Previous: 1-130: Rifle Squad Leader
1-132. The weapons squad leader leads his teams by personal example. He has complete authority over his subordinates and overall responsibility for those subordinates’ actions. This centralized authority enables him to act decisively while maintaining troop discipline and unity. Under the fluid conditions of modern warfare, he accomplishes assigned missions using initiative without needing constant guidance from higher headquarters.
1-133. The weapons squad leader is usually the senior squad leader, second only to the platoon sergeant, and performs all the duties of the rifle squad leader. In addition, the weapons squad leader—
- Controls fires and establishes fire control measures.
- Recommends medium machine gun employment to the platoon leader.
- Coordinates directly with the platoon leader for medium machine gun base-of-fire effects, and plans accordingly.
- Monitors ammunition expenditure.
- Coordinates directly with the platoon leader in placement of the Javelin-CCMS to best cover armored avenues of approach in the defense and overwatch positions in the attack.
- As the senior squad leader, becomes the alternate platoon sergeant on the ground if the platoon sergeant does not dismount.
- Employs mission command systems available to the squad and platoon.
- Trains his squad on individual and collective tasks required to sustain combat effectiveness.
- Manages the logistical and administrative needs of his squad, such as requesting and issuing ammunition, water, rations, and special equipment.
- Maintains accountability of Soldiers and equipment.
- Conducts troop leading procedures.
- Assists the vehicle commander in maintaining the ICV.
- Assumes control of the vehicle in absents of the platoon sergeant and platoon leader.
- Understands the mission two levels up (platoon and company).
Next: 1-134: Time Leader
Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad