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Appendix D

Orders and Reports

Orders are written or oral communications directing action. They are based on plans or the receipt of a new mission. Use reports extensively to provide information to higher, lower, and adjacent commands. Although there are many, this appendix is limited to combat orders and reports. Refer to FM 101-5 for more information about orders.

ORDERS

D-1. Combat orders pertain to strategic, operational, or tactical operations and their service support. The combat orders used by MP are WOs, OPORDs, and FRAGOs.

WARNING ORDERS

D-2. Refer to FM 101-5 for an example of a WO. WOs provide advance notice of an action so that MP can use available time for preparations, and they—

  • Are issued at each level down to the squad.

  • Are issued to subordinates in as much detail as possible.

  • Are issued as brief, oral, or written messages.

  • Are a part of planning the use of available time. WOs should be kept simple.

  • Describe the operation and the preparations to be made before the OPORD is issued.

  • Include the situation, the mission, special instructions, and the time and place for issuing the OPORD.

OPERATION ORDERS

D-3. OPORDs coordinate actions to carry out the commander's plan for an operation, and they—

  • Explain how leaders at different levels want the operation conducted. To ensure that maneuver and other non-MP units carry out actions or provide a form of support that MP plans and operations depend on, state the required actions or support in the coordinating instructions paragraph of the division and brigade OPORDs.

  • Have a great impact on how subordinate leaders employ units and perform missions. For example, the MP platoon leader's latitude to employ the unit could be restricted, based on how the company commander wants the operation conducted.

  • May be written, oral, graphic (such as traces and overlays), or a combination of these forms.

  • Are usually written when prepared at company level and above.

  • Have a standardized system of designating days and hours in relation to an operation or an exercise.

  • Follow a prescribed written format, that contains a classification, heading, body, and ending.

  • Have a prescribed five-paragraph format for the body of the order, which includes the following:

    • Situation.

    • Mission.

    • Execution.

    • Service support.

    • Command and signal.

D-4. The risk management process is greatly enhanced by incorporating the risk assessment into the OPORD. The commander integrates risk management into the order, rather than treating it as an afterthought. Leaders at all echelons assess the effectiveness of their units by reviewing how well hazards are identified and risk controls are specified in oral and written orders. Refer to Figure D-1, for an example of an OPORD format. (Refer to FM 101-5 , Appendix H , for further discussion of an OPORD.)

D-5. FRAGOs issue supplemental instructions to a current OPORD or OPLAN while the operation is in progress, and they—

  • Contain missions of immediate concern to subordinate units.

  • May be either written or oral.

  • Provide brief, specific, and timely information without loss of clarity.

  • Have no prescribed format. Prevent confusion OPORD.

  • May be issued to change an OPORD that has already been issued. As such, only those items from the original OPORD that have changed are included in the FRAGO, as long as clarity is not sacrificed.

STANDING OPERATING PROCEDURES

D-6. SOPs prescribe routine methods to be followed in operations, and they—

  • Supplement other combat orders.

  • Reduce the number, length, and frequency of other orders. Because the SOP is a standing order, do not repeat the information contained therein in other orders unless emphasis is desired.

  • Have no prescribed format. However, ensure that the subordinate unit SOPs follows the format of the next higher HQ SOP if possible.

  • Prescribe actions of a recurring nature that lend themselves to definite or standardized procedures. Examples include the following items:

    • Troop safety matters

    • Methods of reporting unit locations.

    • Measures for handling captured personnel or equipment

    • Distribution of supplies.

    • Standard communication procedures for exercising C2.

    • Other items that lend themselves to standardization.

NOTE: These items are generally the constants in what is otherwise a frequently changing set of circumstances.

-----------------
(Classification)

Place the classification at the top and bottom of every page of the OPORD.

(Change from oral orders, if any.)

This statement is applicable only if an oral order is issued by the commander. The phrases "No change from oral orders" or "No change from oral orders except paragraph --- " are necessary here.

Copy --- of --- copies
Issuing HQ
Place of issue (coordinates)
DTG of signature

Show the place of issue (location of the issuing HQ) on each copy. Show the name of the town or the place in capital letters, the coordinates in parentheses, and the country in capital letters. Both may encode.

The effective time for implementing the plan or order is the same as the DTG, unless coordinating instructions state otherwise. When orders apply to units in different time zones, use time zone Zulu (Z). In OPORDs and service support orders, list the time zone applicable to the operation in the heading of the order following the references. When an order does not specify the actual date and hour for beginning an operation, apply the proper reference designations.

Message Reference Number

Message reference numbers are internal control numbers that the unit signal officer issues and assigns to all orders. The unit's SOP normally describes the number's allocation and use. Using the number allows an addressee to acknowledge receiving the message in the clear.

