e FM 5-144 DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY FIELD MANUAL ENGINEER AMPHIBIOUS UNITS HEADQUARTERS, DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY NOVEMBER 1966 *FM 5-144 HEADQUARTERS FIELD MANUAL (' DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMYf WASH INGTON, D . C., 16 November, 1966 No. 5-144 ENGINEER AMPHIBIOUS UNITS Paragraph Page CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTIO Section I. General ............................................. 1-1 -1-4 1-1 II. Engineer mission and role ................... .... ·· ··· 1-5 -1-11 1-2 CHAPTER 2. THE ENGI EER AMPHIBIOUS BRIGADE .. . . . . . 2-1 -2-8 2-1 3. THE ENGINEER AMPHIBIOUS GROUP .......... 3-1 --3-8 3-1 4. THE ENGI EER AMPHIBIOUS BATTALIO Section I. General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1 -4-8 4-1 IT. H eadq uarters and headquarters company, engineer amphibious battalion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9 -4-16 4-3 III. The engineer amphibian assault company, engineer amphibious battalion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17-4-24 4-6 IV. The engineer amphibious company, engi neer amphibious battalion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25-4-32 4-9 CHAPTER 5. SHORE PARTY TASK ORGANIZATION, PLANS, AND ORDERS Section I. Shore party task organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5--1 -5-8 5--1 II. Shore party plans and orders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9 -5--17 5-9 CHAPTER 6. SHORE PARTY OPERATIONS Section I. Coordination, control, and communications . . . . . . . . . . . . 6--1 ---Q.-6 6--1 II. Initial actions ashore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6--7 -6--12 6--6 III. Beach support area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6--13-6--29 6--9 IV. General unloading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6--30----6--38 6--16 V. Records and reports :. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6--39-6--41 6--21 Vl. Shore part.y administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-42-6--48 6--21 VII. Defense of the beach support area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-49, 6--50 6--23 VIII. Base development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6--51-6--53 6--25 CHAPTER 7. EMPLOYMENT OF ENGINEER AMPHIBIAN ASSAULT UNITS Section I. Planning, embarkation, and rehearsal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1 -7-9 7-1 II. Fundamentals of the ship-to-shore movement . . . . . . . . . 7-10-7-24 7-5 III. Operations ashore during unloading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-25--7-31 7-16 IV. Employment of the mine clearance platoon . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-32-7-45 7-17 V. Communications for LVT's ......... . ... . ........ , . . . 7-46-7-50 7-23 CHAPTER 8. SPECIAL OPERATIONS Section I. Special landing operations 8-1 -8-3 8-1 II. Special operations ashore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4 --8-12 8-2 • This manual superSedes FM S-144, 4 October 1963. FM 5-144 Paragraph Page CHAPTER 9. INTERNAL DEFENSE OPERATIONS .. ... . . . . . . . 9-1 -9-12 9-1 APPENDIX A. REFER~NCES 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 . 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 . A-1-A-6 A-1 B. L VTP5 00 00 00 • 00 •• 00 00 00 00 00 • 00 •• 00 00 • 00 00 00 00 • • 00 00. B-1-B-3 B-1 C. LVTC .. . . . . . .. . ... .... . . .... . , .. ... . . .. . .. . .... . . .... C-1-C-2 C-1 D . LVTE D-1-D-2 D-1 E . LVTR E-1-E-2 E-1 F . TRAINING AND SAFETY FOR ENGINEER AMPHIBIAN ASSAULT COMPANIES . . . . . . . . . . . . F-1-F-15 F-1 G. LIGHTERS, AMPHIBIOUS, RESUPPLY, CARGO .. G-1-G-6 G-1 H. EMPLOYING THE LVTP AS A FUEL VEHICLE .. H-1-H-3 H-1 I. OPERATING PROCEDURES AND MAINTENANCE FOR THE LVT I-1-I-10 I-1 J. LANDING SHIPS AND LOADING PROCEDURES FOR LVT's 00 00 00 00 00 .00 oo 00 00 oo 00 J-1-J--5 J-1 K. DISABLED OR SINKING LVT . . . .. . .. . . . . . . . ..... K-1-K-9 K-1 L. DUTIES OF THE AMPHIBIAN COMMANDER, AMPHIBIAN DRIVER, AND ASSISTANT AMPHIBIAN DRIVER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . L-1-L-7 L-1 M. LOADING AND UNLOADING OF 105-MM HOWITZER IN AN LVTP5 . . . . . .. .... .. . . .. ... . . M-1-M-6 M-1 N. COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT IN ENGINEER AMPHIBIOUS UNITS . ... . ... . ..... N-1-N7 N-1 0 . EXAMPLE OF t:iHORE PARTY ACTIVATION ORDER 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 . 0-1 P. EXAMPLE OF SHORE PARTY PLAN TO OPERATION ORDER FOR AN AMPHIBIOUS OR SHORE-TO-SHORE OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . P-1 Q. ILLUSTRATIONS OF STANDARD FLAGS, LIGHTS, AND MARKERS USED TO CONTROL AMPHIBIOUS VEHICLES . . . . . . . . . . . . Q-1 GLOSSARY .. . . . . .. . . . . ... . . .. ... .. ... . ..... . .. .. .... . .. ..... .. . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . ...Glossary-! INDEX . .. . .. .. .. .. .... .... . ... . .. .. . ... .. .. . . . . . . ..... .... . .. . . ... . . . . . . .... . ... ... Index-1 FM 5-144 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION Section I. 1-1. Purpose and Scope • a. This manual provides guidance for commanders, staff officers, and others concerned with the planning, employment, and operations of specialized engineer amphibious units. It provides commanders and staffs with principles, doctrine, and procedures concerning the mis~ions, fun ctions, capabilities, organization, and equipment provided by engineer amphibious units. This will permit employing authorities to use these specialized engineer elements with maximum effectiveness in support of combat force conducting amphibious, shore-to-shore, or major river crossing operations. b. Specialized engineer units included within the scope of this manual are-- (1) The Engineer Amphibious Brigade (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, TOE 5-401). (2) The Engineer Amphibious Group (Headquarters and Headquarters Company, TOE 5-402) . {3) The Engineer Amphibious Battalion (TOE 5-405). Organic to each engineer amphibious battalion are- (a) A Headquarters and Headquarters Company (TOE 5-406). (b) Two (2) Engineer Amphibian Assault Compani es (TOE 5-407) . (c) An Engineer Amphibious Company (Shore Party Company, TOE 5-408). c. The material presented is applicable without modification to both nuclear and conventional warfare, and internal defense operations. 1-2. Collateral References A knowledge of the material contained in FM 31-11 , FM 31-12, FM 31 -13, and FM 60-30 is es- GENERAL sential for a clear understanding of amphibious doctrine. For river crossing operations a knowledge of the material contained in FM 31-60 is also required. Certain portions of these manuals and U.S. Navy and.Marine Corps manuals as related to the role of the engineer in amphibious operations have been repeated in this manual to provide a basis for a detailed discussion on the engineer organizations, doctrine, equipment, and employment in amphibious operations. 1-3. Terminology a. A glossary of amphibious terminology is included in this manual. Common amphibious terms are also included in AR 320-5 and JCS Pub 1. Those terms which are repeatedly used in this manual are also explained in the text. b. The terms amphibious vehicle (U.S. Army terminology) or amphibian vehicle or amphibian as used herein, are synonymous and are defined as, "a wheeled or tracked vehicle capable of operating on both land and water." The term amphibious tractor is a lso used in this manual and refers to amphibious vehicles of the landing vehicle, tracked (LVT) family. 1-4. Recommendations for Improvement Users of this manual are encouraged to submit recom mended changes or comments to improve the manual. Comments should be keyed to the specific page, paragraph, and line of the text in which change is recommended. Reasons should be provided for each comment to insure understanding and complete eva luation. Comments should be forwarded direct to the Commanding Officer, U.S. Army Combat Developments Command Engineer Agency, Fort Belvoir, Va. 22060. FM 5-144 Section II. ENGINEER MISSION AND ROLE 1-5. Mission The mission of engineer amphibious units is to provide a. A shore party headquarters for tactical units at corps, division, brigade, or battalion level. b. Command and control of assigned and attached units. c. A sistance in the planning and execution of amphibious, shore-to-shore, and major river crossing operations. d. Amphibious mobility in lightly armored vehicles for tactical units engaged in the assault of hostile shores. e. upport of internal defense operations as required. 1-6. Assignment of Engineer Amphibious Units The formation of the assault elements of a landing force is dependent on such factors as the scheme of maneuver ashore, size of the landing force, hydrography, available beaches, and available amphibious vehicles and landing craft. In turn, the type of engineer amphibious unit a signed to the force is dependent on the size of the landing force and the number of beaches it will land on. 1-7. Army Component Force a. No standard organization is applicable to all ::;ituations that may be encountered in an amphibious operation. The force organized for conduct of an amphibious operation is a task organization which is designated as an amphibious task force. b. The army component of an amphibious task force is a ta k organization formed of army units assigned thereto for participation in an amphibious operation. This component is referred to as the army ianding force. c. The composition and size of the army landing force varies with the type amphibious operation, landing force mission, and operational environment. d. The army landing force and each of its sub• ordinate echelons must be balanced forces capable of independent operations for the execution of an amphibious attack. An amphibious attack by its very • nature requires reinforcement of the basic tactical element at each echelon of the landing force to provide corribat support and interim combat service "upport capability pending establishment of normal support systems in the objective area.. The army meet the requirements of the amphibious operation through temporary internal reorganization of assault units and grouping of units as task organizations, to include certain units which by design provide specialized support needed in the assault of a hostile shore. e. Engineer amphibious units are among the army units designed to provide specially qualified personnel and units for performance of combat support and interim combat service support functions as part of the army landing forces executing landings. 1-8. Doctrinal Considerations A rigid concept of landing force employment or shore party requirements is not feasible; nor is it pos ible to identify a normal or typical amphibious operation. To facilitate understanding of landing force employment and support requirements, however, the following are doctrinal considerations: • a. The Landing Force. The landing force may be of army, corps, division, or smaller size. As the smallest combined arms and services organization, the division normally is employed as the lowest landing force echelon for independent landings and execution of a scheme of maneuver ashore. b. Brigade Landing Team (Bde LT). A brigade landing team is a task organization consisting of two or mor BLT's, two of which normally will make simultaneous assaults on a beach. It has reinforcing combat support and combat service support elements to provide combat support and interim combat service support during the period it conducts independent tactical operations. c. Battalion Landing Team (BLT). A battalion landing team is a task organization composed of a battalion level combat unit and the reinforcing combat and combat service support elements required for combat and interim combat service support during the period it conducts independent tactical operations. rl. The Reserve Brigade. Though scheduled for movement ashore over a secured and partially deYeloped beach, the reserve brigade should be capable of assuming the assault mission of committed brigades. Planning must anticipate this contingency and the reserve should be provided with adequate attachments, including a shore party. e. Joint Airmobile-Amphibious Operation. Occasionally the brigade surface landing by two BLT 's may be coordinated with the airmobile assault of a third BLT. In this event, there will be a simultaneous requirement for an airmobile support party in addition to the two BLT shore parties on the beaches. Airmobile operations, however, are normal to land combat, hence supportable by organic divisional elements and units furnishing the helicopter lift. Engineer amphibious units seldom are involved dire<{tly in the airmobile support role. However, their organization, training, and equipment make them readily adaptable to formation of helicopter support teams (or airmobile support parties) that can establish, operate, and develop landing zones in beach areas. 1-9. Role of the Engineer Amphibious Units a. The engineer amphibious unit commander and commanders of shore party component units serve as special taff assistants to the army landing force comn1ander and commanders of subordinate landing force echelon" during the planning for the amphibious attack. b. The engineer amphibious units discussed in this manual provide command, control, and a nucleu of operating personnel trained and equipped for battalion, brigade, division, and corps shore parties. c. In addition, the engineer amphibian assault companie of tl1e engineer amphibious battalion provide means of ship-to-shore, shore-to-shore, and limited inland mobility to assault landing teams FM 5-144 until such time as organic tactical carriers and ve hicles are available to the tactical units in the beachhead. The use of amphibians which provide both limited armor protection and mobility makes possible a rapid, continuous movement from ships to initial objectives inland without delay on the landing beaches. The amphibians also are useful a a mean of effecting delivery of critical supplies from ships directly to users inland from the beach, and for evacuation of medical patients, prisoners of war, and other personnel. 1-10. Duties of the Amphibious Engineer The amphibiou engineer plans and supervises a. Amphibious engineer support in offensive and defensive actions on the beach or in the beach sup port area. b. The transportation of the assault elements of the landing force from hip-to-shore or bore-toshore and inland, as required. c. The transportation of elements engaged in a withdrawal or retrograde operation from shore-toship or shore-to-shore. 1-11 . Combat and Combat Service Support a. Engineer amphibious units provide only certain specialized elements required for formation of shore parties. Their organic units are organized, trained, and equipped to meet the need for skills and equipment not common to other army units. Engineer amphibiou units, their mission and organization, are discussed in chapters 2, 3, and 4. b. Since engineer amphibious units provide only the nuclei for shore parties, the shore party task organization at each echelon must include other combat support and combat service support units. Usually of the field army type, these units and their functions are discussed in chapter 5. FM 5-144 • 2-1 . Mission The mission of the engineer brigade is to command assigned or attached units; to provide a shore party headquarters at corps level; and to provide as istance in planning and executing amphibious and shore-to-shore operations including landings on a hostile shore and crossings of major rivers and other water barriers. 2-2 . Assignment The engineer amphibious brigade is normally assigned to a field army or independent corps, as required, for amphibious or shore-to-shore operations. • 2-3 . Capabilities a. The engineer amphibious brigade is capable of pmviding (1) Command, staff planning, administration, control, and supervision of the operations of two to four engineer amphibious groups and other attached units. (2) Assistance to an army or corps commander and staff in the planning and execution of an amphibious or shore-toshore operation. (3) A corps shore party headquarters. ( 4) Supervision for the collection of engineer intelligence information; preparation of shore , beach, river, terrain, hydrographic and hydrologic reports; and evaluation and dissemination of engineer intelligence. (5) Effective coordinated defense of the unit's area or installation. b. Medical service is provided by appropriate teams from TOE 8-500, as required. c. Multichannel communications facilities required for an operation are provided by appropriate team from TOE 11-500. CHAPTER 2 THE ENGINEER AMPHIBIOUS BRIGADE d. A liaison team, consisting of a U.S. Navy lieutenant commander and a yeoman, is provided by the U.S. Navy, when required. 2-4. Organization and Functions The engineer amphibious brigade is a flexible organization. The number and composition of the units assigned or attached to it depend upon a specific mission. Normally, from two to four engineer amphibious groups are assigned or attached t o the brigade. During an amphibious operation of corps size, a variety of combat and combat service support units are also attached to the engineer amphibious brigade as part of the shore party task organization for the duration of the assault phase of the operation. The headquarters and headquarters company of the engineer amphibious brigade, however, is a fixed organization (fig. 2-1). It consists of two elements as follows: a. B-rigade Headquarters. Brigade headquarters provides the command and staff personnel required to command and control the corps shore party and the a signed or attached engineer amphibious groups. It. consists of the following personnel: (1) Brigade commander. (2) Deputy commander. (3) Sl. (4) S2. (5) S3. (6) S4. (7) Aviation officer. (8) Surgeon. (9) Chaplain. (10) Signal officer. (11) Liaison officers ( 3) . (12) Aide-de-camp. (13) Sergeant major. b. Headquarters Company. Headquarters company consists of a c6mpany headquarters and t he personnel of the operating sections of the brigade. ,.. ~ 3: r- STRENGTH HHCO ENGR AMPH TOE 5-401 t OFF 25 WO 0 EM 81 AGG 106 BDE Bde Hq Hq Co Co Hq S2 Sec S4 Sec Surgeon Sec Corps Shore Admin Sec S3 Sec Party Sio Sec Figure B-1. Organizational chart, headquarters and headquarters company, engineer amphibious brigade. IIIII • • (1) Company headquarters. The company headquarters provides the command, administration, supply, mess service, and equipment maintenance for the company. (2) Administrative section. The administrative section is supervised by the brigade 81. It provides administrative services for the command and attached units. (3) S2 section. The 82 section plans and direct the collection, evaluation, interpretation, and distribution of intelligence and counterintelligence pertaining to amphibiou operations. It assists the landing force staff in the acquisition and evaluation of beach information and other intelligence of concern to the shore party and ship-to-shore functions. ( 4) 83 section. The 83 section provides personnel to direct and coordinate organizational, training, and operational support activities. It assist the landing force in planning and in operations and insures compatibility of shore party organization. It plans and coordinates shore party landing equences and beach support area development. In conjunction with the landing force G3, it assists in the preparation of plans for the use of engineer amphibian assault companies in the ship-to-shore movement. The 83 section will perform the duties of the civil affairs and psychological operations sections if civil affair or psychological operations personnel are not assigned or attached. It coordinates with civil affairs units and the landing force G5 to insure appropriate actions are planned and taken toward civilians in the beach support area. (5) S4 8ection. The 84 section plans, coordinates, and supervises supply, evacuation, tran portation, transportation services, mess service, organizational maintenance, and related combat service support activities. It i not in t he chain of upply but may inject itself a, appropriate to insure continuity and cffectiveneE LCVP (BOAT) by way of a flank of each beach. Loaded amphibiou s vehicles turn ~TRANSFER LINE CONTROL (PRIMARY) and head toward beach. CD TRANSFER LINE CONTROL (SECONDARY) Figure 7-6. Schematic diagram of transfer operations. powered by the landing craft. Amphib7. Equipment is passed from t he landing ious vehicle tracks are disengaged. craft to personnel who have already 6. T ro ops step from the gunwales of the transferred. landing craft to the deck of the am8. Cargo loads are transferred by personphibious vehicle and descend by boardnel stationed in the transfer area for ing ladder into the cargo and personnel this purpose. Roller conveyors between compartment of the vehicle. craft and vehicle may be used for this 7-13 FM 5-144 purpose. During later stages, barges and floating cranes are used to speed cargo transfer operations. 9. Landing craft are loaded so as to facilitate transfer of embarked personnel. A landing craft may carry several normal loads for amphibious vehicles. Loads for more than one destination are avoided. 10. Once transfer is accomplished, landing craft proceed via the nearest flank of the appropriate boat lane to designated ships or control points for further employment. Amphibious vehicles proceed as directed by the transfer area control officer or wave guide. 7-19. Formation of Waves After debarkation, amphibious vehicles form in designated waves under control of their respective CJ BASE VEHICLE DO WEDGE FORMATION D BASE VEHICLE D D COLUMN FORMATION guide boats. The optimum interval between vehicles for ease of control is three vehicle lengths. Other factors influencing interval between vehicles are the formation and interval required upon reaching the beach, sea conditions , and visibility. When formed in column, each wave follows its guide boat toward the line of departure and, by turning, forms a line seaward and parallel to the line of departure. Figure 7-6 illustrates the various formations used by engineer amphibian assault units. 7-20. Maneuver at the Line of Departure Waves arriving at the line of departure are directed by the primary control officer (see figs. 7-1 and 7-2). Waves arriving prior to scheduled crossing· time maneuver to maintain wave integrity. Vehicles maneuver by a series of flanking movements, protecting against wave inversion and excessive wear on steering mechanisms. Maneuvers are conducted at slow speed, while wave guides D BASE VEHICLE LINE FORMATION IB:SEI VEHICLE D D ECHELON (RIGHT) FORMATION NOTE: Interval for all formations is adjusted on the base vehicle. Figure 7~. lllw;tration of amphibiow; vehicle formations. watch for signals from the control ship in order to insure timely crossing of the line of departure. 7-21 . Crossing the Line of Departure The primary control officer orders waves across the lin e of departure by use of a flag hoist and supplemental voice radio. Five minutes before the first wave is to cross, the control ship hoists a "numeral one" flag at the dip (half-mast). The first wave then moves into position immediately seaward of the line of departure. Two minutes before crossing, the flag is hauled to the "close-up " position (all the way up) , and vehicles move toward the line of departure. When the flag is hauled down, the wave crosses the line of departure and proceeds to the designated beach. For all succeeding waves, only the 2-minute warning and the execute signa ls described above are given, using the numeral flag corresponding to the wave number being dispatched. For an illustration of the numeral flags, see appendix Q. 7-22. Movement to the Beach En route to the beach, landing craft designated as guide boats take position at the flanks or to the front and rear of assigned waves, as appropriate. Boats guiding LVTE's a lways take station to the flanks of the wave. The wave commander maintains interval between vehicles within the wave and adjusts speed to that of the wave guide. The last 1,000 yards to the beach are covered at the fastest speed commensurate with combat efficiency. Boat paddles are lowered and all vehicle hatches closed as protection against enemy action and shell burst. Just prior to entering the surf zone, guide boats leave the wave and relinquish control. Amphibious vehicles then continue to the beach under control of wave commanders. After beaching, amphibious vehicle waves continue inland in accordance with predetermined plans or ret urn to seaward after discharging troops or cargo. Vehicles returning seaward will enter the water from the flanks of the beach to avoid interference with subsequent waves. 7-23. Underwater and Beach Obstacles and Mines a. Underwater Obstacles. Underwater obstacles are extremely effective against all types of amphibious vehicles and must be cleared by navy units before landing operations commence. If only nar- FM 5-144 row passages are cleared, amphibious vehicle formations are adjusted so the cleared channel is traversed by all vehicles. Landing and retraction by subsequent waves is coordinated at each cleared passage to prevent congestion until additional passages are cleared. The landing rate is slowed to allow for decreased speed in reaching the beach and unloading. b. Beach Obstacles and Mines. Manmade or natural obstacles and mines encountered inland of the high water mark can restrict amphibious vehicle movement. Obstacles contaminated by employing chemical landmines will make troop passage more difficult because troops will be required to mask. Beach minefields are neutralized before landing scheduled waves by LVTE vehicles of the mine clearance platoon, headquarters and headquarters company, engineer amphibious battalion, which land in the first wave. When antitank minefields cannot be breached, assault troops debark from amphibious vehicles just seaward of the beach mines. c. Eliminating Obstacles. Instructions regarding elimination of underwater and beach obstacles and mines are contained in FM 5-15 and FM 20-32. 7-24. The LVTPS as a Mobile and Floating Dump a. Floating Dumps. One or more LVTP5's may be employed as floating dumps during the movement from ship-to-shore. These vehicles are intended to provide commanders of assault units with an early emergency means of supply available in the same manner as on-call serials. LVTP5's designated as floating dumps normally remain in landing ships near the line of departure until requested by the supported unit, at which time they are launched. Careful planning is required to insure that floating dumps are embarked on ships not scheduled for diversion to other activities, i.e., causeway launching, beaching, etc., thereby removing them from vicinity of the line of departure. When sufficient supplies have been landed, all remaining loaded floating dumps are unloaded ashore and these vehicles can then be made available for other assign ments. b. Mobile Dumps. LVTP5's may be employed in support of a mobile force ashore, normally a bat FM 5-144 talion landing team, as mobile dump . These vehicles are loaded as directed by the supported unit commander. Their loads may include personnel, crew-served weapons, ammunition, and rations. Vehicles designated as mobile dump accompany the supported force, providing a ready, immediate source of support during the stipulated period of employment. c. Logistic Capacities. See appendix B for an illustration of LVTP5 cargo capacities and typical cargo loads while waterborne and during land combat operations. Section Ill. OPERATIONS ASHORE DURING UNLOADING 7-25 . General The dual nature of the LVT provide the landing force with a flexible, diversified vehicle throughout the course of the amphibious operation. When the transportation of personnel of the as ault elements of the landing force from ship-to-shore and inland is completed, the LVTP5 may be employed in a combat service support role to carry supplies and equipment. Normally, when released by the tactical commander, the engineer amphibian assault companies revert to the control of their parent unit, the engineer amphibious battalion. As the commander of this battalion is a shore party commander, the L VTP5's may be used in the support of shore party operations. 7-26 . Liaison a. When their employment with the bore party is anticipated, liaison personnel of the engineer amphibian assault companies land with shore party headquarters elements. These liaison personnel assist in planning for initial L VTP5 employment in the combat service support role and keep the engineer amphibian assault company commander advised. Integrity of company-sized units is maintained whenever possible. b. Engineer •amphibian assault companies directed to conduct unloading operations with a ship, send a liaison party with communication equipment aboard the ship prior to commencing operations. The duties of the liaison party include (1) Advising the ship's combat cargo or unloading officer on matters of LVTP5 employment. (2) Advising and assisting in handling of LVTP5's at the ship. (3) Informing beach LVT control point personnel and command posts of the engineer amphibian assault companies of details regarding unloading. 7-27. Establishment of Facilities Ashore The company command post for each engineer amphibian assault company, with its maintenance and supply facilities for its organic LVT's ashore, is located proximate to the supported unit whenever possible. Extensive areas are required to provide for proper dispersion of vehicles and conduct of maintenance. Therefore, detailed reconnaissance of proposed sites is necessary to insure availability of an adequate installation. The commander of the area in which the installation is to be located approves the proposed locations of these engineer amphibian assault units. 7-28 . Control of Operations Ashore • LVT's op rating ashore rely on radio as their primary means of control. Secondary means include visual and sound amplification systems. Visual inshore markers control movement of vehicles on the beach. Guides are employed where required . These control measures are initiated and supervised by the hore party. Small boat signals may be employed ashore as well as afloat. Common hydrographic markings, beach markers, unloading point markings, and other beach signals are illustrated in appendix Q. Specific control points are e tablished on the beach where LVT's enter and leave the water while based ashore. It is desirable that these points be within view of the ships being unloaded by the LVT's. Control personnel, with communication equipment, are tationed at each such checkpoint to dispatch vehicles. The duties of these control personnel include a. Establishing and maintaining liaison with the shore party. b. Directing LVT's to the proper ship or destination. • c. Maintaining records of vehicle movement and amounts of cargo hauled . d. Maintaining required communications. e. Advising the shore party with regard to operating conditions affecting LVT employment; e.g., wind, surf conditions, and currents. 7-29. Unloading Ships a . LVTP5's possess a capability to unload ships and have the following advantages over landing craft in accomplishing this mission: (1) Trips from ship-to-shore are not interrupted by reefs or other offshore obstacles. (2) Retraction problems caused by tidal conditions are avoided. (3) Cargo can be lifted by one carrier from the ship inland to dumps, supply points, and to tactical units. ( 4) Unloading of ramp-type ships in shallow water is facilitated. FM 5-144 b. Disadvantages of employing LVTP 5's to unload ships include (1) LVTP5's are slower than landing craft. (2) They req uire more maintenance. (3) They are less maneuverab le afloat. ( 4) There is more restriction on the size of cargo due to the configuration of the vehicle. (5) Ships being unloaded must be close inshore . 7-30. Unloading Landing Ships Not Beached A landing ship may be unloaded advantageously by LVTP5's if it lies close inshore. Loading may be accomplished alongside the ship by means of nets and cranes or by embarking L VTP5's over the ramp of the-LST or sill of the LP D/LSD and loading them while onboard. 7-31. Cargo Transfer Line See paragraph 6-36 for a discussion of a cargo transfer line. Section IV. EMPLOYMENT OF THE MINE CLEARANCE PLATOON 7-32. General The mine clearance platoon, headquarters and headquarters company, engineer amphibious battalion, includes the LVTE vehicles and mine clearance personnel organic to the battalion. Personnel augmentation from the engineer battalion (army), attached to the shore party, is required during training and actual operations to aid organic personnel in the employment of the vehicle. The LVTE is a modified armored LVTP5 and is equipped with a rocket propelled line charge, a hoist mechanism with its carrying rack for the charge, and a plowshaped mine excavator with flotation tanks. Appendix D illustrates the LVTE and lists its characteristics. This vehicle provides a greatly increased capability in the breaching of extensively mined areas and in the reduction of obstacles during the landing and subsequent operations ashore. 7-33 . Mission of the Mine Clearance Platoon The mine clearance platoon, headquarters and headquarters company, engineer amphibious battalion , is assigned the following missions: a . To land from assault shipping during amphib ious operations (normally in the first wave) and clear lanes through minefields from the high water line inland, for personnel and vehicles of the land ing force. b. To reduce and breach obstacles blocking the movement of the landing force from the high water line inland . c. To perform demolition tasks as assigned in the reduction of obstacles, minefields, including mixed fields with chemical mines and flame expedients, and enemy positions within its capabilities. d. To perform CBR decontamination within its capability, as required. 7-34. Platoon Organization The mine clearance platoon is organized as follows: a. Platoon. The mine clearance platoon is organic to the headquarters and headquarters com pany of each engineer amph ibious battalion. The platoon consists of 1 officer and 30 enlisted personnel and is equipped with 10 LVTE's. FM 5-144 b. Sections. T he platoon is organized into three sections, each of which is equipped with three vehicles. The section is commanded by an NCO section leader, who also commands his assigned LVTE. c. Crew . Each vehicle is manned by a crew of three which is augmented by engineer personnel (normally from the engineer battalion (army) attached to the shore party) as shown below for training and combat operations : Grade MOS TOE Title A sod Aug Sergeant 12B40 LVTE Commander 1 1 Corporal 12B20 LVTE Driver 1 Private 12B20 LVTE Gunner 1 1 7-35. Command Relationships The platoon leader, assisted by his platoon sergeant, performs command duties to include operational, logistic, and administrative duties necessary for the planning, direction, and supervision of assigned missions. Each LVTE is commanded by an LVTE commander. During the actual employment of the vehicle in its engineer function, the LVTE commander is responsible for firing the line charge and the subsequent clearing operations of the assigned and attached engineer crewmen. 7-36. Communications The platoon is capable of effecting rapid and reliable communications between platoon headquarters and subordinate, supported, and higher headquarters. The primary means of communications is voice radio. Alternate means include the use of messengers and visual signals. Each LVTE is equipped with the radio set AN/ VRC-53 . In addition, a portable radio set can be mounted in the vehicle. The AN/ VRC-53 radio set enables the platoon leader to simultaneously operate a platoon command net and maintain communications with supported units. 7-37. Maintenance The platoon is capable of user organizational maintenance on all organic equipment. The engineer amphibious battalion provides backup organizational maintenance support for the platoon. Maintenance support for LVTE units may also be provided by direct support maintenance units of the field army support command. The supply of adequate quantities of repair parts requires thorough planning and preparation, as many of t he parts involved are peculiar to the LVTE vehicle and not compatible with the LVTP5. Addit ionally, • the resupply of the line charges used by t he L VTE tequires thorough and continued planning by t he supply section of the engineer amph ibious battalion. See appendix I for maintenance details. 