What is the common use of a Warning Order (WARNO)?

The common use of a Warning Order (WARNO) is primarily to inform units about immediate actions that are anticipated or required in response to an operational situation. A WARNO serves as a preliminary notice that something is forthcoming, allowing units to prepare for an operation before a full Operations Order (OPORD) is issued. It alerts personnel of the need to be ready to act, providing essential information about the nature of the upcoming task and any initial actions that need to be taken. This early communication helps ensure that units can mobilize promptly and understand their roles and responsibilities in the upcoming mission.

In this context, the other options, while relevant to military operations and training, do not align with the specific purpose of a WARNO. Outlining training objectives typically pertains to lesson planning and is not the function of a WARNO. Providing assessment feedback involves evaluating performance or understanding and is generally delivered after actions have occurred rather than as a precursor to action. Announcing changes in command is a distinct communication meant to inform personnel of new leadership rather than preparing them for immediate operational directives.