Insights into Modularity: 753rd Tank Battalion in World War II
Abstract
The U.S. Army is in the midst of its largest organizational change since World War II. At the heart of its transformation is its conversion to a modular, brigade-based force design. The creation of self-contained brigade combat teams, as well as modular support and functional brigades, is intended to provide a more capable and adaptable force in which units can be combined or augmented to build tailored formations to meet specific mission requirements. As the Army's modular force continues to evolve and mature so must the doctrine, leader development systems, and institutions that create and support it. Current operations provide a wealth of insights to inform this refinement. History provides insights as well, since many of the underlying concepts of modularity are not new, nor are the challenges they present. One example of early modularity can be seen in the World War II separate tank battalions -- units specifically designed to be task organized to provide additional capability to infantry or other formations. This project examines the experience of one separate tank battalion and, drawing from it, suggests insights and provides recommendations for the U.S. Army's current-day modular force.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 17, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA478430
Entities
People
- Anthony F. Daskevich Ii
Organizations
- United States Army War College