Section 4 -- Fight
Offense is the essence of air power.
-- General H. H. 'Hap' Arnold, USAAF
Before the Fight
Ref AFMAN 10-219, Vol 2
Cordons
Ref AFI 10-403
A cordon is defined as 360° controlled access of an area where an accident/incident
has occurred and is used to keep innocent bystanders out and clear of possible
hazards associated with the cordon. Cordons are established to protect personnel,
equipment, and classified matter.
Some situations that may warrant establishment of a cordon are:
Bomb threat
Discovery of unexploded ordnance
Natural disaster
Aircraft accident/crash
Major accidents involving nuclear or conventional weapons, biological or toxic chemicals, or missile propellants
Cordons are usually marked with rope, tape, and appropriate signs. The size varies
with the type of incident involved and environmental concerns, such as crosswinds;
typical cordon sizes are as follows:
Nuclear, conventional weapons or radioactive material
Chemical weapons
Biological agents, toxic industrial chemicals and missile propellants
Where no toxic or explosive materials are involved, size is dictated by the area affected and the work area needed by the disaster response force.
1 Mile Upwind and Crosswind
2 Miles Downwind
2000 feet in all Directions
2000 feet Upwind and Crosswind
Downwind determined by on-scene Commander
Cordon size can be adjusted only at the discretion of the on-scene commander
Accident cordons are established and controlled by senior fire fighters and Security
Forces. However, assistance from other military organizations and personnel may
be required to work as cordon guards and aid in establishing entry control points.
Cordon Guards…
Are posted at all entry and exit routes that lead to the accident site
Assist evacuating personnel with departing the accident site using the most direct route
Direct personnel to the established entry control point
Direct responsibility for evacuation rests with each individual and supervisor within the cordon
Prevent access to the accident site
Direct mission essential personnel who require entry into the cordon to the established entry control point
Refer all media requests to the public affairs representative usually located near the entry control pointThe installation commander or public affairs officer is responsible for releasing all information to the news mediaEntry Control Points
Ref AFPAM 10-219, Vol 2-3
Entry Control Points (ECP) are used to control entry into installations, controlled
areas, or restricted areas. All Air Force personnel are subject to processing through
an ECP.
ECPs…
Are established upwind on the perimeter of the cordon
Are located within a 90° arc on either side of the current surface wind
Are marked with signs and/or flags for easy visibility
What to expect when processing through an ECP
Be prepared to show an identification card
You and your belongings may be searched
Your vehicle may be searched
Visual
Dogs
Entry Authority Lists are checked when gaining access to controlled and restricted areas
Challenging Intruders
Ref AFMAN 32-4005
Intruders can be aggressive or passive, male or female, adult or child, and can show
up at any location, at any time. It is your responsibility to be vigilant at all times and
to challenge all intruders. Whether you are armed or not, you can challenge an
individual, but always ensure you maintain proper cover and concealment while
doing so. Challenges are divided into two areas: individuals or groups.
Individual Challenge Steps
On hearing or seeing someone approach, command the person to "Halt!"
When the intruder stops, command "Who goes there?"
The challenged person should respond with Rank, Name, and Unit.
If not, notify your control center immediately
After the challenged person identifies him or herself, command "Advance to be recognized!"
When the individual comes to within 10 ft (3 m) of you, command "Halt!" and then issue the Challenge Word or Sign
The individual should then respond with the correct Password or Countersign
If you still are uncertain of the challenged person's identity, ask for an ID card for further verification
If the person is authorized, release and proceed with your normal duties
If not, detain and notify your control center or security forces personnel immediately Group Challenge Steps
On hearing or seeing a group approaching, command them to "Halt!"
When the challenged personnel stop, command "Who goes there?"
The leader of the group should respond with Rank, Name, and Unit, plus the Number of Personnel accompanying them
If not, notify your control center immediately
After the challenged person identifies him or herself, command "Advance one person to be recognized!"
When the challenged person comes within 10 ft (3 m), command "Halt!" and then issue the Challenge Word or Sign
The individual should respond with the correct Password or Countersign
If you still are uncertain of their identity, ask for their ID card for further verification
If the person is authorized, have them identify the rest of the group one at a time, ensure the leader identifies each person
Detain those who cannot be identified and notify your control center or security forces personnel immediately
Challenge and Password (Sign/Countersign)
Words or numbers can be used as the sign and countersign. Odd numbers are best; they are less easy to defeat For example, if the words for the day are Blue Cards, the challenge word or sign is Blue and the response is Cards Threat Conditions
Ref AFI 31-210
Threat conditions (THREATCONS) are used to describe progressive levels of
terrorist threats to U.S. military facilities and personnel. The selection of the
appropriate response to terrorist threats is the responsibility of the commander
having jurisdiction or control over the threatened facilities or personnel.
Normal-Applies when a general threat of possible terrorist activity exists
Warrants only a routine security posture
ALPHA-Applies when there is a general threat of possible activity against personnel
and facilities, the nature and extent of which is unpredictable
Secure unoccupied buildings, rooms, and storage areas
Increase spot checks of entering personnel
Review plans for implementing higher THREATCONS
BRAVO-Applies when an increased and more predictable threat of terrorist activity exists
Inspect interior and exterior of buildings for suspicious packages
Increase spot checks of entering personnel
Move vehicles, crates, and trash containers at least 82 ft (25 m) from buildings
CHARLIE-Applies when an incident has occurred or intelligence is received
indicating some form of terrorist action against personnel and facilities is imminent
Complete ALPHA and BRAVO checklist items
Check ID of all personnel entering work centers
DELTA-Applies in the immediate area where a terrorist attack has occurred or when
intelligence has been received that terrorist action against a specific location or
person is likely
Complete ALPHA, BRAVO, and CHARLIE checklist items
Ensure 24-hour-a-day security for controlled areas
Conduct security checks every 6 hours
Provide armed escort for all high-value items
Suspend all nonessential commercial deliveries
Alarm Signals
Ref AFH 32-4014, AFVA 32-4011
Alarm signals and conditions are transmitted by the Survival Recovery Center
(SRC) using voice, public address systems, radios, flags, lights, and/or sirens. Be
aware of your location's method of transmission and color usage.
