What is the first step in the five steps of battle drill?

The first step in the five steps of battle drill is to react. This step is fundamental as it sets the stage for how a unit responds to an enemy threat or contact. Reacting involves executing a pre-planned response to a specific situation, allowing soldiers to maintain composure and act decisively. This initial response is essential for gaining the initiative and establishing control over the situation.

Following this, subsequent steps typically involve actions such as locating the threat and taking the appropriate offensive or defensive measures. The ability to react effectively determines how well the unit can transition into those later steps, emphasizing the importance of this first action in the overall execution of battle drills.