An Cosantóir

www.military.ie the defence forces magazine | 25 FIELDCRAFt – PARt 6 Observation In order to locate the enemy, whom it is to be assumed are adept at the skills of camouflage and concealment, the soldier is required to learn how to observe by scanning and searching. It is important, therefore, that every soldier is skilled in the art of observation, which when perfected can improve a soldier's accuracy at locating the enemy. aim: To teach the soldier how to systematically observe an area of ground. Preparation: Recce the training area and select an area of ground to divide into foreground, middle distance and background. Position a number of demonstrators and equipment so that they provide varying degrees of contrast in colour, tone, surface, shape and shadow. This is best done as close to the lesson start time as is possible. Miscellaneous: Rehearse the demonstrator's in their actions prior to sending them to their locations. Some equipment need not be too well concealed but all demonstrators should provide realistic battle-type targets. Visual training films like 'Finding the Enemy' are a useful supplement to this lesson but should not be considered as an alternative to the outdoor period. During practice, ask the section what they have observed and how they identified the objects. Let them confirm locations using an aiming rest. explain and demonstrate Scanning and Searching: Scanning is a general and systematic examination of an area to detect any unusual or significant object or movement. Searching is a thorough examination of certain features in the area. Both require complete concentration combined with a knowledge of why things are seen and the principles of camouflage and concealment. Scanning: Divide the area into foreground, middle distance and background. Scan each area horizontally starting with the foreground. To obtain maximum efficiency, move the eyes in short overlapping movements. Moving the head will minimise eye fatigue. The speed at which scanning is carried out will depend upon the type of country being observed and the amount of cover it affords to possible targets. Search across hedgerows or a row of trees, not along them.

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