Conveys the "Commander's Intent" to all squads and element leaders that are attached to his Battle Group. His intent allows for squad and element leaders to know why they're doing what they're doing, how they're doing it, and what the desired end state is. Thus, if necessary, an element leader can make a rapid tactical decision, or assume command of the entire Battle if casualties are taken, while acting within the guidance of the intent of the Battle Commander.

Distributes special assets.

Dictates the Rules Of Engagement (ROE). Any special considerations are made and conveyed, and the Battle receives updated ROE from the Battle Commander when appropriate.

Supervises the execution of the mission, issuing new or updated orders as it progresses. The Battle Commander stays on top of the tactical situation and issues appropriate, timely orders as the tactical situation evolves.

Positions himself where he can exercise the best command and control of his squads. In order to guide the fight effectively, it is important that the Battle Commander is able to see it. To this end, he must constantly judge where he can best accomplish this, and ensure he's able to safely maintain such a position. In the event that the Battle splits into assault and support elements, the Battle Commander will either go with the assault or stay at the support position - whichever he chooses, he ensures that his Battle Sergeant goes with the other element.

Uses his Battle Sergeant to share the workload. The Battle Sergeant is there to assist the Battle Commander wherever possible, and should be used as needed.

Avoids micromanagement, trusts in the judgment of his squad leaders, and allows them to develop the fight when possible. Squad Leaders are smart, capable individuals. The Battle Commander treats them as such, and in turn, they shine in the fight. Giving them an opportunity to be creative in how they carry out orders, and trusting their assessment of the situation when given, is an important aspect of being Battle Commander.

Keeps his squads within mutual supporting distance of each other whenever possible. A Battle Commander must be capable of making plans in which the Battle does not run off helter-skelter all over the place, attempting to do everything at once. This dilutes the combat power of the Battle and sacrifices the squads' ability to mutually support each other. The Battle Commander must be able to make judgment calls as to when the Battle should stay tightly focused and mutually-supporting, and when it is necessary to detach a squad (or more) to facilitate mission accomplishment.

Reorganizes the Battle as needed to fulfill the mission. This can include merging understrength elements into larger elements, or reorganizing the Battle in the event of significant casualties.

Coordinates with support elements such as arty and CAS (Close Air Support), via their Forward Observers and Forward Air Controllers, if available.

Maintains awareness on the Battle's combat status, casualties, ammo, and other capabilities. This includes getting ACE (ammo, casualties, equipment) reports after fights.

Ensures that resupply is conducted as needed.