Field Manual: Platoon Organization

Chapter 1 Platoon Organization and Makeup

1001 INTRODUCTION

The combat effectiveness of every unit is based on three factors: experience, equipment, and organization. Generally, the latter comes with the former; as a unit gains experience, the individual members grow into a cohesive, organized squad. However, one does not have to wait for combat to develop a command structure – in fact, one should not wait until combat. A well-organized, though inexperienced, unit will always suffer fewer casualties than one in which there is no unit organization.

1002 HISTORY

X-COM derives much of its military organization from the armed forces of its member nations. However, the “traditional” squad and platoon command structure is rendered ineffective by the relatively small size of X-COM. This necessitated major revisions to our organizational ‘template.’

Firstly, squads. Traditionally, they had only one commanding officer – a sergeant or NCO. In the revised structure, they have three officers, one of whom assumes overall command. This allows the squad to break up into semi-independent ‘teams’ of three or four, providing greater flexibility within the squad structure.

Secondly, platoons. Traditionally consisting of two to four squads, led by a lieutenant with an NCO as second, the platoon is the next-largest unit within X-COM. The structure has been kept for this unit; however, the ranking officer and his second may be of higher rank.

Lastly, companies. Since X-COM is not expected to expand beyond five full-sized platoons, the “company” designation is ignored. Again, the ranks – captain with a first sergeant – are regarded as “minimum” ranks for the position.

1003 GENERAL PLATOON ORGANIZATION

As stated above, the platoon consists of two to four squads, led by a Lieutenant or higher and NCO second.