Previous: 3-81: Follow Through
3-83. Priority of work is a set method of controlling the preparation and conduct of a defense. Tactical SOPs should describe priority of work including individual duties. The platoon leader changes priorities based on the situation. All leaders in the platoon should have a specific priority of work for their duty position. Although listed in sequence, several tasks are performed at the same time. An example priority of work sequence is as follows:
- Post local security.
- Position and assign sectors of fire for each BFV or ICV.
- Establish the platoons reconnaissance and surveillance.
- Position Javelins, machine guns, and Soldiers; assign sectors of fire.
- Position other assets (platoon command post).
- Designate final protective lines and final protective fires.
- Clear fields of fire and prepare range cards and area of operations sketches.
- Adjust indirect fire final protective fires. The firing unit fire direction center should provide a safety box clearing of all friendly units before firing adjusting rounds.
- Prepare fighting positions.
- Install wire communications, if applicable.
- Emplace obstacles and mines.
- Mark (or improve marking for) target reference points and direct fire-control measures.
- Improve primary fighting positions such as overhead cover.
- Prepare alternate and supplementary positions.
- Establish sleep and rest plan.
- Reconnoiter movements.
- Rehearse engagements and disengagements or displacements.
- Adjust positions and control measures as required.
- Stockpile ammunition, food, and water.
- Dig trenches between positions.
- Reconnoiter routes.
- Continue to improve positions.
Next: 3-84: Platoon Leader
Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad