Introduction To Evasion and Resistance To Capture
Introduction To Evasion and Resistance To Capture
Introduction To Evasion and Resistance To Capture
INTRODUCTION TO EVASION
AND RESISTANCE TO
CAPTURE
MARINE BARRACKS
WASHINGTON, DC
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
MARINE CORPS INSTITUTE
912 CHARLES POOR STREET SE
WASHINGTON NAVY YARD DC 20391-5680
IN REPLY REFER TO:
1550
Ser 0327
15 May 08
From: Director
To: Marine Corps Institute Student
1. Purpose. MCI 0327, Introduction to Evasion and Resistance to Capture, has been published
to provide instruction to all Marines non-MOS specific that are placed in a situation that might
require evading and resisting capture.
2. Scope. This course covers rights of a prisoner of war, personal protection, and recovery and
signaling in accordance with FASOTRAGRUPAC/LANT 1520-8 (REV 1-99).
3. Applicability. This course is intended for instructional purposes only. It is designed for use
by all Marines.
M. SCOTT REICHENBAUGH
Executive Director
Page
Contents ............................................................................................................................ i
Study Hours 9
Course Text
Materials
Reserve 3
Retirement
Credits (RRC)
ACE This course is scheduled for review by the American Council on Education
during 2008.
Assistance For administrative assistance, have your training officer or NCO log on to the
MCI home page at www.mci.usmc.mil. Marines CONUS may call toll free
1-800-MCI-USMC. Marines worldwide may call commercial (202) 685-
7596 or DSN 325-7596.
Your Personal • YOU ARE PROPERLY MOTIVATED. You have made a positive
Characteristics decision to get training on your own. Self-motivation is perhaps the most
important force in learning or achieving anything. Doing whatever is
necessary to learn is motivation. You have it!
Beginning Your Before you actually begin this course of study, read the student information
Course page. If you find any course materials missing, notify your training officer or
training NCO. If you have all the required materials, you are ready to begin.
To begin your course of study, familiarize yourself with the structure of the
course text. One way to do this is to read the table of contents. Notice the
table of contents covers specific areas of study and the order in which they are
presented. You will find the text divided into several study units. Each study
unit is comprised of two or more lessons and lesson exercises.
Leafing Leaf through the text and look at the course. Read a few lesson exercise
Through the questions to get an idea of the type of material in the course. If the course has
Text additional study aids, such as a handbook or plotting board, familiarize
yourself with them.
The First Study Turn to the first page of study unit 1. On this page, you will find an
Unit introduction to the study unit and generally the first study unit lesson. Study
unit lessons contain learning objectives, lesson text, and exercises.
Reading the Learning objectives describe in concise terms what the successful learner,
Learning you, will be able to do as a result of mastering the content of the lesson text.
Objectives Read the objectives for each lesson and then read the lesson text. As you read
the lesson text, make notes on the points you feel are important.
Completing the To determine your mastery of the learning objectives and text, complete the
Exercises exercises developed for you. Exercises are located at the end of each lesson,
and at the end of each study unit. Without referring to the text, complete the
exercise questions and then check your responses against those provided.
Continuing to Continue on to the next lesson, repeating the above process until you have
March completed all lessons in the study unit. Follow the same procedures for each
study unit in the course.
Preparing for To prepare for your final exam, you must review what you learned in the
the Final Exam course. The following suggestions will help make the review interesting and
challenging.
Tackling the When you have completed your study of the course material and are confident
Final Exam with the results attained on your study unit exercises, take the sealed envelope
marked “FINAL EXAM” to your unit training NCO or training officer.
Your training NCO or officer will administer the final examination and return
the examination and the answer sheet to MCI for grading. Before taking your
final examination, read the directions on the DP-37 answer sheet carefully.
Completing The sooner you complete your course, the sooner you can better yourself by
Your Course applying what you’ve learned! HOWEVER--you do have 2 years from the
date of enrollment to complete this course.
Semper Fidelis!
Scope Every Marine should have an understanding of the Code of Conduct and the
Geneva Convention and how it applies to the rights of a prisoner of war. The
Code of Conduct and the Geneva Convention are the cornerstones for the
rights and privileges of all prisoners of war (POWs).
Successful completion of the one lesson contained in this study unit will
provide you with the basic knowledge of the Articles of the Code of Conduct
and the Articles of the Geneva Convention that pertain to the rights of a
POW.
Scope Although designed for POW situations, the spirit and intent of the
Code of Conduct and the Geneva Convention are applicable to
Marines while subjected to any hostile detention. When placed in
these situations Marines will conduct themselves in a manner that will
avoid discrediting themselves, their Corps, and their country.
This lesson will provide you with the six articles of the Code of
Conduct and their meaning. You will also learn the articles pertaining
to POWs under the Geneva Convention, their meaning, and how they
affect the rights of POWs.
Reasons for An evader remains a combatant for the duration of the evasion period.
Article II Evasion is an extension of combat and a refusal to capitulate to the
enemy. Evaders are obligated by the Code of Conduct to make every
effort to avoid capture and rejoin friendly forces. Evaders who have
been recovered provide useful information concerning successful
evasion techniques and provide their country with inspirational morale
victories, while denying the enemy the opportunity to capture and
exploit prisoners.
