Part 2
STEP 5. Reconnoiter. If time allows, make a personal reconnaissance to verify your terrain analysis, adjust the plan, confirm the usability of routes and time any critical movements. Otherwise, make a map reconnaissance.
STEP 6. Complete the Plan.
Complete the plan based on the reconnaissance and any changes in the situation. Review the plan to ensure it meets the commander’s intent and requirements of the mission.
STEP 7. Issue the Complete Order.
Platoon and smaller unit leaders normally issue oral operations orders. A format for the five paragraph field order is in Appendix C.
To aid soldiers in understanding the concept for the mission, try to issue the order within sight of the objective or on the defensive terrain. When this is not possible, use a terrain model or sketch.
Ensure that your soldiers understand the mission, the commander's intent, the concept of the operation and their assigned tasks. You might require soldiers to repeat all or part of the order or demonstrate on the model or sketch their understanding of the operation.
STEP 8. Supervise.
Supervise preparation for combat by conducting rehearsals and inspections.
Rehearsals.
Use rehearsals to practice essential tasks, reveal weaknesses or problems in the plan and improve soldier understanding of the concept of the operation.
• Rehearsals should include subordinate leaders briefing their planned actions in sequence.
• Conduct rehearsals on terrain that resembles the actual ground and in similar light conditions.
Inspections.
Conduct pre-combat checks and inspections. Inspect the following:
• Weapons, ammunition, uniforms and equipment.
• Mission-essential equipment.
• Soldier's understanding of the mission and their specific responsibilities.
• Communications.
• Rations and water.
• Camouflage.
• Deficiencies noted during earlier inspections.
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