Military Unit Cohesion: The Mechanics and Why some Programs Evolve and Others Dissolve
Abstract
By exploring how various military unit cohesion programs have evolved, and in some cases dissolved, this paper seeks to answer basic questions regarding the future and relevance of the recently implemented Marine Corps unit cohesion program during a potentially revolutionary and dynamic period for the American military. By orienting Marine Corps manpower planners, trainers, and operators on a common mission, "the intense bonding of Marines, strengthened over time, resulting in absolute trust, subordination of self, and an intuitive relationship in the collective actions of the unit and the importance of teamwork," the 31st Commandant of the Marine Corps is determined to capitalize on the historically documented benefits of military unit cohesion. This paper examines the essence of military unit cohesion, the requirement for units imbued with a high degree of cohesion during this relatively peaceful, yet revolutionary, era in the military, the historical relevance and changing nature of military cohesion, and finally two major programs aimed at developing unit cohesion--the Army's COHORT program and the recently implemented Marine Corps unit cohesion program.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA524447
Entities
People
- Stanley J. Jozwiak
Organizations
- Marine Corps University