Lieutenant General "Pete" Quesada and Generalfeldmarschall Wolfram Von Richthofen: What Made Them Great

Abstract

This study comprises an analysis of two contemporary tactical airpower commanders from World War II, Lieutenant General Elwood "Pete" Quesada and Generalfeldmarschall Wolfram Freiherr von Richthofen. It attempts to determine how they succeeded where others failed. Whether solving operational issues, developing technical innovations, or devising logistic solutions, these commanders transcended service-centric doctrine and loyalties in order to achieve their objectives. The author searches for common elements among their personal background, professional education, officer development, and operational experience that help explain their uncommon triumphs. The analysis includes both external and internal factors to determine which is dominant. The final section includes five recommendations intended for those who conduct officer accession, professional development, and promotion boards. The ultimate objective is to provide timeless criteria that transcend technological advancements and the changing character of war. iv

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 2009
Accession Number
ADA540546

Entities

People

  • Gregory Kreuder

Organizations

  • Air University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Biomedical
  • Human Systems
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aerial Warfare
  • Air Force
  • Aircraft Industry
  • Airframes
  • Contingency Operations (Military)
  • Doctrine
  • Employment
  • Fighter Aircraft
  • Geography
  • Military Aircraft
  • Military History
  • Military Organizations
  • Military Science
  • Personnel Management
  • Second World War
  • Students
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.
  • Military History of the United States in the 20th Century.