When you hear ALARM YELLOW-no siren sound-or see a yellow flag, an
attack is probable
In a conventional environment-
Don your helmet
Don available body armor
Seek shelter when directed
In a chemical/biological environment-
Don your helmet and any available body armor
Seek shelter or overhead protection when directed
Assume MOPP 1 (see page 134 for MOPP descriptions) unless otherwise directed
When you hear ALARM RED (Alarm Blue in Korea) - or a 1 minute warbling
tone (3 seconds on, 1 second off)-or see a red flag, an attack is imminent or in
progress.
In a conventional environment-take cover
In a chemical/biological environment-take cover and assume MOPP 4
When you hear ALARM BLACK -"Gas-Gas-Gas", or a broken warbling
tone (1 second on, 1 second off)-or see a black flag, the attack is over
In a conventional environment-Stay in your shelter unless otherwise directed, and
initiate post-attack reconnaissance
In a chemical/biological environment-contamination is expected or present; stay
in shelter unless otherwise directed, initiate post-attack reconnaissance, and remain
in MOPP 4 until directed
When you hear ALL CLEAR, an attack is not probable nor is NBC contamination
present. Resume normal operations or initiate recovery if applicable
Anti-Terrorism Measures
Ref AFMAN 32-4005
Terrorists do not discriminate! The mere fact that you are an American makes you a
potential target for terrorists. Here are a few key steps you can take to lessen your
threat.
Keep a Low Profile
Your dress, conduct, and mannerisms should not attract attention
Make an effort to blend in
Avoid publicity, large crowds, demonstrations, and civil disturbancesBe Unpredictable
Vary your route, time, and mode of travel
Vary where and when you go
Vary your appearance Let others know where you're going and when you plan to return
Be Alert
Watch for anything suspicious
Do not release personal information
If you believe you're being followed, go to a predetermined safe area
Immediately report any suspicious incidents to security forces
Taken Hostage
The chances of you being taken hostage are very remote. But should it happen,
remember your personal conduct can influence your treatment. If you are taken
hostage there are three important rules to follow:
Analyze the problem so as to not aggravate the situation
Make educated decision to keep the situation from worsening
Maintain discipline to remain on the best terms with your captors
Be Suspicious
Ref AFMAN 32-4005
Hostile governments and terrorist organizations may use improvised explosive
devices (IED) to reach their objectives. The construction of an IED is limited only
by the imagination of the builder. Therefore, standard identification features do not
exist. Like unexploded ordnance (UXO), IEDs come in various shapes and sizes, but
the lethality of an IED is not always determined by its size.
When you discover a suspected IED, react very much as you would to discovering
a UXO:
Be Vigilant
Be familiar with work center surroundings
Challenge or report unknown personnel around your work center
Be suspicious of anything out of the ordinary (protruding wires, abandoned vehicles)
Protect yourself and others
Identify, mark, evacuate, and report the device just as you would any UXO. See page 105 for UXO handling.
Don't risk your life by moving or opening a suspect device!
Radio Procedures
Whether you work in civil engineering, communications, medical emergencies, fire
department, security forces, transportation, or flightline operations, the land mobile
radio (LMR) will be your communication lifeline. Several LMR types - hand-held,
mobile, base station, and repeater models exist, but they basically operate the same.
The most commonly used is the hand-held.
Do you know your Phonetic Alphabet? Use it when you can.
Antenna
Channel Select
On/Off/Volume
Security
Channel Battery Security Readout
Push to Talk
Microphone
Keypad
Battery
Basic Land Mobile Radio Features
Basic Radio Operating Procedures
Speak clearly into the microphone and use proper call signs
Protect your radio
Conduct radio checks
Always be aware of OPSEC for radios, phones, discussions and computers
Periodically check physical condition and battery connections
Know your unit radio manager
DO NOT...
Use Ranks and Names of Supervisors or Commanders
Discuss Classified Information
Use Profanity
Hang Anything from Antenna
Disclose Specific Locations
Broadcast SSNs, phone or credit card numbers
OPSEC is Everyones Job...
Reading a Grid Map
Ref AFJMAN 24-306
A grid map is used to identify locations using alphanumeric symbols rather than
descriptions, which would take too long to relay even if passed accurately or
clearly
Base or operating location maps are standardized
so that everyone sees the facility within a series
of squares that are labeled for easy reference
Along the bottom of the map, each square is labeled with a
number running consecutively (i.e., 4, 5, and 6)
Along the side of the map, each square is labeled
with a letter or letters that are in familiar order (i.e., D,
E, F, and G)
Each square is further subdivided into 10 evenly spaced blocks across the top and
side for clarity. These sub-blocks may or may not be marked. If not marked, use your
best judgment in determining where in the block you are trying to identify a location.
The coordinates of a location are determined by reading
across the map from left to right for the number, and
reading from the bottom to the top for the letter.
The number/letter combination is known as the grid
coordinate.
Topographic maps use color and contour lines-refer to
map legend.
