, preferably bushes and
trees that spread out close to the ground.

Active security measures--

• Establish security covering all likely avenues of approach into
the site.

• Establish communications (wire, radio, signal, runner) with
posted security to provide early warning of enemy approach.

• Select an alternate area for occupation if the original hide is
compromised or found unsuitable.

• Plan for withdrawal in the event of discovery.

• Establish an alert plan with a certain percent of the personnel
awake at all times.

• Organize the elements of the patrol so necessary activities can
take place with a minimum amount of movement.

The size of the area physically occupied by a patrol in a hide and
the number of security posts required are governed by the terrain,
quantity and quality of cover and concealment, and size of the patrol.

If the situation permits, a hide can also be used as the final
preparation position and/or objective rally point.

11006. IMMEDIATE ACTIONS UPON ENEMY CONTACT

A patrol may make contact with the enemy at any time. Contact may
be through observation, a meeting engagement or ambush. Contact may
be visual, in which the patrol sights the enemy but is not itself
detected. When this is the case, the patrol leader can decide whether
to make or avoid physical contact, basing his decision on the
patrol’s assigned mission and capability to successfully engage the
enemy unit.

When a patrol’s assigned mission prohibits physical contact (except
that necessary to accomplish the mission), its actions are defensive
in nature. Physical contact, if unavoidable, is broken as quickly as
possible and the patrol, if still capable, continues its mission.

When a patrol’s assigned mission permits or requires it to seek
or exploit opportunities for contact (as in the case of a combat
patrol), its actions are offensive in nature, immediate, and positive.

In patrolling, contacts (visual or physical) are often unexpected at
very close ranges, and short in duration. Effective enemy fire often
provides leaders little or no time to fully evaluate situations and
issue orders. In these situations, immediate action provides a means
for swiftly initiating positive offensive or defensive action, as
appropriate.

Two types of physical contact with the enemy are meeting engagement
and ambush. Meeting engagement is a combat action that occurs
when a moving force, incompletely deployed for battle, engages an
enemy at an unexpected time and place. It is an accidental meeting
where neither the enemy nor the patrol expect contact and are not
specifically prepared to deal with it. An ambush is a surprise attack
from a concealed position.

Immediate Actions

Immediate actions are designed to provide swift and positive small
unit reaction to visual or physical contact with the enemy. They
are simple courses of action in which all Marines are well trained.
Minimal signals or commands are required and they are developed as
needed for the combat situation. The signals can, in many cases, be
initiated by any member of the unit. It is not feasible to attempt to
design an immediate action drill to cover every possible situation.
It is better to know the immediate action drill for each of a limited
number of situations that may occur during a patrol. Arm-and-hand
signals associated with immediate actions--such as FREEZE, ENEMY IN
SIGHT, and HASTY AMBUSH RIGHT or LEFT--are contained in FMFM 6-5
(proposed MCWP 3-11.2).

_Immediate Halt_

When the patrol detects the enemy but is not itself detected, the
situation requires the immediate, in-place halt of the patrol. The
first member visually detecting the enemy gives the silent signal for
FREEZE. Every member halts in place, weapon at the ready, and remains
absolutely motionless and quiet until further signals or orders are
given.

_Air Observation and/or Attack_

These actions are designed to reduce the danger of detection from
aircraft and casualties from air attack.

When an enemy or unidentified aircraft that may detect the patrol is
heard or observed, the appropriate immediate action drill is FREEZE.
The first member hearing or sighting an aircraft that may be a threat
signals FREEZE. Every member halts in place until the patrol leader
identifies the aircraft and gives further signals or orders. Members
of the patrol must not look up at the aircraft as sunlight can
reflect off their faces even when camouflaged.

When an aircraft detects a patrol and makes a low level attack, the
immediate action drill air attack is used. The first member sighting
an attacking aircraft shouts, “AIRCRAFT,” followed by the direction
of the incoming attack: FRONT, LEFT, REAR or RIGHT. The patrol moves
quickly into line formation, well spread out, at right angles to
the aircraft’s direction of travel. As each member comes on line,
the member hits the ground, using available cover, then positions
the body perpendicular to the aircraft’s direction of travel, to
present the shallowest target possible (see fig. 11-2 on page 11-8).
Between attacks (if the aircraft returns or if more than one aircraft
attacks), patrol members seek better cover. Attacking aircraft are
fired upon only on command of the patrol leader.

[Illustration: Figure 11-2. Immediate Action, Air Attack.]

_Meeting Engagement_

=Hasty Ambush.= This immediate action is used to avoid contact and to
prepare to initiate an unplanned ambush on the enemy. It may often
be a subsequent action after the command freeze. When the signal
HASTY AMBUSH is given (by the point member, patrol leader or another
authorized patrol member), the entire patrol moves quickly to the
right or left of the line of movement, as indicated by the signal,
and takes up the best available concealed firing positions (see fig.
11-3 on page 11-9). The patrol leader initiates the ambush by opening
fire and shouting, “FIRE”; thus ensuring initiation of the ambush
if the weapon misfires. If the patrol is detected before this, the
first member aware of detection initiates the ambush by firing and
shouting. The patrol leader may decide not to initiate the ambush
in order to avoid contact unless the patrol is detected. When used
as an offensive measure, the enemy is allowed to advance until he
is in the most vulnerable position before the ambush is initiated.
An alternate means for initiating the ambush is to designate an
individual (for example, point or last member) to open fire when a
certain portion of the enemy unit reaches or passes that member.

[Illustration:
• FREEZE is signaled by the individual who thinks he sees
or hears the enemy.
• Once the enemy is identified, the PL signals HASTY
AMBUSH if the situation permits.
• Patrol members move into a line formation stealthily,
avoiding detection.
• The PL or first man detected by the enemy initiates the
ambush. Remainder of patrol moves rapidly on line. The PL
conducts an immediate assault or breaks contact.
• The PL normally gives the signal to initiate the ambush
if the patrol is not detected. He wants to maintain
the option of using the hasty ambush offensively or
defensively.

LEGEND
LF LEFT FLANK SECURITY
RF RIGHT FLANK SECURITY
PT POINT MAN
RO RADIO MAN
X PATROL LEADER/SQUAD LEADER

Figure 11-3. Immediate Action, Hasty Ambush.]

=Immediate Assault.= This immediate action drill is used defensively
to make and quickly break undesired but unavoidable contact
(including ambush) and offensively to decisively engage the enemy
(including ambush). When used in a meeting engagement, members
nearest the enemy open fire and shout, “CONTACT,” followed by the
direction of the incoming attack: FRONT, LEFT, REAR or RIGHT. The
patrol moves swiftly into line formation and assaults (see fig. 11-4).

_Defensive Measures_

When used defensively, the assault is stopped if the enemy withdraws
and contact is broken quickly. If the enemy stands fast, the assault
is carried through the enemy positions and movement is continued
until contact is broken.

_Offensive Measures_

When used offensively, the enemy is decisively engaged. Escapees are
pursued and destroyed until orders to break contact are given by the
patrol leader. If the patrol is fired upon from beyond 50 meters, the
patrol must break contact as quickly as possible and continue the
mission. If it engages the enemy any longer than necessary to break
contact, it may put the mission in jeopardy.

_Fire and Maneuver_

Fire and maneuver is one means to break contact. One portion of the
patrol returns the enemy fire while another portion moves by bounds
away from the enemy. Each portion of the patrol covers the other by
fire until contact is broken by all.

_Clock System_

The clock system is another means to break contact. Twelve o’clock
is the direction of movement of the patrol. The patrol leader shouts
a direction and a distance. For example: “TEN O’CLOCK-TWO HUNDRED,”
means the patrol should move in the direction of ten o’clock for 200
meters. Patrol members keep their same relative positions as they
move so the original formation is not disrupted. Subordinate leaders
must be alert to ensure that the members of their elements and teams
receive the collect order and move as directed.

_Counter Ambush_

When a patrol is ambushed, the immediate action drill used depends on
whether the ambush is a near ambush (the enemy is within 50 meters
of the patrol) or a far ambush (the enemy is beyond 50 meters of the
patrol). Fifty meters is considered the limit from which the ambushed
patrol can effectively launch an assault against the enemy.

=Near Ambush.= In a near ambush, the killing zone is under very
heavy, highly concentrated, close range fires. There is little time
or space for members to maneuver or seek cover. The longer they
remain in the killing zone, the greater the chance they will become
casualties. Therefore, if members in the killing zone are attacked
by a near ambush, they immediately assault without order or signal
directly into the ambush position, occupy it, and continue the
assault or break contact, as directed. This action moves them out of
the killing zone, prevents other elements of the ambush from firing
on them without firing on their own members, and provides positions
from which other actions may be taken (see fig. 11-5 on page 11-10).
Members not in the killing zone maneuver against the enemy as
directed. The assault continues until all patrol members are outside
of the killing zone.

=Far Ambush.= In a far ambush, the killing zone is also under very
heavy, highly concentrated fires, but from a greater range. This
greater range provides members in the killing zone maneuver space
and some opportunity to seek cover at a lesser risk of becoming a
casualty. If attacked by a far ambush, members in the killing zone,
without order or signal, immediately return fire, take the best
available positions, and continue firing until directed otherwise.
Members not in the killing zone maneuver against the ambush force,
as directed (see fig. 11-6 on page 11-10). The assault is continued
against the enemy or until the order to break contact is given.

In each situation, the success of the counter ambush employed depends
on the members being well trained in quickly recognizing the distance
from which an ambush is initiated and well rehearsed in the proper
reaction.

[Illustration:
• The individual patrol member in contact returns fire
and orients the patrol.
• The patrol rapidly deploys on line.
• Based on the PL’s estimate of the situation, the patrol
assaults the enemy or breaks contact.
• If the patrol is receiving effective fire, the patrol
will assault or break contact by fire and movement.

Figure 11-4. Immediate Action, Immediate Assault.]

[Illustration:
• Individuals caught In the killing zone of a near
ambush, without order of signal, immediately fire at
the enemy in order to achieve fire superiority and
aggressively assault through the position.
• The attack is continued to eliminate the ambush or
break contact as directed.

Figure 11-5. Near Ambush.]

[Illustration:
• Those caught in the killing zone of a far ambush,
return fire, get down, seek cover, and establish a base
of fire.
• Those not caught in the killing zone, deploy to support
those in the killing zone by fire and maneuver as
directed against the enemy.

Figure 11-6. Far Ambush.]

11007. PATROL LEADER’S ACTION IN A DEVELOPING SITUATION

While good patrolling depends on good planning, the patrol leader’s
plan must be flexible. Every combat situation develops differently
than expected, and the patrol leader must be ready to quickly adapt
to the situation as it develops. One of the most difficult tasks in
battle is to recognize the correct moment for making a decision.
Generally, it is more difficult to determine the moment for making
a decision than it is to formulate the decision itself. When the
situation demands, decisions must be made promptly without waiting
for more information. In a developing situation, the patrol leader
should use the following questions as a guide for battlefield
decisionmaking:

• How has the situation changed?

• How does the change affect mission accomplishment and the
immediate superior’s mission?

• Must a decision be made now?

• What are the options?

• Which option best serves the mission and the unit as a whole?

• Which option offers the greatest chance of success?

11008. RETURN FROM OBJECTIVE AREA

After performing actions in the objective area, the patrol
reassembles at the objective rally point. This phase of the patrol
is perhaps the most difficult and dangerous. Patrol members are
experiencing fatigue, emotional letdown, and wounds; they may be low
on water and ammunition. Above all, the enemy was likely alerted if
not in pursuit. At this point, the patrol leader must move the patrol
rapidly but carefully and maintain patrol security at a high level.
In returning to friendly lines, the patrol neither uses nor travels
near the same route used to get to the objective area. The enemy
may have that route covered. For information on reentry of friendly
lines, refer to paragraph 11001.

CHAPTER 12. RECONNAISSANCE PATROLS

The commander needs accurate, timely information about
the enemy and the terrain the enemy controls to assist in
making tactical decisions. Reconnaissance patrols are one
of the most reliable means for obtaining this information.
These patrols engage the enemy only when necessary to
accomplish their mission or for protection. They generally
avoid combat, accomplish the mission by stealth, and do
not maintain contact with the unit that sent them out. A
reconnaissance patrol is capable of carrying the search for
information into the area occupied by enemy forces--usually
beyond the range of vision of friendly ground observation
posts--and examining objects and events at close range.

12001. GENERAL MISSIONS

General missions for reconnaissance patrols include gathering
information about location and characteristics of friendly or hostile
positions and installations, terrain (routes, stream crossings), and
obstacles.

12002. SPECIFIC MISSIONS

Locate the Enemy

Reconnaissance patrols try to determine the--

• Location of enemy forces, installations, and equipment.

• Identification of enemy units and equipment.

• Strength of enemy forces.

• Disposition of enemy forces.

• Movement of enemy personnel and equipment.

• New or special types of weapons.

• Presence of mechanized units.

• Unusual enemy activity.

• Presence of NBC equipment.

Reconnaissance of Enemy Wire Obstacles

A patrol with the mission of investigating enemy-emplaced wire
obstacles employs a formation providing for all-around security and
takes precautions against being observed by the enemy. The patrol
leader and one Marine inspect each gap and establish its location
by means of compass bearings to prominent objects in the rear of
enemy or friendly positions or through the use of global positioning
satellite receivers.

Reconnaissance of Contaminated Areas

A patrol with the mission of investigating a contaminated area
reconnoiters and marks the area’s boundaries. Patrol members wear
protective clothing and field protective masks. The patrol leader
reports the extent of the area, the type of agent used, the terrain
and vegetation and the method of marking the contaminated area. A
sketch of the contaminated area, prepared by the patrol leader,
should be included in the patrol report.

Reconnaissance of Enemy Minefields

Patrols assigned to reconnoiter enemy minefields are often composed
of specially trained personnel. The type of mine is identified and
the possibility of bypassing the area determined.

Reconnaissance of Terrain

The reconnaissance patrol is particularly suited for gathering
information about the terrain within their area of operations. (Refer
to MCRP 2-15.3B, _Reconnaissance Reports Guide_.) Commanders must
know the location and condition of bridges, streams, and roads in
order to make proper plans for the movement of troops. The following
information should be obtained by a reconnaissance patrol assigned
such missions:

• Bridges:
◦ Maximum load capacity.
◦ Material used in construction (wood, stone, concrete or
steel).
◦ Material used for abutments (dirt, wood, masonry, concrete).
◦ Type and number of supporting members of the bridge.
◦ Condition and dimensions of bridge flooring.
◦ Presence or absence of mines and demolition charges on the
bridge and at entrances/exits.
◦ Terrain crossed (ravine, stream, road).
◦ Primary use (rail, auto, foot).
◦ Location and type of an alternate crossing if bridge is
unusable.

• Streams and fords:
◦ Width and depth of stream.
◦ Composition of the bottom (mud, sand, gravel, rock).
◦ Speed of current in miles per hour.
◦ Composition and gradient of banks.
◦ Surrounding terrain and vegetation cover.

• Roads:
◦ Width.
◦ Composition of surface.
◦ Condition.
◦ Road blocks.
◦ Gradient/degrees of slopes.
◦ Curves (location and length).
◦ Ditch and culvert locations.
◦ Primary use and frequency of use.

