An Cosantóir

www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE | 15 most experienced CSS planners. Thorough knowledge of battalion level FIBUA TTPs therefore is critical for the platoon sergeant's estimate process in support of his/her platoon commander. As the administrative and logistics head of the platoon and its 2IC the platoon ser- geant must be fully versed not just in the platoon commander's battle plan, but also in the company and battalion CSS plans. This is because the platoon sergeant is responsi- ble for ensuring the soldiers doing the fighting are fully equipped, fed, armed and ready for each stage of the battle and that requires 'plugging-in' to higher level CSS systems. During FIBUA, the terrain and nature of operations create unique demands on units and formations. Increased ammunition consumption, increased water consumption, likely higher casualty rates, restricted access for transport all place extra demands on CSS to ensure resupply can move forward and casualties and prisoners of war can move rearward. The very nature of urbanised terrain and the associated devastation that fol- lows intense artillery and aerial bombardment can thwart existing CSS plans, requiring quick thinking sergeants and company sergeants to improvise as the battle develops. Platoon Level Battle Preparation An experienced and competent platoon sergeant is essential in the preparation for and execution of the FIBUA battle. As outlined above, the battalion and company level CSS plan will be challenged, the deeper the unit progresses into the built-up area. There- fore, as early as possible, ammunition (including grenades) and water must be pushed forward to the assaulting soldiers, shortening the resupply time. Company sergeants can adopt a pro-active or 'push' system in this case, where resupply demands are an- ticipated and executed prior to being requested. Similarly, the company sergeants and platoon sergeants must constantly liaise and move casualty collection points forward to keep up with the battle and minimise confusion associated with navigation in a rubble and devastated urban environment. The platoon sergeant delivers the CSS paragraph of the platoon commander's orders as with other operations, but in FIBUA the following nuances should be given consid- eration. In terms of dress, TM 201 states that the minimum kit should be worn to allow unrestricted movement through mouse holes or trapdoors etc. Therefore, combat equipment should be stripped to the minimum with an emphasis on ammunition, water, medical kit, and any special breaching kit. Casualty evacuation drills should be well-rehearsed and thoroughly discussed, with an emphasis on locations of casualty collection points and routes to them. Designated stretcher carriers and bearers should be identified to all as well as any specially trained medical personnel attached to the platoon, company, or battalion. Overall the role of the platoon sergeant in the FIBUA environment is to aid the platoon commander by ensuring that all troops have the necessary kit and equipment to com- plete their mission and tasks. They must ensure to give comprehensive and detailed CSS orders so that all troops are properly equipped and prepared crossing the line of departure. The soldiers must be assured that an effective and detailed casualty evacu- ation plan is in place. This will instil confidence in the soldiers to carry out the close quarter battles asked of them and maintain their morale as the battle progresses. The platoon sergeant should endeavour to push ammunition and all necessary equipment forward to assaulting sections in order to maintain the momentum of the battle which is an important aspect in FIBUA. Finally, the platoon sergeant should maintain a clear picture of the battle as it progresses. This means knowing the status of every soldier in the platoon and their condition at all times. This information will aid the platoon commander's decision making when the platoon transitions through the stages of the FIBUA operation or on to future operations elsewhere.

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