• Select a key battle or operation associated with combined arms maneuvers since WWII.
• Use the analytical framework from Assessment 1 to conduct a case study on the specific battle or operation you
choose.
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
The Battle of Kasserine Pass: A Case Study of Combined Arms Maneuvers in WWII
Introduction
The Battle of Kasserine Pass, fought in February 1943 during World War II, was a critical engagement that showcased the importance of combined arms maneuvers in modern warfare. This battle serves as an excellent case study to analyze the effectiveness of integrating infantry, armor, artillery, and air support in achieving military objectives.
Background
The Battle of Kasserine Pass took place in Tunisia, North Africa, where the Allied forces, primarily composed of American and British troops, faced the German Afrika Korps led by Field Marshal Erwin Rommel. The Allies, despite their numerical superiority, lacked experience in coordinating different branches of the military effectively.
Thesis Statement
Through an examination of the Battle of Kasserine Pass, it becomes evident that successful combined arms operations require coordination, communication, and flexibility among infantry, armor, artillery, and air support units.
Analysis
1. Infantry: The lack of infantry coordination and cohesive unit tactics among Allied forces at Kasserine Pass led to disorganized defenses and vulnerable flanks. Infantry units were unable to effectively hold ground without the support of other branches.
2. Armor: The German Panzer divisions utilized their tanks efficiently to exploit gaps in the Allied lines, showcasing the importance of armored units in maneuver warfare. The Allied armor forces were poorly coordinated and suffered significant losses due to inadequate support.
3. Artillery: The artillery support for Allied forces was often ineffective and poorly coordinated, failing to provide adequate fire support for infantry and armor units. This lack of integration hampered the overall combat effectiveness of the combined arms approach.
4. Air Support: The Luftwaffe’s air superiority played a crucial role in disrupting Allied communications and supply lines during the battle. The Allies struggled to establish air superiority due to ineffective coordination between air and ground forces.
Conclusion
The Battle of Kasserine Pass serves as a valuable case study highlighting the importance of effective combined arms operations in modern warfare. It underscores the necessity of coordination, communication, and flexibility among infantry, armor, artillery, and air support units to achieve military success on the battlefield. By learning from the mistakes and shortcomings of this battle, military strategists can better understand the principles of combined arms maneuvers and their significance in achieving victory in future conflicts.
