An 11C is a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) in the U.S. Army, designating an Indirect Fire Infantryman who specializes in mortar operations and plays a critical role in ground combat.
Role and Responsibilities of an Indirect Fire Infantryman
The 11C MOS identifies a soldier trained to operate and supervise mortar systems, providing essential indirect fire support to combat operations. As an integral part of an infantry unit, an indirect fire infantryman serves either as a supervisor or a member of a mortar squad, section, or platoon.
Their core duties involve the expert deployment of various weapons in dynamic battlefield environments:
- Operating Mortar Systems: Skilled in setting up, maintaining, and firing crew-served mortar systems, which deliver high-explosive, illumination, or smoke rounds to targets not visible from the firing position.
- Weapon Proficiency: Proficiently employs both crew-served weapons (like mortars) and individual weapons (such as rifles) for personal defense and offensive actions.
- Tactical Combat Operations: Actively participates in a wide range of ground combat scenarios, adapting to the tactical needs of the mission. This includes:
- Offensive Operations: Providing suppressive fire and target neutralization to support advancing infantry.
- Defensive Operations: Delivering protective fires to defend fixed positions, counter enemy assaults, or provide cover for withdrawing forces.
- Retrograde Operations: Supplying essential fire support to cover disengagements, delays, or withdrawals, hindering enemy pursuit.
Understanding the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) Designation
In the U.S. military, a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) is a job code that classifies a soldier's specific job role and the skills required for it. The "11" in 11C typically refers to the infantry branch, while "C" denotes the specific specialty within that branch related to indirect fire. This system ensures that soldiers are trained and assigned to roles where their unique skills can be most effectively utilized to achieve military objectives.
Key Aspects of the 11C MOS
For a concise overview, here are the fundamental characteristics of the Indirect Fire Infantryman MOS:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| MOS Title | Indirect Fire Infantryman |
| Primary Role | Member or supervisor of a mortar squad, section, or platoon |
| Core Responsibilities | Employs crew and individual weapons; provides indirect fire support |
| Combat Engagement | Engages in offensive, defensive, and retrograde ground combat tactical operations |
Why the 11C MOS is Crucial
The Indirect Fire Infantryman is indispensable to modern ground warfare. Mortars provide organic, immediate, and responsive fire support at the tactical level, complementing artillery and air support. Their ability to deliver high-angle fire makes them effective in varied terrains, from dense urban environments to mountainous regions. This specialized role ensures that infantry units have dedicated, precise, and timely indirect fire capabilities, significantly enhancing their operational effectiveness and survivability on the battlefield.
