Operational Leadership Once Beyond the Culminating Point: Perspectives on Calculated Tactical Risk to Achieve Operational Success.
Abstract
There is an extraordinary degree of risk of casualties and destruction to the attacking force associated with continuing the attack beyond the tactical culminating point. The operational commander may take a significant calculated risk at the tactical level and pass the culminating point or accept loss once beyond the culminating point, in order to achieve success at the operational level. The forces of Confederate General 'Stonewall' Jackson in the Shenandoah Valley in the Civil War and U.S. Marine Corps Major General Alexander Vandegrift in the Guadalcanal Operation in the Second World War passed beyond the culminating point. An analysis of the leadership of these two generals produces insight into some major characteristics of operational leadership once beyond the culminating point in light of the great tactical risk. The framework for analysis included a physical component, and the components of will, initiative, coup d'oeil, and style of communication. Operational commanders demonstrate the ability to limit their tactical objectives beyond the culminating point and seek to capitalize on temporary risk to achieve success at a higher level. Other insights relate to the significant role of strength of will and intuitive decision-making and vision. These insights are relevant to the challenges that senior commanders potentially face in present warfare as well as to further research and analysis in doctrine, theory, and the operational art.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 12, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA307601
Entities
People
- Keith D. Emberton
Organizations
- Naval War College