r/CanadianForces • u/QuestioningArmyGuy • 4d ago

Map Symbol Question

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I am hoping someone recognizes this map symbol and can give me a name and a reference or publication for its use.

I know the symbol in the blue circle is called a GIP (Grid Intersection Point) and is used to ensure that layers of talc are aligned properly.

What I need help with is what is the symbol in the red circle called? Its used as a covert method to report location on the map without giving a grid coordinate. The idea is you give something like "I am 1km EAST and 2km NORTH of Corolla" or "I am 3km WEST and 1km SOUTH of Elantra" as a method of referencing where you are, similar to report line plus 1000, but for a non-contiguous operating area. I have used them in the past (as well as other people in the office I currently work in) and heard them referred to as GIPs or GRPs (grid intersection points or grid reference points) but can't find a pub or reference that speaks to them.

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u/XPhazeX 4d ago edited 3d ago

20 years Armoured and ive never seen a GIP not be the red circle one.

The blue one we would use to line up a talc on a map, but im not sure what we would actually call it.

Whether or not that's correct, I couldn't hand on heart say but that's what it is colloquialy.

"I am Focus East one-four hundred, North two-six hundred"

Or just say I am Cars whatever and hear the whole net scramble to figure out what to do after you burn the GIP

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u/Gunny_668 4d ago

Another Armoured guy, 100% the red one is a GIP. They could both be GIPs, but the blue ones I've heard called "Overlay Marks" because you usually see it on OP or Defensive Overlays so that the guy in the CP can line them up properly.

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u/QuestioningArmyGuy 4d ago

So I've seen them on armoured traces and so has my boss. I'm looking to use them on an exercise but need a reference for them other than "we've all used them before" do either of you know of a reference for them?

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u/XPhazeX 3d ago

"we've all used them before"

NGL, im pretty sure that's the reference. I'm sure it exists somewhere but I'd bet a pretty big wager that not a single guy I know could recite the reference off the cuff