Why our generals were more successful in World War II than in Korea, Vietnam or Iraq/Afghanistan

UC Berkeley Events

Why leaders watch it

Ricks on how quick relief of failing generals in WWII built accountability, contrasted with later wars.

Thomas Ricks's Nimitz Memorial Lecture at UC Berkeley asks why US generals did better in World War II than in Korea, Vietnam or Iraq and Afghanistan. A central point is the WWII practice of quickly reassigning or relieving underperforming generals.

Takeaways

• Relieve poor performers quickly to protect the mission
• Accountability for failure drives results
• Evaluate leaders on outcomes and adapt fast

Topics: Military & command leadership, Hiring & talent

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