Battlefield Circulation Control - MSR Regulation and Enforcement
Battlefield Circulation Control - MSR Regulation and Enforcement
Battlefield Circulation Control - MSR Regulation and Enforcement
MP1029 C
EDITION C
4 Credit Hours
SUBCOURSE OVERVIEW
This subcourse reflects the doctrine which was current at the time it was
prepared. In your own work situation, always refer to the latest official
publications.
ACTION: You will identify the procedures for MSR Regulation and
Enforcement: Establishing and operating military police
traffic control posts, holding areas, defiles, checkpoints and
roadblocks, plan and supervise straggler control operations.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section Page
Lesson 4: Plan and Conduct Straggler and Refugee Control Operations . 4-1
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LESSON 1
OVERVIEW
LESSON DESCRIPTION:
In this lesson you will learn the major elements of organization, function,
and procedures used in a highway traffic control system.
REFERENCES: The material contained in this lesson was derived from the
following publications: FM 19-1, FM 19-4, FM 55-10, and FM 55-
30.
INTRODUCTION
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2. BCC Responsibility and Authority.
At corps and higher levels, there are transportation units that contain
an element primarily concerned with highway traffic (Figure 1-1).
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At division level, there is a transportation staff office that perform
this function (Figure 1-2).
a. HTD Functions
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o Formulates and maintains the highway regulation plan and the
traffic circulation plan.
c. Transportation Officer
4. BCC Plans.
a. Types of Plans
There are three major types of plans that are used to assist in BCC.
These plans, when properly coordinated and distributed, allow all affected
units to understand what is going on. The three plans are:
b. Coordination of Plans
Some of the more important, but certainly not all, of the agencies
which might be included, and why, are discussed in the next paragraphs:
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combat plans are and can therefore determine if the regulations/plans will
support or conflict with those operations.
(3) Engineer. The engineers are responsible for road and bridge
maintenance. They also determine bridge and road classifications. Since
the engineer also has many other responsibilities in the division area, he
must balance his commitments, or perhaps request additional engineer
assistance from elsewhere. Coordination allows him to determine both his
priorities and what engineer support is required.
(4) Corps MCC. The corps MCC is responsible for highway traffic
movements in the corps area. How the division plans to use the road net in
its area has an impact on how the corps will use its net, and vice versa.
Both plans must mesh completely to avoid major confusion. The corps MCC
also ensures that a division plan/regulation does not conflict with the
adjacent divisions' plans.
The plan is developed based on the size of the command, the road
network, and the logistical situation. The mission, composition, and
disposition of tactical units also affect the plan. The plan must be fully
coordinated with other staff agencies, and among all levels of commands
involved. In a division, for example, it would be coordinated with the
division staff, host nation representatives, the brigades and division
support command, and with corps. The key word in describing this plan is
"capabilities."
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plan provides highway regulation information to highway users. Normally, it
will include:
o Route designator.
o Direction of movement.
It may also show alternate routes and where new control functions
will be needed if the MSR is blocked.
The traffic control plan is provided to the HTD for inclusion in the
traffic circulation plan. The PM operations section keeps the plan current
and provides changes to the HTD.
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Figure 1-3. Sample Traffic Circulation Plan.
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Figure 1-4. Sample Traffic Control Plan.
5. Movement Credits.
Each column moving over certain portions of the road network must
request a movement credit. The HTD issues movement credits for supervised,
dispatch, and, when needed, reserved routes. Based on the commander's
priorities and the situation, movement credits may also be required for
certain other movements. When this is the case, it will be directed in
local SOPs, orders, or regulations. Movement credits may be issued for one
vehicle or a column of vehicles.
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number is placed, often in chalk or some similar manner, where it can
clearly be seen on the sides and, if possible, on the front of all vehicles
in the convoy. Each element of the number provides certain information.
These numbers, and their meaning, have been standardized in NATO through
STANAG 1059 and STANAG 2154. An example of such a number might be:
25-USV-08.
The first two figures, in this case 25, show the day of the month on
which the movement is to begin. Next are three or more figures that show
the authority that organized the move. The first two letters are the symbol
for the country involved; in this case, the United States. (See Figure 1-5.)
