Light Infantry Division: A Case for Greater Robustness in a Downsized Army

摘要

In 1984 a decision was made to create the Light Infantry Division (LID). Thisdecision sparked controversy throughout the Army and raised issues that remain unresolved today. The primary concerns that were raised centered on the LID's shortcomings in lethality and sustainability. This study project is a review of current LID limitations as seen by past and present Light Infantry Division commanders. Their perspectives were taken from Division Command Lessons Learned Program pamphlets, Combat Training Centers (CTC) Lessons Learned, and a detailed interview on this subject with a serving Light Infantry Division Commanding General, MG Steven L. Arnold. The recommendations and conclusions do not represent a consensus from the light infantry community, but are the summarized views of LID commanders. The general view is that the shortcomings of the LID