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MEMORANDUM FOR LTG Riscassi

SUBJECT: NTC Observations

1. As Commander of the National Training Center for the last year and a half, I have had the rare opportunity to observe the performance of a large number of units in what is arguably the world's most realistic combat training environment. Being very aware that perspectives change and memories fade as subsequent assignments come and go, the attached paper was written primarily for my own benefit. It is not a comprehensive discussion of tactical issues, but rather a collection of selected impressions and opinions recorded for future reference. Since there are very few absolutes in this business, the intent was simply to express my best judgement at this particular point in time concerning a relatively large number of complex topics. Comments relate primarily to battalion operations, since that is the level of primary focus at the National Training Center and although we have some experience with modernized units, observations are predominantly of M60/M113 organizations.

2. Having just reread the paper in its entirety, there is clearly a dominant emphasis on the requirement for in-depth planning and attention to tactical details. While battles are invariably decentralized and very little ever happens exactly as planned, a unit's ability to respond effectively to the unexpected and to use individual initiative to exploit opportunities is largely determined by how much hard work is done up front. Flexibility is a function of preparation.

3. Although written in the first person, many of the insights expressed are those of a very talented group of senior NTC officers; e.g., COL Wes Clark, COL Larry Word, LTC Tom Graney, LTC Doug Campbell, LTC Mac Johnson, and LTC Glen Skirvin, plus LTC Jim Crowley from CATA at Ft Leavenworth. The above notwithstanding, I alone am accountable for the overall product. Views presented are believed to be consistent with current doctrine in almost all cases; however, no staffing was done outside of Ft. Irwin.

CF:
LTG Palastra, CG, I Corps & Ft Lewis
LTG Jenes, DCG, FORSCOM
LTG Lindsay, CG, XVIII Abn Corp
LTG Saint, CG, III Corps & Ft Hood

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Individual and Small Unit Execution