MCTP 3-01A Scout Patroll

USMC
MCTP 3-01A
(Formerly MCWP 3-11.3)
Scouting and Patrolling
U.S. Marine Corps
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
PCN 147 000014 00
USMC
DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY
Headquarters United States Marine Corps
Washington, D.C. 20350-3000
4 April 2018
CHANGE 1 to MCTP 3-01A

Scouting and Patrolling
1. This publication has been edited to ensure gender neutrality of all applicable and appropriate
terms, except those terms governed by higher authority. No other content has been affected.
2. File this transmittal sheet in the front of this publication.
Reviewed and approved this date.
BY DIRECTION OF THE COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS
ROBERT S. WALSH
Lieutenant General, U.S. Marine Corps
Deputy Commandant for Combat Development and Integration
Publication Control Numbers:

Publication: 147 000014 00
Change: 147 000014 01
CD&I (C 116)
2 May 2016
ERRATUM
to
MCWP 3-11.3
SCOUTING AND PATROLLING
1. Change all instances of MCWP 3-11.3, Scouting and Patrolling, to MCTP 3-01A, Scouting
and Patrolling.
2. Change PCN 143 000075 00 to PCN 147 000014 00
3. File this transmittal sheet in the front of this publication.
PCN 147 000014 80

DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY
Headquarters United States Marine Corps
Washington, DC 20380-1776
17 April 2000
FOREWORD
1. PURPOSE
Marine Corps Warfighting Publication (MCWP) 3-11.3, Scouting and Patrolling,

provides the doctrinal foundation and the tactics, techniques, and procedures for
scouting and patrolling conducted by Marines from the fire team to the company level.
Although the information focuses on infantry units, much of the information is also
applicable to combat support units that are assigned patrolling missions.
2. SCOPE
MCWP 3-11.3 provides all Marines with the instructional material they need to build
the skills necessary to become effective scouts and patrol team members. This
publication provides the fundamentals of scouting and patrolling and their relationship
to each other. It also addresses organizational structure of teams and patrols, the
training required to develop teamwork, and reporting requirements.
3. SUPERSESSION
MCWP 3-11.3 supersedes Fleet Marine Force Manual (FMFM) 6-7, Scouting and
Patrolling, dated 6 January 1989.
4. CERTIFICATION
Reviewed and approved this date.
BY DIRECTION OF THE COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS
J. E. RHODES
Lieutenant General, U.S. Marine Corps
Commanding General
Marine Corps Combat Development Command
DISTRIBUTION: 143 000075 00

TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I. SCOUTING
Chapter 1. Fundamentals of Scouting
1001 Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

1002 Required Scouting Skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Chapter 2. Terrain, Maps, and Direction
2001 Terrain Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

2002 The Lensatic Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2003 Stars, Sun, and Other Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
2004 Range Determination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Chapter 3. Enemy Activity
3001 Estimating Enemy Strengths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

3002 Interpreting Signs and Tracks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3003 Knowing the Enemy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Chapter 4. Daylight Scouting
4001 Cover and Concealment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

4002 Camouflage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
4003 Individual Movement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
4004 Route Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Chapter 5. Night Scouting
5001 Night Vision. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

5002 Appearance of Objects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
5003 Sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
5004 Smells and Touch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
5005 Clothing and Weapons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
5006 Concealment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
5007 Aids to Night Scouting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
5008 Aids to Night Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
5009 Locating and Plotting the Enemy at Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
50010 Routes of Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
Chapter 6. Observing and Reporting
6001 Observation Posts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

6002 Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
________________________________________________________________________________________________
ii MCWP 3-11.3
Chapter 7. Scouting Fire Team
7001 Positioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

7002 Locating Enemy Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
7003 Action With an Attacking Platoon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
7004 Action With an Enveloping Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
PART 2. INFANTRY PATROLLING
Chapter 8. Fundamentals of Infantry Patrolling
8001 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1

8002 Relation of Patrolling to Scouting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
8003 Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
8004 Types of Patrols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
8005 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
8006 Keys to Successful Patrolling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
Chapter 9. Patrol Organization
9001 General Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

9002 Task Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1
Chapter 10. Patrol Preparation
10001 Mission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1

10002 Factors Influencing Patrol Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1
10003 Commander’s Duties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1
10004 Patrol Leader Duties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2
Chapter 11. Movement to and Return from the Objective Area
11001 Passage of Lines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

11002 Organization for Movement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1
11003 Control Measures for Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4
11004 Precautions at Danger Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-5
11005 Hide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-6
11006 Immediate Actions Upon Enemy Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-6
11007 Patrol Leader’s Action in a Developing Situation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-10
11008 Return From Objective Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-10
Chapter 12. Reconnaissance Patrols
12001 General Missions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1

12002 Specific Missions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1
12003 Types of Reconnaissance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2
12004 Task Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2
12005 Size of Reconnaissance Patrols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-3
____________________________________________________________________________________
Scouting and Patrolling iii
12006 Reconnaissance Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-3

12007 Reconnaissance Patrol Actions at the Objective Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-3
Chapter 13. Combat Patrols
13001 Task Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-1

13002 Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-1
13003 Raid Patrols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-1
13004 Contact Patrols. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-3
13005 Ambush Patrols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-3
13006 Security Patrols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-7
13007 Urban Patrols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-8
Chapter 14. Information and Reports
14001 Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1

14002 Captured Items. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
14003 Prisoners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-2
14004 Patrol Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-2
14005 Patrol Critique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-2
Appendix A. Patrol Warning Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A-1
Appendix B. Patrol Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1
Appendix C. Patrol Evaluation Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1
Appendix D. Ambush Formations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .D-1
Appendix E. Acronyms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1
Appendix F. References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-1

PART I. SCOUTING
CHAPTER 1. FUNDAMENTALS OF SCOUTING
Scouting involves observing terrain and/or the enemy, and accurately reporting
those observations. Scouting requires proficiency in the use of weapons, cover
and concealment, route selection, and skill in unobserved day or night movement.
the enemy, the terrain, and adjacent friendly units.

1001. PURPOSE Well-trained scouts and capably led patrols are among
the most effective means the commander has for
acquiring the information necessary to plan tactical
When an infantry unit is not actively fighting the actions and make decisions in execution.
enemy, it should be actively searching for the enemy,
which is the primary purpose of scouting. The unit
attempts to keep the enemy off balance while making
preparations for further attacks. Physically locating 1002. REQUIRED SCOUTING SKILLS
and keeping the enemy off balance are normally
accomplished by small units ranging from a two-
person scouting party to a squad-size patrol. To be effective, a scout must be able to—
Infantrymen are sent out as scouts or as members of a l Recognize terrain features.
patrol because the commander needs information l Read a map and determine direction.
about the enemy, terrain, and the location of friendly
troops. The lives of the entire unit may depend upon l Practice and implement the principles of cover and
the success or failure of a scout or patrol and the concealment.
accuracy and timeliness of the report. The success of l Fully utilize movement and route selection.
the scout or patrol will depend upon their training, l Know the enemy (estimate enemy unit composition
preparation by the commander, and understanding and strength).
their mission and the commander’s requirements.
l Observe and report information accurately.
To wage combat successfully, a commander must l Select routes and move through numerous types of
have accurate, detailed, and timely information about terrain.
CHAPTER 2. TERRAIN, MAPS, AND DIRECTION
A scout must understand map symbols, identify elevations from contour interval
lines, scale distance on a map, relate natural and man-made features shown on the
map to the actual features on the ground, plot a course from one point to another,
and locate the scout’s current position. To relate a map to the actual terrain and its
features, a scout must be able to orient it to the ground using a compass, two
points, a watch, and the sun or the stars.
The standard compass for general use in the Marine

2001. TERRAIN FEATURES Corps is the pivot-mounted lensatic compass, so called
because azimuths are read through a magnifying lens
in the eyepiece. Figure 2-2, on page 2-2, shows the
Since the infantry works and fights on the ground, lensatic compass and its nomenclature. The meter
terrain ashore information that scouts gather and graphic scale on the side of the compass is 1:50,000,
report on is of great importance. Hills, valleys, woods, which is the most used scale in military mapping. The
and streams are the forms and growths commonly graphic scale is useful in the field as a straightedge, an
referred to as natural land features. Artificial or man- aid in orienting the map, and a means of reading map
made features include houses, bridges, and railroads. grid coordinates. The plastic dial is graduated in both
Figure 2-1 shows some important terrain features. degrees and mils. Numbers on the dial are printed in
black. There are luminous markings on the bezel,
floating dial, and on both ends of the sighting wire,
plus a 3-degree bezel serration and clicking device that
2002. THE LENSATIC COMPASS permit reading azimuths at night. The compass is
carried in a nylon case that may be attached to the
cartridge belt.
The best method of finding direction, during both day
and night, is with a compass. The lensatic and M2 are
Magnetic compasses are affected by the presence of
the two types of compasses issued to infantry units.
iron or magnetic fields. Consequently, the scout
Both work on the same principle.
should not be within the influence of local magnetic
Figure 2-1. Natural and Artificial Terrain Features.

______________________________________________________________________________________________
2-2 MCWP 3-11.3
Figure 2-2. Lensatic Compass.
attraction while using a compass to determine direc- of the hand closed. The closed hand and wrist are
tion. The rifle, pistol, and other metal objects must be grasped with the other hand. The elbows are drawn in
laid aside when reading the compass. The minimum close to the body, forming a firm foundation for the
distances the scout should be from visible masses of compass. The eye is placed to the lens on the eyepiece.
iron and electrical fields of magnetism for the compass The compass is pointed at the object or point to which
to provide accurate readings are provided below. the azimuth is to be read. A sighting is taken through
the sighting slot in the eyepiece, and the point is lined
up with the sighting wire in the cover. The compass is
Minimum held until the dial steadies; then the reading is taken
Distances
Magnetic Fields
(meters) through the lens of the eyepiece. This reading is the
magnetic azimuth of the line from the observer to the
High tension powerlines 60 point.
Field guns 20
Vehicles (wheeled or tracked) 20 Reading a Back Azimuth
Telephone and telegraph wires 10 A back azimuth is the direction opposite the line of
Barbed wire 10 sight. If the azimuth is less than 180 degrees, the back
Machine gun 3
azimuth is obtained by adding 180 degrees. If the
azimuth is greater than 180 degrees, the back azimuth
Rifle, pistol 1 is obtained by subtracting 180 degrees. Back azimuths
are used to determine a return route or to resection to
determine a current position.
Reading an Azimuth
To read an azimuth to any point, the cover of the Circumventing Obstacles
compass is raised to an angle of 90 degrees in relation
to the index face, and the eyepiece is lifted to a 45- When a scout is traveling on an azimuth and comes
degree angle in relation to the bezel, or so the numbers upon an obstacle—such as a contaminated area,
on the dial can be seen. The thumb of either hand is minefield or swamp—the following steps (sometimes
placed in the thumb loop, the index finger extended referred to as the 90-degree offset method) is em-
along the side of the compass case, and the remainder ployed to go around or circumvent the obstacle and
___________________________________________________________________________________
Scouting and Patrolling 2-3
resume movement along the original azimuth (see fig. must be fully charged by sunlight or artificial light,
2-3). The steps are as follows: such as a flashlight. To set a compass—
1. Move up to the obstacle and make a full 90- 1. Move the compass so that the desired azimuth
degree turn to the right (or left). on the dial is directly under the index line on the
lower glass.
2. Walk beyond the obstacle, keeping track of the
distance in paces or meters. 2. Rotate the upper movable glass so that the
luminous line is directly above the north arrow of the
3. Stand at the end of the obstacle, face in the dial.
original direction of march, and follow that azimuth
until the obstacle has been passed. 3. Set the compass for marching at night on the
specified azimuth.
4. Make a 90-degree turn to the left (or right) and
move the distance previously measured to return to —OR—
the original line of march.
1. Face the general direction of movement.
2. Line up the north arrow and the luminous line on
the bezel with the luminous sighting dots.
3. Hold the compass still with one hand and grip the
knurled bezel ring with the other hand.
4. Turn the bezel ring the prescribed number of
clicks in the proper direction, remembering that
each click equals 3 degrees. For example, to set an
azimuth of 21 degrees, the bezel ring would be
turned seven clicks to the left.
5. Turn the whole compass until the north needle
lines up with the luminous line. The compass is then
set on the desired azimuth. The azimuth is the line
formed by the two luminous sighting dots on the
inside of the cover.
Figure 2-3. Circumventing an Obstacle. To march on a preset azimuth during night movement,
open the compass and move it so the north arrow is
directly below the luminous line (see fig. 2-4). Move
Following an Azimuth During the Day
The eye is placed to the lens in the eyepiece and the
compass moved until the desired azimuth reading is
visible beneath the fixed index. Without moving the
compass, the vision is shifted from the lens through
the sighting slot in the eyepiece, and a sighting is taken
out beyond the sighting wire in the cover. A prominent
terrain feature on this line of sight is selected, the com-
pass closed, and the landmark approached. When the
scout reaches the landmark, the procedure is repeated.
Following an Azimuth at Night

It is necessary to prepare and set the compass before
departing on a night movement because at night only
the luminous parts of the compass can be seen. To
prepare the compass for night use, the luminous parts
Figure 2-4. Following a Night Azimuth.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
2-4 MCWP 3-11.3
in the direction of the line formed by the two luminous

sighting dots. It is necessary to refer to the compass
more frequently at night than during the day. If stars
are visible, find a prominent star along the azimuth of
movement to use as a reference point. When the view
of the sky is restricted by overcast conditions or vege-
tation, send a scout forward along the azimuth of
movement to the limit of visibility. This scout is guid-
ed along the azimuth of movement by a stationary na-
vigator. When the scout reaches the limit of visibility,
the navigator moves to the scout’s location. This pro-
cess is repeated until the destination is reached.
A more rapid method for reaching the scout’s

destination is to equip the navigator with a compass.
The navigator can set the compass as explained earlier
and the scout proceeds providing security 180 degrees
to the front on the specified azimuth, receiving right
and left corrections from the navigator while both are
on the move. The point scout must stay within visual
range of the navigator. If available, a strip of white or
luminous tape on the back of the point scout’s helmet
will assist.
Intersection
Figure 2-5. Intersection.
Intersection is the location of an unknown point by
successively occupying at least two, preferably three
known positions and sightings on the unknown point. To check accuracy, move to a third position and repeat
It is used to locate features not depicted on the map or steps 1 thorough 4. Where the lines cross is the
not readily identifiable. To determine an intersection, location of the unknown position. Using three lines, a
perform the following steps (see fig. 2-5): triangle is sometimes formed—called the triangle of
error—instead of an intersection. If the triangle is
1. Orient the map using the compass. large, recheck your work to find the error. Do not
assume that the position is at the center of the triangle.
2. Locate and mark your position on the map.
3. Measure the magnetic azimuth to the unknown Resection
position; then convert to grid azimuth.
Resection is the location of the user’s unknown
4. Draw a line on the map from your position on this position by sighting on two or three known features
grid azimuth.
that are identifiable on the map. To determine a
5. Move to a second known position from which resection, perform the following steps (see fig. 2-6):
unknown point is visible. Locate this position on the
map and again orient the map using the compass. 1. Orient the map using the compass.
The second unknown position should be a minimum
of 30 degrees offset from the first position. 2. Locate two or three known positions on the
ground and mark them on the map.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5.
3. Measure the magnetic azimuth to a known
position then convert to grid azimuth.
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4. Change the grid azimuth to a back azimuth and Zone (north of the equator), the Big Dipper constel-
draw a line on the map from the known position lation is one key to determining direction of true north.
back toward the unknown position. It is made up of seven fairly bright stars in the shape of
5. Repeat step 3 and step 4 to determine a second a dipper with a long curved handle (see fig. 2-7). The
known position. two stars that form the side of the cup farthest from the
handle, used as pointers, are situated in the direction of
a bright star that is about five times the distance
between the two stars of the dipper cup. This bright
star is the North Star and is directly over the North
Pole. The pointers always designate the North Star,
which is the direction of true north.
Figure 2-7. Locating the North Pole.
In the Southern Hemisphere, true south is determined

in relation to the Southern Cross, a constellation
Figure 2-6. Resection. composed of five stars. Two bright pointer stars in the
vicinity of the Southern Cross serve as locators to help
To check accuracy, repeat the steps above for a third locate true south (see fig. 2-8). The outer four stars are
known position. The intersection of the lines is your
location. Using three lines, a triangle of error may be
formed. If the triangle is large, recheck.
2003. STARS, SUN, AND OTHER

FEATURES
In rare cases when a scout is without a compass, the

following examples are alternate means to determine
direction. When using constellations to determine
direction, identify your location’s Temperate Zone. A
Temperate Zone is the area between the tropics and
the polar circles.
At night, the stars provide an excellent means of

maintaining a line of march. In the North Temperate Figure 2-8. Locating the South Pole.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
2-6 MCWP 3-11.3
fairly bright and form a cross. This cross is imagined

as the frame of a kite. A straight tail, four and one half
times as long as the length of the kite itself, is put on
the kite using finger widths for a measuring stick. The
end of this tail will be close to a position directly over
the South Pole. Usually, it will not be possible to see a
star in the immediate vicinity, because there is no
bright star visible directly above the South Pole.
During daylight hours, a watch and the sun can be

used to determine direction within 8 degrees. In the
North Temperate Zone, the watch is held horizontally,
face up, and the hour hand pointed at the sun (see fig. Figure 2-10. Determining Direction by Watch and
2-9). The north-south line and the direction of south Sun (South Temperate Zone).
can be found midway between the hour hand and the
number 12, if the watch is set on standard time. If in
daylight savings time, the direction of south is found using a mountain for orientation. By previous study of
midway between the hour hand and the number 1. maps and photographs, a scout can keep informed of
location and direction by using a distinctive edge of
woods, a deep ravine or the direction of a stream’s
flow. A scout should constantly evaluate and
memorize both the immediate terrain and general area
for prominent features and landmarks.
2004. RANGE DETERMINATION
Range determination is the method of finding the

distance between an observer and an enemy target or
an object. By accurate range determination, the
members of a given unit can set their sights correctly
and place effective fire on enemy targets. The degree
of accuracy is dependent on several factors, such as
terrain relief, time available, and experience of the
Figure 2-9. Determining Direction by Watch and observer.
Sun (North Temperate Zone).
Mental Estimation
In the South Temperate Zone, if the watch is set on
standard time, the number 12 on the watch is pointed A mental distance estimate is made using a known unit
at the sun; if the watch is set on daylight savings time, of measure. Distance is estimated to the nearest 100
the number 1 is pointed at the sun. North is midway meters by determining the number of known units of
between 12 (or 1) and the hour hand (see fig. 2-10). measure between the observer’s position and a target.
For example, a football field, which is 100 yards, can
When laying in a north-south line, if any doubt exists be used as a known unit of measure for determining
as to which end of the line is north, remember that the the distance between an observer’s position and a
sun is in the east before noon and in the west in the target. For longer distances, progressive estimation
afternoon. may be necessary. To do this, the observer determines
the number of units of measure to an intermediate
In addition to the sun and stars, other methods a scout point and doubles the value. The observer should
without a compass can use to determine direction consider the effects in table 2-1 in estimating dis-
include determining prevailing wind direction and tances.
___________________________________________________________________________________
Table 2-1. Effects to Consider Table 2-2. Estimating Distance

in Mental Estimation of Distances. in Wooded Terrain.
Objects Appear Objects Appear More Distance

Nearer Distant in Tree Description
In bright light. In poor light or in fog.
Meters
In clear air at high altitude. Only a small part of the 1,000 Trunk and main branches are visible. Foliage
object can be seen. appears in cluster-like shape. Daylight may be
seen through the foliage.
The background is in con- The background is similar
trast with the color of the in color to that of the 2,000 Trunk visible, main branches distinguishable,
object. object. foliage appears as smooth surface. Outline of
foliage of separate trees distinguishable.
The observer is looking The observer is looking
down from a height. over a depression, most of 3,000 Lower half of trunk visible. Branches blend
which is visible. with foliage. Foliage blends with adjoining
trees.
The observer is looking The observer is kneeling
over a depression, most of or sitting, especially on a 4,000 Trunk and branches blend with foliage and
which is hidden. hot day, when the ground appears as a continuous cluster, smooth in
is moist. appearance. Movement of foliage due to wind
cannot be deleted.
The observer is looking
down a straight feature 5,000 and Whole area covered by trees and appears
such as a road. beyond smooth and dark.
The observer is looking

over water, snow, or a uni-
form surface such as a
cultivated field or desert. Table 2-3. Estimating Distance
in Urban Terrain.
Estimating in Good Visibility Distance in Object Identified by the

Meters Unaided Eye
When visibility is good, distances can be estimated by 1,000 Lone tree trunk
using the appearance of tree trunks, branches, and
foliage (as seen by the naked eye) in comparison with 1,500 Individuals and horsemen
map data. Table 2-2 is a guide for wooded terrain. 3,000 Chimneys on rooftops
Table 2-3 is a guide for urban environments.
4,000 Windows in houses
Estimating From a Terrain Study 4,000–5,000 Individual houses in populated area

8,000–9,000 Villages and individual houses
The Marine should always use terrain/map analysis to
assist in estimating distances. When the Marine is 15,000–18,000 Large houses, towers, and steeples
looking in a specific direction, the estimation of
distance can be enhanced by studying the terrain and
comparing it with the map. Particular emphasis should
be given to color contrasts of terrain features seen the distance may be identifiable by only slight changes
along the observer-target line (OTL). For example, the of color to the eye. Different colors of grass might
distance across successive ridge lines or depressions in reveal a hidden terrain feature such as a stream.
CHAPTER 3. ENEMY ACTIVITY
A commander often acts on information furnished by scouts. Therefore, scouts

must aim at absolute accuracy in reporting enemy activity. This chapter discusses
estimating enemy strengths, interpreting signs and tracks, and knowing the
enemy.
indicates good discipline. Rubbish, ration and

3001. ESTIMATING ENEMY STRENGTHS smoking residue, and nonessential personal items of
equipment adrift indicate a lower state of morale,
training, and discipline. Stores and material left behind
If troops cannot be counted, their strength may be in good condition may indicate a hasty movement or
estimated by: noting the length of time it takes various withdrawal. Burned or destroyed materials indicate a
types of moving columns to pass given point, the area deliberate, orderly withdrawal or movement. Letters,
required of a unit in camp or bivouac, or the front on insignia, and other articles may reveal the identity of
which they are deployed. When the ground is dry, the enemy unit.
infantry on the march raise a low, thick cloud of dust,
and motor vehicles or mechanized units raise a In the case of a moving enemy, the distance between
thick, rapidly moving cloud. Additionally, through periodic halts indicates the rate of march if enemy
practice, a scout may gain information as to the habits relative to marches and halts are known. Con-
strength and composition of enemy forces by listening dition of the halt areas indicates the state of morale,
to noises and observing lights, fires, and smoke. A training, and discipline.
scout gains valuable experience in estimating enemy
strengths by observing friendly forces in camp, on the
The physical condition of enemy dead and wounded
march, and deployed. The knowledge scouts gain
and their personal equipment and weapons are
during field exercises of the appearance and tactical
reported. The general condition and state of main-
dispositions of squads, platoons, companies, and
tenance of destroyed or abandoned vehicles should
larger units will be of great assistance in estimating the
also be reported.
strength and composition of enemy units observed
under various conditions.
Tracks
A track is a mark left on the ground by the passage of a
3002. INTERPRETING SIGNS AND person or object. Examination of tracks reveals infor-
TRACKS mation about the enemy.
Troops
In addition to estimates made through direct ob-
servation, a scout may often be able to estimate size, A few tracks overlapping each other on both sides of a
composition, direction, rate of movement, condition, road or trail may indicate a patrol in staggered
discipline, state of training, and morale of enemy formation. A large number of tracks indicates troops in
forces through signs and tracks left behind. column formation. A large column will wear a dry
road smooth and flat. In damp terrain, a freshly made
track will have sharp edges; ordinarily, signs of
Signs moisture will disappear in about 15 minutes. A run-
ner’s toes are dug into the ground; a walker’s footprint
The examination of vacated enemy positions provides is fairly even.
valuable information. The size of a bivouac or defense
area ordinarily indicates the number of enemy
occupants. Clothing, ration containers, dumps, etc., Vehicles
further indicate the quantity of the departed enemy The type of track indicates whether the vehicle is
force. The condition of the bivouac area and amount of wheeled or tracked. A scout acquires the necessary
material abandoned give an indication of the enemy experience to make the proper determination by
morale, training, and discipline. A well-policed area observing vehicle tracks during training.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
3-2 MCWP 3-11.3
The direction of travel can be determined by the way moving vehicle, and it leaves a deeper impression on
tracks pass across ruts, by impressions on the edges of the exit edges of holes. The faster the travel, the
holes in the ground, how water is splashed from deeper the impression.
puddles, or by the way grass, twigs, and branches are
bent; for example—
l A vehicle (wheeled or tracked) entering a rut pushes 3003. KNOWING THE ENEMY
dirt into the rut and leaves an indentation on the exit
side of the rut.
l A wheel going over holes in the ground leaves a A scout should learn as much as possible about enemy
deeper impression on the edge toward the direction
psychology, habits, organization, and tactics. The
of travel.
more knowledge gained about the enemy, particularly
l The side of a puddle with the greater splash
the enemy’s normal security measures, the better the
indicates the direction of travel of the vehicle.
scout’s chances are to observe and obtain accurate
l When traveling cross-country, the direction in
information with minimum risk to the mission’s
which grass is bent and/or twigs, branches, and
bushes are broken indicates direction of travel. success. Scouts gain much of this knowledge through
experience, but they also gain a great deal of their
A general rate of speed can be estimated by the preliminary information, particularly that pertaining to
amount of water or mud splattered. A fast-moving enemy organization and tactics, during training and
vehicle will throw larger amounts of water or mud a may be updated by unit commanders and intelligence
greater distance to the front and sides than a slow- officers.
CHAPTER 4. DAYLIGHT SCOUTING
A scout must be able to operate in all types of terrain and under all conditions of
visibility. A scout must be thoroughly familiar with the principles for using cover
and concealment, camouflage, individual movement, and route selection, both to
and from the objective.
4001. COVER AND CONCEALMENT
Cover is protection from the fire of hostile weapons.

