What is one of the key tasks of a Patrol Leader upon enemy contact?

The key task of a Patrol Leader upon enemy contact is to decide on the proper Immediate Action (IA) drill. This decision is crucial because Immediate Action drills are pre-planned responses that aim to ensure the safety of the patrol and maintain tactical advantage when encountering enemy forces. The leader must quickly assess the situation and determine the most appropriate course of action to take, whether it involves returning fire, maneuvering to cover, or withdrawing, depending on the circumstances of the contact.

This immediate response is vital for maintaining control and coordination within the patrol, as well as for ensuring that all members of the team act in unison to effectively respond to the threat. The success of the patrol's mission and the safety of its members often depend on the timely and correct execution of these drills. Other tasks, while important at various stages of the operation, do not take precedence over the need for a swift and decisive response upon the initial contact.