Capturing the Human High Ground: Army Adaptive Leadership During an Era of Persistent Conflict
Abstract
The ability of military leaders to adapt to complex sociocultural situations in wartime is widely recognized at every level of defense leadership as a significant factor of success during this era of persistent conflict. The will of the people is now the objective of both GENs Petraeus and McCrystal's strategy. Yet, it is one thing to dictate requirements about developing host nation relationships and gaining the will of the people, and another to develop American leaders adaptive enough to carry out these directives. Success is now determined by how well we "Capture the Human High Ground". Army leaders must have a mindset based on agility of thought and adaptability of action. This study presents a framework for adaptability competences in Army leaders through a series of arguments culminating with a suggested "Way Ahead" to meet the current requirements. Arguments will support that the Army does not have the programs in place to develop agile and adaptive leaders needed for this era of persistent conflict, and in so doing, provides a significant strategic shortcoming in winning the asymmetric fight. The Army currently has the knowledge and capability to provide adequate education and training in adaptability to all deploying forces yet courses are not adequately established. This study recommends a bridging strategy be implemented during pre-deployment to meet the needs of the war fighter, while continued research occurs to ensure that adaptive leadership becomes part of a life-long professional learning process for the Army leader.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 22, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA544368
Entities
People
- Jeffrey E. Pounding
Organizations
- United States Army War College