Study the friendly and enemy situation closely for the effect that troop dispositions, strengths, and capabilities may have on your mission. These factors will influence the route you take, the size and organization of your patrol, and the weapons and equipment the patrol will carry.

Study the map of the terrain over which the patrol intends to operate. The nature of the terrain in the vicinity of the objective will determine the number of security teams needed and the manner in which you will conduct your leader's reconnaissance of the objective.

ORGANIZE THE PATROL

Organizing consists of determining the elements and teams required to accomplish the mission of the patrol. Organization of the patrol, either special or general, is given in the patrol warning order.