OPORD -------- (code name)
(Number)

Orders normally contain a code name and are numbered consecutively within a calendar year.

Reference(s): The heading of the order includes a list of maps, charts, datum, or other related documents the unit will need to understand the plan or order. The user does not need to reference the SOP but may refer to it in the body of the order. The user references a map using the map series number (and country or geographic area, if required), sheet number, name, edition, and scale, if required. Datum is the mathematical model of the earth used to calculate the coordinates on any map. Different nations use different datums for printing coordinates on their maps. Reference the datum in the marginal information of each map.

Time Zone Used Throughout the Order: The time zone used throughout the order (including annexes and appendixes) is the time zone applicable to the operation. Operations across several time zones use Z time.

Task Organization: Describe the allocation of forces to support the commander's concept. Show task organization in one of two places: preceeding paragraph one or in an annex, if the task organization is long and complicated.

OPORD -------- - -----------------------
(Number) (Issuing HQ)

(Place this information at the top of the second and any subsequent pages of the OPORD.)

1. SITUATION.

a. Enemy Forces. Express this information down to two enemy echelons below yours (for example, battalions address platoons or companies address squads). Describe the enemy's most likely and most dangerous COA. When possible, provide a sketch of the enemy COA in lieu of verbiage (Appendix --- [sketch] to Annex --- [title]). Include an assessment of terrorist activities directed against US government interests in the AOs. Reference more sources using the final subparagraph to refer the reader to the documentation.

b. Friendly Forces. Include the mission, the commander's intent, and the concept of operations for HQ one and two levels up. Subparagraphs state the missions of the flank units (left, right, front, and rear) and other units whose actions would have a significant bearing on the issuing HQ.

c. Attachments and Detachments. State when, and for how long, units are attached or detached to the operation. Do not repeat information already listed under task organization or in a task organization annex. State "See Annex --- (title)" here if a task organization annex is necessary.

2. MISSION. State the mission derived during the planning process. This statement describes the task and purpose of the operation and clearly indicates the action to be taken and its reason. There are no subparagraphs in a mission statement. The mission statement covers on-order missions.

3. EXECUTION.

Intent: State the commander's intent derived during the planning process. It is a clear, concise statement of what the force must do to succeed with respect to the enemy and the terrain. It provides the link between the mission and the concept of the operation, which provides the basis for subordinate initiative and decentralized mission execution. Always include the desired end state.

a. Concept of Operations. The concept of operations may be a single paragraph or divided into two or more subparagraphs. It is based on the COA statement from the decision-making process and, at a minimum, should address close, deep, rear, and security operations as well as designating the main effort. The commander uses this subparagraph when he feels he must supply enough detail to ensure appropriate action by subordinates in the absence of additional communications or further instructions. When an operation involves two or more clearly distinct and separate phases, the concept of operations may be prepared in subparagraphs describing each phase. Ensure that the concept statement is concise and understandable. The concept describes the following:

  • The employment of maneuver elements in a scheme of maneuver.

  • A plan of fire support or scheme of fires supporting the maneuver with fires.

  • The integration of other major elements or systems within the operation, including reconnaissance and security elements, intelligence assets, engineer assets, and air defense.

NOTE: Depending on what the commander considers appropriate, the level of command, and the complexity of any given operation, the following subparagraphs are examples of what may be included within the concept of operations:

(1) Maneuver. State the scheme of maneuver derived during the planning process. Ensure that this paragraph is consistent with the operation overlay. Ensure that this paragraph and the operation overlay is complementary and adds to the clarity of, rather than duplicating, each other. Do not duplicate information to be incorporated into the unit subparagraphs and coordinating instructions.

(2) Fires. State the scheme of fires to support the concept, and include priorities of and restrictions for fire support.

(3) Reconnaissance and Surveillance. Specify the reconnaissance and surveillance (R&S) plan and explain how it ties in with the basic concept of operations.

(4) Engineer. Clarify the scheme of engineer support to the plan, paying particular attention to the integration of engineer assets and obstacles, including the priorities of effort.

(5) Air Defense. State the overall concept of air defense in support of the scheme of maneuver if necessary.

(6) Information Operations. State the overall concept of information operations in support of the scheme of maneuver. Refer to the appropriate annexes if necessary.