7-38. Vehicular Characteristics of the LVTE a. General. The LVTE is equipped with a carrying rack, a hoist, a firing mechanism designed to fire a rocket-propelled line charge, and a bow mounted, plow-shaped mine excavator blade. The hull design is that of the LVTP5; however, the engine, suspension system, and other components are significantly different. b. Special Equipment. Special equipment organic to the LVTE consists of the following: (1) Line charges. Two rocket-propelled line charges each filled with 1,750 pounds of plastic explosive are carried by the LVTE. When the line charger is launch~d, the total length of the explosive portion of each charge is 350 feet. The charge is propelled by a rocket motor and can be fired by the crew from the interior of the vehicle (fig. 7-7). It should be noted that this • line charge may be fired from the ground as well as from the vehicle. (a) The line charge is carried in a steel pallet which serves as a storage and transporting container (fig. 7-8). Itis covered with a steel and plywood cover; how ever, it is not completely waterproof. The pallet when loaded has the following characteristics: Length ............ .......93 inches Width ... . ................53 inches Height ...................24 inches Weight ...................3,100 pounds (b) A practice line charge can be issued for use in training L VTE crews. It is fired in the normal manner using all components of the standard line charge except that the demolition charge is inert. (2) Mine excavator. Each vehicle is equipped with a plow -shaped mine excavator blade with flotation tanks to give the assembly buoyancy while the vehicle is afloat (fig. • 7-9). The blade excavates mines with sophisticated fuzes that were not detonated by the overpressure created by the line charge. The excavator blade can be equipped with explosive bolts to detach it from the vehicle in the event it becomes damaged or interferes with other operations. Due to high cost, explosive bolts are not issued for training but are available for combat. (3) T1·oop and stowage space. Space is provided in the vehicle for the augmentation of combat engineers and their demolition equipment. 7-39. Vehicular Capabilities As a result of its capability to project a line charge, the LVTE can commence mine clearing while still waterborne (fig. 7-10). With its load of two line charges, each vehicle is capable of clearing a path about 600 feet in length under ideal conditions. The lay of the flexible charge and the accuracy of the shot itself will determine the precise usable length of the mine-free path. The cleared FM 5-144 lane normally will be at least 90 percent of the line charge length. Generally, antitank mines with simple pressure fuzing are cleared to a minimum of the width of the LVTE, permitting the vehicle to employ the excavator blade in bulldozing a path. The resulting cleared lane will accommodate all combat vehicles currently employed by the U.S. Army. The vehicle has a limited capability for breaching mined water barriers, such as rivers or streams, by use of overpressure on submerged mines. The explosive effect will also tend to clear some light antimechanized and antipersonnel obstacles. 7-40. Vehicular Limitations The more permanent type obstacles situated in extensively fortified areas are often beyond the de struction capability of the LVTE. Examples of obstacles of this nature are tetrahedrons, dragon's teeth, and roadblocks constructed to defeat the effect of the line charge. In addition, the LVTE is vulnerable to air attack, antitank fire and to large caliber weapons normally covering minefields. Smoke screens, gunfire support, or air cover are required when the vehicle is exposed to such fire . Figure 7-7. LVTE rocket-propelled line charge fired from interior of the vehicle. FM 5-144 Figure 7-8. LVTE steel pnlle t, line charg e, and rocket. 7-41. Planning and Preparation for Employment a. Planning. Normal taff planning by the engi neer amphibious battalion and coordination with supported units are required when the LVTE' are to be employed. The engineer officer at the supported echelon normally coordinates and plans for the employment of the LVTE. Principal planning considerations include (1) Training. (2) Missions. (3) Organization for embarkation and landing. ( 4) Ship-to -shore movement. (5) Operations ashore. (6) Supp ly and maintenance. • • (7) Communications. b. Training. The platoon leader is responsible for training the LVTE crewmen in all aspects of the basic vehicle and its associated operations. The commander of the engineer battalion (army) attached to the shore party is re ponsible for the training of combat engineers who augment the crew of the L VTE during training and operations. Cross training of individuals is desirable and will assist the unit to accomplish its assigned mission. Combined training of LVTE crews and attached engineers is also necessary in order to develop an effective team that is capable of performing all required tasks. c. Intelligence. In addition to the intelligence information required by LVT units, the mine clear ance platoon requires information which includes the extent and location of minefields and the type of mines or obstacles expected to be emplaced in the objective area. d. Liaison. Commanders of organizations to receive L VTE support should include mine clearance platoon liaison personnel in initial planning conferences. 7-42. Organization fo r Combat The platoon, or sections thereof, normally is attached to or placed in support of an assault unit. The platoon normally supports a brigade landing on a colored beach. The decision as to the organization depends upon the operational and combat service support considerations. It is desirable to place the platoon in support of infantry units when the parent engineer amphibious battalion is employed in the same area and can provide combat service support. Attachment is desirable when the engineer amphibious battalion is unable to support the platoon due to distance or other foreseeable factors. When attached, the platoon requires combat service support assistance from the unit to which attached. This assistance consists of maintenance augmentation and the provision of supplies to m- FM 5-144 elude fuel, ammunition (including resupply of line charges), and repair parts. 7-43. Ship-to-Shore Movement of LVTE's a. Control Procedures. The principles, techniques, and control procedures involved in the ship-to -shore movement are the same as for other LVT type vehicles. Normally, LVTE's are employed in assault waves where beaches are known to be or suspected of being mined, or when obstacles have been emplaced. b. Pallet Loading . Prior to launching LVTE's, the pallets are loaded into the vehicle, unless a lready embarked. The rocket motors and fuzes are also loaded at this time. Neither the rocket motors nor the fuzes are connected to the line charge until just p1-ior to the time the vehicles are launched. c. Formations and Breaching Tactics. Normally, the mine clearance platoon, or elements thereof, are included in the first wave of the assau lt . The lower water speed of the LVTE (6.2 mph as against 6.8 mph for the LVTP), is considered when LVTE's are included in the assault waves. LVTE's normally proceed from the line of departure to just short of the surf zone in a line formation. At this point vehicles will shift to the column formation, • 7-21 ~ I Figure 7-9. LVTE employing plow-shaped mine excavator blade . FM 5-144 Figure 7-10. Explosion o.f line charge fired from waterborne LVTE. two vehicles to a column (fig. 7-6). The lead LVTE fires its first line charge while waterborne. It then moves ashore into the cleared lane using the excavator blade to insure clearance of unclestrayed mines or other obstacles. It t.hen fires its second charge and withdraws. When required, it is succeeded by the second L VTE which passes the first vehicle and moves forward, excavating as required and in turn, firing its line charges. Normally a section (two or three LVTE's) operates as a team. If the minefield is extensive in depth it may be necessary to employ two sections. d. Timing of Waves. The time of landing the first wave in relation to the second and succeeding waves may depend on the extent of mine clearance to be effected on the beach. Sufficient time is provided to allow the mine clearance unit to complete its task. Succeeding waves should not be halted awaiting mine clearance operations. e. Support. Breaching operations on the beach are normally supported by air, naval gunfire, or screening smoke, ·as appropriate. • • 7-44. Operations Ashore a. Breaching Minefields. The overpressure of the projected line charge will clear a path through conventional pressure fuzed mines. Missiles resulting from the blast often eliminate tripwired mines, barbed wire, and other obstacles. The excavator blade enables the LVTE to bulldoze the path created by the line charge. This reduces the risk of undetonated mines and eliminates rubble which could act as an obstacle to vehicles and troops. Techniques for these mine clearing operations differ depending on whether or not the minefield is defended. (1) Undefended minefields. Against undefended minefields the procedure parallels that described in paragraph 7-43 above . Vehicles. are employed in sections, each launching its two charges, excavating, and retiring in accordance with a predetermined plan. (2) Defended minefields. Against defended minefields, protection is furnished the • LVTE by employing smoke for concealment and other fires to neutralize hostile enemy installations. Natural cover and camouflage are exploited wherever possible. LVTE's approach the fields f:rom covered positions and under conditions of darkness or limited visibility. Smoke concentrations can be used to indicate the far limits of the field, thereby providing a visible reference point and reducing the vehicle exposure time to fire. Small arms fire and supporting weapons are directed on hostile emplacements and troops during LVTE minefield breaching operations. (3) Safety. The danger area for unprotected troops extends 100 feet to the rear of an LVTE firing a line charge. The flanks of the blast area are also extremely dangerous. The area within 500 feet on each side of the charge is unsafe, and even at 500 feet friendly troops should remain under cover. ( 4) Excavating. A safe lane is insured when the blade of the LVTE excavates to a depth of five inches. Some soils cannot be excavated to this depth. In such cases, either the effects of the line charge are deemed sufficient, or mine detectors are employed to check the lanes for mines not detonated. b. Destroying Obstacles. The principal advan tage of employing the LVTE in this role is its ability to destroy or neutralize the interfering obstacle from a distance. An additional advantage i the effect of overpressure on defending troops. FM 5-144 Mines and boobytraps in the area may also be de stroyed by the effects of overpressures. The rapidity with which the vehicle may be employed constitutes an advantage and provides increased effectiveness. The blast from the line charge is very effective against obstacles constructed of wire, light timber, or light steel. Obstacles constructed of heavy steel . and concrete will not be cleared by the line charge. c. Defensive Employment. The LVTE unit possesses a limited potential in a defensive role. During retrograde movements and holding actions, the vehicles may be employed to create obstacles, utilizing the excavator blade and the line charge. Line charges may be employed to create landslides, blow bridges, or destroy roads. The excavator blade may be used for minor excavations under these conditions. However, the blade was not designed for heavy duty dozing and continued and prolonged use of the excavator blade as a bulldozer, will result in excessive wear and damage to the aluminum excavator teeth. 7-45. Supply of Line Charges The supply of line charges for use by LVTE vehicles is carefully planned. When LVTE's are embarked in LPD's, their line charges are loaded aboard just prior to debarkation . Vehicles aboard LST and LSD are embarked with two line charges already emplaced. Rocket motors and fuzes are stored in the ship's magazine and loaded into the vehicle j u t prior to launching L VTE's. Line charge resupply is accomplished through the use of land ing craft or helicopter. A crane, wrecker, or LVTR is required to reload the LVTE line charge racks. Section V. COMMUNICATIONS FOR LVT's 7-46. General a. As stated previously in the discussion of shore party communications, in the initial phases of an amphibious operation, great reliance must be placed on radio, since much of the communications is over open expanses of water. This is particularly true in the case of the engineer amphibian assault companies and the mine clear ance platoon, engineer amphibious battalion, in controlling and employing their vehicles. Restricted vision and excessive noise from within the vehicle render other communication methods undependable when the vehicles are "buttoned up." The headquarters and headquarters company, engineer amphibious battalion also furnishes mobile command posts, fire support coordination centers and observation posts through employment of the LVTPC with its extensive radio communication potential. Each engineer amphibious battalion conducts continuous training for the LVT's in the use of voice radio equipment and FM 5-144 radio procedure for purpose of internal control with great emphasis on net discipline. A description of the radio sets and equipment organic to, and used by t he engineer amphibious battalion, including ranges and frequencies may be found in appendix N. b. In addition to radio communications, visual signals are also used when possibl e and desirable. These include flags , boat paddles, lights, pyrotechnics, pane ls, and arm and hand signals. The use of visual signals is restricted by poor visibility, when line-of-sight locations are not available, and when prohibited for security reasons. The engineer amphibious battalion and its organic engineer amphibian assault companies are also equipped with wire communications for use ashore. For details on flags, light and markers used in the contro l of amphibian vehicles, see appendix Q. 7-47. Communications Personnel The majority of the communications personnel found in the engineer amphibious battalion are located in the engineer amphibious company (shore party company). These personnel are available to the engineer amphibian assault companies for assistance and guidance in the training, operation, and maintenance of the radios organic to the L VT's. The radios in the LVT's are manned by the assistant driver who is also responsible for the maintenance prescribed for the user. 7-48. Internal Radio Communications Sufficient nets are activated within the engineer amph ibious battalion to provide for positive control of the two engineer amphibian assault companies. a. BattalioTJ, Command Net. The battalion command net is used by the commander of the engineer amphibious battalion and his staff to control the amphibian assault companies. The battalion command net is entered by the battalion command post including the control vehicles (LVTC's), company command posts, and the mine clearance platoon (LVTE's). b. Company Cmnmand Net. This net is used by each engineer amphibian assault company commander as his means of controlling the movement of his unit. This net norma lly is entered by the company command post, all vehicles within the company, and t he recovery vehicle (LVTR) organic to the company. c. Platoon Command Net. When sufficient frequencies are available, or the tactical situation requires, equipment platoon (LVTP5 platoon) command nets are activated and entered by a ll vehicles within the platoon. 7-49. Communications With Supported Units a. The amphibious engineer battalion, or elements thereof, while supporting a unit of the landing force, enters the nets they are directed to enter by the support ed unit commander and/or a common superior headquarters. These nets are utilized for command, tactical, and logistical purposes. All supported units customarily activate command and control nets. Activation of a logistical net depends on the needs and mission of the units. Engineer amphibian assault companies possess an FM capability in all vehicles. The LVTPC's of the headquarters and headquarters company, engineer amphibious battalion have both an AM and FM capability. The battalion as a whole, therefore, has an unu sually broad capability for communications with supported units. Communication plans normally are prepared to exploit this wide capability. b. Engineer amphibious units operating in an internal defense environment, in support of receiving state or third country armed forces , or re ceiving state paramilitary and/or civilian agencies and organizations may be required to parallel and/ or operate in the supported unit's AM/FM command and administrative radio nets for physical security as well as for command and control purposes. When the communications requirement exceeds the unit or parent unit capability, assistance will be sought first from the supported organization's parent headquarters. 7-50 Communications for Embarked Units Tactical unit commanders utilize the communications facili ties of the six LVTPC's organic to each engineer amphibious battalion. When required and when available, embarked tactical units may also utilize the communications facilities of the LVTP5's. • 8-1. Genera l The special landing operations discussed in this section are applicable to all tracked vehicles of the LVT family. The principles governing landing under the cover of darkness or in arctic or cold weather regions are the same as those principles outlined for the amphibious assault discussed in the previous chapter. However, certain modifications in technique are required, including added emphasis on planning and special training of participants. 8-2. Night Landing Operations The techniques for launching and landing amphibious vehicles previously discussed remain valid for landing operations conducted at night. The following areas require special consideration whenever night landings are planned and conducted: a. Briefing. All personnel of the engineer amphibious assault units are thoroughly briefed on the unit's mission, signals to be employed, formations to be used, hydrographic data, location of enemy beach installations, and terrain features ashore. Details with regard to underwater barriers, retraction from the beach, rendezvous areas, and secondary missions are emphasized. b. Time &hedules. Schedules for formation of waves, crossing the line of departure, and any other multiple vehicle activity requiring close control are drafted, rehearsed, and adhered to strictly. When tactically feasible, the scheduling of the landing just prior to daybreak facilitates recovery of disabled vehicles. c. Signal Communications. Lights con stitute the most dependable system of signal communications at night. Light signals adopted are as few in number and as simple as the situation permits. Other sig- CHAPTER 8 SPECIAL OPERATIONS Section I. SPECIAL LANDING OPERATIONS FM 5-144 nals may be prescribed by the landing force and/or amphibious task force commander. d. Formations. The simplest formation to form and control is utilized during night operations. Column or close wedge formations discussed previously best meet this criteria. Crossing the line of departure is best accomplished by keeping vehicles in column and then forming a close wedge just prior to landing. e. Individual Initiative. Emphasis is placed on use of increased initiative by individual crews. Such initiative is required due to the inability of any of the command and control personnel to influence the course of events aboard an individual vehicle. f. Safety Precautions. Appendix F describes safety precautions during night operations. 8-3 . Arctic or Cold Weather Landing Operations Engineer amphibian assault units operating m arctic or other cold weather areas must cope with increased problems of maintenance and difficult operating conditions. The various seasons of the year and the widely varying climatic situations in northern areas radically affect the employment of amphibious vehicles in land ing operation . Extensive mud flats, shallow lakes, and streams make vehicular mobility during the w9-rmer months a greater problem than during cold weather. Working mechanisms of the vehicles may operate sluggi hly in cold weather, even though special lubricant arc used . Many other mechanical, technical, and tactical problems arise in arctic operations. a. Sea Ice. The greatest peril inherent in the conduct of cold weather landings is sea ice. In areas where ocean currents prohibit the accumulation of FM 5-144 ice and when no ice is present due to the season of the year, amphibious operations are conducted routinely. In areas where pack ice, in the form of icebergs or landfast ice fields exist, landin g operations will be severely limited in scope and may be entirely impossible. b. Effects of Water. Personnel who are lifted from ship-to-shore in arctic areas must be completely protected from exposure to the water while en route. Immersion for a long period of time may prove fatal. LVT's are ideally suited to dry landings in such arctic areas because of the watertight nature of the vehicle and its ability to attain the beach under most circumstances. c. Effects of Terrain on Landings. Arctic terrain, in itself, constitutes a difficult obstacle for amphibious forces. The arctic contains landforms vary- Section II. SPECIAL 8-4. General a. Engineer amphibian assault units can be employed on land to provide armor protected inland mobility for the tactical forces. When a mechanized (LVT) force of this type is organized, it normally operates in a manner similar to mechanized infantry forces (see FM 7-11, FM 7-20, and FM 17-1). In their employment as part of a mechanized (LVT) task force, engineer amphibian assault units and their organic LVT's of the various types can- (1) Provide lightly armored transportation with overhead protection for personnel of the tactical force. (2) Provide automatic small arms fire for the tactical force with their organic OEM machineguns. (3) Transport artillery, mortars, and crews to provide fire support for the tactical force. ( 4) Tow artillery weapons for the tactical force. ( 5) Provide combat engineer vehicles (L VTE) and crews to provide combat engineer support for the tactical force. (6) Provide communications vehicles for the use of the tactical commander. ing from extensive coastal plains to rugged mountains cut by long deep fiords . Glaciers, which usually enter or approach very near to the sea, make an unreliable platform for landing and limit the maneuverability of amphibious vehicles. Frozen ground is common to the arctic as a whole during winter months. During the summer months the ground thaws to a depth varying from a few inches to several feet. The underlying permafrost (permanently frozen ground) prevents effective drainage and the result is extensive swampy areas. Coastal arctic plains generally provide an adequate platform for landing L VT's over the beach. The principal limiting factor in such landings is the formation of swampy areas during the summer months. A thorough reconnaissance of proposed landing sites is required prior to any cold weather landing. OPERAliONS ASHORE (7) Provide transportation for ammunition, supplies, and equipment of the tactical force. (8) Provide ambulance service for the tactical force . b. Additionally, the LVT's are ideally suited for employment in a wide variety of environments because of their diverse capabilities. In many instances, the only limitation in the employment of amphibious vehicles is the resourcefulness of the commander. The special operations discussed in this section include the employment of engineer amphibian assault units and their vehicles as part of a mechanized (LVT) task force and the modifying techniques used in varying conditions and geographic areas. Also discussed is the employment of engineer amphibian assault units in river crossing operations. 8-5. Mechanized (LVT) Task Force In the initial stages of an amphibious assault it may be jmpossible or impractical because of hydrographic or other conditions to land armored personnel carriers in landing craft of the amphibious task force. It may also be vital that the tactical commander ashore be provided mechanized means for the support of his landing team to an FM 5-144 inland objective. When armored personnel carriers operation as a mechanized (LVT) task force. Every are not available ashore, the engineer amphibian effort, however, should be made to land tanks assault units provide these means for limited disin landing craft to participate in the mechanized tances to attain inland objectives and thus become (LVT) task force. part of the combined arms team. Land combat a. Concept of Employment. Mechanized (LVT)and combat support forces of this type are task forces of this nature may be organized to acorganized for the specific mission. Figure 8-1 complish any of the following missions: illustrates a recommended disposition of amphib ious vehicles of the engineer amphibian assault (1) Linkup of waterborne and airmobile as units used in a land combat and combat support sault elements. One Engineer Amphibian Assault Company can provide lift for one Infantry Battalion. NOTE:· THIS FIGURE DOES NOT ILLUSTRATE \ \ ALL ELEMENTS OF A MECHANIZED (LVT} I MAIN BODY TASK FORCE. IT IS INTENDED ONLY TO SHOW THE NORMAL EMPLOYMENT OF / ) AMPHIBIOUS VEHICLES IN SUCH A MOVEMENT. I IREAR GUARD \ ••• a~ I lVTP LVTR \ \ ••• TANK --[Q] -~--- Figure 8-1. Amphibious vehicle disposition in a mechanized (LVT) task force. 8-3 FM 5-144 (2) Pursuit of the enemy. (3) Seizure of inland objectives. ( 4) Counterattack. (5) Defense against amphibious and airborne landings. (6) Conduct of spoiling attacks. (7) Exploiting local successes. (8) Relief of isolated units. b. Organization of the Force. As previously stated, each force of this type is task organized to accomplish the objectives of that particular force. All such forces contain combat, combat support, and such combat service support elements as are essential to the accomplishment of the mission . Conventional armor units, when available, are included in the force . If the terrain is favorable , wheeled vehicles may also be included. Planning must provide for the early deployment of air defense artillery units to limit the effectiveness of enemy offensive air efforts to a level permitting freedom of action. Particular attention must be given to low altitude approaches which naturally exist along rivers. In addition to infantry, armor, and engineer amphibian assault units, elements of the following units may be included: (1) Combat engineers. (2) Field artillery. (3) Tactical air. (4) Naval gunfire. (5) Medical. ( 6) Antitank. (7) Reconnaissance. (8) Communications (other than organic) . (9) Helicopter. (10) Air defense artillery. c. Planning Considerations. The following considerations influence planning of mechanized (LVT) task force operations: (1) Terrain considerations. A mechanized (LVT) task force of combined arms is highly sensitive to terrain. Selection of routes to be used may be the principal factor affecting composition of the force. (2) Assembly area. Selection of a large, covered area for assemb ly of units , with sufficient trails or roads to support heavy and continuing vehicle traffic, is an area of assault in which engineer amphibian assault units are involved. In addition, the internal organization of these areas, to include routing of vehicles, position of vehicle loads, locations of fueling and service areas, and disposition of vehicles after loading is considered. Proper alignment of vehicles in accordance with the planned scheme of maneuver is accomplished. d. Fire Support Elements. (1) Artillery. Artillery may be towed or carried by the LVTP5 (see app. M). The LVTP5 is also used to carry the crews and ammunition. If self-propelled artillery or tanks are available, they are included to furnis h fire support for the task force. (2) Mortars. Fire support is also obtained by transporting the 4.2-inch mortar, crews, and ammunition in the LVTP5. Employment of the LVTP5 in this role requires extensive prior planning and preparation of vehicles and mortars. Among the important considerations are securing the piece during movement of the vehicle, hauling and handling of ammunition, firing procedures, and means and location of fire direction center (FDC) operation. (3) Naval gunfire and tactical air support. Plans should also include the employment of naval gunfire and tactical air support and the inclusion of air and naval gunfire observer personnel in the force. e. Combat Service Support Considerations. Combat service support is the area most likely to affect the success of mechanized (L VT) task force operations. Proper and complete combat service support planning provides the force with a self-sustaining capability until planned resupply is effected. Perhaps the most important single factor in this planning is to place all such planning under the cognizance of one officer. There must be complete coordination of effort in this respect. Individual units plan and submit their requirements for support during the operation. Only the task force commander possesses the capability of integrating all requirements into a workable plan. (1) Maintenance considerations. Additional maintenance personnel, supplies, and equipment are required to sustain a mobile force of this nature. Recovery vehicles, such as the LVTR, are included in the force. (2) General supply considerations. Veh icles organic to the forces are used to transport sufficient rations, ammunition, and general supplies for all units. This element may be divided into an immediate resupply unit situated with the task force and a backup resupply train located in the rear of the force and responsive to orders to advancr as the situation permits. (3) Resupply procedures. The task force lifts enough supplies of all types to provide for itself through seizure of the objective and for a predetermined period of time thereafter. When possible, any resupply required during movement or after arrival at the objective is accomplished by helicopter. Proper employment of helicopters provides lift for bulk fuel cells and additional oils and lubricants, as well as all other required supplies. f. Mechanized (LVT) Task Force Communications. In order to fully exploit the potential of mechanized (LVT) task forces, dependable communications are mandatory. Without such communications, command cannot be exercised, reaction time is slow, and decisions lack timeliness. (1) Extent of communications. Communi cations are requi red within the force, with any units included in a linkup plan, with higher headquarters, and with units external to the force itself, such as air, naval gunfire, combat service support elements, and emplaced artillery. (2) Common frequencies. Ability of all task force elements to communicate with each other by radio is essential. Installation of additional radios in those vehicles without compatib le communication equipment is accomplished. (3) Mobile command post. The task force commander and his staff may be provided LVTPC vehicles in order that mobile command posts may be established. Sufficient equipment is con t ained or can be installed therein to provide required internal and FM 5-144 external communications. Appendix N lists communication equipment available in the LVTPC for embarked commanders. (4) Other communication means. Alternate methods of communication within the force are sound and visual signals, messengers, and pyrotechnics. g. Command and Control. The commander of a mechanized (L VT) task force is normally selected after consideration of the following factors: ( 1) Type of mission . (2) Size and composition of individual combat forces. The task force commander is provided a staff of sufficient size to administer the force. Representation on the staff is provided those units on which most of the responsibility for conduct of the various phases of the operation will fall. Close liaison with all units making up the force is mandatory, and must be continuous. Attaching units of the task force, to include air elements, provides for closer control by the commander. h. Disposition of Disabled Vehicles. Once committed, the mechanized (LVT) task force is aggressive in continuing its attack to the objective. Positive action is planned for and taken with regard to disposition of disabled vehicles. Those which cannot be repaired before the rear point of the force has passed, and are in danger of capture by the enemy, are unloaded and destroyed . If little or no possibility of capture exists, vehicles are unloaded, abandoned, and later recovered by the force itself or by a backup combat service support unit. 8-6 . Night Operations Ashore When LVT's are employed as components of a mechanized (L VT) task force during night operations, certain other factors must be considered. I n planning for a night operation, consideration should be given to the following: a. Night Attack Characteristics. Night attacks are characterized by a decrease in aimed firepower, compensated for by an increase in fire concentrations; by limited visibility and control, giving added emphasis to the importance of planning; and by a decrease in distance to the target, based on difficulties in maintaining direction and control. FM 5-144 b. Planning. Factors of importance in planning for night operations are (1) Reconnaissance. Detailed and thorough reconnaissance during daylight and darkness is conducted. Physical reconnaissance is supplemented by aerial photographs, maps, and surveillance devices. Important considerations include the positive location of the assembly area, attack position , routes of advance, line of departure , probable line of deployment, and the objective. (2) Maneuver plan. The plan of maneuver to the objective is based on the scheme of maneuver of the supported unit. Where possible, changes of direction are avoided once the line of departure has been crossed. (3) Formations. LVT's normally cross the line of departure in a line of platoons in column. Distance between elements is kept to a minimum in order to assist in control. Tanks, if available, deploy in a line formation, allowing maximum unobstructed fire support with their weapons when direct fire is used. ( 4) CcYntrol measures. In addition to normal internal control procedures, the following techniques are utilized during night attacks: (a) Platoon points of departure are established. (b) Platoon routes of advance are selected. (c) Section rel ease points are utilized. (d) Phase lines beyond the objective and to the flanks are designated. ( 5) Means of identification. Identification within units is accomplished by use of panels on vehicles, armbands on personnel, luminescent markers affixed to leaders, searchlights or other lighting schemes, and tracer ammunition. Detailed planning is required in this area. ( 6) Miscellaneous considerations. L VT commanders consider such other factors as the scheduled time of attack, fire support plan , employment of their vehicles after seizure of the objective, battlefield illumination , and combat service support requirements in preparing for operations at night. Proper employment techniques are planned that insure maximum protection to vehicles and personnel against counterfire • and antitank means. 