Scouting and Patrolling

MCWP 3-11.3

U.S. Marine Corps

PCN 143 000075 00

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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

j.TiLocL-'

J. E. RHODES

Lieutenant General, U.S. Marine Corps

Commanding General

Marine Corps Combat Development Command

DISTRIBUTION: 143 000075 00

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I. 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_S

Chapter 5. Night Scouting

5001 Night Vision 51

5002 Appearance of Objects 5-3

5003 Sounds

5004 Smells and Touch 53

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
MCWP 3-11.3

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 Defmitions 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
Scouting and Patrolling

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-l

Appendix B. Patrol Order B-i

Appendix C. Patrol Evaluation Checklist C- 1

Appendix D. Ambush Formations D-1

Appendix E. Acronyms E- 1

Appendix F. References F-i

PART I. SCOUTING

CHAPTER 1. FUNDAMENTALS OF SCOUTING

Scouting involves observing terrain andlor 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 twoperson 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 manmade features include houses, bridges, and railroads.

Figure 2-1 shows some important terrain features.

2002. THE LENSATIC COMPASS

The best method of fmding 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 ofreading 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.

Magnetic compasses are affected by the presence of

iron or magnetic fields. Consequently, the scout

should not be within the influence of local magnetic

Figure 2-1. Natural and Artificial Terrain Features.
2-2 MCWP 3-11.3

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.

Magnetic Fields

High tension powerlines

Field guns

Vehicles (wheeled or tracked)

Telephone and telegraph wires

Barbed wire

Machine gun

Rifle, pistol

Reading an Azimuth

Minimum

Distances

(meters)

60

20

20

10

10

3

1

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 ioop, 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

GRADUATED STRAIGHT EDGE

Figure 2-2. Lensatic Compass.
Scouting and Patrolling 2-3

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.

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.

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

NORTH

DESTINATION

—I—IIIIIIIIIIIIIIII

Figure 2-4. Following a Night Azimuth.

TURN 9O RIGHT TURN 90 RIGHT

TURN 90

LEFT 70

TURN 90•

LEFT

0°
2-4 MCWP 3-11.3

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.

To check accuracy, move to a third position and repeat

steps 1 thorough 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.

Figure 2-5. Intersection.
Scouting and Patrolling 2-5

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.

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.

2OO3 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.

Figure 2-7. Locating the North 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

SOUTHERN CROSS

/ POINT

/ / - ABOVE

SOUTH

1

POINT ABOVE

NORTH POLE. *

/

/

*

/

/

*

NORTH

POLE

Figure 2-6. Resection.

/ /

I

POINTERS

Figure 2-8. Locating the South Pole.
2-6 MCWP 3-11.3

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 fmger 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.

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.

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.

N

Figure 2-10. Determining Direction by Watch and

Sun (South Temperate Zone).

S
Scouting and Patrolling 2-7

Table 2-1. Effects to Consider

in Mental Estimation of Distances.

Objects Appear

Nearer

Objects Appear More

Distant

In bright light. In poor light or in fog.

In clear air at high altitude. Only a small part of the

object can be seen.

The background is in contrast with the color of the

object.

The background is similar

in color to that of the

object.

The observer is looking

down from a height.

The observer is looking

over a depression, most of

which is visible.

The observer is looking

over a depression, most of

which is hidden.

The observer is kneeling

or sitting, especially on a

hot day, when the ground

is moist.

The observer is looking

down a straight feature

such as a road.

The observer is looking

over water, snow, or a uniform surface such as a

cultivated field or desert.

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 ofterrain features seen

along the observer-target line (OTL). For example, the

distance across successive ridge lines or depressions in

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.

main branches distinguishable, 2,000 Trunk visible, 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.

Trunk and branches blend with foliage and 4,000 appears as a continuous cluster, smooth in

appearance. Movement of foliage due to wind

cannot be deleted.

Whole covered by trees and appears 5,000 and

beyond

area

smooth and dark.

Table 2-3. Estimating Distance

in Urban Terrain.

Distance in Identified by the

Meters

Object

Unaided Eye

trunk 1,000 Lone tree

and horsemen 1,500

rooftops 3,000 Chimneys on

in houses 4,000

Individual houses in populated area 4,000—5,000

and individual houses 8,000—9,000 Villages

houses, towers, and steeples 15,000—18,000 Large

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.

