LEADERSHIP FOR TOMORROWS ARMY: AN AMERICAN GENERAL STAFF SYSTEM

Abstract

Abstract : The United States Army is the keystone of the American national security arch. Curious though such a proposition may appear in this era of wonder weapons-billion-dollar missile-firing submarines, giant nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, spy satellites that detect single vehicles from miles in space, and intercontinental missiles with probable errors in the tens of meters-it is so. As will be argued later in this paper, our national strategy, including the principal roles for both naval forces and strategic air power, is inextricably coupled to the posture of our conventional and tactical-nuclear ground forces. The American Armed Forces have, quite properly, no function in or for themselves. They are but instruments of the national purpose, which is stated in our Declaration of Independence as the triad Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. Our national security policy has been consistent with that larger purpose. We have maintained military forces and, when necessary, applied them against adversaries to protect the physical safety of our populace and property, the unfettered operation of our democratic institutions, and the social and economic opportunity of our citizens.