8-7. Desert Operations Th e nature of the desert, that of open terrain with great distances generally unimpeded by obstacles , lends itself to military operations by a highly coordinated, mobile, self-sustaining force. Amphibious vehicles, such as the LVT's, when properly prepared for such missions, can be employed in desert operations. Principal limitations to their desert employment are inherent maintenance problems of th e vehicles resulting from the design comp1:omises necessary to make them amphibian in nature. The fluidity of a mobile task force operating in the desert creates all of the maintenance and supply problems inherent in mechanized (LVT) task forc-e operations as discussed in paragraph 8-5. The effects of heat on embarked passengers and crew must be considered a limiting factor, particularly when operating with all hatches closed. a. Considerations Involved in Desert Operations. Major military considerations involved in desert operations, all of which influence the employment of amphibious vehicles, are (1) Highly mobile forces. In the desert ve • hicles are not roadbound and can move rapidly cross-country. Critical terrain features are usually widely separated, necessitating employment of a rapidly moving force. Because of the open nature of desert terrain, heavy reliance is mad e on the use of compasses and other navigational equipment to maintain direction. (2) Adequate maintenance and supply procedures. As in other mechanized operations, an adequate and continuing supply of fuels, lubricants, spare parts, and general supplies is critical to the efficient operation of amphibious vehicles. The matter of the supply of water is as critical to vehicles in the desert as to the occupants of the vehicle. There is a limit to the quantity of fuel and water which can be carried by vehicles themselves, since any increase in amounts of these liquids carried creates a resulting increase in the number of vehicles which must be utilized. Helicopter resupply, to include water sup ply, in many inst ances is the most feasible solution in desert operations. (3) Dependable communications. Communications by wire during desert operations is virtually impossible because of the mobility of desert forces. Radio is relied upon as the principal means of communications within and outside of the force. Extensive preventive maintenance of communication equipment is required to prevent damage to the equipment by sand, dust, and extreme heat. As in the mechanized (LVT) task force concept, common frequencies for all units are required. At times, this necessitates installation of additional radio sets in some vehicles. (4) Coordinated action between ground and air elements. This coordination includes the provision of combat service support by helicopter, as well as tactical support by observer, fighter, close support, and photo aircraft. b. Principal Vehicular Considerations. The problems involved in committing a vehicle designed as amphibious in nature to prolonged periods of operation in hot, dry regions are many and complex. Only the major areas of concern are outlined below to familiarize the commander with the extensive vehicular limitations involved. ( 1) M ability . The desert floor generally creates a good platform for tracked or wheeled vehicle movement. Sharp turns and abrupt halts are avoided, reducing the possibility of the vehicle sinking into the sand. Some areas of soft sand may be encountered that require matting to enable heavy amphibious vehicles to cross them. (2) Cooling system. The heat of the desert adds emphasis to the need for an adequate, efficient cooling system. The LVT, for example, has a cooling system capacity of 60 gallons of water. Maintaining a supply of water sufficient to cool all vehicles is , in itself, a major consideration. The entire cooling system, to include fan operation , should be carefully checked prior to employing vehicles in the desert. Installation FM 5-144 of new hoses and replacement of defective cooling system components are effected as required. (3) Navigational equipment. T he desert, because of its open, flat nature, increases the requirement for navigational equipment contained within vehicles. As a minimum, magnetic compasses are installed in any vehicles not already so equipped. ( 4) Batteries. Battery water evaporates rapidly in the desert, and distilled water is difficult to obtain. Distilled water is kept in nonferrous containers to reduce evaporation and to prohibit introduction of impurities. A supply of spare batteries is required. (5) Camouflage. If possible, vehicles are painted with camouflage paint before being committed to operation in the desert. An alternate means of camouflage is achieved by covering the vehicle with grease or oil and allowing sand or dust to adhere to the surface. (6) Damage from sand and dust. Many precautions are taken to protect vehicles from sand and dust damage. The engine is protected by keeping it as free as possible of oil and grease. Sand and dust cannot adhere to a clean surface. Care is exercised in fueling, lubricating, and changing oil in vehicles to insure that sand and dust do not gain entrance to working mechanisms. Filters are inspected frequently and changed or cleaned as necessary. 8-8. Jung le Operati ons Amphibious vehicle operations in the jungle environment may be limited to tracked vehicles only. The absence of trafficable roads often precludes effective employment of wheeled vehicles such a the amphibious truck. Jungle terrain is typically rugged, with deep valleys and steep ridges, all of which are heavily overgrown with dense vegetation. Streams and rivers are common, and are fed by the normally heavy rainfall. Existing trails and roads are narrow , muddy, and often overgrown, either entirely or in part. These must generally be widened to accommodate the great bulk inherent in amphibiou s vehicles. Visibility is FM 5-144 severely reduced by jungle growth and vegetation. Amphibious tractors, such as the LVT's, may be the only vehicle available to the commander for lift of personnel and equipment while employed in the jungle. a. TacticaL Consideration. Jungle warfare normally combines several types of special operations, such as river crossings and night combat. Tactics for amphibious vehicles involved in the e classes of operation are valid but are affected by the jungle environment. Critical terrain features in the jungle are roads, trails, bridges, and communication centers. High ground is less critical because of reduced visibility. (1) MobiLity and security. Cross-country movement is difficult, even for tracked vehicles, and mobility is drastically decreased. As a result, the need for local security of amphibious vehicles increases. Without such security, enemy antitank personnel are able to approach tracked vehicles without detection. Efficient reconnaissance of routes to be taken by amphibious vehicles allows the vehicles to avoid impassable swamps, mountains, valleys, and areas where there are no trails whatever. (2) Camouflage. Excellent facilitie for natural camouflage of vehicles and personnel exist in the jungle. Overhead observation is virtually impossible if proper precaution:::: are taken. (3) Navigation. Based on limited observation and lack of recognizable terrain features, map reading and compass use are important to navigation . Maps reflecting trails and roads in the jungle are not always accurate, and cannot replace physical reconnaissance. Magnetic compasses are installed in all amphibious vehicles not already so equipped. b. Combat Service Support Considerations. Resupply during operations in the jungle is complicated by the environment. Once supplies have been received, they are prone to rapid deterioration because of moisture. Supply of fuel, water, and lubricants always important to the amphibious vehicle unit, may be a problem. As the only vehicle able to negotiate the terrain and reach elements committed inland, the amphibiou tractor's most important role in jungle operations may well be as a combat service support or supply vehicle. c. Vehicular Considerations. The climatic conditions encountered in jungle areas have a deteriorating effect on all metals, rubber, and, in particular, working parts of weapons or vehicles. Rust forms quickly and preventive maintenance requirements are strict. Lubrication of working parts is accomplished daily. Oil levels are checked and maintained at maximum capacity. Communication equipment, to include antenna mounts, is inspected and lubricated as necessary. The ever-present moisture renders equipment unserviceable rapidly unless preventive maintenance procedures are thorough and continuing. d. Communication Considerations. Signal communication is often difficult. Visual signaling is seldom possible; the use of runners is slow and frequently hazardous; the range in radio may be reduced greatly by foliage and hill masses; and wire circuits are hard to install and maintain. Moreover, batteries used with communications equipment will require special handling to prevent rapid deterioration. 8-9 . Mountain Operations Employment of amphibious vehicles in mountain operations is limited in scope by the weight and bulk of the vehicle itself, as well as the difficulty of supporting an engineer amphibian assault unit logistically in mountainous areas. Tracked amphibious vehicles possess the ability to ascend grades of 70 percent, and can negotiate 60 percent side slopes with a combat load. These characteristics, however, are intended principally to enable the vehicle to negotiate obstacles and climb hills close inshore, rather than for extended mountain operations. Employment of amphibious vehicles to transport troops, supplies, and equipment in limited mountain operations is possible. However, care is exercised to insure that roads over which the vehicles travel are passable. Tracked amphibious vehicle brakes are not built to support rapid or frequent stops. There is an inherent problem of stalled vehicles on narrow roads, which prohibit passage or turnaround of other vehicles. This is guarded against, when possible, by choosing multiple routes and positioning maintenance per sonnel and recovery vehicles throughout the column. ~ 8-10. Cold Weather Operations Amphibious vehicle units operating under conditions of extreme cold are faced with problems of mobility, added maintenance, and survival of personnel. In arctic or cold weather operations, mobility of vehicles becomes a greater problem in warm weather than cold because of lakes, streams, and mud formed by melting ice. Maintenance of vehicles is a major problem, based on behavior of the vehicle under conditions of extreme cold as well as difficulty which personnel experience in performing maintenance and repair service because of the cold. Service facilities are difficult to establish and maintain. Vehicles are winterized through addition of proper weight oils and lubricants, and installation of heaters. Special training of personnel is essential before committing engineer amphibian assault units to combat in cold weather regions. a. Tactical Considerations. The arctic terrain is rugged and mountainous, cut by long valleys, streams, and rivers. In areas where the climate is relatively temperate, operating conditions resemble those found in other parts of the world. However, where ice and snow are found year round and temperatures drop well below zero degrees during the winter months, the most difficult of operating environments is created. (1) Mobility. Only tracked amphibious vehicles may operate in areas of frozen ground or snow, or in areas where frozen ground has melted to some degree during warmer weather, creating streams and areas of mud. Even the tracked vehicles experience great difficulty in achieving any real degree of mobility under such circumstances. Where loose snow exists in quantity, the LVT operates dependably only to a level of 20 inches of snow, after which it is prone to bury itself because of the low slung configuration of its chassis. Frozen ground is broken by deep ruts into which vehicles may fall without warning. During melting periods, mobility is even more restricted. The formation of streams and extensive mud areas during this period present a formidable obstacle to amphibious vehicle operation. FM 5-144 (2) Camouftag.e. Lack of vegetation in arctic areas increases the requirement for camouflage discipline. Ingenuity is required in order to conceal the bulk of an amphibious vehicle. Camouflage of areas where many vehicles are situated, such as tractor parks and maintenance areas, presents an even greater problem. The phenomenon known as ice fog is the direct result of crystalization of exhaust or similar fumes. The resulting clouds of ice fog rise directly above the source in low temperatures, pinpointing a vehicle with engines operating. Increased winds and resulting temperature rise negate the effect of ice fog to some degree. Camouflage painting for arctic operations will normally be prescribed by the landing force. (3) Communications. Restriction of vehicular mobility lessens the problems encountered in communications in cold weather. Cold weather has a detrimental effect on wire, as well as on radio batteries, which have low efficiency and a short lifespan in arctic regions. Radio is relied upon as the principal means of communications between vehicles and units. b. Combat Service Support Considerations. Weather conditions and terrain in arctic regions restrict the efficiency of resupply and ability of units to maintain vehicles and store supplies. The importance of a flexible, practical combat service support plan cannot be overemphasized. Engineer amphibian assault units may provide the principal means of moving supplies from ship-to-shore and in the subsequent operations ashore. Combat service support considerations of increased importance while in arctic regions include continued supplies of hot rations, water, clothing, lubricants and oils, and repair parts to replace those damaged by cold weather. c. Vehicular Considerations. The problems involved in operating amphibious vehicles over arctic terrain and in very cold temperatures are of the most complex nature. Detailed prior planning, preparation of vehicles, and training of personnel is required if arctic operations are to achieve success. Principal vehicular considerations include- FM 5-144 (1) Condition of suspension system. Wet snow may become packed in the tracks of amphibious vehicles, temporarily restricting or immobilizing them. The same effect may result from ice, which is more difficult to remove. Tracks freeze to the ground in moderately cold weather, occasionally to the degree that tools may be required to extricate the vehicle. (2) Carbon monoxide hazard. Intense cold, strong winds, and heavy snowfalls all induce personnel to seek whatever shelter is available in arctic regions. The interior of the LVT offers warmth and protection from the elements. Care is exercised to insure that persons seeking shelter do not suffer carbon monoxide poisoning. The following are criteria for use of the LVT as a warming area during cold weather: (a) Personnel do not occupy LVT's for sleeping unless authorized by the engineer amphibian assault unit commander. (b) If personnel are authorized to sleep aboard vehicles the two rear access hatches are kept open at all times. (c) Personnel will not be aboard vehicles while engines are started and idled, or after such idling until the vehicle has been ventilated. (3) Main engine. The greatest problem inherent in cold weather engine operation is lack of engine lubrication resulting from thickened oil. Appendix I sets forth cold weather starting procedures for LVT main engines. ( 4) Batteries. Battery power decreases rapidly during cold weather and batteries cannot be satisfactorily charged once the electrolyte temperature is less than zero degrees. Extended hours of darkness and low temperatures create increased demands on electrical systems, and batteries in particular. Protection is afforded batteries by servicing and cleaning them frequently. Batteries often must be heated before recharge and use during cold weather. (5) Winterization kit. The LVT winterization kit is designed to supply large quantities of fresh heated air to preheat and maintain warmth in the personnel and cargo and engine compartments. The kit may be used to .heat a vehicle which has been idle for a long period of time, or as a standby heater to maintain satisfactory compartment temperatures during periods when engines are not operating. 8-11. River Crossings LVT's are well suited for employment in river crossing operations. The LVTP5's may be utilized as troop carriers, or as expedient floating bridges. The LVTE may be used to breach minefields on the near and far shores. The L VTP5's may also participate as combat service support vehicles during the river assault and after the bridgehead has been secured. a. Vehicular Advantages and Disadvantages. The same conditions governing employment of amphibious vehicles during the amphibious assault apply during river crossings. A principal advantage of their employment is their ability to move on land and water without modification. The LVT's present a low silhouette while waterborne, protect embarked personnel from small arms fire, and provide a specialized vehicle (LVTPC) for purposes of communications and control. Important disadvantages of the vehicles are slow water speed, limited maneuverability while afloat, noise, and extensive maintenance problems. b. Tactical Considerations. Principal considerations when employing amphibious vehicles in the conduct of river crossings are (1) River width. The river's width normally is the most important consideration in determining a crossing site. Selection of the narrowest point lessens the combat service support burden, facilitates control, and places the largest number of troops on the opposite shore in the shortest period of time. (2) Condition of river banks. The height, slope, and soil composition of far shore and near shore river banks determine their trafficability for tracked vehicles, and influence the selection of crossing sites. (3) River velocity . The slow water speed of amphibious vehicles makes river velocity FM 5-144 an important consideration. Vehicle en(1) Route rnarkings. Routes and sites are marked with white or luminescent mark trance upstream from intended landing ers. Guides are used extensively in direct sites may be required in order to compen sate for strong currents. ing vehicles. (4) Mines, barriers, and obstacles. The exist(2) Amphibious vehicle formations. During ence of mines, barriers, and/or obstacles assault crossings amphibious vehicles can impede river crossings. Employment utilize company, platoon, and final reof the special purpose engineer vehicle, the lease points to control vehicular movement L VTE, should be considered in all cases. to the river. After passing company release points, platoons move forward along (5) Approaches to crossing sites. Care is ex approach routes and assume their crossingercised to insure that approaches to crossformation upon reaching the point of final ing sites such as roads, trails, or overland release. Use of release points helps insure areas will support continued heavy veproper coordination and timing, just ashicular traffic. Routes are selected to supcontrol points do in the night attack. port each unit crossing. (6) Enemy air activity. The capability of the e. Employment of the LVTP as a Floating enemy to attack from the air can impede Bridge. In an emergency, the LVTP may be ema river crossing. Air defense should be ployed as a temporary floating bridge to support considered in all cases. rapid river crossings by combat forces. Principal factors limiting this application are river width and c. Planning for River Crossings. Principal plan river current, either of which may prohibit or renning considerations in preparing for river crossing der unwise this employment. Vehicles are lashedoperations are-together, bow to stern, or connected by temporary (1) Allocation of vehicles as personnel carbridging material when the water is calm. Figure riers, supply vehicles, and for other uses. 8-2 illustrates a possible method of LVTP employ (2) Time and location of assembly of the ment for bridging purposes. force . f. Employment of the LVTE. The LVTE can be (3) Routes and method of approach to crossof considerable assistance in the conduct of rivering sites. crossing operations. In the event the river is shal (4) Development of an artillery plan to assist low, the line charge can be relied on to destroy mostin covering noise made by vehicles of the submerged mines as a result of overpressures. ThereLVTtype. can be no insurance, however, that the line charge (5) Vehicle formations during an assault will destroy moored mines, since they have the crossing. capability of moving with the force of the blast. (6) Requirement for engineer support to preSmall obstacles, such as abatis submerged in rivers, pare assembly areas, routes of approach, may be destroyed, as may log booms or some types or crossing sites including river entrances of submerged wire obstacles. The key to successful and exits for amphibious vehicles. employment of the LVTE in this environment will be proper intelligence concerning the engineer ef (7) Employment of amphibious vehicles once forts of the enemy. Once the river is crossed, thethe crossing by the supported force is comLVTE can effectively breach enemy minefields onpleted. the opposite shore, using the same techniques em (8) Development of an air defense plan. ployed in the amphibious assault. d. Control. Control measures are completed to g. Subsequent Employment. On completion of insure that vehicles cross the line of departure as initial missions, amphibious vehicles may be em scheduled, maintain proper formation, and use ployed as components ·of a mechanized (LVT) task designated approach routes and crossing sites. Control is exercised through the commander of the force or revert to employment as combat support engineer amphibious unit. or combat service support vehicles, as required. 8-11 FM 5-144 Figure 8-2. LVTP's employed as bridge pontoons. h. Shore Parties /or River Crossings. When an engineer amphibious unit (brigade, group, or battalion) is assigned to a river crossing operation its shore party element will provide in general the support described in FM 31-60. The task organization and the equipment required will depend on the tactical and combat service support situation. The shore party headquarters may be placed within the engineer echelon of the force, with elements of its headquarters present on the near and far shore. 8-12. Shore-to-Shore Operations a. Definition. A shore-to-shore operation is a land force operation involving a water crossing in assault craft, amphibious vehicles and aircraft, for the purpose of establishing a force on, or withdrawing it from a far shore. It is usually a uniservice operation. b. Planning and Organization. Army forces normally operate unilaterally in shore-to-shore operations, providing all personnel and equipment required for the embarkation, movement, and landing of a combat force in an attack formation. As in an amphibious attack, shore parties at each echelon of the landing force provide the combat and interim combat service support pending establishment of normal support systems in the landing areas. Shore-to-shore operations apply essentially the same techniques as used in amphibious opera tions. The shore party area of responsibility extends from the rear limits of the dispersal and a sembly area on the near shore to the forward edge of the beach support area on the far shore. Normally a navy beach party is not available, and its functions will be performed by army elements. FM 31-12 provides guidance for commanders, staff officers, and other interested personnel for planning and execution of shore-to-shore operations. FM 31-12 also defines the employment situations in which shore-to-shore operations would be accomplished. (1) Embarkation. Embarkation support is provided by the shore party, including assistance in preparing plans and orders, control of the embarkation procedure, and preparation of embarkation facilities. Troops and equipment, dispersed in near shore assembly areas and dumps, are phased-out to the embarkation points on a planned time schedule. Control is established through a shore party communication net to include the near shore elements, the movement means, and the far shore. (2) Movement. The movement from near to far shore is generally in three phases: (a) Craft and amphibious vehicles initially FM 5-144 remain in the vicinity of the near shore in an assembly area until dispatched. (b) Craft and amphibious vehicles move to a rendezvous point off the far shore. (c) Waves of serials are then dispatched to the shore. (3) Far shore organization. Beach organization on the far shore follows essentially the same pattern as in an amphibious operation. However, the landing force usually is supported with supplies on an on-call basis from the near shore, and the buildup on the far shore is held to a minimum consistent with the distance from one shore to the other. In most shore-to • shore operations, the requirements for shore party support are on a reduced scale on the far shore, since the beach does not require a complex organization on the same scale as that used in an amphibious operation. c. Loading Operations. Loading of troops and equipment follows the same procedures used in normal embarkation. The shore party commander establishes a central control point, where representatives of the landing force serve as liaison officers and coordinating authorities. At each loading slot, shore party officers are stationed to expedite loading operations. These officers should be assigned in pairs to provide for 24-hour operations. FM 5-144 CHAPTER 9 INTERNAL DEFENSE OPERATIONS countered in conventional or nuclear positional 9-1. General warfare. Among these factors are-- The doctrine for employment of engineer amphibious units in limited and general war operations (1) The terrain is usually less suited for the employment of a modernly equipped miliapplies, with significant modifications, to internal tary force. defense situations. (2) Forces usually are dispersed over an exa. Internal defense operations encompass t he tremely wide area. military, paramilitary, political, economic, psy(3) In guerrilla warfare situations, the adchological and civic actions taken by a government versary generally is elusive, hard to idento defeat subversive insurgency. tify, highly trained in the techniques of b. The ultimate objective in combatting insurguerrilla warfare, and well motivated.gency is to eliminate the causes of the insurgency (4) Sophisticated insurgent paramilitary orand prevent its recurrence. Engineer amphibious armed forces, organized and equipped inunits may support tactical and nontactical units battalion or larger size units, may engageconducting operations over larger areas· therefore' ' in conventional type battles using regularengineer brigade or group operational plans must formations supported by heavy weapons. anticipate problems of control and maintenance (5) The necessity to win the support of thesupport. people is a continuous requirement in in c. Engineer amphibious units may be committed ternal defense operations; in this respect, to support field internal defense operations (clear the application of firepower must be highly and hold and/ or search and destroy) being conselective and restrained when conductingducted in a particular area such as a region, provcombat operations among a populationince, district, corps, or division. This may entail whose physical well-being and materielsupport of U.S. and/or receiving state (RS) combat resources must be protected in order notunits in tactical operations, support of RS agencies to alienate them from the RS government. in internal security operations, assisting RS forces (6) Since units may be dispersed over exin military civic action, assisting RS forces through tremely wide areas, command supervision,advisory assistance by providing mobile training to include training, maintenance, and otherteams (MTT) to RS armed forces, paramilitary activities, will be more difficult. forces, or civilian agencies. b. Small unit commanders will be required tod. For a detailed discussion of internal defense make decisions based on their own judgment, conoperations, see FM 31-22 and FM 31-22A. For adsidering the situation at hand, rather than onditional guidance in internal defense operations, see specific guidance and directions received fromFM 5-170, FM 31-21, FM 31-73, FM 100-5, and higher headquarters. The imagination and initiativeFM 100-20. of individual commanders will contribute to the 9-2 . The Internal Defense Environment effectiveness of engineer amphibious units. a. Many factors contribute to making the inc. All commanders are responsible for the seternal defense environment different from that en -curity of their commands. In internal defense 9-1 FM 5-144 operations, all security requirements will be increased considerably. Engineer amphibious units often may require assistance from other tactical units to preclude security requirements from hampering the amphibious units ' mission. (1) In internal defense operations, all movement is subject to ambush. The organization of convoys and degree of protection required will depend on the actual or potential capabilities of the insurgents in the area through which the convoy will travel. All movements must be treated as tactical moves and appropriate actions taken. Since engineer amphibious units may be employed on inland waterways and inundated areas, they must be properly trained in counterambush techniques to insure a high probability of surviving ambush. See FM 31-16, FM 31-22, and the FM 7 -series for detailed discus ion of counterambush measures. (2) Engineer amph ibious units in a static position, such as a port development site, may be required to establish extensive security measures. This can be achieved by employing organic troops or by utilizing security forces from other U.S. or RS armed forces or RS paramilitary and police units. See FM 31-22 and FM 7-series for defensive measures. 9-3. Mission of Engineer Amphibious Units in Internal Defense Operations Engineer amphibious units may support U.S. MAAG, Missions, Military Assistance Commands (MAC), U.S. and/ or RS armed forces , RS paramilitary forces , and U.S. and/ or RS civilian agencies. This may entail support of tactical operations, supporting RS agencies in internal security operations, assisting U.S. and RS forces in military civic action, assisting the RS through advisory assistance by providing MTT to RS armed and paramilitary forces or civilian agencies, and, finally, participating in intelligence and psychological operations. Augmentation from the 5-500, 33-500, and 41-500-series TOE may be required to provide a greater capability to adequately perform all missions. 9-4. Concept of Operations Engineer amphibious units may support both U.S. and RS military and civil elements conducting operations over vast areas. Their amphibious capability will be applied whenever and wherever they can best support the overall operation being conducted in an assigned area, such as a region, province, district, corps, or division. 9-5. Organization a. Engineer amphibious units, when committed, u ually will maintain their organizational integrity, but may be organized provisionally into task forces, depending on the particular skills and equipment required. Engineer amphibious units may be attached or placed in direct support of U.S. / RS armed forces or RS paramilitary and civilian agencies. Direct support is desirable since it allows the brigade, group, or battalion flexibility in meeting support requirements throughout the operational area; however, sin ce the supported units may often conduct several types of operations simultaneously, in widely separated locations, attachment ·may be the most common and desirable method of employment. b. The composition of the engineer amphibious battalion is suitable for any number of task organizations to support U.S. or RS units in any type of operation conducted as part of the overall internal defense effort. A type mechanized (LVT) task organization that the engineer amphibious battalion may provide for a company size operation might include the following vehicles and crews: (1) Two tanks, to provide artillery support (if available). (2) Two LVTE, to provide combat engineer support. (3) Two LVTC , to transport the command and control party. ( 4) Six LVTP, to transport the company assault elements. (5) Two LVTP, to transport the company fire support elements. (6) One LVTP, to transport unit supplies. (7) One LVTP, to transport casualties. (8) One LVTR, to provide LVT maintenance support. 9-6. Tactical Operations When supporting tactical operations against insurgent forces , engineer amphibious units operate in accordance with the doctrine prescribed in the previous chapters. Some modifications are required to fit the specific internal defense situation. Positional warfare tactics and techniques must be modified to fit the special requirements of the operational environment and the nature of the insurgent threat. Additionally , every advantage must be taken of the flexibility, mobility, and firepow er of the LVT's of the engineer amphibian assault companies in their employment against insurgent forces. a. Since engineer amph ibious units may be supporting relatively small tactical forces in isolated locations, they may be required to actively assist in the static defense of the village, outpost, camp, or similar installation in which th ey are quartered. b. The scope of all engineer support for tactical operations will be increased considerably, particularly in underdeveloped areas of the world. Engineer amphibious units must expect and be prepared to furnish more than t he "normal" amount of tactical support and assistance. The scope of support required may necessitate augmentation of the engineer amphibious units from the 5-500-series TOE. c. Support of internal defense operations may often require that companies, platoons, and/ or squads of the engineer amphibious battalion operate independently of and / or at long distances from the parent unit ; therefore, there will be an increased requirement at the lower echelons for independent deci sion s, initiative, and technical knowl edge. d. Resupply of engineer amphibious units may be extremely difficult for those reasons outlined in c above; therefore, units employed in t hi s manner should be authorized a special stockage of repair parts, tools, and other appropriate supplies as ac companying supplies. e. Additional liaison and supervisory personnel may be required when subordinate units (companies, platoons, and/ or squads) are widely separated to insure competent support of tactical operations. f. In addition to the methods of employment discussed elsewhere in this manual, engineer am- FM 5-144 phibious units equipped with the LVT can render valuable support to internal defense forces engaged in certain types of operations on inland waterways, in inundated areas, and areas containing numerous unfordable canals, streams, and/ or rivers. The types of tactical operations and tasks that may be associated in each environment are discussed in (1) through (3) below. (1) I nland waterways. If engineer amphibious units are used to support normal river crossing operations , they may be employed to transport the assault forces as outlined in FM 31-60. Light artillery pieces may be transported in L VTP's to provide near and far shore fire support. Engineer amphibious units also may be used to transport assault units for short distances along inland waterways for an assault land ing at predesignated points. Some specific tasks that may be performed by the en gineer amphibious units in this situation are (a) Clearing th e waterway and/ or landing area of mines or other obstacles. (b) Evacuating civilian personnel from insurgent controlled areas (crossing/ landing areas) to government controlled areas. (c) Providing temporary bridging or crossing means of the waterway. (d) Providing inland mobility for the crossing and/ or landing force. (2) Inundated areas. Engineer amphibious units may support and provide support to U.S.jRS forces conducting operations in large inundated areas. This support may include transport of the combat elements, indirect and direct fire support, obstacle clearance, and transportation for the unit's combat service support elements. (3) Areas containing numerous waterways. Engineer amphibious units may support U.S./ RS operations in these areas by providing engineer support, temporary bridging of the waterways, transportation for assault and combat service support elements across the waterways, and/ or total mobility for all forces participating in the operation. FM 5-144 9-7. Nontactical Opercdions Engineer amphibious units may be required to perform tasks that are not directly connected with tactical operations, such as a. Limited lighterage duties in base development operations. b. Military civic action projects in or near the unit's installation. c . Engineer support of installations at or near the unit's location. d. Assistance to local U.S./RS forces engaged in internal security operations. e. Advisory assistance toRS armed, paramilitary, or irregular forces and RS civilian agencies. f. Temporary ferry service and/or bridging on important communication routes where normal service has been destroyed or disrupted by insurgent sabotage. 