I think he threw the para cord in for extended OPs. Para can be used as: shoelaces should yours break, sling should yours malfunction, to bind non-MOLLE items to your MOLLE vest, make shelter, be utilized for first aid, serve as a clothesline during encampment, trip wire for signal devices...to name a few. I carry 20 feet on all backpacking/kayak/trail-skiing/camping trips because it is, in my opinion, one of the most versatile pieces of equipment you could take.