Efforts to evade fulfill both the intent and the spirit of the Code of
Conduct. Evaders not only tie up enemy forces who have been
directed to capture them, they cost the enemy time and resources that
could otherwise be committed to other efforts. Even if eventually
captured, evaders have nonetheless aided their country by denying the
enemy potential access to timely intelligence.
Article III “If I am captured, I will continue to resist by all means available. I
will make every effort to escape and aid others to escape. I will
accept neither parole nor special favors from the enemy.”
Alignment with The Geneva Convention recognizes that the regulations of a POWs
Geneva country may impose the duty to escape and that POWs may attempt to
Convention escape. Under the guidance and supervision of the senior military
person and POW organization, POWs must be prepared to take
advantage of escape opportunities whenever they arise. In communal
detention, the welfare of the POWs who remain behind must be
considered. A POW must “think escape,” must try to escape if able to
do so, and must assist others to escape.
Historical In June 1951, Capt. Ward M. Millar, an F-80 pilot, was shot down over
Event North Korea. Injured from the ejection with two broken ankles, evasion
eventually proved fruitless and he was soon captured by the North Koreans.
These few paragraphs summarize this airman’s exemplary behavior in the
most trying of circumstances. Indeed, he was downed—but not defeated. In
captivity, Millar succeeded in convincing the North Koreans that he was an
important prisoner. Consequently, they conceded medical care to his broken
ankles, which unfortunately, consisted of encasing his ankles without first
aligning the bones. Of course this “medical treatment” left him crippled,
but he remained determined to escape. With the injuries he endured,
crawling to freedom seemed unrealistic, so he fashioned himself special
shoes made of rubber over boots stuffed with rags. This make-shift
“orthopedic correction,” when combined with long wooden poles to act as
support, enabled him to regain some mobility.
In this condition, yet with his spirit unbroken, Capt. Millar planned his
escape. An important part of his strategy was to fool the enemy into thinking
he could not walk far, and therefore required little direct supervision. This
allowed Millar to collect food, discarded clothing, and other “escape kit”
items. Using this strategy, Millar seized an opportunity and succeeded in
escaping. In fact, he remained loose behind enemy lines for over a week. In
the end, however, his lack of mobility and the ineffective contact with the
local population led to his being recaptured—but only temporarily.
During his initial handling after recapture, he shrewdly befriended a North
Korean NCO who expressed a desire to join Millar in escaping to the South.
They repeatedly sabotaged the truck that would be used to transport
prisoners to a POW camp, delaying Millar’s departure from the holding
area. Meanwhile, Millar and the NCO schemed, trying to decide their best
options for success. Should they evade to the coast; steal a boat and sail to
the Yellow Sea; evade to the front lines and contact UN forces; or devise a
way to signal coalition aircraft? This last option proved to be the solution.
Capt. Millar and the Korean NCO improvised a signal lamp from the
“stalled” truck’s battery and one of the headlights. When this didn’t work
they stole a mirror from a house and tried again. This time they succeeded
in signaling a passing jet which descended for a closer look. The pilot,
having spotted a yellow “Mae West,” which Millar had displayed as a
signal, called for support to begin rescue operations. A few minutes later
Millar heard the whirling of a helicopter coming from the south; Millar then
vectored it to a nearby clearing. With the jets holding off the advancing
soldiers, Millar rode “piggy back” on the North Korean to the hovering
helicopter and freedom. After three months in hostile territory, Capt. Ward
Millar’s ingenuity, tenacity, and just plain guts carried him through. (The
Korean soldier received a citation and an undisclosed monetary award from
the Air Force.)
Article IV “If I become a prisoner of war, I will keep faith with my fellow
prisoners. I will give no information or take part in any action which
might be harmful to my comrades. If I am senior, I will take command.
If not, I will obey the lawful orders of those appointed over me and will
back them up in every way.”
Senior POW Wherever located, POWs for their own benefit should organize in a
military manner under the senior military POW eligible for command.
The senior POW (whether officer or enlisted) in the POW camp or
among a group of POWs shall assume command according to grade
without regard to military service. That responsibility and
accountability may not be evaded. When taking command, the senior
POW shall inform the other POWs and shall designate the chain of
command. If the senior POW is incapacitated, or is otherwise unable
to act for any reason, command shall be assumed by the next senior
POW.
Every effort shall be made to inform all POWs in the camp (or group)
of the members of the chain of command who shall represent them in
dealing with enemy authorities. The responsibility of subordinates to
obey the lawful orders of ranking American military personnel
remains unchanged in captivity.
POW Camp As with other provisions of the Code of Conduct, common sense and
Structure the conditions in the POW camp will determine the way in which the
senior POW and the other POWs structure their organization and carry
out their responsibilities. It is important that
Camp U.S. policy on POW camp organization requires that the senior
Organization military POW shall assume command. The Geneva Convention on
POWs provide additional guidance to the effect that in POW camps
containing enlisted personnel only, a prisoners’ representative will be
elected. POWs should understand that such a representative is
regarded by U.S. policy only as a spokesperson for the senior POW.