9-8. Advisory Assistance a. Engineer amphibious units may be required to provide advisory assistance to include furnishing MTT, and training counterpart armed or paramilitary forces in branch or branch immaterial subjects. These operations may include extending USAID, USIS, and other U.S. civilian programs in the RS. b . The wide range of skills and experience found in engineer amph ibious units also provides a source of trained personnel which may be used to advise and train civilian governmental personnel. The unit may be required to provide part-or full-time engineer advisors to civilian agencies at the province, district, city, or village levels . 9-9. Military Civic Action Military civic action is the use of armed forces on projects useful to the local population at all levels in such fields as education, training, public works, agriculture, transportation, communications, health, sanitation , and others contributing to economic and social development, which would also serve to improve the standing of the armed forces with the population. Civil affairs teams from the 41-500-series TOE may be attached to engineer amphibious units to support civic action programs and to perform the duties described in FM 41-10. These operations include extending USAID, USIS, and other U.S. civili an programs in the receiving state. a. To a limited degree and when no other engineer units are available, engineer amph ibious units can support that portion of the military civic action program which requires assistance and planning in the construction of utilities structures and other similar faci lities for use and benefit of the civilian populace. The local population, however , must participate in the accomplishment of proj ects in order to gain knowledge and experience to perform similar tasks in the futur e. b. For typical military civic projects and detailed discussion of military civic action, see FM 5-1, FM 5-162, FM 31-16, FM 31-22, FM 31-73, FM 41-5 , FM 41-10, and FM 100-20. 9-1 0. Psychological Operations Psychological operations (PSYOP) conducted as part of the overall internal defense program en compass those political, military, economic, and ideological actions planned and conducted to create in neutral or hostile groups, the emotions, attitudes, or behavior to support the achievement of national objectives. When required, psychological operations personnel of the 33-500-series TOE may be assigned or attached to engin eer amphibious units. a. PSYOP conducted or supported by engineer amphibious units must be integrated with and extend RS civilian/ military information and PSYOP programs. b. PSYOP in internal defense operations are of the utmost importance. PSYOP can be of particular usefulness to engin eer amphibious units engaged in military civic action projects. A PSYOP campaign should be conducted before, during, and after the completion of a project. Requests for PSYOP as sistance should be forwarded to higher headquarters. See FM 33-1 for detailed discussion of PSYOP. 9-11. Intelligence Operations Intelligence plays a vital role in combatting insurgency. Adequate and timely intelligence is most vital to the overall internal defense program. U.S . military personnel are in excellent positions to collect information , particularly engineer personnel, with close and frequent contacts with the civilian popu lace. Conversely, U.S. personnel must be careful of loose talk and the handling of classified material. For detailed discussion, procedures, and role of intelligence in internal defense see FM 30-series and FM 31-22A. 9-12. Internal Security Operations Internal security operations include supporting U.S. and RS military and civilian police in their responsibilities to maintain a state of lawfulness and taking action s to control human and materiel resources, and to deny insurgent access to these FM 5-144 resources. Engineer amphibious units can support internal security operations by a . Providing personnel for mob and riot control in accordance with current regulations. b. Providing assistance in protecting ports, docks, military installations, power stations, waterworks, and other sensitive installations. c. Providing assistance in establishing checkpoints and border posts. d. Providing personnel for police-type duty. FM 5-144 APPENDIX A REFERENCES A-1. Army Regulations (AR) AR 27-20 Investigating and Processing of Claims. AR 320-5 Dictionary of United States Army Terms. AR 320-50 Authorized Abbreviations and Brevity Codes. AR 380-5 Safeguarding Defense Information. AR 385-40 Accident Reporting and Records. AR 385-55 Prevention of Army Motor Vehicle Accidents. AR 611-101 Manual of Commis~ioned Officer Military Occupational Specialties. AR 611-112 Manual of Warrant Officer Military Occupational Specialties. AR 611-201 Manual of Enlisted Military Occupational Specialties. AR 735-35 Supply Procedures for TOE Units, Organizations, and Non-TOE Activities. AR 750-1 Maintenance Concepts. AR 750-5 Organizations, Policies and Responsibilities for Maintenance Operations. A-2. Department of the Army Pam phlets (DA Pam) DA Pam 27-10 Military Justice Handbook: The Trial Counsel and The Defense Counsel. DA Pam 108--1 Index of Army Motion Pictures, Filmstrips, Slides and Phono-Recordings. DA Pam 310-series Index of Military Publications. DA Pam 750-1 Preventive Maintenance Guide for Commanders. A-3. Field Manuals (FM) FM 3-8 Chemical Corps Reference Handbook. FM 3-10 Employment of Chemical and Biological Agents. FM 3-12 Operational Aspects of Radiological Defense . FM 5-l Engineer Troop Organiza tions and Operations. FM 5-13 The Engineer oldier's Handbook. FM 5-15 Field Fortifications. FM 5-20 Camouflage Basic Principles and Field Camouflage. FM 5-21 Camouflage of Fixed Installations. FM 5-22 Camouflage Materials. FM 5-23 Field Decoy Installations. FM 5-25 Explosives and Demolitions. FM 5-26 Employment of Atomic Demolition Munitions (ADM). FM 5-30 Engineer Intelligence. FM 5-34 Engineer Field Data. FM 5-35 Engineers' Reference and Logistical Data. FM 5-36 Route Reconnaissance and Classification. FM 5-142 Nondivisional Engineer Combat Units. FM 7-11 Rifle Company, Infantry, Airborne, and Mechanized. FM 7-20 Infantry, Airborne Infantry and Mechanized Infantry Battalions. FM 8--16 Medical Service Field Army. FM 5-144 FM 9-1 FM 9-2 FM9-6 FM 11--8 FM 16-5 FM 17-1 FM 17-15 FM 19-2 FM 19-25 FM 19-40 FM 20-32 FM 20-33 FM 21-5 FM 21-6 FM 21-26 FM 21-30 FM 21-31 FM 21-40 FM 21-41 FM 21-60 FM 21-77 FM 23-12 FM 24-1 FM 24-16 FM 24-17 FM 24-18 FM 24-20 FM 29-10 FM 29-22 FM 29-45 FM 31-10 FM 31-11 FM 31-12 FM 31-16 FM 31-21 (S)FM 31-21A FM 31-22 (S)FM 31-22A FM 31-25 FM 31-30 FM 31-50 FM 31-60 FM 31-70 FM 31-71 FM 31-72 FM 31-73 FM 33-1 FM 41-5 FM 41-10 Ordnance Service in the Field. Ordnance Corps Logistical Data. Ammunition Service in the Theater of Operations. Field Radio Relay Techniques. The Chaplain. Armor Operations. Tank Units, Platoon, Company and Battalion. Military Police Support in the Field Army. Military Police Traffic Control. Enemy Prisoners of War and Civilian Internees. Landmine Warfare. Combat Flame Operations. Military Training Management. Techniques of Military Instruction. Map Reading. Military Symbols. Topographic Symbols. Small Unit Procedures in Chemical, Biological and Radiological (CBR) Operations. Soldier's Handbook for Chemical and Biological Operations and Nuch:ar Warfare. Visual Signals. Evasion and Escape. Technique of Fire of the Rifle Squad and T actical Application. Tactical Communications Doctrine. Signal Orders, Records and Reports. Tactical Communications Center Operations. Field Radio Techniques. Field Wire, Field Cable Techniques. Supply Management in the Field Army. Maintenance Operations in the Field Army. General Support Supply and Service in the Field Army. Barriers and Denial Operations. Doctrine for Amphibious Operations. Army Forces in Amphibious Operations (The Army Landing Force). Counterguerrilla Operations. Special Forces Operations. Special Forces Operations (U) . U.S. Army Counterinsurgency Forces. U.S. Army Counterinsurgency Forces (U). Desert Operations. Jungle Training and Operations. Combat in Fortified and Built-Up Areas. River Crossing Operations. Basic Cold Weather Manual. Northern Operations. Mountain Operations. Advisor Handbook for Counterinsurgency. Psychological Operations-U.S. Army Doctrine. Joint Manual of Civil Affairs/ Military Government. Civil Affairs Operations. t FM 5-144 FM 54-3 FM 54--4 FM 55-52 FM 55-53 FM 55-58 FM 60-30 FM 61-100 FM 100-5 FM 100-10 (C) FM 100-20 FM 101-5 FM 101-10-1 FM 110-101 The Field Army Support Command. The Support Brigade. Transportation Terminal Battalion and Terminal Service Company. Transportation Amph ibious Truck Company. Transportation Boat Operations. Embarkation and Loading-Amphibious. The Division. Field Service Regulations-Operations. Field Service Regulations, Administration. Field Service Regulations-Counterinsurgency (U). Staff Officers Field Manual; Staff Organization and Procedure. Staff Officers Field Manual, Organization, Technical, and Logistical Data Unclassified Data. Intelligence : Joint Landing Force Manual. A-4. Technical Manuals (TM) TM 3-210 TM 3-220 TM 5-220 TM 5-248 TM 5-311 TM 5-343 TM 5-360 TM 5-700 TM 5-725 TM 8--525 TM 9-500 TM9-1900 TM 9-1910 TM 10-1109 TM 10-1110 TM 10-1111 TM 21-300 TM 38--750 TM 55-510 Fallout Prediction. Chemical, Biological, and Radiological (CBR) D econtamination. Passage of Obstacles Other Than Minefields. Foreign Maps. Military Protective Construction (Nuclear Warfare and Chemical and Biological Operations). Mi litary P etroleum Pipeline Systems. Port Construction and Rehabilitation. Field Water Supply. Rigging. Sanitary Food Service. Ordnance Corps Equipment Data Sheets. Ammunition, General. Military Explosives. Military Petroleum Pipeline System, Maintenance (QM Corps). Mi litary Petroleum Pipeline System, Terminals. Military Petroleum Pipeline System, Pump Stations. Driver Selection and Training (Wheeled Vehicles). The Army Equipment Record System and Procedures . Amphibious Lighter Operator's Handbook. A-5. Tables of Organization and Equipment (TOE) TOE 5-401 TOE 5-402 TOE 5-405 TOE 5-406 TOE 5-407 TOE 5-408 A-6. Other ATP 5-401 ATT 5--401 TC 3-15 JCS Pub 1 JCS Pub 2 Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Engineer Amphibious Brigade. Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Engineer Amphibious Group. Engineer Amphibious Battalion. Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Engineer Amphibious Battalion. Engineer Amphibian Assault Company. Engineer Amphibious Company. References Engineer Amphibious Units. Engineer Amphibious Units. Prediction of Fallout from Atomic Demolition Munitions (ADM). Dictionary of U.S. Military Terms for Joint Usage (JD). Unified Action Armed Forces (UNAAF). FM 5-144 APPENDIX B LVTPS 8-1. LVTPS Characteristics This vehicle is identified as the Landing Vehicle , Tracked, Personnel, Model 5 (LVTP5). It can be employed to transport troops, equipment, and cargo from ship-to-shore and to inland points, as required. The vehicle operates on land or in water without modification. a. Length , overall (including rear tow hitch ) .. . . .. . ........ .... ..... .. .. . .. 29ft. 8 in. b. Width , overall .. .. ... .. .... . . . . .. . . . 11 ft. 8lh in . c. Height: (1) Without machinegun and superstructure handrail ... . . ... ... . . .. .8ft. 7% in. (2) With machinegun, cupola mount . . 10 ft. 1~ in. d. Crew .. .. .. .. ....... ..... . ... .. .. . . . 3 Figure B-1 . The landing ve hic le, track ed, personnel, model5 (LVTP5). FM 5-144 e. Passenger capacities: (1) Optimum troop load water and land ................. . ............25 (2) Maximum troop load water and land .............................34 (3) When rigged as an ambulance . ... 12 f. Cargo capacities: (1) Combat load (maximum for waterborne operations) ...........12,000 lbs. (2) Combat load (maximum load for land operations only) .... ........18,000 lbs. g. Weight: (1) Combat loaded water ... .. . . .....81,780 lbs. (2) Combat loaded land ..............87,780 lbs. h. Ground clearance, combat loaded: (1) Center of hull to base of track ... 18 in. (2) To lowest point of hull .... . ..... 11 in. t. Deck loading and ground pressure: (1) Combat loaded (for waterborne operations---12,000 lbs.) ........... 8.59 psi (2) Maximum (for land operations--18,000 lbs.) .. . ...................9.22 psi (3) Combat equipped without load ...7.33 psi j. Grade ascending ability: (1) Forward slope, combat loaded ....70% (2) Side slope, combat loaded ........ 60o/o k. Obstacle ability: (1) Solid vertical wall, combat loaded 3 ft. (2) Trench span (logs, concrete, rocks) ........................... 12 ft. (3) Trench span (soft trench dirt) .... 10 ft. l. Speed: (1) Maximum land forward ........ .. 30 mph (2) Maximum water forward ..........6.8 mph (3) Maximum land reverse ... ... .....8 mph _.,. C'\1 .......... ...... CX> I :: E-11'-8 1/2"+ (4) Maximum water reverse ...... ...2 mph (5) Cruising, land .... . ...............20 mph (6) Cruising, water ..................6 mph • m. Cruising range at 2,400 rpm: (1) Land-190 miles . . .............. .20 mph (2) Water-57 miles ... . ........ .... .6 mph n. Engine-Continental (liquid cooled) .. 810 hp., V-12 o. Fuel capacity, 456 gallons. Fuel con sumption at cruising speed (2,400 rpm) is as follows: (1) Land (gallons per mile) .......... 2.4 (2) Water (gallons per hour) ........ 47 p. Fuel (gasoline) .....................80 octane q. Armament : (1) Machinegun, cal. .30, (pivot mounted ·in turret) ....... . ...... 1 (2) Mount, tripod, machinegun, cal. .30, (in OEM) .............. 1 r . Ammunition-cal. .30 ... ... .... ..... .2,000 rds. s. Ramp: (1) Width of opening .. ..............7ft. 3% in. (2) Height of opening: (a) Vertical at center ............. .4 ft. 614 in. (b) Vertical at sides ............... .4ft. 2% in. (3) Minimum clearance ..............5 ft. 0 in. (4) Maximum clearance ...... . . ... . ..5 ft. 4 in. (5) Operation ... ....... .... ... .... .. . Hydraulic l. Cargo compartment: (1) Width of cargo opening in top deck ........................7 ft. (2) Length of cargo opening in top deck ......... . ..... . ...... ... 8 ft. • (3) Height (minimum) ..............5 ft. 6 in. (4) Width (minimum) , ..............7 ft. 3 in. --------29'-0"-------------- oilliiiill . ...._._,_,________ ~.: , · \ .q4 Figure B-2. Dimensions of the LVTPif. FM 5-144 (3) On stern sheet . . .. . ..............one wire tow u. Length : rope (1) Engine bulkhead to ramp base ... 15ft. 0 in. (2) Engine bulkhead to rear of w. Cubic feet: driver's seat .............. . . . .....11 ft. 5 in. (1) Engine bulkhead to rear of v. Towing facilities: driver's seat . ... . .. ....... ... . . . .458.8 (1) Center of bow below ramp .. . .....one towing eye (2) Engine bulkhead to ramp base ...598.5 (2) Base of stern sheet ..... . . . .. .....one quick release hitch x . Radios : see appendix N. B-2. Typical LVTPS Cargo Loads a. Waterborne (Maximum W eight: 12,000 lbs.-Cu. Ft.: 458) . Ty pe Amount Rations "C" .. .. ........ ... ... . .................... .... .. ...... . . ...475 Cases POL (Oil) ..... . .... ... ....... . .. .. ........ . .... . ........ . .. ... . . . . . 25 Drums Small Arms: 30 Cal. Ammo M-1 ... ... .. . . ... . .. . .... ... .... . ......... . ... . ....200 Cases 30 Cal. MG ........ . ... . .... . ................. . .... . .. . .... .. .. . . . 135 Cases 7.62-mm Ammo 840 Rds Clip .... . ......... . ..... .... ..... .. .. .. . .. 200 Cases 7 .62-ml,ll Ammo 800 Rds Link ............ . ............ . .. . . .... .... 150 Cases 45 Cal. . .... ................ . . ............... ... . . .... .. . .. .... . .. 100 Cases 81-mrn Mortar: Ctg HE M362 w/Fuze PD .............. . ............ . .. ... . .. ....224 Cases Ctg HE M43A1 w/Fuze PD . ...... ..... . ..... . ... . . .... ........ ..240 Cases Ctg Smoke WP M57 w/Fuze PD ................ .. .... .... ........266 Cases Ctg WP M57A1 w/Fuze TS-M77 ...................... .. ..........285 Cases Ctg Ilium, M301A1 w/Fuze T ime M84 .... . ... . ............. .. . . . . 201 Cases Howitzer 105-mm: Ctg HE-M444 w/Fuze M548 . ... .. ........ . ......... .. ... . .... . ... 100 Cases Ctg Smk M60 w/Fuze PDM501A1 .... . ..... . ...... ... .. .......... ..100 Cases Rifle, Multi, 106 SB (ONTOSJ: Ctg Heat, M344A1 w/Fuze PI-BD .... . ... . ............ . . . ........ 99 Cases Ctg Hep-T M346A1 w/Fuze BD, M91A1 ......... . ...... . ......... 99 Cases Ctg, Spotter Tracer M-48 ..... . ......... . .......... . .. . .... .. .....171 Cases 100--rnrn M103: Proi HE-T M356 w/Prop Chg w/Fuze PD:M 51A5 .. . ... .. ........ 73 Cases Ctg, Ilium M335 w/Fuze MTS M501A1 ... . ......... . ............. .100 Cases Gun, 155-mrn M2: Proj Ilium M118A2 w/o Fuze ........ . . .. ....... ...... ... .. . . ...... 14 Cases Tank 90-rnrn Gun M -48A1: Ctg HE M71 w~Sup Chg w/Fuze PD M51A5 ..... . ......... . ........ 90 Cases H owitzer 155 M-1: Proj Ilium M118A2 w/o Fuze .................................... 13 Cases HowitzerS" M55 (SP): Proj HE M106 (w/Sup Chg w/o Fuze) ............................ 18 Cases Grenade, Hand: Grenade Frag H and ............ . .............. .. ..... ....... . .....235 Cases Adapter, Grenade, Proj , M1 & M1A1 ..... . .... . .. ... ..............157 Cases b. Land Operations (Maximum Weight: 18,000 lbs.-Cu. Ft.: 458). Type Amount Rations "C" . ..... ... ..... . . .... ..... ... . ... . . . ................... . . 550 Cases POL (Oil) ........... .. ...... . . .. .... .. ...... . . ... . .. .. . . ........... 36 Drums Small Arms: 30 Cal. Ammo M-1 . .. . ..... . ............... . ....... . .............300 Cases 30 Cal. M G .. . . ................................. . ....... .. . . .....200 Cases 7.62-mm Ammo 840 Rds Clip .............. . . . ...... . . .............265 Cases Cu. Ft . Weight 374 11,835 300 11,425 128 11,800 126 11,880 170 10,000 137 11,250 90 11,300 298 11,984 319 12,000 277 11,970 302 11,970 288 11,980 203 12,000 203 12,000 270 11,979 270 11,979 154 11,970 280 11,899 181 12,000 97 12,068 237 11,880 97 12,068 109 11,394 341 11,985 457 7,693 Cu. Ft. Weight 434 13,750 432 16,452 300 17,700 186 17,600 239 18,020 FM 5-144 T11pe Amount 7.62-mm Ammo 800 Rds Link ...... .. .. ... . .. .............. . .... ...240 Cases 45 Cal. . .. ... .. .. . .... .... . . .... .... .... . ...... ... ........... .....155 Cases 81-mm Mortar: Ctg HE M43Al w/Fuze PD M51A5 ....... . .................... ...344 Cases Ctg Smoke WP M52 w/Fuze PD .. ......... ................. ... ...399 Cases Ctg Wp M57Al w/Fuze TS-M77 .. .. ...... .... ....................428 Cases Ctg Ilium M301Al w/Fuze Time M84 .... . ...... ... . ..... .... ... .300 Cases Howitzer 105-mm: Ctg HE-M444 w/Fuze M548 .............. .. ..... . ..... . .... . . . ...150 Boxes Ctg Smk, M60 w/ Fuze PDM51A4 ........... . ... . ...... ... ..... ...150 Boxes Rifle M ulti, 106-mm SP (ONTOSJ: Ctg Heat M344Al w/Fuze PI-BD M509 .......... .. .... .. ..... ...148 Cases Ctg Hep-T M346Al w/Fuze BD ..................................148 Cases Ctg Spotter Tracer M-48 ...... . . ... .......... ... .. . .. ... .. . ... ....257 Cases 120-mm Gun M103: Proj HE-T M356 w/Prop Chg .... .. ...... .. .... ..... ........... ..110 Cases Ctg Ilium, M335 w/Fuze MTSQ M501Al .................... . . ....150 Cases Gun 155-mm M2: Proj Ilium M118A2 . . . ........ .. . ...... ........... .. . . . .. ... . . . ... 21 Cases Tank 90-mm Gun M-48A1: Ctg HE M71 w/Sup Chg w/Fuze PD M51A5 .. . ...... . ............136 Cases Howitzer155 M-1: Proj Illum M118A2 w/o Fuze .. ................. .............. .... 21 Cases HowitzerS" M55 (SP): Proj HE Ml06 w/Sup Chg w/o Fuze ................. .. ....... .... 27 Cases Grenade, Hand : Grenade H and Frag ................................. .. ........ . ...353 Cases Adapter, Grenade Proj Ml & MIA .............................. ..157 Boxes 8-3. Typical Equipment/Crew Loads for the LVTPS T11pe Weight Infantry Light Weapons Carrier (Mechanical Mule): w/Driver ..... . .................................... .. .... . 1,124 lbs w/Payload ... . ..... . ........................... . ........ . 1,000 lbs Infantry Light Weapons Carrier w/106, Crew and Driver . .. . 2,083 lbs Truck :14 T M38A1 , (Jeep) w/Driver ... . . . ................. . 2,924 lbs Trai ler :14 T MlOO . .... .. ....................... .......... . 565 lbs Jeep w/Trailer and Driver ........ . .............. . .. .. ... . . 3,473 lbs Truck %, T M37 w/Driver ...... .... ................... .. .. 6,141 lbs Truck, Utility, Lt Wt, M-422 w/Driver . ........... ... ... . . . 1,899 lbs Truck, Utility, Lt Wt, M-422 w/Trailer and Driver ..... ... . 2,449 lbs Two Mortars, 81-MM, M29 .. ...... . .. ........... .. ... . ... . 214 lbs Howitzer, 105-MM, Towed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,980 lbs • Capacity of LVT in square feet-108. •• One combat equipped soldiel'-224 lbs. *** Approximation. *Sq. F t. 43 45 65 44 108 97 49 93 18 ***90 Cu. Ft. Weight 218 18,000 139 17,515 358 17,200 398 17,995 436 17,976 429 17,880 305 18,000 305 18,000 402 17,908 402 17,908 231 17,990 422 17,930 303 18,000 145 18,102 361 17,952 145 18,102 164 17,091 457 18,003 457 7,693 Additional Troop Space **18 Men 14 Men 12 Men 18 Men 0 Men 0 Men 16 Men 4 Men 2 Five-man mortar squads 10-man gun crew FM 5-144 APPENDIX C LVTC C-1. LVTC Description This vehicle is identified as the Landing Vehicle, Tracked, Command, Model 5, (LVTC). It can be employed as a mobile command post, fire support coordination center, or observation post. It is identical to the LVTP5 except for the modified cargo compartment, which accommodates additional communication equipment, desk space, chairs, and map boards. C-2. LVTC Characteristics The LVTC vehicle has characteristics which are identical to those of the conventional LVTP5 described in appendix B except as set forth below: t Figur e C-1. The landing ve hicle, tracked, command (LVTC). FM 5-144 , • • • IIliiil1l D N ......... ~ co ~~~a ~ ~ "' I ••• m o __C)~~~~------------------------- 0 ~ --------29I -Q";_' ------ ·~ ~ -_jj)i---~L ~~--~~~~~--~--~----------- ~......... C)~ leomiiiiJ I ~11I -8 1/2" Figure C-~. Dimensions of the LVTC. a. Passenger capacities (maximum land c. Weight: and water) .... . . . . ..... ....... ..... .... .12 (1) Bare weight .. ... . . .... . .. ... ... ..64,200 lbs. b . Cargo capacity (designed as a com(2) Combat equipped with crew, munication vehicle and does not normally OEM, fu el, and lubricants .. . .... .74,460 lbs. transport cargo). d. Radios : see appendix N. FM 5-144 APPENDIX D LVTE b. Width , overall: D-1. LVTE Description (1) Blade wings folded .... . . . ... . ...12ft. 8-h in. This vehicle is identified as the Landing Vehicle , (2) Blade wings extended ..... ...... . 18 ft. 914 in . Tracked, Engineer (LVTE). It can be employed to c. H eight, overall ...... . ............. . . 10 ft . 8¥.2 in. d. Crew : breach minefields and clear obstacles during am (1) Not including engineer component ..3 phibious operations and during river crossings. (2) With engineer augmentation ......7 e. Cargo ............ . ............ . . . . . . NONE D-2. LVTE Characteristics f. Weight : (1) Combat loaded ......... .. ... . ... 97,500 lbs. a. Length , overall (including rear tow hitch) .... ....... ...... . .. .. .........39ft . 914 in. (2) Less crew, stowage, and fuel .. . ... 82,750 lbs. Figure D-1. The landing vehicle, tracked, engineer (LVTE). FM 5-144 g. Ground clearance: (1) Forward ......................... 14% in . (2) Aft .... ... ... ... . .... . .. ..... ....1914 in. (3) Lowest point of hull ....... . ..... .11n in . h. Ground pressure (2 inches penetration and 97,500 lbs. weight) ........... . 9.5 psi i. Grade ascending ability: (1) Forward slope .. ... . ............ .60o/o (2) Side slope ....... .. ............. .60o/o j. Obstacle ability: (1) Maximum wall .... . .............21 in . (2) Trench span . ...... ....... . ......10ft. k. Speed: (1) Maximum land forward ..........24.9 mph (2) Maximum water forward .... . ....6.2 mph (3) Maximum land reverse . ..........8.2 mph (4) Maximum water reverse ....... . .. 2 mph l. Engine-Continental (fuel injection system) (gasoline) .......................810 hp., V-12 m (I} -· .....s;::;s_ ~ r m. Fuel capacity, 560 gallons. Fuel consumption at cruising speed (2,400 rpm) is as follows: (I) Land (gallons per hour) ..........35 (2) Water (gallons per hour) .........53.3 n. Fuel (gasoline) ................. : . ...80 octane o. Armament: (1) Machinegun, cal. .30, (pivot mounted in turret) .. .. ...........1 (2) Mount, tripod, machinegun, cal. .30, (in OEM) ...... . ........1 p. Line charge-350 feet in length ......2 q. Towing facilities: (1) Front of vehicle (center of bow below escape hatch) ..............one towing eye (2) Base of stern sheet ..............one quick release hitch (3) On stern sheet . ... . ..... . ........one wire tow rope r. Ammunition-cal. .30 ........... ... ..2,000 rds. s. Radios: see appendix N. 0 6" Figure D-2. Dimensions of the LVTE. FM 5-144 APPENDIX E LVTR d. Crew ...............................3 E-1. LVTR Description e. Cargo ............................... NONE This vehicle is identified as the Landing Vehicle, f . Weight: Tracked, Recovery, Model 1 (LVTR). It can be (1) Less crew, stowage, and fuel .... . . 75,020 lbs. (2) Combat loaded ..................82,200 lbs. employed for the repair and/ or retrieval of other g. Ground clearance, combat loaded: amphibious vehicles during the conduct of amphib (1) Center of hull to base of track .. . 18 in. ious or land operations. (2) To lowest point of hull ..........11 in. h. Deck loading and ground pressure,E-2. LVTR Characteristics at 0 inches penetration ................. . . 8.65 psi a. Length, overall ......................31 ft. 9 in. i. Grade ascending ability: b. Width, overall ...................... 11 ft. 8% in. (1) Forward slope, combat loaded .... 70% c. Height: (2) Side slope, combat loaded ........60% (1) King post stowed ................10ft. 9 in. j. Obstacle ability: (2) King post erected ...... .... ... . .. 17ft. 6 in. (1) Solid vertical wall ............ . . . . 3 ft. (3) Maximum crane elevation at 65° ..21 ft. 8 in. (2) Trench span .... ................. 12 ft. Fi(Jw·e E-1. The landing ve hicle , tracked, recovery (LVTR). FM 5-144 ~ I 00 I ...-4 ~3'~T -2"-- Base. Line 1 Figure E-f. Dimensions of t he LVTR. s. Equipped for organic ma intenance:k. Speed: (1) Power skid-M38A1 Willys engine . 1 (1) Maximum land forwa rd . . . . . . .. . . 30 mph (2) Weld er-GE WD43B7 300 am p .. 1 (2) Maximum wa t er forward . . .. . . . . . 6.8 mph (3) Maximum la nd reverse ..........8 mph (3) Generator-Onan Model 5UA (4) Maximum water reverse .. .. . . .. . . 2 mph IN/ 40A 5kw-115 volt ..... . ..... . 1 (4) Crane win ch-Garwoodl. Cruising range at 2,400 rpm : (single drum) .. . . .. . .. . . . . . . . ... . 1 (1) La nd at 20 mph . ..... . . . •.. . .. .. .190 miles (5) R etrieving winch-Pacific Car (2) Water at 6 mph ...... . .. . ... .. ...57 miles (single drum) . . . .. . . . .. .. .. . . ... . 1m . Engine-Continental (liquid cooled) ..810 hp., V-12 (6) Air compressor, 2 cyl. recipron. Fuel capacity, 456 ga llons. Fuel concating pis ton type . .... .. .... ... ..2sump tion at cruising speed (2,400 rpm) (7) Maximum boom reach :ts as follows : (a) At horizon tal . ... . .. . . . ... .. . . . 11 ft . 9 in . (1) Land (gallons p er mile) . . . . . . . . ..2.4 (b) At 45° .. .. .. .. ........ . ... . ...8ft. 3 in . (2) Water (gallons per hour) . . . .... .47 (8) Maximum boom lift :o. Fuel , gasoline . . .. . ... . .. . ..... .. .. . . 80 octan e (a ) At horizontal . ... .. ... .. .. .....6 ft. 5 in. p. Armament : ( b) At 45° . ... .. .. . . .. . ....... . .. . 15ft. 7 in. (1) Machinegun, cal. .30 ... .. .. . . .. . .1 (9) M aximu m boom traverse (2) Mount, t ripod , m achinegun, (manual) ....... . . . . . .. . . . .......85° right or left cal. .30 ( in OEM) . . .. . .. .. . . . .. ..1 (1 0) M aximu m lift . . .. .... . . . ... . . .. .7,000 lbs. q. Ammunition-cal. .30 .... . ... . .. . . ..1 ,000 rds. (11 ) M aximum winch capacity r. Ra dios : se e appendix N . (single line pull) .. . .. . . ·G... ...45,000 lbs. E-2 t FM 5-144 APPENDIX F TRAINING AND SAFETY FOR ENGINEER AMPHIBIAN ASSAULT COMPANIES Section I. TRAINING OF ENGINEER AMPHIBIAN ASSAULT COMPANIES proficiency in assigned military occupational F-1. General specia lties, and to fully qualify each individual inThe training objectives of the engmeer am his assignment in the amphibian assault company. phibian assault companies, engineer amphibious Full qualification in an MOS required by thebattalion, 1n general military subjects and technical TOEs of engineer amphibious units can only beamphibious vehicle training are established in ac attained by actual performance of duty in thatrm·dance with orders of higher headquarters and specialty. their own requirements. Formal schools and class b. General Military Subjects Training. The ob room work as well as field training are necessary ject of the unit's general military subjects trainingelements of a sound engineer amphibian assault program is to maintain the individual's proficiencycompany training program. Field work includes as a soldier, enabling him to accept varied assignwater and land vehicular operation, maintenance of ments in combat. the vehicles, firing of organic weapons, and actual participation in amphibious operations. Supervision F-3. The Training Programat all levels is essential to the conduct of a wellThe training program for an engineer amphibianplanned, thorough training program. Supervision assault company depends upon the combat readinessis accomplished by inspection, testing, and review. of the command, the level of knowledge and proTraining programs are designed to effect orderly fici~~~y of p~rsonnel assigned to the unit, trainingprogress from individual to section, platoon, com-faCilities available, and the requirements of higher pany, and, where applicable, battalion training headquarters. Training of the unit comes basicallyphases. Constant refresher training is conducted for under two main headings, training as an LVT all officer and enlisted personnel of the engineer unit and training the LVT unit with infantry oramphibian assault. companies. other combat arms which it is to support. A training program balanced between these requirements will F-2. Training Objectives produce a proficient unit. Random instruction is Obtaining maximum unit proficiency in all phases no~ given for the sake of fulfilling the training reof amphibious vehicle employment in combat is the qmrement. All instruction included on the master training objective of engineer amphibian assault training schedule is carefully analyzed for its value units. In order to achieve thi state of training, and contribution to the efficiency and state of trainall personnel are adequately trained in their unit ing of the unit. Overall training requirements are specialty and in general military subjects. The infrequently determined by higher headquarters and dividual maintains his proficiency as a soldier while unit training programs are formulated from these progres 'ing from basic to advanced training 'in his guidelines. Unit commanders and their operations specialty. officers modify training programs to insure optimum a. Specialist Training Objective. The objective use of facilities and to facilitate the attainment of of specialist training is to give amphibious vehicle new requirements initiated by higher headquarters personnel training to qualify and maintain their or created by a new situation. F-1 FM 5-144 a. Methods of Instruction. The principles set forth in FM 21-6 should be followed in the conduct of military training. Emphasis is placed on practical application rather than on theoretical instruction. Inclement weather schedules are prepared in advance to cover scheduled periods which are subject to cancellation because of inclement weather or hazardous operating conditions. Proficiency is attained through integrated and concurrent training. Once :1 subject has been introduced, it is applied at every subsequent opportunity until mastered. (1) Integrated training. Integrated training is that training where two or more subjects are taught simultaneously; for example, amphibious vehicle crew emergency procedures may be taught during water driving instructions. (2) Concurrent training. Concurrent training is that training conducted simultaneously with other subjects when permitted by the scheduling of a principal subject ; for example , weapons firing , communication instruction, and unit camouflage instruction may be conducted during a field exercise involving establishment of amphibian assault companies ashore. b. Commander's Time. Commander's time in training programs is intended to provide latitude in the scheduled training. It may be used to compensate for interruptions, to bring individuals up to desired levels of proficiency, to conduct refresher training, or to introduce essential training not previously planned. c. Selection of Instructors. Maximum advantage is taken of known skills possessed by individuals of the unit in assigning instructors. Careful selection of instructors is made to insure control of personnel and that instruction is properly imparted. Graduates of specialist schools, particularly in maintenance and communications, are used to conduct instruction in these subjects. Assignment of qualified lower grade personnel to conduct instruction is advisable; it serves as an incentive and also takes advantage of their skill. d. Safety and Realism. The conduct of training operations by engineer amphibious units and safety precautions incident thereto are governed by ap propriate training manuals and this manual. The objective of amphibious vehicle training is the attainment of maximum realism without sacrificing essential safety precautions. e. Training Officers and NCO's. At the discretion of unit commanders, officers not required in the conduct of training of the unit may be given officerlevel instruction. Noncommissioned officers are included in the officer-level instruction when desirable. Training programs set forth those subjects necessary for proper and proficient performance by officers and NCO's of the command. f. Unit Training Phase. The commanding officer, through careful and continuing analysis of the training status of the unit and its members, regulates the progress from individual to section training and throughout advanced training stages. He determines the progress of training from basic level to advanced level in order to insure adequate training in both phases of the program. g. Field and Waterborne Training. Engineer amphibian assault companies train in the field under simulated tactical conditions whenever possible. Particular attention is given during field training to subjects such as overland driving, field preventive maintenance, unit control, ~amouflage, dispersion of vehicles, and formation driving. Individual and unit measures taken during both antinuclear and nuclear warfare are stressed, as are unit defensive measures against organized and guerrilla type forces. Waterborne training for engineer amphibian assault companies may be conducted as a part of field exercises, or may be scheduled separately. During waterborne training, such subjects as formation driving, vehicle control, emergency procedures, including maintenance while waterborne, are stressed. It is important that engineer amphibian assault companies make every effort to train in ocean areas, lakes, rivers, streams, swamps, and any other type of water areas available in order to gain diversified experience. h. Night Training. Training of engineer amphibian assault companies at night is essential to the combat readiness of the command. Darkness introduces increased problems of control and coordination, and proficiency under such conditions is only attained by actual operation. Emphasis is placed on individual initiative during night training. This training includes afloat and ashore oper FM 5-144 ations, and should include landing ship training when ships are available. i. Amphibious Exercises. The mission of the engineer amphibious battalions and their amphibian assault companies makes mandatory the conduct of regularly scheduled amphibious exercises under the most diversified conditions possible. Such exercises progress from planning and embarkation through the ship-to-shore movement and subsequent operations ashore, either tactical, combat service support, or both. The more varied the role for the engineer amphibian assault company, the more thorough is the training. Combat service support necessary to support operating engineer amphibian assault companies during these exercises is conducted as realistically as possible in order to determine the ability of the engineer amphibious battalion and its subordinate elements to r ender support on a combat basis. j. Tactical Exercises. Tactical exercises are conducted in order to apply tactics and techniques to specific situations under conditions simulating actual combat. The success of tactical exercises is dependent upon the amount of realism afforded. Use of Aggressors contributes substantially to the realism of training. All phases of the unit operation should be tested during tactical exercises, to include administration, supply, communications, and maintenance. Tactical exercises are intended to effect the integration of the components of the engineer amphibious battalion and its companies into effective and coordinated commands, insuring their ability to successfully perform their operational missions. (1) Training during exercises. As many of the training categories listed in (a) through (o) below should be incorporated in tactical exercises as time and circumstances permit. (a) Communications, including exercise of the radios on board the L VTPC, and the establishing of battalion, company, and platoon command nets, where applicable. (b) Establishing liaison to supported units. (c) Survival, escape, and evasion. (d) Concealment and camouflage of vehicles and individuals. (e) Defense against CBR attacks. (f) Clearance of mines and obstacles, including LVTE employment. (g) Unit action against air, airborne, and mechanized attack, and means of defending against guerrillas and infiltrations. (h) Route reconnaissance, controlling vehicle marches, and vehicle formations. (i) Organizational maintenance in the field. (j) Field messing and sanitation . (k) Collection, emergency medical treatment and mass evacuation of patients in conjunction with medical personnel. (l) Supply procedures to include provision of POL and repair parts. ( m) Occupying command posts , tractor parks, and maintenance areas. (n) Vehicle recovery, to include actual employment of the L VTR. (o) Amphibious vehicle driving under all conditions. (2) Critique. A thorough critique is held after each exercise. Insofar as practicable, rep resentatives of all elements of the unit which participate are present at the critique. Emphasis is placed on the purpose of the exercise, good and bad points observed, and methods of correcting deficiencies. F-4. Training Considerations a. General. Using the appropriate Army Training Program (ATP) and Army Subject Schedules, each engineer amphibious battalion plans and programs training. In any training planned for the engineer amphibian assault companies the following must be considered: (1) Training requirements and exercise commitments assigned by higher headquarters. (2) State of training of the unit and/ or its components. (3) Availability of vehicles considering high maintenance and repair parts requirements. ( 4) Requirement for providing basic training for newly acquired personnel. (5) Availability of shipping and other support activities such as a shore party. (6) Coordinated training requirements such as higher headquarters training with the FM 5-144 LVTPC and engmeer units training with the LVTE. (7) Requirement for separately training NCO's and officers. (8) Availability of training areas, to include those closely resembling areas of prospective operations. (9) Requirement for extensive night training. (10) Requirement for integrating all facets of the unit into tactical and amphibious exercises. b. Subjects To Be Included. The following subjects are included in the specialist or technical program of an engineer amphibian assault company in proportion to the training status and requirements of each unit. (1) Basic subjects. (a) On-vehicle instruction on instruments, controls, on-equipment material, and preventative maintenance requirements. (b) Seamanship and elementary navigation. (c) Amphibious vehicle communication equipment and procedures. (d) Weapons training on those weapons organic to the vehicles or issued to personnel. (e) Amphibious vehicle abandonment and immobilizing procedures. (f) Camouflaging vehicles. (g) Embarking on and launching from LST's, LSD's, and LPD's. (h) Amphibious vehicle prewater operational checks and emergency procedures practice. (i) Water, land, and formation driving of amphibious vehicles. (j) Organizational maintenance procedures. (k) Amphibious vehicle cargo loading, trimming, and securing. (2) Advanced subjects. (a) Beach markers, control flags, and numeral flags. (b) Integrated waterborne and aboard ship training with ships of the amphibious fleet. (c) Employment of amphibious vehicle units in the amphibious operation. (d) Amphibious vehicle operations ashore and during r iver crossings. (e) Amphibious vehicle unit (battalion, company, platoon, section) training and tactical tests. F-5. Training References See appendix A of this manual, FM 21-5, FM 21-6, ATP 5-401, and ATT 5-401. Section II. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS IN AMPHIBIOUS VEHICLE TRAINING OPERATIONS F-6. General F-7. Equipment for Crew and Passengers Amphibious vehicle operations are complicated by inherent vehicular characteristics; i.e., restricted visibility, size and bulk, limited waterborne maneuverability, and a complexity of operations resulting from compromises incident to the manufacture of amphibious type vehicles. Therefore, engineer amphibian assault units and their personnel are required to take exceptional precautions against the dangers of injury, loss of life, and lo s of the vehicle. Effective safety precautions require trained and skilled LVT crews, properly oriented passengers, and well maintained vehicles. Strict adherence to the instructions concerning safety precaution for passengers i required. a. Helmets. All personnel embarked in moving amphibious vehicles should wear helmets. Crewmembers normally wear tank communication helmets while passengers wear the steel helmet. b. Uife Prese·rvers. All personnel wear life pre ervers at all times during water operations. Amphibious vehicle units provide life preservers for crewmen; embarked units provide their own preservers. Personnel embarked in the amphibious vehicle should wear the inflatable type lifejacket, if available, as exit through escape hatches i difficult if kapok type jackets are worn. Personnel embarked in the LARC-V may wear kapok or inflatable life preservers. In the case of inflatable types, lifejackets should be worn around the neck while vehicles are waterborne, and not simply contained in the carrying case at t~e belt. c. Safety Belts. Safety belts are worn by all seated amphibious vehicle crewmen while the ve hicle is in motion over rough terrain, or during landing operations when surf height exceeds six feet. d. Normal Combat Equipment. All embarked personnel wearing normal combat equipment, such as packs, cartridge belts, pistol belts, etc., loosen such equipment during water operations in order to jettison it without delay if required . e. Survivor Light. Each passenger embarked on an amphibious vehicle during night operations is equipped with a serviceabl e survivor light, if available. Embarked units furnish such lights for their personnel; amphibious vehicle units equip their crewmen. F-8. Requirements for Passengers Embarked in Amphibious Vehicles The safety of both crew and passengers embarked in amphibious vehicles is enhanced through strict adherence to the following: a. No person will ride on top of a moving amphibious vehicle, except under the following circumstances: (1) When performing rescue missions afloat. (2) During lin e handling and fending-off operations while laying alongside small craft and ships. (3) While recelVlng lines during loading aboard landing ships. b. No person will ride aboard a moving amphibious vehicle, eith er ashore or afloat, with more than his head and waist extending above the hatch. During waterborne operations only one hatch shou ld be open for purposes of control and visibility. Waterborne operations in confused seas and trans-surf operations should be conducted with all hatches closed. c. No smoking is allowed aboard amphibious vehicles at any time. F-9. Operation of the LVT Ramp All _LVT's are equipp ed with a hydraulically operated ramp, situated on the bow of the vehicle. FM 5-144 All personnel must stand clear of the ramp during the t ime it is operated. The following precautions apply to raising and lowering the ramp. a. Hydraulic Operation. Before the ramp is raised or lowered a ground gui de is placed in front of the vehicle to insure that all persons stay clear of the ramp area . The driver of the L VT takes his instructions on raising and lowering the ramp from the ground guide. The LVT horn is also sounded prior to the operation of the ramp release lever and during the actual operation. b. Chain Hoist Operation. When the hydraulic system of the L VT ramp is inoperative, the ramp may be raised or lowered by use of the chain hoist included in vehicle equipment. This operation is more hazardous than with the hydraulic mechanism . The ground guide remains in position until the ramp is ecured in the raised position. Vehicles with inoperative ramp hydraulic systems are deadlined with the ramp in a lowered position if space is avai lable, otherwise a sign will be placed both internally and externally indicating DANGER! RAMP HELD BY CHAIN HOIST. F-1 0. Emergency Equipment Required for Amphibious Vehicles a. Installed Equipment. Amphibious tractors are equipped with a horn, a spotlight, and headlights, all of which may be used as signals in t he event of emergency. LARC-V's are equipped with headlights and a spotlight which may be used for the same purpose. Periodic inspection of this equipment in sures its continuing availabil ity. b. Special Emergency Equipment. Procedures for sign aling during emergencies while amphibious vehicles are waterborne are found in paragraph F-12. As a minimum for night operations, the following equipment should be carried aboard each amphibious vehicle: (1) One sign al lamp. (2) One aircraft sign al projector, pyrotechnic, M9. (3) Four double-star red signals, AN-M57. ( 4) A survivor light for each crewmember. F-11. Vehicle Abandonment Procedures The primary principle involved in abandoning amphibious vehicles is strict adherence to the in FM 5-l44 struction of the amphibian commander. He is trained in the conduct of abandonment and has communication with other vehicles and the beach resc ue party. Appendix L sets forth duties of the L VT crew in connection with waterborne operations . Appendix K describes the duties of crewmembers when LVT's are disabled or sinking. Procedures set forth below are intended to familiarize embarked personnel with techniques for escaping from disabled, sinking, or sunken vehicles. a. Procedures When Amphibious Vehicles Are Disabled. When an amphibious vehicle becomes disabled while waterborne, the senior amphibious vehicle officer or NCO afloat in the area is immediately notified by radio or other means as necessary and as outlined by unit SOP. He then takes appropriate action to insure that embarked troops are removed from the disabled vehicle and the vehicle recovered. Transfer from disabled amphibious vehicles is accomplished as outlined below. (1) In fair weather and in good seas, the safety boat or rescue vehicle comes alongside to leeward and is secured to the disabled vehicle. (2) The windward cargo hatch is opened and locked in the upright position, and the boarding ladder is installed by the vehicle crew. (3) Personnel are moved to the top deck in increments and instructed to inflate life preservers, if necessary. (4) The crew closes the cargo hatch, and personnel are transferred. (5) In foul weather or rough seas, the r escuing vehicle stands by on the leeward side of the disabled vehicle. Passengers from the disa~led vehicle, wearing issued life preservers, swim to the rescuing vehicle in small groups, and are recovered by the crew of that vehicle. b. Procedure When Amphibious Fehi cle Is Sinking . Procedures for escape from tracked vehicles of the LVT type differ from those for the LARCV's or amph ibious truck; thus the two are discussed separately. (1) Tracked vehicles. All vehicles of the LVT series have cargo and personnel compartment hatches which are normally closed during waterborne operations. This feature, in addition to the auxiliary bilge pump which operates off the vehicle elec trical system even when the engine is inoperative, makes vehicle sinkings improbable. However, should the vehicle appear to be sinking with passengers em barked, the following procedures are initiated: (a) The crew chief notifies the amphibious vehicle commander or beach rescue party. (b) If time permits and water is not visible forward of the transverse bulkhead, personnel and cargo compartment hatches are opened. If water is evident forward of the transverse bulkhead, only the forward access hatche should be opened (fig. F-1) . In both cases, on ord er of the crew chief, embarked per sonnel jettison equipment, move topside, inflate lifejackets, and abandon the vehicle. (c) Personnel wearing inflatable type life preservers jettison equipment but DO NOT inflate the preserver until they have passed through the hatch. Personnel wearing kapok type life preservers jettison equipment and hand-carry the life preserver topside, then put on the pre'erver and abandon the vehicle. (d) The primary principle in escape operations from amphibious vehicles is strict attention to the orders of the vehicle crew chief and maintenance of discipline among passengers, thereby avoiding any possibility of panic. (2) The amphibious truck or lighter. Since there is no cargo hatch on the amphibious truck or lighter, passengers in a vehicle which is sinking leave by climbing or pro ceeding to the gunwales of the vehicle, inflating life preservers, and abandoning the vehicle. This is done at the discretion of the vehicle crew chief. As in LVT pro cedures, strict adherence to orders and maintenance of discipline is necessary. c. Pmcedure When the LTI T Has Sunk . The current series of LVT's are the most seaworthy ever FM 5-144 i \ \ PERSONNEL AND CARGO PERSONNEL COMPARTMENT HATCH AND CARGO COMPARTMENT HATCH FigUJ·e F-1 . Location of access hatches on the LVT. constructed. Their loss by sinking is made less prob ab le because of one auxiliary bilge pump on each tractor which is powered by a separate power plant, providing a means to delay sinking until passenger evacuation is accomplished. Even so, under certain circumstances, vehicle sinkings may occur. Such sinkings are normally caused by water entering the engine compartment aft, causing the vehicle to sink stern first. In the event of rapid sinking , it may not be possible to evacuate passengers before the vehicle slips under the surface of the water. A percentage of air will be trapped within the personnel and cargo compartment of a sunken L VT, and will manifest itself as a "pocket" of air when the vehicle has settled. This "pocket" should be sought out by all personnel aboard until internal and external pressures have equalized. When equalization takes place, amphibious vehicle crewmembers remove the spring-loaded escape hatches on either side of the vehicle (fig. F-2), being carefu l not to be forced against vehicle protusions as a result of the sudden tension release on FM 5-144 ·..lo Figure F-2. Location of escape hatches on the LVT. the hatch . No attempt should be made to release the escape hatches until they are totally submerged. Embarked personnel are then led to the escape hatches by crewmembers. All personnel are careful not to inflate the inflatable type life preserver before leaving the escape hatch since they cannot negotiate the hatch with an inflated jacket. Personnel wearing kapok life jackets remove and hand-carry them through the hatch for use as a temporary floating device upon reaching the surface. If the vehicle settles in the surf zone with the topside abov.e water, passengers and crew should await recovery by a recovery vehicle and not attempt abandonment of the vehicle. F-12. Distress Signals for Amphibious Vehicles When a vehicle becomes disabled in the water, the crew chief exerts every effort to correct the cause of the disability after insuring the safety of the passengers. When it is apparent that the vehicle is sinking or that repairs cannot be effected with personnel and equipment on hand, the crew chief signals for assistance. Distress signals to be used are a. Sinking, Day or Night. Fire a signal, aircraft, red tracer, red-red star, AN-M57, from an M9 pyrotechnic projector into the air over the vehicle. Wave the letter 1'N" flag vigorously during daylight. b. Disabled, Day. Display the letter "N" flag (blue and white checked) from a boat hook held in a vertical position. c. Disabled, Night. Employ spotlights, headlights, and battle lantern beamed vertically into the air. During darkness, the distress signal for sinking (red-red star) is fired if the crew chief judges that there is a possibility of sinking or that the vehicle cannot be assisted. F-13. Surfing and Waterborne Criteria for the LVT The LVT's pos ess excellent surfing characteristic . They are capable of negotiating plunging breakers in excess of 15 feet. However, for purposes of training both crews and embarked personnel, limitations are imposed on the scope of vehicular operation to provide a greater degree of safety. The following consolidated list of safety factors is evaluate4 individually and collectively prior to the conduct of LVT surfing operations. They arc considered maximum for safe LVT training operations. FM 5-144 a. Maximum Surf Conditions for Safety in Traina. Operating Speed and Distance While Waterborne. Amphibious vehicles afloat maintain a dis ing. Operations. tance between vehicles of at least 30 meters at all Wave height Lines of breakers in sur / zone 10 feet . . ..... . ... . .......3 or less times during periods of unrestricted visibility. In 8 feet ...................4 or more with close intervals operations at night or under conditions of redu ced (50 yards or less) visibility, this distance is 30 meters or the limit of b. Sea-Surface-Wind-Waves Not Exceeding Si..1: visibility, which ever is less. Vehicles are author Feet In Height. ized to operate at maximum speed while water (1) Wind wave height should not exceed four borne; however, speed of the vehicle is influ enced feet during reduced visibility. by the proximity of other craft and by the ineffe c (2) Wind wave height not exceeding four feet tiveness of the braking system while the vehicle is afloat. when superimposed on swells four feet high or more. b. Operating Speed and Distance Ashore. Dur (3) Wind wave height not exceeding five feet ing periods of dayli ght and unrestricted visibility, when embarkation or re-embarkation in vehicles maintain an interval of 50 meters. At ni ght LST is necessary. and during periods of reduced visibility, the dis c. SwelLs at Soo. tance is 50 meters or the limit of visibility, which ever is less. When operating in congested areas (1) Long undulating swells not exceeding ten feet in height. ashore, vehicle speed is a lways slow enough t o per mit stopping " ·ithin the limit of visibility. When (2 ) Short, frequent, and steep swell not exvehicles find it necessary to enter a biv ouac ar eaceeding seven feet in height. at night, extreme care is exercised. Each vehicle (3) During reduced visibility, swells not exis escorted by one guide with a flashlight, and enceeding five feet in height. ters the area at a speed of no more than five miles (4) Swell height should not exceed five feet per hour. when embarkation or re-embarkation in LST is necessary. F-15. Beach Rescue Teams d. Vehicular Limitations. The LVT i not suited to movement over an excessive distance at sea or to During surf and waterborne operations conremaining afloat for long periods of time. These ducted by amphibious vehicle units as training situations increase the possibility of mechanical exercises, a beach rescue team is formed for conbreakdown, crew and passenger fatigue, and seaduct of rescue operations, when necessary and sickness. Maximum recommended distances for practicable. Recommended composition of the LVT movement when waterborne are--beach rescue team is as follows: (1) Line of departure to beach-2,750 meters. a. Composition of Beach Rescue Team for LVT (2) Ship to •line of departure-1,000 meters. Operations. During periods of reduced visibility, the (1) Two LVTP's or one LVTP and one L VTR. distance from the line of departure to the beach is reduced to 1,000 meters, if pos(2) orrnal crews for the vehicles. sible. (3) Three expert swimmers per vehicle, exclusive of the crew. F-14. Operating Speed and Distance Amphibious vehicles, in particular those of the (4) At least one ring-buoy with 50 feet of line LVT series, are restricted in operating speed, and attached for each rescue vehicle. with regard to the distance which must be main(5) Heaving lines and a matched set of towtained between vehicles. These restrictions are ing lines 2 inches in diameter, 40 feet in necessary due to limited maneuverability afloat, length, with an 18-inch eye at each end. restricted vision from within, and the responsibility (6) One aidman. for the safety and welfare of personnel in the area of vehicle operations. (7) An officer or NCO in charge. F-9 FM 5-144 (8) One 4x4 cargo vehicle with driver. (9) One jeep-mounted radio, compatible with radios contained in the operating amphibious vehicles, with radio operator. (10) One resuscitator. (11) One 4x4 ambulance with driver. b. Composition of Beach Rescue Teams for LARC Operations. The same composition is recommended, except that rescue vehicles should be one LARC, in lieu of one LVTP. c. Action of the Beach Rescue Team. Beach rescue team operations are conducted under the control of the senior amphibious vehicle officer present. While their principal mission is the rescue of disabled vehicles in the surf zone, they may be employed elsewhere as the situation dictates. The initial aim of beach rescue team operations is rescue of embarked passengers and the vehicle crew. They may subsequently assist in recovery of vehicles, time and the situation permitting. Appendix K lists procedures for rescue of di abled waterborne LVT's. t • G-1 . LARC-V Description This U.S. Army vehicle is identified as Lighter, Amphibious, Resupply, Cargo, 5-Ton (LARC-V). It is employed in a cargo carrying capacity during amphibious operations, river crossings, and limited operations ashore. G-2. LARC-V Characteristics a. Length, overall .............. . .......35 ft. b. Width, overall ......................10ft. c. Speed, loaded: (1) Water ...........................8.7 knots (2) Land .................... .. ......25 mph d. Operating range, loaded: (1) Water .......... . ................60 miles (2) Land .......... ... .. ... .. . .......160 miles e. Fuel consumption-gallons per hour ..20 /. Crew ................................2 g. Passenger capacities: (1) Normal ......... . .. . .............0 (2) Emergency .......................20 h . Cargo capacities: (1) Normal ................ . ... ..... .4.5 short tons (2) Maximum .............. . . .. ..... . 5 short tons G-3. LARC-XV Description This U.S. Army vehicle is identified as Lighter, Amphibious Resupply, Cargo, 15-Ton (LARC-XV). APPENDIX G LIGHTERS, AMPHIBIOUS, RESUPPLY, CARGO FM 5-144 It is employed in a cargo carrying capacity during amphibious operations, river crossings, and limited operations ashore. G-4. LARC-XV Characteristics a. Length ........................... .. .45ft. b. Width ............ . ............ . .. . . 14ft. c. Speed: (1) Water .. ....................... ..8.4 knots (2) Land .. . .........................20 mph d . Passenger capacity .. ... .. ...........NONE e. Cargo capacity .......... ........ ....30,000 lbs. f. Weight, unloaded . . ... -· ............ .38,000 lbs. g. Fuel capacity ... . ....................435 gal~. h . Crew ................................2 G-5. LARC-LX Description This U.S. Army vehicle is identified as Lighter, Amphibious, Self-Propelled, Steel, 60-Ton (LARCLX). It is employed in a passenger and cargo carrying capacity during amphibious operations, river crossings, and limited operations ashore. G-6. LARC-LX Characteristics a. Length, overall ........ . ........... ..62 ft. 6%, in . b. Width, overall . .. .......... . ........26ft. 7 in. c. Speed, loaded: (1) Water ............ ... . .. .........7 knots (2) Land ............ . .. . ............14 mph Figure G-1. Lighter, amphibious, resupply, cargo, 5-lon (LARC-V) . FM 5-144 d. Operating range, loaded: (1) Water ......... .. .......... . .....105miles (2) Land .. . ................... . .....210 miles e. Fuel consumption, gallons per hour . .40 (. Crew ........... . ........... . .... . . . . 8 - tn g. Passenger capacities: (1) Normal ..................... . ....125 • (2) Emergency ....... . ...............200 h. Cargo capacity: (1) Normal ...... . ............ . ......53.6 short tons (2) Emergency ...... .. ...............89.3 short tons 35' 16'----------+ • 1 r I C1) 0 ....... l -N - Figure G-2. Dimensions of the LARC-V . FM 5-144 Figure G-$ . Lighter, amphibiaus, resupply, cargo, 15-ton (LARC-XV ). co I M ...... Figur e G-4. Dim ensions of the LARC-XV. FM 5-144 • • Figure G--6. Lighter, amphibious, self-propelled, steel, 60-ton ( LARC-LX). FM 5-144 tn I - 0').-I 1+-------------62'-6" ____________. Figure G--6. Dimen.sion.s of the LARC-LX. G-5 FM 5-144 APPENDIX H • EMPLOYING THE LVTP H-1 . General The LVTP5, with fuel ferrying assembly aboard , may be utilized to refuel other vehicles ashore. This technique can be used during amphibious operations, mechanized operations, or other special operations when conventional fueling vehicles are AS A FUEL VEHICLE unavailable or unab le to operate in the particu lar environment. Figure H -1 illustrates the assemb ly loaded aboard the LVTP5. It is recommended that one-half inch cable lashings with turnbuckles be employed to secure the assembly. These lashings are not illustrated in figure H -1. Fig ure H -1. LVTP5 with fuel ferrying assembly loaded ab·oard. FM 5-144 H-2. Fueling the Refueler Special precautions and procedures are followed in filling bulk fuel cells aboard the LVTP5 to insure that the cells are filled to capacity and to protect against fire. The ferrying assembly must be raised by using 6x6 blocks under the skids to allow the hose from the after tank to pass under the front fuel cell. Fueling is accomplished as follows : a. The LVTP5 refueler is driven to a designated fueling point and parked with bow downwind, if practicable. b. The main engine is shut off, the ramp lowered , and scavenger and vent blowers are turned on. c. One crewmember stands by the ramp with a portable fire extinguisher. d . Both after engine compartment hatches are opened. e. After waiting 10 minutes, the crew enters the engine compartment, checks all oil levels, and inspects the compartment for any safety hazard. f. The inspection hatch is removed from one tank of the fuel cell at a time to determine the amount of fuel each is to receive. g. One crewman goes topside to receive the single point pressure nozzle. h. The amphibian commander removes the gas tank cap, inspects the single point pressure nozzle to insure that the 0-ring is properly positioned, then secures the nozzle to the single point pressure nozzle attachment cap. i. One crewman dismounts from the vehicle and moves to the metering valve to assist the fuel attendant in determining required amounts of fuel. j. The amphibian commander goes topside where the nozzle is in view, announces the amounts of fuel desired, and gives the signal to commence pumping. k. After the correct amount of fuel has been placed in one tank, the fueling procedure is con tinued in order to filJ the remaining tanks. Bulk fuel ceiis are filled at a moderate pumping rate. • H-3. Dispensing Fuel Dispensing fuel from the bulk fuel ceil aboard the LVTP5 is accomplished as folJows (if water operations are to be conducted after fuel has been dispensed, pump from the after pad first to insure trim once the LVTP5 is waterborne): a. Upon arriving at a dispensing point, the main engine is shut down, the ramp dropped to a horizontal position, and scavenger and vent blowers turned on. b. One crewman installs a chain hoist to the ramp and tands by with a portable fire extinguisher. c. The amphibian commander shuts off the master switch and assists the driver in installing the pump. The instaiJed expedient refueler pump is then moved forward for dispensing. d. The dispensing hose i passed to the crew aboard the vehicle to be fueled. The vehicle to be fueled has one crewman standing by with a fire extinguisher during fueling. e. The ground wire of the dispensing nozzle is attached before pumping begins. • f. When the commander of the vehicle being fueled is ready to begin operation, he turns on the master switch and indicate hi s readines to begin . g. The crew aboard the vehicle being refueled is in trurted by the refueler commander as to the operation of the dispensing nozzle, including a cau tion not to attempt to completely fill the tanks. If refueling one vehicle, a surge line (return feed and controlled nozzle flow) will prevent excessive fuel flow. h. The auxiliary fuel connection shutoff and selector valves are used only in hooking up an auxiliary fuel supply, or in case of emergency, in order to completely shut off the fuel supply to the main or auxiliary generator engine. FM 5-144 • APPENDIX I OPERATING PROCEDURES AND MAINTENANCE FOR THE LVT Section I. OPERATING PROCEDURES 1-1. Prewater Operation Checklist for the LVT a. All14 hull and 2 ramp plugs installed. b. Cover assembly on superstructure open. c. Inspect bilge, insure no debris present. d. Insure hydraulic bilge pumps are operational. e. Insure auxiliary bilge pump is operational. f. Insure escape hatches are unobstructed. g. Crew compartment blower cover blocked open during all operations . Note. Check but leave switch off until extreme heat necessitates running blower. h. Serviceable lifejacket on each person embarked. i. All hatches closed and dogged. j. Ramp secured, handwheels tight. k. Fuel selector switch on full cells. l. Transmission in high r ange. m. Cooling fans off prior t o water entry. n. Vehicle in land steer until waterborne. o. Hand throttle advanced to 2,000 RPM. 1-2. LVT Cold Weather Main Engine Starting Procedures The below listed steps are recommended in starting L VT main engines during cold weather operations: a. Follow the normal "before operating procedures" outlined in the Marine Corps Maintenance Manual (available through U.S. Marine Corps channels) for the LVTP5 . Ten to fifteen minute preheat of the engine compartment will greatly facilitate engine starting. b. Depress the accelerator once fully to insure that the throttle linkage is free of ice. Set the hand throttle at the 10 percent open position. c. Turn on the master switch checking the engine for hydrostatic lock by cranking the engine over at least two revolutions with magneto and boost switches OFF. d. Preprime the engine four full strokes at ambient temperature from 10° F to -20° F. e. Turn magneto switch ON and, while priming lightly, hold both the START and BOOST levers in the ON position, continuing to prime. f. When the engine starts, release the START lever and continue to hold the BOOST lever until the engine is running at 500 rpm or higher. DO NOT HOLD the boost switch on for longer than one minute as booster coils may overheat. g. Do not depress the foot accelerator until the engine is running at least 500 rpm or excessive gasoline will enter the manifold. h. Idle the engine at approximately 1000-1100 engine rpm until it becomes warm. Section II. MAINTENANCE FOR LVT's 1-3. General objective of all maintenance is the prevention of Maintenance is defined as any action taken to potential mechanical and electrical failure and the keep materiel in a serviceable condition or restore detection, isolation, and correction of incipient it to serviceability when it is unserviceable. The mechanical and electrical failures through timely FM 5-144 preventive maintenance services and frequent inspections. Maintenance services include inspection, repair, testing, servicing, modification, and evacuation of veh icles. The success of employment of engi neer amphibian assault companies is heavily dependent on the state of maintenance of vehicles in the unit . The LVT, configured as a vehicle able to operate on land or in the water, has extensive inherent maintenance problems. High vehicle availability rates, the objective of any maintenance program, are the resu lt of sound, competent, and continuing command supervision at all levels of the unit's maintenance program. This supervision has as its objective the establishment of timely crew maintenance at organizational level. Organizational maintenance and personnel fac ilities are augmented as necessary by mobile maintenance teams from direct support maintenance activities. Commanders at all levels insure that trained maintenance personnel are constantly available to operating engineer amphibian assault companies in proportion to the number of vehicles committed. Care is exercised during amphibious planning and throughout the operation to insure the continuing availability of required maintenance personnel and services. 1-4. Categories of Maintenance Maintenance is classed as organizational, direct support, general support, and depot maintenance. Engineer amphibious battalions and their elements perform organizational maintenance on their organic amphibious vehicles. Direct support and gen eral support maintenance for engineer amphibious units are performed by direct support and general support maintenance units of the FASCOM, and by the direct support maintenance platoon, headquarters and headquarters company, engineer amphibious battalion, when this augmentation is authorized. For detailed information on maintenance concepts and organizations, and policies and responsibilities for maintenance operations, see AR 750-1 and AR 750-5. 1-5. Organization of Maintenance Maintenance for the engineer amphibious battalion is supervised by the battalion maintenance officer who is a member of the commander's special staff. Organizational maintenance for the vehicles organic to the headquarters and headquarters company, engineer amphibious battalion is performed by the mechanics assigned to the company headquarters. Backup organizational maintenance for all organic vehicles of the battalion is performed by the battalion maintenance section, headquarters and headquarters company, engineer amphibious battalion. When the headquarters and headquarter s company, engineer amphibious battalion is aut hor ized augmentation by the direct support maintenance platoon (TOE 5-406), direct support maintenance is provided for organic battalion vehicles. The maintenance section organic to each of the amphibian assau lt companies is supervised by a warrant officer and is capable of performing organizational maintenance on the amphibious vehicles assigned to the company. 1-6. The Maintenance Officer Maintenance officers at the company and battalion level have an important role in the employ ment of the engineer amphibious battalion. These officers, as a result of their training and experience, make broad and comprehensive recommendations to the commander in the following areas: a. Capabilities and limitations of the LVT unrler conditions of the proposed operation and vehicle recovery procedures. b. Repair parts requirements. c. Fuel, oil , and lubrication requirements, to include seasonal changes. d. Modification or alteration of vehicles and additional ma intenance procedures that may be required prior to commitment in a special operation. e. Placement of maintenance personnel within Lhe unit to insure optimum support. 