A Comparison of Operational Leadership in the Battle of Midway.
Abstract
Despite the technologies and weaponry available to a military force, it is the leadership demonstrated by the operational commander which ultimately determines the outcome of a major operation or campaign. Through such leadership, especially in the pre-execution phase, the foundation is formed for the unity of purpose and effort, vision and flexibility required to achieve success. To illustrate this point, a comparison of the operational leadership demonstrated by Admirals Yamamoto and Nimitz in the Battle of Midway is presented. Examples include how each commander selected his objective and got it approved by higher authority, how they conducted their planning, command, control and communications process, and how they prepared for possible changing circumstances in their plans. The conclusion is that Nimitz displayed far more superior operational leadership than Yamamoto in The Battle of Midway and therefore, achieved victory despite the odds. This study is relevant for current and future operations and campaigns. Leadership to form cohesion is a greater challenge, with the increase of allied and coalition participation in joint operations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 09, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA293800
Entities
People
- Valerie A. Moule
Organizations
- Naval War College