text: Chapter 2
  the ground commander, aviation commander(s), or both to see whether any of the original requirements
  have changed. Depending on the mission, enemy, terrain, troops, time, and civil considerations
  (METT-TC), the commander(s) determines what, if any, changes to make to accomplish the mission. If for
  any reason he cannot contact the GUC or aviation commander, the pathfinder can also coordinate for
  authority to change requirements.
  2-12. The pathfinder limits augmentation to that appropriate to the amount and type of transport. The
  reinforced pathfinder team remains under the command of the pathfinder leader, who is responsible for
  team functions. Based on the coordinated plans for the operation, the pathfinder requests augmentation in
  personnel and equipment. He considers—
  y Mission.
  y Use of personnel and equipment for security.
  y Requirement to help assemble the supported units' personnel, supplies, and equipment.
  y Need for assistance in removing obstacles.
  y Assistance required to transport and operate navigation aids under pathfinder direction.
  LINKUP WITH SUPPORTED UNIT
  2-13. Pathfinders join the supported unit early enough to allow final coordination between pathfinder,
  aviation, and lifted ground unit representatives. Pathfinders designated to accompany and provide
  continuous support to a ground unit can enter a DZ or LZ ahead of the assault echelon. After the initial
  phase of the air movement, they link up with the supported unit.
  FINAL PREPARATIONS
  2-14. The pathfinder leader issues his operation order (OPORD). If he issues it before linking up with
  the supported unit, he issues any changes as a fragmentary order (FRAGO). The order describes any
  member's duties not covered in the unit SOP. Team members must have a chance to study maps, aerial
  photos, and terrain models of the area. The order provides details about the location and operation of
  proposed air delivery facilities, flight routes, flight formations, time schedules, release points (RPs), and
  communication checkpoints (CCPs).
  2-15. The pathfinder conducts a final, thorough check of equipment. The commander decides exactly
  how to transport the equipment into the objective area. Then the pathfinders prepare all of the equipment
  for rapid displacement.
  2-16. Just before departure, at a final weather and operational briefing, the pathfinders and supported
  units conduct final coordination.
  SECTION II. ORGANIZATION FOR COMBAT
  The pathfinder mission itself determines the specific requirements of the mission. In most operations, three to
  six Soldiers comprise the pathfinder element supporting a DZ or an LZ or continuously supporting an Infantry
  battalion. Seldom does a pathfinder section deploy as a unit from a single location. The pathfinder leader plans
  for his elements to operate widely separated and disconnected.
  INSERTION
  2-17. Pathfinders can insert by a variety of air, sea, or land transportation modes.
  HELICOPTER DELIVERY
  2-18. Helicopters can deliver more personnel and equipment in a better state of operational readiness
  than any other means. Even in marginal weather, helicopters allow more precise, flexible deliveries than