The prisoners’ representative does not have command, unless the
POWs elect the senior POW to be the prisoners’ representative. The
senior POW shall assume and retain actual command, covertly if
necessary.
Conversations There are many POW camp situations in which certain types of
Permitted With conversation with the enemy are permitted. For example, a POW is
the Enemy allowed, but not required by the Code of Conduct, the UCMJ, or the
Geneva Convention, to fill out a Geneva Convention "capture card," to
write letters home, and to communicate with captors on matters of
health and welfare.
Accordingly, each POW must exercise great caution when filling out a
“capture card,” when engaging in authorized communication with the
captor, and when writing letters. A POW must resist, avoid, or evade,
even when physically and mentally coerced, all enemy efforts to
secure statements or actions that may further the enemy’s cause.
War Criminal A POW should recognize that any confession or statement may be
used by the enemy as part of a false accusation that the captive is a
war criminal rather than a POW. Moreover, certain countries have
made reservations to the Geneva Conventions in which they assert that
a war criminal conviction has the effect of depriving the convicted
individual of POW status, thus removing the POW from protection
under the Geneva Conventions. The right to repatriation is thus
revoked until a prison sentence is served.
• Such reviews will be conducted with due regard for the rights of the
individual and consideration for the conditions of captivity.
• The life of a POW may be very hard. POWs who stand firm and
united against enemy pressures shall aid one another immeasurably
in surviving this ordeal.
Cornerstone The articles of the Geneva Convention are the cornerstone for the
For Prisoners rights and privileges of all prisoners of war. The Geneva Convention
Rights has been around since 1864. However, the Geneva Convention has
been rewritten four times since. The treatment of prisoners of war has
changed over time from being treated sub human to having rights that
help prevent the mistreatment of these prisoners.
Article 34 “Prisoners of war shall enjoy complete latitude in the exercise of their
religious duties, including attendance at the service of their faith, on
condition that they comply with the disciplinary routine prescribed by
the military authorities. Adequate premises shall be provided where
religious services may be held.”
Article 85 “Prisoners of war prosecuted under the laws of the Detaining Power
for acts committed prior to capture shall retain, even if convicted, the
benefits of the present Convention.”
The Detaining Power can not persecute prisoners by means that are
detrimental to the rights granted to a prisoner in the present
Convention.
4. Confinement.
2. He has left the territory under the control of the Detaining Power
on which he depends or those of an ally of said Power.
The Detaining Power and the Power on which the said prisoners of
war depend may agree, if necessary, those compatriots of these
prisoners of war be permitted to participate in the visits.
a. Article II
b. Article I
c. Article IV
d. Article V
Item 2 Which article of the Code of Conduct states: “I will never surrender
of my own free will. If in command, I will never surrender the
members of my command while they still have the means to resist”?
a. Article IV
b. Article II
c. Article III
d. Article V
Item 3 Which article of the Code of Conduct states: “If I am captured I will
continue to resist by all means available. I will make every effort to
escape and aid others to escape. I will accept neither parole nor
special favors from the enemy”?
a. Article IV
b. Article VI
c. Article II
d. Article III
Item 4 Which article of the Code of Conduct states: “If I become a prisoner
of war, I will keep faith with my fellow prisoners. I will give no
information or take part in any action which might be harmful to my
comrades. If I am senior, I will take command. If not, I will obey the
lawful orders of those appointed over me and will back them up in
every way”?
a. Article V
b. Article IV
c. Article III
d. Article II
a. Article II
b. Article I
c. Article V
d. Article IV
Item 6 Which article of the Code of Conduct states: “I will never forget that
I am an American, fighting for freedom, responsible for my actions,
and dedicated to the principles which made my country free. I will
trust in my God and in the United States of America”?
a. Article I
b. Article III
c. Article IV
d. Article VI
a. Article 13
b. Article 17
c. Article 92
d. Article 126
a. Article 13
b. Article 17
c. Article 85
d. Article 90
a. Article 25
b. Article 92
c. Article 126
d. Article 34
a. Article 33
b. Article 27
c. Article 85
d. Article 89
a. Article 34
b. Article 33
c. Article 91
d. Article 89
a. Article 34
b. Article 85
c. Article 33
d. Article 17
a. Article 126
b. Article 90
c. Article 13
d. Article 85
Item 14 Which article of the Geneva Convention states: “At no time shall
disciplinary punishments be inhuman, brutal or dangerous to the
health of prisoners of war”?
a. Article 89
b. Article 85
c. Article 91
d. Article 126
a. Article 93
b. Article 90
c. Article 126
d. Article 33
Item 16 Which article of the Geneva Convention states the conditions in which
the escape of a Prisoner of War shall be deemed successful?
a. Article 126
b. Article 93
c. Article 91
d. Article 97
a. Article 92
b. Article 126
c. Article 17
d. Article 86
a. Article 85
b. Article 34
c. Article 93
d. Article 97
Item 19 Which article of the Geneva Convention states: “Officers and persons
of equivalent status shall not be lodged in the same quarters as non-
commissioned officers or men”?
a. Article 90
b. Article 93
c. Article 85
d. Article 97
a. Article 13
b. Article 91
c. Article 85
d. Article 126
Answers The table below lists the answers to the exercise items. If you have
questions about the items, refer to the reference page.
