Five paragraph order

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The five paragraph order is an element of United States Marine Corps and United States Army small unit tactics that specifies instruction to a unit (i.e. fireteam, squad, platoon, company, etc.) prior to potential enemy engagement. It provides a structure for the unit to be able to understand and execute the mission of the unit leader. It is different from other instruction from higher authority in that it is given orally, instead of being issued as written orders. Officers and non-commissioned officers also use it informally in order to communicate relevant information prior to a non-combat movement (e.g. administrative travel/convoy, field exercise movements, weapon requalification, liberty, etc.).

Outline of five paragraph order:

I. Situation

• A. Enemy Forces
• B. Friendly Forces
  1. Higher
     • Mission
     • Intent
  2. Adjacent
  3. Supporting
  4. Security
• C. Attach/Detach

II. Mission
III. Execution

• A. Commander's Intent
• B. Concept of the Operation
  1. Scheme of Maneuver
  2. Fire Support Plan
• C. Tasks
• D. Coordinating Instructions

IV. Administration/Logistics (Service Support in the Army version)
V. Command/Signal

Since Marines and soldiers work in small teams, it is important that each member know and understand the order in its entirety so as to be aware of which parts of the order apply directly to them and the subordinate unit to which they belong without being exceedingly aware of minute details provided for general situational awareness.

[edit] References

Field Training Manual - Student Handout, United States Marine Corps.