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Previous: 3-178: Emplace Weapon Systems

3-179. The purpose of rehearsals is to ensure every leader and Soldier understands the plan and elements are prepared to cover their assigned areas with direct and indirect fires. The rehearsal should cover—

• Rearward passage of security forces (as required).
• Closure of lanes (as required).
• Movement from the hide position to the battle position.
• Use of fire commands, triggers, and maximum engagement lines (MELs) to initiate direct and indirect fires.
• Shifting of fires to refocus and redistribute fire effects.
• Disengagement criteria.
• Identification of displacement routes and times.
• Location of remount points, the times remount operations will take place, and movement considerations for conduct of a remount in contact.
• Preparation and transmission of critical reports using radio and digital systems, as applicable.
• Assessment of the effects of enemy weapon systems.
• Displacement to alternate, supplementary, or subsequent battle positions.
• Cross-leveling or resupply of Class V.
• Evacuation of casualties.

3-180. The platoon leader should coordinate rehearsals with higher headquarters to ensure there are no conflicts with other units. Coordination leads to efficient use of planning and preparation time for all units involved with the operation. It eliminates dangers of misidentifying friendly forces in the rehearsal area, which could result in fratricide.

Next: Section VI: Transitions

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