Battalion/Task Force Command and Control -- Are We Using the 'Big Four' Most Effectively

Abstract

How do the commander, executive officer, operations officer, and command sergeant major interact most effectively during continuous battlefield operations - is there a better way? Command and control of the battalion/task force is a frequently debated topic. Current command and control doctrine relies heavily on the technological and traditional answers. There is a lack of focus on the human dimension in the continuous operations environment. Even the command and control doctrine that we use in peacetime is radically different from that of the doctrinal battlefield. Many studies and articles have sprouted from the battlefield command and control discussion, but the interrelationship of these four key players in continuous operations has been totally neglected. The study relies heavily on contemporary command and control experiences. Observations from the NTC and the relative success or failure of units, form the basis for my analysis. Contemporary ideas and observations are available in the volumes of military periodicals. Additionally, these journals are a source of historical dialogue regarding changes in the relationships of the Battalion/Task Force's senior leadership.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 27, 1988
Accession Number
ADA210983

Entities

People

  • Michael L. Parker

Organizations

  • United States Army Command and General Staff College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • C4I
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Classification
  • Combat Operations
  • Combat Support
  • Command And Control
  • Command And Control Systems
  • Control Systems
  • Doctrine
  • Executives
  • Lessons Learned
  • Management Personnel
  • Military Operations
  • Observation
  • Operating Systems
  • Personnel Management
  • Security
  • Teamwork
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.
  • Military Leadership and Professional Education.

Technology Areas

  • Fully Networked C3
  • Fully Networked C3 - Command and Control