patrol base operations

Question 1

patrol base

Answer 1

location from which to conduct patrolling operations, which itself is a means to transition to decisive actions

Question 2

PB should facilitate

Answer 2

control of the unit
base from which to execute operations
reorganization after infiltrating
avoiding detection by minimizing movement
performing concurrent actions
planning and issuing orders

Question 3

PB location determined by

Answer 3

terrain that is little value to the enemy
terrain that is away from main lines of drift
close to a water source
terrain that offers multiple egress routes
provides cover and concealment but open enough to facilitate actions needed within the PB
Defendable for a short period of time
has communication his higher headquarters

Question 4

Active PB security

Answer 4

security personnel (apexes)/sections
automatic weapons
fields of fire- selective clearing
LP/Ops, claymores, early warning devices, R&S patrols
Alert plan
Withdrawal plan
Engagement Criteria

Question 5

Passive PB security

Answer 5

terrain of little tactical value
concealment
one entry and exit
field discipline
internal communication/brevity
minimal movement
track management
not the same PB twice

Question 6

security element

Answer 6

responsible for the security of the patrol base

Question 7

support element

Answer 7

prep for combat actions prior to departing on patrol
and serve as a quick reaction force to assist the assault element

Question 8

assault element

Answer 8

responsible for conducting patrols and is the commander’s bid for success in answering PIRs and IRS
Conduct a patrol debrief to ensure all relevant information gathered has been communicated to the platoon commander, platoon sergeant, and other squad leaders

Question 9

platoon commander

Answer 9

focus on updating the enemy situation, planning the next patrols and communication with HHQ; should patrol only when necessary

Question 10

platoon sergeant

Answer 10

focused internally on all individual actions to include but not limited to: security, camouflage, and light and noise discipline.
The platoon sergeant should also keep accountability of all personnel and logistics

Question 11

security element leader

Answer 11

responsible for ensuring that all positions are manned and alert, and for managing the element’s internal rotation plan to ensure adequate rest
coordinate with platoon leadership to ensure apexes are placed to achieve 360 security, or place additional positions as required

Question 12

support element leader

Answer 12

responsible for conducting tac-planning, developing, and briefing patrol order, and supervising prep for combat actions for their unit

Question 13

assault element leaders

Answer 13

responsible for leading their squad on patrol and providing updates to the platoon commander upon reaching CPs/NAIs, answering PIRs, encountering the enemy, or in accordance with comm windows
lead patrol debrief