World War II Logistic Principles at the Operational Level of War: Are They Valid Today?
Abstract
Current doctrine for logistic support of joint operations at the operational level of war is used as a means to analyze the historic logistic lessons learned in WW II, both in the Pacific and European Theaters of Operations. The logistic lessons learned during Operations DESERT SHIELD and DESERT STORM, as well as those during WW II, revealed that the logistic principles outlined in the 1990 Joint PUB 4-0 (Test PUB), Doctrine for Logistic Support of Joint Operations: Responsiveness, Simplicity, Flexibility, Economy, Attainability, Sustainability, and Survivability were decisively threaded throughout operations in WW II and the Gulf War. Logistic principles were essential to the overall operational and tactical success of the respective fighting forces. The focus of this examination will be to compare current U.S. military doctrine for logistic support in relationship to the logistic lessons learned in WW II and determine if those lessons and logistic principles are still valid for today's logistician. This analysis revealed that the logistic success in WW II was based upon the same logistic principles as outlined in current joint doctrinal manuals. These logistic principles deserve careful study by all who practice the logistical operational art of war. The lessons learned, paid for in the blood and lives of American men and women in WW II, must not be forgotten or relearned at the expense of today's soldiers, sailors, marines, or airmen.... Logistic principles, World War II, Supply, Sustainment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 22, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA263954
Entities
People
- Joseph A. Brown
Organizations
- Naval War College