Chapter 1: Fundamentals of Scouting

Scouting involves observing terrain and/or the enemy, and
accurately reporting those observations. Scouting requires
proficiency in the use of weapons, cover and concealment,
route selection, and skill in unobserved day or night
movement.

1001. PURPOSE

When an infantry unit is not actively fighting the enemy, it should be actively searching for the enemy, which is the primary purpose of scouting. The unit attempts to keep the enemy off balance while making preparations for further attacks. Physically locating and keeping the enemy off balance are normally accomplished by small units ranging from a two-person scouting party to a squad-size patrol.

Infantrymen are sent out as scouts or as members of a patrol because the commander needs information about the enemy, terrain, and the location of friendly troops. The lives of the entire unit may depend upon the success or failure of a scout or patrol and the accuracy and timeliness of the report. The success of the scout or patrol will depend upon their training, preparation by the commander, and understanding their mission and the commander’s requirements.

To wage combat successfully, a commander must have accurate, detailed, and timely information about the enemy, the terrain, and adjacent friendly units. Well-trained scouts and capably led patrols are among the most effective means the commander has for acquiring the information necessary to plan tactical actions and make decisions in execution.

1002. REQUIRED SCOUTING SKILLS

To be effective, a scout must be able to--

• Recognize terrain features.

• Read a map and determine direction.

• Practice and implement the principles of cover and concealment.

• Fully utilize movement and route selection.

• Know the enemy (estimate enemy unit composition and strength).

• Observe and report information accurately.

• Select routes and move through numerous types of terrain.