Grid coordinate for the "X" is 2.2-C.3
Convoy Procedures
Ref AFJMAN 24-306
At some time during your deployment, you may be required to operate or ride in a
vehicle that is part of a convoy. Critical information on convoy procedures will be
given during the convoy briefing—pay attention. You must ensure that as a driver:
You are qualified to drive that specific vehicle
Your vehicle is inspected every 24 hours
Your vehicle has some form of communication equipment
Your vehicle is equipped with a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, and AF Form 1800, Operator's Inspection Guide and Trouble
Report
As a driver or rider, you must know:
That day's call signs and frequencies
The primary and alternate route of travel, to include checkpoints and timelines
The location of the convoy commander
The order of movement
What to do during attacks, road blocks, and breakdowns
Maps if needed (make sure you can read them)
Speed Limits
10 mph (16 kph) on trails
15 mph (24 kph) on unimproved (dirt) roads
30 mph (48 kph) on improved roads
45 mph (72 kph) on high-speed roads
When using blackout markers, lead vehicle will not exceed 15 mph (24 kph) on open roads and 10 mph through built-up areas
Distance/Intervals
328 ft (100 m) minimum on high-speed roads
164 ft (50 m) on all other roads
Inclement weather or enemy activity will increase vehicle intervals
Vehicle intervals while stopped are 33 ft (10 m) except in build-up areas, cities, and at traffic lights What to do when a Convoy…
Is Under an Air Attack
If you see an enemy aircraft, sound the alarm-a series of short blasts on the vehicle horn
Pull vehicles off the road, maintain intervals
Dismount and seek cover away from the vehicles
Radio operators should notify control centers-at a minimum, give time, location, and activity using SALUTE (see page 76)
Remain under cover until the convoy commander or senior available person sounds "All Clear"-a continuous blast of the vehicle horn
Encounters an Ambush
If you suspect you're about to enter an ambush, halt the convoy
Immediately take an alternate route
Notify your control center using SALUTE
If your vehicle enters the "kill zone"
If possible, speed up and drive out of the kill zone (directed by convoy commander)
Dismount and return fire as a last resort
Assemble and move out of the area
If your vehicle is out of the "kill zone"
Assemble at a safe distance
Senior person must contact the remainder of the convoy and provide help
Vehicle Breaks Down
Repair the vehicle, if possible
If the vehicle can't be repaired, tow it if possible
If towing is not possible, call for a wrecker
If the convoy must leave, a minimum of two personnel must remain in a defensive posture
Senior leader must ensure personnel left behind have needed equipment, food, water, communications, and currency if it
becomes necessary
If you think the vehicle may fall into enemy hands, destroy or disable itEncounters a Roadblock
If you are the lead vehicle, notify the rest of the convoy
All vehicles must stop
Personnel must disperse in a defensive posture
The convoy commander or senior person must assess the road block
If it can be moved or breached, do so immediately
Watch for booby-traps or an ambush
If the roadblock can't be moved or breached, switch to your alternate route
Always report the location and nature of the roadblock to your control center
The above information on convoying is only recommended guidance and subject to change due to mission, guidance, and procedures set forth by the convoy commanders.
During the Fight
Ref STP 21-1 SMCT, AFH 32-4014
Reporting an Attack
Use the S-A-L-U-T-E report as a
quick and effective way to
communicate enemy information
up the chain of command.
SALUTE:
Size: The number of personnel/vehicles seen or size of an object
Activity: Enemy activity (assaulting, fleeing, observing)
Location: Where the enemy was sighted-use a grid coordinate or readily identifiable reference point
Unit/Uniform: Distinctive signs, symbols, or identification on people, vehicles, or weapons (numbers, patches, or clothing type)
Time: Time the activity was observed
Equipment: All equipment/vehicles associated with the activity
Example of a S-A-L-U-T-E report
"Six enemy soldiers, running away from the command post, heading
towards the flightline. Uniforms solid green fatigues-possibly
Republic Guards. Time was 0230 hours. Equipment-AK-47 rifles,
backpacks and gas mask being carried."
Remember COMSEC-Use the most expedient means necessary/possible for the
urgency you place on the information you have to upchannel. If your report needs
to get to the commander NOW, use any means available!
Messenger-most secure-most time consuming
Wire/telephone-more secure than radio-not mobile & may be monitored
Radio-fast and mobile-least secure. However, a secure radio lessens the possibility of being monitored and should always be used over an open net
Actions During an Attack
Air Attacks (aircraft, helicopters, and mortar fire)
If in a vehicle, dismount and take cover away from the vehicle
If in the clear, take cover in low lying ground (ditches or ravines)
If in a fortified position, stay low and covered
ALWAYS ensure you are wearing your helmet and flak vest
ALWAYS try to cover your face and ears
Ground Attack (Enemy infiltrations, terrorist violence, armored vehicles)
If in a vehicle, dismount with engine keys and take cover away from the vehicle return fire if possible
If in the clear, take cover in low lying ground (ditches or ravines) and return fire if possible
If in a fortified position and armed, return fire-attempt to defend, delay or destroy the enemy force
Notify control centers and leadership using the SALUTE format
After the Attack
Conduct battle damage assessment
Initiate sweep for Unexploded Ordnance (UXO)
Initiate Self-Aid/Buddy Care
Notify control centers and leadership immediately of damage, casualties, wounded, and mission impacting damage
Reactions to Flares
Aerial Flares
Seek cover and concealment and assume the prone position immediately
Protect your night vision by closing or covering one eye while observing with the other. If you don't need to observe, close both eyes
Don't ever look at the burning flare
Don't move until the flare is completely burned out
Be aware eyes take 30 minutes to adjust to darkness after exposure to light Report the flare activity to your control center
Ground Flares
Ground flares are usually set up as booby-traps and can be manually triggered
Immediately move out of the illuminated area
Seek cover and concealment and assume the prone position immediately
Wait until flare is finished burning and light extinguished before moving
Be aware eyes take 30 minutes to adjust to darkness after exposure to light
Report flare activity to your control center
Seeking Shelter
One of the best and easiest ways to protect yourself from injury during an attack is
to take shelter. Most attack related injuries are due to shrapnel, flying debris, and
fallout, all of which are avoidable with good sheltering. Your best defense is to put
as much distance and mass as possible between you and the detonation.
What to consider when the attack warning is sounded:
Find the best shelter immediately
If overhead protection is not close by, lie flat, face down on the ground
Only remain in low-lying areas as long as necessary-chemical agent vapors migrate to and remain in low-lying areas
Any building, bunker, or tent is better than the open ground
Below ground-level shelters (ditches or foxholes) provide still better shelterThe center of the lowest floor provides the best protection inside a building[No] Aircraft/Vehicles:
Avoid using potential targets as shelters
Weapons Skills-Rifles
Ref AFMAN 36-2227, Vol 2
The security of Air Force bases and the survival of personnel may be dependent
upon individual proficiency with assigned firearms. All Air Force personnel have
defense responsibilities against overt and covert enemy action. To discharge these
responsibilities, the fundamental military concept of competency with firearms is a
requirement. The weapon handling skills you receive from your base combat arms
instructors, along with this manual, will ensure you are ready and able to fulfill your
force protection role.
