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Arm-and-Hand Signals for Ground Forces

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2-1. General

Signals illustrated with a single arrowhead indicate that the signal is not continuously repeated; however, it may be repeated at intervals until acknowledged or the desired action is executed. Signals illustrated with double arrowheads are repeated continuously until acknowledged or the desired action is taken. Signals are illustrated as normally seen by the viewer. Some signals are illustrated in oblique, right angle, or overhead views for clarity.

2-2. Signals to Control Vehicle Drivers and/or Crews

These are the arm-and-hand and light signals used to guide and direct vehicles. Flashlights are used at night to direct vehicles. Blue filters should be used whenever possible in order to preserve the driver's night vision. Chemical lights can also be used and have less effect on the driver's night vision (Figures 2-1 through 2-22).

2-3. Signals for Crew-Served Weapons

Members of crew-served weapons must communicate. Often, this is in environments where visual signals are the best means of transmitting information (Figures 2-23 through 2-28).

2-4. Signals for Combat Formations and Battle Drills

a. Signals, General (Figures 2-29 through 2-57).

(1) Leaders of dismounted units use arm-and-hand signals to control the movement of individuals, teams, and squads. These signals are used by infantry and also by combat support and combat service support elements organized for infantry missions (Figures 2-29 through 2-45).

(2) Leaders of mounted units use arm-and-hand signals to control individual vehicles and platoon movement. When distances between vehicles increase, flags (wrapped and tied) can be used as an extension of the arm to give the signals. From some vehicles (for example, Bradley, M2), the arm-and-hand signals will be distorted (Figures 2-46 through 2-50).

(3) Signals for drills are illustrated in Figures 2-51 through 2-57.

b. Mechanized Movement Techniques. Signals for movement techniques are used by mechanized units to indicate which manner of traversing terrain will be used by a unit (Figures 2-46 through 2-50).

c. Drills. Drills are a rapid, reflexive response executed by a small unit. These signals are used to initiate drills (Figures 2-51 through 2-57).

2-5. Patrolling Arm-and-Hand Signals

Patrolling is conducted by many type units. Infantry units patrol in order to conduct combat operations. Other units patrol for reconnaissance and security. Successful patrols require clearly understood communication signals among members of a patrol (Figures 2-58 through 2-63).

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