Battle of the Ardennes: Analysis of Strategic Leadership and Decisions

摘要

Few confrontations are dissected and analyzed to the extent as the Battle of the Ardennes - The Battle of the Bulge. The intent of this case study is to summarize events from the strategic perspective. Though the chronology of the battle is presented, the focus of the study is to identify and analyze strategic considerations and decisions that influenced the inception and eventual outcome of the event. In doing so, it illustrates the strategic imperatives outlined in the USAWC Strategic Leadership Primer and the implications of the strategic process. In short, the study presents lessons learned in the application of strategic tasks and competencies. The benefit is outlined in the USAWC Advanced Warfighting Studies Program directive, 'From detailed and objective analysis of historical cases, future high level commanders can learn from the successes and failures of those who have preceded them'.