Roles and Mission of the U.S. Army in Disaster Operations
Abstract
Recent experience serves to illustrate the frequent use of military resources in both domestic and international disaster response operations. As the rapid growth of the human population meets 'head on' with global environmental change, the frequency and magnitude of natural and conflict based disasters appear more probable in the future. This study examines the historic role of the U.S. Army in both domestic and international disaster operations within the framework of the present policy environment. Through an analysis of the emergency response mechanisms which 'trigger' a military response, the author suggests that the Secretary of the Army is indeed the correct proponent for military support to civil authority for domestic disasters, but that much more could be accomplished by the states through the use of interstate compacts to regionally share the resources of the National Guard in 'state active duty' status. The Army's role in international disaster operations could be enhanced by the use of a disaster response task force organized around Corps CS/CSS units coordinated by the Corps Rear Tactical Operations Center (RTOC). Such a tailored force would provide the resources to meet the primary emergency support functions in non-hostile situations, while insuring the training of the CS/CSS units and releasing the combat units for continued training. The proposed force structure would impose only limited training and equipment modifications, at minimal cost, while insuring public support of a peacetime Army that provides a service to society.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 11, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA264443
Entities
People
- Charles L. Rosenfeld
Organizations
- United States Army War College