Combat & Tactical Training Flashcards

What is the purpose of a 'leader's reconnaissance' before an attack?

Answer: To personally confirm terrain, obstacles, and enemy dispositions before issuing orders

A leader's reconnaissance allows the commander to confirm or update intelligence and visualize the plan on the actual ground.

Which document serves as the primary tactical planning tool for Marine small unit leaders?

Answer: Five-Paragraph Order (OPORD)

The five-paragraph OPORD (Situation, Mission, Execution, Administration/Logistics, Command/Signal) is the standard tactical order format.

What action should a Marine take when caught in a minefield?

Answer: Freeze in place, mark the entry point, and back out on the same path

Freezing prevents detonation of pressure mines, and retracing the entry path is safest because those steps did not trigger mines.

What does 'fire and movement' at the individual level require two Marines to do?

Answer: One Marine fires while the other moves, then they alternate

Two-Marine fire and movement requires one to suppress the enemy with fire while the other moves, then roles alternate to advance on the enemy.

Under Marine Corps doctrine, which phase of the offense is focused on destroying enemy will and capability after the initial assault?

Answer: Exploitation

Exploitation follows a successful attack to prevent enemy reorganization, destroy reserves, and extend the tactical advantage.

What is a 'support by fire' position used for in a tactical assault?

Answer: A position that delivers suppressive fire to support the assaulting element

A support by fire position provides suppressive fires that keep enemy heads down while the assaulting element closes with and destroys the enemy.

Which tactical formation provides the best all-around security during movement through unknown terrain?

Answer: Wedge

The wedge formation provides good all-around security and firepower to the front and flanks while allowing rapid transition to other formations.