Mission IV: Frontline

[2nd Ranger]

September 4, 1989

OPORD

Situation: We need to solidify our lines to the South of Dhahaban. Currently, there is nothing between the enemy and our FOB at Dhahaban, which we will soon be using as a forward supply base. It is essential that we protect Dhahaban if we are to continue a rapid advance to the South. To that end, we must capture the towns of Dawlatabad and Al Jumum, and establish a front line across the Northern end of the island.

Intention: Two platoons of the 10th Mtn. Division will seize the towns of Dawlatabad and Al Jumum, to establish a solid line across the Northern sector. 1st Platoon will attack Dawlatabad, while 2nd Platoon will attack Al Jumum. 1st Platoon’s lead element (You) will be inserted by the M113 and HMMWV column and wait for Squads 1 and 2 to get into position, then the lead element will signal the attack by radio. On this signal, both platoons will attack their objectives. When Dawlatabad is secure, 1st Platoon’s lead element will link up with 3rd Plt and secure the Western road which leads to the enemy-held port of Al Qusayr, and hold it until reinforcements arrive.

Enemy forces: Hostiles occupy Dawlatabad and Al Jumum. Possible foot patrols in immediate area, also around the Western road.

Friendly Forces: Three squads of 1st Plt. will attack Dawlatabad, likewise for 2nd Plt. at Al Jumum

Service/Support: Lead element of 1st Plt. will insert via M113/HMMWV column. Additional supplies available from M113.

Current weather: sunny, medium visibility (dusk)

Forecast for next 12 hours: No change in weather pattern; total temperature drop of five degrees by 2100

OBJECTIVES

1. When your team is in position, send the attack order (Radio) and Capture Dawlatabad. Try to take some prisoners.

2. Wait for the HMMWV/truck column to arrive, then link up with 3rd Platoon in the West.

3. Together with 3 Plt., patrol and Secure the Western road, and hold it until armor arrives.

Notes

1st and 2nd Squads have already gone ahead to achieve a covert approach. They should be in position by the time we arrive. After dropping us off, the M113 and HMMWV will wait just North of town until we secure their approach. According to the recon team, there is one BMP guarding Dawlatabad. We need to take that out before the vehicles can roll in to secure the town.

3rd Platoon will be waiting for us at the RV point after we clear Dawlatabad. Our objective is to stop any and all vehicles or troops who try to attack from Al Qusayr in the West. We will RTB when some more of our armor can make it down from the airfield.

Hopefully we'll learn something about the enemy from any prisoners we capture.