Previous: 6-224: Debrief
6-226. The patrol leader is responsible for the patrol report, and may be assisted by his assistant patrol leader and specialist personnel attached to the patrol. Immediately after the debriefing, the patrol leader should render his patrol report to the commander. This report may be verbal or written, simple, or elaborate depending on the situation and commander’s requirements.
6-227. The commander may have the patrol leader render his report to the battalion intelligence officer or to the duty officer at the battalion command post, especially during stability. The patrol report (see figure 6-23, page 6-60) should include a description of the actual route taken by the patrol (as opposed to the planned route), including halt locations. If the unit uses digital mission command systems automatically tracking and displaying the patrol’s route, the information is known already. If not, the patrol leader reports it.
6-228. When GPS devices are used by the patrol, gathering route information is easier and faster. The actual route the patrol took is important for planning future patrol routes and actions. Enemy intelligence operations attempt to identify pattern settings by U.S. and coalition patrols, including the locations of halts. This may result in attack against locations regularly used by security forces.
6-229. Additional information may include the number of biometric enrollments and identification on the BEWL; was anyone detained according to the instructions on the BEWL; and what is the status?
Next: Chapter 7: Sustainment
Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad