Which element of a rifle squad is often responsible for carrying heavier weaponry?

The automatic rifleman is typically responsible for carrying heavier weaponry within a rifle squad. This role is crucial because the automatic rifleman operates a designated automatic weapon, such as the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW), which provides sustained fire support in combat situations. The weight and bulk of this weapon, along with additional ammunition and equipment required for its operation, place a significant burden on the automatic rifleman. This specialized role is designed to maximize the squad's firepower and effectiveness in a firefight, allowing for a higher volume of fire than standard riflemen can provide.

Other members of the squad have distinct responsibilities; for instance, riflemen are primarily focused on individual marksmanship and maneuver, while the squad leader oversees the squad’s operations and tactics. The grenadier, on the other hand, carries and operates grenade launchers, which, while important, do not consistently involve the same level of heavier weaponry as the automatic rifleman’s role does.