United States Marine Corps FMFM 6 4 Marine Rifle Company Platoon 17 February 1978
United States Marine Corps FMFM 6 4 Marine Rifle Company Platoon 17 February 1978
United States Marine Corps FMFM 6 4 Marine Rifle Company Platoon 17 February 1978
cc
Provided by www.marines.cc
Provided by www.marines.cc
Provided by www.marines.cc
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4
1604 Medical 44
1605 Services 44
Section I. INTRODUCTION
2101 General 47
2102 Concepts 47
2201 General 49
2202 Fundamentals of Amphibious Planning 49
2203 Planning Sequence 50
2204 Planning Aids 51
2205 Plan of Attack 51
2206 Amphibious Training 53
2301 General 56
2401 Rehearsal 57
2402 Movement to Objective Area 57
2501 General 63
2502 Characteristics of the Ship-to-Shore Movement 63
2503 Organization 63
2504 Control of the Ship-to-Shore Movement 67
2505 Landing Categories 70
2506 Serial Numbers 71
2507 Landing Plan 72
2508 Debarkation 79
2509 Ship-to-Shore Sequence Si
2510 Transfer Operations 84
2511 Over the Horizon Standoff 86
2601 General 87
2602 Helicopterborne Assault 87
2603 Waterborne Assault 91
2701 General 94
2702 Amphibious Raids 94
2703 Amphibious Demonstration 95
2704 Amphibious Withdrawal 95
iv
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4
Section I. INTRODUCTION
3101 General 97
3102 Fundamentals of Offensive Tactics 97
3103 Phases of the Attack 98
3104 Distribution of Forces 100
3105 Forms of Offensive Maneuver 102
Provided by www.marines.cc
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMEN 6-4
CHAPTER 5. PATROLLING
Section I. INTRODUCTION
vii
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4
Section I. INTRODUCTION
Section I. INTRODUCTION
Section I. INTRODUCTION
viii
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4
APPENDIXES:
INDEX 407
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 1103
CHAPTER 1
GENERAL
Section I. INTRODUCTION
1101. GENERAL
1102. MISSIONS
1103. CHARACTERISTICS
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1104 FMFM 6-4
1104. EMPLOYMENT
(2) In the defense, the rifle company defends as part of the bat-
talion and exceptionally as a" independent force. It organizes to deny the
enemy access to terrain by destroying him with the planned fires of all
available weapons and close combat. The company can operate as part of the
area defense or the mobile defense.
(2) In the defense the rifle platoon defends as part of the rifle .
company. Assisted by nonorganic planned fires, it organizes to deny the
enemy access to terrain by use of organic fires and close combat.
.a
2
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1203 FMFM 6-4
The weapons platoon is the fire support element of the rifle company.
It provides the company with organic machinegun, 6Omm mortar, and rocket
fire support and antitank defense. A weapons platoon headquarters controls
and coordinates the fires of the machinegun, mortar, and
The machinegun section is composed of three machinegun squads of two teams
each. Each team employs one machinegun. The 6Omm mortar section consists
of three mortar squads, with each squad employing one 6Onun mortar. The
assault section has three assault squads. Each squad consists of one four-
man multishot portable flame weapon/light antitank assault weapon (MPFW/LAAW)
team and one two-man LAAW team each possessing a limited capability for demoli-
tion support. (See fig. 3.)
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 1204
(8) Messenger
5
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1204 FMFM 6-4
6
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 1301
1301. GENERAL
7
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4
Q
(6) Naval Gunfire Spotters. --Naval gunfire spot teams from the
shore fire control party (SFCP) may be assigned to the rifle company for
amphibious training exercises and during combat operations.
(2) Combat support units organic to the Marine division are the
artillery, reconnaissance, combat engineer, tank, and assault amphibian
battalions.
(4) Force troops and aviation units may be either combat support
t
or combat service support units depending on the type support or service
provided.
8 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 1303
The company commander has the use of Dragon and assigns missions to the
section. Tactical control of the squads is exercised by the section leader.
The antitank assault platoon from which the section originated is respon-
sible for administrative and logistics control of the squad.
9
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1303 FMFM 6-4
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 1401
1401. COMMAND
11
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1402 FMFM 6-4
1402. COMMUNICATIONS
b. Telecommunication Systems
12
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMPM 6-4 Par.
13
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1402 FMFM 6-4
,,,J
(9) Naval Gunfire Ground Spot Net (HF/VHF) and the Shore
Fire Control Party Local Net (VHF).--The naval gunfire spot team, when
operating with the Infantry company, activates two radio nets: the naval
gunfire ground spot net, which is used to call for and adjust naval gun-
fire, and the shore fire control party local net. Both nets are guarded
by the naval gunfire liaison team at the infantry battalion FSCC. Therefore,
the company commander, in an emergency, has two or more alternative means of
communicating with the battalion command post.
14
2’
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 1402
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1403 FMFM 6-4
b. Principles
(1) Objective.--The objective of a military force is the goal or
aim, usually expressed as a mission, for which the force was constituted.
This principle is overriding; it is applicable to any operation at any level
of command. The obiective of a force can be stated in either broad or ore-
cise terms depending upon the nature of the goal. Each element of an infan-
try unit contributes to the attainment of the objective of the larger unit
of which it is a Dart. For examole. when the obiective of a battalion has
been defined, all-elements of the battalion must-be assigned objectives
that facilitate the attainment of the battalion objective. Success in com-
bat is measured by the accomplishment of the mission.
16 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 1403
*
17
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1404 FMFM 6-4
2
18
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMPM b-4 Par. 1404
(1) Strength.
(2) Composition.
(3) Location.
19
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1404 FMPM 6-4
t
(7) Capabilities.
c. Terrain and Weather .--The terrain and weather affect all planned
actions of the rifle company and platoon. The effects of weather and ter-
rain are studied from both friendly and enemy viewpoints. Rifle units take
full advantage of the terrain in closing with the enemy. Both present and
predicted weather can have an effect upon visibility, movement, traffic-
ability, and fire support. Most often the primary concerns of unit leaders
at company and platoon level are the military aspects of the terrain and
the degree of visibility permitted by the weather. The military aspects
of the terrain are considered as follows:
(3) Obstacles
1, Unfordable streams.
3
- Steep slopes.
4
- Lakes.
1 ’
20
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM b-4 Par. 1404
4
- Barbed wire.
5
- Roadblocks.
6 Antitank ditches.
1
- Observation and fields of fire for the using unit.
3
- Minimum obstacles.
4
- Ease of movement.
5
- Sufficient maneuver space for the using unit.
6
- Rapid access to key terrain.
21
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1405 FMFM 6-4
Receipt of Mission
2
- Artillery forward observer.
4
- Company messenger with the company tactical radio.
22 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMPM 6-4 Par. 1405
23
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1405 FMFM 6-4
the part of his subordinates. In instances where troop movements and plan-
ning cannot be conducted concurrently, a portxon of the available time must
be reserved for the movement of troops to the location from which the com-
mander intends to initiate operations.
{ /
24
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 1406
(6) Supervise
25
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1406 FMFM 6-4
(2) Oral Orders.--An oral order is the most direct and satis-
factory method of communicatins the commander's decision to subordinate
units. This method is mOst co&only used by company and platoon commanders.
In a rapidly changing situation and in matters that are simple in nature,
the battalion commander frequently issues oral orders.
26
c
Provided by www.marines.cc
r
2. MISSION
(State the mission of the issuing "nit. The stated mission includes
the missions assigned by higher echelon and may state missions
deduced by the commander of the issuing "nit. Missions are stated
in the order of their expected accomplishment.)
3. EXECUTION
4. SERVICE SUPPORT
Provided by www.marines.cc
27
Par. 1406 FMFM 6-4
28 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 1407
(3) Personnel.
(5) Miscellaneous.
Combat records and reports are important aids to efficient unit oper-
ations. Proper utilization of essential reports aids in planning and super-
vising operations. They are designed to keep information available for
present and future operations and to record the unit's activities for his-
torical purposes. The infantry battalion commander, with the aid of his
staff, is responsible for maintaining certain combat records and forwarding
reports to higher echelons. A major portion of the information included in
his combat records and reports is obtained from various reports required of
the rifle companies. The rifle company cormnander is responsible for the
timely submission of such combat reports as the battalion commander may
direct. Battalion SOP's and/or operation plans and orders provide detailed
information concerning submission of reports.
29
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1407 FMFM 6-4
cc) Location.
(e) Time.
(f) Equipment.
1 )
30 Provided by www.marines.cc
-.
e
31
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1501 FMFM 6-4
1501. GENERAL
(1) .p
Weather.--The rifle company normally receives weather re-
oorts from the infantrv battalion. Thev include forecastino information
concerning temperatures, cloud conditions, visibility, storms, surface
winds, and precipitation. The information provided permits the company
commander to evaluate the effects of weather upon planned tactical oper-
ations.
32
Provided by www.marines.cc i
FMFM ii-4 Par. 1502
The need for information concerning the terrain in the area of opera-
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1502 FMFM 6-4
34 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 1502
c. Collection Agencies
35
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1503 FMFM 6-4
devices, and surveillance radars available from the battalion increase the
night surveillance capabilities of the observation posts, listening posts,
and patrols. Tactical remote sensors in support of the battalion may be
requested to increase the surveillance capabilities.
(d) Does the report agree or disagree in any way with other
available information, particularly information whose accuracy is known?
36
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 1505
1504. DISSEMINATION
1505. COUNTERINTELLIGENCE
37
Provided by www.marines.cc
_
(8) Care must be taken that refugees, line crossers, and other
civilians in or passing through the area, see and hear as little as possi-
ble of friendly operations. A good enemy agent will seldom be detected
through casual observation. All civilians must be treated as though they
are potential enemy agents until cleared by higher authority.
38
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 1507
(d) Camouflage.
39
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1507 FMFM 6-4
1, I
40
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 1508
41
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1601 FMFM 6-4
1601. GENERAL
1602. SUPPLY
a. The company distribution point is the local point for the receipt
and issue of supplies. The distribution point is located within the com-
pany command post. Supplies are not stored at the distribution point but
are issued as soon as possible after receipt. The distribution point
should have as many of the following desirable characteristics as possible:
42
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 1602
(1) Mission.
(2) Enemy.
(3) Terrain.
(4) Weather.
(5) Transportation.
43
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 1603 FMFM 6-4
1604. MEDICAL
1605. SERVICES
44
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 1605
45
Provided by www.marines.cc
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 2102
CHAPTER 2
AMPHIBIOUS OPERATION
Section I. INTRODUCTION
2101. GENERAL
2102. CONCEPTS
47
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 2102 FMFM 6-4
I
48 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4
2201. GENERAL
49
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 2203 FMFM 6-4
L
2203. PLANNING SEQUENCE
50 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 2205
a. The rifle company commander and his subordinates are denied the
opportunity for physical reconnaissance and are totally dependent upon the
BLT for information and intelligence during the planning phase. Essential
planning aids are made available to the company by higher headquarters as
substitutes for reconnaissance in developing plans of attack, in training
for the operation, and in briefing troops. Any of the items listed below
may be useful as planning aids.
(5) Scale Models and Relief Maps.--Scale models and relief maps
are invaluable in plannrng at company and platoon level. Models and relief
maos should be three dimensional. Local production of sand table type
models for briefing troops should be encouraged where other three dimen-
sional aids are not readily available.
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 2205 FMFM 6-4
1
helicopterborne and waterborne amphibious assaults, it consists of the
scheme of maneuver, the fire support plan, and the landing plan. The plan
stresses simplicity and flexibility.
52 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 2206
(2) Rough BLT landing documents are routed to the rifle company
commanders for information and are used as a means of providing further
information to the S-3.
Provided by www.marines.cc
53
Par. 2206 FMFM 6-4
I,
54 Provided by www.marines.cc
F
FMFM 6-4 Par. 2206
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 2301 FMFM 6-4
2301. GENERAL
56 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 2402
2401. REHEARSAL
57
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 2402 FMFM 6-4
b
58
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 2402
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 2402 FMFM 6-4
RAIL LOAD
None None
r)
60 Provided by www.marines.cc
par. 2402
HATCH4
LCM-1 LCM-3 LCM-5
1
* debarkedfrom both will
debark at even
orientation of boat teams. such details are completed through the troop
unit chain of command as soon as the debarkation schedule is published and
before any scheduled debarkation drill or rehearsal. Each boat team must
be organized internally and familiarized with ship's debarkation procedures.
The landrng craft and assault amphibious vehicle assignment table appendix
to the landing plan annex specifies the structure of the boat teams. The
boat team commanders are responsible for establishing their internal organ-
ization and orienting them with respect to debarkation. See FMFM 6-5,
Marrne Rifle Squad, for details concerning the internal organization of the
boat team and the duties and responsibilities of key individuals including
the boat team commander.
1
_ Assembly Area.--An area for assembling boat teams 1s
designated.
2 Routes.--Routes are selected for the movement of
boat teams from asse&ly areas to the vehicles.
3 Preloadlng.--Arrangements are described for pre-
loading and stowage of crew-served weapons, equipment, and boat paddles
in the vehicles.
61
Provided by www.marines.cc
par. 2402 FMFM 6-4
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 2503
2501. GENERAL
2503. ORGANIZATION
63
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 2503 FMFM 6-4
INDICATESWAVE
WHITE BACKGROUND
INDICATESNUMBER I
OFBOATINWAVE
BLACK NUMERALSl"HIGH
a
64 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 2503
details of boat team organization and functioning are contained in FMFM 6-5,
Marine Rifle Squad. Boat teams are organized as follows:
1
- Boat team commander.
2
- Assistant boat team commander.
4
- Four net handlers. ,
1
- Boat team commander.
3
- Remaining troops and equipment.
65
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 2503 FMFM 6-4
66 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 2504
67
Provided by www.marines.cc
.- -
RED BEACH
LCM
LCVP
WAVE GUIDEOR
COMMANDER
ASSISTANT
WAVE GUJDE
BOATGROUP
COMMANDER
CENTRALCONTROLSHD'
ASSISTANT
MARKERSHIP CENTRALCONTROLSHIP
b
( I
Provided by www.marines.cc
68
FMFM 6-4 Par. 2504
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 2505 FMFM 6-4
designed evacuation control ships located off the landing beaches. These
officers control evacuation from their assigned beaches.
