What is the best action to take upon enemy contact to maintain control?

The best action to take upon enemy contact to maintain control is to utilize standard commands to augment verbal ones. In a high-stress situation such as enemy contact, clarity and efficiency in communication are essential for maintaining situational awareness and control over the fire team. Standard commands provide a structured and recognizable format that can quickly convey critical information and directives to team members, reducing the likelihood of confusion or misinterpretation.

Additionally, augmenting verbal commands with standard commands allows for non-verbal communication that can be vital in noisy environments where shouting may not be effective. This method fosters a coordinated response, ensuring that all team members understand their roles and responsibilities.

Verbal commands alone may not be sufficient, as they can get lost in the chaos of combat, and other members might not hear them due to external noise. Utilizing a combination of commands ensures clearer communication across the team, making it easier to establish defensive positions, execute maneuvers, or respond effectively to the changing dynamics of the situation. By adhering to standardized communication protocols, teams can react more efficiently and cohesively, thus maintaining control in the face of enemy contact.