Signals are used to transmit commands or information when voice communication is difficult or impossible or when silence must be maintained. Leaders

Figure 11-28.-Combat arm and hand signals-Continued.

should repeat signals to their units whenever necessary to ensure prompt and correct execution of orders. Leaders giving arm and hand signals should remember that these are an order of command. The signal is given smartly. Leaders must be aware of their location to ensure the signal can be seen by the intended unit. When a movement is to be executed by particular unit(s), a signal appointing the unit(s) precedes the signal for the actual movement. If a movement is to be executed in unison, the signal for the movement should be followed by the signal READY. After the READY signal is acknowledged, the movement is executed at the same time that the arm is lowered. Signals requiring a change of direction have no connection with the direction in which the person giving the signal is facing. The direction of movement is shown by the direction in which the arm of the signaler points. Standard arm and hand signals are explained in figure 11-28.

Figure 11-28.-Combat arm and hand signal-Continued.

In modern warfare, a helicopter is a common sight during combat. All personnel should be familiar with hand signals that assist helicopter pilots in landing. Hand signals for guiding a pilot are as follows:

1. To Direct Helicopter Forward. Extend your arms and hands above your head with your palms facing away from the helicopter. Move your hands in a manner that simulates a pulling motion. (See fig. 11-29.)

2. To Direct Helicopter Backward. Extend your arms and hands above your head with your palms facing toward the helicopter. Move your hands in a manner that simulates a pushing motion. (See fig. 11-30.)

3. To Direct Helicopter Sideways. Extend your arms and palms out to your side with your palms facing the direction that the helicopter should move. Move your hands in a manner that simulates pushing the helicopter in the desired direction. (See fig. 11-31.)

4. To Direct Helicopter to Land. Bend your arms at the elbows with your lower arms held parallel to the ground at waist level. Keep palms facing downward parallel to the ground, and forearms moving to simulate a downward pushing motion. (See fig. 11-32.)

5. To Direct Helicopter to Take Off. Extend both hands above your head with fists clenched and thumbs raised. (See fig. 11-33.)

6. To Direct Helicopter to Hold Its Present Position. Cross your forearms above your head with both fists clenched. (See fig. 11-34.)

Figure 11-29.-To direct helicopter forward.

Figure 11-30.-To direct helicopter backward.

Figure 11-31.-To direct helicopter sideways.