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 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

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.

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

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.
3-2 MCWP 3-11.3

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—

moving vehicle, and it leaves a deeper impression on

the exit edges of holes. The faster the travel, the

deeper the impression.

• 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 slow3003. 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.

FROM A DITCH OBSERVE

OVER BROKEN EDGE

WITH BACKGROUND

— OBSERVETHRU BUSH IN PRONE

POSITION

Figure 4-1. Correct Use of Cover.
4-2 MCWP 3-11.3

• 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.

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.

4002. CAMOUFLAGE

Camouflage is the use of concealment and disguise to

minimize the possibility of detection anchor 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.

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 recom-mended

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.

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

Figure 4-2. Avoid Contrasting Backgrounds.
Scouting and Patrolling 4-3

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.

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

Figure 4-3. Face Camouflage.

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 ensures 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.

SPLOTCHING

STRIPING

SPLOTCHING & STRIPING
4-4 MCWP 3-11.3

(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.

I

•I
Scouting and Patrolling 4-5

• 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 populous 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.

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.

ROUTE

Figure 4-4. Choosing a Concealed Route

of Advance from a Map.
4-6 MCWP 3-11.3

Figure 4-5. Proposed Route Sketch.

BN CP

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RUINS OF

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START
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

conditions. Rod vision distinguishes black, white,

shades of gray, and general outlines.

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.

ROD REGION /- -. (NIGHT VISION)

PUPIL '.

RETINA.c I CONE REGION

IRIS (CAMERA j ,1 (DAY VISION)

IAPHRAGM)

'--RDREGION

LENS

The retina is composed of cone cells and rod cells, socalled 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

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

Figure 5-1. The Eye is Like a Camera.
5-2 MCWP 3-11.3

CONE REGION

Figure 5-2. Day Vision.

ROD REGION

LOOK SLIGHTLY AWAY FROM THE OBJECT SO

THAT THE IMAGE IS FORMED ON THE

ROD REGION (YOUR NIGHT EYES)

Figure 5-3. Night Vision.

should be moved in short, abrupt, irregular movements

over and around the target (see fig. 5-4).

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.

LOOK DIRECTLY AT THE OBJECT SO THAT THE

IMAGE IS FORMED ON THE CONE REGION

(YOUR DAY EYES)

_S\ 11:00

— —

— —

— — 0çSG

— —

— —

—

12:00

1:00

CENTER OBJECT AT 12 O'CLOCK AND LOOK

SLIGHTLY TOWARD 11 O'CLOCK OR I O'CLOCK

-

LINE OP SIGHT - -

REGION — —

— —

— —

— — — —

— —

ii.:i
Scouting and Patrolling 5-3

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.

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.

5004. SMELLS AND TOUCH

5003. SOUNDS

At night, sounds become vely 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

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

Figure 5-4. Scanning
5-4 MCWP 3-11.3

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.

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.

5007. AIDS TO NIGHT SCOUTING

5008. AIDS TO NIGHT MOVEMENT

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 fmgers 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

• 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,
Scouting and Patrolling 5-5

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.

• 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.

Hitting the Deck at Night (Right-Handed

Shooter)

To safetly hit the deck at night

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.

• Quietly drop down on the

right knee and left hand.

from the standing

• Move the left leg carefully to the rear, and then

move the right leg to the rear.

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

necessary.

Wire Obstacles

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

Figure 5-5. Crossing Wire Silently at Night.
5-6 MCWP 3-11.3

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.

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 awhile 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.

Figure 5-6. Cutting Wire 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),

WHEN TWO SCOUTS CUT WIRE TOGETHER,

ONE HOLDS WIRE FIRMLY, CLOSE TO

CUTTERS, IN ORDER TO M

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
Scouting and Patrolling 5-7

CRAWL SILENTLY UP

TO TRENCH AND LOOK

IN. REMOVE ALL LOOSE

DIRT AND ROCKS FROM

EDGE IF IT --

c

SPRING UP-LEAP

ACROSS THE

44 TRENCH LANDING

ON ONE FOOT WITH

- THE OTHER FOOT

(HELD BEHINDTO

CATCH YOURSELF

q IN CASE YOU MISS

I THE EDGE OF THE

JWlil'IlJIt9!r....... ' TRENCH IN JUMPING.

