and search for additional survival knowledge. GROUP SURVIVAL Just as you must make your reactions to survival situations automatic, so must the entire squad, platoon, or other group that you might be a member of or be leading. The best chance for survival belongs to the group that works together and has a leader who accepts responsibility for the group. When you are the senior person, accept responsibility for your group by taking steps to lead members to work together. Some actions you can take include the following: Organize  group  survival  activities.  Group survival depends largely upon the organization of its manpower. Organized action by group members who know what to do and when to do it, during ordinary circumstances  and  during  a  crisis,  prevents  panic. Keeping  the  group  informed,  devising  a  plan,  and sticking to the plan helps achieve organization. Assume  command  and  establish  a  chain  of command that includes all members of the group. Good  leadership  lessens  panic,  confusion,  and disorganization. Make certain each person knows his or her position in the chain of command and is familiar with the duties of every other person, especially your duties as the senior member. Under no circumstances leave leadership of the group to chance acceptance by some member after a situation arises. Maintain respect for your leadership by using it wisely; be the leader and set the example. Group survival is a test of effective leadership. Watch out for problems that could turn into serious arguments. Keep troublemakers  from  attracting  undue  attention,  and keep those who may “crack up” from disrupting the group. Prevent carelessness caused by fatigue, hunger, and cold. Know yourself and the members of your group; take responsibility for each person’s welfare. Develop a feeling of mutual dependence within the group by stressing that each person depends on the others for survival. Emphasize that the group will not leave the wounded or injured behind—that each member’s  responsibility  is  to  make  sure  the  group returns intact. A feeling of mutual dependence fosters high morale and unity. Each member receives support and strength from the others. Make the decisions no matter what the situation. However, base your decisions on the information and advice  of  other  members  of  the  group—much  as admirals make decisions based on input from their staff. Above all else, never appear indecisive. If  situations  require  you  to  act  immediately, consider  the  facts  and  make  decisions  rapidly.  The ability  to  think  on  your  feet  usually  determines successful survival. STRESS OF SURVIVAL Survival is a state of mind. Your ability to return to your group or to be rescued depends in a great part on your ability to cope with frustrations. You may become frustrated  because  you  find  you  are  unable  to accomplish specific tasks. Perhaps you are hungry, cold, lost, injured, or lack the proper equipment. Being able to improvise equipment, care for your physical needs, and provide first aid for your injuries will help you to control your environment, reactions, and emotions. Don’t be afraid  to  experiment  and  use  your  imagination.  A logical experimental approach is the best way to solve most problems. Remember the following rules: 1.  Almost everything is useful—don’t throw away anything. 2.  You can be lazier than you would expect, if you just  think.  The  least  effort  can  be  the  most efficient. 3.  Everything you do should be oriented toward rescue. 4.  If your surrounding conditions don’t suit your needs, do what you can to change them. SURVIVAL TECHNIQUES As a member of the armed forces, you always face the chance of being exposed to conditions that can force you into a life-or-death struggle. However, you can remain alive anywhere in the world when you keep your wits. Remember that nature and the elements are neither your friend nor your enemy. By using your wits, you can make them work for you instead of allowing them to work against you. 15-17 Student Notes: