FM 17-35 ( Armored Cavalry Platoon, Troop and Squadron ) 1960

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(5) Plans should be made for visual and sound means of
communication before an operation starts. These means
can be especially useful for transmitting short, prearranged
messages.
28. Reporting Procedures
The most important contribution made by the scout platoon
during reconnaissance or security missions is the accurate and
timely reporting of information concerning the enemy and the
area of operations.
a. Information and Reports of the Enemy. All information obtained
during the performance of a given mission should be reported,
regardless of its apparent value. Negative reports are
sometimes of significant importance and therefore should be rendered
whenever appropriate. Initial contact with the enemy is
reported immediately. Information of the enemy must be accurate
and must answer the questions:
(1) What enemy was observed and in what strength?
(2) Where was the enemy observed?
(3) When was the enemy observed?
(4) What was the enemy doing?
b. Information and Reports of the Area of Operations. When
information about an area of operations is desired, such-as information
of a particular route or area, personnel must be thoroughly
briefed on what information is desired and where it is to be
sought. They must be familiar with the requirements for assembly
areas and attack positions, the techniques and procedures
of route reconnaissance as discussed in FM 5-36, and the effects
of weather and terrain on various types of operations. The SOP
of the higher unit should prescribe a format for reporting this
information so that reports are concise, complete, and timely.
Time permitting, an overlay or sketch of an area, delivered by
messenger, is an effective means of reporting.
c. Information and Reports of Own Unit. Scout elements must
keep their higher headquarters continually informed as to their
own location. This information may be reported according to a
time schedule or as predetermined positions are reached. Check
points, phase lines, and coded coordinates can be used effectively
in reporting these locations.
29. Pioneer Work by Scout Platoon
a. General. The scout platoon may be ordered to perform limited
pioneer and demolition work. This type of mission may in-
24 AGO 4088B