Scope All Marines need to know the importance of personal protection when it
comes to evading and resisting capture. An evader needs to have the
knowledge and skills of personal protection to enable them to return to
friendly lines and re-engage in the fight.
Upon successful completion of this study unit, you should have learned the
techniques to protect yourself from being detected, to navigate while evading,
and how to maneuver to prevent capture.
Scope When evading capture, you will need to rely on your navigational skills to
prevent detection and capture. Knowing how to determine your location
through various methods, map orientation, and the principles of evasion, will
improve your changes of successfully evading and resisting capture.
In this lesson, you will gain a working knowledge on how to navigate while
on the move, how to prevent detection, and the proper techniques for evading.
• Compass
• Stick and shadow method
• Sun and moon method
• Wristwatch method
• Stars
Compass Use a compass to determine your cardinal directions by following the steps in
the table below:
Step Action
1 Place the compass on a level surface or the palm of your hand.
2 Open the compass.
3 Locate the north pointing arrow. This will give you a magnetic
north direction.
Stick and The stick and shadow method can also be used to determine your
Shadow location. The steps in the table below will help determine a true
Method north-south line.
Step Action
1 Place a straight stick vertically in the ground before sunrise.
2 Mark the tip of the shadow when seen on the ground.
3 Wait at least one hour and mark the tip of the shadow again.
4 Make a line between the two marks. This will give you an
approximate east-west line.
5 Use this line to determine your true north-south line.
Sun and Moon The sun and moon can help determine location and direction. Remember, the
Method sun and moon rise in the east and set in the west.
Wristwatch You wristwatch can give you general direction only. Digital watches may be
Method used by visualizing a clock face on the watch.
• Northern Hemisphere - point the hour hand at the sun. South is half way
between the hour hand and the 12 o’clock position.
Stars When visible, celestial aids, or stars can be used to determine direction when
navigating. An evader can use the North Star to locate true north. The
evader can also use the Southern Cross to locate true south.
Southern In the Southern Hemisphere, you can determine true south by using the
Hemisphere Southern Cross. The southern cross consists of five stars in the shape of a
cross. True south can be determined by following the steps in the table
below:
Step Action
1 Identify the Southern Cross.
2 Imagine the Southern Cross has a tail four and a half times as long
as the constellation.
3 Identify the Pointer Stars which are the two brightest stars in the
Southern Hemisphere.
Note: Pointer stars point toward the Southern Cross.
Note: The “coal sack” is the true south point directly over the
South Pole. This will give you true south direction see
graphic below.
Northern In the Northern Hemisphere, you can determine true north by using the North
Hemisphere Star. Since the North Star is not the brightest star in the northern sky it is best
located by using a prominent constellation, the Big Dipper. The Big Dipper
is made up of seven stars in the shape of a dipper with a long curved handle.
True north can be determined by following the steps in the table below:
Step Action
1 Identify the Big Dipper.
2 Use the two stars that form the outside edge of the cup as pointer
stars.
Note: To determine the distance from the pointer stars to the North
Star, measure the distance between the pointer stars. The
North Stars will be five times the distance of the distance
between the pointer stars.
3 This will give you a true north direction (see graphic below).
How To Another navigational skill the evader needs to know is how to orient a map to
find his way to a planned location. There are several different ways to
accomplished map orientation.
True North- Map orientation using a true north-south line can be done by following the
South Line steps in the table below:
Step Action
1 Unfold your map and place it on a firm, flat, level, non-metallic
surface.
2 Align the compass on a true north-south line.
3 Rotate the map and compass until a stationary index line aligns
with the magnetic variation indicated in marginal information:
• Easterly, subtract variation from 360°.
• Westerly, add variation to 360°.
True North-
South Line,
continued
Compass Rose Map orientation can also be accomplished with a compass rose. Follow the
steps in the table below:
Step Action
1 Place the edge of the lensatic compass on magnetic north line of the
compass rose closest to your location.
2 Rotate the map and compass until compass reads 360°.
No Compass When orienting a map without a compass, use the cardinal direction obtained
by the stick and shadow method, or the celestial aids (stars) method explained
earlier in this lesson.
Triangulation Triangulation with a compass can be done by following the steps in the table
below:
Step Action
1 Use three or more azimuths.
2 Positively identify a major land feature and determine a line of
position (LOP)
3 Check map orientation each time a compass is used.
4 Plot the LOP using a thin stick, blade of grass or pencil.
5 Repeat steps for other LOPs.
GPS GPS is an outstanding tool to use to find your specific location and to confirm
your position. When using the GPS, select areas providing maximum satellite
reception. Try and conserve the battery life of the GPS.
Principles of Principles of evasion are just that, principles. These are the foundation for
Evasion having better success of evading and resisting capture. All of the principles
are based upon one thing, threat assessment. An evader must be able to
assess the threat that is being forced upon him.
