Soldier Dimensions and Operational Readiness in U.S. Army Forces Deployed to Kosovo
Abstract
The impact of military deployments on soldiers has been assessed from combat to peacekeeping to humanitarian missions. In a recent study of U.S. Army units deployed to Kosovo in support of a multinational peacekeeping mission, soldier attitudes and health were surveyed on site, mid-way during a 6-month deployment. In all, 1,718 soldiers were surveyed, 53.0% were junior enlisted, 34.5% were non-commissioned officers, and 12.5% were officers. In addition, 15 focused soldier and leader interviews were conducted. Key findings included: (a) Soldiers in Kosovo experienced nearly four times the number of traumatic events had higher rates of depression, slept less and were under higher strain compared to soldiers who did not have such experiences. (b) Soldiers' attitude about peacekeeping missions and military deployments became more negative over the course of the Kosovo deployment. (c) Confidence in leadership was high, although it declined somewhat during the deployment. These findings indicate that deployments involving peacekeeping operations can impact readiness on a broad range of soldier dimensions. These effects, however, can be both positive and negative. Only by addressing and understanding both aspects of a deployment will we be able to ensure that soldier and unit readiness remains high.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA388340
Entities
People
- Amy B Adler
- Ann H. Huffman
- Carl A. Castro
- Robert V. Bienvenu