Operational Leadership: The Key is Vision.

There have been volumes of information throughout history that discuss the qualities or characteristics required of successful leaders. This paper examines the proposition that there is actually a fundamental difference between leadership at the tactical and operational levels of war, and that difference is vision. A discussion of the concept of vision is conducted using historical examples of both successful and unsuccessful operational leaders. The importance of vision at this level is also covered, and is tied to the principle of war -- the objective. Counterarguments to this position are presented and refuted. The principle counterarguments being there is no difference between leadership at these two levels tactical level leaders also apply vision and the only difference in leadership at any level is previous combat experience, which will ultimately determine success or failure.