70 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 2506
on-call landing waves are listed in the assault schedule below the sched-
uled waves.
Provided by www.marines.cc
71
Par. 2507 FMFM 6-4
(2) III the waterborne assault, the form of maneuver and the
requirement for a rapid buildup of combat power ashore usually dictate that
the rifle company land with at least two rifle platoons abreast. Further,
the tactical elements of an entire assault rifle company are usually landed
in the first two waves over the same portion of beach to preserve unit in-
tegrity. The S-3 provides the company commander with information as to the
type of landing means to be employed. The company cormsander makes a deter-
mination as to his landing craft or assault amphibious vehicle requirements
and their scheduling within the first two waves.
72 Provided by www.marines.cc
.---- -
I FMFM 6-4 Par. 2507
Provided by www.marines.cc
73
Par. 2507 FMFM 6-4
Ser 102
Elms& C,
Ser 110
4th ANVIL-4 5 LPH-5 LPH-5 II+26 Hc30 H+51 CodeName Color Elms CoB, 2
CH46D/F
6 LIWCw/Drason
CH46D/F Ser 106
co CC-),2 LIWC
w/Dragon
Ser 111
_
wpns Plat 3
ii
ANVIL 102 Zd sqcl, 1 St Plat, co A 13
100-2 Plat 1 MPF” (12Y, 4,080 42 4.12i
1st Plat, CO A 1
2 Rkt Clips (301)
Aslt Trn, 1st Aslt Sqd,
WP”S Plat 3
n
ANVIL
100-3 103 Plat Cmdr,
Plat I&d10 1st Plat, co A 1 1 AN,PRC-75 (26R, 4,080 26 4,106
OP. 1st PIat,
co A
Msgr, 1st PIat, co A :
corpsman,1st PIat, co A 1
3d sqcl, 1st Plat, co A
- ::
74 Provided by www.marines.cc
Figure 16. --Example Helicopter Landing Diagram.
each heliteam with an assigned serial number and the serial number with the
flight and wave. The weight section serves as a check to ensure that max-
imum allowable helicopter payloads are not exceeded by the troop units. The
enplaning column assigns an explaning station to each heliteam. The rifle
company consolidates and submits to the batallion S-3 (the issuing agency)
its requirements based upon the scheme of maneuver, unit integrity, heli-
copter availability and dispersion of key personnel/crew-served weapons.
Figure 15 is an example Heliteam Wave and Serial Assignment Table.
75
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 2507 FMFM 6-4
WAVE 1 l-1 l-2 1-3 1-4 l-5 l-b 1-7 1-8 l-9 I-1c ,
H-HOUR x+ x x x x x x x x x
WAVE 2 2-1 2-2 2-3 2-4 2-5 2-b 2-7 2-8 2-9 2-10
n+4 I.llIl x*x x x x x x x x x
co c t-1
WAVE 4 4-1 4-2 4-3 4-4 4-5 4-b 4-7
Pi+12 Ml" X' x x x x x x
co D
WAVE 5 5-l 5-2 5-3 5-4 5-5 5-6 5-7 5-8 5-9 5-10
H+lb mn x* x x x x x x x x x
i
Figure 17.--Example Landing Diagram.
control personnel, and BLT subordinate commanders of the plan for tacti-
cally deploying the unit for landing. Figure 17 is an example of a landing
diagram.
76
Provided by www.marines.cc
F -. -
BOAT
CRAFT PERSONNEL SPACES FORMATION
1 l-10
1 x
1
:
13
1
H
Provided by www.marines.cc
-
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4
e
Par. 2508
2508. DEBARKATION
(3) From the control points, troops are led by flight deck
guides (ship's company) to their respective helicopter loading points where
they enplane under the supervision of the helicopter loading supervisor.
The guides will pick up passenger manifests from the heliteam commander at
the control point.
(4) During enplaning, consideration must be given to the safety
of personnel and helicopters. Radio antennas which could become entangled
in rotors must be dismantled or extreme caution used. Equipment such as
weapons, entrenching tools, or other equipment attached to packs may damage
the aircraft during the loading, en route, and unloading phases.
(5) Cargo is palletized, spotted, and rigged with slings as
necessary.
(6) See FMFM 6-5, Marine Rifle Squad, for heliteam functroning
and enplaning and deplaning procedures.
Provided by www.marines.cc
79
Par. 2508 FMFM 6-4
80
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 2508
81
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 2509 FMFM 6-4
(a) The boat team commander leads his boat team in single
file to the LVT. Troops are arranged to file from the assembly area in
inverse order of debarking from the LVT.
(e) When all personnel and equipment have been loaded, the
boat team commander informs the LVT crew chief.
a. Helicopterborne
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 2509
wave rendezvous point where flights from several ships rendezvous to form
a single wave.
(4) Upon reaching the landing zone, troops deplane and helicop-
ters return to the ships to refuel and to enplane subsequent serials. Sub-
sequent waves follow the same general procedure.
(5) While helicopter waves are en route to and from the land-
ing zone, troop and cargo serials still aboard ship are placed in readi-
ness to be moved.
b. Waterborne
(b) Waves depart the rendezvous area for the line of de-
parture on order of the boat group commander and in accordance with the
,- approach schedule. The entire boat group normally moves as a unit with a
short interval separating waves. During periods of good visibility, waves
proceed in a closed wedge formatlon. Where vlsiblllty 1s poor, wave for-
mation is a column. Distances between boats in a wave are IIIconsonance
,;* with the visibility. Boat speed is regulated so that the boat group ar-
rives at the line of departure at the proper time.
Provided by www.marines.cc
83
- .-
(2) Troops board the landing ship by climbing the sides on de-
barkation nets. Once aboard,, they assemble by boat teams in accordance
with the landing craft and assault amphibious vehicle assignment table.
84
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMPM 6-4 Par. 2510
BEPL!"
:-
amp,nb~ous vehicles and leave by way of flank
of each beach. Loaded assault amphlblous
veb~cles turn and head toward beach.
Ils D
m
LCVF (Boat)
Transfer
Transfer
Line Control
Line Control
(Primary)
(Secondary)
I
85
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 2511 FMFM 6-4
(2) Transfers of this type are effected only when necessary and
usually do not involve assault units or other units landed in scheduled
waves. The rifle company may be involved in this type transfer as a reserve
element of the regimental landing team or,, in some instances, as a reserve
company of the assault BLT. In either case, the transfer operation is con-
ducted as shown in figure 20.
I.
2511. OVER THE HORIZON STANDOFF
b. Underway Launch
(3) Given adequate water depth and sea room, such a launch can
be executed at high speeds.
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 2602
2601. GENERAL
@
87
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 2602 FMFM 6-4
i ,
b. Assault Rifle Platoon.--The assault rifle platoon effort ini-
tially consists of separate squad actions in assigned portions of the pla-
toon sector to establish control and clear the sector of enemy resistance.
88
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 2602
Provided by www.marines.cc
89
Par. 2602 FMFM 6-4
90
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 2603
(3) During the run into the beach, the boat team commander may
have the opportunitv to orient subordinate tactical unit leaders with re-
spect to the landing beach and terrain features in the vicinity. Often,
the beach and its surroundings are obscured by the smoke and dust of battle.
(4) When the wave is within 100 meters of the beach, the boat
team commander alerts the team and the members face forward and brace them-
selves for the shock of landing.
91
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 2603 FMFM 6-4
32
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 2603
P
His estimate is based on reports from the assault platoon commanders and
the executive officer as well as a brief oersonal reconnaissance. AS was
the case with the platoon commander, he ii concerned with whether the at-
tack is proceeding according to plan or whether a new or modified plan of
attack must be instituted in the face of a changed situation.
b
93
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 2701 FMFM 6-4
(
2701. GENERAL
1 Change policy.
1
- Reduces the enemy's war potential and morale.
94
Provided by www.marines.cc
-- -
(a) Ambush.
(b) Raids.
s 95
Provided by www.marines.cc
E
Provided by www.marines.cc
__
CHAPTER 3
OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS
Section I. INTRODUCTION
3101. GENERAL
Q
97
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3103 FMFM 6-4
of the enemy that has been encountered. A commander must know what he
is fighting.
98
Provided by www.marines.cc
-___--. -~-~ __
99
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3104 FMFM 6-4
d. Flexibility
(b) Exploitation.
(cl Pursuit.
c
100 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 par. 3104
(c) Attack at the decisive time and place and destroy the
enemy.
(c) Reserves.
Provided by www.marines.cc
101
Par. 3105 FMFM 6-4
d. Reserves
(d) Terrain.
4
102
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3105
(2) The basic forms of maneuver are the envelopment, the pene-
tration, and the frontal attack. The frontal attack and the single envelop-
ment are the primary forms of maneuver employed by the company and the
platoon. The double envelopment, turning movement, and encirclement are
the varlatuxx of the envelopment that may be employed by larger units.
a 103
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3105 FMFM 6-4
t
OBJECTIVE
3
SEIZING THE OBJECTIVE
ATTACK
I ,
SUPPORTING ATTACK
\ SUPPORTING ATTACK
I I
RUPTURING THE POSITION PHASE
4
104 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3105
Figure 26.--Envelopment.
105
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3201 FMFM 6-4
c
Section II. MOVEMENT TO CONTACT
3201. GENERAL
(d) Destination.
t:
106 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3202
: <*
t 107
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3202 FMFM 6-4
@
108 Provided by www.marines.cc
c
effect, gradual changes in pace and cadence rather than abrupt alterations
should be used in adjusting the rate of march. The order of march should
be rotated periodically so that the same units and individuals do not always
march at the rear. The most heavily laden "nits march near the head of the
column.
(1) Types of Motor March. --There are three basic types of motor
marches which may be utilized in transporting units administratively in the
route column:
(a-) Close Column.--A close column is one in which the ele-
ments are formed as compactly as practicable. Vehicles follow at the least
distance which safety, traffic conditions, and the tactical situation per-
mit. This type of column is adopted when a road net must be used to its
maximum capacity, when passing through congested areas where maximum control
109
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3202 FMFM 6-4
110
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3203
truck will be loaded, to the hasty move where each truck is loaded in rota-
tion with no previous planning. The method to be used depends on the time
available, loading conditions, and the troop leaders' ingenuity.
(a) The bulk of the forces comprising the column are tac-
tically grouped in a column which advances on the assigned axis or route of
march.
(b) The column formation for the main body permits ease of
control and reasonably secure and rapid movement of the force.
113
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3203 FMFM 6-4
(ADVANCEGUARD)
SUPPORT
c
> (MAINBODY)
---I
between
CONNECTING FILE
advance
(REARGUARD)
Note:*Fireteamtoactas a connecting
file
guardandmainbody.
112
$3
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3203
_
advance of the main body. Should the enemy be encountered in such strength
as to require deployment of the main body or a portion of it, the advance
guard covers the deployment.
(5) Rear Guard.--The rear guard consists of a rear point and the
rear party. The rear guard has no support and is large enough to protect
the rear of the tactical column. It relieves the main body of the neces-
sity for engaging in battle, protects the main body, and preserves its
freedom of action. The rear guard for a rifle company marching alone nor-
mally consists of a rifle squad acting as rear point.
_ 9 113
Provided by www.marines.cc
i
Par. 3203 FMFM 6-4
(c) The flank guard must move rapidly over greater dis-
tances in shorter periods of time than the march column. Often the terrain
over which the flank guard moves is much more difficult than that of the
march route taken by the column. Frequent relief of the flank guard is
necessary. Relieving units station themselves ahead of the flank guard
and relief is effected as the flank guard passes through.
z Patrolling.
0
114 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3203
(1) Organization
115
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3203 FMFM 6-4
B.
vehicles of similar cross-country mobility characteristics. If avoidable,
a rifle company in the main body should not partially mounted in assault
amphibamphibious vehicles and partially in trucks as the flexibility of the
company's employment is greatly reduced. Security elements, particularly
the point and flank guard units, are mounted in light vehicles.
(f) The rear guard follows the main body and is usually
a task organization of tanks and mechanized infantry trailing the main
tidy by a prescribed time interval. Its task organization is similar to
the advance party. A rear point is established which follows the rear
guard by bounds from one point of good rearwdrd observation to the next.
117
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3204 FMFM 6-4
security for the entire march column including the advance and rear guards.
In difficult terrain when parallel routes for liaht vehicles are not avail-
able, the flank guards may-be positioned, relieved, and advanced by employ-
ing helicopters. The helicopterborne positioning, relief, and advancement
of flank guards is scheduled and controlled by the march column commander.
(2) Organization
commander may elect to increase his readiness for combat by deploying one
or more companies to protect the further forward movement of the column.
In such cases, the advance guard company continues to move forward com-
pletely prepared for combat in a fully deployed combat formation. The for-
mation selected is largely determined by the area which must be cleared to
ensure the uninterrupted of the march elements in trace.
Leading platoons, and utilizing cover and con-
cealment, of the march axis.
A rifle company conducting an independent, uncovered move-
ment to or moving independently the battalion assembly
to the company attack or line of may employ approach
march is imminent and the rifle company is mov-
ing independently, company usually moves in column behind a rifle
for combat. In the assembly to the
attack position or line of the company may in its initial
attack
c. Rifle
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3205 FMFM 6-4
(7) Units attached for the operation may join the command.
Provided by www.marines.cc
-
3301. GENERAL
(1) The rifle company may be all or a part of the main attack,
the supporting attack, or the reserve of the infantry battalion. The com-
pany may be foot mobile, mechanized, or helicopter transported in the attack.
When it is a reserve element of the battalion, it may utilize any form of
mobility.
(2) The rifle platoon normally attacks as part of a coordinated
company action. When appropriately reinforced, it may be employed for short
periods of time as an independent force. Using the fires of organic, at-
tached, and supporting weapons to neutralize the enemy, the platoon maneu-
vers its squads to positions from which to assault the enemy.
I.21
Provided by www.marines.cc
?
Par. 3302 FMFM 6-4
departure is normally based upon terrain. When the line of departure cannot
be fixed on terrain as in a passage of lines, forward friendly dispositions
(FFD) may be designated as the line of departure; i.e., I&D is FFD. The
present major positions (PPos) of the unit may be designated as the line of
departure; i.e., LOD is PPos.
