HAND SIGNALS

Hand signals are not only a great way to maintain silence when needed to organize and direct, but they are also a great way to reinforce verbal commands. Typically when a hand signal is given it is then relayed by everyone in the patrol. So when the point man issues the Stop Hand Signal every troop behind him issues it to the troop behind them.

Move Out – Open hand moving in a forward circular motion.

Stop – Open hand held in the air: Stop, wait a few moments, take two paces, then drop to knee, wait a few moments then drop to prone.

Freeze – Hold fist firmly in the air: Do not move; not even to seek cover

Get Down – Wave open hand towards ground: Go prone and take cover

Get Up – Wave open hand towards sky: get up and resume previous formation

Column – Backstroke motion.

Line – Arm(s) moved straight out to side(s): Form a single rank

Wedge – Arms spread downward: Patrol to take up a wedge formation

Patrol Leader/Leader – For unit commander tap two fingers on the top of forehead, for sergeants tap three fingers on the shoulder or collar.

Rally on Me – Point finger into air and rotate hand in a circle: Rally on me

Rally Point – Point finger into air and rotate hand in circle then point to the ground: Rally on this point

Enemy in Sight – Upturned hand in the form of a pistol, show hand to others then point towards enemy

Prepare for Action - Pumping your fist forwards and back at your hip

Bound and Overwatch – Alternate pumping both fists up and down above you head