Fratricide: The Result of Undisciplined Aggressiveness.
Abstract
Commanders realize that, while engaged in combat, they may suffer casualties. They do not, however, accept that a portion of these casualties may be inflicted by their own troops. Fratricide, the result of undisciplined aggressiveness, has plagued U.S. military forces from the Revolutionary War through current military operations. A brief review and analysis of documented fratricide incidents within the context of doctrine is provided. Understanding that doctrine must be broad in scope to encompass the 'how' to conduct military campaigns, major operations, and battles, more restrictive rules of engagement (ROE) are developed and married with doctrine establishing command guidance. The key to reducing fratricide incidents is to foster an environment which commanders at all levels encourage disciplined aggressiveness to meet mission requirements. The thesis of this paper is that commanders must ensure all actions are accomplished within established doctrine and current ROE; if not, recklessness is the result, and fratricide is the price.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA309332
Entities
People
- Thomas C. Owskey
Organizations
- United States Army War College