What is a Convoy?
A convoy is a group of vehicles which travels together to mutual advantage. There are a number of different types of convoys, ranging from armed convoys during war to convoys which travel together through remote areas to ensure that everyone makes it through. The practice of traveling in convoy is ancient; some of the earliest convoys were probably groups of traders who traveled together through foreign lands. Historically, trading convoys have been used for centuries, and some of these convoys consisted of thousands of individuals traveling together. Many traders traveled in convoy across the larger deserts of Africa and the Middle East with large numbers of camels and other beasts of burden. By traveling in a large group, the traders could protect themselves from raids, and they could also sometimes negotiate better deals on the other side of the desert by bargaining together. At sea, many convoys are military in nature. War fleets often travel in convoy to support each other, and me
Simply put, a convoy is a column of vehicles that moves from the same point of origin to the same destination and is organized for the purpose of control under a single commander. This definition applies to both on-installation and off-installation vehicle movements. A Convoy Clearance number is necessary for all convoy movements and can be obtained by submitting a completed DD Form 1265 to the Fort Bragg Unit Moves Section. For more detailed information on convoy control, organization, and planning guidance, consult chapter 5 of FM 55-30.
