Tactical Decision Game #95-7 Solution B


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Tactical Decision Game Solution #95-7 B July 1995

The Roadblock

by Capt Harry J. Hewson

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Platoon Commander's Frag Order

"Commander's Intent: I want a roadblock set in the saddle just south of Hill 821 to screen for any rebel soldiers who may try to interfere with the evacuation. The plan is to diffuse any tensions at the roadblock with diplomacy and a "big stick. " All weapons positions will be manned, and there should be no doubt in the minds of anyone approaching our roadblock that troublemakers will be hit hard. We will expedite the movement of refugees to the east and stop the movement of rebel units or armed individuals who might interfere with the UNProFor evacuation. We will try to avoid escalating any confrontation into a firefight.

"Platoon Sergeant: Here's $100. Go recruit a local man who speaks good English to act as a translator for us. Contract with him to stay on with us for at least the next 24 hours. We'll protect him and feed him for that period. Join me at the roadblock as soon as you've got him in tow.

"lst Squad(+): You will set the roadblock at Checkpoint A. Use the AAVs and the concertina. Position the M60s and Javelins to cover the area of the road where any vehicles may stop. Keep the refugees moving through at a steady rate; we don't want a lot of civilians pushing on the wire trying to get through, and we definitely don't want them in the way if trouble starts. Be ready to displace quickly to rejoin company if ordered.

"2d Squad: Place an OP on Hill 821 to watch the road to the west for any military activity. The rest of your squad will joint 1st Squad at the roadblock.

"3d Squad: You are the reaction force. Occupy a position on Hill 821, north of highway. Be prepared to reinforce the roadblock or maneuver against rebel flank from the north if any rebel forces start causing trouble at the roadblock. You will keep the AT4s for a quick strike, antimech capability.

"Radioman: Get a hold of the forward air controller (FAC) back at company and ask him to ensure that there are Cobras on strip alert in case we need them. Also, have him to pass Attack Position Boa and our locations to our Aviation Combat Element (ACE). Next, find out if there are any less lethal weapons available. We could use them if things start to escalate.

"Wrap Up: The rules of engagement are clear, and we will remain within them at all times. It is the responsibility of each squad leader to ensure that every Marine in his squad is fully briefed on the ROE and his responsibilities. Let's move out."

Explanation

There are four key points that need to be made in this scenario. The first is that every effort must be made to diffuse tensions at the roadblock and keep the peace. This is in the best interest of everyone involved and best facilitates the mission. However, if the rebels cause a confrontation, it is essential to be ready to respond at every level, from quiet negotiations (using the hired interpreter) at the roadblock, to using any less lethal means available, to bringing in reinforcements, to attack helicopter missions, to falling back to delaying positions if necessary. Scaling our response allows us to remain within the ROE and adequately protect the force throughout the entire range of conflict.

The second point is that ragtag armies and civilians alike tend to show respect to an allied force that looks and acts professionally. Utility shirts on and buttoned, flack jackets and helmets worn, and weapons at the ready will create an immediate impression with fighting men who have no real issued gear, poor discipline, and little military training.

The third point involves early planning with the ACE, something often overlooked in TDGs. A little coordination to bring the pilots into the loop prior to a mission will go a long way in the middle of a firefight to ensure prompt and accurate close air support.

Finally, it must be noted that our crafty platoon commander shelled out some of his own hard earned greenbacks to contract an interpreter. Sometimes you have to make some personal sacrifices to ensure the smooth success of a mission, and the American dollar holds its value well in war-torn areas. Just don't expect to get reimbursed by Uncle Sam. The best you can hope for is to find a creative accountant who can help you take it as a write off come tax time!

For more detailed information on the structure of Marine Corps units, Marine Corps equipment, and symbols used in Tactical Decision Game sketches, see Marine Corps Gazette, October 1994, pp. 53-56 and the modification reported in the January, 1995, edition on page 5.