Subject 1 (Team Leader)

Outline

This document is a comprehensive overview of the subject matter of Subject 1 training, covering the theory and practice of team leadership - both at a fire team level as well as section command. Starting with the theory of the team leader's role in a functional infantry detachment, proceeding to cover practical advanced radio configuration and basic formal RATEL, how to receive and give orders, practical tips to guide the team leader's decision-making process, explanation of some basic tactics (including vehicle usage, especially in a convoy), and finishing by establishing some basic Tactical Exercises Without Troops (TEWTs).

This document is not a replacement for participating in a Subject 1 training course, but can be considered supplemental material, as much of the value of Subject 1 training comes from interactive exercises and the ability of instructors to tailor the course to suit the candidates and answer any questions they might have.

Note also that under no circumstances will this course make you a good leader - it simply contains the knowledge required to fill the role. Effective application of these skills cannot be taught, it can only be developed through practice.

Responsibilities and Expectations

A leader's job within a detachment is to provide direction, typically to a fire team of four soldiers or a section of two fire teams. A leader's ability to direct their soldiers effectively can be the deciding factor in whether or not their detachment can complete its objectives effectively. Leaders are ultimately responsible for all of the soldiers under their command - not only ensuring their safety as practically as possible, but also ensuring their effectiveness in a firefight or whatever tasking might be at hand.

A leader is a critical piece of the organizational backbone of a detachment. They are responsible for information flow, both up and down the chain of command. Leaders must be able to gather information from the front line, or from their subordinates, and pass up information relevant to higher levels of command. Leaders must also gather information from their commander and their fellow leaders as applicable, ensuring that soldiers under their command are aware of everything that could help them carry out their tasking moment-to-moment.

In summary, leadership involves processing, filtering, and acting on a large variety of information coming from all directions, and effectively communicating that information to the people who need it. This role benefits most from strong tactical analysis skills, quick decision-making, confident dissemination of orders, and constant awareness of the unfolding situation.

To ensure you can properly lead your fire team or section, you will need to ensure that you know and understand all of the following information presented within this course.