Thought I would provide this here for the new guys looking for basic information.

1.1. Individual Tactical Movement Techniques.
1.1.1. Cover. Cover is protection from hostile fire. Since there is such a wide variety of weapons that may be used against you, the term "cover" becomes relative to the type of weapon employed by the adversary force. This means that an object which may protect you from automatic rifle fire may have no bearing on the effect of a rocket-propelled grenade or flamethrower. Develop the habit of looking for and taking advantage of, every bit of cover that the terrain offers. Being constantly aware of available cover increases the probability of correct immediate action when violence erupts. Both natural cover, such as ditches and trees, and artificial cover, such as foxholes, buildings, walls and vehicles, protect from flat-trajectory fire and will partially protect from high-angle fire (for example, fire from elevated positions or grenade launchers). Although most air bases are relatively flat and offer little cover to security police, even the smallest depression or curb may provide enough protection while under fire. A basic rule of thumb should always be MOVE TO COVER rather than concealment, since observation during movement is a necessary risk.
1.1.2. Concealment. The ability to conceal oneself while observing or applying fire is essential to survival under both hostile and nonhostile conditions. Concealment is protection from observation ONLY and cannot be considered protection from hostile fire. Reconnaissance by weapon fire is an effective technique by which an adversary can dispose of concealed, but not under cover defenders. Natural concealment is provided by the immediate surroundings and need not be changed in order to be effective. Some examples of natural concealment would be: darkness, shadows, foliage, or fog. Artificial concealment is man made or altered. Burlap strips, nets and natural materials, such as bushes and leaves which have been moved, may be used effectively for concealing personnel or equipment. In certain instances, chemical smoke may be used to conceal or mask movement; however, plans must include the probability of reconnaissance fire through the smoke screen by the adversary force. The rules for concealment are:
1.1.2.1. Avoid unnecessary movement. Movement attracts attention. When positions must be changed, move carefully over a concealed route to the new position. The use of a concealed route is called "invisible deployment".
1.1.2.2. Use all available concealment and blend with it to prevent detection of your position. Trees, bushes, grass, earth, and man-made structures forming your background vary in color and appearance, making it possible for you to blend with them. Select objects which blend with your uniform and absorb the distinctive outline of your body.

1.1.2.3. Shadows are found under most conditions of day and night. They help to hide you, so use them to your advantage.
1.1.2.4. Stay low to observe. Observe from a crouch, a squat, or the prone position in order to present a low silhouette, making it difficult for the adversary to see you.
1.1.2.5. Expose nothing that shines. Reflection of light on a shiny surface instantly attracts attention and can be seen from great distances.
1.1.2.6. Keep off the skyline. Figures on the horizon can be seen from a great distance, even at night, because a dark outline stands out against the lighter sky. The silhouette formed by your body makes for an excellent target.
1.1.2.7. Alter familiar outlines such as your body and weapon.
1.1.2.8. Maintain silence. Turn down your radio or use microphones and earphones. Be especially vigilant to make no sound that could give away your position. Coughing, sneezing, disturbing leaves, dropping objects, metal on metal sounds, etc., are examples of unintentional noise that will cause you to become a target.
1.1.3. Camouflage. While concealment is the use of objects and conditions to evade sight, camouflage is the method of deceiving by making personnel, equipment, and positions look like something they are not. Application of the below basic rules of camouflage should become second nature to you.
1.1.3.1. Take advantage of all available natural concealment. NEVER approach a suspicious situation without using caution and taking the time to perceive the circumstance of the scene. This can be done by applying the proper concealment measures.
1.1.3.2. Alter the form, shadow, texture and color of objects. Since the purpose of camouflage is to blend with the background, several modifications in your uniform should be considered to enhance survivability. Shirt sleeves should be rolled down and, in combat operations, camouflage paint should be applied to all exposed portions of the body to increase your effectiveness in deception.

1.1.3.3. Camouflage techniques should be effective against both ground and aerial observation. Background is the controlling element in camouflageand governs every concealment measure.

