This study investigates the operational aspects of the Defense Support of Civil Authorities (DSCA) operations within the Department of Defense. Within the primary research construct, focus was the Army Reserve. This research utilized DOTMLPF design methodology to assess the current and desired operating environments, as well as identify operational gaps. This research reviewed current fiscal constraints and limitations in regards to the active component, limiting operational approach recommendations to current force allocations. It does not call for additional assets, but does provide focus areas should they be required in the future for a reevaluation of the Army Reserve force structure. This study focuses heavily on the Army Reserve's role in DSCA missions, and its possible future missions while operating in a resource-constrained environment. The Army Reserve when required to provide a further significant role, will under limited time and resources accomplish the mission. Maintaining a relevant study area was key to this research with the wealth of information available. Research includes an extensive study of current laws and doctrine, which provide oversight to DSCA missions. Additionally, force structure and staffing recommendations support operations during DSCA events in order to make the Army and Army Reserve's DSCA missions more effective.

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. The opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the student-authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College or any other governmental agency. (References to these studies should include the foregoing statement.)