Previous: 6-73: Communications Checks
6-74. When the situation allows, the patrol leader should submit a written patrol manifest to the commander or to command post personnel prior to departing the main body. Regardless of the situation, whenever the unit sends out a patrol there should be a specific list of the patrol members made before it departs. The unit tactical SOP may establish a specific format for this manifest, but generally it should contain the following information:
- Patrol number or call sign designation.
- Unit designation of unit sending the patrol out.
- Patrol task and purpose (mission).
- Names and rank of patrol leader and all subordinate leaders.
- Estimated date-time-group out.
- Estimated date-time-group in.
- Brief description of the patrol’s intended route.
- Complete names, rank, and unit of all members of the patrol, including attachments.
- Number, nomenclature, and serial number of all weapons with the patrol.
- Number, nomenclature, and serial number of all electronic warfare devices, radios, and other special or sensitive equipment with the patrol.
- Vehicle type and registration number, if appropriate.
6-75. The purpose of the manifest is to allow the higher headquarters to keep track of all the patrols which are out and those having returned. If the patrol engages the enemy or fails to return on time without reporting, the headquarters has information on the size, capability and intentions of the patrol that it may need. If the patrol suffers casualties or has a vehicle disabled, this manifest can be used to check that all personnel, weapons and sensitive items were recovered.
Next: 6-76: Departure Report
Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad