FM 3-34.22 - Army Electronic Publications & Forms - U.S. Army

Appendix H
Control the Essentials
Figure H-1. UO fundamentals
H-12. Controlling the essentials pertains to the fact that many urban areas are too large to be effectively
controlled without an enormous force. Engineers are particularly aware of the limited availability of
engineer capabilities and rely on the determination of the essential tasks for M/CM/S to focus the
application of engineer combat power. Engineers are important contributors in helping commanders
understand key terrain from an engineer perspective, especially in determining the significance of critical
infrastructure (public works, bridges, road networks), its functional importance to the population, and its
potential impact on friendly operations.
Minimize Collateral Damage
H-13. With regards to minimizing collateral damage, engineers are keen to the often underestimated
effects of collateral damage on infrastructure, including impacts on the environment and extensive
resources inherent with the “you broke it, you fix it” ideology.
Preserve Critical Infrastructure
H-14. Preserving critical infrastructure is similar, but different than minimizing collateral damage.
Engineers aid the commander in identifying critical infrastructure so that it can be preserved and protected
from the enemy or hostile civilians. Engineer planners work together with CA and other planners in
forecasting the effort to restore essential services (power, water, sewage) that were already nonfunctional
or could be impacted during an operation. (See FM 3-34.170 for a discussion of infrastructure
reconnaissance.)
Restore Essential Services
H-15. Engineers play an important role in restoration efforts, especially with their construction project
management capabilities and contracting mechanisms. Army forces seek to transfer responsibility for
providing essential services to other agencies, NGOs, or the local government as quickly and effectively as
possible.
H-4 FM 3-34.22 11 February 2009