What does the rear guard do in a three-officer setup?

In a three-officer setup, the rear guard plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of the team by defending from potential threats approaching from behind. This division of responsibilities is essential in tactical operations where situational awareness and protection are paramount.

The rear guard’s primary duty is to act as a protective barrier for the team, watching for any hostile actions or threats that might come from the rear. This is particularly important because it allows the other officers to focus on their mandates—such as engaging with a front threat or maintaining communication. Having an officer specifically designated to watch the rear ensures that no aspect of the team’s perimeter is left vulnerable, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the unit during any operation.

Understanding the importance of the rear guard is key in tactical response scenarios. The other roles, such as determining direction and speed or supporting communication, although vital, do not encompass the specific defensive role that the rear guard fulfills. Engaging threats directly would typically fall under the responsibilities of officers designated for front-line confrontation, rather than the rear guard, whose focus is more about situational awareness and defense against surprise attacks from behind.