Logistics Modernization? Control of Ship-to-Shore Movement in Amphibious Operations Needs the Same Attention

Efforts to modernize Marine Corps logistics processes have focused on lessons learned in Afghanistan and Iraq, but a critical node is being neglected. Corporate knowledge of amphibious operations is currently retained only within Marine Expeditionary Units MEU and through the relationships the MEUs form during Naval Expeditionary Strike Group ESG partnerships. While logistics modernization efforts during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom OIFOEF have focused on maintaining a common operational picture and supply distribution operations, the skills required to manage ship-to-shore movement in amphibious operations have atrophied. The Commandant of the Marine Corps articulated his vision for a post-OIFOEF Marine Corps embarked with its Naval partner when stating that ...an amphibious combat force operating from a sea base will be able to respond rapidly and win decisively. In keeping with the Commandants intent, the current configuration of the tactical-logistical TACLOG group must be updated with same state of the art command and control capabilities, audio visual equipment, and information management techniques that are being used in the ground-based operating environment to facilitate C2 and information sharing during an amphibious landing and the build up of combat power ashore.