12003. TYPES OF RECONNAISSANCE

Route

Route reconnaissance is a directed effort to obtain detailed
information of a specified route and all terrain from which the
enemy could influence movement along that route. (Refer to MCRP
5-12C.) It is also described as a form of reconnaissance focused
along a specific line of communications--such as a road, railway, or
waterway--to provide new or updated information on route conditions
and activities along the route. (Refer to MCRP 5-12A, _Operational
Terms and Graphics_.)

A route reconnaissance normally precedes the movement of forces.
It provides detailed information about a specific route and the
surrounding terrain that could be used to influence movement along
that route. Considerations include trafficability, danger areas,
critical points, vehicle weight and size limitations, and locations
for friendly obstacle emplacement.

The objective area is normally defined by a line of departure, a
route, and a limit of advance.

Area

An area reconnaissance is a directed effort to obtain detailed
information concerning the terrain or enemy activity within a
prescribed area such as a town, ridge line, woods or other features
critical to operations. (Refer to MCRP 5-12C.) An area reconnaissance
could also be made of a single point, such as a bridge or
installation. (Refer to MCRP 5-12A.)

Emphasis is placed on reaching the area without being detected. Enemy
situations encountered en route are developed only enough to allow
the reconnoitering unit to report and bypass.

Zone

A zone reconnaissance is a directed effort to obtain detailed
information concerning all routes, obstacles (to include chemical or
radiological contamination), terrain, and enemy forces within a zone
defined by boundaries. A zone reconnaissance is normally assigned
when the enemy situation is vague or when information concerning
cross-country trafficability is desired. (Refer to MCRP 5-12C.)

The commander specifies specific routes or areas of interest within
the zone. The zone to be reconnoitered usually is defined by a line
of departure, lateral boundaries, and a limit of advance.

12004. TASK ORGANIZATION

A reconnaissance patrol is organized around the current structure of
the Marine rifle squad with one or more of the squad’s fire teams
assigned as the reconnaissance element to reconnoiter or maintain
surveillance over the objective. At least one fire team acts as a
security element whose functions are to--

• Secure the objective rally point (see para. 11003).

• Give early warning of enemy approach.

• Protect the reconnaissance unit.

Reinforcing the squad is based on METT-T. If two squads are required,
then the mission should be assigned to a platoon.

A company may send a reconnaissance patrol to specifically
reconnoiter a given area (a riverbed or a bridge), or to maintain
surveillance on a particular streambed for the next four nights.
Reconnaissance patrols perform three basic functions en route to and
from the objective:

• Provide control.

• Provide security while moving and in the objective area.

• Conduct reconnaissance or surveillance.

Depending on the size of the reconnaissance patrol, an element
must be tasked to reconnoiter the area or zone. In the case of a
surveillance mission, two teams are recommended to share the same
task (so one could lay up and rest, while the other lays low and
hides to maintain strict silence and no movement while surveillance
is being maintained on the objective). Whatever the case, each unit
that has a surveillance mission or reconnaissance mission must be
thoroughly briefed as to what essential elements of information are
to be collected as well as their location in the objective area.

The patrol should be organized with one or two fire teams to actually
conduct the reconnaissance mission and the remaining fire team to
provide security. Each fire team should be prepared to assume either
mission. A small area reconnaissance patrol needs only one fire team
for the assigned mission. A patrol with a wider area reconnaissance
mission should use two fire teams to physically conduct the mission
and one fire team for cover and/or security.

The security element for a reconnaissance patrol should be organized
to cover the likely avenue of approach into the objective area, to
protect the units conducting the reconnaissance, and to cover the
objective rally point.

The variations of the special organization for reconnaissance patrols
illustrate the patrol leader’s flexibility in organizing the patrol
to meet mission requirements. The patrol leader is not limited to the
variations reflected herein but can choose any special organization
as long as that task organization accommodates the requirement for
command and control, reconnaissance, and security.

12005. SIZE OF RECONNAISSANCE PATROLS

A reconnaissance patrol should be kept to the minimum number of
personnel required to accomplish the mission. A mission requiring
a patrol to remain away from its unit for a considerable period
of time, or one requiring a patrol to send back information by
messenger, increases the size of the patrol. Reconnaissance patrols
seldom exceed a squad in strength. Unit integrity should be preserved
whenever possible. Intelligence personnel, interpreters, and other
specialists, such as radio operators or engineers, are assigned to a
patrol if the particular mission requires.

12006. RECONNAISSANCE EQUIPMENT

Patrol members are armed and equipped as necessary for accomplishing
the mission. The automatic rifle in each fire team provides a degree
of sustained firepower in case of enemy contact. The patrol should
have at least two: pairs of binoculars, pairs of wire cutters, maps,
compasses, and watches. Night observation equipment may be used.
Pencils and small notebooks are carried so notes and sketches can
be made. A message book with message blanks and overlay paper is
mandatory.

12007. RECONNAISSANCE PATROL ACTIONS AT THE OBJECTIVE AREA

Route

The patrol leader halts and conceals the patrol near the objective
area in the final preparation position. The patrol leader then
conducts leader’s reconnaissance to confirm the plan for positioning
the security teams and employing units assigned to the reconnaissance
mission. The patrol leader returns to the patrol and positions the
security to provide early warning of enemy approach and secure the
objective rally point. The reconnaissance unit(s) then reconnoiters
the objective area (route). The reconnaissance unit may move to
several positions, along or adjacent to the specific route, in
order to conduct a thorough reconnaissance. After completing the
reconnaissance, each reconnaissance team moves to the objective
rally point and reports to the patrol leader. The patrol then returns
to friendly lines and the leader makes a full report.

Area

The patrol leader halts and conceals the patrol near the objective
area in the final preparation position. The patrol leader then
conducts leader’s reconnaissance to pinpoint the objective and
confirm the plan for positioning the security teams and employing
units assigned the reconnaissance mission. The patrol leader
returns to the patrol and positions security to provide early
warning of enemy approach and secure the objective rally point. The
reconnaissance unit(s) then reconnoiters the objective area. The
reconnaissance unit may move to several positions, perhaps making
a circle around the objective area, in order to conduct a thorough
reconnaissance. When the reconnaissance is completed, the patrol
leader assembles the patrol and tells members what has been observed
and heard. Other patrol members contribute observations. The patrol
then returns to friendly lines and the patrol leader makes a full
report.

Zone

The patrol leader halts the patrol at the final preparation position,
confirms the plan, and conducts leader’s reconnaissance. The patrol
leader positions the security team and sends out the reconnaissance
team. When the entire patrol is used to reconnoiter the zone, it
provides its own security. After completing the reconnaissance, each
reconnaissance team moves to the objective rally point and reports to
the patrol leader. The patrol then returns to friendly lines.

CHAPTER 13. COMBAT PATROLS

Combat patrols are assigned missions that usually include
engaging the enemy. They are fighting patrols. Every combat
patrol has a secondary mission: gaining information about
the enemy and terrain. Combat patrols are employed in both
offensive and defensive combat operations and they assist
the parent unit in accomplishing its mission by inflicting
damage on the enemy; establishing and/or maintaining
contact with friendly and enemy forces; denying the enemy
access to key terrain; and probing enemy positions to
determine the nature and extent of enemy presence.

13001. TASK ORGANIZATION

A combat patrol is organized around the current structure of the
Marine rifle platoon. A combat patrol leader should use the unit’s
normal organization (fire team, squad, and platoon) in assigning
functions, patrol missions, and chain of command. Combat patrols must
be able to perform the following four basic functions en route to and
from the objective:

• Provide control.

• Provide security.

• Provide support by fire.

• Attack or assault the objective.

A rifle platoon could task-organize as a combat patrol as follows:

• Platoon headquarters (patrol headquarters).

• First squad (security).

• Second squad (support).

• Third squad (assault).

Every combat patrol must--

• Provide a control mechanism in the form of a headquarters.

• Designate a unit (a fire team or squad) to provide security
while moving en route to the objective or while at the
objective. At the objective area, this unit isolates the
objective area, secures the objective rally point, and covers
the withdrawal.

• Designate a unit to act as support. This unit provides the base
of fire in the attack or covers withdrawals or advances.

• Designate a unit(s) to conduct the attack or assault. This
unit(s) engages the enemy at the objective area by fire and
maneuver or movement. It also operates immediately in the
objective area (searching, demolition, prisoners of war, etc.).
Paragraph 9001 outlines the general organization of combat
patrols. As in the case with reconnaissance patrols, the task
organization of a combat patrol depends on the specific mission
assigned. If any special requirements are generated because of
the specific mission, the patrol is task-organized to fit the
needs of the mission.

13002. EQUIPMENT

Combat patrols are armed and equipped as necessary for accomplishing
the mission. In addition to binoculars, wire cutters, compasses, and
other equipment generally common to all patrols, it usually carries
a high proportion of automatic weapons and grenades. Communications
with higher headquarters is important as success of the mission may
depend on being able to call for supporting fires. Also, internal
radio communications with the units and teams may be useful. However,
the patrol must not be so overburdened with equipment as to impede
movement or mission accomplishment.

13003. RAID PATROLS

A raid is a surprise attack on an enemy force or installation with
the attacking force withdrawing after accomplishing its mission.
Raids destroy or capture enemy personnel or equipment, destroy
installations, or free friendly personnel who have been captured by
the enemy. Patrolling techniques are used in planning and when moving
to and from the objective. (Refer to MCWP 3-41.2, _Raids_.) Surprise,
firepower, and violence of action are the keys to a successful raid.
Patrols achieve surprise by attacking--

• When the enemy is least prepared (e.g., during periods of poor
visibility such as darkness, rain, fog, or snow).

• From an unexpected direction. (This might be accomplished by
approaching through a swamp or other seemingly impassable
terrain.)

• With concentration of firepower at critical points within the
objective.

Planning

A successful raid requires detailed planning. The leader of a combat
patrol engaged in raiding must anticipate probable situations and
decide upon definite courses of action to meet them. Rehearsals are
imperative.

A raid patrol conducts such missions as destroying an enemy outpost
or seizing prisoners from an observation post or lightly defended
position.

While preparing for the mission, the patrol leader requests fire
support required for the accomplishment of the mission. If practical,
artillery and mortars should be employed to isolate the objective to
prevent movement of enemy reinforcements into the area.

Execution

The leader’s plan must be detailed and complete. All of the
considerations outlined in chapter 11 must be covered. Patrol
formations must provide for ease of control and all-around security
while moving to and from the objective area and provide for rapid
and coordinated deployment of the various units once the objective
area is reached. The leader’s plan usually includes the encirclement
of the hostile position--either physically or by fire--in order to
isolate it during the assault.

The final simultaneous assault against the objective develops when
enemy defensive fires at the objective are suppressed by either
friendly fire superiority or surprise. The assault is covered by the
fire of the unit assigned the function of support by fire.

Grenades, SMAWs, and demolitions are most effective for clearing
bunkers.

Security units are posted to isolate the objective. The patrol leader
signals them when the withdrawal begins. As a minimum, security is on
each flank and to the rear (at the objective rally point).

Actions at the Objective

The patrol leader halts the patrol near the objective at the final
preparation position. Security is established and the leader’s
reconnaissance is made with appropriate subordinate leaders. When
the leaders return to the patrol, they confirm previous plans or
announce any changes. Movements are arranged so all units reach their
positions simultaneously. This improves the patrol’s capability for
decisive action, if prematurely detected by the enemy.

The teams of the security element move to positions to secure
the objective rally point, give early warning of enemy approach,
block avenues of approach into--and prevent enemy escape from--the
objective area. As the assault element moves into position, the
security element informs the patrol leader of all enemy activity,
firing only if detected or on the patrol leader’s order. Once the
assault element commences action, the security element prevents enemy
entry into or escape from the objective area. The security element
covers the withdrawal of the assault element (and support element, if
employed) to the objective rally point, withdrawing only upon order
or prearranged signal.

As the assault element approaches the objective, it deploys early
enough to permit immediate assault if detected by the enemy. Each
team uses stealth while moving into proper position. On command,
or if one or more of the assault element is detected and fired
upon by the enemy, the support element opens fire to neutralize
the objective, then ceases or shifts fire according to prearranged
plans and signals. As supporting fires cease or shift, the assault
element assaults the objective. Demolition, search, and other teams
are protected by the assault element while they work. On order, the
assault element withdraws to the objective rally point.

If a support element is employed, its leader deploys teams to provide
fire support for the assault element. Each member of the support
element must know the scheme of maneuver to be used by the assault
element, specific targets or areas to be neutralized by fire, and the
signals that will be employed to commence, shift, and cease fires.
The support element withdraws on order of the patrol leader. At the
objective rally point, the patrol leader quickly reorganizes the
patrol and begins the return movement to friendly lines.

13004. CONTACT PATROLS

General

Contact patrols establish and/or maintain contact to the front,
flanks or rear by--

• Establishing contact with an enemy force when the definite
location of the force is unknown.

• Maintaining contact with enemy forces through direct and/or
indirect fires, or observation.

• Avoiding decisive engagement with the enemy.

Task Organization and Equipment

Task organization and equipment depend on the known enemy situation
and anticipated enemy contact. A patrol sent out to establish contact
with an enemy force is organized, armed, and equipped to overcome
resistance of light screening forces in order to gain contact with
the main enemy force. It is not organized and equipped to engage the
main enemy forces in combat. Communication is paramount; radios must
be reliable over the entire distance covered.

Actions at the Objective

The patrol leader selects a series of objectives. Once an objective
is reached, the patrol leader initiates a planned set of actions in
order to establish and maintain contact with the enemy. These plans
and actions are guided by the missions to establish or maintain
contact--not to engage in decisive combat. Contact with the enemy is
maintained for the purposes of surveillance, applying pressure, and
preventing seizure of the initiative. If the contact patrol becomes
decisively engaged with the enemy, many of the tasks originally
assigned to the patrol cannot be accomplished, since the enemy has
seized the initiative and friendly forces are not forced to react.

13005. AMBUSH PATROLS

General

An ambush is a surprise attack from a concealed position upon a
moving or temporarily halted target. It is one of the oldest and most
effective types of military actions. Ambush patrols conduct ambushes
of enemy patrols, resupply columns, and convoys. The intent of an
ambush is to place the enemy in a dilemma where staying in the kill
zone or attempting to move out of it prove equally lethal. The ambush
may include an assault to close with and decisively engage the enemy,
or the attack may be by fire only.

Purpose of Ambushes

Ambushes are executed for the general purpose of reducing the
enemy’s overall combat effectiveness and for the specific purpose of
destroying its units. The cumulative effect of many small ambushes on
enemy units lowers enemy troop morale and harasses the enemy force as
a whole.

Destruction is the primary purpose of an ambush because loss of men
killed or captured, and loss of equipment and supplies destroyed or
captured, reduces the overall combat effectiveness of the enemy.

Harassment, though less apparent than physical damage, is a secondary
purpose of ambushes. Frequent ambushes force the enemy to divert men
from other missions to guard convoys, troop movements, and carrying
parties. When enemy patrols fail to accomplish their mission because
they are ambushed, the enemy is deprived of valuable information. A
series of successful ambushes causes the enemy to be less aggressive
and more defensive minded. His men become apprehensive, overly
cautious, reluctant to go on patrols, seek to avoid night operations,
are more subject to confusion and panic if ambushed, and in general,
decline in effectiveness.

