Breaking Contact

There will be times where we're in direct contact with a superior force and remaining where we are simply isn't a viable option, breaking contact from the enemy and maneuvering back is essentially the reverse of a bounding overwatch. Some like to practice peeling techniques but with the use of two fire team or at least a semi-accurate base of fire, it is possible to retreat while dealing damage to the enemy.

Breaking contact works as follows. 


TASK STEPS AND PERFORMANCE MEASURES:
1. Dismounted -


a. The unit leader designates an element to suppress the enemy with direct fire as the base-of-fire

element.

b. The unit leader orders distance, direction, a terrain feature, or last rally point for the movement

of the first element.

c. The unit leader calls for and adjusts indirect fire to suppress the enemy positions.

d. The base-of-fire element continues to suppress the enemy. (See Figure D9505-1)



e. The bounding squad/team uses the terrain and/or smoke to conceal its movement and

bounds to an overwatch position.

f. The bounding element occupies their overwatch position and suppresses the enemy with

"well-aimed fire."

g. The base-of-fire element moves to its next covered and concealed position. (Based on the

terrain and volume and accuracy of the enemy's fire, the moving element may need to use

fire and movement techniques). (See Figure D9505-3)



h. The unit continues to suppress the enemy and bound until it is no longer in contact with

enemy.

i. The unit leader reports the contact to higher headquarters.




2. Mounted -

a. The unit leader directs the vehicles in contact to place "well-aimed" suppressive fire on the

enemy positions.

b. The unit leader orders distance, direction, a terrain feature, or last objective rally point over