1-7. The Landing Vehicle, Tracked, Recovery (LVTR) The principal vehicle available to the engineer amphibian a ' sault company maintenance section in the accomplishment of their mission is the LVTR. One LVTR is assigned to each of the company maintenance sections of the engineer amphibian assault companies. This vehicle is employed by maintenance personnel to recover and repair disabled vehicles ashore. It is also used as a platform from which immediate repairs are accomplished, if feasible. A list of the characteristics and an illustration of this vehicle are found in appendix E. Special equipment installed on the L VTR includes the following: FM 5-144 a. A crane assembly mounted on the bow of the top deck. It is employed to lift and swing loads and has a capacity up to 7,000 pounds. b. A winch skid mounting a retrieving winch and crane winch. The winch skid is mounted in t he crew and cargo compartment. c. A power unit skid furnishing power for an AC generator, welder, and two air compressors. (1) An AC generator furnishing electric power for tools and electric lights. (2) A DC generator welder mounted on the forward starboard side of the power unit skid. {3) Two 2-cylinder, water-cooled air compressors mounted on the aft end of the power unit skid. d. A retrieving winch with a 45,000-pound capacity controlled by the crew chief. 1-8. Crew of the LVTR The crew of the L VTR normally consists of the recovery sergeant, the senior recovery mechanic and the LVTR driver. When required, additional personnel from the maintenance section may be added to the crew. 1-9. Maintenance Inspections All engineer amphibious unit commanders are responsible for the conduct of periodic maintenance inspections of vehicles assigned to their units. Such inspections may be formal or informal, and may consist of spotcheck, preventive maintenance inspections, or inspections to verify materiel readiness. These inspections are conducted as frequently as the tactical situation permits when units are committed, and on a regular schedule when operating in a training status. Battalion and company maintenance officers and personnel are utilized to assist in inspecting engineer amphibian assault units. Supporting DS units may be requested to assist in such inspections, when necessary. When engineer amphibious battalions are assigned to engineer amphibious groups or brigades, these inspections may be performed by group or brigade personnel. See also AR 750-8. 1-10. Maintenance Schedules Regular maintenance schedules for all LVT's and LARC's in the engineer amphibious battalion are prepared and published by each unit. These schedules are dependent upon the unit's operating environment, state of training, and availability of facilities and technical personnel. They are based on data contained in technical publications pertaining to the vehicle. Maintenance schedules are necessarily flexible, particularly under combat conditions, but are adhered to as closely as possible to insure maximum vehicle availability rates. For more detailed information, see TM 38-750 and DA Pam 750-1. Maintenance schedules and instructions are revised when units are operating in unusual environments. Examples of such operations are extended waterborne employment to unload ships, desert operations, jungle operations, arctic operations, and operations with a mechanized LVT task force. FM 5-144 APPENDIX J LANDING SHIPS AND LOADING PROCEDURES FOR LVT's J-1 . Landing Ships J-2. Offshore Loading of LVT's LVT's normally are loaded aboard landing ships hips of the amphibious fleet have varying inter such as those listed above rather than AKA's and nal characteristics which affect their amphibious APA's for transportation to the assault area. I n vehicle carrying capacity. Characteristics of each ship are set forth in the ship's characteristics pamorganizing for loading aboard the landing ship, LVT's and landing craft are provided separate phlet. Prior to loading amphibious vehicles aboard, beach areas. Embarking troops are transported to the ship's characteristics pamphlet must be con the ship by landing craft rather than LVTP5's, i f sulted in order to determine the ship's true carrying possible. LVT's are grouped according to the ship capacity. The amphibious vehicle carrying capaci on which they will embark and are then led to that ties of certain classes of the landing ships listed ship by naval guide boats. Loading plans are pre below are approximations and should not, there pared to insure that LVT's will debark in proper fore, be used for planning data. sequence for landing. The officer in charge of LVT loading is responsible for insuring the proper load LVT type Type ship and cl888 vehicle mg sequence. capacity J-3 . Loading Aboard the Landing Ship Tank LANDING SHIP DOCK (LSD): {LST) ASHLAND and CABILDO Class: Well deck ........................... . 32 Techniques for loading the LVT aboard the LST Half deck .... . ...................... No capacity differ depending on whether or not the LST is Super deck .......................... No capacity equipped with a turntable. Means of loading t he CASAGRANDE Class: LST with turntable also vary depending on sea and Well deck .... .. ... .. . . ............... 32 Half deck (mezzanine) .. .......... .. . No capacity wind conditions in the loading area. Techniques Super deck ..................... , ... . No capacity for each type of loading situation are discussed THOMASTON Class~ below.Well deck ... .. ...... . ............... 49-53 Half deck (mezzanine) ............... 10 a. Embarking on LST With Turntable. (when installed) (1) In fair seas and good weather. LVT 's areSuper deck (less helicopter deck) ..... 20 driven aboard forward, turned around, and (when installed) backed into berthing position. Vehicles to AMPHIBIOUS TRANSPORT DOCK (LPD): be loaded forward of the turntable foll ow RALEIGH Class : the procedure outlined in b below. Well deck ........................... 15 (2) In rough seas andjor foul weather. LVT's Upper vehicle storage deck .......... . 10 loading aboard turntable-equipped LST's LANDING SHIP TANK (LSTJ: 542 Class : in rough seas or during fou l weather nor Tank deck 14 mally follow the below listed procedures:Main deck No capacity (a) Vehicles to be loaded aft of the turntable 1156 Class : Tank deck 17 approach the LST from the front on sigMain deck No capacity nal from the approach control officer. 1171 Class : Upon signal from the loadi ng officer on Tank deck 19 the tank deck ramp, and at a distanceMain deck No capacity of about 30 feet from the ramp, am J-1 FM 5-144 phibious vehicle tracks are placed in the neutral position. (b) Ship's line handlers then pass the heaving line with steadying lines attached to an LVT crewmember. (c) The L VT crewmember passes the eyes of the steadying lines over the forward mooring bitts of the vehicle so they cross . The eye of one line is normally painted red and is placed over the starboard bitt, insuring that the lines cross. (d) The line handlers, on signal from the loading officer, heave the LVT to so that the tracks rest securely on the edge of the ramp of the ship. (e) Upon signal from the loading officer, the LVT is driven up the ramp until "leveled off," stopped, and steadying lines disengaged and cast off. (f) Vehicles are then driven onto the turntable, turned around, and spotted. (g) Vehicles to be located forward of the turntable follow the procedures outlined in b below. b. Embarking on LST Without Turntable. (1) The approach control officer, a naval officer from the ship's crew, controls approaching L VT's from a station on the tank deck of the ship. He maintains continuous contact with a flagman stationed in the eyes (forward position) of the ship by use of telephone talkers . (2) Each LVT, on signal from the approach control officer, approaches the ship's bow from port or starboard at an angle of 45 o (fig. J-1). (3) The approach control officer signals the ship's line handlers at the ramp to pass the heaving-line, with steadying-lines attached, to a member of the LVT crew. (4) The LVT crewman detaches the heavingline and places the eyes of the steadyinglines over the after mooring bitts of his vehicle so that they cross. The eye of one line normally is painted red and is placed over the starboard bitt, insuring that the lines cross . (5) The ship's officer in charge of line handlers, stationed at the ramp, then takes charge. By means of lines already attached, the LVT is positioned with the tracks firm ly • against the ramp. The vehicle is t hen backed up the ramp and stopped for re moval of steadying-lines. (6) The LVT crew chief (amph ibian commander), assisted by guides, directs t he vehicle to its proper position on the ship's tank deck. (7) The LVT crew secures the vehicle with lashing equipment furn ished by the ship. When lljz-inch chain is used, two lashings are attached to the front and rear towin g eyes , cross latched in a manner calculated to minimize forward or lateral movement. In addition, two lashings are attached to each track, fore and aft, as close to the ship 's deck as possible. These lashings are crossed fore to aft. If smaller lashing chain is used, extra chains may be used higher on the towing eyes or the tracks. Care is taken to insure that lashing gear does not cause any pressure on the sprockets, bogey wheels, or drive wheels of the vehicle. All lashings should be inspected by the ship's first lieutenant and an officer or NCO of • the engineer amphibian assault company prior to getting underway. Dunnage material of at least one inch thickness, provided by the embarkation unit, is placed under the tracks of all vehicles (fig. J-2). (8) While LVT's are embarked aboard ship, their engines are operated regularly. Routine maintenance inspections are made and the indicated repairs completed. (9) Loading of LVT's aboard a beached LST is controlled by an engineer amphibian assault unit officer, who prescribes the vehicle loading sequence. Once loaded, vehicles are positioned and secured as previously described. J-4. Loading Aboard the Landing Ship Dock (LSD) and Amphibious Transport Dock (LPD) The procedures outlined below are prescribed for LVT's embarking aboard the LSD or LPD. Figures J-3 and J-4 illustrate the procedures involved. • FM 5-144 LEFT MOORING BIT AND LINE UNMARKED OR WHITE RIGHT CLEAT AND LINE MARKED RED. STEADYING LINES ARE 2 0 FATHOMS LONG WITH AN 18" (NO SMALLER) EYE IN EACH END. STOP WHEN ABOUT HERE ON WIND AND SEA. DEPENDING RAMP 0 // LINE OF APPROACH SHIP'S OFFICER ON RAMP TAKES CONTROLS -------+t-7'1+ WHEN LINE IS PASSED. AMPHIBIOUS TRACTOR OFFICER CONTROL AND POSITION WHEN LINE REMOVED. Figure J-1. Illustration of procedure for loading the LVT aboard an LST not equipped with turntable. a. Vehicles approach the ship "bow on" and cross over t he sill at the stern gate of the ship . An interval of 50 to 75 meters between vehicles in column is maintained to provide for the most efficient loading. The LSD is ballasted to approximately six feet of water at the sill. The forward portion of the well deck is dry. b. After crossing the sill, LVT engines are idled and brakes locked (a, fig. J-3). Steadying-lines are passed to the vehicle by ship's line handlers , as in b, figure J-3. The danger of thrown steadying-lines is eliminated by suspending the eyes of the lines over the center of the deck by means of heaving lines from the opposite wing walls. The lines are placed as follows: (1) Eye of lin e from starbo ard wing wall over the forward port mooring bitt. (2) Eye of line from port wing wall over the after starboard mooring bitt. c. Ship's line handlers t hen swing the vehicle clockwise in a 180° arc (c, fig. J -3) . When the stern of the vehicle is facing forward in the well deck, crewmen shift the st~adying-line from the port bow mooring bitt to the after port mooring bitt (d, fig. J-3). The vehicle is then pulled forward until it grounds on the ship's deck ( e, fig. J-3) . Once FM 5-144 • • ~-------DUNNAGE Figure J-2. LVT secured aboard the LST. grounded, lines are cast off, and LVT's move to J-5. Arm and Hand Signals designated berthing spaces (f, fig. J-3 and fig. J-4). For a discussion of the arm and hand signals used Vehicles are secured by dogging with chains and for the control of amphibious vehicles, see FM turnbuckles furnished by the sh ip. 21-60. • FM 5-144 • (a) ~ ~ LVT will lock brakes upon crossing sill and coast into well LSD line handlers will turn LVT clockwise while LVT is still afloat. (e) ~/ J? \ L VT will be hauled to point of touch down. L VT then shifts to reverse and backs up. (b) Lines will be received from LSD and secured on opposite sides of LVT When LVT has swung to position shown shifts line on bow to after cleat. During rough weather steadying lines may be needed in which case line will not be shifted, but additional lines will be passed. (f) When LVT has touched down, back into parking area. Figure J-3. Diagram of embarkation in LSD and LPD. FM 5-144 rn [I] OJ oQo • II rn D rn oQo Figure J-4 . LVT spotted in well deck of LSD. LVT Unit provides guides who spot tractors.Crews dog down. Line Handlers Ships line handlers stand by for next vehicle. • FM 5-144 • K-1. General When an amphibious vehicle (LVT) becomes disabled while waterborne, but the main engine remains operative, every precaution is taken to safeguard the passengers and t o move the vehicle safely to the beach. Passengers and crew welfare is always the primary consideration. An operative engine insures continued bilge pump operation and assists materially in the conduct of rescue operations. K-2 . Duties of the Crew Duties of the amphibious vehicle (LVT) crew when the vehicle is disab led while waterborne, but with the engine still operative, include a. Amphibian Commander. ( 1) Displays letter "N" flag during daylight. During darkness beams a spotlight or battle lantern vertically in the air . (2) Supervises transfer of passengers to another amphibious vehicle or small boat, if possible. APPENDIX K DISABLED OR SINKING LVT Section I. CHECKLIST FOR DISABLED LVT WITH ENGINE OPERATIVE (3) Contacts the beach rescue team by radio , when possible. (4) Checks to insure that all hatches are closed. (5) Uses all means at hand to effect repairs . b. Amphibian Driver. ( 1) Places vehicle transmission in neutral. (2) Advances hand throttle to 2,000 rpm. (3) Turns on auxiliary bilge pump. ( 4) Turns fuel cell selector switch to full cells. ( 5) Insures that radio is on. (6) Remains in driver's seat pending other instructions from the commander. c. Assistant Amphibian Driver. ( 1) Assists in transfer of passengers to another amphibious vehicle or small boat, as directed by the commander. (2) Stands by in the rear of the cargo compartment for instructions from the commander. Section II. CHECKLIST FOR DISABLED LVT WITH MAIN ENGINE INOPERATIVE K-3 . Ge neral When an amphibious vehicle is disabled while waterborne, and the mai n engine is inoperative, it is mandatory that attention be given by embarked passengers to the orders of the amphibian commander . K-4. Duti es of the Crew Duties of the amphibious vehicle crew when the vehicle is disabled while waterborne, and the engine is not operative, include- a. Amphibian Commander. (1) Displays letter "N" flag during daylight. During darkness beams a spotlight or battle lantern vertically in the air. (2) Supervises transfer of passengers t o another amphibious vehicle or small boat, if possible. (3) Contacts the beach rescue team by radio, if possible, informing them of the urgent nature and cause of the trouble, and the type of assistance desired. ( 4) Checks to insure that all hatches are closed. ( 5) Checks to insure that vehicle headlights are turned on during darkness. (6) Uses all means at hand to effect repairs and/ or rescue. FM 5-144 amphibious vehicle or small boat, as b. Amphibian Driver. (1) Turns auxiliary bilge pump on. directed by the commander. (2) Turns auxiliary generator engine on, insur (2) Closes discs and swing assembly (exhaust ing that the exhaust cover is opened . cover .flaps) if they are open. (3) Places vehicle transmission in neutral. (3) Closes crew compartment blower cover ( 4) Turns fuel cell selector switch to full cells. when directed by the commander. (5) Prepares to attempt to restart the main engine on order of the commander. (4) Insures that the auxiliary engine exhaust cover is open while the auxiliary engine is c. Assistant Amphibian Driver. (1) Assists in transfer of passengers to another operating. Section Ill. CHECKLIST FOR SINKING LVT K-5. General When a waterborne amphibious vehicle is sinking, immediate and resourceful action is required of all aboard. Attention to orders of the amphibian commander is imperative and mandatory . K-6. Duties of the Crew Duties of the amphibious vehicle crew when the vehicle is sinking include a. Amphibian Commander. (1) Gives the order to abandon the vehicle. (2) Fires the distress signal (red -red star) m the air over the vehicle. (3) Opens cargo and personnel compartment doors with th e assistance of the assistant amphibian driver, if practicable. ( 4) Expedites evacuation of personnel. Section IV. RESCUE K-7. General No fixed criteria can be established for the rescue of waterborne LVT's under all circumstances. The urgency of the situation aboard the vehicle, condition of the sea, number of passengers embarked, skill of the crew, and availability of rescue means are factors which influence each situation. Vehicles disabled in the surf zone fall under the cognizance of the LVT officer or NCO directing LVT opera tions. Actual rescue responsibilities are generally set forth in unit regulations and standing operating procedures. (5) Notifies the beach rescue team by radio, if. possible. (6) Leaves the vehicle when all other person nel have been evacuated. b. Amphibian Driver. (1) Turns on auxiliary bilge pump. (2) Starts auxiliary generator, if time permits. (3) Lowers the driver's seat and leaves the vehicle through the driver's hatch, when directed by the commander. c. Assistant Amphibian Driver. ( 1) Assists the commander in opening the cargo and personnel compartment hatches, when directed. (2) Assists passengers moving through the hatches (figs. F-1 and F-2). (3) Leaves the vehicle on order of the com mander. PROCEDURES FOR LVT K-8. Towing the LVT As a general rule, LVT's are not towed through the surf zone except as a last resort. Should an L VT become disabled beyond the surf zone, repairs are attempted and, if unsuccessful, the vehicle is towed to the nearest ship. If a ship is not situated nearby, the vehicle is towed toward the surf zone . If the vehicle is disabled in the surf zone , repairs are attempted seaward of the surf zone, if possible. T he vehicle is towed to the beach only as a last resort. a. Towing Procedur~. The following steps are followed in towing disabled LVT's in the water: • FM 5-144 (1) The rescue vehicle is positioned in front of the vehicle to be towed. (2) Two manila lines are utilized , secured to the two after bitts of the towing vehicle. Alternate towing means include a wire bridle or the bow tow cable of the disabled vehicle and the t owing cable of the rescue vehicle. (3) The free ends of the lines affixed to the bitts of the towing vehicle are crossed and passed to the disabled vehicle. The line from the port bitt of the towing vehicle is secured to the starboard bitt of the disabled vehicle, and vice versa with the other line (fig. K-1). (4) One crewman remains on board the disabled vehicle to disengage or cut the towing lines if such action becomes necessary. b. Preparing Disabled LVT for Towing. The crew of a disabled LVT takes the following action in preparing their vehicle for towing: {1) The LVT is disabled but the engine is operative. (a) Close all hatches. (b) Open crew compartment vent cover. (c) Place transmission in neutral. (d) Advance hand throttle to 2,000 rpm. (e) Turn on auxiliary bilge pump. {f) Turn fuel tank selector switch to full cells. (g) Turn radio on. (h) Make all other necessary preparations for surfing. (2) The LVT is disabled and the engine is inoperative. (a) Close all hatches. (b) Insure that the auxiliary engine Is operating and the exhaust cover open. (c) Open the crew compartment vent cover. (d) Place transmission in neutral. (e) Turn on auxiliary bilge pump. {f) Turn radio on. (g) Close cover assembly and discs, and swing assembly (exhaust cover flaps) on superstructure. (h) Make all other necessary precautions for surfing. K-9. Passing Through the Surf Zone a. General Conditions. Towing LVT's with crews embarked through the surf zone may be safely accomplished, provided the following conditions are met: (1) Surf conditions are not hazardous. See paragraph F-13 for LVT surfing criteria. (2) The tow lines used are at least 40 feet in length and 2 inches in diameter, and proper towing procedures are used. (3) The vehicle to be towed is prepared as outlined in paragraph K-8 above. b. Passing Through Ha zardous Surf. Procedures to be employed when it is necessary to tow vehicles through the surf zone when hazardous surf conditions exist are established by appropriate unit directive. Protection of the lives of personnel retains first priority in any such rescue attempt, followed by efforts to sa lvage disabled vehicles. .. , ' / / ,..o ' / ', / v /' / ' / ' / ' / ' .o B B Figure K-1. To wing hitches utilized by one LVT to tou' another. • FM 5-144 APPENDIX L DUTIES OF THE AMPHIBIAN COMMANDER, AMPHIBIAN DRIVER, AND ASSISTANT AMPHIBIAN DRIVER (3) Check operation of the radio and inter L-1. General phones. Insure that proper radio proThe following paragraphs set forth recommended cedure is used.duties for commanders, drivers, and assistant ( 4) Inspect cargo, insuring that it is properlydrivers operating LVT's. This list of duties is stowed. offered as a guide. Modifications of the duties of (5) Enforce all safety precautions. each of these personnel may be made at the unit (6) Check all on equipment materiel (OEM) level as required. to see that it is properly secured and ac L-2. General Duties of the Amphibia n counted for. Commander (7) Report the LVT's condition to a designated officer or NCO. The commander of an LVT is directly responsible for the following: b. During Operation. (1) Assist the driver by observing operation a. Conduct of the crew. of the vehicle and giving appropriate m b. Supervision of all vehicular inspections and structions. servicing operations in accordance with existing (2) Observe the trim of the tractor. directives and instructions. (3) Observe operation of the bilge pumps. c. Reporting malfunctions of the vehicle to (4) Man the machinegun, as required. proper authority. (5) Observe and carry out signals from section d. Safety of crew and embarked troops. or platoon leader. (6) Watch for and report floating debris, ob e. Operation of the LVT regardless of who is stacles, and other vehicles or craft thatdriving. may endanger his vehicle. f. Turning in tools and special equipment to the (7) Report LVT deficiencies to designated designated agency when they are not in use, so authority. that adequate storage and protection are provided. (8) Before water operation, complete the prewater operation checklist and deliver itL-3. Special Duties of the Amphibia n to designated authority.Commander c. At The Halt. a. Before Operation. (1) Supervise maintenance by the crew. (1) Inspect uniform and equipment of the (2) Check the overall condition of the vehicle. crew. Insure that all personnel wearing (3) Check cargo insuring that it is properly the inflatable lifejacket have tested it for stowed. serviceability, and have serviceable C02 d. After Operation. cartridges inserted. (2) Supervise vehicular checks and mainte(1) Supervise maintenance by the crew. nance ; take reports from the crew. (2) DismountJ~lean, and stow machineguns. L-1 FM 5-144 (3) Enforce all safety precautions. ( 4) Record fuel and oil consumption, maintenance accomplished, vehicular malfunctions, and operational hours in the tracked vehicle daily log of the tracked vehicle book. L-4. General Duties of the Amphibian Driver The driver performs such general duties as directed by the commander or other authority. L-5 Specific Duties of the Amphibian Driver The driver of an LVT has the following specific duties: a. Before Operation. ( 1) Stand inspection. (2) Check fuel, oil, and coolant levels. (3) Inspect the engine compartment for fuel and oil leaks. ( 4) Inspect all visible hydraulic lines. ( 5) Inspect control linkage. (6) Start the engine using correct procedure. (7) Check instruments and accessories for proper functioning . (8) Check the operating controls, engine operation , and transmission operation . (9) Sound the horn prior to raising or lowerthe ramp. (10) Report deficiencies to the LVT commander. b. During Operation. (1) Observe proper driving procedure. (2) Observe and report floating debris, obstacles, or other obstructions. (3) Report any malfunction of the vehicle to the commander. c. At The Halt. (1) Check for fuel, oil, and coolant leaks. (2) Inspect the engine compartment for fuel and oil leaks. (3) Check operating controls. ( 4) Sound the horn prior to raising or lowering the ramp. ( 5) Report deficiencies to the LVT commander. d. After Operation. (1) Observe proper engine stop procedure. (2) Check instruments and operating controls. (3) Check fuel, oil, and coolant levels. ( 4) Inspect the engine compartment for fuel and oil leaks. (5) Report oil and fuel consumption to the LVT commander and add either as necessary to bring it to the proper level. (6) Lubricate necessary points in the engine compartment, bilge pumps, and driver's station. (7) Change engine air cleaners, if necessary. (8) Check batteries and electrical connections. (9) Assist in refueling, as necessary. ( 10) Sound the horn prior to raising or lowering the ramp. (11) Report deficiencies to the LVT commander. L-6. General Duties of the Assistant Amphibian Driver The assistant amphibian driver performs such general duties as directed by the LVT commander or other authority. • L-7. Specific Duties of the Assistant Amphibian Driver The assistant amphibian driver of an LVT has the following specific duties: a. Before Operation. (1) Stand inspection. (2) Check hull and drain plugs. (3) Check tow cable and quick release hitch. ( 4) Check track and suspension system. (5) Check drive sprockets. (6) Check equipment stowed on the outside of the vehicle (boat hooks, boarding ladders, etc.). (7) Serve as ground guide to insure that no one is in the vicinity of the ramp when it is raised or lowered. (8) Report deficiencies to the LVT commander. b. During Operation. (1) Be on the alert for unusual noises or odors. • FM 5-144 (2) Report vehicular malfunctions to the LVT commander. (7) Report any deficiencies to the LVT commander. c. At The Halt. (1) Check the hull. (2) Check track and suspension system. (3) Check equipment stowed on the outside of the vehicle. ( 4) Check tow cables and hitches. (5) Check drive sprockets. d. After Operation. (1) Lubricate outside of the vehic"le as prescribed by the lubrication guide. (2) Check track and suspension system. (3) Check drive sprockets for loose bolts or nuts. ( 4) Check the hull and towing devices. (5) Serve as ground guide to insure that no one is near the ramp during raising or (6) Serve as ground guide to insure that no one is near the ramp when it is raised or lowered. lowering. (6) Report any deficiencies to the LVT commander. FM 5-144 APPENDIX M LOADING AND UNLOADING OF 105-MM HOWITZER IN AN LVTPS M-1. General M-4. Sequence for Loading This appendix discusses the procedures for loadThe following sequence is set forth for actual ing and unloading the 105-mm howitzer in the loading of the 105-mm howitzer. Figure M-1 ilLVTP5. Illustrations of the weapon embarked lustrates the howitzer out of battery, loaded in an aboard are contained in figures M-1 and M-2. LVTP5. Figure M-2 illustrates the howitzer in battery, loaded in an LVTP5. M-2. Responsibility a. LVTP5 Crew. Crews of LVTP5's are responsible for the readi(1) Drop ramp. ness of the vehicle to receive the howitzer. The (2) Remove troop seats and stow loose gear. commander of the LVTP5 is responsible for inRemove grill from radio cabinet and any specting and accepting the lashing and chocking maintenance tools which may be required of the howitzer, and for the safe transportation of in transit from stowage cabinet. the howitzer once it is loaded. Artillery unit per(3) Stand by to observe loading and maintain sonnel load the weapon into the LVTP5 and secure vehicle availability by preventing damageit. Crewmen of the LVTP5 assist if their other to the inside of the LVTP5. ·duties permit. (4) DO NOT REMOVE TRANSVERSE BULKHEAD as this will result in carbon M-3. Equ ipment Necessary for Loading monoxide poisoning of embarked personnel. The following equipment must be available for b. 105-mm Gun Crew. securing the howitzer in the LVTP5. This equip (1) Loading out of battery. ment should be furnished by the artillery unit. (a) Position gun in front of the LVTP5 a. One 3/ 8 to 1/ 2 inch chain or wire rope with ramp. turnbuckle (approximately five feet in length) . (b) Remove cover from howitzer. The gun is most easily loaded if placed out of bat b. Four wooden chocks for wheels. tery and blocked with wooden blocks c. To facilitate loading it is recommended that behind the breech, with bolts through the artillery unit furnish a portable tow hitch to be the cradle, or recoil extension bar asplaced on the front of the prime mover (6x6, 2¥2 sembly in place. ton truck). This allows the driver of the prime (c) Position prime mover behind gun and mover maximum visibility. secure the portable tow hitch to lunette. Elevate tube of gun to insure clearing d. Wooden blocks and bolts for holding howitzer ramp.out of battery. Use of a recoil extension bar as(d) With prime mover, load the howitzer sembly is recommended to lock the howitzer in the into the LVTP5. After the gun is past recoil position when the howitzer is to be loaded out the hinged ramp extension plate the of battery. This assembly is identified as FSN prime mover may be released from the 1670-360-0242. gun. M-1 FM 5-144 (e) Place chain or wire rope through pad eye located on the overhead just forward of the gun turret of the LVTP5. (f) Manhandle the howitzer toward the rear of the cargo compartment. At the same time the gun crew should pick up the trails to insure proper positioning of the muzzle. (g) When the gun is in position in the rear of the cargo compartment, (tube against the transverse bulkhead) , the gun crew lifts the trails and secures them to the pad eye with the chain. (h) The chocks are then placed at the wheel s to prevent movement. Gun brakes are locked. (i) Close the ramp. LVTP5 IS ready for movement. • (2) Loading in battery. (a) Position gun in front of the LVTP5 ramp. (b) Remove cover, take tube out of travel position. (c) Position prime mover behind gun and secure the portable tow hitch to the lunette. Elevate tube of gun to insure clearing ramp. (d) Move the gun up the ramp until it is past the hinged ramp extension plate, then release the prime mover. (e) Remove lunette from trails, (trails are not spread), tube is traversed to extreme • • • Figme 111-1. 105-mm howitzer out of battery loaded in LVTP5. • FM 5-144 left and depressed to allow muzzle to fit M-5. Unloading Procedure in after starboard corner of the cargo The sequence listed in a through g below should compartment. be followed for unloading the 105-mm howitzer. (f) Place chain or wire rope through pad a. Drop the ramp. eye located on the overhead just forward of the gun turret of the LVTP5. b. Disengage the chain holding trails to thf:l pad eye and release brakes on the gun. (g) Manhandle the howitzer toward the rear of the cargo compartment, at the same c. Remove chocks. time the trails are lifted to insure proper d. Lower the trails. At the same time manpositioning of the muzzle. handle the howitzer toward the ramp. (h) When in proper position in the cargo e. When the wheels touch the hinged ramp excompartment the trails are lifted and tension plate drop the trails and replace thesecured to the pad eye. (Do not pa s lunette, if removed while loading in battery.chain through lifting handle on the f. Elevate gun tube and traverse to center if guntrails.) wa in battery when loaded. (i) Emplace chocks and lock brakes on gun. (j) Close the ramp. LVTP5 is ready for g. The prime mover i then moved to the ramp movement. and hooked to the lunette, preferably with the • Figure M-2 . 105-mm howltzer in battery loaded in LVTP5. M-3 FM 5-144 portable front tow hitch. The prime mover then M-6. Coordinating Instructions pulls the howitzer out of the LVTP5. The how The crew of the LVTP5 maintains constant obitzer may also be manhandled off the LVTP5 by the servation of the aforementioned procedures to pre gun crew. If this technique is employed the howvent any damage to the vehicle. Extreme caution should be maintained during loading and unloadingitzer brakes should be used during movement down procedures in order to eliminate hazards and tothe ramp. insure safety of personnel and equipment. M-4 • FM 5-144 APPENDIX N COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT IN ENGINEER AMPHIBIOUS UNITS Section I. RADIO COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT IN THE LVT's Frequency modulated . . .. . .Voice N-1. General Frequency range ..... . ... . .30-75.95 me This section lists the radio sets installed in the Range . ... .. . .. ... .. . . . .. . .11 km LVT's of the engineer amphibious battalion; inNote. There are also U N / VRC-53"s mounted in t he 4 LAR C-V's organic to the engineer amphibious company. cluding the LVTP5, LVTC, LVTR, and LVTE. A c. AN j GRR-5.graph showing the frequency range of each radio Installed in ..... . .... . .. . . .LVTCis shown in paragraph N-5. Amplitude modulated ... . . .Voice, radio-telegraph, orMCWN-2. Radio Description Frequency range . ... . ... ...1.5-18 me a. ANj GRC-125. d. ANj VRC-24. Installed in ................LVTP5 Installed in ... . . . ..... . . . . .LVTC Frequency modulated .... . .Voi ce Amplitude modulated .. . . .. VHF/UHF Frequency range .. . . . . . . .. .30-75.95 me Frequency range . . . .. ... . ..225-399.9 me Range ..... .. .... .... ..... .4 .8--8 km (portable set) Range . .. . ... .... .. . .. . . . .. 48-160.9 km 11 km (vehicular set) e. AN/ VRC-47. b. AN/ VRC-53. Installed in ..... ... . .. . . . . .LVTC Frequency modulated . . .. ..Voice Installed in .. . . .. ... . .... . .LVTP5 (Platoon leader's only), LVTE, Frequency range . . .. .. .. . . .30-75.95 me and LVTR Range . .. . . .. . . . .. ... . . . ..24-32 km SHORE PARTY AND COMMAND AND CONTROL RADIO COMMUNICATION Section II. EQUIPMENT stalled in the LVT's. These radios are used for N-3. General This ection li sts the radios organic to the various command and control and for shore party and engineer amphibious units exclusive of those in-TAC-LOG operations. N-4. Organic Radios ,.., "'0 .... ,. ,. ... I I "'...I ...I '"I "' "' "' I "'I "' (.) (.) (.) (.) ~ (.) (.) (.) (.) ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 0 > Po< > 0 0 > 0'z 'z >'z z' z' 'z 'z 'z 'z < < < < < < < < < E ngineer Amphi bious Brigade (Headquarters & Headquarters Company) . 1 3 4 15 Engineer Amphibious Group (Headquarters & Headquarters Company) . 2 2 1 5 6 2 1 Engineer Amphibious Battalion : Headquarter & Headquarters Co. . 1 I 4 10 5 1 1 Engineer Amphibian Assaul t Co . . 1 2 . . . . . . . . ... . . . I I 4 4 2 (j 14 4 1 H Engineer Amphi bious Company . N-1 FM 5-144 N-5. Available Frequencies MEGACYCLES 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 200 400 AN/GRR-5 AN/VRC-24 AN/PRC-25 AN/VRC-46 AN/VRC-47 AN/VRC-49 AN/VRC-53 AN/GRC-106 AN/GRC-125 Section Ill. WIRE COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT IN THE ENGINEER AMPHIBIOUS UNIT N-6. Wire Communications N-7. Reference Wire communication equipment for engineer am For a detailed listing of this equipment, see thephibious units includes sufficient telephones, wire, applicable TOE for the engineer amphibious unit.switchboards and other equipment necessary foroperations ashore. N-2 • FM 5-144 APPENDIX 0 EXAMPLE OF SHORE PARTY ACTIVATION ORDER DATE ____________ GENERAL ORDERS NUMBER ___ ACTIVATION OF DIVISION SHORE PARTY 1. Effective (date) , the Division Shore Party is activated. --~--~------------ The following units and detachments are attached to the 2. ------------Division Shore Party on dates indicated: Effective date of Unit or detachment designation attachment a. 22d Direct Support Group (Fwd) 22 July 1965 b. 35th General Support Group (Fwd) 23 July 1965 c. d. (This list of attachments may be published as an inclosure to avoid a lengthy order.) 3. The Division Shore Party is authorized to draw special items of equipment from using this order as authority. 4. Colonel (ASN) CE , is designated as Division Shore Party Commander. 5. Training area, including (special area) is assigned to the --~~------~----------Division Shore Party. FOR THE COMMANDER OFFICIAL: SIGNATURE BLOCK OFFICIAL TITLE BLOCK DISTRIBUTION • 0-1 ,---------------------- FM 5-144 APPENDIX P EXAMPLE OF SHORE PARTY PLAN TO OPERATION ORDER FOR AN AMPHIBIOUS OR SHORE-TO-SHORE OPERATION (Not a Copy of Any Known Plan) (Classification) Copy No.