LANDING ZONE OPERATION
There are priority of actions upon a landing zone. The PSG must ensure that the operation goes according to plan. The priority of actions are listed as follows:
Unloading
Unloading of the aircraft does not begin until directed by the crew chief or pilot (Figure 42). Once the aircraft has landed, personnel will unbuckle seatbelts and exit aircraft as fast as possible with all equipment.
Before leaving the aircraft, the chalk leader will obtain the landing direction from the pilot if not determined during the approach into the LZ. This will aid in orientation to the LZ, particularly at night.
Individuals will move
15 to 20 meters out from the side of the aircraft and assume the prone position facing away from the aircraft, weapons at the ready, until the aircraft has departed the LZ.
FIGURE 42. UH-60 UNLOADING PROCEDURES.
Immediate Action on Hot LZ
If the decision is made to use a hot LZ, or contact is made upon landing, have the troops dismount quickly and move
15 to 20 meters away from the aircraft. The troops should immediately return the enemy fire. This allows the aircraft to depart quickly.
If the contact is similar to a far ambush, troops will fire and maneuver off the LZ to the closest side offering cover and concealment. If troops are engaged from nearby enemy positions, they treat it as a near ambush by immediately returning fire. Soldiers who consider themselves in the kill zone may assault the enemy position(s) or attempt to get out of the kill zone. Soldiers not in the kill zone will provide supporting fire to support the movement of troops in the kill zone.
The squad or platoon leader will call for fire support if it is available. Once disengaged from the enemy force, the squad or platoon leader will move the unit to a covered and concealed position. They account for personnel and equipment, and assess the situation as to whether or not the unit can continue the mission.
