Marine Rifle Squad

leader, usually accompanied by a radio operator or messenger, moves to
the unit occupying the positions through which the patrol will depart. There
he meets with the personnel with whom he has previously coordinated (company
commander, platoon commander, or squad leader), and makes final
arrangements for departure. If guides are required to lead the patrol
through the unit's position and/or its local security area, the patrol leader
picks them up at this time.
d. Once the departure has been coordinated, the patrol leader advances
the patrol to his position. He may call the patrol forward by radio, send
his messenger back to the patrol's assembly area to lead it forward, or go
back himself to lead the patrol forward.
e. With the patrol assembled in its formation for movement, the patrol
leader or the guide leads the patrol through the friendly positions. At the
last friendly position, the patrol leader dismisses the guide to return to his
own unit. He also takes this time to give any last, very brief instructions
to the patrol's point or navigator if he considers it necessary. As the patrol
moves past him, the patrol leader takes his position in the formation for
the patrol. Usually the patrol leader transmits to his platoon commander
or company commander that the patrol has departed friendly lines/area.
f. Also, during his planning, the patrol leader effects coordination with
the leaders of the unit through which the patrol will return. He provides
them information about the size of the patrol, general route, and expected
time of return. The manner of challenge and recognition of the returning
patrol is coordinated in great detail.
9. Upon returning to friendly forward local security area or front
lines, the patrol leader leaves the patrol in a covered position while
he and a radio operator or messenger move forward to make contact
with the friendly unit in the manner previously agreed upon. Once he has
made contact, the patrol leader calls the patrol forward, sends his messenger
back, or returns himself to lead the patrol forward to the passage point.
It is imperative that the patrol leader check each man personally as
he reenters.
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