Infantry Drills

5-14: Graphic Control Measures



Previous: 5-11: Organization for a Tactical Road March

5-14. An overlay or strip map often is used to graphically depict critical information about a tactical road march route to subordinates. The overlay (see figure 5-1, page 5-4) or strip map (see figure 5-2, page 5-5) typically shows the route of march, start points, release points, checkpoints, critical points (such as bridges), light line, and traffic control post. Other graphic control measures include AA and phase lines. The terms are defined below:

Figure 5-1. Overlay with route control measures
Figure 5-2. Strip map
  • Start point is a location on a route where the marching elements fall under the control of a designated march commander.
  • Release point is a location on a route where marching elements are released from centralized control.
  • Checkpoint is a point designated along the route to assist marching units in complying with the timetable.
  • Critical point is a point that identifies where interference with movement might occur.
  • Light line is a designated phase line, forward of which vehicles are required to use blackout lights during limited visibility.
  • Traffic control post are positioned along the route to prevent congestion and confusion. Points may be manned by military police or unit personnel. These Soldiers report to the appropriate area movement control organization when each convoy, march column, and march serial arrives at and completes passage of their location.
  • Movement corridor is a designated area; established to protect and enable ground movement along a route, establish a movement corridor to set the conditions to protect and enable movement of traffic along a designated surface route.

Next: 5-15: Tactical March Techniques

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