Classification of Ambushes

A _deliberate ambush_ is one in which prior information about the
enemy permits detailed planning before the patrol departs for the
ambush site. Information needed to plan a deliberate ambush includes
the size, composition, and organization of the force to be ambushed;
how the force operates; and the time it will pass certain points or
areas. A deliberate ambush may be planned for such targets as--

• Any force if sufficient prior information is known.

• Enemy patrols that establish patterns by frequent use of the
same routes or habitually depart and re-enter their own areas at
the same point.

• Logistic columns.

• Troop movements.

An _ambush of opportunity_ is conducted when available information
does not permit detailed planning before the patrol departs. This
is the type of ambush that an infantry unit normally conducts. An
ambush of opportunity should not be confused with a hasty ambush.
An ambush of opportunity is a planned ambush; a hasty ambush is an
immediate action. In planning for an ambush of opportunity, the
patrol must be prepared to execute any of several courses of action
based on the types of targets that may be ambushed and must rehearse
prior to departure. The course of action taken is determined when the
opportunity for ambush arises.

The patrol leader may be directed to reconnoiter an area for a
suitable ambush site, set up at the site selected, and execute an
ambush against the first profitable target that appears.

The patrol may depart just after dark, move to a specific point,
observe until a designated time, ambush the first profitable target
after that time, and return before daylight.

A _hasty ambush_ is an immediate action where the patrol makes visual
contact with an enemy force and has time to establish an ambush
without being detected. The actions for a hasty ambush must be well
rehearsed and accomplished through the use of hand and arm signals
given from the patrol leader.

Types of Ambushes

There are two types of ambushes: point and area. The _point ambush_
is one where forces are deployed to attack along a single killing
zone. The _area ambush_ is one where forces are deployed as multiple
related point ambushes.

A point ambush, whether independent or part of an area ambush, is
positioned along the enemy’s expected route of approach. Formation
of the forces conducting the ambush is important because, to a great
extent, the formation determines whether a point ambush is able to
deliver the heavy volume of highly concentrated fire necessary to
isolate, trap, and destroy the enemy.

The ambush formation to be used is determined by careful
consideration of possible formations and the advantages and
disadvantages of each in relation to--

• Terrain.

• Visibility.

• Forces.

• Weapons and equipment.

• Ease or difficulty of control.

• Target to be attacked.

• Combat situation.

For a detailed discussion of ambush formation, see appendix D.

Ambush Operation Terms

The _ambush site_ is the location where an ambush is established.

The _killing zone_ is that portion of an ambush site where fires
are concentrated to trap, isolate, and destroy the target. On
little-traveled roads, an obstacle placed in a defile, in the woods,
on a bridge or on a steep upgrade can be used effectively to force
vehicles to halt, and thus render the occupants vulnerable to attack.
Antitank mines may be emplaced and the occupants of the wrecked
vehicle killed or captured while still dazed by the explosion.

A _near ambush_ is a point ambush where the attacking force is
located within reasonable assaulting distance of the killing zone (50
meters is a guide). A near ambush is most often conducted in close
terrain, such as a jungle or heavy woods.

A _far ambush_ is a point ambush where the attack force is located
beyond reasonable assaulting distance of the killing zone (beyond
50 meters is a guide). A far ambush may be more appropriate in open
terrain offering good fields of fire or when the target will be
attacked by fire only.

Factors for a Successful Ambush Patrol

There are many factors that give the ambush its best chance of
success. The ideal situation would be to position the ambush on
favorable terrain and have detailed planning completed beforehand.

The patrol leader of an ambush looks for the most favorable
terrain in which the enemy is canalized between two obstacles with
limited opportunity to attack or escape. Suitable areas include
defiles, small clearings, bends in trails, and steep grades. Dense
undergrowth adjacent to the ambush site permits observation from
concealed positions. The ambush patrol should have maximum cover and
concealment, not only for the firing positions, but for the routes
of withdrawal. The enemy should be in an area offering as little
protection from fire as possible. Favorable fields of fire include
stretches of road, trail or open ground of at least 100 meters for
machine guns and 15 meters for rifle fire and grenades. The ambush
site can be improved by constructing obstacles--such as felled trees,
wire, land mines, or booby traps--to impede the enemy.

_Planning_

A deliberate ambush or an ambush of opportunity requires thorough
planning.

A deliberate ambush plan is based on extensive knowledge of the enemy
and terrain, and is planned and rehearsed in great detail. A physical
reconnaissance of the ambush site is made during the preparation
phase and information gained is incorporated into the plan. All
likely immediate actions of the enemy when ambushed are examined.
Planned counteractions are developed and rehearsed.

In planning an ambush of opportunity, any available information on
the enemy and terrain is used. A tentative plan for the ambush that
incorporates all anticipated actions is developed and rehearsed.
However, the bulk of planning is done concurrently during the patrol
leader’s reconnaissance of the prospective ambush site. In a rapidly
developing situation, hasty ambush immediate action is employed.

The route and ambush site considerations apply to both deliberate
ambushes and ambushes of opportunity. A primary route that allows the
patrol to enter the ambush site from the rear is planned. Entering
the prospective killing zone is avoided. If the killing zone must
be entered to place mines or explosives, care is taken to remove
any tracks and signs that might alert the enemy and compromise the
ambush. If mines or explosives are to be placed on the far side of
the ambush site, or if the appearance of the site from the enemy’s
viewpoint is to be checked, a wide detour is made around the killing
zone. Care is taken to remove any tracks that might reveal the
ambush. An alternate route from the ambush site to the objective
rally point, as in other patrols, is planned.

Maps and aerial photographs are used to carefully analyze the
terrain. When possible, an on-the-ground reconnaissance of the ambush
site is made prior to occupation. Obvious ambush sites are avoided as
the element of surprise is even more difficult to achieve in these
areas. An ambush site must provide for--

• Favorable fields of fire.

• Occupation and preparation of concealed positions.

• Canalization of the target into the killing zone. (An ideal
killing zone restricts the enemy on all sides, confining him
to an area where he can be quickly and completely destroyed.
Natural obstacles, such as cliffs, streams, embankments, or
steep grades, are used whenever possible to force vehicles to
slow down. Man-made obstacles, such as barbed wire, mines, and
craters in the roads, are used to supplement natural obstacles.)

• Covered routes of withdrawal that enable the ambush force to
break contact.

• Avoidance of enemy pursuit by fire.

_Occupation of Ambush Site_

The surrounding area is searched for enemy patrols prior to
occupation of the ambush site. Ambush formations are used to
physically deploy the patrol in a manner to inflict maximum
destruction upon the enemy and to provide maximum security to the
patrol. Ambush formations are contained in appendix D.

_Positions_

The patrol is moved into the ambush site from the objective rally
point. Security is positioned first to prevent surprise while the
ambush is being established. Automatic weapons are then positioned so
each can fire along the entire killing zone. If this is not possible,
overlapping sectors of fire are provided to cover the entire killing
zone. The patrol leader then selects his position, located so he
can tell when to initiate the ambush. Riflemen and grenadiers are
positioned and sectors of fire are assigned to cover any dead space
left by the automatic weapons. The patrol leader sets a time by which
positions are to be prepared. Patrol members clear fields of fire and
prepare positions in that order, with attention to camouflage for
both.

_Suitable Objective Rally Point_

An easily located objective rally point is selected and made known to
all patrol members. The objective rally point is located far enough
from the ambush site so that it will not be overrun if the enemy
assaults the ambush. Routes of withdrawal to the objective rally
point are reconnoitered. Situation permitting, each man walks the
route he is to use and picks out checkpoints. When the ambush is to
be executed at night, each man must be able to follow his route in
the dark. After the ambush has been executed, and the search of the
killing zone completed, the patrol is withdrawn quickly but quietly,
on signal, to the objective rally point where it reorganizes for
the return march. If the ambush was not successful and the patrol
is pursued, withdrawal may be by bounds. The last group may arm
mines, previously placed along the withdrawal route, to further delay
pursuit.

_Local Security_

Security must be maintained. Security elements do not usually
participate in the initial attack, but protect the rear and flanks,
and cover the withdrawal.

_Patience_

The Marines of the ambush force must control themselves so that the
ambush is not compromised. Patience and self-discipline are exercised
by remaining still and quiet while waiting for the target to appear,
particularly if the patrol occupies the ambush site well ahead of the
arrival of the enemy. Patience is necessary so as not to alert the
enemy to the presence of the ambush.

_Surprise_

Surprise must be achieved, or the attack is not an ambush. If
complete surprise cannot be achieved, it must be so nearly complete
that the target is not aware of the ambush until too late for
effective reaction. Surprise is achieved by careful planning,
preparation, and execution so that targets are attacked when, where,
and in a way for which they are least prepared.

_Coordinated Fires_

Properly timed and delivered fires contribute heavily to the
achievement of surprise, as well as to destruction of the enemy. The
lifting or shifting of fires must be equally precise; otherwise,
the assault is delayed and the enemy has an opportunity to recover
and react. All weapons, mines, and demolitions are positioned and
all fires, including those of available artillery and mortars, are
coordinated to achieve the following results:

• Isolation of the killing zone to prevent the enemy’s escape or
reinforcement.

• Surprise delivery of a large volume of highly concentrated fires
into the killing zone.

_Control_

Close control of the patrol is maintained during movement to,
occupation of, and withdrawal from the ambush site. This is best
achieved through rehearsals and establishment and maintenance of good
communications. When the enemy approaches, the temptation to open
fire before the signal is given is resisted. The patrol leader must
effectively control all elements of the ambush force. Control is most
critical at the time the enemy approaches the killing zone. Control
measures must provide for--

• Early warning of enemy approach.

• Fire control. Withhold fire until the enemy has moved into the
killing zone, then open fire at the proper time.

• Initiation of appropriate action, if the ambush is prematurely
detected. Individual patrol members must be prepared to react if
detected by the enemy prior to the initiation of the ambush.

• Timely and orderly withdrawal of the ambush force from the
ambush site and movement to the objective rally point.

It is important to remember that an ambush patrol should have four
distinct signals: one to open fire (with an alternate signal to open
fire to be used at the same time as the primary); a signal to cease
fire or shift fire; a signal to assault or search the killing zone;
and a signal to withdraw. The signal to open fire should meet two
criteria: first, it should be the firing of a weapon that will kill
the enemy; secondly, it should be a weapon reliable in any weather
condition. A good primary signal is a Claymore mine, and an alternate
signal would be a closed bolt weapon (M16A2). Open bolt weapons
(M240G, M249) should not be relied upon to initiate an ambush.

Execution of an Ambush

The manner in which the patrol executes an ambush depends primarily
on whether the ambush’s purpose is harassment or destruction. To a
lesser degree, the execution of the ambush is determined by whether
the ambush is deliberate or an ambush of opportunity.

When the primary purpose is harassment, the patrol seals off the
area with security teams to prevent enemy reinforcement and escape.
Maximum damage is inflicted with demolitions and automatic weapons
fire. The patrol delivers a very heavy volume of fire for a short
time and withdraws quickly and quietly. The patrol avoids being seen
by the enemy.

When the primary purpose of the patrol is destruction, the area is
sealed off with security units. Maximum damage is inflicted with
demolitions, antitank weapons, and automatic weapons fire from the
support team or element. When these fires cease or shift, an assault
is launched into the killing zone with heavy fire and violence to
complete destruction. The assault unit provides security, while
designated teams search and/or capture personnel and destroy vehicles
and equipment. On the patrol leader’s command, or by prearranged
signal, all units withdraw to the objective rally point and move out
quickly.

When the patrol’s primary purpose is to obtain supplies or capture
equipment, security units seal off the area. Demolitions and weapons
are used to disable vehicles. The assault unit must use care to
ensure its fire does not damage the desired supplies or equipment.
Designated teams secure the desired items; other teams then destroy
enemy vehicles and equipment.

The most successful ambush is one where the attacker is deployed and
concealed in such a way that the enemy will unknowingly be surrounded
by fire. The usual method is for the attackers to deploy themselves
along a trail or route the enemy will travel. The enemy is permitted
to pass by the center of the attacker’s force so that the attack can
be made from the front, flank, and/or rear. One or two men are posted
well forward and to the rear along the route to prevent any enemy
from escaping. All fires should be delivered simultaneously on a
prearranged signal.

An effective method of luring the enemy is for an ambushing patrol
to cut communication or electrical wire. The patrol then deploys and
ambushes the line repair crew when it arrives. Since the line crew
may be protected by riflemen, the attackers must be careful to engage
the entire party.

Vehicles and foot personnel moving on well-established transportation
routes can sometimes be captured by altering or moving directional
signs so as to divert the enemy into an area where he can be more
readily attacked. The attack can best be accomplished at an obstacle,
such as a stream or gully, that forces the enemy to stop or slow down.

After the enemy has been ambushed and destroyed, the unit quickly
withdraws over a prearranged route to the objective rally point.
Speed is very important, since the noise of the ambush could alert
other nearby enemy units.

13006. SECURITY PATROLS

General

Security patrols are assigned missions that may or may not require
them to engage the enemy. They are used in proximity to defensive
positions, on the flanks of advancing units or in rear areas.
Purposes of security patrols are to detect infiltration by the enemy,
destroy infiltrators, and protect against surprise and ambush.

In any situation where there is a threat of attack, such as a rear
area threatened by guerrillas or a facility that is under threat of a
terrorist attack, all Marines, not just the infantry, must know how
to conduct a security patrol.

In just the offensive operations, infantry units provide security
patrols to screen their flanks, areas, and routes. Whereas, in
defensive operations, security patrols are used to prevent the enemy
from infiltrating an area, detect and destroy infiltrators, and
prevent surprise attacks. In rear areas, particularly when there is
guerrilla or terrorist threat, the requirement to conduct security
patrols increases for all Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) units
ashore, particularly aviation and combat service support units.

Task Organization and Equipment

Generally, a Marine rifle squad or similar sized organization is
considered ideal for security patrols. Communications are important
to higher headquarters so that they receive information from the
patrol; and communications are important to the patrol to request
fire support, etc. The radio the patrol carries must have the range
necessary for higher headquarters to be able to receive transmissions
from anywhere along the patrol route, and the patrol must have a
secondary means of reporting (i.e., flare signals upon contact).

Patrol Procedures

All of the procedures presented in previous sections are to be used
in security patrols.

Patrol Planning

Security patrol planning includes--

• Rehearsing prior to departing friendly lines.

• Maintaining communications.

• Support by organic weapons.

• Reinforced if necessary.

• Using varied routes and never establishing a routine pattern.

• Staying within proximity of friendly units.

Patrol Techniques

Within rear areas, an irregular pattern of patrol is established
and changed daily. Outside of friendly lines it would be prudent to
establish a definite preplanned route for the patrol, of which all
adjacent units know the route. The parent unit commander establishes
frequent checkpoints for control. If checkpoints are designated, the
patrol leader treats them as individual objectives to be searched and
cleared.

The patrol has a definite plan as to what to do if contact with enemy
is made, how to break contact, how to defend itself, and how to call
for supporting fires. It is imperative that patrol members know what
to do if they become split or separated; i.e., location of rally
points and how to be recovered.

13007. URBAN PATROLS

General

As national strategy continues to focus on regional vice global
conflicts, the Marine Corps will continue to conduct urban operations
in various operational environments. Cities and towns are often the
center of economic and political power and are therefore extremely
vulnerable to urban insurgent activities and violence. The lessons
learned from recent operations in Somalia, as well as experiences
gained by British forces in Northern Ireland, provide the foundations
of urban patrolling.

