Relief (military)

Relief, as a military term, refers to the breaking of a siege or an encirclement by an outside force. Relief may occur in conjunction with a breakout. It is one of four possible conclusions of investment, the others being a breakout, surrender or reduction. The force that effects relief is known as the "relieving force" or colloquially "rescue party". Following relief, the town or fortification is said to have been "relieved".

Notable relief forces

• Immortal 32 (Siege of the Alamo)
• Randy Shughart / Gary Gordon (Battle of Mogadishu)

See also

• Combat search and rescue
• Relief in place