Weapon Safety
Consider all weapons as loaded
Clear all weapons each time you handle them
Never point your weapon at anyone or anything you are not willing to shoot, injure, or damage Keep your finger off the trigger until your weapon is pointed down range and your sights are on your target
Don't shoot anything if you can't positively identify it or know what's behind itClearing Procedures
1. Place the selector lever to safe (if possible)
2. Push the magazine release button and remove magazine
3. Check the receiver and chamber and ensure they are clear
4. Ensure the selector lever is on safe
5. Press the bolt release button and allow bolt to go forward
M16 Characteristics
Muzzle velocity-3250 ft per second (fps)
Maximum rates of fire:
Semiautomatic-45 to 65 rounds per minute (rpm)
Automatic-150 to 200 rpm
Sustained-12 to 15 rpm
Cyclic-700 to 800 rpm (not considered an effective rate for target
engagement)
Maximum range-2901 yards (2653 m)
Maximum effective range-503 yards (460 m)
M16A2 Characteristics
Muzzle velocity-3100 fps
Maximum rates of fire:
Semiautomatic-45 rpm
Automatic (3-round burst)-90 rpm
Sustained-12 to 15 rpm
Cyclic-700 to 800 rpm
Maximum range-3938 yards (3600 m)
Maximum effective ranges:
Point target-602 yards (550 m)
Area target-875 yards (800 m)
Nomenclature
The three main groups of the M16 and M16A2 rifles are:
Upper Receiver Group-flash suppressor, front sight assembly, handguards, carrying handle, ejection port and cover, rear sight windage drum, and rear sight
Lower Receiver Group-buttstock, trigger, magazine release button, selector lever, bolt catch, pivot pin, takedown pin, and pistol grip
Bolt Carrier Group-charging handle, firing pin retaining pin, firing pin, cam pin, bolt assembly, extractor, extractor pin and spring, and bolt carrier
M16 Ammunition
M193 Ball-55-grain full metal jacket round-standard round for the M16 rifle
M196 Tracer-M193 with red tip
M16A2 Ammunition
M855 Ball-62-grain full metal jacket round-lead alloy core with a steel penetrator and a green tip
M856 Tracer- M855 with orange tip but no steel penetrator
This is the standard round for the M16A2 and M249 Automatic Rifle (AR)
Note:
According to Field Manual 23-9, M16A1 and M16A2 Rifle Marksmanship:
"The M855 NATO round is designed to fire in the M16A2. While it is safe to fire
this cartridge in the M16 rifle, it should only be used in a combat emergency, and
then for close ranges of 91.4 m or less. The M193 ball round can be safely fired in
both the M16 and M16A2 rifles."
Loading, Charging, Reloading, and Unloading
1. To load, let the bolt go forward, place selector on SAFE, and insert the magazine.
2. To charge, pull the charging handle fully to the rear and release.
DO NOT ride the charging handle forward. If you do, the round will not fully seat in the chamber.
3. To reload, remove the empty magazine, insert a loaded magazine, and hit the bolt catch to release the bolt.
4. To unload, place the selector lever on SAFE if possible, remove the magazine, ensure the bolt is to the rear and chamber empty, and place on SAFE.
Disassembly (Fieldstrip)
1. Clear the weapon.
2. Once you have cleared the weapon, remove the sling from the sling swivels.
3. Remove the handguards from the upper receiver and then separate the upper and lower receivers.
4. Remove the bolt carrier group from the upper receiver and disassemble it.
5. Remove the buffer and action spring from the buttstock. This completes the fieldstrip.
Do NOT disassemble any other part of the weapon.
Care and Cleaning
Equipment
The ideal cleaning kit consists of:
Handle section, three-rod sections, swab holder, and swabs
Bore, chamber, small arms cleaning brush (nylon bristle toothbrush), and pipe cleaners
Cleaner, Lubricate Preservative (CLP), ½-oz bottle
Other authorized cleaning equipment:
Cleaning compound, rifle bore, (RBC)
Dry cleaning solvent, (SD).
Lubricating oil weapons (semi-fluid LSA)
Lubricating oil, arctic weapons (LAW)
Under all but the coldest arctic conditions, LSA and CLP are the lubricants to use in temperatures above -10° F (-23° C)
LAW is used when temperatures range below -10° F (-23° C)
Do not use any two lubricants at the same time. When changing types of lubricant, clean the weapon thoroughly
Cleaning the Weapon
1. First clean, inspect, and lubricate the upper receiver and barrel assembly.
2. Next clean, inspect, and lubricate the charging handle and bolt carrier group.
3. Clean, inspect, and lubricate the lower receiver and extension assembly.
4. Finally clean, inspect, and lubricate the magazine.
5. Now that the weapon is clean it can be assembled in the reverse order of disassembly.
Field Expedient Cleaning
1. Clear weapon
2. Clean bolt carrier
3. Clean barrel
Note: Required daily when in a field environment.
Function Check
Start with a CLEARED WEAPON, bolt forward, on SAFE. Pull the trigger. Weapon should not dry fire (hammer should not fall)
Place on SEMI and pull the trigger. Weapon should dry fire (hammer falls)
Hold the trigger to the rear and charge the weapon. Release trigger slowly and you should hear an audible click. Repeat semi test five times
Place the weapon on AUTO and pull the trigger. Weapon should dry fire (hammer falls)
Hold the trigger to the rear and charge the weapon. Release the trigger. Weapon should not dry fire. Attempt to place on SAFE. It should not go to SAFE
Destruction of Weapons
Weapons may be destroyed to prevent enemy use. The order and means to destroy your weapons will come from the commanding officer
The five methods used to destroy weapons are:
Mechanical-axe, pick, sledgehammer, or crowbar. Do not use this method to destroy munitions
Burning-gasoline, diesel, JP-4, oil, incendiary grenades, cutting torches, other
Gunfire-artillery, machine-guns or rifles
Demolition-requires suitable explosives or ammunition
Disposal-bury in the ground or dump weapons in streams or marshes. You can also disassemble and scatter the parts over a wide area
Destroy the same part on all weaponsWhatever method you choose, make sure your weapon is no longer useable
Fundamentals of Rifle Shooting
Position and Technique-steady position and proper techniques for holding the rifle in all positions are the first fundamentals of shooting
Aiming-sight alignment (aligning the front and rear sight) and sight picture (aiming point)
Breath Control-it is important to know when and how long you need to hold your breath while firing Trigger Control-allows you to apply enough pressure on the trigger to fire the weapon without disturbing the sights
M16 Sight Adjustment
Front sight adjustments are used to make elevation changes.
