FM 17-98 SCOUT PLATOON

Figure 8-1. Sample SOP for dismounted operations.
The most common dismounted task performed by any scout element is local security. The primary purpose is to
prevent close-in surprise of a mounted section or squad when it is halted for any period of time. Local security is also
employed in a variety of other situations, such as during forward reconnaissance or as part of an OP.
A scout section, squad, or individual vehicle that halts for any amount of time should deploy dismounted soldiers to
provide local security. These soldiers should never move out of visual range. The primary means of communications
between the element and its local security should be hand-and-arm signals, with vocal signals and FM as primary
backups. Wire communications can also be used; however, wire is usually not necessary or practical because of the
proximity of an element to its local security. Wire is also time-consuming to establish.
When executing a reconnaissance mission, the lead squad in a section will frequently deploy local security to provide
360-degree observation and early warning. Typically, this involves one or, preferably, two dismounted soldiers, who
move forward of the vehicle to investigate a danger area such as a clearing or dead space beyond a rise. The security
personnel remain within the overwatch range of the mounted element and communicate via hand-and-arm signals. If
they discover possible enemy presence, they signal the mounted element, which takes appropriate actions on contact.
If all is clear, they signal the mounted element to move forward, then remount.