Graduated Mobilization Response and the Total Force Chaplain in Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm
Abstract
Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm was the most comprehensive military deployment in our nation's history. It required the largest call-up and mobilization of Reserve forces since the Korean Conflict. It provided the first thorough test of the all volunteer Total Force and it was the first execution of the Graduated Mobilization Response (GMR). Mobilization is a familiar term to Reserve soldiers since they have been training to some mobilization readiness standard for years. GMR is not the familiar term that mobilization is to us. Yet, when mobilization finally occurred, after two decades of preparation, it was not a full mobilization for a war in Europe against the Soviets, but a gradually incremented activation, call-up, and partial mobilization, in the Middle East against Iraq. This paper is a study of Reserve chaplain and chaplain assistant activation in the first full experience with GMR. It reviews the origins and purpose of Total Force Policy and the GMR concept, both current and primary elements in the President's National Security Strategy. It examines the problems the Chaplain Corps encountered in responding to a GMR and makes recommendations for the best use of GMR in future contingencies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 22, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA237076
Entities
People
- Stephen W. Leonard
Organizations
- United States Army War College