_Enemy Forces_

Enemy forces in urbanized areas range from organized military forces
to low intensity engagements with insurgents, such as terrorists
or local gangs. For Marine Corps doctrine and tactics, techniques,
and procedures (TTP) for dealing with the higher intensity threat
in urbanized areas, refer to MCWP 3-35.3, _Military Operations on
Urbanized Terrain_.

_Common Threat Tactics_

Cities provide cover and concealment for both friendly forces and
enemy forces. However, enemy forces generally find active support
only in certain areas of the town or city. The urban-based insurgent
or terrorist usually lives in a friendly community or in one where
the people are too frightened to withhold support or inform anyone
about the situation. The insurgent or terrorist normally maintains
close contact with leaders and others friendly to the cause. The
enemy will often have efficient communication and intelligence
systems, sometimes involving women and children to provide cover for
its activities.

The urban insurgent normally cannot, like his rural counterpart,
establish bases and recruit large military units. He is generally an
individual or a member of a relatively small group. He relies on the
cover afforded by the city’s populace and terrorizing them to coerce
loyalty or support.

Urbanized areas tend to give the insurgent and/or terrorist many
opportunities to initiate action and gain advantage. The normal
presence of large numbers of people in cities provides the foe an
opportunity to mass crowds quickly and manipulate demonstrations
easily. The presence of women and children during mass demonstrations
may restrict the courses of action available to friendly forces.
Major incidents stemming from overreaction or excessive use of
force by friendly forces may provide the insurgent with propaganda
material. Publicity is easily gained in an urbanized area because
major incidents can’t be completely concealed from the local
population. Insurgent successes can be exploited to discredit the
ability of host nation police, friendly forces, and the civil
government, and gain recognition for the insurgents’ cause.

The urban insurgent or terrorist can usually be expected to operate
more boldly than his rural counterpart. This is reflected in the
enemy’s tactics. A single sniper or bomber may be the norm in the
urbanized area, whereas the rural threat is generally the more
conventional ambush. In urbanized areas, explosive devices can be
easily emplaced and used effectively against large groups or select
individuals. Enemy forces may be expected to employ the following
tactics in urbanized areas:

• Using local communications, such as radio and newspapers, for
propaganda purposes.

• Disrupting industry and public services through strikes and
sabotage.

• Generating widespread disturbances designed to stretch the
resources of the security force.

• Creating incidents or massing crowds in order to lure the patrol
or reaction force into a trap.

• Provoking security forces in the hope that they may react
improperly, therefore discrediting the security force by means
of propaganda.

• Sniping at roadblocks, outposts, sentries, and patrols.

• Attacking friendly bases with rockets and mortars.

• Planting explosive devices, either against specific targets or
indiscriminately, to cause confusion and destruction, and lower
public morale and confidence.

• Using ambush patrols.

• Firing on friendly helicopters.

_Principles of Urban Patrolling_

Patrolling in an urban environment often presents conditions
considerably different and often more complex than those encountered
in rural and less inhabited areas. While the principles of
patrolling are still relevant in an urban situation, the nature of
urban patrolling has led to the development of six specific urban
patrolling principles. They are--

1. =Depth.= The restrictive, canalizing nature of urbanized terrain
usually limits a patrol’s ability to disperse laterally. To prevent
the patrol from bunching up, patrols normally maintain dispersion
along the length of a patrol formation.

2. =Mutual Support.= The positioning of units in-depth within
the patrol enables one unit to cover another unit’s movement and
facilitates immediate action during various situations. Aircraft,
vehicles, and snipers also provide good mutual support.

3. =Deception and Pattern Avoidance.= Deception and pattern avoidance
are normally a planning consideration of the headquarters directing
the entire patrolling plan. By varying patrol routes, durations,
and departure times, hostile actions commonly used against urban
patrols--such as enemy ambushes, and roadblocks--are more difficult
to plan and may be preempted.

4. =Intra-patrol Communication.= Elements of an urban patrol must
have the means to communicate with each other. Ideally, each
element will possess a radio enabling it to remain in continuous
communication that facilitates rapid response and reporting to higher
headquarters, reaction force coordination, and coordination of
actions with other patrols or fire support agencies.

5. =Establishment of a Reaction Force.= The nature of urbanized
terrain (its compartmentalization) makes urban patrols more
vulnerable to a wider range of hostile actions. The requirement for
immediate, coordinated reinforcement of a patrol is best satisfied
by employment of an established reaction force. The reaction force
requires superior mobility (relative to the enemy’s) and fire support
to be effective for this task.

6. =Three-Dimensional Threat.= Patrolling in an urban environment
requires constant attention to its three-dimensional aspect; hostile
actions can originate from rooftops, streets, subsurface levels or
combinations of all levels at once.

Classification of Urban Patrols

_Mission_

The vast majority of urban patrols are overt in nature, with their
presence readily apparent to the local populace. Most urban patrols
are combat vice reconnaissance patrols. The vast majority of urban
patrols are security patrols. However, units may be assigned
secondary tasks of reconnoitering specific or general areas along the
patrol routes.

Raids normally involve a swift penetration of an objective to secure
information, confuse the enemy or destroy installations. Raids
include a planned withdrawal upon completion of the assigned mission.

_Movement_

Means of movement are as follows:

• Dismounted: movement on foot.

• Vehicular: movement by motorized, mechanized or armored vehicle.

• Helicopterborne: movement by helicopter, however,
helicopterborne patrols will usually involve dismounted or
vehicular movement after patrol insertion.

• Combination: movement using a combination of methods.

_Task-Organization_

Units task-organize to meet the specific requirements of the mission
and situation. The Marine rifle squad is ideally suited for urban
patrolling and can easily integrate attached specialists required
by specific missions. Specialists who may accompany urban patrols
include--

• Interrogator-translator team (ITT) and counterintelligence team
(CIT) Marines.

• Explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) personnel.

• Members of host nation or allied military forces.

• Interpreters.

• Local community leaders.

• Local law enforcement officers.

• Public affairs personnel escorting media representatives.

_Dismounted Patrol Organization_

Patrols should maintain unit integrity (fire team and/or squad) in
organizing elements for an urban patrol. Similar to reconnaissance
patrols, the vulnerability of urban patrols necessitates that all
elements must provide for their own security in addition to the
combat aspect of the mission. Combined assault and security teams are
an effective method to organize for all-around security.

Urban Patrol Base Operations

Urban patrols may operate from an established patrol base that may
be located within the unit’s assigned area of operations or an area
designated for a patrol. The patrol base should be located in a
building used exclusively for this purpose. Patrol bases may also be
located within a larger site that houses other agencies, such as a
higher headquarters’ command echelon.

If located within a larger site, the patrol base will be included in
the overall facility security plan. If isolated, the patrol base must
consider the following security factors:

• External security:
◦ Barrier plan.
◦ Sentry posts.
◦ Local security patrols.

• Internal security:
◦ Covered positions for all Marines.
◦ Contingency plan for hostile actions against patrol base.

The Reaction Force

The high probability of an urban patrol becoming involved in a
hostile or volatile incident requires the establishment of a
dedicated reaction force for rapid reinforcement, support or
extraction of the patrol. Ideally, the reaction force is--

• Large enough and task-organized in a manner that it can meet and
quickly defeat the expected threat. Reaction forces are normally
tiered with a lead element (normally one-third of the unit’s
size) and a main body force (the other remaining two-thirds
of the force). Reaction force response times routinely are
determined in advance by higher headquarters.

• Ready to respond immediately.

• Motorized or mechanized and supported by close air support and
other fire support.

• Familiar with the area of operations.

• Briefed on the patrol’s plans and monitors the status of patrols
in progress.

• Task-organized to be multimission capable.

• Able to communicate with the higher headquarters, fire support
assets, patrol base, and the patrol.

• Controlled by higher headquarters, once employed.

Patrol Preparation

_Planning_

Higher headquarters will--

• Designate the area for patrol.

• Provide intelligence briefs and updates.

• Ensure liaison with allied forces and the civilian populace.

• Provide special equipment and personnel required for the mission
(scout snipers, public affairs officer, interpreters, etc.)

• Provide urban maps, photos, terrain models as required.

• Consider deception and pattern avoidance when issuing mission.

• Prescribe rules of engagement (ROE).

_Intelligence Brief_

An intelligence brief is conducted by the S-2 officer or
representative prior to a patrol conducting its mission. The brief
addresses the situation relevant to the specific patrol (e.g.,
routes, areas, updated enemy situations).

_Coordination_

Higher headquarters will effect liaison with adjacent and allied
forces, as well as civil authorities and other agencies, having
a possible effect on the patrol. The patrolling unit generally
follows the same procedures as those used during patrol planning and
execution in a jungle or forest environment.

_The Urban Patrol Order or Warning Order_

The Urban Patrol or Warning Orders use the same format and
considerations as noted in this publication for patrolling. They rely
heavily on a detailed terrain model, photographs, and subterranean
construction to ensure complete understanding of the plan.

_Rehearsals_

The limited size of the patrol base usually precludes the need for
full-scale rehearsals. Immediate action drills, such as crossing
danger areas, are rehearsed in as much detail as possible, despite
the limited available space.

_Inspections_

Initial and final inspections are conducted in the same manner as
other patrols. Attached personnel must be fully integrated into
the patrol and familiar with the plan and unit standing operating
procedures (SOPs).

Conducting an Urban Patrol

_Movement_

Individual and unit movement considerations are generally the same
as those for other patrols. However, urban environments require
consideration of additional factors. Because of these factors, an
urban patrol leader should--

• Ensure that each movement within a patrol takes place under the
observation or cover of another individual or element of the
patrol.

• Know where cover can be taken in the event of a hostile incident
or action.

• Be prepared for contact with civilians, especially children,
during the patrol and be aware that they may intentionally
attempt to distract patrol members.

• Expect the presence of vehicles (both moving and stationary)
along the patrol route.

• Expect members of the patrol to be approached by dogs and what
action to take if threatened.

_Patrol Formations_

=Squad-sized Patrols.= The need for immediate fire power outweighs
the dangers of becoming canalized. In contrast to other types of
patrols, the headquarters element of an urban patrol will normally
locate at the lead of the patrol column. This allows the patrol
leader greater flexibility through control of two combined assault
and security (A&S) teams. The leaders of these elements tactically
stagger their members on each side of the road (see fig. 13-1 on page
13-12).

A&S teams follow in trace of the headquarters element and maintain
unit integrity on separate sides of the street. One unit will remain
slightly to the rear to create a staggered interval between Marines
on either side of the street. This allows A&S teams to take lateral
routes in support of headquarters element without having to cross a
street to do so.

[Illustration:
DIRECTION OF MOVEMENT -------->

Figure 13-1. Squad-sized Dismounted Urban Patrol Formation.]

=Platoon-sized Patrols.= Squads will generally travel abreast of each
other, moving along parallel routes. The interval between squad-sized
units and/or teams is situation-dependent, but is usually between 100
and 150 meters (roughly two city blocks; this often prevents visual
contact between the units). The intent is to create less of a target
to an aggressor, yet still allow the patrol to quickly react to an
incident. Individuals within units or teams will move in a staggered
column as in a squad-sized patrol. (See figure 13-2, which is located
on page 13-13).

[Illustration:

Figure 13-2. Platoon-sized Dismounted Urban Patrol Formations.]

_Night_

Night patrols will generally be at least squad-sized and will
generally use the same formation as that for day patrols. At night,
it may be necessary to close distances between individuals or
elements to maintain control. Consideration should be given to the
use of night vision devices and thermal weapons sights.

_Navigation, Control, and Security Measures_

The patrol leader is ultimately responsible for the navigation. The
headquarters element normally functions as the base unit during
movement. The designated navigator is normally assigned from within
the headquarters element. City maps are often inaccurate or outdated;
however, when used with aerial photographs and other navigational
aids, they can be effective for urban navigation.

Checkpoints and phase lines should be related to major streets
(alleys, buildings, bridges) for easy identification. Arrival at
checkpoints and crossing of phase lines should be relayed to higher
headquarters using established brevity or codewords. A detailed
patrol overlay is issued to both the reaction force and higher
headquarters to keep them advised of routes and control measures
used. A terrain model should be maintained at higher headquarters to
aid in supervision and control of the patrol.

The use of camouflage should be limited to avoid frightening and
confusing the local populace. The often overt nature of urban patrols
may negate the need for camouflage. Patrols are sometimes deployed
to show force presence and usually move on the urban street in plain
view.

During daylight, patrols will routinely vary their rate of movement
ranging from short halts to brief periods of double-timing. The
British term for this urban patrolling technique is _hard-targeting_,
meaning it makes the patrol harder for an enemy to target. Altering
the rate of movement is intended to frustrate the enemy’s ability to
coordinate an attack or ambush against a targeted patrol.

Patrols should use short security halts, with Marines taking up
mutually supporting firing positions. Marines must always work in
pairs, ensuring mutual support. The last Marine in the element will
provide rear security, but stays in his buddy’s sight.

_Individual Tasks_

Individuals may be assigned collateral tasks performed throughout
the patrol that may increase the patrol’s situational awareness.
Individual tasks may include--

• Vehicle spotter: looks for suspicious or known insurgent
vehicles.

• Personnel spotter: observes and attempts to recognize previously
identified enemy in crowds.

• Talker: attempts to gain information from casual conversations
with the local populace. (Talkers are usually subordinate
leaders or Marines with foreign language skills.)

• Searcher: conducts physical searches of vehicles and personnel
while other patrol members provide cover and security.

• Marksman: engages point targets when the tactical situation does
not permit massed or high volume fire. Other patrol members
provide security to cover the marksman’s engagement.

_Departure of Friendly Lines_

Urban patrols must vary their departure times to prevent being
ambushed while exiting the patrol base.

Individual elements will usually depart exits at staggered times and
at different movement rates, especially where sentries cannot provide
cover. (This technique is used when the environment adjacent to the
patrol base is dangerous.)

Once an element has exited friendly lines, a short halt is conducted
in a predetermined, covered initial rally point 50 to 100 meters from
the base. This ensures all elements are in position before the patrol
continues.

Exit points, routes from the base, departure techniques, and
locations of IRPs should be varied constantly to avoid setting a
pattern. This pattern avoidance may also include using vehicles to
insert patrols away from the urban patrol base and employing empty
vehicles as part of a deception plan.

_Danger Areas_

Urban patrols may encounter hundreds of danger areas during a
single patrol. The three-dimensional threat requires keen situation
awareness by every patrol member. Many danger areas can be dealt with
simply by avoidance, while others require an adjustment of patrol
formation, movement rate, etc. In the urban environment, places to be
treated as danger areas are points that pose a major threat to the
patrol, such as local political and religious headquarters, weapons
containment areas, roads and routes that canalize movement and direct
fire, and any area with a history of repeated contact.

Near and far side rally points are designated and briefed during the
issuance of the patrol order. Squad-sized formations may use the A&S
teams to provide flank security for the headquarters element and for
each other. The headquarters element identifies the danger area and
takes up a position on the near side of intersection. Individuals
provide all-around security (see fig. 13-3 on page 13-14).

Two Marines (one from each A&S team) are designated to move through
the headquarters element and establish respective firing positions
on the near side of the danger area covering the patrol’s near side
flanks. They are followed by a second pair (again, one Marine from
each A&S team) that moves across to the far side of the danger area
and establishes respective firing positions covering the patrol’s far
side flanks (see fig. 13-4 on page 13-14).

