Defile operations may require as many personnel as a full squad to
perform the operation. However, signs can be used in defile operations to
reduce the need for military policeman.
Where turns in the road exist
between a holding area and a defile, MP can use a sign rather than a TCP.
A squad at a defile has a squad leader to provide leadership. One
team sets up a nearby holding area. The second team sets up a holding area
at the opposite end. The third team provides control at the defile site.
MP from each team are detailed to provide security at their respective
locations.
Large defile operations require holding areas at each end of the
defile. Where MP set up the holding areas depends on the sites available
and the ease of communications.
Security for the teams operating a defile is important.
Teams
operating holding areas provide their own security. The team leader at the
defile selects the automatic weapon position, selecting key terrain that
overlooks the defile. He ensures that the vehicle is parked in a covered
and concealed location. More information on holding areas will be covered
in the following paragraphs.
6.
Establish a Holding Area.
a. Purpose. A holding area is an area where traffic can be moved off
the road to ease congestion, wait for the proper time to clear a TCP or
checkpoint, reorganize in case of attack, or organize to attack.
In
selecting a holding area, military police must consider using a location
that meets the following criteria:
o
Offers cover, concealment, and dispersion.
o
Is easily located, with easy entrances and exits.
o
Has a firm surface to withstand traffic weight and movement.
o
Is easy to defend.
Holding areas established by military police are controlled by
They are waiting areas where vehicles and troops can be
held temporarily. MP direct vehicles, convoys, and troops into and out of
the holding area to keep the flow of traffic moving steadily on the MSR. MP
may operate a holding area as an independent measure or along with other
measures, such as defiles or checkpoints, to support BCC. Equipment needed
at a holding area includes the standard items needed for a TCP. Signs are
almost always a requirement.
b. Team Duties.
The number of MP teams needed to operate a holding
area depends on the holding area's size. When one team is tasked to operate
a holding area, the teamleader provides leadership, communications, and
security. A second MP controls the entry, while the third controls the exit
to the holding area.
3-7
MP1029
Previous Page
