Marine Corps Tactical Publication MCTP 3-32A (Formerly MCWP 3-33.7) Air-Ground Task Force Combat Camera in Bloomington, MN

This United States Marine Corps USMC manual, Marine Corps Tactical Publication MCTP 3-32A (Formerly MCWP 3-33.7) Marine Air-Ground Task Force Combat Camera, informs the Marine airground task force (MAGTF) commander and staff planners on combat camera (COMCAM) capabilities. Combat camera is an information resource that provides a timely, accurate, "you-are-there" imagery perspective on military operations. It is essential to internal and external communications. The need for COMCAM capabilities will increase as the Marine Corps reaches Marine families, interacts with domestic and international media, and provides tactical imagery to enhance force protection and situational awareness. To expedite their decision making processes and operational requirements, commanders must have a successful COMCAM program.
Lessons learned during Operation Enduring Freedom prove that COMCAM units are not fully used due to a lack of understanding of the COMCAM mission and capabilities. Therefore, commanders must realize that COMCAM units make a valuable contribution to the MAGTF and the Marine Corps when COMCAM is understood and the COMCAM officer is supported. Combat camera also provides a visual record for high-level briefs and internal and external communications or historical records.