Infantry Squad Tactics: Some of the Lessons Learned during MOUT in the Battle for Fallujah
Abstract
Historically speaking, military operations on urbanized terrain (MOUT) have created casualty figures that are extraordinary compared to similar operations conducted in different types of environments. The casualties in MOUT present a significant challenge to small unit leaders. Casualties in Fallujah hit Marine infantry squads and fire teams extremely hard because the squads were already under table of organization standards. Some squads in 3d Battalion, 5th Marines (3/5) commenced the assault on the Jolan with only six Marines. It is the small unit leaders' duty to accomplish the mission with the fewest casualties possible. For small unit leaders to complete the above task they need tactics and techniques that will prevent casualties. Section 1 of the Scout/Sniper Platoon has attacked and cleared buildings with all of the line companies in 3/5. The authors have observed nearly all of the squads in the battalion and have "rolled in the stack" with many of them. This is an experience that few in the battalion have. Knowing this, we believe it is our duty to consolidate our observations, produce a comprehensive evaluation of squad tactics and techniques, and pass it on to the squad leaders. Our intent is to give the squad leaders options in combat. One squad or another has proved all of these tactics and techniques in combat. Section 1 does not take any credit for the information contained in this article. The information was learned through the blood of the infantry squads of 3/5. The entire evaluation has one underlying theme -- accomplish the mission with the least number of casualties possible. The article discusses the following topics: Terrain and Enemy, Squad Tactics, Organization of the Squad, Squad Communications, After Clearing/Continuing Actions, Mission or Time Has Priority, Individual Techniques and Tactics, Supporting Arms, Demolitions, Randomness of Tactics and Techniques, and Combat Mindset.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA489647
Entities
People
- Brad Z. Edison
- David A. Moon
- Earl J. Catagnus Jr.
- James D. Keeling