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Troop-Leading Procedures and the NCO

by SGM Ronald Hill, Senior Fire Support NCO Observer/Controller

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The most recent Peace Support Operations mission rehearsal conducted at the Combat Maneuver Training Center (CMTC) posed a special challenge to the NCO. The operation in Bosnia is so diverse that NCOs from the First Sergeant down to the Section Chief have to be prepared to take charge of any and all missions. Most of the missions normally associated with officers will, at one time or another, be delegated to NCOs.

Troop-leading procedures (TLPs) begin when the unit receives the mission and end with mission completion. This article focuses on TLPs in the preparation phase of the mission. They are:

• Receiving the mission.
• Issuing the order.
• Rehearsals.
• Pre-combat inspections (PCIs).

RECEIVING THE MISSION. The NCO must ensure he fully understands the commander's intent for the mission.

Techniques:

1. Ask for any specific guidance. Make sure you know what the end state is for the operation. Planning is much easier when you know the end state.

2. Develop a plan to execute the mission. Make sure it includes a definite course of action and a method of execution. Elements of an effective plan:

• Centered on facts and sound assumptions.

• Relies on the use of resources on-hand.

• Organizes personnel and establishes definite responsibilities.

• Locks in personnel, equipment, and other necessary considerations for the entire period of the operation.

• Delegates authority to the lowest level that allows for proper command and control.

• Allows for coordination between all levels of responsibility.

• Is simple to prevent confusion.

• Is flexible to allow for necessary changes to the course of action.

• Has the means of control to allow for the mission accomplishment in accordance with the commander's intent.

• Is coordinated so that all elements fit together in a way that everyone involved understands the mission.

ISSUING THE ORDER. Once the mission is planned and coordinated, it is very important that the NCO issues orders and conducts a backbrief as soon as possible. The key to issuing the order is for the soldiers to understand the plans, how they will execute them, and what end state is needed.

Techniques:

1. Issue the orders while observing the actual terrain on which the mission will be conducted.

2. If unable to view the actual terrain, use aids (maps, overlays, terrain tables, or terrain sketches) to assist your soldiers in visualizing the terrain. Ensure that everyone has copies of the operation's overlay and has oriented their map before you start the order.

3. Explain the mission in a way that your subordinates can visualize how you expect the mission to unfold. 4. Ensure all subordinates understand how their tasks fit into the overall plan of maneuver and support the intent of the mission.

5. Prior to finishing the order, have your soldiers back-brief you on tasks that you consider critical to accomplishing the mission.

REHEARSALS. Another important aspect of TLPs is the rehearsal. A successful rehearsal should identify any problems in the plan and confirm that everyone knows what to do.

Techniques:

1. The most important elements to consider when conducting rehearsals are:

• the state of training.
• the orders issued.
• the terrain and weather conditions expected.

2. Choose the appropriate type of rehearsal. There are basically three types of rehearsals:

• Exercise with the entire element. When the mission is complex, has many intricate parts, and you have the time and a secure area.

• Exercise at reduced intervals and speeds. When you have limited space or you want to start at a slow speed.

• Rehearsal with key leaders.

The most desired technique is a full rehearsal, which is important when you are conducting the mission with attachments.

3. Ensure that you emphasize situations that trigger contingencies.

4. Involve all the soldiers that will be in the mission.

PRE-COMBAT INSPECTIONS (PCIs). As the final step in the preparation phase, the NCO must conduct PCIs. Properly conducted PCIs ensure that everyone down to the lowest ranking soldier understands what is to be done and that soldiers possess all the required mission-essential equipment. Without PCIs, you will never know if you are ready for contingencies.

The NCOs are the backbone of the Army. Their leadership will take care of soldiers and ensure missions are accomplished to standard. They must be ready for any challenge that comes their way.

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