There are several reasons for using such a numbering system. It allows
the column to move along selected routes without having to stop at every
regulating point and TCP to identify itself and provide authority for its
move. Additionally, it allows the regulating point or TCP to more easily
report the convoy's passage to the HTD. With the number given in the
example, should an MP patrol see a column moving on the 24th rather than the
25th, they would immediately know something was wrong and could take steps
to correct the problem.
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6. Highway Regulating Point Teams (HRPT).
TCPs are set up at critical points along the MSR to control the
movement of vehicles and personnel. They prevent delays and congestion and
ensure that movement priorities are kept. TCPs enforce rules and
regulations. Often they make adjustments for unscheduled road movements and
make minor rerouting if necessary. They also serve as an information post
and provide a communication link. MP maintain surveillance of friendly
movements when requested by the MCO or HTD.
When moving over selected routes and under certain locally prescribed
conditions, it is necessary to obtain a movement credit or "convoy
clearance." The unit making the move prepares DD Form 1265 (Request for
Convoy Clearance) shown in Figures 1-6 and 1-7.
The form is submitted through channels to the HTD within whose area the
movement will originate. The form itself serves two purposes. It is a
request, and then it becomes the authorization. The HTD uses it to grant
clearance and to issue instructions about the movement. The unit that is
conducting the move initiates the form. When the HTD approves the request,
they issue a movement credit and movement number, plus any additional
instructions that may be required. Although normally submitted in writing,
in emergencies the information may be transmitted electrically or orally.
If the HTD is unable to grant the clearances at the time requested, it will
contact the requesting unit to arrange a different time and/or route.
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Figure 1-6.DD Form 1265.
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Figure 1-7. DD Form 1265 (Back).
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9. Types of Convoy Control.
a. Unit Control
o Speed limits.
o Routing plans.
o Schedules.
o March discipline.
b. Area Control
Convoy commanders will want to learn all they can about control
policies in areas through which they will pass. This is an essential part
of convoy planning. Area control is planned by the HTD for the area. It is
supervised by the military police for traffic control. Area control may be
carried out by use of:
o Mobile patrols.
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also be considered. As with most procedures, when in doubt, it is better to
coordinate than miss an element. Some of the elements and the type of
support they might provide a convoy commander are discussed below.
a. Military/Civil Police
b. Medical
c. Maintenance
Most units making a convoy move have their own maintenance element.
However, the convoy commander should ensure that backup maintenance elements
are available. In some situations, the area commander may provide roving
maintenance patrols to assist.
d. Combat Elements
a. Intra-area Movements
Intra-area movements are movements which begin and end in the same
area. They are accomplished by the HTD for that area.
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b. Inter-area Movements
Inter-area movements are those which begin in one area and end in
another. Inter-area movements are coordinated between all the HTD involved.
The HTD in the area where the movement starts grants the movement credit and
assigns the movement number.
c. General Rules
o Approved schedules and movement numbers are provided the HRPT and
the provost marshal so that highway regulation and traffic
control can be provided.
1. General.
This lesson will deal with the task of planning to support BCC by the
establishment of TCPs. Proper planning is critical to the operation of
TCPs. TCPs in the wrong location, without the proper personnel and
equipment, are worse than no TCPs at all. The following paragraphs will
outline the procedures for planning TCP operations.
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2. Evaluate Personnel Needs and Availability.
O-Obstacles.
K-Key terrain.
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A-Avenues of approach.
(5) Time. The length of time that the TCP must be operational will
also affect how many personnel are needed. Additional personnel may be
required if the TCP is to be operated for extended periods. Whether you
will be operating all day and all night, or only part of the time, must also
be considered.
The number of MP required to man a TCP will vary, based on the above
factors. Once you have evaluated those factors, you can then determine how
many MP will be required. A TCP is normally manned by one MP team of three
people. The factors of METT-T may require that additional personnel be
assigned. Additional MP should be assigned on a team basis; this preserves
unit integrity.
c. Determine Availability
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a. Location
The location of each TCP is given in the traffic control plan
prepared by the PM operations section. In addition, in the orders you will
be told the missions that the TCP is going to perform and their priority.