1.1.4. Individual Movement Techniques (IMT). In deployment situations, security police must act instinctively since there is a real danger of hostile fire. However, what has not been practiced is the deliberate moves in the face of fear and uncertainty. The ability to move will be vital to surviving an extreme physical/mental stress period where injury or death could be the result of a single mistake. In many "exercise situations", the length of time necessary to reach an objective sometimes becomes the entire goal of the exercise. In those instances, the "how fast you did it" far outweighs the "how effectively you did it". Our system for defense is predicated on three elements: Immediate discrimination, superior firepower, and containment. Although there should be ample concern for timed response, the quality of our previous training clearly comes into focus by the number of casualties we suffer due to incorrect action while under fire. Little things which are normally not practiced due to their apparent insignificance will get you killed when confronted with an intelligent and dedicated adversary. Little things like movement FROM cover TO concealment, allowing parts of your body to be exposed while moving, or, stopping to pick up something you dropped (for example, your radio falls off your belt or a magazine spills while running) will give the adversary force a chance to neutralize you. It takes practice to achieve and maintain a level of proficiency that will keep you alive during a confrontation. In order to function effectively under both normal and hostile conditions, each individual must be mobile, that is, have the ability to move from one position to another while offering the least exposure by sight or sound. Tactical movement techniques should be practiced using the "worst case" scenarios and be honestly evaluated in order to prepare yourself for a fire fight.

1.1.4.1. Rush. The rush is the most expeditious movement that can be made while on foot and involves a five-step process. The rush normally begins from and ends in the prone position. First, and most important, is selecting the most advantageous spot to which to move. During this time, you must take into consideration the distance involved, the possibility/probability of hostile fire, observability during movement, amount of cover afforded you, and all of the other tactical principles.
. Draw one leg forward into a flat pushup position preparing to lunge to the upright position.
. Next, raise up and move quickly to the preselected spot where you plant your feet about shoulder width apart and prepare to hit the ground.
. Drop to your knees allowing the forward motion of the rush to bring the upper portion of your body in line with the ground while breaking the fall with your non-shooting hand.
. The last movement should be a recovery to the prone position in such a manner so as to apply vision of firing techniques. Upon resumption of the prone position, the option to roll to the left or right may be exercised in order to take advantage of better cover or concealment or to confuse the adversary. Preparation for the next rush begins immediately upon termination of movement.
RUSH ILLUSTRATION:

1.1.4.2. High Crawl. When cover and concealment are available, speed is required, or when poor visibility reduces observation, the high crawl technique may be the most effective way to move.
. Keep the body free from the ground and rest the weight on your forearms

and lower legs. Cradle the weapon in your arms, keeping the muzzle off the ground and both hands cupped over the magazine well.
. Move forward by alternately advancing your right elbow and left knee, and then, your left elbow and right knee. Care must be taken to ensure the buttocks remain as low to the ground as possible, since observation may be made over the tops of the obstacles.
HIGH CRAWL ILLUSTRATION:


1.1.4.3. Low Crawl. When cover and concealment are scarce, visibility is good, speed is not essential, or you are receiving effective hostile fire, the low crawl may be the best movement technique.
. Keep the body as flat as possible against the ground. Grasp your weapon
sling at the upper swivel and let the balance of the weapon rest against your upper forearm. The butt of the weapon may or may not drag the ground, depending on the particular circumstance.
. Push your arms forward and pull the right leg forward while remaining
perfectly flat on the ground.
. Pull with the arms and push with your legs to move forward. Change
your pushing leg frequently to avoid fatigue. Care must be taken not to raise or lift any part of your body during movement, particularly your head or buttocks.


1.1.4.4. Spider Crawl. At any time, it may become necessary to descend to the ground quickly from an elevated position or to move over an obstacle. To jump to the ground may cause injury due to an unfamiliarity with the terrain or height of the obstacle. The "spider crawl" is used in these circumstances to avoid injury and to reduce the silhouette while going over an object.
. As you move along the obstacle or structure, you must maintain a low
profile to reduce silhouette. Place your weapon in your lead hand.
. Your leading hand and foot are extended over the edge of the obstacle in
a "spread eagle" position while your trailing hand and foot are pressed firmly against the top of the obstacle.
. Your lead hand and foot are slowly extended down the vertical face of
the obstacle until only your trail hand and foot are on top.
. Your trail foot is released, closely followed by your trail hand using
your lead as a pivot to control the drop.
. You should land on the balls of your feet, with your legs spread
approximately shoulder width. Your knees should be flexed and your body should be in a slightly crouched position hugging the obstacle.
. The spider crawl should be practiced for both a right-handed, as well
as, a left-handed descent. The placement of your lead hand will determine which direction you will be facing once you hit the ground.
1.1.4.5. The Roll. When you are in the prone position and lateral movement for a short distance is desired in order to confuse the adversary or to obtain better cover, a rolling movement may be most effective. The roll may be made either to the left or to the right, whichever is more appropriate. However, care must be taken to muffle any noise made by your weapon and equipment during this movement since the sound alone could draw fire to pin you down.
. In preparing to roll, lie in a "belly flat against the ground" position. Lean your upper body to the left, letting your weight rest on the shoulder.

