Interaction Within the Civil-Military Nexus

<p>Successful civil-military relations pose an enduring dilemma for the professional officer. When civil-military relations fail the negative implications are far reaching. Professional officers who understand their role within the structure contribute positively to their profession and enhance relations across multiple levels. Understanding the foundations of civil-military relations is an important first step for professional officers regardless of rank or position. Various theories concerning the boundaries between the Soldier and the state combine with a rich history of interaction that frames contemporary civil-military relations. Examining both successful and failed examples of interaction provides the context of study. During the Vietnam era civil-military relations reflected an environment of failed communication between senior officers of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Executive Branch. This example highlights the importance and responsibility of maintaining professional interaction. Careless communication from General Clark during his tenure as Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) not only negatively affected civil-military relations but also resulted in his dismissal. Conversely General Shinseki's successful interaction within a problematic civil-military environment demonstrates how officers maintain professionalism regardless of the situation. Finally the relationship between General Marshall and President Roosevelt illustrates how capable officers build on successful relationships and greatly improve all aspects of civil-military relations. Appreciating these examples yields valuable insight to the importance of civil-military relations and the enduring dilemma that it presents. In addition these examples provide practical insights for the professional officer.</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>