Marine Corps Gazette

: George Washington and Benedict Arnold: A Tale of Two Patriots
By Dave R. Palmer $29.95
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TDG Symbols

As with terminology, standardized map symbols improve our ability to communicate quickly with minimal misunderstanding. Through the use of overlays the commander can quickly and effectively communicate a plan, concept, or situation. This appendix provides imformation for the use of basic tactical symbols. For a more detailed discussion of map symbols and control measures, see Operational Handbook 6-1 or Field Manual 101-5-1.

Units, Installation, Activities

•Basic Symbols


Unit	Headquarters	Logistical Installation	Observation Post

•Additional Information

Each basic symbol requires additional information to describe the functions or characteristics of that unit, installation, or activity. This information is provided in specific locations in and around the basic symbol, as show in this example:

- The unit size is located directly on top of the basic symbol. (Battalion)
- The role indicator is provided inside the symbol. (Mechanized Infantry)
- The unique designation is provided directly to the left of the symbol. (1st Battalion)
- The higher headquarters is provided directly to the right of the symbol. (2d Marine Regiment)
- Any attachments or detachments are represented by (-) and/or (+) to the upper right of the symbol.

•Unit Size


Fire Team	Squad	Section	Platoon/ Detachment	Company/ Battery

Battalion/ Squadron	Regiment	Brigade	Division	Corps/Force

•Role Indicator


Antitank	Light Armor	Air Defense	Mechanized Infantry

Artillery	Motorized Infantry	Assault Amphibian (AA)	Reconnaissance

Engineer	Tank	Infantry	MAGTF (Marine air-ground task force)

•Depicting the Enemy

Enemy units, installations, or equipment are depicted one of three ways: (1) by using color red on a multicolor overlay, (2) by using double lines where appropriate, or (3) by putting EN to the lower right of the symbol.

Weapons and Vehicles

Bars across the shaft of a weapon indicate size: none for light, one for medium, two for heavy. The base of the shaft indicates the function of the weapons system, i.e., antitank, air defense, etc. A numeral to the lower right of the symbol can represent number of weapons or pieces of equipment.