Vignette
Topic: Planning Logistical Release Points (LRPs)
Discussion:
Situation: A battalion task force S4 was conducting course-of-action development for the logistical support of a defense in sector. He was analyzing the terrain behind the planned battle positions along the main supply routes to identify locations for LRPs. He knew that the supplies would be moved during periods of limited visibility, on large wheeled vehicles, most likely during inclement weather, and by operators entering the fifth consecutive day of the battle.
Problem: The S4 was a young captain and newly assigned. He did not have much experience planning LRPs or in moving the quantities of supplies needed to sustain a heavy task force conducting defensive operations.
Identify the Hazard: The S4 was considering the enemy situation when searching for the LRP locations. He was looking for covered and concealed locations close enough to the battle positions to ensure resupply, but not be interfered with by hostile fires and without causing unreasonable burdens on the supported elements.
The battalion CSM was circulating among the members of the battle staff as it was working separately to develop COAs. He paused at the S4's work station and discussed the proposed LRP locations with him. The CSM studied the graphics on the S4's map and asked him to examine the contour intervals around the proposed LRPs. He also asked the S4 to consider the following while he looked at the proposed positions:
Identify Control Options and Make Decisions: The S4 concluded that the hazards associated with his proposed LRPs created unacceptable risk. The environment, combined with the inexperience of the drivers, increased the possibility of accidents during resupply operations.
The S4 then determined that by substituting different LRPs for his initial proposals and implementing some additional controls, he could control the hazards without jeopardizing the mission. Since the battle staff was still developing COAs, he could implement the controls by embedding them in each proposed COA.
He selected proposed LRPs on relatively level ground with a good road network or sufficient turnaround space for large vehicles. The drivers would be rotated through an enforced sleep plan. Vehicle commanders would be thoroughly briefed on the nature of the identified hazards and the need for reduced speed, gradual turns, and ground guides to the front and rear whenever vehicles were being positioned.
Implement Control Options: Each logistical COA addressed the identified hazards and integrated the control measures. The commander's selection of a COA did not create any additional risk for logistical support. The properly positioned LRPs were posted to the logistical support graphics and instructions for safe movement in and around the LRPs were included in the logistics annex.
Supervise: Discipline and enforcement of the instructions contained in the OPORD were provided by the entire chain of command. The key was disseminating the controls to the lowest levels of the task force. Adherence to the plan ensured safe operation of the LRPs.
Lesson(s): Implementation of the risk management process during the tactical decisionmaking process takes little time, saves losses of time and materiel, and ensures that manpower is available so that combat power can be concentrated at the proper place on the battlefield. Many hazard controls are SOP items. But the chain of command must enforce these items, and soldiers must have the self discipline to adhere to them when not being supervised.
Risk
Management Procedures--Training
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