What role does the CATF play during the movement phase of an amphibious operation?

In the context of amphibious operations, the Commander, Amphibious Task Force (CATF) plays a crucial role during the movement phase, specifically focused on leading the ship-to-shore movement of troops. This is a critical function because the successful execution of an amphibious landing heavily relies on the effective and timely transfer of forces from the naval vessels to the designated landing area.

During this phase, the CATF orchestrates the deployment of landing craft, ensures that forces are properly loaded and dispatched, and oversees the movement logistics to maintain combat effectiveness and readiness. The CATF must effectively navigate through any potential threats and obstacles, making real-time decisions to adjust the operation as necessary for mission success.

While other roles such as supporting the landing force commander, coordinating air support, and handling logistics for medical support are important, they fall outside the primary function of the CATF during the movement phase. Instead, these roles are often managed by other commanders or specific operational personnel within the amphibious task force structure. Thus, leading the ship-to-shore movement of troops is the most defining responsibility of the CATF in this context.