(1) A halt in the attack position is made only when final prep-
arations cannot be completed in the assembly area or during movement from
the assembly area. Any unnecessary delay in the attack position needlessly
exposes the unit to enemy fires and may reduce the degree of surprise.
123
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3302 FMFM 6-4
The commander should ensure that such deviation does not interfere with
adjacent units, that his unit remains oriented to the objective, and that
the location and size of the bypassed enemy forces are reported to higher
headquarters. In mechanized operations, this control measure is most fre-
quently used against light, disorganized, or discontinuous enemy resistance,
such as may be encountered in the exploitation or pursuit where the need
for a closely coordinated attack does not exist.
124
Provided by www.marines.cc
FME'M 6-4 Par. 3302
(1) When enemy positions are known and supporting fires can be
carefully planned in advance, the company commander may select a tentative
final coordination line while planning the attack, He normally does so for
objectives on which simultaneous assaults by two or more platoons are
planned.
125
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3302 FMFM 6-4
126
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3304
with procedures for mutual identification and plans for the rapid passage
of the advancing units. Assistance by the stationary force includes re-
moving obstacles established to hinder enemy movement, providing guides,
and reserving assembly areas for the reorganization of linkup forces.
(2) Mission.
The plan of attack consists of the scheme of maneuver and a fire sup-
port plan. In arriving at the plan of attack, the scheme of maneuver and
fire support plan are developed concurrently, based on the commander's esti-
mate of the situation. The available supporting fires are planned to sup-
port the scheme of maneuver. The commander ensures that his scheme of
maneuver and fire support plan are mutually compatible and capable of being
supported logistically and wrth communications.
127
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3305 FMFM ii-4
I, )
128
Provided by www.marines.cc
---
,a 129
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3305 FMFM 6-4
t
130 Provided by www.marines.cc
__ ~_
t
131
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3306 FMFM 6-4
(1) The company may attack with one or both flanks exposed.
The company commander may position all or part of his reserve to protect
a" exposed flank. Combat patrols from the reserve may be planned to cover
likely avenues of approach into the flank. Reconnaissance patrols, pro-
vided with rapid communication means, may be used as flank security ele-
ments. Connecting groups which periodically report the location of the
flank of a" adjacent unit add a degree of security by keeping the company
commander informed regarding the situation on the flank.
132
Provided by www.marines.cc
F --. -._ _
133
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3306 FMPM 6-4
134
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3306
135
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3306 FMFM 6-4
'~
@
shifts, and checks the fires by direct instructions to the forward observ-
ers during the attack. When the scheme of maneuver requires less coordina-
tion, less centralized control is exercised. The company commander informs
his platoon commanders concerning the details of the fire support plan.
Prearranged target locations and their identifying numbers are published
in the company attack order. The platoon commanders may then request de-
livery of planned fires as necessary in conducting their attacks. The
company commander monitors the requests and, if he approves them, directs
the appropriate forward observer to initiate the fire request. In employ-
ing decentralized control, the platoon commander's requests are disapproved
when the company commander determines that the fires will endanger units
adjacent to the requesting platoon. The company commander and the platoon
commanders may call fires on targets of opportunity at any time during the
attack regardless of the control employed.
(2) The platoon commander plans the fires of all attached weap-
ens, as well as those weapons in direct support. His primary concern is to
provide close-in and responsive fire support to his maneuver elements as
they close with the opposing force. The platoon commander exercises fire
control and assigns fire missions and general firing positions to an at-
tached unit. His decisions, in this respect, are largely influenced by
the scheme of maneuver, enemy dispositions, fields of fire, and observation.
Weapons most likely to be attached to the rifle platoon are 6Omm mortars,
machineguns, LAAW's, and MPFW's. The platoon commander will assign fire
missions to a unit in direct support of his platoon; however, the remain-
ing aspects of tactical control are exercised by the supporting unit com-
mander. Weapons most frequently found in direct support of a rifle platoon
are mortars, Dragons, and tanks.
(3) Firing missions and general locations for weapons are desiq-
nated for each attached unit in consolidatinu the obiective. Consolidation
missions are assigned in the attack order. Prior liaison with direct sup-
port unit leaders will determine the general positions from which they can
best support the consolidation. Routes of displacement to positions should
permit rapid movement, cover and concealment, and early occupation of posi-
tlons covering dangerous avenues of approach.
137
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3306 FMFM 6-4
indirect fires by timely calls via the company communication system. When
the company plan of attack requires close coordination of the attacking
platoons, the company commander usually retains strict control over the
delivery of indirect fires. When less close coordination of attacking pla-
toons is required, the platoon commanders are provided with detailed infor-
mation concernrng the company fire support plan, including prearranged
artillery and mortar target locations and identifying numbers. Platoon
commanders request dellvery of planned fires as necessary. Platoon com-
manders request fires on targets of opportunity as they appear.
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3306 FMPM 6-4
(3) The best position on the ground from which the mission can
be accomplished is the primary position for the machinegun squad. Any
other position from which the same mission can be fired is an alternate
position. Machineguns move to alternate positions when enemy action renders
the primary position untenable or when it becomes otherwise unsuitable for
continuing the fire mission. An alternate position should be sufficiently
removed from the primary position to minimize the effects of enemy fires
directed at the primary position. Supplementary positions are necessary
when it is anticipated that a machinegun unit may be required to fire a
mission in addltlon to or in lieu of its primary mission. The supplementary
position is a position from which a mission other than the primary mission 4
can be accomplished. Firing on enemy troops attacking the flanks or rear
of the assigned defense area may be designated as supplementary missions.
All three firing positions should offer as many desirable characteristics
as possible. Seldom will any position offer all of them and some compro-
mises must be made. The accomplishment of the mission is the most important
consideration. A firing position should have as many of the below listed
characteristics as possible:
t
140 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMPM 6-4 Par. 3306
are made as rapidly as possible and take maximum advantage of covered and/
or concealed routes. Machineguns are displaced by echelon or as a unit
depending upon the tactical situation.
141
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3306 FMFM 6-4
C’
1. Tactical Employment of 6Omm Mortars.--It must be remembered that
the 6Omm mortar was not returned to the Marine Corns to reolace the need
for any other weapon in use at the time of its return. Thk 6Omm mortar was
returned to provide the company commander with a weapon which could be used
to supplement nonorganic, high-angle fires. When comparing the capabilities
of the 6Omm mortar with those related high-angle fire weapons, its primary
advantage is found in the mortar's rapid response in engaging "targets of
opportunity." It is also apparent that the destruction and/or neutraliza-
tion effect of this weapon does not favorably compare with heavier indirect
fire weapons.
4
142
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3306
1 Section
-~
a Echelon.--When a requirement exists for continu-
ous fire support, the section conduct an echelon displacement. Depend-
ing on the circumstances, one squad may displace while the other two remain
in firing positions, or two squads may displace while one squad remains in
position. During periods of the attack where there are no fire missions
for the mortar section, the weapons platoon commander, acting through the
section leader. takes advantase of lull in fire suooort reuuirements to
order the displacement of one-or mOre squads to new-firing-positions. This
facilitates the delivery of effective supporting fires when fire missions
are once again received.
143
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3307 FMFM 6-4
B
(1) Method.--Displacement by unit or by echelon is directed.
If displace- isaccomplished by echelon, the order states which units
will remain in place to cover the initial displacement.
c!. Advance by Fire and Maneuver.--At the time of the attack, the
attacking platoons cross the line of departure and move rapidly toward their
assigned objectives. Their movements take maximum advantage of the cover
and concealment offered by the avenues of approach to the objective and the
protection afforded by supporting fires. If effective enemy resistance is
, encountered en route to the objective, attacking platoons close rapidly by
conducting fire and maneuver, assault, and destroy the enemy. When the
enemy resistance encountered does not affect the accomplishment of the
mission, the rifle platoon bypasses the resistance and notifies the com-
pany commander. The platoon commander's decision to bypass the enemy
position is made with due regard for the tactical control measures imposed
by the company commander. Normally, platoons not stopped by enemy fire
continue to advance even though adjacent units are halted. The advance
can then outflank enemy positions holding up adjacent units, thus permit-
ting the delivery of flanking fires and maneuver against the enemy's flanks
and rear.
145
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3308 FM-PM 6-4
c
employment of his platoon. He recommends changes in the methods of employ-
ment to meet changed situations. He also informs the company commander of
the need for displacement and recommends methods of displacement. The pla-
toon sergeant directly supervises the employment of general support ele-
ments of the platoon through the section leaders. He further arranges
timely resupply of ammunition in keeping with the existing status of on-
position supplies for general support elements of the platoon.
3308. CONSOLIDATION
c
146
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3309
3309. EXPLOITATION
a. General.--Exploitation
-__ is the following up of gains to take full
advantage of success in battle. It is designed to destroy the enemy's abil-
ity to reconstitute an organized defense or to engage in an orderly retro-
grade movement. Exploitation ranges from that of pursuing small local
147
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3310 FMFM 6-4
(:
forces to the pursuit of large enemy forces. It is characterized by rapid
advances against lessening resistance. Its Purpose may be to take an ob-
jective deep in the enemy's rear or to pursue a retreating enemy. force.
b. Company Exploitation
4)
,’
148
Provided by www.marines.cc
.
(c) Outpost and patrol the front and flanks of the reor-
ganization.
149
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3311
(h) Assist adjacent units when such action favors the ac-
complishment of the battalion mission.
151
Provided by www.marines.cc
i
Par. 3401 FMFM 6-4
3401. GENERAL
(4) To avoid heavy losses which would likely result from day-
light attacks conducted under the same conditions.
Characteristics
c
152 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par 3402
The degree t0 which daylight techniques are employed in the scheme of ma-
neuver is predicated upon the condition of visibility resulting from the
use of illumination.
Provided by www.marines.cc
153
Par. 3402 FMPM 6-4
f
observation of the area from a position to the rear of the line of depar-
ture. The route from the platoon release point to the squad release point
is usually announced as a direction. The routes from the squad release
point to the probable line of deployment are also announced as directions
for squad movement. Guides are normally used to assist in the movement to
the probable line of deployment.
154
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3403
C. Formation
155
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3403 FMFM 6-4
PROBABLELMEOF PROBABLELINEOF
DEPLOYMEWT DEPLOYMENT
I DEPARTURE
cross the line of departure in a column using one point of departure. This
formation is retained until the platoon release point is reached unless
enemy action forces earlier deployment.
(2) The company commander normally employs all three rifle pla-
toons in the assault. Under conditions of reduced visibility, the effective
use of a reserve .SS a maneuver element is extremely difficult because of
the difficulties of control and coordination. A reserve is withheld only
when the company zone of action is extremely narrow or when there is a
dangerously exposed flank or rear. If a reserve is designated to provide
flank or rear security, the company commander may direct it to follow the
attacking echelon closely, or he may leave it on the line of departure and
have it brought forward on signal.
g. Fire
__ Support Plan---Night attacks may or may not beIn supported
an attack
by fire depending on the degree of surprise to be achieved.
against a well organized position where the possibility of achieving sur-
prise is remote, preparation fires, fires in support of the attack, and
. fires to support the consolidation are employed. Use of supporting fires
under these circumstances closely parallels a daylight attack. In an
attack against a hastily organized position where the possibility of sur-
prise is good, fires in support of the attack and fires to support the
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3403 FMFM 6-4
c
consolidation are planned but are employed only when it becomes necessary.
Even though the attack is to be made by stealth, complete plans are made
for supporting fires and illumination. Weapons are positioned and reqis-
tered, but their fires are normally placed on call and delivered on order
of the company commander. when more than one company comprises the attack
echelon, the battalion commander may prescribe conditions under which sup-
porting fires and illumination may be requested.
4
158 Provided by www.marines.cc
--_-. ._
Provided by www.marines.cc
159
Par. 3404 FMFM 6-4
160
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM b-4 Par. 3405
3405. CONSOLIDATION
Provided by www.marines.cc
161
Par. 3501 FMFM 6-4
c
3501. GENERAL
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3503
2 60mm 2 14105mm
(vt
SHORT-RANGE PROTECTWE FIRE ADVANCE BEHMD OR THROUGH SUPPORTING ARMS
in employing the tanks. The three methods are the single axis attack, the
converging axis attack, and support by fire. The combination of methods
employed in the attack and the techniques of their application are varied
to take maximum advantage of the tank's mobility, firepower, speed, and
shock action. The three methods are appropriate for the rifle company or
platoon.
163
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3503 FMFM 6-4
164
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3504
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3505 FMFM 6-4
the shock action and firepower attained by the employment of tanks in mass.
Where the company zone of action is too restricted to facilitate the move-
ment of massed armor, tanks may be placed in direct support of the attack-
ing rifle platoon(s). In such a case, a joint reconnaissance is made by
the unit leaders involved prior to arriving at the plan of attack.
(1) Fires must be planned to protect the tanks from enemy tank-
killer teams. These fires may be any combination of small arms and artil-
lery or mortar time fire. Machineguns may be effectively employed in
protecting tank movements. Their range materially reduces the number of
displacements necessary to continuously support the tanks. Fires to pro-
tect and cover tank movements are particularly important when the scheme
of maneuver requires the tanks to traverse ground not previously uncovered
by the infantry advance.
t
166
Provided by www.marines.cc
L
This technique is usually employed at the company level when the prospec-
tive plan of attack is simple and under company control.
3506. CONSOLIDATION
167
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3601 FMFM 6-4
3601. GENERAL
c
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3603
usually the case when exploiting the amphibious capability of the assault
amphibious vehicle in crossing streams, rivers, lakes, etc. In such cases,
the tanks support the attack by fire and join the infantry as soon as prac-
ticable. Once the infantry and tanks are reunited, the attack continues on
a single route. When a single avenue of approach is too narrow to accommo-
date the entire attack echelon, tanks and mounted infantry may advance on
multiple routes in closing with the enemy. Normally, a maximum of two
routes are used in the advance. Tanks and infantry advance on both fronts.
169
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3603 FMFM 6-4
supporting operations. Also, close terrain may force the infantry to dis-
mount in order to provide the necessary close-in protection.
a
170
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMPM 6-4 Par. 3603
when the company is assigned an axis of advance. Zones are wide enough to
permit vehicle maneuver and are considerably wider than for other attacks.