[Illustration: DIRECTION OF MOVEMENT -------->

Figure 13-3. Approaching Danger Area.]

[Illustration: DIRECTION OF MOVEMENT -------->

Figure 13-4. Securing Flanks.]

Once near and far side flank security is established, the
headquarters element moves across to the far side of danger area (see
fig. 13-5 on page 13-15).

The remaining A&S team members then cross the danger area and join
the headquarters element on the far side (see fig. 13-6 on page
13-15).

[Illustration: Figure 13-5. HQ Element Moves Through.]

[Illustration: DIRECTION OF MOVEMENT -------->

Figure 13-6. A&S Elements Move Through.]

[Illustration: DIRECTION OF MOVEMENT -------->

Figure 13-7. Patrol Resumes Movement Along Intended Route.]

Once the trail A&S team members cross the danger area, they take
up rear security and cover the movements of the near and far side
flank security teams as they return to their positions in the patrol
formation. The near side security team should collapse back first,
followed by their far side counterparts. The patrol then resumes its
advance away from the danger area (see fig. 13-7).

Interaction with Local Populace

Urban patrols must interact with the local populace. Patrols are at
first a novelty to the civilians but can quickly become an unwelcome
intrusion. The movement of the patrol must be fast enough to prevent
the enemy from massing their fires upon it, but deliberate enough
to ensure adequate security and mutual support. Patrol members must
realize that they are usually the only Marines the local populace
will encounter and that an inappropriate gesture, comment or act
could lead to the deterioration of rapport between U.S. forces
and the general population. Marines must remember that the vast
majority of the individuals with whom they come in contact will be
noncombatants attempting to survive in trying political, economic,
and social situations.

Hostile incidents often seem to occur spontaneously, but there are
usually indications that can alert Marines to imminent danger. The
most obvious are the sudden alteration of normal routines, patterns,
and attitudes of the local populace or other unusual activity. Some
examples include--

• Observers on rooftops, in windows, etc., who are obviously
tracking the patrol.

• The unusual absence of pedestrian traffic and people on porches.

• Stores, markets or street vendors closed suddenly or without
explanation.

• Changes in civilian attitude toward patrol members.

• Unknown individuals or vehicles in the patrol area.

• Unfamiliar vehicles parked in the patrol area (possible car
bomb).

• Roadblocks.

• Children throwing rocks at patrols to possibly draw the patrol’s
attention away from a more serious danger, such as a deliberate
ambush.

• Vehicles riding unusually low due to overloading (possibly
ferrying people, weapons, explosives).

• Agitators trying to provoke an incident with patrol members.

• Absence of the usual stray dogs (dogs are adept at sensing
danger and avoiding it).

• Anti-American graffiti suddenly appearing in the patrol area.

• Pictures of enemy leaders and martyrs posted in the patrol area.

• Civilian workers failing to appear at U.S. or friendly bases.

• Normal deliveries and pick-ups conducted late or early without
reason.

• Sudden change of civilian sentiment in newspaper articles, radio
broadcasts or other media.

• Women and children leaving to live elsewhere.

Immediate Actions Upon Enemy Contact

_Reaction to Sniping_

Snipings are often executed from a single firing point, but
coordinated snipings delivered from multiple points are not uncommon.

Patrol element or team leaders should constantly try to identify
likely firing points and anticipate their own reactions to a possible
shooting. Normally, snipers in an urban environment have a detailed
withdrawal plan. Once a patrol comes into contact with a sniper, the
patrol leader must immediately assess the situation and maneuver
his patrol accordingly. The patrol’s mission, location, size, ROE,
and location of the threat often determine whether the patrol will
attempt to neutralize the targeted sniper. If the patrol leader
decides to kill or capture the sniper, he uses planned and rehearsed
immediate actions to maneuver and counter the sniper’s assault. The
goal is to kill the sniper or cut off his escape and capture him.
There are three immediate reactions to neutralizing a sniper: initial
contact, immediate follow-up, and subsequent follow-up.

=Initial Contact.= The initial contact is made when the sniper fires
the first shot. The patrol must react immediately and positively
to get behind the firing position in order to kill or capture the
gunman. The period of contact ends when the gunman is killed or
captured, or the patrol element or team leader on the scene ends it.
The following technique is the same for both squad- and platoon-sized
patrols:

• The element or team in contact attempts to identify the firing
position and maneuvers designated marksman into position to
return well-aimed and controlled fire. Other members of the
patrol take up positions to cover the marksman’s engagement.

• The patrol element or team leader in contact sends initial
contact report to the patrol leader, who notifies higher
headquarters.

• The element or team leader in contact determines appropriate
cut-off positions and relays them to flanking elements or teams.

• The patrol element or team leader in contact continues to
observe the firing point, but does not enter it due to the
possibility of booby traps. Flank elements or teams set up along
likely escape routes.

• The incident ends when either the sniper ceases fire or is
neutralized.

=Immediate Follow-Up.= Regardless of the fate of the gunman,
isolation of the firing point is necessary to prevent reinforcement
and preserve forensic evidence (scent, spent casings, etc.). If not
under fire, members of the patrol element or team cordon off the area
surrounding the firing point. Flanking elements or teams maintain
their positions and prevent civilians from entering the area. The
patrol leader moves to link-up with the element or team in contact
(if not his own), and makes an estimate of the situation. The patrol
leader sends a SPOTREP to higher headquarters.

=Subsequent Follow-Up.= The aim of the subsequent follow-up is to use
follow-on forces to clear the building of remaining resistance or to
obtain evidence that can be used to capture the gunman. The patrol
leader establishes a position where he can brief arriving units
(reaction force commander, S-2 representative, EOD personnel, etc.).
Once the arriving units have been briefed, recommendations are made
to higher headquarters via radio. No one is allowed into the cordon
without the patrol leader’s approval.

_Reaction to Becoming Decisively Engaged_

If a patrol becomes decisively engaged from numerous firing
positions, the following immediate action should be taken:

• All patrol members move to available cover and return accurate
fire on identified firing points.

• The patrol leader assesses the situation and makes a decision to
either request the reaction force or break contact.

• If the reaction force is requested, the patrol will maintain its
position until the reaction force arrives. The patrol should
use fire and maneuver to gain better tactical positioning and
support the arrival of the reaction force. When the reaction
force arrives, its commander may decide to either clear occupied
buildings or cover the patrol during its extract.

_Reaction to Bomb Threat or Discovery_

The use of command-detonated explosive devices is a common ambush
tactic employed by a terrorist or insurgent in an urban environment.
The appropriate response to a reported threat or an actual discovery
generally involves four steps (known as the four Cs)--

1. The patrol leader =CONFIRMS= the presence of the suspicious item.

2. Without touching or moving anything suspicious, patrol elements
or teams =CLEAR= the immediate danger area to a minimum of 100
meters. The area is cleared from the suspected device outward, inform
civilians as to the reason for evacuation.

3. A&S teams establish a =CORDON= to secure the cleared area. Avenues
of approach are cordoned off to keep people out and to protect EOD or
engineer personnel clearing the device. The assistant patrol leader
acts as the cordon commander and informs the patrol leader when the
cordon is secure. An effective cordon technique is to tape off the
area with engineer tape, creating both a physical and psychological
boundary.

4. =CONTROL= of the area is maintained throughout the bomb clearing
operation by the patrol leader. The patrol leader sends a report to
a superior concerning details of the device (if known) and the area
affected. The patrol leader coordinates with arriving personnel (EOD,
engineers, etc.). The patrol leader maintains communication with
the assistant patrol leader and keeps the Marines informed of the
progress of the clearing operation.

_Reaction to a Bomb Detonation_

Bombs may be used by an insurgent as a means of initiating an
ambush on mounted or dismounted patrols, in which case the actions
for decisive engagement apply. Immediate action in response to an
isolated explosion is similar to that used in reaction to a sniping
and breaks down into the same three phases:

=Initial Contact.= The patrol leader attempts to identify the likely
initiation point and sends an initial contact report to higher
headquarters. If the bomb was command-detonated, the patrol leader
sends his A&S teams deep to cut off the bombers’ escape routes. Any
casualties are moved a minimum of 100 meters from explosion and out
of the line of sight to it.

=Immediate Follow-Up.= The A&S teams may need to maneuver to
positions behind the likely initiation point to cut off escape. Once
in position, personnel checks are conducted and any suspects are
detained. The patrol leader coordinates requests for required support
(MEDEVAC, reaction force, etc.).

=Subsequent Follow-Up.= Due to the possibility of secondary
detonations, the four Cs (confirm, clear, cordon, and control) can be
conducted as in reaction to a bomb discovery or bomb threat.

_Civil Disturbances_

Urban patrols must prepare to react to spontaneous aggression by
the local populace. In many cases, civil disturbances are organized
by the enemy to draw dismounted patrols into a targeted area, or
to distract them from enemy activity occurring elsewhere. Civil
disturbances are generally divided into two categories: minor
aggressive actions, and full-scale rioting.

_Minor aggressive actions_ are activities characterized by
rock-throwing or use of devices such as Molotov cocktails and may
either be directed at the patrol or take place between different
ethnic factions of the population. Minor aggressive actions are
normally spontaneous in nature and may have minimal or limited
objectives for the insurgents.

_Full-scale rioting_ events are usually in response to another major
event or incident that may enflame the populace. Full-scale riots are
well-planned and orchestrated, with clear objectives or targets in
mind. At times, patrols will need to attempt to maintain control of
a civil disturbance situation; however, dismounted and mobile small
unit patrols should generally avoid potential flashpoints. Procedures
to handle civil disturbances are as follows:

• The patrol leader reports the incident to headquarters and
attempts to diffuse the crowd by talking to crowd leaders.

• If the patrol leader determines the size of the disturbance is
too large for the force to handle, the patrol should move away
from the disturbance to a safer, more remote covered area and
occupy positions to observe and report the situation to higher
headquarters. To prevent the patrol from being pursued by the
crowd, the patrol should move quickly and change direction,
often at road junctions, to gain distance from it.

Patrol members should maintain dispersion to create a more difficult
target. They should face the crowd at all times to see and avoid any
projectiles thrown. Individual self-discipline must be maintained
throughout the disturbance. Marines charging into the crowd or
throwing objects back at the crowd will only worsen the situation.
If pursued or trapped, the patrol leader may consider using riot
control agents (combat support, pepper gas, etc.) to disperse or
slow a crowd’s movement. The use of riot control agents must be
authorized under the established ROE. If the patrol leader believes
the situation is deteriorating beyond the patrol’s ability to control
it, the patrol leader should request the reaction force, which may be
better equipped to handle a large riot or mob.

_Break Contact_

As with patrols in rural areas, the patrol leader may be forced to
break contact as a result of decisive engagement with the enemy. On
the basis of his estimate of the situation, the patrol leader will
normally break contact in one of the following ways:

• As a patrol, with elements providing cover for movement as
defined by clock direction and distance.

• As individual units/teams taking separate routes out of the
area, then linking up at a designated rally point a safe
distance away from the engagement.

As in any contact with enemy forces, smoke may be employed to screen
movement. Fire support agencies can be utilized to suppress targets;
riot control agents can be employed to disrupt enemy movement.

Reentry of Friendly Lines

The reentry of a dismounted patrol into an urban patrol base is no
different from that of a patrol conducted in a rural area. The same
planning considerations and control methods apply.

Missions Related to Urban Patrolling

_House Calls_

House calls missions are usually part of a coordinated effort to
collect information within the area of operations. They involve
obtaining up-to-date information on particular houses and occupants.
When possible, local police should accompany patrols to do the actual
talking to the occupants. If this is not possible, a technique that
may be used by an urban patrol is--

• A&S elements move to provide cover around the target house.

• The headquarters element provides security just outside the
house.

• The patrol leader and one Marine for security enter the house,
if invited. If not invited, they talk to the occupants on
the doorstep. Patience and tact are required in requesting
information. An interpreter should be present when language
differences exist.

_Vehicle Checkpoints_

Urban terrorists or insurgents commonly use vehicles to transport
personnel, weapons, explosives, and equipment. Civilian vehicles are
often used for these purposes, creating the requirement to check as
many vehicles as possible. While permanent, fortified checkpoints
may be conducted along approaches into an urbanized area, dismounted
patrols can be employed to establish hasty vehicle checkpoints to
stop vehicles and to keep the enemy off-guard. The two common types
of vehicle checkpoints patrols establish are hasty and deliberate.

_Hasty checkpoints_ are deployed anywhere based upon the decision of
the patrol leader. Patrols must not set patterns through the frequent
use of the same sites.

_Deliberate checkpoints_ are tasked by higher headquarters to achieve
a specific purpose. Time and locations are carefully considered to
avoid setting patterns.

The general layout for a squad-sized, two-way dismounted checkpoint
is depicted in figure 13-8 on page 13-20. The technique is as follows:

• The A&S teams are positioned stealthily in blocking positions on
both sides of the road.

• Both the patrol leader and assistant patrol leader act as
“talkers” for each direction of traffic (with local police or
interrogator or translator Marines acting as interpreters) while
a two-man team from the headquarters element physically searches
the vehicles.

• Obstacles or parked vehicles may be employed to create a
staggered roadblock in center of the checkpoint to slow
approaching vehicles.

• The checkpoint location should be sited so that approaching
vehicles cannot see it until they have passed a security team,
and they have no escape route then available.

• Signs announcing the checkpoint should be displayed a safe
distance from the search area for safety to both drivers and
Marines.

• Normally higher headquarters will issue criteria that determines
which vehicles are searched, but random checks of cars should
normally be made as well. While the vehicle is being searched
the driver should accompany the searcher around the vehicle.

[Illustration:
~VEHICLE CHECKPOINT EQUIPMENT~
STOP SIGNS
BARRIERS
RADIOS AND WIRE PHONES
CONCERTINA WIRE
LIGHTS
SURVEILLANCE EQUIPMENT
FLEX CUFFS
MEGAPHONES
WHISTLES

DISMOUNTED SQUAD-SIZE HASTY URBAN CHECKPOINT

Figure 13-8. Dismounted Squad-sized Hasty Urban Vehicle Checkpoint.]

• Vehicle occupants should be made to exit the vehicle and then
searched. Whenever possible, women should be searched by female
police or female Marines.

• All patrol members should conduct themselves with courtesy
and politeness. If nothing is found, an apology for the
inconvenience is recommended.

• A hasty vehicle checkpoint should not be conducted any longer
than 30 minutes for security reasons.

• The ROE should dictate whether or not action should be taken
against vehicles that fail to stop at the checkpoint. Failure of
a vehicle to stop does not automatically give authorization to
fire.

_Observation Posts_

Urban observation posts are established to provide extended security,
not only for patrol bases but also for patrols operating within the
observation post’s sector of observation. Observation posts can be
established in conjunction with sniper operations and for providing
overwatch for patrols operating within their sector of observation.
Observation posts are normally positioned on dominating terrain or in
buildings outside the patrol base itself.

Insertion to the observation posts and conduct of observation may
be either overt or clandestine in nature. Overt observation posts
usually will be hardened positions to increase security. A patrol
provides cover while the observation post is being inserted. A
clandestine observation post relies on stealth of insertion and
occupation for protection. It is normally positioned in abandoned
buildings to cover sectors of observation that overt observation
posts cannot. Because of their nature, clandestine observation posts
are difficult to successfully establish and should not be manned
for an extended period of time. Orders establishing observation
posts (and patrols) must address the method of extraction as well as
actions upon compromise/attack.

