What are the primary responsibilities of a sniper in the U.S. Army?

• A. Reconnaissance, target acquisition, and providing accurate fire support
• B. Patrolling, engaging in hand-to-hand combat, and administrative duties
• C. Providing medical assistance, leading troops, and training new recruits
• D. Logistical support, communication, and surveillance

Answer: (A)

The primary responsibilities of a sniper in the U.S. Army encompass reconnaissance, target acquisition, and providing accurate fire support. This specialization requires a sniper to gather information about enemy positions and movements, which is crucial for planning operations. Reconnaissance allows snipers to gain intelligence that can be relayed back to their units, aiding in strategic decision-making.

Target acquisition is another critical aspect, where a sniper must identify and prioritize targets effectively. This requires not only sharp observational skills but also a deep understanding of the mission's goals and the potential impact of engaging specific targets.

Moreover, providing accurate fire support emphasizes the sniper’s role in engaging those identified targets with precision. This skill is essential as it can influence the outcome of engagements significantly, ensuring that fires are delivered accurately to minimize collateral damage and achieve mission objectives.

In contrast, the other options present roles that are not typically associated with the sniper's specialized function on the battlefield. For example, tasks like patrolling or administrative duties do not align with the sniper's core responsibilities. Additionally, providing medical assistance and leading troops are generally roles assigned to combat medics and leadership personnel, respectively. Logistical support and communication, while important in a military context, fall outside the purview of a sniper's focused,