Logistics Planning Process of the Far East Air Material Command during the Korean War

摘要

This thesis examined the standard operating procedures (SOP), programs, and repertoires used by the Far East Air Materiel Command (FEAMCOM) for planning logistical support during the Korean War, 1950 - 1953. The impact which the National Security Acts of 1947 and 1949 had on the national military planning structures was reviewed. The National Security Acts of 1947 and 1949 mandated changes that all U.S. military organizations were striving to implement. These structures were untried and military commanders were unsure how they should operate. The extent of existing plans and policy guidance just prior to the start of the Korean War is examined. The response of the FEAMCOM planners to various tasking problems is discussed. The untried planning process and new supply arrangements with the Army created a very challenging planning problem for the FEAMCOM. The study concludes that the FEAMCOM was very lucky in being able to provide the overall excellent level of material support they did. There was a large amount of surplus material which remained in the theatre form World War II. This material filled the immediate shortfalls of the war. The FEAMCOM benefited from a lack of any attacks on its facilities in Japan. Its concentrated targets should have been a tempting target for the North Koreans. The loss of several Japanese depots would have crippled the FEAMCOM. (kr)