Sharpening the Combat Edge

This monograph focuses on the use of analysis in combat operations and concentrates in the utilization of techniques in situations which the authors were personally familiar. It primarily covers the systematic blending of military judgment, data collection, and simple problem solving techniques as utilized in the 9th Infantry Division and II Field Force, Vietnam in 1968, 1969 and 1970. Contents include unit management and personnel actions, optimizing Army aviation assets and support facilities, general background for battlefield analysis, the intelligence function, tactical refinements and innovations, the analytical approach, pacification, division wrap-up, corps level operations, controlling the war, and limitations and problems in the use of analysis.