The Education of an Operational Commander: Ulysses S. Grant, 1861-1863.
Abstract
The paper conducts a chronological examination of the impact operational education and experience had towards the rise of U.S. Grant as an operational commander, focusing on involvement during the initial two years of the American Civil War in the Western Theater. The origins of Union Strategy, and Grant's evolution as an operational commander, is seen through operational experiences in early Civil War battles at Belmont, Forts Henry and Donelson, Shiloh, and Vicksburg. Discussion cites the complementary nature of a firm moral foundation towards credibility as an operational leader and commander, highlighting experience as a key in the commander's education in balancing the operational factors of time, space, and force. A keen understanding of operational functions and use of the principles of war naturally produces a vision for victory and it's accompanying strategy. Whether a limited or total war, exclusive use of the principles will not guarantee victory. Victory, and the means by which it is achieved, relies on the operational commander.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 07, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA325084
Entities
People
- William J. Hart
Organizations
- Naval War College