Learning to Lead: J. Lawton Collin's Mastery of Large-Unit Command
Abstract
This monograph outlines a portrait of J. Lawton Collins' career to determine what common factors prepared him for becoming an effective large-unit commander. The goal is to illustrate the importance of professional military education, mentorship from senior leaders, and leadership experiences with the training and development of large-unit/operational level commanders. This monograph accomplishes this by examining factors such as Collins' extended service in the interwar US Army school system, mentorship from George Marshall, Dwight Eisenhower, and Omar Bradley, and combat command experiences during the Guadalcanal Campaign, and the capture of Cherbourg. Upon completion of the following events, it becomes evident that Collins masters commanding large-units in combat. This monograph further illustrates this evidence through Collins' actions and decisions while commanding VII Corps during Operation Cobra, and in the Ardennes during the Battle of the Bulge. By determining how Collins compiled and progressed the necessary skills to become an effective large-unit commander, this research promotes how the contemporary US Army can implement similar systems or approaches with developing its operational level leaders.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 21, 2015
- Accession Number
- AD1001524
Entities
People
- Alphonse Iii J. Lemaire
Organizations
- School of Advanced Military Studies