171
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3604 FMFM 6-4
4
support the attack. Normally, the assault section is employed only in
consolidation unless its demolition capability is to be exploited.
(3) Tank Fires. --The fire support plan exploits the fire and
maneuver capabilities of the tanks to the maximum. Tank fires are incor-
porated into the fire support plan.
c. During the advance the infantry dismounts for action when the
situation requires. The infantry also dismounts to provide close physical
protection for the tanks and assault amphibious vehicles when passing
through close terrain, then remounts and continues the mechanized advance.
d. Upon reaching the dismount area, the vehicles halt under avail-
able cover and the infantry dismounts. The attack then continues as a dis-
mounted daylight attack or as a tank-infantry attack.
3605. CONSOLIDATION
c
172
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3701
d
Section VII. ATTACK OF FORTIFIED ARKAS
3701. GENERAL
173
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3702 FMPM 6-4
f
174
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3703
175
Provided by www.marines.cc
_
(2) Platoon level fire support planning provides for the close
fire support of obstacle breaching and assault elements. Within his fire
support capabilities, the platoon commander plans for the simultaneous
engagement of known and suspected enemy positions and embrasures capable
of firing in support of the emplacements under attack. Additional fires
are requested from the company commander and, when approved, are prearranged
with the appropriate fire support unit. Mutual support between attacking
squads and with adjacent platoons is arranged as necessary. A diversity
of targets usually requires the platoon commander to employ machineguns,
rockets! and MPFW's by teams rather than squads. This is particularly true
of machineguns and rockets when the platoon withholds a reserve.
@
176 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3802
3801. GENERAL
1)
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. FME'M
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3804 FMFM 6-4
1
-
I__
Figure 36.--Typical Company and Platoon Frontages.
searched in order to be assured that the enemy is cleared. Phase lines may
be employed to enhance control and regulate the advance of attacking pla-
toons.
$
180 Provided by www.marines.cc
FME'M 6-4 Par. 3804
Provided by www.marines.cc
181
Par. 3805 FMFM 6-4
c
(2) Automatic weapons and machineguns are positioned to create
killing zones down streets and across open areas. Their fires are coordi-
nated with the scheme of maneuver to ensure ceasing or shifting fires when
attacking units are crossing or otherwise employing the zones.
Provided by www.marines.cc
4
182
,
IX. RIVER-CROSSING
3901. GENERAL
3902. CONCEPT
183
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3903 FMFM 6-4
d. The attacker must rapidly seize objectives on the far bank and
clear it so that rafts, bridges, and other crossing means may be constructed.
When attacking units cross in helicopters or assault amphibious vehicles to
seize deep objectives, the river line clearing task is normally assigned to
reserve forces.
t
184 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 3904
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 3904 FMFM 6-4
e
with supporting engineers
The engineers position
the boats, furnish crews, and provide technical assistance. They may fur-
nish guides to assist the boat teams in reaching the boats when the rifle
company commander directs. An engineer crew of three men normally oper-
ates each assault boat, with two in the bow and one in the stern. The
coxswain steers and has technical control of the boat. The infantry boat
team commander has tactical control of the boat and directs the tactical
maneuvering of the boat to its landing site. The engineer crew assists
the boat team in embarking, paddling, and debarking. After the boat team
debarks, the engineer crew returns the boat to the near bank for subsequent
use.
(1) Boat teams are organized and all plans and orders for the
crossing are completed in the assembly area. The movement from the assembly
area to the attack position is made on foot. It is made as rapidly and
with as much secrecy as possible. The order of march is designed to permit
continuous movement into and out of the attack position. Engineer guides
meet the platoons in the attack position and guide them directly to their
boats. The boat teams halt no more than momentarily as they pick up their
boats and move into the water. They launch and load their boats, then
paddle across the river without a halt and with maximum speed. They do not
fire their weapons while crossing. Riflemen either paddle or hold weapons
for those who do paddle. when they reach the far bank, they debark and
attack as in the amphibious operation.
(2) The company commander remains on the near bank where he can
best observe the action as the first wave crosses. As soon as the first
wave has crossed, debarked, and cleared the far bank, he orders the second
wave to cross. Be crosses with the command group in the second wave.
Provided by www.marines.cc
c
186
FMFM 6-4 Par. 31002
Section X. INFILTRATION
31001. GENERAL
187
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 31003 FMFM 6-4
188
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 31004
189
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 31101 FMFM 6-4
31101. GENERAL
31102. CONCEPTS
31103. PLANNING
190
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 31103
191
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 31103 FMFM 6-4
(
(1) Passenger Manifest.--An accurate record must be made of
who is on which aircraft. This record must include the passenger's name,
grade, and service number and be coupled with the aircraft side number.
There are many methods of preparing such a manifest; however, one such
method that has wide field acceptance is to have each heliteam member fill
out the required information on a piece of paper such as a prepared mani-
fest tag, a baggage tag, or even a page from a notebook. These individual
pieces of paper are collected and placed into an envelope marked with the
helicopter side number and given to the troop loading assistant or flight
deck guide.
192
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 31103
193
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 31104 FMFM 6-4
31104. ASSAULT
b. Landing points must be marked with lights so that the pilots may
find them and be assured that the point is unoccupied. Normally, assault
heliteams do not immediately execute preplanned attacks to clear the land-
ing site until they are first assembled and reorganized in preplanned assem-
bly areas. Guides are normally provided to lead heliteams to the assemblv
areas by either the landing site-control team or previously landed heliteams.
Once tactical control has been established, preplanned offensive action may
be taken to secure the landing site for succeeding waves. A slower rate of
194
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 31106
(3) Ready circles are located further away from the loading
points and are marked for easy identification. Loading supervisors or
troop loading assistants lead the heliteams from the ready circles to the
loading points for enplaning.
Provided by www.marines.cc
c.
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 4102
CHAPTER 4
DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS
Section I. INTRODUCTION
4101. GENERAL
197
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4103 FMFM 6-4
held and emphasis is placed upon destroying or repulsing the enemy forward
of a specific battle area. The bulk of combat power is committed in the
forward area with the principal objective of destroying the enemy or counter-
attacking to gain control over lost portions of the forward area. Section
III of this chapter describes the company and platoon roles in the area
defense.
a. Definitions
b. Control Measures
198
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 4104
!.
rearward extent of supplementary pOSitlOnS required by the frontline pla-
toons.
I*
I 199
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4105 FMFM 6-4
-
COP
PEBA
COMPANY _
BATTLE AREA
(upto
FRONTAGE
Rifle company unit commanders plan, organize, and conduct the de-
fense by applying certain fundamentals. These considerations do not have
equal influence nor are they equally emphasized at different command levels
in a given situation. Further, they may not apply to the same extent in
different situations. The unit commander decides the degree to which each
will affect his defense.
201
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4106 FMPM 6-4
4
202
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 4204
4201. GENERAL
203
Provided by www.marines.cc
c. Composition.--The strength and composXtion of the combat outpost
varies with distances involved, enemy situation, weather, and terrain. For
each forward battalion in the battle area, it can vary in strength from a
rifle platoon reinforced with machineguns and rockets to a rifle company
reinforced with mortars, Dragons, tanks, and reconnaissance elements. Ar-
tillery and mortar fires are usually provided from their positions within
the battle area through forward observers located with the combat outpost.
(5) Deny the enemy close ground observation of the battle area.
(1) The forces comprising the combat outpost are disposed later-
ally in a series of outguards varying in strength from a fire team to a
reinforced squad. Outguards are positioned near the topographical crest
on terrain offering long-range observation and fields of fire covering
the avenues of approach into the battle area. Preferably, adjacent out-
guards are within visual distances of each other.
e
204
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 4204
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4301 FMFM 6-4
4301. GENERAL
t
208
Provided by www.marines.cc
f
FMFM 6-4 Par. 4302
209
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4302 FMFM 6-4
210
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 4302
5 Limit penetrations.
L Support counterattacks.
211
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4302 FMFM 6-4
212
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 4302
in mine warfare is discussed in FMFM 6-5, Marine Rifle Squad, which also
describes the techniques employed in laying mines.
(1) The company commahder selects and prepares one or more ob-
servation posts which give the best possible view of the battle area, the
avenues of approach, and the company's flanks. The gunnery sergea+ re-
ceives generai guidance from the company commander as to intc:;.__ __,ange-
ment and selects and supervises the preparation positions within the
site. The company obse-nation post is manned by members of the command
group at all times.
(2) The company command post site is located in the rear portion
of the company reserve area. Preferably, it is situated in defilade and is
concealed from ground and air observation. A position offering covered
routes forward and to the rear facilitates supply of the f$ontline platoons
and evacuation of casualties.
(3) The company installs a complete wire communication net.
Wire communications are preferred to radio for security reasons. Wire net
communications are supplemented by maintaining the company tactical radio
net on listening silence. When wire failure occurs, the radio net is sub-
stituted in contacting affected stations. Messengers and visual signals
further augment communications.
213
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4303 FMFM 6-4
214
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par.
215
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4303 FMFM 6-4
6
further consider the requirements for mutual support between adjacent
squads and the protection of crew-served weapons positioned within the
platoon's defense area. Squad positions must be mutually supporting. The
primary, alternate, and supplementary positions for crew-served weapons in
the defense area are always afforded close-in protection by rifle units.
Primary and alternate crew-served weapons positions are included within
the primary defensive positions of the rifle squads.
a
216
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 4303
217
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4303 FMPM 6-4
Q
218 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 4304
219
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4304 FMFM 6-4
6
(2) LAAW'S. --The assault section provides close-in antitank
protection for the rifle company and, in the absence of an armor threat,
augments other fires by providing close-range fire support for the rifle
platoons. In the defense, its fires are planned in advance for delivery
from previously prepared positions.
220
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 4304
with the reserve platoon to support the frontline platoons by fire. Such
a situation may be obtained only when adequate fire support can be provided
by the employment of two machinegun squads on the FEBA.
221
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4304 mm 6-4
k
, 7/ ‘1
\\
, /’ \
/’ \
\
/
,/’ 21
.:
I
/f
GRAZINGTOSCALE
222
Provided by www.marines.cc
-
(d) Communications.--Whenever
223
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4304 FMFM 6-4
forward of the FEBA are normally covered by the Slrmn mortar. The 6Onun
mortar fires are normally withheld until the enemy enters the security
area and is engaged by close defensive fires. Because of the 6Omm mortar's
limited silhouette, it is possible to locate the weapon near the FEBA,
and still afford the weapon and its crew adequate cover and concealment.
In the defense, firing positions should be located between 150 and 300
meters to the rear of the FEBA. When possible, the three mortars of a
section are emplaced as a section, thereby simplifying control and ammuni-
tion resupply.
4
224
Provided by www.marines.cc
.
225
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4305 FMFM 6-4
6
226
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 4306
a. Daylight Defense
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4306 FMFM 6-4
actively control the fires of their units to ensure that all fires are ef-
fective. They move their weapons to alternate or supplementary firing
positions as required.
(5) During the conduct of the defense, all leaders keep their
next higher commander informed of the situation at all times. Aggressive
leadership on the part of all leaders is essential. Fire team leaders
assist squad leaders in the control of squads, particularly in fire control.
During the conduct of the defense, leaders move from place to place so that
they can influence the action through personal leadership.
(6) When the enemy continues his advance through the close
defensive fires, the platoon commander in the threatened area requests
final protective fires. Upon receiving such requests, the company com-
mander will normally order the final protective fires. When the order to
fire the final protective fires is given, the company delivers maximum
fires along with the machinegun, mortar, and artillery final protective
fires. Automatic riflemen fire on their principal directions of fire.
Riflemen and grenadiers fire within their sectors. Grenadiers assigned
principal directions of fire cover them. Elements to the flanks of the
platoon reinforce their fires. The company commander calls for the fires
of indirect fire weapons that are not firing final protective fires to
reinforce the fires in the threatened area.
(8) When the enemy assault reaches the position, the defender
_
renels him bv fire. srenades. and close combat. All available antitank
weapons engage enemy tanks. Individuals along the FEBA continue firing
until forced to take cover to protect themselves and their weapons from
the crushing action of the tanks. They resume their firing positions and
continue to fight as soon as the tanks pass. Tanks that penetrate the
forward area are engaged by antitank weapons that are positioned in depth.
228
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 4307
can profitably engage targets within the penetration. Fires are also placed
across the base of the penetration to prevent the enemy from reinforcing it.
The company normally attempts to limit a penetration of the forward pla-
toons with the reserve and to destroy the enemy by fire. The reserve pla-
toon may be ordered to counterattack and eliminate the penetration.
b. Night Defense
229
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4307 FMFM 6-4
ASPARTOFMANEUVERING
FORCE
BASE OFPENETRATION
ANDINSUPPORTOFTHE
MANEUVERING FORCE
231
Provided by www.marines.cc
-
order to conform to the existing situation. Seldom does the actual pene-
tration conform in every detail to the assumptions upon which the battalion
plan was based.
(5) Once the enemy has been destroyed or ejected from the pene-
tration, the maneuvering force may be ordered to assume responsibility for
defense of that area or to resume its reserve missions in the battalion
reserve area. When the counterattack is only partially successful, the
force consolidates the ground gained. Figure 50 is a schematic of a
typical counterattack.
t
232 Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 4402
4401. GENERAL
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4403 FMFM 6-4
, t
platoon and the company command post acting as riflemen. When the full
strength of all three platoons is required on the perimeter, the reserve
consists of elements of the weapons platoon, elements of the company
command post, and/or elements of the least committed rifle platoon. In
some instances, an entire rifle platoon may be withdrawn from the perimeter
temporarily to counterattack.
(2) The frontages of the company and the platoons are normal,
except that the company front is approximately circular rather than linear.
The company commander assigns platoon defense areas in accordance with the
importance of the avenues of approach and the observation and fields of
fire available. Platoons covering the most dangerous avenues of approach
are assigned narrower frontages. Security and coverage of gaps between
platoons are as discussed in sections II and III, this chapter. Figure
51 is a schematic of a typical company perimeter.
235
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4501 FMFM 6-4
6
4501. GENERAL
(2) When the forward slope has been lost or not yet gained.
