MCWP-3-11.3-Scouting-and-Patrolling

CHAPTER 11. MOVEMENT TO AND RETURNFROM THE OBJECTIVE AREAThis chapter provides guidance to patrol leaders for movement to and return fromthe objective area. Action in the objective area depends on whether the patrol isassigned a reconnaissance mission, combat mission or security mission. Chapters12 and 13 provide detailed guidance on these types of missions.11001. PASSAGE OF LINES11002. ORGANIZATION FOR MOVEMENTA passage of lines is an operation in which a forcemoves forward or rearward through another force’scombat positions with the intention of moving into orout of contact with the enemy. (JP 1-02)During the initial preparation for the patrol, the patrolleader selects a patrol assembly area and reconnoitersthe area of passage designated by the commander. Incoordination with the unit commander responsible forthe area of passage, the patrol leader identifies gaps orlanes in minefields and wire obstacles and locateslocal security elements through which the patrol willpass. The patrol leader also checks the route from thepatrol assembly area to the passage point or contactpoint where the patrol will depart friendly lines. Ifpossible, both the route to the passage point and theroute through the frontlines should be concealed fromthe enemy’s view.The patrol leader also reconnoiters the area for returnpassage of lines and coordinates with the unitcommander responsible for the area of passage forpassage points and lanes as necessary. The patrolleader observes these points from the direction that thepatrol will use upon return to friendly lines, ifpossible, to aid in recognition upon return. The patrolleader provides the forward unit with informationabout the size of the patrol, general route, andexpected time of return. The manner of challenge andrecognition of the returning patrol should becoordinated in detail.Upon return to friendly forward local security squadsand/or frontlines, the patrol leader leaves the patrol ina covered position and moves forward with a radiooperator and at least one Marine for security to makecontact with the friendly unit in the manner agreed.After contact is made and recognized, the patrol leaderrejoins the patrol and takes them to the passage point,personally checking in each member.The patrol’s task organization establishes the elementsand teams needed to accomplish the mission inthe objective area and to and from the objective. Thepatrol leader determines the formation(s) in which thepatrol moves to the objective area.FormationsThe proper use of patrol formations is critical to thepatrol’s success. The squad and fire team formationsdescribed in FMFM 6-5 (proposed MCWP 3-11.2),Marine Rifle Squad, also apply to infantry patrollingformations. Because the movement of the patrol mustbe concealed from the enemy, the patrol normallymoves through terrain that provides concealment.Control of the patrol in this type of terrain is difficult;thus the column formation, which is easily controlled,is normally used. However, as various types of terrainare encountered, the patrol leader uses the same considerationsin determining the appropriate formationused in other infantry operations.The standard squad and fire team formations areadaptable to a patrol. The patrol may change formationsen route to match the situation and terrain.The patrol leader may have to sacrifice some controlfor better dispersion or give up some speed for greaterstealth and more security. Other considerationsinclude—l Visibility, weather, terrain, and vegetation willinfluence dispersion and control of individuals andunits. These factors may also affect the enemy; ifvisibility is good for the patrol, it is also good forthe enemy. Two pieces of luminous tape worn onthe back of the collar will aid in control andmovement on dark nights. The collar is turneddown when near the enemy. The tape can also beworn on the back of the cap, but should be coveredor removed when near the enemy.