Operational Command and Control Considerations for Detainee Operations

Abstract

Failures by U.S. forces to properly care for their prisoners have complicated ongoing operations, tarnished the image of joint force commanders (JFCs) and gravely damaged the nation's reputation. Unfortunately, current joint doctrine for the C2 of detainee operations is too narrowly focused and fails to provide JFCs with adequate guidance. This study examines four C2 tenets in the context of three historical case studies to illustrate shortcomings in the operational C2 of detention operations and how they can compromise the commander's mission. The author recommends that JFCs consider: establishing a C2 structure for detainee operations that is flexible, visually simplistic and thoroughly understood; selecting a Commander, Detainee Operations based on qualities beyond experience and rank; using friendly forces information requirements to support planning and to remain ahead of potential problems; and employing information operations and public affairs to protect the joint force's mission and the nation's reputation.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 04, 2009
Accession Number
ADA503074

Entities

People

  • Steven L. Pierce

Organizations

  • Naval War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • C4I
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Case Studies
  • Command And Control
  • Correctional Facilities
  • Department Of Defense
  • Doctrine
  • Information Operations
  • Iraqi-War
  • Military History
  • Military Operations
  • New York
  • Nongovernmental Organizations
  • Prisoners
  • Prisoners Of War
  • Psychological Operations
  • United States
  • United States Central Command
  • War Colleges

Readers

  • Criminal Law
  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.

Technology Areas

  • Fully Networked C3
  • Fully Networked C3 - Command and Control