Civilian Contributions on the Battlefield
Abstract
Civilians have participated in supporting soldiers on the battlefield in every American War or conflict since the founding of the nation. They performed a variety of functions, (e.g. supply, transportation, maintenance, communications and medical). Typically, they were behind the lines and volunteered for this duty. With the drawdown of the Military, and the attendant civilianization of military positions, jobs critical to the combat mission were filled by civilians. Desert Shield/Desert Storm, was the first conflict in which the decision to civilianize critical combat positions was into question. Could the Army order Civilians into battle? Are they combatants? What are the procedures to get them into battle? What are their entitlements while serving in an area of hostilities? Fortunately, there were more civilians who volunteered for this duty than were needed. But, what about future conflicts? This paper addresses these questions and the changes necessary to insure that civilians are as well trained for their roles in battle as the soldier.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 12, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA265484
Entities
People
- Melinda K. Darby
Organizations
- United States Army War College