Basic Principles Below are some basic evasion principles that an evader will use to help
prevent being captured.
• A positive attitude.
• Use established procedures.
• Follow your evasion plan of action.
• Be patient and flexible.
• Drink water. Do not eat food without water.
• Conserve strength for critical periods.
• Rest and sleep as much as possible.
• Stay out of sight.
Odors In an evasion environment there are many different smells. An evader should
try to mask his own personal odors and not add any specific odor which could
potentially compromise his location and allow him to be captured. How
would you feel if you did everything right to evade and you are caught
because you were chewing a piece of gum or smoking a cigarette? The
following odors stand out and may give an evader away:
Locations Below are examples of locations for plans of action for evasion. Evasion plan
of action is basically “where to go” the evader must decide where the safest
location would be and move in that general direction.
Item 1 Compass, stick and shadow, sun and moon, wristwatch, and stars are all
methods for determining which of the following?
a. Type of shelter
b. Cardinal direction
c. Time of day
d. Enemy presence
Item 2 When orienting a map using a true north-south line for easterly variation ___
from ___ degrees.
a. add, 360
b. subtract, 90
c. add, 180
d. subtract, 360
Item 3 When determining specific location using the triangulation method, use
______ or more azimuths.
a. three
b. two
c. one
d. four
Item 4 Which of the basic principles of evasion is one of the most important for a
successful evasion?
a. Negative attitude
b. Expending energy
c. Flexibility
d. Hearing
Item 5 Some of the odors that may give an evader away are __________, insect
repellent, tobacco, shaving cream, after shave lotion and scented soaps and
shampoos.
a. tears
b. sweat
c. halitosis
d. gum and candy
Answers The table below lists the answers to the exercise items. If you have questions
about the items, refer to the reference page.
In this lesson, you will learn types of camouflage, types and set up of shelters,
and movement techniques for concealment and maneuvering.
Key Factors Camouflage is a very important factor in helping prevent an evader from
being seen while resisting capture. These are a few basic principles of
camouflage that an evader should remember.
Patterns Mirror the environment when using a camouflage pattern to avoid capture.
Below are the types and examples of camouflage patterns that best match
various environments.
Blotch pattern:
Slash pattern:
Examples
Personal For a successful chance at evasion, follow the guidelines below for applying
Application personal camouflage.
• Face. Use dark colors on high spots and light colors on the remaining
exposed areas (mask, netting, or a hat may help).
• Ears. The insides and the backs should have two colors to break- up
outlines.
• Head, neck (do not forget), and under chin. Use scarf, collar, vegetation,
netting, or coloration methods.
• Hair. Give special attention to conceal light colored hair with a scarf or
mosquito head net.
• Do not overlook hands, ears, neck, and body. Ensure to break-up the
natural “V” of the body crotch and armpits
Key Location When preparing a shelter, camouflage, concealment, and location are key
Factors factors. As the evader, you do not want to find yourself in an even worse
situation.
BLISS When constructing a shelter remember the acronym BLISS which stands for
B - Blend
L - Low silhouette
I - Irregular shape
S - Small
S - Secluded location
Choose a Site When choosing a site for a shelter, take these factors into consideration.
Immediate Immediate shelters are the easiest shelters to construct with little to no
Shelters external materials. However, for an evasive environment an evader may not
want to use one due to the shelter being so obvious. Below are some
examples of immediate shelters where the evader has used merely a poncho to
construct.
Cold Climate Cold climate shelters require a bit more preparation. An enclosed, insulated
Shelters shelter may be needed. This is obvious due to how and why these shelters are
constructed. These shelters are harder to see and keep the evader much
warmer than the immediate shelters. Some considerations that an evader
should remember are that snow is the most abundant insulating material, an
air vent is required to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning when using an
open flame inside enclosed shelters. As a general rule, unless you can see
your breath, your snow shelter is too warm and should be cooled down to
prevent melting and dripping.
Below are some examples of constructing cold climate shelters.
Thermal “A”
Frame
Snow Trench
Snow Cave
Hot Climate Hot climate shelters primarily protect the evader from harmful UV rays. The
Shelters shelter floor should be elevated or dug down (approximately 18 inches) to
reduce the surface temperature. For thermal protection, a minimum of two
layers of material suspended
12 to 18 inches above the head is required. White is the best color to reflect
heat (inner most layer should be of darker material).
Shelter Use the following guidelines when constructing a shelter for any climate:
Construction
Guidelines • Entrance 45° to 90° from prevailing wind.
• Cover with available material.
• If using porous material, such as a parachute, blanket, etc.:
• Stretch as tight as possible.
• Use a 40° to 60° slope.
• Use additional layers in heavy rains.
Layering If natural materials are used, arrange them in layers starting at the bottom
(Shingle) with each layer overlapping the previous one. Below is an example of
Technique layering shingle technique to help prevent moisture from getting into the
shelter.
Construction The list of materials below can assist in the construction of any shelter.
