Which of the following best describes the secondary mission of a combat patrol?

The secondary mission of a combat patrol primarily focuses on gathering and reporting information. This is an essential function that supports situational awareness and helps in decision-making processes throughout military operations. By collecting intelligence on enemy positions, movements, and the terrain, combat patrols enhance the overall effectiveness and safety of the mission.

While other options may represent tasks that are relevant to military operations, they do not capture the specific role that intelligence gathering plays in the context of a combat patrol. The primary objective of a combat patrol is to engage with the enemy or to secure an area, but the secondary mission—collecting and reporting information—serves to inform command decisions, guide future operations, and enhance the combat effectiveness of the unit. This duality ensures that while immediate tactical objectives are met, there is also a systematic approach to understanding the broader operational environment.