Concealment is protection from observation or
surveillance from hostile air and ground observation,
but not from hostile fire. Both cover and concealment
are divided into two main categories: natural and
artificial. Natural cover includes small hills, ditches,
rocks or vegetation. Fighting holes, bunkers, and brick
walls are examples of artificial cover. Some features,
such as buildings, provide both cover and conceal-
ment. In deciding whether to seek cover or conceal-
ment, a scout must make the best choice to complete
the mission (see fig. 4-1).
Concealment Principles
Concealment principles are as follows:
l Remain motionless while observing. Anything in

motion attracts the eye.
l Use all available concealment.
l Observe from the prone position (it offers a low sil-
houette and makes detection by the enemy difficult.
l Expose nothing that reflects light.
l Blend with the background because contrasting
colors are noticeable.
l Remain in the shade because moving shadows
attract attention.
l Distort or change the regular outline of objects. Figure 4-1. Correct Use of Cover.
Most military objects have distinctive shapes that
make obvious shadows and silhouettes. necessary, around the side of or, if possible, through
l Avoid the skyline. Figures on the skyline can be an object.
seen from great distances and are easily identified l Looking or firing over an object can make the scout
by their outlines. an easily visible target for the enemy. If the scout
must fire over the top of concealment or cover, the
outline of the head or helmet should be broken or
Concealment Techniques
distorted.
Concealment techniques are as follows: l Upon the approach of an airplane, the scout takes a
prone position, turns face-down, and remains mo-
l When observing, the scout looks around an object’s tionless. If surprised by an airplane, the scout re-
side (unless it is transparent) and prepares to fire, if mains in place and does not look up.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
4-2 MCWP 3-11.3
l The scout covers exposed body parts such as the A small, thin bush in the shadow of a large bush makes
face, back of the neck, and hands with grease paint, a good observation point. Lone trees, rocks, fence cor-
mud or other materials to reduce sun reflection. ners, and outstanding landmarks are easily picked up
l Camouflage for equipment can be improvised from by the enemy as obvious observation posts.
garnishing or sandbags to prevent sun reflection.
If camouflage clothing is not available, other available
l In snowy terrain, white overgarments are worn.
clothing can be attached in irregular splotches of
l The helmet cover outline should be distorted. appropriate colors.
Exposed skin reflects light and attracts the enemy’s at-

tention. Even very dark skin will reflect light because
4002. CAMOUFLAGE of its natural oil. The buddy system is recommended
when applying camouflage. Standard Marine Corps
issue camouflage face paint sticks are two toned:
Camouflage is the use of concealment and disguise to
minimize the possibility of detection and/or identifica- l Loam and light green for light-skinned troops, in all
tion of troops, material, equipment, and installations. but snow regions.
The purpose of camouflage is to provide concealment
l Sand and light green for dark-skinned troops.
of military objects from enemy observation. Camou-
flage is also used to conceal an object by making it l Loam and white for troops in snow-covered terrain.
look like something else. A scout’s mission usually re-
quires individual and equipment camouflage. If natu- Shiny areas (forehead, cheekbones, nose, and chin) are
ral camouflage is not adequate, the position is cam- painted with a dark color. Shadow areas (around the
ouflaged. In using camouflage, remember that objects eyes, under the nose, and under the chin) are painted
are identified by their form (outline), shadow, texture,
and color. The principal purpose of camouflage in the
field is to prevent direct observation and recognition.
Individual Camouflage
Successful individual camouflage involves the ability

to recognize and take advantage of all forms of natural
and artificial concealment available (vegetation, soil,
debris, etc.) and knowledge of the proper use of artifi-
cial camouflage materials.
Aids to Individual Camouflage

A scout must recognize the terrain’s dominant color
and pattern and must change the appearance of
clothing and equipment accordingly in order to blend
and not contrast with the terrain (see fig. 4-2).
The helmet is camouflaged by breaking up its shape,

smooth surface, and shadow. Use of a helmet cover
works best. In the absence of a helmet cover, mud can
be irregularly blotched on the helmet to disguise its
form and dull the surface. A helmet cover may be
improvised from irregularly colored cloth or burlap to
blend with the background. Foliage can be draped to
prevent the visor of the helmet from casting a dark
shadow across the face. Foliage should not stick up
like plumes because any head movement will give
away the position. Figure 4-2. Avoid Contrasting Backgrounds.
___________________________________________________________________________________
with a light color. Skin that is exposed on the back of tape to break the regular outline. Mud or dirt dulls the
the neck and hands is painted with a two-color com- reflecting surface of the stock, barrel, and bayonet
bination in an irregular pattern (see fig. 4-3). where coloring has been worn. Lamp black may also
be used on metal parts. The function of the weapon
When standard issue face paint sticks are not avail- must not impaired.
able, burnt cork, charcoal or lamp black can be used to
tone down exposed areas of skin. If time, material, and surroundings permit, a ghillie
suit should be constructed. (Refer to MCWP 3-15.3,
Mud is used only in an emergency because it changes Scout Sniping.)
color as it dries and may peel off, leaving the skin
exposed. Since mud may contain harmful bacteria,
Aids to Camouflage a Position
mud should be washed off as soon as possible.
To successfully camouflage a position, the scout must
Any equipment that reflects light should be covered remember to—
with a nonreflective material that aids in the con-
cealment of the weapon (for example, black electrical l Camouflage the position as soon as it is occupied.
tape or mud). The straight line of the rifle or other
l Avoid using too much material for camouflage.
infantry weapons may be very conspicuous to an
Even though natural materials are used, too much
enemy observer. The barrel and hand guard should be
may make the object and its shadow stand out from
wrapped with strips of contrasting colored cloth or
its surroundings, thus attracting the attention of a
hostile observer.
l Inspect completed camouflage work from the ene-
my’s point of view to check effectiveness.
Continuous Camouflage
Camouflage around and on the scout’s position must
be maintained in a fresh condition as wilted and dead
foliage can give the position away. If the mission
dictates that the position should be occupied for longer
periods, wilted foliage should be replaced during
periods of reduced visibility.
4003. INDIVIDUAL MOVEMENT
Principles
The principles of individual movement are as follows:
l Scouts move from one concealed position to an-

other. When not changing positions, they remain
motionless.
l The scout’s head is lifted slowly but steadily, with-
out abrupt movements, to search for a new position.
l Scouts select the next stopping place before moving
and ensures it is not contained by the enemy.
l Scouts change position on the run: springs up, runs
with the body bent low, zigzags, quickly drops to
Figure 4-3. Face Camouflage. the ground slightly to the right or left of the objec-
tive, then rolls or crawls to the desired position.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
4-4 MCWP 3-11.3
(Remember the phrase, “I’m up—he sees me—I’m the forearm and let the butt of the rifle drag on the
down.”) ground. Keep the muzzle off the ground.
Rushing To start forward, push arms forward and pull right leg
forward. To move forward, pull with arms and push
When starting from the prone position— with right leg. Change the pushing leg frequently to
avoid fatigue.
l Raise the head slowly and steadily and select a new
position. High Crawl
l Lower the head slowly, draw arms inward, cock
right leg forward, and prepare to rush. The high crawl is used when—
l Use one movement to raise the body by straighten-
ing both arms. l Cover and/or concealment are available.
l Spring to your feet, stepping off with the left foot. l Poor visibility reduces enemy observation
l Bend forward as low as possible when running. l Greater speed of movement is required.
Never advance directly to the next position; always
zigzag. To perform the high crawl, keep body off the ground.
Rest weight on forearms and lower legs. Cradle rifle in
When hitting the deck— arms, keeping the muzzle off the ground. Keep knees
well behind the buttocks to stay low.
l Stop.
l Plant both feet in place. Move forward, alternately advancing right forearm
l Drop quickly to the knees and slide the hand to the and left knee; then left forearm and right knee.
heel of the rifle.
l Fall forward, breaking your fall with the butt of the Movement Aids
rifle. (To confuse the enemy, roll over after hitting
the deck and roll into firing position with feet, Aids to movement include—
knees, and stomach flat on the ground.)
l Keep head down if you do not intend to fire. l Carrying only necessities. Additional weight causes
premature fatigue and impedes free movement.
When rolling over— l Not disturbing birds or animals whose flight would
betray your presence. If birds or animals are alerted,
l Hit the deck and assume the prone position. remain motionless under cover for a few minutes,
l Bring the rifle in close to the body, placing the rifle as the enemy’s attention may also be attracted.
butt in the crotch. l Moving during an incident that diverts attention,
l Roll over swiftly to confuse any enemy observers as such as an airplane flight, a distant disturbance or
to final intended location. Never reappear at the sudden bursts of fire.
same place you went down. l Fog, smoke, or even light haze offer concealment
for movement; however, the enemy may have
Low Crawl thermoimagery and night vision devices. Therefore,
darkness and smoke cannot be used as easily.
The low crawl is used when— l Following a stream or road by staying as far away
from them as possible while still keeping them in
l Cover and concealment are scarce. sight. Keep close to the dune line when moving
l The enemy has good observation over the area in along a beach.
which the scout is moving. l When moving through tall grass or similar growth,
l Speed is not essential. move when the wind blows, changing direction
frequently. A straight route will be more readily
To perform the low crawl, keep the body as flat as noticed.
possible against the ground. Grasp the rifle sling at the l Whenever possible, avoid areas of soft ground so as
upper sling swivel. Let the balance of the rifle rest on not to leave tracks.
___________________________________________________________________________________
l When crossing a road or water obstacle, choose

crossing sites where the enemy’s observation is re-
stricted (an area in shadows or near a bend) and
cross rapidly.
4004. ROUTE SELECTION
Prior to Movement
A scout and the immediate commander conduct a map
reconnaissance before starting on a mission. This
assists them in selecting the route according to avail-
able cover and concealment and any indicated enemy
activity.
Prior to and during the course of the mission, move to

an observation point to visually reconnoiter the terrain
for movement and select the tentative route. It may be
necessary to make wide detours around open spaces or
those containing enemy patrols or other enemy
activity.
Carefully study the country to be traversed and pay

close attention to the general features, streams, ridges
to be crossed, and their relation to the general direction
to be taken (see fig. 4-4).
Make notes of terrain features and landmarks along

the proposed route and rely on notes for guidance (see
fig. 4-5 on page 4-6). Additionally, determine the Figure 4-4. Choosing a Concealed Route
compass direction and readings for each change of of Advance from a Map.
direction at the start. Finally, learn the location of unit
boundaries and observation/listening posts as well as observed by the enemy. When required to reconnoiter
general location of other friendly or scouting parties. danger areas, choose a covered approach and return,
Be sure to avoid man-made and natural obstacles as and make entry or passage as quietly and quickly as
they will slow progress and overall success of the possible. If part of a larger effort, the approach and
mission. If possible, use the local populous as a source return should be covered by observation and fires of
of intelligence. When returning to friendly lines, avoid the other members of the scouting party or patrol.
using the same route.
Stream Crossings
En Route
When the crossing does not appear to be held by the
En route, the actual advance will be a series of move- enemy, advance upon it rapidly. If there are two or
ments from one observation point to the next. The more scouts, one crosses while the other(s) provide
distance and route will depend on cover and terrain. protection. Note the length, width, depth, and ap-
Assess the cover, terrain, and any enemy or civilian proaches to a crossing. Observe the condition of the
activity to determine whether or not to modify the road or trail that crosses the stream, and report on the
approach or return routes. Unless the mission requires suitability of the crossing for use by tracked and
it, avoid danger areas (for example, houses, villages, wheeled vehicles. If the crossing is under observation
potential assembly or bivouac areas, roads, and by enemy, seek another crossing site or dash across to
streams) that may give away your position by being avoid detection.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
4-6 MCWP 3-11.3
Figure 4-5. Proposed Route Sketch.

CHAPTER 5. NIGHT SCOUTING
Night scouting presents many of the same problems encountered in day

operations-such as cover, concealment, movement, and camouflage-as well as
additional considerations. Knowledge of human eye construction and operation
will enable maximum advantage under night conditions or poor visibility.
conditions. Rod vision distinguishes black, white,

5001. NIGHT VISION shades of gray, and general outlines.
Certain parts of the eye correspond to parts of a simple Principles

camera (see fig. 5-1). The lens focuses light entering
the eye similar to a camera lens. The iris (colored part To effectively "see" at night, the principles of night vi-
of eye) corresponds to the diaphragm of a camera, sion dark adaptation, off-center vision, and scanning
opening and closing to regulate the amount of light are applied.
entering the eye through the pupil. The retina cor-
responds to camera film. Light rays strike the retina, Dark Adaptation
form an image, and cause an impression to be trans- Allowing the eyes to become accustomed to low levels
mitted to the brain through the optic nerve. In a of illumination is called dark adaptation. It takes the
camera, the image is formed and fixed on film. rod cells about 30 minutes to produce enough visual
pur ple to activate the m and enable the eye to
distinguish objects in dim light. This may also be
accomplished by staying in a red-lighted area, or by
wearing red goggles for 20 minutes, followed by 10
minutes in darkness (which allows the pupils to open
wide). This method saves valuable time by allowing
Marines to be in a lighted area to receive orders, check
equipment, or perform some other function before
moving into darkness.
Off-Center Vision
The technique of focusing on an object without
looking directly at it is called off-center vision. When
looking directly at an object, the image is formed on
the cone region, which is not sensitive at night (see fig.
5-2 on page 5-2). When looking slightly to the left,
right, above or below an object, the image is formed
on the area of the retina containing rod cells, which are
sensitive in darkness. The most sensitive area varies in
individuals, but is usually found by looking 6 to 10
degrees away from an object; in effect, out of the
corner of the eye (see fig. 5-3 on page 5-2).
Figure 5-1. The Eye is Like a Camera.
The retina is composed of cone cells and rod cells, so- Scanning
called because of their shapes. Cone cells distinguish Off-center vision used to observe an area or an object
color, shape, and sharp contrast. Because they are is called scanning. When using rod vision, the visual
activated by light conditions, they are blind during purple in the rod cells bleaches or blacks out in 4 to 10
periods of low illumination. Rod cells produce a seconds and the object observed disappears. As the
chemical substance called visual purple that makes visual purple in the rod cells in one area bleaches out,
them active in darkness, low illumination or night the eyes must slightly shift to use fresh rod cells. Eyes
______________________________________________________________________________________________
5-2 MCWP 3-11.3
Figure 5-2. Day Vision.
Figure 5-3. Night Vision.
should be moved in short, abrupt, irregular movements vision retained by the protected eye enables it to see
over and around the target (see fig. 5-4). until the other eye adapts to the darkness. Red light
helps preserve night vision, but like white light, it can
Preserving Night Vision be observed at long distances.
Night vision is quickly destroyed if bright light is Factors that decrease night visual acuity include
allowed to enter the eye. When entering a lighted area fatigue, lack of oxygen, long exposure to sunlight,
or when observing in a temporarily lighted area (il- alcohol, nicotine (within the past 48 hours), and age.
lumination, flares), one eye should be closed and When night vision has been attained, straining will not
covered to preserve its night vision. When the light improve effectiveness; however, practice identifying
goes off, fades or the lighted area is exited, the night objects at night will improve perception.
___________________________________________________________________________________
sound distortion. Sounds are transmitted a greater

5002. APPEARANCE OF OBJECTS distance in wet weather and at night than in dry
weather and in the daytime. By holding the ear close to
the ground sounds of people walking and vehicles
Darkness not only makes objects difficult to see but moving can be heard. Sound travels approximately
also changes their appearance, distorts size, and blots 370 meters a second. When a flash from a fired
out details. A tree visible against the night sky appears weapon is observed, the range to the weapons can be
smaller than in the daytime because the twigs at the easily estimated by counting the time interval between
end of branches cannot be seen. A scout must train to the flash and hearing the report. For example, counting
identify objects by block outlines at night and cannot to three (one thousand one, one thousand two, one
rely on details visible in daylight. Binoculars enlarge thousand three), indicates the distance is 1,110 meters.
objects or parts of objects otherwise too small to be The cadence is determined by actual practice at known
seen and help identify objects already spotted. Night ranges.
observation devices increase night visibility and
should be used whenever possible.
5004. SMELLS AND TOUCH

5003. SOUNDS
A scout's sense of smell can warn of enemy fires,
cooking, motor parks, gasoline and diesel engines, and
At night, sounds become very important. By listening, bodies of water. A scout must feel and recognize
a scout gains information about the enemy and by objects in the dark, and adjust and operate equipment
exercising care, keeps information from the enemy. A quietly by sense of touch.
scout stops frequently to listen. Scouts must listen for
long periods in perfect silence. Hearing is amplified
with the mouth open; removing the helmet will reduce
5005. CLOTHING AND WEAPONS
All loose clothing must be secured (string or tape can

be used) to pre ve nt snagging on barbed wire,
brambles, and brush. Helmet covers are worn to
muffle sounds made by low branches.
The belt buckle should be turned around to the side in

order to move in a prone position without scraping the
buckle against stones or hard surfaces. Identification
tags can be taped together to prevent rattling. Hands,
face, and neck can be blackened so skin does not
reflect light or appear as white spots in the darkness.
(Refer to para. 4002.)
Scouts are normally armed with rifles. Rifle slings

should be taped to prevent rattling. All weapons parts
should be checked for glare elimination measures.
5006. CONCEALMENT
Figure 5-4. Scanning
Although total darkness provides concealment, scouts
must observe the same principles of concealment
______________________________________________________________________________________________
5-4 MCWP 3-11.3
during moonlight conditions as in the daytime. Scouts yourself an indistinct target in case the person
should assume enemy employment of night obser- encountered is an enemy.
vation devices and observe the principles of night l Return fire only to avoid capture if fired on when
movement such that presence will not be disclosed by close to enemy positions.
noise when close to the enemy.
5008. AIDS TO NIGHT MOVEMENT

5007. AIDS TO NIGHT SCOUTING
l Aids to night movement include the following:

Aids to night scouting include the following: l Move silently.
l Advance in stealthy legs. Each leg should follow
l Carry out scouting missions close to or within
some terrain feature that serves as a guide. When
hostile positions on dark or rainy nights. there are no terrain features to serve as guides,
l Stifle a threatening sneeze by pressing fingers up- move in a straight or nearly straight line from one
ward against the nostrils. defined point to another, or maintain direction by
l Stifle a threatening cough by applying slight pres- using a compass.
sure with the finger on the Adam's apple. l Avoid running, except in an emergency.
l Stop a ringing sound that interferes with hearing by l Take advantage of sounds that may distract the
yawning. enemy.
l Speak softly rather than whispering if voice com- l Fall silently without making an outcry.
munication is necessary.
l Move boldly and rapidly when taking advantage of Walking
any sound-such as shelling, rustling wind or distant
firing-to push forward if firing is taking place. When walking at night—
l Avoid shell craters and depressions in damp
weather conditions if the enemy has employed l Place the heel down first. Balance the weight of the
chemical munitions. body on the rear foot until a secure spot is found.
l Move the eyes constantly; concentrating on one l Lift the forward foot high to clear any stiff grass,
object too long will strain them. brush, or other obstruction.
l Take notice of the enemy's use of flares. When the l Continue to balance body weight on the rear foot,
enemy employs flares, few enemy patrols are apt to lower the forward foot gently, toe first, to explore
be out; when flares are not employed, the enemy's the ground for objects that might make noise. Step
patrols are likely to be numerous. over fallen logs and branches, not on them.
l Drop to a prone position upon hearing a flare being l Lower the heel of the forward foot slowly; grad-
ually transferring body weight to that foot.
fired and before it illuminates. Remain motionless
while it is burning. If open or moving when a flare
bursts in the air, freeze or drop quickly in the split Creeping
second after the flare illuminates while the enemy is
blinded. You are an easy target for the enemy if the The low crawl and high crawl are not suitable at night
flare bursts in the air or on the ground behind you. when very near the enemy because an easily heard
shuffling noise results. Creeping is the recommended
Never look at a flare. If you activate a trip flare,
method of movement:
drop to the ground and crawl away from the illumi-
nated area.
l Creep at night on the hands and knees.
l Consider all patrols or individuals encountered as
l Use your hands to feel for twigs, leaves or other
hostile until proven friendly. If encountering
substances that might make a noise. Clear a spot to
someone, crouch low, silhouetting the approaching
place your knee. Keeping your hand at that spot,
person against the sky. At the same time, make
___________________________________________________________________________________
bring your knee forward until it meets your hand. l Move the left leg carefully to the rear, and then
Then place your knee on the ground and repeat the move the right leg to the rear.
action with the other hand and knee.
l Lie flat on the ground, or take up a firing position if

necessary.
l Lay the rifle on the ground at your side and clear an

area for it. Lift the rifle up and move it forward.
Movement is slow and tedious, since it must be
done silently.
Wire Obstacles
A mission often requires a scout to pass through and
work behind enemy positions. To accomplish this, the
scout must be able to quietly pass through enemy wire
obstacles and cross trenches. Cutting a gap in wire is
time-consuming. If possible, walk over the low bands
Hitting the Deck at Night (Right-Handed of enemy wire and crawl under the high bands (see fig.
Shooter) 5-5). Avoid movement along wire barriers, as enemy
To safetly hit the deck at night from the standing

position—
l Advance your left leg, place

the butt of the rifle in your
right armpit with the hand
remaining on the pistol grip,
and grasp it with the right
hand at the balance.
l Quietly drop down on the
right knee and left hand.
Figure 5-5. Crossing Wire Silently at Night.

______________________________________________________________________________________________
5-6 MCWP 3-11.3
covering fires are generally planned parallel to them to Wrap a sandbag around the wire cutters and wire to
take advantage of canalization and enfilade fire. deaden the sound.
To step over low wire at night, crouch low to view the Do not cut a complete gap in the wire; cut only the
strands against the sky. Grasp the top strand with one bottom wire(s). Leave the top wire(s) intact to lessen
hand; with the other hand, reach forward and feel for a the chance of discovery by the enemy.
clear spot for foot placement without stepping on other
strands or any object apt to make a noise. Raise the
Crossing Trenches
body up, still grasping the top strand of wire. To avoid
catching the foot in another strand, lift the foot up and Before approaching a trench, wait outside the trench
over, passing it close to the hand grasping the wire. for awhile and listen. Do not enter or cross a trench
near its junction with a communication trench. Crawl
If a high wire obstacle is encountered at night and wire silently up to the edge of the trench and look into it.
cutters are not available, pass under the wire with your Remove all loose dirt and rocks from the edge. If it is a
back on the ground. Grasp the lowest strands in your narrow trench, spring up and jump across, sinking
hands and hold them clear of the body while you slide quietly to the ground on the other side and remaining
under them. there a moment to listen before proceeding. If the
trench is wide, climb silently and slowly down into it
When cutting wire and working solo, cut a wire near a and out the other side, using the revetment for support
post (see fig. 5-6), then dispose of all but one loose (see fig. 5-7). Do not enter enemy trenches unless it is
end. Grasp the wire close to a post and cut between absolutely necessary in order to accomplish the
your hand and the post, muffling the sound and mission. Ordinarily, work is better accomplished from
keeping the loose wire in your grasp. When cutting outside the trench. Sentries usually pay more attention
wire in tandem, one firmly holds the wire with the to sounds in front of them; therefore, if it is necessary
hands positioned close to the cutters, in order to muffle to enter a trench, cross it first at the place where enemy
the sound and prevent the loose ends from flying back, observation is restricted, then approach from the rear.
while the other one cuts. In both instances, the loose
ends of the wire are bent back to form a passage.
5009. LOCATING AND PLOTTING THE

ENEMY AT NIGHT
For night work, a scout must understand the use of a

lensatic compass. (Refer to para. 2002.) Using the
lensatic compass, the scout can guide the platoon into
position, locate adjoining elements of the command,
keep direction when on patrol, determine the location
of gaps in the enemy wire and the position of enemy
out guards.
Locating Gaps in Enemy Wire

When searching for gaps in enemy wire, at least two
lensatic compasses are needed: one to register the gap
in the wire and the other for navigation. When a gap in
enemy wire is located, lie outside the gap, keeping a
distance of 10 meters from the barbed wire. Sight with
the lensatic compass on a prominent point on the
skyline in line with the gap. In selecting the prominent
point in the skyline, pick one that appears on the map
(i.e., hill mass, house, road junction). If the only
Figure 5-6. Cutting Wire Silently at Night. prominent point available is one not identifiable on a
map (i.e., a tree, destroyed vehicle, enemy position),
___________________________________________________________________________________
Figure 5-8. Locating a Gap in Enemy

Wire at Night.
Note the time and nature of each sound, the estimated

distance, and which compass was used to fix the loca-
tion. Plot this data on a map then wait until the debrief
Figure 5-7. Crossing Trenches Silently at Night. to turn in the notes and compasses. See figure 5-9.
use it. The exact location of this point can be fixed the
next day by visual reconnaissance of the area from an
observation point. When the needle rests—
l Clamp it in place by lowering the eyepiece to the

closed position.
l Rotate the movable bezel ring until the luminous
line is directly over the north end of the needle. The
azimuth of the gap from the prominent point is now
registered.
The compass is carried back without further adjust-

ment. The azimuth setting can be recorded later on a
map (see fig. 5-8).
Locating Enemy Out Guards

At night, locate enemy guards by their sounds and
failure to maintain light discipline. As sounds of the
enemy are heard, and/or observations of the enemy
made, shoot an azimuth with one compass. When the
needle comes to rest, clamp the compass by lowering Figure 5-9. Locating Enemy Outguards at Night.
the eyepiece to the closed position.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
5-8 MCWP 3-11.3
Unless the moon is bright, avoid, if possible, passing

50010. ROUTES OF MOVEMENT through woods, ditches, ravines, and brush, because
noises of movement may lead to discovery. If the
enemy is known to have night observation device
Prior to beginning a night missions, a scout studies the
ground in detail from an observation point, air photos, capability, avoiding these kinds of terrain may not be
and a map during daylight. The route of advance possible. To avoid enemy ambushes, return by a dif-
should be below the skyline. Avoid becoming a ferent route from the advance and change routes on
silhouette (see fig. 5-10). successive nights.
Figure 5-10. Difference Between Correct Routes by Day or Night.

