Which of the following lists the information the patrol leader provides to the patrol's returning unit commander?

The patrol leader provides the returning unit commander with essential logistical information that is critical for operational coordination and situational awareness. The general route gives a clear understanding of the path taken, which is important for future patrols or to anticipate potential points of contact with the enemy. An expected time of return is vital for scheduling allied forces, ensuring they are ready for the patrol's return and can provide assistance if needed. The size of the patrol helps the unit commander assess the manpower available for immediate operations and gauge their capabilities against any potential threats encountered.

Other choices may contain relevant information, but they don’t encapsulate the overarching logistical details that a commander requires from a patrol leader. For instance, enemy positions and weather conditions are typically gathered during the mission rather than reported back by the patrol leader; mission objectives would generally have been established prior to the patrol and communicated before departure; and details regarding communication methods, medical readiness, and escape routes are typically operational specifics rather than the summary information expected by the commander upon the patrol’s return.