The 'Moose Muss' of the Aleutian Campaign: An Operational Analysis Using the Principles of War.
Abstract
This paper examines the U.S. Armed Forces involvement in the 15 month long Aleutian Campaign. The campaign is the first joint forces operation of World War II. Between June 1942 and August 1943 America accomplished its mission by removing the Japanese from American soil. The remote location of this campaign and a secondary theater of war designation make it an ideal study of the Japanese and American economy of forces. Conducted over a thousand miles of islands in extremely harsh conditions it was a conflict that involved 'military frustration' This conflict should not be 'forgotten' as it consumed hundreds of Japanese and Allied lives and resources. A close study of the Aleutian Campaign has much to offer the future operational planner. Analysis of this historical campaign using the principles of war ('MOOSE MUSS') is valuable to today's operational planners; they may avoid mistakes in future campaigns. Failure to provide unity of command, neglect of operational intelligence and improper training, and inadequate protection from the elements were all factors that contributed to a protracted war. The analysis has significant lessons learned for the contemporary student of operational art.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 05, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA325117
Entities
People
- Margaret M. Hodas-walsh
Organizations
- Naval War College