Enlisted Expeditionary Warfare Specialist (EXW) Practice Test 2026 - Free EXW Practice Questions and Study Guide

The immediate action when caught in the open by an overhead flare is to hit the deck. This response is appropriate because flares illuminate the area, making individuals visible to enemy forces. By hitting the deck, you reduce your silhouette against the ground and make it more difficult for the enemy to target you. Taking cover and minimizing movement helps protect against being seen and potentially engaged by hostile forces.

The other options suggest actions that may not be as effective or appropriate in this situation. Freezing can leave you exposed and vulnerable, while assaulting the position that launched the flare or calling in indirect fire would be premature actions that could lead to unnecessary risk when your first priority should be to avoid detection. Thus, getting low to the ground is a tactical and immediate response to enhance personal safety in a high-risk situation.