Operation Iraqi Freedom Case Study of Combat Engineer Battalion Support to Stability and Reconstruction Operations
Abstract
The employment of full-spectrum operations is critical in winning the war in Iraq, and stability and reconstruction operations play a key part in success or failure. The purpose of this thesis is to assess and analyze the support of the US Army Combat Engineer Battalions to stability and reconstruction (S&R) operations in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). The research question is: Were the combat engineer battalions deployed during OIF properly organized to conduct stability and reconstruction operations? The combat engineer battalions faced significant organizational problems as they conducted S&R operations. These problems were determined by the requirements of combat engineer battalions in OIF. This thesis identifies these problems and the battalions' solutions to determine any shortfalls or requirements for adjustment for combat engineer battalions as they conduct stability and reconstruction operations in the future. The research found that the combat engineer battalions were not properly organized, but were successful due to flexible and adaptable leaders and soldiers. However, the combat engineer battalion organization can improve by addressing training shortfalls and resourcing the battalions with additional equipment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 15, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA460770
Entities
People
- Christopher T. Kuhn
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College