(3) When the terrain on the reverse slope gives better fields
of fire than the forward slope.
permit the delivery of maximum fire on the crest and the ground between the
crest and the FEBA. The fire plan for the frontline platoon is formulated
in a manner similar to the forward slope defense.
b. The reserve platoon occupies the next high ground to the rear
of the FEBA and organizes positions on the military crest from which to
support the frontline platoons by fire. The reserve platoon usually pro-
vides the observation and security groups operating in the company's
security area. In addition to counterattacks to destroy or eject enemy
penetration of the FEBA, the reserve platoon may be employed in counter-
attacks forward of the FEBA to regain control of the topographical crest.
The crest is essential to effective observation.
(1) Machineguns are placed where they can deliver the most
effective surprise fire as the enemy crosses the crest. Sectors of fire
provide maximum coverage of the ground between the FEBA and the crest.
237
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4504 FMFM 6-4
d
Final protective lines are designated and organized as in forward slope
defense.
238
e
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFH 6-4 Par. 4602
4601. GENERAL
239
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4702 FMFM 6-4
along or near the riverbank, and all means are taken to prevent the enemy
from crossing the river. The defensive structure is similar to a conven-
tional area defense. However, with the river serving as an effective ob-
stacle in front of the defensive position, wider frontages may be assigned
to defending units. The location of the forward edge of the battle area
may be along the riverbank, in rear of the riverbank, or a combination of
the two, depending upon the defensive characteristics of the terrain along
the river. Where the river is an effective obstacle and the terrain permits
good fields of fire, the forward edge of the battle area is placed on the
near bank of the river. If the terrain at the riverbank is unsuitable for
the organization of defensive positions, the forward edge of the battle
area is moved back from the river to obtain improved fields of fire. It
is desirable that the defense be close enough to the river so that the near
bank can be covered by small arms fire.
(1) When the FEBA is along the riverbank, the frontline pla-
toons are positioned to cover the most probable crossing sites.
(5) When the FEBA is along the riverbank, fire support assumes
the following characteristics:
(a) Machinegun sectors of fire cover dangerous crossing
sites and the avenues of approach to them.
(b) Final protective lines are established which graze the
river or its far bank.
242
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 4702
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 4801 FMFM 6-4
4801. GENERAL
244
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 4804
4803. RESERVE
Security forces in the mobile defense may include aviation and re-
connaissance units furnished by division, force, and wing. A general out-
post may not always be established by a division. When a general outpost
is not employed, the functions of other reconnaissance and security forces
are emphasized. Rifle companies in the forward defense area provide for
their own local security and maintain surveillance over approaches leading
B into
,' the battle area. Patrol bases may be established when the battalion
area of responsibility for surveillance is large. Chapter 5 discusses
patrol bases in detail.
245
Provided by www.marines.cc
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 5102
CHAPTER 5
PATROLLING
Section I. INTRODUCTION
5101. GENERAL
i *
Provided by www.marines.cc
247
Par. 5203 FI4FM 6-4
@J
250
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 5204
251 .
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 5204 FYFM 6-4
252
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 5205
253
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 5205 FMFM 6-4
enemy. Through thoughtful and carefully planned usage of the ambush, use-
ful information is gathered, security is strengthened, and a minimum of men
and material is tied up in so doing.
(2) Route To and From the Ambush Site.--The route to and from
the ambush site p ensure secrecv in ocouuv-
ing the position and speed and security during the withdrawal. -Maximurn~*~
cover and concealment are considered in selection of routes. Elements of
a larger patrol can also be effectively "dropped off" at a predesignated
location to establish an ambush site, without compromising their location
or the mission of the original patrol, After entry into the ambush area,
the route followed by the ambush patrol is carefully screened to remove all
evidence of its passage. In planning the withdrawal, alternate routes are
selected to reduce the probability of enemy forces blocking the withdrawal.
Security is posted to the rear as well as to the flanks to cover the
patrol's movement during all phases of the ambush, including withdrawal.
254
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 5205
255
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 5205 FMFM 6-4
256
Provided by www.marines.cc
_.
c
5301. GENERAL
Training.
Coordination.
f. Control measures.
9. Support.
h. Supervision.
'
I. Debriefing.
257
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 5302 l+lFM 6-4
(3) The general patrol route may be prescribed through the use
of checkpoints. Normally, a report is made upon reaching each checkpoint.
The exact route is seldom prescribed, except in route reconnaissance or
when very close control of patrol movement is required.
259
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 5303 FMFM 6-4
PATROLREPORT
(OMIT HEADING(S)NOT APPLICABLE)
TO: ......................
(DESCRPTIONOFTHE TERRAIN--DRY,
SIZE AND COMPOSITIONOF PATROL SWAMPY, JUNGLE, THICKLYWOODED,
HIGHBRUSH, ROCKY, DEEPNESSOF
TASK RAVINESANDDRAWS;CONDITIONOF
BRIDGESASTOTYPE, SIZE,AND
TIMEOFDEPARTURE STRENGTH;EFFECTON ARMORAND
WHEELEDVEHICLES.)
TIMEOFRETURN
(STRENGTH, DISPOSITION,CONDITION
OFDEFENSE, EQUIPMENT,
ATTITUDE, MORALE, EXACTLOCATION,
MOVEMENTS, AND ANY SHIFTINDISPOSITION,
IDENTIFICATIONS,
ENEMYCASUALTIES;
ENEMY CAPTUREDDOCUMENTSANDEQUIPMENT.)
CONDITIONOFPATROLINCLUDINGDISPOSITIONOFANYDEADORWOUNDED
CONCLUSIONSANDRECOMMENDATIONS
INTERROGATOR TIME
3. DlSTRIBUTION
260
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFl4 6-4 Par. 5402
5401. GENERAL
261
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 5402 FMFM 6-4
262
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 5403
263
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 5501 FMFM 6-4
5501. GENERAL
b. The use of the thrust line and thrust point systems of coordi-
nates in patrolling.
(5) The route to the tentative base site is selected by the use
of photos, maps, and ground and aerial reconnaissance when practicable.
264
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 5502
(b) Two patrols can pass as one by combining and then sep-
aratina when remote from visual observation. One element can detach itself
and remain in ambush for a brief period to see if they are being followed.
265
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 5503 FMFM 6-4
(1) The forces to occupy the patrol base do not enter the site
until it has been scouted and the patrol base commander has checked the
site for suitability.
(2) Upon entering the patrol base site, forces immediately form
a perimeter defense, dispatch local patrols around the perimeter, establish
outposts/listening posts, and dig in if necessary.
OR
BASE POINT
h
i/ BASE POINT
266
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 5503
L
I
\ RUINS
i
\
I
\
R
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 5503 FMFM 6-4
01 02
64
BASEPOINT
(2) Once the thrust line has been established, the location of
any point can be described by its distance forward (F) or back (B) from the
base point and its distance right CR) or left (L) from the thrust line.
The map reader assumes that he is standing at the base point facing the
direction of the thrust line. Right and left remain constant, In figure
58, the water tower 1s back from the base point and left from the thrust
line.
(3) Distances forward or back from the base point are measured
along the thrust line. Distances right or left from the thrust line are
always measured perpendicular (90 degrees) from the thrust line. These
distances are always stated in units of horizontal ground distance, hundreds
of meters; therefore, they are most easily determined by the use of the
paper strip and graphic scale. Position the paper strip and make tick
marks as shown in figure 59.
(4) After making the tick marks on the paper strip, use the
graphic scale to measure the distance in meters. Then convert these drs-
tances to the required unit of measure for thrust lines! hundreds of meters.
A feature locilted 1,340 meters forward from the base pornt and 970 meters
left from the thrust line would be reported as "F13.40, L9.70."
269
Provided by www.marines.cc
Provided by www.marines.cc
_----&_
CHAPTER 6
COUNTERINSURGENCY
Section I. INTRODUCTION
6101. GENERAL
a. Background
271
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 6102 FMFM 6-4
b. U.S. Advisors
4
272
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 6103
6103. ORGANIZATION
(2) Military.
(3) Police.
(4) Paramilitary.
273
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 6104 FMFM 6-4
a. Military
b. Police
(3) Special police are recruited and trained for special tasks
such as civil guards for factories, mines, plantations, ranches, and
railroads. Special police may man outposts or police posts in isolated
t
274
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 6105
C. Paramilitary Forces
Other AsSetS
275
Provided by www.marines.cc
_
a. Mission
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 6201
(51 Counterintelligence.
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 6203 FMFM 6-4
under guard and for the parking of vehicles for search and investigation.
Small units are concealed in the vicinity to apprehend those attempting to
avoid the checkpoint. Elements of the company must be trained and rehearsed
so as to be capable of establishing a roadblock in a short period of time
at any hour. The processing of personnel, and vehicles at the roadblock,
is as rapid and efficient as possible. The attitude of the personnel con-
ducting the operation is impersonal. The search is thorough. FMFM 6-5,
Marine Rifle Squad, provides a discussion of individual and vehicle search.
280
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 6204
6204. INTELLIGENCE
a. General
281
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 6204 FMFM 6-4
283
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 6205 FMFM 6-4
284
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 62.05
(1) Reaction
285
I Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 6205 FMFM 6-4
(2) Encirclement
286 '
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 6205
287
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 6205 FMFM 6-4
t I
FIRST BISECTION
SECONDBISECTION
289
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 6205 FMFM 6-4
LEGEND:
BLOCKINGORAMBUSHPOSITIONS
0
290
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 6206
291
Provided by www.marines.cc
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 7101
CHAPTER 7
DOMESTIC EMERGENCIES
Section I. INTRODUCTION
7101. GENERAL
293
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 7102 FM!?M 6-4
68))
b. Definitions
(4) Mob. --A mob is a crowd whose members, under the stimulus
of intense excitGi&t or agitation, lose their sense of reason and respect
for law, and follow leaders in lawless acts.
Mob Actions
(2) Mob actions may include verbal abuse in the form of obscene
remarks, taunts, ridicule, and jeers. Objects may be thrown at troops from
various vantage points such as windows and roofs of buildings. Objects or
vehicles may be rolled against troops and buildings set afire to block the
advance of troops or create confusion or diversion. Leaders of the mob may
direct that weapons be fired against troops, IncitIng the mob to more dar-
ing and violent action.
294
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 7201
295
Provided by www.marines.cc
-
296
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 7202
When the company is not ordered to move immediately, personnel are allowed
as much rest as possible. They are thoroughly briefed on the situation
and probable mission.
(1) The alert plan may be employed in the event of fire, dis-
aster, attack, movement, tactical operation, or civil disturbance.
(c) Uniform.
(d) weapons.
(e) Ammunition.
(h) Supplies.
(i) Vehicles.
(1) Security.
b 297
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 7203 FMFM 6-4
@;ri
(1) Line
(3) Wedge
b. Control
(1) Cadences
298
Provided by www.marines.cc
_
299
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 7203 FMFM 6-4
1st 3rd
000000000000000000000000
g 63 @ g
v h2l
300
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 7203
301
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 7203 FMFM 6-4
k0000000~0000
1st
\/000000000000
3d
>
000000000000 I
@ @ @
302
Provided by www.marines.cc
1
F&fFM 6-4 Par. 7203
GB
(b) Execution.--Immediately following the platoon command-
er's preparatory command, the squad leader of the first squad commands,
"FOLLOW ME." The squad leaders of the second and third squads command,
"STAND FAST." At the command of execution, the first squad moves out and
executes an echelon right at the location designated. As each squad clears
the column, the next successive squad moves out individually and extends
the echelon already formed by the preceding squad(s).
I .
(b) Execution.--Immediately following the preparatory
ucmmand, each platoon commander gives the command, "PLATOON AS SKIRMISHERS."
The squad leaders follow with their respective commands to their squads to
form the platoon line. At the command of execution, each platoon estab-
lishes a platoon line immediately to its front. (See fig. 71.) Should the
company commander desire a more formidable formation, he gives the command,
"SECOND PLATOON, CLOSE SUPPORT, MOVE."
303
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 7203 FMFM 6-4
6
@
304
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 7203
The second platoon moves forward and covers the intervals between the men
of the leading platoon and automatically assumes the same position as the
men of the leading platoon, which will normally be the ON GUARD position.
The third platoon then moves forward to occupy the position vacated by the
second platoon.
b 305
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 7204 FMFM 6-4
7204. OPERATIONS
a. General
306
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 7204
b. Initial Action
307
Provided by www.marines.cc
Par. 7204 FMFM 6-4
(1) Show of Force. --TO use the show of force to the greatest
advantage against mobs, Marine units should make a surprise, formidable
appearance. To ensure this, the following procedures are used:
(e) If the mob does not comply within the specified time,
the commander then employs whatever measures are necessary to disperse them.
308
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 7204
!.
309
Provided by www.marines.cc
Provided by www.marines.cc
FMFM 6-4 Par. 8102
CHAPTER 8
AUXILIARY OPERATIONS
Section I. INTRODUCTION
8101 . GENERAL
8102. SCOPE
311
Par. 8102 FMFM 6-4
00
(6) Bivouacs.
312
FMFM 6-4 Par. 8201
8201. GENERAL
(4) Arrangements are made for the control of units moving into
and out of the area.
(d) Guides.
(5) The unit being relieved transfers to the relieving unit all
information and intelligence concerning the enemy and the area of opera-
tions. Any essential element of information required by the relieving unit
is obtained by the unit being relieved.
313
Par. 8202 FMFM 6-4
(2) The commander of the incoming company and his platoon com-
manders take liaison personnel forward with them on their reconnaissance
and arrange to leave them on the positions to be occupied. The liaison
personnel keep informed of all changes occurring after the reconnaissance.
when practicable, liaison personnel from the outgoing unit remain on the
position long enough to further orient the newly committed unit commanders.
314
FMFM 6-4 Par. 8202
rifle company commander usually does the same. Attachments during the
relief are generally made for the movement only.
(7) The relief order follows the sequence of the standard oper-
ation order and includes the following:
(c) Routes.
(d) Attachments.
315
-. ._
(6) Provisions for guides for each squad size unit from the
unit in position if the tactical situation permits.
316
FMFM 6-4 Par. 8203
8301. GENERAL
8302. PLANNING
8303. CONDUCT
8401. GENERAL
.
