Developing Tactical Commanders at CGSOC for the Future AirLand Battlefield

This study examines the proposed 1991 CGSOC curriculum to determine if it is structured to educate and train future AirLand battlefield commanders. First, this paper develops a 'Command Process Model' and uses theoretical and historical analysis to substantiate the validity of this model. The model was then used to provide analysis criteria for the conduct of a command curriculum needs assessment. This curriculum needs analysis focused on command requirements and current command problem areas. The curriculum needs analysis results were then compared against the proposed 1991-92 curriculum to determine possible curriculum shortcomings and discrepancies. This study concludes that the components of the command process (vision, decision making, mission tactics, intent, main effort) are substantiated by theory and history. Airland Battle Future (ALB-F), senior Army leaders and current authors emphasize the importance of these same command components for the conduct of future battle operations.