Task: Move as a Member of a Strike Team USJTF Task 1 Effective Date: 2011 AUG 26
Enlisted and Officer: All levels
STP: USJTF Troop Manual STP 7-11B1-SM-TG
Conditions: In a designated position (other than Strike Team leader) in a moving Strike Team. Standards: Reacted immediately to the Strike Team leader's example and performed the same actions of the Strike Team in the designated position within the formation. Performance Steps 1. Strike Team formations describe the relationship of the Operators in the Strike Team to each other. Standard Strike Team formations are the wedge (Figure 1), modified wedge (Figure 2), diamond (Figure 3), and file (Figure 4). a. Strike Team wedge (Figure 1). This is the basic Strike Team formation. It has the following characteristics:
(1) (2) (3) (4)
Is easy to control. Is flexible. Allows immediate Strikes in all directions. Provides all-round local security.
Performance Steps b. Modified wedge (Figure 2). When rough terrain, poor visibility, or other factors reduce control of the wedge formation, the sides are closed up to (almost) a single file. When moving in less rugged terrain and control becomes easier, Operators resume their original positions. The modified wedge can also be used for extended periods when traveling on roads or trails. It has the following characteristics:
(1) Is easier to control in reduced visibility or rough terrain. (2) Provides less security to flanks than a wedge but more than a file. (3) Masks Strikes initially to the front and rear for the majority of the Team. c. Strike Team diamond (Figure 3). This formation is a variation of the wedge. It is most often used when the Strike Team is operating alone or is the lead security element (point) for a column or file. It has the same characteristics as a wedge except there is--
(1) Reduced frontage. (2) Increased security to the rear. (3) Immediate Strikes in all directions, but one man's Strikes are always masked.
Performance Steps d. Strike Team file (Figure 4). When the Strike Team is not using a wedge or diamond formation, it uses the file. The characteristics of the file are as follows:
Performance Steps (1) Provides maximum control. (2) Provides minimum frontage. It is the easiest formation to use in close terrain or vegetation. (3) Facilitates speed of movement. (4) Is less flexible than the wedge or diamond. (5) Provides immediate Strikes to flanks, but it masks most soldier's Strikes to the front and rear. 2. The distances between Operators in the formation depend on the terrain, visibility, and control factors. The normal interval in daylight is about 10 meters. Formations should not be held rigid, but should vary according to the factors of METT-TC. a. The interval is increased in open terrain. b. The interval is decreased when underbrush, terrain, darkness, smoke, or dense fog limits visibility. c. The normal interval is resumed as soon as conditions permit. Evaluation Preparation: SETUP: This task will be tested during a Strike Group or larger tactical exercise. The fully combat-equipped Operator will move as part of a Strike Team, operating as part of a Strike group conducting a dismounted movement to contact. The Operator may act as any duty position except Strike Team leader. BRIEF Operator: Tell the Operator that he or she is a member of a Strike Team moving within the Strike Team formation; must use proper movement techniques within the formation as dictated by terrain and visibility; and must follow the Strike Team leader's instructions or signals. Performance Measures
GO
NO GO
1. Kept relative distance within the formation.
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2. Maintained visual contact with the Strike Team leader.
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3. Performed the same action as the Strike Team leader while maintaining relative position.
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4. Maintained the appropriate interval within the formation based on visibility, terrain, and the Strike Team leader's instructions and signals.
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5. Assumed the proper position within the formation as the formation changed.
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Evaluation Guidance: Score the Operator GO if all performance measures are passed. Score the Operator NO-GO if any performance measure is failed. If the Operator scores NO-GO, show the Operator what was done wrong and how to do it correctly. Certifications Required: None
Supporting Individual Tasks: None.