The first priority will always be control of the traffic flow. Other
missions, however, may be assigned. These may include straggler and/or
refugee control. Another possible task may be to serve as a highway
regulating point in addition to being a TCP.
b. Selection Factors
The provost marshal or company commander will have determined the
general location of the TCP. In making that determination, he will have
considered many factors. The primary factor will be the need for regulation
of traffic. This will have been determined in coordination with the
transportation officer. The determination is based on how much regulation
of traffic is required, as well as on movement priorities.
The TCP will be located at a critical point in the highway network.
This is usually a key intersection where the possibility of traffic
congestion is high. For example, a TCP may be required where two MSR
intersect.
Consideration will have been given as to whether other means might
be able to accomplish the task. A major consideration in this respect will
have been the personnel resources available. Additionally, the provost
marshal will have considered whether temporary signing could be employed.
Since personnel resources are often limited, consideration will have been
given to sharing duties between MP TCPs and transportation highway
regulating points.
4. Types of Routes.
One of the most critical factors in determining the need for TCPs and
their location is the degree of control that will be required. The area
commander is responsible for this determination. He accomplishes this
through the transportation staff officer and/or the highway traffic division
(HTD).
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b. Supervised Route
c. Dispatch Route
d. Reserved Route
The commander, through the HTD, may set aside a specific route.
This is called a reserved route. It may be set aside for the sole use of a
certain unit, for a specific operation, or for a specific type of traffic.
A historical example was the "Red Ball Express" in the European theater
during World War II. Specific routes were set aside for the exclusive use
of these transportation units while hauling critical supplies to the front.
Those routes are what we now term reserved routes. How much control is
exercised over the route will depend on the reason for it being designated a
reserved route. That will be determined by the commander designating the
route. The amount of control on the route will also determine how many TCPs
may be required.
e. Prohibited Route
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You, as a platoon sergeant, will be tasked to establish TCPs. This includes
assigning the missions to the squads of the platoon. All of the factors
discussed so far in this lesson will have to be examined in order for you to
do this. You have to distribute the tasks to accomplish the mission of
operating a series of TCPs. How you accomplish this will depend on the
manpower available, the number of personnel required, and the tasks to be
performed.
b. Identify Tasks
6. TCP Tasks.
How many personnel are assigned depends in large measure on the task
the TCP is required to perform. There are seven functions that a TCP almost
always performs. Others may be assigned as required by the situations. The
following paragraphs describe the seven most common functions.
a. Circulation Control
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corrective action. When immediate corrective action cannot be taken, the
team leader records the key information about the incident and notifies his
squad leader or other appropriate authority. The team leader must exercise
mature judgment. Vehicular flow interruption should be held to the absolute
minimum.
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In particular, the team looks for information relating to the
enemy's size, their activities, their location, the type of enemy unit, the
time the enemy was seen, and the equipment they were using. MP use the key
word SALUTE as a memory device to remember this information.
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d. Information Dissemination
e. Security
f. Reporting
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The TCP may also be required to submit diversion and holding reports. The
format and security requirements for these two reports are the same as those
just discussed for passing reports. A diversion report identifies any
changes made in the destination of a shipment during movement. They include
information on the identification of vehicles, times, dates, and the new
destination of the vehicles. Holding reports identify the delay of movement
in traffic, to eliminate or prevent congestion in the road network. The
report usually includes the reasons for the delay, along with the
information contained in a passing report.
7. NBC Monitoring.
When contamination is detected, the team leader ensures the team takes
the following actions:
o Gathers and reports the data needed for the unit to make an NBC-1
report.
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Figure 1-10. Markers of Contaminated or Dangerous Land Areas.
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Figure 1-11. Examples of NBC-1 Reports.
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LESSON 1
PRACTICE EXERCISE
INSTRUCTIONS
This practice exercise will show you how much you have learned in this
lesson. Answer each question. When you are done, turn the page to check
your answers.
A. Circulation control.
B. Rear area security.
C. EPW/CI evacuation.
D. All of the above.
A. 2 men.
B. 3 men.
C. 4 men.
D. 5 men.
A. Open.
B. Prohibited.
C. Supervised.
D. Dispatch.
5. Which of the following is the first action of a TCP team when NBC
contamination is detected?
