(6)
Maintain control of the unit. The leader must always be in control.
(7) Initiate a stress coping program. Instruct soldiers about how to relieve
their own stress (paragraph 5-9f) and how to help their buddies (paragraph 5-9g).
5-10. CLOSING
Reactions to the stress of combat are inevitable, but severe reactions can be
reduced. History shows that highly trained and cohesive units have less than one
combat stress related casualty for every ten wounded in action, even in very heavy
fighting. This is significantly less than the usual one per four or five. By knowing what
factors in the tactical and overall situation increase severe combat stress reactions, the
medical NCO as well as leaders, buddies, and the individual soldier can take action to
share the burden, resolve the internal conflict of motives, and reduce the stress. By
thorough, realistic training which builds confidence and by caring for each other in
combat, soldiers can deal with the stresses of current warfare.
MD0586
5-11
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