A complex relationship exists between friendly combat casualties and public support, in the context of 21st century limited wars. A myth persists that Western civilian populations are casualty phobic, and as such military leaders are often risk-averse. In reality, the public responds in a much more nuanced way, and in general terms makes a rational cost-benefit analysis of the use of military force to achieve policy options. Military planners must understand the relationship between casualties and public support, and comprehend the critical importance of narrative in supporting or undermining national will. A gap exists in doctrine regarding friendly combat casualties, between risk management at the tactical level and narrative creation and communication at the strategic level. To bridge the gap, the author proposes the term "operational narrative," as a means of conceptualizing the way that tactical actions must link to strategy to support a war narrative. Using operational narrative and a modified form of risk management doctrine, operational leaders can make better decisions about the risks that friendly combat casualties pose to strategic success.

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