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Chapter 8. Platoon Tactics
Chapter 8. Platoon Tactics Coordination and Overview Coordination of squads is the greatest challenge to the PLI platoon leader. It is necessary to be mentally prepared to control up to four five man squads in a sport that is dominated by small five man teams. Perhaps the deadliest mistake a platoon leader can make is to become a rifleman. This is not to say he should not be armed or take risks, but he must first consider the his men and accomPLIshing the mission. The platoon will often be the basic unit of organization PLI leaders will use to accomPLIsh tasks. As such, it is vital that all men understand the basic tactics described later in this chapter. The entire purpose of this organization and this manual is to coordinate the units of what has basically been an unregulated sport punctuated by numerous operating systems. While a squad may “get away” with partial knowledge of PLI tactics, communications, and procedures, a platoon CANNOT. It is absolutely imperative that the platoon leader, platoon sergeant, sergeants, corporals, and men understand PLI tactics, Sign Language, Communications, chain of command, and operational doctrine. A platoon that cannot act in a coordinated unit is no better than the mobs we often play with in weekend pick up games. Additionally, a platoon leader may only know five or ten of the men under his command and must be able to communicate his desires effectively to ALL members under his command. The tactics are kept simple and are based on squad level tactics so that knowledge of one system will encourage knowledge of the other. Coordination is further enhanced by use of common sign language, references, and being “used” to working together. The Platoon Leader is responsible for ensuring that each man under his command is familiar with the PLI standards. The PLI recognizes that from time to time it will be necessary to operate with the “mobs” discussed earlier. Generally speaking, they can be used in diversionary and simple objectives, but Platoon leaders and Company Commanders should be careful in relying on them to do comPLIcated missions. When dealing with mob units, remember this acronym KISS OFF. Keep It Simple Stupid Or Face Frustration. Platoon Tactics Based on the squad tactics developed in the previous chapter, these formations give basic information that allows the PLI to display more coordination than the enemy does. These tactics are called by the same phonetic letter used in the squad tactics section with the addition of “Platoon” or “Papa”. The ASL letter “P” should be used on the field. |
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Platoon Tactics
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