CHAPTER 6. OBSERVING AND REPORTING
When sent out on a mission, a scout’s duties are to observe and report. the first
five chapters covered scout protection measures and movement in enemy ter-
ritory. This chapter discusses performing the assigned mission and reporting the
mission after its completion.
50 meters or less deep, going from right to left parallel

6001. OBSERVATION POSTS to your front; then search from left to right a second
and similar strip farther away but overlapping the first.
Continue to observe until the entire field of view has
Positions been searched (see fig. 6-2 on page 6-2).
The following guidelines apply to observation posts. At night, use a night observation device. If one is not
See figure 6-1. available, search the horizon with short, jerky
movements, and short pauses. Look a little to one side
l When selecting observation posts, scouts should of an object and then to the other. Lower the head
chose the least prominent position. close to the ground to view the object more clearly.
l Scouts may occupy one or more observation posts. Use low-powered field glasses to increase sight range.
l An observation post should not be occupied for
more than 24 hours.
l A selected observation post should be observed for
10 to 15 minutes to ensure it is not occupied.
l Scouts move to the chosen observation post by a
concealed route.
l If the post is located on a hill, crawl to a position
where the skyline is broken.
l If a tree is used, the position should have a back-
ground so as not to be silhouetted against the sky
while climbing or observing.
l When leaving the observation post, a different route
from that of the approach should be used.
l If a radio is used, its antenna should be located to
provide clear communication to the controlling
commander but masked from enemy observation
and direction-finding equipment. Upon departure,
scouts should remove the antennae from the obser-
vation post so as not to give away the position.
Observing
Using all senses available, be particularly alert for
movement, objects, sounds, and smells inappropriate
to the surroundings. While observing, avoid all un-
necessary movement. If observing from a building,
keep back from doors and windows.
In daylight, look first at the ground nearest you. Begin Figure 6-1. Method of Approaching
observing close to your post and search a narrow strip an Observation Post.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
6-2 MCWP 3-11.3
Figure 6-3. Sample Field Message.
The message body is brief, accurate, and clear; facts

and opinions are distinguished. If secondhand infor-
Figure 6-2. Method of Searching Ground. mation is reported, its source is included. Reports in-
clude all information of value, first about the enemy,
and then about the originator. Information about the
enemy should cover—
6002. REPORTING l Size and/or strength.
l Actions or activity.
It is imper ative tha t the scout a ccur ately and l Location and direction of movement.
completely report who, where, when, and what was l Unit identification. (The designation of the enemy
observed to the proper authority upon mission unit may be derived from unit markings, uniforms
completion. In most cases, a scout will not be equip- worn or through prisoner interrogation.)
ped with a radio. l Time of observation.
l Equipment and weapons.
Verbal Reports
Messages are printed in block letters. Individual items
Verbal reports should be made when writing is of information are numbered and separated into
impractical, when the information is not complicated paragraphs. If doubt exists as to message receipt by the
or when the enemy is likely to intercept a messenger commander, a summary of its contents is included in
carrying a written message. the next message. Information about the originator or
writer should cover—
Written Messages
l Location at the time of enemy observation (refer-
Written messages, preferred to verbal reports, are ence to an important terrain feature, by map coor-
recorded in message book blanks issued for that dinates, by the back azimuth from each of two
purpose (see fig. 6-3) and delivered to a higher definitely located points, or the back azimuth and
authority as soon as possible. The NATO spot report distance from one known point).
(SPOTREP) should be reviewed as the written mes- l Intentions. (Remain in position? Continue on the
sage is a NATO format. mission? Take other action?)
___________________________________________________________________________________
The message is carefully reread and if possible read by

another person to ensure understandability. If a
messenger is used, the messenger must read and
understand the message in order to answer any
questions the commander might have.
Sketch
Information difficult to describe may be given
accurately on a simple sketch. The sketch may give all
the necessary information or it may be used to
supplement a written message. A military sketch is
generally one of two types: simple or panoramic. The
simple sketch is easily made and read.
Figure 6-4 shows a simple sketch that has been

included in the message itself. The sketch may be on a
separate sheet of paper, but all of the necessary
information must be contained in either the sketch, the
message or both.
The panoramic sketch is a picture of the terrain’s

elevation in perspective, as seen from one point of
observation. Although a panoramic sketch is not
difficult to create, skill and training are necessary to
enhance usefulness. Figure 6-5 on page 6-4 illustrates
how to make a panoramic sketch.
Overlay
The same information sent back to higher head-
quarters on the sketch may be sent on an overlay, if the
sender and the person to whom the message is to be
sent have copies of the same map. Figure 6-6 on page
6-6 illustrates a simple overlay. The overlay is drawn
on transparent paper as follows:
l Orient the map and place it on a hard, flat surface.

l Place the transparent paper over the part of the map
of the object or information to be transmitted and Figure 6-4. Making a Simple Sketch.
hold the paper in this position.
l Orient the overlay to the map by tracing in the Explanatory notes are annotated in the overlay’s
intersecting grid lines at two opposite corners of the margin, arrows point to the objectives.
overlay. Write the correct number designation on l Indicate with an “X” and an appropriate explanation
the overlay. The cross made by the intersection is the position from which the observer saw the object
called a tick mark and enables the receiver to locate or obtained information.
the exact area on the map covered by the overlay.
l Include title and scale of the map from which the
l Sketch the object seen or the information to be overlay was made, date and hour the information
transmitted on the tracing paper (the sheet on top of was obtained, and signature of the observer on the
the map) in the exact location it would appear on overlay in the lower right-hand corner.
the map (the sheet underneath the tracing paper).
______________________________________________________________________________________________
6-4 MCWP 3-11.3
Figure 6-5. Panoramic Sketch.

___________________________________________________________________________________
Figure 6-6. Simple Overlay.

CHAPTER 7. SCOUTING FIRE TEAMS
Upon completion of individual training, a Marine adapts this training to the

functioning of the unit. The basic tactical unit for scouting is the fire team. Within
the fire team, scouts normally work in pairs to furnish security and gather
information. Information gathered by the individual scouts is passed to the fire
team leader.
The distance between the scouting fire team and the

7001. POSITIONING platoon is terrain-dependent. The scouting fire team
should not be beyond visibility of the platoon. In open
terrain, the platoon commander usually directs the
When a rifle platoon in the approach march is not scouting fire team to move by bounds along a
preceded by adjacent units (left, right, front, and rear), succession of locations designated by the platoon
it employs its own scouting elements. The scouting commander as intermediate objectives.
element for a platoon is usually one fire team; how-
ever, an entire squad may be used. Individual scouts should advance as stealthily as
possible, while remaining consistent with their mis-
A fire team used as a scouting element is called a sion of reconnaissance to the front, taking advantage
scouting fire team and is controlled by the platoon of cover without delaying the advance. An occasional
commander, assisted by the squad leader. A squad glimpse of scouts constantly advancing over a wide
leader whose squad is providing the scouting fire front can make the enemy uneasy. It is this activity,
teams normally marches near the platoon commander and not the target the scouts offer, that may cause the
to assist in the control of the scouting fire teams. enemy to open fire and disclose its location.
A scouting fire team moves aggressively to cover the When fired upon, scouts must drop to cover and return
front of the advancing platoon and to locate the fire only when necessary to complete the mission. If
enemy’s position(s). It generally moves in a wedge or
skirmisher’s formation. Normally, a scouting fire team
is deployed on a frontage of 50 to 75 meters (10 to 17
meters between each individual scout). The entire
squad may be employed to cover a wider frontage. The
platoon commander coordinates the movement of the
scouting fire team(s) so as to protect the main body of
the platoon from enemy fire from points within 400 to
600 meters away, or in close terrain from points within
the limits of enemy observation.
Scouting fire team(s) should have enough firepower to

overcome resistance from small enemy advanced posts
and patrols; the intent is to make enemy riflemen and
machine gunners open fire and disclose their positions.
Without scouts in advance, the platoon may move into
areas where enemy fire may prevent further advance
or maneuver and inflict heavy casualties (see fig. 7-1).
Scouting fire teams are covered by the platoon or,

when the platoon is masked, the fire team leader
ensures individual scouts are maneuvered and coor-
dinated so that the fire team covers its own advance.
The fire team leader constantly watches for signals
from the platoon commander and remains in visual Figure 7-1. Position of Scouts Preceding
contact at all times. an Attacking Platoon.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
7-2 MCWP 3-11.3
necessary, one scout reports back to the fire team

leader who informs the platoon commander.
7002. LOCATING ENEMY POSITIONS
The key terrain of defensive positions are those points

that afford extended observation over the ground
where the attack must advance. The enemy will place
machine guns and infantry to defend critical points.
Members of a scouting fire team preceding an attack-

ing platoon identify the probable enemy infantry and
machine gun positions (see fig. 7-2). They use con-
cealment and cover to conduct their advance in order
to discover the exact location of enemy positions.
7003. ACTION WITH AN ATTACKING

PLATOON
The scouting fire team reconnoiters to the front of the

advancing platoon. As soon as the scouting fire team
leader indicates the area is secure, the platoon
advances and the scouting fire team moves forward.
Squads within the platoon advance by bounds; at least
one squad is positioned to support the other(s) by fire.
Successive positions along the line of advance are
selected and designated by the platoon commander as
intermediate objectives, and reconnoitered by the
scouting fire team before occupation. By conducting
proper reconnaissance, surprise by the enemy or
movement in the wrong direction may be prevented. Figure 7-2. Assessing Probable Enemy Machine
Gun Positions.
Movement
order to be prepared to go into action immediately and
The distance between the scouting fire team and the to cover a wide frontage of 50 to 75 meters.
front of the main body of the platoon is dependent on
the mission, enemy, terrain and weather, troops and As a scouting fire team advances in open terrain, it is
support available, and time available (METT-T). In supported when possible by elements of the platoon;
close terrain, such as dense woods, the scouting fire in close terrain, by mutual support within each fire
team’s movements closely resemble those used for team. Mutual support within the fire team is ac-
night operations. In approaching houses, woods, and complished by the fire team leader and the automatic
villages, one scout of each pair covers the other while rifleman forming a team that supports by fire the
the latter reconnoiters (see fig. 7-3). advance of the rifleman and assistant automatic
rifleman until they reach a location designated by the
A scouting fire team moves forward aggressively to fire team leader. The rifleman and assistant automatic
cover the front of the advancing platoon, usually rifleman then support by fire the movement of the
adopting either skirmisher’s or wedge formation in team leader and automatic rifleman. These successive
___________________________________________________________________________________
points to which the sub elements of the fire team move close terrain or conditions of limited visibility, the
are normally designated as fire team intermediate scouting fire team is normally ordered to precede the
objectives by the fire team leader. The fire team leader platoon at the limit of visibility, maintaining visual
sets as many fire team intermediate objectives as contact with the platoon commander.
necessary to maintain mutual support within the team.
This process is repeated until the team can be covered
by other elements of the rifle platoon. Action in Woods
When a scouting fire team is directed to advance over
A scouting fire team takes advantage of available
open ground to the edge of a woodline, two members
cover and concealment without delaying its advance.
of the team, preferably the rifleman and assistant
The orders of the platoon commander govern the
automatic rifleman, reconnoiter inside the woodline
distance at which it precedes the platoon. The terrain
while the remainder of the fire team covers them. It is
and the probable position of the enemy affect the
not recommended they separate until finished with
scouting fire team’s distance in front of the platoon. It
their reconnaissance of the far side of the danger area.
may be as much as 400 to 600 meters in advance of the
Both members staying together can cover the same
platoon. In open terrain, the platoon commander
area using a zigzag reconnaissance and they are better
usually directs that the scouting fire team move by
equipped to overcome any opposition.
bounds to a succession of intermediate objectives. In
In heavy underbrush and/or poor visibility, the
rifleman and assistant automatic rifleman proceed into
the woodline together for 50 to 60 meters. The two
then separate, searching out either flank to the first
high ground or limits of observation, probably 50 to
100 meters (see fig. 7-4 on page 7-4). After the initial
search and out posting the limit of advance, the re-
maining scout signals the fire team forward.
In light underbrush and/or good visibility, the assistant

automatic rifleman remains at the edge of the
woodline while the rifleman searches the woodline.
(see fig. 7-5 on page 7-5). The rifleman searches the
woodline in a zigzag pattern, reports back to the
assistant automatic rifleman, then moves to an outpost
position at the limit of advance. In turn, the fire team
leader signals the platoon commander that it is safe for
the platoon to move forward.
The fire team leader then moves the remainder of the

fire team into the woods, joining up with the forward
scout occupying the outpost. The scouting fire team
occupies and holds a line 50 to 75 meters within the
woods and observes toward the direction of movement
until the platoon closes up. The scouting fire team
leader awaits further word from the platoon com-
mander before moving the team further into the
woods.
When directed, the scouting fire team leader moves the

team forward until they reach the far edge of the
woods. The team is held at the edge of the woods and
the fire team leader notifies the platoon commander of
Figure 7-3. Conduct of Scouts the situation. The platoon commander moves the
Preceding a Platoon. platoon to a position where it can cover the scouting
______________________________________________________________________________________________
7-4 MCWP 3-11.3
Figure 7-4. Searching Edge of a Woodline (Dense Underbrush/Poor Visibility).
fire team as it exits the woods and directs the team Action Under Fire
leader to move out and continue the scouting mission.
When a scouting fire team is fired upon, they im-
A scouting fire team passing through woods ahead of mediately take cover, locate targets, and return fire.
its unit maintains a distance allowing visual and oral The scouting fire team leader then determines—
communications. If an obstacle is encountered,
reconnaissance to its front and flanks must be carried l Location of enemy (range and reference points).
out. When advancing along a road or path, scouts l Extent of position (location of flanks).
precede the platoon to provide necessary protection l Types of positions (obstacles, bunkders, fighting
and to prevent surprise fire on the platoon. When holes, etc.).
crossing a road or path, they reconnoiter well to the l Number of enemy.
flanks before signaling “all clear” to the platoon.
l Enemy weapons (machine guns, mortars, tanks,
etc.).
The scouting fire team will not exit the woods until the
arrival of the platoon commander, who will then be
The platoon commander assesses the situation as
given an opportunity to alter the disposition or
quickly as possible based on the limited information
direction of march. The point where the platoon exits
obtained. Usually the platoon commander brings up
the woods is considered a danger area where the
the remaining squads, sets up a base of fire, and as-
platoon is vulnerable to enemy fire. The scouting fire
saults the enemy position. Should the enemy position
team is sent ahead to reconnoiter the danger area, as
prove too strong for the platoon, the platoon remains
well as the next area to be occupied by the platoon.
engaged with the enemy as a base of fire until the re-
They signal back whether conditions require a halt, an
mainder of the company is committed to clear the
advance or a quick rush across the open area. The
enemy resistance.
scouting fire team leader must be continually on the
lookout for signals from the rear.
___________________________________________________________________________________
7004. ACTION WITH AN ENVELOPING

UNIT
When a platoon is given the mission to envelop an

enemy position, a scouting fire team is employed for
protection and reconnaissance in the same way as
when the platoon is advancing in the approach march.
Figure 7-5. Searching Edge of a Woodline (Light

Underbrush/Good Visibility).
PART 2. INFANTRY PATROLLING
CHAPTER 8. FUNDAMENTALS OF INFANTRY PATROLLING
This chapter begins Part 2 and provides basic information about infantry patrols;
specifically, their purpose, types, and missions. Infantry patrol training is also
addressed and keys to successful patrolling are presented. Subsequent chapters of
this part cover patrol organization, preparation, movement, and reconnaissance
actions.
information. Modern warfare places a high premium

8001. DEFINITIONS on effective patrolling because units have larger areas
of o per a tions a nd ca n be thr ea te ned f ro m a ll
directions. As distances between units increase, more
A patrol is a detachment of ground, sea or air forces patrolling becomes necessary to prevent infiltration by
sent out for the purpose of gathering information or guerrillas or small enemy units, as well as to maintain
carrying out a destructive, harassing, mopping-up or contact with friendly adjacent units. Active patrolling
security mission (Joint Publication [JP] 1-02). The by numerous small groups is needed to locate the
mission to conduct a patrol may be given to a fire enemy and gather information on the enemy’s
team, squad, platoon or company. disposition, strength, morale, and weapons, as well as
gather and confirm information about the terrain.
8002. RELATION OF PATROLLING TO

SCOUTING 8004. TYPES OF PATROLS
Each patrol member must be knowledgeable in the Classification as to Mission

principles of scouting and maintain membership of a
larger team. To develop the teamwork skills required
among the members of a patrol, additional training Reconnaissance Patrol
beyond the basic principles is necessary to become a Reconnaissance patrols gather information about the
well-trained scout. A patrol member must respond enemy, terrain or resources. Relying on stealth rather
quickly to the decisions and orders of the patrol leader. than combat strength, they gather this information and
There must be complete confidence among all fight only when necessary to complete the mission or
members of the patrol and the confidence that they, as to defend themselves. The distance covered by re-
a team, will be successful in their mission. connaissance patrols varies based on the terrain and
mission. The squad is ideally suited for reconnaissance
patrol missions because of its relative small size and
its experience of working together.
8003. PURPOSE
Combat Patrol
A combat patrol is a fighting patrol assigned missions
A commander must have current information about that require engagement with the enemy in combat.
the enemy and the terrain in order to employ the unit Larger and more heavily armed than reconnaissance
effectively. Patrols are an important means of gaining patrols, combat patrols have a mission to capture
this information and are used to destroy enemy enemy documents, provide security, and capture or
installations, capture enemy personnel, perform destroy enemy equipment and installations. Such
security missions or prevent the enemy from gaining action is ordinarily followed by a return to friendly
______________________________________________________________________________________________
8-2 MCWP 3-11.3
positions. Regardless of the mission, the patrol reports Helicopterborne Patrols

any information concerning the enemy and terrain Where terrain is extremely difficult or the enemy
acquired during the accomplishment of the assigned situation precludes the use of vehicle or motorized
mission. There are four types of combat patrols: raid, patrols, helicopterborne patrols are a method or means
contact, ambush, and security (normally conducted by to conduct a patrol.
a Marine rifle platoon). A rifle platoon reinforced with
crew-served weapons is normally considered the
minimum size for contact, economy of force or
ambush patrols. In some situations, such as the capture 8005. TRAINING
of a small enemy outpost, a rifle platoon could conduct
a raid. However, a raid is a complex mission and, due
to the organization of a raid force (command, recon- Training is essentia l to successful pa trolling.
naissance, assault, support, security, and reserve ele- Premature and unordered actions by members of the
ments), a rifle company is normally the smallest force patrol destroy coordination and control. Leaders are
assigned to a raid. trained to issue their orders calmly to inspir e
confidence and discipline, and to avoid misunder-
standing. Patrol members must work together and
Classification as to Means of Movement
fight as a team. Training should develop the following
skills:
Foot Patrols
Movement by foot is the most common means; l Expertise in handling individual and special
however, there are inherent disadvantages. Foot weapons, and familiarity with enemy weapons that
patrols travel slowly and carry limited quantity and may be captured.
types of equipment and supplies. Range and area l Recognize camouflaged personnel, equipment, and
coverage is relatively restricted. Foot patrols also have defensive positions; ability to pick up fleeting
a ppa r e nt ad va n ta ge s i n th a t th ey ha v e fe w e r targets fire the rifle from any firing position.
restrictions as to terrain that can be covered; are more
difficult for the enemy to detect; provide thorough l Understand fire discipline and, after weapon firing,
coverage within limits of range; and are generally not immediately change position (see fig. 8-1).
inhibited by weather. l Quick and accurate observation skills, and the
ability to recall and transmit clearly and briefly,
both orally and in writing.
Motorized Patrols
Where terrain and road networks permit, a motorized
patrol overcomes the inherent disadvantages of the
foot patrol. Mechanized forces require patrolling units
that can keep pace with them. However, motorized
patrols are restricted to certain types of terrain, and
tend to bypass areas that may be advantageous to and
occupied by enemy infantry.
Waterborne Patrols
Waterborne patrols move over seas, lakes, rivers and
streams, canals, and other inland waterways. The
water is either used as a medium of entry to an
objective area or is the actual patrol route. Waterborne
patrols are limited by the location of water routes in
the terrain and tend to bypass areas that may be
advantageous to and occupied by the enemy.
Figure 8-1. Changing Position After Firing.
___________________________________________________________________________________
l Recognize and quickly respond to improvised

signals, visually or by sound. 8006. KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL
l Ability to swim with weapon and equipment. PATROLLING
l Use issued or improvised camouflage suits and
garnish helmet in order to blend with the surround- Regardless of the category or means of conducting a
ings. Smudge face, hands, and any bright surfaces patrol, the keys to successful patrolling are—
of weapons and equipment with some substance,
such as mud or charcoal, to prevent the reflection of l Detailed planning. Every portion of the patrol must
light. be planned, all possible contingencies considered.
l Silence self, equipment, and weapon. l Productive, realistic rehearsals. Each phase of the
patrol is rehearsed, beginning with actions in the
l Use antimalarial and water purification tablets. objective area. Similar terrain and environmental
l Acclimation to temperature extremes. conditions are used when conducting rehearsals.
l Develop a sense of direction and learn how to l Thorough reconnaissance. Ideally, the patrol leader
follow a course by compass, stars, sun, flow of will physically conduct a reconnaissance of the
streams, prominent terr ain fea tures, and by route and objective. Photographs and/or maps will
observing other natural phenomenon. Learn to be used to supplement the reconnaissance.
determine the distance traveled from a known point l Positive control. The patrol leader must maintain
and to keep a record of azimuths and the distance positive control, this includes supervision during
traveled on each azimuth (dead reckoning). patrol preparations.
l Call for and adjust indirect fire assets. l All-around security. Security must be maintained at
l Familiarization with all communications assets and all times, particularly near the end of the patrol
the use of field expedient antennae. where there is a natural tendency to relax.
CHAPTER 9. PATROL ORGANIZATION
Organizing a patrol is a two-step process: the general organization of the entire

patrol and the task organization of various patrol elements. Normally, the nature
of patrolling does not permit long preparation periods and rehearsals to
specifically build a unit for each mission. Accordingly, the patrol leader must
combine unit integrity considerations with proven concepts of patrol organization.
and supporting fires to cover the crossing of danger

9001. GENERAL ORGANIZATION areas.
l The third squad (assault element) provides the
assault force to attack and seize the objective;
The patrol leader establishes a patrol headquarters and searchers to clear the objective; pacers, compass
elements to accomplish the mission. person, navigator, and the assistant patrol leader en
route and back from the objective area.
The headquarters is composed of the patrol leader and
the personnel who provide support for the entire Any attachments a patrol may have (i.e., demolition
patrol, such as a forward observer, corpsman, and team, scout snipers, and machine gun squad) will be
radio operator. added to the element that supports its function. For
example, the demolition personnel should go with the
The major subdivisions of reconnaissance and combat unit conducting the attack, and scout snipers and
patrols are elements. The existing infantry structure machine gunners should stay with the support squad.
(squads and fire teams) is reinforced as required. For
example, a reinforced platoon tasked to conduct a
combat patrol that will raid an enemy outpost could be
organized as follows: 9002. TASK ORGANIZATION
l Platoon headquarters (command element):

The preceding paragraphs described the elements
Patrol leader (platoon leader).
necessary for a patrol to accomplish its mission. These
n
n Assistant patrol leader (platoon sergeant). elements reflect the internal functions or tasks re-
n Navigator. quired for the patrol to succeed. Depending on the
n Radio operator (company tactical net). METT-T, there are various methods of grouping these
elements together. Task-organization is the further
Radio operator (patrol tactical net).
subdivision of patrol elements into teams that are
n
n Corpsman. required to perform essential tasks. In creating teams,

unit integrity of infantry units should be maintained.
l The first squad (security element) provides security
en route to the objective area (the point, flank The patrol is organized so each individual, team, and
security, and rear security) and at the objective area element is assigned a specific task, but capable and
(the flanks and the objective rally point). prepared to perform other tasks. This may not be
l The second squad (support element) supports by possible for certain specialist tasks requiring a trained
fire for the attack, covering fire for the withdrawal, technician.
CHAPTER 10. PATROL PREPARATION
For a patrol to succeed, all members must be well trained, briefed, and rehearsed.
The patrol leader must have a complete understanding of the mission and a
thorough understanding of the enemy and friendly situations. The patrol leader
should make a complete reconnaissance of the terrain to be covered (either visual
or map), and must issue an order to the patrol, supervise preparations, and conduct
rehearsals.
overall concept of operations to include the patrol plan

10001. MISSION and the specific tasks for each patrol.
The mission assigned to a patrol must be clear and Assigning Units

oriented toward one objective with a specific task and When assigning patrol missions, maintaining the
purpose. More than one primary objective or indefinite integrity of the existing unit while considering the
missions invites confusion, casualties, and failure. skills and experience of the unit and its leader are
critical factors to the infantry commander. To provide
operational depth and equitable apportionment of
10002. FACTORS INFLUENCING PATROL hazardous assignments, the commander ensures that
each of the subordinate leaders and units develops the
SIZE skills and experience necessary to conduct successful
patrols. Assignment of patrol units must consider the
commander’s concept of operations as a whole and the
The circumstances under which patrolling by infantry
plans for subsequent employment of assigned forces
units is conducted make it necessary for combat
after completion of the assigned patrolling mission.
patrols to be able to fight offensively, security patrols
to defend themselves, and reconnaissance patrols to
move quickly and only fight if necessary to break Providing Adequate Time
contact or defend themselves. The size of a patrol
depends on METT-T. The commander must allow the patrol sufficient
preparation time by completing the mission analysis,
Generally, a patrol should contain the least number of estimate, and preparation of orders. The commander
members needed to accomplish the mission. Combat should use warning orders to alert subordinates to
missions ordinarily require larger patrols than re- possible requirements and afford them the opportunity
connaissance missions. for concurrent planning.
Providing the Patrol Leader Information

10003. COMMANDER’S DUTIES The following information should be provided:
l A simple, straightforward explanation of the

Determining Patrol Requirements mission, particularly for night patrols.
l General routes (defined by checkpoints) or exact
The need for conducting patrols derives from the routes (defined by avenues of approach or other
commander’s stated mission (issued by higher level terrain features) to follow.
commander) and other specified and implied tasks l Enemy composition, disposition, and strength.
(secondary or supporting e fforts nece ssary to
l Location and activities of friendly troops.
accomplish the state d mission). This requires
analyzing the unit’s mission and determining the l Outposts or other security elements through which
necessary reconnaissance and/or combat tasks that the patrol is to pass.
must be performed. By considering the mission, along l Terrain conditions.
with time available, the commander develops the l Missions and routes of other patrols.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
10-2 MCWP 3-11.3
l Time patrol is to depart and return. prepared to provide the patrol leader an opportunity to
l Method of reporting information while on patrol ask for clarification or additional support, if required.
(radio, messenger), place where messengers are to
be sent, and place where the patrol leader is to Debriefing the Patrol
report upon completion of the patrol.
l The challenge and password to be used for exiting Upon return of the patrol, the commander receives the
and reentering friendly lines. patrol report at a debriefing attended by the patrol
l Special instructions such as locations to be avoided leader and all patrol members. The debriefing should
and essential elements of information higher be conducted as soon as possible following the
headquarters is seeking. patrol’s return, while information is still fresh in the
minds of the patrol members. A patrol report, based on
l Report barrier/obstacle plan of friendly units if
the information collected during the debrief, is gen-
known; support available from friendly unit (e.g.,
erated and forwarded to the next higher commander.
medical evacuation [MEDEVAC], react force).
l Fire support available.
Providing Special Skills and Equipment 10004. PATROL LEADER DUTIES
There will be situations when the unit assigned to

