Transforming Past Lessons to Mold the Future: A Case Study on Operation NICKEL GRASS

摘要

This paper generalizes the specific lessons from a past airlift operation, thus enabling those lessons to be applied in planning, analyzing, and executing contemporary or future airlift operations. In so doing, the paper answers the following research question: 'How should lessons from past operations be applied to current situations.' In this case, the specific lessons from the 1973 airlift operation supporting Israel, Operation NICKEL GRASS, were analyzed and generalized using the Tenets of Operations described in U.S. Army field manuals. NICKEL GRASS was a successful airlift-centric operation that provides valuable insights into the Air Force's ability to carry out short-notice, sustainment operations in support of engaged fighting forces. Case study methodology is used to generalize the specific lessons from the operation. Three investigative questions were addressed: (1) What events led up to the U.S. airlift support to Israel; (2) What lessons did the Air Force learn from the operation; and (3) How should these lessons be applied to contemporary airlift operations. Finally, the Tenets of Airlift Operations are defined and utilized as general lesson categories. These categories balance the Air Force's focus on the unique aspects of Air Power and provide common ground for structuring, planning, and execution discussions in the joint environment.