Who is responsible for terminating the fire command at the end of each engagement?

The individual responsible for terminating the fire command at the end of each engagement is the Fire Control Officer (VCO). This role is critical as it ensures that the engagement is concluded at the appropriate time, which helps to maintain command and control over the situation. The VCO is trained to evaluate the effectiveness of the engagement and make strategic decisions accordingly.

Terminating fire commands is an essential part of fire coordination to prevent unintended consequences and ensure that all team members are on the same page regarding the engagement status. The VCO coordinates closely with other team members, ensuring safety and efficiency during operations.

In contrast, while squad leaders and crew members play vital roles in executing fire commands, their responsibilities differ from the VCO’s primary task of managing and concluding engagements. The fire support officer provides overarching support and coordination but does not directly handle the termination of fire commands at the operational level during engagement.