A retrograde operation is any movement of a command to the rear or
away from the enemy. It may be forced by the enemy or it may be made
voluntarily. Such movements are classified as withdrawals, retirements,
or delaying actions. Since any retrograde operation is dependent upon the
. situation and plan of action involving the force as a whole, proper exe-
cution is carried out in accordance with plans and orders of higher echelons.
The withdrawal of platoons and companies can, therefore, be accomplished in
the manner prescribed by orders of the battalion. These orders may be
fragmentary and may be issued by staff officers in the name of the commander
when there is not adequate time for detailed planning. The movement may be
made by foot, vehicle, helicopter, or a combination of these means.
319
Par. 8401 FMFM 6-4
enemy. Efforts are made to canalize the enemy and force him to mass so he
can be destroyed by fires.
320
FMFM 6-4 Par. 8402
P
8402. WITHDRAWAL ACTION
a. General
321
Par. 8402 FMFt4 6-4
(2) Planning
322
FMFM 6-4 Par. 8402
323
Par. 8402 PMFM 6-4
plus about one-half of the weapons platoon. Normally, one rifle squad is
left in each frontline platoon area. As a platoon withdraws, the squad left
in place adjusts positions as necessary to cover the most dangerous enemy
approaches into the platoon defense area and provides close-in protectron for
weapons platoon elements. A squad from the reserve platoon may patrol the
company rear area or block a dangerous approach into the flank or rear.
(4) Conduct
324
FMFM 6-4 Par. 8402
Planning
tions. Company organic weapons are attached to the platoons in whose areas
they are located.
(f) The platoon comra.ders determine the probable order of
withdrawal of elements of their platoons, and they may select tentative
,
rallying points along tne route or wrtnardwa~.
(3) Conduct
325
Par. 8403 FMFM 6-4
the most heavily or least heavily engaged unit first is a difficult one.
To withdraw the most heavily engaged units first may subject the entire
command to encirclement or destruction. To withdraw the least heavily
engaged units first may result in the loss of all or part of the most
heavily engaged units. The decision must ultimately be based on determin-
ing which plan best contributes to the overall accomplishment of the mis-
sion and which best preserves unit integrity. Supporting fires and smoke
are used and a limited objective attack may be executed to extricate heavily
engaged units.
a. General
(3) The mission may direct the delaying force to hold the enemy
beyond a definite line until a stated time. The reason for the action is
normally announced. The delaying force may conduct the operation from a
single position or successive positions.
(4) During the conduct of the action, the delaying force main-
tains contact with the enemy. It delays to the maximum between, as well as
on, successive positions. It takes advantage of all obstacles and employs
maximum fire at long range.
327
Par. 8404 FMFM 6-4
block key approaches and take advantage of natural and artificial obstacles.
If the assigned frontage allows him to retain a reserve, he uses it as the
company covering force.
c. Conduct
8404. RETIREMENT
a. A retirement is retrograde movement which a withdraws
without pressure. It be made action or no contact
the enemy been made. a withdrawal, movement becomes
retirement after main forces broken contact the enemy
march columns been formed.
@
328
FMFM 6-4 Par. 8404
329
Par. 8501 FMFM 6-4
8501. GENERAL
330
FMFM 6-4 Par. 8503
331
Par. 8504 FMFM 6-4
(2) Its composition may include phony mines or may have the
earth disturbed and the area littered with evidence of mining. Real mines
are not used.
332
-
b. Mine Cluster
333
Par. 8505 FMFM 6-4
ENEMY
(4) The standard row and strip are used in a manner most suit-
able for the situation. Single strips may be used as needed; for example,
in perimeter security, roadblock, and route mining. However, the typical
minefield should be used whenever feasible and time permits.
334
FMFM 6-4 Par. 8506
Supervisory
Personnel 1 1 Offmer: Map,lensatic
compass,
notebook,and DAForm 1355
NCO: notebook,and
lensatic
compass
Siting
Party 1 3 Stakesor pickets,sledges,
Hammers, on
reels,and nailstopegtape
Party 1 2 Sketching
squlpment,1ensatiC
compass,DAForm 1355,map
sndmetrictspe
TOTALS 1 7 25to 31
335
Par. 8506 FMFM 6-4
Q)
I
c.
!
Figure 78.--Laying Out Strip A and Establishing Mine Dumps.
338
FMFM 6-4 Par. 8506
(2) The NC0 then goes to the right-hand boundary stake of the
strip and forms his layers in two columns to his rear, 6 paces apart.
The NC0 then steps off along the centerline; he stops at 3 paces. With
his right arm pointing in the direction of the enemy, he indicates the place-
ment of the first mine. The NC0 next steps off the next 3 paces and,
with his left arm, indicates the friendly side of the strip. The first
layer on that side places a mine on the ground. As the initial load of
mines is laid, each layer returns to the nearest mine dump for another load.
Fuzers work behind layers inserting fuses and/or detonators (minus safety
clips) in the antitank mines and placing the arming dial, on mines so
equipped, on "safe." Fuze safety clips are turned over to the NCO. This
procedure is followed until the left-hand boundary stake of the strip is
reached. Then, the NC0 orders layers to obtain antipersonnel mines from
a mine dump and tells them the number and types of mines to be placed next
to the base mine of each cluster. As antipersonnel mines are being placed,
the NC0 proceeds along the strip placing all mines in each cluster where
he wants them. He places a spool of tripwire next to each mine that is to
be tripwire actuated. He indicates antitank mines which are to be equipped
with antihandling devices by turning them upside down.
(3) When all mines are fused, layers return to the starting
point for shovels. Each man is assigned to dig holes for all mines in one
cluster. Spoil from the holes in one cluster is placed in a sandbag and
left beside one of the holes. Each digger checks the positioning of mines
in the holes but leaves the mines beside holes. Diggers anchor tripwires
with nails or stakes and wrap loose ends around fuses. When digging has
progressed at least 25 meters from the starting point, the arming operation
begins. One man arms all the mines in a cluster, beginning with the mine
farthest from the centerline and working back. He places mines in holes,
attaches tripwires, covers and camouflages each mine, removes safety clips,
then places sandbags containing spoil on the centerline tape opposite the
base mine of the cluster. Individuals arming mines keep their feet toward
the centerline and stay at least 25 meters from other personnel at all
times. When a cluster contains a mine to be equipped with an antihandling
device, the cluster is usually left unarmed until all clusters within 40
meters are armed and all personnel are a safe distance away. Mines located
in lanes are not buried. They are placed there to prevent confusion in
keeping the cluster numbers straight. The holes are filled in and the
mines are carried to the lane entrance. Fuzers give their safety clips to
the NC0 who verifies the count. After all mines are armed and concealed,
the NC0 checks the strip and organizes his party to pick up sandbags, tapes,
and debris. Upon completion of this task, he turns over the safety clips
to the platoon sergeant who assigns him other duties such installing
another strip, if required.
(1) The officer in charge informs the NC0 of the laying party
assigned to the IOE of the total number of mines to be installed and indi-
cates the areas where the heaviest concentrations of clusters are to be
laid. TIE NCO then decides on the composition of each cluster. Unlike the
clusters in the regular strip, clusters in the IOE differ from each other
in type and number of mines.
(2) The procedure followed is basically the same as that de-
scribed in subparagraph 8506c, but the NC0 does not have a mine laid at
every 3-pace interval. Along the less likely avenues of enemy approach,
339
Par. 8507 FMFM 6-4
EXPLANATIONOFCONTENTS
] Tactical
ObJeCtiveS 1
Types of
ofLanes,ifknown CHARLIE
Coordinates
ofMinefield DELTA
Eshmated Starting
and Completion
Tune and Dates ECHO
340
FMFM 6-4 Par. 8507
ChangesinInformationSubmitted
in to Lay Report ALPHA
TotalNumberandTypeofAT&
AP MinesLaid BRAVO I I
Date&Time ofCompletion CHARLIE
Details
ofLanes & Gaps
TheirMarkings ECHO
Details
ofPernneterMarking FOXTROT
OverlayShowingPerimeter,Lanes,
and Gaps GOLF
Laymg Signature
ofInd. HOTEL
Authorizing
LayingofField
341
Par. 8507 FMPM 6-4
t
342
FMFM 6-4 Par. 8508
1
b. Individual mines and boobytraps are most often detected by visual
means. bv orobino. or bv electrical detection. Knowledae of the mine habits
of a particular enemy o&en aids in locating his mines.- The following are
likely locations for mines:
(3) On road shoulders where mines are easily laid and camou-
flaged.
(7) Near any unusual object which may have been placed by the
enemy for his own use such as a minefield marker.
t
344
FMFM 6-4 Par. 8603
8601. GENERAL
8603. TRAINING
345
Par. 9603 ??MFM 6-4
t
346
.I FMFM 6-4 Par. 8604
P
(e) Operate its detection and protective equipment.
b 347
I
Par. 8605 FMFM 6-4
348
FMFM 6-4 Par. 8606
349
Par. 8701 FMFM 6-4
Q
Section VII. BIVOUACS
350
c
FMFM 6-4 par. 8704
a. When the bivouac site has been selected and prior to the arrival
of the company, the quartering party performs the following functions:
(1) Selects areas within the bivouac site for each platoon.
(4) Selects galley site near the road, as near the water supply
as possible, and with adequate drainage.
8704. SECURITY
a. The rifle company may provide for the security of its bivouac or
may be assigned the mission of establishing security for the battalion in
bivouac. In either case, the security system established is similar.
351
Par. 8704 FMFM 6-4
emplaced within the outguard Locations. They cover likely avenues of ap-
proach and protect the bivouac site with flanking fire. (See fig. 84.)
The outguards are positioned on terrain which affords long-range observa-
tion and fields of fire covering the avenues of approach to the bivouac
site. They establish security posts as necessary to maintain unit security.
Patrols are extensively employed between adjacent outguards, between out-
guards and their security posts, and between outposts to further enhance
security.
352
FMFM 6-4 Par. 8704
Positioning and organization of detached posts are undertaken when the ter-
rain proximate to the bivouac site affords avenues for the rapid incursion
of mechanized forces or armor. A detached post is similar in organization
to an outpost except that its supporting weapons are assigned sectors of
fire covering the avenue of approach.
353
FMFM 6-4 *PP. *
APPENDIX A
TARE NOTES.
1. SITUATION
2. MISSION
3. EXECUTION
a. General
355
APP. A FMFM 6-4
Scale1 50,000
356
FMFM 6-4 APP. A
f. Coordinating Instructions
4. SERVICE SUPPORT
a. Red smoke and red star clusters to 1st Platoon as signals. Green
smoke and green star clusters to 3d Platoon.
357
WP. A FMFM 6-4
Ori.;ie~:t.~:, (Refer to fig. 85.) Note the hard surface road to our
left. Route Il. About 750 meters to the front you can see
some high ground with a grove of trees on it just to the right of Route #l.
The map shows a dirt road running southwest from Route #l on the high
ground. That high ground, its extension to the dirt road and to the south-
west for 100 meters, is Company Objective 1. About 350 meters from here
you can see a ridge running across the company front, that ridge is Phase
Line Green. The portion of the ridge in our zone of action is Platoon Ob-
jective A. Note the woods on our left and the woods to the right front.
The left boundary of the platoon zone of action is 30 meters into the woods
on the left. My map shows high ground 800 meters to the right front of
Objective 1. That high ground is Company Objective 2. The battalion ob-
jective is beyond that about another 600 meters.
TAKE NOTES.
2. MISSION
3. EXECUTION
a. General
(1) We will attack initially with one rifle squad to envelop Ob-
3ective A from the right. After moving the remainder of the
platoon up, continue the attack on my order and seize Objective
1 by a frontal attack with two rifle squads.
(2) For the initial attack on Platoon Objective A, two rifle squads
will orovide a base of fire and the assault squad is in seneral
support. When we attack Objective 1, one rifie squad and the
assault squad will provide a base of fire. The company's machin-
guns also support by fire, the attack on Objective 1 from the
358
FMFM 6-4 APP. A
Coordinating Instructions
(2) For the attack on Platoon Objective A, the base of fire will
fire only on my command and will not fire into the treeline on
the right or to the left of that fence: both squads' sectors
of fire cover the entire objective and cease fire on the signal
for the assault to commence. 1st squad leader is assault com-
mander and designates the final coordination line.
4. SERVICE SUPPORT
a. Carry two grenades per man and basic allowance per weapon.
359
APP. A FMFM 6-4
e
5. COMMAND AND SIGNAL
a. Signal:
(1) Signal to commence the assault and cease the base of fire for
Platoon Objective A is red smoke. For Objective 1, the assault
commences and the base of fire ceases (the company's machine-
guns will shift fires) on a red star cluster.
(2) Hand and arm signals will be used to displace the base of fire
on Platoon Objective A and on Objective 1.
1. SITUATION
2. MISSION
a. General
f. Coordinating Instructions
(4) Base of fire. Do not fire below that rock and cease fire on
signal for the assault to begin. Don't fire outside zone of
action.
a. Signal
(1) Watch me for the signal to begin the attack. We move out im-
mediately following the completion of the artillery fire on the
objective.
(2) Otherwise, no change. Remember. Watch for the red star cluster
to cease the base of fire and commence the assault.
1. SITUATION
2. MISSION
3. EXECUTION
a. General
(1) The company continues the attack from present Positions with
two platoons abreast and one in reserve and seizes Battalion
Objective A by frontal attack.
361
App. A FMFM 6-4
f. Coordinating Instructions
(3) The tentative final coordination line is the draw 150 meters 6
forward of Battalion Objective 1. Each attacking platoon
signal when you are ready to begin the assault.
a. Signal.--No change. 1st Platoon use red star clusters to signal for
beginning the assault. 2d Platoon get green star clusters from the
3d Platoon and use them to signal beginning of your assault.
Orientation: (Refer to fig. 86.) Break out your maps. Our approximate
location is coordinates ------. The direction we are facing is east. The
ridge we are located on runs generally north and south. The east (forward)
military crest of the ridge is the trace of the FEBA. The hard surface
road running into the FEBA from the east is Route #8. The stream which
parallels the FEBA is John's Branch. Note the bridge on Route 118Spanning
the branch. Note the powerline trail leading into the left front. Our
FMFM 6-4 APP. A
right boundary 1s 500 meters right of Route #8. Both boundaries extend to
the forward military crest of the next ridge to our front. The company
rear boundary is 500 meters to the rear of the FEBA. The forward defense
area extends 200 meters to the rear of the FEBA.
