Final answer:
The term 'combat load' refers to the equipment and supplies carried by soldiers during military operations, with forecasting implying the estimation of such loads for planning purposes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term 'combat load' generally refers to the amount of equipment and supplies that soldiers carry into battle. This can include weapons, ammunition, food, water, and other essential items needed for a military operation. The question 'Do you forecast a combat load?' implies a planning or logistics consideration, where one might predict or estimate the necessary combat load for soldiers in preparation for a conflict situation.
The reference image from the Department of Defense/National Archives depicts US soldiers during the first wave of a helicopter combat assault, likely highlighting the context of combat load in actual military operations. Assessing and preparing combat loads is a critical task to ensure the mission's success and the safety of military personnel.