General Bedford Forrest and Practical Operational Art Advice for the Commander

摘要

General Forrest, who said he was successful because he always 'got there first with the most men', was assigned two operational objectives in late 1862. The first was to interdict Grant's invasion of Mississippi; the second, to tie down Union forces in West Tennessee so that they could not be used to reinforce Rosecrans in Middle Tennessee. The West Tennessee operation contains several lessons that are applicable for today's and tomorrow's operational commanders. Key elements of the Operational Idea (Scheme) and aspects of Operational Leadership are examined and practical advice offered for current commanders that is useful regardless of the geographical area, weapons and equipment used, or forces employed.