Vignette:
COMBAT TRAINING CENTER (CTC)
During a CTC defensive live-fire exercise, an element inadvertently engaged a friendly position on one flank, causing a casualty. As part of an aggressive scheme of maneuver, this element was detached on a forward security mission and then withdrew to reoccupy its primary defensive position after sunset. At this time, weapon systems were not accurately sited in accordance with position stakes, and the leader misidentified his left limit. This allowed him, in one of the first task force engagements, to acquire friendly positions on the flank and engage with regrettable consequences. Subsequent review indicated that the firing element leader was new to the unit, inexperienced and not fully qualified on the weapon system. This incident occurred, despite an adequate plan, redundant control measures (sectors of fire, positioning stakes, adequate graphics) and a previous daylight defense of the same position.
All combat leaders should review this incident, not as an exercise in hindsight, but in an effort to benefit from a comrade's error. Identify measures that increase unit competence and confidence, while further decreasing the likelihood of these fratricidal mistakes. Among others, consider these measures:
- Choose seasoned individuals and elements for detached missions.
- Plan opening engagements to exploit the abilities of your best crews and gunners.
- Mark key fire control measures unmistakably and possibly register direct fires at critical phases to orient systems.
- Avoid "modified" standards for weapons qualification or tables, and strive to meet or exceed requirements for field firing or LFXs.
- Practice moves between positions in limited visibility and establish mechanisms to cross-check orientation.
Table
of Contents
Chapter
4: NCO Corner
Appendix
A: Operational Risk Assessment and Management
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