enemy is active in the area.
The air element helps locate the enemy and
provide warning and support to the ground element.
4.
Mission Planning.
Whichever method is employed, the key to success in a recon mission is
planning and preparation.
Most of the problems that may be met when
conducting the recon can be eliminated through careful planning.
Prior
planning prevents poor performance.
The first step in planning is to
analyze the mission order.
a.
Mission Analysis.
The mission order should follow the format of a field order. If
any part of it is not provided or understood, the patrol leader should seek
that information from the person issuing the order.
(1) Situation.
Examine the information given on friendly and
enemy forces.
If there are friendly units already using the route, or
located near it, they can be a source of valuable information.
They may
also be able to come to your assistance should your patrol come under
attack. Information about the enemy is also important. It will determine
the maneuver techniques you will use to conduct the patrol.
Such
information may also cause you to select different weapons or additional
(2) Mission.
This paragraph will contain a clear, concise
statement of the task or tasks to be accomplished. It is based on the order
from the next higher headquarters. This part of the order will tell who is
to do it; what you are to do; when to do it; where to do it; and why you are
doing it.
(3) Execution.
This part of the order will provide you with
information on how to proceed. It is here also that you will be told what
method will be used to conduct the patrol.
Special tasks may also be
assigned.
Each team will be told what task it is to perform and how the
team will do it. If there are special intelligence requirements, they will
be included in this part of the order.
The rules of engagement for the
patrol will be specified.
Additionally, the order will tell you what
actions to take if the patrol has contact with the enemy.
Information
concerning fire support will be provided.
task priorities will be listed.
(4) Service Support.
In this section you will be told what
support is available. Often it may only state that the current SOP is in
effect.
There may, however, for example be restrictions on the type of
ammunition available.
You will also be told what medical support may be
available and how to obtain it.
(5) Command and Signal. This is the section that will tell you
if the current communications-electronic operating instructions (CEOI) is in
effect, or if special frequencies and call signs have been set aside for
this mission. It will also tell you where, when, and what kind of reports
are to
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