Previous: 2-99: Platoon File
2-100. The platoon leader uses formations to relate one vehicle or squad to another on the ground and to position firepower to support the direct fire plan. He uses them to establish responsibilities for security between vehicles or squads and to aid in the execution of battle drills and directed course of action.
2-101. When mounted, the platoon uses the column, wedge, line, echelon, coil, and herringbone formations (based on METT-TC variables). The platoon leader tracks his platoon’s formation and movement in conjunction with the company’s formation. Table 2-5 shows characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of each type of standard mounted formations.
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Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad