Considerations for the Organization and Employment of an Operational Reserve

Abstract

This study is an analysis of the operational reserve. The size, composition, positioning, and political and geographical factors that affect the employment of an operational reserve are discussed. Historical experiences in World War II and current doctrine are considered in the analysis of the operational commander's reserve force. The study indicates that the current force structure of the U.S. Army and ability to deploy forces to a theater directly affect the employment of an operational-level reserve. Moreover, the operational commander's ability to affect the battle is directly linked to an operational reserve that can maneuver to achieve the desired operational objectives. The size and composition of the operational reserve are less important than the fact an operational reserve is constituted. The study concludes that an operational reserve is critical to insure the success of operations and campaigns in a theater or operation. Suggestions are offered for the organization and employment of the operational reserve force.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 16, 1986
Accession Number
ADA174192

Entities

People

  • Terry W. Bullington

Organizations

  • United States Army Command and General Staff College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Human Systems
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abstracts
  • Combat Support
  • Contingency Operations (Military)
  • Doctrine
  • Employment
  • Fire Support
  • Maneuvers
  • Military Operations
  • Nato
  • New York
  • Operations Research
  • Rear Areas
  • Schools
  • Second World War
  • Security
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies
  • Military Mobilization and Reserve Forces Studies.