Light Infantry in the Defense: Exploiting the Reverse Slope from Wellington to the Falklands and Beyond
This study is an historical and doctrinal analysis of the tactical use of the reverse slope defense by light infantry forces. It centers on examining the effectiveness of the technique in shaping the battlefield and enhancing the survivability and effectiveness of currently deployed U.S. Light Infantry forces in defensive operations. To test its hypothesis, an analysis of reverse slope principles and techniques, derived from Wellington and German and Japanese commanders is followed by a contemporary comparison of British techniques employed during the Falkland Island campaign. Among the many conclusions which could be drawn from this investigation are: the light infantry's current reverse slope doctrine lacks sufficiency; leadership is the crucial ingredient in reverse slope planning and execution; and, the reverse slope defense is not one concept, but a host of concepts which include offensive opportunities, resourcefulness, and terrain options. The study concludes that there exists sufficient historical evidence to support resurrection and implementation of the reverse slope technique in current light infantry doctrine and training. A comprehensive reverse slope doctrinal "cookbook" is provided as a basis for subsequent examination and study.
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.
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.
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.
Customer Reviews
ThriftBooks ® and the ThriftBooks ® logo are registered trademarks of Thrift Books Global, LLC