IiI''IiIfluihf

— •. 'C'...MJItI J!IiIIIAM — '' • '..W1i1&IIUIIthJ I LI WIL — —--'.. :-!1 riiwq - __..- . WIDE TRENCH

ON THE OTHER SIDE, ' CLIMB SILENTLY

DROP NOISELESSLY

— DOWN ONE SIDE

TO THE GROUND. LIE AND UP THE OTHER

. MOTIONLESS AND MAKING USE OF

LISTEN BEFORE . REVETMENT FOR

PROCEEDING. — SUPPORT. -

Figure 5-7. Crossing Trenches Silently at Night.

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).

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.

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 rc: - - •RECORD

THE AZIMUTH.

Figure 5-8. Locating a Gap in Enemy

Wire at Night.

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.

Figure 5-9. Locating Enemy Outguards at Night.

ADVANCE ON A KNOWN AZIMUTH,

ARRIVING AT A KNOWN POINT OUT.

SIDE THE ENEMY'S POSITION. LIE

HERE UNTIL SOUNDS INDICATE

POSITION OF ONE OF THE ENEMY

OUTGUARDS. —
5-8 MCWP 3-11.3

50010. ROUTES OF MOVEMENT

Prior to beginning a night missions, 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).

DAY

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

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.

NIGHT

SCOUT AVOIDS

WOODS ON

ACCOUNT OF

NOISE AND

COMES OVER

HILL IN LOW

PLACE.

AVOIDS HEDGE

AND COMES

DOWN LOW

OPEN DRAW

CONT1NUES

DOWN DRAW

AVOIDING BUSHES.

AVOIDS BUSHES.

AVOIDING STREAM,

BANKS, AND

BUSHES GOES

ON IN LOW

GROUND WHERE

STREAM FLOWS.

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.

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.

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.
6-2 MCWP 3-11.3

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.

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 andlor 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?)

L

200

METER ZONE

-/ -.-.

100 METER -.-----

5; J....

. 50 METER ZONE J-i.

I DTG (COMM. USE) FM: Z 0 R g rj c0 r

TO,

BT TOPSEC SECRET CONF /. RAi N CO

?. Movi' 3. 762.3 Vjg 5i 4L. ik S. o?gc 8p3p3

6. 4' Bz Me'*r,I 4 i'fz,q' y

'7. Mg : 375qQ

s. , RESRIGNATUREJ TORITOD iL
Scouting and Patrolling 6-3

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).

Figure 6-4. Making a Simple Sketch.

Explanatory notes are annotated in the overlay's

margin, arrows point to the objectives.

• 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.

TREE CLUMP ON SMOKE HILL

071405 JULY 1999

WHITE HOUSE

WITH SMALL

RED BARN ON HILL 406 OUTBUILDINGS

SAME FOR REFERENCE

POINT SHOWN ON MAP
6-4

DRAW THE HORIZONTAL LINES

OF A LANDSCAPE.

MCWP 3-11.3

Figure 6-5. Panoramic Sketch.

PUT IN THE PROMINENT POINTS.

TRENCHES IN WHEAT FIELD

RED TANKAND BARN

AZIMUTH 22°

PUT NOTES ABOVE SKETCH. PUT

AZIMUTh FROM POSITiON TO MOST

PROMINENT POINT IN ThE SKETCH.

TRENCHES IN WHEAT FIELD

RED TANK AND BARN

AZIMUTh 22°

GIVE SKETCH A TrrLE. SHOW

WHERE IT WAS MADE, THE DATE

AND TIME, AND SIGN IT.
Scouting and Patrolling

I ENEMY PLATOON

CONSTRUCTING TRENCH

AND BARBED WIRE

6 ENEMY TRUCKS WENT *

NORTH AND 2 WENT SOUTH

BETWEEN 0700 AND 0800

I BELIEVE A

I

MACHINEGUN IS

LOCATED HERE

SOLIDLY BUILT

CEMENT BRIDGE

FORK BETWEEN BRIDGE AND

STREAM, WATER 182 FEET

DEEP, GRAVEL BOTTOM

SLOPING BANKS

Figure 6-6. Simple' Overlay.

