MOVEMENT BY WATER
5-148. Platoons avoid crossing water obstacles when possible. Before crossing, however, leaders should identify weak or nonswimmers and pair them with good swimmers in their squads.
5-149. When platoons or squads must move into, through, or out of rivers, lakes, streams, or other bodies of water, they treat the water obstacle as a danger area. While on the water, the platoon is exposed and vulnerable. To offset the disadvantages, the platoon─
- Moves during limited visibility.
- Disperses.
- Moves near the shore to reduce the chances of detection.
Soldiers cross a small stream while on a foot patrol in order to secure the area.
5-150. When moving in more than one boat, the platoon─
- Maintains tactical integrity and self-sufficiency.
- Cross loads essential Soldiers and equipment.
- Ensures the radio is with the leader.
5-151. If boats are not available, several other techniques can be used such as─
- Swimming.
- Poncho rafts.
- Air mattresses.
- Waterproof bags.
- A 7/16-inch rope used as a semisubmersible, one-rope bridge, or safety line.
- Water wings (made from a set of trousers).