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Previous: 2-173: Main Body

2-176. Execution of this task usually starts from a LD at the time specified in the
operation order (OPORD). The leader controls the movement to contact by using phase lines, contact points, and checkpoints as required. The leader controls the depth of movement to contact by using a limit of advance (LOA) or a forward boundary. The leader could designate one or more objectives to limit the extent of movement to contact and orient the force. However, these are often terrain-oriented and used only to guide movement. Although movement to contact may result in taking a terrain objective, the primary focus should be on the enemy force. If the leader has enough information to locate significant enemy forces, then the leader should plan some other type of offensive action.

2-177. Leaders use positive control over maneuver units, coupled with battle drills and formation discipline. Normally platoons are not assigned their own area of operation during a movement to contact.

2-178. The leader can designate a series of phase lines successively becoming the new rear boundary of forward security elements as force advances. Each rear boundary becomes the forward boundary of the main body and shifts as the security force moves forward. The rear boundary of the main body designates the limit of responsibility of the rear security element. This line also shifts as the main body moves forward. (Refer to FM 3-90-1 for more information.)

Next: 2-179: Order of Events

Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad