Saddled With History: Airmindedness and Its Antecedents in Union Cavalry
Abstract
Airmindedness, broadly defined as a perspective through which the battlespace is not constrained by geography, distance, location, or time, has been central to the identity of the Air Force since its institutional beginnings. The Air Corps Tactical School (ACTS) motto Proficimus More Irretenti We Make Progress Unhindered by Custom suggests an airpower culture built on a perceived monopoly on strategic perspective, eschewing yesterday s experience for tomorrow s promise. By following the development of Union Cavalry under the command of General James H. Wilson, however, one sees a progressive leader organizing a force around a similar, far-reaching vision of the strategic battlefield. Thus, many of the long-held precepts of airpower doctrine find historical precedent in independent mounted operations. By exploring how Wilson used cavalry s advantages to exploit time and space, this paper will establish a more inclusive institutional foundation, acknowledging airpower s debts to land power, and provide a fuller understanding of the use of speed and range for achieving strategic effects.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2014
- Accession Number
- ADA620953
Entities
People
- Dave E. Bonn
Organizations
- Air University