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6. TCP engage in refugee control when required. Which of the following
statements is correct?
8. Under normal circumstances, how many TCP can a squad operate, providing
there are no other commitments?
A. 1.
B. 2.
C. 3.
D. 4.
9. If the squad has duties other than TCP that requires 6 men, how many
teams would be available for TCP duty?
A. 1.
B. 2.
C. 3.
D. 4.
10. You are determining how many of your personnel are required to perform
the various tasks your squad has been assigned. The number required exceeds
those available by four. What action should you take?
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LESSON 1
PRACTICE EXERCISE
1. A. Circulation control.
The primary mission... (page 1-21, para 6a)
2. B. 3 men.
A TCP is usually... (page 1-21, para 5a).
3. D. Dispatch.
It will be fully... (page 1-20, para 4c).
4. B. Circulation control.
The primary mission... (page 1-21, para 6a).
7. B. Terrain.
When considering,... (page 1-17, para 2a(3)).
8. C. 3.
A squad usually... (page 1-21, para 5a).
9. A. 1.
A TCP is usually... (page 1-21, para 5a).
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LESSON 2
OVERVIEW
LESSON DESCRIPTION:
In this lesson you learn to establish and supervise a traffic control post.
REFERENCES: The material for this subcourse was derived from the
following publications: FM 19-1 and FM 19-4.
INTRODUCTION
1. General.
By studying mission orders, you can determine the specific tasks and
parameters of the mission. You will use this information to determine the
various manpower, equipment, and supply requirements you will need to
accomplish the mission. This part of the lesson will examine the various
kinds of information included in the mission orders and how you can use it.
It also will discuss other sources of information that are critical to
successful mission accomplishment.
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information required, there are other sources that you will have to
understand and use as well. You must always examine a mission order not
only for the tasks that are stated, but for those tasks that are implied.
One of the most important items that you will need to understand in
order to establish and operate a TCP is the traffic control plan. The
traffic control plan is prepared by the provost marshal and coordinated with
the HTD. It is normally in map overlay form and shows the control measures
that will be used by military police. It identifies TCP locations, patrol
areas, temporary signs, and alternate routes. It may also show where new
control functions will be needed if the MSR is blocked at selected critical
points. Figure 2-1 is a sample traffic control plan.
The traffic control plan indicates the general area of the control
measures. For example, it will show the intersection where a TCP is to be
established. The team leader must determine the exact location on the
ground that will best fulfill the TCP mission and provide security.
3. Highway Regulations.
o March discipline.
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Figure 2-1. Sample Traffic Control Plan.
4. Operations Orders.
Each lower OPORD is based on that of the higher level. Each impacts on
how the MP units deploy and perform their missions. Your OPORD as a squad
leader will be based on the OPORD of the platoon leader.
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a. Situation. The paragraph on situation is divided into three parts.
5. Data Minimums.
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Figure 2-2. Example of a Verbal Platoon OPORD.
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b. Enemy Situation. The information about the enemy that you receive
will directly affect how security, and your operation, are conducted. For
example, there may be enemy guerrillas operating in the area, dressed as
friendly military personnel. The actions to take would be different from
those you would take if you were operating in an environment where the major
threat was from an armor breakthrough.
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o The highest rearward moving priority is the emergency evacuation
of casualties.
1. General.
2. Mission Briefing.
The mission briefing that you give your personnel should follow the
format that was discussed on the preceding pages. Properly briefing the
personnel that will be operating the TCP is essential. The difference
between your briefing and the one you received varies only slightly in the
information. In other words, you modify the briefing to the essential
information needed by the TCP team, as opposed to the information needed for
the platoon. Compare the sample briefing in Figure 2-3 with that given in
Figure 2-2.
c. Execution. In this section, you explain how you intend the squad to
accomplish the mission it was assigned. Each of the teams has been told
what it is supposed to do, and knows what the other teams are doing. The
priority of tasks has been given. Within each of the categories (BCC, area
security, EPW, and law and order) priorities have been established. At this
point, the squad leader might also want to remind everyone of the overall
priorities at the TCP and along the MSR, in addition to those given.
