c. The recommended format for the raid plan is the standard Army five-
paragraph operation order (see Appendix D.) All the essential elements of the
raid plan can be logically included in one of the five paragraphs:
(1) Paragraph 1.
Situation.
(2) Paragraph 2.
Mission.
(3) Paragraph 3.
Execution.
(4) Paragraph 4.
Administration and Logistics.
(5) Paragraph 5.
Command and Signal.
Other data required for the raid, but not part of the plan, can be attached as
annexes to the operation order.
Examples of other data would be signal
operating instructions, coordination with other agencies, or estimates of the
situation.
5.
Orientation of Personnel.
a. A pre-raid orientation is held with all members of the raiding party.
The raid commander makes assignments and explains the mission. He ensures that
all personnel understand the objectives of the raid and the arrests to be made.
He ensures they know the evidence sought and the hazards that may be met. The
orientation should include all the pertinent aspects of the basic operation
plan. When applicable, it should include the alternate plans.
b. During the orientation, a raid diagram and/or scale model of the raid
area should be used along with the operation plan.
Such a diagram is an
invaluable aid.
It helps in determining personnel needs and specific
locations.
It aids in assigning positions, allocating weapons, and mapping
movements. Indicated on the diagram should be the position, specific duties,
and movements, of each member of the raiding party.
6.
Essentials of Execution.
a. To be effective, a raid must be conducted with speed and surprise.
That is, the subjects of the raid must not know they are targets until the
operation has begun.
To achieve the element of surprise, the raid must be
carried out in secrecy and speedily.
The raid should be conducted when the
subjects least expect and are least prepared for it. When possible, the raid
should be conducted from an unexpected direction.
An example would be
approaching from the rear or through seemingly impassable terrain. During the
planning phase, the number of persons with knowledge of the coming raid must be
kept to a minimum. Extreme care must be taken to prevent the "tip off" of raid
subjects.
Once begun, the raid must be carried out speedily and precisely.
Such action will prevent the subjects from organizing a defense and/or
destroying evidence. It will prevent their escaping or assisting the escape of
others. It will also prevent the possible ambush of the raiding party.
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