Materials
• Raft and raft parts
• Vehicle or aircraft parts
• Blankets, poncho, or parachute material
• Sheet of plastic or plastic bag
• Bark peeled off dead trees
• Boughs and broad leaves
• Grass and sod
• Snow
• Sand and rocks
Basic Principles A key factor to remember is that a moving object is easy to spot. An evader
should follow these basic principles to prevent being spotted.
Military Crest An evader should always use the military crest. The military crest is the point
where you should not silhouette yourself above the horizon line of any ridge.
Silhouetting If you need to cross the horizon, you should do it in the lowest profile
possible. This is done to help prevent being spotted and to keep the enemy at
a disadvantage. Below, evader (A) is not using a low profile and evader (B)
is using a low profile. In any situation, an evader can be seen much easier
against the sky light in an upright stance rather than in a low profile.
Sporadic While moving an evader should be sporadic about his movements and every
Movement five to ten paces should do the following:
Evidence of • Do not litter. Trash or lost equipment identifies who lost it. Secure
Travel, everything, hide, or bury discarded items.
continued • If pursued by dogs, concentrate on defeating dog handler.
Obstacle While evading, you may find yourself needing to maneuver obstacles. Not
Penetration only does the evader need to get through the obstacles without hurting
himself, but also while trying to prevent being observed. Below are some
techniques for maneuvering obstacles.
Rail Fence Penetrate rail fences, passing under or between lower rails. If impractical, go
Penetration over the top, presenting as low a silhouette as possible. Below is an example
of penetrating a rail fence.
Road Crossing An evader should only cross roads after observation from concealment to
determine enemy activity. Cross at points offering the best cover such as
bushes, shadows, bend in road, etc. Cross in a manner leaving your footprints
parallel (cross stepping sideways) to the road. Below is an example of a road
crossing.
Rail Crossing To cross a rail, an evader should observe railroad tracks just like roads. Then
align body parallel to tracks and face down, cross tracks, using a semi-pushup
motion; repeat for second track. Below is an example of a rail crossing.
Directions Complete exercise items 1 through 8 by selecting the best answer. Check
your answers against those listed at the end of this lesson.
Item 1 Which environment should you use the blotch pattern camouflage?
a. Jungle areas
b. Grassy areas
c. Heavy snow
d. Barren snow
Item 2 A technique for camouflaging the face is to use ______ colors for high spots
and ______ colors on remaining exposed areas.
a. grey, black
b. light, dark
c. dark, light
d. blending, smearing
Item 3 When determining location for a shelter use the acronym BLISS which stands
for Blend, Low silhouette, Irregular shape, ________, Secluded location.
a. Sizable
b. Small
c. Slender
d. Saturated
Item 4 In a rain forest, which type of shelter would an evader use to protect him from
dampness and insects?
a. Shade shelter
b. Thermal “A” frame
c. Tropical/wet climate shelter
d. Snow cave
Item 5 When constructing a shelter the entrance should be how many degrees from
the prevailing wind?
a. 0° to 45°
b. 0° to 180°
c. 45° to 90°
d. 90° to 180°
Item 6 Every five to ten paces an evader should do what to help resist capture?
Item 7 A technique for concealing evidence of travel for an evader is to pick firm
footing preventing overturning of ground cover, scuffing bark on logs,
breaking sticks, __________, and mangling of low grass or bushes that would
normally spring back.
a. evacuation
b. slipping
c. running
d. concealment
Item 8 When crossing a road an evader should cross at points offering the best cover
such as bends in roads, ________ and bushes.
a. shadows
b. wash outs
c. near light posts
d. top of hills
Answers The table below lists the answers to the exercise items. If you have questions
about the items, refer to the reference page.
Scope Upon successful completion of this study unit, you will learn the skills
necessary to aid you in a successful recovery; you will also learn the
techniques that are needed to signal a recovery team.
Factors When an evader is preparing to be recovered, site selection is key. Below are
several important factors you should remember as an evader:
• Locate area for landing pick-up, if practical (approx. 150 feet in diameter,
free of obstructions, and if possible flat and level).
• Assess any evidence of human activity at or near the site.
• Locate several concealment sites around area.
• Plan several tactical entry and egress routes.
Guidelines When an evader is preparing a site for recovery, he should remember these
simple guidelines:
Landing/ For a Landing/Ground Recovery, an evader should follow the steps in the
Ground table below:
Step Action
1 Assume a non-threatening posture.
2 Secure weapons.
3 Avoid quick movement.
4 Do not approach recovery vehicle until instructed.
Hoist/Non-hoist The rescue strap and the forest penetrator are both common hoist recovery
Devices devices. When using the rescue strap, follow the steps in the table below:
See the illustration on the next page for the steps when using the forest
penetration device.
Step Action
1 Let device contact the ground before touching to avoid static discharge.
2 (Non-hoist only) Create a “fixed loop” big enough to place under armpits.
Note: Step 2 refers to non-hoist recovery devices only. All other steps are
used for both hoist and non-hoist recoveries.
3 Sit or kneel for stability while donning device.
4 Put safety strap under armpits.
5 Ensure cable is in front of you.
6 Keep hands clear of all hardware and connectors.
WARNING: DO NOT become entangled in cable.