NOTE: Units required to accomplish specific tasks for information operations and R&S are specified in the appropriate subparagraphs of 3b (tasks to maneuver [subordinate] units).

b. Tasks to Maneuver (Subordinate) Units. Clearly state the missions or tasks for each maneuver (or subordinate element) unit that reports directly to the HQ issuing the order. List the units in the same sequence as in the task organization, including attachments. Use a separate subparagraph for each subordinate element. State the tasks that are necessary for comprehension, clarity, and emphasis. Place tactical tasks that commonly affect two or more elements in subparagraph 3c (coordinating instructions).

c. Coordinating Instructions. List only those instructions applicable to two or more units (subordinate elements) and not routinely covered in unit SOPs. This is always the last subparagraph in paragraph 3.

NOTE: The following are examples of subparagraphs that are generally included as coordinating instructions. Subparagraphs 1 through 5 below are mandatory.

(1) Time or condition when an order becomes effective.

(2) CCIR.

(a) Priority intelligence requirements (PIR).

(b) Essential elements of friendly information (EEFI).

(c) Friendly force information requirements (FFIR).

(3) Risk-reduction control measures may include such items as MOPP, operational exposure guidance, vehicle recognition signals, and fratricide prevention.

(4) ROE. When lengthy and complicated, include ROE as a separate annex.

(5) Environmental considerations.

(6) Force protection.

(7) Any additional coordinating instructions.

4. SERVICE SUPPORT. Address service support in the areas shown below as needed to clarify the service support concept. Refer to any annexes, where necessary. Subparagraphs can include the following:

a. Support Concept. State the concept of logistics support necessary to support the operation. Include the concept for—

  • Support HQ or support area locations, including locations of logistical bases if not clearly conveyed in the overlay.

  • Commander's support priorities.

  • HN support.

  • Any significant sustainment risks.

  • Unique support requirements in the functional areas of manning, arming, fueling, fixing, moving, and sustaining the soldier and the systems.

b. Materiel and Services.

c. Medical Evacuation and Hospitalization. At a minimum, include frequencies, call signs, and locations of medical support facilities and units, as well as the plan for casualty evacuation (CASEVAC).

d. Personnel Support.

e. EPW.

f. Transportation.

5. COMMAND AND SIGNAL.

a. Command. State the map coordinates for the CP locations and potential future locations for each echelon CP applicable to the operation. Identify the chain of command if not clearly addressed in unit SOPs.

b. Signal. List signal instructions not specified in unit SOPs; and identify the specific SOI addition in effect, required reports and formats, and the times the reports are submitted. List primary and alternate means of communications, as well as pyrotechnic signals and their meanings.

Acknowledge: Include instructions for the acknowledgement of the order by addressees. The word acknowledge may suffice or a message reference number. Acknowledgement of an order means that it has been received and understood.

Commander's last name
Rank

The commander or his authorized representative signs the original copy. If the representative signs the original, add the phrase "For the Commander." The signed copy is the historical copy and remains in the HQ files. It is always designated "Copy 1 of ------ copies."

OFFICIAL:
(Authentication) Use only when applicable. If the commander signs the original, no further authentication is required. If the commander does not sign, authorization is required by the signature of the preparing officer or individual and only the last name and rank of the commander appear in the signature block.

Annexes: List annexes by letter and title and in the sequence by which they were referenced in the order.

Distribution: Furnish distribution copies either for action or for information. List in detail those who are to receive the order. If extremely lengthy, refer to an annex containing the distribution list or to a standard distribution list or SOP.

-----------------
(Classification)

Place the classification at the top and bottom of every page of the OPORD.

Figure D-1. OPORD Format

REPORTS

MP contribute to the commander's situational awareness by providing timely information to higher HQ. They collect and report information in the form of administrative, operational, or intelligence reports. These reports ensure that the commander receives continuous current information. Tables D-1 through D-3 are examples of reports used by MP when conducting CS operations. Refer to FM 101-5-2 for a complete listing of the standardized Army report and message formats.

Table D-1. Administrative Reports

Types

Who

What

When

Where

How

Content

Casualty The unit or the section with casualties The number of dead, wounded, or sick Upon experiencing casualties or as required by the SOP or HQ Higher HQ By the most secure means and encoded if by unsecure radio DA Form 1156 or per SOP
Personnel Submitted at company level and higher (input is needed from the squad or section) Personnel strength accounting and status Daily Higher HQ DA Form 5367-R DA Form 5367-R
Periodic logistic Submitted at company level and higher (input is needed from the squad or the section) Supported strength and status of critical supplies As supplies become depleted or as required by the SOP Higher HQ By the most secure means and encoded if by unsecure radio
  • Logistical situation

  • Supply

  • Maintenance

  • Transportation

  • Service

Journal Units or sections operating independent of the parent organization Events about a unit or section during a given or specified period As events occur over the given or specified period Maintained locally (provide to higher HQ on request) DA Form 1594 DA Form 1594