NOT TO SCALE

MAP EMMITSBURG SHEET

08005 OCTOBER 1999

c2. 41Z

MY POSON

WHEN MAKING

OVERLAY

XkV

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.

When fired upon, scouts must drop to cover and return

fire only when necessary to complete the mission. If

SCOUTS

Figure 7-1. Position of Scouts Preceding

an Attacking Platoon.
7-2 MCWP 3-11.3

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

PICK OUT POSSIBLE POSITIONS THAT HAVE A GOOD

FIELD OF FIRE, INDICATED BY + 4 BELOW.

POSITIONS WHICH AFFORD THE ENEMY COVER ARE

POSSIBLE MACHINEGUN POSITIONS.

POSITIONS FROM WHICH FLANKING FIRE CAN BE

DELIVERED ARE CONSIDERED THE MOST DANGEROUS.

order to be prepared to go into action immediately and

to cover a wide frontage of 50 to 75 meters.

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

Figure 7-2. Assessing Probable Enemy Machine

Gun Positions.
Scouting and Patrolling 7-3

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

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.

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.

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

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

I signal forward

and proceed.

Crossing open space,

scout sees position

from which machinegun 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.

Figure 7-3. Conduct of Scouts

Preceding a Platoon.
7-4 MCWP 3-11.3

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

fire team as it exits the woods and directs the team

leader to move out and continue the scouting mission.

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, bunkders, 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.

)5 ?

— —0— (CJf3 A

3

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.

0-Outpost position of scout.
Scouting and Patrolling 7-5

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.

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 out-post

position.

Figure 7-5. Searching Edge of a Wood line (Light

Underbrush/Good Visibility).

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.

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.

8002. RELATION OF PATROLLING TO

SCOUTING 8004. TYPES OF PATROLS

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

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
8-2 MCWP 3-11.3

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

Waterbome 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.

Figure 8-1. Changing Position After Firing.
Scouting and Patrolling 8-3

• 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 andlor 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:

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

• 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,

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

overall concept of operations to include the patrol plan

and the specific tasks for each patrol.

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.

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

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

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.
10-2 MCWP 3-11.3

• 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 reentering 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.

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 com-mander.

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 (includin attachments) needed for

the mission. Post-patrol support such as debriefmgs 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

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
Scouting and Patrolling 10-3

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 defmition) 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 indude 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 defmed 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
MCWP 3-1 1.3

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. Includes 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.
Scouting and Patrolling 10-5

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 11002. ORGANIZATION FOR MOVEMENT

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

andlor 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.

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 colunm 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.
11-2 MCWP 3-11.3

• 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 machinegun 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

0

+

0

50 METERS

Figure 11-1. Squad Patrol with Attached Mortar

Forward Observer Team and Machine Gun Squad.

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.

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

FIRST

FIRE 01 TEAM

100 METERS

ORO

081 FO

Q81 RO

0 SECOND

FIRE

TEAM

0 0

0 1

0

SQUAD

00

THIRD

FIRE

TEAM

0
Scouting and Patrolling 11-3

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.
11-4 MCWP 3-11.3

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 flanic, 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
Scouting and Patrolling

- 11-5

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 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.

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

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.
11-6 MCWP3-11.3

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 establishment 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

fmal 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.
Scouting and Patrolling 11-7

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.

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
11-8 — I.'. — I, II II I, II II I' I, ii II I, I, II It ii it It

II II II ii ii Ig ii ii

III!1kTIIItT

I I

I I

SI I II I 'I 'I *

Figure 11-2. Immediate Action, Air Attack.

MCWP 3-11.3

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.

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

correct 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
Scouting and Patrolling 11-9

RADIO MAN

jO., PATROL LEADER!

'*' SQUAD LEADER

Figure 11-3. Immediate Action, Hasty 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

maneu-ver 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

,

• 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.

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.

A

ENEMY

302 0

202

0

LEGEND

O

LEFT FLANK LF SECURITY

(3 RIGHT FLANK

R SECURITY

POINT MAN

• FREEZE is signaled by the

individual who thinks he

sees or hears the enemy.

• Once the enemy Is Identified,

the P1 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.
11-10 MCWP 3-11.3

ENEMY

ENEMY

2()2

Ø2 -0 ENEMY

S 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.

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?

+

@0'

®I

• 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.

J__ENEMY__[

• 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.

