How to create an Operation Order

by Stan Skrabut@skrabut

You are about to enter hostile territory.

You have just been assigned team leader.

You have been on missions where key elements have not been briefed.

You want to give a detailed briefing cover all essential information.

I will show you the key pieces to an operation order

Step 1: Brief the situation.

Brief the expected enemy forces including weather, terrain, capabilities, and course of action.

Brief the details of friendly forces from the mission of then next higher unit, adjacent

units, and supporting elements.

Brief on the attachments and detachments.

Step 2: Brief the mission.

Brief who, what, when, why, and where of the mission.

Step 3: Brief execution.

Brief concept of operation including scheme of maneuver, formation, route, and tactical missions

Brief the subunit subparagraphs.

Brief on the coordinating instructions.

Step 4: Brief on service support.

Brief on supply issues including rations, uniforms/ equipment, arms/ammo, and captured material.

Brief on transportation needs.

Brief on medical evacuation procedures.

Brief on personnel procedures.

Brief on prisoner of war procedures.

Step 5: Brief command and

signal

Brief on signal procedures to include frequencies and call signs, pyrotechnics and signals, challenge and

passwords, and any code words.

Brief on chain of command and leader location.

You have been on missions where key elements have not been briefed.

You want to give a detailed briefing cover all essential information.