In the Vietnam War, a standard U.S. Army infantry squad, operating under the Reorganization Objectives Army Division (ROAD) structure introduced in the early 1960s, typically consisted of 10 riflemen/grenadiers.
Understanding Squad Structure in Vietnam
The U.S. Army's organizational structure during the Vietnam War was largely defined by the ROAD reorganization, which aimed to create more flexible and adaptable units. Under this structure, the infantry squad was a fundamental combat element.
Standard Platoon Composition
An infantry platoon, which was the next higher command echelon, was composed of four such squads. In addition to the squads, a standard infantry platoon included:
- Platoon Leader: An officer, usually a Second Lieutenant, commanding the platoon.
- Platoon Sergeant: A senior Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) who assisted the Platoon Leader and managed logistics and personnel.
- Radio Telephone Operator (RTO): Responsible for communications.
- Attached Medic: Provided immediate medical care to the platoon.
The full strength of such a platoon, therefore, could be around 44 men (4 squads x 10 men + 4 command/support personnel).
Here’s a breakdown of a standard platoon under the ROAD structure:
| Component | Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Squads | 4 | Each with 10 riflemen/grenadiers |
| Platoon Leader | 1 | Officer in command |
| Platoon Sergeant | 1 | Senior NCO, assists leader |
| Radio Telephone Operator | 1 | Communications specialist |
| Attached Medic | 1 | Provides medical support |
| Total Platoon Strength | 44 | Approximately, under standard ROAD structure |
Variations in Squad and Platoon Size
While the ROAD structure defined a standard of 10 men per squad, actual squad and platoon sizes in the field could vary. Factors like casualties, personnel shortages, and specific mission requirements often meant units operated at reduced strength.
- Squads: It was not uncommon for squads to operate with around 8 men due to these circumstances, rather than the full 10.
- Platoons: Consequently, actual platoon sizes in the field might fluctuate, sometimes numbering anywhere from 20 to 30 men, depending on the number of squads, the strength of those squads, and the availability of support personnel. However, it's important to remember that the official, designed strength under the ROAD system for an infantry platoon was significantly higher due to its four 10-man squads plus leadership and support.
The 10-man squad was the intended and formal structure for the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War under the ROAD organization, providing a clear and defined combat element.
