Contemporary Problems of the Unified Command System
Abstract
On 20 September 1977, President Carter directed Secretary of Defense Harold Brown to conduct a "searching organizational review" which would include a thorough examination of "alternative reforms in organization, management, and decision processes in the Department of Defense." This review focuses on three functional areas: the Defense Resource Management Structure, the Defense Management Structure, and the National Military Command Structure. Although all have potential impact on the unified command system, the report on the National Military Command Structure (commonly referred to as the Steadman Report) specifically addresses the unified and specified commands. The Presidential memorandum raised serious questions regarding the effectiveness of the command structure for the conduct of war, for peacetime activities, and for crisis management. It noted that "during the Vietnam War, the Pacific Command had to be restructured so that [it] could respond directly to Washington requirements." Concern was expressed regarding the capability of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) to provide guidance, to review contingency plans, and to resolve differences between commanders regarding forces.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA516105
Entities
People
- William O. Staudenmaier
Organizations
- United States Army War College