WARNO

The warning order

Reference: TC 3-21.76 (Ranger Handbook)

Purpose

The purpose of the WARNORD is to give a heads up or warning to your platoon on a new mission. It gives your subordinates time to prepare and is given as quickly as possible usually 10 minutes or less after getting orders from higher. You give your OPORD later with more complete information

What to include

Same thing you would include in an OPORD, just more condensed

Situation

• AO Description
• Enemy Forces, #, Weapons, Morale, what are they doing?
• Friendlies in the map
• Attachments and detachments
• Black/Gold Plan

Mission

Make sure to say it twice

• Who, What, Where, When, Why

Execution

• Task to subordinates: assign ASS1, ASS2, SEC and WPN Squads
• Special teams: assign Aid/Liter, EPW and Demolitions if needed
• Special roles: assign Pointman, FO, R&S Team and any other special roles

Sustainment

• List weapons/equipment that need maintenance
• Supply needs, like extra water if needed
• Health plan

Command and Signal

• Succession of command
• Location of leadership
• Signal, Frequencies, Call signs
• Password and challenge, running password and combo number