The Civilian Irregular Defense Group: Behind the Decision to Change Operational Control

reportActive / Technical Report | Accession Number: ADA612252 | Open PDF

Abstract:

This study examines the decision process that led to the change of operational control of the CIDG program in Vietnam from the CIA to the MACV under Operation Switchback. The method of analysis includes discussion of the mechanics of the NSC and JCS, the changes wrought by the Kennedy Administration, the effects of the Bay of Pigs and Cuban Missile Crisis upon the administrations view of the military leadership of the time, and the practical implications of administering the CIDG program that occurred within this atmosphere that led to the change. The study shows that the effect of these actions was the loss of the only Pacification force designed and trained to conduct missions with indigenous personnel until the institution of the CORDS program in 1967 and the creation of RFPFs. The study demonstrates that the decision to change operational control of the program was clearly grounded in interpersonal biases between senior civilian and military leadership rather than measures of military effectiveness.

Author(s):
Hoey, Sean P.
Author Organization(s):
ARMY COMMAND AND GENERAL STAFF COLLEGE FORT LEAVENWORTH KS SCHOOL OF ADVANCED MILITARY STUDIES
Descriptive Note:
SAMS Monograph rept. Jun 2013-May 2014
Supplementary Note:
DOI: 10.21236/ADA612252
Pagination:
0059

Security Markings

DOCUMENT & CONTEXTUAL SUMMARY

Distribution:
Approved For Public Release
Distribution Statement:
Approved For Public Release; Distribution Is Unlimited.

RECORD

Collection: TR
Identifying Numbers
Monitor Series:
USACGSC/SAMS
 Subject Terms
Joint Capability Areas:
JCA_5_Command and Control; JCA_3_Force Application; JCA_3.1_Maneuver; JCA_3.1.1_Maneuver to Engage; JCA_5.4_Decide; JCA_8_Building Partnerships; JCA_5.3_Planning; JCA_8.2_Shape; JCA_3.1.2_Maneuver to Insert; JCA_5.5_Direct; JCA_1_Force Support; JCA_5.5.1_Communicate Intent and Guidance; JCA_1.2_Force Preparation; JCA_5.4.3_Establish Rule Sets; JCA_8.2.3_Build the Capabilities and Capacities of Partners and Institutions; JCA_5.3.1_Analyze Problem; JCA_3.2_Engagement; JCA_3.2.1_Kinetic Means; JCA_8.2.1_Partner with Governments and Institutions; JCA_5.3.2_Apply Situational Understanding; JCA_1.2.3_Educating
Modernization Areas:
Fully Networked C3
Communities of Interest:
Weapons Technologies
Descriptor(s):
*CRISIS MANAGEMENT, *CUBA, *DECISION MAKING, DEFENSE SYSTEMS, DEMILITARIZATION, GUIDED MISSILES, INDIGENOUS POPULATION, LEADERSHIP, MILITARY PERSONNEL, MISSIONS, OPERATION, TRAINING, VIETNAM WAR
Field(s)/Group(s):
Administration and Management, Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics
Keyword(s):
SWITCHBACK OPERATION, CUBAN MISSILE CRISIS, BAY OF PIGS
Report Date:
2014 May 22
Creation Date:
2015 Feb 02