Korean War Logistics Eighth United States Army
Abstract
The Eighth US Army participated in three major operations of the Korean Conflict during the period 19 September - 31 December 1950. The provision of logistical support was frequently affected by the tactical situation; and vice versa, the logistical situation, at times, had impact on the tactical situation. Both aspects were addressed in this study. In addition, command and control, organizational structure and outside factors were investigated to establish their impact on logistical support. The three major operations include the Pusan Breakout, advance to and beyond Pyongyang, and CCF intervention and the retrograde operation. The logistical situation fluctuated from adequate during the breakout, to insufficient during the push northward, to abundant before the CCF intervention, to excess during the retrograde operation. Some of the systemic problems encountered were shortage of personnel and inadequately trained personnel in combat service support units; inadequate and often a lack of wartime policies for supporting units; and improper command and responsibility alignment of support to supported units. Numerous lessons were learned during this period. Some are still germane to today's preparation for war: logistics must be integrally involved in the early planning of tactics and logistics; adequate medical support must be provided early in the engagement - inclusive of personnel, supplies and facilities; unit readiness must be sustained at a go-to-war level, particularly in CS and CSS units.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 09, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA170452
Entities
People
- Leroy Zimmerman
Organizations
- United States Army War College