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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