Denton Cargo: An Analysis of Interagency Interaction
Abstract
The purpose of this research was to identify how the Denton Program for delivery of privately donated humanitarian assistance could be more responsive to the requirements of U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM). Specifically, this graduate research paper sought to determine how the Denton Program is currently executed and which organizations are involved, the barriers to responsive execution of the program, and how those barriers could be removed. The research questions were answered through a case study of privately donated humanitarian assistance involving Haiti during the 2008 hurricane season. The primary source of information used to answer the research questions came from interviews with personnel who are experts in the process and are also currently directly involved in the process. The research revealed that the Denton Program is tightly tied to the Denton Amendment to Title 10 of the United States Code. Because it is governed by federal law, there is significant inflexibility to its execution. The research question was in a sense the wrong question. Rather than making the program more responsive, the more appropriate issue is one of making the program more efficient and effective. Recommendations include waivers or standing execution orders for USSOUTHCOM, realigning resources within the affected agencies to better execute the program, and improving interagency communication at the lowest levels.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA505047
Entities
People
- Barton S. Lux
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology