Paul W. Rodgers

Battlefield Distribution: a Systems Thinking Perspective Paul W. Rodgers

The purpose of this monograph is to analyze the U. S. Army battlefield distribution system from a "Systems Thinking" perspective. The method involves a holistic analysis of the distribution systems as it functions within its environment. Because identification of patterns and anomalies is an important aspect of Systems Thinking, the subject matter of this monograph reaches beyond Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) to historical precedent. Whether for tomorrow, or the more distant future, the object is to discover the leverage points within the system that will help the U. S. Army avoid repeating the logistics shortcomings of OIF. To shed some historical light on the current problem with U. S. Army distribution, this monograph examines the German Army's attempt at solving an identified battlefield distribution problem during the interwar period (1919 - 1939).