Quote:
Originally posted by VideoVoyeur
Actually since 1985 or so they are. Forward observers are 3 man teams. We blow shit up way the fuck out in front of ANYONE.
Many Rangers are forward observers, and many forward observers are rangers. But ALL Forward observers ARE Pathfinders.
Is it me or do alot of kids just dream shit up.
Go read about Forward Observers before you spout off to one.
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I do not know what you think being a Pathfinder has to to do with being an FO. Pathfinders are Airborne and have specific functions.
"Originally established in England during WWII, the US army Pathfinder School is located at FT. Benning's Lillyman Hall. Potential pathfinders spend approximately three weeks learning and practicing their new skills. When the US Air Force assumed the combat air traffic control duties in 1951, the school was closed. In 1955, the school was reopened under the Airborne-Air Assault branch of the Infantry School. It continues to operate to this day. During the course students are taught basic air traffic control techniques; drop zone marking techniques; how to use computed air release points (CARPs); the ground marking release system; the Army Aircraft Verbal Initiated Release System and the proper use of the PIBALL weather balloon, to measure mean effective wind.
Today's Pathfinders are trained in airborne, small boat, vehicle, foot, and sometimes free fall infiltration techniques. These small four man teams may be parachuted in up to 72 hours in advance of the main assault force. They provide DZ/LZ surveys; site security; initial aircraft guidance, and mark and clear drop zones for follow-on forces. They are capable of engaging in demolition operations to clear DZ/LZ's of obstacles. If equipped with laser targeting devices (LTD) they may also designate targets of opportunity for air strikes. Pathfinders may be expected to coordinate aircraft movement, control parachute drops of personnel and equipment, conduct sling-load operations and provide initial weather information to commanders."