One click = 1/4 inch (0.7cm) at 82 ft (25m) or 1 1/8 in (2.8cm) at 328 ft (100m)
To adjust the front sight, depress the detent and rotate-clockwise (CW) to
move the strike of the bullet up or counterclockwise (CCW) to move the
strike of the bullet down-with the tip of the round
Rear sight adjustments are used to make changes in the windage-right and
left movement-of the bullet. To adjust the rear sight, depress the detent and
rotate-CW will move the strike of the bullet to the right and CCW will move the
strike to the left-with the tip of the round. The same calibration is used for both
rear and front sights
M16A2 Sight Adjustment
Front sight adjustments are used to make elevation changes.
One click = 3/8 inch (0.9cm) at 82 ft (25m) or 1 3/8 in (3.5cm) at 328 ft (100m)
To adjust the front sight depress the detent and rotate-CW to move the
strike of the bullet up or CCW to move the strike of the bullet down-using
the tip of a round
Rear sight adjustments are used to make changes in the windage-right and left
movement-of the bullet and elevation or range distance corrections
Windage correction is one click = 1/8 inch (0.3cm) at 82 ft (25m) or 1/2 inch
(1.25cm) at 328 ft (100m)
Elevation correction is one click = 1/4 inch (0.7cm) at 82 ft (25m) or 1 inch
(2.8cm) at 328 ft (100m). Elevation adjustment on the rear sight is to adjust
for proper target distance
M16 Mechanical and Battlesight Zeroing
Mechanical zero is making adjustments to the sights of the rifle to give the
shooter a good starting point. It should only be applied to weapons not
previously zeroed or to newly assigned weapons
Adjust the front sight up or down until the top of the sight post is 5 mm above
the machine surface of the front sight frame. Use cardstock with five lines
apart, to conduct mechanical zero
Adjust the rear sight windage drum right or left until the short range sight
(unmarked aperture) is centered
Battlesight zero begins with a mechanically zeroed rifle using 5.56 mm ball
ammunition. Adjust the sights for elevation and windage as needed. On your
mechanical zero cardstock, write down your battlesight zero for future reference
M16A2 Mechanical and Battlesight Zeroing
Mechanical zero is making adjustments to the sights of the rifle to give the
shooter a good starting point. It should only be applied to weapons not
previously zeroed or to newly assigned weapons
Adjust the front sight up or down until the top of the sight post is 5mm above
the machine surface of the front sight frame. Use cardstock with five lines, 1mm
apart, to conduct mechanical zero
Adjust the rear sight windage knob left or right until the normal range sight
(unmarked aperture) is centered
Turn the elevation knob down (CCW) until the rear sight is down to the last
whole click. Before it bottoms out, turn it up (CW) until it is on the 8/3 mark on
the range scale
Battlesight zero starts out with a mechanically zeroed rifle using 5.56 mm ball
ammunition. Adjust the sights for elevation and windage as needed
For zeroing on a 25-meter range, turn the elevation knob one click past 8/3 on
the range scale. After zero, set the elevation knob back to the 8/3 mark for
actual target distances
Once zero is complete, for target distance greater than 328 yd (300 m), place the
correct range setting on the elevation knob to obtain the proper point of aim.
On your mechanical zero cardstock, write down your battlesight zero for future
reference
Weapons Skills-Pistol
Ref AFMAN 36-2227, Vol 2
The security of Air Force bases and the survival of personnel may be dependent
upon individual proficiency with assigned firearms. All Air Force personnel have
defense responsibilities against overt and covert enemy action. To discharge these
responsibilities, the fundamental military concept of competency with firearms is a
requirement. The weapon handling skills you receive from your base combat arms
instructors, along with this manual, will ensure you are ready and able to fulfill your
force protection role.
Weapon Safety
Consider all weapons are loaded
Clear all weapons each time you handle them
Keep your finger off the trigger until your weapon is pointed downrange and your sights are on your target
Don't shoot anything if you can't positively identify it and know what's behind it
Never point your weapon at anyone or anything you are not willing to shoot, injure, or damageClearing Procedures
1. Holding the pistol in the right hand, move the decocking lever DOWN to the SAFE position
2. Press the magazine release button and remove the magazine
3. Grasp the slide with the left hand, cupping the left hand over the ejection port
4. Next, rotate the weapon slightly to the right while pushing the slide to the rear
5. Catch the ejected round in the left palm and lock the slide to the rear
6. Visually inspect the chamber and receiver area to ensure there is no ammunition present
Characteristics
Weapon will fire both single and double action. Safety feature includes a manual decocking lever and firing pin block
Maximum effective range is 55 yd (50m) with a maximum range of 1.1 miles (1800m) Muzzle velocity of the M9 is 1230 fps
Nomenclature
Slide assembly consists of the decocking lever, firing pin, extractor, barrel, firing pin block, locking block, and sights
Receiver assembly consists of disassembly button and lever, slide stop, trigger, magazine catch assembly/release button, grips, hammer, and lanyard loop
Magazine assembly consists of the floor plate, magazine spring, follower, and magazine tube
Types of Ammunition
M882 Ball-124-grain jacketed bullet-basic cartridge for field use
No tracer round is authorized for use in the M9
Loading
1. Clear the weapon and insert a loaded magazine.
2. Depress the slide stop. Slide moves forward and chambers a round. Extractor will protrude, indicating a round in the chamber.
3. Place the decocking lever in the UP/FIRE position.
4. Weapon is now ready for firing the first round double-action.
Unloading
Unload the weapon using the clearing procedures above.
Disassembly (Fieldstrip)
1. Clear the weapon and then allow the slide to go forward.
2. Hold pistol in right hand with muzzle slightly elevated.
3. Press in on the disassembly button and hold. Rotate the disassembly button down until it stops.
4. Pull slide and barrel assembly forward and remove from the receiver.
5. Remove and separate the recoil spring and guide.
6. Lift and remove the barrel and locking block assembly from the slide.
Magazine Disassembly
1. Release the floorplate by pushing down on the floorplate retainer stud in the center of the floorplate with the locking lock plunger.
2. At the same time, slide the floorplate forward a short distance using the thumb. The magazine spring is under spring tension. Use CAUTION when removing the floorplate.
