What is the primary responsibility of a patrol leader?

The primary responsibility of a patrol leader is to plan, lead, and execute missions. This role is crucial as it directly influences the effectiveness and success of the patrol operations. A patrol leader must assess the mission objectives, develop a strategy to achieve those objectives, ensure each team member understands their roles, and adapt plans as conditions change during execution. The responsibility encompasses not only strategic vision but also tactical decision-making and the ability to lead a team through various scenarios in the field, which is vital for operational success.

While coordinating with other units, scheduling training exercises, and performing administrative tasks are important duties, they are secondary to the core functions of leading the patrol. The ability to command and manage the patrol during missions is what defines the effectiveness of a patrol leader, making this the most critical responsibility they hold.