Case studies of the 1982-1983 U.S. intervention in Beirut and the 1992-1993 U.S. intervention in Somalia are juxtaposed with the theoretical framework and tenets of the operational art as proposed by Dr. Schneider of the Army School of Advance Military Studies. This analysis explored the dynamics between tactical decisions and strategic objectives, sought to identify their unique challenges to the practice of the operational art, and proposed circumstances where the operational art would contribute to setting the conditions for military success. While recent U.S. experiences in Rwanda and Haiti were used occasionally to clarify particular issues, a distinction between the nature of these operations and those of Beirut and Somalia was delineated.

ADA 301029 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.)