The officer sending out the patrol verifies the detail, designates a second in command, and gives the necessary instruction.  The orders or instructions for a patrol, or for any detachment going on reconnoissance, must state clearly where the enemy is or is supposed to be, what information is desired, what features are of special importance, the general direction to be followed, whether friendly patrols are liable to be encountered, and where messages are to be sent or the patrol is to report.  Important and comprehensive instructions should be in writing, but precautions against capture of papers must be taken.  An officer sending out a patrol must be certain that his orders are understood.  Detailed instructions are, as a rule, avoided.  When necessary the time of return is stated.

The patrol leader should be selected with care.  He should have good judgment, courage, be able to read maps, make sketches, and send clear and concise messages.  In addition to his ordinary equipment, he should have a map of the country, a watch, field glass, compass, whistle, message blanks, and pencils.

The leader of a patrol should carefully inspect it before starting out and see that each member is in good physical condition, has serviceable shoes, a full canteen, one ration, a first-aid packet, and that his rifle and ammunition are in good condition.  He will see that the equipment is arranged so as not to rattle; that nothing bright is exposed so as to glitter in the sunlight; that nothing is taken along that will give information to the enemy should any member fall into his hands, as, for example, copies of orders, maps with position of troops marked thereon, letters, newspapers, or collar ornaments.  Blanket rolls should generally be left behind, in order that the patrol may travel as light as possible.

The leader then gives his patrol information and instructions.  These embrace instructions from higher authority; his detailed plans; information of the country and enemy; the countersign, if any; the point where the patrol will assemble if scattered.  He will see that the men understand the prescribed signals.

It must always be remembered that it makes no difference how valuable may be the information that the patrol gets, it is worthless if not sent back in time to be of service.  Herein is where most patrols full.  This applies particularly to the information obtained by patrols acting as a point or flankers of advance, rear, and flank guards.  Whenever the patrol gets any information, the leader must think whether the commanding officer would change his plans or issue new orders if he had the information.  If he would, the information should be sent back at once.  If the distance is great or the inhabitants are hostile, it is well to send two men with the message.  These men should not travel side by side, but as a patrol of two men.  If the information is very important, and the danger of capture is considerable, the message should be sent by two parties, each traveling by a different route.