Infantry Platoon and Squad (ATP 3-21. 8 / FM 3-21. 8 / ATTP 3-21. 71 / ATTP 3-21. 9)

Book excerpt: Army Techniques Publication (ATP) 3-21.8, "Infantry Platoon and Squad," encompasses techniques for the Infantry platoons and squads of the Infantry, Stryker, and Armored brigade combat teams (I, S, and ABCTs). This publications provides doctrinal guidance; describes relationships within the platoon and squad; defines organizational roles and functions, capabilities, limitations; and lay outs the responsibilities for platoons and squads during unified land operations. The Infantry platoon and squad is an all-weather, all-terrain unit. Against this backdrop, the Infantry platoon and squad must be ready to adapt to various levels of conflict and peace in various environments. This requires bold, aggressive, resourceful, and adaptive leaders-leaders of character, competence and commitment - who are willing to accept known risks to accomplish the mission. Infantry leaders must use their initiative and make rapid decisions to take advantage of unexpected opportunities.