_Cordon and Search_

The cordon and search mission involves isolating a predesignated area
by cordoning it off and systematically searching for enemy personnel,
weapons, supplies, explosives or communications equipment. While
large-scale cordon and search operations are planned and rehearsed
in advance and normally entail extensive coordination with local law
enforcement agencies, a squad-sized urban patrol may often conduct a
cordon and search of a point target--searching one house or building
identified by intelligence as a possible weapons cache.

The basic principle of a search of a populated area is to conduct
it with limited inconvenience to the population. The populace may
be inconvenienced to the point where they will discourage urban
guerillas or insurgents from remaining in the area, but not to the
point that they will assist the enemy as a result of the search.

Upon receiving intelligence that warrants the searching of a building
or a specific tasking from higher headquarters, A&S elements of the
patrol move to establish an inner cordon around the target building
to seal it off, with the primary intent of preventing movement out of
the targeted building.

On order, the designated reaction force deploys to establish an outer
cordon, oriented outward some distance from the inner cordon and
covering routes leading into the area in order to prevent outside
interference/reinforcement. The reaction force maintains a reserve
to reinforce either cordon or react to unfolding events (civil
disturbance in response to the operation).

Once the cordons have been established, the patrol leader, with
the assistance of local police or interpreters, informs the local
populace that a building is about to be searched, that a house curfew
is in effect (if permitted by higher headquarters), and that all
occupants should remain indoors. Occupants of the target house are
instructed to gather at a central location to stay out of the way of
the search party.

The headquarters element, having linked up with any required
assistance (explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), ITT, etc.) now acts
as the search party and accompanies local police. A female searcher
should be included in the party, if necessary.

Occupants are searched and screened first for possible enemy
personnel. Apprehended persons are evacuated as soon as possible.

The head of the household should accompany the search party
throughout the operation to be able to counter incriminating evidence
and possible accusations of theft and looting against Marines. If
possible, a prominent member of the local community should act as a
witness.

Buildings are best searched from top to bottom. Ideally, the search
is conducted with the assistance of combat engineers using mine
detectors to locate hidden arms and ammunition.

If the targeted building is empty or the occupant refuses entry,
it may be necessary to forcefully enter the premises to conduct a
search of the dwelling. If an unoccupied house containing property
is searched, arrangements should be made with the local community to
secure it until its occupants return. Unnecessary force and damage to
property should be avoided during the search.

Motorized Urban Patrols

The advantages of motorized urban patrols is their ability to
capitalize on the speed, mobility, and protection offered by various
vehicles. They may be motorized, mechanized or armored vehicles or
a combination. Generally, motorized urban patrols possess greater
combat power than dismounted patrols and can cover larger areas
faster than dismounted patrols.

The disadvantages of motorized urban patrols is that they are
restricted to roads and are vulnerable to ambush by the enemy. They
are also restricted in their ability to interact with the local
populace.

Motorized patrols are generally organized in the same manner as
dismounted patrols (see fig. 13-9). Unit integrity is maintained when
assigning personnel to specific vehicles.

The urban patrolling principles apply to motorized patrols in much
the same manner as dismounted patrols. Mutual support and depth
are achieved by maintaining constant observation between vehicles
and coordinating support with any dismounted patrols in the area.
All-around security is achieved through the use of constant
observation as well as the vehicle’s mobility and firepower. Positive
communications between units or teams are maintained through vehicle
radios. Patrol routes and speeds are varied to promote deception or
pattern avoidance.

DRIVER DRIVER DRIVER
TEAM LDR/VEHICLE CDR PATROL LDR TEAM LDR/VEHICLE CDR
GUNNER TEAM LDR/VEHICLE CDR GUNNER
A-GUNNER GUNNER A-GUNNER
A-GUNNER

A & S TEAM A HQ UNIT A & S TEAM B
[Illustration] [Illustration] [Illustration]

Figure 13-9. Organization of a Squad-sized Motorized Patrol.

The canalizing nature of streets and alleys force vehicular
patrols to use a traveling overwatch movement technique to reduce
vulnerability to ambushes. All vehicles travel at a moderate rate of
speed with the lead vehicle stopping only to investigate potential
danger areas. If vehicles must stop in danger areas, designated crew
members will dismount to provide security. The gunner will remain at
the ready and in the turret while the driver remains in the driver’s
seat with the vehicle running.

Vehicles should move at a high rate of speed only when responding to
an incident. At all other times, vehicle speed should be between 15
to 20 mph to allow for quick reaction and good observation. Distances
between vehicles should be approximately 50 meters (one half to
one city block) or such that visual contact and mutual support are
ensured. Particular care is taken at major road junctions and other
danger areas to ensure individual vehicles do not become isolated.

Vehicles with doors removed generally enhance observation and overall
security, yet expose Marines to thrown objects, theft and concealment.

CHAPTER 14. INFORMATION AND REPORTS

It is necessary that patrol leaders and all patrol members
be trained in observing and reporting their observations
accurately. The leader of a patrol should have all members
of the patrol immediately signal or report any information
obtained. These reports should not be restricted to
information about the enemy, but should also include
information about the terrain, such as newly discovered
roads, trails, swamps, and streams. The leader includes
all information in the report to the officer dispatching
the patrol. (Refer to MCRP 2-15.3, _Reconnaissance Reports
Guide_, for detailed report formats.)

14001. REPORTING

The officer dispatching the patrol instructs the patrol leader on
whether and when messages are to be sent back during the patrol and
what communication means to use. Messages may be oral or written.
They must be accurate, clear, and complete. Every message should
answer the question what, where, and when. For a detailed discussion
on reporting, see paragraph 6002.

Verbal Messages

A patrol leader sending a verbal message should make it simple,
brief, and avoid using numbers and names. The messenger should
accurately repeat the message back to the patrol leader before
leaving.

Written Messages

In preparing written messages, the patrol leader must distinguish
between fact and opinion. Information about the enemy should include:
strength; armament and equipment; actions; location and direction
of movement; unit destination, if known; time enemy was observed;
and the patrol’s location when the observation was made. Use of an
overlay or sketch may often simplify the message.

Messengers

A messenger team is given exact instructions as to where to deliver
the message and the route to take. Any information obtained along
the route should be reported at the time the message is delivered.
Messengers must be given all practical assistance. If in danger of
capture, the messenger immediately destroys the message.

Radio and Signals

If the patrol is provided with a radio, a definite radio schedule
for checking in must be arranged before departure of the patrol. The
patrol leader takes every precaution to ensure that codes and copies
of messages are not captured by the enemy. If a close reconnaissance
of enemy lines is required, the radio should be left in a concealed
location at a safe distance from the enemy. Once a report is sent
by radio, the patrol should immediately leave the area to avoid the
possibility of detection by enemy locating devices. Pyrotechnics
(flares, colored smoke, grenades) and air-ground panels may also be
used by patrols for reporting information by a prearranged signal.

SALUTE Report

Information must be reported as quickly, accurately, and as
completely as possible. An established method to remember how and
what to report about the enemy is to use the acronym SALUTE:

=S=ize
=A=ctivity
=L=ocation
=U=nit
=T=ime
=E=quipment

An example of such a report is: “Seven enemy soldiers, unit unknown,
traveling SW, crossed road junction on BLACK RIDGE at 211300 August
carrying one machine gun and one rocket launcher.”

14002. CAPTURED ITEMS

Every patrol should make a practice of searching enemy casualties,
prisoners, and installations first for booby traps, then for
equipment, papers, maps, messages, orders, diaries, and codes.
Search techniques should be practiced often in order to reduce the
time exposed to potentially dangerous situations. Items found are
collected by the patrol leader and turned in with the patrol report.
The items found are marked as to time and place of capture. When
possible, captured items should be linked to a specific prisoner who
possessed the items or to the place where the items were found. When
this is done, the enemy prisoner of war tag and item tag are marked
accordingly. The patrol leader must impress upon the members of the
patrol the importance of turning in all documents and equipment.
Furthermore, the patrol leader must ensure all information gathered
by the patrol is quickly disseminated.

14003. PRISONERS

A patrol normally does not capture prisoners unless required by the
mission. If prisoners are taken, the “5S and T” rule applies. This
memory aid stands for: search, segregate, silence, speed, safeguard,
and tag.

=Search.= Prisoners are body-searched thoroughly for weapons and
documents as soon as they have been captured. This search must
include the helmet, body armor, and gas mask. These items are left
with the prisoner for protection until the patrol is completed.
Weapons, equipment, and documents are tagged and immediately sent to
the patrol leader.

=Segregate.= Prisoners are segregated into isolated groups: officers,
noncommissioned officers (NCOs), privates, deserters, and civilians.
By segregating prisoners, it makes it more difficult for leaders to
organize escapes and issue orders to subordinates.

=Silence.= Silence is essential. Do not allow prisoners to talk to
each other.

=Speed.= Speed is required in getting prisoners to the commander who
dispatched the patrol. Timely information secured from prisoners is
essential.

=Safeguard.= Prisoners are safeguarded as they are moved. They are
restrained, but not abused. If the patrol will soon reach friendly
positions, prisoners are not given cigarettes, food or water until
they have been questioned by interrogators. If the patrol will not
return to a friendly position for a lengthy time, the prisoners are
given food, water and medical aid.

=Tag.= Equipment and personal effects recovered from prisoners are
tagged so that they may later be matched back to specific individuals.

14004. PATROL REPORT

Every patrol leader makes a report when the patrol returns. Unless
otherwise directed, the report is made to the person ordering the
patrol. If the situation permits, the report is written and supported
by overlays and/or sketches. The patrol leader’s report should be a
complete account of everything of military importance observed or
encountered by the patrol while on the assigned mission. It should
include the following information:

• Size and composition of patrol.

• Tasks and purpose (mission).

• Time of departure.

• Time of return.

• Routes, out and back (show by sketch, azimuth, trace on map).

• Terrain (general description to include any man-made or natural
obstacles and critical terrain features which, if occupied by
either enemy or friendly forces, would allow them to control the
surrounding area).

• Enemy (size, activity, location, unit, time, equipment).

• Any map corrections (show on map).

• Miscellaneous information not covered elsewhere in report.

• Results of enemy encounters.

• Condition of patrol, including disposition of any dead or
wounded.

• Conclusion and recommendations.

14005. PATROL CRITIQUE

After the patrol has rested and eaten, the patrol leader should hold
a critique. Constructive criticism is made. It is an excellent time
to prepare for future patrols by going over lessons learned as a
result of the patrol.

APPENDIX A. PATROL WARNING ORDER

The warning order is issued as soon as practical with all
available information included to assist patrol members in
preparation.

1. ~Situation.~ Friendly and enemy situation information
necessary for initial preparation.

2. ~Mission.~ Statement of what the patrol is to accomplish,
and the purpose for accomplishing it. When, how, and where will be
discussed in the patrol order.

3. ~Execution~

a. ~Task Organization.~ General patrol organization and
assignment of responsibilities if known; otherwise, promulgate
in the patrol order.

b. ~Tasks.~ Alert subordinate leaders to patrol tasks (e.g.,
stream crossing, helicopter rappelling, demolitions) requiring
preparation prior to departure.

c. ~Coordinating Instructions~

(1) Time schedule and location for individual preparation,
rest, briefings, inspection, rehearsal, and departure.

(2) Time, place, uniform, and equipment for receiving the
patrol order.

(3) Tasks for subordinate leaders to direct and supervise
the initial preparation which may include drawing
ammunition, rations, and special equipment; conducting
immediate action drills or other necessary individual or
unit training; meeting and briefing attachment personnel;
reconnoitering the area for passage of lines; and
coordinating with the necessary unit leaders.

(4) Preliminary guidance to specialists and key individuals
regarding their roles and organization within the patrol.

4. ~Administration and Logistics~

a. Individual uniform, equipment, weapons, and prescribed
load of rations, water, and ammunition.

b. Crew-served weapons (if required) and guidance regarding
distribution of weapons and ammunition during movement.

c. Special equipment requirements (wire cutters,
demolitions, radios, flashlights, infrared equipment,
mines, binoculars) and their distribution during movement.

d. Restricted or prohibited items.

5. ~Command and Signal~

a. Designation of assistant patrol leader and his role in
preparation.

b. Designation of navigators and radio operators (if
required).

c. Brief outline of patrol leader’s schedule for
preparation, and where he can be reached.

APPENDIX B. PATROL ORDER

A patrol order follows a warning order. Any of the
following subjects that have been addressed in the
warning order may be omitted with the exception of the
mission statement. A patrol order is more detailed than a
5-paragraph squad order in that a great deal of attention
is given to individual duties.

The patrol order also provides orientation information,
both enemy and friendly, that impacts the patrol and enemy
forces. This information can include, but is not limited
to, weather, terrain, visibility, NBC considerations, local
population situation, terrain model and/or map orientation,
and behavior.

1. ~Situation~
a. ~Enemy Forces~
(1) Composition, disposition, and strength are based on size,
activity, location, unit, time, and equipment (SALUTE).
(2) Capabilities and limitations to defend, reinforce, attack,
withdraw, and delay (DRAW-D).
(3) Enemy’s most probable course of action.
b. ~Friendly Forces~
(1) Mission of next higher unit (task and commander’s intent).
(2) Adjacent unit missions (task and intent). Also identify
left, front, right, and rear.
c. ~Attachments and Detachments.~ (date and time effective).

2. ~Mission.~ The mission is the task to be accomplished,
and its purpose (who, what, where, when, and why). For
patrols, specify if the mission or time has priority.

3. ~Execution~
a. ~Commander’s Intent and Concept of Operations~
(1) Commander’s intent.
(2) The concept of operations tells the where, how, and who and
lays out the patrol leader’s general scheme of maneuver and
fire support plan. It outlines the following:
(a) Task organization of the patrol.
(b) Movement to the objective area, to include navigation
method.
(c) Actions in the objective area.
(d) The return movement, to include navigation method.
(e) Use of supporting forces (including illumination, if
required).
b. ~Subordinate Element Missions.~ Subordinate element
missions (task and purpose) are assigned to elements, teams,
and individuals, as required.
c. ~Coordinating Instructions.~ This paragraph contains
instructions common to two or more elements, coordinating
details, and control measures applicable to the patrol as a
whole. At a minimum, it includes--
(1) Time of assembly in the assembly area.
(2) Time of inspections and rehearsals (if not already
conducted).
(3) Time of departure and estimated time of return.
(4) Location of departure and reentry of friendly lines and the
actions associated with departure and reentry.
(5) Details on the primary and alternate routes to and from the
objective area.
(6) Details on formations and order of movement.
(7) Rally points and actions at rally points.
(8) Final preparation position and actions at this position.
(9) Objective rally point and actions at this point.
(10) Actions at danger areas.
(11) Actions in the event of enemy contact.
(12) Details on actions in the objective area not covered
elsewhere.
(13) Estimated time of patrol debriefing upon return.

4. ~Administration and Logistics~
a. Changes/additions to uniform, equipment, and prescribed loads
from that given in the warning order.
b. Instructions for handling wounded and prisoners.

5. ~Command and Signal~
a. ~Command Relationships.~ Identify key leaders and chain
of command.
b. ~Signal.~ Challenge and password, arm and hand signals,
special signals, and radio frequencies and call signs.