0

0

0 PATROL
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

or through the use of global positioning satellite

receivers.

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.

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 enemyemplaced 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

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 ttype 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).

12002. SPECIFIC MISSIONS

•

•

•

•

•
12-2 MCWP 3-11.3

• 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.

• Composition of surface. • Condition.

• Road blocks. • Gradientldegrees of slopes. • Curves (location and length). • Pitch and culvert locations. • Primary use and frequency of use.

12003. TYPES OF RECONNAISSANCE

critical points, vehicle weight and size limitations, and

locations for friendly obstacle emplacement.

The objective area is normally defmed 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 defrned by a line of departure, lateral boundaries, and a limit of advance.

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 5-1 2A, 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 trafficablility, danger areas,

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.

•

•

• • Roads: • Width.

Route
12-3 Scouting and Patrolling

Reinforcing the squad is based on METT-T. If two

squads are required, then the mission should be

assigned to a platoon.

12005. SIZE OF RECONNAISSANCE

PATROLS

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.

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.

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.

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
12-4 MCWP 3-11.3

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 po- sitioning 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 pre- paration 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 andlor

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:

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.

• 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

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 moveing to and from the objective. (Refer to

MCWP 3-4 1.2, Raids.) Surprise, firepower, and
13-2 MCWP 3-11.3

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 defmite 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,
13-3 Scouting and Patrolling

the patrol leader quickly reorganizes the patrol and

begins the return movement to friendly lines. 13005. AMBUSH PATROLS

General

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

defmite 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.

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 over-all 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
13-4 MCWP 3-11.3

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 reenter 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.

Afar 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 suc'ess. The ideal situation would be to

position the ambush on favorable terrain and have

detailed planning completed beforehand.
Scouting and Patrolling 13-5

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.
13-6 MCWP3-11.3

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
Scouting and Patrolling 13-7

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.

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.

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 andl

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

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 airground 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
13-8 MCWP 3-11.3

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 fmd 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 localpopulation. 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
Scouting and Patrolling 13-9

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 indepth 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. lntra-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 com- munication 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, subsurtace 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.
13-10 MCWP 3-11.3

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 andlor

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 adresses the situation relevant to the specific

patrol (e.g., routes, areas, updated enemy situations).

•

I
Scouting and Patrolling 13-11

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 fmal 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

Indiv-idual 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.

Platoon-sized Patrols. Squads will generally travel

abreast of each other, moving along parallel routes.

The interval between squad-sized units andlor 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).

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
13-12

( HQUNIT )

MCWP 3-11.3

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

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, es-

•pecially 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.

DIRECTION OF MOVEMENT
A&SA )

A&SB )

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

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.

DangerAreas

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. Squadsized 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).

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).

Scouting and Patrolling 13-13

HEAD QUARTERS O®OOR

DIRECTION OF MOVEMENT
13-14

DIRECTION OF MOVEMENT

a

z

C

m

m

MCWP 3-11.3

Figure 13-3. Approaching Danger Area.

': i 't

;isw 2,i'

' %*'W Yis

DIRECTION OF MOVEMENT

Figure 13-4. Securing flanks.

S

a>1

—1

® ::----..

A&SB Ø5'%

S
Scouting and Patrolling 13-15

A&S A

(1UNT1T +® 0

A&S B

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

z

m ——-*( HQUNIT

m

Figure 13-5. HQ Element Moves Through.

------ rn

— ___->Z_-- — —

DIRECTION OF MOVEMENT
13-16

DIRECTION OF MOVEMENT

a

z0

m

MCWP 3-11.3

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.

\

0
Scouting and Patrolling 13-17

• 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 delievered 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,
13-18 MCWP 3-11.3

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 is

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 ait bush 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 discoveiy 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
Scouting and Patrolling 13-19

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

MCWP 3-11.3

well. While the vehicle is being searched the driver

should accompany the searcher around the vehicle.

• 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 nor-mally

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.