3. While maintaining the magazine spring pressure with the thumb, remove the floorplate from the magazine.
4. Remove the floorplate retainer and magazine spring and follower from the magazine tube. Remove floorplate retainer from the magazine spring. This completes the field strip.
This is as far you can disassemble the weapon.
Care and Cleaning
Ideal cleaning kit consists of the following materials:
Cleaning rod and swabs
Bore brush, small arms cleaning brush (nylon bristle toothbrush), and pipe cleaners
Cleaner, Lubricate Preservative (CLP) ½ oz bottle
Other authorized cleaning equipment:
Cleaning compound, rifle bore, (RBC)
Dry cleaning solvent, (SD)
Lubricating oil, weapons (semi-fluid LSA)
Lubricating oil, arctic weapons (LAW)
Under all but the coldest arctic conditions, LSA and CLP are the lubricants to use in temperatures above minus 10 degrees Fahrenheit
LAW is used when temperatures range below 10 degrees Fahrenheit
Do not use any two lubricants at the same time. When changing types of
lubricant, clean the weapon thoroughly
Cleaning the Weapon
1. Clean, inspect, and lubricate the slide and barrel assembly.
2. Clean, inspect, and lubricate the receiver assembly.
3. Clean, inspect, and lubricate the magazine.
Now that the weapon is clean, it can be reassembled in the reverse order of
disassembly.
Function Check
Clear the weapon
Release the slide and insert an empty magazine
Retract the slide. The slide should lock to the rear
Remove the magazine
Ensure the decocking lever is down, release the slide forward, hammer should fall fully forward
Press/release the trigger. Firing pin block should move up and down
Move decocking lever UP to FIRE position
Press the trigger. Weapon should dry fire double action
Press the trigger and hold to rear
Retract and release slide
Release the trigger. You should hear a click and the hammer should not fall forward
Press trigger to check single action. Hammer should fall
Destruction of Weapons
Weapons may be destroyed to prevent enemy use. The order and means to destroy your weapons will come from the commanding officer
The five methods used to destroy weapons are the same for all weapons (refer to page 85)
Whatever method you choose, make sure your weapon is no longer useable
Fundamentals of Pistol Shooting
Aiming-sight alignment (aligning the front and rear sight) and sight picture (aiming point)
Breath Control-when and how long you need to hold your breath while firing is important
Trigger Control-allows you to apply enough pressure on the trigger to fire the weapon without disturbing the sights
Sight Adjustment-the M9 pistol does not have adjustable sights. To adjust your fire, you adjust your aiming point. In other words, you must aim and fire based on where the bullet last struck. For example, if the last round hit lower left, you would aim upper right
Perimeter Defenses
Ref AFMAN 32-4005
Base defense operations, regardless of where conducted, are governed by several
key fundamentals and procedures. These fundamentals and procedures are critical
in sustaining and defending Air Force operations around the globe. As an Air
Force member, you could be detailed to augment base defense operations or could
be placed in a situation that would require you to defend your area of responsibility.
Theaters of Operation-Air Force personnel are called to perform a variety of tasks
in diverse theaters, under joint or combined command, with or without host nation
support, and under adverse conditions. Typical theaters of operations are:
Major Theater War (MTW)-a regionally centered crisis based on
significant threats to U.S. vital interests in a region that warrants the deployment
of significant forces. Example: Desert Shield/Storm Small Scale Contingency (SSC)-regionally centered crisis, but with less
compelling threat than an MRC. Example: The U.S. invasion of Grenada
Military Operations Other than War (MOOTW)-missions outside the purview
of war are considered MOOTW. Example: The UN peacekeeping mission in
Bosnia
Fundamentals of Defense
Five fundamentals must be considered while conducting Air Force operations in a
base defense posture: aggressive, in depth, all-around, integrated, and terrain/
critical resources
Aggressive Defense
Enemy has the option as to when, where, and what forces to use. Base defense
commanders must seize and hold the initiative early
Detect enemy from as far away as possible to begin the attrition of his force at
the earliest opportunity before they place direct/indirect fire on an objective
Accomplished using active patrols, sensors, listening posts (LP), and
observation posts (OP)
Defense in Depth
Units are deployed in depth to prevent an attacker from exploiting a penetration
and positioned to protect key terrain so enemy cannot observe or bring fire
upon our operations
Establish blocking positions along likely avenues of approach
Achieved by patrols, listening posts, observation posts, sensors, and static
positions to deny locations for stand-off weapon systems
All-Around Defense
Generally, a defense is organized around the idea of stopping an attack from a
principal direction
Threat may come from any direction including direct assault on the base by
airborne/air landed forces or internal threat from local nationals and civilians
This defense is achieved by positioning forces purposefully to include
supplementary positions and dedicated aerial denial weapons (anti-aircraft)
Integrated Defense
Forces are positioned laterally to provide mutual support
Gaps present a particular problem and can be controlled by sensors, obstacles,
planned direct/indirect forces, random patrolling, or physically occupying if
enemy forces threaten
Defense Organized Around Key Terrain/Critical Resources
Key terrain is any objective that, when occupied, provides a marked advantage
over the opponent
Holding key terrain is vital to your defense; failure to secure key terrain will
allow the enemy a position of advantage over your forces
Defense plan should incorporate all known/potential key terrain into the
defensive scheme to the extent your forces are capable of protecting it
Expedient Fire Fighting
Ref AFMAN 10-219, AFI 32-2001
Professional firefighters may be engaged in crash rescue or fire suppression tasks
involving aircraft and weapons systems and will not always be available to fight
fires. If you are faced with a fire, efficient reporting, evacuation, and quick
extinguishing will significantly reduce mission impact. You must be familiar with fire
reporting procedures and be ready to perform basic firefighting tasks as an auxiliary
firefighter.
