INDIVIDUAL SELF-DEFENSE

The individual’s inherent right of self-defense is an element of unit self-defense. It is critical that individuals are aware of and train to the principle that they have the authority to use all available means and to take all appropriate action to defend themselves and other US personnel in their vicinity. In the implementation of these standing and other rules of engagement (ROE), commanders have the obligation to ensure that the individuals within that commander’s unit understand when and how they may use force in self-defense. While individuals assigned to a unit respond to a hostile act or hostile intent in the exercise of self-defense, their use of force must remain consistent with lawful orders of their superiors, the rules contained in joint doctrine, and other applicable ROE promulgated for the mission or area of responsibility.