Previous: D-87: Response Force
D-88. Because of the task organization of the convoy escort mission, mission command is especially critical. The relationship between the platoon or squad and convoy commander must provide unity of command and effort if combat operations are required during the course of the mission. In most cases, the unit will execute the escort mission under the control of the security force commander, who is usually under operational control or attached to the convoy commander.
D-89. The leader should coordinate with the security force commander or the escorted unit to obtain or exchange the following information:
- Time and place of linkup and orders brief.
- Number and type of vehicles to be escorted.
- High value assets within the convoy.
- Available weapon systems, ammunition, and ordnance (crew-served, squad, and individual).
- Vehicle maintenance status and operating speeds.
- Convoy personnel roster.
- Unit’s or escorted unit SOP, as necessary.
- Rehearsal time and location.
D-90. It is vital the convoy commander issues a complete movement OPORD to all convoy vehicle commanders before executing the mission. This is important because the convoy may itself be task-organized from a variety of units, and some vehicles may not have tactical radios or mission command systems. The order should follow the standard five-paragraph OPORD format (see table D-4, pages D-10 through D-11), but special emphasis should be placed on—
- Route of march (including a strip map for each vehicle commander).
- Order of march.
- Actions at halts.
- Actions in case of vehicle breakdown.
- Actions on contact.
- Chain of command.
- Communication and signal information.
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Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad