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As the PACER you are responsible for all distance measuring operations integral to successful navigation. You must integrate and communicate with the NAVIGATOR, COMPASS, COMMUNICATOR, ENGINEER, SCOUT and SQUAD LEADER to ensure the team has traveled the appropriate distances in pursuit of mission success.
To effectively navigate unfamiliar terrain, you must establish your position, properly orient your map, chart your course, and measure the distance to get from your present position to your desired point. You, as the PACER will work with the NAVIGATOR and ensure all distances are plotted and measured in meters. During the exercise, the NAVIGATOR will plot points, measure the distance between points, and draw the course line which connects the two points. It is your responsibility to ascertain the measured distances, apply your pace count, and accurately keep count of your pace, ensuring all members of the squad know how far the squad has traveled.
You will be provided the opportunity to measure your own pace count in meters. Understand that pace is predicated upon what kind of terrain is being traversed; steep slopes, whether inclines or declines, often require a shorter stride thus a higher pace count. |
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Along with this handout you have been given a set of pace count beads, a simple yet effective tool for remembering your pace count. These beads represent distance traveled. As you can see, the pace count lanyard is separated by a small knot. On one side of the knot are nine beads. These beads represent “hundreds of meters” traveled. Since there are nine beads, 900 meters is represented. Each time you travel 100 meters, slide a bead towards the knot in the middle of the lanyard. If you travel 1000 meters, after the ninth bead has been slid, pull one of the four beads toward the knot, as the four beads represent “thousands of meters” traveled. Once a “thousand” bead has been pulled, you can reset the nine “hundred meter” beads and simply begin again. |
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The best way to determine your step, or pace, is by counting the number of times you put down your left foot (or right if you prefer). You will be notified as to when and where you may measure your pace count. It is important to note that your pace count you establish here by the hotel will be somewhat different than that you will be using in the “field”. Generally speaking, when you are walking through dense terrain or on slopes, you will shorten your stride. For example, if on a flat sidewalk your pace is 80 for 100 meters, going through brush and vegetation may take over 100 paces to travel the 100 meters. Therefore, when traveling through the woods, be cognizant of the terrain and vegetation; don’t automatically assume you are lost simply because the pace count isn’t equivalent to the planned pace count. Most times, you simply haven’t traveled far enough. Bring the pace count beads with you, and any questions you have will be answered by a Combat Ops facilitator.
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