conduct a patrol does not have the necessary technical The patrol leader organizes and prepares the patrol by
skills or equipment organic to it to successfully using the six troop-leading steps to make the best use
accomplish the patrol mission. In these cases, addi- of resources available. These steps are to—
tions (attachments) are made to the unit, such as—
1. Begin planning.
l Machine gun and/or shoulder-launched, multipur- 2. Arrange for reconnaissance and coordination.
pose assault weapon (SMAW) team and/or squad.
l Forward observers (mortar/artillery). 3. Make reconnaissance.
l Radio operator(s). 4. Complete the plan.
l Combat engineers. 5. Issue the order.
l Tracked vehicle Marine to assess the ability to
6. Supervise.
traverse the terrain.
l Corpsman.
l Other personnel (snipers, translators) as required. Begin Planning
The patrol leader begins by evaluating all factors
Providing Miscellaneous Support affecting the mission. The leader looks for possible
courses of action that lead to a decision, and then
The commander must ensure that the patrol leader is transforms this decision into an order. The first step
provided with the food, water, ammunition, radios and includes making an initial assessment and decision on
batteries, maps, special clothing, and any other items using available time, issuing a warning order and initial
required by the unit (includin attachments) needed for preparatory tasks, and initiating his/her estimate.
the mission. Post-patrol support such as debriefings by
intelligence personnel must also be planned. The initial planning effort assesses the time, as-
sistance, and information available, and plans the
Reviewing the Patrol Leader's Plan and proper use of each. Time allowances include recon-
Preparations naissance; completion of the estimate and order; troop
preparation; and such briefings, rehearsals, and in-
Once the patrol leader receives the mission, conducts spections as required before beginning the patrol.
visual and/or map reconnaissance, and develops the
plan, the commander confirms the patrol leader’s The patrol leader reviews the mission and the at-
understanding of the mission and plan for accom- tachments and/or support available and decides what
plishing it. This discussion between the patrol leader preparatory efforts must begin immediately. Proper
and commander ensures that the patrol leader un- use of subordinates to manage these initial tasks
derstands the commander’s intent and is properly during this period reduces preparation time and frees
_________________________________________________________________________________
the patrol leader for proper planning and reconnais- complete definition) and supporting fires. The patrol
sance. A warning order is issued using a modified leader also coordinates with other patrol leaders who
five-paragraph order format (situation, mission, may be operating in the same or adjacent areas and
execution, administration and logistics, and command requests that the commander assigning him/her the
and signal [SMEAC]) as a checklist. (Refer to app. A patrol mission coordinate the patrol action with
for specific information that a patrol warning order adjacent commanders, local security, and night
should contain within each checklist item. defensive fires, as appropriate. The patrol leader may
delegate any or all of these arrangements to the
Once the initial preparations are set in motion, the assistant patrol leader if the patrol leader requires the
patrol leader begins estimating by analyzing the time for planning.
mission; considering the friendly, enemy, and
operating environments; considering each course of Make Reconnaissance and Complete the
action available against what the enemy might do; Estimate
comparing the courses of action in terms of mission
accomplishment, capabilities, and probable casualties; The patrol leader uses personal reconnaissance to
and choosing one that becomes the basis for concept answer questions that arise from the map recon-
and order. While the patrol leader should use and naissance and METT-T evaluation. Specific points in-
organize notes, estimates must be done quickly and clude passage points, lanes through obstacles,
accurately, particularly for immediate situations. To locations of friendly listening posts and observation
organize thinking, the patrol leader uses METT-T, posts, possible approach and return routes, enemy
which consists of: positions (if any), and intermediate observation points
on the way to the objective.
l Mission—the mission assigned to the patrol and
how it relates to the mission of the commander who In selecting approach and return routes, the patrol
is sending the patrol. leader chooses routes that best use concealment and
l Enemy—what is known or suspected of enemy avoid opposition and obstacles. To lessen the chances
presence and capabilities, habits and characteristics, of ambush by the enemy, the return trip is planned
and fighting techniques. along a different route. In addition to personal
l Terrain and weather—including ground, vegetation, reconnaissance and review of the map and aerial
drainage, weather, and visibility. photographs, the advice of other patrol leaders who
already are familiar with the terrain and the objective
l Troops and support available—friendly situation
area should be considered.
and support available.
l Time available—the constraints and impact of time After compiling information about the situation and
on preparation and mission accomplishment. possible time constraint, the patrol leader completes an
estimate. The first step is developing courses of action,
The estimate begins with mission analysis, which is each of which will provide for movement to the
the most important part of the entire planning process. objective area, mission accomplishment, and the
Here, the patrol leader considers the specified tasks of return, based on the tasks and their sequencing
the mission assigned and identifies other significant identified in mission analysis. While the eventual
actions (specified and implied tasks) that must be concept of operations is presented in order of
undertaken to accomplish the stated mission. These occurrence, the patrol leader must develop the courses
tasks are arranged in sequence of accomplishment. of action by either backward or forward planning. In
The tasks and sequence create the framework for situations where the objective is well defined and there
developing courses of action for the patrol concept of is sufficient information to plan the action for mission
operations. accomplishment (reconnaissance or combat), the
patrol leader begins the scheme for accomplishing the
Arrange for Reconnaissance and mission at the objective and then, planning backwards,
Coordination considers the options for getting there and back.
The patrol leader arranges a personal reconnaissance The following sections on movement to and return
to observe as far forward as possible and also from the objective area, reconnaissance missions, and
coordinates with the appropriate commanders for the combat missions discuss methods and options avail-
patrol’s “passage of lines” (see paragraph 11001 for able to the patrol leader in developing the courses of
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
10-4 MCWP 3-11.3
action. The principal variables between courses of Some factors that determine what action the patrol
action will be who, where, and how in the following: leader takes are: patrol’s mission; unit’s standing
operating procedure for handling wounded; number of
l Patrol task organization. casualties and nature of their injuries; availability of
aid, helicopters or other means of casualty evacuation.
l Routes to the objective area.
Helicopter evacuation should only be used for the
l Observation point(s) (reconnaissance patrol), am- most serious casualties. For infantry units conducting
bush site, form of maneuver, type of ambush patrols in proximity to the enemy, helicopter evacu-
(combat patrol), fire support plan. ation of casualties may compromise the patrol’s mis-
l Return routes. sion and force the patrol to return to friendly positions
before the mission is completed.
The patrol leader then mentally considers the progress
of each course of action (a map or simple sketch is a The patrol leader determines the requirement for
useful aid) against expected and unexpected enemy nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) defense
action. By comparing the options against each other equipment. Gas masks should always be carried due to
and prospective enemy opposition, the patrol leader the availability of riot control agents (RCAs) to the
chooses the course of action that has the best chance of enemy. If chemical or biological agents have been
success. Includes in this mental preview process is the employed in the area that the patrol must pass through,
time to determine the patrol plan for unexpected protective garments will have to be worn by patrol
contingencies (enemy attack/counterattack, casualty members for part of or the entire patrol. Wearing extra
handling). These contingency actions, together with clothing and carrying extra equipment affects the
the selected course of action, become the patrol con- speed of the patrol’s movement. A contingency plan
cept of operations. for post patrol decontamination must be developed.
Once the patrol leader determines the scheme of Complete the Plan
maneuver, the fire support required to accomplish the
mission is addressed including the fire power organic At this point, the patrol leader has completed the basic
to the patrol and what additional indirect fire support thinking necessary for accomplishing the assigned
will have to be provided by other units. When mission. The patrol leader prepares the patrol order to
planning for indirect fire support, the patrol leader spell out the details, assign tasks to subordinates, and
considers the following questions: explain the entire endeavor for ease of understanding
by the other members of the patrol.
l Will artillery, mortar, or close air support be
required at the objective area (combat patrols)? Prepare the Order
l What artillery and mortar targets exist along the
routes to and from the objective area that can be The patrol leader’s order contains more detailed
employed by the patrol if it encounters the enemy information than discussed in the warning order.
during movement (reconnaissance patrols and Orders follow the prescribed five-paragraph order
combat patrols)? format but contain greater detail. The patrol order is a
l What additional fire support will be required to modified 5-paragraph order; the major modifications
cover the patrol’s movement from the objective are to paragraphs 3a and 3c. The format for the order is
area back to the friendly area once the enemy is contained in appendix B.
aware of the patrol’s actions at the objective area
(combat patrols)? Issue the Order
The effect that casualties have upon the patrol depends The patrol leader asks for a status report on the initial
upon many factors. Generally, more casualties can be preparatory tasks assigned to subordinate leaders and
expected in a combat patrol than in a reconnaissance specialists when the warning order was issued. When
patrol. A patrol may continue on to the objective car- the patrol leader has completed planning and initial
rying its casualties, send them back with a detail of preparations have progressed to the point where the
Marines, abort the mission and return the entire patrol patrol order may be issued, the members of the patrol
with the casualties, or call their parent unit for are assembled. Roll call is taken to ensure all patrol
assistance. members are present, then the prepared order is issued.
_________________________________________________________________________________
This will be the only opportunity for the patrol leader l Challenges and passwords, codes, reporting times,
to issue detailed instructions. The mission, in par- radio call signs, frequencies, and any other pertinent
ticular, must be unmistakably clear so that once the details.
patrol is committed, all subordinate leaders can act
with unity of purpose. There is usually a period of time between final re-
hearsal and departure. The patrol leader reinspects just
Whenever possible, the patrol leader should have a before departure to ensure all equipment is still in
Marine, such as the navigator, build a terrain model working order and the unit is ready to embark on the
using dirt, sand, twigs, etc., explaining the concept of mission.
operations for movement to the objective area, actions
at the objective area, and the return. Terrain models Rehearsals ensure the operational proficiency of the
provide patrol members with a clear and simple layout patrol. Plans are checked and needed changes are
of the area of operations and key terrain. made. The patrol leader verifies the suitability of
equipment. It is through rehearsals that patrol
members become thoroughly familiar with the actions
Supervise to take during the patrol.
Inspections and rehearsals, vital to proper preparation,
If the patrol will operate at night, both day and night
are conducted even though the patrol leader and patrol
rehearsals are conducted. Terrain similar to that over
members are well experienced in patrolling. In-
which the patrol will operate is used. All actions are
spections determine the patrol’s state of physical and
rehearsed. If time is limited, the most critical phases
mental readiness.
are rehearsed. Action at the objective is the most
critical phase of the patrol and is always rehearsed.
The patrol leader inspects before rehearsals to ensure
completeness and correctness of uniform and equip- An effective method is to talk the patrol through each
ment. The following areas are checked: phase, describing the actions and having each member
perform individual duties. When satisfied, the patrol
l Camouflage. leader walks the patrol through all phases of the patrol
l Identification tags, Geneva Convention cards. using only the signals and commands to be used
l Prescribed equipment, weapons, and ammunition during the actual conduct of the patrol. Rehearsals
are available and serviceable. continue until the patrol is thoroughly familiar with
the plan. The rehearsal is also used to test the sound-
l Tape and other items are used to “silence” equip- ness of the patrol order and patrol organization.
ment (prevent noise produced during movement).
l Items that could provide information to the enemy After the rehearsal, the patrol leader makes final ad-
(e.g., letters and papers) remain behind. justments to the plan and patrol organization based on
l Unnecessary equipment and excess weight remain what was learned during the rehearsal and from other
behind. sources, such as the S-2 and adjacent patrols. When
this is completed, the patrol leader issues final in-
The patrol leader questions each patrol member to structions to subordinate leaders noting any changes
ensure the following is known: made in the patrol organization or plan. While the
subordinate leaders are briefing the remainder of the
l The mission, planned routes (primary and alter- patrol members, the patrol leader reports to the com-
nate), and the fire support plan of the patrol. mander stating that the patrol is ready to begin the
mission. The patrol leader also coordinates the loca-
l The individual’s role: what to do and when to do it. tion and time that the patrol can test fire all weapons
l What others are to do and how their actions impact. prior to departure.
CHAPTER 11. MOVEMENT TO AND RETURN
FROM THE OBJECTIVE AREA
This chapter provides guidance to patrol leaders for movement to and return from
the objective area. Action in the objective area depends on whether the patrol is
assigned a reconnaissance mission, combat mission or security mission. Chapters
12 and 13 provide detailed guidance on these types of missions.
11001. PASSAGE OF LINES 11002. ORGANIZATION FOR MOVEMENT
A passage of lines is an operation in which a force The patrol’s task organization establishes the ele-
moves forward or rearward through another force’s ments and teams needed to accomplish the mission in
combat positions with the intention of moving into or the objective area and to and from the objective. The
out of contact with the enemy. (JP 1-02) patrol leader determines the formation(s) in which the
patrol moves to the objective area.
During the initial preparation for the patrol, the patrol
leader selects a patrol assembly area and reconnoiters Formations
the area of passage designated by the commander. In
coordination with the unit commander responsible for The proper use of patrol formations is critical to the
the area of passage, the patrol leader identifies gaps or patrol’s success. The squad and fire team formations
lanes in minefields and wire obstacles and locates described in FMFM 6-5 (proposed MCWP 3-11.2),
local security elements through which the patrol will Marine Rifle Squad, also apply to infantry patrolling
pass. The patrol leader also checks the route from the formations. Because the movement of the patrol must
patrol assembly area to the passage point or contact be concealed from the enemy, the patrol normally
point where the patrol will depart friendly lines. If moves through terrain that provides concealment.
possible, both the route to the passage point and the Control of the patrol in this type of terrain is difficult;
route through the frontlines should be concealed from thus the column formation, which is easily controlled,
the enemy’s view. is normally used. However, as various types of terrain
are encountered, the patrol leader uses the same con-
The patrol leader also reconnoiters the area for return siderations in determining the appropriate formation
passage of lines and coordinates with the unit used in other infantry operations.
commander responsible for the area of passage for
passage points and lanes as necessary. The patrol The standard squad and fire team formations are
leader observes these points from the direction that the adaptable to a patrol. The patrol may change for-
patrol will use upon return to friendly lines, if mations en route to match the situation and terrain.
possible, to aid in recognition upon return. The patrol The patrol leader may have to sacrifice some control
leader provides the forward unit with information for better dispersion or give up some speed for greater
about the size of the patrol, general route, and stealth and more security. Other considerations
expected time of return. The manner of challenge and include—
re cognition of th e re tur ning p atrol should be
coordinated in detail. l Visibility, weather, terrain, and vegetation will
influence dispersion and control of individuals and
Upon return to friendly forward local security squads units. These factors may also affect the enemy; if
and/or frontlines, the patrol leader leaves the patrol in visibility is good for the patrol, it is also good for
a covered position and moves forward with a radio the enemy. Two pieces of luminous tape worn on
operator and at least one Marine for security to make the back of the collar will aid in control and
contact with the friendly unit in the manner agreed. movement on dark nights. The collar is turned
After contact is made and recognized, the patrol leader down when near the enemy. The tape can also be
rejoins the patrol and takes them to the passage point, worn on the back of the cap, but should be covered
personally checking in each member. or removed when near the enemy.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
11-2 MCWP 3-11.3
l Preserving the integrity of fire units (fire teams and,

if attached, machine-gun teams) is of primary
importance. If team members are detached from a
machine-gun team, the unit integrity is lost and
effectiveness is reduced. The patrol leader must
also position fire units so as not to mask their fires.
l All-around defense of the patrol must not be
sacrificed under any circumstances. The conven-
tional squad and platoon formations provide
adequate firepower in any direction required. When
attachments are made to the patrol, the attachments
are positioned within the formation to enhance the
firepower of the patrol. If a fire unit, such as a
machine-gun team or squad, is attached, it is
incorporated into the all-around defense of the
patrol by modifying the conventional formation
(see fig. 11-1). It is permissible to employ machine-
gun teams individually during movement. How-
ever, assault rocket squads and teams should be
employed primarily as rifle fire units for movement.
Firing the SMAW or AT-4 from within a patrol
formation can present a serious back-blast danger to
patrol members and should only be fired on the
patrol leader’s direction.
l Time allotted for mission accomplishment is also a
major consideration. In selecting the formations, the
patrol leader must consider the speed of the
movement required to meet the time constraints (if
any) imposed on the patrol. If required to meet a
time schedule, a formation that permits rapid
movement should be used. Speed, however, must
never be permitted to force the patrol leader to
make rash tactical decisions.
Exercise of Control
The patrol leader is positioned for best control over the
patrol. The assistant patrol leader moves at or near the
rear of the patrol. Other subordinate leaders move with
their elements. All patrol members assist by staying
Figure 11-1. Squad Patrol with Attached Mortar
alert and passing on signals and orders. A signal to halt Forward Observer Team and Machine Gun Squad.
may be given by any patrol member, but the signal to
resume movement is given only by the patrol leader.
patrol leader halts the patrol and has subordinate
Arm-and-hand signals are the primary means of leaders come forward. They speak in a low voice and
communication within a patrol and should be used then pass the information to their subordinates by
exclusively when near the enemy. All members must moving from member to member.
know the standard infantry signals (refer to FMFM 6-
5), as well as any special signals required, and be alert Radios provide a means of positive control within a
to receive and pass them to other members. large patrol; however, radios should be used only
when arm-and-hand signals or face-to-face contact
The patrol leader should speak just loudly enough to between the patrol leader and subordinate leaders is
be heard. At night, or when close to the enemy, the impractical. When close to the enemy, words are
_________________________________________________________________________________
spoken into the microphone with hands cupped over it “send up the pace” or uses the arm-and-hand signal of
in a low voice. tapping his/her boot. This signal is passed to both
pacers, who in turn send up the pace count in meters;
Other sound signals may be used if the patrol leader is for example, “two-hundred” or “one-seven-five.”
sure they serve the purpose intended. Planned sound
signals are rehearsed before starting on the patrol. Patrol members must understand that the counts of
Sound signals used must be simple, natural sounds that both pacers are sent forward. The patrol leader must
are few in number and easily understood. Bird and know the counts of both pacers in order to check them.
animal calls are seldom satisfactory.
Infrared equipment, such as the sniper scope and Security

infrared filters for the flashlight, may be used as means
of sending and receiving signals and maintaining The patrol is dispersed consistent with control, visi-
control at night. bility, cover, and concealment. Scouts are employed to
the front, flanks, and rear of the patrol to provide
Luminous tape may be used to assist in control at security. For the patrol members traveling in the main
night. Small strips on the back of the cap or collar of body of the patrol, areas of responsibility are assigned
patrol members aid in keeping visual contact with the to the front, flanks, and rear. Scouts are the eyes and
front member. However, the luminous tape must be ears of the patrol leader. They move when and where
covered when near the enemy. directed by the patrol leader and maintain contact with
the patrol leader at all times, except when momentarily
An important aspect of control is accounting of obscured by vegetation or other terrain features.
personnel, especially after crossing danger areas,
enemy contacts, halts, and exiting and re-entering Front
friendly lines. The patrol leader may arrange for the
last member to send up the count automatically after Small patrols (squad size) may employ from one scout
crossing danger areas, enemy contact, and halts. In up to a fire team as the point, depending on the enemy
large patrols or when moving in a formation other than situation, terrain, and route being followed by the
a column, subordinate leaders check members and patrol. Normally, squad-size patrols will use two
report the count to the patrol leader by the quickest scouts as the point. The point is responsible for
method appropriate to the circumstances. investigating the route of advance immediately to the
front of the patrol.
Navigation The point moves as far ahead of the patrol as visibility

and terrain permit. When visibility is good, the point
One or more members are assigned as navigators for may precede the main body by as much as 100 meters.
the patrol. Their function is to assist the patrol leader The point travels right and left ahead of the patrol,
in maintaining direction by the use of the compass. searching the area over which the patrol will pass.
The patrol leader assigns at least two members as
pacers to keep track of the distance from point to The point maintains direction by knowledge of the
point. The average of their count is used to ap- general route to be followed and visual contact with
proximate the distance traveled. Pacers are separated the patrol leader. The patrol leader or the navigator
so they do not influence each other’s count. Pacers ensures that the point is proceeding correctly.
must know how to convert their own paces to meters.
The point, which stays far enough ahead of the patrol
The route is divided into increments, with each to provide security, is not a trail breaker for the patrol.
increment starting at a recognizable point on the If the point loses contact with the patrol, the point
ground. The pacers begin their counts from zero at the waits for the main body to catch up or moves rearward
beginning of each leg. This makes the pace count if contact is not quickly regained.
easier to keep and checks for accuracy.
One of the navigators may be positioned with the
The pace count is sent forward when the patrol leader point. One or more members works as the point while
turns to the member behind and in a low voice says, the other is the navigator.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
11-4 MCWP 3-11.3
Flank
Flank security for a patrol of squad size or less may be 11003. CONTROL MEASURES FOR
provided by using one or two members on either flank. MOVEMENT
If two scouts are assigned to a flank, one is positioned
to observe the patrol leader and the other works farther
out from the patrol. The scout who must observe the Checkpoints
patrol leader remains within a maximum distance of
100 meters. The scout farther out remains in sight of A checkpoint is a predetermined point on the surface
the inside scout but normally does not move more than of the Earth used as a means of controlling movement,
20 or 25 meters away and remains prepared to relieve a registration target for fire adjustment or reference for
flank security regularly. Moving through dense woods location (JP 1-02). Checkpoints are a means of control
or jungle may render the use of flank security between the parent unit and the patrol. These locations
impractical because of reduced visibility. In such are decided upon and coordinated before the patrol
cases, it moves with the patrol itself, but maintains leaves, so that both the patrol members and parent unit
observation to its assigned flanks. will know the patrol’s location when it reports in. The
parent unit can follow the progress of the patrol
without transmitting coordinates over the radio that
Rear the enemy could monitor.
A small patrol normally has only one rifleman Rally Points

assigned as rear security. An interval between the
member assigned as rear security and the last Marine A rally point is an easily identifiable point on the
of the patrol is maintained at the limit of visibility, up ground where units can reassemble and reorganize if
to 50 meters. This member maintains rear security for they become dispersed (MCRP 5-12C). It should
the patrol by constantly observing to the rear. provide cover and concealment, be defensible for at
least a short time, and be easily recognized and known
to all patrol members. All rally points are considered
Halting and identified as tentative rally points until they are
occupied, found to be suitable, and designated as rally
Speed of movement is slower at night than in day points by the patrol leader.
patrols and reduces the danger of a Marine becoming
separated from the patrol. The patrol occasionally
halts to observe and listen for enemy activity; this is Initial Rally Point
called a security halt. Upon signal, when reaching a The initial rally point is within friendly lines where the
danger area and periodically throughout movement en patrol can rally if it becomes separated before
route, every member freezes in place, remains quiet, departing the friendly area or before reaching the first
observes, and listens. It may be necessary to call a en route rally point. It may be the assembly area where
security halt just after departing friendly areas and just the patrol waits while the patrol leader contacts the last
before entering friendly areas. friendly position through which the patrol will pass.
The location of the initial rally point must be coor-
The patrol may halt briefly to send a message, eat, rest, dinated with the forward unit commander.
check direction, or make a reconnaissance. The area
selected should provide adequate concealment and En route Rally Points
cover, as well as favor the defense. All-round security En route rally points are between the initial rally point
is established and the patrol leader ensures all mem- and the objective rally point; and from the objective
bers move out when the patrol resumes movement. rally point back to the point where the patrol reenters
(For extended halts, see paragraph 11005.) friendly lines. They are determined as the patrol passes
through a likely area that is suitable for a rally point.
Infiltration
Objective Rally Point
The disposition of enemy forces may sometimes The objective rally point is located nearest the
prevent a patrol from entering the enemy occupied objective where the patrol makes final preparations
area as a unit; however, pairs of scouts or fire teams prior to approaching the objective. It also serves as a
may slip through without being discovered. (Refer to location where the patrol reassembles after completing
FMFM 6-5 for infiltration techniques and procedures). actions on the objective. The objective rally point must
_________________________________________________________________________________
be su i ta b le to a c c o mm od a t e th o se a c ti vi ti e s rally point on the far side of it. If, however, the patrol
accomplished prior to actions on the objective. This is separated or dispersed at a danger area as a result of
position must provide the patrol concealment from enemy contact, members who have already crossed the
enemy observation and, if possible, cover from enemy danger area assemble and reorganize at the rally point
fires. It may be located short of, to a flank or beyond on the far side; members who have not crossed
the objective. It should be out of sight, sound, and assemble and reorganize at the rally point on the near
small-arms range of the objective area. The patrol side. In the absence of the patrol leader and unless
leader’s reconnaissance of the objective is made from directed otherwise, the senior member at the rally
this position; it is the release point from which patrol point on the near side takes charge, attempts to move
elements and teams move to the objective to accom- the rallied patrol members to the rally point on the far
plish the mission. side, and rejoins the remainder of the patrol.
Rally Point Selection Rally Point Actions

