text: Chapter 8
  8-147. The complexity and fluidity of retrograde operations and the absolute need to synchronize the entire
  operation dictates the need for detailed, centralized planning and decentralized execution. Planning for
  retrograde operations begins with the preparation of plans for the follow-on mission. The concept of
  operations and commander’s intent drive those plans.
  8-148. The nature of retrograde operations involves an inherent risk of degrading the defending force’s
  morale. Commanders remain well forward and visible. They ensure that subordinate leaders and Soldiers
  understand the purpose and intent of the operation as well as their role in accomplishing the mission.
  Thorough planning, effective control, and aggressive leadership minimize risk during a retrograde and
  enhance the probability of success.
  8-149. Intelligence requirements dramatically increase as friendly forces begin their movement to other
  locations and the combat capabilities of units in contact are reduced. Units develop a synchronized and
  integrated information collection plan to identify and locate enemy attempts to pursue, outflank, and isolate
  the defending force as it transitions to the retrograde. As units transition to the retrograde, they make every
  effort to conserve combat power. Units consider the need to—
  * Balance the risk of conserving combat power while remaining disposed to the intent of the
  defensive mission.
  * Disengage and withdraw units lacking tactical mobility and nonessential elements before the
  retrograde of the main body.
  * Use mobile forces to cover the retrograde of less mobile forces.
  * Use the minimum-essential combat power necessary to provide security for the retrograde of the
  main body.
  TRANSITION TO STABILITY
  8-150. Units may transition to stability operations if the defense retained decisive terrain, denied vital areas
  to enemy forces, and successfully defended against attacking enemy forces removing the need for an
  offensive operation. As in other operations, the commander’s intent and concept of operations drive the
  planning for stability tasks. Generally, units focus on meeting immediate essential service and civil security
  needs for civilians in the assigned area while coordinating with any existing local nation government and
  nongovernmental organizations before addressing the other primary stability tasks. Support requirements
  may change dramatically. Units will probably need to change their rules of engagement and ensure that those
  changes are quickly distributed to all levels.
  8-151. When a unit transitions from a defense to stability, the unit will generally execute a sequel to its
  previous defensive order. Units reorganize to introduce those capabilities required by changes in the mission
  variables. If commanders and staffs are unfamiliar with the civil considerations of their assigned area, they
  should refer to assigned or attached civil affairs units operating in their area or their higher headquarters if
  they have no command or support relationship with a civil affairs unit. The command and control and
  protection functions remain relevant to prevent Soldiers from relaxing discipline and safety standards as the
  stress of active defensive actions disappears.