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The field artillery battalion executive officer must be prepared to assume command of the battalion in battle. The tenets of the AirLand Battle require the rapid transition of command of combat units when the commander becomes a casualty. This fact applies to the field artillery battalion as well as the other combat arms.

Several FA units placed the executive officer at the battalion TOC to facilitate this rapid transition of command. This is a controversial step in the artillery community. Although the initial results have not met with success in every instance, there are a number of aspects inherent in the concept which are worthy of consideration.

The battalion executive officer traditionally performs the function of battalion logistician during tactical operations. In this role the XO may be located in the unit trains to oversee logistical operations. In this location he may not be fully apprised of the current tactical situation if/when called upon to assume command of the battalion.

Under the "second in command" (2IC) concept, the XO is located at the battalion TOC. Here he can routinely supervise all aspects of the battalion staff during the planning and execution of battalion operations. During planning he can orchestrate the staff sections to ensure that staff estimates and recommendations are based on the current IPB.

This consideration is particularly critical during tactical operations requiring the commander and the S3 to be away from the TOC. This may be particularly significant in a DS battalion where the battalion commander performs his role as the brigade FSCOORD. The battalion S3 is also freed under this contingency to physically coordinate with the battery commanders and monitor firing unit operations. In the absence of these decision makers the XO provides the necessary continuity and guidance to facilitate effective battalion staff operations and coordination with the staffs of the Division Artillery and the supported maneuver brigade.

He is in a better position at the TOC to monitor and control the logistical activities of the battalion due to:

• better communications capability
• better knowledge of the current tactical situation
• a closer working relationship with both the battalion and brigade staff
• more timely information available on the current supply and maintenance status of the firing batteries

Table of Contents

Section II: Maneuver

Section IV: Mobility/Countermobility/Survivability