The patrol leader selects likely locations for tentative The patrol leader plans the actions to be taken at rally
rally points during reconnaissance or map study. A points and instructs the patrol accordingly in the patrol
tentative rally point must be confirmed and announced order. Planned actions at the initial rally point and en
after examination proves suitability. A tentative initial route rally points must provide for the continuation of
rally point and a tentative objective rally point are the patrol as long as there is a reasonable chance to
always selected and identified in the patrol order. If accomplish the mission. Plans for actions at rally
necessary, the patrol leader selects additional rally points should provide for—
points en route as suitable locations are reached. When
the patrol reaches a danger area that cannot be l Recognition signals for assembly at rally points.
bypassed, such as an open meadow or stream, the l Minimum number of members and maximum
patrol leader selects a rally point on both the near and amount of waiting time required before the senior
far side. If good locations are not available, the patrol member at the rally point moves the rallied patrol
leader designates the rally points in relation to the members onward toward the objective or returns to
danger area. The patrol leader will say, for example, friendly lines.
“50 meters this side of the trail” or “50 meters beyond
the stream.” l Instructions for patrol members who find them-
selves alone at a rally point.
Rally Point Use
The initial rally point and en route rally points are
designated to enable the patrol to reassemble if it is 11004. PRECAUTIONS AT DANGER
unavoidably separated or dispersed. Identifying AREAS
features are pointed out. The patrol leader ensures that
the information is passed to all patrol members. When
crossing a danger area, a near side rally point and a far A danger area is any place where the patrol is
side rendezvous point are designated. These rally vulnerable to enemy observation or fire (open areas,
points should only be used when all other methods of roads, trails, and obstacles such as barbed wire,
retaining control of the patrol have failed. The success minefields, rivers and streams, and lakes). Any known
of the patrol may be jeopardized if it is dispersed and or suspected enemy position the patrol must pass is
cannot rally expeditiously. also a danger area. The patrol leader plans for crossing
each danger area and includes these plans in the order.
If the patrol has left the friendly area and becomes
dispersed, patrol members return to the last designated The patrol reconnoiters the near side of a danger area
rally point (the initial or an en route rally point) unless first, then the patrol leader sends scouts to reconnoiter
the patrol leader gives other instructions. the far side. Once the scouts report that the far side is
clear of the enemy, the remainder of the patrol crosses
As previously noted, the patrol leader selects two rally the danger area. As each individual or group crosses
points at the near and far sides of danger areas that the danger area, they are covered by those remaining
cannot be bypassed. If the patrol becomes separated or and by those who have successfully crossed. Enemy
dispersed at a danger area, and there has been no obstacles are avoided since they are usually covered
enemy contact, the patrol should reassemble at the by fire.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
11-6 MCWP 3-11.3
In crossing a river, the near bank is reconnoitered first; Passive security measures are—
then the patrol is positioned to cover the far bank.
Scouts are sent across to the far bank. After the far l Avoid built-up areas.
bank has been reconnoitered and the scouts report that l Select an area remote from all human habitation.
it is clear of the enemy, the patrol crosses as rapidly as
possible. This may be done individually or in pairs. If l Avoid known or suspected enemy positions.
crossing the river requires swimming, the patrol uses l Avoid ridge lines, topographic crests, valleys, lakes,
improvised rafts to float equipment, weapons, and and streams.
ammunition across. (Refer to MCRP 3-02C, Water l Avoid roads and trails.
Survival Handbook.) l Avoid open woods and clearings.
A road or trail is crossed at or near a bend or where the l Select areas offering dense vegetation, preferably
road is narrow. Observation is restricted and, if the bushes and trees that spread out close to the ground.
enemy is present, the patrol is exposed as short a time
as possible. The near side is reconnoitered first, then Active security measures—
scouts are sent across to reconnoiter the far side. This
includes reconnoitering the tentative rally point on the l Establish security covering all likely avenues of
far side. Once the scouts report “all clear,” the approach into the site.
remainder of the patrol crosses rapidly and quietly. l Establish communications (wire, radio, signal,
runner) with posted security to provide early
If the patrol must pass close to an enemy position, it warning of enemy approach.
takes advantage of battlefield noises to cover the l Select an alternate area for occupation if the
sounds of movement. If supporting fires are available, original hide is compromised or found unsuitable.
the patrol leader can call for them to divert the
enemy’s attention as the patrol passes. l Plan for withdrawal in the event of discovery.
l Establish an alert plan with a certain percent of the
personnel awake at all times.
l Organize the elements of the patrol so necessary
11005. HIDE activities can take place with a minimum amount of
movement.
When a patrol is required to halt for an extended
The size of the area physically occupied by a patrol in
period in an area not protected by friendly troops, the
a hide and the number of security posts required are
patrol moves into a location which, by the nature of
governed by the terrain, quantity and quality of cover
the surrounding terrain, provides passive security from
and concealment, and size of the patrol.
enemy detection. Such an assembly area is termed a
hide. To establishment a hide—
If the situation permits, a hide can also be used as the
final preparation position and/or objective rally point.
l Cease all movement during daylight hours to avoid
detection.
l Hide the patrol for an extended period while the
patrol leader conducts a detailed reconnaissance of 11006. IMMEDIATE ACTIONS UPON
the objective area. ENEMY CONTACT
l Rest and reorganize after extended movement.
l Reorganize after a patrol has infiltrated the enemy
area in small groups. A patrol may make contact with the enemy at any
time. Contact may be through observation, a meeting
The patrol leader’s plan must include tentative hide engagement or ambush. Contact may be visual, in
locations when the patrol’s mission dictates an which the patrol sights the enemy but is not itself
extended halt within enemy areas. These tentative detected. When this is the case, the patrol leader can
locations must be confirmed by actual ground decide whether to make or avoid physical contact,
reconnaissance prior to occupation by the patrol. The basing his/her decision on the patrol’s assigned
plan for a hide includes both passive and active mission and capability to successfully engage the
security measures. enemy unit.
_________________________________________________________________________________
When a patrol’s assigned mission prohibits physical member halts in place, weapon at the ready, and
contact (except that necessary to accomplish the remains absolutely motionless and quiet until further
mission), its actions are defensive in nature. Physical signals or orders are given.
contact, if unavoidable, is broken as quickly as
possible and the patrol, if still capable, continues its Air Observation and/or Attack
mission.
These actions are designed to reduce the danger of
When a patrol’s assigned mission permits or requires detection from aircraft and casualties from air attack.
it to seek or exploit opportunities for contact (as in the
case of a combat patrol), its actions are offensive in When an enemy or unidentified aircraft that may
nature, immediate, and positive. detect the patrol is heard or observed, the appropriate
immediate action drill is FREEZE. The first member
In patrolling, contacts (visual or physical) are often hearing or sighting an aircraft that may be a threat
unexpected at very close ranges, and short in duration. signals FREEZE. Every member halts in place until
Effective enemy fire often provides leaders little or no the patrol leader identifies the aircraft and gives
time to fully evaluate situations and issue orders. In further signals or orders. Members of the patrol must
these situations, immediate action provides a means not look up at the aircraft as sunlight can reflect off
for swiftly initiating positive offensive or defensive their faces even when camouflaged.
action, as appropriate.
When an aircraft detects a patrol and makes a low
Two types of physical contact with the enemy are level attack, the immediate action drill air attack is
meeting engagement and ambush. Meeting used. The first member sighting an attacking aircraft
engagement is a combat action that occurs when a shouts, “AIRCRAFT,” followed by the direction of
moving force, incompletely deployed for battle, the incoming attack: FRONT, LEFT, REAR or
engages an enemy at an unexpected time and place. It RIGHT. The patrol moves quickly into line formation,
is an accidental meeting where neither the enemy nor well spread out, at right angles to the aircraft’s
the patrol expect contact and are not specifically direction of travel. As each member comes on line, the
prepared to deal with it. An ambush is a surprise attack member hits the ground, using available cover, then
from a concealed position. positions the body perpendicular to the aircraft’s
direction of travel, to present the shallowest target
possible (see fig. 11-2 on page 11-8). Between attacks
Immediate Actions
(if the aircraft returns or if more than one aircraft
Immediate actions are designed to provide swift and attacks), patrol members seek better cover. Attacking
positive small unit reaction to visual or physical aircraft are fired upon only on command of the patrol
contact with the enemy. They are simple courses of leader.
action in which all Marines are well trained. Minimal
signals or commands are required and they are Meeting Engagement
developed as needed for the combat situation. The Hasty Ambush. This immediate action is used to
signals can, in many cases, be initiated by any member avoid contact and to prepare to initiate an unplanned
of the unit. It is not feasible to attempt to design an ambush on the enemy. It may often be a subsequent
immediate action drill to cover every possible action after the command freeze. When the signal
situation. It is better to know the immediate action drill HASTY AMBUSH is given (by the point member,
for each of a limited number of situations that may patrol leader or another authorized patrol member), the
oc cur dur ing a patr ol. Ar m-a nd- ha nd signa ls entire patrol moves quickly to the right or left of the
associated with immediate actions—such as FREEZE, line of movement, as indicated by the signal, and takes
ENEMY IN SIGHT, and HASTY AMBUSH RIGHT up the best available concealed firing positions (see
or LEFT—are contained in FMFM 6-5 (proposed fig. 11-3 on page 11-9). The patrol leader initiates the
MCWP 3-11.2). ambush by opening fire and shouting, “FIRE”; thus
ensuring initiation of the ambush if the weapon
Immediate Halt misfires. If the patrol is detected before this, the first
When the patrol detects the enemy but is not itself member aware of detection initiates the ambush by
detected, the situation requires the immediate, in-place firing and shouting. The patrol leader may decide not
halt of the patrol. The first member visually detecting to initiate the ambush in order to avoid contact unless
the enemy gives the silent signal for FREEZE. Every the patrol is detected. When used as an offensive
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
11-8 MCWP 3-11.3
Figure 11-2. Immediate Action, Air Attack.
measure, the enemy is allowed to advance until they are the patrol is fired upon from beyond 50 meters, the
in the most vulnerable position before the ambush is patrol must break contact as quickly as possible and
initiated. An alternate means for initiating the ambush is continue the mission. If it engages the enemy any
to designate an individual (for example, point or last longer than necessary to break contact, it may put the
member) to open fire when a certain portion of the mission in jeopardy.
enemy unit reaches or passes that member.
Fire and Maneuver
Immediate Assault. This immediate action drill is Fire and maneuver is one means to break contact. One
used defensively to make and quickly break undesired portion of the patrol returns the enemy fire while
but unavoidable contact (including ambush) and another portion moves by bounds away from the
offensively to decisively engage the enemy (including enemy. Each portion of the patrol covers the other by
ambush). When used in a meeting engagement, fire until contact is broken by all.
members nearest the enemy open fire and shout,
“CONTACT,” followed by the direction of the
incoming attack: FRONT, LEFT, REAR or RIGHT. Clock System
The patrol moves swiftly into line formation and The clock system is another means to break contact.
assaults (see fig. 11-4). Twelve o’clock is the direction of movement of the
patrol. The patrol leader shouts a direction and a
distance. For example: “TEN O’CLOCK-TWO
Defensive Measures HUNDRED,” means the patrol should move in the
When used defensively, the assault is stopped if the direction of ten o’clock for 200 meters. Patrol
enemy withdraws and contact is broken quickly. If the members keep their same relative positions as they
enemy stands fast, the assault is carried through the move so the original formation is not disrupted.
enemy positions and movement is continued until con- Subordinate leaders must be alert to ensure that the
tact is broken. members of their elements and teams receive the
correct order and move as directed.
Offensive Measures
When used offensively, the enemy is decisively Counter Ambush
engaged. Escapees are pursued and destroyed until or- When a patrol is ambushed, the immediate action drill
ders to break contact are given by the patrol leader. If used depends on whether the ambush is a near ambush
_________________________________________________________________________________
Figure 11-4. Immediate Action, Immediate Assault.

Figure 11-3. Immediate Action, Hasty Ambush.
maneuver against the enemy as directed. The assault
continues until all patrol members are outside of the
(the enemy is within 50 meters of the patrol) or a far killing zone.
ambush (the enemy is beyond 50 meters of the patrol).
Fifty meters is considered the limit from which the Far Ambush. In a far ambush, the killing zone is also
ambushed patrol can effectively launch an assault under very heavy, highly concentrated fires, but from
against the enemy. a greater range. This greater range provides members
in the killing z one mane uver space a nd some
Near Ambush. In a near ambush, the killing zone is opportunity to seek cover at a lesser risk of becoming
under very heavy, highly concentrated, close range a casualty. If attacked by a far ambush, members in the
fires. There is little time or space for members to killing zone, without order or signal, immediately
maneu-ver or seek cover. The longer they remain in return fire, take the best available positions, and
the killing zone, the greater the chance they will continue firing until directed otherwise. Members not
become casualties. Therefore, if members in the kil- in the killing zone maneuver against the ambush force,
ling zone are attacked by a near ambush, they as directed (see fig. 11-6 on page 11-10). The assault
immediately assault without order or signal directly is continued against the enemy or until the order to
into the ambush position, occupy it, and continue the break contact is given.
assault or break contact, as directed. This action
moves them out of the killing zone, prevents other In each situation, the success of the counter ambush
elements of the ambush from firing on them without employed depends on the members being well trained
firing on their own members, and provides positions in quickly recognizing the distance from which an
from which other actions may be taken (see fig. 11-5 ambush is initiated and well rehearsed in the proper
on page 11-10). Members not in the killing zone reaction.
11-10 ____________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
l Must a decision be made now?

l What are the options?
l Which option best serves the mission and the unit as
a whole?
l Which option offers the greatest chance of success?
11008. RETURN FROM OBJECTIVE AREA
After performing actions in the objective area, the

patrol reassembles at the objective rally point. This
phase of the patrol is perhaps the most difficult and
dangerous. Patrol members are experiencing fatigue,
emotional letdown, and wounds; they may be low on
water and ammunition. Above all, the enemy was
likely alerted if not in pursuit. At this point, the patrol
leader must move the patrol rapidly but carefully and
maintain patrol security at a high level. In returning to
friendly lines, the patrol neither uses nor travels near
the same route used to get to the objective area. The
enemy may have that route covered. For information
on reentry of friendly lines, refer to paragraph 11001.
Figure 11-5. Near Ambush.
11007. PATROL LEADER’S ACTION IN A

DEVELOPING SITUATION
While good patrolling depends on good planning, the

patrol leader’s plan must be flexible. Every combat
situation develops differently than expected, and the
patrol leader must be ready to quickly adapt to the
situation as it develops. One of the most difficult tasks
in battle is to recognize the correct moment for making
a decision. Generally, it is more difficult to determine
the moment for making a decision than it is to
formulate the decision itself. When the situation
demands, decisions must be made promptly without
waiting for more information. In a developing
situation, the patrol leader should use the following
questions as a guide for battlefield decisionmaking:
l How has the situation changed?

l How does the change affect mission accomplish- Figure 11-6. Far Ambush.
ment and the immediate superior’s mission?
CHAPTER 12. RECONNAISSANCE PATROLS
The commander needs accurate, timely information about the enemy and the
terrain the enemy controls to assist in making tactical decisions. Reconnaissance
patrols are one of the most reliable means for obtaining this information. These
patrols engage the enemy only when necessary to accomplish their mission or for
protection. They generally avoid combat, accomplish the mission by stealth, and
do not maintain contact with the unit that sent them out. A reconnaissance patrol
is capable of carrying the search for information into the area occupied by enemy
forces—usually beyond the range of vision of friendly ground observation
posts—and examining objects and events at close range.
or through the use of global positioning satellite

12001. GENERAL MISSIONS receivers.
General missions for reconnaissance patrols include Reconnaissance of Contaminated Areas

gathering information about location and char-
acteristics of friendly or hostile positions and installa- A patrol with the mission of investigating a con-
tions, terrain (routes, stream crossings), and obstacles. taminated area reconnoiters and marks the area’s
boundaries. Patrol members wear protective clothing
and field protective masks. The patrol leader reports
the extent of the area, the ttype of agent used, the
12002. SPECIFIC MISSIONS terrain and vegetation and the method of marking the
contaminated area. A sketch of the contaminated area,
prepared by the patrol leader, should be included in the
Locate the Enemy patrol report.
Reconnaissance patrols try to determine the— Reconnaissance of Enemy Minefields

l Location of enemy forces, installations, and equip- Patrols assigned to reconnoiter enemy minefields are
ment. often composed of specially trained personnel. The
l Identification of enemy units and equipment. type of mine is identified and the possibility of by-
l Strength of enemy forces. passing the area determined.
l Disposition of enemy forces.
l Movement of enemy personnel and equipment. Reconnaissance of Terrain
l New or special types of weapons.
l Presence of mechanized units. The reconnaissance patrol is particularly suited for
gathering information about the terrain within their
l Unusual enemy activity.
area of operations. (Refer to MCRP 2-15.3B, Re-
l Presence of NBC equipment. connaissance Reports Guide.) Commanders must
know the location and condition of bridges, streams,
Reconnaissance of Enemy Wire and roads in order to make proper plans for the
Obstacles movement of troops. The following information
should be obtained by a reconnaissance patrol
A patrol with the mission of investigating enemy- assigned such missions:
emplaced wire obstacles employs a formation
providing for all-around security and takes precautions l Bridges:
against being observed by the enemy. The patrol
leader and one Marine inspect each gap and establish n Maximum load capacity.
its location by means of compass bearings to prom- n Material used in construction (wood, stone, con-
inent objects in the rear of enemy or friendly positions crete or steel).
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
12-2 MCWP 3-11.3
n Material used for abutments (dirt, wood, mason- critical points, vehicle weight and size limitations, and
ry, concrete). locations for friendly obstacle emplacement.
n Type and number of supporting members of the
bridge. The objective area is normally defined by a line of de-
n Condition and dimensions of bridge flooring. parture, a route, and a limit of advance.
n Presence or absence of mines and demolition
charges on the bridge and at entrances/exits. Area
n Terrain crossed (ravine, stream, road).
n Primary use (rail, auto, foot). An area reconnaissance is a directed effort to obtain
n Location and type of an alternate crossing if detailed information concerning the terrain or enemy
bridge is unusable. activity within a prescribed area such as a town, ridge
line woods or other features critical to operations.
l Streams and fords: (Refer to MCRP 5-12C.) An area reconnaissance
n Width and depth of stream. could also be made of a single point, such as a bridge
n Composition of the bottom (mud, sand, gravel, or installation. (Refer to MCRP 5-12A.)
rock).
n Speed of current in miles per hour. Emphasis is placed on reaching the area without being
n Composition and gradient of banks. detected. Enemy situations encountered en route are
n Surrounding terrain and vegetation cover. developed only enough to allow the reconnoitering
l Roads: unit to report and bypass.
n Width.
n Composition of surface. Zone
n Condition.
A zone reconnaissance is a directed effort to obtain
n Road blocks. detailed information concerning all routes, obstacles
n Gradient/degrees of slopes. (to include chemical or radiological contamination),
n Curves (location and length). terrain, and enemy forces within a zone defined by
n Pitch and culvert locations. boundaries. A zone reconnaissance is normally as-
n Primary use and frequency of use. signed when the enemy situation is vague or when
information concerning cross-country trafficability is
desired. (Refer to MCRP 5-12C.)
12003. TYPES OF RECONNAISSANCE The commander specifies specific routes or areas of

interest within the zone. The zone to be reconnoitered
usually is defined by a line of departure, lateral boun-
Route daries, and a limit of advance.
Route reconnaissance is a directed effort to obtain

detailed information of a specified route and all terrain
from which the enemy could influence movement 12004. TASK ORGANIZATION
along that route. (Refer to MCRP 5-12C.) It is also
described as a form of reconnaissance focused along a
specific line of communications—such as a road, A reconnaissance patrol is organized around the
railway, or waterway—to provide new or updated current structure of the Marine rifle squad with one or
information on route conditions and activities along more of the squad’s fire teams assigned as the
the route. (Refer to MCRP 5-12A, Operational Terms reconnaissance element to reconnoiter or maintain
and Graphics.) surveillance over the objective. At least one fire team
acts as a security element whose functions are to—
A route reconnaissance normally precedes the move-
ment of forces. It provides detailed information about l Secure the objective rally point (see para. 11003).
a specific route and the surrounding terrain that could
be used to influence movement along that route. l Give early warning of enemy approach.
Considerations include trafficablility, danger areas, l Protect the reconnaissance unit.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Reinforcing the squad is based on METT-T. If two

squads are required, then the mission should be 12005. SIZE OF RECONNAISSANCE
assigned to a platoon. PATROLS
A company may send a reconnaissance patrol to

specifically reconnoiter a given area (a riverbed or a A reconnaissance patrol should be kept to the mini-
bridge), or to maintain surveillance on a particular mum number of personnel required to accomplish the
streambed for the next four nights. Reconnaissance mission. A mission requiring a patrol to remain away
patrols perform three basic functions en route to and from its unit for a considerable period of time, or one
from the objective: requiring a patrol to send back information by mes-
senger, increases the size of the patrol. Recon-
l Provide control. naissance patrols seldom exceed a squad in strength.
Unit integrity should be preserved whenever possible.
l Provide security while moving and in the objective Intelligence personnel, interpreters, and other special-
area. ists, such as radio operators or engineers, are assigned
l Conduct reconnaissance or surveillance. to a patrol if the particular mission requires.
Depending on the size of the reconnaissance patrol, an

element must be tasked to reconnoiter the area or zone.
In the case of a surveillance mission, two teams are 12006. RECONNAISSANCE EQUIPMENT
recommended to share the same task (so one could lay
up and rest, while the other lays low and hides to
maintain strict silence and no movement while sur- Patrol members are armed and equipped as necessary
veillance is being maintained on the objective). for accomplishing the mission. The automatic rifle in
Whatever the case, each unit that has a surveillance each fire team provides a degree of sustained fire-
mission or reconnaissance mission must be thoroughly power in case of enemy contact. The patrol should
briefed as to what essential elements of information have at least two: pairs of binoculars, pairs of wire cut-
are to be collected as well as their location in the ob- ters, maps, compasses, and watches. Night observation
jective area. equipment may be used. Pencils and small notebooks
are carried so notes and sketches can be made. A
The patrol should be organized with one or two fire message book with message blanks and overlay paper
teams to actually conduct the reconnaissance mission is mandatory.
and the remaining fire team to provide security. Each
fire team should be prepared to assume either mission.
A small area reconnaissance patrol needs only one fire
team for the assigned mission. A patrol with a wider 12007. RECONNAISSANCE PATROL
area reconnaissance mission should use two fire teams ACTIONS AT THE OBJECTIVE AREA
to physically conduct the mission and one fire team for
cover and/or security.
Route
The security element for a reconnaissance patrol
should be organized to cover the likely avenue of The patrol leader halts and conceals the patrol near the
approach into the objective area, to protect the units objective area in the final preparation position. The
conducting the reconnaissance, and to cover the patrol leader then conducts leader’s reconnaissance to
objective rally point. confirm the plan for positioning the security teams and
employing units assigned to the reconnaissance
The variations of the special organization for re- mission. The patrol leader returns to the patrol and
connaissance patrols illustrate the patrol leader’s positions the security to provide early warning of
flexibility in organizing the patrol to meet mission enemy approach and secure the objective rally point.
requirements. The patrol leader is not limited to the The reconnaissance unit(s) then reconnoiters the
variations reflected herein but can choose any special objective area (route). The reconnaissance unit may
organization as long as that task organization accom- move to several positions, along or adjacent to the
modates the requirement for command and control, specific route, in order to conduct a thorough recon-
reconnaissance, and security. naissance. After completing the reconnaissance, each
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
12-4 MCWP 3-11.3
reconnaissance team moves to the objective rally point thorough reconnaissance. When the reconnaissance is
and reports to the patrol leader. The patrol then returns completed, the patrol leader assembles the patrol and
to friendly lines and the leader makes a full report. tells members what has been observed and heard.
Other patrol members contribute observations. The
Area patrol then returns to friendly lines and the patrol
leader makes a full report.
The patrol leader halts and conceals the patrol near the
objective area in the final preparation position. The Zone
patrol leader then conducts leader’s reconnaissance to
pinpoint the objective and confirm the plan for po- The patrol leader halts the patrol at the final pre-
sitioning the security teams and employing units paration position, confirms the plan, and conducts
assigned the reconnaissance mission. The patrol leader leader’s reconnaissance. The patrol leader positions
returns to the patrol and positions security to provide the security team and sends out the reconnaissance
early warning of enemy approach and secure the team. When the entire patrol is used to reconnoiter the
objective rally point. The reconnaissance unit(s) then zone, it provides its own security. After completing
reconnoiters the objective area. The reconnaissance the reconnaissance, each reconnaissance team moves
unit may move to several positions, perhaps making a to the objective rally point and reports to the patrol
circle around the objective area, in order to conduct a leader. The patrol then returns to friendly lines.
CHAPTER 13. COMBAT PATROLS
Combat patrols are assigned missions that usually include engaging the enemy.
They are fighting patrols. Every combat patrol has a secondary mission: gaining
information about the enemy and terrain. Combat patrols are employed in both
offensive and defensive combat operations and they assist the parent unit in
accomplishing its mission by inflicting damage on the enemy; establishing and/or
maintaining contact with friendly and enemy forces; denying the enemy access to
key terrain; and probing enemy positions to determine the nature and extent of
enemy presence.
immediately in the objective area (searching,

13001. TASK ORGANIZATION demolition, prisoners of war, etc.). Paragraph 9001
outlines the general organization of combat patrols.
As in the case with reconnaissance patrols, the task
A combat patrol is organized around the current organization of a combat patrol depends on the
structure of the Marine rifle platoon. A combat patrol specific mission assigned. If any special re-
leader should use the unit’s normal organization (fire quirements are generated because of the specific
team, squad, and platoon) in assigning functions, mission, the patrol is task-organized to fit the needs
patrol missions, and chain of command. Combat of the mission.
patrols must be able to perform the following four
basic functions en route to and from the objective:
l Provide control. 13002. EQUIPMENT

l Provide security.
l Provide support by fire.
l Attack or assault the objective. Combat patrols are armed and equipped as necessary
for accomplishing the mission. In addition to bi-
A rifle platoon could task-organize as a combat patrol noculars, wire cutters, compasses, and other equip-
as follows: ment generally common to all patrols, it usually
carries a high proportion of automatic weapons and
l Platoon headquarters (patrol headquarters). grenades. Communications with higher headquarters
l First squad (security). is important as success of the mission may depend on
being able to call for supporting fires. Also, internal
l Second squad (support).
radio communications with the units and teams may
l Third squad (assault). be useful. However, the patrol must not be so over-
burdened with equipment as to impede movement or
Every combat patrol must— mission accomplishment.
l Provide a control mechanism in the form of a
headquarters.
l Designate a unit (a fire team or squad) to provide 13003. RAID PATROLS
security while moving en route to the objective or
while at the objective. At the objective area, this
unit isolates the objective area, secures the objec- A raid is a surprise attack on an enemy force or
tive rally point, and covers the withdrawal. installation with the attacking force withdrawing after
l Designate a unit to act as support. This unit pro- accomplishing its mission. Raids destroy or capture
vides the base of fire in the attack or covers with- enemy personnel or equipment, destroy installations,
drawals or advances. or free friendly personnel who have been captured by
l Designate a unit(s) to conduct the attack or assault. the enemy. Patrolling techniques are used in planning
This unit(s) engages the enemy at the objective area and when moveing to and from the objective. (Refer to
by fire and maneuver or movement. It also operates MCWP 3-41.2, Raids.) Surprise, firepower, and
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
13-2 MCWP 3-11.3
violence of action are the keys to a successful raid. Security units are posted to isolate the objective. The
Patrols achieve surprise by attacking— patrol leader signals them when the withdrawal
begins. As a minimum, security is on each flank and to
l When the enemy is least prepared (e.g., during the rear (at the objective rally point).
periods of poor visibility such as darkness, rain,
fog, or snow). Actions at the Objective
l From an unexpected direction. (This might be ac-
complished by approaching through a swamp or The patrol leader halts the patrol near the objective at
other seemingly impassable terrain.) the final preparation position. Security is established
l With concentration of firepower at critical points and the leader’s reconnaissance is made with ap-
within the objective. propriate subordinate leaders. When the leaders return
to the patrol, they confirm previous plans or announce
any changes. Movements are arranged so all units
Planning reach their positions simultaneously. This improves
the patrol’s capability for decisive action, if pre-
A successful raid requires detailed planning. The maturely detected by the enemy.
leader of a combat patrol engaged in raiding must
anticipate probable situations and decide upon definite The teams of the security element move to positions to
courses of action to meet them. Rehearsals are secure the objective rally point, give early warning of
imperative. enemy approach, block avenues of approach into—
and prevent enemy escape from—the objective area.
A raid patrol conducts such missions as destroying an As the assault element moves into position, the secu-
enemy outpost or seizing prisoners from an obser- rity element informs the patrol leader of all enemy
vation post or lightly defended position. activity, firing only if detected or on the patrol leader’s
order. Once the assault element commences action, the
While preparing for the mission, the patrol leader security element prevents enemy entry into or escape
requests fire support required for the accomplishment from the objective area. The security element covers
of the mission. If practical, artillery and mortars the withdrawal of the assault element (and support
should be employed to isolate the objective to prevent element, if employed) to the objective rally point,
movement of enemy reinforcements into the area. withdrawing only upon order or prearranged signal.
As the assault element approaches the objective, it