. With both hands, draw your weapon into your chest so that the muzzle-to-
stock runs down the long axis of your body from head to foot.
. Bring your right foot in front of your left foot, preparing to push your
body in the opposite direction. A push with your foot can be made each time your body returns to the original position, limited only by the distance you wish to travel. You should exercise caution, however, regarding the number of rolls you make since disorientation can occur while the head is spinning.
. A roll to the left is done by repeating the above steps while
substituting left for right and right for left.
1.1.5. Night Considerations. Although the daylight hours are the most active on an Air Force base, security police are on duty around-the-clock providing protection for Air Force resources and the base. During periods of low visibility such as darkness, haze, fog, chemical smoke, etc., the air base becomes more vulnerable. As a result, additional factors must be considered for movement by individuals. The sound of movement, although relatively insignificant in the daytime, may be greatly amplified at night. Also, unfamiliarity with the terrain, coupled with the loss of vision, will require you to move slowly and deliberately. It is important to remember
that enemy forces are also likely to move at night or during reduced visibility.
1.1.5.1. Night Walk. Night walking takes on added emphasis when moving towards an objective or investigating an accident, since an adversary may shoot through the darkness at unfamiliar sounds or movement.
. To walk when extreme quiet is required, make your footing sure and solid
by keeping your weight on one foot as each step is taken. Hold your weapon in one hand and extend the other forward, feeling for obstructions.
. Raise your other leg high in order to clear brush, grass or obstacles.
. With the weight on your rear foot, gently set your front foot down, toe
first. Feel with your toe to find a good spot. Lower your heel after finding a solid spot. Shift your weight and balance to your forward spot. Take short steps to avoid losing your balance.
1.1.5.2. Assuming the prone position. The prone position allows you to silhouette targets and, more importantly, offers the most expedient cover. To assume the prone position, stop and drop to your knees. Fall forward, breaking the fall with your free hand.
1.1.5.3. Rules for night movement. The goal of night movement is the same as that of day movement, that is, to reach your position safely with a minimum of detection, or better, to be completely undetected. Prepare yourself and your equipment to facilitate movement by removing all loose objects and tightening and taping your gear down.
. Move by bounds or short distances. Avoid the skyline since a dark
outline tends to stand out against the lighter sky. Also, avoid clear areas when possible for the same reason. Always select your new position before you move. Roll quickly over walls and obstacles. Going over a wall upright or by jumping attracts attention and makes you a much larger target.
. Do not move unless you must. Movement is the quickest method of
revealing your position.
. Take advantage of background noise to conceal your movement. If
necessary, and possible, create a diversion to draw attention away from your movement. Upon reaching a new position, remain there alert and listening. Observe briefly to see if your movement alarmed any animals as this will alert your adversary that something is happening.
. Move across roads where there is the most cover and concealment. Look
for culverts, low spots, curves, parked vehicles, trash cans, bushes, trees, etc. Avoid steep slopes, areas of loose stones, ridges or roof lines.

Hello everyone,

These four posts by Bravo 37 brings up a important point. Army FMs, websites with
gameplay tactics, and other sources of information are out there for you to read,
practice, absorb, and put in to use.

My question is: What percentage players do you think just show up without much thought
to military fieldcraft and are just looking for opportunities to shoot opponents? How many
players actually practice the war proven tactical doctrines that are applicable to Airsoft
game play?

The last time at Wellington (the game were we looked for weapons in woods), I made it
a point to focus on tactical formations. We used a squad column in the thick woods and we
used a fire team wedge to move into the town. It worked because we took the town with
just a four-man fire team (Andrews and my son Chris were on that team). We just couldn't
hold on to it for lack of follow-on fire support from an overwatch team. At Bloody Dixie 2
at Weaver, we had excellent fire team support, maneuvering fires, and good CQB techniques
for taking and keeping the town.

