From Theory to Practice

<p>This paper will describe the significant events and experiences that shaped the Powell Doctrine and affected the manner in which General Colin Powell applied those principles during his tenure as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS) from October 1989 until September 1993. The Weinberger Doctrine and Powell's experience in Vietnam are frequently cited as catalysts for the Powell Doctrine. Although Vietnam served as an important driving force for Powell the formulation and application of Powell's doctrine was greater than the so-called Vietnam Syndrome. Powell's understanding of military thinkers his experience with various styles of Presidential leadership and the responsibility of a new role as the first full tenure Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff with Goldwater-Nichols authority influenced Powell's translation of theory and experience into policy manifested by his application of the Powell Doctrine. Study of the aspects that contributed to the formulation of Powell's doctrine coupled with an examination of Powell's application of his doctrine during his tenure as CJCS demonstrates the change that occurred in translation of an idea into action that characterizes the difference between theory doctrine and practice.</p><p>This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore you will see the original copyright references library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world) and other notations in the work.</p><p>This work is in the public domain in the United States of America and possibly other nations. Within the United States you may freely copy and distribute this work as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.</p><p>As a reproduction of a historical artifact this work may contain missing or blurred pages poor pictures errant marks etc. Scholars believe and we concur that this work is important enough to be preserved reproduced and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.</p><br>