Fire Reporting
Sound the alarm
Fire alarm
Triangle
Air horn
Voice-Yell "Fire, Fire, Fire"
Notify the fire department and report
Name and rank
Location of fire
Nature of emergency
Status of personnel
Evacuate the area and account for personnel
Extinguish small fires (trash can size), if possible
Direct firefighters to the fire
General Firefighting Guidance
Know the location and operation of fire extinguishers
Fight small fires within the limitations of available firefighting resources
Always maintain an escape route
CW masks will not provide protection in smoke filled environments
Separate fuel sources from ignition sources
Shut off fuel and gas valves
De-energize electrical equipment
Munitions involved in a fire are unpredictable
Wildland fires can generate intense heat and move rapidly
Tent City Firefighting Guidance
Ref AFPD 32-20, AFI 32-2001
Depending on camp layout and weather conditions, fires will spread rapidly if initial
attempts to extinguish them fail. In many locations, adequate firefighting water
supplies do not exist. Timely alerting and evacuation are critical.
Before a Fire
Keep access roads to tents clear for fire vehicles
Pre-position emergency water supplies and firefighting equipment
Set up a fire alerting system
Develop and practice fire alerting and firefighting plans
During a Fire
Life safety and evacuation of all tents is a prime concern
A tent will burn completely in only 2-3 minutes
Never enter a burning tent
Cut power to the tent city
Focus on preventing the spread of fire
Get well ahead of the fire to make a stand
Wet tents down
Drop tents, cut supports and let tent collapse
Designate a fire-safe zone for emergency withdrawal
Firefighting Agent Resources
Dry Chemical Extinguisher: ABC rating (all fires except metals)
Dry Powder Extinguisher: D rating (metal and metal-alloy fires)
Halon Flightline Extinguisher: BC rating (petroleum fuels and electrical)-used for aircraft and related equipment only
Water
Sand
After the Fight
Ref AFPAM 10-219, Vol 3
Base Recovery after Attack (BRAAT)
A determining factor in your ability to quickly return to mission-related duties is
your unit's ability to recover after an attack. But before you rush outside to start the
recovery process you must ensure it is safe. You must determine the Alarm Condition,
MOPP level, and THREATCON before leaving your shelter.
If the condition is:
All Clear or Alarm Yellow, you may cautiously venture out to gather information and start recovery
Alarm Red, stay in your protective area unless you have critical mission essential duties or directed to do so by an appropriate authority
Alarm Black, only mission-essential personnel and those assigned to reconnaissance duties should go outside
If your are unsure of the Alarm Condition, stay put!
BRAAT Kit
Every occupied work center and shelter should have a BRAAT kit available to
those individuals who will perform the initial post-attack reconnaissance. At a
minimum the kit should contain:
Basic first aid supplies
Standard UXO and NBC contamination markers
Items to mark damage, UXOs, and NBC contamination at night, such as flashlights and "chem sticks"
Chemical detection equipment, such as M8 paper, M9 paper, a M256 kit, or some otherdetection device
Reconnaissance checklists detailing where to look and what to look for
Recovery from an Attack
Ref AFPAM 10-219, Vol 3, AFH 32-4014, Vol 4
Your unit's expedient recovery and reconstitution will take considerable teamwork.
Immediate actions are necessary to treat casualties, assess damage, and contain
contamination.
Treat Casualties
Practice self-aid and buddy care
Use chemical agent antidotes if appropriate
Perform skin decontamination if appropriate
Transport the injured as soon as possible
Damage
Assess the extend of damage to buildings, aircraft, vehicles, and equipment
Immediately report any fires
Be prepared to start limited fire fighting procedures
Relocation may be necessary
Contamination
Avoid contact with objects and areas that may be contaminated
Decontaminate any object you must touch to perform mission related tasks
Post-Attack Reporting
Ref AFH 32-4014, Vol 4
Following any attack, it is essential to report casualty and facility damage information to proper authorities
All reports should be forwarded to YOUR unit control center or the Survival Recovery Center
Use the fastest available means to report up the chain (telephones, radios, or runners)
Use grid coordinates to report incident location
Reporting the absence of damage is just as important as reporting damage; this informs control centers what has already been checked. Your report should reflect:
Observations of the attack
Type of weapons used-small arms, bomb, missile, mortar, other
Tactics used-direction, origin, strength, ground forces
Damage-to mission essential equipment, aircraft, facilities, airfield pavements, other
Casualties-especially mission personnel
Contamination-M8/M9 paper results
UXOs-locations and types
POST ATTACK DAMAGE & CASUALTY CHECKLIST ITEMS
1. Call your unit control center or survival recovery center to report
Name & Rank
Unit
Phone Number/Radio Net
Date/Time
2. Report the location of the incident
Facility or Grid Coordinates
Other pertinent information
3. Report any damage
Condition of area
Condition of Facilities
Condition of Equipment
4. Report the status of casualties
Number Dead
Number Injured
Number Missing
Disposition of Casualties
Evacuated to CCP
Awaiting transportation
Applied First-Aid
Any other pertinent information
Remember: What you see and report is often all the commander has to base decisions on.
Area Decontamination
Ref AFH 32-4014, Vol 4
If chemical and/or biological agents are used during an attack, immediate
decontamination may be required. As long as you and your equipment are well
protected, such as inside an undamaged building, decontamination is not needed.
However, if skin contact occurs with agents in liquid or solid form, instantaneous
decontamination is necessary. Decontamination is performed at four levels:
immediate, operational, thorough, and reconstitution.
Immediate-To minimize casualties, save lives, and limit the spread of contamination
Who: You-use the buddy system
What: Skin, personal clothing, and personal equipment
How: Use M291, or M258A1 kits (may expire from inventory 1 Jul 99) (see pages 140 and 141) for skin and M295 for equipment. If your eyes are exposed, flush with clean water
When: As soon as contamination occurs
Operational-To minimize contact, stop the transfer, and sustain operations
Who: Individuals, crews, teams, and units
What: Only those parts or areas that you must come in contact with to perform your mission
How: Use M291, M295 or M258A1 kits, or soap and water. Weathering and aeration are viable decontamination alternatives
When: When operations require
You will primarily participate in immediate and operational decontamination procedures
Thorough-To reduce contamination to the lowest possible level
Who: Units or wings with or without external support and specially trained teams.
What: Personnel, equipment, material, and work areas.When: As soon as operations, manning, and resources permit.
Reconstitution-To eliminate contamination in an effort to allow unrestricted use of mission-critical resources
Who: Units or wings with external support and specially trained teams.
What: Mission critical aircraft, equipment, material, work areas, and terrain.
