Infantry Drills

6-4: Purpose of Patrolling



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6-4. There are several specific purposes which can be accomplished by patrolling—

  • Gathering information on the enemy, on the terrain, or on the populace.
  • Regaining contact with the enemy or with adjacent friendly forces.
  • Engaging the enemy in combat to destroy him or inflict losses.
  • Reassuring or gaining the trust of a local population.
  • Preventing public disorder.
  • Deterring and disrupting insurgent or criminal activity.
  • Providing unit security.
  • Protecting essential infrastructure or bases.

Next: 6-5: Organization of Patrols

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