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Logistics has been called the science of planning and carrying out the movement and maintenance of forces. But in recent years, pending manpower cuts, budget constraints, and even doctrinal developments have made it far more difficult for Marine logisticians to supply forward elements with the replenishments they require. Three of the following articles discuss important logistical considerations encountered in three recent undertakings-a major expeditionary war, a multinational humanitarian assistance effort, and a MEU(SOC) forward deployment. Two others offer 'interesting' proposals or suggestions.
Logistics support doesn't just happen; if it is to prove successful, it has got to be planned, organized, resourced, and then informed. Marine commanders need to be aware of these constraints and act accordingly. The Corps' experience in DESERT SHIELD/DESERT STORM may prove useful in addressing these concerns.
The first essential condition for an army to be able to stand the strain of battle is an adequate stock of weapons, petrol, and ammunition. In fact, the battle is fought and decided by the quartermasters before the shooting begins.
-Erwin Rommel
Logistics, like warfare in general, is best discussed in its three levels of application: strategic, operational, and tactical. Much has been written about the strategic level with significant works being RAdm Henry E. Eccles' Logistics in the National Defense and George C. Thorpe's Pure Logistics.
Thousands of Marines and civilians work at the strategic level of logistics every day at Headquarters Marine Corps, Marine Corps Systems Command, and Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany among others. The efficiency of both our Corps and our Nation at the strategic level of logistics is unexcelled in history and has been the backbone of victory in previous national conflicts.
The tactical level of logistics or combat service support is similarly well documented and thoroughly practiced within the Marine Corps. Our series of Fleet Marine Force Manuals (FMFMs) combined with publications of other Services provide the processes and procedures to ensure that Marines of the force service support groups (FSSGs) are well trained and well equipped for their demanding mission. Marine air-ground task forces (MAGTFs) are balanced combat/combat support/combat service support teams that bring a unique self-sustaining force to the expeditionary environment. Our Nation's legions!
The operational level of logistics and how Marines operate at this...