Final answer:
The integration of a mortar pit into the BN fires support plan is managed by the fires support officer or coordinator, showing the importance of coordinating combat support elements in military operations for effective tactical outcomes.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of a Battalion (BN) fires support plan, the integration of a mortar pit is typically the responsibility of the fires support officer or fires support coordinator, working in conjunction with the battalion's intelligence and operations sections. This ensures that the mortars are positioned and ready to provide indirect fire support in alignment with the overall tactical objectives of the battalion. For example, during the peacekeeping mission in Bosnia as illustrated in Figure 13.1.7, engineers played a critical role in supporting military operations, which would have included integrating various combat support elements like mortars into the broader mission plan.
Similarly, reflecting on historical warfare such as the British assault on Breed's Hill during the American Revolutionary War, the effective placement and utilization of artillery would have been integral to the fires support plan. Even though the British engaged in bombardment, the American forces experienced chain-of-command and organizational issues, which likely extended to how well they could integrate their own support fires into their defensive plans.