Why is situational awareness important for a Forward Observer?

Situational awareness is crucial for a Forward Observer because it allows them to make informed targeting decisions. A Forward Observer operates in dynamic and often unpredictable environments where the battlefield conditions can change rapidly. By maintaining awareness of the surrounding environment, including the position of friendly forces, enemy movements, terrain features, and various threats, the Forward Observer can accurately assess targets and relay critical information back to the fire support teams. This information is essential to maximize the effectiveness of indirect fire support while minimizing the risk of collateral damage and ensuring safety for friendly forces. In scenarios where every second counts, the ability to interpret and act on real-time information directly impacts mission success and troop safety.

While personal safety, effective leadership of the mortar team, and maintaining a high firing rate are important aspects of the Forward Observer's role, they are secondary to the primary function of making targeting decisions informed by situational awareness.