Cpl's Course: Fire Team Operations Study Guide With Complete Solution

MISSION STATEMENT -Answer In May 1944, Headquarters, Marine Corps standardized the 13-man rifle squad, which has remained the standard unit organization into the 21st century based on its flexibility and effectiveness. The mission for a Marine Corps rifle squad is to locate, close with, and destroy the enemy by fire and maneuver, or repel the enemy's assault by fire and close combat. This mission consists of offensive and defensive elements. "To locate, close with, and destroy," refers to the offensive element of the Marine rifle squad while "Or repel the enemy's assault," refers to the defensive element. SQUAD LEADER -Answer The potential firepower of a Marine squad is conservatively estimated at 400 well-aimed rifle and automatic rifle shots per minute with an additional 15 rounds from the grenade launchers. The squad composition is: One squad leader (sergeant) Three fire teams of 4 Marines The squad leader is equipped with: M4 service rifle OKC-3S bayonet Compass The squad leader takes position where they can best carry out the orders of the platoon commander and control and observe the squad. Squad Leader's Responsibilities The squad leader carries out the orders issued by the platoon commander. Responsibilities include: Squad discipline Appearance Training Control Conduct Welfare of troops Care, condition, and economical use of weapons and equipment In combat, the squad leader is also responsible for: Tactical employment Fire discipline Fire control Maneuver