Joint Warfighting and the 1986 Reorganization Act
Abstract
The enactment of the Goldwater-Nichols Department of Defense Reorganization Act of 1986 was the culmination of Congressional efforts to correct perceived organizational deficiencies within the Department of Defense. Congressional concern had grown from a series of operational problems highlighted in such places as Vietnam, Iran (Desert One), Lebanon, and Grenada. This paper traces organizational developments in the defense establishment since World War II to identify specific areas of continuing concern that convinced political leaders of the necessity to legislate changes to correct perceived deficiencies. The major provisions of the Reorganization Act of 1986 are examined in an effort to determine if the changes will effectively correct identified problems and lead to a more coordinated force on the battlefield. Specific changes with the potential to directly affect joint warfighting capabilities are examined and recommendations to better achieve the intentions of the legislation are offered.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA217342
Entities
People
- James G. Hulsey Jr.
Organizations
- Air War College