VEHICLE CHECKPOINT

EQUIPMENT

STOP SIGNS

BARRIERS

RADIOS AND WIRE PHONES

CONCERTINA WIRE

LIGHTS

SURVEILLANCE EQUIPMENT

FLEX CUFFS

MEGAPHONES

WHISTLES

DISMOUNTED SQUAD-SIZE HASTY URBAN CHECK POINT
Scouting and Patrolling 13-21

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 a 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.
13-22 MCWP 3-11.3

DRIVER

TEAM LDRIVEHICLE CDR

GUNNER

A-GUNNER

A & S TEAM A

DRIVER

PATROL LDR

TEAM LDRIVEHICLE COR

GUNNER

A-GUNNER

HQUNIT

DRIVER

TEAM LDRIVEHICLE CDR

GUNNER

A-GUNNER

A & $ TEAM B

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:

Size

Activity

Location

Unit

Time

Equipment

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
14-2 MCWP 3-11.3

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

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 andlor 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:

A patrol normally does not capture prisoners unless

required by the mission. If prisoners are taken, the "5 S

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.

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 manmade 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.

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

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.

I

S

14005. PATROL CRITIQUE
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,

in-spection, 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. Administrationand 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.
A-2 MCWP 3-11.3

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 andlor 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:
B-2 MCWP 3-11.3

(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.
Scouting and Patrolling B.3

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.
C-2 MCWP 3-11.3

Coordination with Adjacent Units

YjYfly]7[

Did the PL ensure all patrol members were present before issuing the warn- ing 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 asigned 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 equiment common to all based on METT-T? I

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 cocordinated?

Were call signs and frequencies coordinated?

Was a signal for the FPF coordinated so as not to approach friendly lines during this time?

Did the coordinator pass the ze of the patrol?

Was the time of departure and return coordinated?

Did the coordinator give a general area of oeprations for the patrol?

Did the coordinator ask for information on known or suspected enemy posi- tions 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 aval- able and the unit's barrier plan?

Was the location of the lAP 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 unti?

enerai - Did the PL check to ensure all patrol members were present before issuing the patrol order?

Coordination With Front Line Units

Patrol Order
Scouting and Patrolling

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 la (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 bein the area of

operations?

Known locations of enemy units?

Recent activity of enemy units?

Stength of enemy units in the operating area?

Did paragraph lb (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 lc (Commander's Intent) include—

All views and ides of what the commander wants to be accomplished?

The final result desired by the commander?

Did paragraph 1 c (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 3 a (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 m an, corpsman, APL)?

Time of departure and time of return?

C-3
C-4 MCWP 3-11.3

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 lcoations 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 oeprations (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 not change?

Location of the PL during all stages of operation?
Scouting and Patrolling C5

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?

ji the PL ensure that all members knew location of rallying points?

1i._ Iis

I Location of the APL during all stages of operation? I -

I Inspection Rehearsal

General

Did the P L 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? I 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?

-
1' e

MCWP 3-11.3

Actions on Enemy Contact

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?

Did the PL halt patrol a safe distance from a tentative ORP?

Did the PL issue an adequate f rag 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?

Did the Pt 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 advantagc?

Was stealth maintained while moving into the objective?

Actions at Objective
Scouting and Patrolling C-7

Did the P1 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 QRP 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-l.)

Figure D-2. Line Formation (Access Lanes

A disadvantage of the ime formation is the chance that for Assault of Target).

lateral dispersion of the target may be too great for

The main advantage of the line formation is its relative

ease of control under all conditions of visibility. __________________ L Formation

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

Figure 0-1. Line Formation

(Harassing or Destruction Ambush).

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.)

FLANK RESTRICTED BY

TERRAIN, MINES, MAN TRAPS,

OR A COMBINATION OF THESE

SECURITY

TEAM

OBJECTIVE MAN TRAPS

RALLYING POINT

(-)

SECURITY

TEAM

FLANK RESTRICTED BY

TERRAIN, MINES, MAN TRAPS,

OR A COMBINATION OF THESE

I

KILLING ZONE

()

SECURITY

TEAM

C)

SECURITY

TEAM

ASSAULT

OBJECTIVE

RALLYING POINT

C)

SECURITY

TEAM

Figure D-3. "L" Formation (Destruction Ambush).
D-2 MCWP 3-11.3

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.)

"Z" Formation

The "Z" shaped formation is another variation of the

line formation.

4

4

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).

KILLING ZONE

ALTERNATE KILUNG

ZONE IFTARGET

ASSAULTS THROUGH

ATTACK FORCE

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.

C

ASSAULT UNIT

Figure 0-5. "L" Formation.