I guess that my main motivation for going to games is to put into practice the tactical
doctrines that I am taught more than just the opportunity to sling plastic. To be honest,
I really look at the airsoft games as a giant outdoor laboratory to find out what skills
are working and what skills need to reworked because I failed to achieve some objective.
There have been a couple of games that I wrote down notes at the end of the day to
review the game's successes and failures. Do I have fun? You bet I do. But is fun the
only objective for me? Absolutely not because to me, practicing fieldcraft is as much fun
as an intense shoot out in town battles.

What are your thoughts about being a serious student of fieldcraft even though this is a
game we play?

Respectfully,
Mike W.
Auburn, AL
HooAH!

what was funny was that the objective was not to hold the town...it was to have the most dropped off weapons at the end of the game. i noticed a lot of people forgot that about halfway about the game and started battleing for the town. heck i even did it dor a few minutes but then i thought....we can win this we just have to do our objectives...thats when han and a group including myself went out into the woods to take a second look to find weapons.han found the rpg.which won the game for us.

i would really like to learn how to roll with my gun in hand but i think i will practice with a springer for now

I used to teach this stuff as part of my job. I kind of miss the teaching part. Should a group of you want to spend sometime going over these things we can arrange a meeting. There a lot of subtlies to combat skills. For me it is not about winning it is about seeing otheres understand and employ the concepts. Anyway, I'm available if the interest is there.

Hello everyone,

joshuaearlwade wrote:

what was funny was that the objective was not to hold the town...it was to have the most dropped off weapons at the end of the game. i noticed a lot of people forgot that about halfway about the game and started battleing for the town. heck i even did it dor a few minutes but then i thought....we can win this we just have to do our objectives...thats when han and a group including myself went out into the woods to take a second look to find weapons.han found the rpg.which won the game for us.

While that was the game mission, the second team lead by A3 was searching for weapons in the woods
and found one cache. My team's objective was to take the town for the purpose of controlling the woods
to the east and west of town. If we could deny or slow the enemy advance through the woods, that might
be the time needed for the second team to find the weapons. Our plan required a holding/delaying action
by my assault team while the search team looked for the caches. We did in fact accomplish what we intended.
We did slow down the search for the opposing side for about 8-10 minutes while we held the town. It wasn't
until after we lost the town, a vital control point for the narrow strip of woods to the east and west that you
guys found the high point value weapons. I didn't know until you just confirmed it that by having alot of
your side's troops engage us to force us from the town that it slowed your efforts to find the weapons
caches. As you stated, it wasn't until you made a second effort that you found it.

Had we be able to hold the town and keep suppressive fires on the east and west woods, who knows, maybe
the second team could have found the RPG had we given the second team the time to find it and thus alter
the outcome of the game. It was two-pronged strategy that could have worked had I done a better job of
leading my team into the town and holding it. For that, I take full responsibility. We were within 10 minutes
of finding the caches but your initiative achieved the mission complete which, often times, determines the
outcome of a game.

Yes, the mission was to seize the weapons but the tactics were still sound. I actually thought the team did
a great job of taking the town and holding for a short while. We achieved the assault team's purpose but we
did not give Second Team enough time. Good job on your team's part to return to the search before we
could find it.

"Hat tip" to you guys for that day.


Respectfully,
Mike W.
Auburn, AL

yall did a great job holding the town...thats why i gave up on trying to get it back and skirted the sides of the field to not get shot.there was also a mortar that was never found by either team.

bravo i will pm you sometime in the near future i think it would make a great gameday to get you to come out and teach some of this stuff.were you a drill sargeant or something?

.the field here in mccalla is going up quick but it is only a temporary 1-2 year field. i would like to make a training / gameday

we could go through the training the first few hours and then have a game.

Not a Drill Instructor, in the Air Force they teach basic skills, marching saluting, military protocol etc. I was a ground combat instructor and a ground force commander for more deployments than I care to count. Ground combat skills are perishable so I was constantly working with the troops on basic skills and battle drills.

When we hook up we will discuss battel drills and their purpose. Looking forward to hearing from you.

I like to go alone or with one other person to flank the enemy or seek around to the back and cause chaos while my other teammates are attacking from another direction

i think we will do the next training day in mccalla sometime in april.

I usualy just finda good spot and sit down... hahahaha
I pick people off with my L96
as long as I am still noone can see me... or hear me hahaha

Yep, works great until you encounter a unit that can shoot, move and communicate, then its dead meat