Strategic Studies Institute
United States Army War College

CU @ The FOB: How the Forward Operating Base is Changing the Life of Combat Soldiers

Authored by Dr. Leonard Wong, COL Stephen Gerras.

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+[CU @ The FOB: How the Forward Operating Base is Changing the Life of Combat Soldiers Dr. Leonard Wong Force Management COL Stephen Gerras COL Stephen Gerras CU @ The FOB: How the Forward Operating Base is Changing the Life of Combat Soldiers]

Brief Synopsis

The situation in post-war Iraq is producing combat veterans accustomed to a perspective of combat that differs greatly from past wars. The Forward Operating Base (FOB) has become the mainstay of the U.S. presence in Iraq. The authors explore the facets of fighting from the FOB. Their research shows that the FOB gives soldiers the unprecedented advantage of gaining a respite from constant danger, minimizing the wearing effects of hunger and fatigue, and reducing the isolation of combat. As a result, many of the factors of psychological stress typically present in combat are greatly reduced. They also point out, however, that technology on the FOB allows soldiers to communicate frequently with home, shifting the family from an abstract to concrete concept in the minds of deployed soldiers. As a result, the competition between the family and Army for soldier time, commitment, loyalty, and energy is renewed.

Media Coverage of this Publication:

Keeping in Touch with the Homefront by National Public Radio (WBUR-FM)
Type: Radio Interview (Real Player).

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Managing Change