Whatever techniques are used, it must always be remembered
that the primary mission of the recon patrol is to gather information; it is
not to engage the enemy. The techniques used are those which provide for
the patrol's security.
(4)
Selection of Tactics.
(a) Traveling Overwatch. This method is used when contact
with the enemy is possible, but not expected. It allows the patrol to move
quickly, but with caution.
Traveling overwatch gives the patrol time and
distance to react if the lead element unexpectedly takes enemy fire.
The patrol moves in a column formation.
The lead
element moves continuously.
The trail elements, and vehicles in between,
maintain an interval of from 100 to 400 meters from the lead and each other.
The distance will depend on the terrain.
Visual contact between elements
should be maintained.
The lead element sets the pace.
The lead element
should always be prepared to return fire immediately.
The last element
should be prepared to maneuver to support the lead and to place suppressive
fire.
(b) Bounding Overwatch.
This is the most cautious and
deliberate of movement techniques. The overwatch element takes a position
where they can observe and provide a field of fire.
When possible, the
position should offer cover and concealment. The overwatch element covers
the forward movement of the bounding element to its new position. When the
bounding element reaches and secures its new position, the roles are
exchanged.
The bounding element then becomes the overwatch element.
The
length of each bound depends on the terrain, visibility, and the range of
the weapons being used.
All overwatch elements have basically the same tasks.
Support the bounding element with direct fire.
Maneuver in support of the bounding element.
Call for indirect fire.
Use covered and concealed positions.
Overwatch elements should be controlled by one person.
He must be able to communicate directly with the bounding element.
These
communications may be visual. The overwatch element must cover the flanks
and rear, as well as the front, of the bounding element. Each element must
be assigned specific tasks.
For example, each individual is given a
specific sector to observe.
Now that you have completed the planning, it is time
to organize and prepare your team.
(5)
Organize/Prepare.
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MP1028
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