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Figure 2-3. Example of a Squad OPORD.
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d. Service Support. In the examples, there is no variation for normal
support. If there were, this is where you might discuss them. For
instance, there may be a change in how you obtain medical support.
3. Assign Tasks.
Each member of the team should be assigned specific tasks. If the TCP
is to operate for extended periods, these tasks should be rotated. Team
members should be told how that rotation will be done.
When an MP team operates a TCP, the team leader provides leadership and
maintains communications. A second MP watches the flow of traffic. When
the volume of traffic begins to delay movement at the TCP, he moves to the
center of the road and directs traffic. The third MP provides security and
relieves the second MP. Because the MP in the road is an easy target for
terrorists and enemy agents, all team members must be especially alert for
such activity. All of the functions of a TCP must be considered when
distributing tasks. While most of them can be integrated, the volume may
become such that a modification of assignments may become necessary.
1. General.
2. Identify Equipment.
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Unit SOP determines a team's combat load. Because a TCP is conducted
at one location, the team is often able to take the vehicle trailer. In
addition to the normal combat load, other items that may be required at a
TCP are as follows:
b. First Aid Kit. MP must be ready to give first aid at any time.
Because of its location along the MSR, a TCP should expect that injured
personnel will be brought to it. MP are not medics, but have the capability
to communicate with the medics and are in a readily identifiable location.
d. Area Maps and Overlays. Maps of the area are used to give
directions and to locate new mission areas. Often, orders and plans are
given through the use of overlays. For example, the traffic control plan is
often in the form of an overlay.
g. Weapons. Unit SOP will prescribe the weapons and basic load of
ammunition. The enemy threat or other parts of the situation, however, may
dictate that the team take additional weapons and/or ammunition. This might
include selected anti-tank weapons or an additional machinegun.
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i. RSTA Devices. Battlefield and climatic conditions may require that
the TCP be equipped with various night vision equipment. There are
conditions other than darkness that limit visibility. Dust and smoke may
limit visibility, as well as rain, fog, and snow. Many of these conditions
may limit night vision devices. Military police must seek every opportunity
to increase their effectiveness.
3. Identify Supplies.
4. Inspect Personnel.
You must ensure that your men have everything they need for a mission,
and that it is in working order. Leaders ask questions to find out if their
men know their duties. They check to see if their people have only
necessary equipment and are wearing it properly and securely.
1. General.
Determining .and taking the proper actions when first arriving at the
designated TCP is crucial to the subsequent efficient establishment of the
TCP.
2. Establish Security.
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In establishing security for a position, the key word OCOKA should be
used. The elements of OCOKA are discussed in the following paragraphs.
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approach or withdrawal are looked at to see how they can affect the TCP
operation. Leaders must analyze enemy avenues of approach to their
positions in terms of both foot and vehicular movement. The analysis serves
as a basis for deploying men and weapons. Leaders must also take into
account hard to traverse approaches that may be used by the enemy to gain
surprise.
3. Set Up Operations.
Once the position has been secured, the team leader establishes
operations. Depending on the orders received, he will establish any or all
of the following:
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LESSON 2
PRACTICE EXERCISE
INSTRUCTIONS
This practice exercise will show you how much you have learned in this
lesson. Answer each question. When you are done, turn the page and check
your answers.
1. Which of the following plans would you check to find the general
location of TCP and MP patrol areas?
A. Mission.
B. Execution.
C. Service support.
D. Command and Signal.
A. Circulation control.
B. Intelligence gathering.
C. Information dissemination.
D. All of the above.
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6. You are establishing security at a TCP. The area has no vegetation and
is very rocky. You have selected a position where the automatic weapon is
in a group of large rocks. Such a position is said to be which of the
following?
A. Covered.
B. Concealed.
C. Covered and concealed.
D. None of the above.
7. You are a squad leader about to establish a set of TCP. Each of your
teams has been assigned a TCP to operate. All members of your squad are
well trained MP with a great deal of combat experience. Which of the
following statements is correct?
A. There is no need to inspect the men and equipment since they are
highly experienced.