______ Issuing Headquarters Place of Issue Date-Time Group Reference No.. ____ ANNEX ____ (Shore Party Plan) to Operation Order ____ MAPS: (As appropriate) Task Organization: (As appropriate) I. SITUATION a. Enemy Forces. (Refer to pertinent information in basic order.) b. Friendly Forces. (Same as la.) c. Attachments and Detachments: (Reference to general orders activating Shore Party.) 2. MISSION area on order ____Division Shore Party lands over beach in (Landing Plan). in accordance with ANNEX Develops and operates beaches _ _ _ to provide combat support and initial Division (Reinf). Provides for combat service support for landing of organiz.ation and local security of beach support areas. 3. EXECUTION a. Concept of Operation. Shore Party support for the Landing Force provides one shore party for the continuing support of each waterborne assault element Each Shore Party will develop and operate a landing over separate beaches. complete basic beach to support its respective Landing Force element. To provide for maximum utilization of communication and control Division SP Hqs will be located on beach. Division Shore Party will be boated to provide landing by echelon in order to provide maximum support to the Landing Force. Shore Party commanders at all echelons will be in complete charge of their beach support area. (Classification) P-1 FM 5-144 (Classification) b. Division Shore Party Headquarters. (1) Land on order over designated beach and establish Division SPCP. Whenestablished ashore assume control over all SP functions to effect coordination of shore party effort. (2) Initiate development of the division beach support area to permit maximum over-the-beach support for the landing force by D plus--- (3) Coordinate with CG, Arty Group (AD) for air defense ofbeach support area. ( 4) Prepare plans to rehabilitate existing airstrips located in beach supportarea. (5) Maintain liaison with Division Commander. (6) Be prepared, upon dissolution of Division TAC-LOG, to assume similaroperations ashore to maintain continuity of unloading operations. (7) Prepare plans for the support of retraction and amphibious redeploymentof Bde LT. (8) Provide amphibious lift to Division assault elements. (9) Phase-out on order. (10) Be prepared to execute alternate )}an . Appendix 9. c. ____BDESP. (1) Land over Beach _ _ __on order in support of Bde LT ____ (2) Exercise operational control over Shore Parties anu_____ (3) Be prepared to rehabilitate existing airstrips in beach support area. d. BDESP. (1 ) Land over Beach on order in support of Bde LT _ ___ (2) Be prepared to retract Bde LT over Beach foramphibious redeployment. e. ____BDESP. (1) Land over Beach on order in upport of Bde LT _ _ _ _ (2) Land initial elements over Beach pass through SP ____and move to Beach ____ (3) Provide Shore Party personnel to support in landing of Bde LT----over Beach ____and the subsequent landing of Bde LT ____ (4) Establish bulk POL system, through Beach ____, utilizing assaultpipeline and collapsible storage tanks beginning on ____ f. Coordinating Instructions. (1) D-day and H-hour to be announced. (2) Landing instruction ANNEX (Landing Plan) to OperationOrder ____ (Classification) • P-2 FM 5-144 (Classification) (3) Bde SPs develop and operate respective beaches in accordance with Appendix 3 (Beach Development) . (4) All units responsible for local security. Shore parties coordinate defense plans with adjacent SP and other units upon landing. Appendix 4 (SP Defense Plan). (5) Prepare and mark helicopter landing pads in the vicinity of each SP aid station and supply point. (6) Maintain liaison with supported unit. (7) Prepare plans and organize respective beaches for area damage control. See Appendix 8 (Area Damage Control Plan). (8) Units and beach installations will be dispersed consistent with mission and nuclear considerations. (9) Be prepared to assume control of LARC's and LVT's on order. (10) Priorities for beach support area development. (a) Mine and obstacles clearance. (b) Beach roads, beach marking, dump areas, unloading points. (c) Information center, medical evacuation station, dewaterproofing and maintenance area . (d) Bulk POL installation. (e) Perimeter defense. (f) Water points. (g) Other beach activities. (11) Be prepared to furnish engineer combat support as required within capabilities. SPCO's coordinate with Engineer of unit being supported. Annex (Engineer) to Operation Order ____ (12) Brigade Shore Party Headquarters will assume the functions of Division Shore Party Headquarters, if required. (13) Be prepared to land on an alternate beach in accordance with ____ Annex (Alternate Plan) to Operation Order ___ (14) Be prepared to assist other units landing over respective beaches. (15) Be prepared to implement shore party alternate plan, Appendix 9. (16) Return cargo nets to ships expeditiously. (17) Stress camouflage discipline. (18) Prepare for passive defense against nuclear attack and CBR attack. (19) Revert to control this headquarters on order. 4. ADMINISTRATION AND WGISTICS a. Personnel. Annex___ (Personnel) to Operation Order ____ b. Logistics. Annex ____ (Logistics) to Operation Order ____ c. Embarkation. Anne (Embarkation) to Operation Order·____ • (Classification) p~ FM 5-144 (Classification) d. Beach Evacuation. Appendix 5 (Medical Plan). 5. COMMAND AND SIGNAL a. Signal. (1) Annex (Signal) to Operation Order ____ (2) Appendix 6 (Signal Plan). (3) Radio silence until lifted on Landing Force Order. b. Command Posts. (1) Afloat. (a) Corps Shore Party Hq ____ (when applicable) (b) Division Shore Party ____ (c) BDE SP ___ (d) BDE SP ___ (e) BDESP ___ (2) Ashore. Commanders select and report. Acknowledge: Maj Gen Appendixes: 1. Task Organization 2. Beach and Hydrographic Study (if applicable) (omitted) 3. Beach Development Plan (overlay omitted) 4. Shore Party Defense Plan 5. Medical Plan 6. Signal Plan 7. Supply Point Operation Plan 8. Area Damage Control Plan 9. Shore Party Alternate Plan (omitted) 10. Reports 11. Civil Affairs Plan (if required) (omitted) 12. Psychological Operations Plan (if required) (omitted) DISTRIBUTION: ANNEX _ _ __ (Distribution) OFFICIAL : G3 (Classification) ~ • FM 5-144 (Classification) Copy No,,______ Issuing Headquarters Place of Issue Date-Time Group Reference No.____ APPENDIX 1 (Task Organization) to ANNEX ____ (Shore Party Plan) to Operation Order ____ DIVISION SP HEADQUARTERS (Show Div SP elements and list organization of all Bde SPs in order.) Acknowledge: Maj Gen (Distribution) DISTRIBUTION: ANNEX---------- OFFICIAL: G3 Copy No,,______ Issuing Headquarters Place of Issue Date-Tinie Group Reference No,,____ APPENDIX 3 (Beach Development Plan) to ANNEX ____ (Shore P arty Plan) to Operation Order ____ (This plan may be published as an overlay type plan.) MAPS: Operation Order ____ 1. SITUATION a. Enemy Forces. b. Friendly Forces. 2. MISSION Division Shore Party elements land over beaches in the area and develop beach support areas to provide maximum support to the landing force. 3. EXECUTION a. Concept of Operations. The beach support areas will be developed t o provide for rapid segregation of supplies and assembly of units for movement forward; traffic control, collection of prisoners of war and evacuation of patients; continuing administrative support to the Landing Force and security of the beach support area against waterborne, ground and air attack. (Classification) FM 5-144 (Classification) b. All Shore Parties. (I) Initially clear mines and obstacles to provide for rapid movement of assault troops inland. As time permits expand mine and obstacle clearance to provide for beach installations. (2) Develop exit and lateral roads within the beach support area and mark beaches. (3) Establish and operate information centers to provide information to personnel coming ashore as pertains to units, equipment, shipping data and tactical situation. (4) Establish and operate beach medical facilities to receive and evacuate patients from the Landing Force and provide medical services to the Shore Party and attached units. (5) Establish and operate ordnance dewaterproofing and emergency maintenance area. (6) Establish and operate PW collecting points for receipt and evacuation of prisoners. (7) Establish and operate water supply points for the use of all troops in the beach support area. (8) Reconnoiter for troop bivouac areas and vehicle parks. (9) Establish perimeter security of the beach support area. Appendix 4 (Shore Party Defense Plan). (10) Establish and operate transfer points to handle over-the-beach discharge of supplies and equipment. (11) Establish and operate dumps and supply points in accordance with appendix 7. (12) Collect, sort, and stack, for return to proper ships, all life preservers in the beach area. Life preservers may be retained in the beach area for use during reembarkation if owning ships do not have an immediate requirement for them. (13) In conjunction with beach party commander, develop sites for beaching Landing Craft and Ships. (14) Provide traffic control in Beach Support Areas. ( 15) Establish and operate civilian collection points for protection and evacuation of civilians. (16) Establish and operate ~upply points for civilian relief. c. Coordinating Instructions. Priorities for beach support area. (I) Mine and obstacle clearance. (2) Beach roads, beach marking, dump areas, unloading points. (3) Information center, medical evacuation station, dewaterproofing. (4) Bulk POL installation. (5) Perimeter Defense. (6) Water Points. (7) Other beach activities. (Classification) FM 5-144 (Classification) LOGISTICS. ANNEX (Logistics) 4. ADMINISTRATION AND to Operation Order--- 5. COMMAND AND SIGNAL. a. Signal. Appendix 6 (Signal). b. Command Posts. (1) Afloat. ANNEX ____ (Shore Party Plan). (2) Ashore. Shore Party commanders locate and report. Acknowledge. Maj Gen Tabs: A-(Beach Development Overlay) (Omitted) B-(Traffic Circulation Plan) (If Not Shown on Beach Development Overlay) (Omitted) DISTRIBUTION: ANNEX ____ (Distribution) OFFICIAL: G3 Copy No.______ Issuing Headquarters Place of Issue Date-T ime Group Reference No.____ APPENDIX 4 (Shore Party Defense Plan) to ANNEX ____ (Shore Party Plan) to Operation Order ____ MAPS: Operation Order ____ 1. SITUATION a. Enemy Forces. b. Friendly Forces. c. Assumptions. Enemy forces can: (1) Penetrate beach support area with armored elements. (2) Mount a guerrilla attack against beach support area. (3) Infiltrate units or personnel into beach support area. (4) Execute sabotage and subversive activities anywhere in the beach support area. (5) Any combination of the above. 2. MISSION. Shore Party commanders will provide for the common defense of units, installations, and lines of communication in the beach support area and prepare to execute offensive missions in adjacent beach support area. • (Classification) FM 5-144 (Classification) 3. EXECUTION. a. Concept of Operations. The defense of the beach support area is the responsibility of the shore party commander. He will assume operational control of all units therein in the event of enemy attack to cont rol defensive activities. Defense is envisaged as defense by forces within the beach support area without the assistance of other forces. The defense system will provide an outpost line for early warning, close-in perimeter defense by units and installations and organization of mobile teams capable of rapid mobilization and movement. b. All Shore Parties. Prepare plans for defense of respective beach support area. c. Coordinating Instructions. (1) SP's prepare plans for the defense of installations within respective beach support areas for submission to this headquarters prior to embarkation. (2) SP's organize a mobile reserve utilizing LVT's, LARC's, trucks, and combat engineer vehicles. (3) Limits of beach support area. Appendix 3 (Beach Development Plan). (4) SP commanders coordinate with assault companies for relief of the infantry outpost positions to insure a continuous early warning system. (5) SP commanders submit defensive overlays of their respective areas to Division Shore Party Headquarters by 1800 D-day indicating unit locations and crew-served weapons positions and report changes by 1800 daily thereafter. {6) Maintain liaison with adjacent units. (7) All units within beach support area maintain liaison with nearest Shore Party and advise the Shore Party of their ·location and strength by 1700 daily. (8) Automatic weapons will be sited whenever possible to furnish air defense as well as ground fire. (9) Shore party commanders coordinate with AD units within their areas to coordinate fires. ANNEX (Air Defense Plan) to Operation Order ____ (10) SP commanders will plot concentrations listed in Appendix ____ (Target Summary) ANNEX (Fire Support Plan) to Operation Order on their maps. To call for naval gunfire under emergency conditions, Shore Party will call through their beach party commander the direct support ship for the respective beach and request fire on concentration by number. Selective and restrictive application of firepower must be made in order to protect t he civilian populace and its materiel resources. Appendix (Naval Gunfire Plan) to ANNEX (Fire Support Plan) to Operation Order ____ (11) Pyrotechnic and smoke signals will be used as an auxiliary means of communication, ANNEX (Signal) to Operation Order Smoke for beach defense will be used only on order. (Classification) • (Classification) (12) Normal missions suspended only during full alerts. (13) SP CO's appoint area security control officer. (14) Foxholes will be dug in all bivouac areas and near worksites. (15) ANNEX (Fire Support Plan) to Operation Order--- (16) ANNEX (CBR) to Operation Order ____ (17) ANNEX (Anti-Mechanized Plan) to Operation Order ___ (18) ANNEX (Air Defense Plan) to Operation Order ____ (19) Enemy conditions for beach support areas are: (a) Condition I.-All defensive positions are manned and supporting units alerted. All personnel in each BSA are available for defense. Mobile reserves standby in position. Evacuation of patients is expedited. Unloading operations cease. No vehicular traffic permitted except in emergency or to transport patients. (b) Condition H.-Fifty percent of personnel, other than those in security sections, are made available for defense. Mobile reserves standby in position. Evacuation of patients is expedited. Unloading is reduced to essential items. (c) Condition IlL-Minimum defenses are manned as necessary to provide internal security and control of key terrain and routes of approach. Conduct normal shore party operations. (20) Warning in clear by FLASH message to next higher headquarters and adjacent units followed by URGENT message giving details to Division SP Headquarters. 4. ADMINISTRATION AND LOGISTICS. ANNEX ___ (Logistics Plan) to Operation Order ____ 5. COMMAND AND SIGNAL a. Signal. (1) Appendix 6 (Signal Plan). (2) Shore Party Command Net will be utilized for beach defense radio com munications. All units within beach support area complete radio check at 1800 daily. b. Command Posts. (1) ANNEX (Shore Party Plan). (2) Div SP area defense control located at Div SP Headquarters. (3) Subordinate SP CO's select and report. Acknowledge. Tab A-(Defense Plan Overlay) (Omitted) Maj Gen DISTRIBUTION: ANNEX _____ (Distribution) OFFICIAL: G3 (Classification) FM 5-144 FM 5-144 (Classification) Copy No.______ Issuing Headquarters Place of Issue Date-Time Group Reference No.____ APPENDIX 5 (Medical) to ANNEX ____ (Shore Party) to Operation Order ____ MAPS: ____ 1. SITUATION a. Enemy Forces. b. Friendly Forces. 2. MISSION. Establish and operate beach medical evacuation stations to receive and evacuate patients from Landing Force elements and provide aid for shore party personnel. 3. EXECUTION a. All Shore Parties. b. Coordinating Instructions. (1) SP's establish aid and evacuation stations within respective beach support area. (2) During initial assault phase, all patients unable to return to duty and transportable will be evacuated seaward. (3) Nontransportable patients will be held in beach aid and evacuation station until rendered transportation. (4) Coordinate evacuation of patients with beach party commander. (5) Evacuation of enemy PW patients will be the same as for friendly forces except they will be segregated. 16) Medical property exchange when possible, will be accomplished at all echelons. (7) Medical supplies will, when possible, be exchanged at all echelons. (8) Civilian patient . Emergency treatment only to save life when such action does not interfere with mission. Patients treated will be released to own care or delivered to civilian medical agency. (In internal defense operations, definite plans must be made for treatment and evacuation of civilian casua lties.) (9) Whole blood. (a) Will be requisitioned by each medical unit and stocked in blood delivery boxes maintaining levels consistent with requirements. (b) May be transferred between shore parties. (Classification) • FM 5-144 • (Classification) 4. ADMINISTRATION AND LOGISTICS. a. Annex ____ (Logistics) to Operation Order ____ b. Sanitation. (1) Troop commanders at all echelons will enforce maximum sanitary discipline commensurate with combat conditions. (2) Disease of military importance that may be expected in the objective area: and minor intestinal disease. (3) Information concerning preventive measures and sanitary procedures: ( 4) Insect repellent will be furnished by supply units to all units upon request. (5) Iodine purification of local water supply will be utilized where water points have not been established. c. Evacuation. (1) En route. (a) Subsequent to departure from port of embarkation , personnel requiring treatment aboard ship beyond the capability of the ship will be retained for transfer to designated hospital ship . (b) Health of all embarked personnel is the responsibility of the ship's commanding officer . (c) SP Med Personnel will render all practica ble assi tance to ship's Medical personnel as regards medical service for embarked troops. (2) Landing and assault stage. (a) From beaches. 1. Personnel i·equiring treatment during the ship-to-shore movement will -remain in landing craft for return trip to parent ship. 2. Initially all patients will be evacuated by small cr aft via landing ship , tank, hospital (LSTH) for screening and distribution. 3. One LSTH will be provided off each numbered beach for emergency treatment and evacuation control. 4. LSTH's will be equipped for emergency treatment and sorting of patients prior to further evacuation. An Evacuation Control Officer will be em barked aboard each LSTH to screen all patients coming from beach and arrange for further evacuation to patient receiving ships. 5. LSTH's will be marked with a la rge white "H" amid ships on both sides. When ready to receive patients it will fly an oversize MIKE flag, (Blue flag with a white cross), at night it will flash a green blinker light. A pontoon barge will be along side the bow ramp to serve as a loading ramp. 6. LSTH's will each have four ambulance boats at approximately H plus minutes. One ambulance boat will be dispatched off each beach evacuation station. (Classification) P-11 FM 5-144 (Classification) • 7. When LSTH is released, patients will be evacuated directly to re ceiving ship on a scheduled basis. 8. Hospital ship, the will be available on D + to re-ceive patients and provide specialist care. 9. Evacuation during assault may be by any craft designated by the - shore party commander. Later, ambulance boats flying MIKE flag (Blue flag with a white cross) will be made available to the beach party commander. (b) Ashore. 1. Shore party beach evacuation stations will be established to relieve assault troop battalion aid stations of beach aid and evacuation. 2. Beach aid and evacuation station operation and procedure: Normal means, refer to SP SOP, Med Sec. 3. Location and time of opening of actual beach aid and evacuation station will be reported to this headquarters, tentative locations of Shore Party Evacuation Stations see appendix 3 (Beach Development Plan). 4. PW patients will be evacuated to designated AKA. 5. Civilians will (not) be evacuated. (c)Evacuation policy. 1. All patients requiring treatment beyond capacity of facilities ashore will be evacuated. 2. Upon establishment of hospital facilities ashore, a ten-day evacuation plan will go into effect. (d) Air evacuation. 1. Fixed wing air evacuation by the Air Force will not be established • initially. Air evacuation will be made on "availability" basis when airfields are placed in use. 2. Helicopter evacuation. (a) At approximately H + hour, one Navy attack force ambulance helicopter will be available on each LSTH to be used for the shore-to-ship evacuation of emergency patients. (b) Helicopters will be used to the maximum extent possible for the shore-to-ship evacuation of seriously ill, injured, or wounded patients. (c) Request for Navy LSTH helicopter will be made to beach party commander. (d) In requesting helicopter, units will use the following classification system for indicating priority of patients. Class "A"-those requiring immediate evacuation for treatment. Class "B"-those requiring emergency surgery or medical treatment but whose condition will not be jeopardized by one to t hree hour delay. Class "C"-those requiring helicopter evacuation because of the nature of their injury. No emergency treatment necessary but smooth evacuation desirable. (e ) Army helicopter ambulance control SP SOP, Med Section. (Classification) (Classification) d. Hospitalization. ( 1) Beach evacuation stations will establish holding and emergency treat ment facilities for the purpose of holding only until evacuation is achieved. (2) Beach evacuation stations will perform the collecting and clearing mission for SP troops. (3) Civilian hospitalization. (a) Assistance by landing force med units in accordance with the medical annex of the operation plan. (b) In counterin urgency operations, medical service for the civilian popu lace will be rendered, and must be provided for in the medical annex of the operations plan. (4) Prisoners of war. (a) Normal evacuation. (b) Use captured medical personnel and supplies. e. Medical Supply. (1) Initial supply 3 days plus 7 days in assault shipping. (2) Resupply-see Logistic Plan. (3) Captured medical supplies will be salvaged for the care of POW's. ( 4) Request for emergency resupply by airdrop to this headquarters. (5) Whole blood. (a) A minimum of 1 day's supply will be maintained at each supply point. (b) Initially, blood will be stocked by each medical unit in blood de livery boxes. Blood will be stocked aboard designated naval vessels, available to units on request. (c) Resupply will be obtained by informal request. (d) Blood will be delivered by medical supply points, consistent with transportation availability. (6) Property exchange at all echelons. (7) Medical supply points will be located within each supply point complex . f. Services. (1) Preventive medicine smvey and control available on call through command channels. (2) Laboratory. Within capabilities of hospital only. (3) Spectacles. No replacement expected until linkup with ____ ( 4) Dental. Emergency procedures only, within capabilities of units. ( 5) Dispensary type service. (a) Each medical facility will render area medical service within its capabilities. (b) Units operating without medical support will request same of the division surgeon through the nearest medical installation. (Classification) FM 5-144 FM 5-144 (Classification) (c) Supported units will notify immediately the supporting medical unit • of its arrival, unit strength and departure. g. Medical Administration. (1) Location of SP surgeon . (a) Afloat: (b) Ashore: (2) Evacuation Reports: Appendix ___ 5. COMMAND AND SIGNAL a. Signal. (1) Appendix 6 (Signal Plan). (2) Radio silence until lifted on Landing Force Order. b. Command Posts . SPs report location of medical installations to Div SP Headquarters. Acknowledge. Maj Gen DISTRIBUTION: ANNEX------------(Distribution) OFFICIAL: G4 Copy No ..______ Issuing Headquarters Place of Issue • Date-Time Group Reference No.. ____ APPENDIX 6 (Signal Plan) to ANNEX ____ (Shore Party Plan) to Operation Order ____ MAPS: TIME ZONE: Uniform for Operations, Zulu for message traffic. TASK ORGANIZATION: 1. SITUATION. a. Enemy forces. (1) ANNEX (Intelligence) to Operation Order ____ (2) The enemy has the capability to: (a) Monitor radio transmission and analyze traffic. (b) Employ electronic jamming on radio and radio relay circuits. (c) Introduce false communication to prevent or delay delivery of authentic messages. (d) Exploit communication security of our forces. b. Friendly forces. (Classification) • • 2. MISSION. Establish and operate Division Shore Party communication system. Establish and operate Division SP terminals of a ____ channel radio relay system from designated Brigade SP s. 3. EXECUTION. a. Par 3, ANNEX ____ (Shore Party Plan). b. Radio will be the primary means of continuous communications during the initial phase of operation and until the full Division Shore Party Communication System is completed ashore. c. Division Shore Party Headquarters. (1) Afloat. (a) On order, activate Division Shore Party Net as NCS. Operators to be furnished by Division SP. Equipment furnished by Navy when available. (b) On order, establish Division SP Net. Monitor Bde SP nets as follows: Bde SP Bde SP ; Bde SP ----· Operators furnished by Division SP. Equipment furnished by Navy when available. (2) Ashore. (a) Expand initial communication system to complete Division SP Communication System (Signal portion of landing force). (b) Establish Signal Supply and Signal Maintenance Section. Initiate maintenance service to shore parties. (c) Establish photo service within capabilities. (d) Establish Division SP terminal end of Radio Relay Circuit to Bde SP and Bde SP ____ (e) Establish and maintain station in Corps SP Command Net. (f) Provide entry into Shore Party Communication System for all attached units. (g) Establish and maintain station in Division Command Net; Division Net; and monitor Division Warning Net. d. Bde SP ____ (1) Provide communications within beach support area. (Signal Company SOP.) (2) Establish and operate terminal in Radio Relay circuit from Division SP. (3) Provide necessary wire communication to Beach. e. Bde SP . Provide communications within beach support area. (Signal portion of landing force SOP.) f. Bde SP ____ (1) Provide communications within beach support area. (Signal portion of landing force SOP.) (Classification) (Classification) FM 5-144 FM 5-144 (Classification) • (2) Establish and operate terminal in Radio Relay cir cuit from Division SP. g. Coordinating instructions. (1) Shore Party Communication System. (a) Shore Party attached units requiring entry into the shore party communication system will contact the signal officer at the Bde or Division Shore Party Signal Center. (b) Request for sole -user or point-to-point circuits will be made to Division SP Signal Officer. (c) Shore Party Signal Centers will report all communication established to units in area to Division SP Signal Officer by most expeditious means . (d) On order, priority of use will be given to area damage control functions. (2) Message Center. (a) Scheduled motor messenger service will be provided by Division Shore Party communication section to operate bet ween Division SP Hq and each Bde SP Hq. (b} Local messenger service at each shore party headquarters will be provided by using units. (3) Radio. (a) Radio silence will be maintained until lifted by order CJATF. (b) Radios will be given operational and frequency checks upon lifting of radio silence. 1. Upon completion of testing, radio operators will maintain a listening watch upon preassigned frequency until Net is activated by NCS. • 2. Station s will not leave assigned net without permission of NCS. 3. HST will enter Division SP Net, when requ ired , oy switching from HSTNet. (c) Attempt by enemy to employ jamming or imitative deception will be reported immediately to Division SP Signal Officer. (d) Radio frequencies , call signs, and call words. SOI-SSI ____ (e) Tab A (Radio Net Diagrams). (f) Maximum use will be made of long wire antennas for SM equipment , ____ antenna for FM equipment, and any other means by which the transmission range may be increased, as required . (g) Operationally check and calibrate all radio equipment prior to waterproofing and embarkation . (h) Bde SP's. 1. Provide operators and radio equipment for respective Beach Primary Control Vessel. (Signal Company SOP.) 2. Enter Division SP Net on order. 3. Monitor Division Warning Net. (4) Wire. {a) Tab B (Wire and Radio Relay Diagram). (b) Telephone Directory Names and Numbers. SOI-SSI ____ (Classification) • • (Classification) (c) Normal wire communications will be established by all units as soon as practicable after landing. (d) Wire circuits in the beach support area will be placed overhead or buried and as far removed from beaches access roads as practicable. (e) Bde SP's will terminate the TAC-LOG Wire Circuit installed and maintained by BMU and provide telephone service to BMU. (f) Bde SP's will terminate wire circuits from supported brigades. (5) Waterproofing all communication equipment prior to landing over beaches with subsequent dewaterproofing. (6) Synchronize watches with ship's clocks prior to debarkation. (7) Dig in communication installations ashore and maintain camouflage disci pline. (8) Visual and Sound; Authentication Tables and Instructions; Cryptographic Instructions; Message Preparation; and Electronic Warfare . ANNEX (Signal) to Operation Order ____ 4. ADMINISTRATION AND LOGISTICS. ANNEX ___ (Logistics) to Operation Order ____ 5. COMMAND AND SIGNAL. a. Signal. ANNEX (Signal) to Operation Order ____ b. Command Posts. ANNEX (Shore Party Plan). Acknowledge: Maj Gen Tabs: A-Radio Frequency Plan (Omitted) B-Wire and Radio Relay Diagrams (Omitted) DISTRIBUTION: ANNEX (DISTRIBUTION) OFFICIAL: Copy No. _____ _ Issuing Headquarters Place of Issue Date-Time Group Reference No.____ APPENDIX 7 (Supply Point Operation Plan) to ANNEX ____ (Shore Plan) to Operation Order-~--· MAPS: 1. SITUATION: a. Enemy F orces. b. Friendly Forces. (Classification) FM 5-144 P-17 FM 5-144 (Classification) • c. Assumptions. (1) Bde LT's will be unable to carry ashore all of their initial ____ day supply. (2) Landing Force to be supplied by beach support area installations for a period of approximately days. 2. MISSION. Provide a continuous flow of all classes of supplies and equip ment to the Landing Force and build up prescribed levels as shown in Annex ____ (Logistics). 3. EXECUTION. a. Concept of Operation. Supplies loaded on amphibious carriers may or may not move directly to using units, plan for unloading will dictate. Supplies will be taken to inland supply points, maintaining a minimum of 3,500 meters between installations. Shore Parties will be responsible for over-the-beach movement, security, control and accounting of all supplies and equipment. b. BdeSP ___ (Necessary instructions to all Shore Parties.) c. Bde SP ____ d. Bde SP ____ e. Coordinating Instructions. (1) Those items of the Bde LT's initial day supply that cannot be carried ashore by the Bde LTs will be packed and marked sufficiently to insure rapid segregation. Sufficient personnel from Bde LT's will remain with their shore party until these items have been segregated • and moved from the beach support area. (2) Supply points will be separated by a minimum of 3,500 meters and supplies within supply points will be dispersed to maximum. (3) Shore Party transportation normally will not be used for delivery of supplies to Landing Force elements, except for delivery of emergency supplies to airfield for airlift. ( 4) Helicopter landing pads will be designated and marked near each supply point. See appendix 3 (Beach Development Plan). (5) Adequate provision will be made for security of supply points and fighting of fires. (6) Reports will be ubmitted in accordance with appendix 10 (Reports). (7) Supplies in excess of those carried by assault units which are mobileloaded on cargo trucks will be unloaded immediately to release the vehicles for other use. (8) Shipping must be unloaded as rapidly as possible to take advantage of favorable weather conditions. (9) ____ days of supplies will have to be handled in the beach support area. (Classification) • • FM 5-144 (Classification) 4. ADMINISTRATION AND LOGISTICS. a. Personnel. Annex ____ (Personnel) to Operation Order ____ b. Logistics. Annex (Logistics) to Operation Order ____ 5. COMMAND AND SIGNAL. a. Signal. (1) Annex (Signal) to Operation Order. (2) Appendix 6 (Signal Plan). b. Command Posts. Annex (Shore Party) to Operation Order Acknowledge: Maj Gen DISTRIBUTION: ANNEX Y (Distribution). OFFICIAL: G4 Copy No .. ______ Issuing Headquarters P lace of Issue Date-Time Group Reference No. ____ APPENDIX 8 (Area Damage Control Plan) to ANNEX ____ (Shore Party) to Operation Order ___ _ MAPS: ____ 1. SITUATION a. Enemy Capabilities. (1) ANNEX ____ (Intelligence) to Operation Order ____ (2) Likely Targets. (a) Supply Points. (b) LST Landing Area. (c) Congested areas in beach support area. (d) Bu lk POL installation. b. Friendly Forces. c. This plan is ini tiated under aut hority of the Commanding General, ___ Division and in consonance with Annex (Area Damage Control Plan) to Operation Order ___ d . Assumption s: En emy forces can: (1) Employ nuclear weapons. (Classification) FM 5-144 (Classification) • • (2) Initiate CBR operations within the beach development area. (3) Conduct subversive or sabotage action. ( 4) Any of the above or combination thereof constitutes a serious condition within the beach development area . 2. MISSION a. Division Shore Party conducts area damage control in the beach support area to minimize the effects of mass destruction weapons and to allow units and/ or personnel of the shore party not engaged in damage control to carry out assigned mission. b. Command. (1) The is designated as the Division Shore Party Area Damage Control Officer. He will function as overall supervisor and coordinator of the activities within the damage control ectors of the beach development area. (2) The of subordinate shore parties are designated as sector Damage Control Officers for their respective beach development area sectors. Alternate Damage Control Officers will be designated for each sector and reported to this headquarters. (3) Shore party commanders will prepare ADC plans and establish organizations within their assigned sectors in accordance with the concept and procedures outlined herein. They will automatically undertake reconnaissance of mass destruction damage -areas in adjacent sectors and be prepared to provide support and supervision in t hose areas as required. c. Location. An area damage control center (ADCOC) will be located in vicinity of each shore party commander's CP. Alternate ADCOCs to be located and reported to this headquarters. d. Commanders. Commanders of company and larger size units are responsible for: (1) Immediate remedial action within capabilities, in damaged or threatened areas. (2) Report to ADCOC Headquarters by fastest means available, to include estimated damage, size of force necessary to correct the situation, and casualties inflicted, both personnel and equipment. (3) Necessary initial action to re-establish any installation or service destroyed. e. Communications. (1) Established command communications channels will be utilized for area damage control purpose . (2) Operators of radio and telephone will be instructed to give precedence to all calls concerning area damage. (Classification) • FM 5-144 (Classification) 3. EXECUTION a. Concept of Operation. (1) Organization for area damage control will be such that initial action in response to mass destruction weapons damage is decentralized and requires a minimum of command action. (2) Response to other type area damage will be by normal command action. Only after such action of locally effected units is determined to be inade quate, will ADC, initiate action. (3) In the event of an attack, normal shore party missions will continue. Heavy rescue squads and other troops for area damage control missions will be organized from manpower available that least interferes with these missions. (4) Unless otherwise directed, assistance to civilians will be limited to advice and aid in organization, for coordinated civilian damage control. b. Shore Parties. (1) Organize a minimum of one light rescue squad, two labor squads and one medical and surgical team. Detailed organization of these units in Annex (Area Damage Control) to Operation Order ___ (2) Establish an adequate warning system for rapid dissemination of warn ing to all troops. (3) Provide alternate locations of critical CPs and installations. (4) Be prepared to furnish assistance to adjacent areas as required. c. Coordinating Instructions. (1) Pre-organization for area damage control will provide for automatic dispatch of: (a) MP team to damage area to control refugees and reroute military traffic. (b) Light rescue squads, reinforced with organic medical personnel, to initiate casualty rescue, first aid and collection. (c) Command post and reconnaissance element to establish a local damage control CP, evaluate and report the situation, and determine requirements for additional troops. (d) Predesignated chaplain (s) to provide a spiritual ministry. (2) Heavy rescue missions will be assigned as unit missions to engineer platoons or companies as required. Normal use will be made, through command channels, of other units to reinforce the damage control ac tion as requested by the local ADCOC, such as: (a) F irefighting teams Firefighting. (b) Medical units Treatment, collection, ambulance service. (c) Engineer units Restoration of military roads. (d) Graves Registration units Collection and burial of dead. (3) In t he event no instructions are received the policies and procedures of this appendix will guide. (Classification) P-21 FM 5-144 (Classification) • (4) Commanders be prepared to assume control of adjacent areas on order. 