Which evasion aids can assist you in making contact with the local population? (Select all that apply)

Which evasion aids can assist you in making contact with the local population? (Select all that apply)

A) Signaling devices

B) Pointee-Talkee

C) Camouflage

D) Blood chit

Answer: The correct options are B and D.

The Pointee-Talkee and blood chits are examples of evasion aids mainly used by military personnel to communicate the wish to establish contact with the inhabitants of an area, and this may be in randomized circumstances, or when the military man is unwanted in the said area.

A Pointee-Talkee is an arranged board that has images or symbols of a pointee’s objects, needs or concepts. It enables the user to direct to appropriate pictures to express simple messages without necessarily speaking. The Pointee-Talkee may consist of images of food, water, shelter and medical amenities and supplies. Thus, pointing at these images, an evading service member can convey his/her wants and needs to the locals who possibly have different language backgrounds. This tool is most effective to use in remote areas or in the case of working with people of different language backgrounds.

A blood chit is a piece of paper in a person’s pocket that states the bearer is a member of the U.S. service and that the civilian should help. It is usually produced on paper of a long-lasting nature and can be made from silk or synthetic fabric and the text of the notice is in more than one language and offers a monetary reward for helping the bearer. For instance, a blood chit might read: The following is a translation of the said; “I am an American; I do not know your language; I want food and shelter and someone to help me find an officer of the United States; I assure you that you will be rewarded for your help; Take me to someone who will shelter me and take me to the nearest camp of the United States military forces” This document is very useful when an American soldier is isolated from his comrades and needs.

Both these tools are aimed at ensuring fluent communication and, thereby, enforcing and positively influencing relations with the local people, which might enhance the likelihood of the soldier’s survival and effective hiding in zones which are enemy-controlled or unrecognizable to such a soldier.