Transformation of the Artillery Branches
Abstract
In 2006, the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process directed combining the Air Defense and Field Artillery centers and schools at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. This decision has fueled speculation that a move to combine the two branches is underway - a concept that is not new. In 1950, the field and anti-aircraft artilleries were combined into one Artillery branch. This integration lasted only until 1968 when the branch was split into the Field Artillery and Air Defense Artillery branches. These two branches have remained separate for almost 40 years. This paper will examine the current drive to combine the branches against the historical backdrop of the previous attempt at integration - and the resultant separation 18 years later. The author will determine why the branches were combined in 1950, why they were separated in 1968, and whether there are any similarities and differences that should shape decisions now. The author will make recommendations based on the findings of the research.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 30, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA469027
Entities
People
- Samuel R. White Jr.
Organizations
- United States Army War College