ABSTRACT

Addressing the active shooter response (ASR) in a mission statement and a five-paragraph operations order is a simple and detailed method for explaining the active shooter response operation plan. By stating the command’s intent and the command’s criteria for success, you are assisting the teams and the leaders of the teams in understanding the objectives of the command. This will assist leaders and teams in decision making in the heat of the moment, when command guidance is not readily available, and decisiveness is critical. Following is an example of a mission statement and order. It is recommended that each command create an order that best serves its department. First-line leaders and officers are focused on the team and squad fight. The order is the command vision and guidance; it will give subordinates the big picture and knowledge of the command structure and assets available to them.