Killing of a King: The Increasing Marginalization of the Field Artillery Branch in Current Counterinsurgency Operations
Abstract
This thesis argues that the Field Artillery (FA) branch is being marginalized in today's counterinsurgency operations. There are several key factors that have led up to this point, specifically: (1) a loss of core competency within the branch, causing a loss in confidence from maneuver commanders; and (2) the lack of a clear strategy for what role the branch will play in the future. The most recent vision of the FA Commandant in the 2009 Field Artillery Strategy addresses some of these issues, but may not go far enough. The thesis argues that the biggest factor affecting the branch is the impact of multiple deployments in which artillery Soldiers are tasked with nonstandard missions. Many senior leaders are discussing this issue, and some are providing ways to resolve it. The thesis will address the main issues surrounding the FA branch by reviewing FA unit actions in Iraq and Afghanistan over the past 8 years, historical articles, and Combat Training Center After Action Reviews.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 11, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA524427
Entities
People
- Stephen M. Kaplachinski
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College