Command and Control of Rear Operations at Echelons Above Corps (Theater Army)

This monograph examines the adequacy of the current rear operations command and control doctrine at theater army level that is contained in FM 90-14, Rear Battle. Specifically, this study seeks to determine if the TAACOM commander is the best choice to command the theater army rear fight (as stipulated in the doctrine) or if there is a need for a separate Rear Operations officer and staff at this echelon. The German Army rear security command and control structures used in World War II during the Russian Campaign are examined in detail. From this experience the Wehrmacht gleaned four rear operations command and control lessons that serve as a frame work for analysis and comparison with our current doctrine.