Beans, Bullets or Both? (Are We Emphasizing Logistics Enough in Senior Service School Wargames?)
Abstract
Throughout history logistics has played a key role in the success or failure of warfare. As the United States military draws down the size of its forces and reduces its forward presence, logistics will become even more important. Consequently, future Commanders-in-Chief (CINCs) will need to know more about the capabilities and limitations of logistics. The Army's and Marine Corps' manuals on campaign planning emphasize the importance of logistics during all phases of combat planning and operations. However, history teaches us we may not always practice what we preach. This paper examines logistic issues associated with three post-WWII operations--Korea, Grenada, and Operation DESERT SHIELD/STORM. In each of these operations, logistics capability was the key to successfully deploying troops and equipment directly into a combat zone. While we have improved the way we deploy and sustain our forces, we still unnecessarily recreate logistics problems each time we become involved in a contingency. One reason for this is our CINCs often lack sufficient training in dealing with the logistic intricacies of a campaign. We can overcome this training deficiency by developing wargames with realistic logistic scenarios and immediately incorporating them into our senior service school curriculums. Logistically enhanced wargames are essential in heightening the next generation of combat leaders' awareness of their future logistic challenges.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA276847
Entities
People
- Bradley S. Baker
Organizations
- Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy