- FM 6-0Publication
Commander and Staff Organization and Operations
FM 6-0 is how a staff is organized and how it actually runs: staff sections and their duties, running estimates, briefings, rehearsals, and command post operations. When the 2022 edition was published, the planning material moved out to FM 5-0. Use the two together.
- FM 6-27Publication
The Commander's Handbook on the Law of Land Warfare
FM 6-27, published with the Marine Corps as MCTP 11-10C, is the current Army manual on the law of armed conflict. It replaced FM 27-10, which had stood since 1956. Commanders and staffs use it for targeting, detainee handling, and the treatment of civilians and protected property.
- Board question
What does MOPP stand for, and what are the postures?
Mission-oriented protective posture. The postures are MOPP Ready, MOPP 0, MOPP 1, MOPP 2, MOPP 3, and MOPP 4. The commander sets the level to balance protection against the heat and performance cost of wearing the gear.
- ATP 3-21.8Publication
Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad
ATP 3-21.8 is the techniques manual for the Infantry rifle platoon and squad across Infantry, Stryker, and armored brigade combat teams. It carries battle drills, movement formations, and the offensive and defensive tasks small units actually execute. The posted file is the January 2024 edition incorporating change 1, dated June 2025.
- FM 5-0Publication
Planning and Orders Production
FM 5-0 is the Army's reference for planning: the military decision-making process, troop leading procedures, Army design methodology, and the formats for plans and orders. If you have ever needed the five-paragraph OPORD format at midnight, this is the book. The November 2024 edition supersedes the 16 May 2022 version and the posted file incorporates change 1, dated August 2025.
- Acronym
CP
Command Post
- Board question
What are the three general orders?
One. I will guard everything within the limits of my post and quit my post only when properly relieved. Two. I will obey my special orders and perform all my duties in a military manner. Three. I will report violations of my special orders, emergencies, and anything not covered in my instructions to the commander of the relief.
- Board question
What is the difference between general orders and special orders on guard?
General orders apply to every guard, everywhere, at all times. Special orders apply to a particular post and are issued by the commander who established that post. General orders never change; special orders change with the post and the mission.