When: After hostile actions have terminated or directed by higher authority.
Unexploded Ordnance
Ref AFH 32-4014, Vol 4, AFI 32-3001
Unexploded ordnance (UXO) are hazards! They can be conventional, chemical,
biological, or any combination thereof. They pose a risk of injury or death to all
personnel. They can be missiles, bombs, rockets, mines, or other devices and can
range in size from very small to large. If you to discover a UXO or suspect an object
is one, there are four important steps to take: identify, mark, evacuate, and reportIdentify
Recognize the UXO as a hazard
Remember features; size, shape, color, and condition (intact or leaking)
Mark
Mark it from where you are
Do not move closer
Use whatever material available
Ensure markings are visible in all directions and at night
Do not attempt to remove anything that is on or near a UXO.
Evacuate
Evacuate all personnel from the area
If evacuation is impossible, isolate or barricade the area
Report
Reporting by radio must be done from at least 82 ft (25 m) away
Provide all pertinent details: size, shape, color, condition, landmarks, grid
coordinates
Use USAF ATSO Handbook AFH 32-4014 Volume 4. Tables 4.2 and 4.3 require
reporting information and UXO classification
Handling Prisoners and Defectors
Ref Geneva Convention
Although it is more likely to happen after the fight, the taking of enemy prisoners of
war (EPW) and defectors can happen at any time. When it does, immediately notify
your Unit Control Center (UCC). They will dispatch Security Forces to your location
to take custody of the EPWs or defectors. In the meantime, you should search,
segregate, silence, speed to the rear, safeguard, and tag your detainees.Search
Immediately search the EPW with an armed colleague monitoring
Be conscious to any items that could be used as a weapon or an escape aid
Thoroughly search for items of potential intelligence value
Allow prisoner to keep uniforms and any protective clothing (e.g., bad weather and NBC gear)
Segregate
Separate defectors, deserters, and EPWs
Separate military and civilians
Separate military into subgroups
Officers
NCOs
Airmen
Separate male and female
Silence
Limit communication between EPWs as much as possible
If you don't understand the language, don't allow it
Record anything the EPW says and send it up the chain of command
NO TALKING
Speed to the Rear
Speed is essential. Contact your UCC as soon as possible
Much of the intelligence received from the EPW is time-sensitive
Safeguard
Protect EPWs from local nationals
Protect EPWs from friendly and allied forces
Protect yourself and others from EPWs
Tagging
You must complete an EPW tag if available for each detainee, weapon, and piece of equipment
If not, use any source available
At a minimum you should include:
Date/Time of capture
Capturing unit/branch
Place of capture
Circumstances surrounding capture
Handling Human Remains
Ensure that you treat human remains with dignity and that they are returned to
CONUS by the most expedient means available without destroying any identifying
information.Use the buddy system to transport human remains to a point identified by Services
and Mortuary Affairs, which are normally located near site medical facilities.
Protect Yourself First
Wear gloves when handling remains
DO NOT endanger yourself to retrieve remains
Wear NBC protective gear if you suspect/confirm the remains are contaminated
Secure Available Identification Information
DO NOT remove any identification information from remains (dog tags, ID cards)
DO NOT remove any personal effects from remains (pictures, jewelry, money)
Transport to the CCP ASAP
Use available transportation and pass information up your chain of command
Section Review
What are cordons used for? [page 60]
Name some situations where cordons would be used? [page 61]
True or False: Cordons may be adjusted to accommodate the number of
ersonnel on-scene by the most knowledgeable person present [page 61]
Who is authorized to release information to news media about an accident or
situation? [page 61]
What can you expect to happen when you try to process through an ECP?
[page 62]
What steps should you take to challenge an intruder? [page 63]
What does the term "NBC" mean? [page 159]
How does the "sign/countersign" procedure work? [page 64]
Name the five THREATCON conditions and general actions for each
[pages 65-66]
Aside from actually being bombed or physically attacked, what methods are
used to indicate your operating location is under imminent attack? [page 67]
What does an unfurled red flag mean? [page 67]
In a non-chemical/biological environment or threat, what actions are required
in ALARM YELLOW? [page 67]
What actions would you take if you saw an unfurled black flag while you are
wearing your chemical protection? [page 67]
What actions would you take if you recognized an individual explosive device
laying on the ground? [page 69]
What key steps can you take to lessen your threat to terrorists? [page 68]
What is an LMR? [page 70]
List four things you should remember or do in operating a hand-held radio.
[page 71]
List four things you should not do in operating a hand-held radio. [page 71]
What is the purpose for the grids on a map? How is it set up? [page 72]
How do you read or report a specific location on a grid map? [page 72]
What should you do if a convoy you are in is attacked? [page 74]
What does "FOL" mean? [page 155]
What is the best method of reporting details of an attack over a radio?
[page 76]
What actions should you take if a ground attack occurs? [page 77]
What actions should you take if a flare is detonated over you? [page 78]
What are some considerations choosing a shelter for protection? [page 79]
What are the basic steps for clearing a jam in an M16 rifle? [page 80]
What ammunition is authorized for the M16? [page 82]
What are the basic disassembly procedures for the M16? [page 83]
What are the basic care and cleaning procedures for the M16? [page 84]
What are the basic procedures for a function check on an M16? [page 85]
How do you make sight adjustments for a rifle? [pages 86-87]
What are the basic procedures for clearing a jam in an M9 pistol? [page 89]
What are the basic procedures for loading an M9 pistol? [page 90]
What three actions must you take to clean a pistol? [page 92]
Describe the four basic fundamental of firing an M9. [page 94]
Describe the five fundamentals of base perimeter defense? [page 95-96]
What does "SA" mean? [page 160]
What should you do if you see a fire in your encampment area? [page 97]
What information should a post-terrorist attack report contain? [page 101]
In a post attack chemical environment, what is operational decontamination?
[page 103]
What steps do you take if you discover unexploded ordnance? [page 105]
How do you report a found unexploded ordnance? [page 105]
What actions should you take and/or be aware of in handling prisoners.
[page 106]
What do you think is the most important consideration when searching a
prisoner [page 106]
What three steps should you take when handling human remains? [page 108]
True-False: Handling human remains is one situation where you do not need to
follow the buddy care system? [page 108]