APPENDIX C. PATROL EVALUATION CHECKLIST

This appendix provides a comprehensive checklist of
critical patrolling steps, techniques, and procedures to
aid unit leaders to critique patrol performance during
training. Unit leaders may use the list as they observe the
performance of a patrol to provide the patrol leader with a
detailed analysis of the performance.

+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
| Warning Order |Yes|No |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL ensure all patrol members were present before | | |
| issuing the warning order? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL issue a brief statement on the enemy situation? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL issue a brief statement on the friendly | | |
| situation? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL state the mission in a clear, positive manner? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL list all members of the patrol including | | |
| attachments? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was the chain of command for the patrol covered fully? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Were all members of the patrol assigned positions and duties| | |
| in particular squads and teams? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Were all the necessary individual duties assigned? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL follow established principles in organizing the | | |
| patrol into squads and teams? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was each patrol member assigned a particular weapon to | | |
| carry on patrol? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL list all special equipment needed to accomplish | | |
| the mission? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was required special equipment assigned to the proper | | |
| element to carry? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL select uniform and equipment common to all based | | |
| on METT-T? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
| Coordination with Adjacent Units |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL coordinate with other patrols operating to the | | |
| right and left? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was the route out and back coordinated? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was the time of departure and return coordinated? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Were call signs and frequencies coordinated? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was a signal for the FPF coordinated so as not to approach | | |
| friendly lines during this time? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
| Coordination With Front Line Units |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the coordinator pass the size of the patrol? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was the time of departure and return coordinated? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the coordinator give a general area of operations for | | |
| the patrol? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the coordinator ask for information on known or | | |
| suspected enemy positions and/or obstacles? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the coordinator ask about information on the latest | | |
| enemy activity? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the coordinator ask for detailed information on friendly| | |
| fire support available and the unit’s barrier plan? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was the location of the IRP established and coordinated? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the coordinator ask the forward unit to monitor their | | |
| patrol frequency? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was the current challenge and password confirmed? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the coordinator request that all information coordinated| | |
| be passed on to any relieving unit? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
| Patrol Order |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|=General= |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL check to ensure all patrol members were present | | |
| before issuing the patrol order? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL issue the patrol order in a forceful, confident | | |
| manner? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL make maximum use of available visual aids in | | |
| issuing the patrol order (i.e., terrain model, sand table, | | |
| map board, chalkboard)? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL issue the patrol order in correct sequence? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL issue the entire patrol order without allowing | | |
| interruptions by patrol members? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL adequately answer all questions asked by patrol | | |
| members? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|=Did paragraph 1a (Enemy Situation) include=-- | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|A weather forecast for the period of operation? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|A description of the terrain over which the patrol was to | | |
| operate? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Identification or description of enemy units known to be in | | |
| the area of operations? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Known locations of enemy units? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Recent activity of enemy units? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Strength of enemy units in the operating area? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|=Did paragraph 1b (Friendly Situation) include=-- | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Mission of the next higher unit? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Locations, missions, and planned actions of units on right | | |
| and left? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Fire support available to support the patrol (as per the | | |
| coordination)? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Missions and routes of other patrols operating in the | | |
| immediate area? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|=Did paragraph 1c (Commander’s Intent) include=-- | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|All views and ideas of what the commander wants to be | | |
| accomplished? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|The final result desired by the commander? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|=Did paragraph 1c (Attachments and Detachments) include=-- | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|All attachments to patrol and effective time of attachment? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|All detachments from patrol and effective time of | | |
| detachment? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|=Did paragraph 2 (Mission) include, at a minimum=-- | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Who was to conduct the patrol? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|What the patrol was tasked to do (i.e., conduct a point | | |
| recon patrol)? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Where the action was to take place? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Why the action was to take place (i.e., the purpose)? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|=Did paragraph 3a (Commander’s Intent and Concept of | | |
| Operations) include=-- | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|A complete concept of operations? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|A detailed description of the mission of elements? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|A detailed description of the mission of teams? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|A detailed description of the duties of specific individuals| | |
| (i.e., navigator,compass man, pace man, corpsman, APL)? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Time of departure and time of return? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Type of formations and order of movement to be used? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Description of the route and alternate routes(s) to include | | |
| azimuths and distances between checkpoints as a minimum? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Techniques to be used in the departure from friendly areas? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Techniques to be used for the reentry into friendly areas? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Location of the IRP and a tentative ORP, to include grid | | |
| coordinates and recognizable terrain features? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Method for designating and passing rally points? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Actions to be taken at rally points if their use became | | |
| necessary? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Actions to be taken in the event of enemy contact? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Actions to be taken at danger areas? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Complete, detailed description of actions to be taken at | | |
| the objective? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Times and locations for rehearsals and the order of | | |
| priority for rehearsals? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Times and locations for inspections and the methods of | | |
| conduct (to include uniform and equipment to be worn | | |
| and/or carried)? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Where, when, and by whom the debriefing is to be conducted? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|=Did paragraph 4 (Administration and Logistics) include=-- | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Rations to be carried or reference to the warning order if | | |
| there is no change? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Arms and ammunition to be carried or reference to the | | |
| warning order if there is no change? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Uniform and equipment to be worn and carried or reference | | |
| to the warning order if there is no change? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Method for handling wounded or dead? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Method for handling prisoners? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|=Did paragraph 5a (Signal) include=-- | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Complete description of all signals, code words, | | |
| frequencies, and call signs to be used within the patrol? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Were signals adequate? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Radio call signs to be used? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Primary and alternate frequencies to be used? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Call signs and frequencies to be used with other units in | | |
| the area of operations (if applicable)? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Required reports to be transmitted to higher headquarters, | | |
| along with occasions for reporting? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Code words and brevity codes to be used between the patrol | | |
| and higher headquarters? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Current challenge and password to be used in friendly held | | |
| areas? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Current challenge and password to be used forward of FEBA? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|=Did paragraph 5b (Command) include=-- | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Chain of command or reference to the warning order if there | | |
| is no change? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Location of the PL during all stages of operation? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Location of the APL during all stages of operation? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
| Inspection Rehearsal |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|=General= | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL adequately use the allotted inspection time? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was the inspection conducted in an orderly manner? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|=During the inspection, did the PL check the following=: | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Completeness and correctness of uniform? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Completeness of all equipment necessary to accomplish the | | |
| mission? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Operational condition of equipment? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|=Did the PL question members to ensure they knew=-- | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|The mission of the patrol? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|The concept of operations? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Their individual duties and responsibilities? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Chain of command and succession? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Duties and responsibilities of key personnel? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL utilize the rehearsal area to conform as much as | | |
| possible to area of operations? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|=Were the following major actions rehearsed=: | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Actions at the objective? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Actions at danger areas? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Actions on enemy contacts? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Departure and reentry of friendly lines? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL critique each action after it had been rehearsed?| | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Were interpatrol communications and control measures checked| | |
| at rehearsal? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL maintain control of the patrol during the | | |
| rehearsal? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
| Movement |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL use proper formations for movement? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL adequately control the point team? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL check the compass men? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was the PL aware of his position at all times? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was light and noise discipline enforced? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was the rate of movement appropriate for the mission? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL make full use of pace? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL make full use of count? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was proper security maintained during movement? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL select and pass proper rallying points? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL ensure that all members knew location of rallying| | |
| points? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL properly use arm and hand signals? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL recognize and halt the patrol a safe distance | | |
| from a danger area? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|If the PL conducted a map check, did he conduct it properly | | |
| (light discipline, security, etc.) | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did designated individuals reconnoiter the far side of a | | |
| danger area properly? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Were support teams emplaced properly? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL use a proper formation in crossing the danger | | |
| area? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Were reports made on enemy contact and at checkpoints? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
| Actions on Enemy Contact |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL halt patrol a safe distance from a tentative ORP?| | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL issue an adequate frag order before departing to | | |
| look for a tentative ORP? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL take appropriate personnel to look for the ORP? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL select a suitable ORP? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL secure the site adequately? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the patrol occupy the ORP as stated in the patrol order | | |
| or subsequent frag order? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the patrol occupy the ORP in an orderly manner? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL maintain control of the patrol during occupation | | |
| of the ORP? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL issue a satisfactory contingency plan to the APL | | |
| before departing on a leader’s recon? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL take appropriate personnel on a leader’s recon? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL maintain or ensure that the patrol leader had | | |
| communications with the patrol? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the patrol avoid being detected by the enemy during the | | |
| leader’s recon? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|If contact was made, did the PL take appropriate action? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was security maintained during the leader’s recon? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL ensure the objective was kept under surveillance?| | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Were appropriate orders given to surveillance teams? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|If a leader recon proved a tentative ORP unsuitable, did | | |
| the PL move the ORP? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was a satisfactory leader’s recon conducted? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was the ORP move conducted in a satisfactory and orderly | | |
| manner? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|On return to the ORP, did the PL issue appropriate frag | | |
| order and allow enough time for dissemination? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
| Actions at Objective |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL issue a frag order for action at the objective? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was security emplaced prior to the teams departing from | | |
| the ORP? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL employ the terrain at the objective to the best | | |
| advantage? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was stealth maintained while moving into the objective? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL exercise positive control of squads, teams, and | | |
| individuals at the objective? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Were actions at the objective in accordance with the | | |
| details outlined in the patrol order? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the PL make use of supporting arms at the objective? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was the action at the objective successful? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was withdrawal from the objective accomplished quickly and | | |
| orderly? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did units withdraw according to the details reflected in | | |
| the patrol order? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Was reorganization at the ORP completed in an expeditious | | |
| and orderly manner? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+
|Did the patrol withdraw from the ORP quickly and quietly? | | |
+------------------------------------------------------------+---+---+

APPENDIX D. AMBUSH FORMATIONS

Formations discussed here are identified by names which correspond to
the general pattern formed on the ground by deployment of the assault
element.

Line Formation

The assault element is deployed generally parallel to the route of
movement of the enemy. This positions the assault element parallel
to the long axis of the killing zone and subjects the target to
heavy flanking fire. The size of the force which can be trapped in
the killing zone is limited by the area the assault element can
effectively cover. The enemy is trapped in the killing zone by
natural obstacles, mines, demolitions, and direct fires. (See fig.
D-1.)

[Illustration: Figure D-1. Line Formation (Harassing or
Destruction Ambush).]

A disadvantage of the line formation is the chance that lateral
dispersion of the target may be too great for effective coverage. The
line formation is appropriate in close terrain that restricts enemy
maneuver, and in open terrain where one flank is protected by natural
obstacles or can be protected by mines and demolitions. Similar
obstacles can be placed between the attack force and the killing zone
to provide protection from possible enemy counter attack. When an
ambush is deployed in this manner, access lanes are left so that the
enemy can be assaulted. (See fig. D-2.)

[Illustration: Figure D-2. Line Formation (Access Lanes for
Assault of Target).]

The main advantage of the line formation is its relative ease of
control under all conditions of visibility.

L Formation

[Illustration: Figure D-3. “L” Formation (Destruction Ambush).]

The “L” shaped formation is a variation of the line formation.
This formation is very flexible because it can be established on a
straight stretch of a trail or road (see fig. D-3) or at a sharp bend
in a trail or a road (See fig. D-4 on page D-2). The long side of the
assault element is parallel to the killing zone and delivers flanking
fire. The short side of the attack force is at the end of, and at
right angles to, the killing zone and delivers enfilading fire that
interlocks with fire from the long side. When appropriate, fire from
the short side can be shifted to parallel the long side if the enemy
attempts to assault or escape in the opposite direction. In addition,
the short side prevents escape and reinforcement. (See fig. D-5.)

[Illustration: Figure D-4. “L” Formation (Bend of Trail or Stream).]

[Illustration: Figure D-5. “L” Formation.]

“Z” Formation

The “Z” shaped formation is another variation of the line formation.

The assault element is deployed as in the “L” formation, but with an
additional side so that the formation resembles a “Z”. (See fig. D-6).

[Illustration: Figure D-6. “Z” Formation.]

The additional wing may serve any of the following purposes:

• To engage an enemy force attempting to relieve or
reinforce the enemy unit engaged in the kill zone.

• To seal the end of the killing zone.

• To restrict a flank.

• To prevent an envelopment.

“T” Formation

In the “T” shaped formation, the assault element is deployed across
(perpendicular to) the enemy’s route of movement so that its position
forms the crossing of a “T” at the top. (See fig. D-7.)

[Illustration: Figure D-7. “T” Formation.]

This formation can be used day or night to establish an ambush to
interdict movement through open areas that are hard to seal off.

A small force can use the “T” formation to harass, slow, and
disorganize a larger force. When the lead elements of the enemy are
engaged, they will normally attempt to maneuver right or left to
close with the ambush. Mines and other obstacles placed to the flanks
of the killing zones slow the enemy’s movements and permit the ambush
force to deliver heavy fire and withdraw without becoming decisively
engaged.

The “T” formation can be used to interdict small groups attempting
night movement across open areas. For example, the assault element
is deployed along an avenue of approach with every second man facing
the opposite direction. The attack of the enemy approaching from
either direction requires only that every second man may shift to the
opposite side of the formation. Each man fires only to his front and
only when the enemy is at a very close range. Attack is by fire only
and each man keeps the enemy under fire as long as it remains to his
front.

If the enemy attempts to escape in either direction along the killing
zone, each Marine takes the enemy under fire as the enemy comes into
the Marine’s sector of fire. The “T” formation is very effective at
halting infiltration. But it has one chief disadvantage; there is a
possibility that the ambush will engage a superior force at night
while spread out. (See fig. D-8.)

[Illustration: Figure D-8. “T” Formation (Target Approaching from
Either Direction).]

The “V” Formation

The “V” shaped formation is deployed along both sides of the enemy’s
route of movement so that it forms a “V”; care is taken to ensure
that neither group (within the “V”) fires into the other.

This formation subjects the enemy to both enfilading and interlocking
fire. The “V” formation is best suited for fairly open terrain but
can also be used in close terrain. When established in close terrain,
the legs of the “V” close in as the lead element of the enemy force
approaches the apex of the “V”, and opens fire at a close range.

Here, even more than in open terrain, all movement and fire must
be carefully coordinated and controlled to ensure that the fire of
one wing does not endanger the other wing. The wider separation of
forces makes this formation difficult to control, and there are few
sites that favor its use. Its main advantage is that it is difficult
for the enemy to detect the ambush until it is well into the killing
zone. (See figs. D-9 and D-10.)

[Illustration: Figure D-9. “V” Formation (Open Terrain).]

[Illustration: Figure D-10. “V” Formation (Close Terrain).]

Triangle Formation

The triangle is a variation of the “V” formation and can be varied in
three ways:

Closed Triangle Formation

(See fig. D-11.) The assault element is deployed in three teams,
positioned so that they form a triangle (or closed “V”). An automatic
weapon is placed at each point of the triangle and positioned so that
it can be shifted quickly to interlock with either of the others. Men
are positioned so that their sectors of fire overlap. Mortars may be
positioned inside the triangle.

[Illustration: Figure D-11. Closed Triangle Formation
(Night Ambush).]

When deployed in this manner, the triangle ambush is used to
interdict night movement through open areas. When enemy approach is
likely to be from any direction, this formation provides all-around
security, and security forces are deployed only when they can be
positioned so that if detected by an approaching enemy, they will
not compromise the ambush. Attack is by fire only, and the enemy is
allowed to approach within close range before fire is initiated.

The advantages of the closed triangle formation are ease of control,
all-around security, and the enemy can be brought under the fire of
at least two automatic weapons, regardless of the direction they
approach.

