On Operations

B. A. Friedman's On Operations follows up his highly successful previous works, this time delving into the critically important realm of operational art. In this fine book, Friedman explores the invaluable contribution of military staffs to a broad spectrum of endeavors, ranging from tactical to strategic. Anyone seeking a nuanced understanding of this crucial aspect of war will profit from reading it. --William A. Taylor, author of Every Citizen a Soldier; Lee Drain Endowed University Professorship, Angelo State University In On Operations, B. A. Friedman makes a compelling case that war, strategy, and tactics have, at least in part, an inherent political nature. This book provides an excellent lens through which one can examine the traditional models of operational staffs, the challenges of 21st-century realities, and the ongoing weaknesses and failures of the U.S. military as well as possible corrective action. Highly recommended for scholars and practitioners of the military arts.>COSSAC: Lt. Gen. Sir Francis Morgan and the Genesis of Operation Overlord Friedman deconstructs the ideas and history of Operational Level of War and Operational Art in this concise volume. Then, as in previous writings, builds a new theory towards a reconceptualization of the Operational Art for modern practitioners, building bridges between tactics and strategy. This is a must-read for any aspiring staff officer. --Dr. S. Mike Pavelec, chair, Department of Airpower, Air Command and Staff College