Marine Rifle Squad

d. Base Alert. The critical periods for defending the base are at dawn
and dusk. During these periods, the entire patrol remains in an alert status.
The base alert serves the following purposes:
(1) Enables each man to see the disposition of troops and the nature of
the ground to his front and flanks.
(2) Provides a definite cut off period for the change of routine. Beginfling
with evening alert, all movement and noise cease and lights are extinguished.
After the morning alert, the daily routine begins.
(3) Enables the squad leaders to check details while all men are positioned.
This will include a check on maintenance of weapons, equipment,
ammunition, etc.
e. Alarm. The patrol must have a suitable alarm signal for the approach
of either friendly or enemy troops. This signal should not sound foreign
to the environmental area and must be detected only by patrol members.
1. Leaving a Base. Before leaving the base, all signs of occupation are
removed. Any shelters are destroyed. The area is left to appear as though
it had not been occupied.
9605. Establishment of Control Over Civil Populace
Rifle squads will assist in carrying out steps to reduce sympathy and civilian
support for guerrillas by making visits to villages, enforcing troop discipline,
and working closely with civil authorities. Every effort is made to deny guerrillas
their source of supply, reinforcement, and recruiting.
Surprise attacks against guerrillas will encourage the populace to resist their
operations. When friendly forces react effectively to guerrilla attacks, insecurity
is developed among the enemy, while the population gains confidence
in friendly forces. Raids and ambushes are conducted to keep guerrillas in
a state of alarm for their security, to lower morale, to prevent rest, and to
hinder their operations.
Rifle squads may assist civil populace in executing the following control
measures:
9.47