The Opord, or Operation Order, is a fundamental tool for military leaders to communicate their plans and instructions to their subordinates. It follows a standardized five-paragraph format, ensuring clarity, brevity, and simplicity. This article provides a comprehensive guide to crafting an effective Opord, drawing insights from the resource provided (https://irp.fas.org/doddir/army/mioac/opord.htm).
Key Facts
- Understand the Five Paragraph Format:
- The Opord follows a five paragraph format: Situation, Mission, Execution, Service Support, and Command and Signal.
- Each paragraph has a specific purpose and provides essential information for the operation.
- Gather Administrative Data:
- Start the Opord with the necessary administrative data, such as the unit name, date, time, and location.
- Paragraph One: Situation:
- Describe the enemy and friendly forces, including attachments and detachments.
- Only list assumptions in an OPLAN (Operations Plan), not in an Opord.
- Paragraph Two: Mission:
- Write a clear and concise mission statement that includes the mission-essential tasks and a task and purpose.
- Ensure the mission statement covers who, what (task), when, where, and why (purpose).
- Paragraph Three: Execution:
- Start with the commander’s intent, which describes the desired end state and why the operation is taking place.
- Provide a concept of the operation, explaining how the operation will be executed.
- Outline tasks for subordinate units and coordinating instructions.
- Paragraph Four: Service Support:
- Include a general support concept for logistics and a plan for the supply of all classes of supply.
- Ensure to address casualty evacuation, which is often overlooked.
- Paragraph Five: Command and Signal:
- Discuss the locations of command posts and the succession of command.
- Include any special signal instructions and refer to a signal annex if required.
Understanding the Five Paragraph Format
The Opord is structured into five distinct paragraphs, each serving a specific purpose:
1. Situation: This paragraph provides an overview of the current situation, including enemy and friendly forces, attachments, detachments, and relevant assumptions.
2. Mission: The mission statement clearly outlines the mission-essential tasks, who is responsible, what needs to be accomplished, when and where it should be done, and why it is important.
3. Execution: This is the core of the Opord, encompassing the commander’s intent, concept of the operation, tasks for subordinate units, and coordinating instructions.
4. Service Support: This paragraph addresses logistics support, supply of all classes of supplies, and casualty evacuation.
5. Command and Signal: This section specifies the locations of command posts, succession of command, and any special signal instructions.
Gathering Administrative Data
The Opord begins with essential administrative data, including the unit name, date, time, and location. This information provides context and ensures that all recipients are on the same page.
Paragraph One: Situation
The situation paragraph describes the enemy and friendly forces involved in the operation. It also includes attachments and detachments, providing a comprehensive picture of the operational environment. Assumptions should be listed only in an OPLAN (Operations Plan) and not in an Opord.
Paragraph Two: Mission
The mission statement is the heart of the Opord. It clearly articulates the mission-essential tasks, who is responsible, what needs to be accomplished, when and where it should be done, and why it is important. The mission statement should be concise, unambiguous, and cover all aspects of the operation.
Paragraph Three: Execution
The execution paragraph begins with the commander’s intent, which outlines the desired end state and why the operation is taking place. It then provides a concept of the operation, explaining how the operation will be executed. This is followed by tasks for subordinate units and coordinating instructions.
Paragraph Four: Service Support
The service support paragraph addresses logistics support, supply of all classes of supplies, and casualty evacuation. It ensures that the necessary resources are available to support the operation and that casualties are properly cared for.
Paragraph Five: Command and Signal
The command and signal paragraph specifies the locations of command posts and the succession of command. It also includes any special signal instructions and may refer to a signal annex if required.
In conclusion, the Opord is a critical tool for military leaders to communicate their plans and instructions effectively. By following the five-paragraph format and adhering to the principles of clarity, brevity, and simplicity, leaders can ensure that their subordinates understand their mission and are prepared to execute it successfully.
References:
[1] OPORD Operation Order. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://irp.fas.org/doddir/army/mioac/opord.htm
FAQs
What is an Opord?
An Opord, or Operation Order, is a standardized military document used to communicate plans and instructions to subordinates. It follows a five-paragraph format and covers essential aspects of the operation, including the situation, mission, execution, service support, and command and signal.
What are the five paragraphs of an Opord?
The five paragraphs of an Opord are:
- Situation: Provides an overview of the current situation, including enemy and friendly forces.
- Mission: Clearly outlines the mission-essential tasks, who is responsible, what needs to be accomplished, when and where it should be done, and why it is important.
- Execution: Encompasses the commander’s intent, concept of the operation, tasks for subordinate units, and coordinating instructions.
- Service Support: Addresses logistics support, supply of all classes of supplies, and casualty evacuation.
- Command and Signal: Specifies the locations of command posts, succession of command, and any special signal instructions.
What is the purpose of the commander’s intent in an Opord?
The commander’s intent outlines the desired end state and why the operation is taking place. It helps subordinates understand the commander’s vision and ensures that they are all working towards the same goal.
What should be included in the service support paragraph of an Opord?
The service support paragraph should address logistics support, supply of all classes of supplies, and casualty evacuation. It ensures that the necessary resources are available to support the operation and that casualties are properly cared for.
What information is included in the command and signal paragraph of an Opord?
The command and signal paragraph specifies the locations of command posts, the succession of command, and any special signal instructions. It also may refer to a signal annex if required.
What is the importance of clarity, brevity, and simplicity in an Opord?
Clarity, brevity, and simplicity are essential principles for creating an effective Opord. The Opord should be easy to understand and unambiguous, ensuring that subordinates can quickly grasp the mission and execute it successfully.
Who is responsible for creating an Opord?
The responsibility for creating an Opord typically falls on the commander or staff officers. They gather the necessary information, analyze the situation, and craft the Opord in accordance with the established format and principles.
When is an Opord used?
An Opord is used whenever a military unit is tasked with a mission. It is a critical tool for communicating the commander’s intent, providing essential information to subordinates, and ensuring coordinated execution of the operation.