Lecture on Patrol Base Operations

References

• ATP 3-21.8 Infantry Platoon and Squad
• TC3-21.76 The Ranger Handbook (2017)

Purpose of Patrol Base

• Rest and Refitting Location
  • Serve as a holding area between operations
  • Rest, eat, maintain weapons
  • Await further orders or extraction
• Strategic Movement
  • Secure location after completing operations (e.g., ambush, raid)
  • Infill during the night for future operations

Patrol Base Setup

1. Platoon Layout

   • Security Squad
   • Assault 1 & Assault 2
   • Weapons Squad

2. Occupation Process

   • Deliberate Reconnaissance
     • Similar to ORP occupation but with key differences
   • Security Halt
     • Daylight: 200-400 meters from PB
     • Night: 100-200 meters
   • Leaders Reconnaissance Team
     • Includes PL, RTO, Weapons Squad Leader, Team Leaders, and others
   • Occupy the PB
     • Initial halt, followed by a 90-degree turn
     • Leave a Listening Post Observation Post (LPOP)

Leaders Reconnaissance Team

• Composition

  • PL, RTO, Weapon Squad Leader (Weasel)
  • 3 Ammo Bearers (ABs) as placeholders
  • Alpha Team Leader (Point Man)
  • Saw gunner and rifleman

• Actions Before Departure

  • Cross-level radios
  • Five-point contingency plan

Patrol Base Occupation

• Method

  • Deliberate and systematic approach
  • Lead squads into the patrol base individually

• Clearing the Patrol Base

  • Methods: Triangle formation, line clearing
  • Ensure no enemy presence

• Security and Communication

  • Conduct radio checks
  • Maintain communication with higher authorities

Priorities of Work

1. Security

   • Interlocking sector sketches and range cards
   • Final Protective Line (FPL)

2. Withdrawal Plan

   • Black and Gold alternate patrol base plans
   • Deliberate movement in case of emergency

3. Communication

   • Continuous radio checks
   • Establish internal touchpoints for feedback

4. Mission Planning

   • Prepare for potential new missions or orders

5. Weapons, Maintenance, and Field Craft

   • Minimum 50% security during maintenance
   • Simplified cleaning process

6. Water Resupply

   • Led by the Platoon Sergeant
   • Ensure near water sources

7. Mess and Rest Plan

   • At least 33% security at all times
   • Use slit trenches for sanitation

Reconnaissance and Surveillance (R&S) Teams

• Purpose

  • Confirm patrol base suitability
  • Conduct reconnaissance using I, T, and box methods

• Execution

  • Ensure all members are aware of friendly R&S teams
  • Provide sketches and reports to PL

Conclusion

• Key Points
  • Importance of a systematic approach in patrol base occupation
  • Coordination and clear communication throughout the process
  • Prioritize security and proper execution of work priorities

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These notes provide a structured overview of establishing and maintaining a patrol base, focusing on systematic approaches and doctrinally sound practices. The lecture emphasized the importance of security, communication, and methodical planning in creating an effective rest and refit area for platoon operations.