and search for additional survival knowledge.GROUP SURVIVALJust as you must make your reactions to survivalsituations automatic, so must the entire squad, platoon,or other group that you might be a member of or beleading. The best chance for survival belongs to thegroup that works together and has a leader who acceptsresponsibility for the group. When you are the seniorperson, accept responsibility for your group by takingsteps to lead members to work together. Some actionsyou can take include the following:Organize group survival activities. Groupsurvival depends largely upon the organization of itsmanpower. Organized action by group members whoknow what to do and when to do it, during ordinarycircumstances and during a crisis, prevents panic.Keeping the group informed, devising a plan, andsticking to the plan helps achieve organization.Assume command and establish a chain ofcommand that includes all members of the group.Good leadership lessens panic, confusion, anddisorganization. Make certain each person knows his orher position in the chain of command and is familiarwith the duties of every other person, especially yourduties as the senior member. Under no circumstancesleave leadership of the group to chance acceptance bysome member after a situation arises.Maintain respect for your leadership by using itwisely; be the leader and set the example. Groupsurvival is a test of effective leadership. Watch out forproblems that could turn into serious arguments. Keeptroublemakers from attracting undue attention, andkeep those who may “crack up” from disrupting thegroup. Prevent carelessness caused by fatigue, hunger,and cold. Know yourself and the members of yourgroup; take responsibility for each person’s welfare.Develop a feeling of mutual dependence withinthe group by stressing that each person depends onthe others for survival. Emphasize that the group willnot leave the wounded or injured behind—that eachmember’s responsibility is to make sure the groupreturns intact. A feeling of mutual dependence fostershigh morale and unity. Each member receives supportand strength from the others.Make the decisions no matter what the situation.However, base your decisions on the information andadvice of other members of the group—much asadmirals 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. Theability to think on your feet usually determinessuccessful survival.STRESS OF SURVIVALSurvival is a state of mind. Your ability to return toyour group or to be rescued depends in a great part onyour ability to cope with frustrations. You may becomefrustrated because you find you are unable toaccomplish specific tasks. Perhaps you are hungry, cold,lost, injured, or lack the proper equipment. Being able toimprovise equipment, care for your physical needs, andprovide first aid for your injuries will help you to controlyour environment, reactions, and emotions. Don’t beafraid to experiment and use your imagination. Alogical experimental approach is the best way to solvemost problems.Remember the following rules:1. Almost everything is useful—don’t throw awayanything.2. You can be lazier than you would expect, if youjust think. The least effort can be the mostefficient.3. Everything you do should be oriented towardrescue.4. If your surrounding conditions don’t suit yourneeds, do what you can to change them.SURVIVAL TECHNIQUESAs a member of the armed forces, you always facethe chance of being exposed to conditions that can forceyou into a life-or-death struggle. However, you canremain alive anywhere in the world when you keep yourwits. Remember that nature and the elements are neitheryour friend nor your enemy. By using your wits, you canmake them work for you instead of allowing them towork against you.15-17Student Notes:
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