Strategic Corporal

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The Strategic Corporal is the notion that leadership in complex, rapidly evolving mission environments devolves lower and lower down the chain of command to better exploit time-critical information into the decision making process, ultimately landing on the corporal, the lowest ranking non-commissioned officer, typically commanding a squad of 12-15 Marines. In very rapidly evolving mission situations, obtaining mission instructions from remotely located command may result in mission failure, or in casualties to both force personnel and civilians. Conversely, misusing this kind of responsibility may result in personal liability for the team leader: a decision executed to respond to situational needs may result in later prosecution as the team leaders actions are reviewed by higher authorities.

The term "Strategic Corporal" was coined by Gen Charles C. Krulak in the title of an article in Marines Magazine about the "Three Block War," an increasingly important arena of military operations characterized by engagement with hostile, neutral and friendly forces, all at the same time, in a very geographically limited area, e.g., three blocks.^[1]

This concept is important because that it allows forces to apply the correct amount of response at the correct time and place. Complex Rules of Engagement can be used to minimize collateral damage to civilians and infrastructure. However, training "Strategic Corporals" requires time and money above and beyond what would be considered normal infantry or military police training.

[edit] References

1. ^ Charles C. Krulak (1999). The Strategic Corporal: Leadership in the Three Block War. Marines Magazine, on Air University. Retrieved on 2006-11-23.