Goldwater-Nichols Act: Time For Reform
Abstract
Thirteen years have passed since the passage and implementation of the Goldwater-Nichols Department of Defense Reorganization Act of 1986 (hereby referred to as GNA). Numerous military professionals, politicians and authors congratulate the Department of Defense on the successes of the GNA. Without question, the GNA has met the intent of defining the role and the powers of the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the commanders of the combatant commands (the CINCs). The GNA has strengthened the role of civilian authority in the Department of the Defense and improved military advice to the Commander-in-Chief, the National Security Council and the Secretary of Defense. Will the GNA continue to be effective as we move into the 21st century, in the execution of Joint Vision 2010, the creation of future joint visions and a world much different than it was when GNA was enacted? Are there changes to the GNA that would assist our senior civilian and military leadership in shaping and employing future military forces and other instruments of national power? Are there changes required outside GNA? This paper explores some noted successes of GNA, suggests potential reform within the current boundaries of GNA, examines issues to readdress in GNA and suggests additional legislation outside the bounds of GNA. These suggestions would assist DoD in meeting the challenges posed in the execution of national strategy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 10, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA377194
Entities
People
- Kenneth M. Crowe
Organizations
- United States Army War College