They Shall Not Cross

<p>This monograph discusses the inadequacy of current U.S. Army doctrine for incorporating water barriers into a defensive scheme and makes recommendations regarding improving that doctrine. The monograph first examines the current status of doctrine for the incorporation of river barriers into defensive plans and finds adequate doctrine lacking. The paper then provides the necessary foundation for the creation of a new doctrine through an examination of: existing 'theories' for the defense of river barriers; the methods of defense used in World War Two (especially against the Soviets) and their degree of success; and the most significant changes apparent since World War Two in offensive river-crossing doctrine and capabilities (especially Soviet) and their likely impact on defensive theory and lessons from previous practice. The monograph concludes that defense on the far shore seems to hold most promise for success in modern war but also that further study needs to be completed in many areas before a fully adequate doctrine could be written. It then recommends specific actions to assist in the creation of such a doctrine.</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>