United States Army Field Manual 7-93 Long-Range Surveillance Unit Operations/Appendix A

APPENDIX A - PERSONNEL RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION

The LRSU mission is a demanding one. Essentially, the LRSU mission is nonconventional while working in a conventional environment. Due to the complexity of the mission and the demands on the soldiers, recruitment and selection of potential LRSU soldiers is one of the unit commander's most important duties. He must select soldiers who are mature, physically fit, mentally strong and can work closely within a small group, but also can think and act independently. This appendix provides guidance to corps and division staffs and commanders in recruiting and selecting prospective LRSU soldiers.

A-1. CORPS AND DIVISION G1 edit

LRSU commanders need the cooperation of the G1 in allowing prospective unit soldiers to be attached for 30 to 60 days. During this time, the LRSU evaluates the soldier. At the end of this time, the G1 issues assignment orders to the LRSU or assigns the soldier to another unit. The commander and G1 agree on the standards. The LRSU commander must justify why the soldier failed to meet the standards.

A-2. COMMANDERS edit

The LRSU designs a recruitment and selection program that satisfies the personnel needs of the unit. It is approved by the battalion commander in cooperation with the G1.

a. In recruiting prospective LRSU soldiers, the following screening standards are desirable:

  • Airborne qualified (specialist four or corporal and below).
  • Airborne and ranger qualified (sergeant and above).
  • GT score of 110 or above.
  • Must agree to volunteer for airborne and ranger schools (if applicable).
  • Meet US Army height and weight or body fat standards.
  • No prior disciplinary problems.
  • No history of drug or alcohol abuse.
  • Graduate One-Station Unit Training without waivers.
  • Have at least two years of retainability in the unit.

b. While a prospective soldier is attached to the LRSU, he should meet the following minimum standards:

  • Pass the Army Physical Fitness Test (ranger school standards).
  • Pass the Combat Water Survival Test.
  • Complete a 5-mile run within 40 minutes.
  • Complete a 12-mile road march while carrying 35 pounds within 3 hours.
  • Pass a written land navigation test.
  • Complete a day and night land navigation practical exercise.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in basic LRSU team skills (operation of HF radios, burst devices, and construction of antennas; basic vehicle identification; as a team member conducting operations).
  • Pass a comprehensive examination by the unit selection review board.