Dismounted Reconnaissance Troop - Army Electronic Publications ...

Other Tactical Operations
In a rearward passage, maintain visual contact with all threat units and conduct movement back
to the BHL, avoiding decisive engagement.
During the passage, display correct recognition signals and use the correct challenge and
password as specified in the SOI.
Maintain proper weapons orientation.
STATIONARY UNIT CRITICAL TASKS
6-79. The stationary unit must accomplish a variety of critical tasks when ordered to conduct passage of
lines during BHO. These tasks include the following:
Establishing communications with the passing unit, coordinating necessary contact points, and
directing the passing unit to the contact points based on current dispositions of the designated
units.
Ensuring that contact points are manned and secured and that passing elements have established
personal communications with their representatives.
Ensuring that representatives at the contact points assign each passing element a passage point
into the AO and a route that extends from the passage points to the rear boundary or assembly
area (in a rearward passage) or to the attack position (in a forward passage).
Ensuring that representatives at the contact points exchange required information, including
FBCB2, with the passing unit as outlined in their unit TACSOP.
Positioning elements along the BHL where they have the best possible observation of threat
avenues of approach, adjusting as necessary during limited visibility.
If obstacles are emplaced between the forward edge of the battle area (FEBA) and the BHL,
ensuring that routes through the obstacle system are clearly marked and physically controlled by
guides or that escorts are provided to the passing unit.
Ensuring that all routes of withdrawal obligated to the passing unit are unobstructed and
facilitate rapid movement to the rearward passage.
Ensuring that obligated routes of advance, attack positions, and routes to the BHL are clear and
facilitate rapid movement (forward passage).
PREPARATION
6-80. Units are particularly vulnerable during a passage of lines. Effective preparation is critical because
subordinate elements may be concentrated, stationary unit fires may be masked temporarily, and the
passing unit may not be disposed properly to react to threat action. The commander may task subordinate
units with a number of missions, including detailed reconnaissance and coordination, to assist him in
preparing for the passage.
GRAPHIC CONTROL MEASURES
6-81. Graphic control measures for BHO and passage of lines are illustrated in Figure 6-1 (forward
passage) and Figure 6-2 (rearward passage). Graphics control measures include the following:
Battle handover line. The BHL is established by the common commander in consultation with
both commanders. The stationary commander has the major responsibility for determining the
location of the BHL because his force must be able to overwatch the line with direct fires.
Contact points. These are established on identifiable terrain and are normally in the vicinity of
the passage lanes. For rearward passage of lines, the contact points are established forward at the
BHL. For forward passage, the contact points are established in the stationary unit’s AO
rearward of the passage lanes.
Passage points. The passage point is the location on the passage lane at which the moving unit
passes responsibility for the operation to the stationary unit. It is usually placed where the
passage lane begins.
Passage lanes. The stationary unit establishes passage lanes to move the passing unit quickly
through defending unit positions. This could include passing through gaps in friendly obstacles
16 November 2010 ATTP 3-20.97 6-13