Figure D-4. "L" Formation

(Bend of Trail or Stream).

ASSAULT UNIT
Scouting and Patrolling D-3

"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.)

\ \

OBJECTIVE

RALLYING POINT

(—)

SECURITY

TEAM

Figure D-7. "1" 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.)

r\tt. ASSAULT

SECURITY

TEAM

Figure 0-8. "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

FLANKS RESTRICTED BY TERRAIN, MINES,

MAN TRAPS, OR A COMBINATION OF THESE.

At'

SECURITY

TEAM

ASSAULT UNIT

SECURITY

TEAM

-0

— LU0 _____ 6< UNIT — -j uJ

SECURITY

a.O TEAM
0-4 MCWP 3-11.3

difficult for the enemy to detect the ambush until it is

well into the killing zone. (See figs. D-9 and D-lO.)

Triangle Formation

The triangle is a variation of the "V" formation and

can be varied in three ways:

Figure 0-9. "V" Formation (Open Terrain).

SECURITY

TEAM

ASSAULT—

UNIT

/ )_ '.—— S.

Figure D-1O. "V" Formation (Close Terrain).

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.

Figure 0-11. 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.

— -4' — — ——

,.S ' -'IS.IS.

I ——

— I V

SECURITY

TEAM
Scouting and Patrolling D-5

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.)

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

TARGET IS THINLY

SURROUNDED. FIRST

TEAM OPENS FIRE.

TARGET ATrACKS.

TEAM WITHDRAWS.

SECOND GROUP OPENS FIRE.

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.)

TARGET

CD

C)

Figure D-12. Open Triangle Formation.

TARGET SHIFTS ATTACK.

SECOND GROUP WiTHDRAWS. 1N)

THIRD TEAM OPENS FIRE.

TARGET SHIFTS ATTACK

THIRD TEAM WITHDRAWS.

TARGET IS PULLED APART.

SUFFERS LOSSES, BUT

AMBUSH FORCES NOT

DECISIVELY ENGAGED.
D-6 MCWP 3-11.3

200-300 METERS

BETWEEN TEAMS

L2LLINGJ

'ZONE,

TARGET ENTERS KILLING

ZONE. NEAREST TEAM

OPENS FIRE.

TARGET

TARGET ATTEMPTS

ESCAPE. NEAREST

TO MANEUVER OR

TEAM OPENS FIRE.

THE TARGET ATTEMPTS TO

EACH TEAM ATTACKS AS

MANEUVER OR ESCAPES. c

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.)

ONE OR MORE TEAMS

MAY ASSAULT TO

ENVELOP OR DESTROY

THE TARGET.

Figure D-13. Open Triangle Formation (Destruction Ambush).
Scouting and Patrolling D-7

TARGET IS ThINLY

SURROUNDED ONE

TEAM OPENS FIRE.

I TARGET

C

TARGET ATTACKS,

TEAM WITHDRAWS.

A REAR TEAM OPENS FIRE. I TARGET

TARGET SHIFTS ATTACI(

TEAM WITHDRAWS.

SECOND FORWARD TEAM

OPENS FIRE.

@

TARGET AGAIN SHIFTS

ATACI( TEAM WITHDRAWS. SECOND REAR TEAM

£

TARGET ATTACKS AND

IS PULLED APART.

SUFFERS LOSSES. AMBUSH

FORCES NOT DECISIVELY L2

ENGAGED.

Figure 0-14. Box Formation (Harrassing Ambush).

c_ c
D-8 MCWP 3-11.3

200-300 METERS

BETWEEN TEAMS. (2-

KILLING

ZONE

TARGET ENTERS KILLING

ZONE. NEAREST TEAM

OPENS FIRE.

TARGET ATTEMPTS

TO MANEUVER OR

ESCAPE. NEAREST

TEAM OPENS FIRE.

SUCCESSIVE TEAMS ATTACK

AS TARGET ATTEMPTS TO

MANEUVER OR ESCAPE.

ONE OR MORE TEAMS

MAY ASSAULT TO

ENVELOP OR DESTROY

THE TARGET.

()

dIIc1 II

()

Figure D-15. Box Formation (Destruction Ambush).

C
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

5-1 2C Marine Corps Supplement to the DOD Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms

•IJ•• Government Printing Office: 2000— 466-581/20246