Final answer:
The field manual for map reading and land navigation in the Army is essential for utilizing geographic information sources such as maps, aerial photographs, and primary and secondary accounts, which are key in military operations and decision-making.
Step-by-step explanation:
The field manual that provides a standardized source document for Army-wide reference on map reading and land navigation is a vital resource for military personnel. Understanding how to analyze and evaluate the validity and utility of multiple sources of geographic information is crucial in this context and is addressed within such a manual. It teaches how to interpret maps accurately for tactical decision-making and how to identify one's own location and plan routes using natural and man-made landmarks.
Military operations heavily rely on the use of various geographic information sources. Primary sources might include directly observed landscape features and enemy positions, while secondary sources might be reports from other units. Aerial photographs provide a bird's-eye view, useful for identifying terrain features and potential obstacles. Maps, whether topographic like USGS maps or tactical maps created specifically for military operations, are fundamental tools that contain a variety of information, such as the division of land into separate political units like cities, states, or countries, as noted in WG.13A.
When evaluating maps, several pieces of information are necessary to assess their current relevance and accuracy. This includes the source of the geographic information (such as a satellite image or a topographic map), map projection used, the year the map was released or revised, and any associated publication or guidebooks that might provide additional context or detail.
In summary, an Army field manual on map reading and land navigation equips soldiers with the knowledge to effectively use various geographic information sources, critical for conducting operations and making strategic decisions in the field.