TAKE NOTES.
1. SITUATION
363
App. A FMFM 6-4
f
2. MISSION
Company "A" occupies and defends the center portion of the battalion
battle area.
3. EXECUTION
a. General
(1) We will defend on the forward slope with two rifle platoons
up and one in reserve.
f. Coordinating Instructions
364
F
FMFM 6-4 Am- A
3
(5) Priority of work:
4. SERVICE SUPPORT
365
APL’. A FMFM 6-4
TAKE NOTES.
1. SITUATION
b. Our company occupies and defends the center portion of the battalion
battle area. 2d Platoon is on our right and Comoanv C is on our
left, in the woods. The 3d Platoon is in company reserve and will
be sending out patrols to our front after 1400. Elements of the 3d
Battalion have established the combat outpost 1500 meters to our
front. Weapons platoon is in general support with one machinegun
squad and one assault squad in our defense area. An artillery-bat-
talion is in general support of the regiment.
2. MISSION
This platoon occupies and defends the left portion of the company
forward defense area.
3. EXECUTION
a. General
(1) We will occupy our positions
_ _ and defend with three rifle squads
arceast squaa supplementary positions
will be prepared to protect both flanks of the platoons.
(2) We have a machinegun FPL extending from the left flank across
our front to the power line. The assault squad positioned in
our area will cover the oower line trail. In addition. 81mm
mortar FPF's #6 and 17 are planned on the power line in our
portion of the security area as indicated here on my map. The
company's 6Omm mortar FPF's will be used to fill any gaps or
dead spaces after we get established.
b. 1st Squad.--Occupy and defend in the left portion of the platoon
defense area a position extending from 50 meters this side of our
left boundary, right 150 meters. sector Of fire: left limit--
that large dead tree (point), right limit--five fingers left of
the double power pole to your right front. Establish two-man
366
FMFM 6-4 APP. A
P
sentinel post in the trees beyond John's Branch. Establish two-
man listening post in the tree line this side of the Branch at
dusk. Prepare a supplementary position to your left rear facing
north.
e. Coordinating Instructions
(7) Relieve sentinel posts every 4 hours and listening posts every
2 hours.
3 367
APP. A FMFM 6-4
4. SERVICE SUPPORT
a. Signals
(3) SOP pull wire signals for security posts if net fails.
b. Platoon wire net will be laid to squad leaders and security posts
as primary communications Squads use messenger if wire fails.
Orientation: (Refer to fig. 87.) Break out your maps. We are pres-
ently located at coordinates 821774. Note the hard surface road running
southwest. That road is Route 118. The start point is the junction of
Route 18 and this dirt trail. Note the stream crossing the hard surface
368
FMFM 6-4 APP. A
TAKE NOTES.
1. SITUATION
369
APP. A FMFM 6-4
There are screening elements to the front about 5,000 meters. Com-
pany "C" follows 600 meters to our rear at the head of the main body.
B Battery l/10 is in direct support.
2. MISSION
3. EXECUTION
a. General
(1) We will move out in a tactical column along the assigned march
route t0 assembly area DELTA. One platoon moves as advance
party and the remainder of the company follows in column as
the support.
b. 1st Platoon.--With one machinegun squad and one assault squad at-
tached; advance party. Revert to rear platoon of the support on my
order.
h. Coordinating Instructions
370
FMFM 6-4 APP. A
(13) Confirm all march control measures‘ from my map before you
leave.
4 SERVICE SUPPORT
c. command group moves at the head of the support. I will move with
the command group.
371
FMFM 6-4 App. A
‘B
(4) Rate of march--106 paces per minute. 2d Squad leader is pacer.
(11) Confirm all march control measures from my map before you leave.
4. SERVICE SUPPORT
9 5. COMMAND
AND SIGNAL
373
FMFM 6-4 APP. B
APPENDIX B
APPENDIX C
OVERLAY TECHNIQUES
1. GENERAL
2. MILITARY SYMBOLS
(a) A unit: I
311
App. C FMFM 6-4
(b) Armor
Weapons
(1) Symbols are also used to indicate the type and location of a
weapon or group of weapons. When a weapon symbol appears on a map or over-
lay, the base of the shaft indicates the location of the weapon.
(2) Most weapons are derived from the following basic symbols:
378 c
FMFM 6-4 APP. C
4 155
!i! 8
&4\on A group of four tracked,
self-propelled 155mm cannons
3. CONTROL MEASURES
379
APP. C FMFM 6-4
@‘
(8) Coordinated fire line CFL CFL
b. Control points are drawn on the selected terrain feature and identi-
fied as follows:
4. FIRE PLANS
a. Sector of Fire
Sector of Fire
Examples:
T I3
380
.g FMFM 6-4 APP. c
b. Direction of Fire
Example: --fll;I
Final protective line for a single machinegun.
(4) The final protective line symbol is usually combined with the
sector of fire and weapon symbols.
Examples: /a
/
/
/ --+
A final protective line and sector of fire for a Single
machinegun (machinegun team).
/3
/\'2
/ +
A final protective line and sector of fire for a machinegun
squad (two machinguns).
Targets
AA1070
(1) Point targets of less than 100 yards
+
AA1080
(2) Linear targets I-{
381
FMFM 6-4
#p
A/1/10
t I
(FPF assigned Battery A, 1st Battalion, 10th Marines)
382
FMFM 6-4 APP. D
APPENDIX D
(1) The ambush lasts the minimum time necessary to accomplish the
mission.
(2) The ambush occurs in two phases, a short period of heavy fire
followed by an assault of the ambushed vehicles to capture equipment, com-
plete the annihilation of personnel, and to destroy vehicles.
(3) The basic ambush weapons are small arms. These may be aug-
mented by machineguns, rocket launchers, and recoilless rifles.
383
APP. D FMFM 6-4
(3) Sandbags are placed on the floorboards and bed of the vehicle.
For the M35, 6x6 truck, a single row of sandbags, stacked five layers high
down each side of the truck above the layer in the bed of the truck, pro-
vldes protection from most small arms. A total of 70 to 100 sandbags are
requxed for each truck. This load plus troop and equipment weight permits
off-highway operation without undue wear on the vehicle. A wooden bench
or packs rigged down the middle of the bed provide the troops with seats.
(See fig. 88.)
Q
384
FMFM 6-4 APP. B
(3) Rour corner sentries are positioned in the bed of the vehicle.
The two at the front observe an arc of 90 degrees from the front to each
side. When possible, each sentry should be armed with an automatic rifle.
These sentries fire immediately from their positions within the vehicle,
should the vehicle be ambushed. Their fire covers the debarkation of the
occupants should the vehicle be halted in the ambush killing area. They
also assist in convoy control by notifying the vehicle commander of any
disruption of the convoy formation.
(6) The maximum number of men in the bed of a hardened M35, 6x6
truck should not exceed 13. (See fig. 89.)
(2) Timings.
(3) Route.
(4) Speed.
385
APP. D FMFM 6-4
(c) When vehicles are clear of the killing zone, they are
halted. Occupants dismount and take immediate offensive actlon aoainst
the enemy positions.
4
386
E'MFM 6-4 APP. D
(1) In actions when no troops have entered the killing zone, the
convoy commander launches an immediate flanking attack on the enemy posi-
tion, "sing supporting fires from machineguns and mortars.
(2) In actions where a portion of the vehicles are ahead and out of
the klllinq zone and the remainder are halted short of the zone, the portion
which has not yet entered the killing zone initiates the flanking attack.
If the convoy commander is not present, the senior vehicle commander takes
command and directs the attack. Troops in vehicles which are ahead of the
killing zone dismount and, under the command of the senior vehicle commander,
return to the vicinity of the killing zone and exploit the situation.
(3) The best way in which an armored vehicle can assist in counter-
ambush actlon 1s by moving into the killing zone to engage the enemy at
short range. In this way it can give good covering fire to the flanking
attack or provide protection for those troops caught in the killing zone.
387
APP. D FMFM 6-4
thus overcome and immediate offensive action against the enemy is more
likely to be effective. When the vehicle is halted, actions are as follows:
(6) When all occupants are out of the vehicle, action is taken in
accordance with paragraph f(3).
389
APP. D FMFM 6-4
It is essential that the entire unit move to the same side of the trail.
C!
Speed of execution and silent movement are mandatory. Any unnatural sound
may cause the guerrillas to turn and flee. Each man takes up a firing
positron facing the direction of enemy approach. The unit leader initiates
the ambush by firing his weapon. In the event the guerrillas sight any
unit member, that individual fires and springs the ambush.
(1) The drill is usually initiated by the first member of the unit
who sights the enemy. He fires at the enemy and shouts a prearranged signal
indicating the direction of the encounter; e.g., "enemy front (left, right),
charge."
(3) The unit adopts the line formation. The line is oriented in
the indicated direction of contact. A predesignated subordinate unit is
withheld from the line to protect the flanks and rear.
390
FMFM 6-4 App. p
4. SEARCH TECRNIPrJES
391
APP. D FMFM 6-4
aim. The aim may be psychological warfare, a show of force and support, or
apprehending guerrillas based on intelligence information received. Patrols
are never sent into villages with vague, general orders, with neither the
patrol leader, nor his troops, nor the villagers themselves being clear on
the precise aim of the intrusion. This results in a wide scale of effects,
ranging from ineptitude and a laughing guerrilla to excesses and a village
population driven to resentment.
2 Tunnels?
1 Number?
2 Religion or religions?
@
392
FMFM 6-4 APP. n
Yl
2 Industry? Rice, timber, etc.?
1. Reconnaissance team.
2 Search teams.
4
- Prisoner-of-war team.
393
/
APP. D FMFM 6-4
Q
0
394
FMFM 6-4 APP. D
335
FMFM 6-4 APP. E
‘I
APPENDIX E
1. GENERAL
During the training period, the platoon commander will ensure that all
personnel are instructed by battalion medical personnel in basic first aid
for battle wounds. Further, the individual Marine should be taught that,
if wounded, he must remain calm. If his wound is minor, he or his buddy
should apply a battle dressing and continue to deliver fire until the action
lessens. If more seriously wounded, he should make his way, if able, to a
place of relative safety and have the word passed for the platoon corpsman.
If unable to move, his buddy may assist him. Such movement should be out
of the direct line of fire. The ability of a buddy to give aid is dependent
on the tactical situation.
3. PLATOON CORPSMEN
397
APP. E FMFM 6-4
c. While giving first aid, the platoon corpsman will decide whether or
not the condition of the casulaty is serious enough to demand evacuation.
If in the corpsman's judgment the condition of the casualty so demands, he
will direct the casualty to the route of evacuation or, if litter bearers
are necessary, will contact the litter squads by voice, runner, platoon
radio, or field phone. The platoon commander must be aware that certain
types of casualties demand high priority of evacuation if they are to have
the best chance of survival (penetrating wounds of the abdomen, etc.), and
that the corpsman's judgment should be adhered to on such occasions, when-
ever the tactical situation allows.
5. COMPANY CORPSMAN
Q
398
I. -
P
:,
6. LITTER BEARERS
(2) Litter bearers are vital from the standpoint of the survival
of the casualty, in the maintenance of good morale, and most of all, to
prevent loss of firepower to the assaulting platoons. Provisions for
litter bearers must be included in plans.
7. AMBULANCES
399
APP. E FMFM b-4
station or command post area from the front when ambulances are not imme-
diately available.
8. HELICOPTER EVACUATION
landing point for the helicopter. Unit SOP's may be established so that
the apex of the triangle indicates the direction in which the nose of the
helicopter will point when setting in the zone and also the best direction
for takeoff. Do not shine lights on the helicopter as it approaches, since
this may confuse the pilot in addition to making a better target for the
enemy. - It is obvious that excellent signals and communications are essen-
tial for night evacuation by helicopter.
a. The next medical echelon to the rear is the battalion aid station,
having two medical officers and 21 hospital corpsmen. They are equipped
with one jeep ambulance which works as far forward as possible. The
400
FMFM 6-4 APP. S
‘!
function of the battalion aid station is to give further first aid, check
continued hemorrhage, re-bandage where indicated, apply splints if needed,
and give supportive therapy for shock in the form of plasma and serum
albumen in order to put the seriously wounded casualty in condition to
withstand further evacuation.
a. The platoon commander is briefed for the attack by the rifle com-
pany commander; the company corpsman should be present at this conference
to advise on the need for, and the availability of litter bearers, jeeps
and helicopters, and details of routes of evacuation.
401
APP. R FMFM 6-4
a. Take the casualty along with the main body of the patrol. Such
action will be taken when the wound is minor, when the patrol is nearing
its objective, when return route of the patrol is not to be along the route
of original advance, or when the route of evacuation is too insecure to
send him back or leave him at a collecting point with attendants.
(1) Mission.
(4) Distance patrol will probably advance from a base line and
route of return.
a. In the ideal defensive situation, where all units are tied in,
communications to higher echelons are open and close liaison has been
established with all supporting units, casualty care and evacuation should
402
FMFM 6-4 App. E
I.
403
r -
FMFM 6-4
LIST OF REFERENCES
1. JOINT PUBLICATIONS
.
