Operation Overlord and the Principles of War

摘要

Operation OVERLORD provides an ideal case study for the joint military planner. An analysis of Operation OVERLORD using the timeless principles of war provides insight that can still be useful today when planning combined, joint, and coalition operations. With the onset of the global war on terrorism, modern joint planners face complex challenges. These threats will have to be met by fighting as a combined, joint, and coalition team. In this light, now is a good time to look back at the planning and execution of the largest and most complex combined, joint, and multinational amphibious operation in the history of warfare for some lessons learned and planning perspectives. Extremely detailed planning and innovative preparation ultimately led to the liberation of France, the fall of Germany, and Allied victory in Europe. The origins of Operation OVERLORD will be summarized next, followed by an example of each principle of war as it pertained to the operation.