4. ADMINISTRATION AND LOGISTICS a. General. (1) Automatic issue to damage control teams in the event this plan is put into effect. (2) All units in the beach development area will honor requests for supplies and equipment from damage control teams. (3) Water. All units having organic water supply equipment available will be prepared to furnish on-call, necessary equipment to damage control teams. ( 4) Salvage. (a) Salvage collection points will be established in the vicinity of damaged areas for the collection of all types of equipment and supplies. (b) Small quantities of contaminated equipment and supplies may be decontaminated by salvage collection point personnel (second-echelon decontamination) ; quantities beyond their capabilities may be decontaminated by decontamination personnel of the chemical company (direct support) (third-echelon decontamination). b. Evacuation and Hospitalization. (1) Evacuation. Established beach aid and evacuation facilities will be utilized for the evacuation of patients. (2) Holding areas. Plans will provide for adequate patient holding facilities on each beach. • c. Transportation. (1) Traffic control. Commanders will be prepared to designate alternate routes to and from beach installations in the event main routes become impassable. (2) Request for transportation. Commanders will be prepared to furnish medical evacuation teams all transportation requested in the event mass evacuation becomes necessary. d. Service. (1) Firefighting. Firefighting teams located in each beach area will report to and operate directly under the ADC officer during area damage alerts. (2) Decontamination. Chemical direct support units of the Division Shore Party will be prepared to establish and operate decontamination stations as directed. (3) Ordnance. Ordnance EOD teams will be on-call for technical assistance to ADC officers in beach support areas. e. Personnel. (1) Military police. (a) In the event additional Military Police assistance becomes necessary, requests will be made to the ADC officer of the area concerned. (Classification) • FM 5-144 (Classification) (b) Military Police will establish control posts in damaged area to prevent unauthorized entrance and exit of vehicles and personnel. (2) Mass burials. (a) Mass burials of friendly, enemy and/or civilian dead will be performe~ only on order of this headquarters when authorized by the theater commander. (b) Normal search and identification procedures will apply. f. Civil Affairs, Civilian Control. See civil affairs plan. Acknowledge: Maj Gen TAB: A-Medical Plan (Omitted) DISTRIBUTION: OFFICIAL: G4 Copy No..___________ Issuing Headquarters Place of Issue Date-Time Group Reference No.,_______ APPENDIX 10 (Reports) to ANNEX ______ (Shore Party Plan) to Operation Order _____ Disposal Instructions: Reports to be filed in separated folders and maintained up-to-date. Upon relief of Division Shore Party, files will be turned over to relieving unit. 1. Shore Party Reporting: When control is assumed ashore by Division SP the reports shown herein will be submitted by Bde SP's to Division SP HQ as scheduled. Until Division SP assumes control, operational spot reports only will be submitted as necessary. All report forms may be locally reproduced. 2. Time of Submission: Initial reports submitted as of 1200 hours, thereafter as shown on reports schedule. All reports to arrive Division SP HQ prior to 4 hours after report period. 3. Transmission: Reports will be transmitted electronically only when distance or tactical conditions preclude delivery of written reports on time. Such reports will be followed by written reports as soon as conditions permit. Use Column and Line identification when transmitting by electronic means. 4. Other Reports: Other reports to supported tactical unit as directed by that unit. 5. Reports Schedule: (Classification) FM 5-144 (Classification) Report Reporting Unit As of Time Equipment Availability Bde SP 6 hour intervals Supply Point Report Bde SP 6 hour intervals Vessel Status Report Bde SP 6 hour intervals Hospital and Evacuation Bde SP 6 hour intervals Situation Report Bde SP 6 hour intervals Acknowledge: Maj Gen TABS: A-Equipment A vail ability Report B-Supply Point Report C-Vessel Status Report (Used for resupply shipping) D-Hospital and Evacuation ~ituation Report DISTRIBUTION: ANNEX _____ (Distribution) OFFICIAL: G4 TAB A (Equipment Availability Report) to Appendix 10 (Reports) to ANNEX ____ (Shore Party) to Operation Order ____ EQUIPMENT AVAILABILITY REPORT Report No. _ _ _ _ As of ____ _ (date time above) UNIT: Type Vehicle & Size ASGD (Col A) AVAIL (Col B ) 1 Truck ~ ton ....... .. ..... . .. . . . .......................... .. . . . . .. . 2 Truck % ton .. ... . . .. ... ... .. ........ . . .... . . . . . . ......... . .. . .... . 3 Trailer Water . . ...... .. ... .. . . .. . ..... . .... . .. . . . ... . ...... . . .. ... . . 4 Truck 21;2, cargo . .... .. .. .... . .. . . ... .. .. . ..... ... . . .. ... .. ..... . .. . 5 Truck 21;2 ton dump ............ . .... .. . . . ........... .. . ..... ... . .. . . 6 Truck 5 ton dump . ..... . .. . .. . .. .... . .. . . .. .. . . .......... . .. .. .. ... . 7 Truck Tractor . ...... . .... .. . . . .. . . .. . . . .. .... . . .......... . ... . .. . . . 8 Semi Trailer 25 ton . .. ... ... . ...... . ... .. .. ... ...... . ... . ...... .. . . . . 9 Compressor Air Trk Mtd .. .. . ... ... .. . .... . ...... .. . . . ...... .. . ... .. . 10 Dozer D-8 ... . ..... . .. . .. . .. . . . .. . ... .. ... . . . .. .. .... . ... . .... . . . . . 11 Dozer D-7 ... ... .. . ... .... . . . ... ...... . .... .... .. . ... . . . . . . .. . .. .. . 12 Grader motorized ..... . ..... . ... . ... ... .... . . . ..... . .... .. ........ . . 13 Crane Truck mtd .... . . ...... .. .. .. .. . .. . . . .... .. . . ... . . . . ..... . . .. . . 14 Crane Crawler mtd (Classification) • • 15 Tank M-48 ............................... . ....................... . 16 LVTP P-5 ... . . . . .. ...... . ... . . ....... . ..... .. ..... ............. .. . 17 Truck, 1,200 gal, water . ... . ... .. ... ... . ....... .. ... ...... . ..... . .... . 18 Truck, 1,200 gal, fuel .. ............... . ................... ...... . . .. . 19 Truck, w / Semitrailer, fuel, 5,000 gal .. .... ....... .. . . ... . . . .. ..... . ... . 20 Truck, 2lf2 ton, Amphibious . .. .. .. .... .... . ........ ....... . ..... ... . . 21 Ambulance, % ton .... . . ............ . .. .. . .... .. .. ......... .... .... . 22 Other .... ....................................................... . . . Officer in Charge TAB B (Supply Point Report) to Appendix 10 (Reports) to ANNEX ____ (Shore Party) to Operation Order ____ SUPPLY POINT REPORT Supply Point No. ____________ (Beach Color & Supply Point No.) As of __________ (date time) Report No. ________ Col A Col B Col C ColD (Items in tons except Previous Water) Balance Received Issued On Hand _ 1. CLASS I_ ___________________ _ a. ASSAULT____________________ _ b. GARRISON_________________ ____ _2. CLASS II and IV __________________ a. CHEMICAL _____________________ b. ENGINEER __________________ __ c. MEDICAL ____________________ d. ORDNANCE__________________ ___ e. SIGNAL___________ _ __________ f. TRANSPORTATION _ g. QUARTERMASTER__________ ________ 3. CLASS III (Pkgd only)_________________ a. MO GAS,_______________________ _ b. AVGAS________________ _ _____ c. DIESEL____________________ _____ d. LUBRICANTS______ ~------------ 4. CLASS V____________________ ___ _ a. ARTILLERY____________________ b. MORTAR_______________________ c. SMALL ARMS,________________ __ d. NUCLEA. ~ ~------------------- e. NAPALM________________ _______ (Classification) (Classification) FM 5-144 FM 5-144 (Classification) • 5 . TOTALS: a. CLASS I .......................................... .... . . .. . .. .. . . b. CLASS II & IV ...... ...................... ... . .... ..... . . ... ... . . c. CLASS III .... .... .. ........ ......... ... ..... .. ... ... ...... .. . .. . d. CLASS V .... .... .. .. ........... ..... . ............... .. . . .... .. . . e. WATER (in gals) ..... .... ....... ...... . ... .... .. ......... ... ... . . 6. BULK POL (in gallons) (ColA) (ColB) (ColC) (ColD) (ColE) Remaining Previous in Tank Nomenclature Balance Received Issued Farm a. MO GAS b. 80/ 87 Octane A V GAS c. 91/ 98 Octane A V GAS d. 100/ 130 Octane A V GAS e. Jet Fuel f. Diesel 7. a. Items in Short Supply (List) : {1)_________ (2)_________ (3)_________ • b. Losses due to enemy action : (1) Class I _______tons (2} Class II & IV tons (3) Class III gals ( 4) Class V tons c. Remarks: (State here critical shortages of personnel, equipment and vehicles, and any unusual event that affected operation of dump.) Officer in Charge • (Classification) • FM 5-144 (Classification) TAB C (VESSEL STATUS REPORT) TO APPENDIX 10 (REPORTS) TO ANNEX___(SHORE PARTY) TO OPERATION ORDER:...___ VESSEL STATUS REPORT REPORTING UNIT HOURS STATUS AS OF VESSEL ARRIVAL ETD OR TOTAL CARGO ON DISCHARGED REMAINING ABOARD TIME DEPAR TURE TIME TOTALS Note--To be used when resupply shipping arrives. TAB D (Hospital and Evacua tion Form) to Appendix 10 (R eports) to ANNEX _ ___ (Shore Party) to Operation Order ____ HOSPITAL EVACUATION FORM DatejTime (Reporting Unit) (Location) (P eriod of Report) Army PW Civ Other Remarks (1) Total On Hand-Start Period Rec fr Other Sources Evacuated: By Air ByWater Returned to Duty Died On Hand-End Period (2) This section of t he report will be utilized to report losses of major items of medical equipment. Report will include information as t o expected time • of replacement items. (Classification) P-27 FM 5-144 (Classification) • (Signature) TAB E (Situation Report) to Appendix 10 (Reports) to Annex ____ (Shore Party) to Operation Order ____ SITUATION REPORT SITREP NUMBER ____PERIOD COVERED ___to ____ (Date &Time) 1. PERSONNEL AND ADMINISTRATION: a. Unit Reporting: b. Location:------------ • (Coordinates) c. Personnel Strength: _ _ __ Off, ____ WO, ____Enl d. Casualties during period: (This section transmitted in writing only) NAME RANK STATUS e. Personnel shortage by MOS, Grade and Number affecting operations: (This section transmitted in writing only) • MOS GRADE NUMBER f. PW-Civilian-Straggler Report PW STRAGGLER CIVILIAN (1) Previous balance: ------l---11--------·--- (2) Captured or detained: ----1-----------1---- (3) Evacuated: ----------1---1-------1--- ( 4) Released: _________ (5) Remaining on hand: -----1---1--------1---- (6) Personnel screeped: _____ ,___,________,____ _ (7) Remarks: (List here the parent units of stragglers collected or condition of prisoners.) (Classification) FM 5-144 (Classification) 2. OPERATIONS: a. Equipment shortages affecting current operations. (Col A) (Col B) (Col C) TYPE AMOUNT REMARKS b. Other factors affecting current operations. c. Shore party operations not covered in other reports. 3. LOGISTICS a. Captured Enemy Materiel Status. (Col A) (Col B) (Col C) (Col D) (Col E) (Col F) UNIT OF QUANTITY SERVICE-UNSERVICE-TYPE MEASURE RECEIVED ABLE ABLE EVACUATED b. Location of water points and water issued during period. (Col A) (Col B) LOCATION GALLONS ISSUED (1) (2) (3) 4. REMARKS: (Include items of shore party interest.) (Signature) (Rank) (Title) • (Classification) FM 5-144 APPENDIX Q ILLUSTRATIONS OF STANDARD FLAGS, LIGHTS, AND MARKERS USED TO CONTROL AMPHIBIAN VEHICLES The illustrations contained. in this appendix include markers, flags, and lights which are employed both at sea and ashore in the control of amphibious vehicles. These devices are also standard to landing craft and landing ships. fM 5-144 0 0 0 0 NIGHT e ~ 0 TRACKED • . . VEHICLES ~· DAY 1 ~ 0 •0 NIGHT ~ WAY ~FLAG ROAD MINE CLEARED AREA L E G E N D WHEELED AMMUllUTION VEHICLES RATIONS WATER • DAY • • BLACKIII WHITEc=J RED~ BLUE~ YELLOW~ GREEN~ Figure Q-1. Unloading point markers. l • FM 5-144 ONE TWO THREE FOUR FIVE SIX SEVEN EIGHT MISCELLANEOUS FLAGS "W" "S"NINE ZERO ~~~ ~~ BOAT GP ASST BOAT SALVAGE COMMANDER GP CMDR BOAT "Y" "N" "T" "B" LVT POOL LVT TRANSFER LINE BOWSER BOAT . CONTROL OFF EMERGENCY CONTROL OFF MEDICAL BOAT L E G E N D BLACKIII WHITEc=J RED~ BLUE~ YELLOW~ GREEN~ Figure Q-f!. Numeral flags. Q-3 FM 5-144 ROCK,SHOALS, AND PORT STARBOARD • OBSTRUCTIONS ... ... ~ DAY - - ~ - Ill'! .. -.., ""' NIGHT BEACH RED ONE BEACH RED TWO LEFT _l_ CEN'"i'ER RIGHT LEFT CENTER T 30" 6' • 12 I • T T _j_ l 12 6' 30' DAY NIGHT 0® 0® 0® NIGHT NIGHT L E G E N D STEADY LIGHTO BLINKING LIGHT~ BLACK III WHITEc=J RED~ Figure Q-3. Lights and markers for use and control of amphibious vehicles. • • FM 5-144 GLOSSARY landing team, e.g., one BLT. However, it may Caus~ay Launching Area-Areas located near the also be that portion of a shoreline constituting line of departure but clear of the approach lanes, where ships can launch pontoon causeways. a tactical locality, such as the shore of a bay, over which a force smaller than a BLT may land. Floating Dump-Emergency supplies preloaded in Landing Craft Mechanized (LCM)-A landing landing craft, amphibious vehicles, or in landing ships. Floating dumps are located in the vicinity craft designed to land tanks, trucks, and trailers of the appropriate control officer who directs their directly onto the beach. landing as requested by the troop commander Landing Craft Utility (LCU)-A landing craft deconcerned. signed for the transportation of cargo and heavy vehicles from ship to shore. Followup Shipping-Ships not assigned to an am Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel (LCVP)-The phibious task force but which move troops and materiel to the objective area after the initial principal craft used to transport assault troops assault landings have been executed. to the beach. May also be used to land small vehicles or general cargo. Free Boat-A boat assigned to carry elements of the landing force that is not assigned to any Landing Force Supplies-Those supplies remain wave but is permitted to move independently ing in assault shipping after initial combat sup plies and floating dumps have been unloaded. and freely as directed by the boat team com They are landed selectively in accordance with mander. the requirements of the landing force until the General Unloading Period-That part of a ship situation ashore permits the inception of general to-shore movement in which unloading is pri unloading. marily logistic in character, and emphasizes Landing Sequence Table-A document which in speed and volume of unloading operations. It corporates the detailed plans for the ship-to encompasses the unloading of units and cargo shore movement of nonscheduled units. from the ships as rapidly as facilities on the beach permit. It proceeds without regard to Subsidiary Landing-A landing, usually made outclass, type, or priority of cargo, as permitted by side the designated landing area, the purpose of which is to support the main landing. cargo handling facilities ashore. (See Initial Unloading Period.) Transfer Line-A designated line to seaward of the surf line off a landing beach where personnel and Initial Supply-In an amphibious operation, supply materiel are transferred from landing craft to scheduled for movement to the objective area to amphibious vehicles. attain prescribed levels of supply in support of a landing force from the initial assault until reWave Commander-Officers assigned to form waves and control them in all subsequent movements supply transported in followup shipping is available. Initial supply is moved in assault under the direction of a boat group commander. shipping. Wave Guid&-A wave guideboat with embarked wave guide officer to assist in the navigation of Initial Unloading Period-That part of a ship-toshore movement in which unloading is primarily amphibious vehicles to the beach. tactical in character and must be instantly reWave Number-The number assigned to surface sponsive to landing force requirements. (See and helicopter waves employed in the scheduled General Unloading Period.) ship-to-shore movement. Waves are numbered Landing Beach-That portion of a usable coastline successively from front to rear as first wave, usually required for the landing of one assault second wave, etc. Glossary-1 r- • • • • FM 5-144 INDEX Paragraph Page Activation order, shore party .. . .... . .......... ... ................ ... .... . app 0 0-1 Airmobile amphibious operation ... ... ......... ... ........ .. ............. . 1-8e 1-3 Amphibious vehicles: Control ..... . ........ ... . . . .. .... .... .. ......... .. .... .... ....... .. .. . 7-14 7-9 Debarkation . ...... .. ............ . ........ .. . ... ... ................... . 7-17 7-10 Definition .. . . ....... . .. .. . . ...... ... . . . ............. ... . ..... . ... . . . . . 1-2 1-1 Identification .. . . .. ..... . . . . .................. ... .... . .... . . . ...... ... . 7-16 7-10 Army component force . .. .... . .... . ............. . ............. .. . ....... . . 1-7 1-2 Arctic or cold weather operations . .. ...... . ....... .... .. .. .... ............ . 8-3 S-1 7-2a(l) 7-1 Attachment, engineer amphibian assault company .... ... . . .... .. .. . ....... . 6-51 6-25 Base development ... . .... ... .... .... . ..... . ...... . .. .... ...... .... ... .. . . . Beach party team ...... .. ... ... ..... .. . .... .. ... . .. . . .......... .......... . 5-8d(1)(/) f'r7 Beach, preparation .. .... . ................................................ . 6-10 6-8 Beach support area: 6-13 6-9 General ........ . . .. ...... .. ...... . ... ... ... . ..... .. .. ... ... ... .. ..... . Organization ........................................................... 6-14 6-11 fig. 6-5 6-10 Type · ·· · ···· · · ........ ... . ...... .. ... ...... .. . ...... . ····· ······· ·· ·· · 7-16b 7-10 Boat paddles ............................................................. . Capabilities: Engineer amphibian assault company ........ . .. . . . ....... . .. ......... . 4-19 4-6 4-1 Engineer amphibious battalion . .. . .. ........ . ........ . .. .... .. .... . .. . 4-3 Engineer amphibious brigade ................ . ......................... 2-3 2-1 Engineer amphibious company .... .. ........ . .... . . .. ... ............. . 4-27 4-9 Engineer amphibious group ...... .. .. ... .. . ......... .. .... ... .. . ... . .. . 3-3 3-1 Headquarten~ and headquarters company .......... . . . . . .. .. ..... .. . . . . 4-11 4-3 6-36 6-19 Cargo t ransfer line ...... ... ..... ...... ..... ... ...... . .. .. .. ..... ... . .. . . . . Civilians, evacuation .. . ........... ... .... .. . ... . . . .. ..... . ................ 6-25 6-15 Cold weather operations ashore .. ... .. ... .... ....... . ... .. . . ...... ...... .. . S-10 S-9 Collateral references ...................................................... . 1-2 1-1 Combat engineer vehicle ................................................. . 4-32c 4-12 Command post, shore party .... . ... .. .......... ..... . . ... .. . . .... .. ... . .. . 6-21 6-14 Communications: BLT shore party .... .. ..................... . ........................ . 6-4 6-4 Brigade shore party ................................................... 6-5 6-4 Division shore party ........................ . ........ . . . .... . . .. ..... . 6-6 6-6 For LVT's ................................... . . .... ... .... . ... ....... . 7-46-7-50 7-23 In amphibious operations .................... . ...... . . . .... . ... . ... . .. . 6-3 6-3 S-5 Mechanized (LVT) task force . . ........ .... ...... . ...... ...... . .. ... .. . S-5/ app N N-1 Communications equipment for engineer amphibious units .. ........ .. ..... . Conditions, defense .. ...... ..... . ....... ..... . ... . . ....... . .... ....... .... . 6-49b(7) 6-24 Desert operations .. . .......... . ......... . ............ . . .. ......... .. ... .. . S-7 S-6 Direct support, engineer a mphibian assault company ........ .. . .... . .. .... . . 7-2a(2) 7-1 Disabled LVT ............................................................ app K K-1 1-2 Doctrinal considerations .. ... . .. .... . ..... . .... .. . .. ........... . ... .. . . . .. . 1-8 Dumps . ........... . ... ... . .. . . . ... ... . ............ . ............ . ..... ... . 6-23 6-14 Duties, amphibious engineer ............................................... 1-10 1-3 Duties, LVT crew .... . ..... ... ............. ... ... .. .... . .. . . ... ..... . . ... . app L L-1 Embarkation of amphibious vehicles .. .. .............. .. .. ........ ... . .. .. . . 7-7, app J 7-4, J-1 Emergencies during general unloading .. . ..... .. ...... ..... . . .. . . . . . . . ... . . . 6-32 6-17 lndex-1 5-144 Paragraph Page Employment: Engineer amphibian assault companies 4-21, 7-1-7-31, 4-7, 7-1, 8-1 • 8-1--8-11 Mine clearance platoon ... .... . . . .................................... . 7-32-7-45 7-17 Engineer amphibian assault company: Assignment .. .. . ....................... . ... . ...... .. . ...... .. .. . . . .. .. . 4-18 4-6 Capabilities .. ... ............ .. . . .. . .. .. ......... .. .... . . . .... . ....... . 4-19 4-6 Employment ... .. .... . ......... .... .... . .. . ................ ..... .... . . 7-1-7-31, 4-21 7-1, 4-7 Equipment ................ . ............... . ......................... . 4-24, ch 7, ch 8, ch 9 4-8,7-1, 8-1, 9-1 Mission .. . ............ ..... ..... . ... .. ... .. ..... ....... ...... .. . ..... . 4-17 4-6 Organization ........................... .... .... .... . ............... .. . . 4-20 4-6 Engineer amphibious battalion: Assignment ...... .. ........ .. .. .. .. ..... ...... ... ... ...... . ... .... ... . . 4-2 4-1 Capabilities ............ . . .... .. ... . ....... . . ......... .. ... .. . . .. . .... . 4-3 4-1 Employment .......... . ......... . ....... . ...................... ... . . . . 4-5 4-2 Employment as infantry . . .. .. .... . ............. . .. ... ............. .. . 6-50 6-24 Equipment ..................... . ..................................... 4-8 4-2 Mission ........ . . . .. .... . . . .. . . .... ... ... ...... .. . · · · · . · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 4-1 4-1 Organization .... . .... . . ....... .. ... . . .... .... .. . . : .. .. . ....... . . ... .. . 4-4 4-2 Engineer amphibious brigade: Assignment .. ............ . . . ..... . ..... .. ............ .... ............. . 2-2 2-1 Capabilities ..................... ..... ... .... . ......... . .......... .. .. . 2-3 2-1 Employment . .. . .. . ........... . .... . ................................ . . 2-5 2-3 Mission ........ . ........... . ............. . ... · · . .. · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 2-1 2-1 Organization .. . . . ......... . . . ............................. . ...... . . . . . 2-4 2-1 Engineer amphibious company: Assignment ... .... . .... ... . ..... ....... .. .. . ..... . .. ... .............. . . 4-26 4-9 Capabilities .. . . . ........ ..... ... ... .. .... . .. . .. . .. . . ..... . . ..... . .... . 4-27 4-9 Employment ... .... .. . ..... .......... . .. ....... .... ................. . . 4-29 4-10 Equipment . ..... .. ..... ..... .. ... .. .. .......... ... . . .. .. . ..... ...... . 4-32 4-12 Functions . ...... .. . . . .. .. . .. ...... .............. . .. . . ... .. . .. .. .. ... . . 6-8 6-7 Mission ........... .. . . . .. ... .. .. . ............................ . ....... . 4-25 4-9 • Organization ......... . ..................... ....... .... ............ . .. . 4-28 4-10 Engineer amphibious group: Assignment ................. . ... ... .. . ... .. . . . . . .. ................... . . 3-2 3-1 Basis of allocation . . .... ..... ... . ............. ....... .. ......... . .... . 3-6 3-3 Capabilities . .... . ............. . . .. .. ..... ...... .. .. . ..... . .. .... ..... . 3-3 3-1 Employment ........................ ..... . ..... .. .. ........ ..... ..... . 3-5 3-2 Mission .............. . .... ....... ... ........ ... .. .. . . ... · ..... · ·· . . .. . 3-1 3-1 Organization .... .. .. .. ... . ..... .... ... .... .. .... .... .... .. . ... .. . .... . 3-4 3-1 Evacuation station .... ... ..... .......... . . . ... ..... .. .... .. . ... .. ... .. .. . . 6-22 6-14 Flags, lights and markers . . ...... . ....... ... .... .. ... . . ... ........... .... . . app Q Q-1 Floating dump ... .. . .... .. . ....... . ...... . ............... . ... . . ... .. ..... . 7-24a 7-15 General support, engineer amphibian assault company ....... .............. . 7-2a(3) 7-2 General unloading ..... . .. .. .. . ... .. ... . ............ . ......... . . .. ....... . 6-31 6-1.7 Headquarters and headquarters company, engineer amphibious battalion: Assignment . ...... . . .. ... . . . ...... .. ... ... .. . . ... ...... . .. . . . ....... . . . 4-10 4-3 Capabilities .... .. .... ......... . ........ .... . . . .. . ....... .... ..... . . .. . 4-11 4-3 Employment ....... . ....... . .... ...... .... . .......................... . 4-13 4-5 Equipment .... .. ... .. .. ..... .... . .. . .... .... .. . ... . . . ... .. ... .. .. . .. . 4-16 4-6 Mission .... . ...... . ................. ... .. .... .... .. .... .. ........... . . 4-9 4-3 Organization and functions . ......... . ..... .... .. . .. . .. . ... .. . ........ . 4-12 4--3 Helicopter landing facilities ... .... . . .... .... . ....... ........ . .. ... ... .... . 6-28 6-16 Holding area .. . ...... .. ........ .. ....... . ... .. . .. ...... . . .. .. ............ . 6-18 6-13 Identification, shore party ... ... .. .... .. . .. .. ......... . .. ...... .. . . ... . . .. . 6-12 6-9 Indigenous labor .............. . . ............. . ....... .. .. .. ... .. ......... . 6-29 6-16 lndex-2 • • FM 5-144 Paragraph Page Information center .. . . . ...... . . . . . . .. . .. . . . . ....... . .. . ...... ..... ... . ... . ~20 ~13 Intelligence, shore party .. . . . . .. .............. . .. . .... . .. .. . . .. . .. .... ... . 5-16 5-10 Internal defense operations: 9-8 9--4 Advisory assistance . ...... . . .. . . ... . . . . .. . .. . . . . .... . . . . . . . .. .... . . ... . 9--9 9--4 Civic action . ... ..... ... . . .. ... . .. .... . .. . ....... . . . . . ..... . ... . .... . . Environment . . . ... .. . . ... . .. ... ......... . ............... . .... . . ... . . . . 9--2 9--1 Mission of engineer units .. ....... . . ... .. . . ..... ... . . . .. . . ... . . .... . . . . 9--3 9--2 Organization of mechanized (LVT) task force ... . . ... . . . .... ... . . . .. .. . 9-5 9-2 Psychological operations . . ... . . .. ... ..... . ... .. ... ... .. . . . .. . ..... . . . . . 9--10 9--4 Jungle operations . ... . . . . ... . . . ... . .. . ........ .. .... . ......... .. ...... . .. . 8-8 8--7 7--5 7-3 Landing documents .. .... . . . . .. .. .... . . ....... ....... .. ...... . . .. . . ... . .. . Landing ships . . ..... ... . . . . ... ......... . . ... ... ........ . . . ..... . .. . . ..... . 7-6a, app J 7-3, J-1 Landing vehicle, tracked, command (L VTC) : Description . . .. .. . . . .. .... .. ....... ... . .. .... .. . . .. ... . . . · . · . .. · · · · · · · . . 4-16b(l), app C 4-6,G-1 Landing vehicle, tracked, engineer (LVTE): 4-16b(2), app D 4-6,D-1 Description .. .. . ....... . .... . ....... ... . . ... ... ... .... .. .. . . ...... . . . . . Landing vehicle, tracked, personnel (LVTP5) : 4-24b(l), app B 4--8, B-1 Description .......... . .. . ... .. ...... ...... .. .. ... ... ..... .. ...... . ... . . app H H-1 Fuel vehicle, employment . ... .... . . . . ..... . .. . . ...... . .... . .. . .. . . . .. . Loading 105-mm ........ . ... .. ... ..... ........ ........... .. . . . . . . .... . app M M-1 Landing vehicle, tracked, recovery (LVTR): 4-24b(2), app E 4--8, E-1 Description ................ . . . .. . .. . . . .... ....... .... .. . .. . ... . . . ..... . Lighter, amphibious, resupply, cargo, 5-ton (LARG-V): 4-24b, app G 4--8, G-1 Description . .. ... . .. .. . . . . . . . .. .. ... ........ ..... ... .. . . .... . . .. . . . . .. . Loading LVT's ... . .. ... ............. . . . ... . ....... . ........ .... . .. .. . ... . . app J J-1 app M M-1Loading 105-mm howitzer ... . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. .. .... ..... . . . ... . ... ... .. . . . ... . .... ... ..... . s-5 8--2 Medical service ... . . . .... . ....... Mechanized (LVT) task force .. . ....... . ...... . . . . ...... . ... .. . .... .... .. ...... . . . .. . ...... . . . .. . ~22 ~14 Mine clearance platoon: Communications .. . . . . . . . .. ..... .. ... . . . . . .. . .. . ...... . . . ... . . . ....... . 7-36 7-18 . 7-32-7-45, 8--11/ 7-17,8--11 Employment ..... ... .... .. ..... ... . . .. . .. . ..... . . . . .. . .... . .......... Mission : Engineer: Amphibian assault company .. .. . .. ... ...... .... . . . .. . .. . . . . ... . . . 4-17 4-6 Amphibious battalion ... .. ... . . .... .. . ... . ..... . .. . . . .. .. .. .. ..... . 4-1 4-1 Amphibious brigade ... ... . ... .. .... . .. . ...... . .... . . . ... .. .... . .. . 2-1 2-1 Amphibious company .. .. ..... . .... . . ... .. ... .. . . ... . .. . ..... . . .. . 4-25 4-9 Amphibious group ....... . . . ...... .. ... . . ... . .. . . . .. . .. ... . .. . .. . . 3-1 3-1 Amphibious units . . ........ . ...... .. ........... . ......... ... ... . . . 1-5 1-2 Headquarters and headquarter company .. . .... .. ...... ..... ..... . .... . . 4-9 4-3 Mobile dump . . ... .. . ....... . ... . ....... . ......... .. . . . . ..... . .. . . . . . . ... . 7-24b 7-15 Mountain operations ... . . .. .. . ...... ... ... . ....... ... ..... .. . .. ... . .... .. . 8--9 8-8 Movement to the objective area ... . .. . .. .... ............. . . .... . . . .. ..... . 7-9 7-5 • a val control group . . .. .... . . . ..... . ................... .. .. . .. . .. .. .. . .. . . 7-13 7-8 Night landing operations . .. . .. . ... . ... .. .. . ... . ...... . . .. .. . .. .... ... .... . 8--2 8--1 Night operations ashore ...... .. .. .. . .. . . . ... . . . .... . . . ... . ... . . .. . .... . .. . 8--6 s-5 Obstacles : Beach ... . ..... . . . . . . . . . . ... . . ...... . . . ... . .. ... . ... . . . . ... ... . . .. . .. . 7-23b 7-15 Underwater . . . ... . .. ... . . . . .. . .. . ... . ... . .. . . . ..... . . .. .. . ... ... . . ... . 7-23a 7-15 On-call waves . . . . ... . .. .. . .. ... .. . .. ...... ... .. . ....... ... . . .. . ... . . . . ... . 7-4b(2) 7-3 Plan, shore party . ... ... . . . . ...... . . . .... . ... . .............. .. . . .... . . . . . . . 5-11, app P 5-9, P-1 Planning requirements, engineer amphibian assault company . ... ..... .. ... . . 7-3 7-2 Prisoners of war . . . . . ..... ... ... .. . . .. .... . . . .... . .. ... . ....... . . ... . .. .. . ~24 ~15 River crossing operations . . .... ....... . .............. . ....... . . .... . ..... . . 8-11 8--10 Roads . . ... . . .. .. . . . .. .. . ... . . . . . . . . . .. ..... .. ... . . . . .... . . . . . .. ....... .. . 6-15 ~11 lndex-3 FM 5-144 Paragraph P age Reconnaissance, shore party .. . . . ............................ ............. . 6-9 6-7 Rehearsal ................................................ . . . . . .... ........ 7-8 7-4 • Resupply shipping ......... . ........ .... . . .............. . ............... . . . 6-37 6-19 Safety, engineer amphibian assault units ....................... . . ... ...... . app F F-1 Salvage and emergency maintenance .. .. .................................. . 6-19 6-13 Scheduled waves ... . . ... . .................................. . . . ..... . . . . . . . 7-4b(l) 7-3 Sea areas .... .. ..... ....... . .......... ...... .. ...... .... .. ..... . . . ... . ... . 7-12 7-5 Ship-to-shore movement .. . ...... .. ...... . ....................... . ........ . 7-11 7-5 Shipping considerations ....... . .... . . ......................... . ........... . 7-6 7-3 Ship's characteristics ... .......... . ... ... . ..... . ..... . .. ... .. .. .. . . . . . ..... 7-6b 7-4 Shore party: Activation order ..... . ....... ... ..... .. ... .... .... ........ ........... . 5-10 5-9 Battalion landing team shore party ........ .. ........ . ...... . .. ....... . 5-8c, d 5-5 Brigade landing team shore party ... . . ....... ........ . . .... .. . . . ...... . 5-8c 5-5 Communications ............ .. ........ . ..... . ............ ... . . .... . .. . 6-3--{H) 6-3 Corps shore party ...... ... .. ... .... ... ..... . .. . . .. .. . ... .. . .......... . . 5-8a 5-4 Division shore party ........... ........... . ....... ... ........... . .... . 5-8b 5-5 Functions ............. . .... . ... .. ............. . . . ........ .. ........ . . . 5-4 5-1 Functions of landing force element .................... .. ............. . 5-5 5-1 Functions of naval element ........ ....... ........ .. ......... . ........ . 5-6 5-3 Phases of establishment .................... . ........ ............. .... . 6-7 b 6-6 Plan ... . ............. .... ............ ...... .... ....... . . . ...... .. .... . 5-11 5-9 Planning procedure ............................ . . . ..... . .. ... ... .... . . 5-14 5-10 Requirements ........ . ....... .. . .. .............. . ............. ..... . . . 5-3 5-1 Support organizations ..... . ...... . . ....... . ...... . . . . . . ...... . .. . .... . 5-7 5-4 Task organization ... . ..... ...... ...... ........ .. ...... . . .. ...... . . ... . 5-8 5-4 Shore platoons, engineer amphibious company .......... . .... . ...... .. .. .. . . 6-8c 6-7 Shore-to-shore operations ...... . . . ... .. ............. . ...... . . ... . . ...... . . . 8-12 8-12 Sinking LVT .................... . ......... . ...... . ......... . ... .. ... . . . . . app K K-1 Stragglers ............ . ................................................... . 6-26 6-15 Supply points ........... . ... ............. . ..... . ................... . ..... . 6-23 6-14 Supply procedure, initial .................... .. .................. . . . ...... . 6-11 6-8 • Surfacing material .. ... . ................ . ................................. . 6-16 6-12 Tactical-logistical group (TAC-LOG) ................ . ............... . .... . 6-2, 6-11 6-1, 6--8 Terminology .......... . . .. .......... ... ....... .. ......................... . 1-3 1-1 Traffic control ................. . . .. ... . ......... .. ......... . . . ..... ... .. . . 6--17 6-12 Training, engineer amphibian assault companies ........... .. ...... . ....... . app F F-1 Transfer operations .. , ... . .. . .. . ........................................ . . 6-36, 7-18 6--19, 7-11 Vehicle assembly or holding areas ................. ... . ....... . . . ... . ...... . 6--18 6-13 Water supply 6-27 6-16 Waves: Formation 7-19 7-14 Maneuver ............. . . . .. . ......... .. ...... . ..... . .... . . .. . ..... .. . 7-20 7-14 Movement .. . ... ........ ... . ..... .. .. .. ............................... 7-22 7-15 • lndex-4 FM 5-144 ' By Order of the Secretary of the Army: I HAROLD K. JOHNSON, General, United States Army, Official: Chief of Staff. I I KENNETH G. WICKHAM, I Major General, United States Army, The Adjutant General. Distribution : Active Army, NG and USAR: To be distributed in accordance with DA Form 12-11 requirements for Engineer Shore Assault Units. • I '{::( U . S . GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: 19156-231•3A8