B. All equipment should be checked to ensure it is in proper working
condition.
C. There is no need to be concerned in this case with water resupply.
D. None of the above.
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LESSON 2
PRACTICE EXERCISE
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LESSON 3
OVERVIEW
LESSON DESCRIPTION:
In this lesson you will learn to plan MSR control measures, roadblocks,
checkpoints, defiles, and holding areas.
REFERENCES: The material contained in this lesson was derived from the
following publications: FM 19-1 and FM 19-4.
INTRODUCTION
Military police are often called upon to conduct special operations. These
include checkpoints, roadblocks, defiles, and holding areas. This lesson
will deal with each of these.
Checkpoints are established to ensure proper route use, enforce rules and
regulations, prevent illegal actions or actions aiding the enemy, and to
provide information. Roadblocks are established in conjunction with
checkpoints to channelize traffic and personnel. They are also used to
close off access to certain areas or roads.
1. Traffic Control.
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checkpoints at entrances to controlled routes, they check convoy vehicles
for movement credits issued by the HTD. Teams at checkpoints enforce rules
and regulations. At checkpoints, they direct drivers who are lost, or who
have taken the wrong routes, to their destinations.
When checking cargo, MP check the manifest papers against the actual
load. They should be suspicious of military equipment, supplies, or weapons
being transported in civilian vehicles.
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b. Checkpoints. A team organized to operate a checkpoint has a team
leader to provide leadership and monitor communications. One MP provides
overwatch security. The third team member checks vehicles and people. A
checkpoint positioned at a heavily traveled location may require two or more
teams. It should also be noted, particularly when engaged in the
suppression of illegal activities, that great care and caution must be used.
The individual providing security must be alert not only for enemy activity,
but for the dangers associated with law enforcement activity as well.
4. Security.
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required. Particular attention must be paid to communications requirements.
This must include consideration of internal as well as external
communications.
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a. Control measures.
(1) Visual Signals. The use of visual signals is a common method for
shorter defiles. Visual signals tell traffic when to move. The visual
signal can be an arm motion, a flashlight, a hand-held flag, or any
technique that shows vehicles when to move. MP usually use visual signals
in small defile operations where holding areas are not needed. A good
example is a construction site.
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(3) Flag. A flag is used to identify the last vehicle of a column
moving through a defile. The MP at the holding area gives a flag to the
last driver, or attaches a flag to the last vehicle moving toward the
defile. The flag is retrieved at the opposite end of the defile and the
operation reversed.
(4) MP Rider. For this method, a team member rides in the last
vehicle of the column until it reaches the opposite end of the defile. He
then dismounts and rides back on the trail vehicle of the column going the
other way. This technique is used when it is necessary to ensure that all
vehicles have cleared the area.
b. Evacuation.
c. Control.
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Defile operations may require as many personnel as a full squad to
perform the operation. However, signs can be used in defile operations to
reduce the need for military policeman. Where turns in the road exist
between a holding area and a defile, MP can use a sign rather than a TCP.
o Is easy to defend.
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The team leader at the holding area assigns each member of his team
a position. One MP is positioned in a concealed location at the entrance to
the holding area. When vehicles approach, he moves to the center of the
road and directs the vehicles into the holding area. He tells the vehicle
driver or convoy commander where to park the vehicles. He returns to the
concealed position when the vehicles have cleared the entry point.
The second team member controls the exit to the holding area. He is
informed by the team leader when a vehicle or convoy may exit. He notifies
the vehicle's driver or convoy commander that the vehicles may move. Then
he locates himself on the road at the holding area exit to help the convoy
move onto the road. He remains in a covered and concealed position when not
moving vehicles out of the holding area.
The team leader controls the holding area operation from a position
overlooking the entrance and exit. He receives instructions on when to
allow vehicles to move. Who determines when vehicles are to move depends on
the purpose of the holding area. If the purpose is to support a defile, the
team leader receives his instructions from the leader at the defile site.
When the purpose is to support a river crossing site, he has a movement
schedule to follow and receives information from the HTD or the crossing
area commander's staff.
More than one team may be required to operate such a holding area.
