Basics: Unit Structure

[MorGrendel]

Basics: Unit Structure

Like the modern military subdivides itself into manageable groupings (modern terms and concepts are in italics), so should your unit. Obviously, only the smaller military grouping apply, even though we are using terms like generals and lieutenants. As a rule for Medieval-Sports-Units, here after MSU, do not focus on rank, as there are not enough people in your MSU for rank or title to matter. You should have a leader and some temporary maneuvering leaders, and that's it.

Generally, MSUs start small with the first team being you and a buddy, also referred to as a Fire and Maneuver Team. On the battle field the two of you are looking out for each other, using 4 eyes to create a much larger window of visibility. Often a small 2 man team is often given a specific task, like eliminating a particular threat or pressuring the archers. There should be constant communication between the two members, neither should fall without the other knowing. They should be each others shadow.

A fire and maneuver team expands to a Fireteam by adding 2 to 3 guys. The same concepts apply; see for others, communicate for others, attack and defend for others. Generally, a MSU fireteam takes on roles as well, such as attacking and defending a point or objective. They will use these roles in conjunction with other fireteams to create local numerical superiority and overwhelm the enemy. Below are the key jobs that a member of a MSU fireteam will need to focus on:

Fighting in a team, not one on one
Communicating battle field conditions and shot opportunities
Creating shots and opportunities for others
Defending over-extended members
Staying cohesive and in range to support one another
Simple, consolidating movements, self-rallying

Beyond that things fall together as such, 2 to 3 fire teams form a Squad. A MSU Squad is in charge of a general tactic, i.e. Flank the line, or defend the objective. This may seem similar to the MSU fireteams, but the MSU squad is defining WHAT they are going to do, while the MSU fireteam is defining the HOW we are going to do it. If your MSU happens to grow all the way into a modern Platoon or Troop, consisting of 2 or more squads, then it is to the MSU platoon leader to define the what for the MSU platoon and the how for MSU Squads.

In the Markland Army, we follow a similar structure. The Army is in essence a MSU Platoon, directed by a Platoon Leader. The different households in Markland make up a Unit, or roughly a MSU Squad, lead by a Squad leader. The Units then subdivide themselves into teams, or MSU Fireteams. This creates a clear line of command, a simple way of defining roles, and allows for battlefield autonomy and fun.