After morning stand to in the field, there is only a short window in which you must complete your personal administration. There is a lot to do, so you must prioritise the most important activities:
My Weapon
- The first priority is section weapons, followed by your personal weapon.
- Never completely strip your weapon down, it should be stripped in sections to ease putting back together in case of attack.
- Ensure that you are cleaning the weapon appropriate for the environment.
- Make sure that you have a clean surface to place parts on.
- Never strip the weapon down further than necessary.
My Equipment
- Is your equipment, clean and serviceable
- Any other equipment? Section equipment?
- Do batteries need replacing/charging?
- Communications check
- Is there sufficient gas in your cooker?
- Is everything packed up that you no longer need?
Myself
- Have you washed?
- Have you shaved?
- Are your boots clean?
- Have you eaten?
- Have you cleaned your teeth?
Civilian Perspective
Although this does not all apply to life outside the field, having a morning routine that ensures that you are prepared for the day is essential t set you up for a successful day. Your weapon my not be a rifle, it could be a laptop, a toolbox, a sewing machine, or any other tools to do your work, it does not matter. The principles are the same. You need to ensure that your “weapon” is clean and serviceable.
Your equipment could include your mobile phone, or any other tool that you use on a daily basis to do your role.
Summary
Whether you are in the field as part of a section, or getting up to go to the office, the first 30 – 40 minutes in the morning are essential. Ensuring that you are set up and prepared for the entire day are key to having a successful day. The speed of which you accomplish the many tasks, and the priority in which you undertake them are just as essential.
Army Training Channel 