Organization and Technique of Parachute Units
52 MISSIONS - a) When operating as part of a larger unit, the missions of the parachute squad are substantially the same as those for any other infantry squad. However, the parachute squad usually is given much greater freedom of action than the infantry squad and may act independently. b) Exceptionally, the parachute squad, the half squad, or even individuals may be assigned independent missions which involve operations deep in the enemy's rear areas. Usually no support is planned for such operations; however, possible routes and methods of escape are carefully planned in advance.
	The tasks assigned ordinarily involve demolitions, such as destruction of a factory, a key railroad bridge, a vital dock facility, a critical communication center, or other important enemy installations. Such mission can be accomplished only be secrecy, surprise, and utmost speed of execution. 53 ASSEMBLY POINTS - Immediately upon landing the individual soldier is trained to proceed to the designated assembly point of his squad or subdivision. This procedure should be habitual. Exceptions will occur only when individuals are assigned initial missions away from the squad.
54 SUPPLY OF EQUIPMENT AND AMMUNITION - a) Initial: Except for hand grenades and a small amount of ammunition for pistols or other light weapons, carried by descending parachutists, the initial ammunition supply for the squad is dropped in the delivery units that carry its other weapons. At least one day's supply for each weapon is dropped simultaneously with the squad. Delivery units for each group must be landed close to it. Delivery units are clearly marked to indicate their contents and the group to which they belong. Delivery unit parachutes may be marked by the use of coloured canopies. However, the colours of canopies should be varied in different operations so that a canopy of a certain colour will not always indicate the same piece of equipment. For deception, coloured canopies may be used occasionally for personnel. Equipment containers are marked by coloured coverings, smoke signals, coloured streamers, or other readily recognized devices. b) Packing and loading: The squad packs prescribed arms, equipment and supplies in delivery units under supervision of the platoon leader. Prior to enplaning these delivery units are placed in equipment racks or loaded in the plane under supervision of the jumpmaster. c) Subsequent supply: When the squad is acting alone, the squad leader makes requests upon supporting aviation for his needs by means of prearranged signals. 55 RATION AND WATER SUPPLY - Appropriate field rations and water for at least one day are dropped in delivery units containing the weapons for each subgroup of the squad. Class D rations may be carried by the individual jumper. When two or more days' rations are desired, and space in the unit delivery units is not sufficient, these extra rations may be dropped in a separate delivery unit along with those containing weapons, and picked up by troops when the situation permits.