JCS Pub 1, Department of Defense Dictionary of Military and
Associated Terms
S. NAVY PUBLICATIONS
5. ARMY PUBLICATIONS
AR 320-5, Dictionary of United States Army Terms
405
FMFM 6-4
6. STANDARDIZATION AGREEMENTS
406
FMFM 6-4
INDEX
Paragraph s
B
Barrier plan ______________________-_____-____--________ 4302b(3)
211
Base wit _______________--__-____-___-_-_---_-____-____ 3302m
126
Battalion aid station ______________________-___________ APP E 400
Biological, operations ____________________----_____-___- 8606
349
Bivouacs ___________________________-_-______________-__ 8701 350
Organization of site _______________________-_______ 8703 351
Security ____________________________-___--________- 8704 351
Selection of cite ___________________________--_____ 8702 350
407
FMFM 6-4
Paragraph
Boundaries
Defensive ------_-------__--_-~~~~_-~-~~~__~~~~~____ 4103b(l) 198
Offensive ------_---_-___---__~~_---_-~~_~~~~~____~~ 33O*b 121
&--achlng operations -----------___--____-~-~--~~~~~--~~ 8508
343
n__lll .._ _.._~_ attack of ___________________-___-______ 3801
rrulr-up areas, 177
Casualty care and evacuation in the platoon line _-_____ APP E 397
Casualty handling methods --______-_-_________---_-_____
APP E 401
&e&points ------_-__------_____~~~~~~~_____~~~~~______
330211 126
Chemical operations _-----_-______--____~~~~_~~~~~~~____
8605 348
civil disturbances ___---_____________________-_________
7201 295
C,-o"ds and m&s _____-______________________________
7102 294
ncmlnc+iF- -------------_-__========~=~~-~--_______--_
I_~.-___- 720ia 295
Foreign __-_____________________-_______-_________-_
7201d 296
Opera+--o*s -----_-___---_-_____-~~~~~~~~_~~~~~~~~~__
7204 306
Planning and training --_______-__________---_______
7202 296
Riot control formations -______-_-_________-----____
7203 298
Civil-Military Advisory Committee (CMAC) --------------- 6103~ 273
Classification of minefields
Barrier minefield ___--_______________-_-_-----_____ 8503~ 331
Defensive minefield _-____________________--________ 8503b 331
Nuisance minefield __________________________________- 8503d 332
phony minefield _____-_______________-____--_-____-_
8503e 332
protective minefield __________-_____________-______
8503.~ 331
Collection agencies -------------_______~-~-~~~~_~~~____ 1502~ 35
Collection of information -----_______________------____ 1502 33 @?
combat
Operations, counterguerrilla -_-___--_______________ 6205 284
Outpost -------------_______~-~--~~~~~~~~___________ 4204 203
Patrol _-______-____________~~~~~~________--_-__-__- 5203 250
Plans ad orders ------_____-----____---_-__________ 1406 25
Records and reports _-__-_______________-___-_______ 1407 29
Command and control --_---_-_____________~~~~_~_~~~_____ 1401 11
Communication* ------------_--___-_~~~~~~~~~~~~-~~~~~~~~ 1402 12
company corpsman ____________________---___________-_-__ APP E
398
Conduct of the assault --------__________-____--_______- 26OJ_ 87
Helicopterborne _______________________________----- 2602
Paragraph m
Contact points _______________________--___-___________ 330*o 126
Control measures _________________-__~~~_~~~~___~~____~_ APP C 379
Control, ship-to-shore movement ------------------------ 2504 67
Coordinated fire line (CFL) ___-_--____-_______--------- 3302k 125
.
Converging axes attack _____________________-__-__--____ 3503=(2) 164
Counterambush for motorized units ______________________ npp D 383
Co,,nter&tack _______________-____~~~~~-_~~~~_~~~~~~~~~~ 4305~(5) 227
Counterguerrilla operations __________--___--___-------- 6201
276
Co&at operations __________________-_~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 6205
284
Denial of support _____________________--___--____-_ 6206
291
Intelligence _____________________--___--____-____-_ 6204 281
Police operations _____________________~~____~____~_ 6202 278
Security measures _____________________--_-_--____ 6203 280
Counterinsurgency ____________________~~____~____~___~~_ 6101 271
Approach ____________________-~___~~__~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 6102
272
Civil dis+-ur-ances ____________________~~~~~~~_~~~~_ 7201
295
Counterguerrilla operations ------------------------ 6201 216
Forces ____________________-___________--____-___--_ 6105 274
Organization ____________________~~~_~~~~_~~~~___ 6103
273
programs ____________________~~__~~~__~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 6104 274
Counterintelligence _______________________~~__~~~_~__~_ 1585 37
Covering force _____________________~~~~_~~~~__~~~__~~~_ 4202 203
D
af+--ck ______________________~~_~~~~__~~~__~~~~ 3301
Daylight
121
Conduct of the attack ____________________-_____-___ 3307 144
Consolidation ____________________-_____-___-_______ 3308 146
_) Exploitation ____________________--_________--______ 3309 147
Fire support plan __________________________________ 3306 132
Plan of =ttack _______________^_____________________ 3304 127
Preparation for the attack ------------------------- 3303 127
&serve rifle company ____________________~~~~~~~~~~ 3311 150
&serve rifle platoon ____________________~~~~~~~~~~ 3310 148
Scheme of maneuver _______________________-_________ 3305 128
Tactical control measures -------------------------- 3302 121
Debarkation
Amphibious vehicles ____________________~---~~~~-~~~ 2402b(2) (b) 61
Helicopterborne units ______________________________ 24,,2b(l) 59
Lading craft ____________________~~_~~~~~~~-~~---~~ 2402b(2) (a)
59
.._^^
409
FMFM 6-4
Paragraph
Defensive operations (continued)
Perimeter defense ______________________----___--___ 4401 233
Reverse slope defense ______-_______________--___--_ 4501 236
Security forces _____________________-________-_--__ 4201 203
Types of defense _--________--______----_-___-______ 4102 '1
197
Delaying eotions --_-_-_-_-___------_~~--~~~~~~_~~~~~___ 8403 326
Denial of support _-__-_______---__-__~~-~~~~___~~____-- 6206 291
Direction of attack __-________--_______---_____---_____ 3302f 124
Direction of fire _-__--_______--_____~~-~~~~___~~___-__ ~pp C 381
Dissemination of intelligence ____________________---___ 1504 37
Distribution of forces ________--_______________--______ 3104 100
Domestic emergencies -----_-__------____--~-~~~~~--~~~__ 7101 293
Civil disturbances _________-_-________-____--____-_7201 295
G
General outpost ________________--__~_~~-~~~~~-__~-~---~ 4203 203
H
Semer end anvil _____-_-_____________--____-__--_______ 6205c(2) (e)A ;;;
Harrassment, counterguerrilla _______________________-__ 620533
Helicopter
Aveilebillty table -----__-_--_____________-_------- 2507=(l) 73
Employment and assault lending table --------------- 2507c(2) 73
Heliteam wave and serial assignment table ---------- 2507c(3) 73
Landing diagram ________________________-----_______
2507~(4) 75
Training ____________________---___________--_______
31106 195
410
FMFM 6-4
Paragraph
Helicopter control ______________________---___--____--_
25041, 67
Coordination section (KS) ______________________-__ 2504b(2) 67
Coordinator (Airborne) (K(A)) ---------------------- 2504b(4)
Direction center (HDC) _____________________-_______ 2504b(3) z:
Initial terminal guidance teams -------------------- 2504b(5) 67
Tactical air control center (TACC) ----------------- 250433(l) 67
Helicopter evacuation ________________-___~--_~~~_~~~~__ APP E 400
Helicopterborne units in subsequent operations ashore -- 31101 190
Assault _________________________~_____~___~~____~__ 31104 194
concepts __________________^_~~__~~__~~~~~~~~_~~~~__ 31102 190
Night operations ___________________________-_______
31105 194
Planning ____________________-_____-____-___-____-__
31103 190
Training ____________________~~~~~~~~~~-~~~~~~_~~-~~
31106 195
I
Illumination planning _______________-_____-__--____--__
3403g(2) 159
Immediate action drills ______________________--____--__ APP D 388
Implied mission __-____-____________~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 1404a(2) 19
Infiltration ______________________________-___-_-______ 31001 187
Intelligence ________________________________-_-_______ 1501 32
Amphibious operation ___-________________~~~~~~~~~_~ 1507 39
Counter-guerrilla operations _________-__________--__ 6204 281
Counterintelligence ____________________~~~~~~~~~~~~ 1505 37
Helicopterborne operations _____________________--__ 1508 41
Reports _________-__________--_______--____-___-___ 1407c 30
Training _______________________~___~~~~~~~~~_~~~~~~ 1506 38
L
Landing categories ____________________________-________
2505 70
Landing craft and assault amphibious vehicle assignment
table ____________________~~________~___~~____~~~_~~~_~ 2507d(2) 77
Landing documents
2507~ 13
25078 75
2507 72
2507d(5) 79
8505~ 334
3402a(8) 154
Line of departure CLOD) __________________-____--___---_ 3302~ 122
Linkup point _____________________________~~_~~~~~~~-~~~ 33132~ 126
~~~~~~ bearers &,p E
_________________________________________
399
Local securitv _________________________________________
4205 206
Logistics -
Medics1 ____________________~~~~~~~~~~~___~~~~~~~~~~ 1604 44
Motor transport ____________________~~____~__~~~~~~~ 1603 44
Services ____________________________-__-_________-_ 1605 44
supply ____________________~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- 1602 42
411
FMFM 6-4
Paragraph
Maneuver, offensive _____________________-______________ 3105
1
1
198, @!!)j
4801 244
Motor march, administrative ____________________________ 3202c 109
Movement to contact _____________________~__~__~~-~~~-~~ 3201 106
Approach mar-h ________________________--_--________ 3204 118
Assembly area ____________________________-_-_______ 3205 119
Route column ______________________________________~ 3202 107
Tactical col- ___.____________________-_----__-____ 3203 111
Movement to 57
protection ______________________-___________-___ 3502 162
N
412
FMFM 6-4
Paragraph
Nuclear war-are ____-______-_________~~~~~~~~~~_____ 8604
Training ____________________-___-_-_______----_____ 8603
Objective
Control measure ____________________~~__~_~~~~~_____ 33O2h 124
Principle of war __________________________-____-___ 14O3b(l) 16
Offensive maneuver ____________________~~~___~~~~~______ 3105 102
Offensive operations ___________-________-__-_-----_____ 3101 97
Attack of built-up areas ___-________________-______ 3801
Attack of fortified areas ____________________-_____ 3701 173
Daylight attack ____________________--______-_______
3x01 121
Distribution of forces __________________________-__ 3104 100 I
Forms offensive maneuver _____---____-____-_-------- 3105 102 I
Fundamentals ________________________--___________-_ 3102 97
Helicopterborne units in subsequent operations
ashor- __________________________-____________-____ 31101 190
Infiltration _______________________-___________-__- 31001 187
Mechanized infantry attack _________________________ 3601 168
Movement to contact ______________-_____~~~~~~~___~_ 3201 106
Night attack ______________________-_-______---_____ 3401 152
Phases ______________________________-_____-_-______ 3103 98
River crossing operations ____________________-_____ 3901 183
Tank-infantry attack __________________________-____
3501 162
Offensive, principle of war ---------------------------- 1403b(2) 16
0n_call waves ___________-______---------~-~~~----~~~--- 2505a(2) 70
Operations, civil disturbances ------------------------- 7204 306
Organization and duties
Rifle company_____________________--__________--___ 1203, 3
Rifle platoon _-_____--___________~~~~____~~~~~-_~~~ 1202 3
weapons platoon __________________________-__-______ 1203 4
Organization, combat
combat, combat support, and combat service support-- 1301b 8
Standard augmentations ------------------------- 1301a 7
Organization of bivouac sit- ___________-________--_____ 8703 351
overlay techniques _______________________-____---______ App C 377
413
_.i
E'MFM 6-4
@
414
FMFM 6-4
Paragraph
Rifle company
Attack order ____________________-_-__-__-__________ App A 355
Battle area _____________________~~~~~~_~~~~________ 4104a 199
Built-up area defense ____________________~~~~~~~__~ 4602 239
Characteristics ______________________________________ 1103a 1
Command and control ______________-_____-______-_-__ 1401 11
Defense order ________________________--____________ ~pp A 362
Employment _________________________________________ llO& 2
Foma,-d defense area ____________________-_---_--__- 4104~ 199
Fragmentary order ____________________----_--______- APP * 361
Frontline _~__________________~~_~~~_-~_~~-_~~~~~~~~ 4302 208
Intelligence ____________________-_-_-______--______ 1501 32
Logistics ____-_______________~~~~~~~~~_~~_~~~_~~~~~ 1603, 42
Ma,--h ,,,-der ____________________~~~~_~__~_____~____~ 368
APP A
Missions in the defense _____________________-______ 4105 200
Perimeter defense ______________________-___-----_-_ 4402 233
Reseme area ____________________~~~~~~__~__~______~ 4104d 199
Reserve in defense _____________________--_____-___- 4307 229
Reverse slope defense _________________________--___ 4502 236
River line defense ____________________~~~__~~~~~_~~ 4702 242
Security area ____________________~~~____~~~~__~__~~ 4104b 199
Task organization _________________________--______- 1303 9
Rifle platoon
Attack order ___________-_________~~~~~~~~~~~_~~~~~~ 358
APP A
Built-up area defense _--_--__-__-______-_---------- 4603 240
Characteristics ____________________~~~_~~~_~__~~~~~1103b 1
&fe,,se order ____________________~~~~~~~~~~~_~~~_~~ 366
APP A
Employment ____________________~~~~~~~~~~~~~-_~~~_~~ 1104b 2
Fragmentary order ______________________~~_~~_~~~_~~ APP A 360
Frontline ____________________~~__~_~~~_~_~~~__~~_~~ 4303 214
&==h order ____________________~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~--APP A 371
Mission in the defense ____________________--_--_--- 4105b 201
Perimeter defense ______________________~~_~~~_~__~~ 4403 234
Reverse slope defense ____________________---_--_--- 4503 236
River-crossing operations _____________________--__-__--3901 183
c-oncept _____________________~~~_~~_~~~_~~_~~~_~_~~~3902 183
Crossing in assault amphibious vehicles -__-___-__-_ 3903 184
Crossing in boats ______-_______________--__-__-_--- 3904 185
Rocket, tactical employment____________________-____--- 4304C(Z) 223
Route column _-_____-__--__--_--______^______________--- 3202 107
415
FMFM 6-4
Paragraph
Security measures, counterguerrilla operations --------- 6203 280
Security, offensive operations -----------------___----- 3305h 131
Security, principle of war _____________________________ 1403b(9) 17
Serial assignment table ________________________________ 2507d(4) 79
Serial numbers ____________~__-_-----~~~~~~~~~~~____~__~ 2506 71
Shell reports (ShelRep) and crater analysis ------------ 1407d 30
Ship-to-shore movement _-_-___--_-_-_______-----_______- 2501
‘i
416