7 Use thumbs up, vigorous cable shake, or radio call to signal you are ready.
8 Drag feet on the ground to decrease oscillation.
9 When hoisted or when pulled into the rescue vehicle do not assist.
10 Follow crewmember instructions.
Rescue Strap The illustration below shows the proper procedure for securing the rescue
strap for hoist recovery.
Forest The illustration below shows the proper procedure for preparing the forest
Penetrator penetrator for a hoist recovery.
Directions Complete the following exercise items 1 through 6 by performing the action
required. Check your answers against those listed at the end of this lesson.
Item 1 What is the maximum time for the transmission according to the guidelines?
a. 3 to 5 seconds
b. 5 to 10 seconds
c. 3 to 5 minutes
d. 5 to 10 minutes
Item 2 During situation reporting, the evader should report enemy activity in the
recovery area, recovery site characteristics, ___________/medical situation,
and signal devices available.
a. weather
b. number in party
c. food quantity
d. local news
Item 3 When selecting a site for landing pickup, the area should be if practical ___
feet diameter, free of obstruction and flat and level if possible.
a. 25
b. 50
c. 150
d. 250
Item 4 When preparing a recovery site, an evader should pack and secure all
equipment, prepare ___________ and mentally review recovery methods.
a. repel line
b. hoist
c. signaling devices
d. physically
Item 5 The main types of recovery are the landing/ground recovery, hoist recovery
and the
a. repel line.
b. drop down recovery.
c. rope recovery.
d. non-hoist recovery.
Item 6 For hoist recovery, the evader should use the thumbs up, ________, or radio
call to signal he is ready.
a. confused look
b. weapon discharge
c. cable shake
d. arm flail
Answers The table below lists the answers to the exercise items. If you have questions
about the items, refer to the reference page.
Scope Signaling is the primary way for an evader to make contact with recovery
forces. It is essential for all Marines to have a good working knowledge of
the various signals and their methods.
At the end of this lesson, you will know the proper procedure for signaling.
Types Signaling is an integral part of being rescued. Below are the different types
of signals an evader could use.
• Pyrotechnic Signals
• Strobe Light
• Sea Dye Marker
• Signal Mirror
• Pattern Signals
Pyrotechnic Below are some guidelines that an evader should remember for using
pyrotechnic signals.
Strobe Light Below are some guidelines an evader should remember for using a strobe
light.
Note: Strobe light produces one residual flash when first turned off.
Sea Dye Below are some guidelines an evader should remember for using a sea dye
Marker marker.
• Do not use in rough seas or fast moving water because the dye will
become diluted and will not stay in the general location of the evader.
Signal Mirror A signal mirror is a convenient yet risky source of signaling. Below are some
guidelines an evader should remember for using a signal mirror.
• An evader can make a signal mirror out of any shiny metal or glass.
• An evader must ensure that he uses it only with confirmed friendly forces.
Pattern Signal Below are some guidelines an evader should remember for using pattern
signals.
Pyrotechnic Star clusters, star parachutes, and smoke parachutes are three handheld
pyrotechnic signals. The international color for distress is red although, as an
evader, you will use whatever you find. The procedures for using pyrotechnic
signals are listed in the table below.
Step Action
1 Hold the signal in your left hand, red-knurled band down.
2 Withdraw the firing cap from the upper end of the signal.
3 Point the ejection end of the signal away from your body and
slowly push the firing cap onto the signal until the open end of the
cap is aligned with the red band.
4 Grasp the center of the signal firmly with your left hand, holding
your elbow tight against your body with the signal at the desired
trajectory angle and the firing cap at the bottom.
5 Turn your head down and away from the signal to avoid injury to
your face and eyes from particles ejected by the small rockets.
6 Strike the bottom of the cap with a sharp blow with the palm of
your right hand or strike it on a hard surface, keeping your left arm
rigid.
Signal Mirror The procedures for using a signal mirror are listed in the table below.
Step Action
1 Ensure there is enough light.
2 Hold mirror in palm of hand with shiny side up.
3 Stretch out one hand and form a “V” with your two fingers.
4 Move your hand until the object you want to flash, such as an
airplane, is sighted between the “V.”
5 Holding your signal mirror in your other hand, position the mirror
so that the sunlight reflected off your mirror is going through the
“V” formed by your fingers.
6 Move hand across reflection. Ensure not to flash rapidly because
pilot may mistake flashing for incoming enemy fire.
7 Cover when not in use.
Pattern Signals Pattern signals are actually five definite, meaningful symbols. Below are the
symbols and procedure for making pattern signals.
Pattern Ratio
Step Action
1 Ensure enough observation area.
2 Make symbols a minimum of one meter wide by six meters long.
3 Keep the same 1:6 ratio for all symbols.
4 Use in a series of three.
5 Keep evenly spaced.
Directions Complete the following exercise items 1 through 4 by performing the action
required. Check your answers against those listed at the end of this lesson.
Item 1 What situation would be wasting a sea dye marker when signaling?
Item 2 What is one of the guidelines that an evader should remember when using
pattern signals?