When operating a large holding area, the leader may place men inside the
holding area to direct traffic and parking, and to make sure the using unit
complies with the flow plan. More than one team may be needed when security
is a problem. This would be particularly true if the entry and exit points
were located in such a manner that they were not mutually supporting.
c. Location. The HTD or provost marshal (PM) may designate the general
location for a holding area. The squad or team leader with the mission
selects the exact location. The PM operations section is informed of the
holding area's precise location through reporting channels. The PM
operations section then notes the location on the traffic control plan and
passes the information to the HTD.
When selecting a site for a holding area, there are three principles
that must be kept in mind (in addition to the general factors described
above):
o Parked vehicles must face the exit so that they can be driven
from the area quickly.
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o A roadway must be set up that allows selected vehicles to leave.
o The surface of the area is firm enough to hold the weight of the
vehicles.
e. Control Plan. Military police are positioned inside the holding area
to direct vehicles into position. To accomplish this, they use a control
plan. The easiest method of control, is to use a subdivision system. To
establish such a system, you need to perform the following steps:
o Make a map or sketch of the area showing the road net, trails,
and major obstacles, and outline the area.
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7. Signs.
a. Temporary Signs.
The traffic control plan usually shows military police where to put.
temporary signs. In addition to the planned use of temporary signs,
military police should be prepared to use temporary signs during special
operations as described in this lesson, and for emergency purposes.
Temporary route signs serve two purposes. They regulate traffic and
they guide drivers. Temporary signs regulate traffic by displaying MSR
usage controls. Use of the signs reduces the number of MP needed along the
route to provide this type of information. Mobile patrols must continually
check the signs to detect tampering.
Military signs must be placed where they give adequate warning and
allow reaction time for drivers. However, the signs must not block existing
permanent signs from sight. As a general rule, the placement of temporary
signs must conform to the guidelines listed below.
c. Warning Signs.
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d. Guide Signs.
e. Confirmation Signs.
Confirmation signs let drivers know that they are on the correct
route after they have changed direction. Confirmation signs are placed just
past turns. The signs must be visible to drivers as they are making the
turn. The usual procedure is to place both a warning sign and a
confirmation sign at important junctions. It may be necessary to illuminate
both signs at night.
f. Confidence Signs.
Confidence signs reassure drivers that they are still on the correct
route. Confidence signs are used in urban areas to assure drivers that they
are following the correct route. They are also used on long stretches of
road where it is unnecessary to use warning and confirmation signs for a
considerable distance.
Other kinds of guide signs are also used along routes. These signs
show detours, where detours begin and end, distances, and locations. They
also give directions, driver information, and route numbers or symbols.
g. Countdown Signs.
h. Regulatory Signs.
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i. Hazard Signs.
j. Blackout Signs.
k. Temporary Signs.
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3-13 MP1029
LESSON 3
PRACTICE EXERCISE
INSTRUCTIONS
This practice exercise will show you how much you have learned in this
lesson. Answer each question. When you are done, turn the page and check
your answers.
4. You have been tasked to establish a defile operation over the Bong Son
River. The only crossing is a single lane, one-way bridge. The approach to
the bridge runs through a long, curving ravine. Under normal circumstances,
which of the following would be the best method to use?
A. Visual signals.
B. Wire communication backed up by radio.
C. MP rider.
D. MP lead/trail vehicles.
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6. You have been tasked to establish a large holding area along the MSR.
Which of the following is correct?
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LESSON 3
PRACTICE EXERCISE
MP1029 3-16
LESSON 4
OVERVIEW
LESSON DESCRIPTION:
In this lesson you will learn to plan the control of stragglers and
refugees.
REFERENCES: The material contained in this lesson was derived from the
following publications: FM 19-1 and FM 19-4.
INTRODUCTION
Contingency plans should be made for hauling and control of refugees and
stragglers. During conventional warfare or in a nuclear environment, this
can become a severe problem. Mass movements will normally take place on
natural lines of drift, which are usually the MSR. Masses of refugees tend
to obstruct the flow of traffic, which increases the importance of the MP
mission to keep the roads open. Control and screening of refugees (who are
sometimes used to insert enemy agents) requires a close coordinated effort
with the G2/S2, the supporting military intelligence unit, and the military
police.
