The modern battlefield has drastically changed from the previous wars that shaped our country, our religions and our civilization as a whole. Irregular warfare is defined as “A violent struggle among state and non-state actors for legitimacy and influence…” utilizing “indirect and asymmetric approaches…” (DOD Directive 3000.07, pg 11). Two key elements can be derived from this definition; non-state actors and indirect, asymmetric approaches. The significance of these factors ensures two things; we do not always know who the enemy is or his method of attack. Although all of the Marine Corps leadership traits hold equal value, we must develop critical leadership traits to combat these irregular threats in a fluid, rapidly changing environment.
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On the irregular battlefield, we could ask “Does the decision we are making align with the commander’s intent” or “Is this decision necessary for mission accomplishment?” Judgement is utilizing the knowledge gained of the enemy and quick decision-making ability to come to a viable conclusion as to whether the action you are embarking on is necessary, achievable, and beneficial to the overarching goal of your operation. Once the warfighter gains knowledge and subsequently reaches and evaluates a decision, he must take initiative. In an irregular environment, commanders may not be readily accessible, therefore warfighters must be prepared to take action in the absence of orders or else a fleeting opportunity may be sacrificed due to inaction. Initiative allows one to meet previously un-encountered situations with action. “By taking the initiative, we dictate the terms of the conflict and force the enemy to meet us on our terms” (MCDP 1, pg …show more content…
Leaders should demand self-sufficiency and critical thinking in those under their charge. If the mission allows for it, leaders should force subordinates to gain their own knowledge, make their own decisions, live with the consequences of those decisions and take action in the absence of orders. It is not to say a leader should abandon those under their charge but rather encourage them to be independent and de-centralized from their most immediate command and control. Professional Military Education and the Commandant’s Professional Reading list are other tools that will assist in developing the leadership traits essential to irregular threats.
The leadership traits that are critical to combating irregular threats are knowledge, decisiveness, judgement and initiative. These traits are inter-related and represent a thinking process that occurs when encountering the vast myriad of threats in an irregular, often austere environment. Developing these traits can be accomplished at all levels of command on a daily basis. If a warfighter is indoctrinated with these traits through realistic training, the unknowns of irregular threats can be successfully
On the irregular battlefield, we could ask “Does the decision we are making align with the commander’s intent” or “Is this decision necessary for mission accomplishment?” Judgement is utilizing the knowledge gained of the enemy and quick decision-making ability to come to a viable conclusion as to whether the action you are embarking on is necessary, achievable, and beneficial to the overarching goal of your operation. Once the warfighter gains knowledge and subsequently reaches and evaluates a decision, he must take initiative. In an irregular environment, commanders may not be readily accessible, therefore warfighters must be prepared to take action in the absence of orders or else a fleeting opportunity may be sacrificed due to inaction. Initiative allows one to meet previously un-encountered situations with action. “By taking the initiative, we dictate the terms of the conflict and force the enemy to meet us on our terms” (MCDP 1, pg …show more content…
Leaders should demand self-sufficiency and critical thinking in those under their charge. If the mission allows for it, leaders should force subordinates to gain their own knowledge, make their own decisions, live with the consequences of those decisions and take action in the absence of orders. It is not to say a leader should abandon those under their charge but rather encourage them to be independent and de-centralized from their most immediate command and control. Professional Military Education and the Commandant’s Professional Reading list are other tools that will assist in developing the leadership traits essential to irregular threats.
The leadership traits that are critical to combating irregular threats are knowledge, decisiveness, judgement and initiative. These traits are inter-related and represent a thinking process that occurs when encountering the vast myriad of threats in an irregular, often austere environment. Developing these traits can be accomplished at all levels of command on a daily basis. If a warfighter is indoctrinated with these traits through realistic training, the unknowns of irregular threats can be successfully