Manpower, Force Structure, and Mobilization Readiness: A Peacetime Cadre System for the U.S. Army
Abstract
The easing of tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union will result in negotiations for conventional force reductions in Europe and elsewhere. This fact coupled with the impact of the Gamm-Rudman-Hollings Act and the perception of a diminished Soviet threat will lead to a significant reduction of U.S. Army troop strength. This study is an examination of one alternative, a cadre system, to provide a reduced Army with enhanced mobilization readiness. The history of past attempts to devise a cadre system gives perspective to the study. In the inter-war period between World War I and World War II, the Army planned a dual cadre system for the Organized Reserve Corps. The mobilization of units for World War II included a cadre system. Most recently the Israeli Army provides and example of a successful cadre system in its Reserve units. The study draws conclusions from these examples and recommends a cadre system for the U.S. Army to maintain the current force structure at reduced manning levels, accelerate mobilization and allow for rapid force expansion. This Army cadre system utilizes Active Army, Active Guard/ Reserve officers and noncommissioned officers in selected units with other Reserve Components pre-trained assets to enhance peacetime training, mobilization readiness, and combat effectiveness.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA219683
Entities
People
- Charles E. Heller
Organizations
- United States Army War College