ACF Fieldcraft: Basic Field Signals (movement)

Summary

The video discusses the use of field signals in military training, specifically for the Army Cadet Force. These signals are non-verbal hand gestures used to communicate in situations where speaking could reveal one's position or when noise levels make verbal communication impossible. The video highlights basic field signals for movement and direction, such as 'ready to move,' 'advance,' 'hold,' and 'go back,' along with others like 'slow down' and 'space out.' It encourages practicing these signals in different environments to ensure smooth communication during exercises.

Takeaways

• 🖐️ Field signals (or hand signals) are used in situations where verbal communication is not possible, such as during field craft training or exercises.
• 🤫 These signals are useful in two primary scenarios: when trying to remain undetected near enemy presence or when loud rifle fire prevents verbal communication.
• 📜 Field signals are often subject to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), which vary by unit but should be understood and used consistently within a group.
• 👥 Signals are usually issued by one person and passed along to others in the group, allowing for coordinated movement without speaking.
• 🔄 The 'ready to move' signal involves moving the left hand in a circular motion at waist height.
• 👋 The 'advance' or 'follow me' signal is performed by swinging the left hand from the rear to the front.
• ✋ The 'hold' signal is given by raising the left hand open, just above shoulder height, to stop the group.
• 🔃 The 'go back or turn around' signal uses a circular motion with the left hand pointing downwards.
• 📍 The 'move up' signal directs a group to move to a specific location using a sweeping motion with the left hand.
• 🛑 Other important signals include 'close on me,' 'slow down,' 'double speed,' 'space out,' 'lie down,' 'freeze and listen,' and 'resume previous activity.'

Q & A

What are field signals used for in Army Cadet Force training?

Field signals are used to communicate commands and directions without using your voice, typically during field craft training or when taking part in exercises where silence is important or when there is too much noise to communicate verbally.

In what situations are field signals particularly useful?

Field signals are useful in two main situations: when trying to remain undetected near an enemy presence, and when in contact with the enemy where the noise from rifle fire makes verbal communication impossible.

What are SOPs, and how do they affect field signals?

SOPs, or Standard Operating Procedures, are sets of rules laid down by individual units to dictate how specific tasks like field signals or changing patrol formations should be done. While there are slight variations between units, everyone within a group should use the same signals for clarity.

How should you practice field signals, according to the script?

Field signals can be practiced in pairs or small groups, around your detachment, or even at home or outdoors. Regular rehearsal is important to ensure consistency and familiarity.

What is the field signal for 'Ready to move'?

The 'Ready to move' signal involves moving the left hand in a circular motion in front of the body at waist height.

How is the 'Advance or follow me' signal given?

The 'Advance or follow me' signal is given by swinging the left hand, open, from rear to front to indicate that the group should follow or advance.

What signal is used to tell the group to stop or hold position?

To signal 'Hold,' the left hand is raised just above shoulder height with the hand open.

What is the difference between 'Move up' and 'Close on me' signals?

'Move up' instructs individuals or a group to move to a specific location, with the left hand making a sweeping motion in the desired direction. 'Close on me' tells others to move to the signaller's location, with the left hand placed on top of the head and the elbow pointing outward.

What field signal is used to indicate slowing down or increasing speed?

To signal 'Slow down,' the left hand is lifted up and down to the side. To signal 'Double' (speed up), the left hand is formed into a fist and moved up and down in front of the body.

How is the 'Freeze and listen' signal given?

The 'Freeze and listen' signal is made by cupping the left hand over the left ear to indicate that everyone should stop and listen for potential enemy movement.