What is the purpose of an en route rally point for a patrol?

An en route rally point serves a crucial role in maintaining the operational integrity and safety of a patrol as it moves towards its objective. The primary purpose of this type of rally point is to provide a secure area for troops to regroup and conduct any necessary checks before proceeding further into potentially hostile territory. By positioning the patrol safely between the initial rally point and the objective, the en route rally point allows the unit to consolidate, address any issues, and ensure that all team members are accounted for and prepared for the next phase of the operation.

This is particularly important in maintaining tactical control and enhancing situational awareness. It allows for any last-minute modifications to the plan based on current intelligence or changes in the operational environment. The en route rally point thus acts as a buffer, allowing the patrol to ensure readiness before reaching the final objective, which can be critical in a combat situation.