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location, direction of travel, or actions may hinder military movement.
During combat operations, control of civilian movement is important.
Disorganized masses of people seriously impair the movement of military
units and endanger the security of military forces. Refugees can be a
potent weapon. The enemy can use refugees to disrupt friendly military
operations. A hasty exodus of people usually results in panic, confusion,
loss of property, and overtaxed lines of communication.
1. Responsibilities.
Unit SOP specify straggler control measures for each unit. Such
things as personnel accountability, strength reporting, unit checkpoints,
and other functions are stated in the SOP. Each level of command addresses
straggler control in the unit SOP.
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c. Military Police. MP locate and redirect stragglers continually as
they operate TCPs, mobile patrols, and perform other functions, such as
checkpoints and defiles. They also erect temporary signs to serve as a
straggler control measure. Lost military personnel can use these signs to
find their way to the closest MP element. It should also be noted that this
requires increased alertness on the part of MP in the area of security since
the enemy can also use the signs.
2. Categories of Stragglers.
There are many causes for a soldier becoming a straggler. Many will
have become injured and dazed. Injuries may not only be physical, but may
be psychological. In the mass casualty situations that are possible in an
NBC environment, many of the unit's leaders may have become casualties.
There are also those soldiers that may have become separated due to
irresponsible acts on their part. Unfortunately, there are also those who
are deserters or absent without leave.
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3. Straggler Information.
Military police record all key information about each straggler. The
exact information required will be prescribed by SOP. At the least, the
information listed below should be recorded:
o Unit.
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5. Straggler Collection Points.
The PM, who plans the location of a straggler collecting point, usually
places it along a key MSR or at an intersection of MSR. This makes delivery
of stragglers to their units by backhaul trucks easier. The collecting
point is located where food, shelter, clothing, and medical treatment are
available.
6. Disposition of Stragglers.
4-5 MP1029
Uninjured soldiers who have inadvertently been separated from their
units are provided assistance in returning. Military police direct them to
their unit or a headquarters within their chain of command. If the location
is unknown, military police direct the straggler to a straggler collecting
point or to the closest major headquarters. They use whatever
transportation is available.
1. Responsibilities.
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b. Civil Affairs Officer. The G5 has primary staff responsibility for
coordinating matters involving civil-military operations, including the
evacuation of civilians. He plans and coordinates US participation in
civilian displacement. Based on the intelligence staff refugee estimate,
the G5 decides the number and types of facilities and US personnel needed to
control refugees.
The G5 and supporting civil affairs units are responsible for the
control and regulation of displaced persons and refugees. The G5
coordinates with the host nation authorities and prepares the refugee
control plan. The refugee estimate provided by the intelligence officer
gives the number of refugees to be expected in certain areas. Host nation
refugee plans may include standfast requirements, evacuation routes,
locations of collecting points, and refugee camps. The G5 plan, when
prepared, is similar.
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Military police must also be ready to support refugee collecting
points. These are temporary areas set aside for the assembly of small
numbers of refugees. They are operated by civil affairs units. They
provide refugees emergency relief for a short time. MP direct refugees who
need help to the nearest refugee collecting point. MP only become involved
in collecting point operations in certain cases. This includes when the
volume of refugees threatens military traffic facilities near or around the
collecting point. Actions to be taken will be prescribed by the provost
marshal or SOP.
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4-9 MP1029
LESSON 4
PRACTICE EXERCISE
INSTRUCTIONS
This practice exercise will show you how much you have learned in this
lesson. Answer each question.When you are done, turn the page to check your
answers.
A. G1.
B. G2.
C. G3.
D. G4.
E. G5.
A. G1.
B. G2.
C. G3.
D. G4.
E. G5.
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5. Which of the following is not a category of straggler?
A. Uninjured.
B. Injured.
C. Attempting to avoid returning to his unit.
D. Unidentified.
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LESSON 4
PRACTICE EXERCISE
1. E. G5.
The G5 has...(page 4-7, para 1b).
2. A. G1.
The command is...(page 4-2, para 1).
5. D. Unidentified.
These categories are...(page 4-3, para 2).
MP1029 4-12