FORWARD OBSERVER (FO) • Works for the PL. Serves as the eyes of the FA and mortars. Is mainly responsible for locating targets, and for calling for and adjusting indirect fire support. Knows the terrain where the platoon is operating; knows the tactical situation. Knows the mission, the concept, and the unit’s scheme of maneuver and priority of fires. DUTIES DURING PLANNING • Selects targets to support the platoon’s mission based on the company OPORD, platoon leader’s guidance, and analysis of METT-TC factors. • Prepares and uses situation maps, overlays, and terrain sketches. DUTIES DURING EXECUTION • Informs the FIST headquarters of platoon activities and of the fire support situation • Selects new targets to support the platoon's mission based on the company OPORD, the platoon leader's guidance, and an analysis of METT-TC factors. • Calls for and adjusts fire support. • Operates as a team with the radio operator. • Selects OPs. • Maintains communications as prescribed by the FSO. • Maintains the current 8-digit coordinate of his location at all times. 1-1.3. ASSUMPTION OF COMMAND. Any platoon/squad member might have to take command of his element in an emergency, so every Ranger must be prepared to do so. During an assumption of command, situation permitting, the Ranger assuming command accomplishes the tasks (not necessarily in this order) based on METT-TC shown in Figure 1-3. Figure 1-3. TASKS FOR ASSUMPTION OF COMMAND • INFORMS The unit’s subordinate leaders of the command and notifies higher. • CHECKS Security. • CHECKS Crew-served weapons. • PINPOINTS Location. • COORDINATES and CHECKS Equipment. • CHECKS Personnel status. • ISSUES FRAGO (if required). • REORGANIZES As needed, maintaining unit integrity when possible. • MAINTAINS Noise and light discipline. • CONTINUES Patrol base activities, especially security, if assuming command in a patrol base. • RECONNOITERS Or, at the least, conducts a map reconnaissance. • FINALIZES Plan. • EXECUTES The mission.