Economy of Force: A Major Component of a Strategic Masterpiece
Abstract
The strategy of General MacArthur was investigated as it pertained to the New Guinea Campaign. Specific emphasis was placed on three critical battles: Milne Bay, Lae/Nadzab, and Hollandia. The principles of war employed so successfully by General MacArthur (Economy of Force, Mass, Surprise and the Objective) were analyzed in depth. A detailed discussion of the environment that existed during the campaign was felt necessary as it had a great effect on both MacArthur's actions and those of the Japanese. Some criticisms of General MacArthur were also evaluated, but in large part they were directed against MacArthur's personality, and not his strategy. It was concluded that the strategy of the Southwest Pacific Area, and more specifically the new Guinea Campaign was brilliant. General MacArthur overcame almost insurmountable obstacles of enemy, terrain, lines of communications, and Allied priorities to consistently defeat the enemy in engagement after engagement with minimum losses being sustained by the Allies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 16, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0761596
Entities
People
- John R. Westervelt
Organizations
- United States Army War College