Item 3 Ensure not to flash rapidly because a pilot may mistake flashing for incoming
enemy fire when using which type of signal?
a. Signal mirror
b. Pattern signal
c. Sea dye marker
d. Pyrotechnic signal
Item 4 When using pattern signals, what does the symbol X represent?
a. No or negative
b. Require medical assistance
c. Yes or affirmative
d. Proceed this way
Answers The table below lists the answers to the lesson exercise. If you have
questions about the items, refer to the reference page.
Introduction The purpose of the review lesson examination is to prepare you for your final
examination. We recommend that you try to complete your review lesson
examination without referring to the text, but for those items (questions) you
are unsure of, restudy the text. When you finish your review lesson and are
satisfied with your responses, check your responses against the answers
provided at the end of this review lesson examination
Directions Select the ONE answer that BEST completes the statement or that answers
the item. For multiple choice items, circle your response. For matching
items, place the letter of your response in the space provided.
Item 1 Which article of the Code of Conduct states: "I will never surrender of my
own free will. If in command, I will never surrender the members of my
command while they still have the means to resist"?
a. Article IV
b. Article II
c. Article III
d. Article V
Item 2 Which article states that officers and noncommissioned officers shall carry
out their responsibilities and exercise their authority in captivity?
a. Article IV
b. Article III
c. Article II
d. Article I
Item 3 Which article of the Geneva Convention states: "Prisoners of war must be
humanely treated at all times"?
a. Article 13
b. Article 17
c. Article 92
d. Article 126
Item 4 Which article of the Geneva Convention states: "Prisoners of war shall enjoy
complete latitude in the exercise of their religious duties, including
attendance at the service of their faith, on condition that they comply with the
disciplinary routine prescribed by the military authorities"?
a. Article 34
b. Article 85
c. Article 33
d. Article 17
Item 5 Which article of the Geneva Convention states the conditions in which the
escape of a Prisoner of War shall be deemed successful?
a. Article 126
b. Article 93
c. Article 91
d. Article 97
Item 6 Which article of the Geneva Convention states: "Officers and persons of
equivalent status shall not be in the same quarters as non-commissioned
officers or men"?
a. Article 90
b. Article 93
c. Article 85
d. Article 97
Item 7 Compass, stick and shadow, sunrise/moonrise, wristwatch and stars are all
methods for determining
a. type of shelter.
b. cardinal direction.
c. time of day.
d. enemy presence.
Item 8 Subtracting 360 degrees using a true north-south line for easterly variation, is
a method for
a. determining location.
b. orienting a map.
c. traveling north.
d. traveling south.
Item 9 What method is used when using three or more azimuths to determine
specific location?
a. Triangulation
b. Global Position Station
c. Azimuth
d. Global Station Position
Item 10 Which of the basic principles of evasion is one of the most important for a
successful evasion?
a. Negative attitude
b. Expending energy
c. Flexibility
d. Hearing
Item 11 Tobacco, shaving cream, and after shave lotion are odors that
may ___________ an evader.
a. sicken
b. burn
c. help
d. give away
Item 12 A plan of action for evasion should include a DAR. What does this acronym
stand for?
Item 13 What kind of environment would you use blotch pattern for camouflage?
a. Grassy
b. Jungle
c. Temperate deciduous areas
d. Heavy snow
Item 14 When applying camouflage to the ear, the insides and backs should have two
colors to
a. make an outline.
b. ensure coverage.
c. appear smaller.
d. break up outlines.
Item 15 When determining location for shelter, use the acronym BLISS which stands
for Blend, Low silhouette, Irregular shape, Secluded location and
a. Sizable.
b. Small.
c. Slender.
d. Saturated.
a. Shade shelter
b. Thermal "A" frame
c. Tropical/wet climate shelter
d. Snow cave
Item 17 When constructing a shelter for any climate, which is a guideline to follow?
Item 18 An evader should LOOK, LISTEN, SMELL and ________ every five to ten
paces to help resist capture?
a. WALK
b. RUN
c. STOP
d. CRAWL
Item 19 A technique for concealing evidence of travel for an evader is to pick firm
footing, carefully place the foot lightly but squarely on the surface, and avoid
a. over.
b. around.
c. between upper rails.
d. between lower rails.
Item 21 When transmitting, what is the maximum time for the transmission?
a. 3-5 seconds
b. 5-10 seconds
c. 3-5 minutes
d. 5-10 minutes
Item 22 When reporting a situation the evader should report enemy activity in the
recovery area, recovery sight characteristics, signal devices available and
a. food situation.
b. water situation.
c. medical situation.
d. enemy situation.
Item 23 When selecting a sight for landing pickup, the area should be free of
obstruction and _______ if possible.
a. plan of action.
b. recovery methods.
c. escape routes.
d. hoist methods.
a. equipment.
b. weapon.
c. clothing.
d. shoes.
Item 27 When using pattern signals what are some guidelines to follow?
Item 28 Ensure not to flash rapidly because a pilot may mistake flashing for incoming
enemy fire when using which type of signal?
a. Signal mirror
b. Pattern signal
c. Sea dye marker
d. Pyrotechnic signal
Answers The table below lists the answers to the review lesson examination item. If
you have questions about these items, refer to the reference page.