Execution deploys early enough to permit immediate assault if
detected by the enemy. Each team uses stealth while
The leader’s plan must be detailed and complete. All moving into proper position. On command, or if one
of the considerations outlined in chapter 11 must be or more of the assault element is detected and fired
covered. Patrol formations must provide for ease of upon by the enemy, the support element opens fire to
control and all-around security while moving to and neutralize the objective, then ceases or shifts fire ac-
from the objective area and provide for rapid and cording to prearranged plans and signals. As sup-
coordinated deployment of the various units once the porting fires cease or shift, the assault element assaults
objective area is reached. The leader’s plan usually the objective. Demolition, search, and other teams are
includes the encirclement of the hostile position— protected by the assault element while they work. On
either physically or by fire—in order to isolate it order, the assault element withdraws to the objective
during the assault. rally point.
The final simultaneous assault against the objective If a support element is employed, its leader deploys
develops when enemy defensive fires at the objective teams to provide fire support for the assault element.
are suppressed by either friendly fire superiority or Each member of the support element must know the
surprise. The assault is covered by the fire of the unit scheme of maneuver to be used by the assault element,
assigned the function of support by fire. specific targets or areas to be neutralized by fire, and
the signals that will be employed to commence, shift,
Grenades, SMAWs, and demolitions are most ef- and cease fires. The support element withdraws on
fective for clearing bunkers. order of the patrol leader. At the objective rally point,
_________________________________________________________________________________
the patrol leader quickly reorganizes the patrol and

begins the return movement to friendly lines. 13005. AMBUSH PATROLS
General
13004. CONTACT PATROLS
An ambush is a surprise attack from a concealed
position upon a moving or temporarily halted target. It
is one of the oldest and most effective types of military
General actions. Ambush patrols conduct ambushes of enemy
patrols, resupply columns, and convoys. The intent of
Contact patrols establish and/or maintain contact to an ambush is to place the enemy in a dilemma where
the front, flanks or rear by— staying in the kill zone or attempting to move out of it
prove equally lethal. The ambush may include an
assault to close with and decisively engage the enemy,
l Establishing contact with an enemy force when the or the attack may be by fire only.
definite location of the force is unknown.
l Maintaining contact with enemy forces through Purpose of Ambushes
direct and/or indirect fires, or observation.
Ambushes are executed for the general purpose of
l Avoiding decisive engagement with the enemy. reducing the enemy’s over-all combat effectiveness
and for the specific purpose of destroying its units.
Task Organization and Equipment The cumulative effect of many small ambushes on
enemy units lowers enemy troop morale and harasses
the enemy force as a whole.
Task organization and equipment depend on the
known enemy situation and anticipated enemy contact. Destruction is the primary purpose of an ambush
A patrol sent out to establish contact with an enemy because loss of personnel killed or captured, and loss
force is organized, armed, and equipped to overcome of equipment and supplies destroyed or captured,
resistance of light screening forces in order to gain reduces the overall combat effectiveness of the enemy.
contact with the main enemy force. It is not organized
and equipped to engage the main enemy forces in Harassment, though less apparent than physical
damage, is a secondary purpose of ambushes. Frequent
combat. Communication is paramount; radios must be
ambushes force the enemy to divert personnel from
reliable over the entire distance covered. other missions to guard convoys, troop movements,
and carrying parties. When enemy patrols fail to
Actions at the Objective accomplish their mission because they are ambushed,
the enemy is deprived of valuable information. A series
of successful ambushes causes the enemy to be less
The patrol leader selects a series of objectives. Once
aggressive and more defensive minded. The enemy
an objective is reached, the patrol leader initiates a becomes apprehensive, overly cautious, reluctant to go
planned set of actions in order to establish and on patrols, seeks to avoid night operations, is more
maintain contact with the enemy. These plans and subject to confusion and panic if ambushed, and, in
actions are guided by the missions to establish or general, decline in effectiveness.
maintain contact—not to engage in decisive combat.
Contact with the enemy is maintained for the purposes Classification of Ambushes
of surveillance, applying pressure, and preventing
seizure of the initiative. If the contact patrol becomes A deliberate ambush is one in which prior information
about the enemy permits detailed planning before the
decisively engaged with the enemy, many of the tasks patrol departs for the ambush site. Information needed
originally assigned to the patrol cannot be accom- to plan a deliberate ambush includes the size,
plished, since the enemy has seized the initiative and composition, and organization of the force to be
friendly forces are not forced to react. ambushed; how the force operates; and the time it will
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
13-4 MCWP 3-11.3
pass certain points or areas. A deliberate ambush may formation determines whether a point ambush is able
be planned for such targets as— to deliver the heavy volume of highly concentrated
fire necessary to isolate, trap, and destroy the enemy.
l Any force if sufficient prior information is known.
l Enemy patrols that establish patterns by frequent The ambush formation to be used is determined by
use of the same routes or habitually depart and re- careful consideration of possible formations and the
enter their own areas at the same point. advantages and disadvantages of each in relation to—
l Logistic columns. l Terrain.
l Troop movements. l Visibility.
l Forces.
An ambush of opportunity is c onducted when
available information does not permit detailed l Weapons and equipment.
planning before the patrol departs. This is the type of l Ease or difficulty of control.
ambush that an infantry unit normally conducts. An l Target to be attacked.
ambush of opportunity should not be confused with a l Combat situation.
hasty ambush. An ambush of opportunity is a planned
ambush; a hasty ambush is an immediate action. In For a detailed discussion of ambush formation, see
planning for an ambush of opportunity, the patrol must appendix D.
be prepared to execute any of several courses of action
based on the types of targets that may be ambushed
and must rehearse prior to departure. The course of Ambush Operation Terms
action taken is determined when the opportunity for The ambush site is the location where an ambush is
ambush arises. established.
The patrol leader may be directed to reconnoiter an The killing zone is that portion of an ambush site
area for a suitable ambush site, set up at the site where fires are concentrated to trap, isolate, and
selected, and execute an ambush against the first destroy the target. On little-traveled roads, an obstacle
profitable target that appears. placed in a defile, in the woods, on a bridge or on a
steep upgrade can be used effectively to force vehicles
The patrol may depart just after dark, move to a to halt, and thus render the occupants vulnerable to
specific point, observe until a designated time, ambush attack. Antitank mines may be emplaced and the
the first profitable target after that time, and return occupants of the wrecked vehicle killed or captured
before daylight. while still dazed by the explosion.
A hasty ambush is an immediate action where the A near ambush is a point ambush where the attacking
patrol makes visual contact with an enemy force and force is located within reasonable assaulting distance
has time to establish an ambush without being of the killing zone (50 meters is a guide). A near
detected. The actions for a hasty ambush must be well ambush is most often conducted in close terrain, such
rehearsed and accomplished through the use of hand as a jungle or heavy woods.
and arm signals given from the patrol leader.
A far ambush is a point ambush where the attack force
Types of Ambushes is located beyond reasonable assaulting distance of the
killing zone (beyond 50 meters is a guide). A far
There are two types of ambushes: point and area. The ambush may be more appropriate in open terrain
point ambush is one where forces are deployed to offering good fields of fire or when the target will be
attack along a single killing zone. The area ambush is attacked by fire only.
one where forces are deployed as multiple related
point ambushes. Factors for a Successful Ambush Patrol
A point ambush, whether independent or part of an There are many factors that give the ambush its best
area ambush, is positioned along the enemy’s expected chance of success. The ideal situation would be to
route of approach. Formation of the forces conducting position the ambush on favorable terrain and have
the ambush is important because, to a great extent, the detailed planning completed beforehand.
_________________________________________________________________________________
The patrol leader of an ambush looks for the most taken to remove any tracks that might reveal the
favorable terrain in which the enemy is canalized ambush. An alternate route from the ambush site to the
between two obstacles with limited opportunity to objective rally point, as in other patrols, is planned.
attack or escape. Suitable areas include defiles, small
clearings, bends in trails, and steep grades. Dense Maps and aerial photographs are used to carefully
undergrowth adjacent to the ambush site permits analyze the terrain. When possible, an on-the-ground
observation from concealed positions. The ambush reconnaissance of the ambush site is made prior to
patrol should have maximum cover and concealment, occupation. Obvious ambush sites are avoided as the
not only for the firing positions, but for the routes of element of surprise is even more difficult to achieve in
withdrawal. The enemy should be in an area offering these areas. An ambush site must provide for—
as little protection from fire as possible. Favorable
fields of fire include stretches of road, trail or open
l Favorable fields of fire.
ground of at least 100 meters for machine guns and 15
meters for rifle fire and grenades. The ambush site can l Occupation and preparation of concealed positions.
be improved by constructing obstacles—such as felled l Canalization of the target into the killing zone. (An
trees, wire, land mines, or booby traps—to impede the ideal killing zone restricts the enemy on all sides,
enemy. confining them to an area where they can be quickly
and completely destroyed. Natural obstacles, such
Planning as cliffs, streams, embankments, or steep grades,
are used whenever possible to force vehicles to
A deliberate ambush or an ambush of opportunity slow down. Man-made obstacles, such as barbed
requires thorough planning. wire, mines, and craters in the roads, are used to
supplement natural obstacles.)
A deliberate ambush plan is based on extensive
knowledge of the enemy and terrain, and is planned l Covered routes of withdrawal that enable the
ambush force to break contact.
and rehearsed in great detail. A physical recon-
naissance of the ambush site is made during the l Avoidance of enemy pursuit by fire.
pr e pa r a tion ph a se a nd inf or ma ti on ga ine d is
incorporated into the plan. All likely immediate
actions of the enemy when ambushed are examined.
Occupation of Ambush Site
Planned counteractions are developed and rehearsed. The surrounding area is searched for enemy patrols
prior to occupation of the ambush site. Ambush
In planning an ambush of opportunity, any available formations are used to physically deploy the patrol in a
information on the enemy and terrain is used. A manner to inflict maximum destruction upon the
tentative plan for the ambush that incorporates all enemy and to provide maximum security to the patrol.
anticipated actions is developed and rehearsed. Ambush formations are contained in appendix D.
However, the bulk of planning is done concurrently
during the patrol leader’s reconnaissance of the Positions
prospective ambush site. In a rapidly developing
The patrol is moved into the ambush site from the
situation, hasty ambush immediate action is employed.
objective rally point. Security is positioned first to
prevent surprise while the ambush is being estab-
The route and ambush site considerations apply to lished. Automatic weapons are then positioned so each
both deliberate ambush es and amb ushes o f can fire along the entire killing zone. If this is not
opportunity. A primary route that allows the patrol to possible, overlapping sectors of fire are provided to
enter the ambush site from the rear is planned. cover the entire killing zone. The patrol leader then
Entering the prospective killing zone is avoided. If the selects his/her position, located so the leader can tell
killing zone must be entered to place mines or when to initiate the ambush. Riflemen and grenadiers
explosives, care is taken to remove any tracks and are positioned and sectors of fire are assigned to cover
signs that might alert the enemy and compromise the any dead space left by the automatic weapons. The
ambush. If mines or explosives are to be placed on the patrol leader sets a time by which positions are to be
far side of the ambush site, or if the appearance of the prepared. Patrol members clear fields of fire and
site from the enemy’s viewpoint is to be checked, a prepare positions in that order, with attention to
wide detour is made around the killing zone. Care is camouflage for both.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
13-6 MCWP 3-11.3
Suitable Objective Rally Point positioned and all fires, including those of available
An easily located objective rally point is selected and artillery and mortars, are coordinated to achieve the
made known to all patrol members. The objective rally following results:
point is located far enough from the ambush site so
that it will not be overrun if the enemy assaults the l Isolation of the killing zone to prevent the enemy’s
ambush. Routes of withdrawal to the objective rally escape or reinforcement.
point are reconnoitered. Situation permitting, each l Surprise delivery of a large volume of highly con-
Marine walks the route he/she is to use and picks out centrated fires into the killing zone.
checkpoints. When the ambush is to be executed at
night, each Marine must be able to follow his/her route Control
in the dark. After the ambush has been executed, and Close control of the patrol is maintained during move-
the search of the killing zone completed, the patrol is ment to, occupation of, and withdrawal from the
withdrawn quickly but quietly, on signal, to the ambush site. This is best achieved through rehearsals
objective rally point where it reorganizes for the return and establishment and maintenance of good com-
march. If the ambush was not successful and the patrol munications. When the enemy approaches, the temp-
is pursued, withdrawal may be by bounds. The last tation to open fire before the signal is given is resisted.
group may arm mines, previously placed along the The patrol leader must effectively control all elements
withdrawal route, to further delay pursuit. of the ambush force. Control is most critical at the
time the enemy approaches the killing zone. Control
Local Security measures must provide for—
Security must be maintained. Security elements do not
usually participate in the initial attack, but protect the l Early warning of enemy approach.
rear and flanks, and cover the withdrawal. l Fire control. Withhold fire until the enemy has
moved into the killing zone, then open fire at the
Patience proper time.
The Marines of the ambush force must control l Initiation of appropriate action, if the ambush is
themselves so that the ambush is not compromised. prematurely detected. Individual patrol members
Patience and self-discipline are exercised by re- must be prepared to react if detected by the enemy
maining still and quiet while waiting for the target to prior to the initiation of the ambush.
appear, particularly if the patrol occupies the ambush l Timely and orderly withdrawal of the ambush force
site well ahead of the arrival of the enemy. Patience is from the ambush site and movement to the objec-
necessary so as not to alert the enemy to the presence tive rally point.
of the ambush.
It is important to remember that an ambush patrol
Surprise should have four distinct signals: one to open fire
Surprise must be achieved, or the attack is not an (with an alternate signal to open fire to be used at the
ambush. If complete surprise cannot be achieved, it same time as the primary); a signal to cease fire or
must be so nearly complete that the target is not aware shift fire; a signal to assault or search the killing zone;
of the ambush until too late for effective reaction. and a signal to withdraw. The signal to open fire
Surprise is achieved by careful planning, preparation, should meet two criteria: first, it should be the firing of
and execution so that targets are attacked when, a weapon that will kill the enemy; secondly, it should
where, and in a way for which they are least prepared. be a weapon reliable in any weather condition. A good
primary signal is a Claymore mine, and an alternate
Coordinated Fires signal would be a closed bolt weapon (M16A2). Open
bolt weapons (M240G, M249) should not be relied
Properly timed and delivered fires contribute heavily
upon to initiate an ambush.
to the achievement of surprise, as well as to de-
struction of the enemy. The lifting or shifting of fires
must be equally precise; otherwise, the assault is Execution of an Ambush
delayed and the enemy has an opportunity to recover
and react. All weapons, mines, and demolitions are The manner in which the patrol executes an ambush
depends primarily on whether the ambush’s purpose is
_________________________________________________________________________________
harassment or destruction. To a lesser degree, the by altering or moving directional signs so as to divert
execution of the ambush is determined by whether the the enemy into an area where they can be more readily
ambush is deliberate or an ambush of opportunity. attacked. The attack can best be accomplished at an
obstacle, such as a stream or gully, that forces the
When the primary purpose is harassment, the patrol enemy to stop or slow down.
seals off the area with security teams to prevent enemy
reinforcement and escape. Maximum damage is After the enemy has been ambushed and destroyed,
inflicted with demolitions and automatic weapons fire. the unit quickly withdraws over a prearranged route to
The patrol delivers a very heavy volume of fire for a the objective rally point. Speed is very important,
short time and withdraws quickly and quietly. The since the noise of the ambush could alert other nearby
patrol avoids being seen by the enemy. enemy units.
When the primary purpose of the patrol is destruction,

the area is sealed off with security units. Maximum
damage is inflicted with demolitions, antitank weap- 13006. SECURITY PATROLS
ons, and automatic weapons fire from the support team
or element. When these fires cease or shift, an assault
is launched into the killing zone with heavy fire and General
violence to complete destruction. The assault unit
provides security, while designated teams search and/ Security patrols are assigned missions that may or may
or capture personnel and destroy vehicles and equip- not require them to engage the enemy. They are used
ment. On the patrol leader’s command, or by prear- in proximity to defensive positions, on the flanks of
ranged signal, all units withdraw to the objective rally advancing units or in rear areas. Purposes of security
point and move out quickly. patrols are to detect infiltration by the enemy, destroy
infiltrators, and protect against surprise and ambush.
When the patrol’s primary purpose is to obtain
supplies or capture equipment, security units seal off
In any situation where there is a threat of attack, such
the area. Demolitions and weapons are used to disable
as a rear area threatened by guerrillas or a facility that
vehicles. The assault unit must use care to ensure its
is under threat of a terrorist attack, all Marines, not just
fire does not damage the desired supplies or equip-
the infantry, must know how to conduct a security
ment. Designated teams secure the desired items; other
patrol.
teams then destroy enemy vehicles and equipment.
The most successful ambush is one where the attacker In just the offensive operations, infantry units provide
is deployed and concealed in such a way that the security patrols to screen their flanks, areas, and
enemy will unknowingly be surrounded by fire. The routes. Whereas, in defensive operations, security
usual method is for the attackers to deploy themselves patrols are used to prevent the enemy from infiltrating
along a trail or route the enemy will travel. The enemy an area, detect and destroy infiltrators, and prevent
is permitted to pass by the center of the attacker’s surprise attacks. In rear areas, particularly when there
force so that the attack can be made from the front, is guerrilla or terrorist threat, the requirement to
flank, and/or rear. One or two Marines are posted well conduct security patrols increases for all Marine air-
forward and to the rear along the route to prevent any ground task force (MAGTF) units ashore, particularly
enemy from escaping. All fires should be delivered aviation and combat service support units.
simultaneously on a prearranged signal.
Task Organization and Equipment
An effective method of luring the enemy is for an
ambushing patrol to cut communication or electrical Generally, a Marine rifle squad or similar sized
wire. The patrol then deploys and ambushes the line organization is considered ideal for security patrols.
repair crew when it arrives. Since the line crew may be Communications are important to higher headquarters
protected by riflemen, the attackers must be careful to so that they receive information from the patrol; and
engage the entire party. communications are important to the patrol to request
fire support, etc. The radio the patrol carries must have
Vehicles and foot personnel moving on well-estab- the range necessary for higher headquarters to be able
lished transportation routes can sometimes be captured to receive transmissions from anywhere along the
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
13-8 MCWP 3-11.3
patrol route, and the patrol must have a secondary forces in Northern Ireland, provide the foundations of
means of reporting (i.e., flare signals upon contact). urban patrolling.
Patrol Procedures Enemy Forces

Enemy forces in urbanized areas range from organized
All of the procedures presented in previous sections military forces to low intensity engagements with
are to be used in security patrols. insurgents, such as terrorists or local gangs. For
Marine Corps doctrine and tactics, techniques, and
Patrol Planning procedures (TTP) for dealing with the higher intensity
threat in urbanized areas, refer to MCWP 3-35.3,
Security patrol planning includes— Military Operations on Urbanized Terrain.
l Rehearsing prior to departing friendly lines.

Common Threat Tactics
l Maintaining communications.
Cities provide cover and concealment for both friendly
l Support by organic weapons. forces and enemy forces. However, enemy forces
l Reinforced if necessary. generally find active support only in certain areas of
l Using varied routes and never establishing a routine the town or city. The urban-based insurgent or terrorist
pattern. usually lives in a friendly community or in one where
l Staying within proximity of friendly units. the people are too frightened to withhold support or
inform anyone about the situation. The insurgent or
terrorist normally maintains close contact with leaders
Patrol Techniques and others friendly to the cause. The enemy will often
Within rear areas, an irregular pattern of patrol is have efficient communication and intelligence sys-
established and changed daily. Outside of friendly tems, sometimes involving women and children to
lines it would be prudent to establish a definite provide cover for its activities.
preplanned route for the patrol, of which all adjacent
units know the route. The parent unit commander The urban insurgent normally cannot, like his/her rural
establishes frequent checkpoints for control. If check- counterpart, establish bases and recruit large military
points are designated, the patrol leader treats them as units. The urban insurgent is generally an individual or
individual objectives to be searched and cleared. a member of a relatively small group. He/she relies on
the cover afforded by the city’s populace and
The patrol has a definite plan as to what to do if terrorizing them to coerce loyalty or support.
contact with enemy is made, how to break contact,
how to defend itself, and how to call for supporting Urbanized areas tend to give the insurgent and/or
fires. It is imperative that patrol members know what terrorist many opportunities to initiate action and gain
to do if they become split or separated; i.e., location of advantage. The normal presence of large numbers of
rally points and how to be recovered. people in cities provides the foe an opportunity to
mass crowds quickly and manipulate demonstrations
easily. The presence of women and children during
mass demonstrations may restrict the courses of action
13007. URBAN PATROLS available to friendly forces. Major incidents stemming
from overreaction or excessive use of force by friendly
forces may provide the insurgent with propaganda
General material. Publicity is easily gained in an urbanized
area because major incidents can’t be completely con-
As national strategy continues to focus on regional cealed from the local population. Insurgent successes
vice global conflicts, the Marine Corps will continue can be exploited to discredit the ability of host nation
to conduct urban operations in various operational police, friendly forces, and the civil government, and
environments. Cities and towns are often the center of gain recognition for the insurgents’ cause.
economic and political power and are therefore
extremely vulnerable to urban insurgent activities and The urban insurgent or terrorist can usually be expected
violence. The lessons learned from recent operations to operate more boldly than his/her rural counterpart.
in Somalia, as well as experiences gained by British This is reflected in the enemy’s tactics. A single sniper
_________________________________________________________________________________
or bomber may be the norm in the urbanized area, enemy ambushes, and roadblocks—are more
whereas the rural threat is generally the more difficult to plan and may be preempted.
conventional ambush. In urbanized areas, explosive 4. Intra-patrol Communication. Elements of an
devices can be easily emplaced and used effectively urban patrol must have the means to communicate
against large groups or select individuals. Enemy with each other. Ideally, each element will possess
forces may be expected to employ the following a radio enabling it to remain in continuous com-
tactics in urbanized areas: munication that facilitates rapid response and
reporting to higher headquarters, reaction force
l Using local communications, such as radio and coordination, and coordination of actions with other
patrols or fire support agencies.
newspapers, for propaganda purposes.
l Disrupting industry and public services through 5. Establishment of a Reaction Force. The nature
strikes and sabotage. of urbanized terrain (its compartmentalization)
makes urban patrols more vulnerable to a wider
l Generating widespread disturbances designed to range of hostile actions. The requirement for
stretch the resources of the security force. immediate, coordinated reinforcement of a patrol is
l Creating incidents or massing crowds in order to best satisfied by employment of an established
lure the patrol or reaction force into a trap. reaction force. The reaction force requires superior
l Provoking security forces in the hope that they may mobility (relative to the enemy’s) and fire support to
be effective for this task.
react improperly, therefore discrediting the security
force by means of propaganda. 6. Three-Dimensional Threat. Patrolling in an
l Sniping at roadblocks, outposts, sentries, and urban environment requires constant attention to its
patrols. three-dimensional aspect; hostile actions can
l Attacking friendly bases with rockets and mortars. originate from rooftops, streets, subsurface levels or
l Planting explosive devices, either against specific combinations of all levels at once.
targets or indiscriminately, to cause confusion and
destruction, and lower public morale and confi- Classification of Urban Patrols
dence.
l Using ambush patrols. Mission
l Firing on friendly helicopters. The vast majority of urban patrols are overt in nature,
with their presence readily apparent to the local
Principles of Urban Patrolling populace. Most urban patrols are combat vice recon-
Patrolling in an urban environment often presents naissance patrols. The vast majority of urban patrols
conditions considerably different and often more are security patrols. However, units may be assigned
complex than those encountered in rural and less secondary tasks of reconnoitering specific or general
inhabited areas. While the principles of patrolling are areas along the patrol routes.
still relevant in an urban situation, the nature of urban
patrolling has led to the development of six specific Raids normally involve a swift penetration of an
urban patrolling principles. They are— objective to secure information, confuse the enemy or
destroy installations. Raids include a planned with-
1. Depth. The restrictive, canalizing nature of drawal upon completion of the assigned mission.
urbanized terrain usually limits a patrol’s ability to
disperse laterally. To prevent the patrol from Movement
bunching up, patrols normally maintain dispersion
along the length of a patrol formation. Means of movement are as follows:
2. Mutual Support. The positioning of units in-
depth within the patrol enables one unit to cover l Dismounted: movement on foot.
another unit’s movement and facilitates immediate l Vehicular: movement by motorized, mechanized or
action during various situations. Aircraft, vehicles, armored vehicle.
and snipers also provide good mutual support. l Helicopterborne: movement by helicopter, how-
3. Deception and Pattern Avoidance. Deception ever, helicopterborne patrols will usually involve
and pattern avoidance are normally a planning dismounted or vehicular movement after patrol
consideration of the headquarters directing the insertion.
entire patrolling plan. By varying patrol routes,
durations, and departure times, hostile actions l Combination: movement using a combination of
commonly used against urban patrols—such as methods.
13-10 ____________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
Task-Organization The Reaction Force

Units task-organize to meet the specific requirements
of the mission and situation. The Marine rifle squad is The high probability of an urban patrol becoming
ideally suited for urban patrolling and can easily involved in a hostile or volatile incident requires the
integrate attached specialists required by specific establishment of a dedicated reaction force for rapid
missions. Specialists who may accompany urban reinforcement, support or extraction of the patrol.
patrols include— Ideally, the reaction force is—
l Interrogator-translator team (ITT) and counterintel- l Large enough and task-organized in a manner that it
ligence team (CIT) Marines. can meet and quickly defeat the expected threat.
l Explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) personnel. Reaction forces are normally tiered with a lead
element (normally one-third of the unit’s size) and a
l Members of host nation or allied military forces. main body force (the other remaining two-thirds of
l Interpreters. the force). Reaction force response times routinely
l Local community leaders. are determined in advance by higher headquarters.
l Local law enforcement officers. l Ready to respond immediately.
l Public affairs personnel escorting media representa- l Motorized or mechanized and supported by close
tives. air support and other fire support.
l Familiar with the area of operations.
Dismounted Patrol Organization l Briefed on the patrol’s plans and monitors the status
Patrols should maintain unit integrity (fire team and/or of patrols in progress.
squad) in organizing elements for an urban patrol.
l Task-organized to be multimission capable.
Similar to reconnaissance patrols, the vulnerability of
urban patrols necessitates that all elements must l Able to communicate with the higher headquarters,
provide for their own security in addition to the com- fire support assets, patrol base, and the patrol.
bat aspect of the mission. Combined assault and l Controlled by higher headquarters, once employed.
security teams are an effective method to organize for
all-around security.
Patrol Preparation
Urban Patrol Base Operations Planning
Urban patrols may operate from an established patrol Higher headquarters will—
base that may be located within the unit’s assigned
area of operations or an area designated for a patrol. l Designate the area for patrol.
The patrol base should be located in a building used l Provide intelligence briefs and updates.
exclusively for this purpose. Patrol bases may also be
located within a larger site that houses other agencies, l Ensure liaison with allied forces and the civilian
such as a higher headquarters’ command echelon. populace.
l Provide special equipment and personnel required
If located within a larger site, the patrol base will be for the mission (scout snipers, public affairs officer,
included in the overall facility security plan. If interpreters, etc.)
isolated, the patrol base must consider the following l Provide urban maps, photos, terrain models as
security factors: required.
l Consider deception and pattern avoidance when
l External security: issuing mission.
n Barrier plan. l Prescribe rules of engagement (ROE).
n Sentry posts.
n Local security patrols. Intelligence Brief
l Internal security: An intelligence brief is conducted by the S-2 officer or
n Covered positions for all Marines. representative prior to a patrol conducting its mission.
n Contingency plan for hostile actions against pa- The brief adresses the situation relevant to the specific
trol base. patrol (e.g., routes, areas, updated enemy situations).
________________________________________________________________________________
Coordination Patrol Formations

Higher headquarters will effect liaison with adjacent Squad-sized Patrols. The need for immediate fire
and allied forces, as well as civil authorities and other power outweighs the dangers of becoming canalized.
agencies, having a possible effect on the patrol. The In contrast to other types of patrols, the headquarters
patrolling unit generally follows the same procedures element of an urban patrol will normally locate at the
as those used during patrol planning and execution in a lead of the patrol column. This allows the patrol leader
jungle or forest environment. greater flexibility through control of two combined
assault and security (A&S) teams. The leaders of these
The Urban Patrol Order or Warning Order elements tactically stagger their members on each side
of the road (see fig. 13-1 on page 13-12).
The Urban Patrol or Warning Orders use the same
format and considerations as noted in this publication A&S teams follow in trace of the headquarters ele-
for patrolling. They rely heavily on a detailed terrain ment and maintain unit integrity on separate sides of
model, photographs, and subterranean construction to the street. One unit will remain slightly to the rear to
ensure complete understanding of the plan. create a staggered interval between Marines on either
side of the street. This allows A&S teams to take
Rehearsals lateral routes in support of headquarters element with-
The limited size of the patrol base usually precludes out having to cross a street to do so.
the need for full-scale rehearsals. Immediate action
drills, such as crossing danger areas, are rehearsed in Platoon-sized Patrols. Squads will generally travel
as much detail as possible, despite the limited avail- abreast of each other, moving along parallel routes.
able space. The interval between squad-sized units and/or teams is
situation-dependent, but is usually between 100 and
150 meters (roughly two city blocks; this often pre-
Inspections vents visual contact between the units). The intent is to
Initial and final inspections are conducted in the same create less of a target to an aggressor, yet still allow
manner as other patrols. Attached personnel must be the patrol to quickly react to an incident. Individuals
fully integrated into the patrol and familiar with the within units or teams will move in a staggered column
plan and unit standing operating procedures (SOPs). as in a squad-sized patrol. See figure 13-2, which is
located on page 13-13).
Conducting an Urban Patrol
Night
Movement Night patrols will generally be at least squad-sized and
Individual and unit movement considerations are will generally use the same formation as that for day
gene rally the same as those for other patrols. patrols. At night, it may be necessary to close dis-
However, urban environments require consideration of tances between individuals or elements to maintain
additional factors. Because of these factors, an urban control. Consideration should be given to the use of
patrol leader should— night vision devices and thermal weapons sights.
l Ensure that each movement within a patrol takes Navigation, Control, and
place under the observation or cover of another Security Measures
individual or element of the patrol. The patrol leader is ultimately responsible for the
l Know where cover can be taken in the event of a navigation. The headquarters element normally func-
hostile incident or action. tions as the base unit during movement. The desig-
nated navigator is normally assigned from within the
l Be prepared for contact with civilians, especially
headquarters element. City maps are often inaccurate
children, during the patrol and be aware that they
or outdated; however, when used with aerial photo-
may intentionally attempt to distract patrol mem-
graphs and other navigational aids, they can be effec-
bers.
tive for urban navigation.
l Expect the presence of vehicles (both moving and
stationary) along the patrol route. Checkpoints and phase lines should be related to
l Expect members of the patrol to be approached by major streets (alleys, buildings, bridges) for easy iden-
dogs and what action to take if threatened. tification. Arrival at checkpoints and crossing of phase
13-12 ____________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
Figure 13-1. Squad-sized Dismounted Urban Patrol Formation.
lines should be relayed to higher headquarters using patrol’s situational awareness. Individual tasks may
established brevity or codewords. A detailed patrol include—
overlay is issued to both the reaction force and higher
headquarters to keep them advised of routes and con- l Vehicle spotter: looks for suspicious or known in-
trol measures used. A terrain model should be main- surgent vehicles.
tained at higher headquarters to aid in supervision and l Personnel spotter: observes and attempts to rec-
control of the patrol. ognize previously identified enemy in crowds.
l Talker: attempts to gain information from casual
The use of camouflage should be limited to avoid conversations with the local populace. (Talkers are
frightening and confusing the local populace. The usually subordinate leaders or Marines with foreign
often overt nature of urban patrols may negate the language skills.)
need for camouflage. Patrols are sometimes deployed l Searcher: conducts physical searches of vehicles
to show force presence and usually move on the urban and personnel while other patrol members provide
street in plain view. cover and security.
l Marksman: engages point targets when the tactical
During daylight, patrols will routinely vary their rate situation does not permit massed or high volume
of movement ranging from short halts to brief periods fire. Other patrol members provide security to cover
of double-timing. The British term for this urban pa- the marksman’s engagement.
trolling technique is hard-targeting, meaning it makes
the patrol harder for an enemy to target. Altering the
rate of movement is intended to frustrate the enemy’s Departure of Friendly Lines
ability to coordinate an attack or ambush against a Urban patrols must vary their departure times to
targeted patrol. prevent being ambushed while exiting the patrol base.
Patrols should use short security halts, with Marines Individual elements will usually depart exits at stag-
taking up mutually supporting firing positions. gered times and at different movement rates, es-
Marines must always work in pairs, ensuring mutual pecially where sentries cannot provide cover. (This
support. The last Marine in the element will provide technique is used when the environment adjacent to
rear security, but stays in his/her buddy’s sight. the patrol base is dangerous.)
Once an element has exited friendly lines, a short halt

Individual Tasks is conducted in a predetermined, covered initial rally
Individuals may be assigned collateral tasks per- point 50 to 100 meters from the base. This ensures all
formed throughout the patrol that may increase the elements are in position before the patrol continues.
________________________________________________________________________________
Figure 13-2. Platoon-sized Dismounted Urban Patrol Formations.
Exit points, routes from the base, departure techni- flank security for the headquarters element and for
ques, and loca tion s of I RPs should be var ie d each other. The headquarters element identifies the
constantly to avoid setting a pattern. This pattern danger area and takes up a position on the near side of
avoidance may also include using vehicles to insert intersection. Individuals provide all-around security
patrols away from the urban patrol base and em- (see fig. 13-3 on page 13-14).
ploying empty vehicles as part of a deception plan.
Tw o Mar ine s ( one fr om e ac h A &S te a m) a r e
Danger Areas designated to move through the headquarters element
Urban patrols may encounter hundreds of danger areas and establish respective firing positions on the near
during a single patrol. The three-dimensional threat side of the danger area covering the patrol’s near side
requires keen situation awareness by every patrol flanks. They are followed by a second pair (again, one
member. Many danger areas can be dealt with simply Marine from each A&S team) that moves across to the
by avoidance, while others require an adjustment of far side of the danger area and establishes respective
patrol formation, movement rate, etc. In the urban firing positions covering the patrol’s far side flanks
environment, places to be treated as danger areas are (see fig. 13-4 on page 13-14).
points that pose a major threat to the patrol, such as
local political and religious headquarters, weapons Once near and far side flank security is established, the
containment areas, roads and routes that canalize headquarters element moves across to the far side of
movement and direct fire, and any area with a history danger area (see fig. 13-5 on page 13-15).
of repeated contact.
The remaining A&S team members then cross the
Near and far side rally points are designated and danger area and join the headquarters element on the
briefed during the issuance of the patrol order. Squad- far side (see fig. 13-6 on page 13-15).
sized formations may use the A&S teams to provide
13-14 ____________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
Figure 13-3. Approaching Danger Area.
Figure 13-4. Securing Flanks.