  • Item

  • Time

  • Incident, message, or order

  • Action taken

  • Initials

Closing The unit leader Notice of change of the location Upon arrival at the new site Higher HQ Secure the radio
  • Unit

  • Date and time

  • CP location

  • Vehicles and radios

  • Personnel and weapons

Table D-2. Operational Reports

Type

Who

What

When

Where

How

Content

Situation and status Commander or leader closest to the situation Tactical situation or status Immediately after a significant event or as specified Higher HQ. By the most secure means and encoded if by unsecured radio
  • Enemy

  • Own situation

  • CS

  • General

  • Commander's evaluation

Force tracking (diversion, holding, or passing) Designated TCP and mounted patrols Unit movement along the MSR As requested or designated in the SOP Local movement control unit Secure voice or encoded Division transportation office (DTO) or the Provost Marshal Office (PMO) adopted SOP format
Offense TCP and mounted patrols Violation of MSR regulations When tasked to conduct MMS and MSR regulations are in force Through military channels to the driver's commander Written report. (refer to FMs 55-10 and 101-5)
  • Date

  • Driver's name

  • Name of vehicle commander

  • Particulars of the offense observed

EPW Platoon, squad, and team operating the collecting points The number of EPWs collected and evacuated As required Higher HQ By the most secure means and encoded if by unsecured radio Per SOP
Intention of laying a minefield Platoon, squad, or team leader preparing to lay the minefield Tactical objectives and characteristics of the minefield Before emplacing the mines Higher HQ Written or by a secure radio (refer to FM 20-32)
  • Purpose of the minefield

  • Estimated number and type

  • Location

  • Proposed start and completion times

Initiation of laying a minefield Platoon, squad, or team leader of the force laying the minefield Emplacement of the mine When emplacement begin Higher HQ (mandatory) Written or by a secure radio (refer to FM 20-32)
  • Time begun

  • Location and target number

Completion of laying a minefield

Platoon, squad, or team leader of the force laying the minefield

Completion of the minefield

Upon completion of the minefield

Higher HQ

Written or by a secure radio (refer to FM 20-32)

  • Field is complete and functional (expedite the report and follow up with a hasty protective minefield report)

Table D-3. Intelligence Reports

Type

Who

What

When

Where

How

Content

Spot Unit, section, or individual observing the enemy (all the echelons) Enemy activity and area information of immediate value Upon contact or as requested Higher HQ By the quickest means and encoded if by unsecured radio
  • Reporting unit

  • Date and time of the event

  • Location and grid coordinates (encoded)

  • Event (SALUTE)

  • Original source

  • Remarks

Meaconing, intrusion, jamming, interference (MIJI) Soldier experiencing electronic warfare Correct report according to the type of interference As soon as possible after the incident Through signal channels to the higher HQ. SOI defines the report and how to prepare it
  • Type of report

  • Frequency or channel affected

  • Victim designation and call sign

  • Type of emission or audio characteristics

  • Coordinates of the affected station

NBC 1 Observer Observation concerning suspected NBC attacks and resulting hazardous areas Upon observing a suspected enemy NBC attack Higher HQ. Secure radio
  • Observer's location

  • Direction from the observer

  • Date-time group (DTG) of the attack

  • Type of burst

NBC 4 Element in contact with radiation Radiation dose rates Upon contact with radiological contamina-tion or as directed To higher HQ Secure radio
  • Location

  • Dose rate

  • DTG of the measurement

Patrol Patrol leader Pertinent information pertaining to the patrol's activity Upon completion of the patrol To higher HQ Written
  • Designation of the patrol

  • Maps

  • Terrain

  • Enemy

  • Results of encounters with the enemy

  • Condition of the patrol

Enemy minefield location

Soldiers encountering an enemy minefield

Characteristics of the minefield

Upon locating a minefield

To higher HQ

Secure radio (refer to FM 20-32)

  • Type of minefield

  • Location and depth

  • Enemy weapons or surveillance

  • Routes for bypassing

  • Coordinates of lane entry and exit

  • Width of lanes, in meters

           
  • Map sheet designation

  • Date and time information collected

  • Coordinates of minefield boundaries

  • Estimated time to clear the minefield

  • Estimated material and equipment required to clear the minefield

  • Other, such as the type of the mine, new mines, or booby traps

SALUTE

Observer

Enemy activity; for example, convoy, patrol vehicles, and aircraft

Upon encountering the enemy's activity

Higher HQ By the most secure means and encoded if by unsecure radio (refer to FM 101-5) S - Size
A - Activity
L - Location
U - Unit
T - Time
E - Equipment



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