The Impact of Racial Integration on the Combat Effectiveness of Eighth (US) Army during the Korean War
Abstract
This monograph studies the racial integration of Army ground combat units in the U.S. Eighth Army during the Korean War. The purpose of the monograph is to determine how this change in the utilization of African-American soldiers affected the combat effectiveness of a U.S. Army organization engaged in fighting a war. The monograph uses several methods to accomplish this purpose: study of pertinent records and Army doctrine, primary and secondary source historical analysis, and an interdisciplinary study of military effectiveness. To answer the primary research question, the monograph explores in broad terms the origins of the Cold War and U.S. national policy after World War II, the use of Korean soldiers in U.S. Army units during the Korean War, and the Army's segregation policies. The research results in two major findings. First, the integration of African Americans in Army combat units during the Korean War resulted in improvements in cohesion, leadership and command, fighting spirit, personnel resources, and sustainment that increased the combat effectiveness of the Eighth Army. Second, contrary to the prevailing Army view, leaders in the Eighth Army held a positive opinion of the ability of African-American soldiers to fight in combat. Both of these findings are evidence of the Eighth Army's adaptability.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA557912
Entities
People
- Richard T. Cranford
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College