________________________________________________________________________________
Figure 13-5. HQ Element Moves Through.
Figure 13-6. A&S Elements Move Through.

13-16 ____________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
Figure 13-7. Patrol Resumes Movement Along Intended Route.
Once the trail A&S team members cross the danger Hostile incidents often seem to occur spontaneously,
area, they take up rear security and cover the but there are usually indications that can alert Marines
movements of the near and far side flank security to imminent danger. The most obvious are the sudden
teams as they return to their positions in the patrol alteration of normal routines, patterns, and attitudes of
formation. The near side security team should collapse the local populace or other unusual activity. Some
back first, followed by their far side counterparts. The examples include—
patrol then resumes its advance away from the danger
area (see fig. 13-7). l Observers on rooftops, in windows, etc., who are
obviously tracking the patrol.
Interaction with Local Populace l The unusual absence of pedestrian traffic and
people on porches.
Urban patrols must interact with the local populace. l Stores, markets or street vendors closed suddenly or
Patrols are at first a novelty to the civilians but can without explanation.
quickly bec ome a n unwelcome intrusion. The l Changes in civilian attitude toward patrol members.
movement of the patrol must be fast enough to prevent
l Unknown individuals or vehicles in the patrol area.
the enemy from massing their fires upon it, but
deliberate enough to ensure adequate security and l Unfamiliar vehicles parked in the patrol area (pos-
mutual support. Patrol members must realize that they sible car bomb).
are usually the only Marines the local populace will l Roadblocks.
encounter and that an inappropriate gesture, comment l Children throwing rocks at patrols to possibly draw
or act could lead to the deterioration of rapport the patrol’s attention away from a more serious
between U.S. forces and the general population. danger, such as a deliberate ambush.
Marines must remember that the vast majority of the l Vehicles riding unusually low due to overloading
individuals with whom they come in contact will be (possibly ferrying people, weapons, explosives).
noncombatants attempting to survive in trying l Agitators trying to provoke an incident with patrol
political, economic, and social situations. members.
________________________________________________________________________________
l Absence of the usual stray dogs (dogs are adept at controlled fire. Other members of the patrol take up
sensing danger and avoiding it). positions to cover the marksman’s engagement.
l Anti-American graffiti suddenly appearing in the l The patrol element or team leader in contact sends
patrol area. initial contact report to the patrol leader, who noti-
fies higher headquarters.
l Pictures of enemy leaders and martyrs posted in the
patrol area. l The element or team leader in contact determines
appropriate cut-off positions and relays them to
l Civilian workers failing to appear at U.S. or flanking elements or teams.
friendly bases.
l The patrol element or team leader in contact con-
l Normal deliveries and pick-ups conducted late or tinues to observe the firing point, but does not enter
early without reason. it due to the possibility of booby traps. Flank ele-
l Sudden change of civilian sentiment in newspaper ments or teams set up along likely escape routes.
articles, radio broadcasts or other media. l The incident ends when either the sniper ceases fire
l Women and children leaving to live elsewhere. or is neutralized.
Immediate Follow-Up. Regardless of the fate of the

Immediate Actions Upon Enemy Contact gunman, isolation of the firing point is necessary to
prevent reinforcement and preserve forensic evidence
Reaction to Sniping (scent, spent casings, etc.). If not under fire, members of
Snipings are often executed from a single firing point, the patrol element or team cordon off the area sur-
but coordinated snipings delievered from multiple rounding the firing point. Flanking elements or teams
points are not uncommon. maintain their positions and prevent civilians from
entering the area. The patrol leader moves to link-up
with the element or team in contact (if not the leader’s
Patrol element or team leaders should constantly try own), and makes an estimate of the situation. The patrol
to identify likely firing points and anticipate their own leader sends a SPOTREP to higher headquarters.
reactions to a possible shooting. Normally, snipers in
an urban environment have a detailed withdrawal Subsequent Follow-Up. The aim of the subsequent
plan. Once a patrol comes into contact with a sniper, follow-up is to use follow-on forces to clear the building
the patrol leader must immediately assess the of remaining resistance or to obtain evidence that can be
situation and maneuver the patrol accordingly. The used to capture the gunman. The patrol leader
patrol’s mission, location, size, ROE, and location of establishes a position where the leader can brief arriving
the threat often determine whether the patrol will units (reaction force commander, S-2 representative,
attempt to neutralize the targeted sniper. If the patrol EOD personnel, etc.). Once the arriving units have been
leader decides to kill or capture the sniper, the leader brie fed, r ecommendations are ma de to higher
uses planned and rehearsed immediate actions to headquarters via radio. No one is allowed into the
maneuver and counter the sniper’s assault. The goal is cordon without the patrol leader’s approval.
to kill the sniper or cut off the sniper’s escape for
capture. There are three immediate reactions to
neutralizing a sniper: initial contact, immediate Reaction to Becoming
follow-up, and subsequent follow-up. Decisively Engaged
If a patrol becomes decisively engaged from numerous
Initial Contact. The initial contact is made when the firing positions, the following immediate action
sniper fires the first shot. The patrol must react should be taken:
immediately and positively to get behind the firing
position in order to kill or capture the gunman. The l All patrol members move to available cover and
period of contact ends when the gunman is killed or return accurate fire on identified firing points.
captured, or the patrol element or team leader on the l The patrol leader assesses the situation and makes a
scene ends it. The following technique is the same for decision to either request the reaction force or break
both squad- and platoon-sized patrols: contact.
l If the reaction force is requested, the patrol will
l The element or team in contact attempts to identify maintain its position until the reaction force arrives.
the firing position and maneuvers designated The patrol should use fire and maneuver to gain
marksman into position to return well-aimed and better tactical positioning and support the arrival of
13-18 ____________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
the reaction force. When the reaction force arrives, Immediate Follow-Up. The A&S teams may need to
its commander may decide to either clear occupied maneuver to positions behind the likely initiation point
buildings or cover the patrol during its extract. to cut off escape. Once in position, personnel checks
are conducted and any suspects are detained. The
patrol leader coordinates requests for required support
Reaction to Bomb Threat or Discovery
(MEDEVAC, reaction force, etc.)
The use of command-detonated explosive devices is a
common ambush tactic employed by a terrorist or Subsequent Follow-Up. Due to the possibility of
insurgent in an urban environment. The appropriate secondary detonations, the four Cs (confirm, clear,
response to a reported threat or an actual discovery is cordon, and control) can be conducted as in reaction to
generally involves four steps (known as the four Cs)— a bomb discovery or bomb threat.
1. The patrol leader CONFIRMS the presence of Civil Disturbances

the suspicious item.
Urban patrols must prepare to react to spontaneous
2. Without touching or moving anything suspicious, aggression by the local populace. In many cases, civil
patrol elements or teams CLEAR the immediate disturbances are organized by the enemy to draw
danger area to a minimum of 100 meters. The area dismounted patrols into a targeted area, or to distract
is cleared from the suspected device outward, in- them from enemy activity occurring elsewhere. Civil
form civilians as to the reason for evacuation. disturbances are generally divided into two categories:
3. A&S teams establish a CORDON to secure the minor aggressive actions, and full-scale rioting.
cleared area. Avenues of approach are cordoned
off to keep people out and to protect EOD or Minor aggressive actions are activities characterized
engineer personnel clearing the device. The assis- by rock-throwing or use of devices such as Molotov
tant patrol leader acts as the cordon commander cocktails and may either be directed at the patrol or
and informs the patrol leader when the cordon is take place between different ethnic factions of the
secure. An effective cordon technique is to tape off population. Minor aggressive actions are normally
the area with engineer tape, creating both a phy-
sical and psychological boundary. spontaneous in nature and may have minimal or
limited objectives for the insurgents.
4. CONTROL of the area is maintained throughout
the bomb clearing operation by the patrol leader. Full-scale rioting events are usually in response to
The patrol leader sends a report to a superior con- another major event or incident that may enflame the
cerning details of the device (if known) and the area populace. Full-scale riots are well-planned and
affected. The patrol leader coordinates with arriving orchestrated, with clear objectives or targets in mind.
personnel (EOD, engineers, etc.). The patrol leader At times, patrols will need to attempt to maintain
maintains communication with the assistant patrol control of a civil disturbance situation; however,
leader and keeps the Marines informed of the prog- dismounted and mobile small unit patrols should
ress of the clearing operation. generally avoid potential flashpoints. Procedures to
handle civil disturbances are as follows:
Reaction to a Bomb Detonation l The patrol leader reports the incident to head-
Bombs may be used by an insurgent as a means of quarters and attempts to diffuse the crowd by
initiating an ambush on mounted or dismounted talking to crowd leaders.
patrols, in which case the actions for decisive en- l If the patrol leader determines the size of the
gagement apply. Immediate action in response to an disturbance is too large for the force to handle, the
isolated explosion is similar to that used in reaction to patrol should move away from the disturbance to a
a sniping and breaks down into the same three phases: safer, more remote covered area and occupy posi-
tions to observe and report the situation to higher
Initial Contact. The patrol leader attempts to identify headquarters. To prevent the patrol from being
the likely initiation point and sends an initial contact pursued by the crowd, the patrol should move
report to higher headquarters. If the bomb was quickly and change direction, often at road junc-
command-detonated, the patrol leader sends his/her tions, to gain distance from it.
A&S teams deep to cut off the bombers’ escape routes.
Any casualties are moved a minimum of 100 meters Patrol members should maintain dispersion to create a
from explosion and out of the line of sight to it. more difficult target. They should face the crowd at all
________________________________________________________________________________
times to see and avoid any projectiles thrown. Indivi- l The headquarters element provides security just
dual self-discipline must be maintained throughout the outside the house.
disturbance. Marines charging into the crowd or l The patrol leader and one Marine for security enter
throwing objects back at the crowd will only worsen the house, if invited. If not invited, they talk to the
the situation. If pursued or trapped, the patrol leader occupants on the doorstep. Patience and tact are
may consider using riot control agents (combat required in requesting information. An interpreter
support, pepper gas, etc.) to disperse or slow a crowd’s should be present when language differences exist.
movement. The use of riot control agents must be
authorized under the established ROE. If the patrol Vehicle Checkpoints
leader believes the situation is deteriorating beyond
the patrol’s ability to control it, the patrol leader Urban terrorists or insurgents commonly use vehicles
should request the reaction force, which may be better to transport personnel, weapons, explosives, and
equipped to handle a large riot or mob. equipment. Civilian vehicles are often used for these
purposes, creating the requirement to check as many
vehicles as possible. While permanent, fortified
Break Contact checkpoints may be conducted along approaches into
As with patrols in rural areas, the patrol leader may be an urbanized area, dismounted pa trols can be
forced to break contact as a result of decisive employed to establish hasty vehicle checkpoints to
engagement with the enemy. On the basis of the stop vehicles and to keep the enemy off-guard. The
leader’s estimate of the situation, the patrol leader will two common types of vehicle checkpoints patrols
normally break contact in one of the following ways: establish are hasty and deliberate.
l As a patrol, with elements providing cover for Hasty checkpoints are deployed anywhere based upon
movement as defined by clock direction and the decision of the patrol leader. Patrols must not set
distance.
patterns through the frequent use of the same sites.
l As individual units/teams taking separate routes out
of the area, then linking up at a designated rally Deliberate checkpoints are tasked by higher headquar-
point a safe distance away from the engagement. ters to achieve a specific purpose. Time and locations
are carefully considered to avoid setting patterns.
As in any contact with enemy forces, smoke may be
employed to screen movement. Fire support agencies The general layout for a squad-sized, two-way dis-
can be utilized to suppress targets; riot control agents mounted checkpoint is depicted in figure 13-8 on page
can be employed to disrupt enemy movement. 13-20. The technique is as follows:
Reentry of Friendly Lines l The A&S teams are positioned stealthily in block-ing
positions on both sides of the road.
The reentry of a dismounted patrol into an urban patrol l Both the patrol leader and assistant patrol leader act
base is no different from that of a patrol conducted in a as “talkers” for each direction of traffic (with local
rural area. The same planning considerations and con- police or interrogator or translator Marines acting as
trol methods apply. interpreters) while a two-Marine team from the
headquarters element physically searches the
Missions Related to Urban Patrolling vehicles.
l Obstacles or parked vehicles may be employed to
House Calls create a staggered roadblock in center of the check-
House calls missions are usually part of a coordinated point to slow approaching vehicles.
effort to collect information within the area of opera- l The checkpoint location should be sited so that ap-
tions. They involve obtaining up-to-date information proaching vehicles cannot see it until they have
on particular houses and occupants. When possible, passed a security team, and they have no escape route
local police should accompany patrols to do the actual then available.
talking to the occupants. If this is not possible, a tech- l Signs announcing the checkpoint should be dis-
nique that may be used by an urban patrol is— played a safe distance from the search area for safety
to both drivers and Marines.
l A&S elements move to provide cover around the l Normally higher headquarters will issue criteria that
target house. determines which vehicles are searched, but random
13-20 ____________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
Figure 13-8. Dismounted Squad-sized Hasty Urban Vehicle Checkpoint.
checks of cars should normally be made as well. conjunction with sniper operations and for providing
While the vehicle is being searched the driver overwatch for patrols operating within their sector of
should accompany the searcher around the vehicle. obse rvation. Observation posts a re nor -ma lly
l Vehicle occupants should be made to exit the ve- positioned on dominating terrain or in buildings
hicle and then searched. Whenever possible, outside the patrol base itself.
women should be searched by female police or fe-
male Marines. Insertion to the observation posts and conduct of ob-
l All patrol members should conduct themselves with servation may be either overt or clandestine in nature.
courtesy and politeness. If nothing is found, an Overt observation posts usually will be hardened
apology for the inconvenience is recommended. positions to increase security. A patrol provides cover
l A hasty vehicle checkpoint should not be conducted while the observation post is being inserted. A
any longer than 30 minutes for security reasons. clandestine observation post relies on stealth of
insertion and occupation for protection. It is normally
l The ROE should dictate whether or not action
positioned in abandoned buildings to cover sectors of
should be taken against vehicles that fail to stop at
observation that overt observation posts cannot. Be-
the checkpoint. Failure of a vehicle to stop does not
cause of their nature, clandestine observation posts are
automatically give authorization to fire.
difficult to successfully establish and should not be
occupied for an extended period of time. Orders es-
Observation Posts tablishing observation posts (and patrols) must address
Urban observation posts are established to provide the method of extraction as well as actions upon com-
extended security, not only for patrol bases but also for promise/attack.
patrols operating within the observation post’s sector
of observation. Observation posts can be established in
________________________________________________________________________________
Cordon and Search The head of the household should accompany the
The cordon and search mission involves isolating a search party throughout the operation to be able to
predesignated area by cordoning it off and system- counter incriminating evidence and possible accusa-
atically searching for enemy personnel, weapons, sup- tions of theft and looting against Marines. If possible,
plies, explosives or communications equipment. a prominent member of the local community should
While large-scale cordon and search operations are act as a witness.
planned and rehearsed in advance and normally entail
extensive coordination with local law enforcement Buildings are best searched from top to bottom.
agencies, a squad-sized urban patrol may often con- Ideally, the search is conducted with the assistance of
duct a cordon and search of a point target—searching combat engineers using mine detectors to locate
one house or building identified by intelligence as a hidden arms and ammunition.
possible weapons cache.
If the targeted building is empty or the occupant
The basic principle of a search of a populated area is to refuses entry, it may be necessary to forcefully enter
conduct it with limited inconvenience to the popula- the premises to conduct a search of the dwelling. If an
tion. The populace may be inconvenienced to the point unoccupied house containing property is searched,
where they will discourage urban guerillas or insur- arrangements should be made with the local com-
gents from remaining in the area, but not to the point munity to secure it until its occupants return. Un-
that they will assist the enemy as a result of the search. necessary force and damage to property should be
avoided during the search.
Upon receiving intelligence that warrants the search-
ing of a building or a specific tasking from higher
headquarters, A&S elements of the patrol move to Motorized Urban Patrols
establish an inner cordon around the target building to
seal it off, with the primary intent of preventing The advantages of a motorized urban patrols is their
movement out of the targeted building. ability to capitalize on the speed, mobility, and
protection offered by various vehicles. They may be
On order, the designated reaction force deploys to es- motorized, mechanized or armored vehicles or a com-
tablish an outer cordon, oriented outward some dis- bination. Generally, motorized urban patrols possess
tance from the inner cordon and covering routes greater combat power than dismounted patrols and can
leading into the area in order to prevent outside inter- cover larger areas faster than dismounted patrols.
ference/reinforcement. The reaction force maintains a
reserve to reinforce either cordon or react to unfolding The disadvantages of motorized urban patrols is that
events (civil disturbance in response to the operation). they are restricted to roads and are vulnerable to am-
bush by the enemy. They are also restricted in their
Once the cordons have been established, the patrol ability to interact with the local populace.
leader, with the assistance of local police or inter-
preters, informs the local populace that a building is Motorized patrols are generally organized in the same
about to be searched, that a house curfew is in effect manner as dismounted patrols (see fig. 13-9). Unit
(if permitted by higher headquarters), and that all integrity is maintained when assigning personnel to
occupants should remain indoors. Occupants of the specific vehicles.
target house are instructed to gather at a central loca-
tion to stay out of the way of the search party. The urban patrolling principles apply to motorized
patrols in much the same manner as dismounted
The headquarters element, having linked up with any patrols. Mutual support and depth are achieved by
required assistance (explosive ordnance disposal maintaining constant observation between vehicles
(EOD), ITT, etc.) now acts as the search party and and coordinating support with any dismounted patrols
accompanies local police. A female searcher should be in the area. All-around security is achieved through the
included in the party, if necessary. use of constant observation as well as the vehicle’s
mobility and firepower. Positive communications be-
Occupants are searched and screened first for possible tween units or teams are maintained through vehicle
enemy personnel. Apprehended persons are evacuated radios. Patrol routes and speeds are varied to promote
as soon as possible. deception or pattern avoidance.
13-22 ____________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
Figure 13-9. Organization of a Squad-sized Motorized Patrol.
The canalizing nature of streets and alleys force vehicle speed should be between 15 to 20 mph to
vehicular patrols to use a traveling overwatch move- allow for quick reaction and good observation.
ment technique to reduce vulnerability to ambushes. Distances between vehicles should be approximately
All vehicles travel at a moderate rate of speed with the 50 meters (one half to one city block) or such that
lead vehicle stopping only to investigate potential visual contact and mutual support are ensured. Parti-
danger areas. If vehicles must stop in danger areas, cular care is taken at major road junctions and other
designated crew members’ will dismount to provide danger areas to ensure individual vehicles do not
security. The gunner will remain at the ready and in become isolated.
the turret while the driver remains in the driver’s seat
with the vehicle running. Vehicles with doors removed generally enhance ob-
servation and overall security, yet expose Marines to
Vehicles should move at a high rate of speed only thrown objects, theft and concealment.
when responding to an incident. At all other times,
CHAPTER 14. INFORMATION AND REPORTS
It is necessary that patrol leaders and all patrol members be trained in observing
and reporting their observations accurately. The leader of a patrol should have all
members of the patrol immediately signal or report any information obtained.
These reports should not be restricted to information about the enemy, but should
also include information about the terrain, such as newly discovered roads, trails,
swamps, and streams. The leader includes all information in the report to the
officer dispatching the patrol. (Refer to MCRP 2-15.3, Reconnaissance Reports
Guide, for detailed report formats.)
Radio and Signals

