(3) Flag.
A flag is used to identify the last vehicle of a column
moving through a defile.
The MP at the holding area gives a flag to the
last driver, or attaches a flag to the last vehicle moving toward the
defile.
The flag is retrieved at the opposite end of the defile and the
operation reversed.
(4) MP Rider.
For this method, a
team member rides in the last
vehicle of the column until it reaches the
opposite end of the defile. He
then dismounts and rides back on the trail
vehicle of the column going the
other way. This technique is used when it
is necessary to ensure that all
vehicles have cleared the area.
(5) MP Lead/Trail Vehicles. MP vehicles are placed in the front and
rear of the column to guide it through the defile. Once the column moves
through the defile, the lead and trail vehicles form a column moving in the
opposite direction. This method is used when movement through the defile is
complex and must have an escort.
The trail vehicles ensures that all
vehicles clear the defile. Modification of this method is possible, using
only a lead or a trail vehicle.
b. Evacuation.
Defile operations require detailed planning and positive control.
The squad leader plans how to evacuate disabled vehicles.
A vehicle
breakdown in a defile can seriously disrupt the flow of traffic on the MSR.
The squad leader requests wrecker support from the nearest maintenance unit.
He requests a driver with wrecker stand by at a defile. MP must be ready to
use field-expedient measures when a wrecker is not available.
Special
equipment for a defile may include communications wire, field phones, signs,
and flags. Each team should also have standard TCP equipment.
c. Control.
Because movement at the defile is restricted, it gives the enemy an
ideal chance to try to disrupt military operations. At a defile, MP must do
several things:
o
Brief drivers about obstructions, such as a road not being wide
enough for vehicles.
o
Control access to the defile so that vehicles move through in the
fastest possible time.
o
Make sure vehicles enter the defile one at a time.
o
Provide security and defends the position.
o
Reroute traffic when necessary.
MP1029
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