1-39. Additional duties assigned within the platoon normally include the assignment of squad-designated marksmen and CLSs with aid bag within each squad. These additional duties and the numbers required are dependent on the mission variables of METT-TC (I).
Squad-Designated Marksman
1-40. The squad-designated marksman (known as SDM) employs an optically enhanced general-purpose weapon. The SDM receives training available within the unit’s resources to improve the squad’s precision engagement capabilities at short and medium ranges.
1-41. A rifleman may be assigned as the SDM. The SDM is chosen for the rifleman’s demonstrated shooting ability, maturity, reliability, good judgment, and experience. The SDM must be able to execute the entire range of individual and collective rifleman tasks within the squad.
1-42. The SDM is not the squad sniper, though the SDM is a fully integrated member of the rifle squad and provides an improved capability for the rifle squad. The SDM does not operate as a semi-autonomous element on the battlefield as a sniper, nor does the SDM routinely engage targets at the extreme ranges common to snipers. (See TC 3-22.9 for additional information.)
Combat Lifesaver
1-43. The CLS is a nonmedical Soldier trained to provide appropriate tactical combat casualty care (TCCC) skills beyond the level of self-aid or buddy aid. The CLS is not intended to take the place of medical personnel. Using specialized training, the CLS can slow deterioration of a wounded Soldier’s condition until treatment by medical personnel is possible. Each certified CLS is issued a CLS aid bag and should have a laminated quick reference GTA 08-01-004 (MEDEVAC Request Card). Whenever possible, the platoon leader ensures each fire team includes at least one CLS. (See chapter 8 section II for additional information on CLSs.) The CLS—
- Ensures that the squad CLS bags and litters are properly packed and stored.
- Identifies Class VIII shortages to the platoon medic.
- Applies appropriate TCCC skills for injuries and participates in all manual and litter-carry drills.
- Uses appropriate TCCC skills in the field until casualties can be evacuated or medical personnel take over.
- Assists medical personnel in providing TCCC and preparing patients for evacuation.
- Knows the location of the CCP and the unit’s tactical SOP for establishing it.
- Initiates DD Form 1380 (Tactical Combat Casualty Care [TCCC] Card), when required (see paragraph 8-52).
Note. Leaders within the platoon should make the CLS program a training priority.
Next Page : Habitual Attachments