14001. REPORTING
If the patrol is provided with a radio, a definite radio
schedule for checking in must be arranged before
The officer dispatching the patrol instructs the patrol departure of the patrol. The patrol leader takes every
leader on whether and when messages are to be sent precaution to ensure that codes and copies of messages
back during the patrol and what communication means are not captured by the enemy. If a close reconnais-
to use. Messages may be oral or written. They must be sance of enemy lines is required, the radio should be
accurate, clear, and complete. Every message should left in a concealed location at a safe distance from the
answer the question what, where, and when. For a enemy. Once a report is sent by radio, the patrol
detailed discussion on reporting, see paragraph 6002. should immediately leave the area to avoid the pos-
sibility of detection by enemy locating devices.
Pyrotechnics (flares, colored smoke, grenades) and
Verbal Messages air-ground panels may also be used by patrols for
reporting information by a prearranged signal.
A patrol leader sending a verbal message should make
it simple, brief, and avoid using numbers and names. SALUTE Report
The messenger should accurately repeat the message
back to the patrol leader before leaving. Information must be reported as quickly, accurately,
and as completely as possible. An established method
to remember how and what to report about the enemy
Written Messages is to use the acronym SALUTE:
In preparing written messages, the patrol leader must Size

distinguish between fact and opinion. Information Activity
about the enemy should include: strength; armament Location
and equipment; actions; location and direction of Unit
movement; unit destination, if known; time enemy Time
was observed; and the patrol’s location when the Equipment
observation was made. Use of an overlay or sketch
may often simplify the message. An example of such a report is: “Seven enemy
soldiers, unit unknown, traveling SW, crossed road
junction on BLACK RIDGE at 211300 August
Messengers carrying one machine gun and one rocket launcher.”
A messenger team is given exact instructions as to
where to deliver the message and the route to take.
Any information obtained along the route should be 14002. CAPTURED ITEMS
reported at the time the message is delivered.
Messengers must be given all practical assistance. If in
danger of capture, the messenger immediately de- Every patrol should make a practice of searching
stroys the message. enemy casualties, prisoners, and installations first for
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
14-2 MCWP 3-11.3
booby traps, then for equipment, papers, maps, return to a friendly position for a lengthy time, the
mes sag es, or de r s, d iar ie s, an d co de s. Se a rc h prisoners are given food, water and medical aid.
techniques should be practiced often in order to reduce
the time exposed to potentially dangerous situations. Tag. Equipment and personal effects recovered from
Items found are collected by the patrol leader and prisoners are tagged so that they may later be matched
turned in with the patrol report. The items found are back to specific individuals.
marked as to time and place of capture. When
possible, captured items should be linked to a specific
prisoner who possessed the items or to the place where
the items were found. When this is done, the enemy 14004. PATROL REPORT
prisoner of war tag and item tag are marked ac-
cordingly. The patrol leader must impress upon the
members of the patrol the importance of turning in all Every patrol leader makes a report when the patrol
documents and equipment. Furthermore, the patrol returns. Unless otherwise directed, the report is made
leader must ensure all information gathered by the to the person ordering the patrol. If the situation
patrol is quickly disseminated. permits, the report is written and supported by
overlays and/or sketches. The patrol leader’s report
should be a complete account of everything of military
importance observed or encountered by the patrol
14003. PRISONERS while on the assigned mission. It should include the
following information:
A patrol normally does not capture prisoners unless l Size and composition of patrol.
required by the mission. If prisoners are taken, the “5S l Tasks and purpose (mission).
and T” rule applies. This memory aid stands for: l Time of departure.
search, segregate, silence, speed, safeguard, and tag.
l Time of return.
l Routes, out and back (show by sketch, azimuth,
Search. Prisoners are body-searched thoroughly for
trace on map).
weapons and documents as soon as they have been
captured. This search must include the helmet, body l Terrain (general description to include any man-
armor, and gas mask. These items are left with the made or natural obstacles and critical terrain
prisoner for protection until the patrol is completed. features which, if occupied by either enemy or
Weapons, equipment, and documents are tagged and friendly forces, would allow them to control the
immediately sent to the patrol leader. surrounding area).
l Enemy (size, activity, location, unit, time, equip-
Segregate. Prisoners are segregated into isolated ment).
groups: officers, noncommissioned officers (NCOs), l Any map corrections (show on map).
privates, deserters, and civilians. By segregating pri- l Miscellaneous information not covered elsewhere
soners, it makes it more difficult for leaders to or- in report.
ganize escapes and issue orders to subordinates. l Results of enemy encounters.
l Condition of patrol, including disposition of any
Silence. Silence is essential. Do not allow prisoners to dead or wounded.
talk to each other.
l Conclusion and recommendations.
Speed. Speed is required in getting prisoners to the
commander who dispatched the patrol. Timely
information secured from prisoners is essential. 14005. PATROL CRITIQUE
Safeguard. Prisoners are safeguarded as they are

moved. They are restrained, but not abused. If the After the patrol has rested and eaten, the patrol leader
patrol will soon reach friendly positions, prisoners are should hold a critique. Constructive criticism is made.
not given cigarettes, food or water until they have been It is an excellent time to prepare for future patrols by
questioned by interrogators. If the patrol will not going over lessons learned as a result of the patrol.
APPENDIX A. PATROL WARNING ORDER
The warning order is issued as soon as practical with all available informa-
tion included to assist patrol members in preparation.
1. Situation. Friendly and enemy situation information necessary for initial

preparation.
2. Mission. Statement of what the patrol is to accomplish, and the purpose for
accomplishing it. When, how, and where will be discussed in the patrol order.
3. Execution
a. Task Organization. General patrol organization and assignment of re-

sponsibilities if known; otherwise, promulgate in the patrol order.
b. Tasks. Alert subordinate leaders to patrol tasks (e.g., stream crossing,

helicopter rappelling, demolitions) requiring preparation prior to departure.
c. Coordinating Instructions
(1) Time schedule and location for individual preparation, rest, briefings,
in-spection, rehearsal, and departure.
(2) Time, place, uniform, and equipment for receiving the patrol order.
(3) Tasks for subordinate leaders to direct and supervise the initial
preparation which may include drawing ammunition, rations, and special
equipment; conducting immediate action drills or other necessary in-
dividual or unit training; meeting and briefing attachment personnel;
reconnoitering the area for passage of lines; and coordinating with the
necessary unit leaders.
(4) Preliminary guidance to specialists and key individuals regarding

their roles and organization within the patrol.
4. Administration and Logistics
a. Individual uniform, equipment, weapons, and prescribed load of rations,

water, and ammunition.
b. Crew-served weapons (if required) and guidance regarding distribution

of weapons and ammunition during movement.
A-2 ______________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
c. Special equipment requirements (wire cutters, demolitions, radios,

flashlights, infrared equipment, mines, binoculars) and their distribution
during movement.
d. Restricted or prohibited items.
5. Command and Signal
a. Designation of assistant patrol leader and the assistant’s role

in preparation.
b. Designation of navigators and radio operators (if required).
c. Brief outline of patrol leader’s schedule for preparation, and where the
leader can be reached.
APPENDIX B. PATROL ORDER
A patrol order follows a warning order. Any of the following subjects that
have been addressed in the warning order may be omitted with the exception
of the mission statement. A patrol order is more detailed than a 5-paragraph
squad order in that a great deal of attention is given to individual duties.
The patrol order also provides orientation information, both enemy and
friendly, that impacts the patrol and enemy forces. This information can
include, but is not limited to, weather, terrain, visibility, NBC consider-
ations, local population situation, terrain model and/or map orientation, and
behavior.
1. Situation
a. Enemy Forces
(1) Composition, disposition, and strength are based on size, activity,

location, unit, time, and equipment (SALUTE).
(2) Capabilities and limitations to defend, reinforce, attack, withdraw,

and delay (DRAW-D).
(3) Enemy’s most probable course of action.
b. Friendly Forces
(1) Mission of next higher unit (task and commander’s intent).
(2) Adjacent unit missions (task and intent). Also identify left, front,
right, and rear.
c. Attachments and Detachments. (date and time effective).
2. Mission. The mission is the task to be accomplished, and its purpose (who,
what, where, when, and why). For patrols, specify if the mission or time has
priority.
3. Execution
a. Commander’s Intent and Concept of Operations
(1) Commander’s intent.
(2) The concept of operations tells the where, how, and who and lays out
the patrol leader’s general scheme of maneuver and fire support plan. It
outlines the following:
B-2 ______________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
(a) Task organization of the patrol.
(b) Movement to the objective area, to include navigation method.
(c) Actions in the objective area.
(d) The return movement, to include navigation method.
(e) Use of supporting forces (including illumination, if required).
b. Subordinate Element Missions. Subordinate element missions (task and

purpose) are assigned to elements, teams, and individuals, as required.
c. Coordinating Instructions. This paragraph contains instructions common

to two or more elements, coordinating details, and control measures appli-
cable to the patrol as a whole. At a minimum, it includes—
(1) Time of assembly in the assembly area.
(2) Time of inspections and rehearsals (if not already conducted).
(3) Time of departure and estimated time of return.
(4) Location of departure and reentry of friendly lines and the actions
associated with departure and reentry.
(5) Details on the primary and alternate routes to and from the objective
area.
(6) Details on formations and order of movement.
(7) Rally points and actions at rally points.
(8) Final preparation position and actions at this position.
(9) Objective rally point and actions at this point.
(10) Actions at danger areas.
(11) Actions in the event of enemy contact.
(12) Details on actions in the objective area not covered elsewhere.
(13) Estimated time of patrol debriefing upon return.
4. Administration and Logistics
a. Changes/additions to uniform, equipment, and prescribed loads from

that given in the warning order.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Scouting and Patrolling B-3
b. Instructions for handling wounded and prisoners.
5. Command and Signal
a. Command Relationships. Identify key leaders and chain of command.
b. Signal. Challenge and password, arm and hand signals, special signals,
and radio frequencies and call signs.
APPENDIX C. PATROL EVALUATION CHECKLIST
This appendix provides a comprehensive checklist of critical patrolling

steps, techniques, and procedures to aid unit leaders to critique patrol
performance during training. Unit leaders may use the list as they observe
the performance of a patrol to provide the patrol leader with a detailed
analysis of the performance.
C-2 ______________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
Warning Order Yes No

Did the PL ensure all patrol members were present before issuing the warn-
ing order?
Did the PL issue a brief statement on the enemy situation?
Did the PL issue a brief statement on the friendly situation?
Did the PL state the mission in a clear, positive manner?
Did the PL list all members of the patrol including attachments?
Was the chain of command for the patrol covered fully?
Were all members of the patrol asigned positions and duties in particular
squads and teams?
Were all the necessary individual duties assigned?
Did the PL follow established principles in organizing the patrol into squads
and teams?
Was each patrol member assigned a particular weapon to carry on patrol?
Did the PL list all special equipment needed to accomplish the mission?
Was required special equipment assigned to the proper element to carry?
Did the PL select uniform and equiment common to all based on METT-T?
Coordination with Adjacent Units
Did the PL coordinate with other patrols operating to the right and left?
Was the route out and back coordinated?
Was the time of departure and return cocordinated?
Were call signs and frequencies coordinated?
Was a signal for the FPF coordinated so as not to approach friendly lines
during this time?
Coordination With Front Line Units
Did the coordinator pass the size of the patrol?
Was the time of departure and return coordinated?
Did the coordinator give a general area of oeprations for the patrol?
Did the coordinator ask for information on known or suspected enemy posi-
tions and/or obstacles?
Did the coordinator ask about information on the latest enemy activity?
Did the coordinator ask for detailed information on friendly fire support aval-
able and the unit’s barrier plan?
Was the location of the IRP established and coordinated?
Did the coordinator ask the forward unit to monitor their patrol frequency?
Was the current challenge and password confirmed?
Did the coordinator request that all information coordinated be passed on to
any relieving unti?
Patrol Order
General
Did the PL check to ensure all patrol members were present before issuing
the patrol order?
__________________________________________________________________________________
Scouting and Patrolling C-3
Yes No
Did the PL issue the patrol order in a forceful, confident manner?
Did the PL make maximum use of available visual aids in issuing the patrol
order (i.e., terrain model, sand table, map board, chalkboard)?
Did the PL issue the patrol order in correct sequence?
Did the PL issue the entire patrol order without allowing interruptions by
patrol members?
Did the PL adequately answer all questions asked by patrol members
Did paragraph 1a (Enemy Situation) include—
A weather forecast for the period of operation?
A description of the terrain over which the patrol was to operate?
Identification or description of enemy units known to bein the area of
operations?
Known locations of enemy units?
Recent activity of enemy units?
Stength of enemy units in the operating area?
Did paragraph 1b (Friendly Situation) include—
Mission of the next higher unit?
Locations, missions, and planned actions of units on right and left?
Fire support available to support the patrol (as per the coordination)?
Missions and routes of other patrols operating in the immediate area?
Did paragraph 1c (Commander’s Intent) include—
All views and ides of what the commander wants to be accomplished?
The final result desired by the commander?
Did paragraph 1c (Attachments and Detachments) include—
All attachments to patrol and effective time of attachment?
All detachments from patrol and effective time of detachment?
Did paragraph 2 (Mission) include, at a minimum—
Who was to conduct the patrol?
What the patrol was tasked to do (i.e., conduct a point recon patrol)?
Where the action was to take place?
Why the action was to take place (i.e., the purpose)?
Did paragraph 3 a (Commander’s Intent and Concept of Operations)
include—
A complete concept of operations?
A detailed description of the mission of elements?
A detailed description of the mission of teams?
A detailed description of the duties of specific individuals (i.e., navigator,
compass person, pace m an, corpsman, APL)?
Time of departure and time of return?
C-4 ______________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
Yes No
Type of formations and order of movement to be used?
Description of the route and alternate routes(s) to include azimuths and dis-
tances between checkpoints as a minimum?
Techniques to be used in the departure from friendly areas?
Techniques to be used for the reentry into friendly areas?
Location of the IRP and a tentative ORP, to include grid coordinates and
recognizable terrain features?
Method for designating and passing rally points?
Actions to be taken at rally points if their use became necessary?
Actions to be taken in the event of enemy contact?
Actions to be taken at danger areas?
Complete, detailed description of actions to be taken at the objective?
Times and locations for rehearsals and the order of priority for rehearsals?
Times and lcoations for inspections and the methods of conduct (to include
uniform and equipment to be worn and/or carried)?
Where, when, and by whom the debriefing is to be conducted?
Did paragraph 4 (Administration and Logistics) include—
Rations to be carried or reference to the warning order if there is no change?
Arms and ammunition to be carried or reference to the warning order if there
is no change?
Uniform and equipment to be worn and carried or reference to the warning
order if there is no change?
Method for handling wounded or dead?
Method for handling prisoners?
Did paragraph 5a (Signal) include—
Complete description of all signals, code words, frequencies, and call signs
to be used within the patrol?
Were signals adequate?
Radio call signs to be used?
Primary and alternate frequencies to be used?
Call signs and frequencies to be used with other units in the area of oepra-
tions (if applicable)?
Required reports to be transmitted to higher headquarters, along with occa-
sions for reporting?
Code words and brevity codes to be used between the patrol and higher
headquarters?
Current challenge and password to be used in friendly held areas?
Current challenge and password to be used forward of FEBA?
Did paragraph 5b (Command) include—
Chain of command or reference to the warning order if there is not change?
Location of the PL during all stages of operation?
__________________________________________________________________________________
Yes No
Location of the APL during all stages of operation?
Inspection Rehearsal
General
Did the P L adequately use the allotted inspection time?
Was the inspection conducted in an orderly manner?
During the inspection, did the PL check the following:
Completeness and correctness of uniform?
Completeness of all equipment necessary to accomplish the mission?
Operational condition of equipment?
Did the PL question members to ensure they knew—
The mission of the patrol?
The concept of operations?
Their individual duties and responsibilities?
Chain of command and succession?
Duties and responsibilities of key personnel?
Did the PL utilize the rehearsal area to conform as much as possible to area
of operations?
Were the following major actions rehearsed:
Actions at the objective?
Actions at danger areas?
Actions on enemy contacts?
Departure and reentry of friendly lines?
Did the PL critique each action after it had been rehearsed?
Were interpatrol communications and control measures checked at
rehearsal?
Did the PL maintain control of the patrol during the rehearsal?
Movement
Did the PL use proper formations for movement?
Did the PL adequately control the point team?
Did the PL check the compass person?
Was the PL aware of his/her position at all times?
Was light and noise discipline enforced?
Was the rate of movement appropriate for the mission?
Did the PL make full use of pace?
Did the PL make full use of count?
Was proper security maintained during movement?
Did the PL select and pass proper rallying points?
Did the PL ensure that all members knew location of rallying points?
C-6 ______________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
Yes No
Did the PL properly use arm and hand signals?
Did the PL recognize and halt the patrol a safe distance from a danger area?
If the PL conducted a map check, did the leader conduct it properly (light dis-
cipline, security, etc.)
Did designated individuals reconnoiter the far side of a danger area
properly?
Were support teams emplaced properly?
Did the PL use a proper formation in crossing the danger area?
Were reports made on enemy contact and at checkpoints?
Actions on Enemy Contact
Did the PL halt patrol a safe distance from a tentative ORP?
Did the PL issue an adequate frag order before departing to look for a tenta-
tive ORP?
Did the PL take appropriate personnel to look for the ORP?
Did the PL select a suitable ORP?
Did the PL secure the site adequately?
Did the patrol occupy the ORP as stated in the patrol order or subsequent
frag order?
Did the patrol occupy the ORP in an orderly manner?
Did the PL maintain control of the patrol during occupation of the ORP?
Did the PL issue a satisfactory contingency plan to the APL before departing
on a leader’s recon?
Did the PL take appropriate personnel on a leader’s recon?
Did the PL maintain or ensure that the patrol leader had communications
with the patrol?
Did the patrol avoid being detected by the enemy during the leader’s recon?
If contact was made, did the PL take appropriate action?
Was security maintained during the leader’s recon?
Did the PL ensure the objective was kept under surveillance?
Were appropriate orders given to surveillance teams?
If a leader recon proved a tentative ORP unsuitable, did the PL move the
ORP?
Was a satisfactory leader’s recon conducted?
Was the ORP move conducted in a satisfactory and orderly manner?
On return to the ORP, did the PL issue appropriate frag order and allow
enough time for dissemination?
Actions at Objective
Did the PL issue a frag order for action at the objective?
Was security emplaced prior to the teams departing from the ORP?
Did the PL employ the terrain at the objective to the best advantage?
Was stealth maintained while moving into the objective?
__________________________________________________________________________________
Yes No
Did the Pl exercise positive control of squads, teams, and individuals at the
objective?
Were actions at the objective in accordance with the details outlined in the
patrol order?
Did the PL make use of supporting arms at the objective?
Was the action at the objective successful?
Was withdrawal from the objective accomplished quickly and orderly?
Did units withdraw according to the details reflected in the patrol order?
Was reorganization at the ORP completed in an expeditious and orderly
manner?
Did the patrol withdraw from the ORP quickly and quietly?
APPENDIX D. AMBUSH FORMATIONS
Formations discussed here are identified by names

which correspond to the general pattern formed on the
ground by deployment of the assault element.
Line Formation
The assault element is deployed generally parallel to

the route of movement of the enemy. This positions
the assault element parallel to the long axis of the
killing zone and subjects the target to heavy flanking
fire. The size of the force which can be trapped in the
killing zone is limited by the area the assault element
can effectively cover. The enemy is trapped in the
killing zone by natural obstacles, mines, demolitions,
and direct fires. (See fig. D-l.)
Figure D-2. Line Formation (Access Lanes
A disadvantage of the line formation is the chance that for Assault of Target).
lateral dispersion of the target may be too great for
The main advantage of the line formation is its relative

ease of control under all conditions of visibility.
L Formation
The “L” shaped formation is a variation of the line

formation. This formation is very flexible because it
can be established on a straight stretch of a trail or
road (see fig. D-3) or at a sharp bend in a trail or a road
(See fig. D-4 on page D-2).The long side of the assault
element is parallel to the killing zone and delivers
flanking fire. The short side of the attack force is at the
Figure D-1. Line Formation

(Harassing or Destruction Ambush).
effective coverage. The line formation is appropriate

in close terrain that restricts enemy maneuver, and in
open terrain where one flank is protected by natural
obstacles or can be protected by mines and demo-
litions. Similar obstacles can be placed between the
attack force and the killing zone to provide protection
from possible enemy counter attack. When an ambush
is deployed in this manner, access lanes are left so that Figure D-3. “L” Formation (Destruction Ambush).
the enemy can be assaulted. (See fig. D-2.)
D-2 ______________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
The assault element is deployed as in the “L” forma-

tion, but with an additional side so that the formation
resembles a “Z”. (See fig. D-6).
Figure D-4. “L” Formation

(Bend of Trail or Stream).
end of, and at right angles to, the killing zone and
delivers enfilading fire that interlocks with fire from
the long side. When appropriate, fire from the short Figure D-6. “Z” Formation.
side can be shifted to parallel the long side if the
enemy attempts to assault or escape in the opposite
direction. In addition, the short side prevents escape The additional wing may serve any of the following
and reinforcement. (See fig. D-5.) purposes:
l To engage an enemy force attempting to relieve or

“Z” Formation reinforce the enemy unit engaged in the kill zone.
l To seal the end of the killing zone.
The “Z” shaped formation is another variation of the l To restrict a flank.
line formation. l To prevent an envelopment.
Figure D-5. “L” Formation.

__________________________________________________________________________________
Scouting and Patrolling D-3
“T” Formation the opposite direction. The attack of the enemy

approaching from either direction requires only that
In the “T” shaped formation, the assault element is every second Marine may shift to the opposite side of
deployed across (perpendicular to) the enemy’s route the formation. Each Marine fires only to his/her front
of movement so that its position forms the crossing of and only when the enemy is at a very close range.
a “T” at the top. (See fig. D-7.) Attack is by fire only and each Marine keeps the
enemy under fire as long as it remains to his/her front.
If the enemy attempts to escape in either direction

along the killing zone, each Marine takes the enemy
under fire as the enemy comes into the Marine’s sector
of fire. The “T” formation is very effective at halting
infiltration. But it has one chief disadvantage; there is
a possibility that the ambush will engage a superior
force at night while spread out. (See fig. D-8.)
Figure D-8. “T” Formation (Target Approaching

from Either Direction).
The “V” Formation

Figure D-7. “T” Formation. The “V” shaped formation is deployed along both
sides of the enemy’s route of movement so that it
This formation can be used day or night to establish an forms a “V”; care is taken to ensure that neither group
ambush to interdict movement through open areas that (within the “V”) fires into the other.
are hard to seal off.
This formation subjects the enemy to both enfilading
A small force can use the “T” formation to harass, and interlocking fire. The “V” formation is best suited
slow, and disorganize a larger force. When the lead for fairly open terrain but can also be used in close
elements of the enemy are engaged, they will normally terrain. When established in close terrain, the legs of
attempt to maneuver right or left to close with the the “V” close in as the lead element of the enemy force
ambush. Mines and other obstacles placed to the approaches the apex of the “V”, and opens fire at a
flanks of the killing zones slow the enemy’s move-
close range.
ments and permit the ambush force to deliver heavy
fire and withdraw without becoming decisively
engaged. Here, even more than in open terrain, all movement
and fire must be carefully coordinated and controlled
The “T” formation can be used to interdict small to ensure that the fire of one wing does not endanger
groups attempting night movement across open areas. the other wing. The wider separation of forces makes
For example, the assault element is deployed along an this formation difficult to control, and there are few
avenue of approach with every second Marine facing sites that favor its use. Its main advantage is that it is
D-4 ______________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
difficult for the enemy to detect the ambush until it is Closed Triangle Formation
well into the killing zone. (See figs. D-9 and D-10.)
(See fig. D-11.) The assault element is deployed in
three teams, positioned so that they form a triangle (or
Triangle Formation closed “V”). An automatic weapon is placed at each
point of the triangle and positioned so that it can be
The triangle is a variation of the “V” formation and shifted quickly to interlock with either of the others.
can be varied in three ways: Marines are positioned so that their sectors of fire
overlap. Mortars may be positioned inside the triangle.
Figure D-11. Closed Triangle Formation

(Night Ambush).
When deployed in this manner, the triangle ambush is

used to interdict night movement through open areas.
When enemy approach is likely to be from any di-
Figure D-9. “V” Formation (Open Terrain). rection, this formation provides all-around security,
and security forces are deployed only when they can
be positioned so that if detected by an approaching
enemy, they will not compromise the ambush. Attack
is by fire only, and the enemy is allowed to approach
within close range before fire is initiated.
The advantages of the closed triangle formation are

ease of control, all-around security, and the enemy can
be brought under the fire of at least two automatic
weapons, regardless of the direction they approach.
Disadvantages are that it requires a force of platoon

size or larger to reduce the danger of being overrun by
an unexpectedly large force and that one or more sides
of the triangle may come under enfilade fire. The lack
of dispersion, particularly at the points, increases the
danger from enemy mortar fire.
Figure D-10. “V” Formation (Close Terrain).
__________________________________________________________________________________
Open Triangle Harassing Formation pulled apart. Each team reoccupies its position, if pos-
sible, and continues to inflict the maximum damage
This variation of the triangle ambush enables a small possible without becoming decisively engaged.
force to harass, slow, and inflict heavy casualties upon
a large force without itself being decisively engaged.
The assault element is deployed in three teams, posi- Open Triangle Destruction Formation
tioned so that each team becomes a corner of a triangle The assault element is again deployed in three teams,
containing the killing zone. (See fig. D-12.) positioned so that each team is a point of the triangle,
200 to 300 meters apart. The killing zone is the area
When the enemy enters the killing zone, the team to within the triangle. The enemy is allowed to enter the
the enemy’s front opens fire on the leading element. killing zone; the nearest team attacks by fire. As the
When the enemy counterattacks, the group withdraws enemy attempts to maneuver or withdraw, the other
and the team on the enemy’s flank opens fire. When
teams open fire. One or more teams, as directed,
this team is attacked, the team to the opposite flank
assault or maneuver to envelop or destroy the enemy.
opens fire. This process is repeated until the enemy is
(See fig. D-13 on page D-6.)
Figure D-12. Open Triangle Formation.

D-6 ______________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
Figure D-13. Open Triangle Formation (Destruction Ambush).
This formation is suitable for platoon-size or larger

ambush forces. A smaller force would be in too great a The Box Formation
danger of being overrun. Another disadvantage is that
control, in assaulting or maneuvering, is very difficult. The “box” formation is similar in purpose to the open
Very close coordination and control are necessary to triangle ambush. The assault element is deployed in
ensure that assaulting or maneuvering teams are not four teams, positioned so that each team becomes a
fired on by another team. The ambush site must be a corner of a square or rectangle containing the killing
fairly level open area that provides concealment zone. It can be used for a harassing or destruction
around its border for the ambush force. ambush in the same manner as the variations of the
open triangle formation. (See figs D-14 on page D-7
and D-15 on page D-8.)
__________________________________________________________________________________
Figure D-14. Box Formation (Harrassing Ambush).

D-8 ______________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 3-11.3
Figure D-15. Box Formation (Destruction Ambush).

APPENDIX E. ACRONYMS
A&S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . assault and security
CIT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . counterintelligence team
EOD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . explosive ordnance disposal
ITT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . interrogator-translator team
MAGTF. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marine air-ground task force

MEDEVAC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . medical evacuation
METT-T . . . . . . . . . mission, enemy, terrain and weather, troops and support available
NBC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .nuclear, biological, chemical

NCO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . noncommissioned officer
OTL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .overserver-target line
RCA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . riot control agents

ROE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .rules of engagement
SMAW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . shoulder-launched multipurpose assault weapon

SMEAC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . situation, mission, execution, administration
and logistics, and command and signal
SOP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .standing operating procedures
SPOTREP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . spot report
TTP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . tactics, techniques, and procedures

APPENDIX F. REFERENCES
Joint Publication (JP)
1-02 DOD Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms
Fleet Marine Force Manual (FMFM)
6-5 Marine Rifle Squad (proposed MCWP 3-11.2)
Marine Corps Warfighting Publications (MCWP)
3-15.3 Scout Sniping (under development)
3-35.3 Military Operations on Urbanized Terrain (MOUT)
3-41.2 Raids (under development)
Marine Corps Reference Publications (MCRP)
2-15.3A Reconnaissance Patrol Leader’s Planning Handbook (under development)
2-15.3B Reconnaissance Reports Guide
3-02C Water Survival Handbook (under development, currently exists as Fleet

Marine Force Manual 0-13)
5-12A Operational Terms and Graphics
5-12C Marine Corps Supplement to the DOD Dictionary of Military and Asso-
ciated Terms
To Our Readers
Changes: Readers of this publication are encouraged to submit suggestions and

changes to Doctrine Branch via e-mail: [email protected].
Suggestions and changes must include the following information:
• Location of change
Publication number and title
Current page number
Paragraph number (if applicable)
Line number
Figure or table number (if applicable)
• Nature of change
Addition/deletion of text
Proposed new text
Additional copies: If this publication is not an electronic only distribution, a printed

copy may be obtained from Marine Corps Logistics Base, Albany, GA 31704-5001,
by following the instructions in MCBul 5600, Marine Corps Doctrinal Publications
Status. An electronic copy may be obtained from the United States Marine Corps
Doctrine web page:
https://homeport.usmc.mil/sites/mcdoctrine/SitePages/Home.aspx

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USMC

Scouting and Patrolling

U.S. Marine Corps

DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

PCN 147 000014 00

CHANGE 1 to MCTP 3-01A

2. File this transmittal sheet in the front of this publication.

Reviewed and approved this date.

BY DIRECTION OF THE COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS

Publication Control Numbers:

SCOUTING AND PATROLLING

2. Change PCN 143 000075 00 to PCN 147 000014 00

3. File this transmittal sheet in the front of this publication.

PCN 147 000014 80

Marine Corps Warfighting Publication (MCWP) 3-11.3, Scouting and Patrolling,

Reviewed and approved this date.

BY DIRECTION OF THE COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS

DISTRIBUTION: 143 000075 00

Chapter 1. Fundamentals of Scouting

1001 Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

Chapter 2. Terrain, Maps, and Direction

2001 Terrain Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

Chapter 3. Enemy Activity

3001 Estimating Enemy Strengths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Chapter 4. Daylight Scouting

4001 Cover and Concealment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

Chapter 5. Night Scouting

5001 Night Vision. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

Chapter 6. Observing and Reporting

6001 Observation Posts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

Chapter 7. Scouting Fire Team

7001 Positioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

PART 2. INFANTRY PATROLLING

Chapter 8. Fundamentals of Infantry Patrolling

8001 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1

Chapter 9. Patrol Organization

9001 General Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

Chapter 10. Patrol Preparation

10001 Mission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1

Chapter 11. Movement to and Return from the Objective Area

11001 Passage of Lines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

Chapter 12. Reconnaissance Patrols

12001 General Missions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1

12006 Reconnaissance Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-3

Chapter 13. Combat Patrols

13001 Task Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-1

Chapter 14. Information and Reports

14001 Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1

Appendix A. Patrol Warning Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A-1

Appendix B. Patrol Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1

Appendix C. Patrol Evaluation Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1

Appendix D. Ambush Formations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .D-1

Appendix E. Acronyms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1

Appendix F. References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-1

CHAPTER 1. FUNDAMENTALS OF SCOUTING

the enemy, the terrain, and adjacent friendly units.

The standard compass for general use in the Marine

Figure 2-1. Natural and Artificial Terrain Features.

Figure 2-2. Lensatic Compass.