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RTO

RTO - Radio Telephone Operator

PL’s Right Hand Man

References: Ranger Handbook TC 3-21.76 | Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad ATP 3-21.8

JOE

Overview

“The RTO is responsible for establishing and maintaining comms with HQ and within the patrol”

The RTO is basically there to hold the PL’s radio, so he can focus on his planning and supervision. He knows how to setup the radios and fix them if they break.

The RTO will always remain close to the PL

Overall, the RTO:

  • Holds the PL’s radio
  • Maintains communication
  • Informs PL on what happens over the net
  • Assists with planning tasks
  • Advices PL

Planning Phase

During the planning phase the RTO will be at the middle alongside the PL, helping with planning and doing radio checks. The RTO also does any tasks he has been delegated to do such as making the TMK or tracking time for the PL.

During this phase the RTO:

  • Ensures correct frequencies are set in the radios
  • Ensures radios are working, does radio checks
  • Performs delegated tasks (TMK, Time tracker, note writer)
  • Advises the PL on Paragraph 5 (Command and Signal) of the OPORD, including primary/alternate frequencies, call signs, and succession of command.

Movement Phase

During the movement phase the RTO will be right alongside the PL and monitor the net closely He will inform the PL if anything notable happens.

During this phase the RTO:

  • Maintains noise discipline
  • Supervises the net and informs PL

Execution Phase

During the execution phase the RTO will be close by the PL and will monitor the net for him.

During this phase the RTO:

  • Communicates to higher
  • Communicates with other elements in accordance to PL’s instruction
  • Tracks after time after initial assault

Tips

  • Just stick close to the PL no matter what.
  • Know how to use the radio, PL’s love good RTO’s.
  • Actively listen to the net, don’t zone out.
  • Know how to talk properly on the radio
  • Make sure the radios work

What an RTO SHOULDN’T DO

  • Be useless
  • Separate from the PL
  • Fail to do comm checks

Closing

A good RTO gives good advice and maintains the radio net, If you can get these 2 things figured out then you are on the right track.

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