Disadvantages are that it requires a force of platoon size or larger
to reduce the danger of being overrun by an unexpectedly large force
and that one or more sides of the triangle may come under enfilade
fire. The lack of dispersion, particularly at the points, increases
the danger from enemy mortar fire.

Open Triangle Harassing Formation

This variation of the triangle ambush enables a small force to
harass, slow, and inflict heavy casualties upon a large force without
itself being decisively engaged. The assault element is deployed
in three teams, positioned so that each team becomes a corner of a
triangle containing the killing zone. (See fig. D-12.)

TARGET IS THINLY SURROUNDED. [Illustration]
FIRST TEAM OPENS FIRE.

TARGET ATTACKS. TEAM WITHDRAWS. [Illustration]
SECOND GROUP OPENS FIRE.

TARGET SHIFTS ATTACK. SECOND [Illustration]
GROUP WITHDRAWS. THIRD TEAM
OPENS FIRE.

TARGET SHIFTS ATTACK. [Illustration]
THIRD TEAM WITHDRAWS.

TARGET IS PULLED APART. [Illustration]
SUFFERS LOSSES, BUT AMBUSH
FORCES NOT DECISIVELY ENGAGED.

Figure D-12. Open Triangle Formation.

When the enemy enters the killing zone, the team to the enemy’s front
opens fire on the leading element. When the enemy counterattacks, the
group withdraws and the team on the enemy’s flank opens fire. When
this team is attacked, the team to the opposite flank opens fire.
This process is repeated until the enemy is pulled apart. Each team
reoccupies its position, if possible, and continues to inflict the
maximum damage possible without becoming decisively engaged.

Open Triangle Destruction Formation

The assault element is again deployed in three teams, positioned
so that each team is a point of the triangle, 200 to 300 meters
apart. The killing zone is the area within the triangle. The enemy is
allowed to enter the killing zone; the nearest team attacks by fire.
As the enemy attempts to maneuver or withdraw, the other teams open
fire. One or more teams, as directed, assault or maneuver to envelop
or destroy the enemy. (See fig. D-13 on page D-6.)

200-300 METERS BETWEEN TEAMS. [Illustration]

TARGET ENTERS KILLING ZONE. [Illustration]
NEAREST TEAM OPENS FIRE.

TARGET ATTEMPTS TO MANEUVER OR [Illustration]
ESCAPE. NEAREST TEAM OPENS FIRE.

EACH TEAM ATTACKS AS THE TARGET [Illustration]
ATTEMPTS TO MANEUVER OR ESCAPES.

ONE OR MORE TEAMS MAY ASSAULT [Illustration]
TO ENVELOP OR DESTROY THE
TARGET.

Figure D-13. Open Triangle Formation (Destruction Ambush).

This formation is suitable for platoon-size or larger ambush forces.
A smaller force would be in too great a danger of being overrun.
Another disadvantage is that control, in assaulting or maneuvering,
is very difficult. Very close coordination and control are necessary
to ensure that assaulting or maneuvering teams are not fired on by
another team. The ambush site must be a fairly level open area that
provides concealment around its border for the ambush force.

The Box Formation

The “box” formation is similar in purpose to the open triangle
ambush. The assault element is deployed in four teams, positioned so
that each team becomes a corner of a square or rectangle containing
the killing zone. It can be used for a harassing or destruction
ambush in the same manner as the variations of the open triangle
formation. (See figs. D-14 on page D-7 and D-15 on page D-8.)

TARGET IS THINLY SURROUNDED, [Illustration]
ONE TEAM OPENS FIRE.

TARGET ATTACKS, TEAM WITHDRAWS. [Illustration]
A REAR TEAM OPENS FIRE.

TARGET SHIFTS ATTACK. TEAM [Illustration]
WITHDRAWS. SECOND FORWARD TEAM
OPENS FIRE.

TARGET AGAIN SHIFTS ATTACK. [Illustration]
TEAM WITHDRAWS. SECOND REAR
TEAM OPENS FIRE.

TARGET ATTACKS AND IS PULLED [Illustration]
APART. SUFFERS LOSSES. AMBUSH
FORCES NOT DECISIVELY ENGAGED.

Figure D-14. Box Formation (Harassing Ambush).

200-300 METERS BETWEEN TEAMS. [Illustration]

TARGET ENTERS KILLING ZONE. [Illustration]
NEAREST TEAM OPENS FIRE.

TARGET ATTEMPTS TO MANEUVER OR [Illustration]
ESCAPE. NEAREST TEAM OPENS
FIRE.

SUCCESSIVE TEAMS ATTACK AS [Illustration]
TARGET ATTEMPTS TO MANEUVER OR
ESCAPE.

ONE OR MORE TEAMS MAY ASSAULT TO [Illustration]
ENVELOP OR DESTROY THE TARGET.

Figure D-15. Box Formation (Destruction Ambush).

APPENDIX E. ACRONYMS

A&S assault and security

CIT counterintelligence team

EOD explosive ordnance disposal

ITT interrogator-translator team

MAGTF Marine air-ground task force
MEDEVAC medical evacuation
METT-T mission, enemy, terrain and weather,
troops and support available

NBC nuclear, biological, chemical
NCO noncommissioned officer

OTL overserver-target line

RCA riot control agents
ROE rules of engagement

SMAW shoulder-launched multipurpose assault weapon
SMEAC situation, mission, execution, administration
and logistics, and command and signal
SOP standing operating procedures
SPOTREP spot report

TTP tactics, techniques, and procedures

APPENDIX F. REFERENCES

=Joint Publication (JP)=

1-02 DOD Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms

=Fleet Marine Force Manual (FMFM)=

6-5 Marine Rifle Squad (proposed MCWP 3-11.2)

=Marine Corps Warfighting Publications (MCWP)=

3-15.3 Scout Sniping (under development)
3-35.3 Military Operations on Urbanized Terrain (MOUT)
3-41.2 Raids (under development)

=Marine Corps Reference Publications (MCRP)=

2-15.3A Reconnaissance Patrol Leader’s Planning Handbook (under
development)
2-15.3B Reconnaissance Reports Guide
3-02C Water Survival Handbook (under development, currently
exists as Fleet Marine Force Manual 0-13)
5-12A Operational Terms and Graphics
5-12C Marine Corps Supplement to the DOD Dictionary of Military
and Associated Terms

Transcriber’s Note:

Words and phrases in italics are surrounded by underscores, _like
this_; in bold are surrounded by equal signs, =like this=; underlined
are surrounded by tildes, ~like this~. The case of the title for
Chapter 7 title was adjusted for consistency with remaining chapters.
Extraneous punctuation was removed; where missing or unprinted,
expected punctuation was added. Misspelled words were corrected. Line
spacing was adjusted to context. In Chapter 13 and Appendix D, some
illustrations were moved to be closer to the text that references
them.

The email address and website address provided in the 'To Our
Readers' section are no longer valid.

The following were changed:

Changed ‘deleted’ to ‘detected’ in Table 2-2.
Added word ‘a’ to ‘columns to pass a given point’ in Section 3001.
Changed ‘PI’ to ‘PL’ in Figure 11-3.
Deleted word ‘a’ from 'advantages of a motorized urban patrols’ in
Chapter 13.

*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SCOUTING AND PATROLLING ***

Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will
be renamed.

Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright
law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works,
so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United
States without permission and without paying copyright
royalties. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part
of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project
Gutenberg™ electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG™
concept and trademark. Project Gutenberg is a registered trademark,
and may not be used if you charge for an eBook, except by following
the terms of the trademark license, including paying royalties for use
of the Project Gutenberg trademark. If you do not charge anything for
copies of this eBook, complying with the trademark license is very
easy. You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose such as creation
of derivative works, reports, performances and research. Project
Gutenberg eBooks may be modified and printed and given away—you may
do practically ANYTHING in the United States with eBooks not protected
by U.S. copyright law. Redistribution is subject to the trademark
license, especially commercial redistribution.

START: FULL LICENSE

THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG™ LICENSE

PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK

To protect the Project Gutenberg™ mission of promoting the free
distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work
(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase “Project
Gutenberg”), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full
Project Gutenberg License available with this file or online at
www.gutenberg.org/license.

Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg
electronic works

1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg
electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to
and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property
(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all
the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or
destroy all copies of Project Gutenberg electronic works in your
possession. If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a
Project Gutenberg electronic work and you do not agree to be bound
by the terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person
or entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8.

1.B. “Project Gutenberg” is a registered trademark. It may only be
used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who
agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few
things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg electronic works
even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See
paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project
Gutenberg electronic works if you follow the terms of this
agreement and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg
electronic works. See paragraph 1.E below.

1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation (“the
Foundation” or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection
of Project Gutenberg electronic works. Nearly all the individual
works in the collection are in the public domain in the United
States. If an individual work is unprotected by copyright law in the
United States and you are located in the United States, we do not
claim a right to prevent you from copying, distributing, performing,
displaying or creating derivative works based on the work as long as
all references to Project Gutenberg are removed. Of course, we hope
that you will support the Project Gutenberg mission of promoting
free access to electronic works by freely sharing Project Gutenberg
works in compliance with the terms of this agreement for keeping the
Project Gutenberg name associated with the work. You can easily
comply with the terms of this agreement by keeping this work in the
same format with its attached full Project Gutenberg License when
you share it without charge with others.

1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern
what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are
in a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States,
check the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this
agreement before downloading, copying, displaying, performing,
distributing or creating derivative works based on this work or any
other Project Gutenberg work. The Foundation makes no
representations concerning the copyright status of any work in any
country other than the United States.

1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg:

1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other
immediate access to, the full Project Gutenberg License must appear
prominently whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg work (any work
on which the phrase “Project Gutenberg” appears, or with which the
phrase “Project Gutenberg” is associated) is accessed, displayed,
performed, viewed, copied or distributed:

This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most
other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms
of the Project Gutenberg™ License included with this eBook or online
at www.gutenberg.org. If you
are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws
of the country where you are located before using this eBook.

1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg electronic work is
derived from texts not protected by U.S. copyright law (does not
contain a notice indicating that it is posted with permission of the
copyright holder), the work can be copied and distributed to anyone in
the United States without paying any fees or charges. If you are
redistributing or providing access to a work with the phrase “Project
Gutenberg” associated with or appearing on the work, you must comply
either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 or
obtain permission for the use of the work and the Project Gutenberg
trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or 1.E.9.

1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg electronic work is posted
with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution
must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any
additional terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms
will be linked to the Project Gutenberg License for all works
posted with the permission of the copyright holder found at the
beginning of this work.

1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg
License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this
work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg.

1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this
electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without
prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with
active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project
Gutenberg License.

1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary,
compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including
any word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access
to or distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg work in a format
other than “Plain Vanilla ASCII” or other format used in the official
version posted on the official Project Gutenberg website
(www.gutenberg.org), you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense
to the user, provide a copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means
of obtaining a copy upon request, of the work in its original “Plain
Vanilla ASCII” or other form. Any alternate format must include the
full Project Gutenberg License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1.

1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying,
performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg works
unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9.

1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing
access to or distributing Project Gutenberg electronic works
provided that:

• You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from
the use of Project Gutenberg works calculated using the method
you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is owed
to the owner of the Project Gutenberg trademark, but he has
agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the Project
Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments must be paid
within 60 days following each date on which you prepare (or are
legally required to prepare) your periodic tax returns. Royalty
payments should be clearly marked as such and sent to the Project
Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the address specified in
Section 4, “Information about donations to the Project Gutenberg
Literary Archive Foundation.”

• You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies
you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he
does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg™
License. You must require such a user to return or destroy all
copies of the works possessed in a physical medium and discontinue
all use of and all access to other copies of Project Gutenberg™
works.

• You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of
any money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the
electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days of
receipt of the work.

• You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free
distribution of Project Gutenberg™ works.

1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project
Gutenberg™ electronic work or group of works on different terms than
are set forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing
from the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the manager of
the Project Gutenberg™ trademark. Contact the Foundation as set
forth in Section 3 below.

1.F.

1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable
effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread
works not protected by U.S. copyright law in creating the Project
Gutenberg™ collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg™
electronic works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may
contain “Defects,” such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate
or corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other
intellectual property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or
other medium, a computer virus, or computer codes that damage or
cannot be read by your equipment.

1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the “Right
of Replacement or Refund” described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project
Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project
Gutenberg™ trademark, and any other party distributing a Project
Gutenberg™ electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all
liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal
fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT
LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE
PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE
TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE
LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR
INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
DAMAGE.

1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a
defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can
receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a
written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you
received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium
with your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you
with the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in
lieu of a refund. If you received the work electronically, the person
or entity providing it to you may choose to give you a second
opportunity to receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If
the second copy is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing
without further opportunities to fix the problem.

1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth
in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you ‘AS-IS’, WITH NO
OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT
LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE.

1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied
warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of
damages. If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement
violates the law of the state applicable to this agreement, the
agreement shall be interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or
limitation permitted by the applicable state law. The invalidity or
unenforceability of any provision of this agreement shall not void the
remaining provisions.

1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the
trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone
providing copies of Project Gutenberg™ electronic works in
accordance with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the
production, promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg™
electronic works, harmless from all liability, costs and expenses,
including legal fees, that arise directly or indirectly from any of
the following which you do or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this
or any Project Gutenberg work, (b) alteration, modification, or
additions or deletions to any Project Gutenberg work, and (c) any
Defect you cause.

Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg

Project Gutenberg is synonymous with the free distribution of
electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of
computers including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It
exists because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations
from people in all walks of life.

Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the
assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg’s
goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg collection will
remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project
Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure
and permanent future for Project Gutenberg and future
generations. To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary
Archive Foundation and how your efforts and donations can help, see
Sections 3 and 4 and the Foundation information page at www.gutenberg.org.

Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation

The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non-profit
501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the
state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal
Revenue Service. The Foundation’s EIN or federal tax identification
number is 64-6221541. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg Literary
Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent permitted by
U.S. federal laws and your state’s laws.

The Foundation’s business office is located at 41 Watchung Plaza #516,
Montclair NJ 07042, USA, +1 (862) 621-9288. Email contact links and up
to date contact information can be found at the Foundation’s website
and official page at www.gutenberg.org/contact

Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg
Literary Archive Foundation

Project Gutenberg™ depends upon and cannot survive without widespread
public support and donations to carry out its mission of
increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be
freely distributed in machine-readable form accessible by the widest
array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations
($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt
status with the IRS.

The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating
charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United
States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a
considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up
with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations
where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To SEND
DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any particular state
visit www.gutenberg.org/donate.

While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we
have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition
against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who
approach us with offers to donate.

International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make
any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from
outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff.

Please check the Project Gutenberg web pages for current donation
methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other
ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. To
donate, please visit: www.gutenberg.org/donate.

Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg electronic works

Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project
Gutenberg concept of a library of electronic works that could be
freely shared with anyone. For forty years, he produced and
distributed Project Gutenberg eBooks with only a loose network of
volunteer support.

Project Gutenberg eBooks are often created from several printed
editions, all of which are confirmed as not protected by copyright in
the U.S. unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not
necessarily keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper
edition.

Most people start at our website which has the main PG search
facility: www.gutenberg.org.

This website includes information about Project Gutenberg,
including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary
Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to
subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks.